Art work by students in Geary USD 475 will be on display Friday, April 1st from 5-7 p.m. and Saturday, April 2nd&nbsp; from 1-4 p.m.&nbsp; during the district-wide art show at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.

Art from students in kindergarten through high school will be on display. There will be a collection of drawings, paintings, watercolors and acrylic art.&nbsp;

There will also be a silent auction for select pieces at the Opera House.&nbsp;

Art work by students in Geary USD 475 will be on display Friday, April 1st from 5-7 p.m. and Saturday, April 2nd&nbsp; from 1-4 p.m.&nbsp; during the district-wide art show at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.Art from students in kindergarten through high school will be on display. There will be a collection of drawings, paintings, watercolors and acrylic art.&nbsp;There will also be a silent auction for select pieces at the Opera House.&nbsp;

District-wide Art Show will be an early April highlight

USD 475 school board members got an update on the fiscal year 2022 through 2024 Facilities Master Plans for the District Thursday evening.&nbsp; The current execution of the 2022 plan, proposed changes to the 2023 document and introduction of the proposed 2024 plan were highlighted by the District's Chief Operations Officer David Wild.&nbsp;

He reported that the entire 2022 master plan has or is being executed with primarily the exception of pavement maintenance at Junction City Middle School. That work is anticipated on the back side drive of that school this summer. There was funding set aside for Fine Arts to meet needs and that has resulted in the purchase of a new kiln with the District currently awaiting delivery. There is also funding set aside for new stadium turf when the time comes in the&nbsp; future to make that acquisition.

For fiscal year 2023 proposed changes include $1.3 million for replacement of most of the roof at Ware Elementary School. The majority of&nbsp; the roof is 35 years old, although there is a newer addition where replacement is not necessary.&nbsp;

There is a proposal for $140,000 for HVAC upgrades at Fort Riley Middle School. Wild noted that there have been challenges with the system since it was built but officials believe that they can make repairs, rather than replace the entire HVAC system.

Other changes could include replacement of cameras for about $250,000, and Wild mentioned place holder funding for development of a JROTC course at the new high school. "It would be good to see those young people using their own obstacle course as opposed to working down here at 5th Street Park.&nbsp; " Vehicle replacement money for replacement of existing JCHS athletic transport vehicles has also been included in the plan. There is also a $700,000 price increase for demolition costs on the old high school facility.

For fiscal year 2024 the total dollar amount of proposed improvements drops back down to $4.4 million from a total of $6.7 million in fiscal year 2023.

For 2024 Wild outlined the first phase of a four-phase renovation of the Devin Center, "that has been long neglected. I believe that if we can get this built into the Master Plan then it's much more likely to occur." He added that the vision is to get the project done over a four-year period. "We'll do one quarter of the facility renovation at a time and just flop everybody around until we get all four phases done."

Wild will bring the proposed adjustments and plans back to the Board on April 11th seeking approval. The topic was on the Board's agenda for discussion only Thursday night.

USD 475 school board members got an update on the fiscal year 2022 through 2024 Facilities Master Plans for the District Thursday evening.&nbsp; The current execution of the 2022 plan, proposed changes to the 2023 document and introduction of the proposed 2024 plan were highlighted by the District's Chief Operations Officer David Wild.&nbsp;He reported that the entire 2022 master plan has or is being executed with primarily the exception of pavement maintenance at Junction City Middle School. That work is anticipated on the back side drive of that school this summer. There was funding set aside for Fine Arts to meet needs and that has resulted in the purchase of a new kiln with the District currently awaiting delivery. There is also funding set aside for new stadium turf when the time comes in the&nbsp; future to make that acquisition.For fiscal year 2023 proposed changes include $1.3 million for replacement of most of the roof at Ware Elementary School. The majority of&nbsp; the roof is 35 years old, although there is a newer addition where replacement is not necessary.&nbsp;There is a proposal for $140,000 for HVAC upgrades at Fort Riley Middle School. Wild noted that there have been challenges with the system since it was built but officials believe that they can make repairs, rather than replace the entire HVAC system.Other changes could include replacement of cameras for about $250,000, and Wild mentioned place holder funding for development of a JROTC course at the new high school. "It would be good to see those young people using their own obstacle course as opposed to working down here at 5th Street Park.&nbsp; " Vehicle replacement money for replacement of existing JCHS athletic transport vehicles has also been included in the plan. There is also a $700,000 price increase for demolition costs on the old high school facility.For fiscal year 2024 the total dollar amount of proposed improvements drops back down to $4.4 million from a total of $6.7 million in fiscal year 2023.For 2024 Wild outlined the first phase of a four-phase renovation of the Devin Center, "that has been long neglected. I believe that if we can get this built into the Master Plan then it's much more likely to occur." He added that the vision is to get the project done over a four-year period. "We'll do one quarter of the facility renovation at a time and just flop everybody around until we get all four phases done."Wild will bring the proposed adjustments and plans back to the Board on April 11th seeking approval. The topic was on the Board's agenda for discussion only Thursday night.

USD 475 Facilities Master Plans receive review

By JAMES BELL <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>

HAYS — During the first months of 2022, economic news has painted a bleak future, fraught with ever-rising costs, rapidly growing inflation and a shaky supply chain.

But while it is easy to see the negative benchmarks as a sign of an economy quickly turning sour, one prominent Kansas economist recently said he sees many indications that economic strife in the U.S. is likely temporary and sees many positives in the area economy and beyond.

Jeremy Hill, director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research, recently presented his economic outlook during the annual Eagle Radio sales conference in Hays earlier this month, which focused on areas of&nbsp;<a href="https://eagleradio.net/services/radio">Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri that Eagle serves.</a>

“In January, I released my forecasts when we had all that negative news,” Hill said. “All this negative news and I said, ‘No, I think we're going to be positive.’ ”

At the time, he was forecasting robust growth but is now more cautious while the Russian war against Ukraine continues to unfold.

But while the uncertainty surrounding the war creates unforeseeable situations on the global stage, many economic benchmarks in the area show reasons to remain optimistic.

One snapshot Hill presented is what he calls his Household Misery index, which is a way to measure how consumers feel about always present economic measures. He has tracked that number since returning to Kansas in 2009 and, while COVID created a large spike, it has since returned to nearly pre-pandemic levels.

A driver of the perceived satisfaction is in part due to higher home values.

“Home prices, also assets and wealth,” Hill said. “Wealth increased for households creating more wealth. Employment opportunities are better than it's ever been. You have all opportunity you want. The only thing slowing down household right now is inflation.”

But inflation is likely not as signifcant a negative factor for households as many perceive.

“This concept of inflation, it's just really hard to get when we've had a couple of decades of almost 2 percent growth very consistently, that we never went up,” Hill said, noting inflation has been fairly stable since the '80s.

To gauge inflation, energy costs and food must be removed, along with vehicle purchasing, in order to get a clear picture of inflationary factors outside of supply and demand issues.

“Remove both of those, inflation is actually closer to 3.2 to 3.5 percent,” Hill said. “So that's actually not high (or) higher inflation than it was before [COVID.]”

Prior to COVID, inflation in Kansas was higher than 3.5 percent, he said.

And the Federal Reserve had warned for months that this was expected and is now reacting to slow that rate.

“So, when you look at this, this is not that high of a market,” Hill said. “It’s higher than we were used to and the Federal Reserve is getting control, but it's not in a position where we get this headline number and it looks very scary. And yes, it's eating in people's pockets, right, and it's eating into businesses too, but I think this is temporary and something be managed.”

Prior to sanctions, Hill said about 8 percent of the U.S. oil supply was being imported from Russia.

“The issue here is this the markets trying to correct itself as a commodity,” Hill said. “We said our prices need to go up because we already know there's going to be limited supply and it's allocating that resource out. So, although people saw that jump in prices today as it will continue to go up probably, the market already corrected for its supply decrease. It's the market corrected.”

In more rural areas, food prices, along with the prices of many consumer goods, are rising due to increased energy costs.

“The market is going to correct on some of those,” Hill said.

Prior to the situation in Ukraine, he saw Nebraska and Kansas oil production already ramping up and will offset the loss of the imported oil, but it will take time to balance out supply and demand.

While a number of sectors of the U.S. economy continue to struggle with finding a sufficient workforce to keep up with current demand, Hill said, it’s not fewer people in the workforce causing the shortage. Instead, it's the result of a workforce that shifted during the pandemic with many choosing to move out of part-time jobs and&nbsp;shift toward better pay and more traditional 9-to-5 positions.

That movement has taken many of the workers who used to fill two or three part-time jobs out of that market, creating the perception of two people no longer being in the workforce, Hill said.

“From the business perspective, there's a ‘Where did everyone go?’ ” he said. “They just got that upward mobility. This is a great story. What's happened before COVID, this has accelerated it really fast, particularly when you put federal money into it.”

So as businesses went to hire quickly to fulfill their demand, workers benefited.

“This is actually good for the economy,” Hill said. “This new growth is increasing middle-income class, that's going to drive the economy going forward and all this upward mobility.”

And while the struggle to find labor, especially for those looking to fill entry-level positions in the service sector, has created headaches for business owners, Hill said this new balance is also likely to provide the next generation of Americans an experience missed by the millennial generation, as they participated in the labor market in a less significant way than others who came before.

“There's so much demand, you're going to see people going to high schools begging high school students to work at fast-food restaurants,” Hill said. “They just got an experience which is great labor markets, a great experience for them. They're learning how to deal with people, deal with conflict, deal with money, and management and time, they're really great lessons.”

Eventually, he said that underlying benefits to the economy will occur while the industry goes through a natural correction, but in the meantime, Kansas has already returned to pre-COVID employment levels.

While sourcing labor continues to drive operational costs, Hill said, labor shortages will continue, but increased productivity and finding new ways to retain employees, thereby shaving overall costs, should become more normal.

He said, however, employers have been reluctant to adjust to the current situation.

“If you want to be competitive, it's not necessarily always cash,” Hill said “They're moving to the employer who's actually going to build up their benefits. And, guess what? When you look at your labor, it's not just someone outside your door, your labor is actually the person that's in the entry-level position that has more opportunity than you thought about before.

“You have got to look at your labor market differently,” he continued. "Say this person came in, they did six months and they're pretty talented. Although they actually put training dollars to them, instead of waiting five years to move up to this next level, I've got training knowledge to them, they move up to the next level within a year and their productivity goes up.”

He said increasing productivity is the solution to inflation.

“If you get somebody who can produce more value per hour, you can pay them more per hour,” he said. "That increases company productivity and ultimately growth and profits."

Much of those productivity increases can be attributed to the necessity of finding technological solutions to employment problems as people worked from home during the pandemic.

“During COVID — we have all this technology, we have project management systems, client management systems and all this stuff — we were forced to finally use all that software,” Hill said.

By using that tech, businesses can offset rising wages.

And those rising wages and rebalancing can have positive effects on the overall area economy, as higher prices and higher wages balance out naturally in the free market.

Another major factor of economic strife in the area is supply chain issues.

Semiconductor shortages, especially, he pointed out have pushed products to not be available, or to be sold at a significantly higher price.

But he said those issues are also likely to alleviate themselves naturally over the next 12 months as economies worldwide balance.

Hill said as the world opened back up, consumer demand rose sharply, creating demand that wiped out available supplies. As increased shopping has continued, manufacturing has not caught up.

But manufacturers are also working to find ways around current product shortages.

Agriculture economies especially could benefit from increased demand as fuel, fertilizer and other associated prices rise.

“There are some losses there,” Hill said. “But the fuel costs as a mix is that much. The fertilizers and pesticides as a mix is a cost, but they're going to pass that all in food. So I'm not too concerned about biomaterials. The prices are going to stay high for a long time and then the weak, the weak commodities,&nbsp; are going to stay pretty high. So, it should be able to get a pretty good profit margin.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648160536638.jpeg" alt="Jeremy Hill, director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research (Photo by Jarrod Brantley / Eagle Radio)" />
 <figcaption>Jeremy Hill, director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research (Photo by Jarrod Brantley / Eagle Radio)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL <a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">Post News Network</a>HAYS — During the first months of 2022, economic news has painted a bleak future, fraught with ever-rising costs, rapidly growing inflation and a shaky supply chain.But while it is easy to see the negative benchmarks as a sign of an economy quickly turning sour, one prominent Kansas economist recently said he sees many indications that economic strife in the U.S. is likely temporary and sees many positives in the area economy and beyond.Jeremy Hill, director of the Center for Economic Development and Business Research, recently presented his economic outlook during the annual Eagle Radio sales conference in Hays earlier this month, which focused on areas of&nbsp;<a href="https://eagleradio.net/services/radio">Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri that Eagle serves.</a>“In January, I released my forecasts when we had all that negative news,” Hill said. “All this negative news and I said, ‘No, I think we're going to be positive.’ ”At the time, he was forecasting robust growth but is now more cautious while the Russian war against Ukraine continues to unfold.But while the uncertainty surrounding the war creates unforeseeable situations on the global stage, many economic benchmarks in the area show reasons to remain optimistic.One snapshot Hill presented is what he calls his Household Misery index, which is a way to measure how consumers feel about always present economic measures. He has tracked that number since returning to Kansas in 2009 and, while COVID created a large spike, it has since returned to nearly pre-pandemic levels.A driver of the perceived satisfaction is in part due to higher home values.“Home prices, also assets and wealth,” Hill said. “Wealth increased for households creating more wealth. Employment opportunities are better than it's ever been. You have all opportunity you want. The only thing slowing down household right now is inflation.”But inflation is likely not as signifcant a negative factor for households as many perceive.“This concept of inflation, it's just really hard to get when we've had a couple of decades of almost 2 percent growth very consistently, that we never went up,” Hill said, noting inflation has been fairly stable since the '80s.To gauge inflation, energy costs and food must be removed, along with vehicle purchasing, in order to get a clear picture of inflationary factors outside of supply and demand issues.“Remove both of those, inflation is actually closer to 3.2 to 3.5 percent,” Hill said. “So that's actually not high (or) higher inflation than it was before [COVID.]”Prior to COVID, inflation in Kansas was higher than 3.5 percent, he said.And the Federal Reserve had warned for months that this was expected and is now reacting to slow that rate.“So, when you look at this, this is not that high of a market,” Hill said. “It’s higher than we were used to and the Federal Reserve is getting control, but it's not in a position where we get this headline number and it looks very scary. And yes, it's eating in people's pockets, right, and it's eating into businesses too, but I think this is temporary and something be managed.”<h2>Energy</h2>Prior to sanctions, Hill said about 8 percent of the U.S. oil supply was being imported from Russia.“The issue here is this the markets trying to correct itself as a commodity,” Hill said. “We said our prices need to go up because we already know there's going to be limited supply and it's allocating that resource out. So, although people saw that jump in prices today as it will continue to go up probably, the market already corrected for its supply decrease. It's the market corrected.”In more rural areas, food prices, along with the prices of many consumer goods, are rising due to increased energy costs.“The market is going to correct on some of those,” Hill said.Prior to the situation in Ukraine, he saw Nebraska and Kansas oil production already ramping up and will offset the loss of the imported oil, but it will take time to balance out supply and demand.<h2>Employment</h2>While a number of sectors of the U.S. economy continue to struggle with finding a sufficient workforce to keep up with current demand, Hill said, it’s not fewer people in the workforce causing the shortage. Instead, it's the result of a workforce that shifted during the pandemic with many choosing to move out of part-time jobs and&nbsp;shift toward better pay and more traditional 9-to-5 positions.That movement has taken many of the workers who used to fill two or three part-time jobs out of that market, creating the perception of two people no longer being in the workforce, Hill said.“From the business perspective, there's a ‘Where did everyone go?’ ” he said. “They just got that upward mobility. This is a great story. What's happened before COVID, this has accelerated it really fast, particularly when you put federal money into it.”So as businesses went to hire quickly to fulfill their demand, workers benefited.“This is actually good for the economy,” Hill said. “This new growth is increasing middle-income class, that's going to drive the economy going forward and all this upward mobility.”And while the struggle to find labor, especially for those looking to fill entry-level positions in the service sector, has created headaches for business owners, Hill said this new balance is also likely to provide the next generation of Americans an experience missed by the millennial generation, as they participated in the labor market in a less significant way than others who came before.“There's so much demand, you're going to see people going to high schools begging high school students to work at fast-food restaurants,” Hill said. “They just got an experience which is great labor markets, a great experience for them. They're learning how to deal with people, deal with conflict, deal with money, and management and time, they're really great lessons.”Eventually, he said that underlying benefits to the economy will occur while the industry goes through a natural correction, but in the meantime, Kansas has already returned to pre-COVID employment levels.<h2>Costs</h2>While sourcing labor continues to drive operational costs, Hill said, labor shortages will continue, but increased productivity and finding new ways to retain employees, thereby shaving overall costs, should become more normal.He said, however, employers have been reluctant to adjust to the current situation.“If you want to be competitive, it's not necessarily always cash,” Hill said “They're moving to the employer who's actually going to build up their benefits. And, guess what? When you look at your labor, it's not just someone outside your door, your labor is actually the person that's in the entry-level position that has more opportunity than you thought about before.“You have got to look at your labor market differently,” he continued. "Say this person came in, they did six months and they're pretty talented. Although they actually put training dollars to them, instead of waiting five years to move up to this next level, I've got training knowledge to them, they move up to the next level within a year and their productivity goes up.”He said increasing productivity is the solution to inflation.“If you get somebody who can produce more value per hour, you can pay them more per hour,” he said. "That increases company productivity and ultimately growth and profits."Much of those productivity increases can be attributed to the necessity of finding technological solutions to employment problems as people worked from home during the pandemic.“During COVID — we have all this technology, we have project management systems, client management systems and all this stuff — we were forced to finally use all that software,” Hill said.By using that tech, businesses can offset rising wages.And those rising wages and rebalancing can have positive effects on the overall area economy, as higher prices and higher wages balance out naturally in the free market.<h2>Supply chain</h2>Another major factor of economic strife in the area is supply chain issues.Semiconductor shortages, especially, he pointed out have pushed products to not be available, or to be sold at a significantly higher price.But he said those issues are also likely to alleviate themselves naturally over the next 12 months as economies worldwide balance.Hill said as the world opened back up, consumer demand rose sharply, creating demand that wiped out available supplies. As increased shopping has continued, manufacturing has not caught up.But manufacturers are also working to find ways around current product shortages.Agriculture economies especially could benefit from increased demand as fuel, fertilizer and other associated prices rise.“There are some losses there,” Hill said. “But the fuel costs as a mix is that much. The fertilizers and pesticides as a mix is a cost, but they're going to pass that all in food. So I'm not too concerned about biomaterials. The prices are going to stay high for a long time and then the weak, the weak commodities,&nbsp; are going to stay pretty high. So, it should be able to get a pretty good profit margin.”

Kan. economist: Despite negative perceptions, reasons to be optimistic

Jerome Tang was introduced as the 25th men's head basketball coach at Kansas State University today. 

During a press conference at Bramlage Coliseum he made it clear this is not a rebuilding job at Kansas State, saying this is just the start of some big things that will happen. "With everyone's help, with all of the K-State family. Wildcat nation, we're going to accomplish great things together and it's not going to take long. It is not going to take long. I didn't come to rebuild, alright, came to elevate." Tang said the Wildcats will play smart and aggressive.&nbsp;

Tang remembered KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor's comments. "He looked me in the eyes and he said, look Jerome I want you to be my head coach of our basketball program and I trust you that you're going to do the right thing and help us win. I feel it in all my heart." During the press conference Tang thanked Taylor for those comments.

Tang spent the past 19 years at Baylor on both the winning and losing sides in ballgames. "What I really remember is the ( K-State ) student body. I remember how it was to come watch them running in and I remember them tearing up the paper, throwing it up in the air and going man, that's so cool." Tang added the environment at the games are things you remember.

&nbsp; Tang, 55,&nbsp; has agreed to a 6-year contract, which was approved by the K-State Athletics, Inc., Board of Directors and President&nbsp;Richard Linton.&nbsp;Tang&nbsp;will be paid $2.1 million in 2022-23 and will receive a $100,000 base salary increase each year remaining on the contract ($2.2 million in 2023-24, $2.3 million in 2024-25, $2.4 million in 2025-26, $2.5 million in 2026-27 and $2.6 million in 2027-28).&nbsp;&nbsp;

During his time at Baylor, Tang has helped the Bears post a 397-222 (.641) overall record, including a 168-155 (.520) mark in Big 12 play, to go with 13 postseason appearances (10 NCAA Tournaments, 3 NITs), one NCAA title (2021), one NIT title (2013) and one NIT runner-up finish (2009).&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648165200967.jpeg" alt="( L-R ) KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor and K-State Men's Head Basketball Coach Jerome Tang" />
 <figcaption>( L-R ) KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor and K-State Men's Head Basketball Coach Jerome Tang</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostJerome Tang was introduced as the 25th men's head basketball coach at Kansas State University today. During a press conference at Bramlage Coliseum he made it clear this is not a rebuilding job at Kansas State, saying this is just the start of some big things that will happen. "With everyone's help, with all of the K-State family. Wildcat nation, we're going to accomplish great things together and it's not going to take long. It is not going to take long. I didn't come to rebuild, alright, came to elevate." Tang said the Wildcats will play smart and aggressive.&nbsp;Tang remembered KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor's comments. "He looked me in the eyes and he said, look Jerome I want you to be my head coach of our basketball program and I trust you that you're going to do the right thing and help us win. I feel it in all my heart." During the press conference Tang thanked Taylor for those comments.Tang spent the past 19 years at Baylor on both the winning and losing sides in ballgames. "What I really remember is the ( K-State ) student body. I remember how it was to come watch them running in and I remember them tearing up the paper, throwing it up in the air and going man, that's so cool." Tang added the environment at the games are things you remember.&nbsp; Tang, 55,&nbsp; has agreed to a 6-year contract, which was approved by the K-State Athletics, Inc., Board of Directors and President&nbsp;Richard Linton.&nbsp;Tang&nbsp;will be paid $2.1 million in 2022-23 and will receive a $100,000 base salary increase each year remaining on the contract ($2.2 million in 2023-24, $2.3 million in 2024-25, $2.4 million in 2025-26, $2.5 million in 2026-27 and $2.6 million in 2027-28).&nbsp;&nbsp;During his time at Baylor, Tang has helped the Bears post a 397-222 (.641) overall record, including a 168-155 (.520) mark in Big 12 play, to go with 13 postseason appearances (10 NCAA Tournaments, 3 NITs), one NCAA title (2021), one NIT title (2013) and one NIT runner-up finish (2009).&nbsp;

Jerome Tang assumes the reins of Kansas State men's basketball

There is an ultimate&nbsp; goal for personnel services in Geary USD 475 to bring organization and talent development together and to create a best place to work climate.

That goal was outlined during a USD 475 State of Education forum this week by Tim Winter, Executive Director of Personnel Services who said a partnership is required with students, parents and the community. "The shortage of teaching staff and human resources for all district needs is significant." He made key points. "Sell this District, sell and promote our students, their great accomplishments, and&nbsp; the many programs that are available to them, sell and market our tremendous staff and all that they do for students, and also sell and promote our communities, Junction City, Fort Riley, Grandview Plaza and Milford."

Winter noted that it's necessary to attract the best possible staff for&nbsp; the students. That's important to a quality education.

There is an ultimate&nbsp; goal for personnel services in Geary USD 475 to bring organization and talent development together and to create a best place to work climate.That goal was outlined during a USD 475 State of Education forum this week by Tim Winter, Executive Director of Personnel Services who said a partnership is required with students, parents and the community. "The shortage of teaching staff and human resources for all district needs is significant." He made key points. "Sell this District, sell and promote our students, their great accomplishments, and&nbsp; the many programs that are available to them, sell and market our tremendous staff and all that they do for students, and also sell and promote our communities, Junction City, Fort Riley, Grandview Plaza and Milford."Winter noted that it's necessary to attract the best possible staff for&nbsp; the students. That's important to a quality education.

Importance of promoting USD 475 receives emphasis during State of Education

Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to I-70 westbound at mile marker 289 Wednesday evening for a two vehicle non-injury accident.&nbsp;

Maria De-Roman, Salina, was traveling westbound in a Chevrolet Silverado when the vehicle was hit by a Chevrolet Malibu that hydroplaned. The Malibu was driven by Kallie Peters, Junction City. There were not any injuries. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to I-70 westbound at mile marker 289 Wednesday evening for a two vehicle non-injury accident.&nbsp;Maria De-Roman, Salina, was traveling westbound in a Chevrolet Silverado when the vehicle was hit by a Chevrolet Malibu that hydroplaned. The Malibu was driven by Kallie Peters, Junction City. There were not any injuries. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

Deputies respond to I-70 accident

RILCY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2004 Dodge 1500 driven by Danny Woodworth, 71,&nbsp; Manhattan was&nbsp; involved in a crash with a 2014 Ford Taurus driven by Steven Ensley, 66, of Blue Rapids near the intersection of Tuttle Creek Blvd. and University Park Road.

EMS transported&nbsp;Ensley to Via Christi for treatment of his minor injuries. Woodworth was issued a citation for failure to yield, according the the RCPD.

RILCY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2004 Dodge 1500 driven by Danny Woodworth, 71,&nbsp; Manhattan was&nbsp; involved in a crash with a 2014 Ford Taurus driven by Steven Ensley, 66, of Blue Rapids near the intersection of Tuttle Creek Blvd. and University Park Road.EMS transported&nbsp;Ensley to Via Christi for treatment of his minor injuries. Woodworth was issued a citation for failure to yield, according the the RCPD.

Kansas man hospitalized after 2-vehicle Riley Co. crash

Geary County 4-H / Senior Citizens Building Committee has announced plans to host their annual fundraiser for the 4-H / Senior Citizens Center building on April 2 at the Center on South Spring Valley Road.&nbsp;

There will be a catered dinner from 6 - 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $13, $10 for 12 and under. There will be silent and live auctions and raffle items. Proceeds will go toward building improvements and upgrades.

Tickets are available at the Geary County Extension Office, 119 East 9th in Junction City, the Geary County Senior Citizens office and from Building Committee members.&nbsp;

For more information contact the Extension Office at 785-238-4161.

Geary County 4-H / Senior Citizens Building Committee has announced plans to host their annual fundraiser for the 4-H / Senior Citizens Center building on April 2 at the Center on South Spring Valley Road.&nbsp;There will be a catered dinner from 6 - 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $13, $10 for 12 and under. There will be silent and live auctions and raffle items. Proceeds will go toward building improvements and upgrades.Tickets are available at the Geary County Extension Office, 119 East 9th in Junction City, the Geary County Senior Citizens office and from Building Committee members.&nbsp;For more information contact the Extension Office at 785-238-4161.

4-H / Senior Citizens Center building fundraiser will return

There will be a car wash fundraiser at Champions Car Wash, 1710 Old U.S. 40 in Junction City this Friday through Sunday. A portion of all sales will go towards St. Francis Xavier School activities.

There will be a car wash fundraiser at Champions Car Wash, 1710 Old U.S. 40 in Junction City this Friday through Sunday. A portion of all sales will go towards St. Francis Xavier School activities.

Car wash fundraiser will support Saint Xavier school

By DEWEY TERRILL <a href="https://jcpost.com">JC Post</a>

JUNCTION CITY — Quilts have been made for families who had their homes and livelihood destroyed by the big Dec. 15 fires in six western Kansas counties. The quilt project has been undertaken in the east central part of the state by the Sunflower Quilters Guild and a number of other area volunteers.

Donna Martinson proposed the project and noted that as a result of the winds there were a number of wildfires, particularly in western Kansas. "In a six-county area there were 31 occupied homes that were totally destroyed in addition to the farm and out buildings, fences, the pasture, feed, vehicles, the livestock equipment was all lost as well as the livestock. "

Sunflower Quilters Guild supports Quilts of Valor for veterans, but now a number of members have made quilts for this project. Others helped also, explained Martinson. "We really need to thank Lori Bond from Wakefield. She gathered a lot of her friends in the Wakefield area and they have made quilts specifically for this project, as well as looked through what they might have made previously." Martinson also thanked Sunflower Quilt Guild Chair Trudy Barker and the Alida Upland Church as a supporter and the hub for the entire project.

Church pastor Maria Foerschler said points of contact were located through Disaster Preparedness and churches for each county. Donna will deliver them ( quilts ) out there and distribute them as instructed by the counties. "

Debbie McCarrell, who worked on the project,&nbsp; provided her message to the families who will receive the quilts. " I think of you and your families out there so much. I hope that my quilt and others will help you a little bit to help you understand how much we think of you."

The quilts are being sent to Osborne, Russell, Ellis, Trego, Lane and Wichita counties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648082447590.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DEWEY TERRILL <a href="https://jcpost.com">JC Post</a>JUNCTION CITY — Quilts have been made for families who had their homes and livelihood destroyed by the big Dec. 15 fires in six western Kansas counties. The quilt project has been undertaken in the east central part of the state by the Sunflower Quilters Guild and a number of other area volunteers.Donna Martinson proposed the project and noted that as a result of the winds there were a number of wildfires, particularly in western Kansas. "In a six-county area there were 31 occupied homes that were totally destroyed in addition to the farm and out buildings, fences, the pasture, feed, vehicles, the livestock equipment was all lost as well as the livestock. "Sunflower Quilters Guild supports Quilts of Valor for veterans, but now a number of members have made quilts for this project. Others helped also, explained Martinson. "We really need to thank Lori Bond from Wakefield. She gathered a lot of her friends in the Wakefield area and they have made quilts specifically for this project, as well as looked through what they might have made previously." Martinson also thanked Sunflower Quilt Guild Chair Trudy Barker and the Alida Upland Church as a supporter and the hub for the entire project.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648081430799.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Church pastor Maria Foerschler said points of contact were located through Disaster Preparedness and churches for each county. Donna will deliver them ( quilts ) out there and distribute them as instructed by the counties. "Debbie McCarrell, who worked on the project,&nbsp; provided her message to the families who will receive the quilts. " I think of you and your families out there so much. I hope that my quilt and others will help you a little bit to help you understand how much we think of you."The quilts are being sent to Osborne, Russell, Ellis, Trego, Lane and Wichita counties.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648082515970.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Area quilters show compassion for western Kansas wildfire victims

There is a command and control security office in the new Junction City High School that has vision of cameras in all schools across USD 475.

David Wild, USD 475 Chief Operations Officer, told a State of Education forum about a current software security upgrade under development that will allow the district to integrate access cameras and what's being called a halo system. Wild said they will begin installing it at the high school and at the H.D. Karns Building. "Halo device detects vaping, it detects loud noises and it detects unusual physical movement."

Wild said for instance these could be installed in restrooms. "If there is a fight that breaks out in that restroom there's an immediate alert sent to the command and control center. Cameras outside that area are activated so that we can start engaging and intervening as soon as possible."

Wild noted that the school board approved funding for the platform several months ago, and officials are about ready to bring it to the board for approval of purchase of those items.

There is a command and control security office in the new Junction City High School that has vision of cameras in all schools across USD 475.David Wild, USD 475 Chief Operations Officer, told a State of Education forum about a current software security upgrade under development that will allow the district to integrate access cameras and what's being called a halo system. Wild said they will begin installing it at the high school and at the H.D. Karns Building. "Halo device detects vaping, it detects loud noises and it detects unusual physical movement."Wild said for instance these could be installed in restrooms. "If there is a fight that breaks out in that restroom there's an immediate alert sent to the command and control center. Cameras outside that area are activated so that we can start engaging and intervening as soon as possible."Wild noted that the school board approved funding for the platform several months ago, and officials are about ready to bring it to the board for approval of purchase of those items.

USD 475 works on a proposed security software upgrade 

FORT RILEY, Kan. (WIBW) - Family members of soldiers from Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division who are currently deployed in Europe were invited to a Town Hall to discuss questions and concerns.

Answering those questions was the US Army’s 16th Sergeant Major Michael A. Grinston.

Grinston opened the public question segment by asking for family members to ask the hard questions.

Family members asked what can be done to make sure their soldiers are being fed properly while deployed, along with questions about issues the families are facing on Fort Riley.

“I’m not normally surprised by anything. I get…I usually walk away with somethings I need to work on, and clearly, we have some things to work on as I, as I left the room.” Sergeant Major of the Army Michael A. Grinston says.

“I appreciated how candid he was, after being in for 20 years, you just want somebody to give it to you straight, and I think most military spouses can handle it.” wife of US Army soldier, Erin Kelley says.

“It was, for example, power of attorneys, extra help for the childcare and that was kind of clarification for more people, as they don’t have any ideas, especially new wives, or new spouses.” wife of US Army soldier, Stephanie Martinez says.

Grinston will host another Town Hall at Fort Riley on Wednesday, addressing Big Red One Soldiers about the new Army Combat Fitness Test.

By WIBW TVFORT RILEY, Kan. (WIBW) - Family members of soldiers from Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division who are currently deployed in Europe were invited to a Town Hall to discuss questions and concerns.Answering those questions was the US Army’s 16th Sergeant Major Michael A. Grinston.Grinston opened the public question segment by asking for family members to ask the hard questions.Family members asked what can be done to make sure their soldiers are being fed properly while deployed, along with questions about issues the families are facing on Fort Riley.“I’m not normally surprised by anything. I get…I usually walk away with somethings I need to work on, and clearly, we have some things to work on as I, as I left the room.” Sergeant Major of the Army Michael A. Grinston says.“I appreciated how candid he was, after being in for 20 years, you just want somebody to give it to you straight, and I think most military spouses can handle it.” wife of US Army soldier, Erin Kelley says.“It was, for example, power of attorneys, extra help for the childcare and that was kind of clarification for more people, as they don’t have any ideas, especially new wives, or new spouses.” wife of US Army soldier, Stephanie Martinez says.Grinston will host another Town Hall at Fort Riley on Wednesday, addressing Big Red One Soldiers about the new Army Combat Fitness Test.

Sgt. Major of the Army visits Fort Riley

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club also celebrated optimism on March 23 with guest speaker Gaylynn Childs, retired Executive Director of the Geary County Historical Society. Gaylynn shared information about the Kansas Territorial Capitol, which was used for only five days. “The building was built 165 years ago.

In 1855 communities like Pawnee were established near Fort Riley. Pawnee was built along the Kansas River. A two-story building, which was to be the capitol building of the Kansas Territory was built in May 1855, which would be used by the legislature for meetings. The House of Representatives would be on one floor and the Senate on the other.

Andrew Reeder was appointed by U. S. President Franklin Pierce to be the Governor of the Kansas Territory, thinking he could be manipulated into supporting slavery. Early in his term, Governor Reeder experienced conflict with Missourians who wanted the Kansas Territory to be a slave state. Reeder wanted Kansas to be a free state. The Missourians came to the site of the Capitol armed with weapons and their whiskey to influence the decision. They drove voters from the polls and stuffed the ballot box. There were more votes cast in favor or slavery than there were people eligible to vote.

Governor Reeder declared the voting invalid. The so-called Bogus Legislature adjourned, and the legislature was transferred to Shawnee Mission. This gave rise to the issue of slavery and the beginning of the Civil War.

President Franklin Pierce did not agree with Governor Reeder’s position and the outcome of the meeting at Pawnee. In July of 1855, Reeder was removed from the Governorship and experienced death threats. Andrew Reeder left Kansas.

Secretary of Defense, Jefferson Davis, extended the boundaries of Fort Riley and took over the area where the town of Pawnee had existed. Notice was given to those still living in Pawnee to leave. This was also during and following the cholera epidemic. Soldiers later came and tore down the town, but the Capitol was left standing.

After the Civil War and up to 2014 the building had been restored and maintained for visitors. On April 16, 2022, the building will be open on Saturdays and Sundays for tours.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648054014097.jpeg" alt="Joe Handlos, Treasurer of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club; Gaylynn Childs, retired Executive Director of the Geary County Historical Society." />
 <figcaption>Joe Handlos, Treasurer of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club; Gaylynn Childs, retired Executive Director of the Geary County Historical Society.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerThe JC Breakfast Optimist Club also celebrated optimism on March 23 with guest speaker Gaylynn Childs, retired Executive Director of the Geary County Historical Society. Gaylynn shared information about the Kansas Territorial Capitol, which was used for only five days. “The building was built 165 years ago.In 1855 communities like Pawnee were established near Fort Riley. Pawnee was built along the Kansas River. A two-story building, which was to be the capitol building of the Kansas Territory was built in May 1855, which would be used by the legislature for meetings. The House of Representatives would be on one floor and the Senate on the other.Andrew Reeder was appointed by U. S. President Franklin Pierce to be the Governor of the Kansas Territory, thinking he could be manipulated into supporting slavery. Early in his term, Governor Reeder experienced conflict with Missourians who wanted the Kansas Territory to be a slave state. Reeder wanted Kansas to be a free state. The Missourians came to the site of the Capitol armed with weapons and their whiskey to influence the decision. They drove voters from the polls and stuffed the ballot box. There were more votes cast in favor or slavery than there were people eligible to vote.Governor Reeder declared the voting invalid. The so-called Bogus Legislature adjourned, and the legislature was transferred to Shawnee Mission. This gave rise to the issue of slavery and the beginning of the Civil War.President Franklin Pierce did not agree with Governor Reeder’s position and the outcome of the meeting at Pawnee. In July of 1855, Reeder was removed from the Governorship and experienced death threats. Andrew Reeder left Kansas.Secretary of Defense, Jefferson Davis, extended the boundaries of Fort Riley and took over the area where the town of Pawnee had existed. Notice was given to those still living in Pawnee to leave. This was also during and following the cholera epidemic. Soldiers later came and tore down the town, but the Capitol was left standing.After the Civil War and up to 2014 the building had been restored and maintained for visitors. On April 16, 2022, the building will be open on Saturdays and Sundays for tours.”

Childs provides history on the First Territorial Capitol

Alida-Upland Cooperative Parish, Sunflower Quilters Guild, Lori Bond and friends plus other volunteers have donated 49 quilts to be given to families who had their homes and livelihood destroyed by the Dec. 15th wildfire in western Kansas. The quilts will be displayed today ( Wednesday ) at 2 p.m. at the Alida Upland Church, 2243 3300 Ave., Junction City.&nbsp;

Guild representative Donna Martinson said the quilts will then be packaged for distribution to 30 families in six western Kansas counties. The public is invited to view the quilts at the church.

Alida-Upland Cooperative Parish, Sunflower Quilters Guild, Lori Bond and friends plus other volunteers have donated 49 quilts to be given to families who had their homes and livelihood destroyed by the Dec. 15th wildfire in western Kansas. The quilts will be displayed today ( Wednesday ) at 2 p.m. at the Alida Upland Church, 2243 3300 Ave., Junction City.&nbsp;Guild representative Donna Martinson said the quilts will then be packaged for distribution to 30 families in six western Kansas counties. The public is invited to view the quilts at the church.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648046958019.jpeg" alt="This is an example of a quilt which was produced for an earlier project." />
 <figcaption>This is an example of a quilt which was produced for an earlier project.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Quilts will be on display

New schools were a prominent discussion topic for USD 475 Chief Operations Officer, David Wild, during a State of Education forum Tuesday evening.

For example, the new Junction City High School cost approximately $130 million to build, is 1,287 feet or about of a quarter of a mile long and is built to serve 18-hundred students. The current enrollment is just under 16-hundred students.

Groundbreaking for a new elementary school recently occurred on&nbsp; the site of the former Jefferson Elementary School on Fort Riley and another new elementary school could becoming into view. "Congress has passed the Omnibus spending bill for this fiscal year. Included in that spending bill we very much believe are funds for the repair or replacement of Morris Hill Elementary," said Wild. 

Wild added that school is on a short list. A visit by a federal representative is expected late next week. "Hopefully we'll be hearing some good news about possibly replacing Morris Hill Elementary, which is the next one ( school ) on the list in need of support."

By Dewey TerrillJC PostNew schools were a prominent discussion topic for USD 475 Chief Operations Officer, David Wild, during a State of Education forum Tuesday evening.For example, the new Junction City High School cost approximately $130 million to build, is 1,287 feet or about of a quarter of a mile long and is built to serve 18-hundred students. The current enrollment is just under 16-hundred students.Groundbreaking for a new elementary school recently occurred on&nbsp; the site of the former Jefferson Elementary School on Fort Riley and another new elementary school could becoming into view. "Congress has passed the Omnibus spending bill for this fiscal year. Included in that spending bill we very much believe are funds for the repair or replacement of Morris Hill Elementary," said Wild. Wild added that school is on a short list. A visit by a federal representative is expected late next week. "Hopefully we'll be hearing some good news about possibly replacing Morris Hill Elementary, which is the next one ( school ) on the list in need of support."

Another new elementary school could be on the horizon at Fort Riley

Customer Service remodeling at Junction City Hall should take about three weeks. Finance Director Lindsay Miller said in the meantime, the customer service operation is temporarily located in the basement of the Municipal Building while the work is being completed. There will be limited telephone access which could result in a delayed response, so the public is being asked to use alternative options for their needs whenever possible.

For utility payments there are options.&nbsp;

You can still call the main line but response times could be delayed. To ensure a timely payment, the City recommends use of one the options listed. All due dates will remain listed on your bill.

For general Inquiries and questions you can submit an email.

Customer Service remodeling at Junction City Hall should take about three weeks. Finance Director Lindsay Miller said in the meantime, the customer service operation is temporarily located in the basement of the Municipal Building while the work is being completed. There will be limited telephone access which could result in a delayed response, so the public is being asked to use alternative options for their needs whenever possible.For utility payments there are options.&nbsp;Utility Payments:<ol>
 <li>Pay your bill online.&nbsp; No additional fee is assessed.</li><li><a href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2fwww.municipalonlinepayments.com%2fjunctioncityks&amp;c=E,1,W_3xsrmDhizTIaMO-EUvAJnsIui_bYUVR5WrxhHDHuvNy2x0h5Viu6VJg7spt3obF9Unz4z5he4A-nArA-yhQEaevf_j_dynTIRVQXHAXOhNcgdU&amp;typo=1" target="_blank">https://www.municipalonlinepayments.com/junctioncityks</a></li><li>Call our 24/7 888 number for payment.&nbsp; No additional fee is assessed.</li><li>1-888-730-7263</li><li>You will need your account number and your house number.&nbsp; You can find your account number on your bill.</li><li>Drop Box out in front of City Hall</li><li>Setup Bank Draft and your bill be auto drafted.</li><li>Make a Payment in person at City Hall in the basement.</li>
 </ol>You can still call the main line but response times could be delayed. To ensure a timely payment, the City recommends use of one the options listed. All due dates will remain listed on your bill.For general Inquiries and questions you can submit an email.<ul>
 <li>&nbsp;at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:CustomerService@jcks.com" target="_blank">CustomerService@jcks.com</a>, and City representatives will get back to you as soon as possible.</li>
 </ul>

Customer service remodeling begins at City Hall

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's Silver Key, the sophomore leadership honor society, has selected new members for the 2022-2023 academic year. To be eligible for Silver Key, students must have at least a 3.0 grade point average, be a 2021 high school graduate and in their freshmen year at the university. Silver Key members take part in a variety of community service projects throughout the semester. Past projects have included hosting children from the Boys and Girls Club at K-State Athletics events; partnering with the K-State Recycling Center; writing cards and making quilts for a local veterans' center; collecting donations for the Manhattan Emergency Shelter; highway and neighborhood cleanup efforts; and afternoon visits to Stoneybrook and Meadowlark, senior living communities in Manhattan. The following students are members of Silver Key for 2022-2023: Terin Rundus,&nbsp;Concordia; Alexa Heseltine,&nbsp;Derby; Ava Perrier,&nbsp;Eureka; Katie Schmit,&nbsp;Garnett. From&nbsp;Greater Kansas City: Olivia Waren and Garett Willis, both from&nbsp;Lenexa; Kate Weisner,&nbsp;Olathe; Grace Burgett, Abby Collins, Zach Davidson, Grant Henderson, Jack Marks, Gracyn Martin, Tanner Prock and Ellie Zerrer, all from&nbsp;Overland Park; Abigail Harrison,&nbsp;Prairie Village; Emily Gipson, Eddie Hotzel, Ajooni Hundal and Landyn Luttrell, all from&nbsp;Shawnee; and Lauren Andrews,&nbsp;Stilwell. Marrissa Raynesford,&nbsp;Hays; Skyler Johnston and Courtney Pitts, both from&nbsp;Lawrence. From&nbsp;Manhattan: Carson Ingold, Chanae Parker, Mia Thompson and Sofie Zeck. Abigail Stuchlik,&nbsp;Marion; Ross Latta,&nbsp;Marysville; Adelaide Easter and Madison Turner, both from&nbsp;Salina; Paige Vulgamore,&nbsp;Scott City; Sydney Bacon,&nbsp;South Haven; Mia Cardenas,&nbsp;Washington; and Ashleigh Mauler,&nbsp;Wichita. From out of state: Brianna Fay,&nbsp;Arvada, Colorado; Abigail Colburn,&nbsp;Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Hannah Writebol,&nbsp;Parker, Colorado; Hannah Rerick,&nbsp;Newtown, Connecticut; Evie Rodenbaugh,&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri; Alexis Hoover,&nbsp;Nebraska City, Nebraska; Olivia Edwards,&nbsp;Omaha, Nebraska; Chloe Bagg,&nbsp;Norman, Oklahoma; and Lauren Thompson,&nbsp;Woodville, Wisconsin.&nbsp; &nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's Silver Key, the sophomore leadership honor society, has selected new members for the 2022-2023 academic year. To be eligible for Silver Key, students must have at least a 3.0 grade point average, be a 2021 high school graduate and in their freshmen year at the university. Silver Key members take part in a variety of community service projects throughout the semester. Past projects have included hosting children from the Boys and Girls Club at K-State Athletics events; partnering with the K-State Recycling Center; writing cards and making quilts for a local veterans' center; collecting donations for the Manhattan Emergency Shelter; highway and neighborhood cleanup efforts; and afternoon visits to Stoneybrook and Meadowlark, senior living communities in Manhattan. The following students are members of Silver Key for 2022-2023: Terin Rundus,&nbsp;Concordia; Alexa Heseltine,&nbsp;Derby; Ava Perrier,&nbsp;Eureka; Katie Schmit,&nbsp;Garnett. From&nbsp;Greater Kansas City: Olivia Waren and Garett Willis, both from&nbsp;Lenexa; Kate Weisner,&nbsp;Olathe; Grace Burgett, Abby Collins, Zach Davidson, Grant Henderson, Jack Marks, Gracyn Martin, Tanner Prock and Ellie Zerrer, all from&nbsp;Overland Park; Abigail Harrison,&nbsp;Prairie Village; Emily Gipson, Eddie Hotzel, Ajooni Hundal and Landyn Luttrell, all from&nbsp;Shawnee; and Lauren Andrews,&nbsp;Stilwell. Marrissa Raynesford,&nbsp;Hays; Skyler Johnston and Courtney Pitts, both from&nbsp;Lawrence. From&nbsp;Manhattan: Carson Ingold, Chanae Parker, Mia Thompson and Sofie Zeck. Abigail Stuchlik,&nbsp;Marion; Ross Latta,&nbsp;Marysville; Adelaide Easter and Madison Turner, both from&nbsp;Salina; Paige Vulgamore,&nbsp;Scott City; Sydney Bacon,&nbsp;South Haven; Mia Cardenas,&nbsp;Washington; and Ashleigh Mauler,&nbsp;Wichita. From out of state: Brianna Fay,&nbsp;Arvada, Colorado; Abigail Colburn,&nbsp;Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Hannah Writebol,&nbsp;Parker, Colorado; Hannah Rerick,&nbsp;Newtown, Connecticut; Evie Rodenbaugh,&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri; Alexis Hoover,&nbsp;Nebraska City, Nebraska; Olivia Edwards,&nbsp;Omaha, Nebraska; Chloe Bagg,&nbsp;Norman, Oklahoma; and Lauren Thompson,&nbsp;Woodville, Wisconsin.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Local, area students selected for K-State's Silver Key society

Fort Riley will be the site of a Hiring Our Heroes Career Summit on Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Riley's Conference Center. This event will feature workshops, career guidance and a job fair. 

Soldiers, military spouses, veterans and up to 50 national, regional and local employers will be in attendance.&nbsp; Hiring Our Heroes is sponsored by the U.S. Chamber Foundation and seeks to help veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses. The goal is to help them find meaningful employment opportunities.

The event opens with morning workshops, beginning at 9 a.m., ranging from career planning to using digital networking sites to resume writing and interviewing. The afternoon will feature a hiring fair from 1 to 4 p.m.


Fort Riley will be the site of a Hiring Our Heroes Career Summit on Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Riley's Conference Center. This event will feature workshops, career guidance and a job fair. Soldiers, military spouses, veterans and up to 50 national, regional and local employers will be in attendance.&nbsp; Hiring Our Heroes is sponsored by the U.S. Chamber Foundation and seeks to help veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses. The goal is to help them find meaningful employment opportunities.The event opens with morning workshops, beginning at 9 a.m., ranging from career planning to using digital networking sites to resume writing and interviewing. The afternoon will feature a hiring fair from 1 to 4 p.m.

Hiring Our Heroes Career Fair is set for Thursday

USD 475 wants to prepare students for future opportunities and jobs which may not exist today. That was a key message from Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston, during the district's first State of Education forum Tuesday night.&nbsp;

"Fifty years ago whoever would have thought about the internet, Facebook and all of the different forms of social media that we use today. And yet individuals have very lucrative jobs with those forms of media."

Eggleston outlined the five year strategic plan for USD 475, noting that academic achievement is the top priority. The District is working to try and reach a 95% graduation rate goal for 2025 set by the State Department of Education. Educators are doing that by working on the foundation for students in grades K-8.&nbsp;

Meeting social and emotional needs of students, a parent engagement committee, and retention and hiring goals are also part of the plan.

Other speakers focused on topics ranging from teaching and learning to operations, technology, operations, technology, finance and personnel services. Associate Superintendent Dr. Deb Gustafson reported that the district is experiencing the highest student test scores that they have seen in USD 475 in many years. She noted that is a reflection of their teachers and the Teaching and Learning Department. Gustafson also reported that summer school will be offered for students in K-12.

Chief Operations Officer David Wild covered the new $132 million dollar Junction City High School . It covers 437,000 square feet, is 1,287 feet long, which is nearly a quarter of a mile in length, and was built to serve 1,800 students. There are currently just under 1,600 students enrolled at JCHS.

USD 475 wants to prepare students for future opportunities and jobs which may not exist today. That was a key message from Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Reginald Eggleston, during the district's first State of Education forum Tuesday night.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648008301533.jpeg" alt="Dr. Reginald Eggleston" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Reginald Eggleston</figcaption>
 </figure>"Fifty years ago whoever would have thought about the internet, Facebook and all of the different forms of social media that we use today. And yet individuals have very lucrative jobs with those forms of media."Eggleston outlined the five year strategic plan for USD 475, noting that academic achievement is the top priority. The District is working to try and reach a 95% graduation rate goal for 2025 set by the State Department of Education. Educators are doing that by working on the foundation for students in grades K-8.&nbsp;Meeting social and emotional needs of students, a parent engagement committee, and retention and hiring goals are also part of the plan.Other speakers focused on topics ranging from teaching and learning to operations, technology, operations, technology, finance and personnel services. Associate Superintendent Dr. Deb Gustafson reported that the district is experiencing the highest student test scores that they have seen in USD 475 in many years. She noted that is a reflection of their teachers and the Teaching and Learning Department. Gustafson also reported that summer school will be offered for students in K-12.Chief Operations Officer David Wild covered the new $132 million dollar Junction City High School . It covers 437,000 square feet, is 1,287 feet long, which is nearly a quarter of a mile in length, and was built to serve 1,800 students. There are currently just under 1,600 students enrolled at JCHS.

 State of Education report covers a wide swath of USD 475                                                                                                  

There will be a change in the Junction City High School administrative team. USD 475 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Reginald Eggleston has informed JC Post that James Neff has been named the Acting Principal. "We will post that position later this week or the early part of next week and start looking for another candidate to serve as the principal of the high school." Neff has been serving as a Business, Public Service and Hospitality Assistant Principal at the high school.&nbsp;

Merrier Tartt has been serving as the principal at Junction City High School. Eggleston confirmed Tartt is being reassigned, although a specific position must still be determined. "We're going to look at areas throughout the district that we believe skill sets will match, and give everyone an opportunity to work well together as we move forward."

Eggleston was asked about making the change in the middle of a school year. "This was just the timing of everything. I don't think there's ever a perfect timing. And this just appeared&nbsp; to be a good timing based on some of the things that we need to take care of as we approach the end of the year, as well as preparations for the start of the upcoming school year." Some of the things referred to by the superintendent included end of year school programs, events and activities along with making preparations for budgets, personnel and other actions that need to occur for the start of the 2022-2023 school year.

James Neff called the move into the acting principal's post "a great challenge. We're going to finish out the year strong, positive.&nbsp; We're going to pull this faculty together and we're going to finish out strong." Neff is originally from Decatur County in northwest Kansas and began his teaching&nbsp; career in 1998. He taught chemistry at Manhattan High School for 17 years.

Parents of JCHS students were notified of the change via the District's Skyward student information system on Tuesday.

There will be a change in the Junction City High School administrative team. USD 475 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Reginald Eggleston has informed JC Post that James Neff has been named the Acting Principal. "We will post that position later this week or the early part of next week and start looking for another candidate to serve as the principal of the high school." Neff has been serving as a Business, Public Service and Hospitality Assistant Principal at the high school.&nbsp;Merrier Tartt has been serving as the principal at Junction City High School. Eggleston confirmed Tartt is being reassigned, although a specific position must still be determined. "We're going to look at areas throughout the district that we believe skill sets will match, and give everyone an opportunity to work well together as we move forward."Eggleston was asked about making the change in the middle of a school year. "This was just the timing of everything. I don't think there's ever a perfect timing. And this just appeared&nbsp; to be a good timing based on some of the things that we need to take care of as we approach the end of the year, as well as preparations for the start of the upcoming school year." Some of the things referred to by the superintendent included end of year school programs, events and activities along with making preparations for budgets, personnel and other actions that need to occur for the start of the 2022-2023 school year.James Neff called the move into the acting principal's post "a great challenge. We're going to finish out the year strong, positive.&nbsp; We're going to pull this faculty together and we're going to finish out strong." Neff is originally from Decatur County in northwest Kansas and began his teaching&nbsp; career in 1998. He taught chemistry at Manhattan High School for 17 years.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648006818345.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Parents of JCHS students were notified of the change via the District's Skyward student information system on Tuesday.

Superintendent announces a change in the JCHS administration

Geary County Historical Society is hosting an open house for potential volunteers this Saturday. Anyone who has ever considered volunteering with the Historical Society is welcome to attend and learn more about various opportunities within the Organization. 

According to Museum Director Heather Hagedorn, current volunteers will be on hand to discuss their roles and offer demonstrations. Volunteer areas include: educational programming like the Traveling Trunks and STEAM Saturdays, working with the collection or in the Research Center, special events and fundraisers, baking, and becoming a museum host. 

The Open House will be held this Saturday, March 26th from 1-3 p.m. at the Historical Museum at 530 North Adams. A snack of popcorn and root beer floats will be served.

Geary County Historical Society is hosting an open house for potential volunteers this Saturday. Anyone who has ever considered volunteering with the Historical Society is welcome to attend and learn more about various opportunities within the Organization. According to Museum Director Heather Hagedorn, current volunteers will be on hand to discuss their roles and offer demonstrations. Volunteer areas include: educational programming like the Traveling Trunks and STEAM Saturdays, working with the collection or in the Research Center, special events and fundraisers, baking, and becoming a museum host. The Open House will be held this Saturday, March 26th from 1-3 p.m. at the Historical Museum at 530 North Adams. A snack of popcorn and root beer floats will be served.

Historical Society is seeking  volunteers

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) recently visited Eastern Europe with a bipartisan group of senators and met Kansas servicemembers, Staff Sergeant First Class Kevin Jensen of Manhattan and Private First Class Efren Benitez of Maize, stationed in Germany at Wiesbadan Army Airfield.

“In Germany, I appreciated speaking with Staff Sergeant Jensen and Private First Class Benitez about their experiences during deployment and their goals in the military, and I enjoyed being able to sit down and share a meal together, Kansan to Kansan,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I thanked each of them for putting on their uniforms as they safeguard our freedoms and liberties. Their mission has taken them far from their families as they assist partner nations during Putin’s unjustified invasion of Ukraine. I am thinking of all of our servicemembers who are currently stationed in Europe as they stand ready as a key deterrent to our adversaries, and I appreciate their dedicated service.”

While he was at Wiesbadan Army Airfield (WAAF) Sen. Moran was briefed by General Christopher Cavoli, USAREUR-AF Commanding General. &nbsp;Cavoli briefed Sen. Moran on the Army’s current operations throughout Europe and discussed the latest on Vladimir Putin’s assault on Ukraine.

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) recently visited Eastern Europe with a bipartisan group of senators and met Kansas servicemembers, Staff Sergeant First Class Kevin Jensen of Manhattan and Private First Class Efren Benitez of Maize, stationed in Germany at Wiesbadan Army Airfield.“In Germany, I appreciated speaking with Staff Sergeant Jensen and Private First Class Benitez about their experiences during deployment and their goals in the military, and I enjoyed being able to sit down and share a meal together, Kansan to Kansan,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I thanked each of them for putting on their uniforms as they safeguard our freedoms and liberties. Their mission has taken them far from their families as they assist partner nations during Putin’s unjustified invasion of Ukraine. I am thinking of all of our servicemembers who are currently stationed in Europe as they stand ready as a key deterrent to our adversaries, and I appreciate their dedicated service.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647976938855.png" alt="Senator Jerry Moran with Staff Sgt. First Class Kevin Jensen from Manhattan ( left ) and Private First Class Efren Benitez from Maize (right )" />
 <figcaption>Senator Jerry Moran with Staff Sgt. First Class Kevin Jensen from Manhattan ( left ) and Private First Class Efren Benitez from Maize (right )</figcaption>
 </figure>While he was at Wiesbadan Army Airfield (WAAF) Sen. Moran was briefed by General Christopher Cavoli, USAREUR-AF Commanding General. &nbsp;Cavoli briefed Sen. Moran on the Army’s current operations throughout Europe and discussed the latest on Vladimir Putin’s assault on Ukraine.

Sen. Moran meets with Soldiers from Manhattan and Maize stationed in Germany

When you enter Geary Community Hospital at designated entrances your first stop is a station where your temperature is checked, a series of COVID-19 related questions are asked and you are then allowed to proceed into the facility.&nbsp;

Hospital Interim CEO Margaret Grismer noted Tuesday that they will open their doors and screeners will go away as of April 4th. Face mask usage will still be required in the hospital and screening will be done at the point of registrations in the building. For example that could include the emergency room, laboratory and x-ray.&nbsp;

Information on the subject was provided to the Hospital Board of Trustees during their monthly meeting, which was held on Tuesday.

When you enter Geary Community Hospital at designated entrances your first stop is a station where your temperature is checked, a series of COVID-19 related questions are asked and you are then allowed to proceed into the facility.&nbsp;Hospital Interim CEO Margaret Grismer noted Tuesday that they will open their doors and screeners will go away as of April 4th. Face mask usage will still be required in the hospital and screening will be done at the point of registrations in the building. For example that could include the emergency room, laboratory and x-ray.&nbsp;Information on the subject was provided to the Hospital Board of Trustees during their monthly meeting, which was held on Tuesday.

Covid screening will stop at GCH entry doors in April

Geary Community Hospital could make an announcement in the near future about a potential future partner. Theresa Bramlage, Hospital Board of Trustees Chair, said a Task Force is looking at all the options on that subject.

Bramlage confirmed that they are close on obtaining a partner. "I would say within the next 30 to 60 days we'll have an announcement. "

JC Post asked Bramlage if Geary Community Hospital would retain control of its operations. "That is yet to be determined. We are in collaboration not only with potential partners but also with the county. We want to make sure that everyone is on the same page as we go forward."

GCH has been facing financial challenges for some time. According to the monthly financial statement reviewed at the hospital board meeting, Geary Community had a net operating loss of $854,215 in February, but there was an increase in nonoperating revenue of&nbsp; $2,358, 617 after nonoperating revenues and expenses were factored together.&nbsp; &nbsp;A $2 million PPP ( COVID ) loan that was forgiven was a big factor in helping lift GCH into the black in that category resulting in a $1,504, 401 increase in net position for February.

Bramlage provided her reaction to JC Post on, the financial report. "That we're still in crisis mode. It's crucial that we have a partner to continue to provide healthcare four our community.&nbsp; " Otherwise we won't be? "That's correct."

During the Hospital Board meeting on Tuesday Dr. Tom Craig briefly mentioned an upcoming hospital partnership, noting that there is excitement but everyone is on hold for now.

Geary Community Hospital could make an announcement in the near future about a potential future partner. Theresa Bramlage, Hospital Board of Trustees Chair, said a Task Force is looking at all the options on that subject.Bramlage confirmed that they are close on obtaining a partner. "I would say within the next 30 to 60 days we'll have an announcement. "JC Post asked Bramlage if Geary Community Hospital would retain control of its operations. "That is yet to be determined. We are in collaboration not only with potential partners but also with the county. We want to make sure that everyone is on the same page as we go forward."GCH has been facing financial challenges for some time. According to the monthly financial statement reviewed at the hospital board meeting, Geary Community had a net operating loss of $854,215 in February, but there was an increase in nonoperating revenue of&nbsp; $2,358, 617 after nonoperating revenues and expenses were factored together.&nbsp; &nbsp;A $2 million PPP ( COVID ) loan that was forgiven was a big factor in helping lift GCH into the black in that category resulting in a $1,504, 401 increase in net position for February.Bramlage provided her reaction to JC Post on, the financial report. "That we're still in crisis mode. It's crucial that we have a partner to continue to provide healthcare four our community.&nbsp; " Otherwise we won't be? "That's correct."During the Hospital Board meeting on Tuesday Dr. Tom Craig briefly mentioned an upcoming hospital partnership, noting that there is excitement but everyone is on hold for now.+

GCH officials are working on a potential partnership

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for theft at Dillons.

Just after noon Monday, officers filed a report for theft in the 100 block of Sarber Lane in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Dillons reported 20- and 21-year-old females stole approximately $875 worth of cash and gift cards.&nbsp; The RCPD reported no additional details.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for theft at Dillons.Just after noon Monday, officers filed a report for theft in the 100 block of Sarber Lane in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Dillons reported 20- and 21-year-old females stole approximately $875 worth of cash and gift cards.&nbsp; The RCPD reported no additional details.