K-State News and Communications Services

MANHATTAN — The winter solstice begins this week, plus a weather forecast including snow and dangerous wind chills means winter is officially here. A Kansas State University veterinarian says now is the time to bring some pets inside.&nbsp;

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/48b53a7f-7516-4d98-80a3-ead1f016bd3b">Dangerous wind chills and hazardous travel expected</a>

"It is time to consider bringing your cat or dog inside for warmth," said Susan Nelson,&nbsp;clinical professor at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksvhc.org/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>.&nbsp;"Pets that are very young or old, and those not acclimated to the colder weather, should be brought in during the colder temperatures."&nbsp;

Nelson advises dogs with heavy coats could get too warm in the house, so keeping them in a slightly cooler room or the garage can prevent them from getting too uncomfortable. Short trips inside the house before a long period of cold can give pets a chance to become accustomed to indoor temperatures.&nbsp;

If your pet gets nervous or panics while inside, Nelson said a carrier or crate may help to ease the transition. Speak to your veterinarian about calming medication if the pet's anxiety is severe.&nbsp;

Ensure pets have easy access to food and water bowls and that they know where the bowls are located.&nbsp;If your pet is not housebroken, Nelson recommends keeping them on floors that are easily cleaned.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Homes do have their own environmental threats to pets that are different from those found outdoors.&nbsp;

Indoor plants, such as lilies, dieffenbachia and philodendron, can be toxic to pets," Nelson said. "Before bringing pets inside, take an inventory of what plants you have and find out if they are poisonous, then move them to an inaccessible place."&nbsp;

Nelson listed some additional common items found in the home that can also be harmful to our furry friends:&nbsp;

With proper care and preparation, pets can be comfortable outside during cold weather, Nelson said.&nbsp;

"Outdoor shelters should not be too big in order to prevent loss of heat to dead space," Nelson said. "The door should face the south or west to reduce wind gusts. Use clean straw or hay for bedding, as blankets tend to get trampled easily and lose their insulating effect. If your pet will allow it, hanging a blanket over the door or using a pet flap will keep the wind out."&nbsp;

According to Nelson, cats also benefit from a cozy box in a sheltered area. Straw or hay bedding also works well for them.&nbsp;

"Outside water bowls should be checked at least twice a day for ice, and more often during particularly frigid weather like we will experience this week, to prevent dehydration," Nelson said. "A heated water bowl is a better option."&nbsp;

Nelson advises that some outside-dwelling pets may need an increase in food during cold weather to help pets maintain body heat.&nbsp;

The age of the pet can make it more susceptible to cold weather. Young and senior pets are more prone to hypothermia, so they should be kept in a warm environment. &nbsp;

"Pets with osteoarthritis should be treated with extra care," Nelson added. "Keep them indoors in a warm and well-cushioned area. You can speak with your veterinarian about pain medication options and therapeutic diets that can help ease the pain of arthritic joints."&nbsp;

Nelson's additional winter weather safety tips for pets include:&nbsp;

●If you have a short-haired dog, sweaters are a good idea. Sweaters made out of cotton, fleece or natural fibers are preferred. Make sure the sweater fits well, does not catch the dog's feet and cannot be easily pulled off. Avoid sweaters with decorations that could be torn off and ingested.

●Outdoor cats will seek warmth, including near or on a car engine. Honk the horn on your vehicle or bang on the hood before starting the engine in order to scare off any cats that may be warming themselves.

●Rinse off your pet's feet if they have been walking on treated surfaces, and do not let them lick it off. It is best to avoid treated walkways, but if your pet must frequently walk on these surfaces, consider having them wear booties to protect their feet. The booties can also help protect their feet from painful ice balls that can form on the bottom of the paws.

 ●Antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Immediately and thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, which is more pet friendly — but still not entirely harmless.&nbsp;

Frostbite can affect the ears, feet and noses of pets just as it does in people. To avoid frostbite, do not let your pet out in the extreme cold for a long period of time. Chances are that if you get too cold to be outside, it's probably too cold for your pet as well.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671545993349.jpeg" alt="A Kansas State University veterinarian says now is the time to bring some pets inside. Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>A Kansas State University veterinarian says now is the time to bring some pets inside. Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State News and Communications ServicesMANHATTAN — The winter solstice begins this week, plus a weather forecast including snow and dangerous wind chills means winter is officially here. A Kansas State University veterinarian says now is the time to bring some pets inside.&nbsp;READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/48b53a7f-7516-4d98-80a3-ead1f016bd3b">Dangerous wind chills and hazardous travel expected</a>"It is time to consider bringing your cat or dog inside for warmth," said Susan Nelson,&nbsp;clinical professor at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksvhc.org/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>.&nbsp;"Pets that are very young or old, and those not acclimated to the colder weather, should be brought in during the colder temperatures."&nbsp;Nelson advises dogs with heavy coats could get too warm in the house, so keeping them in a slightly cooler room or the garage can prevent them from getting too uncomfortable. Short trips inside the house before a long period of cold can give pets a chance to become accustomed to indoor temperatures.&nbsp;If your pet gets nervous or panics while inside, Nelson said a carrier or crate may help to ease the transition. Speak to your veterinarian about calming medication if the pet's anxiety is severe.&nbsp;Ensure pets have easy access to food and water bowls and that they know where the bowls are located.&nbsp;If your pet is not housebroken, Nelson recommends keeping them on floors that are easily cleaned.&nbsp;&nbsp;Homes do have their own environmental threats to pets that are different from those found outdoors.&nbsp;Indoor plants, such as lilies, dieffenbachia and philodendron, can be toxic to pets," Nelson said. "Before bringing pets inside, take an inventory of what plants you have and find out if they are poisonous, then move them to an inaccessible place."&nbsp;Nelson listed some additional common items found in the home that can also be harmful to our furry friends:&nbsp;●Chocolate●Raisins●Onions●Electrical cords●Candles●PotpourriWith proper care and preparation, pets can be comfortable outside during cold weather, Nelson said.&nbsp;"Outdoor shelters should not be too big in order to prevent loss of heat to dead space," Nelson said. "The door should face the south or west to reduce wind gusts. Use clean straw or hay for bedding, as blankets tend to get trampled easily and lose their insulating effect. If your pet will allow it, hanging a blanket over the door or using a pet flap will keep the wind out."&nbsp;According to Nelson, cats also benefit from a cozy box in a sheltered area. Straw or hay bedding also works well for them.&nbsp;"Outside water bowls should be checked at least twice a day for ice, and more often during particularly frigid weather like we will experience this week, to prevent dehydration," Nelson said. "A heated water bowl is a better option."&nbsp;Nelson advises that some outside-dwelling pets may need an increase in food during cold weather to help pets maintain body heat.&nbsp;The age of the pet can make it more susceptible to cold weather. Young and senior pets are more prone to hypothermia, so they should be kept in a warm environment. &nbsp;"Pets with osteoarthritis should be treated with extra care," Nelson added. "Keep them indoors in a warm and well-cushioned area. You can speak with your veterinarian about pain medication options and therapeutic diets that can help ease the pain of arthritic joints."&nbsp;Nelson's additional winter weather safety tips for pets include:&nbsp;●If you have a short-haired dog, sweaters are a good idea. Sweaters made out of cotton, fleece or natural fibers are preferred. Make sure the sweater fits well, does not catch the dog's feet and cannot be easily pulled off. Avoid sweaters with decorations that could be torn off and ingested.●Outdoor cats will seek warmth, including near or on a car engine. Honk the horn on your vehicle or bang on the hood before starting the engine in order to scare off any cats that may be warming themselves.●Rinse off your pet's feet if they have been walking on treated surfaces, and do not let them lick it off. It is best to avoid treated walkways, but if your pet must frequently walk on these surfaces, consider having them wear booties to protect their feet. The booties can also help protect their feet from painful ice balls that can form on the bottom of the paws. ●Antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Immediately and thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol, which is more pet friendly — but still not entirely harmless.&nbsp;Frostbite can affect the ears, feet and noses of pets just as it does in people. To avoid frostbite, do not let your pet out in the extreme cold for a long period of time. Chances are that if you get too cold to be outside, it's probably too cold for your pet as well.

K-State veterinarian offers cold weather pet care tips

DICKINSON COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 11p.m. Monday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chevy Uplander van driven by Dakota L. Jones, 27, Abilene, was northbound on Kansas 15 one and one half miles north of the Kansas 4 Junction.

The van left the right side of the road, continued traveling northeast, rolled and the driver was ejected. The vehicle caught fire and came to rest on its roof.

EMS transported Jones to Salina Regional Health Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

DICKINSON COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 11p.m. Monday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Chevy Uplander van driven by Dakota L. Jones, 27, Abilene, was northbound on Kansas 15 one and one half miles north of the Kansas 4 Junction.The van left the right side of the road, continued traveling northeast, rolled and the driver was ejected. The vehicle caught fire and came to rest on its roof.EMS transported Jones to Salina Regional Health Center. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after van rollover crash, fire

➔ A Wind Chill Warning remains in effect area-wide through 1 PM today.

➔ For Nemaha and Brown Counties, the Wind Chill Warning has been extended until noon Saturday. For the rest of the area, a Wind Chill Advisory has been issued for 6 PM this evening through 11 AM Saturday.

➔ Very cold temperatures continue with winds picking back up during the daytime hours today. Northwest winds are forecast to gust 30-40 mph.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAID THURSDAY THAT A&nbsp;WIND CHILL WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON CST FRIDAY BUT A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IS CANCELLED.

Dangerously cold wind chills are forecast from 25 below zero to 40
  below zero.&nbsp; Portions of central, east central, north central and
  northeast Kansas until noon CST Friday.&nbsp; Dangerously cold wind chills could cause
  frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.


Exposed skin can suffer from frostbite in a very short time, so
dress adequately. be sure to wear layered clothing, a hat, and
gloves to 

protect yourself from the dangers of frostbite.
 -----

Moderate to heavy snow will move across the area Thursday morning, exiting by noon.

➔ A Winter Storm Warning continues through 12 AM Friday.

➔ A Wind Chill Warning continues through noon Friday.

➔ Strong winds to 50 mph and very cold temperatures will accompany snow today, making for life threatening travel conditions.

➔ Dangerous wind chills as low as -40°F are expected this morning through Friday.

Law enforcement confirms that there have been multiple slide-off accidents in Geary County.

Patchy freezing drizzle will continue across the Flint Hills (the magenta colored area) through early this evening.  Watch for slick roadways, especially bridges and elevated road surface.

Light freezing drizzle and snow are possible Wednesday morning and afternoon. A few slick spots on roads are possible.

➔ A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 6 PM Wednesday night - midnight Friday

➔ The Wind Chill Warning remains in effect from midnight (early Thursday morning) until noon Friday.

➔ Strong winds and very cold temperatures will accompany snow, making for life threatening travel conditions.

➔ Dangerous wind chills as low as -12° to -22°F are expected Thursday morning through Friday.

Key Points on the pending winter storm were reviewed during a National Weather Service webinar Tuesday afternoon.

➔ A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from 6 PM Wednesday through midnight Thursday.

➔ A Wind Chill Warning now in effect from midnight Thursday night through noon Friday.

➔ Timing: Impacts are expected from Wednesday night through Friday.


GEARY COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HAS PASSED ALONG INFORMATION FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE ON A WINTER STORM WATCH THAT WILL BE IN EFFECT FROM LATE WEDNESDAY NIGHT THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING......WIND CHILL WATCH IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY MORNING THROUGH FRIDAY MORNING...

Four or more inches of snowfall along with strong northwest  winds will cause blizzard conditions along with wind chill  indices of 25 to 40 below zero. in north central, northeast, and east central Kansas.

This is forecast for late Wednesday night through Thursday evening for the  winter storm watch and Thursday morning through Friday morning for  the wind chill watch.

Any travel Thursday night through Friday evening is  strongly discouraged due to blizzard conditons. Extremely  dangerous wind chills will cause frostbite within minutes. If  you leave the safety of being indoors, you are putting your life  at risk.

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant snow and blizzard conditions that may impact travel. Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.A Wind Chill Watch means the there is the potential for a combination of very cold air and strong winds to create dangerously low wind chill values. Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on this situation.

By Dewey Terrill➔ A Wind Chill Warning remains in effect area-wide through 1 PM today.➔ For Nemaha and Brown Counties, the Wind Chill Warning has been extended until noon Saturday. For the rest of the area, a Wind Chill Advisory has been issued for 6 PM this evening through 11 AM Saturday.➔ Very cold temperatures continue with winds picking back up during the daytime hours today. Northwest winds are forecast to gust 30-40 mph.---NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAID THURSDAY THAT A&nbsp;WIND CHILL WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON CST FRIDAY BUT A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IS CANCELLED. Dangerously cold wind chills are forecast from 25 below zero to 40
 below zero.&nbsp; Portions of central, east central, north central and
 northeast Kansas until noon CST Friday.&nbsp; Dangerously cold wind chills could cause
 frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
Exposed skin can suffer from frostbite in a very short time, so
dress adequately. be sure to wear layered clothing, a hat, and
gloves to protect yourself from the dangers of frostbite.
 -----Moderate to heavy snow will move across the area Thursday morning, exiting by noon.➔ A Winter Storm Warning continues through 12 AM Friday.➔ A Wind Chill Warning continues through noon Friday.➔ Strong winds to 50 mph and very cold temperatures will accompany snow today, making for life threatening travel conditions.➔ Dangerous wind chills as low as -40°F are expected this morning through Friday.Law enforcement confirms that there have been multiple slide-off accidents in Geary County.---Patchy freezing drizzle will continue across the Flint Hills (the magenta colored area) through early this evening. Watch for slick roadways, especially bridges and elevated road surface.--Light freezing drizzle and snow are possible Wednesday morning and afternoon. A few slick spots on roads are possible.➔ A Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 6 PM Wednesday night - midnight Friday➔ The Wind Chill Warning remains in effect from midnight (early Thursday morning) until noon Friday.➔ Strong winds and very cold temperatures will accompany snow, making for life threatening travel conditions.➔ Dangerous wind chills as low as -12° to -22°F are expected Thursday morning through Friday.NEW Upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning.Lowered snowfall totals some.
----Key Points on the pending winter storm were reviewed during a National Weather Service webinar Tuesday afternoon.➔ A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from 6 PM Wednesday through midnight Thursday.➔ A Wind Chill Warning now in effect from midnight Thursday night through noon Friday.➔ Expected Weather - Triple Threat:◆ Accumulating snowfall◆ Strong winds◆ Arctic air intrusion➔ Timing: Impacts are expected from Wednesday night through Friday.
----GEARY COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HAS PASSED ALONG INFORMATION FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE ON A WINTER STORM WATCH THAT WILL BE IN EFFECT FROM LATE WEDNESDAY NIGHT THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING......WIND CHILL WATCH IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY MORNING THROUGH FRIDAY MORNING...Four or more inches of snowfall along with strong northwest winds will cause blizzard conditions along with wind chill indices of 25 to 40 below zero. in north central, northeast, and east central Kansas.This is forecast for late Wednesday night through Thursday evening for the winter storm watch and Thursday morning through Friday morning for the wind chill watch.Any travel Thursday night through Friday evening is strongly discouraged due to blizzard conditons. Extremely dangerous wind chills will cause frostbite within minutes. If you leave the safety of being indoors, you are putting your life at risk.A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant snow and blizzard conditions that may impact travel. Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.A Wind Chill Watch means the there is the potential for a combination of very cold air and strong winds to create dangerously low wind chill values. Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on this situation.

Wind chill warning will continue until 1 p.m. Friday

K-State food scientist offers tips to removing food odors

By Maddy Rohr, K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan – Spoiled food may leave many different types of odors in the refrigerator that can be hard to remove. Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee says proper cleaning and inspection is the homeowner’s best chance at getting rid of the foul smell.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“As winter approaches, so does the possibility of power outages,” Blakeslee said. “Refrigerators and freezers can hold cold temperatures for a short amount of time, but if power outages linger, food can become unsafe, spoil and leave residual odors.”&nbsp;

The first step to removing odors is disposing of spoiled or questionable food. Next, Blakeslee suggests removing the shelving, drawers and ice trays to wash in hot, soapy water before rinsing with bleach sanitizer. Blakeslee recommends once tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To wash the interior walls, use a mix of hot water and baking soda, then sanitize with bleach solution. Blakeslee said these steps may need to be repeated several times to be effective.&nbsp;

“If meat juice or spoiled food has lingered in an appliance, it may have seeped into the insulation,” Blakeslee said. “At this point, the appliance may need to be discarded.”&nbsp;

Additional tips to remove odors are available from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/emergencies/removing-odors-refrigerators-and" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Agriculture.</a>&nbsp;

Blakeslee, who also is coordinator of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">K-State’s Rapid Response Center for Food Science</a>, publishes a monthly newsletter called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/newsletter" target="_blank">You Asked It!</a>&nbsp;that provides numerous tips on being safe and healthy. More information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html" target="_blank">local extension offices</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.&nbsp;

K-State food scientist offers tips to removing food odorsBy Maddy Rohr, K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan – Spoiled food may leave many different types of odors in the refrigerator that can be hard to remove. Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee says proper cleaning and inspection is the homeowner’s best chance at getting rid of the foul smell.&nbsp;&nbsp;“As winter approaches, so does the possibility of power outages,” Blakeslee said. “Refrigerators and freezers can hold cold temperatures for a short amount of time, but if power outages linger, food can become unsafe, spoil and leave residual odors.”&nbsp;The first step to removing odors is disposing of spoiled or questionable food. Next, Blakeslee suggests removing the shelving, drawers and ice trays to wash in hot, soapy water before rinsing with bleach sanitizer. Blakeslee recommends once tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water.&nbsp;&nbsp;To wash the interior walls, use a mix of hot water and baking soda, then sanitize with bleach solution. Blakeslee said these steps may need to be repeated several times to be effective.&nbsp;“If meat juice or spoiled food has lingered in an appliance, it may have seeped into the insulation,” Blakeslee said. “At this point, the appliance may need to be discarded.”&nbsp;Additional tips to remove odors are available from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/emergencies/removing-odors-refrigerators-and" target="_blank">U.S. Department of Agriculture.</a>&nbsp;Blakeslee, who also is coordinator of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">K-State’s Rapid Response Center for Food Science</a>, publishes a monthly newsletter called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/newsletter" target="_blank">You Asked It!</a>&nbsp;that provides numerous tips on being safe and healthy. More information is also available from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html" target="_blank">local extension offices</a>&nbsp;in Kansas.&nbsp;

Spoiled food? Here's how to remove odor from the refrigerator

Geary County 4-H Club Day will be held Feb. 11 at the 1st Presbyterian Church in Junction City. Entry forms are due to the Extension Office by Jan. 26. The forms went out with a newsletter or can be obtained online at http://tinyurl.com/4HDay2023

Geary County 4-H Club Day will be held Feb. 11 at the 1st Presbyterian Church in Junction City. Entry forms are due to the Extension Office by Jan. 26. The forms went out with a newsletter or can be obtained online at http://tinyurl.com/4HDay2023

Geary County 4-H Club Day

--St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 9719 Clarks Creek Road, has notified JC Post that they will conduct their Christmas Eve service with candle light service at 5 p.m.

--Immanuel Lutheran Church and ECC will have a&nbsp;<a href="https://business.facebook.com/latest/inbox/all?bpn_id=558837594591296&amp;asset_id=313572208714011&amp;nav_ref=redirect_biz_inbox&amp;mailbox_id=&amp;selected_item_id=572565971#">Christmas Eve</a> service <a href="https://business.facebook.com/latest/inbox/all?bpn_id=558837594591296&amp;asset_id=313572208714011&amp;nav_ref=redirect_biz_inbox&amp;mailbox_id=&amp;selected_item_id=572565971#">at 7 pm</a> and <a href="https://business.facebook.com/latest/inbox/all?bpn_id=558837594591296&amp;asset_id=313572208714011&amp;nav_ref=redirect_biz_inbox&amp;mailbox_id=&amp;selected_item_id=572565971#">Christmas Day at 9 am Sunday</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

--St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 9719 Clarks Creek Road, has notified JC Post that they will conduct their Christmas Eve service with candle light service at 5 p.m.--Immanuel Lutheran Church and ECC will have a&nbsp;<a href="https://business.facebook.com/latest/inbox/all?bpn_id=558837594591296&amp;asset_id=313572208714011&amp;nav_ref=redirect_biz_inbox&amp;mailbox_id=&amp;selected_item_id=572565971#">Christmas Eve</a> service <a href="https://business.facebook.com/latest/inbox/all?bpn_id=558837594591296&amp;asset_id=313572208714011&amp;nav_ref=redirect_biz_inbox&amp;mailbox_id=&amp;selected_item_id=572565971#">at 7 pm</a> and <a href="https://business.facebook.com/latest/inbox/all?bpn_id=558837594591296&amp;asset_id=313572208714011&amp;nav_ref=redirect_biz_inbox&amp;mailbox_id=&amp;selected_item_id=572565971#">Christmas Day at 9 am Sunday</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;--

Christmas services are scheduled

By JOE NEWLAND Kansas Farm Bureau president When I was elected president of Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) earlier this month, it was an incredible honor and a very humbling experience. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to adequately express my gratitude for those who supported my candidacy, but I’m excited to work with our members to advance KFB’s mission to strengthen agriculture through advocacy, education and service. I have considered myself a farmer ever since my first ride on the combine, which was long before I was able to operate one by myself. From that formative experience, I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life caring for the land, tending crops and livestock and raising my family. About the time I was able to safely operate equipment on my own, I discovered FFA. It helped me better understand the world of agriculture extends far beyond the farm gate. My FFA adviser helped me discover my lifelong passion of promoting agriculture, both as a business and as a way of life. After marrying my wife, Dana, I became a Farm Bureau member for the first time because I had to have insurance. I quickly learned the value of a membership went well beyond protecting our home, cars and farm. We thought we were buying protection from financial loss, but we had actually purchased comprehensive coverage securing our way of life. As I began seeking out ways to advocate for agriculture, the Wilson County Farm Bureau stood out as a place where I could really make an impact for the industry and my community. My work there gave me the confidence to expand my leadership through civic groups, the local school board, a bank board, Kansas Farm Bureau committees and eventually representing southeast Kansas on KFB’s board of directors before serving in the Kansas House. The support of my wife and our four children has been instrumental in allowing me to spend time away from the farm pursuing these opportunities. I have no doubt they will continue to support and counsel me as I take on this new endeavor. I use “we” to acknowledge all the help I’ve received from friends and family that’s helped me succeed over the years. A big difference now is “we” extends to every border of Kansas. I am no longer a member of a local board, a district board or the Kansas House, all of which represented a part of the whole. I’m now tasked with helping ensure farms and ranches across the state – from Lenexa to Liberal and Bird City to Baxter Springs – prosper. The challenges you face on the farm, the issues you see in your schools and the obstacles you notice in your community aren’t just yours, they’re mine too. We must view these as opportunities rather than barriers. I have no doubt Kansas Farm Bureau can solve the most vexing matters facing agriculture today because I’ve experienced firsthand how the organization’s grassroots structure keeps us at the forefront of what matters. Of all the titles I’ve held, farmer is still the one I’m most proud of. I’ve come a long way from that first combine ride, but I’ve had plenty of help along the way. I’ll continue to rely on farmers and ranchers across the state to make sure KFB is successful as we tackle issues like water, taxes, regulation and more. Together we will represent all of agriculture.

"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/2022/12/1671467390814.jpeg" alt="Newland " />
 <figcaption>Newland </figcaption>
 </figure>By JOE NEWLAND Kansas Farm Bureau president When I was elected president of Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) earlier this month, it was an incredible honor and a very humbling experience. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to adequately express my gratitude for those who supported my candidacy, but I’m excited to work with our members to advance KFB’s mission to strengthen agriculture through advocacy, education and service. I have considered myself a farmer ever since my first ride on the combine, which was long before I was able to operate one by myself. From that formative experience, I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life caring for the land, tending crops and livestock and raising my family. About the time I was able to safely operate equipment on my own, I discovered FFA. It helped me better understand the world of agriculture extends far beyond the farm gate. My FFA adviser helped me discover my lifelong passion of promoting agriculture, both as a business and as a way of life. After marrying my wife, Dana, I became a Farm Bureau member for the first time because I had to have insurance. I quickly learned the value of a membership went well beyond protecting our home, cars and farm. We thought we were buying protection from financial loss, but we had actually purchased comprehensive coverage securing our way of life. As I began seeking out ways to advocate for agriculture, the Wilson County Farm Bureau stood out as a place where I could really make an impact for the industry and my community. My work there gave me the confidence to expand my leadership through civic groups, the local school board, a bank board, Kansas Farm Bureau committees and eventually representing southeast Kansas on KFB’s board of directors before serving in the Kansas House. The support of my wife and our four children has been instrumental in allowing me to spend time away from the farm pursuing these opportunities. I have no doubt they will continue to support and counsel me as I take on this new endeavor. I use “we” to acknowledge all the help I’ve received from friends and family that’s helped me succeed over the years. A big difference now is “we” extends to every border of Kansas. I am no longer a member of a local board, a district board or the Kansas House, all of which represented a part of the whole. I’m now tasked with helping ensure farms and ranches across the state – from Lenexa to Liberal and Bird City to Baxter Springs – prosper. The challenges you face on the farm, the issues you see in your schools and the obstacles you notice in your community aren’t just yours, they’re mine too. We must view these as opportunities rather than barriers. I have no doubt Kansas Farm Bureau can solve the most vexing matters facing agriculture today because I’ve experienced firsthand how the organization’s grassroots structure keeps us at the forefront of what matters. Of all the titles I’ve held, farmer is still the one I’m most proud of. I’ve come a long way from that first combine ride, but I’ve had plenty of help along the way. I’ll continue to rely on farmers and ranchers across the state to make sure KFB is successful as we tackle issues like water, taxes, regulation and more. Together we will represent all of agriculture."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: Representing all of agriculture

Geary County Emergency Management has announced that the potential for several inches of accumulating snow continues to increase late Wednesday night into Thursday. Focus less on the exact amount of snow, and more on the fact that even just a few inches will cause significant impacts when combined with 35-45 mph wind gusts and wind chills -30 degrees or lower.

Geary County Emergency Management has announced that the potential for several inches of accumulating snow continues to increase late Wednesday night into Thursday. Focus less on the exact amount of snow, and more on the fact that even just a few inches will cause significant impacts when combined with 35-45 mph wind gusts and wind chills -30 degrees or lower.

Prepare for a blast of artic weather

RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Manhattan.

Just after 11:30 a.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for burglary in the 500 block of Pierre Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 30-year-old man reported his car was broken into and his Winchester SX4 shotgun was stolen. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,180.&nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Manhattan.Just after 11:30 a.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for burglary in the 500 block of Pierre Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 30-year-old man reported his car was broken into and his Winchester SX4 shotgun was stolen. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,180.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Shotgun stolen from man's car in Manhattan

For Martine Chery-Hilaire and participants in the 1st Thousand Members Club the mission is to educate, empower and unite Haitians to make a local and global impact. The goal is to eventually develop a multipurpose multicultural center where multicultural businesses can operate. "The businesses we want in there are aimed to grow the economy and also bring the community together."

This facility would include an international restaurant with Haitian food and menu staple items from other cultures in the community. Chery-Hilaire noted that there could also be a children's museum with Haitian art and history,&nbsp; as well as a bakery/ coffee shop where city officials can meet to discuss city matters over freshly baked bread and coffee. Space permitting, there will also be an indoor pool where club members and their family can come and spend quality time free of charge. There will be some Airbnb units and a couple of units reserved for local homeless, as well as a safe haven for battered women.&nbsp; She added that funds have been used to purchase a lot in downtown Junction City. Fundraising will also have to occur. "We are going to have members of the club contribute to the project.&nbsp;

Chery-Hilaire noted that after checking with an architect this project could take 18 to 24 months. The first thousand investors in the club would become lifetime members. Local vendors and members of the community were introduced to First Thousand Members Club and their future projects during a “Shop &amp; Worship” event at JCNAZ on December 10th.&nbsp;The event was a fundraiser to support their first global outreach program as an organization. The funds raised during this event will help provide financial support for children in Gros-Marin, Haiti this Christmas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Upon construction of the multipurpose and multicultural facility sponsors will enjoy free or discounted services, as well as other perks and benefits for being one of the first 1000 members to donate $5000 to help fund the project.

This is a large scale project by Haitians for the community and cultural diversity . However , it’ll take the involvement of local community members and leaders to bring it to pass. To learn more or to join First Thousand Members Club, visit&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/368926368440818/?ref=share_group_link">https://www.facebook.com/groups/368926368440818/?ref=share_group_link</a>

This is a 501(c)3 nonprofit so contributions to the project will be tax deductible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671458982774.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It is okay to think&nbsp; big. For Martine Chery-Hilaire and participants in the 1st Thousand Members Club the mission is to educate, empower and unite Haitians to make a local and global impact. The goal is to eventually develop a multipurpose multicultural center where multicultural businesses can operate. "The businesses we want in there are aimed to grow the economy and also bring the community together."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671459007223.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This facility would include an international restaurant with Haitian food and menu staple items from other cultures in the community. Chery-Hilaire noted that there could also be a children's museum with Haitian art and history,&nbsp; as well as a bakery/ coffee shop where city officials can meet to discuss city matters over freshly baked bread and coffee. Space permitting, there will also be an indoor pool where club members and their family can come and spend quality time free of charge. There will be some Airbnb units and a couple of units reserved for local homeless, as well as a safe haven for battered women.&nbsp; She added that funds have been used to purchase a lot in downtown Junction City. Fundraising will also have to occur. "We are going to have members of the club contribute to the project.&nbsp;Chery-Hilaire noted that after checking with an architect this project could take 18 to 24 months. The first thousand investors in the club would become lifetime members. Local vendors and members of the community were introduced to First Thousand Members Club and their future projects during a “Shop &amp; Worship” event at JCNAZ on December 10th.&nbsp;The event was a fundraiser to support their first global outreach program as an organization. The funds raised during this event will help provide financial support for children in Gros-Marin, Haiti this Christmas.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671459040794.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Upon construction of the multipurpose and multicultural facility sponsors will enjoy free or discounted services, as well as other perks and benefits for being one of the first 1000 members to donate $5000 to help fund the project. This is a large scale project by Haitians for the community and cultural diversity . However , it’ll take the involvement of local community members and leaders to bring it to pass. To learn more or to join First Thousand Members Club, visit&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/368926368440818/?ref=share_group_link">https://www.facebook.com/groups/368926368440818/?ref=share_group_link</a>This is a 501(c)3 nonprofit so contributions to the project will be tax deductible.

Development of a Haitian MultiCultural Center is an idea for downtown Junction City

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Sunday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2008 Hyundai Accent driven by Thomas Cohagen, 71, Leondardville, crashed into a ditch near the intersection of Anderson Avenue and Madison Road in Manhattan 

EMS transported Cohagen to Via Christi for treatment of minor injuries.

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Sunday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2008 Hyundai Accent driven by Thomas Cohagen, 71, Leondardville, crashed into a ditch near the intersection of Anderson Avenue and Madison Road in Manhattan EMS transported Cohagen to Via Christi for treatment of minor injuries.

Riley County man hospitalized after crash

Light snow will move in after midnight. Around an inch of snow accumulation is possible through sunrise, which could result in slick spots on untreated roadways and elevated surfaces.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday.

Confidence is increasing for accumulating snow Wednesday night into Thursday. Snow, combined with strong wind gusts to 45 mph Thursday into Friday could result in blowing snow, reduced visibility, and very difficult travel.

Dangerous wind chills as low as 30 to 40 degrees below zero are expected Thursday morning through Friday evening.

Light snow will move in after midnight. Around an inch of snow accumulation is possible through sunrise, which could result in slick spots on untreated roadways and elevated surfaces..DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Monday through Saturday.Confidence is increasing for accumulating snow Wednesday night into Thursday. Snow, combined with strong wind gusts to 45 mph Thursday into Friday could result in blowing snow, reduced visibility, and very difficult travel.Dangerous wind chills as low as 30 to 40 degrees below zero are expected Thursday morning through Friday evening.

Light snow is possible early Monday morning

On Friday, November 18th, 2022, The Classic honored two outstanding people/organizations who have supported the event and our mission. Jim Millensifer, Board of Directors President, presided over the induction of the 2022 members of The Classic “Field of Fame."

Rick Dykstra, Milford Township, was acknowledged for his years of support for volunteering to do all classic photography, port-production work and posting of photos on-line.

Federal Premium Ammunition was also inducted into the 2022 Field of Fame for their years of support and sponsorship.

The Kansas Governor’s Ringneck Classic was designed to draw regional and national attention to hunting tourism in Kansas. The purpose of the Classic is to “Bring people together for an annual pheasant hunt that raises funds to benefit the Northwest Kansas Conservation Foundation (NWKCF), promote hunting tourism and contribute to local economies.

On Friday, November 18th, 2022, The Classic honored two outstanding people/organizations who have supported the event and our mission. Jim Millensifer, Board of Directors President, presided over the induction of the 2022 members of The Classic “Field of Fame."Rick Dykstra, Milford Township, was acknowledged for his years of support for volunteering to do all classic photography, port-production work and posting of photos on-line.Federal Premium Ammunition was also inducted into the 2022 Field of Fame for their years of support and sponsorship.The Kansas Governor’s Ringneck Classic was designed to draw regional and national attention to hunting tourism in Kansas. The purpose of the Classic is to “Bring people together for an annual pheasant hunt that raises funds to benefit the Northwest Kansas Conservation Foundation (NWKCF), promote hunting tourism and contribute to local economies.

Milford resident inducted into 2022 Kansas Governor’s Ringneck Classic Field of Fame

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/16/kansas-public-universities-face-1-2-billion-in-deferred-maintenance-on-core-buildings/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Restoring life safety 
and functional integrity to nearly 500 academic or research buildings on
 state university campuses in the Kansas Board of Regents system would 
cost an estimated $1.2 billion, officials said Thursday.

The Board of Regents annually reviews deployment of approximately $40
 million earmarked for deferred maintenance at the public universities, 
but this new analysis incorporated an extra $45 million allocated by the
 Kansas Legislature to tackle the facilities backlog.

Lawmakers supplemented university building management budgets this 
year with grants of $35 million that must be matched with private money 
raised by the universities. In addition, the Legislature allocated $10 
million for demolition of structures that outlived their usefulness.

Chad Bristow, director of facilities for the Board of Regents, said 
the $10 million appropriation, which included $700,000 for Washburn 
University in Topeka, enabled universities to get rid of buildings 
containing 377,000 square feet of space that otherwise would have 
required $52 million in renovations.

“This is going to help us. It’s great to spend $1 today to save $10 
down the road,” said Jon Rolph, chairman of the Board of Regents.

Bristow said the goal of the Board of Regents was to improve 
condition of 498 “mission critical” academic and research buildings from
 the current grade of “C” to a “B+.” University buildings included on 
this report card averaged 50 years of age. Assessments of these 
structures took into account significance, accessibility, functionality,
 space utilization as well as a metric capturing overall condition.

“The magnitude of resources needed to overcome, let’s say, under 
investing in deferred maintenance over the decades is in the billions,” 
Bristow said.

Wint Winter, a member of the Board of Regents and a former state 
senator, said progress on campus building maintenance was tied to the 
Legislature’s ability to finance the work.

The 2023 Legislature and Gov. Laura Kelly convene at the Capitol in 
January to begin debate on competing requests for a slice of the largest
 state budget surplus in Kansas history.

“I don’t want to predict a significant problem,” Winter said, “but I 
think we ought to be practical and realize that our ability to get more 
funding from the Legislature is really the key to being able to hit 
these needs.”

Doug Girod, chancellor at the University of Kansas, said focus of the
 Board of Regents’ conversation was on the subset of core academic and 
research buildings. The bigger picture would include entirety of 1,147 
buildings in use on state university campuses in Kansas, he said.

The replacement value of all buildings in the Board of Regents’ 
system was estimated to be greater than $7 billion, officials said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671208734937.png" alt="Kansas Board of Regents members Carl Ice and Jon Rolph listen during presentation of a report outlining the $1.2 billion cost of addressing maintenance shortcomings of 498 core academic and research buildings in the state university system. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Board of Regents members Carl Ice and Jon Rolph listen during presentation of a report outlining the $1.2 billion cost of addressing maintenance shortcomings of 498 core academic and research buildings in the state university system. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/16/kansas-public-universities-face-1-2-billion-in-deferred-maintenance-on-core-buildings/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Restoring life safety 
and functional integrity to nearly 500 academic or research buildings on
 state university campuses in the Kansas Board of Regents system would 
cost an estimated $1.2 billion, officials said Thursday.The Board of Regents annually reviews deployment of approximately $40
 million earmarked for deferred maintenance at the public universities, 
but this new analysis incorporated an extra $45 million allocated by the
 Kansas Legislature to tackle the facilities backlog.Lawmakers supplemented university building management budgets this 
year with grants of $35 million that must be matched with private money 
raised by the universities. In addition, the Legislature allocated $10 
million for demolition of structures that outlived their usefulness.Chad Bristow, director of facilities for the Board of Regents, said 
the $10 million appropriation, which included $700,000 for Washburn 
University in Topeka, enabled universities to get rid of buildings 
containing 377,000 square feet of space that otherwise would have 
required $52 million in renovations.“This is going to help us. It’s great to spend $1 today to save $10 
down the road,” said Jon Rolph, chairman of the Board of Regents.Bristow said the goal of the Board of Regents was to improve 
condition of 498 “mission critical” academic and research buildings from
 the current grade of “C” to a “B+.” University buildings included on 
this report card averaged 50 years of age. Assessments of these 
structures took into account significance, accessibility, functionality,
 space utilization as well as a metric capturing overall condition.“The magnitude of resources needed to overcome, let’s say, under 
investing in deferred maintenance over the decades is in the billions,” 
Bristow said.Wint Winter, a member of the Board of Regents and a former state 
senator, said progress on campus building maintenance was tied to the 
Legislature’s ability to finance the work.The 2023 Legislature and Gov. Laura Kelly convene at the Capitol in 
January to begin debate on competing requests for a slice of the largest
 state budget surplus in Kansas history.“I don’t want to predict a significant problem,” Winter said, “but I 
think we ought to be practical and realize that our ability to get more 
funding from the Legislature is really the key to being able to hit 
these needs.”Doug Girod, chancellor at the University of Kansas, said focus of the
 Board of Regents’ conversation was on the subset of core academic and 
research buildings. The bigger picture would include entirety of 1,147 
buildings in use on state university campuses in Kansas, he said.The replacement value of all buildings in the Board of Regents’ 
system was estimated to be greater than $7 billion, officials said.

Kansas universities facing $1.2B in deferred maintenance

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

The holiday season is upon us and feeling the need to&nbsp;spend money and purchase gifts can lead to stressful feelings.&nbsp;

Megan McCoy, a professor in the Financial Planning Department in the College of Health and Human Sciences at Kansas State University, suggests a few ideas on how to reduce spending, while still enjoying the gift giving aspect of the holiday season.&nbsp;

“...I think the process, the anticipation of opening presents is really where our happiness comes from, not the actual present that we could have picked up for ourselves at Walmart. And so being intentional about like in my buying money and me spending this amount of money because this is a gift for them or am I spending this amount of money because I feel like I have to.&nbsp;

And separating those two out so that you can buy gifts are actually thoughtful and meant for the person without having a certain number applied to it. Maybe you find the perfect present at like Five below. Even though it's only $5. It was meaningful, it meant something. It showed. And remember, remember reminiscing. We're reminiscing, reminiscing about a past time with them.&nbsp;

That $5 gift is going to be more meaningful because I can that earlier. I like memory that any kind of expensive gift you can buy someone.”&nbsp;

McCoy also says there are strategic ways to cut costs while not taking away from the fun of the holiday season.&nbsp;

“Everybody works really, really hard to be able to spend. We just want you to spend intentionally. So, finding ways to not eat out and save up to when you eat out with friends and finding ways to use coupons so that when you're with your friends, you don't have to worry as much about how much you can spend.” McCoy says.&nbsp;

Resources are available to those who are dealing with financial stress, McCoy says K-State offers free financial counseling to students and those associated with the school and there are options for other community members as well.&nbsp;

“There's a organization called AFCPE that offers pro bono financial counseling virtually to anybody who needs it. So, if you're like, I want a budget, but I only know where to start with that, you can meet just a few times for free with a counselor and really just start getting on the right path and take it from there.” McCoy says.&nbsp;

McCoy says tracking your spending and looking at previous years’ budgets can help you determine how much to spend.&nbsp;

“Definitely factor in inflation to be intentional about your spending outside of what you want to spend and then making sure your gifts are truly for the person and not to keep up with the Joneses. Or to some of us kind of construe how much we spend is how much we love. And that should be separated. You can love without spending a lot.” McCoy says.&nbsp;

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/sgyCxMaz-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Holiday Planning With Megan Mccoy" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>The holiday season is upon us and feeling the need to&nbsp;spend money and purchase gifts can lead to stressful feelings.&nbsp;Megan McCoy, a professor in the Financial Planning Department in the College of Health and Human Sciences at Kansas State University, suggests a few ideas on how to reduce spending, while still enjoying the gift giving aspect of the holiday season.&nbsp;“...I think the process, the anticipation of opening presents is really where our happiness comes from, not the actual present that we could have picked up for ourselves at Walmart. And so being intentional about like in my buying money and me spending this amount of money because this is a gift for them or am I spending this amount of money because I feel like I have to.&nbsp;And separating those two out so that you can buy gifts are actually thoughtful and meant for the person without having a certain number applied to it. Maybe you find the perfect present at like Five below. Even though it's only $5. It was meaningful, it meant something. It showed. And remember, remember reminiscing. We're reminiscing, reminiscing about a past time with them.&nbsp;That $5 gift is going to be more meaningful because I can that earlier. I like memory that any kind of expensive gift you can buy someone.”&nbsp;McCoy also says there are strategic ways to cut costs while not taking away from the fun of the holiday season.&nbsp;“Everybody works really, really hard to be able to spend. We just want you to spend intentionally. So, finding ways to not eat out and save up to when you eat out with friends and finding ways to use coupons so that when you're with your friends, you don't have to worry as much about how much you can spend.” McCoy says.&nbsp;Resources are available to those who are dealing with financial stress, McCoy says K-State offers free financial counseling to students and those associated with the school and there are options for other community members as well.&nbsp;“There's a organization called AFCPE that offers pro bono financial counseling virtually to anybody who needs it. So, if you're like, I want a budget, but I only know where to start with that, you can meet just a few times for free with a counselor and really just start getting on the right path and take it from there.” McCoy says.&nbsp;McCoy says tracking your spending and looking at previous years’ budgets can help you determine how much to spend.&nbsp;“Definitely factor in inflation to be intentional about your spending outside of what you want to spend and then making sure your gifts are truly for the person and not to keep up with the Joneses. Or to some of us kind of construe how much we spend is how much we love. And that should be separated. You can love without spending a lot.” McCoy says.&nbsp;

Tips for reducing financial stress around the holidays

This next week the 12th Street Community Center will operate on limited hours. Joshua Gray, Interim Parks and Recreation Director, said that the gym floors will be refinished and more pickleball lines will be added on Monday and Tuesday so the gym will be closed all week. 

They will conduct morning and evening classes, but will be closed from noon – 5. We will open with normal hours on Monday, Dec 26th.

This next week the 12th Street Community Center will operate on limited hours. Joshua Gray, Interim Parks and Recreation Director, said that the gym floors will be refinished and more pickleball lines will be added on Monday and Tuesday so the gym will be closed all week. They will conduct morning and evening classes, but will be closed from noon – 5. We will open with normal hours on Monday, Dec 26th.

Partial hours will be in effect at the 12th Street Community Center

Aging water lines have been a challenge for the City of Junction City.

City Manager Allen Dinkel said this week that they have adjusted salaries to recruit more staff. This past year over $1.2 million has been spent on replacing aged water lines in the older parts of the city. This program will continue in the future. Yes, they are addressing areas where we have had the most problems. The goal is to lower the incidents of water leaks and pipe failures in the future. This will free crews up for other work. Also, less water is wasted. 

Efforts are also under way to work on potholes.&nbsp;

Aging water lines have been a challenge for the City of Junction City.City Manager Allen Dinkel said this week that they have adjusted salaries to recruit more staff. This past year over $1.2 million has been spent on replacing aged water lines in the older parts of the city. This program will continue in the future. Yes, they are addressing areas where we have had the most problems. The goal is to lower the incidents of water leaks and pipe failures in the future. This will free crews up for other work. Also, less water is wasted. Efforts are also under way to work on potholes.&nbsp;

Junction City works to fix aging water lines

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a&nbsp;seasonally adjusted unemployment rate&nbsp;of 2.8% in November. This was unchanged from 2.8% in October and unchanged from 2.8% in November 2021.

“There was little change in the labor force this month, resulting in the unemployment rate remaining at 2.8%,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “This is also unchanged from last November.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

In northeast Kansas many counties report a jobless rates below 2 percent. Geary County saw unemployment fall from 3.9 percent in October to 3.8 percent in November. Riley, Pottawatomie and Wabaunsee counties also saw a drop in the unemployment in November.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 400 from October. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.&nbsp;Private sector jobs&nbsp;decreased by 1,000 over the month, while government increased by 600.

“Total nonfarm job estimates for Kansas indicate a small decline over the month in November,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “However, due to strong growth in October and gains earlier this year, current estimates are 2.7% higher than last November.”

Since November 2021 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs&nbsp;have increased by 36,700. This change is due to an increase of 34,600 private sector jobs and an increase of 2,100 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671297846395.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a&nbsp;seasonally adjusted unemployment rate&nbsp;of 2.8% in November. This was unchanged from 2.8% in October and unchanged from 2.8% in November 2021.“There was little change in the labor force this month, resulting in the unemployment rate remaining at 2.8%,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “This is also unchanged from last November.”&nbsp;&nbsp;In northeast Kansas many counties report a jobless rates below 2 percent. Geary County saw unemployment fall from 3.9 percent in October to 3.8 percent in November. Riley, Pottawatomie and Wabaunsee counties also saw a drop in the unemployment in November.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 400 from October. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers.&nbsp;Private sector jobs&nbsp;decreased by 1,000 over the month, while government increased by 600.“Total nonfarm job estimates for Kansas indicate a small decline over the month in November,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “However, due to strong growth in October and gains earlier this year, current estimates are 2.7% higher than last November.”Since November 2021 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs&nbsp;have increased by 36,700. This change is due to an increase of 34,600 private sector jobs and an increase of 2,100 government jobs.

Geary County jobless rate down slightly

MANHATTAN - A Manhattan man was arrested on Friday morning after attempting to cash a fraudulent check.

According to the Riley County Police Department, 24-year-old Dale Corbin of Manhattan was at Commerce Bank on Poyntz Avenue around 9:00 am when he attempted to cash a fraudulent check.

Employees at the bank realized the check was fraudulent and contacted RCPD for assistance.

When officers made contact with Corbin, he ran away from them, and officers followed on-foot.

Corbin was arrested near the intersection of of Poyntz and 16th Street for interference with LEO, and forgery in connection with the attempt to cash the fraudulent check. He was also charged with possession of a stimulant at the time of his arrest and on a warrant for failure to appear for a Manhattan Municipal Court date.

Corbin is being held in the Riley County Jail on a total bond of $13,205.

USD 383 schools on Poyntz Avenue were placed on secure campus for a short time on Friday morning until officers were able to locate Corbin. There was no threat to the schools at any time, this was done as a precaution.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - A Manhattan man was arrested on Friday morning after attempting to cash a fraudulent check.According to the Riley County Police Department, 24-year-old Dale Corbin of Manhattan was at Commerce Bank on Poyntz Avenue around 9:00 am when he attempted to cash a fraudulent check.Employees at the bank realized the check was fraudulent and contacted RCPD for assistance.When officers made contact with Corbin, he ran away from them, and officers followed on-foot.Corbin was arrested near the intersection of of Poyntz and 16th Street for interference with LEO, and forgery in connection with the attempt to cash the fraudulent check. He was also charged with possession of a stimulant at the time of his arrest and on a warrant for failure to appear for a Manhattan Municipal Court date.Corbin is being held in the Riley County Jail on a total bond of $13,205.USD 383 schools on Poyntz Avenue were placed on secure campus for a short time on Friday morning until officers were able to locate Corbin. There was no threat to the schools at any time, this was done as a precaution.

Manhattan man tried to cash fraudulent check, ran from RCPD

Geary County resident Alyssa Petri has undertaken a project to develop a bee sanctuary and a market garden on her property adjacent to Clarks Creek Road southeast of Junction City. It will be called Bubba's Homestead. "I'm trying to amass a few bees so I can have pollinators and a market garden for the local community to come and get some fresh produce."

Petri has been trying to get into bees after also spending two years working with some success in organic farming. " My interest peaked because I learned that beeswax burns the brightest in terms of candlelight so that is kind of what started all of this."

A market cart is being built which will be installed by Petri at the site where people can drive by and obtain produce. When it comes to the bees Petri said she has looked into purchasing them locally. "There are a couple of places that do sell bees in Kansas." Her research has led her to discover that there are bee hives that are manufactured in Australia but are built so the home does not have been destroyed to extract the honey and the wax. "You can leave the bees intact in their homes. That was what really peaked my interest because you don't have to disturb their environment."

Alyssa said estimates indicate that with two or three houses five gallons of honey could be gathered in the first year but all the funds will be reinvested into the bees. She is hoping to eventually have a harvest of approximately 30 gallons a year.

Petri said a long term goal is to have students interested in this process come out and farm with no risk since they not have to invest the capitol or assets. "They can just come and dig in and also be able to give away some honey because honey is something that is hard to acquire and its' not exactly cheap at the grocery store."

Petri has a kick starter page to help her reach her goal. "You can go to my website, bubbashomestead.com and you can follow her channel, bubbashomestead on You Tube.

<a href="https://linktr.ee/bubbashomestead" target="_blank">https://linktr.ee/bubbashomestead</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671237957472.jpeg" alt="Alyssa Petri" />
 <figcaption>Alyssa Petri</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County resident Alyssa Petri has undertaken a project to develop a bee sanctuary and a market garden on her property adjacent to Clarks Creek Road southeast of Junction City. It will be called Bubba's Homestead. "I'm trying to amass a few bees so I can have pollinators and a market garden for the local community to come and get some fresh produce."Petri has been trying to get into bees after also spending two years working with some success in organic farming. " My interest peaked because I learned that beeswax burns the brightest in terms of candlelight so that is kind of what started all of this."A market cart is being built which will be installed by Petri at the site where people can drive by and obtain produce. When it comes to the bees Petri said she has looked into purchasing them locally. "There are a couple of places that do sell bees in Kansas." Her research has led her to discover that there are bee hives that are manufactured in Australia but are built so the home does not have been destroyed to extract the honey and the wax. "You can leave the bees intact in their homes. That was what really peaked my interest because you don't have to disturb their environment."Alyssa said estimates indicate that with two or three houses five gallons of honey could be gathered in the first year but all the funds will be reinvested into the bees. She is hoping to eventually have a harvest of approximately 30 gallons a year.Petri said a long term goal is to have students interested in this process come out and farm with no risk since they not have to invest the capitol or assets. "They can just come and dig in and also be able to give away some honey because honey is something that is hard to acquire and its' not exactly cheap at the grocery store."Petri has a kick starter page to help her reach her goal. "You can go to my website, bubbashomestead.com and you can follow her channel, bubbashomestead on You Tube.<a href="https://linktr.ee/bubbashomestead" target="_blank">https://linktr.ee/bubbashomestead</a>

Bubba's Homestead could benefit the community

Geary County Democrats Central Committee have presented a donation of $500 to the free community dinners offered each Tuesday by the Episcopal Church of the Covenant. The Democrats made this donation in order to serve the community.&nbsp;

Deacon Cathy Brunson and our volunteers received the check on behalf of the church.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Democrats Central Committee have presented a donation of $500 to the free community dinners offered each Tuesday by the Episcopal Church of the Covenant. The Democrats made this donation in order to serve the community.&nbsp; Deacon Cathy Brunson and our volunteers received the check on behalf of the church.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671225759150.png" alt="Deacon Cathy Brunson and our volunteers received the check on behalf of the church. ( Photo Shelly Kite )" />
 <figcaption>Deacon Cathy Brunson and our volunteers received the check on behalf of the church. ( Photo Shelly Kite )</figcaption>
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Geary County Democrats help support food efforts in the community

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=4pmny-133dea0-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

🎤 Forward Ever: Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly

Local volunteers from the Junction City community and Fort Riley braved the cold Friday morning to help clean up downtown. Work included cleanup of leaves and debris. Junction City Main Street coordinated the effort.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostLocal volunteers from the Junction City community and Fort Riley braved the cold Friday morning to help clean up downtown. Work included cleanup of leaves and debris. Junction City Main Street coordinated the effort.<figure>
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Volunteers spruce up downtown Junction City

JUNCTION CITY — On Friday, Konza Prairie Community Health Center announces the promotion of Dani Hallgren to the role of chief executive officer. Hallgren joined Konza in 2018 as community engagement coordinator and in 2019 she became chief operating officer, overseeing daily operations at Konza clinics in Junction City and Manhattan.

Hallgren succeeds Lee Wolf, who has led Konza for 17 years as CEO, and is moving on to take a position in health care leadership at Salina Regional Health Center. 

“Dani is well known for her drive and desire to improve the health of all people,” Wolf said. “Her combination of servant and transformational leadership style position Konza for continued success. I know the organization will move forward to reach new and exciting achievements under her strong guidance.” 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671215073337.jpeg" alt="Dani Hallgren" />
 <figcaption>Dani Hallgren</figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseJUNCTION CITY — On Friday, Konza Prairie Community Health Center announces the promotion of Dani Hallgren to the role of chief executive officer. Hallgren joined Konza in 2018 as community engagement coordinator and in 2019 she became chief operating officer, overseeing daily operations at Konza clinics in Junction City and Manhattan.Hallgren succeeds Lee Wolf, who has led Konza for 17 years as CEO, and is moving on to take a position in health care leadership at Salina Regional Health Center. “Dani is well known for her drive and desire to improve the health of all people,” Wolf said. “Her combination of servant and transformational leadership style position Konza for continued success. I know the organization will move forward to reach new and exciting achievements under her strong guidance.”

New CEO named at Konza Prairie Community Health Center 

Progress is continuing on both of the replacement fire stations for Geary County Rural Fire Department. The framework has started at Station 10 located in the Laurel Canyon area while Station 2 located on East Lyon's Creek Road had the concrete pad poured last week. 

The framework should start there soon. Both stations should be completed and operational by the end of February 2023.  Once operational, both stations will be housing both a brush unit and a Class A pumper, thus expanding the fire capability in both of those areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Progress is continuing on both of the replacement fire stations for Geary County Rural Fire Department. The framework has started at Station 10 located in the Laurel Canyon area while Station 2 located on East Lyon's Creek Road had the concrete pad poured last week. The framework should start there soon.Both stations should be completed and operational by the end of February 2023.  Once operational, both stations will be housing both a brush unit and a Class A pumper, thus expanding the fire capability in both of those areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostProgress is continuing on both of the replacement fire stations for Geary County Rural Fire Department. The framework has started at Station 10 located in the Laurel Canyon area while Station 2 located on East Lyon's Creek Road had the concrete pad poured last week. The framework should start there soon. Both stations should be completed and operational by the end of February 2023. Once operational, both stations will be housing both a brush unit and a Class A pumper, thus expanding the fire capability in both of those areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Progress is continuing on both of the replacement fire stations for Geary County Rural Fire Department. The framework has started at Station 10 located in the Laurel Canyon area while Station 2 located on East Lyon's Creek Road had the concrete pad poured last week. The framework should start there soon.Both stations should be completed and operational by the end of February 2023. Once operational, both stations will be housing both a brush unit and a Class A pumper, thus expanding the fire capability in both of those areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671214624504.jpeg" alt="Photo - Geary County Rural Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo - Geary County Rural Fire Department</figcaption>
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