Regional information and updates will be provided during the Flint Hills Regional Leaders Retreat on Thursday and Friday, Jan. 12-13. at&nbsp; the Manhattan Conference Center.&nbsp;

Speakers will range from Kansas State University President Richard Linton to Kansas Lt. Gov. David Toland. Discussion and update topics will go from regional attraction projects to a housing panel. The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce is on the agenda at 2:45 p.m. Thursday followed by a Fort Riley Update at 3 p.m. Thursday.

There will be a facilitated open discussion on regional issues at 11:45 a.m. Friday.&nbsp;

Regional information and updates will be provided during the Flint Hills Regional Leaders Retreat on Thursday and Friday, Jan. 12-13. at&nbsp; the Manhattan Conference Center.&nbsp;Speakers will range from Kansas State University President Richard Linton to Kansas Lt. Gov. David Toland. Discussion and update topics will go from regional attraction projects to a housing panel. The Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce is on the agenda at 2:45 p.m. Thursday followed by a Fort Riley Update at 3 p.m. Thursday.There will be a facilitated open discussion on regional issues at 11:45 a.m. Friday.&nbsp;

Flint Hills Regional Leaders Retreat will be held in Manhattan

Geary USD 475 students return to the classroom on Monday following their holiday break. Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Superintendent of Schools, said he thought the District was in a good place. "When you think about it we only have five months of school left and a lot that needs to take place between now and preparation for our state assessments, graduation that happens in May, so a lot of things that need to take place between now and the end of&nbsp; the year."

Geary USD 475 students return to the classroom on Monday following their holiday break. Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Superintendent of Schools, said he thought the District was in a good place. "When you think about it we only have five months of school left and a lot that needs to take place between now and preparation for our state assessments, graduation that happens in May, so a lot of things that need to take place between now and the end of&nbsp; the year."

Holiday break comes to an end in USD 475

Sundown Salute&nbsp; is moving from the Fourth of July time frame to Friday - Sunday, Sept. 1-3 in 2023. Tricia Verschage, Director, explained that the decision to actually make that change was made before the 2022 celebration, which was also held in Milford.

Verschage noted that Milford is in Geary County and it is a Geary County event. "We're going to close out summer with a Sundown Salute."

Details are being finalized but there are plans for activities including three days of concerts, a carnival, a car show, vendor events and some food trucks.&nbsp; Verschage noted that businesses will be incorporated from surrounding counties as well.

There will be a Mardi Gras event fundraiser the weekend of Feb. 18. at will be at the Knights of Columbus in Junction City.

This will be the 51st Sundown Salute, which up until now has been an annual celebration during the Fourth of July period.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673116418814.jpeg" alt="Sundown Salute 2022" />
 <figcaption>Sundown Salute 2022</figcaption>
 </figure>Sundown Salute&nbsp; is moving from the Fourth of July time frame to Friday - Sunday, Sept. 1-3 in 2023. Tricia Verschage, Director, explained that the decision to actually make that change was made before the 2022 celebration, which was also held in Milford.Verschage noted that Milford is in Geary County and it is a Geary County event. "We're going to close out summer with a Sundown Salute."Details are being finalized but there are plans for activities including three days of concerts, a carnival, a car show, vendor events and some food trucks.&nbsp; Verschage noted that businesses will be incorporated from surrounding counties as well.There will be a Mardi Gras event fundraiser the weekend of Feb. 18. at will be at the Knights of Columbus in Junction City.This will be the 51st Sundown Salute, which up until now has been an annual celebration during the Fourth of July period.

Sundown Salute will move to Labor day weekend

Election of a chair and vice-chair will be part of the reorganization of the Geary County Commission on Monday. That action is scheduled at approximately 1:30 p.m. at the County Office Building.

At noon Commissioner Trish Giordano and Treasurer Sherri Childs will take their oaths of office for new terms.

Election of a chair and vice-chair will be part of the reorganization of the Geary County Commission on Monday. That action is scheduled at approximately 1:30 p.m. at the County Office Building.At noon Commissioner Trish Giordano and Treasurer Sherri Childs will take their oaths of office for new terms.

Geary County Commission will reorganize on Monday

Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association is collecting used Christmas trees for recycling. You can deposit your natural evergreen Christmas tree without decorations on the empty lot at 14th &amp; Jackson by Jan. 20. The trees will be picked up and used for grounds and habitat projects.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Fish &amp; Game Association is collecting used Christmas trees for recycling. You can deposit your natural evergreen Christmas tree without decorations on the empty lot at 14th &amp; Jackson by Jan. 20. The trees will be picked up and used for grounds and habitat projects.

Geary County Fish & Game collects used Christmas trees

There will be an upgrade in the future to the South Washington Street Roundabout. According to Junction City Public Works, KDOT has moved the bid letting date to March of this year due to the construction of the E. 6th Street bridge and to coincide with KDOT’s plan to reconstruct I-70 from Exit 296 to Exit 301.&nbsp; Kaw Valley has final design plans into to KDOT.

The Junction City Commission approved the City/State agreement with KDOT for funding the project in the amount of $700,000.00 and the City’s share being 10% of the project.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere will be an upgrade in the future to the South Washington Street Roundabout. According to Junction City Public Works, KDOT has moved the bid letting date to March of this year due to the construction of the E. 6th Street bridge and to coincide with KDOT’s plan to reconstruct I-70 from Exit 296 to Exit 301.&nbsp; Kaw Valley has final design plans into to KDOT.The Junction City Commission approved the City/State agreement with KDOT for funding the project in the amount of $700,000.00 and the City’s share being 10% of the project.

South Washington Street roundabout project is updated

Authorities said Friday at approximately 1:17 p.m. Junction City Police Officers were dispatched to the 2700 block of Forte Avenue in reference to a possible deceased individual. Upon arrival, officers located Carson Simon, an 18-Year-old man from Ogden deceased. This investigation has since been classified as a homicide. 

Anyone with information in reference to this investigation or in reference to Simon’s whereabouts between 9 pm on Thursday and 10 30 a.m. on Friday should contact the Geary County Crime Stoppers at (785) 762-8477 or The Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912. 

Any information provided in relation to this case may be eligible for a cash reward from Crime Stoppers. This is an active and ongoing investigation and there is no further information available at this time. 

Authorities said Friday at approximately 1:17 p.m. Junction City Police Officers were dispatched to the 2700 block of Forte Avenue in reference to a possible deceased individual. Upon arrival, officers located Carson Simon, an 18-Year-old man from Ogden deceased. This investigation has since been classified as a homicide. Anyone with information in reference to this investigation or in reference to Simon’s whereabouts between 9 pm on Thursday and 10 30 a.m. on Friday should contact the Geary County Crime Stoppers at (785) 762-8477 or The Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912. Any information provided in relation to this case may be eligible for a cash reward from Crime Stoppers. This is an active and ongoing investigation and there is no further information available at this time.

JCPD confirms a homicide investigation is under way

Junction City Blue Jays Basketball vs Manhattan Indians LIVE STREAM

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Friday in Pottawatomie County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Toyota Tundra driven by Terry Dean Nelson, 65, Westmoreland, was northbound on Flush Road at U.S. 24.

The driver failed to yield right of way.&nbsp; A westbound 2021 Chevy Tahoe driven by Brenda Joyce Martin, 65, Wamego, struck the Toyota on the passenger side.

EMS transported Nelson to Stomont Vail.&nbsp; A private vehicle transported Martin for treatment. Nelson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 11a.m. Friday in Pottawatomie County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Toyota Tundra driven by Terry Dean Nelson, 65, Westmoreland, was northbound on Flush Road at U.S. 24.The driver failed to yield right of way.&nbsp; A westbound 2021 Chevy Tahoe driven by Brenda Joyce Martin, 65, Wamego, struck the Toyota on the passenger side.EMS transported Nelson to Stomont Vail.&nbsp; A private vehicle transported Martin for treatment. Nelson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Two injured after pickup, SUV crash in Pottawatomie Co.

The City of Junction City Employee Engagement Committee has congratulated the January Employment Anniversary recipients.

Allen Dinkel-01/05/2015-8 Years of Service

Vanessa Gray-01/01/2021-2 Years of Service

Mike Mckone-01/05/2009-14 Years of Service

Britain Stites-01/09/2017-6 Years of Service

Joshua Allen-01/09/2008-15 Years of Service

Terry Bohanan-01/21/2004-19 Years of Service

Kelly Heindel-01/04/1993-30 Years of Service

Jason Lankas-01/04/2005-18 Years of Service

Justin Mazzara-01/21/2020-3 Years of Service

John McNabb-01/21/2020-3 Years of Service

Patrick Melia-01/06/2014-9 Years of Service

Cecil Thrush-01/05/2015-8 Years of Service

Bradley White-01/03/2005-18 Years of Service

Eliel Borges-01/02/2001-22 Years of Service

Glenn Campbell Jr.-01/21/2014-9 Years of Service

Heather Eddings-01/29/2018-5 Years of Service

Gloria Grullon-01/10/2022-1 Year of Service

Mary Hewins-01/20/2004-19 Years of Service

Lisa Johnson-01/10/2022-1 Year of Service

Alexya Mailea-01/26/2015-8 Years of Service

Brandon Mau-01/21/2014-9 Years of Service

Cory Odell-01/05/2009-14 Years of Service

Jeremiah Ruffin-01/09/2012-11 Years of Service

Anthony Timms-01/11/2021-2 Years of Service

Levi Whitebread-01/21/2014-9 Years of Service

Mike Vacanti-01/21/2014-9 Years of Service

Donna Swihart-01/10/2011-12 Years of Service

Melissa Flores-01/24/2022-1 Year of Service

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe City of Junction City Employee Engagement Committee has congratulated the January Employment Anniversary recipients.Administration Department:Allen Dinkel-01/05/2015-8 Years of ServiceAnimal Shelter:Vanessa Gray-01/01/2021-2 Years of ServiceCourt/Legal:Mike Mckone-01/05/2009-14 Years of ServiceBritain Stites-01/09/2017-6 Years of ServiceFire Department:Joshua Allen-01/09/2008-15 Years of ServiceTerry Bohanan-01/21/2004-19 Years of ServiceKelly Heindel-01/04/1993-30 Years of ServiceJason Lankas-01/04/2005-18 Years of ServiceJustin Mazzara-01/21/2020-3 Years of ServiceJohn McNabb-01/21/2020-3 Years of ServicePatrick Melia-01/06/2014-9 Years of ServiceTyler Ross-01/06/2014-9 Years of ServiceCecil Thrush-01/05/2015-8 Years of ServiceWyatt Voth-01/21/2020-3 Years of ServiceBradley White-01/03/2005-18 Years of ServicePolice Department:Eliel Borges-01/02/2001-22 Years of ServiceGlenn Campbell Jr.-01/21/2014-9 Years of ServiceHeather Eddings-01/29/2018-5 Years of ServiceGloria Grullon-01/10/2022-1 Year of ServiceMary Hewins-01/20/2004-19 Years of ServiceLisa Johnson-01/10/2022-1 Year of ServiceJohn Lamb-01/06/2020-3 Years of ServiceAlexya Mailea-01/26/2015-8 Years of ServiceBrandon Mau-01/21/2014-9 Years of ServiceCory Odell-01/05/2009-14 Years of ServiceJeremiah Ruffin-01/09/2012-11 Years of ServiceAnthony Timms-01/11/2021-2 Years of ServiceLevi Whitebread-01/21/2014-9 Years of ServiceInformation Technology:Mike Vacanti-01/21/2014-9 Years of ServiceRecreation Dept:Donna Swihart-01/10/2011-12 Years of ServiceWater Customer Service Dept:Melissa Flores-01/24/2022-1 Year of Service

Junction City employees are honored

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/06/manhattan-city-commissioner-selected-to-complete-senate-term-of-democrat-tom-hawk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Democrats selected a 
10-year member of the Manhattan City Commission to fill the Kansas 
Senate seat to be vacated by retirement Sen. Tom Hawk.

Usha Reddi, who served twice as mayor of Manhattan, ran for the U.S. 
Senate in 2020 before suspending that campaign as the COVID-19 pandemic 
expanded its reach in Kansas.

She was chosen by precinct members in Riley, Clay and Geary counties 
Thursday to complete two years of Hawk’s term. In December, Hawk said he
 would retire from the Legislature on Jan. 10 — one day after opening of
 the annual session.

“I’m thrilled to represent Senate District 22,” Reddi said. “Senator 
Tom Hawk is an outstanding leader and I’m sure I’ll be reaching out to 
him many times.”

She was initially elected the Manhattan City Commission in 2013 and 
reelected in 2017 and 2021. She was mayor in 2016-2017 and 2020.

Reddi, like Hawk, worked in public education. Hawk is a former 
superintendent and teacher, while Reddi was a first-grade teacher in 
Manhattan-Ogden public schools for more than 10 years. She earned 
degrees elementary education at Kansas State University and 
developmental psychology from Ohio State University. She also completed a
 master’s degree in educational leadership at Kansas State.

Reddi’s family immigrated from India to the United States in 1973 
when she was eight years old. She has resided in Manhattan for 28 years.

“Many of us have known Usha in her capacity as a community leader for
 years now, and we look forward to bringing her into the fold when she 
joins us as a legislative colleague,” said Senate Democratic Leader 
Dinah Sykes of Lenexa.

In terms of the 2023 legislative session, there will be two 
Republican and one Democratic newcomers in the Senate. The GOP will 
still have a 29-11 advantage over Democrats.

The 40-member Senate wasn’t on the ballot in 2022, but Sen. Ron 
Ryckman Sr., R-Meade, won a special election to retain his seat. He was 
appointed in 2021 to replace the late Sen. Bud Estes.

Sen. Richard Hilderbrand, a Republican from Cherokee County, said he 
would resign Sunday from the Legislature. He was appointed to the Senate
 in 2017 and was elected in 2020 to a full term. Republicans in the 13th
 Senate of southeast Kansas will choose a replacement.

Meanwhile, Wichita Republican Sen. Gene Suellentrop stepped down Jan.
 2 from District 27. The Sedgwick County Republican Party’s precinct 
vote resulted in nomination of Chase Blasi, who served on the staff of 
Senate President Ty Masterson of Andover, to represent Suellentrop’s 
district. Blasi defeated Karl Peterjohn, who is on the Sedgwick County 
Commission.

“There are too many things in my life that are more important, at 
this stage, than serving in the Kansas Legislature,” Suellentrop said.

Suellentrop was removed from his post as Senate majority leader after
 arrested in March 2021 in Topeka for driving at high speeds the wrong 
way on Interstate 70. He was found to have a 0.17% blood-alcohol level, 
which was twice the legal limit. He spent two days in jail after 
convicted of driving under the influence and reckless driving.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673028076936.png" alt="Manhattan City Commission member Usha Reddi was chosen to replace retiring Democratic state Sen. Tom Hawk, top row in mask, on Jan. 10. She has served on the city commission since 2013 and was a candidate for U.S. Senate until ending that campaign during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Manhattan City Commission member Usha Reddi was chosen to replace retiring Democratic state Sen. Tom Hawk, top row in mask, on Jan. 10. She has served on the city commission since 2013 and was a candidate for U.S. Senate until ending that campaign during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/06/manhattan-city-commissioner-selected-to-complete-senate-term-of-democrat-tom-hawk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Democrats selected a 
10-year member of the Manhattan City Commission to fill the Kansas 
Senate seat to be vacated by retirement Sen. Tom Hawk.Usha Reddi, who served twice as mayor of Manhattan, ran for the U.S. 
Senate in 2020 before suspending that campaign as the COVID-19 pandemic 
expanded its reach in Kansas.She was chosen by precinct members in Riley, Clay and Geary counties 
Thursday to complete two years of Hawk’s term. In December, Hawk said he
 would retire from the Legislature on Jan. 10 — one day after opening of
 the annual session.“I’m thrilled to represent Senate District 22,” Reddi said. “Senator 
Tom Hawk is an outstanding leader and I’m sure I’ll be reaching out to 
him many times.”She was initially elected the Manhattan City Commission in 2013 and 
reelected in 2017 and 2021. She was mayor in 2016-2017 and 2020.Reddi, like Hawk, worked in public education. Hawk is a former 
superintendent and teacher, while Reddi was a first-grade teacher in 
Manhattan-Ogden public schools for more than 10 years. She earned 
degrees elementary education at Kansas State University and 
developmental psychology from Ohio State University. She also completed a
 master’s degree in educational leadership at Kansas State.Reddi’s family immigrated from India to the United States in 1973 
when she was eight years old. She has resided in Manhattan for 28 years.“Many of us have known Usha in her capacity as a community leader for
 years now, and we look forward to bringing her into the fold when she 
joins us as a legislative colleague,” said Senate Democratic Leader 
Dinah Sykes of Lenexa.In terms of the 2023 legislative session, there will be two 
Republican and one Democratic newcomers in the Senate. The GOP will 
still have a 29-11 advantage over Democrats.The 40-member Senate wasn’t on the ballot in 2022, but Sen. Ron 
Ryckman Sr., R-Meade, won a special election to retain his seat. He was 
appointed in 2021 to replace the late Sen. Bud Estes.Sen. Richard Hilderbrand, a Republican from Cherokee County, said he 
would resign Sunday from the Legislature. He was appointed to the Senate
 in 2017 and was elected in 2020 to a full term. Republicans in the 13th
 Senate of southeast Kansas will choose a replacement.Meanwhile, Wichita Republican Sen. Gene Suellentrop stepped down Jan.
 2 from District 27. The Sedgwick County Republican Party’s precinct 
vote resulted in nomination of Chase Blasi, who served on the staff of 
Senate President Ty Masterson of Andover, to represent Suellentrop’s 
district. Blasi defeated Karl Peterjohn, who is on the Sedgwick County 
Commission.“There are too many things in my life that are more important, at 
this stage, than serving in the Kansas Legislature,” Suellentrop said.Suellentrop was removed from his post as Senate majority leader after
 arrested in March 2021 in Topeka for driving at high speeds the wrong 
way on Interstate 70. He was found to have a 0.17% blood-alcohol level, 
which was twice the legal limit. He spent two days in jail after 
convicted of driving under the influence and reckless driving.

Manhattan commissioner selected to complete Hawk's Senate term

Updates from the Military Affairs Council, City, County and Fort Riley are on the agenda for the MAC Breakfast on Jan. 26 at the Geary County Convention Center. Doors will open at 7 a.m. and the breakfast is scheduled from 7:30 - 9 a.m.

Cost to attend for civilians and active duty military is $20.

You can register online at www.jcacc.org/mac-breakfast or to mac@jcacc.org by 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20.

Updates from the Military Affairs Council, City, County and Fort Riley are on the agenda for the MAC Breakfast on Jan. 26 at the Geary County Convention Center. Doors will open at 7 a.m. and the breakfast is scheduled from 7:30 - 9 a.m.Cost to attend for civilians and active duty military is $20.You can register online at www.jcacc.org/mac-breakfast or to mac@jcacc.org by 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20.

Community updates are planned for the next MAC Breakfast

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent incident involving a butcher knife.

Just before noon Thursday, officers filed a report for aggravated battery in the 2500 block of Farm Bureau Road in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 51-year-old man reported a known man swung a butcher knife at him several times, cutting him on the finger once.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent incident involving a butcher knife.Just before noon Thursday, officers filed a report for aggravated battery in the 2500 block of Farm Bureau Road in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 51-year-old man reported a known man swung a butcher knife at him several times, cutting him on the finger once.

RCPD: Suspect allegedly swung butcher knife at victim

MANHATTAN — Law enforcement authorities investigating suspects in an alleged kidnapping in Manhattan have learned two of them were involved in a separate incident.

According to the Riley County Police Department, on Jan. 1, Zane Thomas, 27, Junction City and Joseph Varvel, 25, of Manhattan,&nbsp; were involved in an incident with the same victim as the January 2, 2023, kidnapping on Gatlinburg Way in Manhattan.

Varvel and Thomas were reported to have held the 26-year-old male victim at gunpoint, and beat and strangled him while driving him around in a car against his will throughout the Manhattan area.

Both suspects are facing requested charges of one additional count each of aggravated robbery and aggravated kidnapping, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Varvel also faces an additional requested charge of aggravated battery and Thomas aggravated assault. Both remain confined in the Riley County Jail.

These new requested charges bring bonds of $250,000 to both, raising each of their total bonds to $750,000.

Just before 8:30p.m. Monday, the Riley County Communications Center received a 911 call reporting shots were fired at the Links Apartments in the 500 block of Gatlinburg Way, according to a media release.

A witness reported a shooting followed by a man being forced from an apartment and into a vehicle. Officers located Varvel the area and detained him for questioning.

The Communications Center received an additional 911 call shortly before 11:00 p.m. from the victim, a 26-year-old man, who said he needed help and was located in the 1200 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan.

The man was transported to Via Christi for treatment of stab wounds and facial injuries. A man identified as Thomas was present with the victim when officers arrived and detained for questioning.

After further investigation, Thomas was arrested on requested charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, and possession of marijuana.&nbsp;

Varvel was arrested on requested charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, unlawful discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, and possession of cocaine.&nbsp;

A third suspect Cooper Brown, 21, of Manhattan was identified and arrested on requested charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, and aggravated kidnapping. He remains confined on a total bond of $300,000.

MANHATTAN — Law enforcement authorities investigating suspects in an alleged kidnapping in Manhattan have learned two of them were involved in a separate incident.According to the Riley County Police Department, on Jan. 1, Zane Thomas, 27, Junction City and Joseph Varvel, 25, of Manhattan,&nbsp; were involved in an incident with the same victim as the January 2, 2023, kidnapping on Gatlinburg Way in Manhattan.Varvel and Thomas were reported to have held the 26-year-old male victim at gunpoint, and beat and strangled him while driving him around in a car against his will throughout the Manhattan area.Both suspects are facing requested charges of one additional count each of aggravated robbery and aggravated kidnapping, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Varvel also faces an additional requested charge of aggravated battery and Thomas aggravated assault. Both remain confined in the Riley County Jail.These new requested charges bring bonds of $250,000 to both, raising each of their total bonds to $750,000.Just before 8:30p.m. Monday, the Riley County Communications Center received a 911 call reporting shots were fired at the Links Apartments in the 500 block of Gatlinburg Way, according to a media release.A witness reported a shooting followed by a man being forced from an apartment and into a vehicle. Officers located Varvel the area and detained him for questioning.The Communications Center received an additional 911 call shortly before 11:00 p.m. from the victim, a 26-year-old man, who said he needed help and was located in the 1200 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan.The man was transported to Via Christi for treatment of stab wounds and facial injuries. A man identified as Thomas was present with the victim when officers arrived and detained for questioning.After further investigation, Thomas was arrested on requested charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, and possession of marijuana.&nbsp;Varvel was arrested on requested charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, unlawful discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, and possession of cocaine.&nbsp;A third suspect Cooper Brown, 21, of Manhattan was identified and arrested on requested charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, and aggravated kidnapping. He remains confined on a total bond of $300,000.

RCPD: Junction City man faces new accusations of violent crime

The local Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Committee has announced that the Junction City-Geary County 38th annual Commemoration &amp; Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be Monday, January 16 at 10:00 AM at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

The theme for the event is “Good Trouble; Why We Can’t Wait!” and will commemorate the 60th anniversary of Dr. King’s 1963 Letter from the Birmingham Jail. The letter speaks of civil disobedience a moral responsibility to break unjust laws and to take direct action rather than waiting potentially forever for justice to come through the courts. Responding to being referred to as an "outsider", King writes: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

Junction City native and Academy-Award winner Kevin Willmott is slated as the keynote speaker with special performances by NBC ‘The Voice’ semi-finalist Justin Aaron and eleven year old Jerel D. McGeachy Jr. of Topeka reciting “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop!” along with a host of other guests. The coveted Coretta Scott King Courage (Humanitarian) Award will also be presented.

In partnership with Junction City Main Street, the Community March will route from W. Seventh to E. Ninth Street for a historic statue unveiling in which Willmott will preside.

The community is invited. The event is FREE of charge.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe local Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration Committee has announced that the Junction City-Geary County 38th annual Commemoration &amp; Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be Monday, January 16 at 10:00 AM at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.The theme for the event is “Good Trouble; Why We Can’t Wait!” and will commemorate the 60th anniversary of Dr. King’s 1963 Letter from the Birmingham Jail. The letter speaks of civil disobedience a moral responsibility to break unjust laws and to take direct action rather than waiting potentially forever for justice to come through the courts. Responding to being referred to as an "outsider", King writes: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."Junction City native and Academy-Award winner Kevin Willmott is slated as the keynote speaker with special performances by NBC ‘The Voice’ semi-finalist Justin Aaron and eleven year old Jerel D. McGeachy Jr. of Topeka reciting “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop!” along with a host of other guests. The coveted Coretta Scott King Courage (Humanitarian) Award will also be presented.In partnership with Junction City Main Street, the Community March will route from W. Seventh to E. Ninth Street for a historic statue unveiling in which Willmott will preside.The community is invited. The event is FREE of charge.

Martin Luther King Jr. celebration will be Jan. 16

Stormont Vail Health has thanked their peers at Manhattan Surgical Hospital and Irwin Army Community Hospital for assisting when the sterilizer equipment at the Stormont Vail Flint Hills Hospital failed earlier this week. Through some collaboration, they were able to get needed surgical instruments sterilized and still maintain the surgical schedule.

Stormont Vail is in the process of purchasing new equipment at Flint Hills.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostStormont Vail Health has thanked their peers at Manhattan Surgical Hospital and Irwin Army Community Hospital for assisting when the sterilizer equipment at the Stormont Vail Flint Hills Hospital failed earlier this week. Through some collaboration, they were able to get needed surgical instruments sterilized and still maintain the surgical schedule.Stormont Vail is in the process of purchasing new equipment at Flint Hills.

Stormont Vail Health says thank you to Manhattan Surgical Hospital and Irwin Army Community Hospital

Junction City police are accepting applications for the 2023 Citizens Police Academy that starts on Jan. 19. Applications are available at the JCPD or on the city's website at www.junctioncity-ks.org &nbsp; The Academy is an experience of a behind the scenes look at the police department. The 12-week course course meets one night per week on Thursdays and on one Saturday.

Junction City police are accepting applications for the 2023 Citizens Police Academy that starts on Jan. 19. Applications are available at the JCPD or on the city's website at www.junctioncity-ks.org &nbsp; The Academy is an experience of a behind the scenes look at the police department. The 12-week course course meets one night per week on Thursdays and on one Saturday.

JCPD will accept applications for the Citizens Police Academy

Food Policy Council of Geary County will host a community meeting on Jan. 25 from 10 -2 to talk about the county's food system plan. Items that will be addressed include food waster and access, agriculture and nutrition. There will also be discussion groups to review the actions of the food plan goals.

Registration is free and lunch will be provided. Registration can be completed here.&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/9h4m185c2Q1xfHcE8" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/9h4m185c2Q1xfHcE8</a>

Food Policy Council of Geary County will host a community meeting on Jan. 25 from 10 -2 to talk about the county's food system plan. Items that will be addressed include food waster and access, agriculture and nutrition. There will also be discussion groups to review the actions of the food plan goals.Registration is free and lunch will be provided. Registration can be completed here.&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/9h4m185c2Q1xfHcE8" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/9h4m185c2Q1xfHcE8</a>

Food Policy Council focuses on feeding the hungry

UPDATE: According to the Junction City Police Department Facebook page, as of 12:45 p.m. Friday, January 6th, missing 12-year-old, Caydence has been found safe.

Her picture has been removed for privacy purposes.

Junction City police have announced that they need the public's help locating 12 year old Caydence. 

Caydence was last seen around 5pm Thursday when she left on foot from a residence on the 200 Block of West 6th. 

She was last seen in floral leggings and a white hoody. If you have any information please contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Dewey Terrill, Becky GoffJC Post/Little Apple PostUPDATE: According to the Junction City Police Department Facebook page, as of 12:45 p.m. Friday, January 6th, missing 12-year-old, Caydence has been found safe.Her picture has been removed for privacy purposes.Junction City police have announced that they need the public's help locating 12 year old Caydence. Caydence was last seen around 5pm Thursday when she left on foot from a residence on the 200 Block of West 6th. She was last seen in floral leggings and a white hoody. If you have any information please contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FOUND: JCPD says missing 12-year-old found safe

NEW YORK (AP) — Struggling Bed Bath &amp; Beyond warned on Thursday that the home goods retailer may need to file for bankruptcy as sales continue to drop and it struggles to attract shoppers.

The company, with 8 stores in Kansas and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/locations/state/MO">12 in Missouri,</a>&nbsp;said that it’s looking at several options including selling assets or restructuring its business in bankruptcy court, but it acknowledged that even those efforts may not be successful. Shares lost a quarter of their value on the news to trade at $1.82, their lowest level since November 1992.

“There is substantial doubt about the company’s ability to continue as a going concern,” the retailer said in a statement.

The company’s assessment came as its dismal performance continued through the holiday season.

Bed Bath &amp; Beyond expects to report net sales of $1.26 billion for the third quarter ended Nov. 26. That would be a 32% drop from a year earlier. It also anticipates a net loss of roughly $385.8 million for the third quarter, wider than its loss of $276.4 million in the year-earlier period.

The company’s recently-appointed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-cbbc4dbc9bcef6a17a8016df9a1e08a4">CEO and president, Sue Gove,</a>&nbsp;blamed the poor performance on inventory constraints and reduced credit limits that resulted in shortages of merchandise on the shelves.

In August, Bed Bath &amp; Beyond announced it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-offerings-chewy-inc-6af2d83aec7cde2cd7b0706b892a4c0c">shutter stores and lay off workers</a>&nbsp;in a bid to turn around its beleaguered business. It closed about 150 of its namesakes stores and slashed its workforce by 20%. It estimated those cuts would save $250 million in the company’s current fiscal year. It also said in August that it had lined up more than $500 million of new financing.

Mired in a prolonged sales slump, the company also announced back in August that it would revert to its original strategy of focusing on national brands, instead of pushing its own store labels.

That reversed a strategy embraced by its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/33fa91f0e8114f4536dd0d1271ae1d2b">former CEO Mark Tritton</a>, who was ousted last June after less than three years at the helm. It said it would get rid of one-third of its store brands, which had started to be rolled out in the last year or so. Besides Bed Bath &amp; Beyond, the company also runs the buybuy Baby and Harmon chains.

Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail, wrote in a report Thursday that Bed Bath &amp; Beyond is “too far gone to be saved in its present form.” He noted that the company could restructure under Chapter 11, but it would still need to come up with a credible plan to reinvent the business, and that is going to be challenging, particularly in a weakening economic environment.

“A catalogue of missteps has run the company into the ground and has made it increasingly irrelevant,” he wrote. “Only very radical action will allow it to survive and even if it does, it will be a shadow of its former self.”

The company is set to release final third-quarter results on Tuesday.

Bed Bath &amp; Beyond locations in Kansas include Manhattan, Lawrence, Olathe, Topeka, Shawnee, Overland Park and two in Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672935113513.png" alt="Bed Bath and Beyond in Olathe -Google image" />
 <figcaption>Bed Bath and Beyond in Olathe -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Struggling Bed Bath &amp; Beyond warned on Thursday that the home goods retailer may need to file for bankruptcy as sales continue to drop and it struggles to attract shoppers.The company, with 8 stores in Kansas and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/locations/state/MO">12 in Missouri,</a>&nbsp;said that it’s looking at several options including selling assets or restructuring its business in bankruptcy court, but it acknowledged that even those efforts may not be successful. Shares lost a quarter of their value on the news to trade at $1.82, their lowest level since November 1992.“There is substantial doubt about the company’s ability to continue as a going concern,” the retailer said in a statement.The company’s assessment came as its dismal performance continued through the holiday season.Bed Bath &amp; Beyond expects to report net sales of $1.26 billion for the third quarter ended Nov. 26. That would be a 32% drop from a year earlier. It also anticipates a net loss of roughly $385.8 million for the third quarter, wider than its loss of $276.4 million in the year-earlier period.The company’s recently-appointed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-cbbc4dbc9bcef6a17a8016df9a1e08a4">CEO and president, Sue Gove,</a>&nbsp;blamed the poor performance on inventory constraints and reduced credit limits that resulted in shortages of merchandise on the shelves.In August, Bed Bath &amp; Beyond announced it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-offerings-chewy-inc-6af2d83aec7cde2cd7b0706b892a4c0c">shutter stores and lay off workers</a>&nbsp;in a bid to turn around its beleaguered business. It closed about 150 of its namesakes stores and slashed its workforce by 20%. It estimated those cuts would save $250 million in the company’s current fiscal year. It also said in August that it had lined up more than $500 million of new financing.Mired in a prolonged sales slump, the company also announced back in August that it would revert to its original strategy of focusing on national brands, instead of pushing its own store labels.That reversed a strategy embraced by its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/33fa91f0e8114f4536dd0d1271ae1d2b">former CEO Mark Tritton</a>, who was ousted last June after less than three years at the helm. It said it would get rid of one-third of its store brands, which had started to be rolled out in the last year or so. Besides Bed Bath &amp; Beyond, the company also runs the buybuy Baby and Harmon chains.Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail, wrote in a report Thursday that Bed Bath &amp; Beyond is “too far gone to be saved in its present form.” He noted that the company could restructure under Chapter 11, but it would still need to come up with a credible plan to reinvent the business, and that is going to be challenging, particularly in a weakening economic environment.“A catalogue of missteps has run the company into the ground and has made it increasingly irrelevant,” he wrote. “Only very radical action will allow it to survive and even if it does, it will be a shadow of its former self.”The company is set to release final third-quarter results on Tuesday.Bed Bath &amp; Beyond locations in Kansas include Manhattan, Lawrence, Olathe, Topeka, Shawnee, Overland Park and two in Wichita.

Bed Bath & Beyond warns of potential bankruptcy

I’ve got the perfect New Year’s resolution for Kansas legislators: no more lobbyist-authored bills.

Last year, Kansas lawmaking was marked by two dramatic “fails,” both involving lobbyist-authored acts. One of them failed, the other passed, and both were problematic.

First came anti-abortion “Value Them Both” amendment, sent to the voters by the Legislature and rejected by 18 percentage points in August. Closely watched nationally and even overseas, the campaign and contained many controversies, including its confusing ballot language. “VTB” opponents even suggested that the language was deliberately confusing—highly legalistic and not clear at all about the amendment’s intent, which was to authorize the Kansas Legislature to criminalize abortion in nearly all circumstances, which they had the votes and the plans to do, perhaps even calling themselves into special session right after the vote, had it passed.

Oddly, the amendment itself was not written by the Kansas Legislative Research Department (KLRD). Despite making major changes to the state constitution, legislators allowed two anti-abortion interest groups to write the ballot language. By contrast, the staff of the KLRD are nonpartisan professionals. The bills, bill summaries and other proposals they write are not based upon their own, personal political views. Rather, KLRD staff draft legislation as requested by legislators. Not lobbyists or politicians, KLRD are experienced experts in the state constitution, existing federal, state and local laws, court rulings, laws in other states, and other background needed to write good legislation. With so much at stake this summer, why did the legislators ignore the KLRD and have interest groups draft the amendment instead?

Lobbyist-authored bills cause even more problems when they pass. Last year’s authorization of sports betting illustrates this perfectly. An exposé by the New York Times illustrated these problems. Not only were key legislators showed with gifts, but a provision was slipped into the provision that has resulted in Kansans reaping almost none of the promised tax revenue so far. This “carry over” provision allows the gambling companies to write off the costs of offering free bets to get new customers hooked on their product. It also allows them to carry forth these losses to future years. The NYT reporter found that the whole bill was in fact written by the gambling industry. Had it been drafted by the KLRD, they easily could have red-flagged this loophole. In September and October, the two largest online sports betting providers paid less than $42,000 in state taxes on $247 million of activity. This figure started to rise later in the year, but is still paltry compared to what the state could have collected. A similar bill failed to pass in Missouri— not due to the public interest, but because of infighting among pro-betting interest groups.

Speaking of Missouri, another bill that passed there last year illustrates the depths to which these lobbyist-authored bills can sink. By making it a crime to sleep on public land without authorization, Missouri essentially criminalized homelessness—without providing any additional support for affordable housing. This awful bill was literally cut and pasted off the Internet by its sponsor—and the interest group that posted it was not even in-state.

Kansas and other states employ nonpartisan professionals to draft legislation, for a reason. The debacles here and in neighboring states last year all point to the same conclusion: legislators should resolve right now not to propose or pass any lobbyist-written legislation in 2023 or afterwards.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639601062071.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>I’ve got the perfect New Year’s resolution for Kansas legislators: no more lobbyist-authored bills.Last year, Kansas lawmaking was marked by two dramatic “fails,” both involving lobbyist-authored acts. One of them failed, the other passed, and both were problematic.First came anti-abortion “Value Them Both” amendment, sent to the voters by the Legislature and rejected by 18 percentage points in August. Closely watched nationally and even overseas, the campaign and contained many controversies, including its confusing ballot language. “VTB” opponents even suggested that the language was deliberately confusing—highly legalistic and not clear at all about the amendment’s intent, which was to authorize the Kansas Legislature to criminalize abortion in nearly all circumstances, which they had the votes and the plans to do, perhaps even calling themselves into special session right after the vote, had it passed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Oddly, the amendment itself was not written by the Kansas Legislative Research Department (KLRD). Despite making major changes to the state constitution, legislators allowed two anti-abortion interest groups to write the ballot language. By contrast, the staff of the KLRD are nonpartisan professionals. The bills, bill summaries and other proposals they write are not based upon their own, personal political views. Rather, KLRD staff draft legislation as requested by legislators. Not lobbyists or politicians, KLRD are experienced experts in the state constitution, existing federal, state and local laws, court rulings, laws in other states, and other background needed to write good legislation. With so much at stake this summer, why did the legislators ignore the KLRD and have interest groups draft the amendment instead?Lobbyist-authored bills cause even more problems when they pass. Last year’s authorization of sports betting illustrates this perfectly. An exposé by the New York Times illustrated these problems. Not only were key legislators showed with gifts, but a provision was slipped into the provision that has resulted in Kansans reaping almost none of the promised tax revenue so far. This “carry over” provision allows the gambling companies to write off the costs of offering free bets to get new customers hooked on their product. It also allows them to carry forth these losses to future years. The NYT reporter found that the whole bill was in fact written by the gambling industry. Had it been drafted by the KLRD, they easily could have red-flagged this loophole. In September and October, the two largest online sports betting providers paid less than $42,000 in state taxes on $247 million of activity. This figure started to rise later in the year, but is still paltry compared to what the state could have collected. A similar bill failed to pass in Missouri— not due to the public interest, but because of infighting among pro-betting interest groups.Speaking of Missouri, another bill that passed there last year illustrates the depths to which these lobbyist-authored bills can sink. By making it a crime to sleep on public land without authorization, Missouri essentially criminalized homelessness—without providing any additional support for affordable housing. This awful bill was literally cut and pasted off the Internet by its sponsor—and the interest group that posted it was not even in-state.Kansas and other states employ nonpartisan professionals to draft legislation, for a reason. The debacles here and in neighboring states last year all point to the same conclusion: legislators should resolve right now not to propose or pass any lobbyist-written legislation in 2023 or afterwards.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: No more lobbyist-written bills

Angel Tree broke records in serving 300 children from families in need this past Christmas season. According to a news release from coordinator Christy Upham, Donations were received from the community ranging from toys, clothing and gift cards. Businesses, organizations and individuals were thanked by Angel Tree.

Angel Tree also issued a thank you to Ashley Todd and the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library personnel, Ziggy and Dillons personnel, the Elks Lodge, JC Post and KJCK, Walmart, 12th Street Community Center, Freddy's, Alma Cheese, Geary Community Hospital, JC Community Partners, Highland Baptist Church, First Christian Church and other volunteers.

By Christy UphamAngel Tree broke records in serving 300 children from families in need this past Christmas season. According to a news release from coordinator Christy Upham, Donations were received from the community ranging from toys, clothing and gift cards. Businesses, organizations and individuals were thanked by Angel Tree.Angel Tree also issued a thank you to Ashley Todd and the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library personnel, Ziggy and Dillons personnel, the Elks Lodge, JC Post and KJCK, Walmart, 12th Street Community Center, Freddy's, Alma Cheese, Geary Community Hospital, JC Community Partners, Highland Baptist Church, First Christian Church and other volunteers.

Angel Tree breaks records in Junction City

There will be a new exhibit coming to the Geary County Historical Society in 2023.&nbsp;Businesses, Then and Now&nbsp;will be installed in the auditorium space in late spring. The new exhibit will focus on the evolution of businesses in Geary County from general stores to grocery stores.

The Historical Society is looking for stories, photos, or items to be used within the exhibit. These items can relate to businesses that no longer exist, or those that are still local staples. Areas of interest include soda fountains, grocery stores, bars, theaters, shoe stores, hotels, department stores and restaurants. Anyone interested in donating or loaning items or photos for the upcoming exhibit should call the museum 785-238-1666 or email Heather at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gearyhistorycurator@gmail.com" target="_blank">gearyhistorycurator@gmail.com</a>.

By Heather HagedornGeary County Historical SocietyThere will be a new exhibit coming to the Geary County Historical Society in 2023.&nbsp;Businesses, Then and Now&nbsp;will be installed in the auditorium space in late spring. The new exhibit will focus on the evolution of businesses in Geary County from general stores to grocery stores.The Historical Society is looking for stories, photos, or items to be used within the exhibit. These items can relate to businesses that no longer exist, or those that are still local staples. Areas of interest include soda fountains, grocery stores, bars, theaters, shoe stores, hotels, department stores and restaurants. Anyone interested in donating or loaning items or photos for the upcoming exhibit should call the museum 785-238-1666 or email Heather at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:gearyhistorycurator@gmail.com" target="_blank">gearyhistorycurator@gmail.com</a>.

New Exhibit Coming to the Geary County Historical Museum

Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano said the county has added a finance page to their web site. "It has all the audit reports, our annual budget, finance policies and the levies. We also put a new budget format on there."

Giordano said the county's finance director, Tami Robison, put together a user friendly budget where you can see where county funds are going.

Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano said the county has added a finance page to their web site. "It has all the audit reports, our annual budget, finance policies and the levies. We also put a new budget format on there."Giordano said the county's finance director, Tami Robison, put together a user friendly budget where you can see where county funds are going.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1672874880978.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Geary County unveils a financial page

Junction City Main Street is planning a Taste of JC spring event May 5-6. Executive Director Michaela Joyce said it will begin on Friday night, May 5. "It will be a drink around downtown." Joyce added that each business will have a different country. "So for example, if Maple and Birch were able to take on Mexico they would have some lovely margaritas in the store, or if someone is doing German we might have some delicious beer. "

On Saturday, May 6 there will be a food festival featuring food from all over the world. Final details are still being planned but Joyce said the food festival would probably be with a Main Street market.

Junction City Main Street is planning a Taste of JC spring event May 5-6. Executive Director Michaela Joyce said it will begin on Friday night, May 5. "It will be a drink around downtown." Joyce added that each business will have a different country. "So for example, if Maple and Birch were able to take on Mexico they would have some lovely margaritas in the store, or if someone is doing German we might have some delicious beer. "On Saturday, May 6 there will be a food festival featuring food from all over the world. Final details are still being planned but Joyce said the food festival would probably be with a Main Street market.

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