The Army said that&nbsp;Fort Riley’s annual military retiree appreciation day, featuring information of interest to military retirees regarding benefits, health care, education and employment is scheduled Saturday. The Fort Riley Public Health Department will provide immunizations and booster shots for influenza, shingles, pneumonia, and tetanus.

The event will be held at&nbsp;Riley’s Community Center, 446 Seitz Dr. from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.; Immunizations begin at 10 a.m.

&nbsp;Military retirees of all services and their spouses or surviving spouses are invited.

The Army said that&nbsp;Fort Riley’s annual military retiree appreciation day, featuring information of interest to military retirees regarding benefits, health care, education and employment is scheduled Saturday. The Fort Riley Public Health Department will provide immunizations and booster shots for influenza, shingles, pneumonia, and tetanus.The event will be held at&nbsp;Riley’s Community Center, 446 Seitz Dr. from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.; Immunizations begin at 10 a.m.&nbsp;Military retirees of all services and their spouses or surviving spouses are invited.

Military Retiree Appreciation Day is scheduled

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– Geary USD 475 has announced that Seitz Elementary kindergarten teacher Christa Grider and Fort Riley Middle School Special Education teacher Michelle Irvine have been named the district’s nominees for the Kansas Teacher of the Year Award Program.

Grider was named the USD 475 Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Irvine claimed USD 475 Secondary Teacher of the Year honors. By being named USD 475’s Kansas Teacher of the Year Award winners, Grider and Irvine both received a $1,000 check on Tuesday from Exchange Bank of Junction City. The duo will also be recognized at an upcoming Board of Education meeting.

The Kansas Teacher of the Year Award Program, sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education, recognizes, and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. Its mission is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance and the teaching profession.

Grider, who is in her sixth year of teaching in USD 475, has taught kindergarten at Seitz Elementary the entire time she has worked in the district.&nbsp;“This is just a huge honor and just validates that I am making and having a positive difference in our students' lives at Seitz Elementary and in the district,” said Grider. Irvine has been in the district and at Fort Riley Middle School for 21 years. She spends her days in the classroom not only teaching, but also truly making a difference in her Special Education students by showing compassion and patience because every day is different.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Kansas State Department of Education will appoint regional selection committees responsible for reviewing the nomination forms and selecting six semifinalists, three elementary teachers and three secondary teachers, for recognition at the regional level. Two regional finalists, one elementary teacher and one secondary teacher, will be chosen from among these six teachers.

By Matt HooverUSD 475 Communications CoordinatorJUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– Geary USD 475 has announced that Seitz Elementary kindergarten teacher Christa Grider and Fort Riley Middle School Special Education teacher Michelle Irvine have been named the district’s nominees for the Kansas Teacher of the Year Award Program.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729016764760.jpeg" alt="Darwin Bickford, Exchange Bank Senior Vice President, Christa Grider and Dr. Deb Gustafson, USD 475 Associate Superintendent" />
 <figcaption>Darwin Bickford, Exchange Bank Senior Vice President, Christa Grider and Dr. Deb Gustafson, USD 475 Associate Superintendent</figcaption>
 </figure>Grider was named the USD 475 Elementary Teacher of the Year, while Irvine claimed USD 475 Secondary Teacher of the Year honors. By being named USD 475’s Kansas Teacher of the Year Award winners, Grider and Irvine both received a $1,000 check on Tuesday from Exchange Bank of Junction City. The duo will also be recognized at an upcoming Board of Education meeting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729016915216.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;Darwin Bickford, Exchange Bank Senior Vice President, Michelle Irvine and Dr. Deb Gustafson, USD 475 Associate Superintendent" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Darwin Bickford, Exchange Bank Senior Vice President, Michelle Irvine and Dr. Deb Gustafson, USD 475 Associate Superintendent</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Teacher of the Year Award Program, sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education, recognizes, and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in the elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. Its mission is to build and utilize a network of exemplary teachers who are leaders in the improvement of schools, student performance and the teaching profession.Grider, who is in her sixth year of teaching in USD 475, has taught kindergarten at Seitz Elementary the entire time she has worked in the district.&nbsp;“This is just a huge honor and just validates that I am making and having a positive difference in our students' lives at Seitz Elementary and in the district,” said Grider. Irvine has been in the district and at Fort Riley Middle School for 21 years. She spends her days in the classroom not only teaching, but also truly making a difference in her Special Education students by showing compassion and patience because every day is different.&nbsp; &nbsp; The Kansas State Department of Education will appoint regional selection committees responsible for reviewing the nomination forms and selecting six semifinalists, three elementary teachers and three secondary teachers, for recognition at the regional level. Two regional finalists, one elementary teacher and one secondary teacher, will be chosen from among these six teachers.

USD 475 Selects Teacher of the Year Honorees

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.

Mason William, DUI-Liquors/Drugs, arrested 10/11

Kiera Rice, Driving while suspended, arrested 10/11

Oscar Uricochea Avilia, Drivers license, without valid DL, arrested 10/12

Elijah Smith, Domestic battery, arrested 10/12

Loann Cousins, Criminal trespass, Criminal damage to property, arrested 10/12

Aarand Covington, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal use of weapons, Firearm to person addicted to and using controlled substance, Failure to appear, arrested 10/12

Brandon Richardson Jr, Minor in possession/consumption of alcoholic beverage, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 10/13

Samuel Ruggero, Disorderly conduct, Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment, arrested 10/13

Brandyn Black,&nbsp;Disorderly conduct, Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment, arrested 10/13

George Seidelmann, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 10/13

Loann Cousins, Interference with Law Enforcement, Violation of a protection order, arrested 10/14

Richmond Dotse,&nbsp;Interference with Law Enforcement, Criminal trespass, arrested 10/14

Johnny Cole, Outside warrant, arrested 10/14

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/2024/10/1729009089898.jpeg" alt="Brian Clair, Contribute to child misconduct, Encourage to commit felony, Aggravated criminal sodomy, Lewd and lascivious public sexual relations in presence of person &lt;16, Indecent solicitation of a child, Sex act with child, 14&lt;16, Lewd fondling, arrested 10/12" />
 <figcaption>Brian Clair, Contribute to child misconduct, Encourage to commit felony, Aggravated criminal sodomy, Lewd and lascivious public sexual relations in presence of person &lt;16, Indecent solicitation of a child, Sex act with child, 14&lt;16, Lewd fondling, arrested 10/12</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729009208144.jpeg" alt="Terry Kotleski, Criminal threat, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, arrested 10/12" />
 <figcaption>Terry Kotleski, Criminal threat, Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, arrested 10/12</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729009258522.jpeg" alt="William Mitchell, Failure to appear, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 10/13" />
 <figcaption>William Mitchell, Failure to appear, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 10/13</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729009311331.jpeg" alt="Jessie Lynn IV, Failure to appear, arrested 10/13" />
 <figcaption>Jessie Lynn IV, Failure to appear, arrested 10/13</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729009348919.jpeg" alt="Shaquille Artis, Violation of protection order, arrested 10/13" />
 <figcaption>Shaquille Artis, Violation of protection order, arrested 10/13</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Mason William, DUI-Liquors/Drugs, arrested 10/11Kiera Rice, Driving while suspended, arrested 10/11Oscar Uricochea Avilia, Drivers license, without valid DL, arrested 10/12Elijah Smith, Domestic battery, arrested 10/12Loann Cousins, Criminal trespass, Criminal damage to property, arrested 10/12Aarand Covington, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal use of weapons, Firearm to person addicted to and using controlled substance, Failure to appear, arrested 10/12Brandon Richardson Jr, Minor in possession/consumption of alcoholic beverage, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 10/13Samuel Ruggero, Disorderly conduct, Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment, arrested 10/13Brandyn Black,&nbsp;Disorderly conduct, Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment, arrested 10/13George Seidelmann, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 10/13Loann Cousins, Interference with Law Enforcement, Violation of a protection order, arrested 10/14Richmond Dotse,&nbsp;Interference with Law Enforcement, Criminal trespass, arrested 10/14Johnny Cole, Outside warrant, arrested 10/14Recent 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 Oct. 11-15

The Geary County Clerk and Election Office will be open until 6:00pm Tuesday since it’s the last day to register to vote for the General Election.

The Geary County Clerk and Election Office will be open until 6:00pm Tuesday since it’s the last day to register to vote for the General Election.

Extended hour for the clerk and election office

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

Just before 1:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report of criminal use of a financial card, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The Manhattan Surgical Center reported that a known subject used a card for unauthorized purposes. Total loss associated with this report is $12,000. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged financial crimes in Riley County.Just before 1:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report of criminal use of a financial card, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The Manhattan Surgical Center reported that a known subject used a card for unauthorized purposes. Total loss associated with this report is $12,000. The RCPD released no additional details.

Surgery Center reports $12,000 loss in alleged credit card crime

As of Tuesday night at 9:45 p.m. the Geary Community Match Day had received $428,062.22 in pledges and donations spread between 57 nonprofit organizations. More contributions could have been received late Tuesday night or by mail -p0stmarked no later than Oct. 15.

Tuesday was the Geary Community Match Day! 

Gifts of $25 up to $1,000 per donor per fund made through 11:59 PM tonight will receive a 50% match.

&nbsp;Match funds are being provided by R2B4, Central Charities Foundation, Crosby Family Foundation and the Hoover-Koken Foundation.

In person today at the Junction City Municipal Building Auditorium from 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Online at <a href="http://gearymatchday.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3BMSf_v8xuuRgcDSc4hyX878nHnyTF_6WWqqsi_yroui8Y8LBYPMm1N1E_aem_mXzWA7eMpnSULw5yK9soOg" target="_blank">GearyMatchDay.com</a> through 11:59 PM tonight

By mail to the Greater Geary Community Foundation at P.O. Box 411, Junction City, KS 66441, received by 10/18

Fifty-seven 501 C3 nonprofit organizations have signed up to participate in the daylong event.

You can also see the total that has been given by clicking <a href="https://www.gearymatchday.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728997521048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE:As of Tuesday night at 9:45 p.m. the Geary Community Match Day had received $428,062.22 in pledges and donations spread between 57 nonprofit organizations. More contributions could have been received late Tuesday night or by mail -p0stmarked no later than Oct. 15.---Tuesday was the Geary Community Match Day! Gifts of $25 up to $1,000 per donor per fund made through 11:59 PM tonight will receive a 50% match.&nbsp;Match funds are being provided by R2B4, Central Charities Foundation, Crosby Family Foundation and the Hoover-Koken Foundation.Make your gift: In person today at the Junction City Municipal Building Auditorium from 7:00 AM - 5:30 PMOnline at <a href="http://gearymatchday.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3BMSf_v8xuuRgcDSc4hyX878nHnyTF_6WWqqsi_yroui8Y8LBYPMm1N1E_aem_mXzWA7eMpnSULw5yK9soOg" target="_blank">GearyMatchDay.com</a> through 11:59 PM tonightBy mail to the Greater Geary Community Foundation at P.O. Box 411, Junction City, KS 66441, received by 10/18Fifty-seven 501 C3 nonprofit organizations have signed up to participate in the daylong event.You can also see the total that has been given by clicking <a href="https://www.gearymatchday.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729008801578.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729008833954.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729008847954.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Match Day generates funds for nonprofits 

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Ottawa-Dickinson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-Anderson- Including the cities of Belleville, Washington, Hanover, Clifton, Linn, Greenleaf, Marysville, Blue Rapids, Frankfort, Sabetha, Seneca, Hiawatha, Horton, Concordia, Clay Center, Manhattan, Wamego, St. Marys, Holton, Valley Falls, Oskaloosa, Perry, McLouth, Grantville, Meriden, Nortonville, Minneapolis, Bennington, Abilene, Herington, Junction City, Council Grove, Alma, Eskridge, Maple Hill, Alta Vista, McFarland, Harveyville, Paxico, Topeka, Lawrence, Emporia, Osage City, Carbondale, Lyndon, Burlingame, Overbrook, Ottawa, Burlington, Lebo,and Garnett

A FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 9 AM CDT WEDNESDAY...

Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 25 are expected for portions of central, east central, north central, and&nbsp;  northeast Kansas from 1 AM to 9 AM Wednesday.

Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other&nbsp;  sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

Tender plants should be brought inside or covered to protect them from the cold.

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Ottawa-Dickinson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-Anderson- Including the cities of Belleville, Washington, Hanover, Clifton, Linn, Greenleaf, Marysville, Blue Rapids, Frankfort, Sabetha, Seneca, Hiawatha, Horton, Concordia, Clay Center, Manhattan, Wamego, St. Marys, Holton, Valley Falls, Oskaloosa, Perry, McLouth, Grantville, Meriden, Nortonville, Minneapolis, Bennington, Abilene, Herington, Junction City, Council Grove, Alma, Eskridge, Maple Hill, Alta Vista, McFarland, Harveyville, Paxico, Topeka, Lawrence, Emporia, Osage City, Carbondale, Lyndon, Burlingame, Overbrook, Ottawa, Burlington, Lebo,and GarnettA FREEZE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 9 AM CDT WEDNESDAY...Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 25 are expected for portions of central, east central, north central, and&nbsp; northeast Kansas from 1 AM to 9 AM Wednesday.Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other&nbsp; sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.Tender plants should be brought inside or covered to protect them from the cold.

National Weather Service issues a freeze warning

House Majority Leader Chris Croft and Rep. Adam Smith blame Republicans for state spending increases

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — House Majority Leader Chris Croft told Johnson County Republicans in private Zoom calls in May that he wants to drive the corporate income tax rate to zero next year, and he tempered his enthusiasm for trying to lure the Kansas City Chiefs across state lines with concern about Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly taking credit.

Croft, an Overland Park Republican, touted his success in getting out-of-state financial support to help preserve the GOP supermajority in the Legislature. But he attributed state spending increases to his own party being “drunk” on money.

In a separate call in June, Rep. Adam Smith, a Weskan Republican who chairs the House tax committee, also pointed a finger at Republicans for inserting costly earmarks into the state budget.

Kansas Reflector obtained audio files from Zoom calls on May 10, May 31 and June 21. Screenshots show participants on the calls include GOP candidates for legislative races in Johnson County. Other participants include Karen Crnkovich, a congressional candidate who lost her primary election; Clay Barker, general counsel to Secretary of State Scott Schwab; and Debbie Detmer, a GOP precinct committeewoman in Shawnee who has&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/07/27/kansas-school-system-fights-indoctrination-rumors-continues-dei-training/">protested the “indoctrination”</a>&nbsp;of public school children.

The conversations, led by Croft, focus on legislative priorities, fundraising and campaigning.

“You know, in the last six years that the governor’s been there, and by the way, the six years I’ve been there, we’ve increased spending 56%,” Croft said. “It’s awful. We got to stop this. I mean, we’re just as drunk on that money as anybody else is. We got to stop doing that.”

The conversations foreshadow the GOP effort now underway to wrestle control of the budget process away from the governor and place it solely in the hands of lawmakers.

House Minority Leader Vic Miller, a Topeka Democrat, responded to the audio in a statement and offered a suggestion to Republicans.

“Perhaps instead of seizing power from the executive branch — effectively undermining our democratic system of checks and balances — my colleagues across the aisle should look at removing representatives who pervert the process for personal gain,” Miller said.

In the May 10 call, Croft said Republicans intentionally excluded corporate tax breaks from their efforts to provide individual tax relief.

But, he said, changing the corporate tax formula would be the “big thing” for next year.

The objective would be “reducing the corporate tax rate overall with the intent to drive it to zero,” Croft said.

Croft didn’t respond to an email seeking comment for this story.

Pam Shernuk, a former opinion contributor to Kansas Reflector and Democrat who is running against Croft, said she wasn’t surprised by Croft’s behind-the-scenes comments. The plan to drive the corporate tax rate to zero is reminiscent of former Gov. Sam Brownback’s tax experiment, she said, which created budget shortfalls, led to drastic cuts in education and infrastructure, created no return in business investments or jobs, and shifted the tax burden to individuals.

“What my opponent says to voters at the doors and in his mailers is much different than what he says behind closed doors,” Shernuk said. “Voters deserve honesty, accountability and integrity. I support tax relief for working families, seniors and veterans in Kansas — not giant, multinational corporations. Our district has received a number of negative mailers about me in the past few weeks, all paid for by the same dark money groups that are behind the 0% corporate tax rate. Of course, they want Chris to win — he will give them what they want.”

Back in May, Croft voiced frustration with the governor’s repeated vetoes of tax plans during the regular session.

Earlier proposals had tried to establish a single rate, or flat tax, for individual income, which would have overwhelmingly benefited the state’s highest wage earners. By the end of the session, some Democrats had jumped on board with a compromise that provided more balanced income tax relief. Kelly vetoed it in favor of lowering the overall cost and called legislators back for a special session.

“Honestly, one of the things she wants is the Chiefs. She wants that tax bill on the Chiefs,” Croft said. “I cannot see us doing anything without doing something on taxes for the people. I almost want to go back to our original single factor rate.”

During the special session in June, the plan to lure the Chiefs and Kansas City Royals to Kansas took center stage. Lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/18/kansas-house-passes-incentive-bill-to-lure-kansas-city-chiefs-royals/">adopted legislation</a>&nbsp;to let teams use sales tax and revenue (STAR) bonds to cover up to 75% of the cost of building a new stadium if they decide to cross state lines.

Croft said he was concerned the governor would take credit for both the tax cuts and luring the Chiefs to Kansas. He vowed to make it “painful” for the governor to do so.

Still, he said, “Who wouldn’t want the Chiefs?”

“Honestly, this is what STAR Bonds was created for,” Croft said. “It was created for these kind of engagements, these kind of opportunities. That one where they’re talking about up at the Speedway was the only successful one we’ve really had. So I think it would work. I don’t see it for the Chiefs&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Royals, but I may think it’s for the Chiefs and somebody else. I think the Royals end up in downtown Kansas City. That’s my personal belief.”

Will Lawrence, in his role as senior adviser to the governor’s Middle of the Road PAC, said Croft’s comments were “a prime example of what’s at stake this November.”

He said voters could elect “leaders that will reach across the aisle — regardless of political party — to deliver for Kansas families. Or, we can continue to elect the same partisan extremists, like the current Republican leadership, who admitted out loud they delayed tax cuts for Kansans because it would be a political win for the governor. That’s not leadership.”

Smith, the House tax chairman, highlighted tax cuts that were adopted during the special session and expressed an interest in making more cuts early next year — “before the budget can spend all of our money.”

House Republicans were frustrated with the budget process, Smith said, and a perceived disconnect between spending and taxes.

Currently, the governor reveals her spending blueprint on the fourth day of the session, and lawmakers revise the plan in committee hearings throughout the session. Republicans are now working to alter the process so that lawmakers begin working on a budget in the fall and have their own proposal in hand when the session starts in January.

But Smith pointed to a bigger problem — the tendency by Republicans to insert self-serving and costly earmarks into the budget at the end of the session.

“I’ve got to say this, and it pains me to say this, but Republicans are just as much to blame as anybody,” Smith said.

In the final days of the session, he said, Republicans added $210 million more to the budget.

“We’ve got people on the budget committee that just try to do as much as they can for their area, and nobody ever tells them no, and that stuff gets put into the budget,” Smith said.

During the calls in May, Croft said he was “fired up” by support from the Republican State Leadership Committee, an unnamed “big company” in Raleigh, North Carolina, and GOPAC, which provides training and support for Republicans.

Croft said Kansas Republican legislative candidates would benefit from fundraisers in Washington, D.C., North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas.

He said he had successfully pitched outsiders on the need to preserve the GOP supermajority in the Kansas Legislature as a way of ensuring the state could support Donald Trump if he were elected again as president.

“Trump has talked about the fact states rights matter, that it’s time to make sure we understand that states rights matter, and we got to have the right people in the state,” Croft said. “And that’s a fact. If we have the wrong people, we don’t have the majority, we don’t have the supermajority. The governor wins, and we become a nonfactor for the president.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728930938861.jpeg" alt=" House Majority Leader Chris Croft, an Overland Park Republican, appears during the special session on June 18, 2024. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> House Majority Leader Chris Croft, an Overland Park Republican, appears during the special session on June 18, 2024. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>House Majority Leader Chris Croft and Rep. Adam Smith blame Republicans for state spending increases</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — House Majority Leader Chris Croft told Johnson County Republicans in private Zoom calls in May that he wants to drive the corporate income tax rate to zero next year, and he tempered his enthusiasm for trying to lure the Kansas City Chiefs across state lines with concern about Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly taking credit.Croft, an Overland Park Republican, touted his success in getting out-of-state financial support to help preserve the GOP supermajority in the Legislature. But he attributed state spending increases to his own party being “drunk” on money.In a separate call in June, Rep. Adam Smith, a Weskan Republican who chairs the House tax committee, also pointed a finger at Republicans for inserting costly earmarks into the state budget.Kansas Reflector obtained audio files from Zoom calls on May 10, May 31 and June 21. Screenshots show participants on the calls include GOP candidates for legislative races in Johnson County. Other participants include Karen Crnkovich, a congressional candidate who lost her primary election; Clay Barker, general counsel to Secretary of State Scott Schwab; and Debbie Detmer, a GOP precinct committeewoman in Shawnee who has&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/07/27/kansas-school-system-fights-indoctrination-rumors-continues-dei-training/">protested the “indoctrination”</a>&nbsp;of public school children.The conversations, led by Croft, focus on legislative priorities, fundraising and campaigning.“You know, in the last six years that the governor’s been there, and by the way, the six years I’ve been there, we’ve increased spending 56%,” Croft said. “It’s awful. We got to stop this. I mean, we’re just as drunk on that money as anybody else is. We got to stop doing that.”The conversations foreshadow the GOP effort now underway to wrestle control of the budget process away from the governor and place it solely in the hands of lawmakers.House Minority Leader Vic Miller, a Topeka Democrat, responded to the audio in a statement and offered a suggestion to Republicans.“Perhaps instead of seizing power from the executive branch — effectively undermining our democratic system of checks and balances — my colleagues across the aisle should look at removing representatives who pervert the process for personal gain,” Miller said.<h2>The next big thing</h2>In the May 10 call, Croft said Republicans intentionally excluded corporate tax breaks from their efforts to provide individual tax relief.But, he said, changing the corporate tax formula would be the “big thing” for next year.The objective would be “reducing the corporate tax rate overall with the intent to drive it to zero,” Croft said.Croft didn’t respond to an email seeking comment for this story.Pam Shernuk, a former opinion contributor to Kansas Reflector and Democrat who is running against Croft, said she wasn’t surprised by Croft’s behind-the-scenes comments. The plan to drive the corporate tax rate to zero is reminiscent of former Gov. Sam Brownback’s tax experiment, she said, which created budget shortfalls, led to drastic cuts in education and infrastructure, created no return in business investments or jobs, and shifted the tax burden to individuals.“What my opponent says to voters at the doors and in his mailers is much different than what he says behind closed doors,” Shernuk said. “Voters deserve honesty, accountability and integrity. I support tax relief for working families, seniors and veterans in Kansas — not giant, multinational corporations. Our district has received a number of negative mailers about me in the past few weeks, all paid for by the same dark money groups that are behind the 0% corporate tax rate. Of course, they want Chris to win — he will give them what they want.”<h2>Make it painful</h2>Back in May, Croft voiced frustration with the governor’s repeated vetoes of tax plans during the regular session.Earlier proposals had tried to establish a single rate, or flat tax, for individual income, which would have overwhelmingly benefited the state’s highest wage earners. By the end of the session, some Democrats had jumped on board with a compromise that provided more balanced income tax relief. Kelly vetoed it in favor of lowering the overall cost and called legislators back for a special session.“Honestly, one of the things she wants is the Chiefs. She wants that tax bill on the Chiefs,” Croft said. “I cannot see us doing anything without doing something on taxes for the people. I almost want to go back to our original single factor rate.”During the special session in June, the plan to lure the Chiefs and Kansas City Royals to Kansas took center stage. Lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/18/kansas-house-passes-incentive-bill-to-lure-kansas-city-chiefs-royals/">adopted legislation</a>&nbsp;to let teams use sales tax and revenue (STAR) bonds to cover up to 75% of the cost of building a new stadium if they decide to cross state lines.Croft said he was concerned the governor would take credit for both the tax cuts and luring the Chiefs to Kansas. He vowed to make it “painful” for the governor to do so.Still, he said, “Who wouldn’t want the Chiefs?”“Honestly, this is what STAR Bonds was created for,” Croft said. “It was created for these kind of engagements, these kind of opportunities. That one where they’re talking about up at the Speedway was the only successful one we’ve really had. So I think it would work. I don’t see it for the Chiefs&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Royals, but I may think it’s for the Chiefs and somebody else. I think the Royals end up in downtown Kansas City. That’s my personal belief.”Will Lawrence, in his role as senior adviser to the governor’s Middle of the Road PAC, said Croft’s comments were “a prime example of what’s at stake this November.”He said voters could elect “leaders that will reach across the aisle — regardless of political party — to deliver for Kansas families. Or, we can continue to elect the same partisan extremists, like the current Republican leadership, who admitted out loud they delayed tax cuts for Kansans because it would be a political win for the governor. That’s not leadership.”<h2>Who’s to blame</h2>Smith, the House tax chairman, highlighted tax cuts that were adopted during the special session and expressed an interest in making more cuts early next year — “before the budget can spend all of our money.”House Republicans were frustrated with the budget process, Smith said, and a perceived disconnect between spending and taxes.Currently, the governor reveals her spending blueprint on the fourth day of the session, and lawmakers revise the plan in committee hearings throughout the session. Republicans are now working to alter the process so that lawmakers begin working on a budget in the fall and have their own proposal in hand when the session starts in January.But Smith pointed to a bigger problem — the tendency by Republicans to insert self-serving and costly earmarks into the budget at the end of the session.“I’ve got to say this, and it pains me to say this, but Republicans are just as much to blame as anybody,” Smith said.In the final days of the session, he said, Republicans added $210 million more to the budget.“We’ve got people on the budget committee that just try to do as much as they can for their area, and nobody ever tells them no, and that stuff gets put into the budget,” Smith said.<h2>The right people</h2>During the calls in May, Croft said he was “fired up” by support from the Republican State Leadership Committee, an unnamed “big company” in Raleigh, North Carolina, and GOPAC, which provides training and support for Republicans.Croft said Kansas Republican legislative candidates would benefit from fundraisers in Washington, D.C., North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas.He said he had successfully pitched outsiders on the need to preserve the GOP supermajority in the Kansas Legislature as a way of ensuring the state could support Donald Trump if he were elected again as president.“Trump has talked about the fact states rights matter, that it’s time to make sure we understand that states rights matter, and we got to have the right people in the state,” Croft said. “And that’s a fact. If we have the wrong people, we don’t have the majority, we don’t have the supermajority. The governor wins, and we become a nonfactor for the president.”

Kansas Republican leader says 0% corporate tax rate is next ‘big thing’ in private Zoom call

CLAY COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 5p.m. Saturday in Clay County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Ranger driven by&nbsp;Richard T.&nbsp;Jackson, 18, Clay Center, was eastbound on U.S. 24 seven miles west of Clay Center. 

The pickup crossed over the center line, entered the westbound lane and struck a 2004 Toyota Sienna driven by&nbsp;Johnathan L.&nbsp;Wright, 47, Shawnee,&nbsp;head-on.

Two passenger in the Toyota Robert M.&nbsp;McCollum, 72 and Alma J. Wright, 79, both of Gardner were pronounced dead at the scene and transported to&nbsp;Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home.

EMS transported&nbsp;Jackson to Salina Regional Health Center and two other passengers in Toyota Sharmen S.&nbsp;McCollum, 55, and Gary W. Wright, 80, both of Gardner to Stormont Vail. Jonathan Wright was not injured. Robert McCollum and Alma Wright were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

CLAY COUNTY —Two people died in an accident just before 5p.m. Saturday in Clay County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Ranger driven by&nbsp;Richard T.&nbsp;Jackson, 18, Clay Center, was eastbound on U.S. 24 seven miles west of Clay Center. The pickup crossed over the center line, entered the westbound lane and struck a 2004 Toyota Sienna driven by&nbsp;Johnathan L.&nbsp;Wright, 47, Shawnee,&nbsp;head-on.Two passenger in the Toyota Robert M.&nbsp;McCollum, 72 and Alma J. Wright, 79, both of Gardner were pronounced dead at the scene and transported to&nbsp;Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home.EMS transported&nbsp;Jackson to Salina Regional Health Center and two other passengers in Toyota Sharmen S.&nbsp;McCollum, 55, and Gary W. Wright, 80, both of Gardner to Stormont Vail. Jonathan Wright was not injured. Robert McCollum and Alma Wright were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

KHP: Kansas man and woman dead, 3 injured in head-on crash

The goal of the Quilt of Valor program is to recognize service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing quilts..

In this area the Central Kansas Flint Hills Area Quilts of Valor project has been under way for 10 years. During a luncheon program Monday at the United Methodist Church in Chapman one service member, James Woody Jr., Abilene, received a Quilt of Valor.

Woody served 23 years in the Army and was deployed much of that time. Among those tours were four stints in Iraq. He received two Purple Hearts.

Woody stated, "I was surprised. I kind of knew a little bit about it but I didn't know anything about Willie or anything like this, or this many people being here that cared."

There was a good turnout of central Kansas residents for the luncheon. Some of those included members of the Chapman High School volleyball team who led the audience in singing and dancing to the Wabash Cannonball.

The volleyball team members helped serve the meal to those in attendance.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Coordinator for the event and member of the original committee for the project, Donna Martinson,&nbsp; said approximately 500 quilts made by more than 100 quilters have been presented during the 10-year period.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Donations totaling more than $20,000 have been received to help provide supplies to make the quilts.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Woody. thanked the audience for their support and the quilt, He noted following his marriage because of tours of duty it was five years before he was able to be home for Christmas.

James Woody Jr. retired in 2012. His longest stint in the military was spent in the 1st infantry Division.

By Dewey TerrillThe goal of the Quilt of Valor program is to recognize service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing quilts..In this area the Central Kansas Flint Hills Area Quilts of Valor project has been under way for 10 years. During a luncheon program Monday at the United Methodist Church in Chapman one service member, James Woody Jr., Abilene, received a Quilt of Valor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728946191561.jpeg" alt="Willie the Wildcat was in attendance to help present a quilt to James Woody Jr." />
 <figcaption>Willie the Wildcat was in attendance to help present a quilt to James Woody Jr.</figcaption>
 </figure>Woody served 23 years in the Army and was deployed much of that time. Among those tours were four stints in Iraq. He received two Purple Hearts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728947388792.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Woody stated, "I was surprised. I kind of knew a little bit about it but I didn't know anything about Willie or anything like this, or this many people being here that cared."There was a good turnout of central Kansas residents for the luncheon. Some of those included members of the Chapman High School volleyball team who led the audience in singing and dancing to the Wabash Cannonball.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728947953617.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The volleyball team members helped serve the meal to those in attendance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728948073297.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The Coordinator for the event and member of the original committee for the project, Donna Martinson,&nbsp; said approximately 500 quilts made by more than 100 quilters have been presented during the 10-year period.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728948599282.jpeg" alt="Donna Martinson" />
 <figcaption>Donna Martinson</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Donations totaling more than $20,000 have been received to help provide supplies to make the quilts.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Some longtime quilters were honored.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728948736697.jpeg" alt="( Photo by Jean Boyd )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo by Jean Boyd )</figcaption>
 </figure>Woody. thanked the audience for their support and the quilt, He noted following his marriage because of tours of duty it was five years before he was able to be home for Christmas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728948908034.jpeg" alt="James Woody Jr. accompanied by daughter Bailey on the left, an architecture major at Kansas State University, and his wife Barbie on the right." />
 <figcaption>James Woody Jr. accompanied by daughter Bailey on the left, an architecture major at Kansas State University, and his wife Barbie on the right.</figcaption>
 </figure>James Woody Jr. retired in 2012. His longest stint in the military was spent in the 1st infantry Division.

Quilt of Valor program celebrates 10 years of service

Internal disciplinary action has been taken against Junction City Police Chief Kirt Nichols and Assistant Police Chief Cory Odell. Interim City Manager Gerry Vernon confirmed the action was taken after the two officials, while representing the City of Junction City, used social media to&nbsp; endorse a political candidate.

Vernon also confirmed that there will not be any suspensions that will occur as a result of the incident, and the disciplinary actions were taken according to the city's personnel manual guidelines.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostInternal disciplinary action has been taken against Junction City Police Chief Kirt Nichols and Assistant Police Chief Cory Odell. Interim City Manager Gerry Vernon confirmed the action was taken after the two officials, while representing the City of Junction City, used social media to&nbsp; endorse a political candidate.Vernon also confirmed that there will not be any suspensions that will occur as a result of the incident, and the disciplinary actions were taken according to the city's personnel manual guidelines.&nbsp;

City takes internal disciplinary action 

The Geary Community Healthcare Foundation is hosting a “Boo Bash” costume skate party at Spin City on Saturday, Oct. 19. The costume skate party will be for all ages. It will feature food, fun, prizes, and a costume contest. The event will raise funds for Quality Play for All.

The cost to attend varies based on age. Kids ages 4-13 are $5.00, ages 14-18 are $10.00, and all adults are $15.00.

There will be different time slots for the age groups. 

Ages 21 &amp; up: 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728938460331.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Geary Community Healthcare Foundation is hosting a “Boo Bash” costume skate party at Spin City on Saturday, Oct. 19. The costume skate party will be for all ages. It will feature food, fun, prizes, and a costume contest. The event will raise funds for Quality Play for All.The cost to attend varies based on age. Kids ages 4-13 are $5.00, ages 14-18 are $10.00, and all adults are $15.00.There will be different time slots for the age groups. Ages 4-7: 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.Ages 8-12: 12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.Ages 13-16: 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.Ages 17-20: 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.Ages 21 &amp; up: 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Costumes are NOT required to attend.

Geary Community Healthcare Foundation to host Boo Bash Skate Party

Pawnee Mental Health has announced the appointment of Savannah Lee, as the new Military Treatment Coordinator. Savannah will be instrumental in enhancing mental health services for service members in Pawnee’s 10-county service area.

Savannah Lee holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology with a trauma sub-plan from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs and a bachelor’s degree in history, international relations and global studies with a focus on international security. She complemented her academic journey with internships, notably at the Family Care Center in Colorado Springs, where she gained hands-on experience in psychometric testing, personality assessment and treatment coordination. Savannah’s research has centered on understanding how personality pathology impacts suicidality in female veterans, equipping her with specific skills and expertise in this critical area.

Before joining Pawnee Mental Health, Savannah accumulated valuable experience as a clinical psychology student, providing therapy services in an outpatient clinic to service members and their families. Her work has been deeply focused on military-affiliated populations, families and individuals dealing with trauma, PTSD and substance use disorders. Notably, she has been involved in community outreach programs to connect civilians with military members and veterans, showcasing her unwavering commitment to serving this unique population.

As the Military Treatment Coordinator, Savannah’s key responsibilities will include:

· Creating tailored treatment plans for clients.

· Coordinating care to ensure comprehensive support for servicemembers.

She will collaborate with other team members and community partners to promote effective treatment strategies and foster a supportive environment for her clients.

By Cailin WycoffPawnee Mental HealthPawnee Mental Health has announced the appointment of Savannah Lee, as the new Military Treatment Coordinator. Savannah will be instrumental in enhancing mental health services for service members in Pawnee’s 10-county service area.Savannah Lee holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology with a trauma sub-plan from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs and a bachelor’s degree in history, international relations and global studies with a focus on international security. She complemented her academic journey with internships, notably at the Family Care Center in Colorado Springs, where she gained hands-on experience in psychometric testing, personality assessment and treatment coordination. Savannah’s research has centered on understanding how personality pathology impacts suicidality in female veterans, equipping her with specific skills and expertise in this critical area.Before joining Pawnee Mental Health, Savannah accumulated valuable experience as a clinical psychology student, providing therapy services in an outpatient clinic to service members and their families. Her work has been deeply focused on military-affiliated populations, families and individuals dealing with trauma, PTSD and substance use disorders. Notably, she has been involved in community outreach programs to connect civilians with military members and veterans, showcasing her unwavering commitment to serving this unique population.As the Military Treatment Coordinator, Savannah’s key responsibilities will include:· Creating tailored treatment plans for clients.· Facilitating clinical outreach.· Coordinating care to ensure comprehensive support for servicemembers.She will collaborate with other team members and community partners to promote effective treatment strategies and foster a supportive environment for her clients.

Pawnee Mental Health welcomes Savannah Lee, as the new Military Treatment Coordinator

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.

Just before 10:30a.m. Friday, police arrested 47-year-old Angela Washington of Junction City, in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Washington was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for failure to appear. The original charge in this matter was for theft by deception. Washington remains jailed on a $6,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726676455603.jpeg" alt="Angela Washington-photo from an earlier arrest in Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Angela Washington-photo from an earlier arrest in Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.Just before 10:30a.m. Friday, police arrested 47-year-old Angela Washington of Junction City, in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Washington was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for failure to appear. The original charge in this matter was for theft by deception. Washington remains jailed on a $6,000 bond.

Junction City woman accused of theft by deception, skipping court

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has released the advance voting schedule. In-person advance voting occurs at the&nbsp;Geary County Office Building, located at 200 E. 8th St. in Junction City.

· October 16th - October 18th - 8:30am-5:00pm

· October 21st – October 25th -8:30am-5:00pm

· Saturday, October 26th - 9:00am – 1:00pm

· October 28th – November 1st - 8:30am – 6:00pm

**October 31st, we will close voting at 5:00 pm**

· Saturday, November 2nd -&nbsp; 9:00am – 1:00pm

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has released the advance voting schedule. In-person advance voting occurs at the&nbsp;Geary County Office Building, located at 200 E. 8th St. in Junction City.· October 16th - October 18th - 8:30am-5:00pm· October 21st – October 25th -8:30am-5:00pm· Saturday, October 26th - 9:00am – 1:00pm· October 28th – November 1st - 8:30am – 6:00pm**October 31st, we will close voting at 5:00 pm**· Saturday, November 2nd -&nbsp; 9:00am – 1:00pm· Monday, November 4th - 8:30am-Noon

Advance voting in Geary County begins this week for Nov. 5 General Election

Junction City Main Street Presents: 2024 Boos and Brews - A Haunted History Crawl Like No Other! 

Junction City, KS – Prepare for a night of thrills, chills, and unforgettable stories as Junction City Main Street proudly presents the 2024 Boos and Brews! This spine-chilling ghost tour, featuring local actors from Junction City Little Theatre’s production of Dracula, promises an immersive evening full of haunted history, drinks, and plenty of fun. 

Tour Times: Departures every 10 minutes from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm Tickets: Available now on our website!

Location: Junction City Main Street Office, 129 W 7th Street 

Attendees will start their journey at our office, led by costumed tour guides who are not only talented storytellers but also actors from the Junction City Little Theatre's production of Dracula. These performers will bring Junction City’s eerie past to life as they share wretched and intriguing tales from local history. We encourage everyone to embrace the Halloween spirit by dressing up for the occasion! 

Chilling Stops and Local Brews Throughout the ghostly crawl, you’ll pause at key historical sites to hear about the mysteries that still haunt Junction City’s streets. To help you brave the haunted history, you’ll also have the chance to fill up on booze or brews, with stops at D’z Lounge, Highwind Brewing Company, and Blu Restaurant and Bar. Enjoy a complimentary drink as you soak up the stories and make new friends along the way! 

Each tour will last approximately 1.5 hours, with a maximum of 20 participants per group. Space is limited, so don't wait—tickets are selling fast! 

Exclusive Discount: Be a Part of the Boos and Brews Test Run! Want to be one of the first to experience this haunted journey? Join us for our Boos and Brews Test Run on October 18, 2024, at a discounted rate! Help us fine-tune the event while enjoying the same thrilling experience, led by our incredible tour guides from the Dracula cast. 

Don't Miss Out – Reserve Your Spot Today! This event is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a spooky, fun-filled evening. Head to our website to purchase your tickets today! 

For more information or to reserve your spot, visit our website at <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/event/2024-boos-and-brews-test-run/">junctioncitymainstreet.org.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728914177948.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City Main Street Presents: 2024 Boos and Brews - A Haunted History Crawl Like No Other! Junction City, KS – Prepare for a night of thrills, chills, and unforgettable stories as Junction City Main Street proudly presents the 2024 Boos and Brews! This spine-chilling ghost tour, featuring local actors from Junction City Little Theatre’s production of Dracula, promises an immersive evening full of haunted history, drinks, and plenty of fun. Date: October 25, 2024 Tour Times: Departures every 10 minutes from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm Tickets: Available now on our website! Location: Junction City Main Street Office, 129 W 7th Street Attendees will start their journey at our office, led by costumed tour guides who are not only talented storytellers but also actors from the Junction City Little Theatre's production of Dracula. These performers will bring Junction City’s eerie past to life as they share wretched and intriguing tales from local history. We encourage everyone to embrace the Halloween spirit by dressing up for the occasion! Chilling Stops and Local Brews Throughout the ghostly crawl, you’ll pause at key historical sites to hear about the mysteries that still haunt Junction City’s streets. To help you brave the haunted history, you’ll also have the chance to fill up on booze or brews, with stops at D’z Lounge, Highwind Brewing Company, and Blu Restaurant and Bar. Enjoy a complimentary drink as you soak up the stories and make new friends along the way! Each tour will last approximately 1.5 hours, with a maximum of 20 participants per group. Space is limited, so don't wait—tickets are selling fast! Exclusive Discount: Be a Part of the Boos and Brews Test Run! Want to be one of the first to experience this haunted journey? Join us for our Boos and Brews Test Run on October 18, 2024, at a discounted rate! Help us fine-tune the event while enjoying the same thrilling experience, led by our incredible tour guides from the Dracula cast. Don't Miss Out – Reserve Your Spot Today! This event is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a spooky, fun-filled evening. Head to our website to purchase your tickets today! For more information or to reserve your spot, visit our website at <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/event/2024-boos-and-brews-test-run/">junctioncitymainstreet.org.</a>

Junction City Main Street will host Boos and Brews 

<a href="https://www.oralhealthkansas.org/">Oral Health Kansas</a>&nbsp;is proud to announce that it has been awarded the ARPA 9817 Project grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment – Division of Health Care Finance (KDHE-DHCF). This funding will be used to improve access to oral health services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who receive Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). The grant also aims to reduce barriers caregivers encounter when supporting oral health care at home and to create a culture that values oral health as a part of overall health for Kansans of all ages, cultures and resources.

“We are pleased to receive this transformative funding that allows us to join forces with our partners to break down barriers and expand dental care access for people with disabilities across Kansas,” said Tanya Dorf Brunner, executive director of Oral Health Kansas. “This grant is a testament to our ongoing work and dedication to building a truly inclusive oral health system where everyone’s needs are met with dignity and care.”

Oral Health Kansas will work alongside several key partners to execute this initiative, including InterHab, the Kansas Dental Association, Families Together Inc., the Community Care Network of Kansas, Self Advocate Coalition of Kansas, and many others.Key Activities of the Grant Project Include:&nbsp;

This grant builds on years of work, including the Dental Passport initiative, Project ECHO series, and advocacy for improved Medicaid dental coverage. The funding allows Oral Health Kansas and its partners to continue removing barriers to oral health care for individuals with disabilities and ensure a stronger support system for caregivers.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718892432266.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted<a href="https://www.oralhealthkansas.org/">Oral Health Kansas</a>&nbsp;is proud to announce that it has been awarded the ARPA 9817 Project grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment – Division of Health Care Finance (KDHE-DHCF). This funding will be used to improve access to oral health services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who receive Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). The grant also aims to reduce barriers caregivers encounter when supporting oral health care at home and to create a culture that values oral health as a part of overall health for Kansans of all ages, cultures and resources.“We are pleased to receive this transformative funding that allows us to join forces with our partners to break down barriers and expand dental care access for people with disabilities across Kansas,” said Tanya Dorf Brunner, executive director of Oral Health Kansas. “This grant is a testament to our ongoing work and dedication to building a truly inclusive oral health system where everyone’s needs are met with dignity and care.”Oral Health Kansas will work alongside several key partners to execute this initiative, including InterHab, the Kansas Dental Association, Families Together Inc., the Community Care Network of Kansas, Self Advocate Coalition of Kansas, and many others.Key Activities of the Grant Project Include:&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Increasing Medicaid Dental Providers:A statewide media campaign, technical support, and education programs like Project ECHO will help dental offices enroll as Medicaid providers and build confidence in treating individuals with disabilities.</li><li>Expanding the Use of&nbsp;<a href="https://oralhealthkansas.org/DentalPassport.html">MyDental Care Passport</a>:Outreach to dental offices, IDD service providers, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities will promote the Dental Passport, which improves communication and care coordination.</li><li>Training Programs for Providers and Consumers:New educational videos on adaptive aids, provider training through Project Accessible Oral Health, and the expansion of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.oralhealthkansas.org/OlderAdults_PeopleDisabilities_FeelingGood.html">Feeling Good About Your Smile</a>&nbsp;program will enhance oral health literacy and care for people with disabilities.</li>
 </ol>This grant builds on years of work, including the Dental Passport initiative, Project ECHO series, and advocacy for improved Medicaid dental coverage. The funding allows Oral Health Kansas and its partners to continue removing barriers to oral health care for individuals with disabilities and ensure a stronger support system for caregivers.

Oral Health Kansas awarded grant to enhance dental care for individuals with disabilities

Donations can be made on Tuesday, Oct. 15,&nbsp; to 501C3 nonprofit organizations as part of the annual Geary Community Match Day.&nbsp;

For donations of $25 or more a match of 50 cents on the dollar will be provided up to $1,000 per individual and $7,500 per nonprofit. Match funds are being provided by R2B4, Central Charities Foundation, Crosby Family Foundation and the Hoover-Koken Foundation.

Fifty-seven 501 C3 nonprofit organizations have signed up to participate in the daylong event. Donations can be made at the Junction City Municipal Building Gymnasium, online at gearymatchday.com or by mail postmarked by Oct. 15 to P.O. Box 411. On the latter option you can print off a giving form from the website where you can list the organizations receiving contributions and the amount before mailing the form. Include only one check to GGCF for the total donation.

More than 40 tables manned by representatives of participating organizations have been set up at the Municipal Building Gymnasium where you can get your questions answered.&nbsp;

Donations can be made on Tuesday, Oct. 15,&nbsp; to 501C3 nonprofit organizations as part of the annual Geary Community Match Day.&nbsp;For donations of $25 or more a match of 50 cents on the dollar will be provided up to $1,000 per individual and $7,500 per nonprofit. Match funds are being provided by R2B4, Central Charities Foundation, Crosby Family Foundation and the Hoover-Koken Foundation.Fifty-seven 501 C3 nonprofit organizations have signed up to participate in the daylong event. Donations can be made at the Junction City Municipal Building Gymnasium, online at gearymatchday.com or by mail postmarked by Oct. 15 to P.O. Box 411. On the latter option you can print off a giving form from the website where you can list the organizations receiving contributions and the amount before mailing the form. Include only one check to GGCF for the total donation.More than 40 tables manned by representatives of participating organizations have been set up at the Municipal Building Gymnasium where you can get your questions answered.&nbsp;

Geary Community Match Day is scheduled Tuesday

The Physical Activity Alliance, the nation’s largest national coalition dedicated to advancing regular participation in physical activity, has released the 2024 United States Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth. 

The overall physical activity grade for children and youth remained low at D-, the same grade it received in 2022 when the last report was issued.

Bethany Forseth, Ph.D., a researcher at the University of Kansas Medical Center and assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Science and Athletic Training at KU School of Health Professions, led the fitness section of the report card.

“There is an abundance of research showing that physical activity is good for the health and development of children,” Forseth said. “I think this Report Card is important because it provides a quick and easy way to see how active children are in our society. This information can help inform advocacy and policy decisions at the national and local levels that will improve the health of our children.”

The 2024 Executive Summary and Full Report are provided here:&nbsp;<a href="https://paamovewithus.org/us-report-card-on-physical-activity-for-children-and-youth/">https://paamovewithus.org/us-report-card-on-physical-activity-for-children-and-youth/</a>The grade was derived from National Survey of Children’s Health and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data that showed:•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Only 20% to 28% of 6- to 17-year-olds meet the 60 minutes of daily physical activity recommended by the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.&nbsp;

The proportion of children who meet the physical activity guidelines has decreased slightly since 2016, when these data were first available.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

 The report card is made up of 11 indicators (or areas) that are graded, and Forseth led the Fitness Indicator. 

“What we typically observe in research is that higher levels of health-related fitness are associated with a decreased risk of chronic diseases; in this section we'd hope to see that our children are fit. What we found is that most measures of health-related fitness are not captured in current surveillance efforts, and we don't know the current fitness levels of our youth,” Forseth said.

While fitness is difficult to measure with the current tools, it’s clear that physical activity remains far too low.

“Children’s physical activity is highly influenced by factors within our communities,” said Jordan Carlson, Ph.D., professor of pediatrics at Children’s Mercy Kansas City and chair of the 2024 United States Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth. “Human bodies were designed to move and be active, but modern society has made life more sedentary. We need to re-engineer our environments and routines to build activity back in. This means providing more opportunities for children to be active that are safe and enjoyable. Policy makers and other community leaders can support children’s health by carefully considering the important role all sectors of society play in removing barriers to physical activity.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of 2021 more than 40% of school-aged children and adolescents had at least one chronic health condition such as asthma or obesity. In 2022, a report published in JAMA Pediatrics found that nearly one in three adolescents now meet the criteria for prediabetes and the rate among 12- to 19-year-olds had more than doubled from 11% to 28% between 1999 and 2018.

“Improving the health of our young people will require parents, teachers, health professionals, community leaders and policy makers working together to change the systems and settings impacting youth health,” said Pam Watts, CAE, president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://paamovewithus.org/">Physical Activity Alliance</a>&nbsp;and executive director of&nbsp;<a href="https://nirsa.net/">NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation</a>. “As the nation’s largest coalition dedicated to making the active choice the easy choice, PAA is the home for the collaborations and coordinated effort needed to reverse these trends and improve our physical activity grade.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695999940626.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Physical Activity Alliance, the nation’s largest national coalition dedicated to advancing regular participation in physical activity, has released the 2024 United States Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth. The overall physical activity grade for children and youth remained low at D-, the same grade it received in 2022 when the last report was issued.Bethany Forseth, Ph.D., a researcher at the University of Kansas Medical Center and assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Science and Athletic Training at KU School of Health Professions, led the fitness section of the report card.“There is an abundance of research showing that physical activity is good for the health and development of children,” Forseth said. “I think this Report Card is important because it provides a quick and easy way to see how active children are in our society. This information can help inform advocacy and policy decisions at the national and local levels that will improve the health of our children.”The 2024 Executive Summary and Full Report are provided here:&nbsp;<a href="https://paamovewithus.org/us-report-card-on-physical-activity-for-children-and-youth/">https://paamovewithus.org/us-report-card-on-physical-activity-for-children-and-youth/</a>The grade was derived from National Survey of Children’s Health and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data that showed:•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Only 20% to 28% of 6- to 17-year-olds meet the 60 minutes of daily physical activity recommended by the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.&nbsp;The proportion of children who meet the physical activity guidelines has decreased slightly since 2016, when these data were first available.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The report card is made up of 11 indicators (or areas) that are graded, and Forseth led the Fitness Indicator. “What we typically observe in research is that higher levels of health-related fitness are associated with a decreased risk of chronic diseases; in this section we'd hope to see that our children are fit. What we found is that most measures of health-related fitness are not captured in current surveillance efforts, and we don't know the current fitness levels of our youth,” Forseth said.While fitness is difficult to measure with the current tools, it’s clear that physical activity remains far too low.“Children’s physical activity is highly influenced by factors within our communities,” said Jordan Carlson, Ph.D., professor of pediatrics at Children’s Mercy Kansas City and chair of the 2024 United States Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth. “Human bodies were designed to move and be active, but modern society has made life more sedentary. We need to re-engineer our environments and routines to build activity back in. This means providing more opportunities for children to be active that are safe and enjoyable. Policy makers and other community leaders can support children’s health by carefully considering the important role all sectors of society play in removing barriers to physical activity.”According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of 2021 more than 40% of school-aged children and adolescents had at least one chronic health condition such as asthma or obesity. In 2022, a report published in JAMA Pediatrics found that nearly one in three adolescents now meet the criteria for prediabetes and the rate among 12- to 19-year-olds had more than doubled from 11% to 28% between 1999 and 2018.“Improving the health of our young people will require parents, teachers, health professionals, community leaders and policy makers working together to change the systems and settings impacting youth health,” said Pam Watts, CAE, president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://paamovewithus.org/">Physical Activity Alliance</a>&nbsp;and executive director of&nbsp;<a href="https://nirsa.net/">NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation</a>. “As the nation’s largest coalition dedicated to making the active choice the easy choice, PAA is the home for the collaborations and coordinated effort needed to reverse these trends and improve our physical activity grade.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Few children are getting activity needed for healthy lives report shows

The Junction City Police Department is participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 26th, 2024, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.&nbsp; The public can bring unused or any expired prescriptions to Dillons located at 618 w 6th St during this time.

The Junction City Police Department is participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 26th, 2024, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.&nbsp; The public can bring unused or any expired prescriptions to Dillons located at 618 w 6th St during this time.

JCPD will be part of National Drug Prescription Take Back Day

Junction City police said thank you to Walmart for inviting them to be part of the grand reopening and ribbon cutting at the Walmart Supercenter, and for a $2,000 donation to the police "Shop with a Cop" charity.&nbsp; The JCPD coordinates Shop with a Cop to help needy children purchase gifts during the Christmas holiday season.

Junction City police said thank you to Walmart for inviting them to be part of the grand reopening and ribbon cutting at the Walmart Supercenter, and for a $2,000 donation to the police "Shop with a Cop" charity.&nbsp; The JCPD coordinates Shop with a Cop to help needy children purchase gifts during the Christmas holiday season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728778182975.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728778207159.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728778225639.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Walmart celebrates grand reopening

Junction City Commissioners Tuesday night will consider a proposed plan from the Parks &amp; Recreation Department for the use of $500,000 in ARPA ( American Rescue Plan Act ) funds for additional parks projects.

&nbsp;City staff have identified several City parks that need new playground equipment. Staff recommends using the allotted ARPA funds to purchase new playground equipment for Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Bramlage Park, South Park, and North Park. These four parks are in the most need of replacement.

The city commission meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday at 701 North Jefferson.

Junction City Commissioners Tuesday night will consider a proposed plan from the Parks &amp; Recreation Department for the use of $500,000 in ARPA ( American Rescue Plan Act ) funds for additional parks projects.&nbsp;City staff have identified several City parks that need new playground equipment. Staff recommends using the allotted ARPA funds to purchase new playground equipment for Martin Luther King Jr. Park, Bramlage Park, South Park, and North Park. These four parks are in the most need of replacement.The city commission meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday at 701 North Jefferson.

Playground equipment recommended for parks projects 

On Friday, October 11 the Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel met at the Zion United Church of Christ.&nbsp;

At each of their meetings, there is a special project designated. This month the project was to provide support for the Geary County Food Pantry with non-perishable food items or a monetary donation and/or a donation to the organization’s scholarships.

The program was provided by Lisa Hatt with the Court Appointed Special Advocates (C.A.S.A.) office and Joe and Sheila Markley from the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

A string quartet from the Junction City High School Chamber Orchestra directed by Cesar Martinez-Reyes, performed musical selections for the retired educators. Mr. Martinez-Reyes also played an oboe solo with the group and a duet with Dr. Ferrell Miller who played the accordion.

The next meeting of JCARSP will be on December 13 at noon. Membership is open to any retired school employee. The point of contact may be reached at Ferrell.miller3@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728777490111.jpeg" alt="Dr. Ferrell Miller" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Ferrell Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerOn Friday, October 11 the Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel met at the Zion United Church of Christ.&nbsp;At each of their meetings, there is a special project designated. This month the project was to provide support for the Geary County Food Pantry with non-perishable food items or a monetary donation and/or a donation to the organization’s scholarships.The program was provided by Lisa Hatt with the Court Appointed Special Advocates (C.A.S.A.) office and Joe and Sheila Markley from the C.L. Hoover Opera House.A string quartet from the Junction City High School Chamber Orchestra directed by Cesar Martinez-Reyes, performed musical selections for the retired educators. Mr. Martinez-Reyes also played an oboe solo with the group and a duet with Dr. Ferrell Miller who played the accordion.The next meeting of JCARSP will be on December 13 at noon. Membership is open to any retired school employee. The point of contact may be reached at Ferrell.miller3@gmail.com.