By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;

Let’s have a steak dinner at the beautiful Savoy at 21c restaurant in downtown Kansas City. Where did this Black Angus beef come from? It was brought here directly from a farm in the Flint Hills of rural Kansas.&nbsp;

Sara and Jay Shivers are the owners and operators of Salt Creek Farm in Greenwood County where Sara grew up. She is the daughter of Don and Jan Stephens who run cattle at Rafter S Ranch.&nbsp;

Sara went to K-State. She earned a master’s degree at the University of North Texas where she met her husband Jay, a country boy who was getting a master’s in urban planning. They lived in the Dallas area and Sara worked in non-profit management.&nbsp;

Sara had always wanted to come back to the ranch to help her father. She shared that desire with her husband.&nbsp;

“We knew we wanted to move to Kansas, but urban planning jobs are few and far between,” Sara said. “On our honeymoon, we day-dreamed about selling beef direct to consumers.”&nbsp;

When their first daughter was born, Sara was home on maternity leave and spotted a posting for a job opening for a city planner in El Dorado, Kansas. She passed it on to Jay and he applied.&nbsp;

“Within five weeks, he accepted the job and we bought a house sight unseen in Kansas,” Sara said. A couple of years later, they built a house on Salt Creek near her parents on the ranch.&nbsp;

Sara now partners with her father in ranch operations. The ranch is south of Eureka and north of the rural community of Severy, population 205 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

“My dad told me we needed a better way to market our beef,” Sara said. While she and Jay were in Dallas, they had observed that urban consumers were becoming increasingly interested in where their food came from.&nbsp;

Back in Kansas, the Shivers launched Salt Creek Farm in 2017 to market cuts of home-raised beef, heritage chicken and lamb directly to consumers. The beef is purchased from the ranch, processed locally, and dry-aged.&nbsp;

Sara assumed they would sell to individuals. When her cousin in Kansas City asked for beef to serve at his brewery, she gave it a try. Soon other restaurants became customers to which Sara would deliver.&nbsp;

Then COVID-19 hit. “I was halfway through my deliveries in KC when the shutdown orders were issued,” Sara said. “Chefs were calling to cancel orders left and right.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fortunately, Jay had already built the website for the business. Online consumer demand picked up quickly. “Social media has been a game-changer,” Sara said. “At the height of the pandemic, I posted online that we had restocked our meat supplies and we sold out a whole beef in 13 minutes.”&nbsp;

Today, Salt Creek Farm sells to consumers across the nation plus two dozen restaurants in the Kansas City area. In addition to individual cuts or bundles of beef, chicken and lamb, Salt Creek Farms offers a Farm Club Subscription Box through which subscribers can receive a customized mix of meat cuts every month.&nbsp;

In fall 2022, Salt Creek Farm opened a retail outlet in Eureka. Jay started beekeeping as a hobby and is now offering local honey also.&nbsp;

“I have been blown away by our local support,” Sara said. She and Jay are also busy with eight- and five-year-old daughters, Stella and Margot.&nbsp;

“I love being able to provide high quality beef to consumers and to showcase my dad’s hard work through the years,” Sara said. “I enjoy the connection with our customers, answering questions about how and why we raise beef.”&nbsp;

Salt Creek Farm has literally shipped products across the U.S., from New Hampshire to Hawaii.&nbsp;“One customer in Louisiana told me, ‘I didn’t know beef could taste like this,’” Sara said.&nbsp;

For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thesaltcreekfarm.com/">www.thesaltcreekfarm.com</a>.&nbsp;

It’s time to leave our steak dinner, sourced from Salt Creek Farm. We commend Sara and Jay Shivers for making a difference with direct marketing of their products. Such entrepreneurship is all too rare, but this is well done.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678895271283.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;Let’s have a steak dinner at the beautiful Savoy at 21c restaurant in downtown Kansas City. Where did this Black Angus beef come from? It was brought here directly from a farm in the Flint Hills of rural Kansas.&nbsp;Sara and Jay Shivers are the owners and operators of Salt Creek Farm in Greenwood County where Sara grew up. She is the daughter of Don and Jan Stephens who run cattle at Rafter S Ranch.&nbsp;Sara went to K-State. She earned a master’s degree at the University of North Texas where she met her husband Jay, a country boy who was getting a master’s in urban planning. They lived in the Dallas area and Sara worked in non-profit management.&nbsp;Sara had always wanted to come back to the ranch to help her father. She shared that desire with her husband.&nbsp;“We knew we wanted to move to Kansas, but urban planning jobs are few and far between,” Sara said. “On our honeymoon, we day-dreamed about selling beef direct to consumers.”&nbsp;When their first daughter was born, Sara was home on maternity leave and spotted a posting for a job opening for a city planner in El Dorado, Kansas. She passed it on to Jay and he applied.&nbsp;“Within five weeks, he accepted the job and we bought a house sight unseen in Kansas,” Sara said. A couple of years later, they built a house on Salt Creek near her parents on the ranch.&nbsp;Sara now partners with her father in ranch operations. The ranch is south of Eureka and north of the rural community of Severy, population 205 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;“My dad told me we needed a better way to market our beef,” Sara said. While she and Jay were in Dallas, they had observed that urban consumers were becoming increasingly interested in where their food came from.&nbsp;Back in Kansas, the Shivers launched Salt Creek Farm in 2017 to market cuts of home-raised beef, heritage chicken and lamb directly to consumers. The beef is purchased from the ranch, processed locally, and dry-aged.&nbsp;Sara assumed they would sell to individuals. When her cousin in Kansas City asked for beef to serve at his brewery, she gave it a try. Soon other restaurants became customers to which Sara would deliver.&nbsp;Then COVID-19 hit. “I was halfway through my deliveries in KC when the shutdown orders were issued,” Sara said. “Chefs were calling to cancel orders left and right.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Fortunately, Jay had already built the website for the business. Online consumer demand picked up quickly. “Social media has been a game-changer,” Sara said. “At the height of the pandemic, I posted online that we had restocked our meat supplies and we sold out a whole beef in 13 minutes.”&nbsp;Today, Salt Creek Farm sells to consumers across the nation plus two dozen restaurants in the Kansas City area. In addition to individual cuts or bundles of beef, chicken and lamb, Salt Creek Farms offers a Farm Club Subscription Box through which subscribers can receive a customized mix of meat cuts every month.&nbsp;In fall 2022, Salt Creek Farm opened a retail outlet in Eureka. Jay started beekeeping as a hobby and is now offering local honey also.&nbsp;“I have been blown away by our local support,” Sara said. She and Jay are also busy with eight- and five-year-old daughters, Stella and Margot.&nbsp;“I love being able to provide high quality beef to consumers and to showcase my dad’s hard work through the years,” Sara said. “I enjoy the connection with our customers, answering questions about how and why we raise beef.”&nbsp;Salt Creek Farm has literally shipped products across the U.S., from New Hampshire to Hawaii.&nbsp;“One customer in Louisiana told me, ‘I didn’t know beef could taste like this,’” Sara said.&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.thesaltcreekfarm.com/">www.thesaltcreekfarm.com</a>.&nbsp;It’s time to leave our steak dinner, sourced from Salt Creek Farm. We commend Sara and Jay Shivers for making a difference with direct marketing of their products. Such entrepreneurship is all too rare, but this is well done.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Sara Shivers, Salt Creek Farm 

United Way's St. Patty's Day fundraiser is Friday

"Prehistoricc Creatures of Kansas" will be the program this Saturday, March 18th at the <a href="http://www.gchsweb.org/">Geary&nbsp; County Historical Society Museum</a>, 6th and Adams Streets, Junction City.&nbsp; The event runs 1 to 3:30 p.m.&nbsp; and is part of the GCHS "STEAM SATURDAY" series.&nbsp; It is co-sponsored by the Milford Nature Center.

There is no admission for the program open to children and adults.&nbsp; It is an afternoon of getting to learn what Kansas would have been like millions of years ago, according to Lisa Caitlin Highsmith, Director of Programs and Education at the museum.&nbsp; Activities will include creating&nbsp; unique artwork; excavating a dig site like a Paleontologist; and participation in a "Timeline Toss" to win a dinosaur egg.&nbsp; The Nature Center will have Kansas fossils for visitors to see.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678985844408.jpeg" alt="Steam Saturday" />
 <figcaption>Steam Saturday</figcaption>
 </figure>"Prehistoricc Creatures of Kansas" will be the program this Saturday, March 18th at the <a href="http://www.gchsweb.org/">Geary&nbsp; County Historical Society Museum</a>, 6th and Adams Streets, Junction City.&nbsp; The event runs 1 to 3:30 p.m.&nbsp; and is part of the GCHS "STEAM SATURDAY" series.&nbsp; It is co-sponsored by the Milford Nature Center.There is no admission for the program open to children and adults.&nbsp; It is an afternoon of getting to learn what Kansas would have been like millions of years ago, according to Lisa Caitlin Highsmith, Director of Programs and Education at the museum.&nbsp; Activities will include creating&nbsp; unique artwork; excavating a dig site like a Paleontologist; and participation in a "Timeline Toss" to win a dinosaur egg.&nbsp; The Nature Center will have Kansas fossils for visitors to see.

Museum to present "Prehistoric Creatures" program 

Josh Turner is coming to Salina's Stiefel Theatre in July.

Turner is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. July 29 in the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

Tickets start at $49 and go on sale at noon on Friday. Buy online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.

About Josh Turner courtesy the Stiefel Theatre

With his deep bass voice, Turner has sold more than 6.5 million records, reached 4.8 billion global streams, and has become a favorite and unforgettable hitmaker on country radio. 

With timeless songs like Long Black Train&nbsp; and Why Don’t We Just Dance, Turner’s five No. 1 singles include Your Man, of which the official music video surpassed 100 million views. Turner released Your Man Deluxe Edition, celebrating 15 years of Turner’s iconic double Platinum-selling album, as well as the mini-documentary Josh Turner Your Man 15th Anniversary (Mini Doc).

The Double-Platinum-selling Would You Go With Me, featured on Your Man Deluxe Edition, experienced a viral surge across TikTok leading to a jump in streaming which landed the classic country tune on Spotify’s US Viral 50 along with Spotify Viral charts in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland. The song continues to be a fan favorite, currently posting more than a million streams per week and 1.5 million global streams weekly.

A native of South Carolina, Turner has been nominated for three GMA Dove awards and won his first GMA Dove Award in 2021 for I Saw The Light featuring Sonya Isaacs, off his I Serve a Savior album. Turner has received six Inspirational Country Music Awards and has been nominated for two GRAMMY Awards, five CMA Awards, two ACM Awards, one CMT Award, and seven ACA Awards.

Turner released his first Christmas album, King Size Manger, in 2021 and accompanying vinyl and DVD in 2022. To support music and arts education, he created The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund For The Arts to help students pursue their studies in these fields.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678982039906.jpeg" alt="Josh Turner. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre" />
 <figcaption>Josh Turner. Photo courtesy Stiefel Theatre</figcaption>
 </figure>By SALINA POSTJosh Turner is coming to Salina's Stiefel Theatre in July.Turner is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. July 29 in the Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.Tickets start at $49 and go on sale at noon on Friday. Buy online at <a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>.About Josh Turner courtesy the Stiefel TheatreWith his deep bass voice, Turner has sold more than 6.5 million records, reached 4.8 billion global streams, and has become a favorite and unforgettable hitmaker on country radio. With timeless songs like Long Black Train&nbsp; and Why Don’t We Just Dance, Turner’s five No. 1 singles include Your Man, of which the official music video surpassed 100 million views. Turner released Your Man Deluxe Edition, celebrating 15 years of Turner’s iconic double Platinum-selling album, as well as the mini-documentary Josh Turner Your Man 15th Anniversary (Mini Doc). The Double-Platinum-selling Would You Go With Me, featured on Your Man Deluxe Edition, experienced a viral surge across TikTok leading to a jump in streaming which landed the classic country tune on Spotify’s US Viral 50 along with Spotify Viral charts in Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland. The song continues to be a fan favorite, currently posting more than a million streams per week and 1.5 million global streams weekly. A native of South Carolina, Turner has been nominated for three GMA Dove awards and won his first GMA Dove Award in 2021 for I Saw The Light featuring Sonya Isaacs, off his I Serve a Savior album. Turner has received six Inspirational Country Music Awards and has been nominated for two GRAMMY Awards, five CMA Awards, two ACM Awards, one CMT Award, and seven ACA Awards. Turner released his first Christmas album, King Size Manger, in 2021 and accompanying vinyl and DVD in 2022. To support music and arts education, he created The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund For The Arts to help students pursue their studies in these fields.

Josh Turner concert set for Salina's Stiefel Theatre

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

A downed power line is responsible for starting the&nbsp;400-acre grassfire west of Manhattan on Wednesday, according to&nbsp; Riley County Fire District #1.

RILEY COUNTY - Just after 3:30 p.m. Riley County Volunteer Fire Crews were called out to the 2500 Block of Hidden Valley Road on the report of a grass fire.

Steep terrain, dry conditions and wind gusting upwards of 45 mph have made containing and extinguishing the fire more challenging.

Riley County Fire called in assistance from Manhattan Fire Department and Fort Riley Fire Department as mutual aid.

More than 25 firefighters responded to the fire, and as of 6:00 pm, the fire was approximately 70% contained.

Cause of the fire and extent of damage is to be determined.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostA downed power line is responsible for starting the&nbsp;400-acre grassfire west of Manhattan on Wednesday, according to&nbsp; Riley County Fire District #1.-----------RILEY COUNTY - Just after 3:30 p.m. Riley County Volunteer Fire Crews were called out to the 2500 Block of Hidden Valley Road on the report of a grass fire.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d19650.529069103177!2d-96.69172777555166!3d39.21562445222344!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bdc9599442807b%3A0xaef7dcfc2030e5ba!2s2500%20Hidden%20Valley%20Trl%2C%20Manhattan%2C%20KS%2066503!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1678921744423!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Steep terrain, dry conditions and wind gusting upwards of 45 mph have made containing and extinguishing the fire more challenging.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678921870568.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Riley County Fire called in assistance from Manhattan Fire Department and Fort Riley Fire Department as mutual aid.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678922120781.jpeg" alt="Riley County Fire Brush truck refilling with water" />
 <figcaption>Riley County Fire Brush truck refilling with water</figcaption>
 </figure>More than 25 firefighters responded to the fire, and as of 6:00 pm, the fire was approximately 70% contained.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678922201334.jpeg" alt="Firefighters lighting backfire to stop Hidden Valley Fire" />
 <figcaption>Firefighters lighting backfire to stop Hidden Valley Fire</figcaption>
 </figure>Cause of the fire and extent of damage is to be determined.

Officials determine cause of 400 acre fire west of Manhattan

GEARY COUNTY - Geary County Public Works is accepting bids until March 31, 2023, for an interior painting project.

Companies interested in painting the interior at the 4-H Senior Citizens Center, located at 1025 Spring Valley Road must submit a sealed bid to the Geary County Public Works Office located at 310 East 8th Street by 4:30 pm on March 31st, 2023.

The bids will be opened during the County Commissioners meeting on April 3, 2023 at 11:15 am.

For more information, please contact the Public Works office at 785-238-3612, or visit their office located at 310 E 8th Street.

by BECKY GOFF JC PostGEARY COUNTY - Geary County Public Works is accepting bids until March 31, 2023, for an interior painting project.Companies interested in painting the interior at the 4-H Senior Citizens Center, located at 1025 Spring Valley Road must submit a sealed bid to the Geary County Public Works Office located at 310 East 8th Street by 4:30 pm on March 31st, 2023.The bids will be opened during the County Commissioners meeting on April 3, 2023 at 11:15 am.For more information, please contact the Public Works office at 785-238-3612, or visit their office located at 310 E 8th Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678967515810.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Geary County Public Works accepting bids for painting project

GEARY COUNTY — Geary County Emergency Management has issued a Burn Ban for Thursday, March 16.

Please recheck all previous burns for any possible rekindle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

GEARY COUNTY — Geary County Emergency Management has issued a Burn Ban for Thursday, March 16.Please recheck all previous burns for any possible rekindle.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgearyem%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0pgePY7HyMdUJcjNCu9XNNiuAXET18ic6nat4k6Jaw7Qm1DaEFYk296gW9FEpeJgel&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="508" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

NO BURNING! Geary Co. issues Burn Ban for 3/16

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.

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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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/2023/3/1678966594556.jpeg" alt="Scott Taylor Shannon, Failure to appear; arrested 3/15" />
 <figcaption>Scott Taylor Shannon, Failure to appear; arrested 3/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678966670116.jpeg" alt="Cinderella Cindy Jackson, Failure to appear; arrested 3/15" />
 <figcaption>Cinderella Cindy Jackson, Failure to appear; arrested 3/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678966792350.jpeg" alt="Herbert Ray Jones Second Possession of controlled substance, unknown substance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required; Unsafe turning or stopping; Failure to give proper signal; arrested 3/15" />
 <figcaption>Herbert Ray Jones Second Possession of controlled substance, unknown substance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required; Unsafe turning or stopping; Failure to give proper signal; arrested 3/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678967037964.jpeg" alt="Marvin Ray Roush Junior, Failure to appear; arrested 3/15" />
 <figcaption>Marvin Ray Roush Junior, Failure to appear; arrested 3/15</figcaption>
 </figure>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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos March 16

By JOSEPH SIEMANDEL DVIDS

In preparation for another busy annual training, leaders from the 1041st
 Transportation Company drove more than 3,000 miles in six days across 
eight states. 
“This is easily one of the longest CONUS (Continental United States) 
convoy movements any Washington National Guard unit has conducted in 
recent history or maybe ever,” said Capt. Luis Torres, commander, 1041st
 Transportation Company. 
This year, the unit will leverage its annual training to help prepare for
 its mobilization support force tasking assigned to the unit as part of 
its federal mission. This mission requires units from across the nation 
that would help stand up and run mobilization sites throughout the 
continental United States. 
Staff Sgt. Bryan Calvillo, Sergeant 1st Class Nathan Brogan and Torres 
hit the road driving from Washington through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, 
Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado and Utah as part of the reconnaissance. They 
visited various military installations and armories to coordinate rest 
and maintenance support locations for the upcoming annual training. This
 July, soldiers will convoy in their tactical vehicles more than 4,000 
miles to and from Fort Riley to validate the unit’s primary and 
alternate routes and its ability to rapidly conduct an interstate 
deployment. 
“The soldiers love what they do, and they love to drive. That’s one of 
the reasons they chose to be 88Ms,” said Torres. “This will stress test 
the unit and our ability to be ready.” 
Rest and maintenance sites are key strategic locations that will allow 
soldiers to take a break and conduct vehicle upkeep. This reconnaissance
 mission was a key component of planning and leverages the unit’s 
ability to coordinate interstate cooperation and collaboration as they 
travel thousands of miles across the western half of the United States. 
Soldiers will travel far enough that you could do a round trip from 
North to South of the US or easily from coast to coast. 
During the last few years, the unit has enjoyed out-of-the-box thinking 
and deliberate planning to ensure realistic and challenging training 
that is enjoyable to the soldiers. In recent years, the 1041st 
Transportation Company has supported large scale exercises to include 
the nationwide Moves to Camp Roberts, Cal. and Maple Resolve in 
Wainwright Alberta, Canada. The last two years, they traveled to Fort 
Harrison, MT. and Dugway Proving Grounds, UT. These types of annual 
trainings have helped increase recruitment and retention in the company 
as well as set the bar when it comes to transportation training. 
“Last year’s trip to Dugway Proving Grounds was roughly 2,000&nbsp; miles roundtrip, and we are looking forward to doubling that and 
continuing the movements,” said Torres. “We are looking forward to this 
year as well.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Defense Visual Information Distribution Service in a division of the U.S. Department of Defense.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678826287877.png" alt="Sergeant 1st Class Nathan Brogan and Staff Sgt. Bryan Calvillo stand in front of the sign at an armory for the 115th Field Artillery Brigade, Wyoming Army National Guard in Cheyanne on Feb. 21. (Courtesy photo) " />
 <figcaption>Sergeant 1st Class Nathan Brogan and Staff Sgt. Bryan Calvillo stand in front of the sign at an armory for the 115th Field Artillery Brigade, Wyoming Army National Guard in Cheyanne on Feb. 21. (Courtesy photo) </figcaption>
 </figure>By JOSEPH SIEMANDEL DVIDSIn preparation for another busy annual training, leaders from the 1041st
 Transportation Company drove more than 3,000 miles in six days across 
eight states. 
“This is easily one of the longest CONUS (Continental United States) 
convoy movements any Washington National Guard unit has conducted in 
recent history or maybe ever,” said Capt. Luis Torres, commander, 1041st
 Transportation Company. 
This year, the unit will leverage its annual training to help prepare for
 its mobilization support force tasking assigned to the unit as part of 
its federal mission. This mission requires units from across the nation 
that would help stand up and run mobilization sites throughout the 
continental United States. 
Staff Sgt. Bryan Calvillo, Sergeant 1st Class Nathan Brogan and Torres 
hit the road driving from Washington through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, 
Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado and Utah as part of the reconnaissance. They 
visited various military installations and armories to coordinate rest 
and maintenance support locations for the upcoming annual training. This
 July, soldiers will convoy in their tactical vehicles more than 4,000 
miles to and from Fort Riley to validate the unit’s primary and 
alternate routes and its ability to rapidly conduct an interstate 
deployment. 
“The soldiers love what they do, and they love to drive. That’s one of 
the reasons they chose to be 88Ms,” said Torres. “This will stress test 
the unit and our ability to be ready.” 
Rest and maintenance sites are key strategic locations that will allow 
soldiers to take a break and conduct vehicle upkeep. This reconnaissance
 mission was a key component of planning and leverages the unit’s 
ability to coordinate interstate cooperation and collaboration as they 
travel thousands of miles across the western half of the United States. 
Soldiers will travel far enough that you could do a round trip from 
North to South of the US or easily from coast to coast. 
During the last few years, the unit has enjoyed out-of-the-box thinking 
and deliberate planning to ensure realistic and challenging training 
that is enjoyable to the soldiers. In recent years, the 1041st 
Transportation Company has supported large scale exercises to include 
the nationwide Moves to Camp Roberts, Cal. and Maple Resolve in 
Wainwright Alberta, Canada. The last two years, they traveled to Fort 
Harrison, MT. and Dugway Proving Grounds, UT. These types of annual 
trainings have helped increase recruitment and retention in the company 
as well as set the bar when it comes to transportation training. 
“Last year’s trip to Dugway Proving Grounds was roughly 2,000&nbsp; miles roundtrip, and we are looking forward to doubling that and 
continuing the movements,” said Torres. “We are looking forward to this 
year as well.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The Defense Visual Information Distribution Service in a division of the U.S. Department of Defense.

Fort Riley on the map for historical annual training mission

MANHATTAN — The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce has announced Christian Bishop will fill the role of military relations manager.

Bishop has been a liaison between Fort Riley and the Flint Hills community for nearly 15 years while working at Fort Riley.

She will continue to build the relationship between Fort Riley and the Manhattan Region.

“We couldn’t be happier to have Christian joining the Chamber team and leading the incredibly important program,” said Jason Smith, president and CEO of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce. “We had identified her early in the process as a leading candidate for this position. With her knowledge and connections of both Manhattan and Fort Riley, we know she will hit the ground running and play a huge part of making key connections to protect and grow our relationship with the post.”

Bishop currently works at Fort Riley as the Outreach Services Director for Child and Youth Services. Prior to this, she spent three years as a Protocol Specialist in the 1st&nbsp;Infantry Division Headquarters as the lead planner and coordinator for a variety of functions involving community and Fort Riley Leadership. Bishop began her career at Fort Riley as the Child Development Director in Child and Youth Services. She is a graduate of Kansas State University.

“I am excited to join the chamber and build on the relationships between Manhattan and the Fort Riley Community,” Bishop said. “Our collaboration is essential in providing quality of life to soldiers and families during their time at Fort Riley, but also ensuring they choose Manhattan as a place to call their home.”

The chamber’s military relations program is a joint venture between the City of Manhattan, Riley County, the Little Apple Brigade and private business investment through the chamber’s economic development program, Advantage Manhattan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678821678600.jpeg" alt="Christian Bishop" />
 <figcaption>Christian Bishop</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN — The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce has announced Christian Bishop will fill the role of military relations manager.Bishop has been a liaison between Fort Riley and the Flint Hills community for nearly 15 years while working at Fort Riley.She will continue to build the relationship between Fort Riley and the Manhattan Region.“We couldn’t be happier to have Christian joining the Chamber team and leading the incredibly important program,” said Jason Smith, president and CEO of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce. “We had identified her early in the process as a leading candidate for this position. With her knowledge and connections of both Manhattan and Fort Riley, we know she will hit the ground running and play a huge part of making key connections to protect and grow our relationship with the post.”Bishop currently works at Fort Riley as the Outreach Services Director for Child and Youth Services. Prior to this, she spent three years as a Protocol Specialist in the 1st&nbsp;Infantry Division Headquarters as the lead planner and coordinator for a variety of functions involving community and Fort Riley Leadership. Bishop began her career at Fort Riley as the Child Development Director in Child and Youth Services. She is a graduate of Kansas State University.“I am excited to join the chamber and build on the relationships between Manhattan and the Fort Riley Community,” Bishop said. “Our collaboration is essential in providing quality of life to soldiers and families during their time at Fort Riley, but also ensuring they choose Manhattan as a place to call their home.”The chamber’s military relations program is a joint venture between the City of Manhattan, Riley County, the Little Apple Brigade and private business investment through the chamber’s economic development program, Advantage Manhattan.

Military relations manager announced by MHK chamber

Registration closes Friday for the March 23 Military Affairs Council breakfast.

Speakers will include Rick&nbsp;Dykstra, who will be share information about the Geary County 
outdoors, and Lexi Knust from Fort Riley, who will share information 
about the Fort Riley outdoors and the recreational opportunities in the 
area.

For more information, call (785) 762-2632 or email 
mac@jcacc.org. Register for MAC breakfast <a href="https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/mac-breakfast.html">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678810217838.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JC PostRegistration closes Friday for the March 23 Military Affairs Council breakfast.Speakers will include Rick&nbsp;Dykstra, who will be share information about the Geary County 
outdoors, and Lexi Knust from Fort Riley, who will share information 
about the Fort Riley outdoors and the recreational opportunities in the 
area.For more information, call (785) 762-2632 or email 
mac@jcacc.org. Register for MAC breakfast <a href="https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/mac-breakfast.html">HERE</a>.&nbsp; <div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FJCACCKS%2Fposts%2Fpfbid021aeGxUfY9a9yFFBqjr2EJnQpBbmYPawGMN6PuLXt2BeiBffoA1fVzVYhUxfqXQiVl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="610" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Outdoors the focus of upcoming Military Affairs Council breakfast

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is partnering with the <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/kscac/">Kansas State College Advising Corps</a>
 and other state institutions of higher education to co-sponsor Latinos 
to College/Hacia La Universidad Kansas, a series of events aimed at 
helping Latino students and their families prepare for college and 
careers.&nbsp;

The events are cooperative efforts between Kansas employers, schools, community organizations and post-secondary institutions.&nbsp;

Now in its fourth year, the Latinos to College program is expanding and will be offering events in three locations:

• Kansas City area: March 25, Kansas State University Olathe Campus. • Southwest Kansas: April 15, Dodge City High School. • Central Kansas/Wichita: April 29, Derby High School.

"Unfortunately, there has been a sharp decline in the number of 
Latino students enrolling in college," said Laura Loyacono, director of 
engagement and development at Kansas State College Advising Corps. 
"These events address the acute need for post-secondary planning in the 
Latino communities across Kansas and serve to connect families to 
available resources, including financial aid, scholarships and community
 support."

All events are fully bilingual: marketing, materials and all sessions
 are presented in English and Spanish. Presenters are all bilingual, and
 each participant can choose the format — English or Spanish — in which 
to participate. Topics to be covered include tips for preparing for the 
ACT, financial aid timeline and materials needed to apply, scholarships,
 dual enrollment and advanced credit. Students and their families will 
have the opportunity to visit with colleges and community organizations.
 Speakers at the events will include alumni and current students from 
sponsoring and participating institutions.

Lead sponsors include Kansas State University, the University of 
Kansas, the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City Kansas 
Community College and Wichita State University. Participating 
institutions include Johnson County Community College, Donnelly College,
 Fort Hays State University, Baker University, the University of Kansas 
School of Medicine, Dodge City Community College and Garden City 
Community College.

K-State NewsMANHATTAN — Kansas State University is partnering with the <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/kscac/">Kansas State College Advising Corps</a>
 and other state institutions of higher education to co-sponsor Latinos 
to College/Hacia La Universidad Kansas, a series of events aimed at 
helping Latino students and their families prepare for college and 
careers.&nbsp;The events are cooperative efforts between Kansas employers, schools, community organizations and post-secondary institutions.&nbsp;Now in its fourth year, the Latinos to College program is expanding and will be offering events in three locations:• Kansas City area: March 25, Kansas State University Olathe Campus. • Southwest Kansas: April 15, Dodge City High School. • Central Kansas/Wichita: April 29, Derby High School."Unfortunately, there has been a sharp decline in the number of 
Latino students enrolling in college," said Laura Loyacono, director of 
engagement and development at Kansas State College Advising Corps. 
"These events address the acute need for post-secondary planning in the 
Latino communities across Kansas and serve to connect families to 
available resources, including financial aid, scholarships and community
 support."All events are fully bilingual: marketing, materials and all sessions
 are presented in English and Spanish. Presenters are all bilingual, and
 each participant can choose the format — English or Spanish — in which 
to participate. Topics to be covered include tips for preparing for the 
ACT, financial aid timeline and materials needed to apply, scholarships,
 dual enrollment and advanced credit. Students and their families will 
have the opportunity to visit with colleges and community organizations.
 Speakers at the events will include alumni and current students from 
sponsoring and participating institutions.Lead sponsors include Kansas State University, the University of 
Kansas, the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City Kansas 
Community College and Wichita State University. Participating 
institutions include Johnson County Community College, Donnelly College,
 Fort Hays State University, Baker University, the University of Kansas 
School of Medicine, Dodge City Community College and Garden City 
Community College.

K-State co-sponsors events to expand outreach to Latinos

TOPEKA — A new website created by the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, in collaboration with industry experts, provides a close-up look at all 140 public-use airports across the state and their impact on the communities they serve. Online dashboards provide the conditions of airport runways, economic impact data, future airport needs and more.

According to the dashboard, the Hutchinson Airport as of 2022 has an economic output of $22,534,223, supports 155 jobs and $6,047,638 in wages. This is an extrapolation from a 2016 study conducted by Burns &amp; McDonnell.

&nbsp;“Every airport serves a unique and important role for their community,” said Bob Brock, KDOT Director of Aviation. “It is this uniqueness that makes credible data on individual airports even more important to local, state and national decision-makers.”

&nbsp;The Division of Aviation worked with aviation industry leaders to publish key airport performance data online. Two new tools on this website offer precise aviation economic impact data for each community as well as current information on the status of airport pavement health used to program long-term airport investments.

The airport pavement health condition of the Hutchinson Airport is consistently below state averages for runways, taxiways, apron and taxilane. There are 13 total recommended projects for the airport on the website from 2023 to 2025.

&nbsp;The website address is:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMTUuNzMzOTg4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FpcmthbnNhcy5rc2RvdC5nb3YvQWlyUGVyZkRhc2guaHRtbD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.fMzpxZt6RFPUB6KJto8_WdiN03H6tKRVMg65Si9c8HQ/s/2129667343/br/156206047134-l" target="_blank">https://airkansas.ksdot.gov/AirPerfDash.html</a>

&nbsp;“With this combination of data for every airport, KDOT expects significant improvement in projects that deliver the most positive impact for the community as well as increased capacity to complete projects more efficiently,” Brock said.

&nbsp;The KDOT Aviation website includes information on how communities and airport operators can apply for grants, most notably through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program. For 22 years, KAIP grants have enabled communities to partner with KDOT on 820-plus airport improvement projects totaling nearly $200 million in value. In turn, these Kansas public-use airports support nearly 34,000 jobs and roughly $11 billion of on-airport economic impact within the state.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643373407439.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — A new website created by the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation, in collaboration with industry experts, provides a close-up look at all 140 public-use airports across the state and their impact on the communities they serve. Online dashboards provide the conditions of airport runways, economic impact data, future airport needs and more.According to the dashboard, the Hutchinson Airport as of 2022 has an economic output of $22,534,223, supports 155 jobs and $6,047,638 in wages. This is an extrapolation from a 2016 study conducted by Burns &amp; McDonnell.&nbsp;“Every airport serves a unique and important role for their community,” said Bob Brock, KDOT Director of Aviation. “It is this uniqueness that makes credible data on individual airports even more important to local, state and national decision-makers.”&nbsp;The Division of Aviation worked with aviation industry leaders to publish key airport performance data online. Two new tools on this website offer precise aviation economic impact data for each community as well as current information on the status of airport pavement health used to program long-term airport investments.The airport pavement health condition of the Hutchinson Airport is consistently below state averages for runways, taxiways, apron and taxilane. There are 13 total recommended projects for the airport on the website from 2023 to 2025.&nbsp;The website address is:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAzMTUuNzMzOTg4MjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2FpcmthbnNhcy5rc2RvdC5nb3YvQWlyUGVyZkRhc2guaHRtbD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkifQ.fMzpxZt6RFPUB6KJto8_WdiN03H6tKRVMg65Si9c8HQ/s/2129667343/br/156206047134-l" target="_blank">https://airkansas.ksdot.gov/AirPerfDash.html</a>&nbsp;“With this combination of data for every airport, KDOT expects significant improvement in projects that deliver the most positive impact for the community as well as increased capacity to complete projects more efficiently,” Brock said.&nbsp;The KDOT Aviation website includes information on how communities and airport operators can apply for grants, most notably through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program. For 22 years, KAIP grants have enabled communities to partner with KDOT on 820-plus airport improvement projects totaling nearly $200 million in value. In turn, these Kansas public-use airports support nearly 34,000 jobs and roughly $11 billion of on-airport economic impact within the state.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Website gives airport impact stats, construction needs

MANHATTAN–&nbsp;Law enforcement authorities have made three arrests in connection to the March 6 shooting at the Sunset Zoo parking lot in Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Edgar Torres, 17, Christian Soto, 18, and Carlos Rodiguez, 23, all of Manhattan, were each arrested Wednesday on requested aggravated robbery charges.

They investigation led police to believe the three robbed two other men aged 17 and 20, at gunpoint. During the robbery, Rodiguez was shot in the neck by the 17-year-old victim. All parties involved, except for Rodiguez, had left the scene when officers arrived. He was transported to Via Christi and later to Stormont Vail for further treatment and was released last week.

Soto and Rodiguez are being held in the Riley County Jail with $80,000 bonds each. Torres has been transported to the North Central Kansas Juvenile Detention Facility in Junction City.

Police are still seeking information on the person in the picture released on March 13. The person has yet to be identified and we are asking anyone with information to please call us at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777.&nbsp;He was seen by multiple witnesses running from the area of Sunset Zoo shortly after the shooting and we'd like to speak with him about his possible involvement in the incident.

Our investigation into this incident is still ongoing and we will provide updates when they become available.

We would like to thank the community for their continued cooperation and assistance in this case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678733301954.jpeg" alt="Police are still seeking information on another suspect in connection with the crime. Police have yet to identify him." />
 <figcaption>Police are still seeking information on another suspect in connection with the crime. Police have yet to identify him.</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN–&nbsp;Law enforcement authorities have made three arrests in connection to the March 6 shooting at the Sunset Zoo parking lot in Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Edgar Torres, 17, Christian Soto, 18, and Carlos Rodiguez, 23, all of Manhattan, were each arrested Wednesday on requested aggravated robbery charges.They investigation led police to believe the three robbed two other men aged 17 and 20, at gunpoint. During the robbery, Rodiguez was shot in the neck by the 17-year-old victim. All parties involved, except for Rodiguez, had left the scene when officers arrived. He was transported to Via Christi and later to Stormont Vail for further treatment and was released last week.Soto and Rodiguez are being held in the Riley County Jail with $80,000 bonds each. Torres has been transported to the North Central Kansas Juvenile Detention Facility in Junction City.Police are still seeking information on the person in the picture released on March 13. The person has yet to be identified and we are asking anyone with information to please call us at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777.&nbsp;He was seen by multiple witnesses running from the area of Sunset Zoo shortly after the shooting and we'd like to speak with him about his possible involvement in the incident.Our investigation into this incident is still ongoing and we will provide updates when they become available.We would like to thank the community for their continued cooperation and assistance in this case.

3 arrested in for Sunset Zoo parking lot shooting

MARION — Two Junction City residents were arrested early Tuesday morning in Marion County on suspicion of drug offenses.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office reported that just after 1 a.m. Tuesday, a K9 deputy initiated a traffic stop at Highway 50 and Quail Creek Road. 

K9 Blue was deployed. During a search of the vehicle, fentanyl, marijuana and paraphernalia were located and seized, the sheriff's office reported.

Michael Henderson, 20, Junction City, was arrested on suspicion of drug distribution and drug possession.

Marcia Grayson, 18, Junction City, was taken in custody on suspicion of drug distribution, drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to jail records.

MARION — Two Junction City residents were arrested early Tuesday morning in Marion County on suspicion of drug offenses.The Marion County Sheriff's Office reported that just after 1 a.m. Tuesday, a K9 deputy initiated a traffic stop at Highway 50 and Quail Creek Road. K9 Blue was deployed. During a search of the vehicle, fentanyl, marijuana and paraphernalia were located and seized, the sheriff's office reported.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678912895693.png" alt="Henderson / Marion Co. photo" />
 <figcaption>Henderson / Marion Co. photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Michael Henderson, 20, Junction City, was arrested on suspicion of drug distribution and drug possession.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678912918094.png" alt="Grayson / Marion Co. photo" />
 <figcaption>Grayson / Marion Co. photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Marcia Grayson, 18, Junction City, was taken in custody on suspicion of drug distribution, drug possession and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to jail records.

Two from Junction City arrested in Marion Co. on drug allegations

After a warm, windy Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka said a cold front will quickly bring weather back to the Manhattan-Junction City&nbsp; area.

South winds gusting up to 45 mph have led to a wind advisory through 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Rain is expected to arrive in the area before 4 p.m. Thursday, and a daytime high near 60 degrees will quickly drop into the 20s. There is a 60 percent chance of rain Thursday, with a 30 percent chance of snow in the evening hours as the mercury drops.

Skies will clear by Friday, but cold, windy conditions will persist into the weekend, the NWS said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678900331373.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>After a warm, windy Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka said a cold front will quickly bring weather back to the Manhattan-Junction City&nbsp; area.South winds gusting up to 45 mph have led to a wind advisory through 7 p.m. Wednesday.Rain is expected to arrive in the area before 4 p.m. Thursday, and a daytime high near 60 degrees will quickly drop into the 20s. There is a 60 percent chance of rain Thursday, with a 30 percent chance of snow in the evening hours as the mercury drops.Skies will clear by Friday, but cold, windy conditions will persist into the weekend, the NWS said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Big changes on the way! Warmer and breezy tomorrow before a strong cold front arrives Thursday morning. Could see some brief light snow Thursday PM as the colder air moves in, as well more breezy conditions. Staying much colder through the weekend. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/wOt02qbpl4">pic.twitter.com/wOt02qbpl4</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1635764815426899968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Warm, windy Wednesday will quickly change to wintry Thursday

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a report of an alleged porch pirate in Manhattan.

Just after 11a.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 2700 block of N. Brookglen Circle in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 A 48-year-old woman reported mail that was delivered to her front porch containing around $35,500 worth of prescription pills was stolen. 

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#" target="_blank">Crime Stoppers</a>&nbsp;and be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a report of an alleged porch pirate in Manhattan.Just after 11a.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 2700 block of N. Brookglen Circle in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 48-year-old woman reported mail that was delivered to her front porch containing around $35,500 worth of prescription pills was stolen. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#" target="_blank">Crime Stoppers</a>&nbsp;and be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: $35,000 in prescription pills stolen from front porch

A "St. Patty's Day Potato Bar" luncheon is planned from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Friday at the Episcopal Church, 4th and Adams Streets, Junction City. The event is a fundraiser for the United Way of Junction City-Geary County.&nbsp;

Menu is baked potato, toppings and bottled water.&nbsp; Pre-orders and delivery are available at 785-238-2117.&nbsp; Meal cost is $6 with all proceeds going to United Way.&nbsp; Food sponsors are Wendy's, Tyme Out and Godfrey's.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633444984533.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A "St. Patty's Day Potato Bar" luncheon is planned from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Friday at the Episcopal Church, 4th and Adams Streets, Junction City. The event is a fundraiser for the United Way of Junction City-Geary County.&nbsp;Menu is baked potato, toppings and bottled water.&nbsp; Pre-orders and delivery are available at 785-238-2117.&nbsp; Meal cost is $6 with all proceeds going to United Way.&nbsp; Food sponsors are Wendy's, Tyme Out and Godfrey's.

St. Patty's Day United Way Fundraiser

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club met March 15 at the Hampton Inn for their weekly meeting. President Nita Miller shared that the YMCA needs contributions to purchase a divider curtain in their gym to provide play space and eating space for youth. The Optimist Club agreed to donate $500.00 towards the purchase of the curtain.

Lance Custer was the guest speaker. Lance and his wife Michelle have lived in Junction City for 24 years and have two daughters. He is a coach and trainer for people in the real estate business.

Lance asked club members what they knew about the real estate market in Junction City and then shared that in October of 2018 Junction City had 235 houses on the market, 58 pending and 278 sold in the last 6 months. On March 12 of this year there were 60 houses on the market, 93 pending and 237 sold in the last 6 months. The average price of a house in 2018 was $130,702 and in 2023 the average price was $174,524. “It is a builder’s market right now, but not enough builders are willing to take the risk because of the uncertainty of the economy and recent bank failures”, he said.

As a coach and trainer, Mr. Custer’s training sessions are done on zoom in half hour segments for people in the United States and Canada. For him to improve his sessions, he is monitored for the time he talks and the time the trainee talks. Lance stated that “The goal is for me to talk 10% of the time. I get feedback from the trainee and the monitoring system to measure the time spent talking and listening, an analysis of my conversations, alignment and communication and my empathy towards the client.” The goal is to listen more and talk less.

Lance recently attended a Phil Jones conference in California where the topic was “Exactly What To Say – Change your words. Change your world.” In the presentation he learned about ways to ask questions of a trainees to get them thinking for themselves to solve problems or issues. Some examples include “When would be a good time?”; “Are you open minded about….”; “You have three options”; “Help me understand”; “What happens next?” and others.

Next week the JC Breakfast Optimist Club will recognize a JCHS Student of the Month and a volunteer who has been “Making A Difference For Youth”.

The Club meets every Wednesday morning at the Hampton Inn at 1039 S. Washington Street in Junction City. A breakfast buffet is available at 6:00 a.m., the meeting begins at 6:50 a.m. and concludes at 7:30 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678894684329.jpeg" alt="JC Breakfast Optimist Club President Nita&nbsp; Miller with Guest Speaker Lance Custer" />
 <figcaption>JC Breakfast Optimist Club President Nita&nbsp; Miller with Guest Speaker Lance Custer</figcaption>
 </figure>By Ferrell MillerThe JC Breakfast Optimist Club met March 15 at the Hampton Inn for their weekly meeting. President Nita Miller shared that the YMCA needs contributions to purchase a divider curtain in their gym to provide play space and eating space for youth. The Optimist Club agreed to donate $500.00 towards the purchase of the curtain.Lance Custer was the guest speaker. Lance and his wife Michelle have lived in Junction City for 24 years and have two daughters. He is a coach and trainer for people in the real estate business.Lance asked club members what they knew about the real estate market in Junction City and then shared that in October of 2018 Junction City had 235 houses on the market, 58 pending and 278 sold in the last 6 months. On March 12 of this year there were 60 houses on the market, 93 pending and 237 sold in the last 6 months. The average price of a house in 2018 was $130,702 and in 2023 the average price was $174,524. “It is a builder’s market right now, but not enough builders are willing to take the risk because of the uncertainty of the economy and recent bank failures”, he said.As a coach and trainer, Mr. Custer’s training sessions are done on zoom in half hour segments for people in the United States and Canada. For him to improve his sessions, he is monitored for the time he talks and the time the trainee talks. Lance stated that “The goal is for me to talk 10% of the time. I get feedback from the trainee and the monitoring system to measure the time spent talking and listening, an analysis of my conversations, alignment and communication and my empathy towards the client.” The goal is to listen more and talk less.Lance recently attended a Phil Jones conference in California where the topic was “Exactly What To Say – Change your words. Change your world.” In the presentation he learned about ways to ask questions of a trainees to get them thinking for themselves to solve problems or issues. Some examples include “When would be a good time?”; “Are you open minded about….”; “You have three options”; “Help me understand”; “What happens next?” and others.Next week the JC Breakfast Optimist Club will recognize a JCHS Student of the Month and a volunteer who has been “Making A Difference For Youth”.The Club meets every Wednesday morning at the Hampton Inn at 1039 S. Washington Street in Junction City. A breakfast buffet is available at 6:00 a.m., the meeting begins at 6:50 a.m. and concludes at 7:30 a.m.

Real Estate Coach/Trainer speaks to Optimist

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon for alleged use of counterfeit money.

Just after 3p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 33-year-old Jamie Berges of St. George after being transported from the Pottawatomie County Jail for her Riley County District Court warrant for failure to appear, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 The warrant stems from a February 13, 2020, incident where it was reported Berges attempted to purchase cigarettes with fake money. Berges remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $40,000.&nbsp; She has previous convictions for drugs and theft, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592230318906.png" alt="Berges-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Berges-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon for alleged use of counterfeit money.Just after 3p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 33-year-old Jamie Berges of St. George after being transported from the Pottawatomie County Jail for her Riley County District Court warrant for failure to appear, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The warrant stems from a February 13, 2020, incident where it was reported Berges attempted to purchase cigarettes with fake money. Berges remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $40,000.&nbsp; She has previous convictions for drugs and theft, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Woman with a history of crime accused of using counterfeit cash

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/2023/3/1678885655206.jpeg" alt="Cinderella Cindy Jackson, Failure to appear, arrested 3/15" />
 <figcaption>Cinderella Cindy Jackson, Failure to appear, arrested 3/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678885816802.jpeg" alt="Kevin DeShawn Seldon, Unlawful damage to property; arrested 3/14" />
 <figcaption>Kevin DeShawn Seldon, Unlawful damage to property; arrested 3/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678885866399.jpeg" alt="Obadiah Osiri Okari, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; arrested 3/15" />
 <figcaption>Obadiah Osiri Okari, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; arrested 3/15</figcaption>
 </figure>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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos March 15

Fort Riley has updated its access control system called Automated Installation Entry for non-Department of Defense Identification cardholders. There is no change in access procedures for current DoD ID cardholders nor for anyone under age 18.

For visitors to Fort Riley who do not have a DoD identification card, a state-issued REAL ID compliant driver’s license may be used as an authorized credential for access after registering online at&nbsp;<a href="https://pass.aie.army.mil/riley">https://pass.aie.army.mil</a>. Registered and approved guests may have their IDs scanned at any open access control point.

Passes are only valid for the duration of the visit, not to exceed seven days. Online pass applications require a cell phone number for text communications and are only processed during Visitor Control Center operating hours. Visitors are encouraged to submit pass applications at least 24 hours in advance of their planned visit. After successful vetting, visitors will receive a text message informing them of either denial or confirmation that their license can be used for access. Security personnel at the access control point will verify for REAL ID Act compliance and scan for approved access.

The Visitor Control Center will continue to issue paper passes for those guests who do not use the online system or do not have a REAL ID. The Visitor Control Center is located near Henry Gate at Exit 301 off I-70.&nbsp;

The REAL ID Act is a federal policy which establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards. The purposes covered by the Act are: accessing Federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and, boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.&nbsp; Fort Riley visitors can view their state's current compliance status and learn more at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.">https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.</a>

For more information, click <a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/about/visitor-info">HERE</a> or call the Visitor Control Center at 785-239-2982. The Visitor Control Center is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and federal holidays.

Fort Riley Public AffairsFort Riley has updated its access control system called Automated Installation Entry for non-Department of Defense Identification cardholders. There is no change in access procedures for current DoD ID cardholders nor for anyone under age 18.For visitors to Fort Riley who do not have a DoD identification card, a state-issued REAL ID compliant driver’s license may be used as an authorized credential for access after registering online at&nbsp;<a href="https://pass.aie.army.mil/riley">https://pass.aie.army.mil</a>. Registered and approved guests may have their IDs scanned at any open access control point.Passes are only valid for the duration of the visit, not to exceed seven days. Online pass applications require a cell phone number for text communications and are only processed during Visitor Control Center operating hours. Visitors are encouraged to submit pass applications at least 24 hours in advance of their planned visit. After successful vetting, visitors will receive a text message informing them of either denial or confirmation that their license can be used for access. Security personnel at the access control point will verify for REAL ID Act compliance and scan for approved access.The Visitor Control Center will continue to issue paper passes for those guests who do not use the online system or do not have a REAL ID. The Visitor Control Center is located near Henry Gate at Exit 301 off I-70.&nbsp;The REAL ID Act is a federal policy which establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards. The purposes covered by the Act are: accessing Federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and, boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.&nbsp; Fort Riley visitors can view their state's current compliance status and learn more at:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.">https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.</a>For more information, click <a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/about/visitor-info">HERE</a> or call the Visitor Control Center at 785-239-2982. The Visitor Control Center is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and federal holidays.

Fort Riley updates visitor access process as of Tuesday

Beginning March 28, part of K-177 will close for the second phase of
reconstruction. During this phase, K-177 will be closed for approximately 13.5 miles from
halfway between the K-4 junctions, continuing north to Interstate 70.


Both K-4 junctions will be kept open until around August, weather permitting, at which
time they will be closed as reconstruction nears completion.


Through traffic can follow the state detour from Council Grove to Herington to Junction
City (See attached map). K-177 is scheduled to reopen in October 2023, weather permitting.


Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. and Subsidiaries of Wichita is the primary contractor for this
$52.3 million project.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678801729375.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTBeginning March 28, part of K-177 will close for the second phase of
reconstruction. During this phase, K-177 will be closed for approximately 13.5 miles from
halfway between the K-4 junctions, continuing north to Interstate 70.
Both K-4 junctions will be kept open until around August, weather permitting, at which
time they will be closed as reconstruction nears completion.
Through traffic can follow the state detour from Council Grove to Herington to Junction
City (See attached map). K-177 is scheduled to reopen in October 2023, weather permitting.
Wildcat Construction Co. Inc. and Subsidiaries of Wichita is the primary contractor for this
$52.3 million project.

Road closure for K-177 reconstruction begins March 28

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Recently I attended the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Fusion Conference, which is a joint event between the Women’s, Programing &amp; Education, and Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers committees, in Jacksonville, Fla. One of my Collegiate Farm Bureau students won the state discussion meet and competed in the national event. In addition to coaching, I was a workshop presenter on the topic of work-life balance, with a former YFR leader from Florida that I am friends with. As I was packing to leave for the event, Marc and I were discussing my planned agenda for the event and I mentioned the workshop with my friend Morgan. Marc got a slightly confused look on his face and asked, “Do I know this Morgan?” That’s what is funny about the relationships we build at these events. Someone I have only known a few years, visit with at an occasional national event, and am friends with on Facebook feels like so much more than just a professional acquaintance. Morgan and I have a connection through our jobs, mutual respect as leaders and a shared understanding of our industry and lifestyle. Our friendship is easy because our lives are very similar. I also caught up with my college advisor from California, who I rarely get to see in person and is probably the most impactful mentor of my life. I visited with a fellow presenter who I have judged with in the past and respect tremendously. The conference organizer is a friend with whom I have a long professional and personal relationship. I am motivated and encouraged by time shared with my “far-away friends.” I come home with an enthusiastic and renewed sense of purpose. Great people are one of the reasons I love attending these conferences. In addition to seeing old friends, I love getting to know new people with interesting backgrounds, listen to the perspectives of speakers and learn what is happening in other places. The information gained through new connections increases my knowledge, challenges my current views and often helps me find new solutions for problems I wrestle with at home. Early in my career, I remember discussing as a board member whether or not to support a staff member’s request to attend a national conference. The board was divided in support of professional development verses funding constraints. The decision eventually came down to the board chair, who chose to approve the request. He told the group, “One of the most valuable things I have done in my career is attend conferences and meetings. I have always come away better and think there is tremendous value in participating.” Coming back better is one of the reasons we step outside our normal zones. I recently read that one of the most accurate predictors of career attainment is continuous learning and skill development. People who never stop growing are better off that people who were rose to top positions early career and maintained that position. There is tremendous value and opportunity that comes when you attend events like conferences, seminars and conventions. Sometimes you have to step away from your normal circle of interaction to find new and interesting things to bring back.&nbsp; If you have the chance to attend a conference or event, especially in a different part of the country, I hope you will embrace the opportunity, find people who make you better and gather lots of ideas that you can bring home to make your world just a little bit better. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Recently I attended the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Fusion Conference, which is a joint event between the Women’s, Programing &amp; Education, and Young Farmers &amp; Ranchers committees, in Jacksonville, Fla. One of my Collegiate Farm Bureau students won the state discussion meet and competed in the national event. In addition to coaching, I was a workshop presenter on the topic of work-life balance, with a former YFR leader from Florida that I am friends with. As I was packing to leave for the event, Marc and I were discussing my planned agenda for the event and I mentioned the workshop with my friend Morgan. Marc got a slightly confused look on his face and asked, “Do I know this Morgan?” That’s what is funny about the relationships we build at these events. Someone I have only known a few years, visit with at an occasional national event, and am friends with on Facebook feels like so much more than just a professional acquaintance. Morgan and I have a connection through our jobs, mutual respect as leaders and a shared understanding of our industry and lifestyle. Our friendship is easy because our lives are very similar. I also caught up with my college advisor from California, who I rarely get to see in person and is probably the most impactful mentor of my life. I visited with a fellow presenter who I have judged with in the past and respect tremendously. The conference organizer is a friend with whom I have a long professional and personal relationship. I am motivated and encouraged by time shared with my “far-away friends.” I come home with an enthusiastic and renewed sense of purpose. Great people are one of the reasons I love attending these conferences. In addition to seeing old friends, I love getting to know new people with interesting backgrounds, listen to the perspectives of speakers and learn what is happening in other places. The information gained through new connections increases my knowledge, challenges my current views and often helps me find new solutions for problems I wrestle with at home. Early in my career, I remember discussing as a board member whether or not to support a staff member’s request to attend a national conference. The board was divided in support of professional development verses funding constraints. The decision eventually came down to the board chair, who chose to approve the request. He told the group, “One of the most valuable things I have done in my career is attend conferences and meetings. I have always come away better and think there is tremendous value in participating.” Coming back better is one of the reasons we step outside our normal zones. I recently read that one of the most accurate predictors of career attainment is continuous learning and skill development. People who never stop growing are better off that people who were rose to top positions early career and maintained that position. There is tremendous value and opportunity that comes when you attend events like conferences, seminars and conventions. Sometimes you have to step away from your normal circle of interaction to find new and interesting things to bring back.&nbsp; If you have the chance to attend a conference or event, especially in a different part of the country, I hope you will embrace the opportunity, find people who make you better and gather lots of ideas that you can bring home to make your world just a little bit better. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Connecting across the country

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

RILEY COUNTY - On March 13, 2023, around 2:50 a.m., officers responded to the 6700 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd, on the report of a vehicle on fire.

Officers located a Pontiac Grand Prix on fire, and later found the owner, 22-year-old Trenton Richerson, of Marysville, walking in the 7300 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd.

RCPD officers determined that Richerson had been driving intoxicated before his vehicle was on fire.

Around 8:30 am, officers with the Riley County Police Department were called to the 7000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd on the report of burglary and criminal damage to property at Outpost Western Store.

Officers determined Richerson to be the suspect in the burglary and had damaged a front store window and a price scanner, before taking cash and an Apple iPad.

Estimated loss with the burglary and criminal damage to property is $1,500.

Richerson was arrested for the requested charges of driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; and&nbsp;Burglary; Locked non-dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Criminal damage to property; without consent value &lt;$1,000.

Bond was set at a total $4,750 for all the charges, Richerson remains confined to the Riley County Jail.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - On March 13, 2023, around 2:50 a.m., officers responded to the 6700 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd, on the report of a vehicle on fire.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d11325.230910638087!2d-96.69761110881049!3d39.269994873841064!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bdc814af0d7fa1%3A0x14ee56f95a7cb3a9!2s6700%20Tuttle%20Creek%20Blvd%2C%20Manhattan%2C%20KS%2066503!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1678815845535!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Officers located a Pontiac Grand Prix on fire, and later found the owner, 22-year-old Trenton Richerson, of Marysville, walking in the 7300 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd.RCPD officers determined that Richerson had been driving intoxicated before his vehicle was on fire.Around 8:30 am, officers with the Riley County Police Department were called to the 7000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd on the report of burglary and criminal damage to property at Outpost Western Store.Officers determined Richerson to be the suspect in the burglary and had damaged a front store window and a price scanner, before taking cash and an Apple iPad.Estimated loss with the burglary and criminal damage to property is $1,500.Richerson was arrested for the requested charges of driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; and&nbsp;Burglary; Locked non-dwelling for felony, theft, sex; Criminal damage to property; without consent value &lt;$1,000.Bond was set at a total $4,750 for all the charges, Richerson remains confined to the Riley County Jail.

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