The Geary County Historical Society has received $2000 in grant funding from Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area. The award will help the Black History Trail exhibit, which will be installed mid 2025. 

The exhibit will serve as a starting place for those interested in the work of the Black History Trail of Geary County, as well as a home to important Black stories, photos, and artifacts. The Geary County Historical Society has been a supporting organization for the Black History Trail of Geary County since the beginning and is excited to give a permanent home to some of the stories that the Trail has been working to gather.

The Historical Society will begin collecting stories, photos, and artifacts for this exhibit throughout the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025. If you have stories, photos, or artifacts to share in the Black History Trail exhibit, reach out to Heather Hagedorn at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gearyhistory@gmail.com">gearyhistory@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or 785-238-1666.

The Geary County Historical Society has received $2000 in grant funding from Freedom’s Frontier National Heritage Area. The award will help the Black History Trail exhibit, which will be installed mid 2025. The exhibit will serve as a starting place for those interested in the work of the Black History Trail of Geary County, as well as a home to important Black stories, photos, and artifacts. The Geary County Historical Society has been a supporting organization for the Black History Trail of Geary County since the beginning and is excited to give a permanent home to some of the stories that the Trail has been working to gather.The Historical Society will begin collecting stories, photos, and artifacts for this exhibit throughout the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025. If you have stories, photos, or artifacts to share in the Black History Trail exhibit, reach out to Heather Hagedorn at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gearyhistory@gmail.com">gearyhistory@gmail.com</a>&nbsp;or 785-238-1666.

Freedom’s Frontier NHA grant awarded to Geary County Historical Society

Superintendent’s Three R Awards Honored

On Monday night, Dr. Deb Gustafson, USD 475 Associate Superintendent, recognized exemplary students with the 3R Award. The award is given to students who demonstrate excellence in the areas of respect, responsibility and building positive relationships. Earning recognition on Monday were Natalie Wells (Westwood Elementary), Leonardo Murillo Garibay (Eisenhower Elementary), Anayah Drayton (Spring Valley Elementary) and Olivia Counter (Sheridan Elementary).

A Purple Star Commemorative Vase was awarded to Eisenhower Elementary, Sheridan Elementary and Spring Valley Elementary on Monday for demonstrating a major commitment to supporting students and their families connected to the United States military.

On Monday night, the Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education recognized four schools in Eisenhower Elementary, Seitz Elementary, Washington Elementary and Westwood Elementary for earning the Kansas State Department of Education Civic Advocacy Network Award for their commitment to civic engagement for students.

Board Approves Junction City High School FFA Travel

On Monday night, the Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education approved the out-of-state travel for the Junction

City High School FFA Chapter. The Blue Jays will travel to Indiana for the National FFA Convention and Expo on October 22-25.

Discuss End of Life Computers for the Public

Karl DeArmond, USD 475 Chief Operations Officer, discussed a proposal to offer individual computers to the public. DeArmond stated that approximately 100 devices will be made available, while the Junction City High School Beak Squad will

be able to reinstall the original version of Windows onto the devices. Other highlights included that the Beak Squad will be

able to sell the devices for approximately $40 with tax and that the funds recovered will help with supplies for the maker

Calendar Option Priorities Approved for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 School Year

On Monday night, the USD 475 Board of Education approved the calendar priorities for the district calendar as presented. The priorities will be brought back to the Board of Education in the future if a recommendation is needed.

• A school calendar will be established with a minimum of six five-day student attendance weeks per quarter.

• A school calendar will be established with a minimum of eight PD days with at least one per quarter.

• A school calendar will be established to include Veteran’s Day as a school holiday.

• Student contact hours that equate to a minimum of five days at all grades will be established in the school calendar for the purpose of emergency events.

Superintendent’s Three R Awards HonoredOn Monday night, Dr. Deb Gustafson, USD 475 Associate Superintendent, recognized exemplary students with the 3R Award. The award is given to students who demonstrate excellence in the areas of respect, responsibility and building positive relationships. Earning recognition on Monday were Natalie Wells (Westwood Elementary), Leonardo Murillo Garibay (Eisenhower Elementary), Anayah Drayton (Spring Valley Elementary) and Olivia Counter (Sheridan Elementary).Purple Star RecognitionA Purple Star Commemorative Vase was awarded to Eisenhower Elementary, Sheridan Elementary and Spring Valley Elementary on Monday for demonstrating a major commitment to supporting students and their families connected to the United States military.Civic Advocacy Network Award RecognitionOn Monday night, the Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education recognized four schools in Eisenhower Elementary, Seitz Elementary, Washington Elementary and Westwood Elementary for earning the Kansas State Department of Education Civic Advocacy Network Award for their commitment to civic engagement for students.Board Approves Junction City High School FFA TravelOn Monday night, the Geary County Schools USD 475 Board of Education approved the out-of-state travel for the JunctionCity High School FFA Chapter. The Blue Jays will travel to Indiana for the National FFA Convention and Expo on October 22-25.Discuss End of Life Computers for the PublicKarl DeArmond, USD 475 Chief Operations Officer, discussed a proposal to offer individual computers to the public. DeArmond stated that approximately 100 devices will be made available, while the Junction City High School Beak Squad willbe able to reinstall the original version of Windows onto the devices. Other highlights included that the Beak Squad will beable to sell the devices for approximately $40 with tax and that the funds recovered will help with supplies for the makerspace at the high school.Calendar Option Priorities Approved for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 School YearOn Monday night, the USD 475 Board of Education approved the calendar priorities for the district calendar as presented. The priorities will be brought back to the Board of Education in the future if a recommendation is needed.• A school calendar will be established with a minimum of six five-day student attendance weeks per quarter.• A school calendar will be established with a minimum of eight PD days with at least one per quarter.• A school calendar will be established to include Veteran’s Day as a school holiday.• Student contact hours that equate to a minimum of five days at all grades will be established in the school calendar for the purpose of emergency events.

USD 475 Board of Education highlights

&nbsp;The Evergy Green Team will host&nbsp;rifle deer hunts for youths December 4 through December 15. Due to the supervised and educational nature of the hunts youths with little or no deer hunting experience are allowed to apply to participate. &nbsp;

Hunts will be conducted at&nbsp;Jeffrey Energy Center, 25905 Jeffrey Rd, St. Marys, KS&nbsp;during the early firearm deer season, December 4 through December 15. Youths aged 13 to 17 are invited to apply. Applications will be accepted through Friday, October 25. Requests for applications should be sent to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:GreenTeam@evergy.com">GreenTeam@evergy.com</a>.&nbsp;

All youth hunters must first attend a mandatory orientation session on November 16 at Jeffrey Energy Center.&nbsp;Organizers will instruct hunters on safety, deer biology and assist youths with sighting in rifles. Hunters will then be allowed to attend the youth deer hunts December 4 – 15.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The Evergy Green Team will host&nbsp;rifle deer hunts for youths December 4 through December 15. Due to the supervised and educational nature of the hunts youths with little or no deer hunting experience are allowed to apply to participate. &nbsp;Hunts will be conducted at&nbsp;Jeffrey Energy Center, 25905 Jeffrey Rd, St. Marys, KS&nbsp;during the early firearm deer season, December 4 through December 15. Youths aged 13 to 17 are invited to apply. Applications will be accepted through Friday, October 25. Requests for applications should be sent to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:GreenTeam@evergy.com">GreenTeam@evergy.com</a>.&nbsp;All youth hunters must first attend a mandatory orientation session on November 16 at Jeffrey Energy Center.&nbsp;Organizers will instruct hunters on safety, deer biology and assist youths with sighting in rifles. Hunters will then be allowed to attend the youth deer hunts December 4 – 15.&nbsp;

 Evergy Green Team Invites Area Youths to Annual Deer Hunt 

On Friday, October 11, 2024, an Employee Training Day is being held for all Geary County staff. Due to this, the Public Works Department will be closed. The Transfer Station and Landfill will remain open.

On Monday, October 14, 2024, the Public Works Department, and the Geary County Landfill will be closed in observance of Columbus Day. The Transfer Station will be open.

We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

On Friday, October 11, 2024, an Employee Training Day is being held for all Geary County staff. Due to this, the Public Works Department will be closed. The Transfer Station and Landfill will remain open.On Monday, October 14, 2024, the Public Works Department, and the Geary County Landfill will be closed in observance of Columbus Day. The Transfer Station will be open.We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.Thank you for your understanding.

Geary County Public Works Notice of Closures Oct. 11 & Oct. 14

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State University men's basketball coach Jerome Tang is the latest to speak at the Sports Arena as part of the Ray and Stella Dillon Lecture Series.

Tang is well-known for his interaction with the K-State student body in Manhattan.

"We build great relationships, not just with our players, but with the community," Tang said. "I just love the students, I've always had a passion for the students everywhere I've been. One of the things that attracted me to K-State, as an assistant, when we would play in Bramlage the students would tear up the newspaper and toss it in the air, I just thought that was the coolest thing. I'm so thankful they do it and I get to be on that side now."

Tang took over the K-State program in 2022 after 19 years as an assistant at Baylor University.&nbsp;

"The truth is that I didn't have other opportunities," Tang said. "I did explore other places and they all said no. Gene Taylor was the person dumb enough to say yes, or smart enough to say yes. I know as frustrating as it was for me, knowing that I could do the job given the opportunity, I firmly believe God blocked those doors, cause there were things I still needed to learn, there were experiences that I still needed to have, and in his perfect timing, he opened the right spot for me."

Tang is also well-known for his passion that he has for his players.

"I have this really good friend named Tim Maloney. Coach Maloney and I coached at Baylor together," Tang said. "He would always say 'Jerome, you teach basketball, but you coach people,' it's a teaching portion of things, I had this really great bible quiz coach growing up named Norma Schuler and she was just one of the most positive people that I've ever been around. It didn't matter how bad things were, Sister Schuler would have just the right words to say to make you feel better. I saw what she did for each of us individually and I thought man I'd love to have that kind of an impact. As a high school coach, I taught Bible and history at Heritage Christian Academy, so there is always a teaching portion to it, but I think you teach the material, but you're always coaching people."

Tang says Wichita State head men's basketball coach Paul Mills is a good friend of his and had a great quote.

"He said, 'hey Jerome, you know one of the definitions for coach it's a vehicle that takes people from one place to where they want to go, from where they're at to where they want to go,' I think that's a great illustration of what coaching is. We're taking them from where they're at to where they want to go. The course to get there, we have to help them understand and plan, cause everyone wants to do it in a straight line, and that's not always the case."

There are two simple solutions to how Tang always keeps an upbeat energy and passion around his team.

"We win, or we learn," Tang said. "There's always something when it happens, you can learn something from it. Our thing in recruiting is when one of my staff members calls and says 'hey this kid committed to another school,' I say God's got somebody better for us. God's faithfulness in my life allows me to know that if something doesn't go the way I want it to go, it's because he has something better in mind."

Tang is gearing up for his third season in the Little Apple, which the Wildcats will open their season on Oct. 29 with an exhibition game against Fort Hays State.

"I like our guys, we have talented kids, but they're kids," Tang said. "We're probably spending more time coaching maturity, teaching them how to be professionals, not pros, but professionals. How do they wake up every day, what do they do, every decision they make during the day, because every decision matters. If it was just basketball, they're talented, we're going to be pretty good."

When recruiting, Tang looks for student-athletes that smile.

"After you get past the talent, I like guys who smile," Tang said. "I've never seen a guy who frowned have a high motor. I dislike walking into a room, where you know somebody is going to have a frown on their face. They're going to suck the energy out the building, so if I talk to a guy for five minutes and I don't make him laugh, or he don't make me laugh, I move on. I like seeing them smile with their teammates, it says a lot about them."

Tang says the family aspect is important in his everyday life in Manhattan.

"We say if the only time you spend time together is on the basketball court at the office then you're really not a family," Tang said. "Every week we have family dinners, one week it's catered, one week it's potluck, so our wives cook, we don't do the wives cooking every week, cause as husbands we want them to not be mad at us. The guys come over to the house, and one of the things I say is we don't want them to only know where the bathrooms are, we want them to know where the knives and forks are, so they feel at home. There's nothing like having the guys over to the house, they're sitting in the living room, watching TV, eating and then one of them falls asleep, you know that they feel comfortable enough to fall asleep on your couch."

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State University men's basketball coach Jerome Tang speaks Tuesday at the Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community College.

Tang was selected as the 2023 Werner Ladder Naismith Men's College Coach of the Year after guiding the Wildcats to a 26-win season and its 13th trip to the Elite Eight in his inaugural season, recently completed his second season as the 25th head men's basketball coach at Kansas State.

Coach Tang is just third coach in the program's history to be selected National Coach of the Year, joining Fred "Tex" Winter (who presented a 2003 Dillon Lecture) in 1958 and Jack Hartman in 1980, while he is the fourth head coach from a Big 12 institution to earn the honor from the Naismith Trophy. He was a candidate for nearly every other National Coach of the Year honor in 2022-23, including finishing as the runner-up for The Associated Press award. In addition, he was the consensus Big 12 Coach of the Year, earning the honor from both the league coaches and the AP.

Since 1982, the Dillon Lecture Series has provided distinguished and notable speakers that many in Hutchinson, Kansas and surrounding communities might not have the opportunity to experience.&nbsp;

From poets, politicians and&nbsp;space scientists to American heroes, each is&nbsp;chosen by the Dillon Lecture Committee by following the teachings of Chinese philosopher Kuan-Tzam - “learning is the key to enlightenment” -&nbsp;to educate and inspire audiences across a wide age span.

All lectures are held in the Hutchinson Sports Arena beginning at 10:30 a.m. and last one hour.

TICKETS: General admission tickets are $10. Students and school groups are admitted free of charge with a school ID. Tickets are available online (<a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>) or&nbsp;at the Sports&nbsp;Arena on the day of the lecture.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728401778928.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University head men's basketball coach Jerome Tang is the latest speaker as part of the Dillon Lecture Series. Tang spoke at the Hutchinson Sports Arena on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University head men's basketball coach Jerome Tang is the latest speaker as part of the Dillon Lecture Series. Tang spoke at the Hutchinson Sports Arena on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State University men's basketball coach Jerome Tang is the latest to speak at the Sports Arena as part of the Ray and Stella Dillon Lecture Series.Tang is well-known for his interaction with the K-State student body in Manhattan."We build great relationships, not just with our players, but with the community," Tang said. "I just love the students, I've always had a passion for the students everywhere I've been. One of the things that attracted me to K-State, as an assistant, when we would play in Bramlage the students would tear up the newspaper and toss it in the air, I just thought that was the coolest thing. I'm so thankful they do it and I get to be on that side now."Tang took over the K-State program in 2022 after 19 years as an assistant at Baylor University.&nbsp;"The truth is that I didn't have other opportunities," Tang said. "I did explore other places and they all said no. Gene Taylor was the person dumb enough to say yes, or smart enough to say yes. I know as frustrating as it was for me, knowing that I could do the job given the opportunity, I firmly believe God blocked those doors, cause there were things I still needed to learn, there were experiences that I still needed to have, and in his perfect timing, he opened the right spot for me."Tang is also well-known for his passion that he has for his players."I have this really good friend named Tim Maloney. Coach Maloney and I coached at Baylor together," Tang said. "He would always say 'Jerome, you teach basketball, but you coach people,' it's a teaching portion of things, I had this really great bible quiz coach growing up named Norma Schuler and she was just one of the most positive people that I've ever been around. It didn't matter how bad things were, Sister Schuler would have just the right words to say to make you feel better. I saw what she did for each of us individually and I thought man I'd love to have that kind of an impact. As a high school coach, I taught Bible and history at Heritage Christian Academy, so there is always a teaching portion to it, but I think you teach the material, but you're always coaching people."Tang says Wichita State head men's basketball coach Paul Mills is a good friend of his and had a great quote."He said, 'hey Jerome, you know one of the definitions for coach it's a vehicle that takes people from one place to where they want to go, from where they're at to where they want to go,' I think that's a great illustration of what coaching is. We're taking them from where they're at to where they want to go. The course to get there, we have to help them understand and plan, cause everyone wants to do it in a straight line, and that's not always the case."There are two simple solutions to how Tang always keeps an upbeat energy and passion around his team."We win, or we learn," Tang said. "There's always something when it happens, you can learn something from it. Our thing in recruiting is when one of my staff members calls and says 'hey this kid committed to another school,' I say God's got somebody better for us. God's faithfulness in my life allows me to know that if something doesn't go the way I want it to go, it's because he has something better in mind."Tang is gearing up for his third season in the Little Apple, which the Wildcats will open their season on Oct. 29 with an exhibition game against Fort Hays State."I like our guys, we have talented kids, but they're kids," Tang said. "We're probably spending more time coaching maturity, teaching them how to be professionals, not pros, but professionals. How do they wake up every day, what do they do, every decision they make during the day, because every decision matters. If it was just basketball, they're talented, we're going to be pretty good."When recruiting, Tang looks for student-athletes that smile."After you get past the talent, I like guys who smile," Tang said. "I've never seen a guy who frowned have a high motor. I dislike walking into a room, where you know somebody is going to have a frown on their face. They're going to suck the energy out the building, so if I talk to a guy for five minutes and I don't make him laugh, or he don't make me laugh, I move on. I like seeing them smile with their teammates, it says a lot about them."Tang says the family aspect is important in his everyday life in Manhattan."We say if the only time you spend time together is on the basketball court at the office then you're really not a family," Tang said. "Every week we have family dinners, one week it's catered, one week it's potluck, so our wives cook, we don't do the wives cooking every week, cause as husbands we want them to not be mad at us. The guys come over to the house, and one of the things I say is we don't want them to only know where the bathrooms are, we want them to know where the knives and forks are, so they feel at home. There's nothing like having the guys over to the house, they're sitting in the living room, watching TV, eating and then one of them falls asleep, you know that they feel comfortable enough to fall asleep on your couch."---------------HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas State University men's basketball coach Jerome Tang speaks Tuesday at the Dillon Lecture Series at Hutchinson Community College.Tang was selected as the 2023 Werner Ladder Naismith Men's College Coach of the Year after guiding the Wildcats to a 26-win season and its 13th trip to the Elite Eight in his inaugural season, recently completed his second season as the 25th head men's basketball coach at Kansas State.Coach Tang is just third coach in the program's history to be selected National Coach of the Year, joining Fred "Tex" Winter (who presented a 2003 Dillon Lecture) in 1958 and Jack Hartman in 1980, while he is the fourth head coach from a Big 12 institution to earn the honor from the Naismith Trophy. He was a candidate for nearly every other National Coach of the Year honor in 2022-23, including finishing as the runner-up for The Associated Press award. In addition, he was the consensus Big 12 Coach of the Year, earning the honor from both the league coaches and the AP.Since 1982, the Dillon Lecture Series has provided distinguished and notable speakers that many in Hutchinson, Kansas and surrounding communities might not have the opportunity to experience.&nbsp;From poets, politicians and&nbsp;space scientists to American heroes, each is&nbsp;chosen by the Dillon Lecture Committee by following the teachings of Chinese philosopher Kuan-Tzam - “learning is the key to enlightenment” -&nbsp;to educate and inspire audiences across a wide age span.All lectures are held in the Hutchinson Sports Arena beginning at 10:30 a.m. and last one hour.TICKETS: General admission tickets are $10. Students and school groups are admitted free of charge with a school ID. Tickets are available online (<a href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>) or&nbsp;at the Sports&nbsp;Arena on the day of the lecture.&nbsp;

Coach Tang speaks on family and passion at Dillon Lecture Series

Multiple topics received attention during the Geary County Commission meeting on Monday.

--Alex Tyson noted that the weekend Oktoberfest was a great event. There were a lot of people in attendance.

--Trish Giordano noted the community vision planning effort got off to a great start. There will be more meetings on that project.

--The Convention and Visitor's Bureau is planning to undertake a three month social media campaign beginning in November. The cost will be $150 per month.

Multiple topics received attention during the Geary County Commission meeting on Monday.--Alex Tyson noted that the weekend Oktoberfest was a great event. There were a lot of people in attendance.--Trish Giordano noted the community vision planning effort got off to a great start. There will be more meetings on that project.--The Convention and Visitor's Bureau is planning to undertake a three month social media campaign beginning in November. The cost will be $150 per month.--

Geary County Commission news notes

Tracy Geisler, Executive Director of Geary Community Healthcare Foundation, (red/white top) presents a check for $3,500 to the            I.C.A.R.E. Organization.

The money will assist in purchasing a "Cardio Stepper" to connect generations. This equipment will be a part of the Kiwanis South Playground Upgrade Project.

Tracy Geisler, Executive Director of Geary Community Healthcare Foundation, (red/white top) presents a check for $3,500 to the I.C.A.R.E. Organization.The money will assist in purchasing a "Cardio Stepper" to connect generations. This equipment will be a part of the Kiwanis South Playground Upgrade Project.

Healthcare Foundation makes donation to I.C.A.R.E.

The subject of low voter turnout in Geary County surfaced during a recent Chamber of Commerce candidate forum. It arose during the county clerk segment.

Challenger Kim Bradney noted that the county is near the bottom of all 105 counties in voter turnout. "So few people are making decisions for all of us." She has suggested an education plan that could possibly involve educating students at the elementary and middle school levels.

Current County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has talked with the Secretary of State's Office where there was a feeling that not a lot of military members participate in local elections. They do not know the candidates that they are voting for.

Gilbert said, "It's your constitutional right to vote." She added she has only been county clerk for a year an a half but has been a registered voter and has voted since she was 18 years old. Gilbert added she is a firm believer that if you don't vote you don't have the right to complain. She tries to educate people via social media,&nbsp; through a quarterly newsletter and other methods.

Bradney feels in the elementary schools kids need to start understanding the electoral process and why they should vote. She would like to see more information put out to the public and the clerk's website updated with more information. She feels there are also social media platforms where the clerk's office should have a presence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728347554812.jpeg" alt="( L-R )&nbsp; County Clerk candidate Kim Bradney, moderator Michael Smith and County Clerk candidate Courtney Gilbert." />
 <figcaption>( L-R )&nbsp; County Clerk candidate Kim Bradney, moderator Michael Smith and County Clerk candidate Courtney Gilbert.</figcaption>
 </figure>The subject of low voter turnout in Geary County surfaced during a recent Chamber of Commerce candidate forum. It arose during the county clerk segment.Challenger Kim Bradney noted that the county is near the bottom of all 105 counties in voter turnout. "So few people are making decisions for all of us." She has suggested an education plan that could possibly involve educating students at the elementary and middle school levels.Current County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has talked with the Secretary of State's Office where there was a feeling that not a lot of military members participate in local elections. They do not know the candidates that they are voting for.Gilbert said, "It's your constitutional right to vote." She added she has only been county clerk for a year an a half but has been a registered voter and has voted since she was 18 years old. Gilbert added she is a firm believer that if you don't vote you don't have the right to complain. She tries to educate people via social media,&nbsp; through a quarterly newsletter and other methods.Bradney feels in the elementary schools kids need to start understanding the electoral process and why they should vote. She would like to see more information put out to the public and the clerk's website updated with more information. She feels there are also social media platforms where the clerk's office should have a presence.The election is Nov. 5th.

Geary County Clerk candidates address election turnout issue

Junction City - Geary County United Way has presented a framed certificate recognizing the effort by county employees through the Stuff the Bus and Adopt a Backpack programs.

The employees filled 24 backpacks with school supplies, far more backpacks than any one organization had ever done. United Way Director Nichole Mader made the presentation during the commission's meeting on Monday.

Junction City - Geary County United Way has presented a framed certificate recognizing the effort by county employees through the Stuff the Bus and Adopt a Backpack programs.The employees filled 24 backpacks with school supplies, far more backpacks than any one organization had ever done. United Way Director Nichole Mader made the presentation during the commission's meeting on Monday.

United Way says thank you for Geary County employees support

Geary County Public Works Director Corey Trumpp has announced his plan to retire on Dec. 9. He informed the county commission in a brief announcement on Monday.

Trumpp noted that he has served in the job for more than seven years.

Geary County Public Works Director Corey Trumpp has announced his plan to retire on Dec. 9. He informed the county commission in a brief announcement on Monday.Trumpp noted that he has served in the job for more than seven years.

Geary County Public Works Director to retire 

Fort Riley has announced that they will host a one-stop hiring fair beginning October 28 at Riley’s Conference Center. This multi-day event offers prospective job applicants the opportunity to apply for open positions on post and, if qualified, participate in interviews. Qualified applicants may receive job offers by the end of the week-long event.

This one-stop hiring event allows applicants to complete most of the hiring process in a condensed format. The first day will feature presentations about available positions, followed by opportunities to apply and be referred to the hiring agency, if qualified. Applicants who receive a tentative job offer will be asked to return on subsequent days to continue the hiring process.

Anyone without a Department of Defense (DOD) identification card can apply for a visitor pass online in advance at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pass.aie.army.mil/Riley/">https://pass.aie.army.mil/Riley/</a>. Visitors can also visit the Visitor Control Center located near the Henry Gate, Exit 301 off I-70. For questions about accessing Fort Riley, please call (785) 239-2982.

Fort Riley has announced that they will host a one-stop hiring fair beginning October 28 at Riley’s Conference Center. This multi-day event offers prospective job applicants the opportunity to apply for open positions on post and, if qualified, participate in interviews. Qualified applicants may receive job offers by the end of the week-long event.This one-stop hiring event allows applicants to complete most of the hiring process in a condensed format. The first day will feature presentations about available positions, followed by opportunities to apply and be referred to the hiring agency, if qualified. Applicants who receive a tentative job offer will be asked to return on subsequent days to continue the hiring process.Anyone without a Department of Defense (DOD) identification card can apply for a visitor pass online in advance at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pass.aie.army.mil/Riley/">https://pass.aie.army.mil/Riley/</a>. Visitors can also visit the Visitor Control Center located near the Henry Gate, Exit 301 off I-70. For questions about accessing Fort Riley, please call (785) 239-2982.

Fort Riley holding one-stop hiring fair

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.

Dariana Harden, Failure to appear, arrested 10/03

Cameron Baker, Outside warrant, arrested 10/04

Collin Bluhm, Probation violation, arrested 10/04

Marchekka Woods, Failure to appear, arrested 10/04

Donque Williams, Outside warrant, arrested 10/04

Joel Jordan, Interference with LEO, Possession of marijuana, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Use or possess with intent to use simulated controlled substance, Cancelled/suspend/revoked drivers license, Interference with LEO, Falsely report a crime intending to obstruct, Outside warrant, arrested 10/04

Daniel Schubert, Failure to appear, arrested 10/04

Paulo Tolentino, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 10/05

Louis Gardner, DUI-Liquor or Drugs, arrested 10/05

Jaylen Jackson, Failure to appear, Possession of marijuana, arrested 10/05

Timothy Janke, Failure to appear, arrested 10/05

Tyson Deaton, DUI-Liquor or Drugs, arrested 10/05

Brandon Nicholson, Theft-All other, arrested 10/05

Marcus Nicholson, Theft-From a building, arrested 10/05

Jesse Hartl, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 10/05

Deberra Patton,&nbsp;Unlawful damage to property, arrested 10/05

Stefan Velcu, Drivers license without valid DL, arrested 10/06

Teresa Menacho, Outside warrant, arrested 10/06

Charles Richmond, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 10/06

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/2024/10/1728326436579.jpeg" alt="Corey Clark, Domestic battery, Knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, arrested 10/06" />
 <figcaption>Corey Clark, Domestic battery, Knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship, arrested 10/06</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728326519271.jpeg" alt="Cindy Walker, Domestic battery, arrested 10/06" />
 <figcaption>Cindy Walker, Domestic battery, arrested 10/06</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728326565633.jpeg" alt="Meilo Riumd, Failure to appear, arrested 10/06" />
 <figcaption>Meilo Riumd, Failure to appear, arrested 10/06</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728326597371.jpeg" alt="John Brown, Criminal damage to property without consent (Value &lt;$1,000), Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 10/06" />
 <figcaption>John Brown, Criminal damage to property without consent (Value &lt;$1,000), Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 10/06</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Dariana Harden, Failure to appear, arrested 10/03Cameron Baker, Outside warrant, arrested 10/04Collin Bluhm, Probation violation, arrested 10/04Marchekka Woods, Failure to appear, arrested 10/04Donque Williams, Outside warrant, arrested 10/04Joel Jordan, Interference with LEO, Possession of marijuana, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Use or possess with intent to use simulated controlled substance, Cancelled/suspend/revoked drivers license, Interference with LEO, Falsely report a crime intending to obstruct, Outside warrant, arrested 10/04Daniel Schubert, Failure to appear, arrested 10/04Paulo Tolentino, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 10/05Louis Gardner, DUI-Liquor or Drugs, arrested 10/05Jaylen Jackson, Failure to appear, Possession of marijuana, arrested 10/05Timothy Janke, Failure to appear, arrested 10/05Tyson Deaton, DUI-Liquor or Drugs, arrested 10/05Brandon Nicholson, Theft-All other, arrested 10/05Marcus Nicholson, Theft-From a building, arrested 10/05Jesse Hartl, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 10/05Deberra Patton,&nbsp;Unlawful damage to property, arrested 10/05Stefan Velcu, Drivers license without valid DL, arrested 10/06Teresa Menacho, Outside warrant, arrested 10/06Charles Richmond, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 10/06Recent 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. 4-7 

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dobDNgOSMGA?si=lCBhPu7U5MDOzuTO" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright.

🎤Forward Ever: American Red Cross communication manager Logan Wright

C.L. Hoover Opera House Board announces the retirement of their directors, Joe and Sheila Markley.

The Markleys, who were already well-known in the area as music teachers in the Chapman school district, have been the guiding hand for the Opera House for the last ten years. They have introduced many innovations and improvements in the building and the stage, including lighting and sound system improvements, and have staged many seasons of diverse entertainment for the area.

They have extended and stabilized our financial base with increased participation and membership.

They have promoted our Opera House statewide by their participation and leadership as Co-Presidents of the Kansas Historic Theaters Association. They have been members and presenters nationally for the League of Historic American Theaters, as well. Joe and Sheila are responsible for making our Opera House the crown jewel and the focal point of downtown Junction City.

Their crowning achievement has been the purchase and remodel of 131 West 7th Street, a building formally known as Peter Pan Grocery Store. The Markleys began an innovative program for youth called ASTRA, where children can learn performing arts. The new addition provides the required space for teaching and practice, office space for the Junction City Little Theatre, office and studio space for Junction City Arts Council, and rehearsal and storage space for the Junction City Community Band.

The C.L. Hoover Opera House wishes Joe and Sheila Markley well in their new endeavors.

Advertising for the position of Executive Director begins immediately.

C.L. Hoover Opera House Board announces the retirement of their directors, Joe and Sheila Markley.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728325976881.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Markleys, who were already well-known in the area as music teachers in the Chapman school district, have been the guiding hand for the Opera House for the last ten years. They have introduced many innovations and improvements in the building and the stage, including lighting and sound system improvements, and have staged many seasons of diverse entertainment for the area.They have extended and stabilized our financial base with increased participation and membership.They have promoted our Opera House statewide by their participation and leadership as Co-Presidents of the Kansas Historic Theaters Association. They have been members and presenters nationally for the League of Historic American Theaters, as well. Joe and Sheila are responsible for making our Opera House the crown jewel and the focal point of downtown Junction City.Their crowning achievement has been the purchase and remodel of 131 West 7th Street, a building formally known as Peter Pan Grocery Store. The Markleys began an innovative program for youth called ASTRA, where children can learn performing arts. The new addition provides the required space for teaching and practice, office space for the Junction City Little Theatre, office and studio space for Junction City Arts Council, and rehearsal and storage space for the Junction City Community Band.The C.L. Hoover Opera House wishes Joe and Sheila Markley well in their new endeavors.Advertising for the position of Executive Director begins immediately.

C.L. Hoover Opera House announces retirement of Joe and Sheila Markley

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) would like to remind Kansans as we approach the respiratory virus season to remain aware of symptoms, preventative measures and when to seek medical treatment.

Every year, respiratory viruses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease cause hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths during the fall and winter virus season.

“We know the risk of contracting and spreading respiratory viruses will increase as we move into the fall and winter months,”&nbsp;KDHE Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dereck Totten said.&nbsp;“It is imperative that people follow common-sense preventative measures and consider getting a vaccine, especially if they fall into a high-risk category.”

Getting an immunization is an important preventative measure against respiratory viruses. &nbsp;Vaccines are available for all three major fall and winter respiratory diseases – flu, COVID-19, and RSV (for groups eligible for RSV immunization). In addition, pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for children younger than five years, adults, 65 years and older, and individuals at an increased risk for pneumococcal disease.

Kansas will receive approximately $780,000 from the federal government this year to cover about 9,380 COVID-19 doses for uninsured and underinsured adults. These doses will be equitably distributed across Kansas to Local Health Departments, Federally Qualified Health Centers, Rural Health Clinics, and other vaccination locations to help provide vaccine coverage to uninsured and underinsured adults in Kansas.&nbsp;

While anyone can become sick from common respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, RSV, and pneumococcal disease, some individuals have risk factors that can increase their chances of getting a severe illness.

Groups of people at a higher risk for respiratory illnesses:

Older adults&nbsp;Young childrenPeople with weakened immune systemsPeople with disabilitiesPregnant and recently pregnant individuals

If you believe you may have a respiratory virus (if you feel sick or tested positive for one) and you have risk factors for severe illness, seek health care right away for testing and/or treatment.

If you test positive for the flu or COVID-19, treatment may be an option to make your symptoms less severe and shorten the time you are sick. Treatment should be started within a few days of when your symptoms begin.

Examples of respiratory virus symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny or stuffy nose, decrease in appetite, sore throat, vomiting, new loss of taste or smell, headache, muscle or body aches, diarrhea, and/or weakness.

Washing hands and improving airflow in the places where people live and work are important to lowering risk from respiratory viruses.

Effective treatments are available for those who get flu or COVID-19 and are recommended for those at higher risk for severe illness. Treatment can reduce severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

You should seek emergency care‎ if you have an emergency warning sign (like trouble breathing or chest pain), seek emergency medical care immediately.

Everyday actions like masking and physical distancing can provide an additional layer of protection and can protect their family, friends, and coworkers.

Tests are available that can quickly detect these respiratory viruses.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) would like to remind Kansans as we approach the respiratory virus season to remain aware of symptoms, preventative measures and when to seek medical treatment.Every year, respiratory viruses such as influenza (flu), COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease cause hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths during the fall and winter virus season.“We know the risk of contracting and spreading respiratory viruses will increase as we move into the fall and winter months,”&nbsp;KDHE Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dereck Totten said.&nbsp;“It is imperative that people follow common-sense preventative measures and consider getting a vaccine, especially if they fall into a high-risk category.”Getting an immunization is an important preventative measure against respiratory viruses. &nbsp;Vaccines are available for all three major fall and winter respiratory diseases – flu, COVID-19, and RSV (for groups eligible for RSV immunization). In addition, pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for children younger than five years, adults, 65 years and older, and individuals at an increased risk for pneumococcal disease.Kansas will receive approximately $780,000 from the federal government this year to cover about 9,380 COVID-19 doses for uninsured and underinsured adults. These doses will be equitably distributed across Kansas to Local Health Departments, Federally Qualified Health Centers, Rural Health Clinics, and other vaccination locations to help provide vaccine coverage to uninsured and underinsured adults in Kansas.&nbsp;While anyone can become sick from common respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, RSV, and pneumococcal disease, some individuals have risk factors that can increase their chances of getting a severe illness.Groups of people at a higher risk for respiratory illnesses:Older adults&nbsp;Young childrenPeople with weakened immune systemsPeople with disabilitiesPregnant and recently pregnant individualsIf you believe you may have a respiratory virus (if you feel sick or tested positive for one) and you have risk factors for severe illness, seek health care right away for testing and/or treatment.If you test positive for the flu or COVID-19, treatment may be an option to make your symptoms less severe and shorten the time you are sick. Treatment should be started within a few days of when your symptoms begin.Examples of respiratory virus symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, cough, runny or stuffy nose, decrease in appetite, sore throat, vomiting, new loss of taste or smell, headache, muscle or body aches, diarrhea, and/or weakness.Keep in mind:Washing hands and improving airflow in the places where people live and work are important to lowering risk from respiratory viruses.Effective treatments are available for those who get flu or COVID-19 and are recommended for those at higher risk for severe illness. Treatment can reduce severe illness, hospitalization, and death.You should seek emergency care‎ if you have an emergency warning sign (like trouble breathing or chest pain), seek emergency medical care immediately.Everyday actions like masking and physical distancing can provide an additional layer of protection and can protect their family, friends, and coworkers.Tests are available that can quickly detect these respiratory viruses.

KDHE reminds Kansans to be aware as respiratory virus season approaches

Chuck Otte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;cotte@ksu.edu

Unlike the last two months, which didn’t deviate from average very much, September took a marked swing to the warmer and drier side of the spectrum. Neither was record breaking, but certainly noticeable! The average daily high during September was 84.4, 4.0 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 60.5, 3.0 degrees above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 72.5, 3.6 degrees above average. While it was warm, it was actually cooler than four out of the last five Septembers! The highest temperature for the month was 98 on the 19th. The lowest temperature for the month was the morning low of 53 on both the 26th and the 30th. 

While 90 seems like a high temperature for September, it isn’t uncommon. Over the last 70 years, September has yielded an average of six days in September with a temperature 90 or above. Some years we have no 90 or higher readings and some years (1954) we’ve had as many as 20 days of 90 or above. Last year we had 13 days of 90 or above. September of 2024, in this regard, was average with 6 days of 90 or above. There were two temperature records set in September. The overnight lows of 77, on the 19th and again on the 21st set new record high lows for those dates. The previous record on the 19th was 75 set in 2022. For the 21st the previous record was 74 set in 1956. The hottest September on record was in 1954 with a monthly mean temperature of 78.1. It should also be noted that five of the hottest Septembers on record were 2019 (76.3 - second hottest), 2023 (75.0 - fourth hottest) and 2021 (74.6 - fifth hottest). 

The coldest September on record was in 1974 with a monthly mean temperature of 61.1 degrees.&nbsp;After average rainfall in August, September took a decidedly dry turn. A few days of light rain, from the 19th to the 25th, provided the only precipitation for the month. Average precipitation for September is 2.85 inches yet all that could be managed for the month was 0.52 inches. Normal year to date precipitation through the end of September is 28.50 inches. Year to date in 2024 we are running slightly below that with 27.29 inches. 

The driest September on record was in 1947 when 0.24 inches was all that was recorded. The wettest September was in 1967 when 13.28 inches deluged the area. September 2024 was the fourth driest September on record, dating back to 1931.October historically brings autumnal weather to the region with warm days and crisp nights as well as our average first frost date. Average daily highs begin the month at 75 and by Halloween day they have fallen to 61. Overnight lows on the 1st are 51 and by the 31st they have dropped to a chilly 39 degrees. 

Average precipitation for October is 2.48 inches. For those snow loving residents there is a very slim chance of snow during October with a long term average October snowfall of a mere one tenth of an inch. The average first frost date is October 20th. However, in seven of the last ten years, the first frost has occurred later than October 20th, as late as November 13th in 2021. With temperatures running well above average to start the month, we could be looking at a November first frost date again!

Chuck Otte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;cotte@ksu.eduCounty Extension Agent, RetiredUnlike the last two months, which didn’t deviate from average very much, September took a marked swing to the warmer and drier side of the spectrum. Neither was record breaking, but certainly noticeable! The average daily high during September was 84.4, 4.0 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 60.5, 3.0 degrees above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 72.5, 3.6 degrees above average. While it was warm, it was actually cooler than four out of the last five Septembers! The highest temperature for the month was 98 on the 19th. The lowest temperature for the month was the morning low of 53 on both the 26th and the 30th. While 90 seems like a high temperature for September, it isn’t uncommon. Over the last 70 years, September has yielded an average of six days in September with a temperature 90 or above. Some years we have no 90 or higher readings and some years (1954) we’ve had as many as 20 days of 90 or above. Last year we had 13 days of 90 or above. September of 2024, in this regard, was average with 6 days of 90 or above. There were two temperature records set in September. The overnight lows of 77, on the 19th and again on the 21st set new record high lows for those dates. The previous record on the 19th was 75 set in 2022. For the 21st the previous record was 74 set in 1956. The hottest September on record was in 1954 with a monthly mean temperature of 78.1. It should also be noted that five of the hottest Septembers on record were 2019 (76.3 - second hottest), 2023 (75.0 - fourth hottest) and 2021 (74.6 - fifth hottest). The coldest September on record was in 1974 with a monthly mean temperature of 61.1 degrees.&nbsp;After average rainfall in August, September took a decidedly dry turn. A few days of light rain, from the 19th to the 25th, provided the only precipitation for the month. Average precipitation for September is 2.85 inches yet all that could be managed for the month was 0.52 inches. Normal year to date precipitation through the end of September is 28.50 inches. Year to date in 2024 we are running slightly below that with 27.29 inches. The driest September on record was in 1947 when 0.24 inches was all that was recorded. The wettest September was in 1967 when 13.28 inches deluged the area. September 2024 was the fourth driest September on record, dating back to 1931.October historically brings autumnal weather to the region with warm days and crisp nights as well as our average first frost date. Average daily highs begin the month at 75 and by Halloween day they have fallen to 61. Overnight lows on the 1st are 51 and by the 31st they have dropped to a chilly 39 degrees. Average precipitation for October is 2.48 inches. For those snow loving residents there is a very slim chance of snow during October with a long term average October snowfall of a mere one tenth of an inch. The average first frost date is October 20th. However, in seven of the last ten years, the first frost has occurred later than October 20th, as late as November 13th in 2021. With temperatures running well above average to start the month, we could be looking at a November first frost date again!

September 2024 Junction City Area Weather Summary

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

Just after 2:30a.m. Saturday, officers filed a report of burglary in the 2000 block of Shirley Lane, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 28-year-old woman and a 35-year-old-man reported their residence was broken into by an unknown subject who stole a handgun with case, a tote bag, and a wedding ring. 

Total estimated loss associated with this report is $2,500. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a home burglary in Manhattan.Just after 2:30a.m. Saturday, officers filed a report of burglary in the 2000 block of Shirley Lane, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 28-year-old woman and a 35-year-old-man reported their residence was broken into by an unknown subject who stole a handgun with case, a tote bag, and a wedding ring. Total estimated loss associated with this report is $2,500. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Handgun taken in home burglary

It was a good weekend for Oktoberfest. Organizer Justin Hoover estimated the total attendance at about 25,000 people in downtown Junction City.

This was the fourth year for the event. "Well I think they like the contests a lot. Stein holding is always a favorite and stein carrying is a favorite," said Hoover. "

&nbsp; Approximately 75 to 80 volunteers assisted with putting on the celebration.

Hoover said he thought the festival layout was better this year. "We took the tents off of Washington Street. We try and get traffic up and down Washington Street and I think we were pretty much successful with that." Hoover added that a little more needs to be done at the 6th Street end of the Oktoberfest layout.

This was the fourth for the annual event. Hoover confirmed it will be back downtown next year and thanked the public for their support of Oktoberfest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728260534510.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It was a good weekend for Oktoberfest. Organizer Justin Hoover estimated the total attendance at about 25,000 people in downtown Junction City.This was the fourth year for the event. "Well I think they like the contests a lot. Stein holding is always a favorite and stein carrying is a favorite," said Hoover. "<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728260511222.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; Approximately 75 to 80 volunteers assisted with putting on the celebration.Hoover said he thought the festival layout was better this year. "We took the tents off of Washington Street. We try and get traffic up and down Washington Street and I think we were pretty much successful with that." Hoover added that a little more needs to be done at the 6th Street end of the Oktoberfest layout.This was the fourth for the annual event. Hoover confirmed it will be back downtown next year and thanked the public for their support of Oktoberfest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728265746717.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Oktoberfest draws people to downtown Junction City

The development of an overall vision for the future of junction City began Friday when a group of officials from the city and county commissions and school board met to begin discussions.&nbsp;

A member of the Geary County Commission, Keith Ascher, called it a good brainstorming exercise to talk about the positives and negatives in the community, "plan to do something more down the road, have more meetings like this. I think this was a good kickoff. "

County Commissioner Alex Tyson noted it will take money for projects such as parks and roads, and he noted that there are many grant opportunities. He offered three ideas including obtaining a grant writer, forming a parks and recreation committee and development of a community action committee.

There will be a facilitator in the future to help oversee the community vision meetings.

Other suggested ideas included a need for staffing for the municipal swimming pool so it can be open at times in August when the weather is extremely hot, in the area of civic pride engaging elementary and middle school students and churches , expand the model that helped upgrade the popular 5th Street Park to other local parks, creating trails, development of ballfields and a soccer field and the hiring of someone to oversee scheduling to help bring people into the community and incorporate ideas.

Other ideas include the need to ensure kids in Junction City are taken care of and possibly adding one or two turf fields if necessary plus an indoor facility for gaming competition and e-sports since one does not exist.

It has been challenging to raise funds, but the need to move on the new library project was stressed. The overall need for staffing in the community was also mentioned.

The possibility of a one cent increase in the transient guest tax that is paid by users of lodging facilities was mentioned. The TGT is currently set at 6%.

The condition and quality of housing and the number of vacant lots is another challenge. It was noted when people are looking at community safety and security, police and fire are priorities. Affordability and quality schools were also mentioned.

Fiscal sustainability, infrastructure needs that can be addressed as city debt is reduced, and a lack of electric vehicle charging stations were topics.

The largest segment of the community, nearly 30%, is 18 and under. It was also noted that there is a need to get information on resources out to the public. The community must be engaged and their input is needed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728166413889.jpeg" alt="The group that met to begin community vision discussions ( Photo by Henry Petty )" />
 <figcaption>The group that met to begin community vision discussions ( Photo by Henry Petty )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe development of an overall vision for the future of junction City began Friday when a group of officials from the city and county commissions and school board met to begin discussions.&nbsp;A member of the Geary County Commission, Keith Ascher, called it a good brainstorming exercise to talk about the positives and negatives in the community, "plan to do something more down the road, have more meetings like this. I think this was a good kickoff. "County Commissioner Alex Tyson noted it will take money for projects such as parks and roads, and he noted that there are many grant opportunities. He offered three ideas including obtaining a grant writer, forming a parks and recreation committee and development of a community action committee.There will be a facilitator in the future to help oversee the community vision meetings.Other suggested ideas included a need for staffing for the municipal swimming pool so it can be open at times in August when the weather is extremely hot, in the area of civic pride engaging elementary and middle school students and churches , expand the model that helped upgrade the popular 5th Street Park to other local parks, creating trails, development of ballfields and a soccer field and the hiring of someone to oversee scheduling to help bring people into the community and incorporate ideas.Other ideas include the need to ensure kids in Junction City are taken care of and possibly adding one or two turf fields if necessary plus an indoor facility for gaming competition and e-sports since one does not exist.It has been challenging to raise funds, but the need to move on the new library project was stressed. The overall need for staffing in the community was also mentioned.The possibility of a one cent increase in the transient guest tax that is paid by users of lodging facilities was mentioned. The TGT is currently set at 6%.The condition and quality of housing and the number of vacant lots is another challenge. It was noted when people are looking at community safety and security, police and fire are priorities. Affordability and quality schools were also mentioned.Fiscal sustainability, infrastructure needs that can be addressed as city debt is reduced, and a lack of electric vehicle charging stations were topics.The largest segment of the community, nearly 30%, is 18 and under. It was also noted that there is a need to get information on resources out to the public. The community must be engaged and their input is needed.

Community vision planning process begins in Junction City

Oktoberfest runs through Saturday evening in downtown Junction City.

The annual Oktoberfest in downtown Junction City began Friday. Vendors spent the day setting up before the celebration began late in the afternoon.

The event continues on Saturday. Admission is free.

Update:Oktoberfest runs through Saturday evening in downtown Junction City.( Photos by Henry Petty )<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728165188528.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728165213238.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728165234087.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The annual Oktoberfest in downtown Junction City began Friday. Vendors spent the day setting up before the celebration began late in the afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728087102355.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728087127443.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728087151308.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728087190827.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The event continues on Saturday. Admission is free.

Oktoberfest was a weekend highlight

The "we're calling about you missing Federal Grand Jury Duty" scam is back. Police have recently received numerous reports and have seen victims lose money to scammers claiming to be law enforcement.-&nbsp;

RCPD will NEVER solicit money from you by phone- They will NEVER ask you to deposit money at a kiosk- They will NEVER ask you to send gift cards. If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately and call us at (785) 537-2112 (even if that's the number they used) to verify it was RCPD that called you in the first place. 

&nbsp;The Grandparent Scam - a person calls claiming the victim’s grandson or granddaughter is in jail and needs money to be bonded out. The Loan Scam - the company deposits money in your account for a "loan" and asks you to send back the excess. This is also called the “Grant” scam. The Warrant Scam - scammers leave a recorded message stating you have a warrant out for your arrest for committing "serious allegations," but can clear your name for a payment. 

IRS Scam - a person claims you owe back taxes to the IRS and threatens to arrest you if you don’t pay the amount. Social Security Scam - Your social security # has been compromised. Someone stole your identity and committed felony crimes. You can pay to make it right. Gift Card Scam - a person convinces the victim to purchase gift cards for various reasons, then asks them to read the numbers on the back so they can collect the money from the cards.

A couple of additional things to be aware of: There is no such thing as the Riley County Sheriff, scammers often use this name in their calls. We are the Riley County Police Department .No legitimate business will ask you to use gift cards for any sort of debt or payment. This is an automatic sign of a scam.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The "we're calling about you missing Federal Grand Jury Duty" scam is back. Police have recently received numerous reports and have seen victims lose money to scammers claiming to be law enforcement.-&nbsp;RCPD will NEVER solicit money from you by phone- They will NEVER ask you to deposit money at a kiosk- They will NEVER ask you to send gift cards. If you receive a call like this, hang up immediately and call us at (785) 537-2112 (even if that's the number they used) to verify it was RCPD that called you in the first place. See some more common scams below:&nbsp;The Grandparent Scam - a person calls claiming the victim’s grandson or granddaughter is in jail and needs money to be bonded out. The Loan Scam - the company deposits money in your account for a "loan" and asks you to send back the excess. This is also called the “Grant” scam. The Warrant Scam - scammers leave a recorded message stating you have a warrant out for your arrest for committing "serious allegations," but can clear your name for a payment. IRS Scam - a person claims you owe back taxes to the IRS and threatens to arrest you if you don’t pay the amount. Social Security Scam - Your social security # has been compromised. Someone stole your identity and committed felony crimes. You can pay to make it right. Gift Card Scam - a person convinces the victim to purchase gift cards for various reasons, then asks them to read the numbers on the back so they can collect the money from the cards.A couple of additional things to be aware of: There is no such thing as the Riley County Sheriff, scammers often use this name in their calls. We are the Riley County Police Department .No legitimate business will ask you to use gift cards for any sort of debt or payment. This is an automatic sign of a scam.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RCPD issues scam alerts

GEARY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Friday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Ford F150 driven by Troy L.&nbsp;Allen, 19, Derby,&nbsp;was northbound on Milford Lake Road just north of Interstate 70.

The driver began to lose control of the pickup. The attached trailer pulled the vehicle into the East ditch. The pickup continued northbound in the ditch for a short distance, struck a concrete culvert, became airborne and landed in the creek on the east side of the road.

EMS transported Allen and passengers Cayden S.&nbsp;Arnett, 19, and Blake A.&nbsp;Huffman, 19, both of Derby to Stomont Vail in Junction City. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 9p.m. Friday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Ford F150 driven by Troy L.&nbsp;Allen, 19, Derby,&nbsp;was northbound on Milford Lake Road just north of Interstate 70.The driver began to lose control of the pickup. The attached trailer pulled the vehicle into the East ditch. The pickup continued northbound in the ditch for a short distance, struck a concrete culvert, became airborne and landed in the creek on the east side of the road.EMS transported Allen and passengers Cayden S.&nbsp;Arnett, 19, and Blake A.&nbsp;Huffman, 19, both of Derby to Stomont Vail in Junction City. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

3 hospitalized after pickup lands in Geary County creek

The Hays Indians beat the Junction City Blue Jays 27-17 Friday night at Blue Jay Stadium. 

The game started with both teams fumbling on their opening possession. Junction City started the scoring with a 67-yard touchdown connection between junior quarterback Conrad Gomez and junior wide receiver Lovell Autry. 

Hays responded with a six-yard touchdown run by running back Holden Lind to tie the game at 7-7 after the first quarter. 

Junction City led 10-7 at halftime, following a 28-yard field goal from senior kicker Ethan Hileman. 

Hays scored two touchdowns in the third quarter to lead 21-10 at the end of the third. 

Junction City scored on a 27-yard connection between Gomez and senior receiver Xander Caldwell with 2:13 to go in the game to cut the Hays lead to 21-17.&nbsp; The Blue Jays did not recover the kick and Hays scored with less than a minute to go to win the game 27-17. 

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Hays Indians beat the Junction City Blue Jays 27-17 Friday night at Blue Jay Stadium. The game started with both teams fumbling on their opening possession. Junction City started the scoring with a 67-yard touchdown connection between junior quarterback Conrad Gomez and junior wide receiver Lovell Autry. Hays responded with a six-yard touchdown run by running back Holden Lind to tie the game at 7-7 after the first quarter. Junction City led 10-7 at halftime, following a 28-yard field goal from senior kicker Ethan Hileman. Hays scored two touchdowns in the third quarter to lead 21-10 at the end of the third. Junction City scored on a 27-yard connection between Gomez and senior receiver Xander Caldwell with 2:13 to go in the game to cut the Hays lead to 21-17.&nbsp; The Blue Jays did not recover the kick and Hays scored with less than a minute to go to win the game 27-17. Hays improves to 3-2 on the season, while the Blue Jays fall to 1-4. Junction City will host Topeka High next Friday night at Blue Jay Stadium.