There will be a Volunteer Open House hosted by the Geary County Historical Society on Saturday, March 26th from 1-3 p.m. at the Historical Museum, 530 North Adams. You can learn about volunteer opportunities with the museum.

There will be a Volunteer Open House hosted by the Geary County Historical Society on Saturday, March 26th from 1-3 p.m. at the Historical Museum, 530 North Adams. You can learn about volunteer opportunities with the museum.

Historical Society will host a Volunteer Open House

There will not be any school in Geary USD 475 from March 14th through the 18th. That is due to the annual spring break.

There will not be any school in Geary USD 475 from March 14th through the 18th. That is due to the annual spring break.

Spring break is under way in USD 475

Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to an injury accident on U.S. 77 Highway near mile marker 164 at 6:48 a.m. Saturday. According to t the Sheriff's Department Amy Landry, Junction City, was traveling southbound in a Ford Fiesta when a deer was struck in the roadway. The vehicle was disabled in the roadway and airbags were deployed.&nbsp;

Landry was taken by ambulance to Geary Community Hospital for evaluation. The vehicle was removed by a wrecker service.

Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to an injury accident on U.S. 77 Highway near mile marker 164 at 6:48 a.m. Saturday. According to t the Sheriff's Department Amy Landry, Junction City, was traveling southbound in a Ford Fiesta when a deer was struck in the roadway. The vehicle was disabled in the roadway and airbags were deployed.&nbsp;Landry was taken by ambulance to Geary Community Hospital for evaluation. The vehicle was removed by a wrecker service.

Deputies respond to accident on U.S. 77

TOPEKA — Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.6% in January. This was a decrease from 2.8% in December and a decrease from 3.8% in January 2021.

“Kansas started 2022 with strong job growth, with estimates showing 8,500 jobs added in January,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “Additionally, the Kansas unemployment rate declined to 2.6% which is below pre-pandemic levels.”

&nbsp;Northeast Kansas counties showed a slight uptick in unemployment, although the majority remain below 3 percent except for Geary County where the rate increased from 3.1 percent in December to 3.4 in January. The rate in Riley County at 2.6 percent, up just over half a percent from December. Wabaunsee and Pottawatomie Counties also saw a similar jump in January. Both were at under 2 percent in December.&nbsp;

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 8,500 from December. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 5,100 over the month, while government increased by 3,400.

“The unemployment rate continued to trend downward, reaching 2.6% in January,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “While the unemployment rate has now fallen below pre-pandemic levels, it is important to note that the labor force participation rate has also declined in Kansas.”

Since January 2021 Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 17,100. This change is due to an increase of 16,200 private sector jobs and an increase of 900 government jobs.

The February 2022 Labor Report will be released March 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647017655150.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.6% in January. This was a decrease from 2.8% in December and a decrease from 3.8% in January 2021.“Kansas started 2022 with strong job growth, with estimates showing 8,500 jobs added in January,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “Additionally, the Kansas unemployment rate declined to 2.6% which is below pre-pandemic levels.”&nbsp;Northeast Kansas counties showed a slight uptick in unemployment, although the majority remain below 3 percent except for Geary County where the rate increased from 3.1 percent in December to 3.4 in January. The rate in Riley County at 2.6 percent, up just over half a percent from December. Wabaunsee and Pottawatomie Counties also saw a similar jump in January. Both were at under 2 percent in December.&nbsp;Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 8,500 from December. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 5,100 over the month, while government increased by 3,400.“The unemployment rate continued to trend downward, reaching 2.6% in January,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “While the unemployment rate has now fallen below pre-pandemic levels, it is important to note that the labor force participation rate has also declined in Kansas.”Since January 2021 Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 17,100. This change is due to an increase of 16,200 private sector jobs and an increase of 900 government jobs.The February 2022 Labor Report will be released March 25.

Despite uptick, jobless rate remains low across the region 

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members this week approved the guaranteed maximum price for the former Junction City High School site demolition. The amount totals $2,692,700, which includes a $250,000 allowance for unforseen site conditions.

The District had been holding $2 million in reserves for&nbsp; the project. The additional $692,700 will come from the Heavily Impacted Aid contingency funds.

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members this week approved the guaranteed maximum price for the former Junction City High School site demolition. The amount totals $2,692,700, which includes a $250,000 allowance for unforseen site conditions.The District had been holding $2 million in reserves for&nbsp; the project. The additional $692,700 will come from the Heavily Impacted Aid contingency funds.

BOE approves Old JCHS site demolition GMP

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Supreme Court has affirmed a sentence given to a man who was pleaded guilty to killing a Junction City woman and her unborn child on Christmas Day in 2018. 

The court on Friday upheld the sentence of Dion Jamal Green. 

He pleaded guilty to two counts of felony first-degree murder in the deaths of 31-year-old Jenna Schafer, of Junction City, and her unborn child. He was sentenced to consecutive life sentences with no chance of parole for 25 years. 

Green challenged the procedures the Geary County District Court used to sentence him. But the court unanimously affirmed the sentences.

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - The man convicted of the murder of a Junction City woman and her unborn baby will stay behind bars.

In the matter of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kscourts.org/KSCourts/media/KsCourts/Opinions/123419.pdf?ext=.pdf" target="_blank">Appeal No. 123,419:&nbsp;State of Kansas v. Dion Jamal Green</a>,&nbsp;the Kansas Supreme Court said Green pleaded guilty to two counts of felony first-degree murder and was sentenced to consecutive life sentences with a mandatory minimum of 25 years for each before becoming eligible for parole.

On appeal, the Court said Green challenged the procedures the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.8thjd.com/158/District-Court" target="_blank">Geary Co. District Court</a>&nbsp;used to impose the sentences.

The Court said it found competent evidence that supported the district court’s references to Green having&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/content/news/Junction-City-woman-dead-after-Christmas-shooting--503502881.html" target="_blank">committed the murders</a>&nbsp;in the hope of getting paid.

The Court also said it found no mistakes were made in the district court’s decision to not continue sentencing to allow Green’s mother to speak in person on his behalf.

In fact, the Court said it was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/content/news/Second-person-arrested-for-Junction-City-murder-503850101.html" target="_blank">Green&nbsp;</a>who proposed to allow a video transmission to substitute for live testimony and he did not challenge the quality of the video transmission at the time of sentencing.

Green was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2020/10/28/junction-city-man-sentenced-to-life-for-murder-of-pregnant-woman/" target="_blank">sentenced in 2020&nbsp;</a>for the 2018 Christmas murder of Jenna Schafer and her baby in Junction City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647122034833.png" alt="Green photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Green photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Supreme Court has affirmed a sentence given to a man who was pleaded guilty to killing a Junction City woman and her unborn child on Christmas Day in 2018. The court on Friday upheld the sentence of Dion Jamal Green. He pleaded guilty to two counts of felony first-degree murder in the deaths of 31-year-old Jenna Schafer, of Junction City, and her unborn child. He was sentenced to consecutive life sentences with no chance of parole for 25 years. Green challenged the procedures the Geary County District Court used to sentence him. But the court unanimously affirmed the sentences.----------By WIBW TVTOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - The man convicted of the murder of a Junction City woman and her unborn baby will stay behind bars.In the matter of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kscourts.org/KSCourts/media/KsCourts/Opinions/123419.pdf?ext=.pdf" target="_blank">Appeal No. 123,419:&nbsp;State of Kansas v. Dion Jamal Green</a>,&nbsp;the Kansas Supreme Court said Green pleaded guilty to two counts of felony first-degree murder and was sentenced to consecutive life sentences with a mandatory minimum of 25 years for each before becoming eligible for parole.On appeal, the Court said Green challenged the procedures the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.8thjd.com/158/District-Court" target="_blank">Geary Co. District Court</a>&nbsp;used to impose the sentences.The Court said it found competent evidence that supported the district court’s references to Green having&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/content/news/Junction-City-woman-dead-after-Christmas-shooting--503502881.html" target="_blank">committed the murders</a>&nbsp;in the hope of getting paid.The Court also said it found no mistakes were made in the district court’s decision to not continue sentencing to allow Green’s mother to speak in person on his behalf.In fact, the Court said it was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/content/news/Second-person-arrested-for-Junction-City-murder-503850101.html" target="_blank">Green&nbsp;</a>who proposed to allow a video transmission to substitute for live testimony and he did not challenge the quality of the video transmission at the time of sentencing.Green was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wibw.com/2020/10/28/junction-city-man-sentenced-to-life-for-murder-of-pregnant-woman/" target="_blank">sentenced in 2020&nbsp;</a>for the 2018 Christmas murder of Jenna Schafer and her baby in Junction City.

Court upholds sentence in 2018 Christmas Day killing in Junction City

The Kansas Highway Patrol will host virtual assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) to examine aspects of the organization’s policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services.

Administered by CALEA, the accreditation program requires agencies to comply with state-of-the-art standards in four basic areas: policy and procedure, administration, operations, and support services.

As part of the assessment, agency employees and members of the public are invited to offer comments directly to the assessment team during a public information session. The event will be held virtually on Monday at 5 p.m. via Microsoft Teams and can be accessed through this link <a href="https://bit.ly/3vInZud">https://bit.ly/3vInZud</a>.

Anyone unable to attend the public information session may address the assessors by calling (785) 554-0639 on Monday between 2-4 p.m. Comments are limited to ten minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with CALEA’s standards.

Persons wishing to offer written comments about the Highway Patrol’s ability to meet the standards for accreditation are requested to write: Commission for Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., 13575 Heathcote Blvd, Suite 320, Gainesville, Virginia 20155, or call (703) 352-4225.

For more information regarding the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., please write the Commission at 13575 Heathcote Blvd, Suite 320, Gainesville, Virginia 20155, or call (703) 352-4225 or visit their website at <a href="http://www.calea.org">http://www.calea.org</a>.

Kansas Highway PatrolThe Kansas Highway Patrol will host virtual assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) to examine aspects of the organization’s policies and procedures, management, operations, and support services.Administered by CALEA, the accreditation program requires agencies to comply with state-of-the-art standards in four basic areas: policy and procedure, administration, operations, and support services.As part of the assessment, agency employees and members of the public are invited to offer comments directly to the assessment team during a public information session. The event will be held virtually on Monday at 5 p.m. via Microsoft Teams and can be accessed through this link <a href="https://bit.ly/3vInZud">https://bit.ly/3vInZud</a>.Anyone unable to attend the public information session may address the assessors by calling (785) 554-0639 on Monday between 2-4 p.m. Comments are limited to ten minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with CALEA’s standards.Persons wishing to offer written comments about the Highway Patrol’s ability to meet the standards for accreditation are requested to write: Commission for Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., 13575 Heathcote Blvd, Suite 320, Gainesville, Virginia 20155, or call (703) 352-4225.For more information regarding the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., please write the Commission at 13575 Heathcote Blvd, Suite 320, Gainesville, Virginia 20155, or call (703) 352-4225 or visit their website at <a href="http://www.calea.org">http://www.calea.org</a>.

Kansas Highway Patrol seeks public input for accreditation

During a recent public comments session at a Junction City Commission meeting there was a request to consider a change in t he city code to allow chickens in residential backyards within the city. The topic is on the commission agenda when they meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at 701 North Jefferson.

Staff is recommending that if chickens are allowed that there should be adequate restrictions. City Manager Allen Dinkel noted in a memo to the commission that he is concerned about opening other issues such as ducks, rabbits and goats. He also added that he does understand those who would like to have chickens in their yard,

This topic has come before the city commission a few times in the past and so far no action has been made for the development of an ordinance to be considered. Some cities do allow backyard chickens while others do not. For those that do allow them there is a wide variety of conditions, licenses and other rules.

During a recent public comments session at a Junction City Commission meeting there was a request to consider a change in t he city code to allow chickens in residential backyards within the city. The topic is on the commission agenda when they meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at 701 North Jefferson.Staff is recommending that if chickens are allowed that there should be adequate restrictions. City Manager Allen Dinkel noted in a memo to the commission that he is concerned about opening other issues such as ducks, rabbits and goats. He also added that he does understand those who would like to have chickens in their yard,This topic has come before the city commission a few times in the past and so far no action has been made for the development of an ordinance to be considered. Some cities do allow backyard chickens while others do not. For those that do allow them there is a wide variety of conditions, licenses and other rules.

Discussion on allowing chickens in backyards will be an agenda item

Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association board members recently conducted a master overview of their facilities and identified maintenance, repairs and improvements for their Sportsman's Acres property. Future steps will include prioritizing each activity and determining if they can be accomplished through existing organization funds and / or volunteer efforts, or will require longer range planning and fundraising.

- Replace and reinforce exterior kitchen door and screen door

- Replace concrete porch outside of main door and cover the area

- Continue to repair/replace picnic tables

- Explore Point of Sale systems to allow for credit card payments

- Maintain port-a-potty rental at Pistol/Rifle range

- Upgrade to a newer tractor and build an inventory of grounds maintenance equipment (chain saws, personal protective equipment, power tools, etc.)

- Continue cedar clearance and develop wildflower habitat in some of the cleared areas

Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association board members recently conducted a master overview of their facilities and identified maintenance, repairs and improvements for their Sportsman's Acres property. Future steps will include prioritizing each activity and determining if they can be accomplished through existing organization funds and / or volunteer efforts, or will require longer range planning and fundraising.Topics discussed include:Main Building:- Paint exterior of building- Replace stove and oven in kitchen- Replace and reinforce exterior kitchen door and screen door- Replace concrete porch outside of main door and cover the areaTrap Range:- Replace or upgrade lightingPistol/Rifle Range:- Maintain overhead baffle system- Upgrade and replace dirt for backstop- Provide electrical power- Refurbish or tear down wood shedArchery Range:- Create signage and flag system- Repair/replace targetsIn General:- Continue to repair/replace picnic tables- Repair or demolish the outdoor latrine- Upgrade our media service- Explore Point of Sale systems to allow for credit card payments- Maintain port-a-potty rental at Pistol/Rifle range- Rebuild pond to hold water- Upgrade to a newer tractor and build an inventory of grounds maintenance equipment (chain saws, personal protective equipment, power tools, etc.)- Continue cedar clearance and develop wildflower habitat in some of the cleared areas

Fish & Game Association plans for facilities and improvement upgrades

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library is sponsoring a Spring Break Read-a-Thon from now through March 22nd. Children and teens can participate in reading challenges, earn two prizes for the number of challenges they complete and have their name put in a prize drawing for completing all challenges.

There are three categories including pre-school, elementary and teens.

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library is sponsoring a Spring Break Read-a-Thon from now through March 22nd. Children and teens can participate in reading challenges, earn two prizes for the number of challenges they complete and have their name put in a prize drawing for completing all challenges.There are three categories including pre-school, elementary and teens.

Spring Break Read-a-Thon is under way at the library

Geary USD 475 Chief Operations Officer David Wild reported to the Board of Education this week about the possibility of building a new Early Childhood Center. He said a new facility could house approximately 40 classrooms.&nbsp; 

Site possibilities for the proposed new facility include Fegan Field, the site of Franklin Elementary School, property south of Junction City Middle School and a site currently owned by the City of Junction City. Wild noted that those locations are improbable for a various reasons.

Wild said USD 475 is looking for 12-plus acres for the facility, which would include space for parking, pick ups and drop offs. Creation of a District 6-year Master Plan is dependent upon a Board decision regarding this development. Board members did not make any motion this week.

Geary USD 475 Chief Operations Officer David Wild reported to the Board of Education this week about the possibility of building a new Early Childhood Center. He said a new facility could house approximately 40 classrooms.&nbsp; Site possibilities for the proposed new facility include Fegan Field, the site of Franklin Elementary School, property south of Junction City Middle School and a site currently owned by the City of Junction City. Wild noted that those locations are improbable for a various reasons.Wild said USD 475 is looking for 12-plus acres for the facility, which would include space for parking, pick ups and drop offs. Creation of a District 6-year Master Plan is dependent upon a Board decision regarding this development. Board members did not make any motion this week.

 Possible Early Childhood Center project receives attention

65th District State Representative Lonnie Clark is working to&nbsp; try and bring a Veterans Home to Junction City. He has held some discussions with state officials on this potential project. "It's not confirmed yet but they're looking for a new old soldiers home in the state of Kansas."

Clark told a recent legislative coffee audience hosted by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce that is "working desperately hard for that to come here." He noted that it will be a battle between Junction City and Leavenworth. "Right now I'm pretty confident, but that's just in the works. Nothing has been really guaranteed with either one, but that's one of the things that we've worked on real hard all year."

65th District State Representative Lonnie Clark is working to&nbsp; try and bring a Veterans Home to Junction City. He has held some discussions with state officials on this potential project. "It's not confirmed yet but they're looking for a new old soldiers home in the state of Kansas."Clark told a recent legislative coffee audience hosted by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce that is "working desperately hard for that to come here." He noted that it will be a battle between Junction City and Leavenworth. "Right now I'm pretty confident, but that's just in the works. Nothing has been really guaranteed with either one, but that's one of the things that we've worked on real hard all year."

Clark works to try and bring Veterans Home to Junction City

Geary County Senior Center will be closed on Friday, March 11th. They will reopen on Monday, March 14th.&nbsp;

Geary County Senior Center will be closed on Friday, March 11th. They will reopen on Monday, March 14th.&nbsp;

Senior Center will be closed Friday

TOPEKA — The Kansas Chamber announced its 2022 Leadership Kansas class, which includes two from Manhattan and one from Wamego.

Paul Chai is&nbsp;Senior Director of Investments at K-State, Suzanne Ryan-Numrich is International Trade Director with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Brandi Miller of Wamego is President and CEO of Kansas Cooperative Council

As one of the oldest and most prestigious statewide leadership programs in the country, Leadership Kansas, or LK, is focused on developing and motivating Kansas leaders from across the state.

Kansas Chamber President and CEO Alan Cobb said the Kansas Chamber is excited to welcome the newest Leadership Kansas class — a great representation of the state's demographics.

"Leadership Kansas has a long history of fostering greater awareness and understanding of statewide economic, business, and political issues. The program helps develop our state leaders to make Kansas a stronger and more vibrant business engine," said Cobb. "Graduates of the LK program have gone on to take on key leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels."

Leadership Kansas received more than 600 nominations for the 2022 program. After a thorough&nbsp;and thoughtful application and selection process, the selection committee chose 40 individuals for the 2022 class.&nbsp;

The committee and the Leadership Kansas Board of Advisors make every effort to ensure the class reflects the state in regard to geographic, ethnic, occupational, and gender diversity.&nbsp;

The program begins in April with an orientation session in Lawrence and ends with graduation in October after the completion of seven sessions.

The other cities the 2022 class will visit for this year's program include Garden City, Liberal, Overland Park, Olathe, Lenexa, Kansas City, KS, Leavenworth,&nbsp;Hays, Pittsburg, Hutchinson, Wichita, El Dorado, Manhattan, and Topeka.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Throughout the seven-month program, the class interacts with a variety of experts and community leaders through three-day educational training sessions. The diverse discussion topics include business, education, agriculture, public policy, societal health, economic development, and government.

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sf9se_i4qbVqJukPShgGEr4Nmqh1clDdLiGORCe6bCpGlvS5DxMcRssbUDkMwnJmn53pVlTiNmyw3IQqk-Oqj8hWhFoi-fYWPcclDWnIXawdMa-0J6tENl1Ob7h01TYi1TKkNy6OH4R0IbgsrjDekz9He0w7V7RKiFxHj98gtRM7qsGlzYwKzWs37ozrWEDG30Mf1dGXbiMtU44t_vLmR48tMLDXfflUSAJj-mAxILo=&amp;c=6QSTGopWa-01_ZnrU2hIsuGGwtqY_tV_qBbU4IS6CW3I2Lfrh2ejkA==&amp;ch=LE6dEBnanBUi7e9wv7iOcG2IRHV7LB11_4yJylpfosuixEH40R8PcA==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to see a complete list of the 2022 Leadership Kansas class.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583264003733.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Leadership KansasTOPEKA — The Kansas Chamber announced its 2022 Leadership Kansas class, which includes two from Manhattan and one from Wamego.Paul Chai is&nbsp;Senior Director of Investments at K-State, Suzanne Ryan-Numrich is International Trade Director with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and Brandi Miller of Wamego is President and CEO of Kansas Cooperative CouncilAs one of the oldest and most prestigious statewide leadership programs in the country, Leadership Kansas, or LK, is focused on developing and motivating Kansas leaders from across the state.Kansas Chamber President and CEO Alan Cobb said the Kansas Chamber is excited to welcome the newest Leadership Kansas class — a great representation of the state's demographics. "Leadership Kansas has a long history of fostering greater awareness and understanding of statewide economic, business, and political issues. The program helps develop our state leaders to make Kansas a stronger and more vibrant business engine," said Cobb. "Graduates of the LK program have gone on to take on key leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels."Leadership Kansas received more than 600 nominations for the 2022 program. After a thorough&nbsp;and thoughtful application and selection process, the selection committee chose 40 individuals for the 2022 class.&nbsp;The committee and the Leadership Kansas Board of Advisors make every effort to ensure the class reflects the state in regard to geographic, ethnic, occupational, and gender diversity.&nbsp;The program begins in April with an orientation session in Lawrence and ends with graduation in October after the completion of seven sessions.The other cities the 2022 class will visit for this year's program include Garden City, Liberal, Overland Park, Olathe, Lenexa, Kansas City, KS, Leavenworth,&nbsp;Hays, Pittsburg, Hutchinson, Wichita, El Dorado, Manhattan, and Topeka.&nbsp;&nbsp;Throughout the seven-month program, the class interacts with a variety of experts and community leaders through three-day educational training sessions. The diverse discussion topics include business, education, agriculture, public policy, societal health, economic development, and government.<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Sf9se_i4qbVqJukPShgGEr4Nmqh1clDdLiGORCe6bCpGlvS5DxMcRssbUDkMwnJmn53pVlTiNmyw3IQqk-Oqj8hWhFoi-fYWPcclDWnIXawdMa-0J6tENl1Ob7h01TYi1TKkNy6OH4R0IbgsrjDekz9He0w7V7RKiFxHj98gtRM7qsGlzYwKzWs37ozrWEDG30Mf1dGXbiMtU44t_vLmR48tMLDXfflUSAJj-mAxILo=&amp;c=6QSTGopWa-01_ZnrU2hIsuGGwtqY_tV_qBbU4IS6CW3I2Lfrh2ejkA==&amp;ch=LE6dEBnanBUi7e9wv7iOcG2IRHV7LB11_4yJylpfosuixEH40R8PcA==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to see a complete list of the 2022 Leadership Kansas class.&nbsp;&nbsp;

3 area residents selected for 2022 Leadership Kansas

Harmony Junction Friday night will include a performance by the Church Ladies unsupervised. One performer, Mary Louise Stahl, said that they're an acoustic trio that includes herself, Cynthia Carlyon and Joan Nelson. "What we do is a mix of gospel, bluegrass and old rock n roll. "It's three girls stepping up to the plate and doing their thing."&nbsp;

Stahl said they perform some old Carol King, gospel tunes and a few old Beatles tunes.

There will also be a performance by guitarist Sam Markley.&nbsp;

Admission for Harmony Junction will be $10. It&nbsp; begins at 7 p.m.

Harmony Junction Friday night will include a performance by the Church Ladies unsupervised. One performer, Mary Louise Stahl, said that they're an acoustic trio that includes herself, Cynthia Carlyon and Joan Nelson. "What we do is a mix of gospel, bluegrass and old rock n roll. "It's three girls stepping up to the plate and doing their thing."&nbsp;Stahl said they perform some old Carol King, gospel tunes and a few old Beatles tunes.There will also be a performance by guitarist Sam Markley.&nbsp;Admission for Harmony Junction will be $10. It&nbsp; begins at 7 p.m.

Harmony Junction is on the Friday night schedule at the Opera House

Junction City Commissioners have voted to approve $50,000 in funding for Freedom Fest JC, the Fourth of July celebration being planned downtown July 1-4.

Commissioners approved a motion for the funding at their March 1st meeting, The City will also provide in-kind funding in the form of support such as police, public works and parks, confirmed City Manager Allen Dinkel. He noted that for any in-town kind of event, in this case Freedom Fest, that kind of support is provided. "Because it's all about bringing people into our community. Of course one of our jobs is to provide service for the community."

Dinkel noted that the City used to give money to the July 4th celebration before the 2008-2009 City financial crisis. "As a community we've done so well through COVID, survived. Our sales tax ( revenue ) has grown and it's probably good for the community to celebrate now and then. This is going to be a good place to do it."

The commission heard from Freedom Fest JC Co-Chair Bob Story who noted that bands are being contracted for primarily evening hours and there is a goal to make this a family fun event. He pointed to some of the additional daytime activities, mainly for kids. "Hog Diggity Dogs is the biggest thing that has a hog and it has dogs that perform, they're rescue dogs. They also have two camels that they bring to town."

There also plans to feature a Circus Man that walks around to interact with children and performs a stage show and Ag Puppets, which will be an educational presentation. There will be vendors and fireworks during the celebration as well.

The preliminary budget for the entire celebration has been estimated in the $130,000 to $140,000 range.&nbsp;

The City Commission vote to contribute $50,000 was 4-0 with commissioner Nate Butler abstaining. He is a co-chair for Freedom Fest JC.

Junction City Commissioners have voted to approve $50,000 in funding for Freedom Fest JC, the Fourth of July celebration being planned downtown July 1-4.Commissioners approved a motion for the funding at their March 1st meeting, The City will also provide in-kind funding in the form of support such as police, public works and parks, confirmed City Manager Allen Dinkel. He noted that for any in-town kind of event, in this case Freedom Fest, that kind of support is provided. "Because it's all about bringing people into our community. Of course one of our jobs is to provide service for the community."Dinkel noted that the City used to give money to the July 4th celebration before the 2008-2009 City financial crisis. "As a community we've done so well through COVID, survived. Our sales tax ( revenue ) has grown and it's probably good for the community to celebrate now and then. This is going to be a good place to do it."The commission heard from Freedom Fest JC Co-Chair Bob Story who noted that bands are being contracted for primarily evening hours and there is a goal to make this a family fun event. He pointed to some of the additional daytime activities, mainly for kids. "Hog Diggity Dogs is the biggest thing that has a hog and it has dogs that perform, they're rescue dogs. They also have two camels that they bring to town."There also plans to feature a Circus Man that walks around to interact with children and performs a stage show and Ag Puppets, which will be an educational presentation. There will be vendors and fireworks during the celebration as well.The preliminary budget for the entire celebration has been estimated in the $130,000 to $140,000 range.&nbsp;The City Commission vote to contribute $50,000 was 4-0 with commissioner Nate Butler abstaining. He is a co-chair for Freedom Fest JC.

City Commission authorizes funding for Freedom Fest JC

MANHATTAN — For the second year, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University offers two summer opportunities for future veterinarians: SPARK, the Summer Program for Aspiring Rural Kansas veterinarians, and SPRINTS, the Specialized Programs for the Recruitment of Indigenous, Native and Tribal Students initiative. SPARK creates direct and purposeful connections between aspiring veterinarians and veterinary practices in rural communities throughout Kansas. The daylong immersive experience provides participants with the opportunity to shadow veterinarians in rural communities in order to gain exposure to the demands and rewards of rural veterinary practice. The goal of the program is to generate long-term interest in a career in rural veterinary medicine. Additionally, SPARK participants will engage in consultation sessions to learn how to create a competitive application for a selective Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. Ideal applicants for the SPARK program are those who intend to apply for admission to a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program during the 2022-2023 application cycle and are within five years of attaining a veterinary medicine degree; however, applicants outside of that criteria are welcome to apply as well. To apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3CVGJQyBuMKIrd4">kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3CVGJQyBuMKIrd4</a>. The SPRINTS initiative provides opportunities for high school and college students who identify as tribal, Native American or Indigenous to gain exposure to veterinary medicine as a potential career path. The initiative encompasses many opportunities for participants, including sponsorships for registration, travel and lodging costs to attend Vet Med ROCKS, an annual summer camp hosted by K-State's College of Veterinary Medicine. SPRINTS participants will also receive a faculty and student mentor in the college to help prepare for and apply to Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programs. Additionally, participants will receive tailored consultations from admissions staff about the application process and fee waivers for their application to K-State's Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. Ideal applicants for the SPRINTS initiative are high school and undergraduate college students, at least 18 years of age, who identify as Indigenous, Native American or tribal, and with a desire to learn more about careers in veterinary medicine. To apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGZJAV5Vvv3SmEK">kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGZJAV5Vvv3SmEK</a>.

The deadline to apply for both programs is Friday, May 6. Questions about these programs can be directed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admit@vet.k-state.edu">admit@vet.k-state.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646999366402.png" alt="Veterinarian Brady Luke at Solomon Valley Veterinary Hospital in Beloit shows prospective veterinary students in the SPARK program a few items typically used in the field by cattle veterinarians.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Veterinarian Brady Luke at Solomon Valley Veterinary Hospital in Beloit shows prospective veterinary students in the SPARK program a few items typically used in the field by cattle veterinarians.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;Joe Montgomery, KSUMANHATTAN — For the second year, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University offers two summer opportunities for future veterinarians: SPARK, the Summer Program for Aspiring Rural Kansas veterinarians, and SPRINTS, the Specialized Programs for the Recruitment of Indigenous, Native and Tribal Students initiative. SPARK creates direct and purposeful connections between aspiring veterinarians and veterinary practices in rural communities throughout Kansas. The daylong immersive experience provides participants with the opportunity to shadow veterinarians in rural communities in order to gain exposure to the demands and rewards of rural veterinary practice. The goal of the program is to generate long-term interest in a career in rural veterinary medicine. Additionally, SPARK participants will engage in consultation sessions to learn how to create a competitive application for a selective Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. Ideal applicants for the SPARK program are those who intend to apply for admission to a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program during the 2022-2023 application cycle and are within five years of attaining a veterinary medicine degree; however, applicants outside of that criteria are welcome to apply as well. To apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3CVGJQyBuMKIrd4">kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3CVGJQyBuMKIrd4</a>. The SPRINTS initiative provides opportunities for high school and college students who identify as tribal, Native American or Indigenous to gain exposure to veterinary medicine as a potential career path. The initiative encompasses many opportunities for participants, including sponsorships for registration, travel and lodging costs to attend Vet Med ROCKS, an annual summer camp hosted by K-State's College of Veterinary Medicine. SPRINTS participants will also receive a faculty and student mentor in the college to help prepare for and apply to Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programs. Additionally, participants will receive tailored consultations from admissions staff about the application process and fee waivers for their application to K-State's Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. Ideal applicants for the SPRINTS initiative are high school and undergraduate college students, at least 18 years of age, who identify as Indigenous, Native American or tribal, and with a desire to learn more about careers in veterinary medicine. To apply, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGZJAV5Vvv3SmEK">kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cGZJAV5Vvv3SmEK</a>.The deadline to apply for both programs is Friday, May 6. Questions about these programs can be directed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:admit@vet.k-state.edu">admit@vet.k-state.edu</a>.

Summer programs encourage students to experience veterinary medicine

By MICHAEL MERSCHEL American Heart Association

If you struggle with the switch to daylight saving time, you might feel enlightened to learn it's not just in your head. It involves an interplay between the clock, sunshine and your body at a cellular level.

Planning ahead to shift clocks forward one hour, which happens this year on March 13, could ease the transition, say sleep experts, who see the time change as a serious health threat.

"We all lose an hour of sleep from time to time," said Dr. Beth Malow, director of the sleep division at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. But daylight saving time is more than that.

For starters, "it's not just that one hour," Malow said. It can lead to more.

High school students, for example, lost an average of 32 minutes of sleep on weeknights following the shift, for a net loss of 2 hours, 42 minutes that week, according to a small 2015 study in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4513265/">Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine</a>.

According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.8780">American Academy of Sleep Medicine</a>, effects of the time change might last for months. Some of those effects appear serious.

"People are more prone to having some types of cardiovascular events because of the change in time," said Girardin Jean-Louis, director of the Center on Translational Sleep and Circadian Sciences at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Florida. Research shows the risks of having a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/8/3/404/htm">heart attack</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945716302222">stroke</a>&nbsp;and episodes of an irregular heartbeat called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945720300496">atrial fibrillation</a>&nbsp;can increase after the time change.

The shift to daylight saving time differs from the jet lag that accompanies travel because of our biology, Malow said.

Many of our organs have internal clocks, she said. A key signal for those body clocks, or circadian rhythms, is light. If you travel from Chicago to New York, you lose an hour, but a shift in the light cycle accompanies the change. When it's time to spring forward, you don't get that cue.

Younger, healthier people may adjust more quickly, Jean-Louis said. But for older people, or those with medical conditions that affect their sleep, "it's a much, much harder task to try to get back to schedule."

Although some defend daylight saving time for economic and other reasons, Jean-Louis and Malow, like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, said a fixed year-round time would be the healthiest approach. But, as Jean-Louis said, "that's not going to happen anytime soon."

– Take sleep seriously. Most adults need at least seven hours a night, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a>&nbsp;says. Older and younger people may need more. Yet a third of U.S. adults are sleep-deprived,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/p0215-enough-sleep.html">CDC data show</a>. The shift to daylight saving time can exacerbate that, Malow said.

– Make a gradual shift. Most people don't adjust until the day of the change, Jean-Louis said. But if you start a few days ahead, shifting bedtime by 20 minutes a day, "it's easier for you to get accustomed to the new clock."

– Don't sleep in on Sunday. It's tempting, Malow acknowledged. "But really try to get up at your usual time and get exposed to light, because that bright light in the morning will help you wake up, and it will also help you fall asleep easier at night."

– See the light. Jean-Louis also emphasizes light exposure in the morning. "You could wake up one hour early and take a walk facing east so that you have exposure to the sun as it rises." Again, starting a few days ahead of time is important, he said.

– Coffee? OK, but be careful. Malow and Jean-Louis are coffee drinkers. And both say it's great for keeping you alert in the morning. But only drink it early in the day. "If you're having coffee at about 3, 4 or 5 p.m., that's just not good," Jean-Louis said, "because it can trigger a cascade of dysregulated sleep cycles, which influence your ability to get a good night's sleep."

– Don't use alcohol to help you fall asleep earlier. "That can actually interrupt your sleep in the middle of the night," Malow said.

– Limit screens. The blue light from screens is "kind of like being exposed to sunlight late at night," Malow said. So limit time looking at them, especially at bedtime. "Try reading a book or do something that doesn't involve that light. If you absolutely have to be on your computer or phone, use settings that help cut down on the light."

– Help the kids. Parents of small children know that time changes can be rough. But most of the advice for adults also works for kids, Malow said. "Try to get them to bed a little earlier the few days leading up to it," she said. And "pay attention to getting them out in the bright light as much as you can once we make the change so they can acclimate."

– Address persistent problems. If someone has a regular problem falling or staying asleep, or if they have signs of sleep apnea such as snoring or excessive sleepiness, "they really should get it checked out" by a doctor, Malow said. Sleep is important not only for feeling good, "but it can make a tremendous difference on our health, including our heart health."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646927248170.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By MICHAEL MERSCHEL American Heart AssociationIf you struggle with the switch to daylight saving time, you might feel enlightened to learn it's not just in your head. It involves an interplay between the clock, sunshine and your body at a cellular level.Planning ahead to shift clocks forward one hour, which happens this year on March 13, could ease the transition, say sleep experts, who see the time change as a serious health threat."We all lose an hour of sleep from time to time," said Dr. Beth Malow, director of the sleep division at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. But daylight saving time is more than that.For starters, "it's not just that one hour," Malow said. It can lead to more.High school students, for example, lost an average of 32 minutes of sleep on weeknights following the shift, for a net loss of 2 hours, 42 minutes that week, according to a small 2015 study in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4513265/">Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine</a>.According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.8780">American Academy of Sleep Medicine</a>, effects of the time change might last for months. Some of those effects appear serious."People are more prone to having some types of cardiovascular events because of the change in time," said Girardin Jean-Louis, director of the Center on Translational Sleep and Circadian Sciences at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Florida. Research shows the risks of having a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/8/3/404/htm">heart attack</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945716302222">stroke</a>&nbsp;and episodes of an irregular heartbeat called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945720300496">atrial fibrillation</a>&nbsp;can increase after the time change.The shift to daylight saving time differs from the jet lag that accompanies travel because of our biology, Malow said.Many of our organs have internal clocks, she said. A key signal for those body clocks, or circadian rhythms, is light. If you travel from Chicago to New York, you lose an hour, but a shift in the light cycle accompanies the change. When it's time to spring forward, you don't get that cue.Younger, healthier people may adjust more quickly, Jean-Louis said. But for older people, or those with medical conditions that affect their sleep, "it's a much, much harder task to try to get back to schedule."Although some defend daylight saving time for economic and other reasons, Jean-Louis and Malow, like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, said a fixed year-round time would be the healthiest approach. But, as Jean-Louis said, "that's not going to happen anytime soon."So, they offered this advice:– Take sleep seriously. Most adults need at least seven hours a night, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/how_much_sleep.html">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a>&nbsp;says. Older and younger people may need more. Yet a third of U.S. adults are sleep-deprived,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/p0215-enough-sleep.html">CDC data show</a>. The shift to daylight saving time can exacerbate that, Malow said.– Make a gradual shift. Most people don't adjust until the day of the change, Jean-Louis said. But if you start a few days ahead, shifting bedtime by 20 minutes a day, "it's easier for you to get accustomed to the new clock."– Don't sleep in on Sunday. It's tempting, Malow acknowledged. "But really try to get up at your usual time and get exposed to light, because that bright light in the morning will help you wake up, and it will also help you fall asleep easier at night."– See the light. Jean-Louis also emphasizes light exposure in the morning. "You could wake up one hour early and take a walk facing east so that you have exposure to the sun as it rises." Again, starting a few days ahead of time is important, he said.– Coffee? OK, but be careful. Malow and Jean-Louis are coffee drinkers. And both say it's great for keeping you alert in the morning. But only drink it early in the day. "If you're having coffee at about 3, 4 or 5 p.m., that's just not good," Jean-Louis said, "because it can trigger a cascade of dysregulated sleep cycles, which influence your ability to get a good night's sleep."– Don't use alcohol to help you fall asleep earlier. "That can actually interrupt your sleep in the middle of the night," Malow said.– Limit screens. The blue light from screens is "kind of like being exposed to sunlight late at night," Malow said. So limit time looking at them, especially at bedtime. "Try reading a book or do something that doesn't involve that light. If you absolutely have to be on your computer or phone, use settings that help cut down on the light."– Help the kids. Parents of small children know that time changes can be rough. But most of the advice for adults also works for kids, Malow said. "Try to get them to bed a little earlier the few days leading up to it," she said. And "pay attention to getting them out in the bright light as much as you can once we make the change so they can acclimate."– Address persistent problems. If someone has a regular problem falling or staying asleep, or if they have signs of sleep apnea such as snoring or excessive sleepiness, "they really should get it checked out" by a doctor, Malow said. Sleep is important not only for feeling good, "but it can make a tremendous difference on our health, including our heart health."

Ready to 'spring forward'? Ease into time change with these health tips

Junction Public Works Director Ray Ibarra feels there has been substantial progress on snow removal from city streets. Speaking at about 6 p.m. he noted that the city had as many as six trucks and crews out working on the effort. "They have done a really good job of making sure the arterials and collectors are well taken care of, and now we are working in the residential areas."

Ibarra is hopeful that residential streets can be reasonably clear by Friday morning. "Yes that's what we're looking for, that's what we're shooting for. "Ibarra added that he was proud of the employees who did an excellent job of getting the snow cleared off the roads.

Geary County Public Works Director Corey Trumpp said just after 1 p.m. Thursday that the asphalt roads in the county were in pretty good shape. Slush was developing on some of them. "Traveling public still needs to take into account that this slush is a little tricky to drive on. You can hydroplane on it."&nbsp;

The county had five trucks going over all of the asphalt paved roads. There were also plans to dispatch out a pair of blades later in the afternoon to hit some of the more traveled roads before the end of the day, and to put blades out early.

UPDATE:Junction Public Works Director Ray Ibarra feels there has been substantial progress on snow removal from city streets. Speaking at about 6 p.m. he noted that the city had as many as six trucks and crews out working on the effort. "They have done a really good job of making sure the arterials and collectors are well taken care of, and now we are working in the residential areas."Ibarra is hopeful that residential streets can be reasonably clear by Friday morning. "Yes that's what we're looking for, that's what we're shooting for. "Ibarra added that he was proud of the employees who did an excellent job of getting the snow cleared off the roads.----Geary County Public Works Director Corey Trumpp said just after 1 p.m. Thursday that the asphalt roads in the county were in pretty good shape. Slush was developing on some of them. "Traveling public still needs to take into account that this slush is a little tricky to drive on. You can hydroplane on it."&nbsp;The county had five trucks going over all of the asphalt paved roads. There were also plans to dispatch out a pair of blades later in the afternoon to hit some of the more traveled roads before the end of the day, and to put blades out early.

Crews continue to work at snow removal

Military Spouse is recognized for her extensive work in community outreach focused on the wellness of soldiers and families in the Fort Riley and local community

(Fort Riley, Kansas) — Following hundreds of nominations nationwide and a national vote yielding more than 20,000 votes, Monica Bassett has been named the 2022 Armed Forces Insurance Army Spouse of the Year. Bassett is currently stationed with her husband, MAJ Gregory A Bassett, at Fort Riley.

Now in its 13th year honoring the unwavering dedication of our nation's more than 1.1 million military spouses, Armed Forces Insurance is proud to recognize and reward the sacrifice of military spouses from all six branches of the Armed Forces who are advocating for others and having a tangible, measurable effect on their communities.

Monica Bassett is a mom of two and a military spouse of eight years. Her love of volunteering and passion for bridging the gap between organizations, communities, and service members has afforded her a glimpse into diverse aspects of the military community. Monica's work to bring awareness of food insecurity within the military community and highlight organizations that assist struggling military families (e.g., Operation Santa, Victory

Wellness Dinners, Food Pantry of Geary County) reflects her heart for the community at large. She has developed an inclusive volunteer force of soldiers, military spouses, and families and built community through service itself. Monica's passion for aiding her community grows directly from her love for it, and she looks forward to building on the work she has already done to benefit the military community as a whole. "I am extremely honored to have received the prestigious title of Armed Forces Insurance Army Spouse of the Year” said Bassett. “I hope to use the resources and AFI Military Spouse community to learn from others, build on others’ successes, and capitalize on opportunities to not only share the difficulties many military families are facing, but also open up solution-finding discussions among the amazing spouse community and related networks. I will continue to use my platform to advocate and bring awareness to food insecurity within the military community and advocate for the underserved while promoting volunteerism and community-building with military families and soldiers.”

Nominations from community members nationwide were accepted from November 29, 2021, through January 21, 2022. The program is organized by base-level winners, the top 21 finalists, then branch level winners, and, finally, the overall 2022 Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year® (AFI MSOY) who are all selected by popular vote and judging panels. As a base and branch winner, Bassett was judged on five core criteria: overall involvement in the military community, leadership skills, community building capability, communication skills, and overall personal story. Bassett is now in consideration of being named the overall winner. After a final vote conducted on March 10-11, the overall winner will be unveiled at an awards luncheon on May 5 at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel in Arlington, VA, in conjunction with National Military Spouse Appreciation Day, which occurs on May 5.

Military Spouse is recognized for her extensive work in community outreach focused on the wellness of soldiers and families in the Fort Riley and local community(Fort Riley, Kansas) — Following hundreds of nominations nationwide and a national vote yielding more than 20,000 votes, Monica Bassett has been named the 2022 Armed Forces Insurance Army Spouse of the Year. Bassett is currently stationed with her husband, MAJ Gregory A Bassett, at Fort Riley.Now in its 13th year honoring the unwavering dedication of our nation's more than 1.1 million military spouses, Armed Forces Insurance is proud to recognize and reward the sacrifice of military spouses from all six branches of the Armed Forces who are advocating for others and having a tangible, measurable effect on their communities.Monica Bassett is a mom of two and a military spouse of eight years. Her love of volunteering and passion for bridging the gap between organizations, communities, and service members has afforded her a glimpse into diverse aspects of the military community. Monica's work to bring awareness of food insecurity within the military community and highlight organizations that assist struggling military families (e.g., Operation Santa, VictoryWellness Dinners, Food Pantry of Geary County) reflects her heart for the community at large. She has developed an inclusive volunteer force of soldiers, military spouses, and families and built community through service itself. Monica's passion for aiding her community grows directly from her love for it, and she looks forward to building on the work she has already done to benefit the military community as a whole. "I am extremely honored to have received the prestigious title of Armed Forces Insurance Army Spouse of the Year” said Bassett. “I hope to use the resources and AFI Military Spouse community to learn from others, build on others’ successes, and capitalize on opportunities to not only share the difficulties many military families are facing, but also open up solution-finding discussions among the amazing spouse community and related networks. I will continue to use my platform to advocate and bring awareness to food insecurity within the military community and advocate for the underserved while promoting volunteerism and community-building with military families and soldiers.”Nominations from community members nationwide were accepted from November 29, 2021, through January 21, 2022. The program is organized by base-level winners, the top 21 finalists, then branch level winners, and, finally, the overall 2022 Armed Forces Insurance Military Spouse of the Year® (AFI MSOY) who are all selected by popular vote and judging panels. As a base and branch winner, Bassett was judged on five core criteria: overall involvement in the military community, leadership skills, community building capability, communication skills, and overall personal story. Bassett is now in consideration of being named the overall winner. After a final vote conducted on March 10-11, the overall winner will be unveiled at an awards luncheon on May 5 at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel in Arlington, VA, in conjunction with National Military Spouse Appreciation Day, which occurs on May 5.

Monica Bassett Armed Forces Insurance Army Spouse of the Year

--

The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will close at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The book drop will remain open so items can still be returned.&nbsp;&nbsp;Regular hours will resume on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Questions can be referred to Susan Moyer at 785-238-4311 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:susanm@jclib.org" target="_blank">susanm@jclib.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

--The meeting of the Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel (JCARSP) will not be held Friday, March 11.

--Geary County Historical Museum will be closed on Thursd1ay.

--Junction City Family YMCA will be closed Thursday.

--Riley County offices are closed Thursday.

--Geary County offices are closed Thursday. Only essential personnel are reporting to work.

--USD 481 Rural Vista schools are closed Thursday.

--Geary USD 475 will be closed on Thursday

--USD 383 Manhattan / Ogden schools are closed Thursday

--Saint Xavier School is closed Thursday and all activities are cancelled.

Konza Prairie Community Health Center clinic in Junction City is open and operating on their normal schedule today in Junction City. Please give yourself extra time to arrive safely. If you cannot make it to your appointment, please call 785-238-4711 to reschedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Konza Manhattan clinic is closed today, March 10, due to the Riley County Health Department being closed. All appointments will be rescheduled.&nbsp;

--

--Junction City offices will be open Thursday and Geary Community Hospital clinics and services are operating on their normal schedule Thursday.

--Cloud Community College Geary County and Concordia campuses closed Thursday

--Manhattan Area Technical School closed Thursday

--Manhattan Catholic Schools closed Thursday and conferences postponed

--Manhattan Christian College closed Thursday

--USD 378 Riley County schools are closed. All acivities are postponed.

--USD 379 Clay County schools are closed Thursday

--USD 323 Rock Creek closed Thursday. All activities are cancelled.

--USD 384 Blue Valley Schools are closed Thursday

--Due to inclement weather, Fort Riley is operating with minimal manning and limited services Thursday, March 10.

Irwin Army Community Hospital will also conduct limited services operations and is rescheduling patient appointments; Emergency room and in-patient services remain available.

Parker and Grant Access Control Points are closed and will reopen at 5 a.m. Friday. Trooper, Henry, Ogden and Four Corners gates remain 24/7. 12th Street ACP (open to commercial traffic only) and Visitor Control Center are open normal hours.

The Post Exchange will open at 10 a.m. Big Red One and Forsyth Express fuel stations and convenience stores will open at 10 a.m. The Commissary will open at 11 a.m.

All MWR facilities, including manned Fitness Centers and Child Development Centers, and all Child and Youth Services programs – teen center and School Age Services - are closed. The Craig and Whitside physical fitness centers are open 24/7 for secure patron access by card.

ID Cards office, Fort Riley Education Services and other Human Resources services are closed.

A PCS Summit scheduled for March 10 is postponed to a date to be announced.

Soldiers, family members and civilian professionals are encouraged to visit https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley or the Fort Riley website at https://home.army.mil/riley and click on “Advisories” for updated information. Employees with questions or concerns should contact their supervisors.

--Kansas State University, Manhattan campus will be closed Thursday. Only essential personnel will be on campus. On-campus dining centers will open at 8 a.m.

--Neighborhood Learning Center in Junction City closed Thursday

--Riley County Senior Center will be closed Thursday.

--Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce annual dinner has been postponed until April 14 at 6 p.m.

--Geary County Senior Center will be closed on Thursday

--K-State Center for Child Development Center will be closed Thursday

--USD 320 Wamego Parent-Teacher conferences will be conducted virtually. Schools will send out information on format and the necessary zoom links that will be needed. For those wanting in-person conferences those will be scheduled at a later date. Contact&nbsp; the school or your teacher to make those arrangements.

--Wamego Senior Center will be closed Thursday

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The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will close at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 10.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The book drop will remain open so items can still be returned.&nbsp;&nbsp;Regular hours will resume on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Questions can be referred to Susan Moyer at 785-238-4311 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:susanm@jclib.org" target="_blank">susanm@jclib.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;--The meeting of the Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel (JCARSP) will not be held Friday, March 11.--Geary County Historical Museum will be closed on Thursd1ay.--Junction City Family YMCA will be closed Thursday.--Riley County offices are closed Thursday.--Geary County offices are closed Thursday. Only essential personnel are reporting to work.--USD 481 Rural Vista schools are closed Thursday.--Geary USD 475 will be closed on Thursday--USD 383 Manhattan / Ogden schools are closed Thursday--Saint Xavier School is closed Thursday and all activities are cancelled.Konza Prairie Community Health Center clinic in Junction City is open and operating on their normal schedule today in Junction City. Please give yourself extra time to arrive safely. If you cannot make it to your appointment, please call 785-238-4711 to reschedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Konza Manhattan clinic is closed today, March 10, due to the Riley County Health Department being closed. All appointments will be rescheduled.&nbsp;--

--Junction City offices will be open Thursday and Geary Community Hospital clinics and services are operating on their normal schedule Thursday.--Cloud Community College Geary County and Concordia campuses closed Thursday--Manhattan Area Technical School closed Thursday--Manhattan Catholic Schools closed Thursday and conferences postponed--Manhattan Christian College closed Thursday--USD 473 Chapman closed Thursday--USD 378 Riley County schools are closed. All acivities are postponed.--USD 379 Clay County schools are closed Thursday--USD 487 Herington is closed--USD 17 Council Grove closed Thursday--USD 323 Rock Creek closed Thursday. All activities are cancelled.--USD 384 Blue Valley Schools are closed Thursday--Due to inclement weather, Fort Riley is operating with minimal manning and limited services Thursday, March 10.Irwin Army Community Hospital will also conduct limited services operations and is rescheduling patient appointments; Emergency room and in-patient services remain available.Parker and Grant Access Control Points are closed and will reopen at 5 a.m. Friday. Trooper, Henry, Ogden and Four Corners gates remain 24/7. 12th Street ACP (open to commercial traffic only) and Visitor Control Center are open normal hours.The Post Exchange will open at 10 a.m. Big Red One and Forsyth Express fuel stations and convenience stores will open at 10 a.m. The Commissary will open at 11 a.m.All MWR facilities, including manned Fitness Centers and Child Development Centers, and all Child and Youth Services programs – teen center and School Age Services - are closed. The Craig and Whitside physical fitness centers are open 24/7 for secure patron access by card.ID Cards office, Fort Riley Education Services and other Human Resources services are closed.A PCS Summit scheduled for March 10 is postponed to a date to be announced.Soldiers, family members and civilian professionals are encouraged to visit https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley or the Fort Riley website at https://home.army.mil/riley and click on “Advisories” for updated information. Employees with questions or concerns should contact their supervisors.--Kansas State University, Manhattan campus will be closed Thursday. Only essential personnel will be on campus. On-campus dining centers will open at 8 a.m.--Neighborhood Learning Center in Junction City closed Thursday--Riley County Senior Center will be closed Thursday.--Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce annual dinner has been postponed until April 14 at 6 p.m.--Geary County Senior Center will be closed on Thursday--K-State Center for Child Development Center will be closed Thursday--USD 320 Wamego Parent-Teacher conferences will be conducted virtually. Schools will send out information on format and the necessary zoom links that will be needed. For those wanting in-person conferences those will be scheduled at a later date. Contact&nbsp; the school or your teacher to make those arrangements.--Wamego Senior Center will be closed Thursday

Postponements and cancellations announced on Thursday

<a href="https://salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>&nbsp;Open House is scheduled for March 26, with lots of events for all ages. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/visit/open-house/" target="_blank">K-State Salina Open House</a>&nbsp;is the campus's largest attraction of the year and an opportunity for the community to see what K-State Salina has to offer. The event is returning after a two-year hiatus and will be from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Current students and their families, high school students interested in exploring campus, alumni, donors and the general public are all invited to the family-friendly day that showcases the experience that the Aerospace and Technology Campus offers. Lunch will also be offered at a discounted rate in the on-campus dining center, Centennial Dining. Some of the K-State Salina Open House events include the Pancake Fundraiser benefiting the K-State Salina Flight Team, an academic and student club showcase and a visit by Willie Wildcat. The day will be highlighted by a fleet unveiling, introducing the new aircraft that recently arrived on the campus. For a complete schedule of the 2022 K-State Salina Open House and to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/visit/open-house/" target="_blank">salina.k-state.edu/admissions/visit/open-house</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

K-State Salina<a href="https://salina.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus</a>&nbsp;Open House is scheduled for March 26, with lots of events for all ages. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/visit/open-house/" target="_blank">K-State Salina Open House</a>&nbsp;is the campus's largest attraction of the year and an opportunity for the community to see what K-State Salina has to offer. The event is returning after a two-year hiatus and will be from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Current students and their families, high school students interested in exploring campus, alumni, donors and the general public are all invited to the family-friendly day that showcases the experience that the Aerospace and Technology Campus offers. Lunch will also be offered at a discounted rate in the on-campus dining center, Centennial Dining. Some of the K-State Salina Open House events include the Pancake Fundraiser benefiting the K-State Salina Flight Team, an academic and student club showcase and a visit by Willie Wildcat. The day will be highlighted by a fleet unveiling, introducing the new aircraft that recently arrived on the campus. For a complete schedule of the 2022 K-State Salina Open House and to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/visit/open-house/" target="_blank">salina.k-state.edu/admissions/visit/open-house</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

K-State Salina Open House event returns March 26

Today, Thursday, March 10th all GCH clinics and services are operating on their normal schedule. Director of Communications and Marketing Ashley King made the announcement.

The hospital also provided tips for staying safe in winter weather.

Walking on snow or ice is especially treacherous and wearing&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;proper footwear is essential. A pair of well-insulated boots with &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;good rubber treads is a must for walking during or after a winter&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;storm. Keeping a pair of rubber over-shoes with good treads&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;which fit over your street shoes is a good idea during the winter &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;months.

&nbsp;When walking on an icy or snow-covered walkway, take short&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;steps and walk at a slower pace so you can react quickly to a &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;change in traction.

&nbsp;When walking on a sidewalk which has not been cleared and you&nbsp; &nbsp; must walk in the street, walk against the traffic and as close to&nbsp; &nbsp; the curb as you can.

&nbsp;Be on the lookout for vehicles which may have lost traction and&nbsp; &nbsp; are slipping towards you. Be aware that approaching vehicles&nbsp; &nbsp; may not be able to stop at crosswalks or traffic signals.



Today, Thursday, March 10th all GCH clinics and services are operating on their normal schedule. Director of Communications and Marketing Ashley King made the announcement.The hospital also provided tips for staying safe in winter weather.Walking on snow or ice is especially treacherous and wearing&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;proper footwear is essential. A pair of well-insulated boots with &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;good rubber treads is a must for walking during or after a winter&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;storm. Keeping a pair of rubber over-shoes with good treads&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;which fit over your street shoes is a good idea during the winter &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;months.&nbsp;When walking on an icy or snow-covered walkway, take short&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;steps and walk at a slower pace so you can react quickly to a &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;change in traction.&nbsp;When walking on a sidewalk which has not been cleared and you&nbsp; &nbsp; must walk in the street, walk against the traffic and as close to&nbsp; &nbsp; the curb as you can.&nbsp;Be on the lookout for vehicles which may have lost traction and&nbsp; &nbsp; are slipping towards you. Be aware that approaching vehicles&nbsp; &nbsp; may not be able to stop at crosswalks or traffic signals.

GCH will continue normal operations

The Geary County Sheriff's Department has put emergency accident reporting in place.

If you are in need of assistance from a Deputy please contact Dispatch at 786-762-5912, if it is an emergency call 911.  The Sheriff's Office has implemented emergency accident reporting.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department has put emergency accident reporting in place.If you are in need of assistance from a Deputy please contact Dispatch at 786-762-5912, if it is an emergency call 911. The Sheriff's Office has implemented emergency accident reporting.

Sheriff's Department implements emergency accident reporting 

A&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;middle school teacher who was disciplined for refusing to use a student’s preferred first name and gender pronouns is suing the school district.

Fort Riley Middle School math teacher Pamela Ricard said in a federal lawsuit filed Monday that the Geary County School District violated her constitutional rights and did not accommodate her Christian beliefs when it suspended her for three days.

The district did not immediately return messages left Wednesday seeking comment on the lawsuit. The school is located in Fort Riley, a U.S. Army base that's 130 miles (210 kilometers) west of Kansas City.

By MARGARET STAFFORD, Associated PressA&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;middle school teacher who was disciplined for refusing to use a student’s preferred first name and gender pronouns is suing the school district.Fort Riley Middle School math teacher Pamela Ricard said in a federal lawsuit filed Monday that the Geary County School District violated her constitutional rights and did not accommodate her Christian beliefs when it suspended her for three days.The district did not immediately return messages left Wednesday seeking comment on the lawsuit. The school is located in Fort Riley, a U.S. Army base that's 130 miles (210 kilometers) west of Kansas City.Ricard, who has taught at the school since 2005, was reprimanded and suspended in April 2021 for addressing a student as “miss” to avoid using the student’s preferred first name after Picard was told that the student used he/him pronouns.Ricard believed addressing the student as “Miss (legal/enrolled last name)" respected the student while also upholding Ricard's religious convictions, according to the lawsuit.A school counselor had told Ricard the student preferred a first name different from his legal and enrolled name. The student had never told Ricard of the preference, but a classmate told Ricard the student preferred he/him pronouns, according to the lawsuit, filed by Kriegshauser Ney Law Group.The suit says Ricard believes that God assigns gender at birth and any policy requiring her to use language that is different from the student's biological sex “actively violates Ms. Ricard's religious beliefs.”Neither the school nor the district had a formal policy on gender pronouns at the time. Ricard was suspended under the district's bullying and diversity and inclusion policies.A week after her suspension, the middle school principal sent staff new training and protocol materials requiring them to use students' preferred names and pronouns.During an appeal of her discipline, Ricard asked three times to be given a religious exemption to the policy, but her beliefs were never accommodated, according to the lawsuit.The school district's Board of Education in September approved a policy requiring that students' preferred names and pronouns be used. At that meeting, the board also voted to deny Ricard's request for a religious accommodation.The district is threatening to discipline Ricard again if she refuses to use students' preferred pronouns, or chooses to use gender-neutral language, according to the lawsuit.Ricard is suing the school board, as well as Superintendent Reginald Eggleston and Fort Riley Middle School principal Kathleen Brennan. The lawsuit alleges the district's actions violated Ricard's constitutional rights to free speech, free exercise of her religion, due process and equal protection under the law.“Our suit contends that schools cannot force teachers to promote novel views about gender fluidity and ever-expanding pronoun categories without regard to the First Amendment or due process,” said Josh Ney, one of her attorneys. “Throughout her career, Ms. Ricard has consistently treated every student in her classroom with respect and dignity; unfortunately, the school district has not treated Ms. Ricard with similar good faith or basic fairness.”Ricard is asking to have her disciplinary record cleared and is seeking “nominal damages.”

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