A red flag warning remains in effect until 8 a.m. in the Flint Hills and burn bans are in place in Geary, Riley and Pottawatomie counties on Thursday.

The National Weather Service in Topeka said that after two more hot, windy, dry days on Thursday and Friday, the early morning hours Saturday bring a 60 percent chance of rain or thunderstorms.

The daytime highs in the mid-80s Thursday and Friday will drop to a daytime high in the upper-50s, the NWS said. The chance for rain extends into Saturday night before skies clear Sunday. 

The high Sunday is expected to be in the upper-60s, with the mercury beginning to tick closer to the 80s by early next week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681407941236.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A red flag warning remains in effect until 8 a.m. in the Flint Hills and burn bans are in place in Geary, Riley and Pottawatomie counties on Thursday.But relief could be on the way.The National Weather Service in Topeka said that after two more hot, windy, dry days on Thursday and Friday, the early morning hours Saturday bring a 60 percent chance of rain or thunderstorms.The daytime highs in the mid-80s Thursday and Friday will drop to a daytime high in the upper-50s, the NWS said. The chance for rain extends into Saturday night before skies clear Sunday. The high Sunday is expected to be in the upper-60s, with the mercury beginning to tick closer to the 80s by early next week.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Extreme fire danger conditions will return today but expand farther east. Take care with any activities that could ignite a fire. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/MjeXXWRxH0">pic.twitter.com/MjeXXWRxH0</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1646449691096408071?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Red flag warnings in place, but rain could be on the way to Flint Hills

The Junction City Ladies Reading Club is supporting Arbor Day sponsoring a "Tree Seedling Day" from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.&nbsp; The trees will be given away free from the club home at 224 N. Jefferson, but donations will be welcomed to support the club, according to Ladies Reading Club President Ellen Westerhaus.

The types of trees will be Redbud, Lilac,&nbsp; Eastern White Pine, Lacebark Elm and Shumard Oak. Arbor Day will be celebrated this year on April 28.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680105327234.jpeg" alt="Ladies Reading Club Home" />
 <figcaption>Ladies Reading Club Home</figcaption>
 </figure>The Junction City Ladies Reading Club is supporting Arbor Day sponsoring a "Tree Seedling Day" from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.&nbsp; The trees will be given away free from the club home at 224 N. Jefferson, but donations will be welcomed to support the club, according to Ladies Reading Club President Ellen Westerhaus.The types of trees will be Redbud, Lilac,&nbsp; Eastern White Pine, Lacebark Elm and Shumard Oak. Arbor Day will be celebrated this year on April 28.

JC Ladies Reading Club 'Tree Seedling Day set for Saturday

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

Just after 11p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for burglary in the 200 block of N. 9th St. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 A 52-year-old woman reported an antique USSR military dagger was stolen out of her apartment. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,000.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers" target="_blank">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged burglary in Manhattan.Just after 11p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for burglary in the 200 block of N. 9th St. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 52-year-old woman reported an antique USSR military dagger was stolen out of her apartment. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,000.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers" target="_blank">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RCPD: USSR military dagger taken in burglary

DICKINSON COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Herington man on Wednesday for allegedly intimidating a witness in a felony investigation, according to a media release from the KBI.

Shortly before 1 p.m. Wednesday, Russell L. Thomas, 61, of Herington, was arrested on a warrant for aggravated intimidation of a witness. This crime is alleged to have occurred on April 7. Thomas is a middle school science teacher at Herington USD 487, according to the district web site.

Thomas was booked into the Dickinson County Jail. Bond was set at $50,000. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681400869626.png" alt="Thomas-photo Dickinson County." />
 <figcaption>Thomas-photo Dickinson County.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Herington man on Wednesday for allegedly intimidating a witness in a felony investigation, according to a media release from the KBI.Shortly before 1 p.m. Wednesday, Russell L. Thomas, 61, of Herington, was arrested on a warrant for aggravated intimidation of a witness. This crime is alleged to have occurred on April 7. Thomas is a middle school science teacher at Herington USD 487, according to the district web site.Thomas was booked into the Dickinson County Jail. Bond was set at $50,000. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

Herington teacher accused of witness intimidation is out on bond

More than 1,000 acres burned and a residential structure was lost in a grass fire in Geary County on Wednesday, Geary County Emergency Management said.&nbsp;

The fire occurred south of Junction City near Highway 77 and Lyons Creek Road.

Crews from Junction City, Dickinson County, Riley County Morris County, Fort Riley, Grandview and the Kansas Forest Service fought the blaze. Area farmers also brought water to fill tanks.

EMS said one firefighter was treated for smoke inhalation.

Firefighters monitored the scene overnight and into Thursday.

JC PostMore than 1,000 acres burned and a residential structure was lost in a grass fire in Geary County on Wednesday, Geary County Emergency Management said.&nbsp;The fire occurred south of Junction City near Highway 77 and Lyons Creek Road.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d24820.998233265844!2d-96.87579494438285!3d38.95539960000001!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc4f6060c50007%3A0x1c3392949bcbc28!2sUS-77%20%26%20W%20Lyons%20Creek%20Rd%2C%20Lyon%2C%20KS%2066441!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1681392919291!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Crews from Junction City, Dickinson County, Riley County Morris County, Fort Riley, Grandview and the Kansas Forest Service fought the blaze. Area farmers also brought water to fill tanks.EMS said one firefighter was treated for smoke inhalation.Firefighters monitored the scene overnight and into Thursday.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgearyem%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02B3ss3sB4fZ46aZVWJtMSZtsBYcKKy5ysuEHVFYcXYG4VK1553TaT1AeYoJhp2kapl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="365" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

1,000 acres burned, home lost in Geary County wildfire

On Monday, Junction City High School hosted an FFA legislative breakfast event attended by Kansas Sen. Usha Reddi and Kansas Reps. Jeff Underhill and Nate Butler. Junction City Vice-Mayor Ronna Larson and Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano were also in attendance.&nbsp;

 The event aimed to not only promote civic engagement among students, but also to allow lawmakers to hear how FFA is thriving at Junction City High School. 

JCHS FFA adviser Laura Miller spoke about how career technical education (CTE) is giving students more options when it comes to post-secondary education

"The purpose of CTE is to help students do some career exploration and create and build skills that they're going to use to join the workforce," Miller said. "Whether a student goes to a four-year, a two-year, a technical college, they are learning how to do some of those skills. They are learning 'What interests me?' in that controlled setting of a classroom experience."

Miller has taught for nearly 17 years and has taught at Junction City High School for the past eight years. She has taught biology, animal science, natural resources, agriculture science and zoology. Miller said one of the many reasons why she loves Junction City High School is thanks to the academy structure.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"We have our freshman success academy, where these students are learning a little bit about the career clusters, learning a little bit about what CTE is and are kind of dabbling in it. Then when they're sophomores through seniors, they join an academy based on the pathway that they want. And also&nbsp; involvement in career technical student organizations like FFA, like FBLA, FCCLA, SkillsUSA, that give kids a chance to showcase those skills, and like a friendly competition. I like to tell my kids, I would rather you figure it out now than be a junior in college, do an internship and decide, 'I just wasted three years of my life.' "

During her remarks, Reddi said that this was her first time visiting Junction City's new high school.

"It is a massive building, but it is so beautiful. Where you invest shows what your priorities are. If you invest in public schools, you are showing the students that they are a priority. The teachers and students are proud to go to school here."

JCHS FFA Secretary and Geary County Farm Bureau Ambassador Ava Oentrich said her ag issues team competed at the national FFA convention and placed in the silver bracket.&nbsp;

"We go to contests at least once a month. Twice a month, we do some sort of contests, and we went to national convention this past year where we had one ag issues team that talked about the proposed meat packing facility," Oentrich said. 'We did an informational skit about the pros and cons and we really went in depth with that and talking about all the things that it would effect in our community."

Miller said the JCHS FFA officially recieved its charter in 2018.

"Since then, we've only grown — from the first 20 kids that signed their names to the 67 kids who are now on our roster. We've done a lot in the past seven years. These kids that are here today are a part of my officer team. ... They are here because they believe in the future of agriculture," Miller said.&nbsp;

With only a few weeks left until Sine Dine, the Latin phrase referring to adjournment of the legislative session, Kansas lawmakers were anxious to travel back to their districts in order to meet with constituents and discuss the status of legislation.

Butler joked that unlike most high school students who get one week of vacation for spring break, legislators get two weeks.&nbsp;

"We worked hard," Butler said. "We had about 500 bills that were presented to the House of Representatives this year. Both gentlemen and Usha are freshman legislators — freshman that have been baptized by fire. So I don't consider myself a freshman really anymore."

In addition, the event presented an opportunity for the Geary County Farm Bureau President Luke Erichsen to present Mikayla Dibben with a certificate and scholarship for her completion of Geary County Farm Bureau's FFA Ambassador program.

"We extend an invitation out to FFA students, as juniors and seniors, to come and be an ambassador for our board. They pretty much do everything like a sitting board member, but actually vote," Erichsen said.

The breakfast was sponsored by Central National Bank.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681222868604.jpeg" alt="Photos by Nate King" />
 <figcaption>Photos by Nate King</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATE KING JC PostOn Monday, Junction City High School hosted an FFA legislative breakfast event attended by Kansas Sen. Usha Reddi and Kansas Reps. Jeff Underhill and Nate Butler. Junction City Vice-Mayor Ronna Larson and Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano were also in attendance.&nbsp; The event aimed to not only promote civic engagement among students, but also to allow lawmakers to hear how FFA is thriving at Junction City High School. JCHS FFA adviser Laura Miller spoke about how career technical education (CTE) is giving students more options when it comes to post-secondary education"The purpose of CTE is to help students do some career exploration and create and build skills that they're going to use to join the workforce," Miller said. "Whether a student goes to a four-year, a two-year, a technical college, they are learning how to do some of those skills. They are learning 'What interests me?' in that controlled setting of a classroom experience."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681230052958.png" alt="Laura Miller, FFA adviser offers her warm thanks to everyone who attended.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Laura Miller, FFA adviser offers her warm thanks to everyone who attended.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Miller has taught for nearly 17 years and has taught at Junction City High School for the past eight years. She has taught biology, animal science, natural resources, agriculture science and zoology. Miller said one of the many reasons why she loves Junction City High School is thanks to the academy structure.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We have our freshman success academy, where these students are learning a little bit about the career clusters, learning a little bit about what CTE is and are kind of dabbling in it. Then when they're sophomores through seniors, they join an academy based on the pathway that they want. And also&nbsp; involvement in career technical student organizations like FFA, like FBLA, FCCLA, SkillsUSA, that give kids a chance to showcase those skills, and like a friendly competition. I like to tell my kids, I would rather you figure it out now than be a junior in college, do an internship and decide, 'I just wasted three years of my life.' "<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681234895566.png" alt="Kansas Senator Usha Reddi addresses JCHS FFA members" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Senator Usha Reddi addresses JCHS FFA members</figcaption>
 </figure>During her remarks, Reddi said that this was her first time visiting Junction City's new high school."It is a massive building, but it is so beautiful. Where you invest shows what your priorities are. If you invest in public schools, you are showing the students that they are a priority. The teachers and students are proud to go to school here."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681229990459.png" alt="Rep. Jeff Underhill, pictured behind lectern, talked about legislation regarding election security, local government, as well as child welfare and foster care.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Jeff Underhill, pictured behind lectern, talked about legislation regarding election security, local government, as well as child welfare and foster care.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>JCHS FFA Secretary and Geary County Farm Bureau Ambassador Ava Oentrich said her ag issues team competed at the national FFA convention and placed in the silver bracket.&nbsp;"We go to contests at least once a month. Twice a month, we do some sort of contests, and we went to national convention this past year where we had one ag issues team that talked about the proposed meat packing facility," Oentrich said. 'We did an informational skit about the pros and cons and we really went in depth with that and talking about all the things that it would effect in our community."Miller said the JCHS FFA officially recieved its charter in 2018."Since then, we've only grown — from the first 20 kids that signed their names to the 67 kids who are now on our roster. We've done a lot in the past seven years. These kids that are here today are a part of my officer team. ... They are here because they believe in the future of agriculture," Miller said.&nbsp;With only a few weeks left until Sine Dine, the Latin phrase referring to adjournment of the legislative session, Kansas lawmakers were anxious to travel back to their districts in order to meet with constituents and discuss the status of legislation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681234278312.png" alt="Rep. Butler grew up in eastern Kentucky where he was active in his high school FFA chapter. In high school, Butler participated in livestock judging. He said it helped him later in life, when he worked as a quality coordinator at a slaughterhouse for two years.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Butler grew up in eastern Kentucky where he was active in his high school FFA chapter. In high school, Butler participated in livestock judging. He said it helped him later in life, when he worked as a quality coordinator at a slaughterhouse for two years.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Butler joked that unlike most high school students who get one week of vacation for spring break, legislators get two weeks.&nbsp;"We worked hard," Butler said. "We had about 500 bills that were presented to the House of Representatives this year. Both gentlemen and Usha are freshman legislators — freshman that have been baptized by fire. So I don't consider myself a freshman really anymore."In addition, the event presented an opportunity for the Geary County Farm Bureau President Luke Erichsen to present Mikayla Dibben with a certificate and scholarship for her completion of Geary County Farm Bureau's FFA Ambassador program."We extend an invitation out to FFA students, as juniors and seniors, to come and be an ambassador for our board. They pretty much do everything like a sitting board member, but actually vote," Erichsen said.The breakfast was sponsored by Central National Bank.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681229677156.png" alt="Mikayla Dibben pictured holding her certificate of scholarship" />
 <figcaption>Mikayla Dibben pictured holding her certificate of scholarship</figcaption>
 </figure>

Junction City High FFA chapter hosts legislator breakfast

Junction City Main Street Market will kick off on Saturday, May 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in downtown Junction City.

The market will be every Saturday from May to October.

Learn more about this by going to <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fjunctioncitymainstreet.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2kynJeIForQYaWdx6SC47audZGUV0Gpy46Sa7Xjojv2GZka7IZsgP9ScM&amp;h=AT2F1UqAHYc18t87Jx3DvzRJp_RG7cXjBHgZ908qUGcEhwOKfbuQ3UCksUWO4zDux-RLT3hIdoaqAcf7z3edISEnHmuzTPp7hRJeBAyjueDjcoipS6xOKuafPWHZtdCcTXhQPY0&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT1EGrbBvACafFGRqJuo9IBuBT_qWMoOwLI5ESddm0ZSNEBcNSonKASr0pXkFHfMjN0fV9YRK_SfyDLsnMrtgTOs0EcpIMsVfBGxxTYhhHCjx2k-OHGOSFnmB4kqfAsf2WNSPUC9YYiH4YOyJic_q3_vGdP2vVJlaUzlkyUvkk93m9sxTocbd7YInRCrm30lCH537vVP_lHi" target="_blank">junctioncitymainstreet.org</a>. The QR code will take you directly to the page with all of the information about the market. This will include information for vendors and shoppers, as well as the various themes assigned to each Saturday, Kids' Business Fair, Junk In The Trunk, a variety of events and activities, and Taste of Culture.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681310996186.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City Main Street Market will kick off on Saturday, May 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in downtown Junction City.The market will be every Saturday from May to October. Learn more about this by going to <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fjunctioncitymainstreet.org%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2kynJeIForQYaWdx6SC47audZGUV0Gpy46Sa7Xjojv2GZka7IZsgP9ScM&amp;h=AT2F1UqAHYc18t87Jx3DvzRJp_RG7cXjBHgZ908qUGcEhwOKfbuQ3UCksUWO4zDux-RLT3hIdoaqAcf7z3edISEnHmuzTPp7hRJeBAyjueDjcoipS6xOKuafPWHZtdCcTXhQPY0&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT1EGrbBvACafFGRqJuo9IBuBT_qWMoOwLI5ESddm0ZSNEBcNSonKASr0pXkFHfMjN0fV9YRK_SfyDLsnMrtgTOs0EcpIMsVfBGxxTYhhHCjx2k-OHGOSFnmB4kqfAsf2WNSPUC9YYiH4YOyJic_q3_vGdP2vVJlaUzlkyUvkk93m9sxTocbd7YInRCrm30lCH537vVP_lHi" target="_blank">junctioncitymainstreet.org</a>. The QR code will take you directly to the page with all of the information about the market. This will include information for vendors and shoppers, as well as the various themes assigned to each Saturday, Kids' Business Fair, Junk In The Trunk, a variety of events and activities, and Taste of Culture.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678199811144.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678199832395.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Junction City Main Street Market kicks off May 6 downtown

GEARY COUNTY - The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation has introduced a new program for non-profits and charitable causes.

The 'Community Cares Chest' has been created using items that were donated from the 'Feed the Children' organization but have gone beyond the shelf-life for sales, but remain usable.

The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation has received truckloads of items to be distributed throughout the region.

Dustin Thornton, a Commercial Lender with Exchange Bank, is part of the Leadership Manhattan program and reached out to the Director of the Geary County Flint Hills Food Pantry, Debbie Johns, to determine the need within the Geary County community for the personal care and household products.

Some of the items include: personal care items, household cleaning items, books and other miscellaneous items.

Products are available for individuals in Geary County at the Geary County Food Pantry.

If you would like to support the Geary County Food Pantry, you may do so by visiting <a href="https://www.gearycountyfoodpantry.org/blank-5">gearycountyfoodpantry.org</a>.

by BECKY GOFF JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681314573391.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY - The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation has introduced a new program for non-profits and charitable causes.The 'Community Cares Chest' has been created using items that were donated from the 'Feed the Children' organization but have gone beyond the shelf-life for sales, but remain usable.The Greater Manhattan Community Foundation has received truckloads of items to be distributed throughout the region.Dustin Thornton, a Commercial Lender with Exchange Bank, is part of the Leadership Manhattan program and reached out to the Director of the Geary County Flint Hills Food Pantry, Debbie Johns, to determine the need within the Geary County community for the personal care and household products.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681322202794.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Some of the items include: personal care items, household cleaning items, books and other miscellaneous items.Products are available for individuals in Geary County at the Geary County Food Pantry.If you would like to support the Geary County Food Pantry, you may do so by visiting <a href="https://www.gearycountyfoodpantry.org/blank-5">gearycountyfoodpantry.org</a>.

Geary Co. Food Pantry benefits from Community Cares Chest

SHAWNEE COUNTY— A man accused in connection with an accident that left a former Kansas State University student dead in December of 2021 has been charged with vehicular homicide.

&nbsp;John Alfred Moulden, 38, Knoxville, Tennessee also faces charges that include failure to stop at an accident known to result in death and driving at an unsafe speed for prevailing conditions, according to online jail records.&nbsp; He was booked in Shawnee County last week and is no longer in custody, according to the department of corrections.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just after 3:30p.m. on Sunday December 5, 2021, an International semi driven by&nbsp; Moulden was westbound in the left lane on Interstate 70 and unable to move into the right lane due to a rollover accident near SW West Union Road involving a 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by&nbsp;Dakota B. Swader, 20, of Topeka that entered the center median and came to rest upside down.&nbsp;

A pedestrian identified as Autumn Johnson, a 21-year-old Kansas State University student from Wasilla, Alaska,&nbsp; parked her vehicle on the right shoulder of west bound Interstate 70 along with other vehicles.

Johnson exited the vehicle and ran through traffic toward the median to assist Swader, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian. The semi struck Johnson.

EMS transported Johnson to Stormont Vail in Topeka where she died.&nbsp; &nbsp; American Medical Response transported Swader to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian.&nbsp;

Johnson was<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/about/news-events-publications/lifelines/2112.html"> hailed as a hero</a> following the tragedy.&nbsp; She was a first-year veterinary science student at K-State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681295093233.png" alt="Moulden-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Moulden-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY— A man accused in connection with an accident that left a former Kansas State University student dead in December of 2021 has been charged with vehicular homicide.&nbsp;John Alfred Moulden, 38, Knoxville, Tennessee also faces charges that include failure to stop at an accident known to result in death and driving at an unsafe speed for prevailing conditions, according to online jail records.&nbsp; He was booked in Shawnee County last week and is no longer in custody, according to the department of corrections.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just after 3:30p.m. on Sunday December 5, 2021, an International semi driven by&nbsp; Moulden was westbound in the left lane on Interstate 70 and unable to move into the right lane due to a rollover accident near SW West Union Road involving a 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix driven by&nbsp;Dakota B. Swader, 20, of Topeka that entered the center median and came to rest upside down.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639150010314.png" alt="Autumn Johnson-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Autumn Johnson-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>A pedestrian identified as Autumn Johnson, a 21-year-old Kansas State University student from Wasilla, Alaska,&nbsp; parked her vehicle on the right shoulder of west bound Interstate 70 along with other vehicles.Johnson exited the vehicle and ran through traffic toward the median to assist Swader, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian. The semi struck Johnson.EMS transported Johnson to Stormont Vail in Topeka where she died.&nbsp; &nbsp; American Medical Response transported Swader to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian.&nbsp;Johnson was<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/about/news-events-publications/lifelines/2112.html"> hailed as a hero</a> following the tragedy.&nbsp; She was a first-year veterinary science student at K-State.

Driver in I-70 crash that killed KSU student faces charges

Red flag warnings remain in effect for much of the Flint Hills until 8 p.m. Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka warned. A fire weather watch will remain in place into Thursday night.

With low humidity, warm air and strong wind, the chance for wildfires will remain critical, the NWS said.&nbsp;

Daytime highs through Friday will remain in the mid-80s, with south winds sustained at 15 to 25 mph and gusting up to 35 mph.

Friday afternoon brings a chance of relief. There is a 30 percent chance of showers between 1 and 4 p.m. Friday, increasing to 70 percent into Friday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681313680858.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Red flag warnings remain in effect for much of the Flint Hills until 8 p.m. Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka warned. A fire weather watch will remain in place into Thursday night.With low humidity, warm air and strong wind, the chance for wildfires will remain critical, the NWS said.&nbsp;Daytime highs through Friday will remain in the mid-80s, with south winds sustained at 15 to 25 mph and gusting up to 35 mph.Friday afternoon brings a chance of relief. There is a 30 percent chance of showers between 1 and 4 p.m. Friday, increasing to 70 percent into Friday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Red Flag Warning has been expanded slightly. Dry and breezy weather and remaining dry grasses will create extreme fire weather conditions. Do not burn in a Red Flag Warning! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/cuNenTZpsx">pic.twitter.com/cuNenTZpsx</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1646081783115681793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 12, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Extreme fire risk across the Flint Hills on Wednesday, Thursday

By Ferrell Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Secretary/Program Chairperson

Isreal Waddell, Director of Military Affairs Council, was the guest speaker at the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s April 12th “Celebration of Optimism” gathering at the Hampton Inn in Junction City.&nbsp; Israel told members present and those on Zoom that he was originally from Norfolk, Virginia and is one of nine children in his family. He was a member of the U.S. Army for six years and served with the Military Police. Isreal has a degree in Public Relations and his finance’ is stationed at fort Riley.

Mr. Waddell shared that the Junction City Military Affairs Council Mission and Vision Statements are imbedded in the eight Lines of Effort (LOE) listed below:

1. Use MAC Breakfasts to continue to bring together Fort Riley and the community to network with each other, discuss mutual goals and concerns, and develop solutions to bridging gaps in a mutually beneficial relationship.

2. Partner with the First Infantry Division Engagements/Protocol, Fort Riley Garrison, and Regional Recruiting Command (Army and Air Force)

3. Work with the region’s organizations and outside organizations to find ways to improve quality of life efforts.

4. Work with the Chamber of Commerce membership and other organizations and businesses to strengthen the relationship between them and Fort Riley.

5. Assist in transitioning military individuals by building a talent transition/retention infrastructure emanating from Junction City that connects and provides talent for the region and the nation.

6. Work in partnership with Fort Riley’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation on planning and hosting Junction City and Fort Riley community events.

7. Bring together Junction City, Manhattan, and surrounding cities/counties’ Military Affairs representatives to continue to improve relationships and efforts with supporting Fort Riley, veterans, and their families in our communities.

8. Relay information to elected officials (state/national) to influence impactful legislation in support of soldiers, veterans and their families in the Flint Hills Region and the state of Kansas.

Isreal also shared that “the economic impact of Fort Riley to the Central Flint Hills Region is 1.8 billion dollars. There are 5,274 Fort Riley affiliated families living in the surrounding communities.

At next week’s Celebration of Optimism, the local club will recognize the St. Xavier’s Student of the Quarter. Club members will then go to the St. Xavier’s Catholic School at 9:30 AM to present the Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club charter. The JOI Club is the only active youth Optimist Club in the state of Kansas and is sponsored by the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681311994545.jpeg" alt="Pictured:&nbsp; Isreal Waddell, Director of Military Affairs and Nita Miller, President of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club" />
 <figcaption>Pictured:&nbsp; Isreal Waddell, Director of Military Affairs and Nita Miller, President of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club</figcaption>
 </figure>By Ferrell Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Secretary/Program ChairpersonIsreal Waddell, Director of Military Affairs Council, was the guest speaker at the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s April 12th “Celebration of Optimism” gathering at the Hampton Inn in Junction City.&nbsp; Israel told members present and those on Zoom that he was originally from Norfolk, Virginia and is one of nine children in his family. He was a member of the U.S. Army for six years and served with the Military Police. Isreal has a degree in Public Relations and his finance’ is stationed at fort Riley.Mr. Waddell shared that the Junction City Military Affairs Council Mission and Vision Statements are imbedded in the eight Lines of Effort (LOE) listed below:1. Use MAC Breakfasts to continue to bring together Fort Riley and the community to network with each other, discuss mutual goals and concerns, and develop solutions to bridging gaps in a mutually beneficial relationship.2. Partner with the First Infantry Division Engagements/Protocol, Fort Riley Garrison, and Regional Recruiting Command (Army and Air Force)3. Work with the region’s organizations and outside organizations to find ways to improve quality of life efforts.4. Work with the Chamber of Commerce membership and other organizations and businesses to strengthen the relationship between them and Fort Riley.5. Assist in transitioning military individuals by building a talent transition/retention infrastructure emanating from Junction City that connects and provides talent for the region and the nation.6. Work in partnership with Fort Riley’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation on planning and hosting Junction City and Fort Riley community events.7. Bring together Junction City, Manhattan, and surrounding cities/counties’ Military Affairs representatives to continue to improve relationships and efforts with supporting Fort Riley, veterans, and their families in our communities.8. Relay information to elected officials (state/national) to influence impactful legislation in support of soldiers, veterans and their families in the Flint Hills Region and the state of Kansas.Isreal also shared that “the economic impact of Fort Riley to the Central Flint Hills Region is 1.8 billion dollars. There are 5,274 Fort Riley affiliated families living in the surrounding communities.At next week’s Celebration of Optimism, the local club will recognize the St. Xavier’s Student of the Quarter. Club members will then go to the St. Xavier’s Catholic School at 9:30 AM to present the Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club charter. The JOI Club is the only active youth Optimist Club in the state of Kansas and is sponsored by the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.

MAC Director speaks to Optimist Club

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

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

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681310794407.jpeg" alt="Mark Anthony Fisher Austin, Aggravated battery; Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement; Arrested 4/11" />
 <figcaption>Mark Anthony Fisher Austin, Aggravated battery; Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement; Arrested 4/11</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681310855200.jpeg" alt="David R Lopez, Probation Violation; Arrested 4/11" />
 <figcaption>David R Lopez, Probation Violation; Arrested 4/11</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681310941579.jpeg" alt="Wayne Leonard Sawicki, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Arrested 4/12" />
 <figcaption>Wayne Leonard Sawicki, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Arrested 4/12</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos April 12

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Riley County woman on multiple allegations following a crash and interaction with police.

Just after 4:30p.m. Tuesday, officers responded to the report of a crash near the intersection of West Randolph and N. 1st Streets in Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

First responders found an unoccupied Dodge Grand Caravan still running that had hit a power pole. A short time later, officers identified the driver as Krystle Zimmer, 33, of St. George who was found in the 100 block of Randolph St. in Randolph. 

Officers made contact with her and determined she was allegedly intoxicated. Zimmer ran away from officers as they spoke with her, she was quickly detained. While officers were placing her in handcuffs, she resisted, bit two officers, and threatened them.

 Zimmer was arrested on requested charges of driving under the influence, and two counts each of battery on LEO, criminal threat on LEO, and interference with LEO. 

Zimmer remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $20,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Riley County woman on multiple allegations following a crash and interaction with police.Just after 4:30p.m. Tuesday, officers responded to the report of a crash near the intersection of West Randolph and N. 1st Streets in Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.First responders found an unoccupied Dodge Grand Caravan still running that had hit a power pole. A short time later, officers identified the driver as Krystle Zimmer, 33, of St. George who was found in the 100 block of Randolph St. in Randolph. Officers made contact with her and determined she was allegedly intoxicated. Zimmer ran away from officers as they spoke with her, she was quickly detained. While officers were placing her in handcuffs, she resisted, bit two officers, and threatened them. Zimmer was arrested on requested charges of driving under the influence, and two counts each of battery on LEO, criminal threat on LEO, and interference with LEO. Zimmer remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $20,000.

RCPD: DUI suspect bit two officers during arrest after crash

By DAVE BERGMEIER <a href="https://www.hpj.com/ag_news/nbaf-ribbon-cutting-set-for-may-24/article_b3acb562-d2f2-11ed-a40d-33326569b293.html">High Plains Journal</a>

One of the longest-anticipated openings in animal health care research has been set for May 24.

U.S.
 Sen. Jerry Moran, R-KS, announced during a recent Senate Appropriations
 Subcommittee on Agriculture hearing in Washington D.C., that he was 
looking forward to having U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom 
Vilsack cut the ribbon at the biosafety level 4 National Bio and 
Agro-Defense Facility.

“Designed to protect public 
health and our national food security, this state-of-the-art USDA 
facility will be located in the heart of the nation and near the farmers
 and ranchers who help feed our nation,” Moran said.

“NBAF
 modernizes our process and our ability to investigate and research some
 of the major challenges and threats to American agriculture,” Vilsack 
said. “Whether it’s African swine fever or foot-and-mouth disease or 
some of the other seven critical diseases that could cripple our 
livestock industry, which obviously would impact and effect our entire 
economy and our food security. In addition, this facility will also be 
where the vaccine bank is housed. As we develop vaccines to try to deal 
with some of these threats, being able to stockpile appropriately and 
safely those vaccines [is] incredibly important. Also, a great deal of 
research is going to be done on the countermeasures, the biosecurity 
initiatives that are part of protecting our livestock industry.”

Moran
 helped secure $1.25 billion in federal funding for the facility through
 his role on the Senate Committee on Appropriations and helped break 
ground for the construction of NBAF in 2015.

NBAF is the 
nation’s only large animal facility built to handle pathogens that do 
not currently have treatments or countermeasures. It will open adjacent 
to Kansas State University and near Bill Snyder Family Stadium in 
Manhattan.

The
 Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate 
will transfer ownership and operational responsibilities to the USDA. 
NBAF is designed to strengthen the nation’s ability to conduct research,
 develop vaccines, diagnose emerging diseases, and train veterinarians. 
According to the USDA, NBAF will replace the 68-year-old Plum Island 
Animal Disease Center in New York. The PIADC is where the USDA’s 
Agricultural Research Service and Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service conduct foreign animal disease research and diagnostics. ARS and
 APGHIS will transfer their research diagnostic missions from PIADC to 
NBAF and will operate the facility jointly. According to the USDA, even 
after the agency takes ownership of the facility from the DHS, it will 
take at least of couple of years to transfer the full science mission 
from PIADC to NBAF.

The
 decision to replace the Plum Island facility had its roots in the 911 
Commission, Moran said. NBAF is designed to help protect public health 
and food safety, he said.

Vilsack
 attended the 2015 groundbreaking. He said building the facility was 
time-consuming because it had to meet many rigorous standards.

By DAVE BERGMEIER <a href="https://www.hpj.com/ag_news/nbaf-ribbon-cutting-set-for-may-24/article_b3acb562-d2f2-11ed-a40d-33326569b293.html">High Plains Journal</a>One of the longest-anticipated openings in animal health care research has been set for May 24.U.S.
 Sen. Jerry Moran, R-KS, announced during a recent Senate Appropriations
 Subcommittee on Agriculture hearing in Washington D.C., that he was 
looking forward to having U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom 
Vilsack cut the ribbon at the biosafety level 4 National Bio and 
Agro-Defense Facility.“Designed to protect public 
health and our national food security, this state-of-the-art USDA 
facility will be located in the heart of the nation and near the farmers
 and ranchers who help feed our nation,” Moran said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604336319153.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“NBAF
 modernizes our process and our ability to investigate and research some
 of the major challenges and threats to American agriculture,” Vilsack 
said. “Whether it’s African swine fever or foot-and-mouth disease or 
some of the other seven critical diseases that could cripple our 
livestock industry, which obviously would impact and effect our entire 
economy and our food security. In addition, this facility will also be 
where the vaccine bank is housed. As we develop vaccines to try to deal 
with some of these threats, being able to stockpile appropriately and 
safely those vaccines [is] incredibly important. Also, a great deal of 
research is going to be done on the countermeasures, the biosecurity 
initiatives that are part of protecting our livestock industry.”Moran
 helped secure $1.25 billion in federal funding for the facility through
 his role on the Senate Committee on Appropriations and helped break 
ground for the construction of NBAF in 2015.NBAF is the 
nation’s only large animal facility built to handle pathogens that do 
not currently have treatments or countermeasures. It will open adjacent 
to Kansas State University and near Bill Snyder Family Stadium in 
Manhattan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681238483498.png" alt="USDA photo" />
 <figcaption>USDA photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The
 Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate 
will transfer ownership and operational responsibilities to the USDA. 
NBAF is designed to strengthen the nation’s ability to conduct research,
 develop vaccines, diagnose emerging diseases, and train veterinarians. 
According to the USDA, NBAF will replace the 68-year-old Plum Island 
Animal Disease Center in New York. The PIADC is where the USDA’s 
Agricultural Research Service and Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service conduct foreign animal disease research and diagnostics. ARS and
 APGHIS will transfer their research diagnostic missions from PIADC to 
NBAF and will operate the facility jointly. According to the USDA, even 
after the agency takes ownership of the facility from the DHS, it will 
take at least of couple of years to transfer the full science mission 
from PIADC to NBAF.The
 decision to replace the Plum Island facility had its roots in the 911 
Commission, Moran said. NBAF is designed to help protect public health 
and food safety, he said.Vilsack
 attended the 2015 groundbreaking. He said building the facility was 
time-consuming because it had to meet many rigorous standards.Republished with permission

NBAF ribbon cutting set for May 24 in Manhattan

Roxie Yonkey, a best-selling author, will discuss her newest book, "Secret Kansas: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure," next month in Junction City.

A presentation and book-signing is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. May 23 at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library 230 W. Seventh.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680280312569.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JC PostRoxie Yonkey, a best-selling author, will discuss her newest book, "Secret Kansas: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure," next month in Junction City.A presentation and book-signing is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. May 23 at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library 230 W. Seventh.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638311552048.jpeg" alt="Younkey" />
 <figcaption>Younkey</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fdorothybramlagepubliclibrary%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0ceokmpeRnBwdeLEe7BAyJyg3soJix5XLySq58GD165rxUeLhwsG991461W5dm1xXl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="668" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

'Secret Kansas' author scheduled to present in Junction City

Annual Westwood Elementary plant sale set for Saturday

Fort Riley will again host the “Hiring Our Heroes” career summit in conjunction with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The event is April 13, beginning at 9 a.m. at Riley’s Community Center.

The career summit is a specialized event designed to educate, inform, inspire and connect service members, veterans, military spouses and caregivers with military-ready employers. All service members, military spouses, veterans and caregivers are invited.

Organizers expect 90 employers to participate and many will be prepared to interview and hire potential employees. Companies participating in the event range from America’s largest employers to many smaller companies from across the region.

The event opens with morning workshops ranging from career planning to using digital networking sites to resume writing and interviewing. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. The afternoon will feature a hiring fair from 1 to 4 p.m.

The Hiring Our Heroes career summit will help Soldiers preparing to leave the military and those who expect to stay in the military for many years to make connections and understand the opportunities that exist for them and their families.

Service members, veterans, military spouses and caregivers should pre-register for the career summit at&nbsp;<a href="https://hiringourheroes.org/riley">https://hiringourheroes.org/riley</a>. For more information, call the Fort Riley Transition Assistance Program office at 785-239-2278.

Fort Riley previously hosted this event in 2019 and 2022.

Fort Riley Public AffairsFort Riley will again host the “Hiring Our Heroes” career summit in conjunction with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. The event is April 13, beginning at 9 a.m. at Riley’s Community Center.The career summit is a specialized event designed to educate, inform, inspire and connect service members, veterans, military spouses and caregivers with military-ready employers. All service members, military spouses, veterans and caregivers are invited.Organizers expect 90 employers to participate and many will be prepared to interview and hire potential employees. Companies participating in the event range from America’s largest employers to many smaller companies from across the region.The event opens with morning workshops ranging from career planning to using digital networking sites to resume writing and interviewing. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. The afternoon will feature a hiring fair from 1 to 4 p.m.The Hiring Our Heroes career summit will help Soldiers preparing to leave the military and those who expect to stay in the military for many years to make connections and understand the opportunities that exist for them and their families.Service members, veterans, military spouses and caregivers should pre-register for the career summit at&nbsp;<a href="https://hiringourheroes.org/riley">https://hiringourheroes.org/riley</a>. For more information, call the Fort Riley Transition Assistance Program office at 785-239-2278.Fort Riley previously hosted this event in 2019 and 2022.

Fort Riley hosting Hiring our Heroes event Thursday

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher Spring has sprung on our central Kansas farm. The daffodils and apricot trees are in full bloom and being visited by the honeybees. The small flock of sheep we’ve been caring for all winter have now more than doubled as all of the ewes have lambed. Now the pasture is full of little white lambs frolicking and bouncing all around as their mothers keep watch. Our machine shop has also transitioned from housing a winter basketball court to housing a planter being prepped and bags of corn seed stacked high as we await our season of spring planting. Like any spring, the Kansas weather has fluctuated from cold to warm and from cold to hot. I’ve experienced many recent days where I’ve had my son change out of the athletic shorts he planned to wear to school and instead have made him get some pants on. There’s also been days where I’ve told the kids to leave their coats at home only to regret that decision when the temperatures drop a bit too much by the time they get off the afternoon bus.&nbsp; It’s definitely the time of the year where major fluctuations in weather still occur. It’s also the time of the year where some serious countdowns have begun.&nbsp; While state assessments are about to begin for my children, school will actually wrap up and the kids will be on summer break in less than 30 days. We’ve made it past the holiday celebrations, the winter concerts, the days of indoor recesses, and the mornings of waiting for the school bus in the dark. Daylight is noticeably getting longer, talk of the end-of-year field day has begun and summer camp forms are being sent home. I can assure you, the kids have already started their final countdown. With that final countdown to summer break, there is also an elevated level of anticipation as we get closer and closer to the return of my son’s cattle from their winter pastures. They will be worked in the coming days and then brought home to pasture over the summer months in the pastures nearest our house. I can’t wait to see the cows grazing nearby while I look out my front windows. While we prepare the fencing and the water sources, we know the clock continues to tick for the herd’s arrival home for the summer. The countdown carries over as we also prepare to get the machines in the fields to begin spring planting. While we’ve been making final adjustments to the planter, we’ve also been anxiously awaiting a good spring rain before planting the seeds into the ground. While it seems we aren’t in as big of a hurry as previous years to start planting, mostly due to the dry conditions, the countdown has clearly begun and we wait and watch to determine when we will give ourselves the greenlight to begin. Yes, spring has definitely sprung! And with it, all of the final countdowns have also begun. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher Spring has sprung on our central Kansas farm. The daffodils and apricot trees are in full bloom and being visited by the honeybees. The small flock of sheep we’ve been caring for all winter have now more than doubled as all of the ewes have lambed. Now the pasture is full of little white lambs frolicking and bouncing all around as their mothers keep watch. Our machine shop has also transitioned from housing a winter basketball court to housing a planter being prepped and bags of corn seed stacked high as we await our season of spring planting. Like any spring, the Kansas weather has fluctuated from cold to warm and from cold to hot. I’ve experienced many recent days where I’ve had my son change out of the athletic shorts he planned to wear to school and instead have made him get some pants on. There’s also been days where I’ve told the kids to leave their coats at home only to regret that decision when the temperatures drop a bit too much by the time they get off the afternoon bus.&nbsp; It’s definitely the time of the year where major fluctuations in weather still occur. It’s also the time of the year where some serious countdowns have begun.&nbsp; While state assessments are about to begin for my children, school will actually wrap up and the kids will be on summer break in less than 30 days. We’ve made it past the holiday celebrations, the winter concerts, the days of indoor recesses, and the mornings of waiting for the school bus in the dark. Daylight is noticeably getting longer, talk of the end-of-year field day has begun and summer camp forms are being sent home. I can assure you, the kids have already started their final countdown. With that final countdown to summer break, there is also an elevated level of anticipation as we get closer and closer to the return of my son’s cattle from their winter pastures. They will be worked in the coming days and then brought home to pasture over the summer months in the pastures nearest our house. I can’t wait to see the cows grazing nearby while I look out my front windows. While we prepare the fencing and the water sources, we know the clock continues to tick for the herd’s arrival home for the summer. The countdown carries over as we also prepare to get the machines in the fields to begin spring planting. While we’ve been making final adjustments to the planter, we’ve also been anxiously awaiting a good spring rain before planting the seeds into the ground. While it seems we aren’t in as big of a hurry as previous years to start planting, mostly due to the dry conditions, the countdown has clearly begun and we wait and watch to determine when we will give ourselves the greenlight to begin. Yes, spring has definitely sprung! And with it, all of the final countdowns have also begun. "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: The final countdown

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

In 2022, there was an average of three work zone crashes every day in
Kansas. A work zone is an area of a street or highway with construction,
maintenance or utility work. The Kansas Department of Transportation
construction and maintenance workers face danger on a daily basis in their
jobs. KDOT Public Affairs Manager Tim Potter said employees or contracted
workers try to do everything possible to make sure drivers are aware of work
zones. "One of the main things we rely on are signs that people should heed," said Potter. "In particular, one of the most important signs is the reduced speed limit sign for the work zone. There's work activity going on, construction vehicles and workers around." 
National Work Zone Awareness week will begin April 17 to highlight the
importance of slowing down while in work zones.

Potter said awareness of work
zones is also for the safety of motorists. Between 85% to 90% of the time, the
people that are injured in work zone crashes are motorists. "We rely on people being alert," said Potter. "The top contributing circumstance of work zone crashes is inattention. People are following too closely, driving to fast for the conditions, improperly changing lanes or violating the right-of-way." 
Everyone is encouraged to wear orange on April 19, the official “Go
Orange Day” in Kansas to show support for Kansas highway workers.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681138545119.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostIn 2022, there was an average of three work zone crashes every day in
Kansas. A work zone is an area of a street or highway with construction,
maintenance or utility work. The Kansas Department of Transportation
construction and maintenance workers face danger on a daily basis in their
jobs. KDOT Public Affairs Manager Tim Potter said employees or contracted
workers try to do everything possible to make sure drivers are aware of work
zones. "One of the main things we rely on are signs that people should heed," said Potter. "In particular, one of the most important signs is the reduced speed limit sign for the work zone. There's work activity going on, construction vehicles and workers around." 
National Work Zone Awareness week will begin April 17 to highlight the
importance of slowing down while in work zones. Potter said awareness of work
zones is also for the safety of motorists. Between 85% to 90% of the time, the
people that are injured in work zone crashes are motorists. "We rely on people being alert," said Potter. "The top contributing circumstance of work zone crashes is inattention. People are following too closely, driving to fast for the conditions, improperly changing lanes or violating the right-of-way." 
Everyone is encouraged to wear orange on April 19, the official “Go
Orange Day” in Kansas to show support for Kansas highway workers.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Stay alert: Three work zone crashes per day in Kansas

GEARY COUNTY—Two suspects arrested in Michigan and accused in the murder of a couple in Junction City are back in a Kansas Jail.

According to Junction City Police, 33-year-old Steven P. Pierce and 29-year-old Kallie R. Peters have been extradited from Michigan are currently in custody at the Geary County Detention Facility.

Authorities in Michigan arrested them in Saginaw County Michigan on requested charges of Felony Murder, 2 counts of Aggravated Robbery, and 1 count of Felony Theft in connection with the deaths of&nbsp; 75-year-old Valerie J. Krissman and 80-year-old Roland C. Krissman.&nbsp; A criminal complaint is the case said the killing happened in Junction City during the theft of the Krissman's 2006 Buick Lacrosse.

Pierce and Peters both currently have a bond set at $1,500,000.00, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679429689565.png" alt="Pierce -photo Saginaw Co." />
 <figcaption>Pierce -photo Saginaw Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—Two suspects arrested in Michigan and accused in the murder of a couple in Junction City are back in a Kansas Jail.According to Junction City Police, 33-year-old Steven P. Pierce and 29-year-old Kallie R. Peters have been extradited from Michigan are currently in custody at the Geary County Detention Facility.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1679429653515.png" alt="Peters-photo Saginaw Co." />
 <figcaption>Peters-photo Saginaw Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities in Michigan arrested them in Saginaw County Michigan on requested charges of Felony Murder, 2 counts of Aggravated Robbery, and 1 count of Felony Theft in connection with the deaths of&nbsp; 75-year-old Valerie J. Krissman and 80-year-old Roland C. Krissman.&nbsp; A criminal complaint is the case said the killing happened in Junction City during the theft of the Krissman's 2006 Buick Lacrosse.Pierce and Peters both currently have a bond set at $1,500,000.00, according to online jail records.------------

2 accused of Junction City couple’s murder are back in Kan. jail

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681221600440.jpeg" alt="Kallie Rene Peters, Failure to appear; Murder in the 1st degree in the commission of a felony; Aggravated robbery; inflicts bodily harm; Theft &gt; $1500 &lt; $25,000 Pocket picking; Arrested 4/10" />
 <figcaption>Kallie Rene Peters, Failure to appear; Murder in the 1st degree in the commission of a felony; Aggravated robbery; inflicts bodily harm; Theft &gt; $1500 &lt; $25,000 Pocket picking; Arrested 4/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681221915211.jpeg" alt="Brittanie Michele Salaman, Parole Violation; arrested 4/10" />
 <figcaption>Brittanie Michele Salaman, Parole Violation; arrested 4/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681221972729.jpeg" alt="Danine Lynne Stonerock, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license; Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required; Defective tail lamp on motor vehicle; arrested 4/10" />
 <figcaption>Danine Lynne Stonerock, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license; Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required; Defective tail lamp on motor vehicle; arrested 4/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681222155941.jpeg" alt="Indya Sanna Vereen, Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement; Arrested 4/10" />
 <figcaption>Indya Sanna Vereen, Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement; Arrested 4/10</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos April 11

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged incident involving a gun and a bicyclist in Manhattan.

Just after 2p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault near the intersection of N. 11th and Thurston Streets in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.

 A 22-year-old man&nbsp; reported he was riding his bicycle west on Thurston when a car stopped next to him and a male passenger in the back seat rolled down the window and pointed a gun at him.&nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers" target="_blank">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged incident involving a gun and a bicyclist in Manhattan.Just after 2p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault near the intersection of N. 11th and Thurston Streets in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report. A 22-year-old man&nbsp; reported he was riding his bicycle west on Thurston when a car stopped next to him and a male passenger in the back seat rolled down the window and pointed a gun at him.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers" target="_blank">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Suspect in car pointed a gun at bicyclist

By BECKY GOFF JC Post/Little Apple Post

FORT RILEY — On Friday, Fort Riley honored military 
children and their families with the annual Month of the Military Child 
parade.

April is the Month of the Military Child. 
Colonel Michael Foote, Fort Riley Garrison Commander, joined military 
children, Fort Riley Child and Youth Services, Installation and Division
 leaders for the annual parade. 

Members of the 1st Infantry 
Division Band and members of the Commanding General's Mounted Color 
Guard led the parade honoring military children in the Month of the 
Military Child.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681159545569.jpeg" alt="2023 Month of the Military Child parade" />
 <figcaption>2023 Month of the Military Child parade</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY GOFF JC Post/Little Apple PostFORT RILEY — On Friday, Fort Riley honored military 
children and their families with the annual Month of the Military Child 
parade.April is the Month of the Military Child. 
Colonel Michael Foote, Fort Riley Garrison Commander, joined military 
children, Fort Riley Child and Youth Services, Installation and Division
 leaders for the annual parade. Members of the 1st Infantry 
Division Band and members of the Commanding General's Mounted Color 
Guard led the parade honoring military children in the Month of the 
Military Child.

📷 Fort Riley celebrates Month of the Military Child with parade

The tryout date for the 2023-24 J-Stepper dance team has been scheduled.

Clinic dates will be 6:30 to 8 p.m. April 19 to 21, with the tryout scheduled for 10 a.m. April 22, both at the Junction City High School multipurpose room.

Tryout packets are available at high school and middle school athletic offices.For more information, email <a href="mailto:MariamKhoury@usd475.org">MariamKhoury@usd475.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681136501637.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The tryout date for the 2023-24 J-Stepper dance team has been scheduled.Clinic dates will be 6:30 to 8 p.m. April 19 to 21, with the tryout scheduled for 10 a.m. April 22, both at the Junction City High School multipurpose room.Tryout packets are available at high school and middle school athletic offices.For more information, email <a href="mailto:MariamKhoury@usd475.org">MariamKhoury@usd475.org</a>.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid0gvPMbGdWPco4iVe5Umje6ZxmYXHFqh8Qit697sMdhdjTVj4taoiam4zdYUjvAwZxl%26id%3D100057404591056&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="674" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Tryout date set for 2023-24 J-Stepper dance team

A trivia night to support the effort to build a new public library in Junction City is scheduled for 6 p.m.Saturday, April 15, at Spin City, 915 S. Washington.

Teams of up to four people will need at least one smartphone or tablet to participate.

The entry feee is $40 per person in advance at the library or $45 at the door. Tickets include a meal and one free drink ticket for those 21 or older.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680033383930.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A trivia night to support the effort to build a new public library in Junction City is scheduled for 6 p.m.Saturday, April 15, at Spin City, 915 S. Washington.Teams of up to four people will need at least one smartphone or tablet to participate.The entry feee is $40 per person in advance at the library or $45 at the door. Tickets include a meal and one free drink ticket for those 21 or older.

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