Soldiers from 1st Platoon A Company 1-16 Infantry 1st ID did a Community Project with CW3 Retired Phyllis Fitzgerald earlier this week in Junction City. They raked up and picked up leaves and trash at the Buffalo Soldier Monument and park.&nbsp;

Soldiers from 1st Platoon A Company 1-16 Infantry 1st ID did a Community Project with CW3 Retired Phyllis Fitzgerald earlier this week in Junction City. They raked up and picked up leaves and trash at the Buffalo Soldier Monument and park.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668824026447.jpeg" alt="( Photo - Phyllis Fitzgerald )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo - Phyllis Fitzgerald )</figcaption>
 </figure>

1st ID Soldiers help with cleanup in Junction City

Geary County Sheriff Dan Jackson is speaking out on county employee morale following remarks by Commissioner Trish Giordano earlier this week. Giordano said she had heard the rumors about the employee morale but noted that the commission has little contact with the employees. She said morale was based on their department heads, and if department heads aren't happy then the employees are not going to be happy.

Jackson noted his department is the largest in the county and the morale issues that are occurring are not because of something he is saying to the employees. "They are the result of what the employees see as a steady erosion of their benefits. " One year ago families could get a $500 deductible on their health insurance but now the minimum has increased to $1,500 per month. "That's a big cut in what is available to the employee during the year.

An eight-hour personal leave day has been removed and there is a push to go to paid time off. Jackson noted that will not work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jackson said employees have been working mandatory overtime in the jail for the past six months due to a shortage of personnel. "If they're called they cannot refuse to come in. They have to come in and work. With PTO they would lose all that time at the end of the year or a significant amount of it." Jackson added that employees are also upset about an effort to eliminate comp time.

"They're very upset about a payroll system that almost consistently for nine months now not paid all of our employees correctly. "The sheriff cited problems, for example, with correct pay for employees on the corrections floor for Veterans Day. He added it's causing the Department to spend thousands of dollars and man hours fixing mistakes with the Sheriff's Office payroll.

Jackson pointed to an employee task force in which employees would have a say in their benefits. "The problem is every time they voted no comp time or PTO, the leadership comes back with another plan and come back and present it again." The Sheriff said the employees in that office "are not stupid. They know when somebody is trying to ram something down our throat, which is what has been happening."

Jackson said employees are upset with county leadership thinking that they are smarter than the employees, "and trying to manipulate them into agreeing to do something that's not good for the employee."

Giordano pointed out in her comments that the county has installed an employee assistance program, has gotten wages up competitively, saved a 14% increase on insurance and has extremely good benefit packages.

Geary County Sheriff Dan Jackson is speaking out on county employee morale following remarks by Commissioner Trish Giordano earlier this week. Giordano said she had heard the rumors about the employee morale but noted that the commission has little contact with the employees. She said morale was based on their department heads, and if department heads aren't happy then the employees are not going to be happy.Jackson noted his department is the largest in the county and the morale issues that are occurring are not because of something he is saying to the employees. "They are the result of what the employees see as a steady erosion of their benefits. " One year ago families could get a $500 deductible on their health insurance but now the minimum has increased to $1,500 per month. "That's a big cut in what is available to the employee during the year.An eight-hour personal leave day has been removed and there is a push to go to paid time off. Jackson noted that will not work.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jackson said employees have been working mandatory overtime in the jail for the past six months due to a shortage of personnel. "If they're called they cannot refuse to come in. They have to come in and work. With PTO they would lose all that time at the end of the year or a significant amount of it." Jackson added that employees are also upset about an effort to eliminate comp time."They're very upset about a payroll system that almost consistently for nine months now not paid all of our employees correctly. "The sheriff cited problems, for example, with correct pay for employees on the corrections floor for Veterans Day. He added it's causing the Department to spend thousands of dollars and man hours fixing mistakes with the Sheriff's Office payroll.Jackson pointed to an employee task force in which employees would have a say in their benefits. "The problem is every time they voted no comp time or PTO, the leadership comes back with another plan and come back and present it again." The Sheriff said the employees in that office "are not stupid. They know when somebody is trying to ram something down our throat, which is what has been happening."Jackson said employees are upset with county leadership thinking that they are smarter than the employees, "and trying to manipulate them into agreeing to do something that's not good for the employee."Giordano pointed out in her comments that the county has installed an employee assistance program, has gotten wages up competitively, saved a 14% increase on insurance and has extremely good benefit packages.

Geary County Sheriff responds to commissioner comments

Communications Coordinator- Geary County Schools USD 475

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. –&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usd475.org/" target="_blank">Geary County Schools USD 475</a>&nbsp;has nominated Michael Brown and Brittany Scott for 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year Awards. Michael Brown is a vocal music teacher at&nbsp;<a href="http://jchs.usd475.org/" target="_blank">Junction City High School</a>&nbsp;and Brittany Scott is a first-grade teacher at&nbsp;<a href="http://wareelementary.usd475.org/" target="_blank">Ware Elementary</a>. They were recognized at the district’s Board of Education meeting Nov. 7.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Fiscal-and-Administrative-Services/Communications-and-Recognition-Programs/Kansas-Teacher-of-the-Year-Awards" target="_blank">Kansas State Department of Education’s Kansas Teacher of the Year Award</a>&nbsp;recognizes and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. Each school district may nominate one elementary and one secondary classroom teacher per year.

“We are honored to nominate Mr. Brown and Ms. Scott for the 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year Award. Both work hard to ensure a high-quality education for all their students, and very much deserve this recognition,” said Geary County Schools Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston.

Brown has been a music educator for eleven years, all at Junction City High School. He oversees four vocal music ensembles, teaches piano and music theory, co-directs and accompanies the annual school musical, and serves as the performing arts department leader. He often takes students to state and national choir events, and many of his ensembles have received outstanding ratings at festivals.

Regarding teaching, Brown believes that building good rapport with students is crucial for successfully engaging them in the content, and that their personal development is as important as what they learn in class.

“My goal as a teacher is to inspire students to find value in themselves by tapping into their strengths as musicians and as people,” said Brown. “Not every student will leave my classroom a soloist, but […] I hope the values and methods employed in my classroom encourage them to be healthy, kind and compassionate people.”

Scott has been teaching first grade at Ware Elementary for ten of her 11 years as a teacher.&nbsp;She serves on many committees and is Ware’s first-grade team leader and a&nbsp;district mentor for first- and second-year teachers. She has been named KJCK’s Teacher of the Month and invited to serve as a Big Red One Year of Honor Panelist for Virtue.

For Scott, teaching is not simply an occupation, but rather a passion to share with others and an opportunity to make a difference in students’, families’ and colleagues’ lives.

“This passion can be felt when your energy lights up the room, seen in the positive relationships between staff members and students, and heard in the collaborative conversations where encouragement and problem-solving are the focus,” said Scott.

Brown and Scott advance to the regional competition, from which eight finalists will be chosen. The 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year will be announced at a banquet next fall.

By Marcia LockeCommunications Coordinator- Geary County Schools USD 475JUNCTION CITY, Kan. –&nbsp;<a href="http://www.usd475.org/" target="_blank">Geary County Schools USD 475</a>&nbsp;has nominated Michael Brown and Brittany Scott for 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year Awards. Michael Brown is a vocal music teacher at&nbsp;<a href="http://jchs.usd475.org/" target="_blank">Junction City High School</a>&nbsp;and Brittany Scott is a first-grade teacher at&nbsp;<a href="http://wareelementary.usd475.org/" target="_blank">Ware Elementary</a>. They were recognized at the district’s Board of Education meeting Nov. 7.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668816705619.jpeg" alt="Brittany Scott" />
 <figcaption>Brittany Scott</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668816748205.jpeg" alt="Michael Brown" />
 <figcaption>Michael Brown</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksde.org/Agency/Fiscal-and-Administrative-Services/Communications-and-Recognition-Programs/Kansas-Teacher-of-the-Year-Awards" target="_blank">Kansas State Department of Education’s Kansas Teacher of the Year Award</a>&nbsp;recognizes and utilizes representatives of excellent teaching in elementary and secondary classrooms of the state. Each school district may nominate one elementary and one secondary classroom teacher per year.“We are honored to nominate Mr. Brown and Ms. Scott for the 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year Award. Both work hard to ensure a high-quality education for all their students, and very much deserve this recognition,” said Geary County Schools Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston.Brown has been a music educator for eleven years, all at Junction City High School. He oversees four vocal music ensembles, teaches piano and music theory, co-directs and accompanies the annual school musical, and serves as the performing arts department leader. He often takes students to state and national choir events, and many of his ensembles have received outstanding ratings at festivals.Regarding teaching, Brown believes that building good rapport with students is crucial for successfully engaging them in the content, and that their personal development is as important as what they learn in class.“My goal as a teacher is to inspire students to find value in themselves by tapping into their strengths as musicians and as people,” said Brown. “Not every student will leave my classroom a soloist, but […] I hope the values and methods employed in my classroom encourage them to be healthy, kind and compassionate people.”Scott has been teaching first grade at Ware Elementary for ten of her 11 years as a teacher.&nbsp;She serves on many committees and is Ware’s first-grade team leader and a&nbsp;district mentor for first- and second-year teachers. She has been named KJCK’s Teacher of the Month and invited to serve as a Big Red One Year of Honor Panelist for Virtue.For Scott, teaching is not simply an occupation, but rather a passion to share with others and an opportunity to make a difference in students’, families’ and colleagues’ lives.“This passion can be felt when your energy lights up the room, seen in the positive relationships between staff members and students, and heard in the collaborative conversations where encouragement and problem-solving are the focus,” said Scott.Brown and Scott advance to the regional competition, from which eight finalists will be chosen. The 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year will be announced at a banquet next fall.

USD 475 Selects 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year Nominees

In observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday, the following closures within the Geary County Public Works Department are as follows:

Thursday, November 24, 2022: The Public Works Department &amp; Transfer Station will be closed.

Friday, November 25, 2022: The Public Works Department will be closed but the Transfer Station will resume normal operating hours.

The Public Works Department will resume normal hours on Monday, November 28, 2022.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostIn observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday, the following closures within the Geary County Public Works Department are as follows:Thursday, November 24, 2022: The Public Works Department &amp; Transfer Station will be closed.Friday, November 25, 2022: The Public Works Department will be closed but the Transfer Station will resume normal operating hours.The Public Works Department will resume normal hours on Monday, November 28, 2022.

Geary County Public Works issues a holiday closure notice

Kansas American Legion is hosting a Turkey Run at Fort Riley on Saturday for 800 Soldiers and family members at the Soldier Recovery Unit Clamshell, 675 McGinnis Way from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Veterans and supporters of the Kansas American Legion will distribute Thanksgiving meals. Kansas American Legion, Kansas American Legion Riders and Kansas American Legion Auxiliary have partnered with the Fort Riley Soldier Family Assistance Center since 2008 for the turkey run. American Legion posts across the state collect the meat items on behalf of service members at Fort Riley.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostKansas American Legion is hosting a Turkey Run at Fort Riley on Saturday for 800 Soldiers and family members at the Soldier Recovery Unit Clamshell, 675 McGinnis Way from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.Veterans and supporters of the Kansas American Legion will distribute Thanksgiving meals. Kansas American Legion, Kansas American Legion Riders and Kansas American Legion Auxiliary have partnered with the Fort Riley Soldier Family Assistance Center since 2008 for the turkey run. American Legion posts across the state collect the meat items on behalf of service members at Fort Riley.

Turkey Run is set for Saturday at Fort Riley 

By DEWEY TERRILL JC Post

Junction City Main Street is hosting 10 Days of Christmas downtown from Friday, Nov. 25 through Sunday Dec. 4. Activities will begin with a Holiday Fun Run at 4:15 p.m. on the 25th and continue through a Festival of Trees Gala at 6 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Geary County Historical Museum.

The schedule on the 25th also includes the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade hosted by 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK and a downtown lighting ceremony. Shop Small Saturday and a Wine &amp; Wassail Walk are on Nov. 26.&nbsp;

The National Lampoon Christmas Vacation will be shown at the C.L. Hoover Opera House on Sunday the 27th. There will be Cyber Monday activities including a #LoveLocalGearyCo social media campaign. Tuesday Nov. 29 will be Christmas at the Range at Godfrey's from 5-7 p.m., Christmas in Heritage Park from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday Nov. 30 along with a community nativity scene and 1st Presbyterian Holiday Concert, and there will be "A 1940's Radio Carol by Junction City Little Theater at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1-3 and at 2 p.m. on Dec. 4 at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. The Geary County Historical Society Festival of Trees Gala will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4.

There will be a Hometown Christmas event on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Municipal Building that will also include a Christmas Market. Also that day will be a third JC Statue unveiling, Horse &amp; Carriage rides and Old Fashioned Carolers. There will be a visit by Santa Claus at the Bartell House.

By DEWEY TERRILL JC PostJunction City Main Street is hosting 10 Days of Christmas downtown from Friday, Nov. 25 through Sunday Dec. 4. Activities will begin with a Holiday Fun Run at 4:15 p.m. on the 25th and continue through a Festival of Trees Gala at 6 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Geary County Historical Museum.The schedule on the 25th also includes the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade hosted by 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK and a downtown lighting ceremony. Shop Small Saturday and a Wine &amp; Wassail Walk are on Nov. 26.&nbsp;The National Lampoon Christmas Vacation will be shown at the C.L. Hoover Opera House on Sunday the 27th. There will be Cyber Monday activities including a #LoveLocalGearyCo social media campaign. Tuesday Nov. 29 will be Christmas at the Range at Godfrey's from 5-7 p.m., Christmas in Heritage Park from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday Nov. 30 along with a community nativity scene and 1st Presbyterian Holiday Concert, and there will be "A 1940's Radio Carol by Junction City Little Theater at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1-3 and at 2 p.m. on Dec. 4 at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. The Geary County Historical Society Festival of Trees Gala will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4.There will be a Hometown Christmas event on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Municipal Building that will also include a Christmas Market. Also that day will be a third JC Statue unveiling, Horse &amp; Carriage rides and Old Fashioned Carolers. There will be a visit by Santa Claus at the Bartell House..

10 Days of Christmas schedule is set

USD 475 has announced that the Junction City High School fall production is this weekend.&nbsp;The community is invited to Junction City High School's production of "She Kills Monsters," by Qui Nguyen, at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday in the JCHS Auditorium. It is Pg-13. 

Tickets are $5. Only cash will be accepted--no credit cards, district badges or other passes. Doors open at 6 p.m. (Warning: This production includes flashing lights, which could negatively affect photosensitive guests.)

USD 475 has announced that the Junction City High School fall production is this weekend.&nbsp;The community is invited to Junction City High School's production of "She Kills Monsters," by Qui Nguyen, at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday in the JCHS Auditorium. It is Pg-13. Tickets are $5. Only cash will be accepted--no credit cards, district badges or other passes. Doors open at 6 p.m. (Warning: This production includes flashing lights, which could negatively affect photosensitive guests.)

JCHS fall production is set for Friday, Saturday evenings

MANHATTAN—Members of the Kansas State University and University of Iowa women's basketball teams honored Ava Jones of Nickerson prior to Thursday's night's game in Manhattan.

Both teams wore shirts during their pregame warmups that said they "Believe in Ava Jones."&nbsp;

Ava has signed a National Letter of Intent to play basketball at Iowa. In July, Ava, her mother and father were critically injured when a drunk driver struck them on a street in Louisville.&nbsp; Ava's father, Trey Jones, died from his injuries.

Both teams shared photos on social media with the special shirts.

The University of Iowa told Ava she would keep her scholarship&nbsp;whether or not she would be able to play basketball.&nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas State defeated No. 4 Iowa 84-83.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668040995679.jpeg" alt="Ava Jones signed with Iowa earlier this month" />
 <figcaption>Ava Jones signed with Iowa earlier this month</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN—Members of the Kansas State University and University of Iowa women's basketball teams honored Ava Jones of Nickerson prior to Thursday's night's game in Manhattan.Both teams wore shirts during their pregame warmups that said they "Believe in Ava Jones."&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bigger than basketball 💛💜 <a href="https://t.co/oVKYpNj9GK">https://t.co/oVKYpNj9GK</a>&mdash; Iowa Women&#39;s Basketball (@IowaWBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/IowaWBB/status/1593423333411913728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Ava has signed a National Letter of Intent to play basketball at Iowa. In July, Ava, her mother and father were critically injured when a drunk driver struck them on a street in Louisville.&nbsp; Ava's father, Trey Jones, died from his injuries.Both teams shared photos on social media with the special shirts.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We 𝓫𝓮𝓵𝓲𝓮𝓿𝓮 in <a href="https://twitter.com/avajones_35?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@avajones_35</a> 💛<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hawkeyes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hawkeyes</a> <a href="https://t.co/RZNXXjT0aR">pic.twitter.com/RZNXXjT0aR</a>&mdash; Iowa Women&#39;s Basketball (@IowaWBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/IowaWBB/status/1590445371934867461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The University of Iowa told Ava she would keep her scholarship&nbsp;whether or not she would be able to play basketball.&nbsp; &nbsp;Kansas State defeated No. 4 Iowa 84-83.&nbsp;

K-State, Iowa basketball teams believe in Ava Jones 

RILEY COUNTY—A Riley County teen arrested in connection with a burglary has&nbsp; been charged with an additional count each of criminal damage to property and burglary, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Just after 2a.m. Thursday, officers responded to a business alarm at Casey's in the 300 block of Riley Avenue in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;A window was broken out, around $1,200 loss, and approximately $1,800 worth of tobacco products were stolen.&nbsp;

 Estevan Rochin, 16, of Ogden is charged with an additional count each of criminal damage to property and burglary in connection to an October 27, 2022 break-in at the convenience store where a window was broken out, around $1,200 and $1,500 worth of tobacco products were stolen.

 He is also charged with an additional count each of criminal damage to property and attempted burglary in connection to an October 26, 2022 attempted break-in at the Ogden Valero. A window and door were damaged in an attempt to enter the business, this resulted in an approximate total loss of $1,750. 

After Thursday's arrest, Rochin was processed by juvenile intake and released to a guardian.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have made an arrest.

At the scene, officers found a window of the business broken out and a 16-year-old suspect inside the building. 

The teen ran from the officers north on N. Park Street. Following a short search by officers and an RCPD K9, Estevan Rochin, 16, of Ogden was later located in the 200 block of 16th Street and arrested on a requested charge of burglary, interference with LEO, and criminal damage to property. 

Rochin was processed by juvenile intake and released to a guardian. The estimated total loss associated with this case is still under investigation

RILEY COUNTY—A Riley County teen arrested in connection with a burglary has&nbsp; been charged with an additional count each of criminal damage to property and burglary, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Just after 2a.m. Thursday, officers responded to a business alarm at Casey's in the 300 block of Riley Avenue in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;A window was broken out, around $1,200 loss, and approximately $1,800 worth of tobacco products were stolen.&nbsp; Estevan Rochin, 16, of Ogden is charged with an additional count each of criminal damage to property and burglary in connection to an October 27, 2022 break-in at the convenience store where a window was broken out, around $1,200 and $1,500 worth of tobacco products were stolen. He is also charged with an additional count each of criminal damage to property and attempted burglary in connection to an October 26, 2022 attempted break-in at the Ogden Valero. A window and door were damaged in an attempt to enter the business, this resulted in an approximate total loss of $1,750. After Thursday's arrest, Rochin was processed by juvenile intake and released to a guardian.----------RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have made an arrest.Just after 2a.m. Thursday, officers responded to a business alarm at Casey's in the 300 block of Riley Avenue in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.At the scene, officers found a window of the business broken out and a 16-year-old suspect inside the building. The teen ran from the officers north on N. Park Street. Following a short search by officers and an RCPD K9, Estevan Rochin, 16, of Ogden was later located in the 200 block of 16th Street and arrested on a requested charge of burglary, interference with LEO, and criminal damage to property. Rochin was processed by juvenile intake and released to a guardian. The estimated total loss associated with this case is still under investigation

Update: Teen who ran from alleged burglary faces additional charges

Dec. 8th is the date when the Geary USD 475 Board of Education is expected to make a decision on a site for an early childhood center. Multiple sites have been mentioned with the primary locations the former Junction City High School and a spot near the new JCHS.

One idea that seemed to be gaining traction during a BOE discussion Thursday evening&nbsp; called for putting a hold on usage of the former high school property owned by the district while an application is submitted for a federal grant. A decision on a location for the facility would then be made once officials know the status of the grant. The property near the new high school would have to be purchased by USD 475.

There is one plan for a 32-classroom facility which could accommodate early childhood student needs. It could also be built to allow for future expansion.

Right now no final decisions have been made.

Dec. 8th is the date when the Geary USD 475 Board of Education is expected to make a decision on a site for an early childhood center. Multiple sites have been mentioned with the primary locations the former Junction City High School and a spot near the new JCHS.One idea that seemed to be gaining traction during a BOE discussion Thursday evening&nbsp; called for putting a hold on usage of the former high school property owned by the district while an application is submitted for a federal grant. A decision on a location for the facility would then be made once officials know the status of the grant. The property near the new high school would have to be purchased by USD 475.There is one plan for a 32-classroom facility which could accommodate early childhood student needs. It could also be built to allow for future expansion.Right now no final decisions have been made.

USD 475 Board of Education continues discussion on an Early Childhood Center

Director of Public Affairs, Fort Riley Public Affairs Office

At 5:13 a.m., Wednesday, Fort Riley Fire &amp; Emergency Services was dispatched to an on-post residential home for a report of a structure fire. &nbsp;Upon arrival, crews found the garage of a duplex fully engulfed in flames. The fire was extinguished within 45 minutes. None of the duplex occupants were injured.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;Initial estimate is that the structure and contents are a total loss. Corvias, housing provider for Fort Riley families, placed occupants in hospitality suites and will place the families in different homes. Cmd 

Sgt. Major Jason Poulin, Fort Riley garrison command sergeant major, said, “The Fort Riley community is overwhelmingly caring for these two families in their time of need.”

&nbsp; Cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Steve ElstromDirector of Public Affairs, Fort Riley Public Affairs OfficeAt 5:13 a.m., Wednesday, Fort Riley Fire &amp; Emergency Services was dispatched to an on-post residential home for a report of a structure fire. &nbsp;Upon arrival, crews found the garage of a duplex fully engulfed in flames. The fire was extinguished within 45 minutes. None of the duplex occupants were injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Initial estimate is that the structure and contents are a total loss. Corvias, housing provider for Fort Riley families, placed occupants in hospitality suites and will place the families in different homes. Cmd Sgt. Major Jason Poulin, Fort Riley garrison command sergeant major, said, “The Fort Riley community is overwhelmingly caring for these two families in their time of need.”&nbsp; Cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Fort Riley firefighters respond to a structure fire

Hiring of a Finance Officer was one of the priorities for Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano during the past two years. "I think it's the best decision the commission made in the last two years. I think having Mrs. ( Tami ) Robison on board has brought a lot of clarity to our budget, more efficiency. I look forward to working with her in the future to do a three to five year capital improvement plan."

On the subject of possible poor county employee morale Giordano has heard the rumors but noted that the county commission has very little contact with the employees. "Morale is based on their department heads. If their department heads aren't happy then the employees aren't going to be happy. "

Giordano noted that she did not know why a department head would be unhappy. "We have put in an employee assistance program, we've gotten our wages up competitively, we saved 14% increase on our insurance and we have extremely good benefit packages and so I think Geary County is a great place to work."

Childcare improvements in the community will also be a future priority for&nbsp; the commissioner. Giordano is preparing to serve a new four year term on the county commission.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640042080491.jpeg" alt="Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano" />
 <figcaption>Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano</figcaption>
 </figure>Hiring of a Finance Officer was one of the priorities for Geary County Commissioner Trish Giordano during the past two years. "I think it's the best decision the commission made in the last two years. I think having Mrs. ( Tami ) Robison on board has brought a lot of clarity to our budget, more efficiency. I look forward to working with her in the future to do a three to five year capital improvement plan."On the subject of possible poor county employee morale Giordano has heard the rumors but noted that the county commission has very little contact with the employees. "Morale is based on their department heads. If their department heads aren't happy then the employees aren't going to be happy. "Giordano noted that she did not know why a department head would be unhappy. "We have put in an employee assistance program, we've gotten our wages up competitively, we saved 14% increase on our insurance and we have extremely good benefit packages and so I think Geary County is a great place to work."Childcare improvements in the community will also be a future priority for&nbsp; the commissioner. Giordano is preparing to serve a new four year term on the county commission.&nbsp;

Trish Giordano prepares for a new term on the Geary County Commission

JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s current President, Nita Miller, recognized Don Manley, Past President for his years of service to the club on November 16.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s current President, Nita Miller, recognized Don Manley, Past President for his years of service to the club on November 16.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668634825300.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Nita Miller and Don Manley." />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Nita Miller and Don Manley.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Don Manley is honored for years of service with the JC Breakfast Optimists

CHICAGO- The 1st Infantry Division led a joint service enlistment and reenlistment ceremony, Nov. 13, 2022, at Soldier Field.

The division was invited to conduct the enlistment and reenlistment as part of the Chicago Bears’ Veterans Day Weekend game, which honored both current and prior service members across the nation.

The Oath of Enlistment was administered by Brig. Gen. Niave F. Knell, the 1st Infantry Division Deputy Commanding General for Support. It was taken by dozens of new recruits who joined the Armed Forces as well as dozens more service members who chose to continue to serve across the military.

“Seeing the impact that I have on my community and fellow Americans, is a remarkable experience,” said Spc. Kierra Carr, a Chicago native and 1ID soldier.

“I thoroughly enjoyed it,” Staff Sgt. Jacob Peaks said. “I get to celebrate my indefinite reenlistment with my favorite National Football League team. I’m grateful The Big Red One allowed me to celebrate this opportunity and am proud of renewing my vow to my country."

CHICAGO- The 1st Infantry Division led a joint service enlistment and reenlistment ceremony, Nov. 13, 2022, at Soldier Field.The division was invited to conduct the enlistment and reenlistment as part of the Chicago Bears’ Veterans Day Weekend game, which honored both current and prior service members across the nation.The Oath of Enlistment was administered by Brig. Gen. Niave F. Knell, the 1st Infantry Division Deputy Commanding General for Support. It was taken by dozens of new recruits who joined the Armed Forces as well as dozens more service members who chose to continue to serve across the military.“Seeing the impact that I have on my community and fellow Americans, is a remarkable experience,” said Spc. Kierra Carr, a Chicago native and 1ID soldier.“I thoroughly enjoyed it,” Staff Sgt. Jacob Peaks said. “I get to celebrate my indefinite reenlistment with my favorite National Football League team. I’m grateful The Big Red One allowed me to celebrate this opportunity and am proud of renewing my vow to my country."

Big Red One Soldiers Reenlist During Chicago Bears Veterans Day Game

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office says the County Maintenance Shop building located in the 300 block of North 5th Street in Westmoreland has been damaged.

Two times between October 30th and November 7th, 2022, it's believed someone has damaged several windows with a BB gun or other firearm.

Damage is estimated to be around $600 to replace the windows.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Captain Tyler Garver at the Sheriff’s Office&nbsp;at 785-457-3353, or a leave a tip on our Crime-Stoppers link at www.ptsheriff.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostThe Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office says the County Maintenance Shop building located in the 300 block of North 5th Street in Westmoreland has been damaged.Two times between October 30th and November 7th, 2022, it's believed someone has damaged several windows with a BB gun or other firearm.Damage is estimated to be around $600 to replace the windows.Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Captain Tyler Garver at the Sheriff’s Office&nbsp;at 785-457-3353, or a leave a tip on our Crime-Stoppers link at www.ptsheriff.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sheriff: Pott. Co. maintenance shop windows damaged

&nbsp;Mindy Allen, owner of Mindy’s Murals, served as the guest speaker for the JC Breakfast Optimist Club meeting.

Mindy began developing her artistic talent as a young girl while living in Scott City, Kansas. She studied graphic design at Kansas State University. Mindy began her creative art for a living by painting murals on walls of friends upon invitation and that grew into a business. She now owns Mindy’s Murals.

She has done murals inside and outside of buildings in Clay Center, Abilene, Salina, Liberal, Junction City and Manhattan in Kansas. She has also done or will be doing work in Pennsylvania, Texas, Indiana, Florida, and North Dakota. The expansion of her business “has come from postings of my work on Facebook, other social media, and word of mouth. At one point I realized I couldn’t rely just on doing murals, so I painted on canvas, painted furniture and other things. I now have 51,000 followers on my Facebook business page titled Mindy’s Murals. People all over the world have now seen my work and make comments on it”, she said.

Some of the businesses in Junction City where Mindy’s work can be seen are K’s Beauty Lounge; JC Crossfit; Spin On Fitness; Junction City Police Department; Hess and Sons and Frontier Spirits. Mindy told the Optimists that she “loves to travel and paint with my daughter on these projects.” They will travel to North Dakota next summer to do a project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668618452903.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Mindy Allen and Nita Miller, President of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club." />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Mindy Allen and Nita Miller, President of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Ferrell Miller&nbsp;Mindy Allen, owner of Mindy’s Murals, served as the guest speaker for the JC Breakfast Optimist Club meeting.Mindy began developing her artistic talent as a young girl while living in Scott City, Kansas. She studied graphic design at Kansas State University. Mindy began her creative art for a living by painting murals on walls of friends upon invitation and that grew into a business. She now owns Mindy’s Murals.She has done murals inside and outside of buildings in Clay Center, Abilene, Salina, Liberal, Junction City and Manhattan in Kansas. She has also done or will be doing work in Pennsylvania, Texas, Indiana, Florida, and North Dakota. The expansion of her business “has come from postings of my work on Facebook, other social media, and word of mouth. At one point I realized I couldn’t rely just on doing murals, so I painted on canvas, painted furniture and other things. I now have 51,000 followers on my Facebook business page titled Mindy’s Murals. People all over the world have now seen my work and make comments on it”, she said.Some of the businesses in Junction City where Mindy’s work can be seen are K’s Beauty Lounge; JC Crossfit; Spin On Fitness; Junction City Police Department; Hess and Sons and Frontier Spirits. Mindy told the Optimists that she “loves to travel and paint with my daughter on these projects.” They will travel to North Dakota next summer to do a project.

Mindy Allen is featured at the Optimist Club meeting in Junction City

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a teen in connection with a incident at school in Manhattan.

Just after 12:30p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for aggravated battery at Manhattan High School in the 2100 block of Poyntz Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;A 16-year-old suspect choked a 16-year-old girl with&nbsp;a phone cord. 

Police arrested Siley Thomas, 16, of Manhattan on a requested charge of aggravated battery.&nbsp; The teen was processed through juvenile intake and released to a guardian.

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a teen in connection with a incident at school in Manhattan.Just after 12:30p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for aggravated battery at Manhattan High School in the 2100 block of Poyntz Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;A 16-year-old suspect choked a 16-year-old girl with&nbsp;a phone cord. Police arrested Siley Thomas, 16, of Manhattan on a requested charge of aggravated battery.&nbsp; The teen was processed through juvenile intake and released to a guardian.

Teen arrested for allegedly choking girl with phone cord

Two quilts of valor were presented Tuesday to Vietnam Veteran Jackie McDonald and Iraq Veteran Anthony Gibson.&nbsp; According to Phyllis Fitzgerald the day was extra special. Soldiers from 1st of the 16th Infantry were doing a community service project and attended the event.&nbsp;

Donna Martinson and Montika Allen-Atkinson were two of the amazing quilters.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668605655501.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Two quilts of valor were presented Tuesday to Vietnam Veteran Jackie McDonald and Iraq Veteran Anthony Gibson.&nbsp; According to Phyllis Fitzgerald the day was extra special. Soldiers from 1st of the 16th Infantry were doing a community service project and attended the event.&nbsp;Donna Martinson and Montika Allen-Atkinson were two of the amazing quilters.

Veterans receive Quilts of Valor in Junction City

Junction City wrapped up the 2022 football campaign with the postseason awards assembly Tuesday evening at the high school. The Blue Jays finished with a 7-3 overall record and second in the Centennial League. They also advanced to the second round of the Class 6A postseason playoffs.

The junior varsity and freshman teams both finished with 5-2 records.

Coach Randall Zimmerman pointed to the improvement by the team during the season. "Seniors gave us so much good leadership. Underclassmen just kind of jumped on board and took off."

Logan Nabus was named the Offensive Player of the Year, Michael Boganowski Defensive Player of the Year and Aidan Field Special Teams Player of the Year.

Junction City wrapped up the 2022 football campaign with the postseason awards assembly Tuesday evening at the high school. The Blue Jays finished with a 7-3 overall record and second in the Centennial League. They also advanced to the second round of the Class 6A postseason playoffs.The junior varsity and freshman teams both finished with 5-2 records.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668567719294.jpeg" alt="Randall Zimmerman speaking at JCHS." />
 <figcaption>Randall Zimmerman speaking at JCHS.</figcaption>
 </figure>Coach Randall Zimmerman pointed to the improvement by the team during the season. "Seniors gave us so much good leadership. Underclassmen just kind of jumped on board and took off."Logan Nabus was named the Offensive Player of the Year, Michael Boganowski Defensive Player of the Year and Aidan Field Special Teams Player of the Year.

Blue Jays celebrate the 2022 football season

Congratulations to Jodi Cross of Salina, the Week 10 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!

Lindsey, who scored 11 of 14 points, wins $100.

Although the season has begun, you still have time to win!

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up today</a>&nbsp;to make your picks for a chance to win great weekly prizes, including cash,&nbsp;gift cards, concert tickets, and Chiefs tickets.&nbsp;If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!

Don't miss out on the state's best pro football pick'em contest!&nbsp;

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Click here to register for Gridiron Glory</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662062091203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Jodi Cross of Salina, the Week 10 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!Lindsey, who scored 11 of 14 points, wins $100.Although the season has begun, you still have time to win!<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up today</a>&nbsp;to make your picks for a chance to win great weekly prizes, including cash,&nbsp;gift cards, concert tickets, and Chiefs tickets.&nbsp;If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!Don't miss out on the state's best pro football pick'em contest!&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Click here to register for Gridiron Glory</a>

Gridiron Glory: Congratulations Jodi Cross!

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Manhattan.

On Monday, officers with the Riley County Police Department were called to the American Legion Pearce-Keller Post #17 on McCall Road in Manhattan on the report of a burglary, theft and criminal damage to property, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, American Legion staff reported the doors to the building had been damaged, along with an ATM and a safe within the building being damaged and cash stolen.

An estimated $4,800 in cash was stolen from the ATM and safe, and approximately $3,300 of additional loss for the damage to the doors, ATM and safe.

American Legion and Blue Sky LLC were listed as the victims in this incident.

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

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary in Manhattan.On Monday, officers with the Riley County Police Department were called to the American Legion Pearce-Keller Post #17 on McCall Road in Manhattan on the report of a burglary, theft and criminal damage to property, according to a media release.Upon arrival, American Legion staff reported the doors to the building had been damaged, along with an ATM and a safe within the building being damaged and cash stolen.An estimated $4,800 in cash was stolen from the ATM and safe, and approximately $3,300 of additional loss for the damage to the doors, ATM and safe.American Legion and Blue Sky LLC were listed as the victims in this incident.Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police: ATM damaged, cash stolen at American Legion Post

By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/14/future-of-kansas-towns-library-in-jeopardy-over-refusal-to-remove-divisive-books/">Kansas Reflector</a>

ST. MARYS — Pottawatomie
 Wabaunsee Regional Library is decorated for the holidays, with a 
snow-filled tiny Christmas village placed in the center of the book 
stacks. There’s a princess mural on one wall, complete with a unicorn, 
and a dinosaur figurine over by the children’s nook.

The city council is debating whether 
to renew the library’s lease with the city following the library’s 
refusal to accept a lease clause asking it to remove all material that 
could be viewed as socially, racially or sexually divisive, including 
all LGBTQ content.

The library has been housed in St. 
Marys since the 1980s, operating on an annual lease with the city. The 
library serves eight locations, including Alma, Alta Vista, Eskridge, 
Harveyville, Olsburg, Onaga, St. Marys and Westmoreland, with county 
residents funding the library through taxes.

The St. Marys branch acts as the 
headquarters, with a designated “mini librarian” delivering books from 
the library to all other eight locations, visiting them each week.

If the lease — which ends late December — isn’t
 renewed, the library will have to pack up hundreds of books and 
equipment and move to another town, as there’s no other space in St. 
Marys that would be able to accommodate the library’s operations.

St. Marys resident Hannah Stockman, a
 stay-at-home mom looking after 13 kids, said the move would be 
devastating for her and others like her.

“At
 this point, it’s the only space left that we have for the public,” 
Stockman said. “We don’t have any pool or any other amenities through 
the community center. So people come here for many, many different 
reasons.”

Stockman said the library is one of 
the few places where her whole family can go together. Her children have
 become excited about reading and have been entertained by several of 
the library’s programs, as they were given coloring pages and other 
things. Stockman loves learning and put together an education program 
for herself using the library’s materials.

“Some of them are learning how to 
read and some of them don’t really want to read, but they come here and 
they get excited. I can’t provide that for them any other way,” Stockman
 said. “It just feels good to be here.”

Discussion of the library removal 
started this summer after a local parent was upset by the contents of 
“Melissa,” a book about a transgender child written by Alex Gino, and 
wanted it removed from the library. The book was formerly published by 
the title “George.”

Judith Cremer, the library director, 
said the book was added to the library after it made the William Allen 
White Award 2017-2018 Master List for grades 3-5, and has only been 
checked out four times.

Cremer said parents have the option 
of filtering which books their children check out, and can speak to 
staff about limiting their children’s access to certain books. She 
stressed that she and her staff aren’t trying to fight the council and 
aren’t interested in divisive matters. She’s been at the library for 
almost 20 years, and just wants to serve the community.

“We just are doing what public 
libraries do,” Cremer said. “We don’t really judge information, we are a
 reflection of the world and things that are in the world. We have 
information that has been published and mediated and checked for facts. 
So it’s a safe place that people can go to get access to that 
information. It’s not like we are handing out or advocating it in any 
way. It’s just there.”

Cremer asked the parent to fill out 
the standard form for challenging material, but the form wasn’t returned
 until the end of August, after a city council meeting in which council 
members asked that LGBTQ books be removed from the library, along with 
any books that dealt with racial issues or sexual issues.

During the August meeting, St. Marys 
City Commissioner Matthew Childs asked that a “morals clause” be added 
to the library’s lease during an August city commission.

The clause would’ve stipulated that 
the library not “supply, distribute, loan, encourage, or coerce 
acceptance of or approval of explicit sexual or racially or socially 
divisive material, or events (such as ‘drag queen story hours’) that 
support the LGBTQ+ or critical theory ideology or practice.”

“The discussion on the language that 
was used in that lease, it was very broad. It didn’t really meet the 
rule of law and it was problematic in a lot of ways,” Cremer said.

Cremer said she discussed the clause 
stipulation with regional library consultants and spoke with lawyers. 
She thought the issue had been dropped after they talked things over 
with council members.

Instead, commissioners began 
discussing creating their own city library, one without “divisive 
material,” in a council meeting earlier this month.

The lease renewal will be discussed at Tuesday’s commission meeting, with a decision expected then.

Stockman has been reaching out to 
every group she can think of to rally people in support of the library, 
talking to other libraries around the state, as well as PFLAG and Loud 
Light — nonprofits that advocate for the LGBTQ community. She said many 
people in the community were scared to speak out in support of the 
library because of a large religious presence in St. Marys, so she was 
looking to external sources of support.

One petition, started by Gerry 
Marstall, has more than 1,000 signatures in support of the library. 
Marstall listed all the services the library provides, including free 
reading programs, free summer lunches, and free Wi-Fi.

“If the library were forced to close 
or relocate to another town it would be catastrophic to all citizens in 
the St. Marys area,” Marstall said in the petition description.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668527128041.png" alt="The Pottawatomie Wabaunsee Regional Library’s lease may not be renewed by the St. Mary’s City Commission. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Pottawatomie Wabaunsee Regional Library’s lease may not be renewed by the St. Mary’s City Commission. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/14/future-of-kansas-towns-library-in-jeopardy-over-refusal-to-remove-divisive-books/">Kansas Reflector</a>ST. MARYS — Pottawatomie
 Wabaunsee Regional Library is decorated for the holidays, with a 
snow-filled tiny Christmas village placed in the center of the book 
stacks. There’s a princess mural on one wall, complete with a unicorn, 
and a dinosaur figurine over by the children’s nook.All of it might be gone come January.The city council is debating whether 
to renew the library’s lease with the city following the library’s 
refusal to accept a lease clause asking it to remove all material that 
could be viewed as socially, racially or sexually divisive, including 
all LGBTQ content.The library has been housed in St. 
Marys since the 1980s, operating on an annual lease with the city. The 
library serves eight locations, including Alma, Alta Vista, Eskridge, 
Harveyville, Olsburg, Onaga, St. Marys and Westmoreland, with county 
residents funding the library through taxes.The St. Marys branch acts as the 
headquarters, with a designated “mini librarian” delivering books from 
the library to all other eight locations, visiting them each week.If the lease — which ends late December — isn’t
 renewed, the library will have to pack up hundreds of books and 
equipment and move to another town, as there’s no other space in St. 
Marys that would be able to accommodate the library’s operations.St. Marys resident Hannah Stockman, a
 stay-at-home mom looking after 13 kids, said the move would be 
devastating for her and others like her.“At
 this point, it’s the only space left that we have for the public,” 
Stockman said. “We don’t have any pool or any other amenities through 
the community center. So people come here for many, many different 
reasons.”Stockman said the library is one of 
the few places where her whole family can go together. Her children have
 become excited about reading and have been entertained by several of 
the library’s programs, as they were given coloring pages and other 
things. Stockman loves learning and put together an education program 
for herself using the library’s materials.“Some of them are learning how to 
read and some of them don’t really want to read, but they come here and 
they get excited. I can’t provide that for them any other way,” Stockman
 said. “It just feels good to be here.”Discussion of the library removal 
started this summer after a local parent was upset by the contents of 
“Melissa,” a book about a transgender child written by Alex Gino, and 
wanted it removed from the library. The book was formerly published by 
the title “George.”Judith Cremer, the library director, 
said the book was added to the library after it made the William Allen 
White Award 2017-2018 Master List for grades 3-5, and has only been 
checked out four times.Cremer said parents have the option 
of filtering which books their children check out, and can speak to 
staff about limiting their children’s access to certain books. She 
stressed that she and her staff aren’t trying to fight the council and 
aren’t interested in divisive matters. She’s been at the library for 
almost 20 years, and just wants to serve the community.“We just are doing what public 
libraries do,” Cremer said. “We don’t really judge information, we are a
 reflection of the world and things that are in the world. We have 
information that has been published and mediated and checked for facts. 
So it’s a safe place that people can go to get access to that 
information. It’s not like we are handing out or advocating it in any 
way. It’s just there.”Cremer asked the parent to fill out 
the standard form for challenging material, but the form wasn’t returned
 until the end of August, after a city council meeting in which council 
members asked that LGBTQ books be removed from the library, along with 
any books that dealt with racial issues or sexual issues.During the August meeting, St. Marys 
City Commissioner Matthew Childs asked that a “morals clause” be added 
to the library’s lease during an August city commission.The clause would’ve stipulated that 
the library not “supply, distribute, loan, encourage, or coerce 
acceptance of or approval of explicit sexual or racially or socially 
divisive material, or events (such as ‘drag queen story hours’) that 
support the LGBTQ+ or critical theory ideology or practice.”“The discussion on the language that 
was used in that lease, it was very broad. It didn’t really meet the 
rule of law and it was problematic in a lot of ways,” Cremer said.Cremer said she discussed the clause 
stipulation with regional library consultants and spoke with lawyers. 
She thought the issue had been dropped after they talked things over 
with council members.Instead, commissioners began 
discussing creating their own city library, one without “divisive 
material,” in a council meeting earlier this month.The lease renewal will be discussed at Tuesday’s commission meeting, with a decision expected then.Stockman has been reaching out to 
every group she can think of to rally people in support of the library, 
talking to other libraries around the state, as well as PFLAG and Loud 
Light — nonprofits that advocate for the LGBTQ community. She said many 
people in the community were scared to speak out in support of the 
library because of a large religious presence in St. Marys, so she was 
looking to external sources of support.One petition, started by Gerry 
Marstall, has more than 1,000 signatures in support of the library. 
Marstall listed all the services the library provides, including free 
reading programs, free summer lunches, and free Wi-Fi.“If the library were forced to close 
or relocate to another town it would be catastrophic to all citizens in 
the St. Marys area,” Marstall said in the petition description.

Refusal to remove ‘divisive’ books could be demise of area library

A wreath-laying ceremony for former German and Italian prisoners of war takes place at the Fort Riley post cemetery, 193 Huebner Road, Nov. 17 at 10 a.m.

The annual ceremony is held in remembrance of the POWs who lived and worked at Fort Riley between 1943 and 1946, specifically the 62 Germans and 11 Italians now buried here.

In 1943, War Department officials established Fort Riley as one of 600 locations across the United States selected to house German, Italian and Japanese POWs. The camps became home for 350,000 prisoners—enough to man 35 German army divisions; approximately 4,500 were held at Fort Riley.

The POWs filled a labor void on area farms, working on roads, laundry and building maintenance projects. Prisoners earned about 80 cents a day. After the war, some of the POWs chose to stay in the local area to live and work.

The German and Italian Memorial Ceremony is open to the public. Those attending who don’t have a Department of Defense ID card must stop by the Henry Gate visitor’s center (I-70, exit 301) to get a one-day pass or apply for a pass online at&nbsp;<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/" target="_blank">https://home.army.mil/riley/</a>.&nbsp;For more information on Fort Riley access, call 785-239-2982.

By Kirk HutchinsonFort Riley Garrison Public AffairsA wreath-laying ceremony for former German and Italian prisoners of war takes place at the Fort Riley post cemetery, 193 Huebner Road, Nov. 17 at 10 a.m.The annual ceremony is held in remembrance of the POWs who lived and worked at Fort Riley between 1943 and 1946, specifically the 62 Germans and 11 Italians now buried here.In 1943, War Department officials established Fort Riley as one of 600 locations across the United States selected to house German, Italian and Japanese POWs. The camps became home for 350,000 prisoners—enough to man 35 German army divisions; approximately 4,500 were held at Fort Riley.The POWs filled a labor void on area farms, working on roads, laundry and building maintenance projects. Prisoners earned about 80 cents a day. After the war, some of the POWs chose to stay in the local area to live and work.The German and Italian Memorial Ceremony is open to the public. Those attending who don’t have a Department of Defense ID card must stop by the Henry Gate visitor’s center (I-70, exit 301) to get a one-day pass or apply for a pass online at&nbsp;<a href="https://home.army.mil/riley/" target="_blank">https://home.army.mil/riley/</a>.&nbsp;For more information on Fort Riley access, call 785-239-2982.

Fort Riley to hold German and Italian remembrance ceremony

Geary County Historical Society members have elected five nominees to the Board of Directors for 2023. They include Florence Whitebread, Michelle Gunderson, Margaret Kilpatrick, Mary Reed and Bill Powers.

The nominees were elected during a Historical Society meeting Monday evening.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Historical Society members have elected five nominees to the Board of Directors for 2023. They include Florence Whitebread, Michelle Gunderson, Margaret Kilpatrick, Mary Reed and Bill Powers.The nominees were elected during a Historical Society meeting Monday evening.

Geary County Historical Society elects board members

On Nov. 10 a total of 11 Lincoln School STUCO Students served lunch to the NARF Group at the 4H Senior Center. Students also served and eat lunch together with other senior patrons who attended the Senior Center. 

The students and seniors were happy to be able to interact again in- person. Thanks goes to Lincoln School Staff Resia Muto and Freedom Brass, along with Debbie LaCroix, Director of Senior Center, for coordinating this intergenerational event with I.C.A.R.E.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668532759984.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC NowOn Nov. 10 a total of 11 Lincoln School STUCO Students served lunch to the NARF Group at the 4H Senior Center. Students also served and eat lunch together with other senior patrons who attended the Senior Center. The students and seniors were happy to be able to interact again in- person. Thanks goes to Lincoln School Staff Resia Muto and Freedom Brass, along with Debbie LaCroix, Director of Senior Center, for coordinating this intergenerational event with I.C.A.R.E.