Due to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday the Geary County Commission meeting this week has been pushed back from Monday until Tuesday. The hours are 10 a.m. until 4 p.m at the County Office Building.

Agenda items will range from weekly reports by Finance Director Tami Tobison, HR Director Crystal Malchose and County Clerk Rebecca Nordyke to a bi-weekly report from Public Works Administrator CoreyTrumpp.

Due to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday the Geary County Commission meeting this week has been pushed back from Monday until Tuesday. The hours are 10 a.m. until 4 p.m at the County Office Building.Agenda items will range from weekly reports by Finance Director Tami Tobison, HR Director Crystal Malchose and County Clerk Rebecca Nordyke to a bi-weekly report from Public Works Administrator CoreyTrumpp.

Geary County Commission meets on Tuesday

Oscar winning screen writer Kevin Willmott delivered the keynote remarks at the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Junction City. He told a large audience at the C.L. Hoover Opera House that Junction City is now an example, " of the multiracial democracy that America want to be. "

Willmott remembered during his time growing up that Junction City did not celebrate that diversity. "It was ashamed of it. Junction City always had this bad reputation. Of course part of it was from Ninth Street, but the other part of it was because it was so diverse."

Willmott said Junction City residents need to embrace who they are. "We need to celebrate who we are, we need to tell the world who we are."

The program also included a singing performance of "Glory" by Justin Aaron, recently a contestant on NBC's "The Voice," and Jerel D. McGeachy Jr. with his "I've been to the Mountaintop" remarks.

There was a march to 10th and Washington where the fourth in a series of Junction City First statues was unveiled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673902350152.jpeg" alt="Kevin Willmott speaking at the Martin Luther King Jr. ceremony" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Willmott speaking at the Martin Luther King Jr. ceremony</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostOscar winning screen writer Kevin Willmott delivered the keynote remarks at the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Junction City. He told a large audience at the C.L. Hoover Opera House that Junction City is now an example, " of the multiracial democracy that America want to be. "Willmott remembered during his time growing up that Junction City did not celebrate that diversity. "It was ashamed of it. Junction City always had this bad reputation. Of course part of it was from Ninth Street, but the other part of it was because it was so diverse."Willmott said Junction City residents need to embrace who they are. "We need to celebrate who we are, we need to tell the world who we are."The program also included a singing performance of "Glory" by Justin Aaron, recently a contestant on NBC's "The Voice," and Jerel D. McGeachy Jr. with his "I've been to the Mountaintop" remarks.There was a march to 10th and Washington where the fourth in a series of Junction City First statues was unveiled.<figure>
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Willmott points to diversity in Junction City

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau Kansas Farm Bureau had a good 2022 as evidenced by the Pinnacle and New Horizon awards it received at the American Farm Bureau’s 104th convention recently. The Pinnacle award is the highest honor a state Farm Bureau can earn for program and membership achievement. KFB received the New Horizon award, which highlights innovative new programs, for the Casten Fellows Program, developed to honor the life of staffer Jill Casten-Downing through leadership development and international travel. The honors are well deserved, and it’s nice to take a few minutes to appreciate the amount of work required to go from the initial idea to implementation and execution. The destination is important, but so is the journey. There’s no shortage of challenges today in agriculture, as evidenced by just some of the ongoing work from last year, like KFB’s End Hunger campaign to ensure all our state’s residents have access to the food they need. From Sept. 1 to Dec. 31, individuals and businesses contributed more than $50,000 toward the campaign. That money will go to innovative programs run by county Farm Bureaus to address the needs they’ve identified locally. By no way is this problem solved, but progress is being made. Next year’s goal is to raise $75,000. Another ongoing project includes KFB’s purchase of Shop Kansas Farms (SKF) which allows our farm and ranch members to reach consumers in a new way. SKF founder Rick McNary is also helping communities develop local food systems to capture the full economic value from farm gates to dinner plates. Announced late last year, the Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program will really get rolling in 2023 as the state’s first ever initiative to match agriculturists and rural business owners with a structured plan to train and retain employees. It’s not a silver bullet for the lack of help available in rural areas, but it’s the beginning of addressing a skills gap to meet our current and future workforce needs. As always, KFB will continue to ensure the voices of farmers and ranchers are heard in Topeka with a special focus on three topics: water, taxes and broadband. KFB will continue to support the basic tenets of Kansas water law, which have provided our members the ability to plan, invest and defend their private property rights for decades. KFB policy also supports the development of a Kansas Water Plan, either through the state general fund or dedicated statewide revenue sources. Any redesign of tax structures comes with the potential to shift taxes from one source to another with significant consequences. KFB will continue to steadfastly advocate for the constitutionally required use-value system that accurately and appropriately values agricultural lands and provides stable tax revenues to local units of government. Agricultural operations are businesses, and they should receive fair and equal tax treatment as it pertains to sales tax exemptions. Access to a vibrant, high-speed broadband network is essential to the future of both rural and urban Kansas. Statewide broadband deployment will provide new opportunities for the delivery of healthcare, education, entertainment, business development and enhance the capabilities of precision agriculture. Efforts by the state to facilitate telecommunications connectivity throughout Kansas should consider the technology-dependent nature of the agriculture industry, and its significant impact on the Kansas economy. For those paying attention, this isn’t a new list, and there’s a good chance it will be similar in 2024. There will be advancements on some fronts and setbacks on others. The key is stick to your priorities and have the patience to withstand the mundane and incremental nature of progress.

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau Kansas Farm Bureau had a good 2022 as evidenced by the Pinnacle and New Horizon awards it received at the American Farm Bureau’s 104th convention recently. The Pinnacle award is the highest honor a state Farm Bureau can earn for program and membership achievement. KFB received the New Horizon award, which highlights innovative new programs, for the Casten Fellows Program, developed to honor the life of staffer Jill Casten-Downing through leadership development and international travel. The honors are well deserved, and it’s nice to take a few minutes to appreciate the amount of work required to go from the initial idea to implementation and execution. The destination is important, but so is the journey. There’s no shortage of challenges today in agriculture, as evidenced by just some of the ongoing work from last year, like KFB’s End Hunger campaign to ensure all our state’s residents have access to the food they need. From Sept. 1 to Dec. 31, individuals and businesses contributed more than $50,000 toward the campaign. That money will go to innovative programs run by county Farm Bureaus to address the needs they’ve identified locally. By no way is this problem solved, but progress is being made. Next year’s goal is to raise $75,000. Another ongoing project includes KFB’s purchase of Shop Kansas Farms (SKF) which allows our farm and ranch members to reach consumers in a new way. SKF founder Rick McNary is also helping communities develop local food systems to capture the full economic value from farm gates to dinner plates. Announced late last year, the Rural Kansas Apprenticeship Program will really get rolling in 2023 as the state’s first ever initiative to match agriculturists and rural business owners with a structured plan to train and retain employees. It’s not a silver bullet for the lack of help available in rural areas, but it’s the beginning of addressing a skills gap to meet our current and future workforce needs. As always, KFB will continue to ensure the voices of farmers and ranchers are heard in Topeka with a special focus on three topics: water, taxes and broadband. KFB will continue to support the basic tenets of Kansas water law, which have provided our members the ability to plan, invest and defend their private property rights for decades. KFB policy also supports the development of a Kansas Water Plan, either through the state general fund or dedicated statewide revenue sources. Any redesign of tax structures comes with the potential to shift taxes from one source to another with significant consequences. KFB will continue to steadfastly advocate for the constitutionally required use-value system that accurately and appropriately values agricultural lands and provides stable tax revenues to local units of government. Agricultural operations are businesses, and they should receive fair and equal tax treatment as it pertains to sales tax exemptions. Access to a vibrant, high-speed broadband network is essential to the future of both rural and urban Kansas. Statewide broadband deployment will provide new opportunities for the delivery of healthcare, education, entertainment, business development and enhance the capabilities of precision agriculture. Efforts by the state to facilitate telecommunications connectivity throughout Kansas should consider the technology-dependent nature of the agriculture industry, and its significant impact on the Kansas economy. For those paying attention, this isn’t a new list, and there’s a good chance it will be similar in 2024. There will be advancements on some fronts and setbacks on others. The key is stick to your priorities and have the patience to withstand the mundane and incremental nature of progress.<figure>
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Creating Memories and Leaders

There are 5,430 people in Geary County that are food insecure according to Feeding America. That equates to 14% of the population, which makes Geary County the second most food insecure county in Kansas. The state average is 12.1%. The information was contained in a news release from United Way.

Geary County Food Pantry is currently serving an average of 677 people per month and 228 of those are children. Monetary donations may be made to the Geary County Foot Pantry. They are always accepting non-perishable food items at 138 W. 3rd Street.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere are 5,430 people in Geary County that are food insecure according to Feeding America. That equates to 14% of the population, which makes Geary County the second most food insecure county in Kansas. The state average is 12.1%. The information was contained in a news release from United Way.Geary County Food Pantry is currently serving an average of 677 people per month and 228 of those are children. Monetary donations may be made to the Geary County Foot Pantry. They are always accepting non-perishable food items at 138 W. 3rd Street.&nbsp;

Food insecurity exists in Geary County

American Legion Post #45 will be the site of a fundraiser breakfast Saturday, Jan. 28,&nbsp; to benefit Geary County Fire Explorers. It will run from 7 - 10 a.m.&nbsp;

There will be biscuits &amp; gravy, scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, sausage, juice and coffee. The cost will be $8 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under.&nbsp;

Tickets will be available through American Legion Post #45,&nbsp; officers of the Post or Geary County Fire Department at 785-238-1290. Make all checks payable to Explorer Post 343. The meal is open to the public.

American Legion Post #45 will be the site of a fundraiser breakfast Saturday, Jan. 28,&nbsp; to benefit Geary County Fire Explorers. It will run from 7 - 10 a.m.&nbsp;There will be biscuits &amp; gravy, scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, sausage, juice and coffee. The cost will be $8 for adults and $5 for children 10 and under.&nbsp;Tickets will be available through American Legion Post #45,&nbsp; officers of the Post or Geary County Fire Department at 785-238-1290. Make all checks payable to Explorer Post 343. The meal is open to the public.

Fundraiser breakfast will benefit Geary County Fire Explorers

For 38 years the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration has been held in Junction City. This year's edition will begin at 10 a.m. Monday at the C. L. Hoover Opera House.

Junction City native and Academy Award-winning American film director, Kevin Willmott, will serve as the keynote speaker. Justin Aaron, Junction City and recent performer on NBC "The Voice" will be featured and Jerel McGeachy Jr., Orator will be on the program." There will be a community march and statue unveiling.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673835798322.jpeg" alt="( Photo courtesy of Daphne Maxwell )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo courtesy of Daphne Maxwell )</figcaption>
 </figure>Dewey TerrillJC PostFor 38 years the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration has been held in Junction City. This year's edition will begin at 10 a.m. Monday at the C. L. Hoover Opera House.Junction City native and Academy Award-winning American film director, Kevin Willmott, will serve as the keynote speaker. Justin Aaron, Junction City and recent performer on NBC "The Voice" will be featured and Jerel McGeachy Jr., Orator will be on the program." There will be a community march and statue unveiling.The ceremony is open to the public.

Martin Luther King Jr. ceremony is set for Monday in Junction City

There was a major project in 2022 involving the completion of a new roof at the Geary County Historical Museum. According to the newsletter Geary Glimmers,&nbsp; a Heritage Trust Fund grant was used to help replace the old wood shake roof, which was showing serious signs of age.

Work on the roof was completed in September with final touches of fascia work completed in December.

In 2023 the Historical Society is looking at reinforcing a portion of the foundation at Starcke House, located just south of the museum. The Board of Directors has voted to proceed with a contractor on the project.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere was a major project in 2022 involving the completion of a new roof at the Geary County Historical Museum. According to the newsletter Geary Glimmers,&nbsp; a Heritage Trust Fund grant was used to help replace the old wood shake roof, which was showing serious signs of age.Work on the roof was completed in September with final touches of fascia work completed in December.In 2023 the Historical Society is looking at reinforcing a portion of the foundation at Starcke House, located just south of the museum. The Board of Directors has voted to proceed with a contractor on the project.

New roof goes on Geary County Historical Museum

GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation of an alleged abduction and are asking the public for help to find three children.

According to Junction City Police, on December 21, Jeana Foley abducted her children identified as 6-year-old Rosie Peterson, 5-year-old Camden Peterson and 3-year-old Genevieve Peterson

On Jan. 5, a felony warrant was issued for Foley's arrest. On Wednesday, Junction City police asked the public to call 911 if you have any&nbsp; information to help bring these kids home. Police released no additional details in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673546045642.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation of an alleged abduction and are asking the public for help to find three children.According to Junction City Police, on December 21, Jeana Foley abducted her children identified as 6-year-old Rosie Peterson, 5-year-old Camden Peterson and 3-year-old Genevieve PetersonOn Jan. 5, a felony warrant was issued for Foley's arrest. On Wednesday, Junction City police asked the public to call 911 if you have any&nbsp; information to help bring these kids home. Police released no additional details in the case.

Search continues for three children abducted by their mother

U.S. Army, Ret. and former Junction City Commissioner Jim Sands will serve as the president of the board of directors for Junction City / Geary County United way.&nbsp;

According to a January news update from United Way, the campaign goal is $140,000 and the current amount raised totals $89,551.33.&nbsp;

U.S. Army, Ret. and former Junction City Commissioner Jim Sands will serve as the president of the board of directors for Junction City / Geary County United way.&nbsp;According to a January news update from United Way, the campaign goal is $140,000 and the current amount raised totals $89,551.33.&nbsp;

Jim Sands will serve as local United Way Board President

Saint Xavier School will host a basketball event with performances and BBQ on Saturday, Jan. 21.According to a release from the school the middle school boys B team from Saint X will play Smoky Valley at noon, the middle school girls at 1 p.m. and the middle school boys A team will meet Smoky Valley at 2 p.m. The Saint Xavier High School girls team will meet the Junction City High School junior varsity team at 3:30 p.m. and the Saint X High School boys will play Smoky Valley at 5 p.m.

The pep band will play during the middle and high school games while the cheer clinic performance at halftime of the boys games at approximately 6 p.m.

Spirit wear will be on sale and there will be concessions included pulled pork and brisket sandwiches for $5. You can purchase a meal with meat,&nbsp; a side and drink for $7 or one with meat, two sides and a drink for $8. The BBQ will be smoked by Saint Xavier teacher Alex Becker.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostSaint Xavier School will host a basketball event with performances and BBQ on Saturday, Jan. 21.According to a release from the school the middle school boys B team from Saint X will play Smoky Valley at noon, the middle school girls at 1 p.m. and the middle school boys A team will meet Smoky Valley at 2 p.m. The Saint Xavier High School girls team will meet the Junction City High School junior varsity team at 3:30 p.m. and the Saint X High School boys will play Smoky Valley at 5 p.m.The pep band will play during the middle and high school games while the cheer clinic performance at halftime of the boys games at approximately 6 p.m.Spirit wear will be on sale and there will be concessions included pulled pork and brisket sandwiches for $5. You can purchase a meal with meat,&nbsp; a side and drink for $7 or one with meat, two sides and a drink for $8. The BBQ will be smoked by Saint Xavier teacher Alex Becker.

Saint Xavier School will host Basketball & BBQ Jan. 21

All Geary County offices will be closed Monday in observance o the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Regular hours will resume on Tuesday.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostAll Geary County offices will be closed Monday in observance o the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Regular hours will resume on Tuesday.

Geary County offices will be closed Monday

Middle school youth from Junction City will begin working in the Astra program for the spring semester on Tuesday at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. Chris Heldstab, Director, explained it's an after-school youth theatre program. "We take middle school youth and we teach them about life skills, theater skills, speech skills and of course dance, choreography, improv, every thing you can imagine goes into this program.

The students will prepare to present Shrek, the musical. Heldstab noted that Shrek is a massive show with costuming and the set. All students will have role ranging from performing to working with the set,

Show dates are March 31 and April 1, said Heldstab. This is the first season we are doing two shows because we sell out every season and last season it was packed." Tickets will go on sale in March at $5 per ticket.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostMiddle school youth from Junction City will begin working in the Astra program for the spring semester on Tuesday at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. Chris Heldstab, Director, explained it's an after-school youth theatre program. "We take middle school youth and we teach them about life skills, theater skills, speech skills and of course dance, choreography, improv, every thing you can imagine goes into this program.The students will prepare to present Shrek, the musical. Heldstab noted that Shrek is a massive show with costuming and the set. All students will have role ranging from performing to working with the set,Show dates are March 31 and April 1, said Heldstab. This is the first season we are doing two shows because we sell out every season and last season it was packed." Tickets will go on sale in March at $5 per ticket.

Astra program will begin on Tuesday at Hoover Opera House

Junction City High School Basketball at Emporia Spartans LIVE STREAM

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

POTTAWATOMIE CO. - Deputies with the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office executed a narcotics search warrant on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 in the 3600 block of Apel Road.

As a result of an investigation into illegal drug activity and stolen property in the Pottawatomie County area, Deputies found numerous marijuana plants, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia and several items of stolen property were recovered.

Deputies arrested 47-year-old Michael Duane Johnson of Wamego in connection with the search warrant.

Johnson was taken into custody and transported to the Pottawatomie County Jail on charges of Cultivation of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession&nbsp; of Marijuana, Possession of Stimulant, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostPOTTAWATOMIE CO. - Deputies with the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office executed a narcotics search warrant on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 in the 3600 block of Apel Road.As a result of an investigation into illegal drug activity and stolen property in the Pottawatomie County area, Deputies found numerous marijuana plants, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia and several items of stolen property were recovered.Deputies arrested 47-year-old Michael Duane Johnson of Wamego in connection with the search warrant.Johnson was taken into custody and transported to the Pottawatomie County Jail on charges of Cultivation of a Controlled Substance, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession&nbsp; of Marijuana, Possession of Stimulant, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.Johnson was released on $20,000 bond.

PT Co. Sheriff's Office: Wamego man arrested on drug charges

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran from the U.S. Mexico border.

<div><iframe title="🎤 Forward Ever: From the U.S. Mexico border, Sen. Jerry Moran" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=uzfby-1361cb8-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315"></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran from the U.S. Mexico border.

🎤 Forward Ever: From the U.S. Mexico border, Sen. Jerry Moran

Pilot Club of Junction City has been working closely with Pawnee Mental Health Services this year to support their needs in community service. Most recently the club applied for and received a matching grant for a project entitled Pawnee Mental Health Play Therapy. Through this grant the Pilot Club received $1005.00 from the Pilot International Founders Fund. The Pilot Club will match this amount to fund the play therapy project for Pawnee Mental Health.

Pilot International's mission is to influence positive change in communities throughout the world. To do this we come together in friendship and service focusing on encouraging brain safety and health and supporting those who care for others. Because of this gran members of the Pilot Club of Junction City were able to serve our community by providing play therapy equipment to Pawnee Mental Health to be used with children and youth who have difficulty managing their emotions to help them function at home in school and in the community to their maximum ability.

For more information about the Plot Club of Junction City, please visit our club's Facebook page or contact our President, Kay Gatza at 785-238-8442. They are currently seeking new members who wish to join a great organization for friendship and service and to make an impact not only in our local community but also in the world. For more information regarding Pilot Club International visit our International website

By Dewey TerrillJC Post Pilot Club of Junction City has been working closely with Pawnee Mental Health Services this year to support their needs in community service. Most recently the club applied for and received a matching grant for a project entitled Pawnee Mental Health Play Therapy. Through this grant the Pilot Club received $1005.00 from the Pilot International Founders Fund. The Pilot Club will match this amount to fund the play therapy project for Pawnee Mental Health.Pilot International's mission is to influence positive change in communities throughout the world. To do this we come together in friendship and service focusing on encouraging brain safety and health and supporting those who care for others. Because of this gran members of the Pilot Club of Junction City were able to serve our community by providing play therapy equipment to Pawnee Mental Health to be used with children and youth who have difficulty managing their emotions to help them function at home in school and in the community to their maximum ability.For more information about the Plot Club of Junction City, please visit our club's Facebook page or contact our President, Kay Gatza at 785-238-8442. They are currently seeking new members who wish to join a great organization for friendship and service and to make an impact not only in our local community but also in the world. For more information regarding Pilot Club International visit our International website

Pilot Club of Junction City receives grant funds

Chuck Otte, keeper of Geary County weather records said Friday that starting January 11th sunrise has begun occurring earlier. Not very fast but it is happening. Daylight is increasing by over a minute a day right now and by the 31st it'll be at 2+ minutes per day more daylight. A month from now (February 12th) sunset won't occur until 6 p.m. That's not to say that we can't still have some nasty cold weather, but we are getting more daylight now!!!

Chuck Otte, keeper of Geary County weather records said Friday that starting January 11th sunrise has begun occurring earlier. Not very fast but it is happening. Daylight is increasing by over a minute a day right now and by the 31st it'll be at 2+ minutes per day more daylight. A month from now (February 12th) sunset won't occur until 6 p.m. That's not to say that we can't still have some nasty cold weather, but we are getting more daylight now!!!

Chuck Otte says expect a little more daylight

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library in Junction City will not be open Monday due to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The library will also close at 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19 in order to host the Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours.

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library in Junction City will not be open Monday due to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The library will also close at 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19 in order to host the Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours.

Public library in Junction City will be closed Monday

1st Infantry Division Headquarters and Division Artillery troops that deployed to Poland in support of Operation Resolve will begin returning to Fort Riley next week. The information was provided by Steve Elmstrom, Director of Public Affairs. He said that the redeployments to the Post begin Monday and will continue for about a month in three or four groups. There will be welcome home ceremonies.

Elmstrom estimated the total number of returning number of troops in the 400 to 600 range.

By Dewey TerrillJC Post1st Infantry Division Headquarters and Division Artillery troops that deployed to Poland in support of Operation Resolve will begin returning to Fort Riley next week. The information was provided by Steve Elmstrom, Director of Public Affairs. He said that the redeployments to the Post begin Monday and will continue for about a month in three or four groups. There will be welcome home ceremonies.Elmstrom estimated the total number of returning number of troops in the 400 to 600 range.

1st ID headquarters and Division artillery troops are due to return home

Fort Riley Public Affairs news release&nbsp;

The annual Fort Riley Economic Impact Summary, presenting the economic impact of Fort Riley on the Central Flint Hills Region and state of Kansas for fiscal year 2022, is now available. This year the summary showed that Fort Riley remains the largest regional employer and remains among the top employers for the state of Kansas.

The financial impact to the area for FY22 rose to $1.88 billion topping $1.8 billion for the second year in a row. Additionally, the installation serves a population of more than 62,000 Soldiers, family members, civilian employees, retirees and veterans.

Col. Michael Foote, Fort Riley Garrison Commander, said, “Fort Riley continues to have a positive impact on the economy of the Flint Hills region and is vitally important to the Kansas economy. At the same time, it’s important to note that the great support we get from the Flint Hills communities help make Fort Riley the jewel that it is.”

To view the full report, visit https://home.army.mil/riley/.

(Direct publication link: https://home.army.mil/riley/application/files/5816/7295/3709/EIS_FY22.pdf)

Fort Riley Public Affairs news release&nbsp;The annual Fort Riley Economic Impact Summary, presenting the economic impact of Fort Riley on the Central Flint Hills Region and state of Kansas for fiscal year 2022, is now available. This year the summary showed that Fort Riley remains the largest regional employer and remains among the top employers for the state of Kansas.The financial impact to the area for FY22 rose to $1.88 billion topping $1.8 billion for the second year in a row. Additionally, the installation serves a population of more than 62,000 Soldiers, family members, civilian employees, retirees and veterans.Col. Michael Foote, Fort Riley Garrison Commander, said, “Fort Riley continues to have a positive impact on the economy of the Flint Hills region and is vitally important to the Kansas economy. At the same time, it’s important to note that the great support we get from the Flint Hills communities help make Fort Riley the jewel that it is.”To view the full report, visit https://home.army.mil/riley/.(Direct publication link: https://home.army.mil/riley/application/files/5816/7295/3709/EIS_FY22.pdf)

Fort Riley officials release annual Economic Impact Summary

Members of the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Council have elected Bob Story to serve as their chairman for the coming year.

"Well it's going to be a big challenge. It's something I didn't realize I was going to do but I'm excited about it. I'm going to get the mission figured out and go forward with how we can serve this community the best."

Story was recently appointed to the Junction City Commission and as that commission's representative to the MAC for the next year.

Members of the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Council have elected Bob Story to serve as their chairman for the coming year."Well it's going to be a big challenge. It's something I didn't realize I was going to do but I'm excited about it. I'm going to get the mission figured out and go forward with how we can serve this community the best."Story was recently appointed to the Junction City Commission and as that commission's representative to the MAC for the next year.

Bob Story will serve as MAC Chairman

GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged abduction and now asking the public for help to find three children.

On Jan. 5, a felony warrant was issued for Foley's arrest. On Wednesday, Junction City police asked the public to call 911 if you have any&nbsp; information to help bring these kids home.&nbsp;Police released no additional details in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673546045642.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged abduction and now asking the public for help to find three children.According to Junction City Police, on December 21, Jeana Foley abducted her children identified as 6-year-old Rosie Peterson, 5-year-old Camden Peterson and 3-year-old Genevieve PetersonOn Jan. 5, a felony warrant was issued for Foley's arrest. On Wednesday, Junction City police asked the public to call 911 if you have any&nbsp; information to help bring these kids home.&nbsp;Police released no additional details in the case.

JCPD asks for help to find children abducted by their mother

(Junction City, KS) – Todd Frieze, MD has joined the healthcare team at Konza Prairie Community Health Center. Dr. Frieze is seeing patients at the Konza clinic in Junction City; he will also see patients two full days per week at the Chapman, Kansas clinic.

Current patients of Dr. Frieze can call 785-238-4711 to schedule an appointment in either Junction City or Chapman. Patients can register with Konza and request to transfer health records at https://kpchc.org/new-patients/ or call 785-238-4711 for assistance.

Dr. Frieze is a family medicine physician who has practiced in Junction City and Chapman for more than 22 years. “By affiliating with Konza,” said Dr. Frieze, “I will achieve a longtime personal goal of expanding our hours of service in Chapman, continue to provide care in Junction City, retain invaluable staff, and practice in the personal manner our patients are accustomed to with additional support services.”

Natalie Harold, RN, lead nurse for Dr. Frieze since 2002, has joined him at Konza in that same role. “I strongly believe this will be a great fit for our practice and the patients we serve,” said Dr. Frieze. Konza accepts most types of insurance and provides care for all people, regardless of income or insurance status. Learn more about Konza Prairie Community Health Center at: www.kpchc.org. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673546196088.jpeg" alt="Dr. Todd Frieze" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Todd Frieze</figcaption>
 </figure>By Shannon RosauerKonza Prairie Community Health Center(Junction City, KS) – Todd Frieze, MD has joined the healthcare team at Konza Prairie Community Health Center. Dr. Frieze is seeing patients at the Konza clinic in Junction City; he will also see patients two full days per week at the Chapman, Kansas clinic.Current patients of Dr. Frieze can call 785-238-4711 to schedule an appointment in either Junction City or Chapman. Patients can register with Konza and request to transfer health records at https://kpchc.org/new-patients/ or call 785-238-4711 for assistance.Dr. Frieze is a family medicine physician who has practiced in Junction City and Chapman for more than 22 years. “By affiliating with Konza,” said Dr. Frieze, “I will achieve a longtime personal goal of expanding our hours of service in Chapman, continue to provide care in Junction City, retain invaluable staff, and practice in the personal manner our patients are accustomed to with additional support services.”Natalie Harold, RN, lead nurse for Dr. Frieze since 2002, has joined him at Konza in that same role. “I strongly believe this will be a great fit for our practice and the patients we serve,” said Dr. Frieze. Konza accepts most types of insurance and provides care for all people, regardless of income or insurance status. Learn more about Konza Prairie Community Health Center at: www.kpchc.org.

Dr. Todd Frieze Joins Konza Prairie Community Health Center

Flooding occurred at the C.L. Hoover Opera House just before Christmas as the result of a broken water pipe. Cleanup has been progressing since that time.

Joe Markley, Opera House Co-Director, said the building has dried out. "The cleanup company, the restoration company have been basically going through. We've got a lot of sheet rock, which is the bottom two feet of the walls that have been cut out so we can make sure there's no mold or anything like that growing in there."

It will be a long process to make repairs but the facility is ready for use this weekend, explained Sheila Markley, Opera House Co-Director. That includes a dance recital, a performance by comedian Jonnie W. on Saturday at 7 p.m. and a birthday party rental.&nbsp;

Joe Markley noted that the flooding did not get the sound system or lighting equipment. There was some water on the carpeting in the theater. "The theater is pretty intact."

Flooding occurred at the C.L. Hoover Opera House just before Christmas as the result of a broken water pipe. Cleanup has been progressing since that time.Joe Markley, Opera House Co-Director, said the building has dried out. "The cleanup company, the restoration company have been basically going through. We've got a lot of sheet rock, which is the bottom two feet of the walls that have been cut out so we can make sure there's no mold or anything like that growing in there."It will be a long process to make repairs but the facility is ready for use this weekend, explained Sheila Markley, Opera House Co-Director. That includes a dance recital, a performance by comedian Jonnie W. on Saturday at 7 p.m. and a birthday party rental.&nbsp;Joe Markley noted that the flooding did not get the sound system or lighting equipment. There was some water on the carpeting in the theater. "The theater is pretty intact."

Cleanup progresses at the Opera House

Congratulations to Chauncey Baxter of Salina, the Week 18 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!

Chauncey, who scored 13 of 16 points, wins $100.

Although the season is almost over, 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;

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 Chauncey Baxter of Salina, the Week 18 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!Chauncey, who scored 13 of 16 points, wins $100.Although the season is almost over, 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;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>

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