Congratulations to Jaden Warner of Salina, the Week 14 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!

Jaden, who scored 10 of 13 points, wins $100.

Although the season is underway, 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 Jaden Warner of Salina, the Week 14 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!Jaden, who scored 10 of 13 points, wins $100.Although the season is underway, 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 Jaden Warner!

By NATE KING Salina Post

Citizens of central Kansas, Kansas State University students, alumni, and community leaders discussed K-State Salina's role in K-State's overall strategic plan, high school education pathways to encourage students to pursue a college degree or post-secondary training, and the future of land grant schools during a community conversation on Dec. 5.

The morning visit to K-State Salina for the community forum is part of the <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/">university’s plans</a> to hear from Kansans all across the state for the 2022-2023 academic year. During their visit, K-State President Richard Linton, Provost Charles Taber, and dean of student life Thomas Lane joined a group of current K-State students collectively known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/">Connected Cats. </a>

Linton said that the Connected Cats is a group of student leaders who have a diverse range of K-State experiences, a meaningful connection to engaged community work, and personal ties to Kansas' geographic regions. 

"So you probably have seen some of the billboards that say, 'Kansas State is the university for Kansas' well, we're for Kansas, but we're also for the nation and the world," Linton said. "We're trying to be able to make a very important statement that we are the only university that's in all 105 Kansas counties and communities and we want to let folks know that Kansas is always first." 

After Linton’s brief presentation and remarks, which included applause for the K-State football team winning the Big XII Championship game, K-State junior Ethan Brown, a graduate of Salina Central High School and one of the two current K-State Student Ambassadors; K-State sophomore Adelaide Easter; and K-State junior Yulissa Hernandez, a graduate of Salina South High School, discussed their college search experiences and why they selected K-State as their school of choice.  

"When I was in high school, I started looking at colleges my sophomore year," Brown said. "When I tell you, I looked everywhere in Kansas, I looked everywhere. I wanted everything. I wanted to have great people, I wanted to have great academia, I wanted great athletics. They had everything that I wanted. The main thing I wanted was accessibility. For me, that breaks down into three things affordability, campus access, and then just general academic accessibility."  

Easter spoke about the interdisciplinary connections she made at K-State. 

"I started as a freshman majoring in bakery science and food science. Through my involvement, and through self-discovery connections, I was able to be exposed to the global food system secondary major, which talks about food policy and how we can make the world a better place and make sure that people have access to food," Easter said. "Being in food security scholars and organizations like the alumni board, I've gotten connected to alumni that are just as passionate about food issues as I am." 

Hernandez, a student pilot at K-State Salina talked about how she switched her major from respiratory therapy, to aviation.&nbsp;

"When I was looking into coming to K State, I was a freshman in college at the time and I was working as a nurse assistant," Hernandez said. "I was doing my prerequisites for respiratory therapy - that same year, I met a pilot. He introduced me to aviation and at the time, I didn't know really any pilots. So it was all so new to me."

Hernandez said that her pilot friend took her on a discovery flight in a jet which made her decision easier to make.&nbsp;

"I was convinced I was just going to change my major completely, which was pretty scary at the time, because I thought I had it all figured out. But I thought a flying was just way more fun then respiratory therapies," Hernandez said.

The forum transitioned into a community conversation where community entrepreneurs, business leaders, regional high school educators, parents, and citizens were asked to discuss what they wanted to see from K-State. Topics discussed included increasing the presence of veterans affairs at the K-State Salina campus, eliminating roadblocks for transfer students, continuing to expand the local network of private industry partners, and meeting the current workforce demands.  

Following the forum, Salina Post sat down for an interview with Linton, where he discussed how students should always be the center of enrollment strategies. 

"When we started thinking about doing community visits, we reached out to other university presidents around the country and the message that came back is you have to take students and you have to take students from those communities," Linton said. "Parents and students aren't really there to listen to presidents and provosts because they can relate so much more to student stories."&nbsp;

Linton also spoke about the university's new initiative, Next-Gen K-State.

"We 're trying to develop a new strategy, a new strategic plan, for what we're calling the <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/strategic-planning/process/">Next-Gen Land Grant</a>," Linton said. "We haven't defined exactly what the next generation land grant university means yet, but we want to be the model land grant university that other land grants are looking to. When you take a look at one of those things that I know, will be an important part of the Next Gen Land Grant is better connectivity with communities around economic growth, and creation of jobs and support for every single community."

Ellsworth County Health Center: Because We Care Mental Health Summit  

Linton and the Connected Cats, traveled to Ellsworth County Medical Center, 1604 Aylward Avenue in Ellsworth, for a mental health summit hosted by K-State Extension. Midway Extension Director Jessica Kootz said that a group of individuals in the Ellsworth community started meeting virtually on a weekly basis to talk about COVID-19 updates and mental wellness. 

"This group of individuals, community stakeholders decided that we needed to focus a lot more on mental health. The COVID-19 update group became a 'Because We Care' group, and that has evolved within the last six months into a coalition that's centered around mental health," Kootz said.  

The summit featured a panel of experts including Rachel Clews, family and consumer science extension specialist in the Southwest Research Extension Center; Jennifer Kaufman, director of community support services for Central Kansas Mental Health; Derek Knopp, school-based clinical coordinator for Central Kansas Mental Health; Kerianne Ehrlich, Ellsworth County Health Department; and Jim Kirkbride, CEO at Ellsworth County Medical Center. 

"Most of our communities aren't just rural, they're considered frontier. It's that born and bred mentality that - you just pull yourself up by your bootstraps, you just push it down, and you keep going," said Clews. "When I worked with farmers, I tried to tell them that I'm a fourth generation farmer, my husband's a fourth generation Kansas farmer. I understand those issues. But I tell them, when your livestock is sick, you don't just say 'Oh, push it down, and you'll get over it.' I tell farmers, that they take better care of their machinery and their livestock than they do themselves. A lot of times they don't think to ask for help themselves because farmers are really great at helping others." 

Kootz said that in the last two months, Ellsworth had faced tragedies relating to mental health causing their group to push harder to be focused and intentional on making sure there is a comprehensive approach to addressing mental health in rural communities. 

Linton asked the panel if it could provide him with any statistics to help give context to the Kansas mental health crisis.  

"We have hired over 50 new staff at Central Kansas Mental Health, just within the past year," Kaufman said. "Trying to be able to provide services that range from front desk staff that are inundated with phone calls every day trying to get intake staff to be able to provide that initial service and if you're aware, there's a workforce shortage in most areas, and that includes social work, case managers, all lines." 

Clews added that according to the State of Mental Health in America 2023 Report, Kansas ranked last in the country, following the District of Columbia.  

"Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for Kansas," Clews said. "Between the years 2000 and 2018, suicide rates in Kansas increased by 70 percent."  

Clews also added that suicide is the second leading cause of death for Kansans in the 15 to 34 age range.  

An obstacle that was highlighted during the summit was the lack of educational resources directing Kansans on where to turn when they needed mental health assistance.  

"As far as regional scale, the last few years, I think, especially since 2020, we've seen an increase in people who are seeking services for mental health, and we've seen is a big increase in anxiety and depression," said Knopp. "People are recognizing the need that when they are struggling there are resources available - if you know how to access them. One of the things that we [Central Kansas Mental Health] have done, we've done a lot of work in providing education on how to access mental health services, because unless you have a family member or direct connection with somebody who has accessed services before, you don't always know how to go about that."  

Linton recognized the need for more social work professionals and mentioned the recent partnership between K-State Salina and the University of Kansas. K-State Salina will offer a Master of Social Work that will be instructed at the K-State Salina campus. 

The cooperation between K-State Salina and KU will increase the availability of graduate-level social work education in rural areas of Kansas while meeting the gaps in coverage that human service agencies in rural areas of the state have been experiencing.  

"K-State Salina is committed to responding to the needs of our region by providing a trained workforce for our social service partners," said Deb Marseline, assistant dean for diversity and student success at K-State Salina, earlier this month. "Qualified, experienced social workers play an integral role in the success of any community by working with people to improve their circumstances in a variety of situations. This opportunity furthers our mission by training students to be leaders and make an impact on our state."  

Linton also stopped by Great Plains Manufacturing, 1525 E. North Street, Salina, to take part in a facilitated conversation about ways that education in the Salina region is partnering to meet the needs of industry. Dean and CEO of K-State Salina, Alysia Starkey spoke to the importance of these types of open conversations and how industry advisory boards are working to meet workforce demands.  

"How do you stay connected to the workforce needs in your region, it has to do with our industry advisory boards and making sure we're engaged with what the needs of the industry are," Starkey said. "So regardless of whatever field you're in - each of our programs, and each of our colleges and each of our degrees at the university has industry advisory boards that help correlate where it is that they're [the student] going in the future. Industry advisory boards are a key way that you all can get involved with helping to drive your workforce needs."  

Starkey also mentioned that K-State Salina has partnered with Salina USD 305 to provide an opportunity for high school students to earn industry-recognized credentials, receive college credit for general education requirements, and complete dual credits for an associate degree while in high school and graduate at the same time as their peers. The program is called the<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/apply/polycats-academy/"> PolyCats Academy.</a>

"Here we have a high school program that will allow a student to get an associate's degree while they're still in high school, graduate at the same time as high school with an associate's degree, which reduces the time of entry into the career field, and it also helps to reduce the overall cost and affordability for students as well," Starkey said.  

David Disberger, executive vice president for Great Plains Manufacturing, spoke at the discussion about the<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/scholars-programs/"> scholar's program</a> being offered by Great Plains manufacturing.

"The scholar's program is something that came out of discussions that Dean Starkey and I had to address our needs and also address the needs of Kansas State," Disberger said. "What we've done is we've taken your traditional manufacturing engineering technology type degree, where the college student would go to school for four years to get their bachelor science degree, instead, they'll go to college for three years, and have that same BS degree."

The Great Plains Scholars Program is for students who want to earn a bachelor's degree in one of K-State Salina’s engineering technology programs and acquire first-hand knowledge of specialized industry technology by working part-time at Great Plains Manufacturing. This provides high-level learning opportunities in advanced manufacturing, basic manufacturing, advanced robotics programming, and engineering design. 

"We're able to get those workforces beginning with us at a younger age. By the time they graduate, they have over 2,400 hours of experience, and to kick this whole program off this year, we agreed to start with three students to make sure we've worked out the kinks - which we have, and it's going very well," Disberger said. "We are very pleased with the results that we're seeing thus far, we intend to continue to grow this program up to where we have 12 new students entering this program every year. Hopefully, the 12 graduating come to work for us." 

Linn Exline, Salina USD 305 superintendent, spoke about how the work field is changing the way educators prepare students for their careers after high school.  

"Over 70 percent of the jobs that we're preparing students for today will require either a two-year degree a four-year degree or some kind of industry-recognized credential," Exline said. "To that end, USD 305 has really been working on Career Exploration and career planning with students. We start that process with a semester-long class at middle school. And during that class, students use an online platform where they explore their interests. They explore their aptitudes, they explore different careers, and they try to identify a career field of interest."  

Exline also shared the successes of the Building Bridges program at USD 305.  

"Building Bridges is an effort for us to bring industry leaders, public schools, faculty, staff, our students, and business together to talk about workforce needs and how we can work together to better meet those needs," Exline said. "We are encouraging our students to understand what jobs are available here in our community because many times our students think they need to go away to get the kinds of positions that they're being trained for." Exline said that USD 305 has worked to ensure that the Building Bridges program matches with local job demands and industry standards.

"As a result of these efforts, we are seeing increased jobs. We're seeing increased internships, and we're also seeing increased number of partnerships."

Linton's visit concluded with a stop at the Salina Public Library, 301 W. Elm Street, where he and Lane read a book to children. The book selected to be read was K-State: An Alphabet Journey Across Kansas, by Debbie Mercer and Loretta Larson.&nbsp;

K-State president visits central Kansas as part of community tour

&nbsp; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jchsjrotcbjb/?__cft__[0]=AZVSSw5h6dI6hpQx76yKQ78eEAxSOgXyZoGE3IRPXq2-5S6yq0RiaiLlN9YtVMq8NWRLUv_CstPSSYOPV0BwPKp2w8LduF4sup2HZwmZ8obYipTnO_NPQYR5tVkG19SO3HtbtT0HtFE6xMBuVsm75oQpv7KGVyw3Vh_KynLMywoFXzQx_h7Ct6oOY4R9D80WumE&amp;__tn__=kK-R">JCHS JROTC Blue Jay Battalion - USD 475</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/junctioncityffachapter?__cft__[0]=AZVSSw5h6dI6hpQx76yKQ78eEAxSOgXyZoGE3IRPXq2-5S6yq0RiaiLlN9YtVMq8NWRLUv_CstPSSYOPV0BwPKp2w8LduF4sup2HZwmZ8obYipTnO_NPQYR5tVkG19SO3HtbtT0HtFE6xMBuVsm75oQpv7KGVyw3Vh_KynLMywoFXzQx_h7Ct6oOY4R9D80WumE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City FFA Chapter</a>&nbsp;were recognized during the recent Board of Education meeting.&nbsp;

 For the second straight year, JROTC placed first in the 'mixed category' of the All-Army Challenge Division at the Raider National Championship! The FFA placed in the Silver Division - Top 16 - at the National FFA Convention. Additionally, Isabel Huddleston and Leon Leadabrand finished 7th in the National FFA Agriscience Fair.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jchsjrotcbjb/?__cft__[0]=AZVSSw5h6dI6hpQx76yKQ78eEAxSOgXyZoGE3IRPXq2-5S6yq0RiaiLlN9YtVMq8NWRLUv_CstPSSYOPV0BwPKp2w8LduF4sup2HZwmZ8obYipTnO_NPQYR5tVkG19SO3HtbtT0HtFE6xMBuVsm75oQpv7KGVyw3Vh_KynLMywoFXzQx_h7Ct6oOY4R9D80WumE&amp;__tn__=kK-R">JCHS JROTC Blue Jay Battalion - USD 475</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/junctioncityffachapter?__cft__[0]=AZVSSw5h6dI6hpQx76yKQ78eEAxSOgXyZoGE3IRPXq2-5S6yq0RiaiLlN9YtVMq8NWRLUv_CstPSSYOPV0BwPKp2w8LduF4sup2HZwmZ8obYipTnO_NPQYR5tVkG19SO3HtbtT0HtFE6xMBuVsm75oQpv7KGVyw3Vh_KynLMywoFXzQx_h7Ct6oOY4R9D80WumE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City FFA Chapter</a>&nbsp;were recognized during the recent Board of Education meeting.&nbsp; For the second straight year, JROTC placed first in the 'mixed category' of the All-Army Challenge Division at the Raider National Championship! The FFA placed in the Silver Division - Top 16 - at the National FFA Convention. Additionally, Isabel Huddleston and Leon Leadabrand finished 7th in the National FFA Agriscience Fair.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 475 recognizes accomplishments

(JUNCTION CITY, KS) This fall, Konza Prairie Community Health Center earned recognition as a 2022 Health Center Quality Leader, ranking it among the top 10% of community health centers in the nation for best overall clinical performance. Konza also received the Quality Badge for Advancing Health Information Technology (HIT), awarded to clinics who optimize HIT services that advance telehealth, patient engagement, interoperability, and collection of social determinants of health to increase access to care and advance quality of care.

“To be recognized as a quality leader is truly a credit to our hard-working staff,” stated Lee Wolf, Konza CEO. “Our team has continued to work through an incredibly challenging time, delivering the high quality, personalized care that our patients deserve. At the end of the day, we hope to build better health for the community at large and play a role in making us all a more healthy and vibrant community together.”

To earn the technology badge, “Konza completely renovated our technology infrastructure from servers to switches to workstations,” said Dani Hallgren, chief operating officer for the health center. “Really trying to give our team the best quality equipment, so that they can give the best care to our patients.”

Last year, Konza’s community health centers in Junction City and Manhattan provided care to nearly 13,000 patients from ten counties. Konza Prairie Community Health Center is part of a nationwide network of 1,400 community health centers which serve more than 30 million patients across the country.

“At Konza, we provide high quality, comprehensive care to all people,” said Dr. Megan Seidl, Konza Medical Director. “At our Junction City clinic, we provide access to multiple services – medical, dental, behavioral health, plus lab and pharmacy under the same roof. Which makes it easier and more convenient for patients, improves access to health resources, and helps improve health in the community overall.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670937359473.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Shannon Rosauer(JUNCTION CITY, KS) This fall, Konza Prairie Community Health Center earned recognition as a 2022 Health Center Quality Leader, ranking it among the top 10% of community health centers in the nation for best overall clinical performance. Konza also received the Quality Badge for Advancing Health Information Technology (HIT), awarded to clinics who optimize HIT services that advance telehealth, patient engagement, interoperability, and collection of social determinants of health to increase access to care and advance quality of care.“To be recognized as a quality leader is truly a credit to our hard-working staff,” stated Lee Wolf, Konza CEO. “Our team has continued to work through an incredibly challenging time, delivering the high quality, personalized care that our patients deserve. At the end of the day, we hope to build better health for the community at large and play a role in making us all a more healthy and vibrant community together.”To earn the technology badge, “Konza completely renovated our technology infrastructure from servers to switches to workstations,” said Dani Hallgren, chief operating officer for the health center. “Really trying to give our team the best quality equipment, so that they can give the best care to our patients.”Last year, Konza’s community health centers in Junction City and Manhattan provided care to nearly 13,000 patients from ten counties. Konza Prairie Community Health Center is part of a nationwide network of 1,400 community health centers which serve more than 30 million patients across the country.“At Konza, we provide high quality, comprehensive care to all people,” said Dr. Megan Seidl, Konza Medical Director. “At our Junction City clinic, we provide access to multiple services – medical, dental, behavioral health, plus lab and pharmacy under the same roof. Which makes it easier and more convenient for patients, improves access to health resources, and helps improve health in the community overall.

Konza Earns National Recognition for Quality and Technology

Geary County Senior Center Board Member Bob Hiatt was recognized during the monthly meeting of that panel for his service in the local Meals on Wheels program. He recently retired from those deliveries after 22 years of service.

Hiatt was presented with an award during the meeting. "That was real nice. That was a surprise."

Hiatt and others deliver the meals in temperature controlled containers and delivery personnel have a list of people for whom they deliver a meal.&nbsp;

Over the years Bob has been accompanied by his wife as well. "It's enjoyable seeing the people and they enjoy seeing us."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670881185676.jpeg" alt="( L - R ) Bob Hiatt and Senior Center Board President Frank Catalo" />
 <figcaption>( L - R ) Bob Hiatt and Senior Center Board President Frank Catalo</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Senior Center Board Member Bob Hiatt was recognized during the monthly meeting of that panel for his service in the local Meals on Wheels program. He recently retired from those deliveries after 22 years of service.Hiatt was presented with an award during the meeting. "That was real nice. That was a surprise."Hiatt and others deliver the meals in temperature controlled containers and delivery personnel have a list of people for whom they deliver a meal.&nbsp;Over the years Bob has been accompanied by his wife as well. "It's enjoyable seeing the people and they enjoy seeing us."

Bob Hiatt is honored for his service to Meals on Wheels

Fort Riley Post Cemetery will be the location for an annual Wreaths Across America ceremony on Saturday at 11 a.m. Jerri McBride, a coordinator for the event, said this will be the 17th year for the ceremony. It is open to the public and you can lay wreaths following the conclusion. "The ceremony is an opportunity&nbsp; for the community around Fort Riley to take time and remember the fallen, honor those still serving and it gives you an opportunity to teach your children the value of freedom because freedom is not free."

Ed Mueller, coordinator, said Brig. Gen. Niave Knell will be the guest speaker and wreaths will be laid for each branch of service including the Gold Star Family.&nbsp;

Wreaths Across America will be observed at 58 locations in Kansas and more than 3,000 sites globally.

Fort Riley Post Cemetery will be the location for an annual Wreaths Across America ceremony on Saturday at 11 a.m. Jerri McBride, a coordinator for the event, said this will be the 17th year for the ceremony. It is open to the public and you can lay wreaths following the conclusion. "The ceremony is an opportunity&nbsp; for the community around Fort Riley to take time and remember the fallen, honor those still serving and it gives you an opportunity to teach your children the value of freedom because freedom is not free."Ed Mueller, coordinator, said Brig. Gen. Niave Knell will be the guest speaker and wreaths will be laid for each branch of service including the Gold Star Family.&nbsp;Wreaths Across America will be observed at 58 locations in Kansas and more than 3,000 sites globally.

Wreaths Across America will be held Saturday at Fort Riley

Emerging scholars can submit a presentation abstract to be a featured speaker during the annual D-Day Commemorative Symposium at the Eisenhower, Roosevelt and Truman Libraries. The virtual symposium will be held the first week of June. It focuses on specialized topics related to the Allied effort in World War II.

The 2023 theme is in-line with the over arching annual theme of "Difficult Decisions." This symposium seeks to explore decisions influencing World War II not related to combat strategy and tactics.

Each program will be scheduled for one hour.&nbsp;

Submission packets should include the presentation abstract, applicant contact information, education stats and academic goals summary. Email submission packets to andrea.murphy@nara.gov with the subject line D-Day Symposium no later than April 7, 2023. Selected participants will be notified May 12 and will receive a modest honorarium.

Emerging scholars can submit a presentation abstract to be a featured speaker during the annual D-Day Commemorative Symposium at the Eisenhower, Roosevelt and Truman Libraries. The virtual symposium will be held the first week of June. It focuses on specialized topics related to the Allied effort in World War II.The 2023 theme is in-line with the over arching annual theme of "Difficult Decisions." This symposium seeks to explore decisions influencing World War II not related to combat strategy and tactics.Each program will be scheduled for one hour.&nbsp;Submission packets should include the presentation abstract, applicant contact information, education stats and academic goals summary. Email submission packets to andrea.murphy@nara.gov with the subject line D-Day Symposium no later than April 7, 2023. Selected participants will be notified May 12 and will receive a modest honorarium.

Proposals are sought from emerging schools for the D-Day Commemorative Symposium

There are three remaining open months to host a Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours host. The Chamber has announced that March, July and August are available.

Business After Hours is the Chamber's monthly casual networking event. Hosting the event is a way to showcase your business.

There are three remaining open months to host a Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours host. The Chamber has announced that March, July and August are available.Business After Hours is the Chamber's monthly casual networking event. Hosting the event is a way to showcase your business.

Sign up to be a Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours host

Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau is nearing the end of the year under budget for the year. That was one of the topics for CVB Director Donna Price during a report to the Geary County Commission. "Makes me feel like we're setting ourselves up really well for next year."

Price said that the CVB will also combine the community support grants and marketing grants into one fund. That information should be available online in the near future.

Paperwork must be completed for State Travel and Tourism Office for a scenic byway project effort that will begin. The byway would run from Geary County into Clay County and then west to Waconda Lake in Mitchell County.

Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau is nearing the end of the year under budget for the year. That was one of the topics for CVB Director Donna Price during a report to the Geary County Commission. "Makes me feel like we're setting ourselves up really well for next year."Price said that the CVB will also combine the community support grants and marketing grants into one fund. That information should be available online in the near future.Paperwork must be completed for State Travel and Tourism Office for a scenic byway project effort that will begin. The byway would run from Geary County into Clay County and then west to Waconda Lake in Mitchell County.

CVB provides update to the Geary County Commission

Homecoming week at St. Xavier School was full of activities Dec. 5 - 10. Students participated in dress up days, a pep rally, and voted for the royal court. 

Festivities continued with basketball games, the king and queen crowning, and a high school dance. 

Congratulations to the 2022 Holiday Homecoming king and queen: Sophomore, Miguel Weber and Senior, Grace Lichtensteiger!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670878615778.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Homecoming week at St. Xavier School was full of activities Dec. 5 - 10. Students participated in dress up days, a pep rally, and voted for the royal court. Festivities continued with basketball games, the king and queen crowning, and a high school dance. Congratulations to the 2022 Holiday Homecoming king and queen: Sophomore, Miguel Weber and Senior, Grace Lichtensteiger!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670878588176.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670878637075.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Saint Xavier School enjoys homecoming

Nate Butler is preparing to represent the 68th District in the Kansas House of Representatives. Last week he participated in legislative training in Topeka.

Committee assignments have not yet been announced but he has asked to be appointed to veterans affairs, commerce and foster care assignments. Butler noted that foster care is one area in the state that is not functioning at it's capacity. "We've got a lot of children that need foster care so I want to be sure that we do what we can to make sure that we have the best care that we can provide for them."

Butler, a former member of the military, noted that there is a large population of veterans and retirees within the 68th District.&nbsp;

Butler will resign from the Junction City Commission on Jan. 3 and will be replaced by Bob Story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670876596056.jpeg" alt="Nate Butler" />
 <figcaption>Nate Butler</figcaption>
 </figure>Nate Butler is preparing to represent the 68th District in the Kansas House of Representatives. Last week he participated in legislative training in Topeka.Committee assignments have not yet been announced but he has asked to be appointed to veterans affairs, commerce and foster care assignments. Butler noted that foster care is one area in the state that is not functioning at it's capacity. "We've got a lot of children that need foster care so I want to be sure that we do what we can to make sure that we have the best care that we can provide for them."Butler, a former member of the military, noted that there is a large population of veterans and retirees within the 68th District.&nbsp;Butler will resign from the Junction City Commission on Jan. 3 and will be replaced by Bob Story.

Nate Butler prepares for service in the Kansas House

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher The Christmas season is a time of joy and anticipation. For weeks the Christmas Spirit grows with every decoration hung, carol sung and sweet treat consumed. The ultimate height of anticipation, especially for children is drafting a wish list for Santa. I vividly remember the anticipation that came each year of my childhood with the arrival of the JC Penny “Wish Book.” My brother and I spent hours examining every page and letting our imaginations run wild with just how cool and glamourous our lives would be with each toy. By the time we were done that poor book was marked and highlighted with so many circles even Santa couldn’t figure out what we wanted. There is a sad nostalgia for me in knowing “Wish Books” have faded away. Children today really don’t understand what they are missing. That is one of the beautiful things about children, they can manifest anticipation, imagination and joy just about everywhere they look. It rarely matters the cost of quality of the gift, in their mind the cheapest items can be great treasures and expensive gifts may not be any better at holding attention any longer. Children are quick to joy, imagination and seeing the possibility in all things.&nbsp; At some point though our ideas about gifts change. Teenage desires are fueled by the coolest brands and newest electronics, but as most of the world can’t really understand them you are almost better giving them a gift card. In our early adult years, our desires move to more practical things motivated by the gaps in our lives left by the new world of adulting. I remember when I was first out of college asking for exciting things like new tires for my car, a vacuum cleaner and a whole list of kitchen appliances. At some point in the last decade, I reached the point where I have everything I need to be happy. Gifts stopped being a source of anticipation, and a wish list became more a chore than a dream. My anticipation at the holidays has shifted from dreaming about what I want to give. Giving has become a source of great joy for me. My anticipation builds each year while I search and puzzle over gifts that will make my loved ones light up with joy. It isn’t always easy, we all have that one person who wants things that are completely unrealistic like a time-travel machine, world peace or a new sports car. The best gifts are rarely expensive or trendy, they are usually practical and may seem a bit strange to anyone but the recipient. However, they show your loved ones how much you listen to them and want them to be happy. Great gifts feel so good because it is like being told, “I like you exactly as you are.” None of the items on my Christmas list will make or break my holiday season. I make my list so my loved ones can have the joy of getting me something that shows their love, even though I really only care about spending time together. As you finish your holiday shopping this year don’t stress over the perfect gift, remember it really doesn’t matter if you buy them a smart phone, muck boots or a nice dinner together. The true joy of the season will come from participating in traditions, making memories and knowing how blessed we are to be together with people we love.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher The Christmas season is a time of joy and anticipation. For weeks the Christmas Spirit grows with every decoration hung, carol sung and sweet treat consumed. The ultimate height of anticipation, especially for children is drafting a wish list for Santa. I vividly remember the anticipation that came each year of my childhood with the arrival of the JC Penny “Wish Book.” My brother and I spent hours examining every page and letting our imaginations run wild with just how cool and glamourous our lives would be with each toy. By the time we were done that poor book was marked and highlighted with so many circles even Santa couldn’t figure out what we wanted. There is a sad nostalgia for me in knowing “Wish Books” have faded away. Children today really don’t understand what they are missing. That is one of the beautiful things about children, they can manifest anticipation, imagination and joy just about everywhere they look. It rarely matters the cost of quality of the gift, in their mind the cheapest items can be great treasures and expensive gifts may not be any better at holding attention any longer. Children are quick to joy, imagination and seeing the possibility in all things.&nbsp; At some point though our ideas about gifts change. Teenage desires are fueled by the coolest brands and newest electronics, but as most of the world can’t really understand them you are almost better giving them a gift card. In our early adult years, our desires move to more practical things motivated by the gaps in our lives left by the new world of adulting. I remember when I was first out of college asking for exciting things like new tires for my car, a vacuum cleaner and a whole list of kitchen appliances. At some point in the last decade, I reached the point where I have everything I need to be happy. Gifts stopped being a source of anticipation, and a wish list became more a chore than a dream. My anticipation at the holidays has shifted from dreaming about what I want to give. Giving has become a source of great joy for me. My anticipation builds each year while I search and puzzle over gifts that will make my loved ones light up with joy. It isn’t always easy, we all have that one person who wants things that are completely unrealistic like a time-travel machine, world peace or a new sports car. The best gifts are rarely expensive or trendy, they are usually practical and may seem a bit strange to anyone but the recipient. However, they show your loved ones how much you listen to them and want them to be happy. Great gifts feel so good because it is like being told, “I like you exactly as you are.” None of the items on my Christmas list will make or break my holiday season. I make my list so my loved ones can have the joy of getting me something that shows their love, even though I really only care about spending time together. As you finish your holiday shopping this year don’t stress over the perfect gift, remember it really doesn’t matter if you buy them a smart phone, muck boots or a nice dinner together. The true joy of the season will come from participating in traditions, making memories and knowing how blessed we are to be together with people we love."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

The Greatest Gifts

Conditions can change rapidly in the Sunflower State&nbsp;

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – The calendar says the first day of winter is Dec. 21. Chip Redmond is not so sure you ought to get locked in on just that date.&nbsp;

“Winter conditions in Kansas can change rapidly,” said Redmond, a meteorologist and manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>, a network of weather monitoring stations that has its headquarters at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

In Kansas, he said, “we can have a cold front come through that drops temperatures 50 degrees (Fahrenheit) in just a couple hours. Or, we can go from clear skies to heavy snow very quickly.”&nbsp;

While Kansans can’t do anything about the weather, Redmond says they can prepare themselves to withstand brutal conditions – and keep themselves safe.&nbsp;

“The first thing that comes to my mind for winter weather safety is the cold, which brings different dangers – just as heat does in the summer,” Redmond said.&nbsp;

“Our bodies just aren’t prepared to take cold for long periods of time. The cold can quickly have negative effects, especially when we factor in wind chill.”&nbsp;

Redmond urges people to dress in layers and wear a stocking cap and mittens anytime they must face outdoor cold. He said frostbite or hypothermia happen very quickly.&nbsp;

“It can be less than even a few minutes, when you get cold and add wind,” Redmond said. “That’s why we look at things like closing schools once temperatures drop below zero or negative-10 with the wind chill. Those conditions produce a much higher risk, so we have to take more proactive steps and try to avoid outdoor activity as much as possible.”&nbsp;

Stocking caps help to keep heat from releasing through the head and “keeps the overall ambient temperature of your body warmer,” according to Redmond. Mittens are preferred over gloves because it maintains warmth by keeping the fingers closely together.&nbsp;

The State of Kansas regularly updates road conditions on the website,&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.org/" target="_blank">https://kandrive.org</a>. Redmond encourages those planning travel to check the forecast along the path they will drive, including road conditions.&nbsp;

Redmond also suggests keeping an emergency kit in a car in case the vehicle gets stalled while traveling. In addition to warm clothing, he suggests such items as:&nbsp;

“Some people have tire chains; that may be a bit extravagant,” Redmond said. “If you need tire chains in Kansas, you probably shouldn’t be out on the road to begin with. But sand is useful to help you get out of an area where you don’t have much traction.”&nbsp;

A car’s tires may need some extra air in the winter because they shrink when they get cold, Redmond said. “If you have underinflated tires,” he said, “you’re not going to optimize the grip of that rubber, so you’re going to slip and slide a lot more.”&nbsp;

It’s been a few years since Kansas has been hit by a widespread ice storm, but Redmond says current indications for a colder than normal winter increases the probability of damaging ice this year.&nbsp;

“Trees are probably the most likely to be damaged in an ice storm,” he said. “Be aware of weakened trees and that you’re going to lose branches. It takes about one-quarter inch of ice to see really big impacts.”&nbsp;

Roads don’t normally accumulate one-quarter inch of ice, “so it’s not as big of a problem for travelers,” Redmond said. “But anything that is standing and tall – such as power lines and trees and gutters – are at risk of falling.”&nbsp;

Redmond also urges homeowners to use caution when removing snow from driveways and sidewalks.&nbsp;

“It’s very demanding physically,” he said. “One of the leading causes of winter heart attacks is shoveling snow because of the stress of pushing that snow -- especially when it is heavy and wet, formed with temperatures near freezing or when it becomes packed.”&nbsp;

For those who own a snowblower, Redmond recommends making sure it has been serviced before first use, “and don’t wait until the last minute” to do so.&nbsp;

More information on Kansas weather conditions, including up-to-date forecasts, is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet.</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Conditions can change rapidly in the Sunflower State&nbsp;</h2>By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – The calendar says the first day of winter is Dec. 21. Chip Redmond is not so sure you ought to get locked in on just that date.&nbsp;“Winter conditions in Kansas can change rapidly,” said Redmond, a meteorologist and manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>, a network of weather monitoring stations that has its headquarters at Kansas State University.&nbsp;In Kansas, he said, “we can have a cold front come through that drops temperatures 50 degrees (Fahrenheit) in just a couple hours. Or, we can go from clear skies to heavy snow very quickly.”&nbsp;While Kansans can’t do anything about the weather, Redmond says they can prepare themselves to withstand brutal conditions – and keep themselves safe.&nbsp;Cold temperatures&nbsp;“The first thing that comes to my mind for winter weather safety is the cold, which brings different dangers – just as heat does in the summer,” Redmond said.&nbsp;“Our bodies just aren’t prepared to take cold for long periods of time. The cold can quickly have negative effects, especially when we factor in wind chill.”&nbsp;Redmond urges people to dress in layers and wear a stocking cap and mittens anytime they must face outdoor cold. He said frostbite or hypothermia happen very quickly.&nbsp;“It can be less than even a few minutes, when you get cold and add wind,” Redmond said. “That’s why we look at things like closing schools once temperatures drop below zero or negative-10 with the wind chill. Those conditions produce a much higher risk, so we have to take more proactive steps and try to avoid outdoor activity as much as possible.”&nbsp;Stocking caps help to keep heat from releasing through the head and “keeps the overall ambient temperature of your body warmer,” according to Redmond. Mittens are preferred over gloves because it maintains warmth by keeping the fingers closely together.&nbsp;Travel safety&nbsp;The State of Kansas regularly updates road conditions on the website,&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.org/" target="_blank">https://kandrive.org</a>. Redmond encourages those planning travel to check the forecast along the path they will drive, including road conditions.&nbsp;Redmond also suggests keeping an emergency kit in a car in case the vehicle gets stalled while traveling. In addition to warm clothing, he suggests such items as:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Snow brush and ice scraper.&nbsp;</li><li>Jumper cables or jumpstarter.&nbsp;</li><li>Blankets.&nbsp;</li><li>Cell phone charger.&nbsp;</li><li>Snack foods.&nbsp;</li><li>Water, or other liquid such as electrolyte drinks.&nbsp;</li><li>Flashlight.&nbsp;</li><li>Sand in a small container.&nbsp;</li><li>Chains or other items to help in pulling a vehicle out of a ditch.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>“Some people have tire chains; that may be a bit extravagant,” Redmond said. “If you need tire chains in Kansas, you probably shouldn’t be out on the road to begin with. But sand is useful to help you get out of an area where you don’t have much traction.”&nbsp;A car’s tires may need some extra air in the winter because they shrink when they get cold, Redmond said. “If you have underinflated tires,” he said, “you’re not going to optimize the grip of that rubber, so you’re going to slip and slide a lot more.”&nbsp;Safety at home&nbsp;It’s been a few years since Kansas has been hit by a widespread ice storm, but Redmond says current indications for a colder than normal winter increases the probability of damaging ice this year.&nbsp;“Trees are probably the most likely to be damaged in an ice storm,” he said. “Be aware of weakened trees and that you’re going to lose branches. It takes about one-quarter inch of ice to see really big impacts.”&nbsp;Roads don’t normally accumulate one-quarter inch of ice, “so it’s not as big of a problem for travelers,” Redmond said. “But anything that is standing and tall – such as power lines and trees and gutters – are at risk of falling.”&nbsp;Redmond also urges homeowners to use caution when removing snow from driveways and sidewalks.&nbsp;“It’s very demanding physically,” he said. “One of the leading causes of winter heart attacks is shoveling snow because of the stress of pushing that snow -- especially when it is heavy and wet, formed with temperatures near freezing or when it becomes packed.”&nbsp;For those who own a snowblower, Redmond recommends making sure it has been serviced before first use, “and don’t wait until the last minute” to do so.&nbsp;More information on Kansas weather conditions, including up-to-date forecasts, is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet.</a>&nbsp;

Official urges Kansans to prepare for winter conditions, travel 

RILEY COUNTY—Two drivers from Manhattan were involved in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Sunday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Nissan Maxima driven by Crystal M. Jaimez, 30, Manhattan, was northbound on U.S. 24 at Allen Road.

The driver failed to stop at a red light and struck a 2004 Honda Element driven by Jonas T. Staedtler, 17, Manhattan, who was turning onto Allen Road. After impact, the Honda came to rest on the East shoulder of the northbound lanes of U.S. 24 against a light pole.

Jaimez and Staedtler were not injured. Two juveniles were also present in the vehicle at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The KHP released no additional details on possible injuries.

RILEY COUNTY—Two drivers from Manhattan were involved in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Sunday in Riley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Nissan Maxima driven by Crystal M. Jaimez, 30, Manhattan, was northbound on U.S. 24 at Allen Road.The driver failed to stop at a red light and struck a 2004 Honda Element driven by Jonas T. Staedtler, 17, Manhattan, who was turning onto Allen Road. After impact, the Honda came to rest on the East shoulder of the northbound lanes of U.S. 24 against a light pole.Jaimez and Staedtler were not injured. Two juveniles were also present in the vehicle at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The KHP released no additional details on possible injuries.

KHP: 2 drivers from Manhattan involved in U.S. 24 crash

Total attendance for Junction City Brigade baseball games in 2022 has been calculated at 5,161. Game day revenue has been figured at $42,630 and salaries paid to employees totaled $21,652 and sales tax generated $6,428.&nbsp;

The numbers were outlined during the postseason appreciation banquet for the Brigade.

Cecil Aska, General Manager, touched on a number of other topics.&nbsp;

--The Mid Plains League All Star game will be played at Rathert Field. "Right after the first of the year we'll start putting that together and&nbsp;

--At this point the league could expand by two or three teams.

--Four percent of the fans at Rathert Field last summer traveled 40 miles or more to watch the Brigade.

--The 2023 schedule should be out in a couple weeks.

--Garrett Francis will be the new head coach. He is a former player and assistant coach for the Brigade.

--The Brigade have been in existence for 10 years.

JC PostTotal attendance for Junction City Brigade baseball games in 2022 has been calculated at 5,161. Game day revenue has been figured at $42,630 and salaries paid to employees totaled $21,652 and sales tax generated $6,428.&nbsp;The numbers were outlined during the postseason appreciation banquet for the Brigade.Cecil Aska, General Manager, touched on a number of other topics.&nbsp;--The Mid Plains League All Star game will be played at Rathert Field. "Right after the first of the year we'll start putting that together and&nbsp;--At this point the league could expand by two or three teams.--Four percent of the fans at Rathert Field last summer traveled 40 miles or more to watch the Brigade.--The 2023 schedule should be out in a couple weeks.--Garrett Francis will be the new head coach. He is a former player and assistant coach for the Brigade.--The Brigade have been in existence for 10 years.

Brigade wrap up 2022 and look ahead to 2023

GEARY COUNTY—A Junction City man was injured in an accident just after noon Sunday during a pursuit by law enforcement in Geary County.

The Kansas HIghway Patrol reported a 2008 Toyota Avalon driven by&nbsp; Brad W. Briand, 43, Junction City, was eastbound on Kansas 244 fleeing law enforcement. 

The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The car crossed the centerline, struck a guard rail, rolled into the north ditch and caught fire.

EMS transported Briand to the Geary County Hospital and he was later booked into the Geary County jail on requested charges of&nbsp;Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of marijuana; Driving under the influence of drug or combination of drugs; 1st conv; Obstruction or impeding of lawful activities; Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving and maximum speed limits, according to online jail records.

He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670844754707.png" alt="Briand photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Briand photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—A Junction City man was injured in an accident just after noon Sunday during a pursuit by law enforcement in Geary County.The Kansas HIghway Patrol reported a 2008 Toyota Avalon driven by&nbsp; Brad W. Briand, 43, Junction City, was eastbound on Kansas 244 fleeing law enforcement. The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The car crossed the centerline, struck a guard rail, rolled into the north ditch and caught fire.EMS transported Briand to the Geary County Hospital and he was later booked into the Geary County jail on requested charges of&nbsp;Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of marijuana; Driving under the influence of drug or combination of drugs; 1st conv; Obstruction or impeding of lawful activities; Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving and maximum speed limits, according to online jail records.He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City man jailed after crash, fire during chase

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30a.m. Sunday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Honda Accord driven by 24-year-old Hunter L. Dodge of Wamego, was northbound on K99 at a high rate of speed.

The car left the roadway, struck a speed limit sign, traveled into a field and came back up to the shoulder to a stop.

EMS transported Dodge to Via Christi in Manhattan. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30a.m. Sunday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Honda Accord driven by 24-year-old Hunter L. Dodge of Wamego, was northbound on K99 at a high rate of speed.The car left the roadway, struck a speed limit sign, traveled into a field and came back up to the shoulder to a stop.EMS transported Dodge to Via Christi in Manhattan. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Man from Wamego hospitalized after car strikes speed limit sign

Junction City police are now accepting applications for the 2023 Citizens Police Academy starting on January 19th. Applications are available at the Junction City Police Department or on the City's website <a href="http://www.junctioncity-ks.org/?fbclid=IwAR39rte4__q8QLaIxbOlJ_F91fVbw3BmglC899nBETZHDvjRq6iqfJnSO7Q" target="_blank">www.junctioncity-ks.org</a> under Your Government&gt;Public Safety&gt;Police Department&gt;Citizen's Police Academy. You can also request an application by email at edgar.torres@jcks.com.

Enrollment is limited to 20 participants. The Junction City Police Department Citizen's Police Academy is a unique experience of a behind-the-scenes look at the Junction City Police Department. The 12-week Citizen's Police Academy course meets one night each week (Thursdays) for approximately 3 hours including one Saturday. Topics covered in the Citizen's Police Academy include overviews of the Junction City Police Department’s organization and structure, information on officer recruiting and training, introductions to the various divisions of Junction City Police Department and their responsibilities (such as Community Involvement Unit, Operations Unit, Drug Operations Group, Investigations, SWAT), plus hands-on workshops in areas such as Tactics, Fingerprinting and Firearms Safety.

Junction City police are now accepting applications for the 2023 Citizens Police Academy starting on January 19th. Applications are available at the Junction City Police Department or on the City's website <a href="http://www.junctioncity-ks.org/?fbclid=IwAR39rte4__q8QLaIxbOlJ_F91fVbw3BmglC899nBETZHDvjRq6iqfJnSO7Q" target="_blank">www.junctioncity-ks.org</a> under Your Government&gt;Public Safety&gt;Police Department&gt;Citizen's Police Academy. You can also request an application by email at edgar.torres@jcks.com. Enrollment is limited to 20 participants. The Junction City Police Department Citizen's Police Academy is a unique experience of a behind-the-scenes look at the Junction City Police Department. The 12-week Citizen's Police Academy course meets one night each week (Thursdays) for approximately 3 hours including one Saturday. Topics covered in the Citizen's Police Academy include overviews of the Junction City Police Department’s organization and structure, information on officer recruiting and training, introductions to the various divisions of Junction City Police Department and their responsibilities (such as Community Involvement Unit, Operations Unit, Drug Operations Group, Investigations, SWAT), plus hands-on workshops in areas such as Tactics, Fingerprinting and Firearms Safety.

JCPD accepts Citizens Police Academy applications

Junction City Commissioners have approved the 2022 Street Maintenance Program for $1,734,142.40.

Public Works Director Ray Ibarra reported that Bayers has started the 2022 Street Maintenance Project. They have completed all the mill and overlay on the Greenhill’s streets and Cedar St.: Rebud Dr., Hawthorne Circle, Hawthorne Dr., Goldenrod Circle, Columbine Dr., Mistletoe Circle.,&nbsp; Woodlawn Cir., Cedar St. and Highland Circle

Bayers has completed the mill and overlay on&nbsp;Elmdale Ave. from 18th to 21st St.,&nbsp;Custer Rd from Westwood Blvd. to 20th St, 18th St. from Bel Air to Custer Rd. and&nbsp;Jefferson St. from 18th to 11th St

Junction City Commissioners have approved the 2022 Street Maintenance Program for $1,734,142.40.Public Works Director Ray Ibarra reported that Bayers has started the 2022 Street Maintenance Project. They have completed all the mill and overlay on the Greenhill’s streets and Cedar St.: Rebud Dr., Hawthorne Circle, Hawthorne Dr., Goldenrod Circle, Columbine Dr., Mistletoe Circle.,&nbsp; Woodlawn Cir., Cedar St. and Highland CircleBayers has completed the mill and overlay on&nbsp;Elmdale Ave. from 18th to 21st St.,&nbsp;Custer Rd from Westwood Blvd. to 20th St, 18th St. from Bel Air to Custer Rd. and&nbsp;Jefferson St. from 18th to 11th St

Work proceeds on Junction City street maintenance

The Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel (JCARSP) heard Friday from&nbsp; Mike Sellman from the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library on the library’s community archives.

The Junction City High School JC Singers under the direction of Michael Brown performed and the JCARSP members sang Christmas carols. For their service project, JCARSP members donated socks, gloves, caps or made monetary donations to the USD Early Childhood Program in USD 475.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670685633386.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Ferrell MillerThe Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel (JCARSP) heard Friday from&nbsp; Mike Sellman from the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library on the library’s community archives.The Junction City High School JC Singers under the direction of Michael Brown performed and the JCARSP members sang Christmas carols. For their service project, JCARSP members donated socks, gloves, caps or made monetary donations to the USD Early Childhood Program in USD 475.

Library community archives are highlighted for retired school personnel

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) – ranking member and chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee – recently introduced legislation to make certain culturally competent mental health care for American Indian veterans is provided at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers nationwide.

Their legislation, the&nbsp;American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans Mental Health Act,&nbsp;would require each VA medical center to hire a minority veteran coordinator trained in the delivery of mental health and suicide prevention services which are culturally appropriate for Native veterans. The bill would also require each facility’s minority veteran coordinator to work in tandem with a suicide prevention coordinator to contact local tribal leadership, consult with them on mental health care delivery and provide the VA medical center director with an annual written plan for specific outreach to American Indian veterans.

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) – ranking member and chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee – recently introduced legislation to make certain culturally competent mental health care for American Indian veterans is provided at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers nationwide.Their legislation, the&nbsp;American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans Mental Health Act,&nbsp;would require each VA medical center to hire a minority veteran coordinator trained in the delivery of mental health and suicide prevention services which are culturally appropriate for Native veterans. The bill would also require each facility’s minority veteran coordinator to work in tandem with a suicide prevention coordinator to contact local tribal leadership, consult with them on mental health care delivery and provide the VA medical center director with an annual written plan for specific outreach to American Indian veterans.

Sen. Moran works to support American Indian veterans

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged vandalism at a church in Riley County.

Around 5:00pm on Thursday, the Riley County Police Department was called to investigate a report of vandalism at the Sedalia Community Church on N. 52nd Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

An unknown suspect entered the annex building and spray painted the walls and other property inside the building. The estimated total loss associated with this is $6,000.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670618027619.png" alt="Sedalia Community Church-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sedalia Community Church-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged vandalism at a church in Riley County.Around 5:00pm on Thursday, the Riley County Police Department was called to investigate a report of vandalism at the Sedalia Community Church on N. 52nd Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.An unknown suspect entered the annex building and spray painted the walls and other property inside the building. The estimated total loss associated with this is $6,000.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RCPD: Suspects spray painted walls inside Manhattan church

Geary County Sheriff Dan Jackson is creating a Sheriff's Citizen Advisory Council. The goal is to provide the sheriff with a diverse community perspective on crime, public safety, neighborhood or geographically specific areas of concern, and how the sheriff's office can improve core service delivery.

One primary objective is to open dialogue and collaboration on issues affecting Geary County. SCAC members will also receive briefings on the operations of the sheriff's office.&nbsp;

The council will be comprised of ten members who must residents of Geary County.&nbsp; At least one member shall be a resident of each of three cities including Junction City, Grandview Plaza and Milford. The sheriff will serve as an ex-officio non-voting member of the council.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Sheriff Dan Jackson is creating a Sheriff's Citizen Advisory Council. The goal is to provide the sheriff with a diverse community perspective on crime, public safety, neighborhood or geographically specific areas of concern, and how the sheriff's office can improve core service delivery.One primary objective is to open dialogue and collaboration on issues affecting Geary County. SCAC members will also receive briefings on the operations of the sheriff's office.&nbsp;The council will be comprised of ten members who must residents of Geary County.&nbsp; At least one member shall be a resident of each of three cities including Junction City, Grandview Plaza and Milford. The sheriff will serve as an ex-officio non-voting member of the council.

Sheriff's Citizen Advisory Council is being formed

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Scammers have increased calls, texts, emails and in-person tactics to defraud customers. Evergy launched an enhanced online collection scam reporting form to help stop scams. The form allows customers to conveniently report scam attempts at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9rPvTHCm3wyzvpm38NOWyHj2xAnH0Qz3fDCdBfcjxHALpH3h_q9-2BOu3gadU-2Bbu4RWvf0H6U437-2F8uugqNeSpasZz36yq043KSm9JefuO67V40Oy7PUFQt0Jygiex80fq-2B3wenWUn4u8p5vVrL2GxwJ-2Fh2WiwwGJnbgL-2Bbn9eb15pjLixZYzAShpe8x6P-2FXJoOrBUAwVUq-2FT5lNz-2BuUDcG68fb8mXMPjR0tJktD0L-2F7TEOxp9FQGVkNF4C8mF3gjXU1o-2FWcbsiHiLXDPKNHTC7dlX-2F7tP0VGUfZ4F3aIEA12cdbhHsRF2XwjDa-2FRKsJQGZ3nVSWYom5NECDLAPjPYeUo0-2B-2FiaY65aXhu-2FSkPW1ABP4Y-2FYPyinm9xKi84KMLCMdFPBePtAfO7AmqtK8FdSvS1CARkE-3D" target="_blank">www.evergy.com/reportscam</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Customers will need to provide their account number or primary phone number to complete the form. The form also requires the scammers’ callback number, not the number that appears on their caller ID. Evergy can then work with phone carriers to shut down the fake callback number.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670611065687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Scammers have increased calls, texts, emails and in-person tactics to defraud customers. Evergy launched an enhanced online collection scam reporting form to help stop scams. The form allows customers to conveniently report scam attempts at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9rPvTHCm3wyzvpm38NOWyHj2xAnH0Qz3fDCdBfcjxHALpH3h_q9-2BOu3gadU-2Bbu4RWvf0H6U437-2F8uugqNeSpasZz36yq043KSm9JefuO67V40Oy7PUFQt0Jygiex80fq-2B3wenWUn4u8p5vVrL2GxwJ-2Fh2WiwwGJnbgL-2Bbn9eb15pjLixZYzAShpe8x6P-2FXJoOrBUAwVUq-2FT5lNz-2BuUDcG68fb8mXMPjR0tJktD0L-2F7TEOxp9FQGVkNF4C8mF3gjXU1o-2FWcbsiHiLXDPKNHTC7dlX-2F7tP0VGUfZ4F3aIEA12cdbhHsRF2XwjDa-2FRKsJQGZ3nVSWYom5NECDLAPjPYeUo0-2B-2FiaY65aXhu-2FSkPW1ABP4Y-2FYPyinm9xKi84KMLCMdFPBePtAfO7AmqtK8FdSvS1CARkE-3D" target="_blank">www.evergy.com/reportscam</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Customers will need to provide their account number or primary phone number to complete the form. The form also requires the scammers’ callback number, not the number that appears on their caller ID. Evergy can then work with phone carriers to shut down the fake callback number.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Evergy launches online collection scam reporting tool

Isle of Lights runs Friday through Sunday evenings and again December 16 - 17 at Milford State Park's Prairie View Campground.

Pat Silovsky, Milford Nature Center Director, said it's a new drive through light experience that the Milford Friends group started. She said Prairie View Campground will be lit up. "We've got all kinds of light displays, lasers for your car and we also have Santa every night from 6-8.&nbsp;

The event time is 5:30 - 8 p.m. Your $10 donation per vehicle supports Milford Friends Group. A state park vehicle pass is required for entry.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostIsle of Lights runs Friday through Sunday evenings and again December 16 - 17 at Milford State Park's Prairie View Campground.Pat Silovsky, Milford Nature Center Director, said it's a new drive through light experience that the Milford Friends group started. She said Prairie View Campground will be lit up. "We've got all kinds of light displays, lasers for your car and we also have Santa every night from 6-8.&nbsp;The event time is 5:30 - 8 p.m. Your $10 donation per vehicle supports Milford Friends Group. A state park vehicle pass is required for entry.

Local