The Geary USD 475 Board of Education has reelected Kristy Haden to serve as President and Dr. Beth Hudson as Vice President for the coming year.

The Board conducted their annual reorganization Thursday night.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe Geary USD 475 Board of Education has reelected Kristy Haden to serve as President and Dr. Beth Hudson as Vice President for the coming year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705022999154.png" alt="Kristy Haden ( USD 475 photo )" />
 <figcaption>Kristy Haden ( USD 475 photo )</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705023327619.png" alt="Dr. Beth Hudson ( USD 475 photo )" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Beth Hudson ( USD 475 photo )</figcaption>
 </figure>The Board conducted their annual reorganization Thursday night.

USD 475 Board of Education reorganizes

It may take a few years but early discussion about a new or replacement elementary school, pre-K through five in Junction City&nbsp; has surfaced.

During discussion that included focus areas for 2024, USD 475 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Reginald Eggleston informed the Board of Education that there should be consideration about a possible new school but some steps would need to occur.&nbsp;

--A review of current facilities looking at their age and enrollment&nbsp;

--Looking at potential funding sources that could be pursued&nbsp;

--Consider the Morris Hill Elementary School blueprint used on that new school.&nbsp;

Eggleston noted other things would need to be considered but there could be a conversation if there is interest on the part of the Board. The Superintendent estimated that any project would probably take several years. Replacing a building or adding a building would also be part of the conversation.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostIt may take a few years but early discussion about a new or replacement elementary school, pre-K through five in Junction City&nbsp; has surfaced.During discussion that included focus areas for 2024, USD 475 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Reginald Eggleston informed the Board of Education that there should be consideration about a possible new school but some steps would need to occur.&nbsp;--A review of current facilities looking at their age and enrollment&nbsp;--Looking at potential funding sources that could be pursued&nbsp;--Identify a location--Consider the Morris Hill Elementary School blueprint used on that new school.&nbsp;Eggleston noted other things would need to be considered but there could be a conversation if there is interest on the part of the Board. The Superintendent estimated that any project would probably take several years. Replacing a building or adding a building would also be part of the conversation.

Facility discussion includes a possible future elementary school

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.

Justin Coleman, Failure to appear, arrested 01/11

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/2024/1/1705083995312.jpeg" alt="Corey Bloom, Failure to appear (Six counts), arrested&nbsp; 01/11" />
 <figcaption>Corey Bloom, Failure to appear (Six counts), arrested&nbsp; 01/11</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705084038160.jpeg" alt="Cody Rice, Failure to appear, arrested 01/11" />
 <figcaption>Cody Rice, Failure to appear, arrested 01/11</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705084091818.jpeg" alt="David Sells, Operate a motor vehicle without a&nbsp; valid license, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 01/12" />
 <figcaption>David Sells, Operate a motor vehicle without a&nbsp; valid license, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 01/12</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Justin Coleman, Failure to appear, arrested 01/11Recent 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. 12 

Live Well Geary County announced that due to the weather, there will be no meals on Monday, January 15 at the Healthy Together Senior Community Meal Site. 

Meals will resume on January 22. Stay warm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705081653208.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Live Well Geary County announced that due to the weather, there will be no meals on Monday, January 15 at the Healthy Together Senior Community Meal Site. Meals will resume on January 22. Stay warm.

Live Well Geary County will not serve meals on Monday, Jan. 15

Due to the winter weather in the area, Geary County Schools USD 475 is canceling all athletic&nbsp;and after-school&nbsp;activities tonight.

USD 475 is continuing to monitor weather forecasts throughout the day and will notify parents of any school closings or changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 475 release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645562843301.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>--&nbsp; &nbsp;Due to the winter weather in the area, Geary County Schools USD 475 is canceling all athletic&nbsp;and after-school&nbsp;activities tonight.USD 475 is continuing to monitor weather forecasts throughout the day and will notify parents of any school closings or changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 475 cancels after-school athletics and activities for Friday, Jan. 12

FORT RILEY, Kansas – U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer III and Command Sgt. Meyer Derek Noyes, command team of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley, announced the ‘Year of Victory’ campaign during a kickoff ceremony held on Jan. 11, 2024.

The kickoff event marks the beginning of the next chapter in the ongoing effort to recount the history of the division, recognize its victorious past and honor former and current Soldiers as it continues to develop future leaders and achieve success throughout its ranks.

“In the end, I think all of us if we live by the motto, duty, honor, country, there will be victory,” said Meyer. “All of us as Soldiers have to define what that is.”

Throughout the year, the division and its Soldiers will discuss what it means to be victorious, what role the 1st Inf. Div. has played in the history of the United States and how it will continue playing a pivotal role in the country’s future.

In recounting the history of the Big Red One., the ‘Year of Victory’ campaign looks to highlight the achievements of Soldiers and reflect upon the ideals that helped create such a storied division.

“What is victory to me? It’s doing your duty,” said Meyer. “It’s in our division motto. It's what the Soldiers have been doing in this division since 1917. We have done our duty. We did our duty in Iraq and Afghanistan as we were ordered to do. We served with honor.”

Over the course of the next year, the division will focus on sending accomplished Soldiers to compete in Army-wide competitions in order to build camaraderie amongst the ranks. Milestones for the Year of Victory will include the 80th D-Day Anniversary Ceremony and the Victory Week celebration, as well as ongoing guest speaker and leadership professional development opportunities.

FORT RILEY, Kansas – U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John V. Meyer III and Command Sgt. Meyer Derek Noyes, command team of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley, announced the ‘Year of Victory’ campaign during a kickoff ceremony held on Jan. 11, 2024.The kickoff event marks the beginning of the next chapter in the ongoing effort to recount the history of the division, recognize its victorious past and honor former and current Soldiers as it continues to develop future leaders and achieve success throughout its ranks.“In the end, I think all of us if we live by the motto, duty, honor, country, there will be victory,” said Meyer. “All of us as Soldiers have to define what that is.”Throughout the year, the division and its Soldiers will discuss what it means to be victorious, what role the 1st Inf. Div. has played in the history of the United States and how it will continue playing a pivotal role in the country’s future.In recounting the history of the Big Red One., the ‘Year of Victory’ campaign looks to highlight the achievements of Soldiers and reflect upon the ideals that helped create such a storied division.“What is victory to me? It’s doing your duty,” said Meyer. “It’s in our division motto. It's what the Soldiers have been doing in this division since 1917. We have done our duty. We did our duty in Iraq and Afghanistan as we were ordered to do. We served with honor.”Over the course of the next year, the division will focus on sending accomplished Soldiers to compete in Army-wide competitions in order to build camaraderie amongst the ranks. Milestones for the Year of Victory will include the 80th D-Day Anniversary Ceremony and the Victory Week celebration, as well as ongoing guest speaker and leadership professional development opportunities.Marenda "Mia" FiggsCPT, FA-46

1st Inf. Div. Launches Year of Victory

American Legion Post 45 Junction City Facebook post

An emergency warming station will be opening in Junction City as of 9am Friday January 12th at 3rd and Jefferson in the old chapel! It will be open through next Wednesday! 

The station is in urgent need of volunteers to operate through this dangerous time to shelter people in need! If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Jody Mason at 785-226-5090.

Geary County Emergency Management released a list of warming stations.

Warming Shelter Locations in Junction City, KS - Please Share

As we brace for the extreme temperatures this Friday, it's vital to stay warm and safe. To help our community, we're sharing information about local warming shelters. Please spread the word to ensure everyone has a warm place to stay.

Open 24 hours A safe haven offering round-the-clock warmth.

Hours:Monday-Thursday: 9AM – 7PMFriday: 9AM – 6PMSaturday: 9AM – 5PMSunday: 1PM – 5PMA comfortable space to stay warm with resources at your fingertips.

American Legion Post 45 Junction City Facebook post--<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705067071723.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>URGENT CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS!! An emergency warming station will be opening in Junction City as of 9am Friday January 12th at 3rd and Jefferson in the old chapel! It will be open through next Wednesday! The station is in urgent need of volunteers to operate through this dangerous time to shelter people in need! If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Jody Mason at 785-226-5090.--Geary County Emergency Management released a list of warming stations.Warming Shelter Locations in Junction City, KS - Please ShareAs we brace for the extreme temperatures this Friday, it's vital to stay warm and safe. To help our community, we're sharing information about local warming shelters. Please spread the word to ensure everyone has a warm place to stay.1. Fresh Start Emergency Shelter Inc.136 W. 3rd St., Junction City, KS 66441(785) 238-3599Open 24 hours A safe haven offering round-the-clock warmth.2. Dorothy Bramlage Public Library230 W. 7th St., Junction City, KS 66441(785) 238-4311Hours:Monday-Thursday: 9AM – 7PMFriday: 9AM – 6PMSaturday: 9AM – 5PMSunday: 1PM – 5PMA comfortable space to stay warm with resources at your fingertips.3. Geary County Public Health Department1212 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441(785) 762-5788

Warming station opening at old chapel on 3rd and Jefferson, volunteers needed

The National Weather Service said Friday morning that areas of light snow are possible (10% to 50%) this morning, mainly in northeast Kansas.

● Strong winds today will lead to patchy blowing snow.

● Dangerous wind chills are expected&nbsp; Friday night through Tuesday morning. A Wind Chill Warning is in effect.

The National Weather Service said Friday morning that areas of light snow are possible (10% to 50%) this morning, mainly in northeast Kansas.● Strong winds today will lead to patchy blowing snow.● Dangerous wind chills are expected&nbsp; Friday night through Tuesday morning. A Wind Chill Warning is in effect.

National Weather Service update

-- Geary County Schools USD 475 will close at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 12.

All athletic and after-school activities tonight are canceled.

--Due to weather conditions, Geary&nbsp; County Offices will be closing at 2pm today. 

--Geary County Historical Society and Museum will be closed Friday and Saturday. Staff can be reached at gearyhistory@gmail.com

Fort Riley announcements via social media

--Fort Riley MWR fitness centers will be closing at 3 p.m. Friday.

--CYS facilities will close at 2:30 p.m. Parents are being contacted.

--AAFES facilities will close at 3 p.m. except the BRO Express which will remain open until 8 p.m.

----Due to the weather the Episcopal Church of the Covenant will not have any services on Sunday.

--All USD 473 Chapman schools are closed on Friday. There will not be any activities.

--The Cloud County Community College campuses in Geary County and Concordia will be closed&nbsp; due to winter weather conditions.

--Due to extremely cold temperatures and inclement weather the Geary County Senior Center will be closed on Friday, January 12.. They are also closed on Monday, January 15, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. day. They should reopen on Tuesday, January 16 for regular hours.

--A friendly reminder that Grant and Parker Access Control Points are closed for training and federal holidays.  They will be closed Friday Jan. 12 - Monday Jan. 15 for the upcoming Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.&nbsp; Friday is a Training Holiday and Monday is a Federal Holiday

--USD 378 Riley County closed. Activity decisions are pending. Coaches will be in communication. RCC closed.

--Due to blowing snow, Rural Vista Schools will be closed today, Jan 12. No activities.

--USD 487 Herington No school today, Friday January 12th.&nbsp;

--USD 379 Clay County will be on a two-hour delay today January 12th. There will not be any morning preschool.

--USD 384 Blue Valley Randolph will start two hours late. There will not be any AM pre-kindergarten.

--USD 417 Morris County closed on Friday.

-- Geary County Schools USD 475 will close at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 12.All athletic and after-school activities tonight are canceled.--Due to weather conditions, Geary&nbsp; County Offices will be closing at 2pm today. --Geary County Historical Society and Museum will be closed Friday and Saturday. Staff can be reached at gearyhistory@gmail.comFort Riley announcements via social media --USO will close at 2 p.m.--Fort Riley MWR fitness centers will be closing at 3 p.m. Friday.--CYS facilities will close at 2:30 p.m. Parents are being contacted.--AAFES facilities will close at 3 p.m. except the BRO Express which will remain open until 8 p.m.----Due to the weather the Episcopal Church of the Covenant will not have any services on Sunday.--All USD 473 Chapman schools are closed on Friday. There will not be any activities.--The Cloud County Community College campuses in Geary County and Concordia will be closed&nbsp; due to winter weather conditions.--Due to extremely cold temperatures and inclement weather the Geary County Senior Center will be closed on Friday, January 12.. They are also closed on Monday, January 15, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. day. They should reopen on Tuesday, January 16 for regular hours.--A friendly reminder that Grant and Parker Access Control Points are closed for training and federal holidays. They will be closed Friday Jan. 12 - Monday Jan. 15 for the upcoming Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.&nbsp; Friday is a Training Holiday and Monday is a Federal Holiday--USD 378 Riley County closed. Activity decisions are pending. Coaches will be in communication. RCC closed.--Due to blowing snow, Rural Vista Schools will be closed today, Jan 12. No activities.--USD 487 Herington No school today, Friday January 12th.&nbsp;--USD 379 Clay County will be on a two-hour delay today January 12th. There will not be any morning preschool.--USD 384 Blue Valley Randolph will start two hours late. There will not be any AM pre-kindergarten.--USD 417 Morris County closed on Friday.

Postponements and cancellations for Friday

Stay indoors when possible and heat your home safely

&nbsp;A winter storm will blow through the region starting late Thursday, bringing freezing temperatures and subzero wind chills that will persist for several days.

The American Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma&nbsp;urges families to take several steps to deal with the cold and heat their homes safely. As with any potential emergency:

“The safest place to be during a winter storm is indoors, and we encourage people to check on loved ones and neighbors to make sure they are staying warm, especially if older adults and babies are involved,” said Shelly Webb, Regional Disaster Officer for the Red Cross Kansas and Oklahoma Region.

PLAN TO STAY WARM&nbsp;Stay warm indoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, and bring your pets inside. Follow these tips to stay safe if you need to go outside:

HEAT YOUR HOME SAFELY&nbsp;Overall, home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year — and home fire responses are 30% higher during cold months than warmer times of year.

“Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in this country,” Webb said. “But, there are steps people can take to avoid having this happen to them.&nbsp;Help keep your family safe by providing at least three feet of space around all heating equipment, testing your smoke alarms monthly and practicing your two-minute home fire escape plan.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

HOW TO SAFELY HEAT YOUR HOME&nbsp;According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires. Follow these tips on how to safely heat your home:

PREVENT HOME FIRE TRAGEDIES&nbsp;To help protect your family year-round, test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan until everyone can escape in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to get out of a burning home before it’s too late.

IF YOU NEED HELP&nbsp;If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeLS8IJC-2BB99tiXP4W4kr5K676kcpn73o7zE9XvMKCf0BQ-3D-3DToXd_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BldppdMx-2FuaAGxc2uC3R9HastYXNz9-2FjgvgycW25VF4Kl1En72fk1b4s0B4ov9tQrOjUcrpI1GuxRo2buJc91wPSPqP5fGa-2BDG7Wj31NzIUB3CJ7MtSXHNzpYVntJTyII8crnyGCNtGdeHbCOXOzPhQ-3D">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BZ4-2Fiwq42Ttnjp-2FND3x4KZR1wV_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BlIwbnGhZzHLvz9eDZjyYz4PGyV5zxGS9mDXdCWroCGFUzpIWazGN8-2F8mnqB-2BspmO25U0FSroF2LYfF5PoMTE4eAu0Opv096mwZqIy-2FE3ZH5odgmdjsZGAC9gwcyqvmkmlTNCCq00rmLMeT6dyGT5ko-3D">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including an&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeILn3iXR3b-2F1ZMW-2FbpT1vi6fxFkZqILiRyVUc-2BdHMc-2B9MoBaBPnnpHle-2FLYeRRJhX5t9mB2tij-2FSVR3mo1Asnbkpo0TZuPnCn8WMbDRBYoOw7OlwfrwyjuqCgJdFFMvvms-3DIwZu_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BnrN8Joot3f8EMvStjrKftsC7IiURoNgvX9yPed1h-2Fjv6w6E29A8vD5ucugLEeNZp-2FgwWTgdSrCOhzCgtaAbzOR22Pb8VedsuABbqzxnYxeBhG307W4vd3E4l4Muz1e-2FYcr-2BdJyNW9MMN97Q3qobM00-3D">escape plan</a>&nbsp;to practice with your family. Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies.&nbsp;Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector.&nbsp;Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BnhGpJFvOLzDF2abERlvDHXV5IgDLutGVK3Bc-2BUmXa0Q-3D-3DwcqO_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BvpRVLJmeTP230F5yAZ4KyR96pfgoGjDI36natdIz-2FW9FIKG0lmL9KrASAUhcnGwYa-2B-2BMswGMHu23TcASl4QUooCZLhXb-2FjhUHmAYgrU-2FUeF0BZb7-2FS1okll-2FhxjBR4SoX-2F70xeYebkbgZpoDQXpTso-3D">redcross.org/apps.</a>

American Red Cross<h2>Stay indoors when possible and heat your home safely</h2>&nbsp;A winter storm will blow through the region starting late Thursday, bringing freezing temperatures and subzero wind chills that will persist for several days.The American Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma&nbsp;urges families to take several steps to deal with the cold and heat their homes safely. As with any potential emergency:<ol>
 <li>Get a kit.&nbsp;Gather food, water and medicine for every member of your household, including pets. Stores may be closed, and it may be unsafe to travel.</li><li>Make a plan.&nbsp;Know where you will go if your power is out or if your home becomes too cold.</li><li>Stay informed.&nbsp;Sign up for free emergency alerts, follow local weather and news, and download the free&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR8cGFRKXyJbM1vK9CAowRNVLNqO_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2Bpf-2BDmN3FLbPCRBIT93Mv8a78OutLEIkAY5mzzEYoN3HhGUy470qMLAKNTglJdssVuG83C8Y-2FAmSBeY6HV2yjf-2Byr9benaoreCTeMgR-2B1jWx-2FgyTUzDRt7vHYoJ44FvVaGr6eEPp6jfDMga8LAJ0Xj8-3D">Red Cross Emergency app</a>.</li>
 </ol>“The safest place to be during a winter storm is indoors, and we encourage people to check on loved ones and neighbors to make sure they are staying warm, especially if older adults and babies are involved,” said Shelly Webb, Regional Disaster Officer for the Red Cross Kansas and Oklahoma Region.PLAN TO STAY WARM&nbsp;Stay warm indoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, and bring your pets inside. Follow these tips to stay safe if you need to go outside:<ul>
 <li>Dress properly. Keep your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes covered in warm, dry clothing. These areas are the first to be at risk of frostbite. Wear layers of loose clothing, a coat, hat, mittens or gloves, and water-resistant boots. Use a scarf to cover your face and mouth.</li><li>Drink plenty of warm fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.</li><li>Avoid travel if you can.</li><li>Use ice-melting products to keep your walkways safe.</li><li>Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. If you or someone you are with is shaking uncontrollably, getting extremely tired, turning very pale or getting numb fingers, toes, ears or nose — get out of the cold immediately.</li>
 </ul>HEAT YOUR HOME SAFELY&nbsp;Overall, home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year — and home fire responses are 30% higher during cold months than warmer times of year.“Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in this country,” Webb said. “But, there are steps people can take to avoid having this happen to them.&nbsp;Help keep your family safe by providing at least three feet of space around all heating equipment, testing your smoke alarms monthly and practicing your two-minute home fire escape plan.”&nbsp;&nbsp;HOW TO SAFELY HEAT YOUR HOME&nbsp;According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires. Follow these tips on how to safely heat your home:<ul>
 <li>If you must use a space heater, never leave it unattended. Place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface, such as a ceramic tile floor. Don’t place it on rugs and carpets, or near bedding and drapes.</li><li>Plug space heater power cords directly into outlets&nbsp;— never into an extension cord. Turn the space heater off every time you leave the room or go to sleep.&nbsp;</li><li>Keep children, pets and anything that can burn at least three feet&nbsp;away from heating equipment.&nbsp;</li><li>Never use a cooking range&nbsp;or oven&nbsp;to heat your home.</li><li>Never leave a fire burning in the fireplace unattended. Make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home. Use a glass or metal fire screen to keep embers in the fireplace.</li><li>Have furnaces, chimneys, fireplaces, wood and coal stoves inspected annually&nbsp;by a professional and cleaned if necessary.</li>
 </ul>PREVENT HOME FIRE TRAGEDIES&nbsp;To help protect your family year-round, test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan until everyone can escape in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to get out of a burning home before it’s too late.IF YOU NEED HELP&nbsp;If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeLS8IJC-2BB99tiXP4W4kr5K676kcpn73o7zE9XvMKCf0BQ-3D-3DToXd_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BldppdMx-2FuaAGxc2uC3R9HastYXNz9-2FjgvgycW25VF4Kl1En72fk1b4s0B4ov9tQrOjUcrpI1GuxRo2buJc91wPSPqP5fGa-2BDG7Wj31NzIUB3CJ7MtSXHNzpYVntJTyII8crnyGCNtGdeHbCOXOzPhQ-3D">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BZ4-2Fiwq42Ttnjp-2FND3x4KZR1wV_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BlIwbnGhZzHLvz9eDZjyYz4PGyV5zxGS9mDXdCWroCGFUzpIWazGN8-2F8mnqB-2BspmO25U0FSroF2LYfF5PoMTE4eAu0Opv096mwZqIy-2FE3ZH5odgmdjsZGAC9gwcyqvmkmlTNCCq00rmLMeT6dyGT5ko-3D">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including an&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeILn3iXR3b-2F1ZMW-2FbpT1vi6fxFkZqILiRyVUc-2BdHMc-2B9MoBaBPnnpHle-2FLYeRRJhX5t9mB2tij-2FSVR3mo1Asnbkpo0TZuPnCn8WMbDRBYoOw7OlwfrwyjuqCgJdFFMvvms-3DIwZu_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BnrN8Joot3f8EMvStjrKftsC7IiURoNgvX9yPed1h-2Fjv6w6E29A8vD5ucugLEeNZp-2FgwWTgdSrCOhzCgtaAbzOR22Pb8VedsuABbqzxnYxeBhG307W4vd3E4l4Muz1e-2FYcr-2BdJyNW9MMN97Q3qobM00-3D">escape plan</a>&nbsp;to practice with your family. Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies.&nbsp;Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector.&nbsp;Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BnhGpJFvOLzDF2abERlvDHXV5IgDLutGVK3Bc-2BUmXa0Q-3D-3DwcqO_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BvpRVLJmeTP230F5yAZ4KyR96pfgoGjDI36natdIz-2FW9FIKG0lmL9KrASAUhcnGwYa-2B-2BMswGMHu23TcASl4QUooCZLhXb-2FjhUHmAYgrU-2FUeF0BZb7-2FS1okll-2FhxjBR4SoX-2F70xeYebkbgZpoDQXpTso-3D">redcross.org/apps.</a>

Bitter cold coming ─ Red Cross has tips to stay safe

Geary County Offices will be closed on Monday, January 15th&nbsp;in observance of Martin Luther King JR Day.

Offices will reopen on Tuesday, January 16th&nbsp;at normal hours.

Geary County Offices will be closed on Monday, January 15th&nbsp;in observance of Martin Luther King JR Day.Offices will reopen on Tuesday, January 16th&nbsp;at normal hours.

County offices will be closed on Monday

Warming Shelter Locations in Junction City, KS - Please Share 

 Open 24 hours A safe haven offering round-the-clock warmth.

 Hours:Monday-Thursday: 9AM – 7PMFriday: 9AM – 6PMSaturday: 9AM – 5PMSunday: 1PM – 5PMA comfortable space to stay warm with resources at your fingertips.

 1212 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441

 Hours:Monday-Thursday: 8AM – 5PMFriday: 8AM – 3PM Saturday &amp; Sunday: Closed Your health and safety are our top priority.



Warming Shelter Locations in Junction City, KS - Please Share As we brace for the extreme temperatures this Friday, it's vital to stay warm and safe. To help our community, we're sharing information about local warming shelters. Please spread the word to ensure everyone has a warm place to stay.1. Fresh Start Emergency Shelter Inc. 136 W. 3rd St., Junction City, KS 66441 (785) 238-3599 Open 24 hours A safe haven offering round-the-clock warmth.2. Dorothy Bramlage Public Library 230 W. 7th St., Junction City, KS 66441 (785) 238-4311 Hours:Monday-Thursday: 9AM – 7PMFriday: 9AM – 6PMSaturday: 9AM – 5PMSunday: 1PM – 5PMA comfortable space to stay warm with resources at your fingertips.3. Geary County Public Health Department 1212 W. Ash St., Junction City, KS 66441 (785) 762-5788 Hours:Monday-Thursday: 8AM – 5PMFriday: 8AM – 3PM Saturday &amp; Sunday: Closed Your health and safety are our top priority.

Emergency Management releases a list of warming shelter locations

Katrina Turner, Failure to appear, arrested 01/08

Thurman Ellsion, Failure to appear, arrested 01/09

Emmanuel Simon, Domestic battery, arrested 01/09

Frank Ryhne, Possession of marijuana (Two or more prior convictions), arrested 01/10

Jullie Hannon, Failure to appear, arrested 01/10

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/2024/1/1705004914449.jpeg" alt="Brandon Linton, Violation of a protection order, arrested 01/08" />
 <figcaption>Brandon Linton, Violation of a protection order, arrested 01/08</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705004966299.jpeg" alt="Zackary McMurray, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 01/08" />
 <figcaption>Zackary McMurray, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 01/08</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705005018741.jpeg" alt="Derek Brown, Domestic battery, Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship, Assault, arrested 01/08" />
 <figcaption>Derek Brown, Domestic battery, Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship, Assault, arrested 01/08</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Katrina Turner, Failure to appear, arrested 01/08Thurman Ellsion, Failure to appear, arrested 01/09Emmanuel Simon, Domestic battery, arrested 01/09Frank Ryhne, Possession of marijuana (Two or more prior convictions), arrested 01/10Jullie Hannon, Failure to appear, arrested 01/10Recent 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. 9-11

Junction City Public Works Director Ray Ibarra said that there will be no trash/garbage pick-up by the City of Junction City on Monday, January 15th due to the Martin Luther King Holiday.

However, trash/garbage pick-up will be done the next workday as follows:

Monday’s pickup day will be Tuesday, January 16h

Tuesday’s pickup day will be Wednesday, January 17th

Wednesday’s pickup day will be Thursday, January 18th

Thursday’s pickup day will be Friday, January 19th

Friday’s pickup day will be Saturday, January 20th

To ensure pick-up, your trash should be set out by 6 AM, Tuesday morning.

Carts should be removed from the curb-alley by the following day of their scheduled pick up. Example: Monday’s pickup will need to be set out by 6 AM Tuesday morning and removed by 6 AM Wednesday morning.

Junction City Public Works Director Ray Ibarra said that there will be no trash/garbage pick-up by the City of Junction City on Monday, January 15th due to the Martin Luther King Holiday.However, trash/garbage pick-up will be done the next workday as follows:Monday’s pickup day will be Tuesday, January 16hTuesday’s pickup day will be Wednesday, January 17thWednesday’s pickup day will be Thursday, January 18thThursday’s pickup day will be Friday, January 19thFriday’s pickup day will be Saturday, January 20thTo ensure pick-up, your trash should be set out by 6 AM, Tuesday morning.Carts should be removed from the curb-alley by the following day of their scheduled pick up. Example: Monday’s pickup will need to be set out by 6 AM Tuesday morning and removed by 6 AM Wednesday morning.

City Sanitation schedule for Martin Luther King Jr. holiday

As 2024 begins development of strategic plans and evaluation of how the local United Way operates and supports the community are tasks for that organization. 

United Way Director Nichole Mader also touched on the VITA ( Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program ). She noted that over a 13 to 15 year period approximately 300 to 400 tax returns have been filed each year. The program can serve those in need.

Volunteers for VITA are needed in areas including intake forms, basic tax preparation, translator and advanced tax preparation.&nbsp;

Some of the highlights for 2023 included Stuff the Bus, Adopt a Backpack, the United Way funding allocation process, VITA Program and Day of Caring.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostAs 2024 begins development of strategic plans and evaluation of how the local United Way operates and supports the community are tasks for that organization. United Way Director Nichole Mader also touched on the VITA ( Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program ). She noted that over a 13 to 15 year period approximately 300 to 400 tax returns have been filed each year. The program can serve those in need.Volunteers for VITA are needed in areas including intake forms, basic tax preparation, translator and advanced tax preparation.&nbsp;Some of the highlights for 2023 included Stuff the Bus, Adopt a Backpack, the United Way funding allocation process, VITA Program and Day of Caring.

United Way review

Geary County Public Works Notice has announced that there is a county road closure due to weather. The closure involves the&nbsp;2nd Road off Brinkley by Milford Lake.

Geary County Public Works Notice has announced that there is a county road closure due to weather. The closure involves the&nbsp;2nd Road off Brinkley by Milford Lake.

Geary County Public Works notice

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2036_00_0000.pdf">&nbsp;The Geary County Commission will support an amended veterans bill&nbsp; preventing certain disabled veterans</a> from having to pay property tax. Under the amendment the state would help counties with more than three percent of their budget impacted.

Commissioner Trish Giordano noted that the County "can't help in one area and cause detriment to others." The impact on the County without the amendment would be 12%. Giordano noted that she was not against the bill but was concerned about how the initial measure would impact the community.

The County will submit a letter of support and Commissioner Alex Tyson plans to try and testify on the proposed bill. This measure does not involve retired veterans who are not disabled.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2036_00_0000.pdf">More information on House Bill 2036 can be found here</a>.

<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2036_00_0000.pdf">&nbsp;The Geary County Commission will support an amended veterans bill&nbsp; preventing certain disabled veterans</a> from having to pay property tax. Under the amendment the state would help counties with more than three percent of their budget impacted.Commissioner Trish Giordano noted that the County "can't help in one area and cause detriment to others." The impact on the County without the amendment would be 12%. Giordano noted that she was not against the bill but was concerned about how the initial measure would impact the community.The County will submit a letter of support and Commissioner Alex Tyson plans to try and testify on the proposed bill. This measure does not involve retired veterans who are not disabled.<a href="http://kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2036_00_0000.pdf">More information on House Bill 2036 can be found here</a>.

County will support amended Veterans Bill

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM Thursday AFTERNOON TO NOON CST FRIDAY...

...WIND CHILL WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH TUESDAY MORNING...

*For the Winter Weather Advisory, snow is expected. Total  snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35  to 40 mph will cause considerable blowing and drifting snow.

  For the Wind Chill Watch, dangerously cold wind chills are possible.  Wind chills as low as 35 below zero. .Portions of north central and northeast Kansas.

Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous&nbsp;  conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. The&nbsp;  cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as&nbsp;  little as 30 minutes.

Geary County Emergency Management also passed along information from the National Weather Service.

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 3 PM Thursday AFTERNOON TO NOON CST FRIDAY......WIND CHILL WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH TUESDAY MORNING...*For the Winter Weather Advisory, snow is expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 5 inches. Winds gusting as high as 35 to 40 mph will cause considerable blowing and drifting snow. For the Wind Chill Watch, dangerously cold wind chills are possible. Wind chills as low as 35 below zero. .Portions of north central and northeast Kansas.Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous&nbsp; conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. The&nbsp; cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as&nbsp; little as 30 minutes.Geary County Emergency Management also passed along information from the National Weather Service.

National Weather Service forecast

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.

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