During the months of September through May, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club recognizes one JCHS student as their Student of the Month. Students are nominated by their JCHS Academy teachers/staff and from those nominations, one name is sent forth as the Optimist’s Student of the Month to the club’s coordinator, Dana Wiegand. The student receives a certificate from the club and a $25.00 gift certificate from JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill. The March Student of the Month is Luke Nelson.

Luke’s mother, Melissa Bradfield, is a teacher at Spring Valley Elementary School. His stepfather MSG Eric Bradfield shared their pride in Luke’s how much they appreciate Luke for the person he is becoming. Melissa said, “Luke is fun and is doing well in school. We are so appreciative of the club’s recognition and for the people in this community.” MSG Bradfield stated that “he is a tanker and has served for 26 years.” The family plans to retire in Junction City.

Luke is a Sophomore at Junction City High School and is in the Science, Engineering and Health Academy. He has participated in football and track and is an Academic letter recipient.

Some of Luke’s teachers wrote that Luke personifies “The Optimist Creed” upon which the JC Breakfast Optimist Club Student of the Month is based. “He is hardworking, motivated and goal oriented as a student who knows what he wants in his life and his future. He is a witty young man, who makes sure there is never a dull moment with him. He brings a positive attitude and collaborative spirit to any room he is in. Luke has a love for learning and leaves not a single open space in the margins, between the lines, attached sticky notes, or any white space considered to be a viable location to take notes.”

Luke plans to attend the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor upon graduation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710946042080.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerDuring the months of September through May, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club recognizes one JCHS student as their Student of the Month. Students are nominated by their JCHS Academy teachers/staff and from those nominations, one name is sent forth as the Optimist’s Student of the Month to the club’s coordinator, Dana Wiegand. The student receives a certificate from the club and a $25.00 gift certificate from JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill. The March Student of the Month is Luke Nelson.Luke’s mother, Melissa Bradfield, is a teacher at Spring Valley Elementary School. His stepfather MSG Eric Bradfield shared their pride in Luke’s how much they appreciate Luke for the person he is becoming. Melissa said, “Luke is fun and is doing well in school. We are so appreciative of the club’s recognition and for the people in this community.” MSG Bradfield stated that “he is a tanker and has served for 26 years.” The family plans to retire in Junction City.Luke is a Sophomore at Junction City High School and is in the Science, Engineering and Health Academy. He has participated in football and track and is an Academic letter recipient.Some of Luke’s teachers wrote that Luke personifies “The Optimist Creed” upon which the JC Breakfast Optimist Club Student of the Month is based. “He is hardworking, motivated and goal oriented as a student who knows what he wants in his life and his future. He is a witty young man, who makes sure there is never a dull moment with him. He brings a positive attitude and collaborative spirit to any room he is in. Luke has a love for learning and leaves not a single open space in the margins, between the lines, attached sticky notes, or any white space considered to be a viable location to take notes.”Luke plans to attend the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor upon graduation.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s JCHS Student of the Month Is Luke Nelson

Seven west side Junction City home properties were up for proposed annexation into the city Tuesday night but after hearing opposition and concerns from property owners the Junction City commission took no formal action on the ordinances, meaning the annexation proposals did not gain approval. Among the concerns were property owners already paying for years for city services that they did not receive. The entire problem dates back many years.

Comments from commissioners ranged from years ago the city ran out of money but now that there are funds corrections can be made, to doing the moral and lawful thing, to putting together a plan to go forward to extend utilities promised 20 years ago.&nbsp;

The properties involved included locations at 2707 Liberty Hall Road. 2701 Liberty Hall Road,&nbsp; 506 South Spring Valley Road, 604 North Spring Valley Road, 224 North Spring Valley Road, 2623Liberty Hall Road.&nbsp; 2508 and Glenn Dean Road.&nbsp;

Seven west side Junction City home properties were up for proposed annexation into the city Tuesday night but after hearing opposition and concerns from property owners the Junction City commission took no formal action on the ordinances, meaning the annexation proposals did not gain approval. Among the concerns were property owners already paying for years for city services that they did not receive. The entire problem dates back many years.Comments from commissioners ranged from years ago the city ran out of money but now that there are funds corrections can be made, to doing the moral and lawful thing, to putting together a plan to go forward to extend utilities promised 20 years ago.&nbsp;The properties involved included locations at 2707 Liberty Hall Road. 2701 Liberty Hall Road,&nbsp; 506 South Spring Valley Road, 604 North Spring Valley Road, 224 North Spring Valley Road, 2623Liberty Hall Road.&nbsp; 2508 and Glenn Dean Road.&nbsp;

Junction City Commission takes no action on annexation proposals

The newest building in the C.L. Hoover Opera House complex was the site of a ribbon cutting Tuesday afternoon. The Munson Arts Education Building is located at 131 W. 7th Street.

( Photos courtesy of the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce )

According to C.L. Hoover Opera House Co-Director Joe Markley, this project undertaken by Junction City Opera House Inc. carries a cost of just over $2.5 million. As of now most of the funds have been raised.&nbsp;

Markley confirmed that Michelle Munson was one of the major  contributors to the project and the building is named in honor of her parents, Chuck and Deanna Munson, and her grandparents Ralph and Bernice Munson.

The newest building in the C.L. Hoover Opera House complex was the site of a ribbon cutting Tuesday afternoon. The Munson Arts Education Building is located at 131 W. 7th Street.( Photos courtesy of the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce )<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710891590309.jpeg" alt="Opera House Co-Director Joe Markley" />
 <figcaption>Opera House Co-Director Joe Markley</figcaption>
 </figure>According to C.L. Hoover Opera House Co-Director Joe Markley, this project undertaken by Junction City Opera House Inc. carries a cost of just over $2.5 million. As of now most of the funds have been raised.&nbsp;Markley confirmed that Michelle Munson was one of the major contributors to the project and the building is named in honor of her parents, Chuck and Deanna Munson, and her grandparents Ralph and Bernice Munson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710891490485.jpeg" alt="Opera House Co-Director Sheila Markley ( center )" />
 <figcaption>Opera House Co-Director Sheila Markley ( center )</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710891441212.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710892179085.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ribbon cutting marks the opening of the Munson Arts Education Building

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Curtis Wolf, site manager at Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JsvYviWXZ40?si=ipZDW49WXxoPMfq3" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Curtis Wolf, site manager at Fort Hays State University’s Kansas Wetlands Education Center at Cheyenne Bottoms.

🎤Forward Ever: Kansas Wetlands Education Center manager Curtis Wolf

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library is hosting a session on email basics from 1-3 p.m. Wednesday. Registration is required. Limited seats are available. Call 785-238-4311 or go to Jclib.org

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710874917237.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dorothy Bramlage Public Library is hosting a session on email basics from 1-3 p.m. Wednesday. Registration is required. Limited seats are available. Call 785-238-4311 or go to Jclib.org

You can learn email basics

Three $500 grants will go toward proposals outlined during a community forum Monday in Junction City.

One came from a group of Junction City High School students and included an idea for a burn pit for bonfires&nbsp; at the senior high school. Landscaping would be done by a gardening club at JCHS. The location on the JCHS property will be determined after a meeting with JCHS principal, G.G. Booth.

Thee second $500 grant will be used for a Did You Know campaign which inform the public online about Junction City facts.

The third grant for $500 will support a Growing Together idea for a community floral / fairy garden at the Montgomery Plaza on the north side of town.

Approximately 120 people participated in the forum.

As part of this effort Community leaders will meet Tuesday at 5 p.m. at the Munson Arts Education Building to talk about larger future community projects.

Three $500 grants will go toward proposals outlined during a community forum Monday in Junction City.One came from a group of Junction City High School students and included an idea for a burn pit for bonfires&nbsp; at the senior high school. Landscaping would be done by a gardening club at JCHS. The location on the JCHS property will be determined after a meeting with JCHS principal, G.G. Booth.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710873599141.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thee second $500 grant will be used for a Did You Know campaign which inform the public online about Junction City facts.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710874154165.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The third grant for $500 will support a Growing Together idea for a community floral / fairy garden at the Montgomery Plaza on the north side of town.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710874371316.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Approximately 120 people participated in the forum.As part of this effort Community leaders will meet Tuesday at 5 p.m. at the Munson Arts Education Building to talk about larger future community projects.

Community forum produces project ideas

&nbsp; As we move into the major burning season for many of you, Geary County Rural Fire wanted to remind the public on how to contact us for burning along with the rules/regulations of burning. ALL CALLS FOR BURNING need to be called into 785-238-1290. All requests for burning will be the day of the fire and after 8am. Do not call any other number (including our personal cell phones.)

If we are not in the office: out on a calls, after hours and weekends; the phones are forwarded to the 9-1-1 Center. Please listen to the prompt. You will be instructed to dial either 1 or 0. They will take your information or the burn. If you call our cell phones, we have to transfer the information to someone who is logging the information down. 

The Sheriff Department no longer has anything to do with allowing burning after hours or weekends. DO NOT CALL THEM. Do not start your burn until you receive permission. State regulations and County Resolution states nothing to be started or added after dusk. We utilize the National Weather Service Topeka Office to help determine if it is Burn or NO Burn Day. You can see what we are seeing by going to:https://www.weather.gov/top/ Click on the part of Geary County that you want info on. It will bring up Local Conditions. Scroll to the bottom to Zone Area Forecast and click on Hourly Weather Forecast. It will show the next 2 day information for: temperatures; winds including speed, gusts, and direction; relative humidity, and predicted moisture for the next 2 days.

If the fire starts to get away from you, call 9-1-1. Don not call the office or one of our cell phones. That only delays the fire unit responses. Make sure you have enough personnel to manage the fire. You need more than one person to properly manage the fire. The best way to burn is to burn against the wind so the fire does not get away from you. Also make sure you have a good water source to help manage the fire. You should have plenty of water available.

Please contact us if you have any questions. 785-238-1290&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; As we move into the major burning season for many of you, Geary County Rural Fire wanted to remind the public on how to contact us for burning along with the rules/regulations of burning. ALL CALLS FOR BURNING need to be called into 785-238-1290. All requests for burning will be the day of the fire and after 8am. Do not call any other number (including our personal cell phones.)If we are not in the office: out on a calls, after hours and weekends; the phones are forwarded to the 9-1-1 Center. Please listen to the prompt. You will be instructed to dial either 1 or 0. They will take your information or the burn. If you call our cell phones, we have to transfer the information to someone who is logging the information down. The Sheriff Department no longer has anything to do with allowing burning after hours or weekends. DO NOT CALL THEM. Do not start your burn until you receive permission. State regulations and County Resolution states nothing to be started or added after dusk. We utilize the National Weather Service Topeka Office to help determine if it is Burn or NO Burn Day. You can see what we are seeing by going to:https://www.weather.gov/top/ Click on the part of Geary County that you want info on. It will bring up Local Conditions. Scroll to the bottom to Zone Area Forecast and click on Hourly Weather Forecast. It will show the next 2 day information for: temperatures; winds including speed, gusts, and direction; relative humidity, and predicted moisture for the next 2 days.If the fire starts to get away from you, call 9-1-1. Don not call the office or one of our cell phones. That only delays the fire unit responses. Make sure you have enough personnel to manage the fire. You need more than one person to properly manage the fire. The best way to burn is to burn against the wind so the fire does not get away from you. Also make sure you have a good water source to help manage the fire. You should have plenty of water available.Please contact us if you have any questions. 785-238-1290&nbsp;&nbsp;Geary County Fire release

Burn permit regulations in Geary County

An American Red Cross Junction City Blood Drive is scheduled this coming Thursday, March 21st and Friday, March 22nd at the Municipal Building Gymnasium, 700 North Jefferson Street.&nbsp; Thursday hours are 11:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Friday hours are 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Those wishing to donate blood can make appointments on-line a this <a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/">LINK</a>.

An American Red Cross Junction City Blood Drive is scheduled this coming Thursday, March 21st and Friday, March 22nd at the Municipal Building Gymnasium, 700 North Jefferson Street.&nbsp; Thursday hours are 11:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Friday hours are 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.&nbsp;Those wishing to donate blood can make appointments on-line a this <a href="https://www.redcrossblood.org/">LINK</a>.

Blood Drive scheduled Thursday and Friday

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel has confirmed for JC Post that six staff members of the Junction City Police Department have been put on administrative leave. It is a personnel issue so Dinkel did not name any of the staff members.

The city manager noted that complaints have been received about a hostile workplace. An outside firm is conducting an investigation and is talking to all police department employees.&nbsp; Dinkel expects to make a partial announcement on the matter in one or two days.

The city manager also made it clear that there's no reason to believe it's criminal.

Dinkel released a statement from the City on the matter. "The City takes concerns reported by its personnel seriously and is working to gather information to respond appropriately.  City policy requires confidentiality to the maximum extent possible under the circumstances.  Accordingly, we are unable to provide any details at this time.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostJunction City Manager Allen Dinkel has confirmed for JC Post that six staff members of the Junction City Police Department have been put on administrative leave. It is a personnel issue so Dinkel did not name any of the staff members.The city manager noted that complaints have been received about a hostile workplace. An outside firm is conducting an investigation and is talking to all police department employees.&nbsp; Dinkel expects to make a partial announcement on the matter in one or two days.The city manager also made it clear that there's no reason to believe it's criminal.Dinkel released a statement from the City on the matter. "The City takes concerns reported by its personnel seriously and is working to gather information to respond appropriately. City policy requires confidentiality to the maximum extent possible under the circumstances. Accordingly, we are unable to provide any details at this time.

Six JCPD staff members are placed on administrative leave

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Monday, March 18th, around 4:00 am, Riley County Police officers responded to a report of an aggressive dog in the northwest part of Manhattan.

Initially dispatchers at the Riley County Communications Center were told the dog had bitten a child.

When officers arrived on the scene they found a dog, which acted aggressively towards an officer, who discharged his firearm at the dog, as a defensive response to the dog's behavior.

City of Manhattan Animal Control personnel promptly took over care of the dog, transfer it to Kansas&nbsp;State University Veterinary Services for necessary medical attention.&nbsp;

After a thorough investigation of the situation, RCPD officers determined the reporting person was under the influence when they reported the incident.

The dog bite incident, referenced while speaking with dispatch, had occurred a year prior and the child was confirmed to be safe within the residence.

The dog is expected to recover from the injuries.&nbsp;

Due to this situation being part of a domestic violence situation, no additional details will be released.

Riley County Police Department wants to&nbsp;assure the public that they are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, including valued animal companions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673016951878.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Monday, March 18th, around 4:00 am, Riley County Police officers responded to a report of an aggressive dog in the northwest part of Manhattan.Initially dispatchers at the Riley County Communications Center were told the dog had bitten a child.When officers arrived on the scene they found a dog, which acted aggressively towards an officer, who discharged his firearm at the dog, as a defensive response to the dog's behavior.City of Manhattan Animal Control personnel promptly took over care of the dog, transfer it to Kansas&nbsp;State University Veterinary Services for necessary medical attention.&nbsp;After a thorough investigation of the situation, RCPD officers determined the reporting person was under the influence when they reported the incident.The dog bite incident, referenced while speaking with dispatch, had occurred a year prior and the child was confirmed to be safe within the residence.The dog is expected to recover from the injuries.&nbsp;Due to this situation being part of a domestic violence situation, no additional details will be released.Riley County Police Department wants to&nbsp;assure the public that they are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, including valued animal companions.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/Tn8H8bjnqZ">https://t.co/Tn8H8bjnqZ</a>&mdash; RCPD (@RileyCountyPD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RileyCountyPD/status/1770111362552779179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

RCPD: Dog injured following incident in NW Manhattan

Geary County Commissioner Alex Tyson said Monday that during the past week there have been a lot of issues that have taken place in the community. He added, "Sometimes it's disheartening to hear because when we hear the individuals that it's happening to." Don't want anything negative said about people. We respect the jobs that they've done and are doing."

Tyson urged people to contact their elected officials and ask the questions. Attend meetings, email, make phone calls and send text messages. "I think when you don't have that contact or you don't have that willingness to reach out because of whatever reason, I think that's when you start to get into the rumor mill." Tyson also noted he thought that "the rumor mill was not a good place to sit.

The commissioner encouraged the public to reach out and try to get the answer on their concerns.

Tyson said, it's not good and sometimes it feels like you take two steps forward, get kicked in the chest and you are taking four steps back. "I want to tell people to trust the process, reach out and have that conversation, and try not to listen to the rumor mill because most of the time they're only getting 25-percent of the truth."

Tyson did not delve into a lot of specific issues.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Commissioner Alex Tyson said Monday that during the past week there have been a lot of issues that have taken place in the community. He added, "Sometimes it's disheartening to hear because when we hear the individuals that it's happening to." Don't want anything negative said about people. We respect the jobs that they've done and are doing."Tyson urged people to contact their elected officials and ask the questions. Attend meetings, email, make phone calls and send text messages. "I think when you don't have that contact or you don't have that willingness to reach out because of whatever reason, I think that's when you start to get into the rumor mill." Tyson also noted he thought that "the rumor mill was not a good place to sit.The commissioner encouraged the public to reach out and try to get the answer on their concerns.Tyson said, it's not good and sometimes it feels like you take two steps forward, get kicked in the chest and you are taking four steps back. "I want to tell people to trust the process, reach out and have that conversation, and try not to listen to the rumor mill because most of the time they're only getting 25-percent of the truth."Tyson did not delve into a lot of specific issues.

County Commissioner raises concern about issues and rumors

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.

Sergio Galicia Arroyo, Failure to appear, arrested 03/18

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/2024/3/1710856179707.jpeg" alt="Terrance Canada, Criminal possession of a weapon, Convicted of person/drug felony, Firearm used in a crime, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal carry of a weapon, arrested 03/18" />
 <figcaption>Terrance Canada, Criminal possession of a weapon, Convicted of person/drug felony, Firearm used in a crime, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Criminal carry of a weapon, arrested 03/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710856194002.jpeg" alt="Jimel Sparks,&nbsp;Criminal possession of a weapon, Convicted of person/drug felony, Firearm used in a crime, Criminal carry of a weapon, arrested 03/18" />
 <figcaption>Jimel Sparks,&nbsp;Criminal possession of a weapon, Convicted of person/drug felony, Firearm used in a crime, Criminal carry of a weapon, arrested 03/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710856206075.jpeg" alt="Neko Jones, Failure&nbsp; to appear, Outside warrant, arrested 03/18" />
 <figcaption>Neko Jones, Failure&nbsp; to appear, Outside warrant, arrested 03/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710856217324.jpeg" alt="Cadarius Sapp, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 03/19" />
 <figcaption>Cadarius Sapp, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 03/19</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Sergio Galicia Arroyo, Failure to appear, arrested 03/18Recent 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 March 19

The Munson Arts Education Building will be unveiled to the public on Tuesday at 4.p.m. That is the time scheduled for the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting for the facility at 131 W. 7th Street.&nbsp;

This new facility is part of what is now a three-building complex including the Opera House at 135 W. 7th,  the Rolfs Building 133 W. 7th and the Education Building  at 131 W. 7th.

The Munson Arts Education Building includes two rehearsal rooms upstairs, offices downstairs for the Junction City Little Theater and Junction City Arts Council and a conference room with a table that was built by John York.&nbsp;There are dressing rooms in back of the Arts Education facility. There will be tours of the structure from 10-11 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. on Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710806067566.jpeg" alt="Munson Arts Education Building ( Photo - Opera House )" />
 <figcaption>Munson Arts Education Building ( Photo - Opera House )</figcaption>
 </figure>The Munson Arts Education Building will be unveiled to the public on Tuesday at 4.p.m. That is the time scheduled for the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting for the facility at 131 W. 7th Street.&nbsp;This new facility is part of what is now a three-building complex including the Opera House at 135 W. 7th, the Rolfs Building 133 W. 7th and the Education Building at 131 W. 7th.The Munson Arts Education Building includes two rehearsal rooms upstairs, offices downstairs for the Junction City Little Theater and Junction City Arts Council and a conference room with a table that was built by John York.&nbsp;There are dressing rooms in back of the Arts Education facility. There will be tours of the structure from 10-11 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. on Tuesday.

Ribbon cutting for Munson Arts Education Building is set

The St. Xavier School annual auction will be held on Saturday, April 20th at 5:00 pm. Officials scheduled the event for the Bradley Gymnasium at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School. It will feature a catered meal from Hog Wild Pit BBQ, an open bar, and the opportunity to bid on a variety of silent and live auction items. 

In addition, there will be drawings, chance boards, games, and a photo booth for gueststo enjoy. Tickets can be purchased at a cost of $60 per person or save by reserving a table. Doors open at 4:30 pm. Make your reservations today by stopping at the St. Xavier School office or calling 238-2841.

The St. Xavier School annual auction will be held on Saturday, April 20th at 5:00 pm. Officials scheduled the event for the Bradley Gymnasium at St. Francis Xavier Catholic School. It will feature a catered meal from Hog Wild Pit BBQ, an open bar, and the opportunity to bid on a variety of silent and live auction items. In addition, there will be drawings, chance boards, games, and a photo booth for gueststo enjoy. Tickets can be purchased at a cost of $60 per person or save by reserving a table. Doors open at 4:30 pm. Make your reservations today by stopping at the St. Xavier School office or calling 238-2841.

Saint Francis Xavier School plans school fundraiser auction

Fort Riley has announced via social media that the Red Cross blood drive happening Tuesday will be held at Normandy Chapel from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, and scheduled appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 800-733-2767 (RED CROS).

To schedule an appointment call 1-800 RED Cross or go to RedCrossBlood.org and enter FR.

Fort Riley has announced via social media that the Red Cross blood drive happening Tuesday will be held at Normandy Chapel from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, and scheduled appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 800-733-2767 (RED CROS).To schedule an appointment call 1-800 RED Cross or go to RedCrossBlood.org and enter FR.

There will be a blood drive at Fort Riley on Tuesday

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has noted that a question that officials get a lot is, “What is this election for?” 

A presidential preference primary takes an act by the Kansas legislature to be conducted. The enactment takes the responsibility from the two state parties (Republican and Democrat) in Kansas from conducting a caucus, and instead, having the State of Kansas conduct a primary election. It is a “preference” primary because it is an election where the vote totals are given to a political party to allocate delegates to candidates at the national convention. This is not a primary where the voters selected the party candidate.

Advance voting at the County Office Building for the election has ended, voters will need to vote at their designated polling location from 7:00am-7:00pm on Tuesday, March 19th. If you aren’t sure what your polling location is, you may contact the county clerk's office at 785-238-3912 or go to this website here&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView" target="_blank">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView</a>.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has noted that a question that officials get a lot is, “What is this election for?” A presidential preference primary takes an act by the Kansas legislature to be conducted. The enactment takes the responsibility from the two state parties (Republican and Democrat) in Kansas from conducting a caucus, and instead, having the State of Kansas conduct a primary election. It is a “preference” primary because it is an election where the vote totals are given to a political party to allocate delegates to candidates at the national convention. This is not a primary where the voters selected the party candidate.Advance voting at the County Office Building for the election has ended, voters will need to vote at their designated polling location from 7:00am-7:00pm on Tuesday, March 19th. If you aren’t sure what your polling location is, you may contact the county clerk's office at 785-238-3912 or go to this website here&nbsp;<a href="https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView" target="_blank">https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView</a>.

Presidential Preference Primary election will be held Tuesday

Miranda Adams, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 03/15

Irma Perez-Ayala,&nbsp;Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 03/16

Marchella Woods, Transporting of alcoholic beverage, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Ignition interlock device - operate a car without required device, Driving while license canceled/suspended/ revoked, arrested 03/16

Jacob Barger, Flee or attempt to elude LEO&nbsp; by engaging in reckless driving, arrested 03/16

Oscar Orellana Peraza, Drivers license without valid DL, Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, arrested 03/16

Charles Story, Driving while license canceled/suspended/revoked, arrested 03/16

Aubree Borders, Arrest by LEO - Warrant arrest, arrested 03/16

Victor Matos-Marrero, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 03/16

Joshua Lopez,&nbsp; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 03/16

Alyssa Johnson, Canceled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 03/16

Thaddeus Kimble, Possession of THC, arrested 03/16

Arron Felton, Domestic battery, arrested 03/17

Elizabeth Bizarre, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Violation of restrictions on drivers license or permit, arrested 03/17

Austin Gano, Driving while license canceled/suspended/revoked, arrested 03/17

Makayla Hamilton, Domestic battery, arrested 03/17

Tamboura Watson, Failure to appear, arrested 03/17

Jahdiel Agosto,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 03/17

Jonathan Sample,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 03/17

Gage Warders, Possession of marijuana, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 03/18

Sergio Gayton, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 03/18

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/2024/3/1710788166693.jpeg" alt="Daniel Fenimore, Failure to appear, arrested 03/14" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Fenimore, Failure to appear, arrested 03/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710788207974.jpeg" alt="TJ Grant, Failure to appear, arrested 03/16" />
 <figcaption>TJ Grant, Failure to appear, arrested 03/16</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710788248144.jpeg" alt="Laquinta Brown, Failure to appear, arrested 03/16" />
 <figcaption>Laquinta Brown, Failure to appear, arrested 03/16</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710788278354.jpeg" alt="Rickey Gassen, Theft-all other (Two counts), arrested 03/17" />
 <figcaption>Rickey Gassen, Theft-all other (Two counts), arrested 03/17</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Miranda Adams, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 03/15Irma Perez-Ayala,&nbsp;Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 03/16Marchella Woods, Transporting of alcoholic beverage, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Ignition interlock device - operate a car without required device, Driving while license canceled/suspended/ revoked, arrested 03/16Jacob Barger, Flee or attempt to elude LEO&nbsp; by engaging in reckless driving, arrested 03/16Oscar Orellana Peraza, Drivers license without valid DL, Fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, arrested 03/16Charles Story, Driving while license canceled/suspended/revoked, arrested 03/16Aubree Borders, Arrest by LEO - Warrant arrest, arrested 03/16Victor Matos-Marrero, Interference with LEO, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 03/16Joshua Lopez,&nbsp; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 03/16Alyssa Johnson, Canceled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 03/16Thaddeus Kimble, Possession of THC, arrested 03/16Arron Felton, Domestic battery, arrested 03/17Elizabeth Bizarre, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Violation of restrictions on drivers license or permit, arrested 03/17Austin Gano, Driving while license canceled/suspended/revoked, arrested 03/17Makayla Hamilton, Domestic battery, arrested 03/17Tamboura Watson, Failure to appear, arrested 03/17Jahdiel Agosto,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 03/17Jonathan Sample,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 03/17Gage Warders, Possession of marijuana, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 03/18Sergio Gayton, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 03/18Recent 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 March 15-18

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The governor and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle promised to reduce wait times for thousands of the state’s most vulnerable residents in need of health care.

But current funding proposals fall millions short of the amount needed to shrink the list of Kansans waiting for crucial state disabilities services.

Rocky Nichols, executive director of the Disability Rights Center of Kansas, pointed to earlier statements from Republican leadership in the Legislature and Gov. Laura Kelly,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/07/medicaid-expansion-continues-to-be-tied-to-disability-waitlist-in-legislative-debate/">announcing their commitment</a>&nbsp;to mitigating a problem 20 years in the making.

“That’s an incredible promise to make to people with disabilities who are suffering on the waiting list,” Nichols said. “Thus far, that version of the budget has not fulfilled that promise — nowhere close.”

Kansans with intellectual or developmental disabilities are eligible for Medicaid-funded support waivers that cover a variety of needed services, such as in-home care. Wait times can last more than 10 years, and more and more Kansans have been added to the slow-moving lists. The wait list for intellectual and developmental disabilities services is at 5,279 people, according to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kdads.ks.gov/docs/librariesprovider17/ltss/hcbs/waivers/participation-reports/2024/waiver-program-participation-report-2.15.24.pdf?sfvrsn=377fb6c3_3">February data</a>. The physical disability wait list is around 2,382 Kansans.

The Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities, which has characterized the wait times as “from bad to worse to utterly out of control” recommends reducing the waitlists by 20% in fiscal year 2025. To do so, lawmakers would need to fund 1,100 slots on the I/DD waiver and 500 slots on the PD waiver.

While the budget is far from being finalized, Senate lawmakers approved a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/14/kansas-senate-cobbles-25b-budget-with-funds-for-border-security-world-cup-legislative-pay-raises/">state spending blueprint</a>&nbsp;Thursday that allocates $23 million to solve&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/17/typical-lip-service-as-medicaid-waitlists-grow-kansas-parents-see-no-path-forward/">long waiting lists for disability services</a>, dovetailing with Gov. Laura Kelly’s $23 million fiscal year 2025 budget recommendation for the lists. The funding would create an estimated 250 slots on both the I/DD and PD waiting lists.

If enrollment trends continue along the same lines as last year, when 561 new people enrolled in the intellectual disability wait list, the current recommendation wouldn’t be enough to stop the lists from growing — let alone reducing the number of people waiting for services.

“The waiting list is going to get worse, wait times are going to get longer under that,” Nichols said. “I’m hopeful that the legislators will realize that and add more money in the budget, which they can do at any point during the process.”

The Kansas Reflector previously examined how these long wait times hurt thousands of disabled Kansans and their families through&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/17/typical-lip-service-as-medicaid-waitlists-grow-kansas-parents-see-no-path-forward/">a series of stories</a>.&nbsp; At the time,&nbsp;House Speaker Dan Hawkins and Senate President Ty Masterson said they were “laser focused on eliminating Medicaid waiting lists to ensure the truly needy get the services they so desperately need.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710788337050.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The governor and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle promised to reduce wait times for thousands of the state’s most vulnerable residents in need of health care.But current funding proposals fall millions short of the amount needed to shrink the list of Kansans waiting for crucial state disabilities services.Rocky Nichols, executive director of the Disability Rights Center of Kansas, pointed to earlier statements from Republican leadership in the Legislature and Gov. Laura Kelly,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/07/medicaid-expansion-continues-to-be-tied-to-disability-waitlist-in-legislative-debate/">announcing their commitment</a>&nbsp;to mitigating a problem 20 years in the making.“That’s an incredible promise to make to people with disabilities who are suffering on the waiting list,” Nichols said. “Thus far, that version of the budget has not fulfilled that promise — nowhere close.”Kansans with intellectual or developmental disabilities are eligible for Medicaid-funded support waivers that cover a variety of needed services, such as in-home care. Wait times can last more than 10 years, and more and more Kansans have been added to the slow-moving lists. The wait list for intellectual and developmental disabilities services is at 5,279 people, according to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kdads.ks.gov/docs/librariesprovider17/ltss/hcbs/waivers/participation-reports/2024/waiver-program-participation-report-2.15.24.pdf?sfvrsn=377fb6c3_3">February data</a>. The physical disability wait list is around 2,382 Kansans.The Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities, which has characterized the wait times as “from bad to worse to utterly out of control” recommends reducing the waitlists by 20% in fiscal year 2025. To do so, lawmakers would need to fund 1,100 slots on the I/DD waiver and 500 slots on the PD waiver.While the budget is far from being finalized, Senate lawmakers approved a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/14/kansas-senate-cobbles-25b-budget-with-funds-for-border-security-world-cup-legislative-pay-raises/">state spending blueprint</a>&nbsp;Thursday that allocates $23 million to solve&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/17/typical-lip-service-as-medicaid-waitlists-grow-kansas-parents-see-no-path-forward/">long waiting lists for disability services</a>, dovetailing with Gov. Laura Kelly’s $23 million fiscal year 2025 budget recommendation for the lists. The funding would create an estimated 250 slots on both the I/DD and PD waiting lists.If enrollment trends continue along the same lines as last year, when 561 new people enrolled in the intellectual disability wait list, the current recommendation wouldn’t be enough to stop the lists from growing — let alone reducing the number of people waiting for services.“The waiting list is going to get worse, wait times are going to get longer under that,” Nichols said. “I’m hopeful that the legislators will realize that and add more money in the budget, which they can do at any point during the process.”The Kansas Reflector previously examined how these long wait times hurt thousands of disabled Kansans and their families through&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/17/typical-lip-service-as-medicaid-waitlists-grow-kansas-parents-see-no-path-forward/">a series of stories</a>.&nbsp; At the time,&nbsp;House Speaker Dan Hawkins and Senate President Ty Masterson said they were “laser focused on eliminating Medicaid waiting lists to ensure the truly needy get the services they so desperately need.”

State budget blueprint leaves out Kansans who need state disability services

During their weekly meeting on Monday the Geary County Commission received updates on different topics.

--They received a report on a future Employee Training Day which will include sessions on suicide prevention and cybersecurity, a briefing on the services United Way provides for the community, closing keynote comments by Jim Sands, service award presentation, vendor information on employee benefits and the availability of flu shots for county employees. The Training Day will be Oct. 11 at the 4-H/Senior Center.

--The employee golf tournament will be June 1st at Rolling Meadows Golf Course.

--There were four bid openings on chemicals to control noxious weeds with the bids ranging from 35,726.85 to $37,149.20. They will be reviewed by staff with an award expected next week.

--A bid totaling $160 for each time grass is mowed at the Cloud Community College Geary County campus was awarded to Boland Mowing Service.

--The CDC has downgraded COVID and it will now be treated like other respiratory viruses. KDHE has signed off on that in Kansas.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostDuring their weekly meeting on Monday the Geary County Commission received updates on different topics.--They received a report on a future Employee Training Day which will include sessions on suicide prevention and cybersecurity, a briefing on the services United Way provides for the community, closing keynote comments by Jim Sands, service award presentation, vendor information on employee benefits and the availability of flu shots for county employees. The Training Day will be Oct. 11 at the 4-H/Senior Center.--The employee golf tournament will be June 1st at Rolling Meadows Golf Course.--There were four bid openings on chemicals to control noxious weeds with the bids ranging from 35,726.85 to $37,149.20. They will be reviewed by staff with an award expected next week.--A bid totaling $160 for each time grass is mowed at the Cloud Community College Geary County campus was awarded to Boland Mowing Service.--The CDC has downgraded COVID and it will now be treated like other respiratory viruses. KDHE has signed off on that in Kansas.

Geary County Commission news notes

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged financial crimes.

Just before 6:30p.m. Friday, police arrested Jimmy Bond, 70, of Ogden on a custody warrant for misuse of public funds and official misconduct in the 100 block of S. Walnut in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Bond met requirement of&nbsp; a $25,000 bond and is no longer in custody. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged financial crimes.Just before 6:30p.m. Friday, police arrested Jimmy Bond, 70, of Ogden on a custody warrant for misuse of public funds and official misconduct in the 100 block of S. Walnut in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Bond met requirement of&nbsp; a $25,000 bond and is no longer in custody. The RCPD released no additional details.

Riley Co. man accused of misuse of public funds

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Friday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp;a 2019 Volkswagon Jetta, driven by John Cain, 46, Manhattan struck a bicycle ridden by Catherine Caffera, 28, of Manhattan, in the 100 block of Moro Street.

EMS transported Caffera to Via Christi. Neither party was issued a citation. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 8p.m. Friday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp;a 2019 Volkswagon Jetta, driven by John Cain, 46, Manhattan struck a bicycle ridden by Catherine Caffera, 28, of Manhattan, in the 100 block of Moro Street.EMS transported Caffera to Via Christi. Neither party was issued a citation. The RCPD released no additional details.

Manhattan woman hospitalized after car struck a bicycle

Only 23% of the child care needs in Geary County are being served, meaning 1,800 kids six and under are without quality child care.

There will be a Child Care Crisis Summit on Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Deb Andres, Geary County Family &amp; Consumer Science Extension Agent, said "Now we're recognizing that childcare is really a significant issue for our business and industry partners."&nbsp;

Trish Giordano, Geary County Commissioner, noted that the shortage is affecting the county's economic growth. "If we can bring as many jobs as they can here but if no one is here to watch their kids they aren't going to be able to find workers."

The summit will run from 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Professional Learning Center, 920 W. 6th Street in Junction City.

There will be speakers who will address topics ranging from challenges and what participants would like to see happen to success stories from across Kansas. There will also be input from local child care centers to learn about what they see as barriers to offering enough childcare placements.

Registration is free. To register online go to <a href="http://jcacc.org/childcarecrisissummit.">jcacc.org/childcarecrisissummit.</a>&nbsp; Registration closes this Wednesday.

This event is being co-hosted by the Geary County Child Care Coalition, Live Well Geary County and Child Care Aware of Kansas.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostOnly 23% of the child care needs in Geary County are being served, meaning 1,800 kids six and under are without quality child care.There will be a Child Care Crisis Summit on Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Deb Andres, Geary County Family &amp; Consumer Science Extension Agent, said "Now we're recognizing that childcare is really a significant issue for our business and industry partners."&nbsp;Trish Giordano, Geary County Commissioner, noted that the shortage is affecting the county's economic growth. "If we can bring as many jobs as they can here but if no one is here to watch their kids they aren't going to be able to find workers."The summit will run from 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. Friday at the Professional Learning Center, 920 W. 6th Street in Junction City.There will be speakers who will address topics ranging from challenges and what participants would like to see happen to success stories from across Kansas. There will also be input from local child care centers to learn about what they see as barriers to offering enough childcare placements.Registration is free. To register online go to <a href="http://jcacc.org/childcarecrisissummit.">jcacc.org/childcarecrisissummit.</a>&nbsp; Registration closes this Wednesday.This event is being co-hosted by the Geary County Child Care Coalition, Live Well Geary County and Child Care Aware of Kansas.

Child Care Crisis Summit will be held Friday

KDOT will kick off Phase 2 for the I-70 Pavement Replacement on March 18th ( Monday ). The goal will be to replace all the deteriorated mainline I-70 westbound&nbsp; pavement from MM 296 to MM 300.

The Exit 296/Washington westbound&nbsp; I70 OFF Ramp, Exit 298/Chestnut westbound&nbsp; I-70 OFF Ramp and Exit 299/J-Hill Road westbound&nbsp; I-70 ON Ramp will be closed when work starts in March through the end of Phase 2.

The first temporary ramp closure will occur on the westbound J-Hill Off Ramp and is anticipated to start with the start of construction in mid/late March and open in early May. The contractor will then close the Exit 298/Chestnut westbound I-70 on-ramp for approximately 45 days.

KDOT will kick off Phase 2 for the I-70 Pavement Replacement on March 18th ( Monday ). The goal will be to replace all the deteriorated mainline I-70 westbound&nbsp; pavement from MM 296 to MM 300.The Exit 296/Washington westbound&nbsp; I70 OFF Ramp, Exit 298/Chestnut westbound&nbsp; I-70 OFF Ramp and Exit 299/J-Hill Road westbound&nbsp; I-70 ON Ramp will be closed when work starts in March through the end of Phase 2.The first temporary ramp closure will occur on the westbound J-Hill Off Ramp and is anticipated to start with the start of construction in mid/late March and open in early May. The contractor will then close the Exit 298/Chestnut westbound I-70 on-ramp for approximately 45 days.

I-70 reconstruction work resumes Monday

“It’s my property, why can’t I do what I want?” I hear that question at times when we deal with issues regarding an individual’s property in the City. This can be anything from nuisances and structures to building codes to set backs from the property lines to what type of building a property owner can have on their property. As you can see this topic covers a number of areas.

On the other hand, there are other property owners who want to enjoy the rights as a property owner as well and have certain expectations. To them it is important to have codes and policies in place so there are assurances to protect their interests.

To discuss this topic, let’s begin with Zoning and the various codes. Zoning is basically land use and density. The City is zoned in different categories such as residential, commercials, and industrial, however in each category there are different zoning districts that have different rules and regulations.

Let’s start with residential. Naturally areas zoned as single-family are spaced out a bit further and there are less people living in a given area part as it is a single family living in the unit. Then we have residential duplex and multi-family. These are self-explanatory but as you can see there is normally more people living in a given area.

On the commercial side, there are zones such as downtown district where there is no setback and buildings may set on the entire property and buildings are touching with no separation between them. This can cause problems when a given building owner does not take care of their structure and it becomes unsafe and/or dangerous. The Challenge is what to do as it is expensive to take a building out of the middle of a block? There is a concern presently about such a building on Washington Street now. As we move into the other commercial districts there is greater setbacks and spacing. Industrial is basically split between light and heavy industrial.

One other category we see is Planned Development District (PDD) we in a given area there is a plan where setbacks and uses may be different as there is a “bigger” plan in place. Tho area along East Chestnut or along West 6th Street falls into that category.

This week we had 2 concerns in residential zoned areas. In one case a person owns 2 lots, however they are located back-to-back, and both are on different streets. In this part of the City there is no alleys, so the lots are directly adjacent to each other. The owner’s home faces one street and he wanted to build a garage on the lot behind. The City Code, however, does not allow that because the 2 properties would have to be platted into 1 lot and then you would have a garage directly across a residential structure owned by someone else.

The other issue was with a property owner who had 2 lots that are side by side with the house on 1 lot and they wanted to build a garage on the other. In this case the code requires the 2 lots to be replatted into 1 lot. One may ask why this is important, but it prevents the garage from being sold off to someone else in the future and you would have the garage as a primary structure and that is not allowed. Again, how would you like to own a home with a garage beside your property that is used by someone who does not even live there. I know this may or may not occur in the future, but it is best to follow the same rule throughout the City.

Zoning has its purpose. A number of years ago, the City developed a tract of land for an industrial park on Strauss Boulevard and invested a large sum of dollars in infrastructure. Great idea, but during the “housing boom” 20 or so years ago, residential structures were built close to that park. It was good to have houses, but it now limits what can be built in that park.

Due to the dissolution of the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC), the City has had its own planning Commission is November. This group of 5 residents have had a number of cases to consider in their first 3 meetings. None of these people had been on the MPC before so they are “rookies” in essence, but they have worked like “pro’s” to handle the various issues.

Just to remind everyone, the City Planning Commission deals only with issues within the City as the City has no extra-territorial control.

A number of years ago when I managed another city I had a building inspector who had a saying that is appropriate to many situations. “The decisions made today not only affect the citizens now, but those in the future as well.”

By Allen Dinkel“It’s my property, why can’t I do what I want?” I hear that question at times when we deal with issues regarding an individual’s property in the City. This can be anything from nuisances and structures to building codes to set backs from the property lines to what type of building a property owner can have on their property. As you can see this topic covers a number of areas.On the other hand, there are other property owners who want to enjoy the rights as a property owner as well and have certain expectations. To them it is important to have codes and policies in place so there are assurances to protect their interests.To discuss this topic, let’s begin with Zoning and the various codes. Zoning is basically land use and density. The City is zoned in different categories such as residential, commercials, and industrial, however in each category there are different zoning districts that have different rules and regulations.Let’s start with residential. Naturally areas zoned as single-family are spaced out a bit further and there are less people living in a given area part as it is a single family living in the unit. Then we have residential duplex and multi-family. These are self-explanatory but as you can see there is normally more people living in a given area.On the commercial side, there are zones such as downtown district where there is no setback and buildings may set on the entire property and buildings are touching with no separation between them. This can cause problems when a given building owner does not take care of their structure and it becomes unsafe and/or dangerous. The Challenge is what to do as it is expensive to take a building out of the middle of a block? There is a concern presently about such a building on Washington Street now. As we move into the other commercial districts there is greater setbacks and spacing. Industrial is basically split between light and heavy industrial.One other category we see is Planned Development District (PDD) we in a given area there is a plan where setbacks and uses may be different as there is a “bigger” plan in place. Tho area along East Chestnut or along West 6th Street falls into that category.This week we had 2 concerns in residential zoned areas. In one case a person owns 2 lots, however they are located back-to-back, and both are on different streets. In this part of the City there is no alleys, so the lots are directly adjacent to each other. The owner’s home faces one street and he wanted to build a garage on the lot behind. The City Code, however, does not allow that because the 2 properties would have to be platted into 1 lot and then you would have a garage directly across a residential structure owned by someone else.The other issue was with a property owner who had 2 lots that are side by side with the house on 1 lot and they wanted to build a garage on the other. In this case the code requires the 2 lots to be replatted into 1 lot. One may ask why this is important, but it prevents the garage from being sold off to someone else in the future and you would have the garage as a primary structure and that is not allowed. Again, how would you like to own a home with a garage beside your property that is used by someone who does not even live there. I know this may or may not occur in the future, but it is best to follow the same rule throughout the City.Zoning has its purpose. A number of years ago, the City developed a tract of land for an industrial park on Strauss Boulevard and invested a large sum of dollars in infrastructure. Great idea, but during the “housing boom” 20 or so years ago, residential structures were built close to that park. It was good to have houses, but it now limits what can be built in that park.Due to the dissolution of the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC), the City has had its own planning Commission is November. This group of 5 residents have had a number of cases to consider in their first 3 meetings. None of these people had been on the MPC before so they are “rookies” in essence, but they have worked like “pro’s” to handle the various issues.Just to remind everyone, the City Planning Commission deals only with issues within the City as the City has no extra-territorial control.A number of years ago when I managed another city I had a building inspector who had a saying that is appropriate to many situations. “The decisions made today not only affect the citizens now, but those in the future as well.”

City Manager Allen Dinkel provides the 515 Report

K-State Research and Extension news service

Ham is a staple for many families’ Easter feast, but between all the varieties available, consumers are often confused on how to safely prepare this holiday favorite.

Kansas State University food safety expert Karen Blakeslee said hams come in two categories: cooked/ready-to-eat, or uncooked.

“Package labels will state if it is uncooked or ready-to eat,” said Blakeslee, who also is coordinator&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/">of K-State’s Rapid Response Center for Food Science</a>. “Always read the package label and instructions to be informed on how to safely handle the ham.”

Varieties of cooked ham include canned, vacuum packaged and spiral-cut cooked ham.

“Ready-to-eat ham may be called cooked,” Blakeslee said. “Ham that is not ready-to-eat but has the appearance of ready-to-eat products will bear a statement on the label indicating the product needs cooking.”

All cooked ham can be eaten cold, straight out of the package. If preferred hot, Blakeslee said ham should be heated to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit in an oven set at a minimum temperature of 325 F. If the ham has been repackaged in a location outside the processing plant -- such as inside the grocery store deli -- heat to an internal temperature of 165 F. Reheat any leftover cooked ham to 165 F.

Blakeslee said the best way to check the internal temperature is to use a food thermometer.

Varieties of uncooked hams can include fresh, cured and smoked – with or without the bone. Blakeslee suggests reading the label and instructions on the package. Some may look like they are ready-to-eat, but they are not and must be cooked thoroughly before eating, she said.

The package should contain directions on how to cook the ham, but for additional guidance, the USDA offers an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat-fish/hams-and-food-safety">online timetable for cooking ham</a>. There is a minimum cooking temperature for all uncooked hams.

“Ham that requires cooking before consumption must reach an internal temperature of 145 F (with a three-minute rest time),” said Blakeslee. “Set the oven no lower than 325 F.”

Blakeslee said the ham’s end quality can be affected by the type and size of uncooked hams. Cooking and resting time can differ significantly between varieties, total weight, and portion, so for the perfectly cooked ham, check the USDA guidelines.

Blakeslee publishes a monthly newsletter called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/newsletter/">You Asked It!</a>&nbsp;that provides numerous tips on being safe and healthy. More information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices in Kansas.</a>

READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/f3c4b129-8661-4f48-9837-ac31e368acd5">Salina man arrested after allegedly becoming disorderly in McDonald's</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710683331981.png" alt="Ham resting on a wooden cutting board. Image courtesy K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Ham resting on a wooden cutting board. Image courtesy K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension news serviceHam is a staple for many families’ Easter feast, but between all the varieties available, consumers are often confused on how to safely prepare this holiday favorite.Kansas State University food safety expert Karen Blakeslee said hams come in two categories: cooked/ready-to-eat, or uncooked.“Package labels will state if it is uncooked or ready-to eat,” said Blakeslee, who also is coordinator&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/">of K-State’s Rapid Response Center for Food Science</a>. “Always read the package label and instructions to be informed on how to safely handle the ham.”<h2>Cooked Hams</h2>Varieties of cooked ham include canned, vacuum packaged and spiral-cut cooked ham.“Ready-to-eat ham may be called cooked,” Blakeslee said. “Ham that is not ready-to-eat but has the appearance of ready-to-eat products will bear a statement on the label indicating the product needs cooking.”All cooked ham can be eaten cold, straight out of the package. If preferred hot, Blakeslee said ham should be heated to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit in an oven set at a minimum temperature of 325 F. If the ham has been repackaged in a location outside the processing plant -- such as inside the grocery store deli -- heat to an internal temperature of 165 F. Reheat any leftover cooked ham to 165 F.Blakeslee said the best way to check the internal temperature is to use a food thermometer.<h2>Uncooked Hams</h2>Varieties of uncooked hams can include fresh, cured and smoked – with or without the bone. Blakeslee suggests reading the label and instructions on the package. Some may look like they are ready-to-eat, but they are not and must be cooked thoroughly before eating, she said.The package should contain directions on how to cook the ham, but for additional guidance, the USDA offers an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat-fish/hams-and-food-safety">online timetable for cooking ham</a>. There is a minimum cooking temperature for all uncooked hams.“Ham that requires cooking before consumption must reach an internal temperature of 145 F (with a three-minute rest time),” said Blakeslee. “Set the oven no lower than 325 F.”Blakeslee said the ham’s end quality can be affected by the type and size of uncooked hams. Cooking and resting time can differ significantly between varieties, total weight, and portion, so for the perfectly cooked ham, check the USDA guidelines.Blakeslee publishes a monthly newsletter called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/newsletter/">You Asked It!</a>&nbsp;that provides numerous tips on being safe and healthy. More information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices in Kansas.</a>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/f3c4b129-8661-4f48-9837-ac31e368acd5">Salina man arrested after allegedly becoming disorderly in McDonald's</a>