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

Amelia Earhart speaks.&nbsp;She smiles, looks up, and begins to talk about her life experiences.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wait – didn’t Amelia Earhart disappear in the South Pacific 80 years ago?&nbsp;

Yes, but she is alive again – at least virtually – in an incredible museum that will open in her hometown of Atchison in spring, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joe Brentano is director of the new Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum.&nbsp;Makinzie Burghart is director of development.&nbsp;Burghart grew up in Atchison as did Amelia Earhart 120 years earlier.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earhart and her younger sister, Muriel, spent many of their early years at their grandparent’s home in Atchison.&nbsp;In 1908, she saw her first airplane at the Iowa State Fair, but it didn’t excite her at the time.&nbsp;

Years later, she and a friend were at a flying exposition when a stunt pilot dived at them.&nbsp; “I believe that little red airplane spoke to me as it swished by,” Earhart later wrote.&nbsp;

After attending another air show, she was hooked on flying.&nbsp;She would go on to become the first president of the Ninety-Nines, a women's aviation organization; the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic; first woman to fly solo coast-to-coast; and the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to the mainland.&nbsp;

She received many honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross from Congress, before disappearing on an ill-fated attempt to fly around the globe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Atchison celebrates the Amelia Earhart history through tours of her childhood home and an annual Amelia Earhart festival.&nbsp;But in 2016, a unique opportunity arose.&nbsp;There was an opportunity to purchase a Lockheed Electra 10-E – the same model as Amelia Earhart flew on her last flight, and the only one left in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Citizens of Atchison, led by Karen and the late Ladd Seaberg, formed the Atchison Amelia Earhart Foundation and raised the funds to purchase the plane.&nbsp;It was affectionately named Muriel in honor of Amelia’s younger sister.&nbsp;The plane was carefully transported by trailer, 1,206 miles from California to Atchison.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The next step was to create a museum to display the plane.&nbsp;That led to the design and construction of the new Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum – in an actual hangar and terminal in a 1930s-style art deco building at the local airport. “This was a $17 million project,” Burghart said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Outside the museum stands a statue of Earhart, identical to the one that Kansas placed in statuary hall in the nation’s capitol.&nbsp;Inside the entrance, one is greeted by a hologram of Earhart.&nbsp;This electronic CGI image speaks her inspiring words from a century-plus ago, expressing the importance of transcending boundaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The centerpiece of the museum is Muriel, the Lockheed Electra 10-E.&nbsp;Muriel is surrounded by 14 incredible, high-tech, state-of-the-art interactive displays.&nbsp;Not only are these educational, they correlate with national and Kansas STEM curriculum content standards.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Exhibits include a digitized version of Earhart’s flight logbook, 3D holograms of aviation advancements through the years, and a display of other key female accomplishments.&nbsp; Guests can climb inside a full-sized replica of Muriel’s cockpit.&nbsp;At another station, guests can experience a virtual reality re-creation of Earhart’s 1932 transatlantic flight. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Another exhibit not only describes Earhart’s other pursuits as a nurse, mechanic, and fashion designer, it allows visitors to select one of these for which the computer will create a personalized on-screen avatar of the visitor in related clothing.&nbsp;Amazing!&nbsp;&nbsp;

What actually happened to Amelia Earhart?&nbsp;Step upstairs and the museum shows a map of where she disappeared, with an exhibit of seven alternative scenarios.&nbsp;Guests can study the arguments for and against each scenario and then vote.&nbsp;(I still suspect she’s living in an apartment with Elvis…)&nbsp;&nbsp;

This remarkable museum will open in mid-April 2023 in the rural community of Atchison, population 10,885 people.&nbsp;Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

Amelia Earhart speaks – at least in virtual form at this museum.&nbsp;We commend Karen and Ladd Seaberg, Joe Brentano, Makinzie Burghart, and all those making a difference with this remarkable technology in a museum you won’t want to miss.&nbsp;

When Amelia Earhart speaks, I listen.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677075122947.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;Amelia Earhart speaks.&nbsp;She smiles, looks up, and begins to talk about her life experiences.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wait – didn’t Amelia Earhart disappear in the South Pacific 80 years ago?&nbsp;Yes, but she is alive again – at least virtually – in an incredible museum that will open in her hometown of Atchison in spring, 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Joe Brentano is director of the new Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum.&nbsp;Makinzie Burghart is director of development.&nbsp;Burghart grew up in Atchison as did Amelia Earhart 120 years earlier.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earhart and her younger sister, Muriel, spent many of their early years at their grandparent’s home in Atchison.&nbsp;In 1908, she saw her first airplane at the Iowa State Fair, but it didn’t excite her at the time.&nbsp;Years later, she and a friend were at a flying exposition when a stunt pilot dived at them.&nbsp; “I believe that little red airplane spoke to me as it swished by,” Earhart later wrote.&nbsp;After attending another air show, she was hooked on flying.&nbsp;She would go on to become the first president of the Ninety-Nines, a women's aviation organization; the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic; first woman to fly solo coast-to-coast; and the first person to fly solo from Hawaii to the mainland.&nbsp;She received many honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross from Congress, before disappearing on an ill-fated attempt to fly around the globe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Atchison celebrates the Amelia Earhart history through tours of her childhood home and an annual Amelia Earhart festival.&nbsp;But in 2016, a unique opportunity arose.&nbsp;There was an opportunity to purchase a Lockheed Electra 10-E – the same model as Amelia Earhart flew on her last flight, and the only one left in the world.&nbsp;&nbsp;Citizens of Atchison, led by Karen and the late Ladd Seaberg, formed the Atchison Amelia Earhart Foundation and raised the funds to purchase the plane.&nbsp;It was affectionately named Muriel in honor of Amelia’s younger sister.&nbsp;The plane was carefully transported by trailer, 1,206 miles from California to Atchison.&nbsp;&nbsp;The next step was to create a museum to display the plane.&nbsp;That led to the design and construction of the new Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum – in an actual hangar and terminal in a 1930s-style art deco building at the local airport. “This was a $17 million project,” Burghart said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside the museum stands a statue of Earhart, identical to the one that Kansas placed in statuary hall in the nation’s capitol.&nbsp;Inside the entrance, one is greeted by a hologram of Earhart.&nbsp;This electronic CGI image speaks her inspiring words from a century-plus ago, expressing the importance of transcending boundaries.&nbsp;&nbsp;The centerpiece of the museum is Muriel, the Lockheed Electra 10-E.&nbsp;Muriel is surrounded by 14 incredible, high-tech, state-of-the-art interactive displays.&nbsp;Not only are these educational, they correlate with national and Kansas STEM curriculum content standards.&nbsp;&nbsp;Exhibits include a digitized version of Earhart’s flight logbook, 3D holograms of aviation advancements through the years, and a display of other key female accomplishments.&nbsp; Guests can climb inside a full-sized replica of Muriel’s cockpit.&nbsp;At another station, guests can experience a virtual reality re-creation of Earhart’s 1932 transatlantic flight. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Another exhibit not only describes Earhart’s other pursuits as a nurse, mechanic, and fashion designer, it allows visitors to select one of these for which the computer will create a personalized on-screen avatar of the visitor in related clothing.&nbsp;Amazing!&nbsp;&nbsp;What actually happened to Amelia Earhart?&nbsp;Step upstairs and the museum shows a map of where she disappeared, with an exhibit of seven alternative scenarios.&nbsp;Guests can study the arguments for and against each scenario and then vote.&nbsp;(I still suspect she’s living in an apartment with Elvis…)&nbsp;&nbsp;This remarkable museum will open in mid-April 2023 in the rural community of Atchison, population 10,885 people.&nbsp;Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information, see&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ameliaearharthangarmuseum.org/">www.ameliaearharthangarmuseum.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Amelia Earhart speaks – at least in virtual form at this museum.&nbsp;We commend Karen and Ladd Seaberg, Joe Brentano, Makinzie Burghart, and all those making a difference with this remarkable technology in a museum you won’t want to miss.&nbsp;When Amelia Earhart speaks, I listen.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Amelia Earhart Hanger Museum 

MANHATTAN — Following an internal search, Rebecca 
Robinson has been named as the next president and CEO of K-State 
Innovation Partners by the board of directors.&nbsp;

Robinson is replacing Kent Glasscock, who <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2023-02/Innovation-Partners-president-to-retire2823.html">recently announced his retirement</a> after 20 years of service to the university.&nbsp;

As an integral member of the Innovation Partners team for 14 years, 
Robinson has been committed to building industry partnerships for 
K-State and driving university-based economic development in the 
Manhattan region and beyond.

"Rebecca is exactly the talented, visionary and exciting leader who 
will make Innovation Partners even more effective in progressing the 
Kansas State University mission as it defines itself as a Next-Gen 
Land-Grant University," said Kent Glasscock, outgoing Innovation 
Partners president and CEO. "Her skills and professionalism, along with 
her knowledge of the university, community and state, will allow Rebecca
 and her team to be instrumental as K-State serves the state and its 
people. At her core, she is a passionate innovator with a love for 
K-State and its mission."

Prior to accepting the role as president, Robinson served on the 
organization's leadership team as the chief corporate engagement and 
economic development officer at Innovation Partners. She facilitated 
strategic industry partnerships and directed economic development 
initiatives to achieve the goals and objectives of university-community 
partners Knowledge Based Economic Development, or KBED, including 
strategy development, budgeting, marketing and aligning university and 
community strategies.

In partnership with the community and university, she has 
participated in or led the recruitment of 27 technology-based companies 
to the Manhattan region, creating more than 1,100 new high-wage jobs and
 a projected economic impact of more than $1 billion.

Robinson has garnered international recognition for her corporate 
engagement and economic development efforts at K-State, including 
invited presentations at national conferences and multiple awards of 
excellence for the KBED partnership. She is currently serving as the 
past president of the University Economic Development Association.

"Rebecca has provided vision, leadership and oversight to multiple 
successful corporate engagement and economic development strategies," 
said David Rosowsky, vice president for research and chair of the 
Innovation Partners board of directors. "Over the course of her career 
both at Innovation Partners and on the national stage as a recognized 
leader in her field, Rebecca has accumulated broad and deep 
understanding of the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead for
 corporate relations and university-industry partnerships. I look 
forward to working with her as Innovation Partners' next CEO as she 
brings new vision and leadership to advancing economic development, 
technology transfer and commercialization, and corporate engagement at 
K-State."

Robinson earned her master's in business administration and her 
bachelor's degree in marketing, Spanish and leadership studies, both 
from Kansas State University. She is currently a doctoral candidate in 
leadership communication at K-State.

"I am truly honored to serve as the next president and CEO of K-State
 Innovation Partners," said Robinson. "Like many of my colleagues, I've 
had the privilege of being part of the organization since I was an 
intern and have seen first-hand the incredible talent, dedication, and 
passion of our team that has built a strong foundation of success. As we
 enter this next chapter, I look forward to working with the team and 
our partners to lead the organization to new heights."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677082036991.jpeg" alt="Rebecca Robinson has been appointed as president and CEO of K-State Innovation Partners." />
 <figcaption>Rebecca Robinson has been appointed as president and CEO of K-State Innovation Partners.</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State NewsMANHATTAN — Following an internal search, Rebecca 
Robinson has been named as the next president and CEO of K-State 
Innovation Partners by the board of directors.&nbsp;Robinson is replacing Kent Glasscock, who <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2023-02/Innovation-Partners-president-to-retire2823.html">recently announced his retirement</a> after 20 years of service to the university.&nbsp;As an integral member of the Innovation Partners team for 14 years, 
Robinson has been committed to building industry partnerships for 
K-State and driving university-based economic development in the 
Manhattan region and beyond."Rebecca is exactly the talented, visionary and exciting leader who 
will make Innovation Partners even more effective in progressing the 
Kansas State University mission as it defines itself as a Next-Gen 
Land-Grant University," said Kent Glasscock, outgoing Innovation 
Partners president and CEO. "Her skills and professionalism, along with 
her knowledge of the university, community and state, will allow Rebecca
 and her team to be instrumental as K-State serves the state and its 
people. At her core, she is a passionate innovator with a love for 
K-State and its mission."Prior to accepting the role as president, Robinson served on the 
organization's leadership team as the chief corporate engagement and 
economic development officer at Innovation Partners. She facilitated 
strategic industry partnerships and directed economic development 
initiatives to achieve the goals and objectives of university-community 
partners Knowledge Based Economic Development, or KBED, including 
strategy development, budgeting, marketing and aligning university and 
community strategies.In partnership with the community and university, she has 
participated in or led the recruitment of 27 technology-based companies 
to the Manhattan region, creating more than 1,100 new high-wage jobs and
 a projected economic impact of more than $1 billion.Robinson has garnered international recognition for her corporate 
engagement and economic development efforts at K-State, including 
invited presentations at national conferences and multiple awards of 
excellence for the KBED partnership. She is currently serving as the 
past president of the University Economic Development Association."Rebecca has provided vision, leadership and oversight to multiple 
successful corporate engagement and economic development strategies," 
said David Rosowsky, vice president for research and chair of the 
Innovation Partners board of directors. "Over the course of her career 
both at Innovation Partners and on the national stage as a recognized 
leader in her field, Rebecca has accumulated broad and deep 
understanding of the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead for
 corporate relations and university-industry partnerships. I look 
forward to working with her as Innovation Partners' next CEO as she 
brings new vision and leadership to advancing economic development, 
technology transfer and commercialization, and corporate engagement at 
K-State."Robinson earned her master's in business administration and her 
bachelor's degree in marketing, Spanish and leadership studies, both 
from Kansas State University. She is currently a doctoral candidate in 
leadership communication at K-State."I am truly honored to serve as the next president and CEO of K-State
 Innovation Partners," said Robinson. "Like many of my colleagues, I've 
had the privilege of being part of the organization since I was an 
intern and have seen first-hand the incredible talent, dedication, and 
passion of our team that has built a strong foundation of success. As we
 enter this next chapter, I look forward to working with the team and 
our partners to lead the organization to new heights."

Robinson named K-State Innovation Partners president, CEO

SALINA — A national homeschool basketball tournament is coming to Salina next year.

Visit
 Salina announced this morning that the National Division II Christian 
Homeschool Basketball Tournament (ND2CHA) has selected Salina as its 
host location for the 2024, 2025, and 2026 tournaments. Each three-day 
event is expected to bring more than 80 teams of middle and high school 
boys and girls from the Midwest to Salina.

Visit Salina has estimated that the three-day event will generate an economic impact of $932,000 for the Salina area.

"We are excited to have our tournament in Salina. Besides

the
 central location, Salina has exceptional facilities like the Salina 
Fieldhouse and KWU’s Mabee Arena. In addition, Salina’s diverse lodging 
and dining options will provide excellent choices for our athletes, 
families, officials, and spectators," said tournament director Steve 
Poage.

The dates of the tournaments are as follows.

Feb. 29 – March 2, 2024 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)

March 6 – March 8, 2025 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)

March 5 – March 7, 2026 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)

The
 Salina Fieldhouse and Kansas Wesleyan University’s Mabee Arena will be 
the primary facilities for the event, with most of the tournament play 
taking place at the Salina Fieldhouse, Visit Salina noted. Games are 
expected to begin at approximately 7:30 a.m. and will be played 
throughout the day and evening.

On the Friday afternoon of the 
tournament, the games will pause for a Time Out, a special event for 
players and spectators featuring a devotional speaker and a shooting 
contest, according to Visit Salina. The Time-Out will take place in 
Mabee Arena.

"A big thank you to the National Division II 
Christian Homeschool Association and to the Salina Fieldhouse and Kansas
 Wesleyan University on working together to make this event a 
possibility in Salina. This is a great event for Salina, and we are so 
excited to welcome teams from throughout the United States," said Visit 
Salina's Tiffany Benien. "I truly believe Salina will embrace this 
event, provide an atmosphere to grow in the future, and continue its 
success!" 

Salina PostSALINA — A national homeschool basketball tournament is coming to Salina next year.Visit
 Salina announced this morning that the National Division II Christian 
Homeschool Basketball Tournament (ND2CHA) has selected Salina as its 
host location for the 2024, 2025, and 2026 tournaments. Each three-day 
event is expected to bring more than 80 teams of middle and high school 
boys and girls from the Midwest to Salina.Visit Salina has estimated that the three-day event will generate an economic impact of $932,000 for the Salina area."We are excited to have our tournament in Salina. Besidesthe
 central location, Salina has exceptional facilities like the Salina 
Fieldhouse and KWU’s Mabee Arena. In addition, Salina’s diverse lodging 
and dining options will provide excellent choices for our athletes, 
families, officials, and spectators," said tournament director Steve 
Poage.The dates of the tournaments are as follows.Feb. 29 – March 2, 2024 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)March 6 – March 8, 2025 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)March 5 – March 7, 2026 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday) The
 Salina Fieldhouse and Kansas Wesleyan University’s Mabee Arena will be 
the primary facilities for the event, with most of the tournament play 
taking place at the Salina Fieldhouse, Visit Salina noted. Games are 
expected to begin at approximately 7:30 a.m. and will be played 
throughout the day and evening.On the Friday afternoon of the 
tournament, the games will pause for a Time Out, a special event for 
players and spectators featuring a devotional speaker and a shooting 
contest, according to Visit Salina. The Time-Out will take place in 
Mabee Arena."A big thank you to the National Division II 
Christian Homeschool Association and to the Salina Fieldhouse and Kansas
 Wesleyan University on working together to make this event a 
possibility in Salina. This is a great event for Salina, and we are so 
excited to welcome teams from throughout the United States," said Visit 
Salina's Tiffany Benien. "I truly believe Salina will embrace this 
event, provide an atmosphere to grow in the future, and continue its 
success!"

National Christian homeschool basketball tourney coming to Salina

The National Weather Service in Topeka is promising a significant warmup this weekend — and the probability of rainfall.

After a bitterly cold Thursday, the high Friday will creep above 30 degrees, rising to nearly 50 on Saturday. On Sunday, the high is expected to be in the low-60s.

There is a 30 percent chance of rain starting Saturday night, increasing to 80 percent by Sunday night before tapering Monday morning. A thunderstorm is also a possibility, the NWS said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677174865518.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service in Topeka is promising a significant warmup this weekend — and the probability of rainfall.After a bitterly cold Thursday, the high Friday will creep above 30 degrees, rising to nearly 50 on Saturday. On Sunday, the high is expected to be in the low-60s.There is a 30 percent chance of rain starting Saturday night, increasing to 80 percent by Sunday night before tapering Monday morning. A thunderstorm is also a possibility, the NWS said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wind chills of -5 to -10 will be common this morning and Friday morning in north-central and northeast Kansas. Much warmer temperatures are expected Saturday through Monday though showers and thunderstorms are likely by Sunday night. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/qaaZiuFreV">pic.twitter.com/qaaZiuFreV</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1628700747381739521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Warmer — and wetter — weekend on the way for Junction City area

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/2023/2/1677169531064.jpeg" alt="Cody Laine Blanton, Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; arrested 2/22" />
 <figcaption>Cody Laine Blanton, Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; arrested 2/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677169864771.jpeg" alt="Kelsey Michelle Rookstoll, Failure to appear x2; Outside warrant; arrested 2/22" />
 <figcaption>Kelsey Michelle Rookstoll, Failure to appear x2; Outside warrant; arrested 2/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677170475020.jpeg" alt="Tyler Scott Boland, Failure to appear; Outside warrant; arrested 2/22" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Scott Boland, Failure to appear; Outside warrant; arrested 2/22</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 February 23

Fort Riley held its monthly retirement ceremony on Feb. 16 to honor: 

CPT Homar Marval CW4 Morgan Hall SFC Joshua Johnson SFC Brad Konwinski SFC Steven Lemke SFC Miriam Leon SFC Brandon Pitts SFC Clinton Tomlinson SSG Joshua Knight Mrs. Terri Rottinghaus

To view more photos, click <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/firstinfantrydivision/albums/72177720306068752/with/52694920543/?fbclid=IwAR0keJEO1cLA1OdFd8vryg5SRNdu4k0F72xcNIO1HlS8NfJ0c34Qjs1EjxE">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677014607578.png" alt="Fort Riley photo" />
 <figcaption>Fort Riley photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Riley held its monthly retirement ceremony on Feb. 16 to honor: CPT Homar Marval CW4 Morgan Hall SFC Joshua Johnson SFC Brad Konwinski SFC Steven Lemke SFC Miriam Leon SFC Brandon Pitts SFC Clinton Tomlinson SSG Joshua Knight Mrs. Terri RottinghausTo view more photos, click <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/firstinfantrydivision/albums/72177720306068752/with/52694920543/?fbclid=IwAR0keJEO1cLA1OdFd8vryg5SRNdu4k0F72xcNIO1HlS8NfJ0c34Qjs1EjxE">HERE</a>.&nbsp;

Fort Riley honors its February retirees in ceremony

MANHATTAN —The fifth annual Rural Education Summit from Kansas State University's College of Education will feature keynote addresses from national education leaders in place-based learning and rural literacy. The event will be held virtually Thursday, April 6. The theme for the 2023 summit is&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/about/news-events/rural-education-summit/">Rural Schools: The Place to Learn, the Place to Be.</a>&nbsp;The summit is sponsored by the K-State College of Education's Rural Education Center and includes leading educators who will share their approaches in three strands: teaching and learning, leadership and rural issues. Registration is $10 per person or $100 for districts that use it for professional development, including in-service days. "While the focus is on education, sessions are designed to address key issues regarding rural communities and will be valuable for administrators, classroom teachers, community members and other stakeholders in rural communities," said Spencer Clark, professor and director of the Rural Education Center. "<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/about/news-events/rural-education-summit/">Registration</a>&nbsp;is intentionally affordable to encourage participation by anyone who wants to support and strengthen rural communities."

Bridget Larsen, middle school teacher at Glenwood Schools in West Plains, Missouri, will deliver "Planting New Seeds," her keynote address about place-based learning.&nbsp; Chea Parton, self-proclaimed "farm girl," former rural school student and high school teacher, is a visiting faculty member in Purdue University's teacher educator program.&nbsp;Her keynote address is&nbsp;"Being to Learn and Learning to Be: Toward a Rural Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy."&nbsp;Parton champions rural life through her website,&nbsp;Literacy in Place.&nbsp;

Additional details about each speaker are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/about/news-events/rural-education-summit/">Rural Education Summit website</a>. The summit's&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/about/news-events/rural-education-summit/2023%20Summit%20Schedule.pdf">schedule</a>&nbsp;includes special education, education law, vacancy and retention, and international education. Also,&nbsp;the 14 members of the center's Rural Professional Development Schools network will be recognized for their partnership and participation in many projects. For more information about the summit or the Rural Education Center and its programs, contact Kevin Colle, program coordinator, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:klcole@k-state.edu">klcolle@k-state.edu</a>,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ruraled@k-state.edu">ruraled@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-532-3977.&nbsp;

K-State NewsMANHATTAN —The fifth annual Rural Education Summit from Kansas State University's College of Education will feature keynote addresses from national education leaders in place-based learning and rural literacy. The event will be held virtually Thursday, April 6. The theme for the 2023 summit is&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/about/news-events/rural-education-summit/">Rural Schools: The Place to Learn, the Place to Be.</a>&nbsp;The summit is sponsored by the K-State College of Education's Rural Education Center and includes leading educators who will share their approaches in three strands: teaching and learning, leadership and rural issues. Registration is $10 per person or $100 for districts that use it for professional development, including in-service days. "While the focus is on education, sessions are designed to address key issues regarding rural communities and will be valuable for administrators, classroom teachers, community members and other stakeholders in rural communities," said Spencer Clark, professor and director of the Rural Education Center. "<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/about/news-events/rural-education-summit/">Registration</a>&nbsp;is intentionally affordable to encourage participation by anyone who wants to support and strengthen rural communities."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676988538132.png" alt="Bridget Larsen" />
 <figcaption>Bridget Larsen</figcaption>
 </figure>Bridget Larsen, middle school teacher at Glenwood Schools in West Plains, Missouri, will deliver "Planting New Seeds," her keynote address about place-based learning.&nbsp; Chea Parton, self-proclaimed "farm girl," former rural school student and high school teacher, is a visiting faculty member in Purdue University's teacher educator program.&nbsp;Her keynote address is&nbsp;"Being to Learn and Learning to Be: Toward a Rural Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy."&nbsp;Parton champions rural life through her website,&nbsp;Literacy in Place.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676988582774.png" alt="Chea Parton" />
 <figcaption>Chea Parton</figcaption>
 </figure>Additional details about each speaker are available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/about/news-events/rural-education-summit/">Rural Education Summit website</a>. The summit's&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/about/news-events/rural-education-summit/2023%20Summit%20Schedule.pdf">schedule</a>&nbsp;includes special education, education law, vacancy and retention, and international education. Also,&nbsp;the 14 members of the center's Rural Professional Development Schools network will be recognized for their partnership and participation in many projects. For more information about the summit or the Rural Education Center and its programs, contact Kevin Colle, program coordinator, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:klcole@k-state.edu">klcolle@k-state.edu</a>,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ruraled@k-state.edu">ruraled@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or 785-532-3977.&nbsp;

Registration open for K-State's annual rural education summit

By MATT PIKE&nbsp; St. Joseph Post&nbsp;

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — We're a month into the tax season and officials with the Internal Revenue Service reporting things seem to be going smoothly.&nbsp;

Spokesman
 for the IRS Michael Devine said as of Feb. 10 almost 29 million 
tax returns have been filed for this tax season. &nbsp;

Devine says to 
get your returns ready to be filed, most people should be looking out 
for their W-2s from employers and a variety of the form 1099.&nbsp;

"So,
 these are the forms that you normally get, and unless your situation 
has really changed from last year go back and look at the 2021 tax 
return," Devine said. "That would give you a very
 good starting point on what your 2022 return will look like, and it 
will also tell you what documents you used then and which ones you 
should have now."&nbsp;

Devine said people should already have their 
tax forms, and if you do already have those forms, there's no need to 
wait until the last minute to file.&nbsp;

"Because April 18th is the 
date you have to file your tax return or get an extension, it's also the
 day that you have to pay any taxes that are due, there's no extension 
on paying just an extension on actually preparing the tax return," 
Devine said. "So, waiting until the last minute is something a lot of 
people do, it's not a good thing to do."&nbsp;

Devine says if you have 
not received your tax forms by the end of this month you should check 
your spam folder if they were emailed or call your employer.&nbsp; You can 
also contact the IRS for help if you are missing forms.&nbsp;

This year, thanks to some legalities, taxpayers will have extra time to file their returns.&nbsp;

Devine
 says normally tax returns are due by April 15th, however that day falls
 on a Saturday and legally taxes cannot be collected on a weekend or 
holiday, so it would roll over to the following Monday&nbsp;

"Unfortunately,
 or fortunately for taxpayers, April 16th is Emancipation Day, that's a 
holiday that's celebrated in Washington D.C." Devine said. &nbsp;

And because that's on a Sunday, the federal holiday would move to Monday, April 17, pushing the tax deadline to April 18. &nbsp;

"So,
 this year you have three extra days to file, but we really say if 
you've got all the documents you need, don't wait," Devine said. &nbsp;

Devine
 says just because the deadline to file is April 18, you still have to 
pay those taxes that are due, which you cannot get an extension on.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp; St. Joseph Post&nbsp;ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — We're a month into the tax season and officials with the Internal Revenue Service reporting things seem to be going smoothly.&nbsp;Spokesman
 for the IRS Michael Devine said as of Feb. 10 almost 29 million 
tax returns have been filed for this tax season. &nbsp;Devine says to 
get your returns ready to be filed, most people should be looking out 
for their W-2s from employers and a variety of the form 1099.&nbsp;"So,
 these are the forms that you normally get, and unless your situation 
has really changed from last year go back and look at the 2021 tax 
return," Devine said. "That would give you a very
 good starting point on what your 2022 return will look like, and it 
will also tell you what documents you used then and which ones you 
should have now."&nbsp;Devine said people should already have their 
tax forms, and if you do already have those forms, there's no need to 
wait until the last minute to file.&nbsp;"Because April 18th is the 
date you have to file your tax return or get an extension, it's also the
 day that you have to pay any taxes that are due, there's no extension 
on paying just an extension on actually preparing the tax return," 
Devine said. "So, waiting until the last minute is something a lot of 
people do, it's not a good thing to do."&nbsp;Devine says if you have 
not received your tax forms by the end of this month you should check 
your spam folder if they were emailed or call your employer.&nbsp; You can 
also contact the IRS for help if you are missing forms.&nbsp;This year, thanks to some legalities, taxpayers will have extra time to file their returns.&nbsp;Devine
 says normally tax returns are due by April 15th, however that day falls
 on a Saturday and legally taxes cannot be collected on a weekend or 
holiday, so it would roll over to the following Monday&nbsp;"Unfortunately,
 or fortunately for taxpayers, April 16th is Emancipation Day, that's a 
holiday that's celebrated in Washington D.C." Devine said. &nbsp;And because that's on a Sunday, the federal holiday would move to Monday, April 17, pushing the tax deadline to April 18. &nbsp;"So,
 this year you have three extra days to file, but we really say if 
you've got all the documents you need, don't wait," Devine said. &nbsp;Devine
 says just because the deadline to file is April 18, you still have to 
pay those taxes that are due, which you cannot get an extension on.&nbsp;

IRS: Have all your forms? Don't put off filing 2022 taxes

At Tuesday's meeting of the Junction City Commission, a request to allow backyard chickens within city limits was heard with no action taken.

Because there is no existing ordinance allowing poultry in the city, the commission opted not to make a motion for or against, although a majority of commissioners were against the idea.

Watch the entire meeting <a href="https://junctioncityks.civicclerk.com/Web/Player.aspx?id=292&amp;key=-1&amp;mod=-1&amp;mk=-1&amp;nov=0">HERE</a>. The discussion over backyard poultry begins at the 46:30 mark of the video.

In other action, commissioners agreed to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office. The MOU would allow for joint interdiction efforts to reduce illegal narcotics, allowing Junction City Police Department officers to operate and assist in Dickinson County's jurisdiction.

JC PostAt Tuesday's meeting of the Junction City Commission, a request to allow backyard chickens within city limits was heard with no action taken.Because there is no existing ordinance allowing poultry in the city, the commission opted not to make a motion for or against, although a majority of commissioners were against the idea.Watch the entire meeting <a href="https://junctioncityks.civicclerk.com/Web/Player.aspx?id=292&amp;key=-1&amp;mod=-1&amp;mk=-1&amp;nov=0">HERE</a>. The discussion over backyard poultry begins at the 46:30 mark of the video.In other action, commissioners agreed to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office. The MOU would allow for joint interdiction efforts to reduce illegal narcotics, allowing Junction City Police Department officers to operate and assist in Dickinson County's jurisdiction.

Junction City commissioners not in favor of chickens in city

Three Junction City Middle School students, Maddox Butler, Faye Fortner, and Myka VonSpreckelsen, served as Pages with the Kansas House of Representatives on February 22.&nbsp; Nate Butler was the sponsoring State Representative.&nbsp;

If your student is interested in Paging, make contact with your local State Representative or Senator.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677088430314.png" alt="&nbsp;JCMS Pages with State Rep. Butler and Governor Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;JCMS Pages with State Rep. Butler and Governor Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>Three Junction City Middle School students, Maddox Butler, Faye Fortner, and Myka VonSpreckelsen, served as Pages with the Kansas House of Representatives on February 22.&nbsp; Nate Butler was the sponsoring State Representative.&nbsp;If your student is interested in Paging, make contact with your local State Representative or Senator.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Students serve as Pages

Ginger Kopfer, Geary County K-State Research and Extension Agent, was the guest speaker at the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s Celebration of Optimism gather in February 22. Ginger stated that “she had been involved in 4-H and FFA in high school.” Following high school, she graduated from Kansas State University. “Kansas State University and 4-H have a partnership because KSU is a land grant university. 4-H is involved in every county in Kansas. Clubs meet one time per month and learn about public speaking, Parliamentary Procedure, working with animals and many other topics. Public speaking is the most feared topic”, but with training and a variety of experiences, 4-H’ers become more confident.

The most popular topics 4-H members want to learn more about include photography and food and nutrition. All the topics mentioned, and others are used to prepare members for participation in the Geary County Free Fair. “We have 90% of our members who present livestock or projects for the fair”, Ginger said.

Ginger also shared that “Our members participate in community projects. Some of those include food drives, sending items to deployed soldiers, being Bell Ringers for the Salvation Army and visiting older adults in nursing homes. A Tuft Research Study showed that 4-H members are more likely to achieve in high school and college, more likely to become positive contributors to their communities, and less likely to be depressed”. Even with “the many choices young people have today to be involved in lots of things, there are 150 4-H members in Geary County.”

Another guest at the Celebration of Optimism gathering was Ryan Wilson, the new owner of the Union newspaper. Mike Taylor, Director of Religious Education at Fort Riley, became a JC Breakfast Optimist Club member.

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at the Hampton Inn on South Washington Street. First time visitors receive a breakfast buffet which is served at 6:30 a.m. and the meetings begin at 6:50 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677080595000.jpeg" alt="Guest Speaker&nbsp; Ginger Kopfer with Optimist Club President Nita Miller" />
 <figcaption>Guest Speaker&nbsp; Ginger Kopfer with Optimist Club President Nita Miller</figcaption>
 </figure>Ginger Kopfer, Geary County K-State Research and Extension Agent, was the guest speaker at the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s Celebration of Optimism gather in February 22. Ginger stated that “she had been involved in 4-H and FFA in high school.” Following high school, she graduated from Kansas State University. “Kansas State University and 4-H have a partnership because KSU is a land grant university. 4-H is involved in every county in Kansas. Clubs meet one time per month and learn about public speaking, Parliamentary Procedure, working with animals and many other topics. Public speaking is the most feared topic”, but with training and a variety of experiences, 4-H’ers become more confident.The most popular topics 4-H members want to learn more about include photography and food and nutrition. All the topics mentioned, and others are used to prepare members for participation in the Geary County Free Fair. “We have 90% of our members who present livestock or projects for the fair”, Ginger said.Ginger also shared that “Our members participate in community projects. Some of those include food drives, sending items to deployed soldiers, being Bell Ringers for the Salvation Army and visiting older adults in nursing homes. A Tuft Research Study showed that 4-H members are more likely to achieve in high school and college, more likely to become positive contributors to their communities, and less likely to be depressed”. Even with “the many choices young people have today to be involved in lots of things, there are 150 4-H members in Geary County.”Another guest at the Celebration of Optimism gathering was Ryan Wilson, the new owner of the Union newspaper. Mike Taylor, Director of Religious Education at Fort Riley, became a JC Breakfast Optimist Club member.The JC Breakfast Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at the Hampton Inn on South Washington Street. First time visitors receive a breakfast buffet which is served at 6:30 a.m. and the meetings begin at 6:50 a.m.

Extention 4-H Agent speaks to Optimist Club

The Junction City Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will host a special storytime program featuring local author Debra Stenstrom reading from her new book It’s Okay to be Different. It will be held on Monday, March 6 at 4:00 p.m. in the library meeting room. The author will also have copies of her book available for sale at the event and will sign them for audience members. This event is free and open to the public and no advance registration is required.

It’s Okay to be Different tells the story of a special needs dog named Dumplin. Despite a number of significant physical challenges, he lived a happy life and brought much joy to everyone who met him.

For additional information about the book and program, please contact Sarah Macumber at the library at 785-238-4311 or sarahm@jclib.org

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677080098689.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Junction City Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will host a special storytime program featuring local author Debra Stenstrom reading from her new book It’s Okay to be Different. It will be held on Monday, March 6 at 4:00 p.m. in the library meeting room. The author will also have copies of her book available for sale at the event and will sign them for audience members. This event is free and open to the public and no advance registration is required.It’s Okay to be Different tells the story of a special needs dog named Dumplin. Despite a number of significant physical challenges, he lived a happy life and brought much joy to everyone who met him.For additional information about the book and program, please contact Sarah Macumber at the library at 785-238-4311 or sarahm@jclib.org

Special Storytime to feature local author

A cold front moving across Kansas will cause the mercury to take a dramatic drop Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka said.

A daytime high in the upper-50s will fall to 13 overnight, with a high in the upper-20s expected Thursday in the Junction City area.

Northwest winds will be sustained at 15 to 20 mph, gusting to 30 mph Wednesday night through Thursday.

The temperature will rebound beginning Saturday, with highs in the upper-40s Saturday and low-60s Sunday. There is a slight chance of rain or thunderstorms Sunday night, the NWS said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677079643949.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JC PostA cold front moving across Kansas will cause the mercury to take a dramatic drop Wednesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka said.A daytime high in the upper-50s will fall to 13 overnight, with a high in the upper-20s expected Thursday in the Junction City area.Northwest winds will be sustained at 15 to 20 mph, gusting to 30 mph Wednesday night through Thursday.The temperature will rebound beginning Saturday, with highs in the upper-40s Saturday and low-60s Sunday. There is a slight chance of rain or thunderstorms Sunday night, the NWS said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A cold front moves through eastern Kansas today, with temperatures in the 30s behind it and 60s ahead of it. Showers and thunderstorms will be scattered ahead of the front. Much colder conditions for tonight through Friday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/i6LhIVTAOd">pic.twitter.com/i6LhIVTAOd</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1628328802135973890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

NWS: Mercury will dive Wednesday, rebound by the weekend

MCPHERSON COUNTY — Three suspects seen on security cameras Tuesday in Manhattan appear to be the same suspects in a jewelry store robbery in McPherson.

Just before 3:30p.m Monday, police responded to report of a theft at Venables Jewelry, 214 North Main Street, according to McPherson County Crimestoppers. Police released security camera images of the suspects and asked for help to identify them.

On Tuesday afternoon, three women entered G. Thomas Jewelers, 419 Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, posing as customers, according to the Riley County Police Department. They asked that the items be wrapped and during wrapping, the suspects slipped the items off the counter. They then left the store to retrieve identification for the purchases but didn't return. Four rings, a pair of earrings, and a bracelet were all stolen resulting in an approximate loss of $26,800.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/gthomasjewelers">G. Thomas Jewelers</a> provided a quick cell phone video of the security camera footage of the three women entering the shop.

A report has been filed with the Riley County Police Department about the incident, more details will be added as they are released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677066942897.png" alt="Three women seen in the McPherson jewelry store incident-photo courtesy Crimestoppers" />
 <figcaption>Three women seen in the McPherson jewelry store incident-photo courtesy Crimestoppers</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY — Three suspects seen on security cameras Tuesday in Manhattan appear to be the same suspects in a jewelry store robbery in McPherson.Just before 3:30p.m Monday, police responded to report of a theft at Venables Jewelry, 214 North Main Street, according to McPherson County Crimestoppers. Police released security camera images of the suspects and asked for help to identify them.On Tuesday afternoon, three women entered G. Thomas Jewelers, 419 Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, posing as customers, according to the Riley County Police Department. They asked that the items be wrapped and during wrapping, the suspects slipped the items off the counter. They then left the store to retrieve identification for the purchases but didn't return. Four rings, a pair of earrings, and a bracelet were all stolen resulting in an approximate loss of $26,800.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677029832166.png" alt="Three women shown in the Manhattan robbery video" />
 <figcaption>Three women shown in the Manhattan robbery video</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d1125.856266444738!2d-96.56262812292496!3d39.17925067313303!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bdd26223b1a20b%3A0x54b4e216a15edbef!2sG.%20Thomas%20Jewelers!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1677021703496!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/gthomasjewelers">G. Thomas Jewelers</a> provided a quick cell phone video of the security camera footage of the three women entering the shop.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/I0e37vbv-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Gthomas022123" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>A report has been filed with the Riley County Police Department about the incident, more details will be added as they are released.

Suspects in Manhattan robbery also seen in McPherson store theft

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/2023/2/1677077903516.jpeg" alt="Nathaniel Morris Junior, Failure to appear, arrested 2/21" />
 <figcaption>Nathaniel Morris Junior, Failure to appear, arrested 2/21</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 February 22

The annual For the Love of Horses Gala will be 5 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at Rock Springs Ranch.

The event is a celebration to benefit <a href="https://www.rainbowmeadowsranch.com">Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement Inc.</a> of Junction City. Rainbow Meadows has been providing safe refuge for abused, abandoned and neglected horses, donkeys and mules since 2005.

There will be friends, food, fun and a series of silent auctions. Tickets are $75 per person or $500 for a table of eight.

For more information or to purchase tickets, click <a href="https://rainbowmeadowsrescue.ticketleap.com/for-the-love-of-horses-gala/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677009128886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The annual For the Love of Horses Gala will be 5 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at Rock Springs Ranch.The event is a celebration to benefit <a href="https://www.rainbowmeadowsranch.com">Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement Inc.</a> of Junction City. Rainbow Meadows has been providing safe refuge for abused, abandoned and neglected horses, donkeys and mules since 2005.There will be friends, food, fun and a series of silent auctions. Tickets are $75 per person or $500 for a table of eight.For more information or to purchase tickets, click <a href="https://rainbowmeadowsrescue.ticketleap.com/for-the-love-of-horses-gala/">HERE</a>.

Gala will benefit Junction City's Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue

Fort Riley and USD 475 recently were among the seven installations and community partners — out of nearly 500 — chosen to receive the Army Partnership Award.

The award recognizes innovative partnerships that improve the quality of life for Soldiers and their families.&nbsp;

It is the third such recognition in the past five year.

Click <a href="http://www.usd475.org/usd-475-newsletters/?fbclid=IwAR06uebve6i3WSNO263zJpXce-mIx9e1cZKpaUPnb9qUcgwgTsejaXP763k">HERE</a> to download the entire newsletter in English or in Spanish.

<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FUSD475%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0vWJx7NtLUwsWVj7iPEui8isux6k2pzLepkeSZGYWhT2S4n7pYcvMxPjc7yTQq1rXl&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>Fort Riley and USD 475 recently were among the seven installations and community partners — out of nearly 500 — chosen to receive the Army Partnership Award.The award recognizes innovative partnerships that improve the quality of life for Soldiers and their families.&nbsp;It is the third such recognition in the past five year.— USD 475 February newsletterClick <a href="http://www.usd475.org/usd-475-newsletters/?fbclid=IwAR06uebve6i3WSNO263zJpXce-mIx9e1cZKpaUPnb9qUcgwgTsejaXP763k">HERE</a> to download the entire newsletter in English or in Spanish.

Fort Riley, USD 475 again earn Army Partnership Award 

The Flint Hills Area Builders Association will host the Flint Hills Home Show this month in Manhattan.

The event will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 25 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 26.

More than 70 local vendors and tradesmen are expected to take part.

Click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/710605917147403">HERE</a> for more information.

The Flint Hills Area Builders Association will host the Flint Hills Home Show this month in Manhattan.The event will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 25 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 26.More than 70 local vendors and tradesmen are expected to take part.Click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/710605917147403">HERE</a> for more information.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FFlinthillsBuilders%2Fvideos%2F1846399395736875%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

Flint Hills Home Show scheduled this month in Manhattan

SALINA — Mark your calendars! One of the larger spring farm shows in the Midwest is coming to Salina in March.

The 58th annual Mid America Farm Expo is scheduled for March 22-24, the Salina Chamber of Commerce announced this morning. Hours will be 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 22-23 and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. March 24.

The expo, which draws more than 5,000 attendees over three days, will be headquartered at Tony's Pizza Events Center (TPEC), 800 The Midway, with displays also across the street in the Saline County Livestock &amp; Expo Center's Ag Hall, and outdoors in front of Ag Hall and in the TPEC west parking lot.

The latest in farm technology, equipment, and supplies will be on display in approximately 250 exhibits, including some expo exhibit favorites as well as several new exhibits, the chamber noted.

The expo also will feature a variety of seminars by agriculture leaders, including the following.

10-11:30 a.m.:&nbsp;Basics of Farm Transition Planning&nbsp;with Shannon Ferrell from Oklahoma State University

1:30-3 p.m.:&nbsp;Mechanics of Building a Farm Legacy: Transactional Tools for Farm Transitions&nbsp;with Ferrell

10-11:30 a.m.:&nbsp;The State of Carbon Credit Programs&nbsp;with Micah Cameron-Harp of Kansas State University

1:30-3 p.m.:&nbsp;The US Ag Economy: How are we looking?&nbsp;with Brian Briggeman from K-State

10-11:30 a.m.:&nbsp;Grain and Livestock Market Outlook&nbsp;with Don Close and Cody Barilla from Terrain Ag

For more information about the Mid-America Farm Expo, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinakansas.org/midamericafarmexpo.html">salinakansas.org/midamericafarmexpo.html</a>.

Salina PostSALINA — Mark your calendars! One of the larger spring farm shows in the Midwest is coming to Salina in March.The 58th annual Mid America Farm Expo is scheduled for March 22-24, the Salina Chamber of Commerce announced this morning. Hours will be 9 a.m.-5 p.m. March 22-23 and 9 a.m.-2 p.m. March 24.The expo, which draws more than 5,000 attendees over three days, will be headquartered at Tony's Pizza Events Center (TPEC), 800 The Midway, with displays also across the street in the Saline County Livestock &amp; Expo Center's Ag Hall, and outdoors in front of Ag Hall and in the TPEC west parking lot.The latest in farm technology, equipment, and supplies will be on display in approximately 250 exhibits, including some expo exhibit favorites as well as several new exhibits, the chamber noted.The expo also will feature a variety of seminars by agriculture leaders, including the following.March 2210-11:30 a.m.:&nbsp;Basics of Farm Transition Planning&nbsp;with Shannon Ferrell from Oklahoma State University1:30-3 p.m.:&nbsp;Mechanics of Building a Farm Legacy: Transactional Tools for Farm Transitions&nbsp;with FerrellMarch 2310-11:30 a.m.:&nbsp;The State of Carbon Credit Programs&nbsp;with Micah Cameron-Harp of Kansas State University1:30-3 p.m.:&nbsp;The US Ag Economy: How are we looking?&nbsp;with Brian Briggeman from K-StateMarch 2410-11:30 a.m.:&nbsp;Grain and Livestock Market Outlook&nbsp;with Don Close and Cody Barilla from Terrain AgFor more information about the Mid-America Farm Expo, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinakansas.org/midamericafarmexpo.html">salinakansas.org/midamericafarmexpo.html</a>.

58th annual Mid America Farm Expo set for March 

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Tuesday afternoon, three women entered G. Thomas Jewelers in the 400 block of Poyntz Avenue, posing as customers.

The three women allegedly stole $10,000 worth of merchandise before leaving the business in an unknown direction of travel.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Tuesday afternoon, three women entered G. Thomas Jewelers in the 400 block of Poyntz Avenue, posing as customers.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d1125.856266444738!2d-96.56262812292496!3d39.17925067313303!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bdd26223b1a20b%3A0x54b4e216a15edbef!2sG.%20Thomas%20Jewelers!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1677021703496!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>The three women allegedly stole $10,000 worth of merchandise before leaving the business in an unknown direction of travel.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/gthomasjewelers">G. Thomas Jewelers</a> provided a quick cell phone video of the security camera footage of the three women entering the shop.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/I0e37vbv-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Gthomas022123" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>A report has been filed with the Riley County Police Department about the incident, more details will be added as they are released.

🎥: $10K in merchandise stolen from G. Thomas Jewelers 

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent altercation involving a deadly weapon.

Just after 1p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault in the 800 block of Colorado St. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 20-year-old man and a 29-year-old man reported a 37-year-old man threatened them with a machete. This incident remains under investigation.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent altercation involving a deadly weapon.Just after 1p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault in the 800 block of Colorado St. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 20-year-old man and a 29-year-old man reported a 37-year-old man threatened them with a machete. This incident remains under investigation.

RCPD: Man allegedly threatened 2 with a machete

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.

Just after 10a.m. Monday, officers observed Jones while on patrol in the 1000 Block of Yuma Street and found he had an active warrant for probation violation. Jones rode his bicycle away from officers several times while he was informed he was under arrest.&nbsp;

Police eventually booked him on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation, and interference with LEO. 

He remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $30,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676995372810.jpeg" alt="Michael Anthony Jones-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Michael Anthony Jones-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.Just after 10a.m. Monday, officers observed Jones while on patrol in the 1000 Block of Yuma Street and found he had an active warrant for probation violation. Jones rode his bicycle away from officers several times while he was informed he was under arrest.&nbsp;Police eventually booked him on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation, and interference with LEO. He remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $30,000.

RCPD: Wanted Kan. felon captured riding bicycle

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/2023/2/1676995499471.jpeg" alt="Frank Jay Cooper Junior, Failure to appear x2; arrested 2/20" />
 <figcaption>Frank Jay Cooper Junior, Failure to appear x2; arrested 2/20</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676995621256.jpeg" alt="Burnis Javier Heard Third, Outside warrant; arrested 2/20" />
 <figcaption>Burnis Javier Heard Third, Outside warrant; arrested 2/20</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676995697704.jpeg" alt="Cadarius Trayvon Sapp, Failure to appear x2; Interference w/LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; arrested 2/20" />
 <figcaption>Cadarius Trayvon Sapp, Failure to appear x2; Interference w/LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; arrested 2/20</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 February 21

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged violent crime.

On February 18, officers filed a report for aggravated battery, aggravated assault, battery, and aggravated kidnapping in the 700 block of Allison Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 31-year-old man and 35-year-old man reported a 29-year-old woman threatened them with a shotgun and hit the 35-year-old man with the end of the gun, and a 27-year-old man held the two men in an apartment against their will. 

Police arrested Cecilia Gonzalez, 29, of Manhattan on requested charges of aggravated assault and aggravated battery. She remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $20,000.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged violent crime.On February 18, officers filed a report for aggravated battery, aggravated assault, battery, and aggravated kidnapping in the 700 block of Allison Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 31-year-old man and 35-year-old man reported a 29-year-old woman threatened them with a shotgun and hit the 35-year-old man with the end of the gun, and a 27-year-old man held the two men in an apartment against their will. Police arrested Cecilia Gonzalez, 29, of Manhattan on requested charges of aggravated assault and aggravated battery. She remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $20,000.&nbsp;

RCPD: Woman allegedly threatened men with shotgun

Junction City native Justin Aaron returns to the C.L. Hoover Opera House 
to share an evening of music. 

A semi-finalist on season 22 of "The Voice," Aaron was chosen by Gwen Stefani who called his rendition of John Legend's Glory "flawless and beautiful."

Click <a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35615/production/1152428">HERE</a> for ticket information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676649077908.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City native Justin Aaron returns to the C.L. Hoover Opera House 
to share an evening of music. A semi-finalist on season 22 of "The Voice," Aaron was chosen by Gwen Stefani who called his rendition of John Legend's Glory "flawless and beautiful."Click <a href="https://ci.ovationtix.com/35615/production/1152428">HERE</a> for ticket information.— C.L. Hoover Opera House

Local