Geary County Commissioners heard a proposal Monday for a Community Culinary Collective Project. The idea suggested by Calicia Simmons would essentially be an incubator or shared kitchen, said Commission Chair Trish Giordano. At least 12 businesses would participate," with different culinary genre's. There's Puerto Rican, Cajun food, Haitian, cheesecake, barbecue."

The proposal called for use of the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center but there are some checks into possibility liability issues there, explained Giordano. "But we think it's a great idea and we told her if were are unable to get her into the 4-H Center that we would try to help her get a place possibly with a kitchen big enough to accommodate. "

The project is founded on a desire to cultivate low income food entrepreneurs as they formalize and grow their businesses. It would provide emerging entrepreneurs the opportunity to work on their project in a certified kitchen, and connect with classically trained chefs in their industry mentorship.&nbsp;

The collective plan would range from weekly schedules of shared space and times to delivery schedules and catering contracts with Fort Riley and Geary County Chamber of Commerce businesses.

Geary County Commissioners heard a proposal Monday for a Community Culinary Collective Project. The idea suggested by Calicia Simmons would essentially be an incubator or shared kitchen, said Commission Chair Trish Giordano. At least 12 businesses would participate," with different culinary genre's. There's Puerto Rican, Cajun food, Haitian, cheesecake, barbecue."The proposal called for use of the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center but there are some checks into possibility liability issues there, explained Giordano. "But we think it's a great idea and we told her if were are unable to get her into the 4-H Center that we would try to help her get a place possibly with a kitchen big enough to accommodate. "The project is founded on a desire to cultivate low income food entrepreneurs as they formalize and grow their businesses. It would provide emerging entrepreneurs the opportunity to work on their project in a certified kitchen, and connect with classically trained chefs in their industry mentorship.&nbsp;The collective plan would range from weekly schedules of shared space and times to delivery schedules and catering contracts with Fort Riley and Geary County Chamber of Commerce businesses.

Potential Community Culinary Collective Project is starting to come into focus

High 61°	Sunny. Highs in the lower 60s. Southwest winds 5 to 15 mph.

High 61°	Sunny. Highs in the lower 60s. Southwest winds 5 to 15 mph.

Tuesday weather forecast

The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce will host a golf scramble May 7th at Rolling Meadows Golf Course. It is a fundraiser for the membership division of the Chamber.

Registration will be at 11:30 a.m. and there will be a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Cost to play is $75 or $300 per team of four. That covers green fees, a cart, dinner and a drink ticket. There will be hole in one, longest drive and longest putt contests.

The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce will host a golf scramble May 7th at Rolling Meadows Golf Course. It is a fundraiser for the membership division of the Chamber.Registration will be at 11:30 a.m. and there will be a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Cost to play is $75 or $300 per team of four. That covers green fees, a cart, dinner and a drink ticket. There will be hole in one, longest drive and longest putt contests.Sponsorships are available.

Chamber schedules a golf scramble fundraiser

This is Severe Weather Awareness Week.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service said a tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from the base of a thunderstorm down to the ground. Tornadoes are capable of completely destroying well-made structures, uprooting trees, and hurling objects through the air like deadly missiles. Tornadoes can occur at any time of day or night and at any time of the year. Although tornadoes are most common in the Central Plains and the southeastern United States, they have been reported in all 50 states.

&nbsp;If you know what to do before, during and after a tornado, you will minimize your risk of injury and increase your chances of survival. You'll also find links to research, past events other topics of interest as well as downloadable safety handouts about thunderstorms, lightning, and tornadoes.

The state&nbsp; annual storm spotter and tornado warning drill is set for approximately 10 a.m. Tuesday. Emergency warning sirens will be sounding during the drill.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614620340866.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This is Severe Weather Awareness Week.&nbsp;The National Weather Service said a tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from the base of a thunderstorm down to the ground. Tornadoes are capable of completely destroying well-made structures, uprooting trees, and hurling objects through the air like deadly missiles. Tornadoes can occur at any time of day or night and at any time of the year. Although tornadoes are most common in the Central Plains and the southeastern United States, they have been reported in all 50 states.&nbsp;If you know what to do before, during and after a tornado, you will minimize your risk of injury and increase your chances of survival. You'll also find links to research, past events other topics of interest as well as downloadable safety handouts about thunderstorms, lightning, and tornadoes.The state&nbsp; annual storm spotter and tornado warning drill is set for approximately 10 a.m. Tuesday. Emergency warning sirens will be sounding during the drill.

Beware of spring severe weather

Simply saying that February was cold doesn’t quite cover it. We set nine low temperature records, tied another one and also set one record high. All in the space of about two weeks. But Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte said as brutal as the temperature was, for both humans and animals, it was not the coldest February on record, in fact it was only the fourth coldest February.

Otte said the average daily high for February was 32.1, 12.5 degrees below normal. The average overnight low as 12, 10.4 degrees below normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 22.1, 11.4 degrees below normal. This was the fourth coldest February on record. The coldest was February of 1979 with a monthly mean temperature of 17.6. A year earlier we had the second coldest February with a monthly mean temperature of 17.8. Nestled between that cold February and this year was February 1989 with an average of 21.9 degrees. The highest and lowest temperatures for the month both set records for their respective dates. The lowest temperature for the month was -18 on the morning of the 16th. The highest temperature for the month came one week later when we hit 73 on the afternoon of the 23rd. This gave us a one week temperature swing of 91 degrees. On February 15th we had a high temperature of -2. There are six previous days involving three cold snaps when that also happened. December 21 and 22, 1989 we had daytime highs of -7 and -3. In December 1983 we had three consecutive days, December 21, 22 and 23 that stayed below zero with daytimes highs of -2, -1, -2 and on February 4, 1989 we had a daytime high of -2. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does it is memorable!

The overnight lows on February 14, 15 and 16 all set new record lows for those dates. The low of -12 on the 14th broke the old record of -2 set in 2007. The low of -15 broke the old record of 0 also set in 2007 and the low of -18 on the 16th broke the old record of -10 set in 1979. The -18 reading on the 16th also ties for the coldest February temperature. It was previously reached on February 1, 1979. Amazingly, on the 23rd we hit 73 degrees which was a new record high. The old record was 72 set in 1976. We also set or tied numerous record low high temperatures. 9 on the 7th broke the old record of 13 set in 1994; 6 on the 8th, old record was 11 set in 1994; 0 on the 12th, 13th, and 14th broke the old records, respectively, of 20 set in 2004, 18 set in 1949 and 14 set in 2007; -2 on the 15th broke 11 set in 2007 and 7 on the 16th tied the old record first set in 1979.

February precipitation was nearly a non-factor. While snow flakes were seen in the air &nbsp;many days during the cold spell we only managed to garner a total of 1 inch of snow for a total liquid equivalent of 0.12 inches at Milford Lake and 0.17 inches in Junction City. Normal snowfall for February is 4.7 inches and precipitation average is 1.10 inches. Year to date we have received 1.05 inches of precipitation in Junction City and 0.89 inches at Milford Lake. Normal through February is 1.83 inches. Season to date snowfall is 3.5 inches with normal seasonal snowfall through February of 14.1 inches.

March brings the start of meteorological spring on the 1st and astronomical spring on the 20th. We also hope that it brings us somewhat more normal temperatures. March average daily highs run from 50 on the 1st to 62 on the 31st. Average overnight lows rise from 26 at the start of the month to 39 by the end of the month. We often see our first thunderstorms during March and monthly average rainfall increases to 2.0 inches. But it is a transition month and we average 3.1 inches of snow during the month as well. Once we reach spring on the 20th we also start to have more hours of daylight than night. For the month we gain a little over 2½ minutes of daylight per day. But gardeners need to temper their enthusiasm with the reality that our average last frost date isn’t until April 14th and frost free date (for planting frost tender plants like tomatoes and peppers) isn’t until May 10th.

Simply saying that February was cold doesn’t quite cover it. We set nine low temperature records, tied another one and also set one record high. All in the space of about two weeks. But Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte said as brutal as the temperature was, for both humans and animals, it was not the coldest February on record, in fact it was only the fourth coldest February. Otte said the average daily high for February was 32.1, 12.5 degrees below normal. The average overnight low as 12, 10.4 degrees below normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 22.1, 11.4 degrees below normal. This was the fourth coldest February on record. The coldest was February of 1979 with a monthly mean temperature of 17.6. A year earlier we had the second coldest February with a monthly mean temperature of 17.8. Nestled between that cold February and this year was February 1989 with an average of 21.9 degrees. The highest and lowest temperatures for the month both set records for their respective dates. The lowest temperature for the month was -18 on the morning of the 16th. The highest temperature for the month came one week later when we hit 73 on the afternoon of the 23rd. This gave us a one week temperature swing of 91 degrees. On February 15th we had a high temperature of -2. There are six previous days involving three cold snaps when that also happened. December 21 and 22, 1989 we had daytime highs of -7 and -3. In December 1983 we had three consecutive days, December 21, 22 and 23 that stayed below zero with daytimes highs of -2, -1, -2 and on February 4, 1989 we had a daytime high of -2. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does it is memorable! The overnight lows on February 14, 15 and 16 all set new record lows for those dates. The low of -12 on the 14th broke the old record of -2 set in 2007. The low of -15 broke the old record of 0 also set in 2007 and the low of -18 on the 16th broke the old record of -10 set in 1979. The -18 reading on the 16th also ties for the coldest February temperature. It was previously reached on February 1, 1979. Amazingly, on the 23rd we hit 73 degrees which was a new record high. The old record was 72 set in 1976. We also set or tied numerous record low high temperatures. 9 on the 7th broke the old record of 13 set in 1994; 6 on the 8th, old record was 11 set in 1994; 0 on the 12th, 13th, and 14th broke the old records, respectively, of 20 set in 2004, 18 set in 1949 and 14 set in 2007; -2 on the 15th broke 11 set in 2007 and 7 on the 16th tied the old record first set in 1979. February precipitation was nearly a non-factor. While snow flakes were seen in the air &nbsp;many days during the cold spell we only managed to garner a total of 1 inch of snow for a total liquid equivalent of 0.12 inches at Milford Lake and 0.17 inches in Junction City. Normal snowfall for February is 4.7 inches and precipitation average is 1.10 inches. Year to date we have received 1.05 inches of precipitation in Junction City and 0.89 inches at Milford Lake. Normal through February is 1.83 inches. Season to date snowfall is 3.5 inches with normal seasonal snowfall through February of 14.1 inches. March brings the start of meteorological spring on the 1st and astronomical spring on the 20th. We also hope that it brings us somewhat more normal temperatures. March average daily highs run from 50 on the 1st to 62 on the 31st. Average overnight lows rise from 26 at the start of the month to 39 by the end of the month. We often see our first thunderstorms during March and monthly average rainfall increases to 2.0 inches. But it is a transition month and we average 3.1 inches of snow during the month as well. Once we reach spring on the 20th we also start to have more hours of daylight than night. For the month we gain a little over 2½ minutes of daylight per day. But gardeners need to temper their enthusiasm with the reality that our average last frost date isn’t until April 14th and frost free date (for planting frost tender plants like tomatoes and peppers) isn’t until May 10th.

Nine low temperature records were set in February

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged theft by deception scam in Manhattan.

Just after 1:30p.m.&nbsp; Friday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 1000 block of Houston Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

An 80-year-old man reported an unknown suspect scammed them by pretending to work for the lottery.&nbsp; The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,900.00, according to the RCPD.

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1570025383250.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged theft by deception scam in Manhattan.Just after 1:30p.m.&nbsp; Friday, officers filed a report for theft by deception in the 1000 block of Houston Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.An 80-year-old man reported an unknown suspect scammed them by pretending to work for the lottery.&nbsp; The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,900.00, according to the RCPD.Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.

RCPD: Suspect pretended to work for the lottery in scam

Kim Baldwin, McPherson&nbsp;County farmer and rancher In recent days I’ve been catching up on chores I decided to put on hold during our recent weather, which caused temperatures to plummet, the sky to appear gray and gloomy, and left many in the middle of the country to adjust energy consumption in the hopes of keeping the power on.&nbsp; &nbsp; Many of my chores that I’ve been tackling have been household related. I’ve spent a lot of time moving laundry from the washer to the dryer. It always amazes me how much dirty laundry a family of four can create. It also amazes me how quickly it can all pile up when you pause. As I’ve been chipping away at these piles, more and more of my laundry room floor, once covered by multiple hampers and piles of sorted dirty clothes, is beginning to reappear. This simple sign of progress truly makes me happy. &nbsp; During the recent cold days, which kept our kids home from school because of extreme temperatures, I routinely bundled up in my layers and walked around our yard checking on things. I made sure to check on my beehives to ensure the insulation I had remained intact during the cold. I didn’t know if I had done enough to protect them and was concerned I would find my hives full of frozen, dead bees once everything began to thaw out. As the temperatures have risen and the warm sun has returned, I have noticed the bees are venturing out and flying in the warmth of the afternoons now. It’s a sight many may take for granted — let alone notice — but for me it is a simple sign promising sweet treats later this summer. &nbsp; While driving throughout our area, I have also noticed that the wheat fields we planted in the fall are showing hints of green. While I’ve learned over the years wheat is tough and can survive the cold — &nbsp;especially if there’s a layer of snow to insulate it — I worried that it might have been too cold for too long this year. Needless to say, the hints of green that I am viewing through the windshield as I drive past are a welcome color to see. The plants still have many months to go, but this simple sign provides me with some assurance we will have a crop to harvest this summer. &nbsp; The farm ponds in our area that recently froze over are slowly melting as well. The thick ice that covered the ponds and remained for an impressive number of days is now slowly dripping away, allowing the geese to return to swimming in the water instead of huddling on the ice.&nbsp; &nbsp; The one pond in our neighborhood, which became a community meeting place for hockey and skating enthusiasts, has almost completely melted showing only a few thin floating sheets of ice serving as receipts for the recent brutal cold. The homemade hockey rink that offered many freezing days and nights full of men and boys burning off energy during some serious games while others huddled near a fire to watch the events unfold has now been deconstructed and put away. &nbsp; The view of the pond now is that of hundreds, if not thousands, of geese floating on the water and enjoying the warmth of the sunlight. The image of the congregation of people on the ice during the recent freezing, dark days I have etched in my mind along with the views of these birds returning to the water in the sunlight is a simple sign of community gatherings throughout a variety of degrees. &nbsp; It’s strange to think that simple signs are all around us daily. May we all occasionally notice these signs and allow them to energize and power us as we move forward and return to our normal routines following the brutal cold.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Kim Baldwin, McPherson&nbsp;County farmer and rancher In recent days I’ve been catching up on chores I decided to put on hold during our recent weather, which caused temperatures to plummet, the sky to appear gray and gloomy, and left many in the middle of the country to adjust energy consumption in the hopes of keeping the power on.&nbsp; &nbsp; Many of my chores that I’ve been tackling have been household related. I’ve spent a lot of time moving laundry from the washer to the dryer. It always amazes me how much dirty laundry a family of four can create. It also amazes me how quickly it can all pile up when you pause. As I’ve been chipping away at these piles, more and more of my laundry room floor, once covered by multiple hampers and piles of sorted dirty clothes, is beginning to reappear. This simple sign of progress truly makes me happy. &nbsp; During the recent cold days, which kept our kids home from school because of extreme temperatures, I routinely bundled up in my layers and walked around our yard checking on things. I made sure to check on my beehives to ensure the insulation I had remained intact during the cold. I didn’t know if I had done enough to protect them and was concerned I would find my hives full of frozen, dead bees once everything began to thaw out. As the temperatures have risen and the warm sun has returned, I have noticed the bees are venturing out and flying in the warmth of the afternoons now. It’s a sight many may take for granted — let alone notice — but for me it is a simple sign promising sweet treats later this summer. &nbsp; While driving throughout our area, I have also noticed that the wheat fields we planted in the fall are showing hints of green. While I’ve learned over the years wheat is tough and can survive the cold — &nbsp;especially if there’s a layer of snow to insulate it — I worried that it might have been too cold for too long this year. Needless to say, the hints of green that I am viewing through the windshield as I drive past are a welcome color to see. The plants still have many months to go, but this simple sign provides me with some assurance we will have a crop to harvest this summer. &nbsp; The farm ponds in our area that recently froze over are slowly melting as well. The thick ice that covered the ponds and remained for an impressive number of days is now slowly dripping away, allowing the geese to return to swimming in the water instead of huddling on the ice.&nbsp; &nbsp; The one pond in our neighborhood, which became a community meeting place for hockey and skating enthusiasts, has almost completely melted showing only a few thin floating sheets of ice serving as receipts for the recent brutal cold. The homemade hockey rink that offered many freezing days and nights full of men and boys burning off energy during some serious games while others huddled near a fire to watch the events unfold has now been deconstructed and put away. &nbsp; The view of the pond now is that of hundreds, if not thousands, of geese floating on the water and enjoying the warmth of the sunlight. The image of the congregation of people on the ice during the recent freezing, dark days I have etched in my mind along with the views of these birds returning to the water in the sunlight is a simple sign of community gatherings throughout a variety of degrees. &nbsp; It’s strange to think that simple signs are all around us daily. May we all occasionally notice these signs and allow them to energize and power us as we move forward and return to our normal routines following the brutal cold."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2021 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

 Simple Signs

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569336839553.jpeg">Click&nbsp;<a href="http://www.jcpost.com/category/obituaries/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(39, 163, 209);">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.JC Post is honored to publish full obituaries and photos at no cost to families.

Recent obituaries

Trail development is in the plan from Wamego to Fort Riley to Milford Lake and Milford State Park. Craig Bender, Military Affairs Director for the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce, said the portion on the west end is largely done. "The only&nbsp; thing that needs to be done at this point is the part of the trail that's on the Fort Riley property is starting to be washed out by the river so looking at putting in some type of restraining system or just moving the trail back farther."

Bender updated the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors on the project.

Trail development is in the plan from Wamego to Fort Riley to Milford Lake and Milford State Park. Craig Bender, Military Affairs Director for the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce, said the portion on the west end is largely done. "The only&nbsp; thing that needs to be done at this point is the part of the trail that's on the Fort Riley property is starting to be washed out by the river so looking at putting in some type of restraining system or just moving the trail back farther."Bender updated the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors on the project.

Trail project is under development

MANHATTAN – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides technical and financial assistance to help Kansas farmers and livestock producers recover from damages brought on by winter storms Uri and Viola. 

Agricultural producers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center to learn about the programs available to help them recover from crop, land, infrastructure, and livestock losses.

“These recent winter storms have taken their toll on farmers and ranchers in Kansas,” said Charles Pettijohn, acting state executive director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Kansas. “We stand with our producers who have worked tirelessly in these severe conditions to keep livestock fed and to protect crops from Mother Nature’s wrath. We know these storms have left damage in their wake, and I’m glad that USDA offers as strong portfolio of disaster assistance programs available to help.”

USDA encourages farmers and ranchers to contact the FSA county office at the local USDA Service Center to apply for eligible programs and to learn which documents, such as farm records, herd inventory, receipts and pictures of damages or losses should be provided to help expedite assistance.

Producers who experience livestock deaths due to the winter storms may be eligible for the Livestock Indemnity Program. Meanwhile, the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program provides eligible producers with compensation for feed and grazing losses. For LIP and ELAP, producers will need to file a notice of loss for livestock and grazing or feed losses within 30 days and honeybee losses within 15 days.

Additionally, eligible orchardists and nursery tree growers may be eligible for cost-share assistance through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) to replant or rehabilitate eligible trees, bushes or vines lost during the winter storms. This complements Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) or crop insurance coverage, which covers the crop but not the plants or trees in all cases. For TAP, a program application must be filed within 90 days.

FSA also offers a variety of direct and guaranteed loans, including operating and emergency loans, to producers unable to secure commercial financing. Producers in counties with a primary or contiguous disaster designation may be eligible for low-interest emergency loans to help them recover from production and physical losses.

Loans can help producers replace essential property, purchase inputs like livestock, equipment, feed and seed, cover family living expenses or refinance farm-related debts and other needs.

Producers who have risk protection through Federal Crop Insurance or FSA’s NAP should report crop damage to their crop insurance agent or FSA office. If they have crop insurance, producers should report crop damage to their agent within 72 hours of damage discovery and follow up in writing within 15 days. For NAP covered crops, a Notice of Loss (CCC-576) must be filed within 15 days of the loss becoming apparent, except for handharvested crops, which should be reported within 72 hours.

“Crop insurance and other USDA risk management options are there to help producers manage risk because we never know what nature has in store for the future,” said Collin Olsen, director of RMA’s Regional Office that covers Kansas. “The Approved Insurance Providers, loss adjusters and agents are experienced and well trained in handling these types of events.”

The Emergency Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program can assist landowners and forest stewards with financial and technical assistance to restore damaged farmland or forests. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) also offers programs to help in the recovery process.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) can help producers plan and implement conservation practices on farms, ranches and working forests impacted by natural disasters.

On <a href="http://farmers.gov">farmers.gov</a>, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-at-a-Glance fact sheet, and Farm Loan Discovery Tool can help producers and landowners determine program or loan options. For assistance with a crop insurance claim, producers and landowners should contact their crop insurance agent. For FSA and NRCS programs, they should contact their local USDA Service Center.

All USDA Service Centers are open for business, including those that restrict in-person visits or require appointments. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with NRCS, FSA, or any other Service Center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment. Service Centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel, and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Visitors are also required to wear a face covering during their appointment. Our program delivery staff will continue to work with our producers by phone, email, and using online tools. More information can be found at <a href="http://farmers.gov/coronavirus">farmers.gov/coronavirus</a>.

MANHATTAN – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides technical and financial assistance to help Kansas farmers and livestock producers recover from damages brought on by winter storms Uri and Viola. Agricultural producers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center to learn about the programs available to help them recover from crop, land, infrastructure, and livestock losses.“These recent winter storms have taken their toll on farmers and ranchers in Kansas,” said Charles Pettijohn, acting state executive director for USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Kansas. “We stand with our producers who have worked tirelessly in these severe conditions to keep livestock fed and to protect crops from Mother Nature’s wrath. We know these storms have left damage in their wake, and I’m glad that USDA offers as strong portfolio of disaster assistance programs available to help.”Disaster AssistanceUSDA encourages farmers and ranchers to contact the FSA county office at the local USDA Service Center to apply for eligible programs and to learn which documents, such as farm records, herd inventory, receipts and pictures of damages or losses should be provided to help expedite assistance.Producers who experience livestock deaths due to the winter storms may be eligible for the Livestock Indemnity Program. Meanwhile, the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program provides eligible producers with compensation for feed and grazing losses. For LIP and ELAP, producers will need to file a notice of loss for livestock and grazing or feed losses within 30 days and honeybee losses within 15 days.Additionally, eligible orchardists and nursery tree growers may be eligible for cost-share assistance through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) to replant or rehabilitate eligible trees, bushes or vines lost during the winter storms. This complements Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) or crop insurance coverage, which covers the crop but not the plants or trees in all cases. For TAP, a program application must be filed within 90 days.FSA also offers a variety of direct and guaranteed loans, including operating and emergency loans, to producers unable to secure commercial financing. Producers in counties with a primary or contiguous disaster designation may be eligible for low-interest emergency loans to help them recover from production and physical losses.Loans can help producers replace essential property, purchase inputs like livestock, equipment, feed and seed, cover family living expenses or refinance farm-related debts and other needs.Risk ManagementProducers who have risk protection through Federal Crop Insurance or FSA’s NAP should report crop damage to their crop insurance agent or FSA office. If they have crop insurance, producers should report crop damage to their agent within 72 hours of damage discovery and follow up in writing within 15 days. For NAP covered crops, a Notice of Loss (CCC-576) must be filed within 15 days of the loss becoming apparent, except for handharvested crops, which should be reported within 72 hours.“Crop insurance and other USDA risk management options are there to help producers manage risk because we never know what nature has in store for the future,” said Collin Olsen, director of RMA’s Regional Office that covers Kansas. “The Approved Insurance Providers, loss adjusters and agents are experienced and well trained in handling these types of events.”ConservationThe Emergency Conservation Program and Emergency Forest Restoration Program can assist landowners and forest stewards with financial and technical assistance to restore damaged farmland or forests. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) also offers programs to help in the recovery process.The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) can help producers plan and implement conservation practices on farms, ranches and working forests impacted by natural disasters.More InformationOn <a href="http://farmers.gov">farmers.gov</a>, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-at-a-Glance fact sheet, and Farm Loan Discovery Tool can help producers and landowners determine program or loan options. For assistance with a crop insurance claim, producers and landowners should contact their crop insurance agent. For FSA and NRCS programs, they should contact their local USDA Service Center.All USDA Service Centers are open for business, including those that restrict in-person visits or require appointments. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with NRCS, FSA, or any other Service Center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment. Service Centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel, and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Visitors are also required to wear a face covering during their appointment. Our program delivery staff will continue to work with our producers by phone, email, and using online tools. More information can be found at <a href="http://farmers.gov/coronavirus">farmers.gov/coronavirus</a>. --USDA--

USDA: Assistance to farmers and livestock producers impacted by recent storms

Fort Riley will participate and the Mass Warning Systems will be used on post during the state wide tornado drill on Tuesday. It is expected to begin at approximately 10 a.m.

.The drill will not take place in the event that serious weather is actually in the forecast for that day. Families, directorates, agencies and units are all encouraged to practice tornado response drills to get <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/readyarmy?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWMVE5dlWGN_mIJPe68rCklWbc2vjIQJoNQZEvaHxtSJK1XpE4pgUafZpWw-Wuqa21ODSh9YrSEk-Qr5QCyIBXkVqHSSMuzvmcQjAwGikLBRCuLV_dNQ2D4g0fbC8yNA44CInCyg1WtvBK-gMb8xygY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#ReadyArmy</a> for spring weather.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Riley will participate and the Mass Warning Systems will be used on post during the state wide tornado drill on Tuesday. It is expected to begin at approximately 10 a.m..The drill will not take place in the event that serious weather is actually in the forecast for that day. Families, directorates, agencies and units are all encouraged to practice tornado response drills to get <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/readyarmy?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZWMVE5dlWGN_mIJPe68rCklWbc2vjIQJoNQZEvaHxtSJK1XpE4pgUafZpWw-Wuqa21ODSh9YrSEk-Qr5QCyIBXkVqHSSMuzvmcQjAwGikLBRCuLV_dNQ2D4g0fbC8yNA44CInCyg1WtvBK-gMb8xygY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#ReadyArmy</a> for spring weather.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Riley will participate in the tornado safety drill on Tuesday

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - The Junction City Blue Jays closed out the more than 40-year history of Shenk Gym with a win on Saturday afternoon with a 68-57 win over Topeka High.&nbsp;

The Trojans started out quickly, grabbing a six point lead after the first quarter, but Junction City would rally to within one at halftime. In the second half the Blue Jays would find their stride, leading by as many as 14 and outscoring Topeka 44-32 in the final two quarters.&nbsp;

Howard Johnson paced the Blue Jays with 22 points. Chris Dixon and Seth Clark each added in 17 points, and Terrence Tedder scored 10.&nbsp;

Topeka High got a game-high 25 points from Jalen Smith. Jayden Leesman added 13 and 9 came from Isiah Esquibel.&nbsp;

Junction City improved to 9-11 on the season and advances to play top-seeded Lawrence Free State in the Sub-State semifinal round on Tuesday night at 7 p.m. in Lawrence.&nbsp;

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - The Junction City Blue Jays closed out the more than 40-year history of Shenk Gym with a win on Saturday afternoon with a 68-57 win over Topeka High.&nbsp;The Trojans started out quickly, grabbing a six point lead after the first quarter, but Junction City would rally to within one at halftime. In the second half the Blue Jays would find their stride, leading by as many as 14 and outscoring Topeka 44-32 in the final two quarters.&nbsp;Howard Johnson paced the Blue Jays with 22 points. Chris Dixon and Seth Clark each added in 17 points, and Terrence Tedder scored 10.&nbsp;Topeka High got a game-high 25 points from Jalen Smith. Jayden Leesman added 13 and 9 came from Isiah Esquibel.&nbsp;Junction City improved to 9-11 on the season and advances to play top-seeded Lawrence Free State in the Sub-State semifinal round on Tuesday night at 7 p.m. in Lawrence.&nbsp;

Blue Jays Close out Shenk Gym with Win

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - The Junction City Lady Jays saw their historic 2020-2021 season come to a close on Saturday afternoon, falling to the Lawrence Free State Firebirds 50-26.&nbsp;

The Lady Jays were dealt a tough hand before tip-off, being without seniors Dorian Robinson and Lucy Rivera due to illness, and their absence proved to be significant.&nbsp;

Free State jumped out to an 11-0 lead to start the game, but JCHS climbed back to within 13-10 early in the second quarter before Free State would go on a 13-3 run to close the first half.&nbsp;

Mellana Davis tallied 20 of JC's 26 points in the loss. Arianna Gold netted 4 points and Ava Deguzman 2.&nbsp;

The loss ended a season in which JCHS saw seven victories, its most wins since 2013. It also ended the Lady Jays careers of three seniors who will go on to collegiate basketball at the community college level.&nbsp;

Junction City ends the year at 7-13 overall.&nbsp;

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - The Junction City Lady Jays saw their historic 2020-2021 season come to a close on Saturday afternoon, falling to the Lawrence Free State Firebirds 50-26.&nbsp;The Lady Jays were dealt a tough hand before tip-off, being without seniors Dorian Robinson and Lucy Rivera due to illness, and their absence proved to be significant.&nbsp;Free State jumped out to an 11-0 lead to start the game, but JCHS climbed back to within 13-10 early in the second quarter before Free State would go on a 13-3 run to close the first half.&nbsp;Mellana Davis tallied 20 of JC's 26 points in the loss. Arianna Gold netted 4 points and Ava Deguzman 2.&nbsp;The loss ended a season in which JCHS saw seven victories, its most wins since 2013. It also ended the Lady Jays careers of three seniors who will go on to collegiate basketball at the community college level.&nbsp;Junction City ends the year at 7-13 overall.&nbsp;

Lady Jays fall in Sub-State

Manhattan's Aggieville will go green on Saturday, March 13, for the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Race.

Dennis Cook, Aggieville Business Association Executive Director, noted that although the event could not be held last year ( COVID-19 ) they are thrilled to be back. There will be a two-mile race, walk, fun run at 10 a.m. followed by the 10K run at 10:45 and the annual parade at 1 p.m. that travels from City Park over a seven-block route including the main part on two blocks of Moro Street. "The 1100 and 1200 blocks of Moro and then back into City Park. Should be a great day for everybody to get back and get out and enjoy St. Patrick's Day."

Because of the long COVID-19 period could attendance be up? Cook noted that normally the event coincides with one of the weekends for K-State's spring break. "So we always missed kind of having the K-State students in town for that weekend but this year there is no spring break so we'll have students in town, so that may make a difference. " Cook added that officials have also noticed that events that are outdoors and involve fun activities have had good turnouts. "So we are anticipating that."

The parade registration deadline is March 5 at 4 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614445331863.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Manhattan's Aggieville will go green on Saturday, March 13, for the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Race.Dennis Cook, Aggieville Business Association Executive Director, noted that although the event could not be held last year ( COVID-19 ) they are thrilled to be back. There will be a two-mile race, walk, fun run at 10 a.m. followed by the 10K run at 10:45 and the annual parade at 1 p.m. that travels from City Park over a seven-block route including the main part on two blocks of Moro Street. "The 1100 and 1200 blocks of Moro and then back into City Park. Should be a great day for everybody to get back and get out and enjoy St. Patrick's Day."Because of the long COVID-19 period could attendance be up? Cook noted that normally the event coincides with one of the weekends for K-State's spring break. "So we always missed kind of having the K-State students in town for that weekend but this year there is no spring break so we'll have students in town, so that may make a difference. " Cook added that officials have also noticed that events that are outdoors and involve fun activities have had good turnouts. "So we are anticipating that."The parade registration deadline is March 5 at 4 p.m.

43rd annual St. Patrick's Day Parade & Race will be March 13

MANHATTAN — More than 75 students attending&nbsp;<a href="https://online.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Online</a>&nbsp;received scholarships this spring semester ranging in amounts from $600 to $1,500 each and totaling $44,800. K-State Global Campus, which oversees K-State Online, works hard to offer scholarships to its online students, who are predominately adults attending classes part time while balancing work and family responsibilities. The scholarships are available to both part-time and full-time students to provide more individuals the opportunity to earn a degree at their own pace. The following K-State Global Campus students are spring 2021 scholarship recipients: Tina Valenzuela, doctoral student in curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;Arma,&nbsp;Maurine Allison O'Bannon Memorial Scholarship. From&nbsp;Greater Kansas City: Lesli Malcolm, junior in personal financial planning,&nbsp;Kansas City,&nbsp;K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship; Mike O'Mara, senior in food science and industry, Nathan and Becky Smit Food Innovation Scholarship, and Danielle Stegall, junior in personal financial planning, K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship, both from&nbsp;Overland Park.&nbsp;

Hailey Carman, junior in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;La Harpe,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Laura Duncan, senior in social sciences, College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students, and Jean Rodriguez, senior in personal financial planning, K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship, both from&nbsp;Manhattan; Saihara Taylor, senior in elementary education,&nbsp;Salina,&nbsp;College of Education Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Trenton Ming, senior in general business,&nbsp;Scranton,&nbsp;Sue Maes and Dennis Hemmendinger KSU Foundation Family Scholarship; Crystal Pralle, master's student in curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;St. George,&nbsp;Maurine Allison O'Bannon Memorial Scholarship; and Allison Schultz, master's student in mass communications,&nbsp;Wichita,&nbsp;College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students.&nbsp;

Nadia Newkirk, master's student in psychology with an emphasis in industrial and organizational psychology,&nbsp;Enterprise, Alabama,&nbsp;College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Arely Martinez, senior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Moreno Valley, California,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Candice Ballard Knight, senior in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;Oxford, Georgia,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Jacob Holm, junior in applied business and technology,&nbsp;Iowa Falls, Iowa,&nbsp;College of Technology and Aviation Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Kim Thompson, freshman in nutrition and health,&nbsp;New Sharon, Iowa,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Ariana Hefner, sophomore in elementary education,&nbsp;Polk City, Iowa,&nbsp;College of Education Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Jonathan Thomason, senior in personal financial planning,&nbsp;Canton, Michigan,&nbsp;K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship; Brittney Keels, junior in general business,&nbsp;Blue Springs, Missouri,&nbsp;College of Business Administration Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Kimberly Hisey, senior in dietetics,&nbsp;Pleasant Hill, Missouri,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Elena Sharp, master's student in psychology with an emphasis in industrial and organizational psychology,&nbsp;Sedalia, Missouri,&nbsp;College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Jackie Paolucci, freshman in elementary education,&nbsp;Great Falls, Montana,&nbsp;College of Education Scholarship for Distance Education Students. Alison Hayward, doctoral student in adult learning and leadership,&nbsp;Las Vegas, Nevada,&nbsp;Maurine Allison O'Bannon Memorial Scholarship; Jerome Kumbalek, sophomore in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;Rio Rancho, New Mexico,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Yachat Gold, senior in dietetics,&nbsp;Monsey, New York,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Lindsay Howard, master's student in mass communications,&nbsp;Raleigh, North Carolina,&nbsp;Sue C. Maes and Vanier Family Scholarship; Nicole Durling, master's student in personal financial planning,&nbsp;Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,&nbsp;Kenneth and Leah Mae Bever KSU Foundation Family Scholarship; Kaitlin Allard, master's student in food science,&nbsp;Scranton, Pennsylvania,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students. Caroline Garcia, master's student in mass communications,&nbsp;Austin, Texas,&nbsp;College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Aurore Kamagaju, master's student in data analytics,&nbsp;Fort Worth, Texas,&nbsp;College of Business Administration Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Richard Dang, junior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Houston, Texas,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Michelle McIntosh, master's student in academic advising,&nbsp;Provo, Utah,&nbsp;Maurine Allison O'Bannon Memorial Scholarship; Nicole Cilley, senior in personal financial planning,&nbsp;Seattle, Washington,&nbsp;K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship; Lauren Burns, junior in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;Park Fall, Wisconsin,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students.&nbsp;

From out of country: Fernanda Lillywhite Gerber, senior in educational studies,&nbsp;Zurich, Switzerland,&nbsp;College of Education Scholarship for Distance Education Students.

MANHATTAN — More than 75 students attending&nbsp;<a href="https://online.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Online</a>&nbsp;received scholarships this spring semester ranging in amounts from $600 to $1,500 each and totaling $44,800. K-State Global Campus, which oversees K-State Online, works hard to offer scholarships to its online students, who are predominately adults attending classes part time while balancing work and family responsibilities. The scholarships are available to both part-time and full-time students to provide more individuals the opportunity to earn a degree at their own pace. The following K-State Global Campus students are spring 2021 scholarship recipients: Tina Valenzuela, doctoral student in curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;Arma,&nbsp;Maurine Allison O'Bannon Memorial Scholarship. From&nbsp;Greater Kansas City: Lesli Malcolm, junior in personal financial planning,&nbsp;Kansas City,&nbsp;K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship; Mike O'Mara, senior in food science and industry, Nathan and Becky Smit Food Innovation Scholarship, and Danielle Stegall, junior in personal financial planning, K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship, both from&nbsp;Overland Park.&nbsp; Hailey Carman, junior in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;La Harpe,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Laura Duncan, senior in social sciences, College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students, and Jean Rodriguez, senior in personal financial planning, K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship, both from&nbsp;Manhattan; Saihara Taylor, senior in elementary education,&nbsp;Salina,&nbsp;College of Education Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Trenton Ming, senior in general business,&nbsp;Scranton,&nbsp;Sue Maes and Dennis Hemmendinger KSU Foundation Family Scholarship; Crystal Pralle, master's student in curriculum and instruction,&nbsp;St. George,&nbsp;Maurine Allison O'Bannon Memorial Scholarship; and Allison Schultz, master's student in mass communications,&nbsp;Wichita,&nbsp;College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students.&nbsp;From out of state:&nbsp;Nadia Newkirk, master's student in psychology with an emphasis in industrial and organizational psychology,&nbsp;Enterprise, Alabama,&nbsp;College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Arely Martinez, senior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Moreno Valley, California,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Candice Ballard Knight, senior in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;Oxford, Georgia,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Jacob Holm, junior in applied business and technology,&nbsp;Iowa Falls, Iowa,&nbsp;College of Technology and Aviation Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Kim Thompson, freshman in nutrition and health,&nbsp;New Sharon, Iowa,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Ariana Hefner, sophomore in elementary education,&nbsp;Polk City, Iowa,&nbsp;College of Education Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Jonathan Thomason, senior in personal financial planning,&nbsp;Canton, Michigan,&nbsp;K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship; Brittney Keels, junior in general business,&nbsp;Blue Springs, Missouri,&nbsp;College of Business Administration Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Kimberly Hisey, senior in dietetics,&nbsp;Pleasant Hill, Missouri,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Elena Sharp, master's student in psychology with an emphasis in industrial and organizational psychology,&nbsp;Sedalia, Missouri,&nbsp;College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Jackie Paolucci, freshman in elementary education,&nbsp;Great Falls, Montana,&nbsp;College of Education Scholarship for Distance Education Students. Alison Hayward, doctoral student in adult learning and leadership,&nbsp;Las Vegas, Nevada,&nbsp;Maurine Allison O'Bannon Memorial Scholarship; Jerome Kumbalek, sophomore in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;Rio Rancho, New Mexico,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Yachat Gold, senior in dietetics,&nbsp;Monsey, New York,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Lindsay Howard, master's student in mass communications,&nbsp;Raleigh, North Carolina,&nbsp;Sue C. Maes and Vanier Family Scholarship; Nicole Durling, master's student in personal financial planning,&nbsp;Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania,&nbsp;Kenneth and Leah Mae Bever KSU Foundation Family Scholarship; Kaitlin Allard, master's student in food science,&nbsp;Scranton, Pennsylvania,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students. Caroline Garcia, master's student in mass communications,&nbsp;Austin, Texas,&nbsp;College of Arts and Sciences Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Aurore Kamagaju, master's student in data analytics,&nbsp;Fort Worth, Texas,&nbsp;College of Business Administration Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Richard Dang, junior in nutrition and health,&nbsp;Houston, Texas,&nbsp;Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health Scholarship for Distance Education Students; Michelle McIntosh, master's student in academic advising,&nbsp;Provo, Utah,&nbsp;Maurine Allison O'Bannon Memorial Scholarship; Nicole Cilley, senior in personal financial planning,&nbsp;Seattle, Washington,&nbsp;K-State Kansas Insurance Certificate Scholarship; Lauren Burns, junior in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;Park Fall, Wisconsin,&nbsp;College of Agriculture Scholarship for Distance Education Students.&nbsp;From out of country: Fernanda Lillywhite Gerber, senior in educational studies,&nbsp;Zurich, Switzerland,&nbsp;College of Education Scholarship for Distance Education Students.--<a href="http://ksu.edu">KSU</a>--

Online students receive scholarships from Kansas State University

Approximately 250 people received their second COVID-19 vaccine shot at the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City on Friday. Tammy Von Busch, Health Department Director, said it went well. "Think it went just as smoothly as it did the first time around. We got everybody in and out, and everybody was really happy. We got a lot of positive comments about how smoothly it all ran."

Another 200 people are scheduled to receive their first dose of the coronavirus on Saturday at the Opera House. Those will be by appointment only.

Approximately 250 people received their second COVID-19 vaccine shot at the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City on Friday. Tammy Von Busch, Health Department Director, said it went well. "Think it went just as smoothly as it did the first time around. We got everybody in and out, and everybody was really happy. We got a lot of positive comments about how smoothly it all ran."Another 200 people are scheduled to receive their first dose of the coronavirus on Saturday at the Opera House. Those will be by appointment only.

Round two COVID-19 vaccinations are conducted

Fort Riley officials reminded the public on Friday that an uptick in gunnery training at the installation will continue into and through the spring. Both the 1st and 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Teams will be honing their live-fire skills. That has led to an increase in noticeable noise levels in the surrounding communities.

Fort Riley officials reminded the public on Friday that an uptick in gunnery training at the installation will continue into and through the spring. Both the 1st and 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Teams will be honing their live-fire skills. That has led to an increase in noticeable noise levels in the surrounding communities.

Uptick in gunnery training will continue through the spring

Grdab N'Go accessibility projects at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library do not require cutting or sewing. Pick up begins on March 8th. You can get all of the supplies needed to make a one of a kind Easter card.

Limited kits are available and preregistration is required. The Library is located at 230 West 7th Street. The telephone number is 785-238-4311.

Grdab N'Go accessibility projects at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library do not require cutting or sewing. Pick up begins on March 8th. You can get all of the supplies needed to make a one of a kind Easter card.Limited kits are available and preregistration is required. The Library is located at 230 West 7th Street. The telephone number is 785-238-4311.

Registration for Grab N' Go is under way at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library

Major General D. A. Sims said Friday that the prevalence and transmission of the coronavirus has declined in the local area. He stated in an online post that after careful consultation with disease experts, professional analysts and community leaders, he&nbsp; has updated the COVID-19 Order for Fort Riley.

Service members will still be required to wear a mask in any public space or facility, both in and outdoors, on and off the installation. 

The 150-mile travel radius and curfew have been rescinded.&nbsp;

Service members are permitted to dine-in at restaurants and bars including those in Aggieville in Manhattan between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Service members will masks in restaurants and bars unless actively eating or drinking. That includes entering and exiting the facility, sitting at tables and bar tops, using the restroom and during all movement in and around the establishment.&nbsp;

Soldiers are authorized to use off-post gym facilities. They will wear masks while in off-post gyms, even if not required by the individual gym's policy.

The in-home visitor limit has increased from six people up to 10 people while the barracks room visitor limit has from one person up to three people.

Service members will incur a 14-day quarantine when returning from a high risk area as defined by the Centers for Disease Control or the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment.&nbsp;

Sims added that the Fort Riley community has done an excellent job of adapting to changes in day-to-day life, coping with hardship and protecting those who call the Flint Hills home, and there has been a decline in the prevalence and transmission of the virus due to their diligence, discipline and responsibility.

The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley commanding general said it's important to remember the virus has not disappeared and there are possibilities of increased spread from new variants if we let our guard down.&nbsp; Each of the changes is contingent on the continued discipline of Fort Riley Soldiers, Civilians, and Family members, and the virus's impact on the local area. As conditions change, we will modify restrictions and mitigation measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

Major General D. A. Sims said Friday that the prevalence and transmission of the coronavirus has declined in the local area. He stated in an online post that after careful consultation with disease experts, professional analysts and community leaders, he&nbsp; has updated the COVID-19 Order for Fort Riley.Service members will still be required to wear a mask in any public space or facility, both in and outdoors, on and off the installation. The 150-mile travel radius and curfew have been rescinded.&nbsp;Service members are permitted to dine-in at restaurants and bars including those in Aggieville in Manhattan between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Service members will masks in restaurants and bars unless actively eating or drinking. That includes entering and exiting the facility, sitting at tables and bar tops, using the restroom and during all movement in and around the establishment.&nbsp;Soldiers are authorized to use off-post gym facilities. They will wear masks while in off-post gyms, even if not required by the individual gym's policy.The in-home visitor limit has increased from six people up to 10 people while the barracks room visitor limit has from one person up to three people.Service members will incur a 14-day quarantine when returning from a high risk area as defined by the Centers for Disease Control or the Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment.&nbsp;Sims added that the Fort Riley community has done an excellent job of adapting to changes in day-to-day life, coping with hardship and protecting those who call the Flint Hills home, and there has been a decline in the prevalence and transmission of the virus due to their diligence, discipline and responsibility.The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley commanding general said it's important to remember the virus has not disappeared and there are possibilities of increased spread from new variants if we let our guard down.&nbsp; Each of the changes is contingent on the continued discipline of Fort Riley Soldiers, Civilians, and Family members, and the virus's impact on the local area. As conditions change, we will modify restrictions and mitigation measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

Fort Riley modifies some COVID-19 restrictions

Perry Wiggins, Executive Director of the Governor's Military Council, is focusing on spouse reciprocity where that is necessary.&nbsp; He told a MAC breakfast in Junction City that involves licensing approval for military spouses. "When they come into the state they go to work. Kansas needs that type of intellectual&nbsp; capital. They need those people working for them here in the state, they're a great resource and we're not taking advantage of it like we should."

Wiggins touched on topics ranging from a quality of life assessment to the combined acreage of Fort Riley and Smoky Hill Training Resources and complex, and the impact on training size capability.

Perry Wiggins, Executive Director of the Governor's Military Council, is focusing on spouse reciprocity where that is necessary.&nbsp; He told a MAC breakfast in Junction City that involves licensing approval for military spouses. "When they come into the state they go to work. Kansas needs that type of intellectual&nbsp; capital. They need those people working for them here in the state, they're a great resource and we're not taking advantage of it like we should."Wiggins touched on topics ranging from a quality of life assessment to the combined acreage of Fort Riley and Smoky Hill Training Resources and complex, and the impact on training size capability.

Military spouse reciprocity is one focus for the Governor's Military Council Director 

Kansas State University will permanently close the indoor swimming facility in the Natatorium because of ongoing ventilation and maintenance issues. The pool facility was closed in March 2020 due to pandemic-related ventilation issues.

According to a K-State Today report ongoing maintenance issues have created a $4 million backlog in needed repairs, which the university is unable to fund. The pool is classified as a recreation facility and is not eligible for Education Building Funds, which is the state funding source used to maintain campus buildings.

Given limited maintenance budgets and a priority of supporting academic programs, the Division of Facilities&nbsp;recommended to administration to close the facility.&nbsp;A cross-sectional group of university patrons, with representation from Recreational Services, UFM, the College of Health and Human Sciences, the Division of Facilities and others conferred last year and announced that the pool would be closed within three years due to the maintenance issues.

Kansas State University will permanently close the indoor swimming facility in the Natatorium because of ongoing ventilation and maintenance issues. The pool facility was closed in March 2020 due to pandemic-related ventilation issues.According to a K-State Today report ongoing maintenance issues have created a $4 million backlog in needed repairs, which the university is unable to fund. The pool is classified as a recreation facility and is not eligible for Education Building Funds, which is the state funding source used to maintain campus buildings.Given limited maintenance budgets and a priority of supporting academic programs, the Division of Facilities&nbsp;recommended to administration to close the facility.&nbsp;A cross-sectional group of university patrons, with representation from Recreational Services, UFM, the College of Health and Human Sciences, the Division of Facilities and others conferred last year and announced that the pool would be closed within three years due to the maintenance issues.

K-State will close their indoor swimming facility

You can register your business or organization to be added to a Drive-Thru Trail of Treats Easter Edition site map. This drive-thru Easter egg hunt sponsored by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce is scheduled from 1-3 p.m. March 27th.

To register go to www.jcacc.org/trail-of-treats-easter-editon or call the Chamber at 785-762-2632 if you have questions.

If your business or organization is interested in participating but doesn't have an ideal or safe location for Drive-Thru, register online for a spot at one of two City parking lots. Those are 9th &amp; Washington and 6th &amp; Jefferson.

You can register your business or organization to be added to a Drive-Thru Trail of Treats Easter Edition site map. This drive-thru Easter egg hunt sponsored by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce is scheduled from 1-3 p.m. March 27th.To register go to www.jcacc.org/trail-of-treats-easter-editon or call the Chamber at 785-762-2632 if you have questions.If your business or organization is interested in participating but doesn't have an ideal or safe location for Drive-Thru, register online for a spot at one of two City parking lots. Those are 9th &amp; Washington and 6th &amp; Jefferson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614361680540.jpeg" alt="hunt.jpg" />
 <figcaption>hunt.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Drive-thru Easter Egg Hunt is planned

Abilene, Kan.- The Eisenhower Presidential Library, Eisenhower Foundation, and Salina Symphony have announced the cancellation of the June 5th Symphony at Sunset concert. Officials with each organization agree that current circumstances do not allow for such an event due to concerns from the pandemic and current guidance from Federal officials.

“It is with sadness we announce this cancellation. With an outdoor event of this magnitude we are not equipped to maintain safe social distancing protocols. While we had hoped to hold this special concert, concern for the welfare of all makes such gatherings unfeasible,” states Dawn Hammatt, Eisenhower Presidential Library director.

“Symphony at Sunset&nbsp;is a beloved event for our musicians and patrons, and we are deeply disappointed to be unable to perform this year’s concert,” said Adrienne Allen, Salina Symphony executive director. “We very much look forward to resuming the&nbsp;Symphony at Sunset&nbsp;tradition on June 4, 2022."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Abilene, Kan.- The Eisenhower Presidential Library, Eisenhower Foundation, and Salina Symphony have announced the cancellation of the June 5th Symphony at Sunset concert. Officials with each organization agree that current circumstances do not allow for such an event due to concerns from the pandemic and current guidance from Federal officials. “It is with sadness we announce this cancellation. With an outdoor event of this magnitude we are not equipped to maintain safe social distancing protocols. While we had hoped to hold this special concert, concern for the welfare of all makes such gatherings unfeasible,” states Dawn Hammatt, Eisenhower Presidential Library director. “Symphony at Sunset&nbsp;is a beloved event for our musicians and patrons, and we are deeply disappointed to be unable to perform this year’s concert,” said Adrienne Allen, Salina Symphony executive director. “We very much look forward to resuming the&nbsp;Symphony at Sunset&nbsp;tradition on June 4, 2022."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Symphony at Sunset concert has been cancelled

MANHATTAN — A new scholarship that honors the legacy of a renowned alumnus from the Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;and promotes diversity among future veterinarians is being presented to third-year veterinary student Melissa Riley,&nbsp;Olathe. Riley, a graduate of&nbsp;Junction City&nbsp;High School, is the inaugural recipient of the Dr. Walter C. Bowie Scholarship. Bowie earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from K-State in 1947 and went on to become a highly respected veterinarian and educator, serving as a longtime dean of the Tuskegee School of Veterinary Medicine. He was one of the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine's first Alumni Fellows, earning the honor in 1993. "Being selected for this award means a lot to me," Riley said. "It was very unexpected and I am honored that I was chosen. I am thankful to Dr. Bowie's family and the amazing K-State College of Veterinary Medicine administration who considered me for this award. Dr. Bowie made incredible contributions to the veterinary profession and I am extremely glad that I am now able to be a small part of his legacy." Bonnie Rush, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, said Riley is deserving of the recognition. "As an undergraduate student in animal sciences and industry, Melissa distinguished herself as the 2016 Integrative Organismal Systems Physiology fellow under the mentorship of Dr. Bruce Schultz in our Department of Anatomy and Physiology," Rush said. "As a veterinary student, she continues to participate in research and lead activities that strengthen student recruitment and support for others." Callie Rost, the college's associate dean for admissions, calls Riley a great representative of the college. "She is the president of Vet Med ROCKS recruitment and outreach club, a student group that hosts a variety of events and day camps for prospective veterinary students who are currently in middle school, high school and college undergraduate programs," Rost said. "Her leadership makes her a worthy recipient of this prestigious scholarship." Riley also is an active member in VOICE, which stands for Veterinarians for One Inclusive Community for Empowerment. The club is tasked with making a difference in the inclusive and equitable environment at the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine. In March 1947, Bowie joined the faculty at Tuskegee University, which was then known as the Tuskegee Institute. He served as a teacher, research scientist, head of the physiology and pharmacology department and associate dean for academic affairs until he was appointed to succeed Dean T.S. Williams, who earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from K-State in 1935, in 1972 and served until his retirement in 1990. Bowie died in October 2009.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614348565790.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — A new scholarship that honors the legacy of a renowned alumnus from the Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;and promotes diversity among future veterinarians is being presented to third-year veterinary student Melissa Riley,&nbsp;Olathe. Riley, a graduate of&nbsp;Junction City&nbsp;High School, is the inaugural recipient of the Dr. Walter C. Bowie Scholarship. Bowie earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from K-State in 1947 and went on to become a highly respected veterinarian and educator, serving as a longtime dean of the Tuskegee School of Veterinary Medicine. He was one of the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine's first Alumni Fellows, earning the honor in 1993. "Being selected for this award means a lot to me," Riley said. "It was very unexpected and I am honored that I was chosen. I am thankful to Dr. Bowie's family and the amazing K-State College of Veterinary Medicine administration who considered me for this award. Dr. Bowie made incredible contributions to the veterinary profession and I am extremely glad that I am now able to be a small part of his legacy." Bonnie Rush, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, said Riley is deserving of the recognition. "As an undergraduate student in animal sciences and industry, Melissa distinguished herself as the 2016 Integrative Organismal Systems Physiology fellow under the mentorship of Dr. Bruce Schultz in our Department of Anatomy and Physiology," Rush said. "As a veterinary student, she continues to participate in research and lead activities that strengthen student recruitment and support for others." Callie Rost, the college's associate dean for admissions, calls Riley a great representative of the college. "She is the president of Vet Med ROCKS recruitment and outreach club, a student group that hosts a variety of events and day camps for prospective veterinary students who are currently in middle school, high school and college undergraduate programs," Rost said. "Her leadership makes her a worthy recipient of this prestigious scholarship." Riley also is an active member in VOICE, which stands for Veterinarians for One Inclusive Community for Empowerment. The club is tasked with making a difference in the inclusive and equitable environment at the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine. In March 1947, Bowie joined the faculty at Tuskegee University, which was then known as the Tuskegee Institute. He served as a teacher, research scientist, head of the physiology and pharmacology department and associate dean for academic affairs until he was appointed to succeed Dean T.S. Williams, who earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from K-State in 1935, in 1972 and served until his retirement in 1990. Bowie died in October 2009.By Joe Montgomery

Junction City High School graduate receives the inaugural Bowie Scholarship

In the wake of the fire that destroyed their Munson's Prime Steakhouse at 426 Goldenbelt Boulevard in junction City, Deanna and Chuck Munson are grateful for the support they have been receiving, ranging from local community members to Kansas State University leaders.

No one was injured in the fire early Wednesday morning and&nbsp; the business was insured, but numerous Munson family and community memorabilia items were damaged or destroyed. Deanna Munson confirmed the strong community support. "Oh my yes. Just unreal. Between email and text messages and telephone calls. Kansas State has shown an amazing amount of support with all of the people over there, including President Myers on helping to replace some of the significant things lost in the fire that we care about." Munson added that would include K-State awards and recognitions over the last six decades and President Myers himself is reduplicating some of that so that it's amazing what has come through."

Deanna added President Myers has personally taken on trying to reproduce ribbons won by Chuck Munson's father in an international livestock and meat judging show, all of their award plaques including Chuck's Distinguished Service Alumni Award. "They've asked me to send pictures of what they looked like on the wall and they're trying to reproduce what we had. " There has been support expressed from deans and KSU leaders to the alumni association.&nbsp; Deanna is also herself a former associate professor at Kansas State University.

As far as the employees of the Munson's Prime Steakhouse are concerned they will receive assistance. Deanna Munson confirmed that are more than 30 employees. "We certainly are going to maintain some of them. We have work that needs to be done that's in relation to the restaurant itself. Certainly our manager and a few of our employees can continue on. They just may not be serving food. They may be doing a slightly different description but in congruence with the restaurant itself."&nbsp;

Munson said there will be a meeting with all of the employees on Friday. "We have a check for them for what they've done up until now and we will be making offers with them as to what they want to do in the future." Munson added she is also hearing that they're easily employable and none of them have been panicking about what they're going to do.&nbsp; They are also hearing from employees that another nearby&nbsp; new restaurant has expressed interest in their services, but nothing is official there.

On the future of the business no final decision has been made. Deanna stated, "At this point we don't know for sure, probably won't for awhile. The investigation of what has happened is ongoing. Until all of the parts of the investigation are done we're certainly not making any decision as to whether we're going to rebuild, reopen or decide not to. All options are out there." Munson added that they have been informed that it will be at least one month before the total investigation is complete. "And we're thinking it will be at least a month, maybe two months. At that point we'll make some decision as to what we're deciding to do."

No one was injured in the fire which was reported to dispatch by an on-duty sheriff's deputy at 4:17 a.m. Wednesday. The damage estimate has been placed at $750,000.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614304626296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In the wake of the fire that destroyed their Munson's Prime Steakhouse at 426 Goldenbelt Boulevard in junction City, Deanna and Chuck Munson are grateful for the support they have been receiving, ranging from local community members to Kansas State University leaders.No one was injured in the fire early Wednesday morning and&nbsp; the business was insured, but numerous Munson family and community memorabilia items were damaged or destroyed. Deanna Munson confirmed the strong community support. "Oh my yes. Just unreal. Between email and text messages and telephone calls. Kansas State has shown an amazing amount of support with all of the people over there, including President Myers on helping to replace some of the significant things lost in the fire that we care about." Munson added that would include K-State awards and recognitions over the last six decades and President Myers himself is reduplicating some of that so that it's amazing what has come through."Deanna added President Myers has personally taken on trying to reproduce ribbons won by Chuck Munson's father in an international livestock and meat judging show, all of their award plaques including Chuck's Distinguished Service Alumni Award. "They've asked me to send pictures of what they looked like on the wall and they're trying to reproduce what we had. " There has been support expressed from deans and KSU leaders to the alumni association.&nbsp; Deanna is also herself a former associate professor at Kansas State University.As far as the employees of the Munson's Prime Steakhouse are concerned they will receive assistance. Deanna Munson confirmed that are more than 30 employees. "We certainly are going to maintain some of them. We have work that needs to be done that's in relation to the restaurant itself. Certainly our manager and a few of our employees can continue on. They just may not be serving food. They may be doing a slightly different description but in congruence with the restaurant itself."&nbsp;Munson said there will be a meeting with all of the employees on Friday. "We have a check for them for what they've done up until now and we will be making offers with them as to what they want to do in the future." Munson added she is also hearing that they're easily employable and none of them have been panicking about what they're going to do.&nbsp; They are also hearing from employees that another nearby&nbsp; new restaurant has expressed interest in their services, but nothing is official there.On the future of the business no final decision has been made. Deanna stated, "At this point we don't know for sure, probably won't for awhile. The investigation of what has happened is ongoing. Until all of the parts of the investigation are done we're certainly not making any decision as to whether we're going to rebuild, reopen or decide not to. All options are out there." Munson added that they have been informed that it will be at least one month before the total investigation is complete. "And we're thinking it will be at least a month, maybe two months. At that point we'll make some decision as to what we're deciding to do."No one was injured in the fire which was reported to dispatch by an on-duty sheriff's deputy at 4:17 a.m. Wednesday. The damage estimate has been placed at $750,000.&nbsp;

Local