GEARY COUNTY - Geary County Fire Chief Garry Berges announces six promotions within the Geary County Rural Fire Department (GCRFD).

GCRFD promoted the following to the rank of Lieutenant:

-Adam Shamburg has been with the Geary County Fire Department since March 2016.

-Caleb Rubash has been with the Geary County Fire Department since March 2014.

-Travis Barclay has been with the Geary County Fire Department since August 2019.

-Chris George has been with the Geary County Fire Department since April 2019.

-Tim Dokken had been with the Geary County Fire Department for 15 years previous before returning in May of 2018.

-Brandon Kehoe has been with the Geary County Fire Department since March 2016.

by BECKY GOFF JC PostGEARY COUNTY - Geary County Fire Chief Garry Berges announces six promotions within the Geary County Rural Fire Department (GCRFD).GCRFD promoted the following to the rank of Lieutenant:-Adam Shamburg has been with the Geary County Fire Department since March 2016.-Caleb Rubash has been with the Geary County Fire Department since March 2014.-Travis Barclay has been with the Geary County Fire Department since August 2019.-Chris George has been with the Geary County Fire Department since April 2019.-Tim Dokken had been with the Geary County Fire Department for 15 years previous before returning in May of 2018.-Brandon Kehoe has been with the Geary County Fire Department since March 2016.

Geary Co. Rural Fire promotes 6 volunteers to Lieutenant

After the snow tapers off Thursday afternoon, forecasters are expecting the temperature to warm up heading into and through the weekend.

The high Friday will reach the mid-40s, rising to the low to mid-50s Saturday and Sunday. Monday's is expected to be near 60.

There is a 20 percent to 30 percent chance of rain on Tuesday and Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka predicted.

After the snow tapers off Thursday afternoon, forecasters are expecting the temperature to warm up heading into and through the weekend.The high Friday will reach the mid-40s, rising to the low to mid-50s Saturday and Sunday. Monday's is expected to be near 60.There is a 20 percent to 30 percent chance of rain on Tuesday and Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka predicted.

After wintry weather, expect the mercury to begin to rise

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in the 400 block of Knox Lane in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, the City of Manhattan reported an unknown suspect drove on the grass at the Northeast Community Park causing around $750 worth of damage.&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.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in the 400 block of Knox Lane in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, the City of Manhattan reported an unknown suspect drove on the grass at the Northeast Community Park causing around $750 worth of damage.&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: $750 damage reported at Northeast Community Park

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676560297627.jpeg" alt="Daniel James Day, Criminal threat; Unknown circumstance; Assault; Disorderly conduct; Unknown circumstance; arrested 2/15" />
 <figcaption>Daniel James Day, Criminal threat; Unknown circumstance; Assault; Disorderly conduct; Unknown circumstance; arrested 2/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676560455188.jpeg" alt="Fallon Rachelle Luthi, Failure to appear, arrested 2/15" />
 <figcaption>Fallon Rachelle Luthi, Failure to appear, arrested 2/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676560632280.jpeg" alt="Stanley Edward Schultz, outside warrant x2, arrested 2/15" />
 <figcaption>Stanley Edward Schultz, outside warrant x2, arrested 2/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676560696839.jpeg" alt="Shanna Sheree Zoeller, Criminal trespass, arrested 2/15" />
 <figcaption>Shanna Sheree Zoeller, Criminal trespass, arrested 2/15</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 16

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen in connection with an incident involving a weapon.

On Wednesday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault of law enforcement officer in the 200 block of William Drive in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Just a9:15 a.m., officers were dispatched because of a sighting of a 16-year-old runaway driving in Ogden and made a traffic stop on his car in the 400 block of Riley Avenue.

As contact was made with the driver, he made a threat against the officer with what appeared to be a handgun in the vehicle, which was later identified as an air pistol. 

The officer was able to prevent the 16-year-old from grabbing the weapon while another officer safely secured the weapon. The 16-year-old was then processed for juvenile runaway and later transported for a mental health evaluation.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen in connection with an incident involving a weapon.On Wednesday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault of law enforcement officer in the 200 block of William Drive in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Just a9:15 a.m., officers were dispatched because of a sighting of a 16-year-old runaway driving in Ogden and made a traffic stop on his car in the 400 block of Riley Avenue.As contact was made with the driver, he made a threat against the officer with what appeared to be a handgun in the vehicle, which was later identified as an air pistol. The officer was able to prevent the 16-year-old from grabbing the weapon while another officer safely secured the weapon. The 16-year-old was then processed for juvenile runaway and later transported for a mental health evaluation.

RCPD: Teen in custody after incident with a weapon

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Chamber on Monday <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/a5e2b90b001/07f1435c-88be-459e-a0be-32978d82ca22.pdf">released its energy study, State of Electricity in Kansas</a>. Chamber President and CEO Alan Cobb said the reason they had this studied is that it is a key issue when businesses make choices between states.

"It is an economic competitiveness issue," Cobb said. "We're higher than most of our competing, if not all of our competing states, certainly in the region and other states that have a similar demographic and business mix. Kansas, Indiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, etc. There's certainly a bottom line issue here."

One of the solutions is changing some of the framework at the Kansas Corporation Commission. There are several ways to get that done.

"Admittedly, it's a theory, but there's other states that elect commissioners," Cobb said. "We have 50 states, and you don't have exactly 50 ways to elect utility commissions, but there's a difference across the country. Does it make them more accountable to ratepayers? I think there's a good thought that, yes, it would. If you're on the corporation commission, you definitely want to be paying attention to reliability and cost. Would it make them more accountable, as opposed to, there's been a little bit of an issue of, KCC's gotten better, but hey, whatever the utilities want, the KCC approves, that's an overstatement, but there's some truth to that."

Also, there could be a change in staffing at the KCC, as well.

"One interesting proposal to consider was adding staff to the KCC," Cobb said. "Are there too many rate cases that are simply settled because there's not enough intellectual resources there at the KCC to be able to dig in and try to figure out how to make the rate cases have a better negotiated end, instead of just settling them. All of those things should be at the table."

Cobb said this is the first time that he knows of that the structure of the KCC has even been looked at for changes. Much like the county commissions in many Kansas counties, there are only three KCC commissioners, which means there can't be discussions between commissioners outside of their public meetings without running afoul of open meetings law. This also complicates the negotiation process.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578753970104.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Kansas Chamber on Monday <a href="https://files.constantcontact.com/a5e2b90b001/07f1435c-88be-459e-a0be-32978d82ca22.pdf">released its energy study, State of Electricity in Kansas</a>. Chamber President and CEO Alan Cobb said the reason they had this studied is that it is a key issue when businesses make choices between states."It is an economic competitiveness issue," Cobb said. "We're higher than most of our competing, if not all of our competing states, certainly in the region and other states that have a similar demographic and business mix. Kansas, Indiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, etc. There's certainly a bottom line issue here."One of the solutions is changing some of the framework at the Kansas Corporation Commission. There are several ways to get that done."Admittedly, it's a theory, but there's other states that elect commissioners," Cobb said. "We have 50 states, and you don't have exactly 50 ways to elect utility commissions, but there's a difference across the country. Does it make them more accountable to ratepayers? I think there's a good thought that, yes, it would. If you're on the corporation commission, you definitely want to be paying attention to reliability and cost. Would it make them more accountable, as opposed to, there's been a little bit of an issue of, KCC's gotten better, but hey, whatever the utilities want, the KCC approves, that's an overstatement, but there's some truth to that."Also, there could be a change in staffing at the KCC, as well."One interesting proposal to consider was adding staff to the KCC," Cobb said. "Are there too many rate cases that are simply settled because there's not enough intellectual resources there at the KCC to be able to dig in and try to figure out how to make the rate cases have a better negotiated end, instead of just settling them. All of those things should be at the table."Cobb said this is the first time that he knows of that the structure of the KCC has even been looked at for changes. Much like the county commissions in many Kansas counties, there are only three KCC commissioners, which means there can't be discussions between commissioners outside of their public meetings without running afoul of open meetings law. This also complicates the negotiation process.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Chamber report looks at reform for KCC

Award nominations for the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce annual dinner are due by Friday.

• Outstanding Citizenship Award • Seitz FamilyMilitary Community Award • Eldon H. Hoyle Economic Development Award • Business Excellence Award

The event is scheduled for March 9 at the Geary County Convention Center.

Nominations can be made <a href="https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/annual-dinner.html">HERE</a>&nbsp;or mailed to the chamber at 222 W. Sixth, Junction City, KS, 66441.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676493255672.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Award nominations for the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce annual dinner are due by Friday.Awards include:• Outstanding Citizenship Award • Seitz FamilyMilitary Community Award • Eldon H. Hoyle Economic Development Award • Business Excellence AwardThe event is scheduled for March 9 at the Geary County Convention Center.Nominations can be made <a href="https://www.junctioncitychamber.org/annual-dinner.html">HERE</a>&nbsp;or mailed to the chamber at 222 W. Sixth, Junction City, KS, 66441.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FJCACCKS%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0iTgxq2jEzKPUCsEkmL3GuZ3wWmiVrB7Nq1nNpSMMH55R4DkwHcqCitmKQ8FjCmkvl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="462" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Junction chamber award nomination deadline looms

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post/JC Post

Below is a list of closings and delayed openings in the Riley County/Manhattan; Geary County/Junction City and Pottawatomie County/Wamego areas for FEBRUARY 16, 2023:

-Cloud County Community College (Junction City)- delayed 1.5 hours, classes/campus to open at 9:30 a.m.

-Combative Sports Center - Classes cancelled in Junction City for 2/16

-Dorothy Bramlage Public Library - opening at 10 a.m.

-<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/979531cf-99f4-4b8f-8156-b182f1bac64b">Fort Riley</a> - operating on 2-hour delay

-<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GearyCounty/posts/pfbid0gQKhRWoaH9rEogHkGjVt3hTq4qed3MYhQsGRByTsGJQmwogYoHNgj7LJsX3Pb5qql">Geary County offices</a>- delayed opening until 10:30 a.m.

-Geary County Senior Center - closed Thursday

-Junction City Family YMCA - 2 hour delay; opening at 7 a.m.

-<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/641bf6d8-00c8-452e-be99-b536bc202ce5">Kansas State University</a> - Manhattan and Salina campuses closed

-Riley County Seniors' Service Center - Kitchen closed due to inclement weather, no meal delivery Thursday; Center will be open

-<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/7326666b-6df2-4f6a-9327-b3d7aa7409ba">State of Kansas offices</a> - delayed opening until 10am

-St. Francis Xavier Catholic School - closed Thursday

-St. Thomas More - Morning services cancelled

-USD 384 Blue Valley - closed, parent/teacher conferences canceled and will be rescheduled

-<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/189e97ae-6514-430c-951c-4239dc252cf2">USD 475 Geary County Schools</a> - delayed two hours

-USD 481 Rural Vista - closed Thursday&nbsp;

-USD 498 Valley Heights - closed Thursday

To submit your closing or delay information,&nbsp;<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/25ccab2e-8801-4eed-8bc5-87cfbf1a2a29">click here.</a>

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post/JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676406163717.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Below is a list of closings and delayed openings in the Riley County/Manhattan; Geary County/Junction City and Pottawatomie County/Wamego areas for FEBRUARY 16, 2023:-Cloud County Community College (Junction City)- delayed 1.5 hours, classes/campus to open at 9:30 a.m.-Combative Sports Center - Classes cancelled in Junction City for 2/16-Dorothy Bramlage Public Library - opening at 10 a.m.-<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/979531cf-99f4-4b8f-8156-b182f1bac64b">Fort Riley</a> - operating on 2-hour delay-<a href="https://www.facebook.com/GearyCounty/posts/pfbid0gQKhRWoaH9rEogHkGjVt3hTq4qed3MYhQsGRByTsGJQmwogYoHNgj7LJsX3Pb5qql">Geary County offices</a>- delayed opening until 10:30 a.m.-Geary County Senior Center - closed Thursday-Junction City Family YMCA - 2 hour delay; opening at 7 a.m.-MuttSchool - opening at 9 a.m.-<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/641bf6d8-00c8-452e-be99-b536bc202ce5">Kansas State University</a> - Manhattan and Salina campuses closed-Riley County Seniors' Service Center - Kitchen closed due to inclement weather, no meal delivery Thursday; Center will be open-<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/7326666b-6df2-4f6a-9327-b3d7aa7409ba">State of Kansas offices</a> - delayed opening until 10am-St. Francis Xavier Catholic School - closed Thursday-St. Thomas More - Morning services cancelled-USD 321 Kaw Valley - closed Thursday-USD 329 Wabaunsee - closed Thursday -USD 384 Blue Valley - closed, parent/teacher conferences canceled and will be rescheduled-<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/189e97ae-6514-430c-951c-4239dc252cf2">USD 475 Geary County Schools</a> - delayed two hours-USD 481 Rural Vista - closed Thursday&nbsp;-USD 498 Valley Heights - closed ThursdayTo submit your closing or delay information,&nbsp;<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/25ccab2e-8801-4eed-8bc5-87cfbf1a2a29">click here.</a>

CLOSINGS & DELAYS - February 16

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

“Buffalo soldiers” is a term to describe the African-American members of the Army who served with distinction in the 1800s. Their service eventually paved the way for an integrated military and society – and it all began in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 1827, U.S. Army Colonel (later Brigadier General) Henry Leavenworth received orders to survey sites along the Missouri River for a military post. After study, he recommended a site on the west bluffs above the Missouri River. This became Fort Leavenworth.&nbsp;

A civilian settlement grew around the fort. In 1854, the City of Leavenworth became the first city in Kansas territory to be officially organized. Today, Leavenworth proudly claims the title of First City of Kansas.&nbsp;

The first Town Association was formed on June 9, 1854. Town lots were sold on October 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;By New Year's Day, 1855, Leavenworth was a rural community of about 200 inhabitants. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

The population boomed. By autumn 1856, there were 1,200 citizens. By 1861, the population was 10,000. By 1870, it was the 82nd largest city in the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leavenworth’s current population is 37,176.&nbsp;

According to Kansapedia, Fort Leavenworth’s primary role was to protect settlers and merchants traveling westward and to maintain peace with the Native American Indian tribes, and then to keep the peace among the factions of Bleeding Kansas.&nbsp;

During the Civil War, so-called colored troops served in the Union Army. In 1866 the United States government specifically authorized the formation of four African American regiments. The first of these included the 10th Cavalry Regiment, formed at Fort Leavenworth on September 21, 1866.&nbsp;

These and other African-American soldiers would become known as Buffalo Soldiers.&nbsp;&nbsp;The term was given to them by the Native American Indians, perhaps because the soldiers’ dark, curly hair resembled the hair of the buffalo; or the buffalo coats worn by the soldiers in winter; or the strength and tenacity demonstrated by these soldiers.&nbsp;

Eventually, the image of a buffalo became part of the 10th Cavalry's regimental crest.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African-American History and Culture, 18 buffalo soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor.&nbsp;

In 1881 at Fort Leavenworth, General William T. Sherman established the School of Application for Cavalry and Infantry - later known as the Infantry and Cavalry School.&nbsp;&nbsp;This developed into what is essentially a high-level military officers graduate school, now known as the Command and General Staff College.&nbsp;

Along with other components, this makes up the Combined Arms Center, which is the primary reason that Fort Leavenworth is considered to be the intellectual center of the Army today.&nbsp;

Who has attended the Command and General Staff College? Such military leaders as Dwight D. Eisenhower, George C. Marshall, Omar Bradley, Douglas MacArthur, George Patton, and many more.&nbsp;&nbsp;very modern five-star general has attended the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth.&nbsp;

Another of those who attended the Command and General Staff College was a young officer named Colin Powell. This was the same Colin Powell who would become Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and who was appointed by President Bush as Secretary of State - the first African-American to serve in that capacity.&nbsp;

As Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Colin Powell wanted to honor the legacy of the buffalo soldiers at Fort Leavenworth. Black sculptor Eddie Dixon, an Army veteran, was commissioned to develop a statue. He created a 17-foot-tall sculpture of a mounted buffalo soldier on a native limestone base. In 1992, the sculpture was unveiled on post at Fort Leavenworth by Powell.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City also has a Buffalo Soldier Memorial sculpture. It stands at 18th Street and Buffalo Soldier Drive and depicts a buffalo soldier standing by his horse. According to the Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the artist took composite pictures of the five remaining Buffalo Soldiers who were living in the area at the time and included their features in the soldier sculpture.&nbsp;

Buffalo soldiers played a key role, in the Army and in society. For their service and their legacy, we salute them.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676469746071.png" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development&nbsp;“Buffalo soldiers” is a term to describe the African-American members of the Army who served with distinction in the 1800s. Their service eventually paved the way for an integrated military and society – and it all began in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1827, U.S. Army Colonel (later Brigadier General) Henry Leavenworth received orders to survey sites along the Missouri River for a military post. After study, he recommended a site on the west bluffs above the Missouri River. This became Fort Leavenworth.&nbsp;A civilian settlement grew around the fort. In 1854, the City of Leavenworth became the first city in Kansas territory to be officially organized. Today, Leavenworth proudly claims the title of First City of Kansas.&nbsp;The first Town Association was formed on June 9, 1854. Town lots were sold on October 9.&nbsp;&nbsp;By New Year's Day, 1855, Leavenworth was a rural community of about 200 inhabitants. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;The population boomed. By autumn 1856, there were 1,200 citizens. By 1861, the population was 10,000. By 1870, it was the 82nd largest city in the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leavenworth’s current population is 37,176.&nbsp;According to Kansapedia, Fort Leavenworth’s primary role was to protect settlers and merchants traveling westward and to maintain peace with the Native American Indian tribes, and then to keep the peace among the factions of Bleeding Kansas.&nbsp;During the Civil War, so-called colored troops served in the Union Army. In 1866 the United States government specifically authorized the formation of four African American regiments. The first of these included the 10th Cavalry Regiment, formed at Fort Leavenworth on September 21, 1866.&nbsp;These and other African-American soldiers would become known as Buffalo Soldiers.&nbsp;&nbsp;The term was given to them by the Native American Indians, perhaps because the soldiers’ dark, curly hair resembled the hair of the buffalo; or the buffalo coats worn by the soldiers in winter; or the strength and tenacity demonstrated by these soldiers.&nbsp;Eventually, the image of a buffalo became part of the 10th Cavalry's regimental crest.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African-American History and Culture, 18 buffalo soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor.&nbsp;In 1881 at Fort Leavenworth, General William T. Sherman established the School of Application for Cavalry and Infantry - later known as the Infantry and Cavalry School.&nbsp;&nbsp;This developed into what is essentially a high-level military officers graduate school, now known as the Command and General Staff College.&nbsp;Along with other components, this makes up the Combined Arms Center, which is the primary reason that Fort Leavenworth is considered to be the intellectual center of the Army today.&nbsp;Who has attended the Command and General Staff College? Such military leaders as Dwight D. Eisenhower, George C. Marshall, Omar Bradley, Douglas MacArthur, George Patton, and many more.&nbsp;&nbsp;very modern five-star general has attended the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth.&nbsp;Another of those who attended the Command and General Staff College was a young officer named Colin Powell. This was the same Colin Powell who would become Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and who was appointed by President Bush as Secretary of State - the first African-American to serve in that capacity.&nbsp;As Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Colin Powell wanted to honor the legacy of the buffalo soldiers at Fort Leavenworth. Black sculptor Eddie Dixon, an Army veteran, was commissioned to develop a statue. He created a 17-foot-tall sculpture of a mounted buffalo soldier on a native limestone base. In 1992, the sculpture was unveiled on post at Fort Leavenworth by Powell.&nbsp;&nbsp;Junction City also has a Buffalo Soldier Memorial sculpture. It stands at 18th Street and Buffalo Soldier Drive and depicts a buffalo soldier standing by his horse. According to the Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the artist took composite pictures of the five remaining Buffalo Soldiers who were living in the area at the time and included their features in the soldier sculpture.&nbsp;Buffalo soldiers played a key role, in the Army and in society. For their service and their legacy, we salute them.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Buffalo Soldiers, Fort Leavenworth 

Kansas first state to join coalition that helps spouses obtain occupational licenses

WASHINGTON — At the National Governors Association conference in Washington, D.C., this past weekend, Gov. Laura Kelly announced that Kansas is the first state in the nation to join the Alliance for States Providing Interoperable Reciprocity (ASPIRE). Governor Kelly called on other states to join the coalition, which advocates for the acceleration of military reciprocity by and between states, easing the process of obtaining a license in a state to which military personnel and their families are deployed.

“As the daughter of a Purple Heart recipient, I know military personnel and their spouses are exactly the type of people we need in Kansas to fill the jobs we’ve created in recent years,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“That’s why Kansas has become the first state in the nation to join this coalition to continue knocking down the barriers military families face to getting and keeping a job.”

Right now, one in three spouses of service members works in an industry that requires an occupational license. Military spouses are uniquely disenfranchised by laws restricting out-of-state recognition of such licenses because nearly 15% of military spouses move across state lines in any given year, compared to just over 1% of civilian spouses. These laws often result in military spouses leaving the workforce during an already tight labor market.

ASPIRE encourages states to join a digitalized system that would allow states to upload their reciprocity agreements so military families can know if the state they are moving to will accept their licensing.

Along with joining ASPIRE, Kelly has taken action here in Kansas. In 2021, she signed bipartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMTUuNzE2MzUxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtzbGVnaXNsYXR1cmUub3JnL2xpXzIwMjIvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvaGIyMDY2LyJ9.lM1EkU65wMaZkdPp5x-GhrZE4RdOFaIdly1ZKBg-GaE/s/1372079104/br/154555483072-l">House Bill 2066</a>, which expedites the issuance of occupational credentials to military servicemembers and military spouses seeking to establish residency in Kansas. The legislation makes it easier for military spouses to transition into the Kansas workforce and spur new economic development. Kelly also&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMTUuNzE2MzUxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3YvZ292ZXJub3ItbGF1cmEta2VsbHktcHJvbW90ZXMtd29ya2ZvcmNlLXBhcnRpY2lwYXRpb24tZm9yLWthbnNhcy1taWxpdGFyeS1mYW1pbGllcy8ifQ.RdsPSK4hCv-i2967ZxeJ2RZar84xEx0RikJy2PVEm7A/s/1372079104/br/154555483072-l">hosted a roundtable</a>&nbsp;last October to discuss ways to promote workforce participation for Kansas military families.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676074876625.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during Friday's meeting at the White House" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during Friday's meeting at the White House</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kansas first state to join coalition that helps spouses obtain occupational licenses</h2>Office of the GovernorWASHINGTON — At the National Governors Association conference in Washington, D.C., this past weekend, Gov. Laura Kelly announced that Kansas is the first state in the nation to join the Alliance for States Providing Interoperable Reciprocity (ASPIRE). Governor Kelly called on other states to join the coalition, which advocates for the acceleration of military reciprocity by and between states, easing the process of obtaining a license in a state to which military personnel and their families are deployed.“As the daughter of a Purple Heart recipient, I know military personnel and their spouses are exactly the type of people we need in Kansas to fill the jobs we’ve created in recent years,” Kelly said.&nbsp;“That’s why Kansas has become the first state in the nation to join this coalition to continue knocking down the barriers military families face to getting and keeping a job.”<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/THLgG2N5-oVs1oZUT.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Aspire" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>Right now, one in three spouses of service members works in an industry that requires an occupational license. Military spouses are uniquely disenfranchised by laws restricting out-of-state recognition of such licenses because nearly 15% of military spouses move across state lines in any given year, compared to just over 1% of civilian spouses. These laws often result in military spouses leaving the workforce during an already tight labor market.ASPIRE encourages states to join a digitalized system that would allow states to upload their reciprocity agreements so military families can know if the state they are moving to will accept their licensing.Along with joining ASPIRE, Kelly has taken action here in Kansas. In 2021, she signed bipartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMTUuNzE2MzUxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtzbGVnaXNsYXR1cmUub3JnL2xpXzIwMjIvYjIwMjFfMjIvbWVhc3VyZXMvaGIyMDY2LyJ9.lM1EkU65wMaZkdPp5x-GhrZE4RdOFaIdly1ZKBg-GaE/s/1372079104/br/154555483072-l">House Bill 2066</a>, which expedites the issuance of occupational credentials to military servicemembers and military spouses seeking to establish residency in Kansas. The legislation makes it easier for military spouses to transition into the Kansas workforce and spur new economic development. Kelly also&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzAyMTUuNzE2MzUxNjEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3YvZ292ZXJub3ItbGF1cmEta2VsbHktcHJvbW90ZXMtd29ya2ZvcmNlLXBhcnRpY2lwYXRpb24tZm9yLWthbnNhcy1taWxpdGFyeS1mYW1pbGllcy8ifQ.RdsPSK4hCv-i2967ZxeJ2RZar84xEx0RikJy2PVEm7A/s/1372079104/br/154555483072-l">hosted a roundtable</a>&nbsp;last October to discuss ways to promote workforce participation for Kansas military families.

🎥 Kelly calls for states to join coalition that aids military spouses

Geary County offices will be on a two-hour delay on Thursday due to inclement weather.

Geary County offices will be on a two-hour delay on Thursday due to inclement weather.

Geary County office opening delayed due to winter storm

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

FORT RILEY - On Thursday, February 16th, Fort Riley will operate on a two hour delay.

-Child Development Centers will open at 8 a.m.

-Fitness centers will open at 9 a.m. The 24-hour fitness centers, Whitside and Craig, will remain open.

-Irwin Army Community Hospital will operate on a normal schedule. Patients who need to cancel or reschedule appointments, can call 785-239-DOCS (3627).

-Dental clinics will be on a two-hour delay.

-Fort Riley Commissary and Post Exchange facilities will open at 10 a.m.

-The monthly post retirement ceremony is now scheduled for 2 p.m. at King Field House.

Soldiers, family members and civilian professionals who have questions or concerns are encouraged to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley</a>&nbsp;or the Fort Riley website at&nbsp;<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/" target="_blank">https://home.army.mil/riley/</a>&nbsp;and click on “Advisories” for updated information.&nbsp; Additionally, all employees of Fort Riley are urged to maintain contact with their chain of command and/or supervisor for the most updated information.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostFORT RILEY - On Thursday, February 16th, Fort Riley will operate on a two hour delay.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FFortRiley%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02sfqS6Hst3qU2edyZ31QhoscBsFo1HsCUbqFGfGH92L21p73mpRASUsF4yV7YarmTl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="767" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>-Child Development Centers will open at 8 a.m.-Fitness centers will open at 9 a.m. The 24-hour fitness centers, Whitside and Craig, will remain open.-Irwin Army Community Hospital will operate on a normal schedule. Patients who need to cancel or reschedule appointments, can call 785-239-DOCS (3627).-Dental clinics will be on a two-hour delay.-Fort Riley Commissary and Post Exchange facilities will open at 10 a.m.-The monthly post retirement ceremony is now scheduled for 2 p.m. at King Field House.Soldiers, family members and civilian professionals who have questions or concerns are encouraged to visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley</a>&nbsp;or the Fort Riley website at&nbsp;<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/" target="_blank">https://home.army.mil/riley/</a>&nbsp;and click on “Advisories” for updated information.&nbsp; Additionally, all employees of Fort Riley are urged to maintain contact with their chain of command and/or supervisor for the most updated information.

Fort Riley to operate on 2 hour delay on 2/16

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club Student of the Month from Junction City High School recognizes a student whose words and actions reflect The Optimist Creed.&nbsp; One line of the creed that fits Armani best is “To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.” ‘Her smile radiates throughout JCHS and brightens the day for those around her’, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Student of the Month Committee Chair, Dana Wiegand stated.&nbsp; Armani is a junior at JCHS and is the Fine Arts and Human Services Academy. She is active in volleyball, soccer, National Honor Society, AVID, Class Committees, Blue Jay Nation, Kansas Association of Youth (KAYS) and FCCLA. One of the most recent projects of the KAY organization was last December when the KAYs had an Adopt-A- Senior 4 Christmas.

Some of her teachers shared that Armani is a true pleasure to have in class. She always walks into class excited and ready to learn. She demonstrates leadership daily, is on task and engaged, and provides help to her classmates when needed.

Armani plans to study child psychology and minor in education. She may attend Emporia University, Kansas University or Langston in Oklahoma.

Guests at the February 15 meeting included Armani’s mother, Cherelle, new members Lynn and Steven Green. Next week’s guest speaker will be Ginger Kopfer, Geary County K-State Research and Extension Agent, who will share information about 4-H Clubs in Geary County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676483679172.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right: Nita Miller, President of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club; Armani Coleman, Optimist Club Student of the Month; Cherelle Coleman, Armani’s mother." />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right: Nita Miller, President of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club; Armani Coleman, Optimist Club Student of the Month; Cherelle Coleman, Armani’s mother.</figcaption>
 </figure>The JC Breakfast Optimist Club Student of the Month from Junction City High School recognizes a student whose words and actions reflect The Optimist Creed.&nbsp; One line of the creed that fits Armani best is “To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.” ‘Her smile radiates throughout JCHS and brightens the day for those around her’, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Student of the Month Committee Chair, Dana Wiegand stated.&nbsp; Armani is a junior at JCHS and is the Fine Arts and Human Services Academy. She is active in volleyball, soccer, National Honor Society, AVID, Class Committees, Blue Jay Nation, Kansas Association of Youth (KAYS) and FCCLA. One of the most recent projects of the KAY organization was last December when the KAYs had an Adopt-A- Senior 4 Christmas.Some of her teachers shared that Armani is a true pleasure to have in class. She always walks into class excited and ready to learn. She demonstrates leadership daily, is on task and engaged, and provides help to her classmates when needed.Armani plans to study child psychology and minor in education. She may attend Emporia University, Kansas University or Langston in Oklahoma.Guests at the February 15 meeting included Armani’s mother, Cherelle, new members Lynn and Steven Green. Next week’s guest speaker will be Ginger Kopfer, Geary County K-State Research and Extension Agent, who will share information about 4-H Clubs in Geary County.

Armani Coleman selected JC Breakfast Optimist 'Student of the Month'

GEARY COUNTY - USD 475 Geary County Schools will operate on a two hour delay for Thursday, February 16, 2023.

A full list of closings and delays&nbsp;<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/b22d67de-fc4c-4893-9005-d62188675030">can be found here.</a>

by BECKY GOFF JC PostGEARY COUNTY - USD 475 Geary County Schools will operate on a two hour delay for Thursday, February 16, 2023.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FUSD475%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02FPnyYTWpF5Du4tFbMPgb6i3tLoBn8ekpjCzNtk2SmhFyzZ5UWxr2K133x7JXVszil&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="692" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>A full list of closings and delays&nbsp;<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/b22d67de-fc4c-4893-9005-d62188675030">can be found here.</a>

USD 475 Geary County Schools delayed 2 hours

From Governor Laura Kelly's Office:

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Due to safety concerns regarding the winter storm projected to hit north-central and northeast Kansas this evening into tomorrow morning, Governor Laura Kelly has issued a Declaration of Inclement Weather for Shawnee County, ordering state office buildings in Shawnee County to delay opening until 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 16.

"Due to the potential for hazardous road conditions, we are delaying the opening of state office buildings in Shawnee County on Thursday morning,"&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;"Please exercise extreme caution if driving this evening or tomorrow morning, give road crews enough space to do their jobs safely, and stay safe and warm."

The declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, February 15, and lasts through 9:59 a.m. on Thursday, February 16. Several inches of snow combined with strong, 30-40 miles per hour winds are expected, making travel hazardous.&nbsp;

This declaration applies to all non-essential state employees in Executive Branch agencies under the Governor's jurisdiction who work in offices located in Shawnee County. During the period of Inclement Weather, essential employees are required to report to work as normal. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record Inclement Weather Leave during the period of Inclement Weather.&nbsp;

This declaration does not include employees in the Board of Regents, Regents Institutions, the Judicial Branch, nor the Legislative Branch of government. Their designated representative will make a separate declaration for those employees if appropriate.

From Governor Laura Kelly's Office:TOPEKA&nbsp;– Due to safety concerns regarding the winter storm projected to hit north-central and northeast Kansas this evening into tomorrow morning, Governor Laura Kelly has issued a Declaration of Inclement Weather for Shawnee County, ordering state office buildings in Shawnee County to delay opening until 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 16."Due to the potential for hazardous road conditions, we are delaying the opening of state office buildings in Shawnee County on Thursday morning,"&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;"Please exercise extreme caution if driving this evening or tomorrow morning, give road crews enough space to do their jobs safely, and stay safe and warm."The declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, February 15, and lasts through 9:59 a.m. on Thursday, February 16. Several inches of snow combined with strong, 30-40 miles per hour winds are expected, making travel hazardous.&nbsp;This declaration applies to all non-essential state employees in Executive Branch agencies under the Governor's jurisdiction who work in offices located in Shawnee County. During the period of Inclement Weather, essential employees are required to report to work as normal. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record Inclement Weather Leave during the period of Inclement Weather.&nbsp;This declaration does not include employees in the Board of Regents, Regents Institutions, the Judicial Branch, nor the Legislative Branch of government. Their designated representative will make a separate declaration for those employees if appropriate.###

Kelly delays opening of state office buildings to 10AM on 2/16

Kansas State University has announced both the Manhattan and Salina campuses will be closed on Thursday, February 16th due to the predicted inclement weather.

A full list of area closings and delays <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/b22d67de-fc4c-4893-9005-d62188675030">can be found here</a>.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostKansas State University has announced both the Manhattan and Salina campuses will be closed on Thursday, February 16th due to the predicted inclement weather.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKState%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02Lrq7poWZJQJPFTkrJmbv7fc1PLDjtjgQA5YFRysNrFKZu3goGZV9ye5CY2Gatw56l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="188" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>A full list of area closings and delays <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/b22d67de-fc4c-4893-9005-d62188675030">can be found here</a>.To submit your closing or delay information,&nbsp;<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/25ccab2e-8801-4eed-8bc5-87cfbf1a2a29">click here.</a>

K-State closes Manhattan, Salina campuses for 2/16/2023

TOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly today announced that 66 airport projects across the state have been selected for Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) funding for planning, constructing, or rehabilitating public-use general aviation airports.

“Whether it be airplane manufacturing, a link in the supply chain logistics, or travel, the Kansas aerospace industry is an essential part of our state’s economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These grants ensure the safety and longevity of Kansas airports, all while contributing to economic growth and job creation.”

The aviation industry represents over $20.6 billion in economic impact across a broad spectrum of supply chain and manufacturing industries in Kansas.

“Every mode of transportation is a link to the state’s economic vitality,”&nbsp;said Calvin Reed, Secretary of Transportation.&nbsp;“These airport improvements are a few of many important efforts to empower the aviation industry across Kansas.”

The KAIP typically receives $5 million annually through the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) and requires airport sponsors to participate in project costs by paying a minimum of 5% of the total project. This year, the program awarded more than $11 million to 66 approved projects, with a total project value of nearly $14.4 million.

The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation received 153 applications seeking a combined total project value of more than $66 million for this round of KAIP grants. Projects were scored according to impact on flight safety, economic growth, and regional benefit.

“We’re grateful to satisfy 22% of the total airport improvements requested this year,”said Bob Brock, Director of the Division of Aviation, Kansas Department of Transportation.&nbsp;“We look forward to new and ongoing partnerships with aviation stakeholders to achieve stronger aviation infrastructure for the future.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Approved 2023 Kansas Airport Improvement Program projects:

TOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly today announced that 66 airport projects across the state have been selected for Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP) funding for planning, constructing, or rehabilitating public-use general aviation airports.“Whether it be airplane manufacturing, a link in the supply chain logistics, or travel, the Kansas aerospace industry is an essential part of our state’s economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These grants ensure the safety and longevity of Kansas airports, all while contributing to economic growth and job creation.”The aviation industry represents over $20.6 billion in economic impact across a broad spectrum of supply chain and manufacturing industries in Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676484171029.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Every mode of transportation is a link to the state’s economic vitality,”&nbsp;said Calvin Reed, Secretary of Transportation.&nbsp;“These airport improvements are a few of many important efforts to empower the aviation industry across Kansas.”The KAIP typically receives $5 million annually through the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) and requires airport sponsors to participate in project costs by paying a minimum of 5% of the total project. This year, the program awarded more than $11 million to 66 approved projects, with a total project value of nearly $14.4 million.The Kansas Department of Transportation’s Division of Aviation received 153 applications seeking a combined total project value of more than $66 million for this round of KAIP grants. Projects were scored according to impact on flight safety, economic growth, and regional benefit.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676484208235.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“We’re grateful to satisfy 22% of the total airport improvements requested this year,”said Bob Brock, Director of the Division of Aviation, Kansas Department of Transportation.&nbsp;“We look forward to new and ongoing partnerships with aviation stakeholders to achieve stronger aviation infrastructure for the future.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Approved 2023 Kansas Airport Improvement Program projects:<ul>
 <li>Allen County&nbsp;– Replace Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), $153,000; taxiway rehabilitation, $157,500</li><li>Amelia Earhart, City of Atchison– Construct automated gate, $42,075</li><li>Chanute&nbsp;– North apron reconstruction, $424,570; perimeter fencing, $180,000</li><li>Cheyenne County&nbsp;– Replace AWOS system, $153,000</li><li>Coffeyville –&nbsp;Crack seal and remark runway, $42,750 design, $229,500 construct</li><li>Colonel James Jabara, Wichita – Relocate/widen taxiway, $114,000 design, $800,160 construct</li><li>Comanche&nbsp;County&nbsp;– Preserve concrete runway, $19,000 design, $225,000 construct</li><li>Cook Airfield, Rose Hill – Used Jet A truck, $30,000; electric hose reel for MOGAS pump, $3,000; Parking ramp, $148,500; pavement repairs, $18,000</li><li>Jack Thomas Memorial, El Dorado – Replace fuel system, $10,800</li><li>Elkhart Morton County&nbsp;– Rehabilitate terminal building, $29,750</li><li>Fort Scott Municipal&nbsp;– Taxiway rehabilitation, $57,600</li><li>Gardner&nbsp;– Taxiway, $47,500 design, $99,000 construct</li><li>Garnett&nbsp;– Replace fuel system, $90,000; terminal rehabilitation, $15,300</li><li>Great Bend Municipal&nbsp;– Replace primary wind cone, $5,588</li><li>Harper Municipal&nbsp;– Replace fuel farm card reader, $21,250</li><li>Hays Regional&nbsp;– Pavement repair materials, $25,500; upgrade security and access gates, $21,250; ARFF station gate automation, $17,000</li><li>Hugoton Municipal&nbsp;– AWOS update, $5,700 design; $165,600 construct; fuel dispenser, $4,750 design, $40,950 construct</li><li>Hutchinson Regional&nbsp;– Install wildlife dig barrier for perimeter fence, $32,504</li><li>Independence Municipal&nbsp;– Airport rotating beacon/tower, $23,750 design, $112,500 construct</li><li>Johnson County Executive&nbsp;– Pavement maintenance materials, $13,600; southwest fence, $129,600; north fence, $156,150</li><li>Kinsley Municipal&nbsp;– Fuel farm card reader, $13,500</li><li>Lawrence Regional&nbsp;– Airport master plan update, $360,000; apron rehabilitation, $130,500 design, $800,000 construct; runway extension, $99,750 design</li><li>Lyons-Rice County Municipal&nbsp;– Fuel system. $23,750 design, $282,600 construct</li><li>Mark Hoard Memorial, Leoti – AWOS III, $163,764</li><li>Medicine Lodge&nbsp;– AWOS update, $5,700 design, $165,600 construct</li><li>Montezuma Municipal&nbsp;– Seal, patch, overlay and stripe runway, $792,700</li><li>Moundridge Municipal&nbsp;– Resurface runway, $720,000</li><li>New Century Air Center,&nbsp;Johnson County– Airfield electrical vault building, $89,300 design, $338,400 construct; rehabilitation of central portion of the west apron, $133,000 design, $800,000 construct; maintenance materials, $13,600</li><li>Norton Municipal&nbsp;– Replace and relocate AWOS, $153,000</li><li>Oakley Municipal&nbsp;– Replace rotating beacon and tower, $76,500</li><li>Pratt Regional&nbsp;– Apron and hangar area rehabilitation, $59,850 design, $653,400 construct</li><li>Shalz Field, Colby – Card station for self-serve fuel pumps, $16,200</li><li>Syracuse-Hamilton County&nbsp;– Replace fuel system, $66,500, design, $486,000 construct; replace AWOS, $121,500</li><li>Tribune Municipal&nbsp;– Remove telecom tower to mitigate runway obstruction, $72,000</li><li>Wamego Municipal&nbsp;– Airport development plan/master plan (phase II), $66,500; reconstruct apron and connecting taxiway, $468,000</li>
 </ul>###

Gov. announces $11 million  for 66 Kan. airport improvement projects

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676485040516.jpeg" alt="Trey Lattrell Campbell, Failure to appear x3; arrested 2/14" />
 <figcaption>Trey Lattrell Campbell, Failure to appear x3; arrested 2/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676485104656.jpeg" alt="Jalisa Delores Carson, Probation Violation; arrested 2/14" />
 <figcaption>Jalisa Delores Carson, Probation Violation; arrested 2/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676485253608.jpeg" alt="Jarrod Ray Chatman, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Misd; Unk conv.; Maximum speed limits; arrested 2/15" />
 <figcaption>Jarrod Ray Chatman, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Misd; Unk conv.; Maximum speed limits; arrested 2/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676485732174.jpeg" alt="Antoine Ricardo Graham, Probation Violation; arrested 2/14" />
 <figcaption>Antoine Ricardo Graham, Probation Violation; arrested 2/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676485790210.jpeg" alt="Dillon Clark Guiton, Failure to appear x2; arrested 2/14" />
 <figcaption>Dillon Clark Guiton, Failure to appear x2; arrested 2/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676485910016.jpeg" alt="Kyrianna Lashe Johnson, Failure to appear; Outside warrant; arrested 2/14" />
 <figcaption>Kyrianna Lashe Johnson, Failure to appear; Outside warrant; arrested 2/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676485953846.jpeg" alt="Justin Frank Kennedy, Criminal trespass; Interference w/LEO; Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; arrested 2/15" />
 <figcaption>Justin Frank Kennedy, Criminal trespass; Interference w/LEO; Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; arrested 2/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676486186476.jpeg" alt="Liniee Shundrakia Knight, Failure to appear; arrested 2/14" />
 <figcaption>Liniee Shundrakia Knight, Failure to appear; arrested 2/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676486256774.jpeg" alt="Lopati Eneru Spitzenburg, Unlawful damage to property; arrested 2/15" />
 <figcaption>Lopati Eneru Spitzenburg, Unlawful damage to property; arrested 2/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676486337519.jpeg" alt="Tyler Lee Truss, Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; arrested 2/15" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Lee Truss, Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; arrested 2/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676486631750.jpeg" alt="Lashanae Elizabeth Wright, Identity theft; Criminal use of financial card; Falsified card under $1,000; arrested 2/14" />
 <figcaption>Lashanae Elizabeth Wright, Identity theft; Criminal use of financial card; Falsified card under $1,000; arrested 2/14</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 15

The Junction City Little Theater will present Tom Stoppard's 'Arcadia'&nbsp; at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17, 18, 24 and 25, with matinee performances at 2 p.m. Feb. 19 and 26.

Click <a href="https://www.jcoperahouse.org/tickets">HERE</a> for ticket information.

From the man who gifted us Travesties and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead
 comes this dazzling, time-bending story about math and heat and art and
 chaos. Taken in sum, these elements add up to just one thing: Love. 
Yes, even the math part. Because love is universal. And through these 
brilliant, flawed characters we can learn from it. Laugh at it. Maybe 
even figure out how not to screw it up. At least for the time at hand. 
A riveting, time-shifting love story about a brilliant young woman and 
her well-meaning tutor, told the way only Tom Stoppard can tell it. 
Thomasina is mesmerized by the link between physics and nature from a 
very young age, making brilliant deductions that her devoted tutor 
Septimus can hardly believe. While in the future (and also 
concurrently), a group of academics tries to make sense of their story 
through the clues they've left behind. A genius tragicomedy, muddling 
the relationships between past and present; romanticism and classicism; 
order and chaos.

The Junction City Little Theater will present Tom Stoppard's 'Arcadia'&nbsp; at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17, 18, 24 and 25, with matinee performances at 2 p.m. Feb. 19 and 26.Click <a href="https://www.jcoperahouse.org/tickets">HERE</a> for ticket information.From the opera house:From the man who gifted us Travesties and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead
 comes this dazzling, time-bending story about math and heat and art and
 chaos. Taken in sum, these elements add up to just one thing: Love. 
Yes, even the math part. Because love is universal. And through these 
brilliant, flawed characters we can learn from it. Laugh at it. Maybe 
even figure out how not to screw it up. At least for the time at hand. 
A riveting, time-shifting love story about a brilliant young woman and 
her well-meaning tutor, told the way only Tom Stoppard can tell it. 
Thomasina is mesmerized by the link between physics and nature from a 
very young age, making brilliant deductions that her devoted tutor 
Septimus can hardly believe. While in the future (and also 
concurrently), a group of academics tries to make sense of their story 
through the clues they've left behind. A genius tragicomedy, muddling 
the relationships between past and present; romanticism and classicism; 
order and chaos.

'Arcadia' opens this weekend

The Junction City First United Methodist Men will host a pancake dinner&nbsp; 4:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, February 20 at the 8th and Jefferson Street Junction City Church.

Pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee will be served.&nbsp; All proceeds will go toward United Methodist Men's Missions.&nbsp; Cost is a Free Will Offering at a suggested price o f $5 per person.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646671437838.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Junction City First United Methodist Men will host a pancake dinner&nbsp; 4:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, February 20 at the 8th and Jefferson Street Junction City Church.Pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee will be served.&nbsp; All proceeds will go toward United Methodist Men's Missions.&nbsp; Cost is a Free Will Offering at a suggested price o f $5 per person.

Lenten Pancake dinner announced

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a drug bust.

On Tuesday, police conducted a search warrant for suspected distribution of controlled substances in the 700 block of Mission Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The search warrant resulted in the seizure of over 300 suspected fentanyl pills and marijuana. 

Police arrested 20-year-old Trevon Markham and 23-year-old Therriana Pittman both of Manhattan in the 1900 block of Casement in connection to the search warrant. 

Police found suspected fentanyl pills and marijuana in Markham's vehicle at the time of their arrests. 

Markham is in custody on requested charges that include violation of offender registration, aggravated child endangerment, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of an opiate with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of an opiate, and possession of a controlled substance.&nbsp;Markham has been listed as a registered drug offender since Feb. 9, for a felony drug distribution conviction this month, according to the KBI Offender Registry.

Pittman is jailed on requested charges of felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated child endangerment, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of an opiate with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, and possession of an opiate.

Officers also arrested 18-year-old Juliana Morgan, 18, of Junction City on a requested charges of interference with law enforcement as officers conducted the search warrant at a residence.Morgan was issued a total bond of $2,000 and is no longer confined at the time of this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676474690005.png" alt="Markham has been listed as a registered drug offender since Feb. 9 for a felony drug distribution conviction this month, according to the KBI Offender Registry." />
 <figcaption>Markham has been listed as a registered drug offender since Feb. 9 for a felony drug distribution conviction this month, according to the KBI Offender Registry.</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a drug bust.On Tuesday, police conducted a search warrant for suspected distribution of controlled substances in the 700 block of Mission Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The search warrant resulted in the seizure of over 300 suspected fentanyl pills and marijuana. Police arrested 20-year-old Trevon Markham and 23-year-old Therriana Pittman both of Manhattan in the 1900 block of Casement in connection to the search warrant. Police found suspected fentanyl pills and marijuana in Markham's vehicle at the time of their arrests. Markham is in custody on requested charges that include violation of offender registration, aggravated child endangerment, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of an opiate with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of an opiate, and possession of a controlled substance.&nbsp;Markham has been listed as a registered drug offender since Feb. 9, for a felony drug distribution conviction this month, according to the KBI Offender Registry.Pittman is jailed on requested charges of felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated child endangerment, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of an opiate with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, and possession of an opiate.Officers also arrested 18-year-old Juliana Morgan, 18, of Junction City on a requested charges of interference with law enforcement as officers conducted the search warrant at a residence.Morgan was issued a total bond of $2,000 and is no longer confined at the time of this report.

RCPD finds fentanyl pills, arrests registered Kansas offender

MANHATTAN - On Tuesday evening at 6:12 p.m., Manhattan Fire Department crews were called out to 913 Pierre Street on the report of a structure fire.

When crews arrived on scene they found dense smoke coming from the second floor of the two-story home.

The fire moved into the attic space and was extinguished within 30 minutes of crews arriving on scene.

Four fire companies, a Battalion Chief, and Rescue unit responded to the fire.

Firefighters rescued a cat and dog from the residence.

The building is a two-story single-family residence. Estimated loss is $60,000 in damage to the structure and $30,000 in damages to contents within the house.

The owner is listed as Georg Zsuzsics of the same address. The fire cause is under investigation at this time.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676425011358.jpeg" alt="MFD responds to fire in 900 block Pierre, picture submitted by community member" />
 <figcaption>MFD responds to fire in 900 block Pierre, picture submitted by community member</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN - On Tuesday evening at 6:12 p.m., Manhattan Fire Department crews were called out to 913 Pierre Street on the report of a structure fire.When crews arrived on scene they found dense smoke coming from the second floor of the two-story home.The fire moved into the attic space and was extinguished within 30 minutes of crews arriving on scene.Four fire companies, a Battalion Chief, and Rescue unit responded to the fire.Firefighters rescued a cat and dog from the residence.The building is a two-story single-family residence. Estimated loss is $60,000 in damage to the structure and $30,000 in damages to contents within the house.The owner is listed as Georg Zsuzsics of the same address. The fire cause is under investigation at this time. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676425198024.jpeg" alt="MFD house fire on Pierre Street, pic from MFD" />
 <figcaption>MFD house fire on Pierre Street, pic from MFD</figcaption>
 </figure>

📷: UPDATE: Structure fire causes $90K in damage on Tuesday evening

A winter weather warning is in effect in Geary County from 9 p.m. Wednesday through noon Thursday, the National Weather Service in Topeka reported.

There is a 90 percent chance of snow Wednesday night and into Thursday morning with accumulation of 4 to 8 inches expected. Winds will gust to 35 mph, making travel hazardous, the NWS warned.

Click <a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/25ccab2e-8801-4eed-8bc5-87cfbf1a2a29">HERE</a> to submit your cancellations or delays to JC Post and Eagle Radio.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676469926903.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A winter weather warning is in effect in Geary County from 9 p.m. Wednesday through noon Thursday, the National Weather Service in Topeka reported.There is a 90 percent chance of snow Wednesday night and into Thursday morning with accumulation of 4 to 8 inches expected. Winds will gust to 35 mph, making travel hazardous, the NWS warned.Click <a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/25ccab2e-8801-4eed-8bc5-87cfbf1a2a29">HERE</a> to submit your cancellations or delays to JC Post and Eagle Radio.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Winter Storm arrives later today! Near blizzard conditions for much of the area with strong northerly winds. Several inches of snow will be common over northern areas with lower amounts to the southeast. Travel should be delayed. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/ego1WStFp1">pic.twitter.com/ego1WStFp1</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1625800662746537985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: 4 to 8 inches of snow possible in Junction City area

BY PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service

MANHATTAN — In small doses, anxiety might be a good thing, perhaps inspiring a person to act quickly in the face of danger, or think twice about a large expense.&nbsp;

But too much anxiety…not so much.&nbsp;

“The problem is when anxiety becomes debilitating and starts to interfere with our daily lives,” said Rachael Clews, a family and consumer sciences specialist at Kansas State University’s Southwest Research-Extension Center in Garden City.&nbsp;

“When anxiety becomes chronic and debilitating, it can lead to more serious mental health problems that require professional help.”&nbsp;

Clews and Jennifer LaSalle – a family and community wellness agent in K-State Research and Extension’s West Plains District – are the featured speakers during the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/">Living Well Wednesday series</a>&nbsp;on Feb. 22.&nbsp;

Their talk, Declutter Your Mind: Tools to Tame Your Anxiety and Overthinking, will be held online from 12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m. (CST). The session is free, but&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/LWW2023">participants must register in advance</a>&nbsp;to receive a link to the online presentation.&nbsp;

“For most of us, overthinking is a negative thing where our minds conjure up every negative possibility for a situation,” Clews said. In the Feb. 22 presentation, “we’ll talk about how we can interrupt the overthinking and rewrite the script to move from negative to positive thoughts.”&nbsp;

Some of the coping strategies, she adds, include deep breathing, muscle relaxation and silent reflection. “And it may sound funny, but even scheduling an ‘overthinking time’ where you can set aside a specific time of the day or week to just overthink, can be productive,” Clews said.&nbsp;

“This gives validity to one’s feelings, but sets a time limit so that you don’t spiral down an ‘overthinking rabbit hole’ of no return. Once that time is up, make a plan to actually solve the problem you are experiencing.”&nbsp;

Anxiety, like depression, is a mood disorder. Clews said talking about mental health is becoming more common in society.&nbsp;

“If we can take the taboo out of talking about mental health like we would any other health condition, we’d empower so many more to seek the help they need,” she said. “Talking about it – including our own struggles – can go a long way in showing someone else that they are not alone and that there is hope to overcome their anxiety with the right help.”&nbsp;

Living Well Wednesday is an online learning series hosted by K-State Research and Extension family and consumer science agents across the state. A list of upcoming topics, as well as past recorded sessions, is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/">available online</a>.&nbsp;

<h2>Free webinar slated for Feb. 22&nbsp;</h2>BY PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service MANHATTAN — In small doses, anxiety might be a good thing, perhaps inspiring a person to act quickly in the face of danger, or think twice about a large expense.&nbsp;But too much anxiety…not so much.&nbsp;“The problem is when anxiety becomes debilitating and starts to interfere with our daily lives,” said Rachael Clews, a family and consumer sciences specialist at Kansas State University’s Southwest Research-Extension Center in Garden City.&nbsp;“When anxiety becomes chronic and debilitating, it can lead to more serious mental health problems that require professional help.”&nbsp;Clews and Jennifer LaSalle – a family and community wellness agent in K-State Research and Extension’s West Plains District – are the featured speakers during the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/">Living Well Wednesday series</a>&nbsp;on Feb. 22.&nbsp;Their talk, Declutter Your Mind: Tools to Tame Your Anxiety and Overthinking, will be held online from 12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m. (CST). The session is free, but&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/LWW2023">participants must register in advance</a>&nbsp;to receive a link to the online presentation.&nbsp;“For most of us, overthinking is a negative thing where our minds conjure up every negative possibility for a situation,” Clews said. In the Feb. 22 presentation, “we’ll talk about how we can interrupt the overthinking and rewrite the script to move from negative to positive thoughts.”&nbsp;Some of the coping strategies, she adds, include deep breathing, muscle relaxation and silent reflection. “And it may sound funny, but even scheduling an ‘overthinking time’ where you can set aside a specific time of the day or week to just overthink, can be productive,” Clews said.&nbsp;“This gives validity to one’s feelings, but sets a time limit so that you don’t spiral down an ‘overthinking rabbit hole’ of no return. Once that time is up, make a plan to actually solve the problem you are experiencing.”&nbsp;Anxiety, like depression, is a mood disorder. Clews said talking about mental health is becoming more common in society.&nbsp;“If we can take the taboo out of talking about mental health like we would any other health condition, we’d empower so many more to seek the help they need,” she said. “Talking about it – including our own struggles – can go a long way in showing someone else that they are not alone and that there is hope to overcome their anxiety with the right help.”&nbsp;Living Well Wednesday is an online learning series hosted by K-State Research and Extension family and consumer science agents across the state. A list of upcoming topics, as well as past recorded sessions, is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/">available online</a>.&nbsp;

‘Living Well Wednesday’ session to focus on anxiety, overthinking 

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