By WILL BAUER <a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-12-22/u-s-trade-deficit-agriculture-exports-imports-record-high">Harvest Public Media&nbsp;</a>

The United States has imported $20 billion more in agricultural products than it exported — putting the sector on pace to run a record deficit. A look at what’s behind the numbers.

For the third time in five years, agricultural trade in the United States will be at a deficit — when a country imports more than it exports.

As of November, the U.S. imported $20 billion more in agricultural products than it exported in 2023, which would set a record for biggest deficit in a calendar year in nearly a century if the trend continues through the last month of the year.

For some farmers, this year’s big deficit is a sign that trade has taken a hit and other countries may be out trading the U.S. However, some economists argue there are logical explanations behind what has created such an eye-popping deficit — including rising imports, a strong American dollar and basic supply and demand.

“Trade deficits aren’t something we should be inherently worried about,” said Bill Ridley, a professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, who studies international trade.

Over the last five years,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/foreign-agricultural-trade-of-the-united-states-fatus/u-s-agricultural-trade-data-update/" target="_blank">agricultural exports</a>&nbsp;have climbed from $141 billion in 2019 to nearly $196 billion in 2022, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In both 2020 and 2021, agricultural trade was at a surplus, or the opposite of a deficit, where exports exceed imports.

In the 2023 calendar year, the U.S. has reported exporting $143 billion and importing $163 billion. At this time last year, the country had exported about $18 billion more.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/foreign-agricultural-trade-of-the-united-states-fatus/u-s-agricultural-trade-data-update/" target="_blank">Data for the remainder of the year</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to be published Jan. 11.

“The U.S. is very much still the breadbasket to the world,” said Doug McKalip, chief agricultural negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative, the government agency responsible for promoting trade. “We're growing things and successfully exporting them around the globe. So there's certainly a lot more to it than what might meet the eye initially.”

To the farmers who grow some of the most profitable exports — soybeans, corn and wheat — the deficit is concerning and something many watch closely.

Chris Otten, a fourth generation grower who owns roughly 1,400 acres in southwest Illinois, said farmers would like to see the deficit turn into a surplus.

“That’d be ideal for us,” Otten said. “I don’t know if that’ll ever happen, but that is ideal for us to get back to where we’re exporting as much as we possibly can.”

During a year like this, when export totals have also dropped, farmers are naturally prepared to weather the current economic conditions, Otten said. However, the politics of trade are frustrating to him.

Examples include when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/08/06/china-agriculture-us-economy.html" target="_blank">China pulled out of buying</a>&nbsp;U.S. agricultural products in 2019 or how&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-us-gm-corn-trade-dispute-5b3127bff468f48592d1bbe80e1b1fac" target="_blank">Mexico announced this year it intends to ban genetically modified corn</a>. The political nature of those disputes cost farmers, he said.

“I contend our food source shouldn't be a political game,” Otten said.

In his eyes, one remedy would be striking trade deals with other countries around the world to establish more avenues to sell American products.

For Otten and other farmers, checking a small box — called the commodity checkoff program — is a good place to start. Those provide small funds to certain commodity groups that could help advocate for expanded trade opportunities.

To Ridley, the Illinois professor, analyzing all agricultural trade markets in one lump can be misleading. While all share similarities, looking at individual commodities paints a more accurate picture, he said.

For example, exports of soybeans, the most profitable commodity, have been robust this year, Ridley said. Through October, Americans exported $21.38 billion worth of soybeans this year. In 2022, a record year, that figure stood at $23.81 billion during the same time frame.

Corn exports also remain high. This year, $11.1 billion worth of corn has been sold and shipped abroad, according to USDA data. At the same time last year, the U.S. exported $16.5 billion.

Economists have a variety of answers as to why agricultural imports will far outpace exports in 2023. Simply put, Ridley said, it boils down to one thing: more imports.

“It seems to be purely and almost entirely a story about imports rising,” Ridley said. “And, of course, the more you import, holding your exports mostly constant, that's going to shrink your trade surplus or create a trade deficit.”

Through November, the U.S. had imported $163 billion worth of agricultural products. That figure stood at $166 billion at the same time in 2022.

The strength of the American dollar also plays a factor with the deficit, said Tanner Ehmke, an economist with CoBank, one of the biggest lenders to rural America.

"A strong dollar makes our exports non-competitive overseas, and it makes imports more competitive,” Ehmke said. “Our stronger dollar gives us more purchasing power. Therefore, we can afford to bring in more imports.”

Also, Americans are now using some products domestically that they used to export, Ehmke said. Namely,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/en/market-insights/latest-news/agriculture/101223-us-shifts-to-net-soybean-oil-importer-on-biofuel-boom-foreign-agricultural-service#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20FAS%2C%20increased,out%20of%20global%20export%20market." target="_blank">renewable diesel demand</a>&nbsp;has grown so much that the U.S. is keeping vast amounts of soybean oil home. To compensate for this, Americans are now importing more canola oil, largely from Canada, to fill that demand.

As the U.S. exports trickled downward,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/us-corn-soy-exporters-continue-battling-huge-brazilian-supplies-2023-10-06/" target="_blank">Brazil</a>&nbsp;continues to have record years. They’re becoming especially competitive with American farmers when it comes to corn, soybeans, cotton and rice, Ehmke said.

Russia is yet another country that’s had a record crop in 2023. Pair that with the value of their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dallasfed.org/research/economics/2023/1010" target="_blank">currency collapsing</a>, the agriculture exports from Russia are ample and cheap, Ehmke said.

“There's a lot of events that are coalescing here,” Ehmke said.

Not only are economic dynamics changing abroad, they are also changing domestically, said Tait Berg, a southern Minnesota farmer who also works at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.

“The U.S. consumer, we want a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, and we can’t grow that year round here,” Berg said.

Through October, the U.S. imported $79 billion worth of fruits and vegetables. At the same time in 2022, that figure stood at nearly $76 billion.

In Berg’s eyes, this is the global market meeting its demand. The market responded similarly in 2020 when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marketplace.org/2020/04/15/flour-yeast-sales-rise-people-bake-bread-quarantine/" target="_blank">demand for flour grew like crazy</a>. Many people baked more while they worked from home.

“Hopefully, we're growing global trade, and that's kind of part of the deal,” Berg said. “That's what we want.”

Economists expect that agriculture trade may eventually swing in the other direction and could be in surplus again. If and exactly when are harder questions to answer.

During the next fiscal year, USDA forecasters anticipate the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/pub-details/?pubid=108031" target="_blank">deficit could widen</a>. Exports are projected to total $169.5 billion. Imports will tally $200 billion — leaving the deficit standing around $30.5 billion.

For farmers, they say they will wait to see what happens. As always, they’ll need to be financially prepared for whatever weather they get or whatever the markets dictate.

“These forecasts and projections always change,” Berg said. “And that’s just something that we’re all a part of as producers. We need to keep our ducks in a row.”

<a href="https://www.stlpr.org/will-bauer" target="_blank">Will Bauer</a>&nbsp;is St. Louis Public Radio's Metro East reporter. This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/174d4ae/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x1000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fbc%2F5c%2F663ac7304703990f28ae32e5cda2%2F12222023-tr-harvestagexports-7.png" alt="Jason Imel, a deck hand with Cargill, Inc., blows excess soybeans off the top of a river barge and closes the barge’s loading lids on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at Cargill, Inc.’s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. For the third time in five years, the U.S. will import more agricultural products than it exports. However, this year’s deficit is tracking to be around $20 billion, far more than last year’s $2 billion deficit.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>Jason Imel, a deck hand with Cargill, Inc., blows excess soybeans off the top of a river barge and closes the barge’s loading lids on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at Cargill, Inc.’s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. For the third time in five years, the U.S. will import more agricultural products than it exports. However, this year’s deficit is tracking to be around $20 billion, far more than last year’s $2 billion deficit.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure> By WILL BAUER <a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-12-22/u-s-trade-deficit-agriculture-exports-imports-record-high">Harvest Public Media&nbsp;</a><h2>The United States has imported $20 billion more in agricultural products than it exported — putting the sector on pace to run a record deficit. A look at what’s behind the numbers.</h2>For the third time in five years, agricultural trade in the United States will be at a deficit — when a country imports more than it exports.As of November, the U.S. imported $20 billion more in agricultural products than it exported in 2023, which would set a record for biggest deficit in a calendar year in nearly a century if the trend continues through the last month of the year.For some farmers, this year’s big deficit is a sign that trade has taken a hit and other countries may be out trading the U.S. However, some economists argue there are logical explanations behind what has created such an eye-popping deficit — including rising imports, a strong American dollar and basic supply and demand.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9941387/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x2000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fe4%2F0c%2F18a64ece4859bac70abff5f8de71%2F12222023-tr-harvestagexports-2.JPG" alt="A river barge is loaded with soybeans on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at Cargill, Inc.'s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. While major commodity crop exports such as corn and soybeans remain high, U.S. imports far outpaced exports in 2023.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A river barge is loaded with soybeans on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at Cargill, Inc.'s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. While major commodity crop exports such as corn and soybeans remain high, U.S. imports far outpaced exports in 2023.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“Trade deficits aren’t something we should be inherently worried about,” said Bill Ridley, a professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, who studies international trade.Over the last five years,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/foreign-agricultural-trade-of-the-united-states-fatus/u-s-agricultural-trade-data-update/" target="_blank">agricultural exports</a>&nbsp;have climbed from $141 billion in 2019 to nearly $196 billion in 2022, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In both 2020 and 2021, agricultural trade was at a surplus, or the opposite of a deficit, where exports exceed imports.In the 2023 calendar year, the U.S. has reported exporting $143 billion and importing $163 billion. At this time last year, the country had exported about $18 billion more.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/foreign-agricultural-trade-of-the-united-states-fatus/u-s-agricultural-trade-data-update/" target="_blank">Data for the remainder of the year</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to be published Jan. 11.“The U.S. is very much still the breadbasket to the world,” said Doug McKalip, chief agricultural negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative, the government agency responsible for promoting trade. “We're growing things and successfully exporting them around the globe. So there's certainly a lot more to it than what might meet the eye initially.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704846572125.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To the farmers who grow some of the most profitable exports — soybeans, corn and wheat — the deficit is concerning and something many watch closely.Chris Otten, a fourth generation grower who owns roughly 1,400 acres in southwest Illinois, said farmers would like to see the deficit turn into a surplus.“That’d be ideal for us,” Otten said. “I don’t know if that’ll ever happen, but that is ideal for us to get back to where we’re exporting as much as we possibly can.”During a year like this, when export totals have also dropped, farmers are naturally prepared to weather the current economic conditions, Otten said. However, the politics of trade are frustrating to him.Examples include when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/08/06/china-agriculture-us-economy.html" target="_blank">China pulled out of buying</a>&nbsp;U.S. agricultural products in 2019 or how&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-us-gm-corn-trade-dispute-5b3127bff468f48592d1bbe80e1b1fac" target="_blank">Mexico announced this year it intends to ban genetically modified corn</a>. The political nature of those disputes cost farmers, he said.“I contend our food source shouldn't be a political game,” Otten said.In his eyes, one remedy would be striking trade deals with other countries around the world to establish more avenues to sell American products.For Otten and other farmers, checking a small box — called the commodity checkoff program — is a good place to start. Those provide small funds to certain commodity groups that could help advocate for expanded trade opportunities.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ee8fae9/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x1000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fec%2F0b%2F414dd9554f5bb498bd80377634c7%2F12182023-tr-harvestagexports-14.JPG" alt="&nbsp;Chris Otten checks the moisture levels of his corn crop, stored in bins while they wait to be sold, on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, at his farm outside St. Libory, Illinois. Otten said he's concerned about the ag trade deficit and hopes the Biden administration is focused on finding new trade partners.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/Lance Lillibridge" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Chris Otten checks the moisture levels of his corn crop, stored in bins while they wait to be sold, on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, at his farm outside St. Libory, Illinois. Otten said he's concerned about the ag trade deficit and hopes the Biden administration is focused on finding new trade partners.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/Lance Lillibridge</figcaption>
 </figure>To Ridley, the Illinois professor, analyzing all agricultural trade markets in one lump can be misleading. While all share similarities, looking at individual commodities paints a more accurate picture, he said.For example, exports of soybeans, the most profitable commodity, have been robust this year, Ridley said. Through October, Americans exported $21.38 billion worth of soybeans this year. In 2022, a record year, that figure stood at $23.81 billion during the same time frame.Corn exports also remain high. This year, $11.1 billion worth of corn has been sold and shipped abroad, according to USDA data. At the same time last year, the U.S. exported $16.5 billion.The causes of the deficitEconomists have a variety of answers as to why agricultural imports will far outpace exports in 2023. Simply put, Ridley said, it boils down to one thing: more imports.“It seems to be purely and almost entirely a story about imports rising,” Ridley said. “And, of course, the more you import, holding your exports mostly constant, that's going to shrink your trade surplus or create a trade deficit.”Through November, the U.S. had imported $163 billion worth of agricultural products. That figure stood at $166 billion at the same time in 2022.The strength of the American dollar also plays a factor with the deficit, said Tanner Ehmke, an economist with CoBank, one of the biggest lenders to rural America.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d06e6b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x1000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Ff3%2Fc4%2F15b2b9954a06a9d31cbc33531ae0%2F12222023-tr-harvestagexports-1.JPG" alt="&nbsp;Corn is dropped out of a transport truck and into a collection pit on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023 at Cargill, Inc.’s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. The U.S. exported $11.1 billion worth of corn through November, according to USDA data, compared with $16.5 billion at the same point in 2022.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Corn is dropped out of a transport truck and into a collection pit on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023 at Cargill, Inc.’s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. The U.S. exported $11.1 billion worth of corn through November, according to USDA data, compared with $16.5 billion at the same point in 2022.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure>"A strong dollar makes our exports non-competitive overseas, and it makes imports more competitive,” Ehmke said. “Our stronger dollar gives us more purchasing power. Therefore, we can afford to bring in more imports.”Also, Americans are now using some products domestically that they used to export, Ehmke said. Namely,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/en/market-insights/latest-news/agriculture/101223-us-shifts-to-net-soybean-oil-importer-on-biofuel-boom-foreign-agricultural-service#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20FAS%2C%20increased,out%20of%20global%20export%20market." target="_blank">renewable diesel demand</a>&nbsp;has grown so much that the U.S. is keeping vast amounts of soybean oil home. To compensate for this, Americans are now importing more canola oil, largely from Canada, to fill that demand.As the U.S. exports trickled downward,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/us-corn-soy-exporters-continue-battling-huge-brazilian-supplies-2023-10-06/" target="_blank">Brazil</a>&nbsp;continues to have record years. They’re becoming especially competitive with American farmers when it comes to corn, soybeans, cotton and rice, Ehmke said.Russia is yet another country that’s had a record crop in 2023. Pair that with the value of their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dallasfed.org/research/economics/2023/1010" target="_blank">currency collapsing</a>, the agriculture exports from Russia are ample and cheap, Ehmke said.“There's a lot of events that are coalescing here,” Ehmke said.Not only are economic dynamics changing abroad, they are also changing domestically, said Tait Berg, a southern Minnesota farmer who also works at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.“The U.S. consumer, we want a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, and we can’t grow that year round here,” Berg said.Through October, the U.S. imported $79 billion worth of fruits and vegetables. At the same time in 2022, that figure stood at nearly $76 billion.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9c73ab7/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x1000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F35%2Ff9%2F88b7c94c410fab69af86a46b32c5%2F12182023-tr-harvestagexports-3.JPG" alt="Chris Otten holds some of his harvested corn crop at his farm outside St. Libory, Illinois.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>Chris Otten holds some of his harvested corn crop at his farm outside St. Libory, Illinois.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure>In Berg’s eyes, this is the global market meeting its demand. The market responded similarly in 2020 when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marketplace.org/2020/04/15/flour-yeast-sales-rise-people-bake-bread-quarantine/" target="_blank">demand for flour grew like crazy</a>. Many people baked more while they worked from home.“Hopefully, we're growing global trade, and that's kind of part of the deal,” Berg said. “That's what we want.”Economists expect that agriculture trade may eventually swing in the other direction and could be in surplus again. If and exactly when are harder questions to answer.During the next fiscal year, USDA forecasters anticipate the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/pub-details/?pubid=108031" target="_blank">deficit could widen</a>. Exports are projected to total $169.5 billion. Imports will tally $200 billion — leaving the deficit standing around $30.5 billion.For farmers, they say they will wait to see what happens. As always, they’ll need to be financially prepared for whatever weather they get or whatever the markets dictate.“These forecasts and projections always change,” Berg said. “And that’s just something that we’re all a part of as producers. We need to keep our ducks in a row.”<a href="https://www.stlpr.org/will-bauer" target="_blank">Will Bauer</a>&nbsp;is St. Louis Public Radio's Metro East reporter. This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

U.S. agricultural trade deficit could reach record highs for 2023. Is there cause for concern?

--Rural Vista USD 481: Due to the expected ice on roadways , USD 481 - Rural Vista Schools will have a two-hour delay Thursday, Jan.11.

There will not be any preschool or breakfast.

--USD 487 Herington will start two hours late.

--Rural Vista USD 481: Due to the expected ice on roadways , USD 481 - Rural Vista Schools will have a two-hour delay Thursday, Jan.11.Starting time will be 10 a.m.There will not be any preschool or breakfast.--USD 487 Herington will start two hours late.

Postponements and Cancellations for Thursday

All highways in north central Kansas have been reopened following the recent winter storm, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Some highway closures were necessary due to so many vehicles sliding off the roadways or being stranded on the road. KDOT reminds motorists to drive with caution and give crews room to work as they continue to clear the roadways. Winds are causing snow to blow back and drift on highways, and some areas may be snow packed or icy.

All highways in north central Kansas have been reopened following the recent winter storm, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation.Some highway closures were necessary due to so many vehicles sliding off the roadways or being stranded on the road. KDOT reminds motorists to drive with caution and give crews room to work as they continue to clear the roadways. Winds are causing snow to blow back and drift on highways, and some areas may be snow packed or icy.

All highways reopen in north central Kansas, travel still cautioned

Written by: Courtney P. Gilbert, Geary County Clerk

Do you need to register to vote, have a name change, change of address or want to change your political party? The deadline to complete this in order to participate in the March PPP, is February 19th, 2024. Stop by our office at 200 E 8th St, Room 127, Junction City, KS to complete a new voter registration card, or go to this website:

https://www.kssos.org/forms/elections/ voterregistration.pdf

In this issue: · 2024 Presidential Preference Primary · Voter Registration Deadline &amp; updates to voter registration record · Fun Facts

2024 PRESIDENTAL PREFERENCE PRIMARY—WHAT IS IT?

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 Democratic) 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.

When is the Presidential Preference Primary? (AKA the PPP)

Election Day is March 19th, 2024 Deadline to request an advanced mail ballot for the PPP is February 19th, 2024

Advance in Person Voting will begin on February 28th, 2024, Advance Mail Ballots go out this day as well.&nbsp; In-person advance voting ends March 18th, 2024 at Noon.

Check your Voter Registration status 24/7, 365 days a year @https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterView

Do you need to register to vote, have a name change, change of address or want to change your political party?

The deadline to complete this in order to participate in the March PPP, is February 19th, 2024. Stop by our office at 200 E 8th St, Room 127, Junction City, KS to complete a new voter registration&nbsp; card, or go to this website:

GEARY COUNTY CLERK &amp; ELECTION OFFICE*ELECTION CONNECTION NEWSLETTER*Written by: Courtney P. Gilbert, Geary County ClerkVoter Registration &amp; UpdatesDo you need to register to vote, have a name change, change of address or want to change your political party? The deadline to complete this in order to participate in the March PPP, is February 19th, 2024. Stop by our office at 200 E 8th St, Room 127, Junction City, KS to complete a new voter registration card, or go to this website:https://www.kssos.org/forms/elections/ voterregistration.pdfIn this issue: · 2024 Presidential Preference Primary · Voter Registration Deadline &amp; updates to voter registration record · Fun Facts2024 PRESIDENTAL PREFERENCE PRIMARY—WHAT IS IT?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 Democratic) 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.When is the Presidential Preference Primary? (AKA the PPP)Election Day is March 19th, 2024 Deadline to request an advanced mail ballot for the PPP is February 19th, 2024Advance in Person Voting will begin on February 28th, 2024, Advance Mail Ballots go out this day as well.&nbsp; In-person advance voting ends March 18th, 2024 at Noon.Check your Voter Registration status 24/7, 365 days a year @https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/VoterViewVoter Registration &amp; UpdatesDo you need to register to vote, have a name change, change of address or want to change your political party?The deadline to complete this in order to participate in the March PPP, is February 19th, 2024. Stop by our office at 200 E 8th St, Room 127, Junction City, KS to complete a new voter registration&nbsp; card, or go to this website:https://www.kssos.org/forms/elections/ voterregistration.pdf

Election Connection

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Geary County Public Works Department and the Geary County Landfill will be closed on Monday, January 15, 2024. They will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.

The Geary County Transfer Station will remain open on January 15, 2024.

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Geary County Public Works Department and the Geary County Landfill will be closed on Monday, January 15, 2024. They will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, January 16, 2024.The Geary County Transfer Station will remain open on January 15, 2024.

Geary County Public Works Holiday Schedule Notice:

Fort Riley Garrison Commander Col. Michael Foote will be the guest speaker at the Jan. 25th Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City. Check-in&nbsp; begins at 7 a.m. and the breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at the Geary County Convention Center. Tickets are $20.

You can register at www.jcacc.org / mac-breakfast or to mac@jcacc.org by&nbsp; 4 p.m. Friday Jan. 19th.

Fort Riley Garrison Commander Col. Michael Foote will be the guest speaker at the Jan. 25th Military Affairs Council Breakfast in Junction City. Check-in&nbsp; begins at 7 a.m. and the breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at the Geary County Convention Center. Tickets are $20.You can register at www.jcacc.org / mac-breakfast or to mac@jcacc.org by&nbsp; 4 p.m. Friday Jan. 19th.

MAC Breakfast will be held Jan. 25

Snow removal has been an ongoing process since Monday for Junction City Public Works, and has been completed on primary streets.&nbsp;

Public Works Director Ray Ibarra confirmed salt has been applied to residential streets but isn't yet working due to the cold weather. When it warms up a bit snow removal can be completed on those streets.&nbsp;

Public Works crews put in 12-hour shifts on snow removal starting on Monday and continuing until 7:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Snow removal has been an ongoing process since Monday for Junction City Public Works, and has been completed on primary streets.&nbsp;Public Works Director Ray Ibarra confirmed salt has been applied to residential streets but isn't yet working due to the cold weather. When it warms up a bit snow removal can be completed on those streets.&nbsp;Public Works crews put in 12-hour shifts on snow removal starting on Monday and continuing until 7:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Junction City Public Works crews clear snow on primary streets 

The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce has announced that there will be a ribbon cutting for Blu Restaurant &amp; Bar at 602 North Washington  at 4 p.m. on Wednesday Jan. 10th.

The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce has announced that there will be a ribbon cutting for Blu Restaurant &amp; Bar at 602 North Washington at 4 p.m. on Wednesday Jan. 10th.<figure>
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Ribbon cutting for Blu Restaurant & Bar is scheduled Wednesday

The Geary County Sheriff's Department has announced that there will be a reception hosted for retiring Geary County Sheriff Dan Jackson from Noon to 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19. The event will be hosted at the Geary County Emergency Management Office, 236 E. Eighth St.

A presentation will be made at 12:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

Sheriff Jackson announced his retirement last month and his last day in office will be Jan. 19. He took the office of Sheriff in May 2019 and was elected in 2020.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department has announced that there will be a reception hosted for retiring Geary County Sheriff Dan Jackson from Noon to 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19. The event will be hosted at the Geary County Emergency Management Office, 236 E. Eighth St.A presentation will be made at 12:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend.Sheriff Jackson announced his retirement last month and his last day in office will be Jan. 19. He took the office of Sheriff in May 2019 and was elected in 2020.Jeanette A. DeMarsFinancial Analyst&nbsp;

Reception scheduled for the retiring Geary County Sheriff

Geary County Emergency Management has issued information noting that a prolonged period of dangerously cold weather is forecast to move in by Friday. Temperatures Saturday through Monday may not even get out of the single digits. More light snow is also forecast to move across the area Thursday night and Friday. Now is the time to prepare for the harsh winter weather and make sure the vulnerable are able to stay warm through this arctic plunge.

Geary County Emergency Management has issued information noting that a prolonged period of dangerously cold weather is forecast to move in by Friday. Temperatures Saturday through Monday may not even get out of the single digits. More light snow is also forecast to move across the area Thursday night and Friday. Now is the time to prepare for the harsh winter weather and make sure the vulnerable are able to stay warm through this arctic plunge.

Prepare for the next cold snap

Geary County Emergency Management reported that snow totals are in. A lot of the area saw over 6 inches of snow with most of it falling yesterday evening and early this morning



Geary County Emergency Management reported that snow totals are in. A lot of the area saw over 6 inches of snow with most of it falling yesterday evening and early this morning

Snow totals are confirmed

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert confirmed that the Senior Center has been reserved for January 18th&nbsp;for the convention to recommend the next Sheriff.

The convention hosted by the Geary County Republican Central Committee chaired by Kathy Tremont begins at 7:00pm.&nbsp;

The procedure at the convention includes election by the committee of a sheriff to finish the remainder of the term currently being served by Dan Jackson, who is retiring on Jan.19. The name of the recommended candidate goes to the Governor, who has seven days to approve the appointment. If the governor does not&nbsp; take action the candidate chosen by the committee automatically becomes sheriff.

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert confirmed that the Senior Center has been reserved for January 18th&nbsp;for the convention to recommend the next Sheriff.The convention hosted by the Geary County Republican Central Committee chaired by Kathy Tremont begins at 7:00pm.&nbsp;The procedure at the convention includes election by the committee of a sheriff to finish the remainder of the term currently being served by Dan Jackson, who is retiring on Jan.19. The name of the recommended candidate goes to the Governor, who has seven days to approve the appointment. If the governor does not&nbsp; take action the candidate chosen by the committee automatically becomes sheriff.

Convention is scheduled to choose the next sheriff

&nbsp;Junction City Family YMCA will open 2 hours late on Wednesday. Opening time will be 7 a.m.

&nbsp;Junction City Family YMCA will open 2 hours late on Wednesday. Opening time will be 7 a.m.

Junction City Family YMCA will open 2 hours late on Wednesday

Postponements and cancellations Wednesday include:

--Geary County Historical Social Museum issued a social media notice. Museum staff are iced in! The museum will be closed, Wednesday January 10th due to road conditions.

Questions? Museum staff can be reached at gearyhistory@gmail.com

--&nbsp;Junction City Family YMCA will open 2 hours late on Wednesday. Opening time will be 7am

--Fort Riley will operate on a two-hour delay. Irwin Army Community Hospital will be open normal hours.

--Geary USD will be on a two-hour delay. Bus routes will be delayed two hours.

--St. Xavier School will be delayed two hours.

--USD 473 Chapman&nbsp; will operate on a two-hour delay. Buses will run two hours after their normal pick-up time. School will begin at 10 a.m.

--Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 will be closed on Wednesday, January 10, due to safety concerns with snow and ice-packed roads. Many rural and side roads are still snow packed and there is a layer of ice underneath.

--USD 481 Rural Vista will be closed. All activities will be cancelled.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostPostponements and cancellations Wednesday include:--Geary County Historical Social Museum issued a social media notice. Museum staff are iced in! The museum will be closed, Wednesday January 10th due to road conditions.Questions? Museum staff can be reached at gearyhistory@gmail.com--&nbsp;Junction City Family YMCA will open 2 hours late on Wednesday. Opening time will be 7am--Fort Riley will operate on a two-hour delay. Irwin Army Community Hospital will be open normal hours.--Geary USD will be on a two-hour delay. Bus routes will be delayed two hours.--St. Xavier School will be delayed two hours.--USD 473 Chapman&nbsp; will operate on a two-hour delay. Buses will run two hours after their normal pick-up time. School will begin at 10 a.m.--Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 will be closed on Wednesday, January 10, due to safety concerns with snow and ice-packed roads. Many rural and side roads are still snow packed and there is a layer of ice underneath.--USD 481 Rural Vista will be closed. All activities will be cancelled.--USD 329 Wabaunsee will be closed.--USD 323 Rock Creek will be closed.

Postponements and cancellations for Wednesday

The Kansas Department of Transportation has fully reopened westbound and eastbound lanes of I-70.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has fully reopened westbound and eastbound lanes of I-70.

I-70 is open

Fort Riley will delay operations two hours on Wednesday due to continuing impacts from the winter storm. All 24/7 gates remain open. Grant and Parker access control points will open at 5 a.m.

Irwin Army Community Hospital and the medical clinics will operate on normal hours. All dental clinics will open two hours late.

Child Development Centers and the School Age Center will open at 8 a.m. Most fitness centers will open at 9 a.m. The 24-hour fitness centers remain open.

Soldiers and civilian employees can contact their chain of command and supervisors for more details and work reporting requirements.

All AAFES facilities and the Fort Riley Commissary will open at 10 a.m.

USD 475 Geary County Schools will operate on a two-hour delay. Families can check with the school district and their specific schools for exact start times.

Fort Riley will delay operations two hours on Wednesday due to continuing impacts from the winter storm. All 24/7 gates remain open. Grant and Parker access control points will open at 5 a.m.Irwin Army Community Hospital and the medical clinics will operate on normal hours. All dental clinics will open two hours late.Child Development Centers and the School Age Center will open at 8 a.m. Most fitness centers will open at 9 a.m. The 24-hour fitness centers remain open.Soldiers and civilian employees can contact their chain of command and supervisors for more details and work reporting requirements.All AAFES facilities and the Fort Riley Commissary will open at 10 a.m.USD 475 Geary County Schools will operate on a two-hour delay. Families can check with the school district and their specific schools for exact start times.Kirk HutchinsonSupervisory Public Affairs Specialist

Fort Riley to delay starting times Wednesday

Geary County Schools USD 475 will have a two-hour delay on Wednesday, Jan. 10. Schools will open two hours late, and bus routes will be delayed by two hours. No breakfast will be served in the morning. School start times will be as followed:&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Elementary Schools: 10 a.m.• Fort Riley Elementary: 9:45 a.m.• Seitz Elementary: 10:05 a.m.• A.M. Early Childhood Center: No School&nbsp;&nbsp;

• Middle Schools and H.D. Karns: 9:40 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

•We will continue to monitor the weather and will have district staff on roads assessing conditions this evening, overnight and in the morning. You can find the latest updates on our website or social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High School: 10:15 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Schools USD 475&nbsp;Communications Coordinator&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Schools USD 475 will have a two-hour delay on Wednesday, Jan. 10. Schools will open two hours late, and bus routes will be delayed by two hours. No breakfast will be served in the morning. School start times will be as followed:&nbsp;&nbsp;• Elementary Schools: 10 a.m.• Fort Riley Elementary: 9:45 a.m.• Seitz Elementary: 10:05 a.m.• A.M. Early Childhood Center: No School&nbsp;&nbsp;• Middle Schools and H.D. Karns: 9:40 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;•We will continue to monitor the weather and will have district staff on roads assessing conditions this evening, overnight and in the morning. You can find the latest updates on our website or social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High School: 10:15 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;Matt Hoover&nbsp;Geary County Schools USD 475&nbsp;Communications Coordinator&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 475 will begin school Wednesday on a two-hour delay

St. Francis Xavier School will be delayed two hours tomorrow, January 10.&nbsp;

Doors will open at 9:50 a.m., and school will begin at 10:20 a.m.&nbsp;

St. Francis Xavier School release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704735269997.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>--St. Francis Xavier School will be delayed two hours tomorrow, January 10.&nbsp;Doors will open at 9:50 a.m., and school will begin at 10:20 a.m.&nbsp;

St. Francis Xavier School will delay opening two hours on Wednesday

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post/JC Post

MANHATTAN - Applications can now be submitted for those wishing to attend the 2024 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas(ALBSK).

The 2024 session will be held from Sunday, June 2nd through Saturday, June 8th at Kansas State University in Manhattan.

In the past, Boys State of Kansas has been open to individuals who have completed their junior year of high school just prior to the event.&nbsp;

This year the ALBSK will allow applications from individuals completing their sophomore year of high school this spring as well.

The ALBSK program provides an interactive, problem-solving experience in which teamwork and leadership skills are used to help develop self-identity and promote mutual respect among peers.

Participants will learn more about civic responsibility including obigations to the individual's community, state and nation.

Boys State is a 'learn by doing' political experience with opportunities to learn more about elections, political parties and government at multiple levels.

The cost to attend the Boys State of Kansas program is $375, however, sponsorship opportunities may reduce the amount the delegate and their family are required to pay.

To apply for the 2024 session, visit <a href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.

For information about the 2024 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held on Sunday, June 2, through Friday, June 8, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit <a href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

<figure>
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 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post/JC PostMANHATTAN - Applications can now be submitted for those wishing to attend the 2024 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas(ALBSK).The 2024 session will be held from Sunday, June 2nd through Saturday, June 8th at Kansas State University in Manhattan.In the past, Boys State of Kansas has been open to individuals who have completed their junior year of high school just prior to the event.&nbsp;This year the ALBSK will allow applications from individuals completing their sophomore year of high school this spring as well.The ALBSK program provides an interactive, problem-solving experience in which teamwork and leadership skills are used to help develop self-identity and promote mutual respect among peers.Participants will learn more about civic responsibility including obigations to the individual's community, state and nation.Boys State is a 'learn by doing' political experience with opportunities to learn more about elections, political parties and government at multiple levels.The cost to attend the Boys State of Kansas program is $375, however, sponsorship opportunities may reduce the amount the delegate and their family are required to pay.To apply for the 2024 session, visit <a href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.For information about the 2024 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held on Sunday, June 2, through Friday, June 8, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit <a href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

American Legion Boys State of Kansas accepting applications for 2024 event

The first round of the NFL playoffs begins this weekend, and many fans will be cheering on their favorite team from all across the country.

If you are a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, you will not be able to find their game on any local TV channels or cable. The only way to watch the game is to download and buy a subscription to the streaming service Peacock.&nbsp;

The NFL announced earlier this season that they would have one postseason game streamed exclusively on Peacock. It just so happens the game they chose is the Wild Card round matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you want more information on the streaming platform Peacock, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.peacocktv.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;

All Kansas City Chiefs games can be heard locally on the radio on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe first round of the NFL playoffs begins this weekend, and many fans will be cheering on their favorite team from all across the country.If you are a fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, you will not be able to find their game on any local TV channels or cable. The only way to watch the game is to download and buy a subscription to the streaming service Peacock.&nbsp;The NFL announced earlier this season that they would have one postseason game streamed exclusively on Peacock. It just so happens the game they chose is the Wild Card round matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Miami Dolphins.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you want more information on the streaming platform Peacock, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.peacocktv.com/">here</a>.&nbsp;All Kansas City Chiefs games can be heard locally on the radio on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK.&nbsp;

Chiefs playoff game will be shown only on streaming service Peacock

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.

Vanessa Nixon, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 01/05

Elizabeth Mitchell, Failure to appear, arrested 01/05

Nowah Sandy, Interference with LEO: Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case, arrested 01/05

Macaiah Anderson, Failure to appear, arrested 01/05

Michael Smith, Failure to appear, arrested 01/06

Sheree Wilson, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 01/06

Cordesia Harper, Failure to appear, arrested 01/07

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/2024/1/1704831211228.jpeg" alt="Janese Duncan, Failure to appear, arrested 01/05" />
 <figcaption>Janese Duncan, Failure to appear, arrested 01/05</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704831247340.jpeg" alt="Britney Hileman, Failure to appear, arrested 01/05" />
 <figcaption>Britney Hileman, Failure to appear, arrested 01/05</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704831282424.jpeg" alt="Reggie Lyons, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving, Interference with LEO: Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case, arrested 01/05" />
 <figcaption>Reggie Lyons, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving, Interference with LEO: Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case, arrested 01/05</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704831363459.jpeg" alt="Tommy Shears, Possession of marijuana, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 01/06" />
 <figcaption>Tommy Shears, Possession of marijuana, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 01/06</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704831508163.jpeg" alt="Jennifer Krinhop, Failure to appear (Three counts), Probation violation, arrested 01/06" />
 <figcaption>Jennifer Krinhop, Failure to appear (Three counts), Probation violation, arrested 01/06</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704831556461.jpeg" alt="Romele Dixon, Failure to appear, arrested 01/06" />
 <figcaption>Romele Dixon, Failure to appear, arrested 01/06</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704831597952.jpeg" alt="Shawquana Williams, Interference with LEO, Felony, arrested 01/07" />
 <figcaption>Shawquana Williams, Interference with LEO, Felony, arrested 01/07</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704831636979.jpeg" alt="Terry Woods Williams, Violation of protection order, arrested 01/07" />
 <figcaption>Terry Woods Williams, Violation of protection order, arrested 01/07</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704831685757.jpeg" alt="Steven Bowman, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 01/07" />
 <figcaption>Steven Bowman, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 01/07</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Vanessa Nixon, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 01/05Elizabeth Mitchell, Failure to appear, arrested 01/05Nowah Sandy, Interference with LEO: Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case, arrested 01/05Macaiah Anderson, Failure to appear, arrested 01/05Michael Smith, Failure to appear, arrested 01/06Sheree Wilson, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 01/06Cordesia Harper, Failure to appear, arrested 01/07Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Jan. 6-8

The basketball games between Junction City High School and Topeka-Hayden High School have been postponed and will not be played tonight. 

 Junction City Athletic Director Chris Bogenhagen said the games will be made-up at the end of January. The make-up dates are below. 

On Tuesday, January 23, the Blue Jay boys teams, Freshmen, JV and Varsity, will make-up their game against Topeka-Hayden. 

On Tuesday, January 30, the girls teams will make up their game. This includes both JV and Varsity for the Lady Jays. 

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe basketball games between Junction City High School and Topeka-Hayden High School have been postponed and will not be played tonight. Junction City Athletic Director Chris Bogenhagen said the games will be made-up at the end of January. The make-up dates are below. On Tuesday, January 23, the Blue Jay boys teams, Freshmen, JV and Varsity, will make-up their game against Topeka-Hayden. On Tuesday, January 30, the girls teams will make up their game. This includes both JV and Varsity for the Lady Jays.

Junction City basketball games for Tuesday are postponed

Winter weather is dominating the Midwest this week. The American Red Cross has a few tips to stay safe as storms continue to roll in. Stay safe and warm at home

Use care with space heaters and fireplaces to prevent fires. Keep anything that could catch fire at least 3 feet (1 meter) from the heat!

Avoid using candles because of the fire risk. Use battery-powered lights and flashlights instead.

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide poisoning is common during power outages when people use other means to heat and cook. You can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Only use generators, grills, and camp stoves outdoors and away from windows. Carbon monoxide kills. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak, get to fresh air right away – do not delay.

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and home fires, never heat your home with a cooking oven or stove.

Act Fast if You See Signs of Frostbite or Hypothermia

Frostbite is when a part of your body freezes. Your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes often are the first affected. People may experience pain, numbness, and a change of skin color.

What to do for frostbite: Move to a warm place. Warm the affected area gently by soaking in warm water (NOT hot) until the skin appears normal and feels warm. Seek emergency medical care.

Winter weather is dominating the Midwest this week. The American Red Cross has a few tips to stay safe as storms continue to roll in. Stay safe and warm at homeUse care with space heaters and fireplaces to prevent fires. Keep anything that could catch fire at least 3 feet (1 meter) from the heat!Avoid using candles because of the fire risk. Use battery-powered lights and flashlights instead.Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide poisoning is common during power outages when people use other means to heat and cook. You can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.Only use generators, grills, and camp stoves outdoors and away from windows. Carbon monoxide kills. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak, get to fresh air right away – do not delay.To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and home fires, never heat your home with a cooking oven or stove.Act Fast if You See Signs of Frostbite or HypothermiaFrostbite is when a part of your body freezes. Your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes often are the first affected. People may experience pain, numbness, and a change of skin color.What to do for frostbite: Move to a warm place. Warm the affected area gently by soaking in warm water (NOT hot) until the skin appears normal and feels warm. Seek emergency medical care.

Winter storm safety tips from the Red Cross

Junction City/Geary County residents are invited to attend Community Forum 2024 – Coming Together to provide input on the future growth of the community. Main Street noted that you will learn of a top-down model and be a part of a bottom-up approach.

Junction City Main Street will host Peter Kageyama on March 18, from 5:30-8:30 PM at The Eagles, 203 E 10th Street, with a private book signing from 4:30-5:15. Peter Kageyama is known as the “City Love Guy” and is the author of Love Where You Live, For the Love of Cities- Revisited, and The Emotional Infrastructure of Places.

Attendees will engage in a brainstorming workshop about making the city and county a better, more interesting, and more lovable community. Two of the proposed projects from the workshop will receive a $500 grant to implement their project that encourages the whole community to come together on.

This event is FREE but will be limited to 200 attendees so please be sure to register!

Junction City/Geary County residents are invited to attend Community Forum 2024 – Coming Together to provide input on the future growth of the community. Main Street noted that you will learn of a top-down model and be a part of a bottom-up approach.Junction City Main Street will host Peter Kageyama on March 18, from 5:30-8:30 PM at The Eagles, 203 E 10th Street, with a private book signing from 4:30-5:15. Peter Kageyama is known as the “City Love Guy” and is the author of Love Where You Live, For the Love of Cities- Revisited, and The Emotional Infrastructure of Places.Attendees will engage in a brainstorming workshop about making the city and county a better, more interesting, and more lovable community. Two of the proposed projects from the workshop will receive a $500 grant to implement their project that encourages the whole community to come together on.This event is FREE but will be limited to 200 attendees so please be sure to register!

Community Forum 2024 - Coming Together

News release from the Geary County Sheriff's Office

During weather conditions where numerous accidents occur, the Sheriff's Office can be overwhelmed by calls for service involving minor accidents.&nbsp;

-- The Geary County Sheriff's Department will not respond to non-injury accidents when the vehicles are operable.&nbsp;

-- Drivers should move to a place of safety and exchange personal and insurance information and report the accident to their insurance company as soon as possible. Then, file a report when there is property damage over $1,000.00 with the appropriate Law Enforcement agency within 48 hours.&nbsp;

-- All injury accidents and accidents that block the street due to disabled vehicles should be reported to Law Enforcement. Law Enforcement and needed Emergency personnel will respond.&nbsp;

-- As soon as caseload permits, the Sheriff's Office will go back to normal report taking.

News release from the Geary County Sheriff's Office<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703373634064.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>--During weather conditions where numerous accidents occur, the Sheriff's Office can be overwhelmed by calls for service involving minor accidents.&nbsp;Emergency reporting Procedures:-- The Geary County Sheriff's Department will not respond to non-injury accidents when the vehicles are operable.&nbsp;-- Drivers should move to a place of safety and exchange personal and insurance information and report the accident to their insurance company as soon as possible. Then, file a report when there is property damage over $1,000.00 with the appropriate Law Enforcement agency within 48 hours.&nbsp;-- All injury accidents and accidents that block the street due to disabled vehicles should be reported to Law Enforcement. Law Enforcement and needed Emergency personnel will respond.&nbsp;-- As soon as caseload permits, the Sheriff's Office will go back to normal report taking.

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