The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley are hosting their next photo of the month contest. The contest opened on March 7 and closes on March 25 at 5 p.m.

On the first Friday of each month, the winning photo of the prior month is featured on&nbsp;the 1ID Instagram at

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/1stinfantrydivision" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/1stinfantrydivision</a>. Additionally, for the remainder of the month, a copy of the winning photo is displayed in the entryway at Victory Hall, the 1ID headquarters building.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This month’s photo theme is “Kid Creations.” Young people in the surrounding communities are encouraged to submit a photo that showcases their unique artistic creation. Creations include, but are not limited to, drawing, painting, sculpture, sidewalk art and digital artwork.

To participate, follow the 1st&nbsp;Infantry Division’s Instagram, “like” the competition announcement (posted at the start of the contest), and submit your photo via direct message to the 1st&nbsp;Infantry Division’s Instagram. Parents or guardians are encouraged to submit photos on their child’s behalf.

A huge&nbsp;congratulations&nbsp;to “Show Us Your Squad” photo contest winner, Sgt. Luis Cardenas. Cardenas was born in Mexico. When he was 6 years old he and his mother moved to San Antonio, Texas. Cardenas graduated from sniper school in 2020. He currently serves as a sniper section leader with the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team.

“The people that you see in this picture are not just my friends, they are my family. They mean the world to me. Thanks to them, I am the person I am today,” said Cardenas.

This contest is in no way sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram, Inc. The winning photo does not imply U.S. Army endorsement. Entrants must be 13 years and older, submit their own creative work, and that work must be in keeping with Army values and the monthly theme.

The 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley are hosting their next photo of the month contest. The contest opened on March 7 and closes on March 25 at 5 p.m.On the first Friday of each month, the winning photo of the prior month is featured on&nbsp;the 1ID Instagram at<a href="https://www.instagram.com/1stinfantrydivision" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/1stinfantrydivision</a>. Additionally, for the remainder of the month, a copy of the winning photo is displayed in the entryway at Victory Hall, the 1ID headquarters building.&nbsp;&nbsp;This month’s photo theme is “Kid Creations.” Young people in the surrounding communities are encouraged to submit a photo that showcases their unique artistic creation. Creations include, but are not limited to, drawing, painting, sculpture, sidewalk art and digital artwork.To participate, follow the 1st&nbsp;Infantry Division’s Instagram, “like” the competition announcement (posted at the start of the contest), and submit your photo via direct message to the 1st&nbsp;Infantry Division’s Instagram. Parents or guardians are encouraged to submit photos on their child’s behalf.A huge&nbsp;congratulations&nbsp;to “Show Us Your Squad” photo contest winner, Sgt. Luis Cardenas. Cardenas was born in Mexico. When he was 6 years old he and his mother moved to San Antonio, Texas. Cardenas graduated from sniper school in 2020. He currently serves as a sniper section leader with the 2nd Battalion, 34th Armored Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team.“The people that you see in this picture are not just my friends, they are my family. They mean the world to me. Thanks to them, I am the person I am today,” said Cardenas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646695081849.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>This contest is in no way sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram, Inc. The winning photo does not imply U.S. Army endorsement. Entrants must be 13 years and older, submit their own creative work, and that work must be in keeping with Army values and the monthly theme.

March photo contest theme is “Kid Creations”

There were multiple properties which were not sold during a delinquent property tax sale last summer. Commissioner Trish Giordano said Monday that bids are now being accepted. "They are listed on the County web site as well as in the Daily Union. Bids will be due on March 18th at the ( County ) Clerk's office by noon."

The commission will open the bids on March 21st with the highest bidder being given the opportunity to buy those lots.

There were multiple properties which were not sold during a delinquent property tax sale last summer. Commissioner Trish Giordano said Monday that bids are now being accepted. "They are listed on the County web site as well as in the Daily Union. Bids will be due on March 18th at the ( County ) Clerk's office by noon."The commission will open the bids on March 21st with the highest bidder being given the opportunity to buy those lots.

 County will accept bids on unsold properties

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members have voted 7-0 to make the wearing of face masks optional in schools in Junction City, Grandview Plaza and Milford. Based on Department of Defense requirements the mask mandate will remain in effect for the District's schools on Fort Riley until DOD drops that restriction. The decision to make masks optional in off-Post schools is effective immediately.

The&nbsp; face mask requirement was a requirement implemented some time ago in the school district as a safety measure to help cope with COVID-19.

It was noted in the Board of Education meeting that the Centers for Disease Control have reduced&nbsp; the need for masks nationwide, and no longer requires people to wear a mask on buses or vans operated by a public or private school system. Based on that information the school district staff recommended that the masks be optional in the city schools and remain mandated in Fort Riley schools based on DOD requirements on Post.&nbsp;

The district’s Test to Stay Program will also be suspended, effective Tuesday, March 8. Instead, the district will only test students and staff for COVID-19 upon request.

If a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19, they shall not return to school or work for a minimum of five days (longer if they do not have lessening symptoms) and upon return are encouraged to wear a mask for five days or take a COVID-19 test.

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members have voted 7-0 to make the wearing of face masks optional in schools in Junction City, Grandview Plaza and Milford. Based on Department of Defense requirements the mask mandate will remain in effect for the District's schools on Fort Riley until DOD drops that restriction. The decision to make masks optional in off-Post schools is effective immediately.The&nbsp; face mask requirement was a requirement implemented some time ago in the school district as a safety measure to help cope with COVID-19.It was noted in the Board of Education meeting that the Centers for Disease Control have reduced&nbsp; the need for masks nationwide, and no longer requires people to wear a mask on buses or vans operated by a public or private school system. Based on that information the school district staff recommended that the masks be optional in the city schools and remain mandated in Fort Riley schools based on DOD requirements on Post.&nbsp;The district’s Test to Stay Program will also be suspended, effective Tuesday, March 8. Instead, the district will only test students and staff for COVID-19 upon request.If a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19, they shall not return to school or work for a minimum of five days (longer if they do not have lessening symptoms) and upon return are encouraged to wear a mask for five days or take a COVID-19 test.

Geary USD 475 BOE takes action on the face mask requirement

According to a social media post by Fort Riley from March 9 to 11, commercial traffic will be restricted at the Henry Access Control Point due to construction on Henry Drive. The inbound lane will be temporarily shortened to 10 feet wide. 

Privately owned vehicles will not be restricted. 

All commercial traffic should enter the installation at the 12th Street Gate 5 a.m. - 7 p.m.

According to a social media post by Fort Riley from March 9 to 11, commercial traffic will be restricted at the Henry Access Control Point due to construction on Henry Drive. The inbound lane will be temporarily shortened to 10 feet wide. Privately owned vehicles will not be restricted. All commercial traffic should enter the installation at the 12th Street Gate 5 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Fort Riley announces traffic lane adjustment

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A new phase of construction will close a portion of Kimball Avenue beginning Monday, March 7, affecting access into the parking lots surrounding the K-State Sports Complex.

According to Assistant Athletic Director for Communications Ryan Lackey, fans attending the KSHSAA Class 2A Basketball Championships March 9-12 in Bramlage Coliseum should note that the roadway will be closed between Gate 5 on the west side of the Sports Complex to Gate 8 on the east side. With parking for the tournament available only in the stadium’s west lot, fans will have to access the lot driving eastbound on Kimball from the west to Gate 5 or through Gate 3 off College Avenue.

Traffic coming to the Sports Complex from the east side of Manhattan on Tuttle Creek Boulevard (US 24) will need to detour to Marlatt Avenue, approximately one-half mile north of Kimball. From there, fans can access the west parking lot by driving westbound to College Avenue and turning south to the complex. All fan/school buses for the KSHSAA Class 2A Basketball Championships are instructed to enter the west parking lot through Gate 5.

Kimball Avenue will be closed until late August for this phase of the North Campus Corridor project. The intent of this project is to improve safe transit for pedestrians and vehicles through this corridor during both normal traffic and athletic events. The improvements will include storm water infrastructure, a new traffic signal at Kimball and Agricultural Road, an additional bus drop-off, pedestrian facilities on the north and south side of Kimball and improved access through the K-State facilities north Kimball.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;A new phase of construction will close a portion of Kimball Avenue beginning Monday, March 7, affecting access into the parking lots surrounding the K-State Sports Complex.According to Assistant Athletic Director for Communications Ryan Lackey, fans attending the KSHSAA Class 2A Basketball Championships March 9-12 in Bramlage Coliseum should note that the roadway will be closed between Gate 5 on the west side of the Sports Complex to Gate 8 on the east side. With parking for the tournament available only in the stadium’s west lot, fans will have to access the lot driving eastbound on Kimball from the west to Gate 5 or through Gate 3 off College Avenue.Traffic coming to the Sports Complex from the east side of Manhattan on Tuttle Creek Boulevard (US 24) will need to detour to Marlatt Avenue, approximately one-half mile north of Kimball. From there, fans can access the west parking lot by driving westbound to College Avenue and turning south to the complex. All fan/school buses for the KSHSAA Class 2A Basketball Championships are instructed to enter the west parking lot through Gate 5.Kimball Avenue will be closed until late August for this phase of the North Campus Corridor project. The intent of this project is to improve safe transit for pedestrians and vehicles through this corridor during both normal traffic and athletic events. The improvements will include storm water infrastructure, a new traffic signal at Kimball and Agricultural Road, an additional bus drop-off, pedestrian facilities on the north and south side of Kimball and improved access through the K-State facilities north Kimball.

Portion of Kimball Ave. in Manhattan will be closed

The National Weather Service in Topeka will conduct a Tornado Drill at 10am Tuesday . Everyone is encouraged to participate in the drill by practicing seeking secure, safe shelter from a tornado. This test will be broadcast over NOAA All Hazards Weather.

In Geary County the Emergency Manager, Garry Berges, confirmed that warning sirens will sound at 10 a.m.&nbsp; 107.9 FM and KJCK AM 1420 will participate on air in the drill.

Emergency Management asked that you take the opportunity to discuss with coworkers and family how to proceed during an actual severe storm warning explained Berges. "Encourage people to think about where they should go in the event of severe weather, whether it be daytime when they're at work or nighttime when they're at home. " Always be aware of developments that are occurring.

Berges confirmed you should have a plan where you can go during a storm. "Especially if you don't have a basement, you live in a mobile home. " Know ahead of time where you are going to go. " He added that there are no public open shelters in Junction City in the event of severe weather. "&nbsp;

In the event of a tornado or severe thunderstorm you should seek shelter in the lowest place in a house. Berges advised people to wear a bicycle helmet to protect from flying debris, blankets, flashlights, a way to receive information such as AM / FM radios, extra batteries, bottled water and extra medicine.&nbsp;

This is Severe Weather Awareness Week.&nbsp;

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe National Weather Service in Topeka will conduct a Tornado Drill at 10am Tuesday . Everyone is encouraged to participate in the drill by practicing seeking secure, safe shelter from a tornado. This test will be broadcast over NOAA All Hazards Weather.In Geary County the Emergency Manager, Garry Berges, confirmed that warning sirens will sound at 10 a.m.&nbsp; 107.9 FM and KJCK AM 1420 will participate on air in the drill.Emergency Management asked that you take the opportunity to discuss with coworkers and family how to proceed during an actual severe storm warning explained Berges. "Encourage people to think about where they should go in the event of severe weather, whether it be daytime when they're at work or nighttime when they're at home. " Always be aware of developments that are occurring.Berges confirmed you should have a plan where you can go during a storm. "Especially if you don't have a basement, you live in a mobile home. " Know ahead of time where you are going to go. " He added that there are no public open shelters in Junction City in the event of severe weather. "&nbsp;In the event of a tornado or severe thunderstorm you should seek shelter in the lowest place in a house. Berges advised people to wear a bicycle helmet to protect from flying debris, blankets, flashlights, a way to receive information such as AM / FM radios, extra batteries, bottled water and extra medicine.&nbsp;This is Severe Weather Awareness Week.&nbsp;

Tornado drill will be conducted Tuesday

Noon Kiwanis is in the running to receive a splash park for Coronado Park.

<a href="https://www.kiwanis.org/clubs/member-resources/events/legacy-of-play/h2o-contest/h2o/ki-va/contest/1/1?fbclid=IwAR1pbc8KjLxUER1CrsUg0ChxSq1TsV_zHwMHx6cISYYXtun5Xt8ryMKHkqA" target="_blank">https://www.kiwanis.org/clubs/member-resources/events/legacy-of-play/h2o-contest/h2o/ki-va/contest/1/1?fbclid=IwAR1pbc8KjLxUER1CrsUg0ChxSq1TsV_zHwMHx6cISYYXtun5Xt8ryMKHkqA</a>

Noon Kiwanis is in the running to receive a splash park for Coronado Park.<a href="https://www.kiwanis.org/clubs/member-resources/events/legacy-of-play/h2o-contest/h2o/ki-va/contest/1/1?fbclid=IwAR1pbc8KjLxUER1CrsUg0ChxSq1TsV_zHwMHx6cISYYXtun5Xt8ryMKHkqA" target="_blank">https://www.kiwanis.org/clubs/member-resources/events/legacy-of-play/h2o-contest/h2o/ki-va/contest/1/1?fbclid=IwAR1pbc8KjLxUER1CrsUg0ChxSq1TsV_zHwMHx6cISYYXtun5Xt8ryMKHkqA</a>

Noon Kiwanis Club is pursuing splash park funding

Mar. 7-11 is Severe Weather Awareness Week&nbsp;

By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – There is a common joke in Kansas – and many parts of the country – that goes something like this: If you don’t like the weather right now, just wait a few minutes.&nbsp;

Kansas State University meteorologist Chip Redmond agrees that weather in Kansas can change pretty quickly, so it’s important to know what to do in any situation in order to remain safe.&nbsp;

“It starts with preparedness,” said Redmond, who is also manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>. “We all should have a plan, including such things as just knowing how you get your weather alerts. You may get those from a weather radio or other sources, such as news media. And then, you need to talk with your family.”&nbsp;

The National Weather Service has declared March 7-11 as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/top/swaw" target="_blank">Severe Weather Awareness Week</a>&nbsp;across the country, encouraging all people to practice what they would do if faced with a real weather emergency.&nbsp;

“Practicing and having a plan saves lives,” Redmond said. “That is especially true in rural areas where appropriate shelter may be many miles away, a scenario many Kansans may be in.”&nbsp;

Redmond said having a “Go” bag&nbsp; -- something you can quickly grab and take to a shelter -- is important for most weather emergencies. The bag should include such items as medicines, extra clothes, radio, food, water and even something to keep kids entertained.&nbsp;

The best place to wait out severe weather “is always the lowest,central location in the home,” Redmond said. “If you only have a first floor – and not a basement – the ideal spot is a centrally located hallway or bathroom. Stay away from windows.”&nbsp;

If caught outside, “don’t go under trees and don’t try to out-run tornadoes in your car,” Redmond said.&nbsp;

“A ditch, believe it or not, is a really safe place to go if you’re outside. Get down in the ditch; debris will typically blow over you. If you’re in a place without a ditch, get down on the ground as low as you can so you don’t have things hitting you.”&nbsp;

For specific weather emergencies, Redmond shared additional tips:&nbsp;

“You don’t want to be operating anything that can carry electricity, whether it’s water or wire,” Redmond said. “If there’s a lightning strike on something away from your house, it’s going to travel through that source.”&nbsp;

On average, Kansas has 95 tornadoes per year, though only 17 were reported in 2020; the most the state has ever had was nearly 200 in 2008.&nbsp;

“This is tornado alley for a reason,” Redmond said. “We need to be prepared and be knowledgeable about what to do when a tornado warning is issued.”&nbsp;

The peak time for tornadoes in Kansas is April through June, often referred to as tornado season. But Redmond said tornados can occur any time of year and are solely dependent on atmospheric conditions – spring provides a classic clash of southern winds with Gulf moisture meeting north winds with colder, drier air from the Arctic areas.&nbsp;

A basement or lower level of the house – away from windows -- is always the safest spot to wait out a tornado warning.&nbsp;

Redmond said Kansas gets approximately 600 wind damage reports annually. High winds – defined as those over 55 miles per hour – create problems not only by downing trees, but by making driving conditions and visibility more difficult.&nbsp;

As with tornadoes, the safest place during a wind storm is inside in a central location, away from windows.&nbsp;

In an average year, there are more than 1,000 reports of hail in Kansas. Severe hail is defined as 1 inch or more in diameter. “That seems fairly small until they’re coming at you at a high rate of speed from the sky,” Redmond said.&nbsp;

One inch hail can cause damage to roofs and cars and even rip siding off the side of a house.&nbsp;

“And it can threaten your life,” Redmond said. “If you get hit with multiple hail stones at 1 inch diameter, you’re going to know it. And if you get hit in the wrong place, it can kill you.”&nbsp;

It’s much easier to prepare for flooding while at home, Redmond said. “All you really need to know is your proximity to a flood plain,” he said. “To determine your risk, know the low-lying areas and where water runs.”&nbsp;

Away from home – and especially when driving – the risks due to flooding are much greater. On the road, the best advice is “turn around, don’t drown,” according to Redmond.&nbsp;

“The reason for that is you might see water over the road, and it may look like just a little bit, but it can be moving at a high rate of speed,” he said. “Six inches of water can move a car effectively.”&nbsp;

In addition, the road under the water may not be intact, he said.&nbsp;

More information about staying safe during many weather emergencies is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/safety/" target="_blank">available online from the National Weather Service.</a>&nbsp;

Mar. 7-11 is Severe Weather Awareness Week&nbsp;By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – There is a common joke in Kansas – and many parts of the country – that goes something like this: If you don’t like the weather right now, just wait a few minutes.&nbsp;Kansas State University meteorologist Chip Redmond agrees that weather in Kansas can change pretty quickly, so it’s important to know what to do in any situation in order to remain safe.&nbsp;“It starts with preparedness,” said Redmond, who is also manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>. “We all should have a plan, including such things as just knowing how you get your weather alerts. You may get those from a weather radio or other sources, such as news media. And then, you need to talk with your family.”&nbsp;The National Weather Service has declared March 7-11 as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/top/swaw" target="_blank">Severe Weather Awareness Week</a>&nbsp;across the country, encouraging all people to practice what they would do if faced with a real weather emergency.&nbsp;“Practicing and having a plan saves lives,” Redmond said. “That is especially true in rural areas where appropriate shelter may be many miles away, a scenario many Kansans may be in.”&nbsp;Redmond said having a “Go” bag&nbsp; -- something you can quickly grab and take to a shelter -- is important for most weather emergencies. The bag should include such items as medicines, extra clothes, radio, food, water and even something to keep kids entertained.&nbsp;The best place to wait out severe weather “is always the lowest,central location in the home,” Redmond said. “If you only have a first floor – and not a basement – the ideal spot is a centrally located hallway or bathroom. Stay away from windows.”&nbsp;If caught outside, “don’t go under trees and don’t try to out-run tornadoes in your car,” Redmond said.&nbsp;“A ditch, believe it or not, is a really safe place to go if you’re outside. Get down in the ditch; debris will typically blow over you. If you’re in a place without a ditch, get down on the ground as low as you can so you don’t have things hitting you.”&nbsp;For specific weather emergencies, Redmond shared additional tips:&nbsp;Lightning <ul>
 <li>Get inside. Avoid porches and over-hangs. “You can still get hit by lighting in those areas,” he said.&nbsp;</li><li>Stay away from windows.&nbsp;</li><li>Stay off electronics that are hooked into a wall, including computer and cell phone.&nbsp;</li><li>Stay out of the shower, or other water sources.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>“You don’t want to be operating anything that can carry electricity, whether it’s water or wire,” Redmond said. “If there’s a lightning strike on something away from your house, it’s going to travel through that source.”&nbsp;Tornado&nbsp;On average, Kansas has 95 tornadoes per year, though only 17 were reported in 2020; the most the state has ever had was nearly 200 in 2008.&nbsp;“This is tornado alley for a reason,” Redmond said. “We need to be prepared and be knowledgeable about what to do when a tornado warning is issued.”&nbsp;The peak time for tornadoes in Kansas is April through June, often referred to as tornado season. But Redmond said tornados can occur any time of year and are solely dependent on atmospheric conditions – spring provides a classic clash of southern winds with Gulf moisture meeting north winds with colder, drier air from the Arctic areas.&nbsp;A basement or lower level of the house – away from windows -- is always the safest spot to wait out a tornado warning.&nbsp;High winds&nbsp;Redmond said Kansas gets approximately 600 wind damage reports annually. High winds – defined as those over 55 miles per hour – create problems not only by downing trees, but by making driving conditions and visibility more difficult.&nbsp;As with tornadoes, the safest place during a wind storm is inside in a central location, away from windows.&nbsp;Hail&nbsp;In an average year, there are more than 1,000 reports of hail in Kansas. Severe hail is defined as 1 inch or more in diameter. “That seems fairly small until they’re coming at you at a high rate of speed from the sky,” Redmond said.&nbsp;One inch hail can cause damage to roofs and cars and even rip siding off the side of a house.&nbsp;“And it can threaten your life,” Redmond said. “If you get hit with multiple hail stones at 1 inch diameter, you’re going to know it. And if you get hit in the wrong place, it can kill you.”&nbsp;Flooding&nbsp;It’s much easier to prepare for flooding while at home, Redmond said. “All you really need to know is your proximity to a flood plain,” he said. “To determine your risk, know the low-lying areas and where water runs.”&nbsp;Away from home – and especially when driving – the risks due to flooding are much greater. On the road, the best advice is “turn around, don’t drown,” according to Redmond.&nbsp;“The reason for that is you might see water over the road, and it may look like just a little bit, but it can be moving at a high rate of speed,” he said. “Six inches of water can move a car effectively.”&nbsp;In addition, the road under the water may not be intact, he said.&nbsp;More information about staying safe during many weather emergencies is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/safety/" target="_blank">available online from the National Weather Service.</a>&nbsp;

Make plans to stay safe during severe weather 

Neal Gugler has been selected by the 8th Judicial District Nominating Commission to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Dickinson County.

The commission conducted public interviews for the position on March 4th in Junction City. Eight people had applied for the opening.

Gugler's new position will be effective on his swearing-in. He has been serving as a special investigator for the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

The 8th Judicial District includes Dickinson, Geary, Marion and Morris counties.&nbsp;

The vacancy was created when Judge Keith Collett was sworn in as a district judge on Oct. 29th.

Neal Gugler has been selected by the 8th Judicial District Nominating Commission to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Dickinson County.The commission conducted public interviews for the position on March 4th in Junction City. Eight people had applied for the opening.Gugler's new position will be effective on his swearing-in. He has been serving as a special investigator for the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;The 8th Judicial District includes Dickinson, Geary, Marion and Morris counties.&nbsp;The vacancy was created when Judge Keith Collett was sworn in as a district judge on Oct. 29th.

There is a new district magistrate judge

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent weekend altercation n Manhattan.

Just before 7p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault, criminal damage to property and criminal threat against LEO in the 6000 block of Tuttle Terrace in Manhattan. according to the Riley County Police Department Activity report.

A 51-year-old woman and a 62-year-old man reported a 67-year-old male suspect threatened the woman victim with a tire iron and damaged a pair of glasses and an ashtray. 

Wayne Pinick, 67, of Manhattan was arrested in connection on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated assault and criminal damage to property. Pinick is confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $7,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent weekend altercation n Manhattan.Just before 7p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault, criminal damage to property and criminal threat against LEO in the 6000 block of Tuttle Terrace in Manhattan. according to the Riley County Police Department Activity report.A 51-year-old woman and a 62-year-old man reported a 67-year-old male suspect threatened the woman victim with a tire iron and damaged a pair of glasses and an ashtray. Wayne Pinick, 67, of Manhattan was arrested in connection on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated assault and criminal damage to property. Pinick is confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $7,000.

RCPD: 67-year-old threatened woman with a tire iron

RILEY COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Friday in Riley County.

A 2009 Chevy Traverse driven by Sheryl Richter, 64, Green, was traveling in the&nbsp;&nbsp;15,300 block of Winkler Road. near Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The SUV drifted into the ditch, hit a concrete culvert head-on and flipped end over end. Richter was transported to Via Christi for treatment of serious back injuries. The RCPD released no additional details Monday.

RILEY COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Friday in Riley County.A 2009 Chevy Traverse driven by Sheryl Richter, 64, Green, was traveling in the&nbsp;&nbsp;15,300 block of Winkler Road. near Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The SUV drifted into the ditch, hit a concrete culvert head-on and flipped end over end. Richter was transported to Via Christi for treatment of serious back injuries. The RCPD released no additional details Monday.

Kansas woman hospitalized after SUV flips end over end

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau Growing up, this is about the time of year I spent plenty of weekends patrolling pastures for eastern red cedar trees to lop off with a pair of shears. It was easier to spot the evergreen saplings amidst the browns and tans of last year’s growing season. My job was to find the saplings growing in fence rows, draws and other areas where the fire we’d set a few weeks later was unlikely to reach them. From an evolutionary standpoint, this particular plant is a marvelous organism. A member of the juniper family, the trees seemingly thrive anywhere from deep soils to bare rock. Heat, cold and drought are simple inconveniences. These well-adapted trees have always been present in Kansas prairies, but they once were limited to some of the more marginal land. The cedars could flourish there precisely because there was little other organic matter around. On the open range, periodic wildfires would get hot enough to fully engulf full-grown trees allowing the grassland to reclaim the territory. Today, prescribed burns are used in place of wildfires, especially in the Flint Hills of Kansas and Oklahoma. Here, an average of 2.2 million acres will be set ablaze this spring. In the coming weeks, evidence of these burns will be easily visible as plumes of smoke rise over the horizon. Thankfully, rangeland managers have become more purposeful in timing their burns to minimize how much smoke reaches urban areas. Voluntary efforts like the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan allow landowners access to detailed forecast and smoke modeling tools at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=6cb21fa496&amp;e=32b5639f2e" target="_blank">www.ksfire.org</a>&nbsp;so they can balance the need for burning with the air quality of their neighbors. These extra steps are a small price to pay compared to the necessity of fire in preserving the prairie. For as well as cedars grow in marginal soils, they do even better in the sod of open ground. It’s not the plow or development that represents the greatest threat to the grasslands of tomorrow, rather it’s the advancement of woody plants like these. This encroachment puts pressure on working rangelands by decreasing livestock production and increasing wildfire risk as well as harming grassland biodiversity for existing wildlife. Expansive prairies are threatened with wholesale transition to woodland, and it can happen in short order. A recent report from Oklahoma State University points out woody plants have increased on more than 108 million acres in the western U.S. since 1999. In turn, that’s driving the potential collapse of the remaining Great Plains grassland. Fire is both fast and affordable, but for its ability to preserve large expanses of grassland, prescribed fires aren’t the same as the wildfires that once ripped through the prairie. There were no fences, road ditches or windbreaks on nearby homes that would interrupt the fire’s spread. Those areas today are a reservoir for mature cedars capable of producing seed that can travel a significant distance, advancing the line of encroachment. Now I’m not advocating we get rid of fences, ditches, windbreaks and other areas where cedars are safe from fire. Rather those with a vested stake in maintaining our productive prairies have to find ways to work together to manage this threat. What that means is a heightened vigilance and perpetual management of cedars and other woody plants, even if that means I’m going to be spending a few weekends in the spring patrolling pastures again to ensure the rangeland in Kansas remains resilient.

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

Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau Growing up, this is about the time of year I spent plenty of weekends patrolling pastures for eastern red cedar trees to lop off with a pair of shears. It was easier to spot the evergreen saplings amidst the browns and tans of last year’s growing season. My job was to find the saplings growing in fence rows, draws and other areas where the fire we’d set a few weeks later was unlikely to reach them. From an evolutionary standpoint, this particular plant is a marvelous organism. A member of the juniper family, the trees seemingly thrive anywhere from deep soils to bare rock. Heat, cold and drought are simple inconveniences. These well-adapted trees have always been present in Kansas prairies, but they once were limited to some of the more marginal land. The cedars could flourish there precisely because there was little other organic matter around. On the open range, periodic wildfires would get hot enough to fully engulf full-grown trees allowing the grassland to reclaim the territory. Today, prescribed burns are used in place of wildfires, especially in the Flint Hills of Kansas and Oklahoma. Here, an average of 2.2 million acres will be set ablaze this spring. In the coming weeks, evidence of these burns will be easily visible as plumes of smoke rise over the horizon. Thankfully, rangeland managers have become more purposeful in timing their burns to minimize how much smoke reaches urban areas. Voluntary efforts like the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan allow landowners access to detailed forecast and smoke modeling tools at&nbsp;<a href="https://kfb.us11.list-manage.com/track/click?u=45bba928f411d21617c5eadbe&amp;id=6cb21fa496&amp;e=32b5639f2e" target="_blank">www.ksfire.org</a>&nbsp;so they can balance the need for burning with the air quality of their neighbors. These extra steps are a small price to pay compared to the necessity of fire in preserving the prairie. For as well as cedars grow in marginal soils, they do even better in the sod of open ground. It’s not the plow or development that represents the greatest threat to the grasslands of tomorrow, rather it’s the advancement of woody plants like these. This encroachment puts pressure on working rangelands by decreasing livestock production and increasing wildfire risk as well as harming grassland biodiversity for existing wildlife. Expansive prairies are threatened with wholesale transition to woodland, and it can happen in short order. A recent report from Oklahoma State University points out woody plants have increased on more than 108 million acres in the western U.S. since 1999. In turn, that’s driving the potential collapse of the remaining Great Plains grassland. Fire is both fast and affordable, but for its ability to preserve large expanses of grassland, prescribed fires aren’t the same as the wildfires that once ripped through the prairie. There were no fences, road ditches or windbreaks on nearby homes that would interrupt the fire’s spread. Those areas today are a reservoir for mature cedars capable of producing seed that can travel a significant distance, advancing the line of encroachment. Now I’m not advocating we get rid of fences, ditches, windbreaks and other areas where cedars are safe from fire. Rather those with a vested stake in maintaining our productive prairies have to find ways to work together to manage this threat. What that means is a heightened vigilance and perpetual management of cedars and other woody plants, even if that means I’m going to be spending a few weekends in the spring patrolling pastures again to ensure the rangeland in Kansas remains resilient."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Resilient Rangeland

The Upper Deck 11U baseball team had a surprise visit during practice from the Junction City Police Department.  Along with encouraging words, they presented the team a donation to be used towards their upcoming baseball season. 

They very much appreciate JCPD’s support on and off the field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646614888208.jpeg" alt="Pictured: Head Coach Chris Bogenhagen, Assistant Coaches Kelli McCallum and Jorgan Beck, members of the Upper Deck 11U baseball team and Junction City Police Officers" />
 <figcaption>Pictured: Head Coach Chris Bogenhagen, Assistant Coaches Kelli McCallum and Jorgan Beck, members of the Upper Deck 11U baseball team and Junction City Police Officers</figcaption>
 </figure>The Upper Deck 11U baseball team had a surprise visit during practice from the Junction City Police Department. Along with encouraging words, they presented the team a donation to be used towards their upcoming baseball season. They very much appreciate JCPD’s support on and off the field.

JCPD supports the Upper Deck 11U baseball team

--Fort Riley will be on a two-hour delay Monday.

--USD 475 will be delayed two hours. Early childhood morning classes and before school activities will not occur. Breakfast will not be served.

--USD 473 Chapman schools are closed on Monday

--USD 481 Rural Vista will be closed Monday.

--USD 320 Wamego opening two hours late Monday. There will not be any breakfast served and no a.m. preschool

--Cloud County Community College will start two hours late on both the Geary County and Concordia campuses.

--USD 417 Morris County delayed two hours

--USD 323 Rock Creek delayed two hours Monday

--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden schools will start on regular time but inclement weather bus stops will be in effect.

--Geary County Senior Center closed Monday.

--Neighborhood Learning Center in Junction City will open at 9 a.m.

--Fort Riley will be on a two-hour delay Monday.--USD 475 will be delayed two hours. Early childhood morning classes and before school activities will not occur. Breakfast will not be served.--USD 473 Chapman schools are closed on Monday--USD 481 Rural Vista will be closed Monday.--USD 435 Abilene no school on Monday--USD 320 Wamego opening two hours late Monday. There will not be any breakfast served and no a.m. preschool--Cloud County Community College will start two hours late on both the Geary County and Concordia campuses.--USD 487 Herington closed on Monday--USD 417 Morris County delayed two hours--USD 378 Riley County closed Monday--USD 323 Rock Creek delayed two hours Monday--USD 379 Clay County delayed two hours.--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden schools will start on regular time but inclement weather bus stops will be in effect.--Geary County Senior Center closed Monday.--Neighborhood Learning Center in Junction City will open at 9 a.m.

Postponements and cancellations

MANHATTAN – Kansas State University’s Department of Agricultural Economics will host a Risk and Profit mini-conference online Monday-Friday to discuss the agricultural impacts of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and what it means for U.S. producers.&nbsp;

All sessions will be available via Zoom from noon to 1:30 p.m. (CST) each day, with recordings available afterward.&nbsp;

There is no fee to participate, but&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/events/risk-and-profit-online-mini-conference-ukraine-russia-conflict-agricultural-ramifications" target="_blank">online registration is required.</a>&nbsp;More information is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/" target="_blank">AgManager.info</a>.&nbsp;

Organizers of the mini-conference said faculty in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics will address the effects on the macro-economy, agricultural trade, energy and fertilizer markets, as well as grain and livestock markets.&nbsp;

The schedule and topics for each session of the mini-conference includes:

●Monday:&nbsp;Understanding Macroeconomic Effects by Brian Briggeman; and Production and Trade Effects by Allen Featherstone.

●Wednesday:&nbsp;Implications for Energy Markets (speaker to be determined); and Effects on Fertilizer Inputs by Gregg Ibendahl.

●Friday:&nbsp;Grain Market Impacts by Dan O'Brien; and Livestock Market Impacts by Glynn Tonsor.&nbsp;

Rich Llewelyn, an extension assistant who is helping to organize the series, said there is uncertainty about how the Russian advance into Ukraine will affect markets.&nbsp;

“The impact and implications of the Russian invasion of Ukraine are widespread and potentially long-lasting,” he said. “K-State faculty will help to bring some needed understanding and clarification to the full ramifications of what is happening, could happen, and how it will affect U.S. agriculture.”&nbsp;

Organizers said given the two countries’ importance to export markets, and the relationship between energy and agricultural prices, the conflict will impact agriculture and food supplies across the globe.&nbsp;

K-State Research and ExtensionMANHATTAN – Kansas State University’s Department of Agricultural Economics will host a Risk and Profit mini-conference online Monday-Friday to discuss the agricultural impacts of the Ukraine-Russia conflict and what it means for U.S. producers.&nbsp;All sessions will be available via Zoom from noon to 1:30 p.m. (CST) each day, with recordings available afterward.&nbsp;There is no fee to participate, but&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/events/risk-and-profit-online-mini-conference-ukraine-russia-conflict-agricultural-ramifications" target="_blank">online registration is required.</a>&nbsp;More information is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/" target="_blank">AgManager.info</a>.&nbsp;Organizers of the mini-conference said faculty in K-State’s Department of Agricultural Economics will address the effects on the macro-economy, agricultural trade, energy and fertilizer markets, as well as grain and livestock markets.&nbsp;The schedule and topics for each session of the mini-conference includes: ●Monday:&nbsp;Understanding Macroeconomic Effects by Brian Briggeman; and Production and Trade Effects by Allen Featherstone.●Wednesday:&nbsp;Implications for Energy Markets (speaker to be determined); and Effects on Fertilizer Inputs by Gregg Ibendahl.●Friday:&nbsp;Grain Market Impacts by Dan O'Brien; and Livestock Market Impacts by Glynn Tonsor.&nbsp;Rich Llewelyn, an extension assistant who is helping to organize the series, said there is uncertainty about how the Russian advance into Ukraine will affect markets.&nbsp;“The impact and implications of the Russian invasion of Ukraine are widespread and potentially long-lasting,” he said. “K-State faculty will help to bring some needed understanding and clarification to the full ramifications of what is happening, could happen, and how it will affect U.S. agriculture.”&nbsp;Organizers said given the two countries’ importance to export markets, and the relationship between energy and agricultural prices, the conflict will impact agriculture and food supplies across the globe.&nbsp;

K-State: Mini-conference on ag effects of Ukraine/ Russia war

Academy Award winning film director and Junction City native Kevin Willmott will visit Junction&nbsp; City High School Tuesday. There will be a Meet &amp; Greet from 2-3 p.m. and an assembly&nbsp; from 3:15 - 3:50 p.m.

Willmott won an Academy Award and the BAFTA, the British Academy award for co-writing with Spike Lee the feature film Blackkklansman. The film also won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. He also co-wrote and is the executive producer of the critically acclaimed film, Chi-Raq, also directed by Spike Lee. The film is on numerous best of 2015 lists, including best film and best screenplay by The New Yorker Magazine.

Willmott has written and directed a number of other films ranging from Ninth Street C.S.A.: Confederate states of America.

Academy Award winning film director and Junction City native Kevin Willmott will visit Junction&nbsp; City High School Tuesday. There will be a Meet &amp; Greet from 2-3 p.m. and an assembly&nbsp; from 3:15 - 3:50 p.m.Willmott won an Academy Award and the BAFTA, the British Academy award for co-writing with Spike Lee the feature film Blackkklansman. The film also won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. He also co-wrote and is the executive producer of the critically acclaimed film, Chi-Raq, also directed by Spike Lee. The film is on numerous best of 2015 lists, including best film and best screenplay by The New Yorker Magazine.Willmott has written and directed a number of other films ranging from Ninth Street C.S.A.: Confederate states of America.

JCHS will celebrate Kevin Willmott

Governor Laura Kelly called the new Junction City High School "incredibly impressive" following a tour of the facility on Friday. "I think what I like the best is the way that it is really designed to bring out a kid's strength."

Kelly pointed to the different career pathways for students where they can explore to see if they want to make that a career. "It's very, very impressive, and it's clear that kids are engaged, and it's clear that the teachers and the administration are fully engaged in what's happening here."

Kelly saw the jazz band and choir perform, and visited a number of classrooms. "Kids were incredibly engaged, including the one where they do tax returns for people. " Kelly added, " Real hands-on, real life kinds of experience that these kids are getting. It's going to be a great foundation for&nbsp; going forward."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646501565547.jpeg" alt="Governor Kelly on JCHS tour" />
 <figcaption>Governor Kelly on JCHS tour</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly called the new Junction City High School "incredibly impressive" following a tour of the facility on Friday. "I think what I like the best is the way that it is really designed to bring out a kid's strength."Kelly pointed to the different career pathways for students where they can explore to see if they want to make that a career. "It's very, very impressive, and it's clear that kids are engaged, and it's clear that the teachers and the administration are fully engaged in what's happening here."Kelly saw the jazz band and choir perform, and visited a number of classrooms. "Kids were incredibly engaged, including the one where they do tax returns for people. " Kelly added, " Real hands-on, real life kinds of experience that these kids are getting. It's going to be a great foundation for&nbsp; going forward."

Governor Kelly tours the new high school

The season came to an end for the Junction City Blue Jays Saturday Night as they fell to Wichita Heights 54 - 39.&nbsp; The Falcons lead the entire ball game and by as many as 17 points.&nbsp; Junction City battled back in the late 3rd/early 4th quarter to cut the lead to 8 points.&nbsp; The Blue Jays could get no further and end the season with a record of 13 - 9.&nbsp; Wichita Heights will advance to the 6A State Tournament.&nbsp; For the Blue Jays in the Sub-State Championship game Howard Johnson had 8 points and Ismael Fadiga had 8 points.

The season came to an end for the Junction City Blue Jays Saturday Night as they fell to Wichita Heights 54 - 39.&nbsp; The Falcons lead the entire ball game and by as many as 17 points.&nbsp; Junction City battled back in the late 3rd/early 4th quarter to cut the lead to 8 points.&nbsp; The Blue Jays could get no further and end the season with a record of 13 - 9.&nbsp; Wichita Heights will advance to the 6A State Tournament.&nbsp; For the Blue Jays in the Sub-State Championship game Howard Johnson had 8 points and Ismael Fadiga had 8 points.

Blue Jays Lose in Sub-State Championship Game

Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte said this week that the February weather can be summed up with four words, “more of the same.” Junction City area weather for February was warmer than normal and drier than normal. In fact it was the ninth consecutive month with above average temperatures and the fourth consecutive month of below average precipitation. Add all of this together and you get a very disturbing trend!

The average daily high during February was 45.9, 1.3 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 22.7, three tenths of a degree below normal. The result was a monthly mean temperature of 34.3, eight tenths of a degree above normal. Granted, that isn’t far off the long term average but it is still above average and that is concerning. We had a not unexpected roller coaster of temperatures in February with four rounds of above normal temperature and four rounds of below normal temperatures. The highest temperature for the month was 70 degrees on the 15th. This was a far cry from one year earlier when we had a high of -2 on February 15th! The lowest temperature for the month was the reading of 0 on the morning of the 23rd. The warmest February on record was in 1954 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 46.3. The coldest February was in 1979 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 17.6 degrees. There were three temperature records set during February. The low of 0 on the 23rd set a new record low for that date. The old record was 4 set in 2003. The low of 54 on the 16th set a new record high low temperature. The old record was 42 set in 1961 and reached again in 2017. The low of 44 on the 20th also set a new record high low. The old record was 42 set in 1983.

Precipitation for February is going to be a short report. Average precipitation for February is 1.10 inches. Milford Lake received 0.17 of an inch and Junction City received 0.32 of an inch. Year to date Milford Lake has received 0.42 inches and Junction City 1.00 inches. Normal through the end of February is 1.83 inches. Winter is our driest time of the year and this year winter has really held to that. Normal precipitation for November through February is 4.42". In that time frame this winter, Milford Lake has received 0.42" and Junction City 1.55". We did see some snow in February but it was generally very dry snow. Two snowfall events provided a total of 3.3 inches of snow, normal for February is 4.7". Snow season to date we have seen 7.6 inches, roughly half of our normal 14.2 inches. Currently, the entire state of Kansas is in some level of drought. Geary County ranges from abnormally dry to moderate drought in the west edge of the county.

March is the start of meteorological spring (March 1) and the start of astronomical spring (March 20). Average temperatures reflect this with daily highs increasing from an average of 51 on the 1st to 62 on the 31st. Overnight lows also increase from 26 at the start of the month to 39 by the end of the month. Rainfall would be expected to slowly increase with an average of 2.00" during the month. March can also still bring us snowstorms. Long term average snowfall for March is 3.1 inches. Remember, March can bring us tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, hail, lightning, snow storms and ice storms.&nbsp;

Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte said this week that the February weather can be summed up with four words, “more of the same.” Junction City area weather for February was warmer than normal and drier than normal. In fact it was the ninth consecutive month with above average temperatures and the fourth consecutive month of below average precipitation. Add all of this together and you get a very disturbing trend! The average daily high during February was 45.9, 1.3 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 22.7, three tenths of a degree below normal. The result was a monthly mean temperature of 34.3, eight tenths of a degree above normal. Granted, that isn’t far off the long term average but it is still above average and that is concerning. We had a not unexpected roller coaster of temperatures in February with four rounds of above normal temperature and four rounds of below normal temperatures. The highest temperature for the month was 70 degrees on the 15th. This was a far cry from one year earlier when we had a high of -2 on February 15th! The lowest temperature for the month was the reading of 0 on the morning of the 23rd. The warmest February on record was in 1954 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 46.3. The coldest February was in 1979 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 17.6 degrees. There were three temperature records set during February. The low of 0 on the 23rd set a new record low for that date. The old record was 4 set in 2003. The low of 54 on the 16th set a new record high low temperature. The old record was 42 set in 1961 and reached again in 2017. The low of 44 on the 20th also set a new record high low. The old record was 42 set in 1983. Precipitation for February is going to be a short report. Average precipitation for February is 1.10 inches. Milford Lake received 0.17 of an inch and Junction City received 0.32 of an inch. Year to date Milford Lake has received 0.42 inches and Junction City 1.00 inches. Normal through the end of February is 1.83 inches. Winter is our driest time of the year and this year winter has really held to that. Normal precipitation for November through February is 4.42". In that time frame this winter, Milford Lake has received 0.42" and Junction City 1.55". We did see some snow in February but it was generally very dry snow. Two snowfall events provided a total of 3.3 inches of snow, normal for February is 4.7". Snow season to date we have seen 7.6 inches, roughly half of our normal 14.2 inches. Currently, the entire state of Kansas is in some level of drought. Geary County ranges from abnormally dry to moderate drought in the west edge of the county. March is the start of meteorological spring (March 1) and the start of astronomical spring (March 20). Average temperatures reflect this with daily highs increasing from an average of 51 on the 1st to 62 on the 31st. Overnight lows also increase from 26 at the start of the month to 39 by the end of the month. Rainfall would be expected to slowly increase with an average of 2.00" during the month. March can also still bring us snowstorms. Long term average snowfall for March is 3.1 inches. Remember, March can bring us tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, hail, lightning, snow storms and ice storms.&nbsp;

February 2022 Weather Summary

Celebration of our diversity, continued dialogue on the topics of race and equality, beginning to create a strategy to promote entrepreneurship and job creation in the region will be issues covered during Diversity &amp; Equality Community Forum in Junction City. The event, sponsored by Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and presented by Junction City Main Street is scheduled from 5:15 - 7 p.m. Tuesday at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.&nbsp;

Among the speakers will be Junction City native and Oscar winning University of Kansas filmmaker Kevin Willmott. He'll focus on the entrepreneurial aspects of filmmaking and the challenges of being a minority filmmaker.

Ed O'Malley, Executive Director of the Kansas Leadership Center, will serve as facilitator for the forum. This event is open to the public.

Celebration of our diversity, continued dialogue on the topics of race and equality, beginning to create a strategy to promote entrepreneurship and job creation in the region will be issues covered during Diversity &amp; Equality Community Forum in Junction City. The event, sponsored by Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and presented by Junction City Main Street is scheduled from 5:15 - 7 p.m. Tuesday at the C.L. Hoover Opera House.&nbsp;Among the speakers will be Junction City native and Oscar winning University of Kansas filmmaker Kevin Willmott. He'll focus on the entrepreneurial aspects of filmmaking and the challenges of being a minority filmmaker.Ed O'Malley, Executive Director of the Kansas Leadership Center, will serve as facilitator for the forum. This event is open to the public.

Forum will be at the Opera House Tuesday

Chamber of  commerce  hosts legislative Coffee

By EDWARD CROSS Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association

We all feel the effects of rising energy prices. &nbsp;The Russian invasion of Ukraine only adds to our energy concerns and heightens the importance of the role of U.S. energy policy.

European countries are starting to realize their fears about energy access and affordability with the breakout of conflict in Ukraine. &nbsp;Broadly similar to green new deal style policies, the European Union (EU) has been cutting off their own fossil fuel production and usage without a viable alternative to meet that baseline demand. &nbsp;With their domestic sources waning, Russia stepped in to meet that demand. &nbsp;Now that Russian supply is threatened, renewable sources are not able to meet demand and energy prices continue to increase sharply across the continent.

​The lesson learned from Europe is that renewable energy sources are not ready to meet national energy demand. &nbsp;Over-reliance on renewable energy and Russian gas has been a recipe for disaster for the EU. &nbsp;President Biden should heed this as a warning of what his energy agenda will bring if he continues his war on American oil and gas.

Americans had fairly stable energy prices in 2017-2019, and fairly low ones, in part due to the tremendous increase in energy production in the United States – both oil and natural gas. &nbsp;In 2018, the U.S. produced 95% of its domestic energy requirements, the largest share since 1967. &nbsp;Gas prices, the marker Americans watch almost to the exclusion of everything else, averaged $2.60/gal in 2019, 4% lower than in 2018.

Here’s a key point: &nbsp;when a country becomes the leading producer of&nbsp;oil&nbsp;and&nbsp;natural gas&nbsp;and has reduced&nbsp;CO2&nbsp;emissions by 70% in 10 years, it is clearly doing many things right.

The Biden Administration need look no further than their own actions to find the primary reason energy prices have escalated since he took office. &nbsp;First, a pipeline bringing oil from Canada to the U.S. was quickly cancelled. &nbsp;Then, new leasing for energy development on federal acreage was stopped. &nbsp;Added to that was a batch of proposed punitive, unnecessary, and burdensome regulations on oil and gas operations. &nbsp;These actions have severely hampered American oil and gas companies’ ability to adequately supply the market and have put American Energy Independence at risk. &nbsp;These are short-sighted energy policies that result in higher energy costs that disproportionately harm low-income groups.&nbsp;

U.S.&nbsp;energy&nbsp;policies that restrict domestic production force our country to seek relief from&nbsp;foreign suppliers of energy,&nbsp;undermining our energy independence. &nbsp;The problem is that when certain foreign governments control your energy, they have the power to use it for their own purposes, not yours. &nbsp;America should not be in the position of asking for foreign energy supplies, especially when we have abundant resources produced to standards that are among the highest in the world, right here at home.&nbsp;

Instead, we should be leading. &nbsp;Energy should be a bipartisan priority. &nbsp;Nothing is more essential to economic growth than reliable, affordable and abundant energy. &nbsp;To lose that advantage is not in anybody’s best interest. &nbsp; &nbsp;

John Kerry, President Biden’s Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, is concerned that the war in Ukraine will distract attention away from the ‘climate crisis’. &nbsp;Unserious statements like those coming from Kerry and others in the Biden Administration are creating a geopolitical power vacuum. &nbsp;We might not be serious, but our enemies are ruthlessly so. &nbsp;They raise a toast to our self-inflicted demise. &nbsp;We are left with a simple choice in the U.S.: get serious about our energy policy and preserve our place in the geopolitical order or be forced to stop play-acting as a superpower. &nbsp;

​It is time for President Biden to recognize the strategic importance of American energy production. &nbsp;He should abandon his&nbsp;quixotic&nbsp;energy strategy immediately. &nbsp;Senseless pandering to the green left has helped foster the very conditions that have given Vladimir Putin confidence that his war on Ukraine will be met with little resistance from the U.S.

​While claiming to fight to bring energy prices down, President Biden has made the wrong move at every turn. &nbsp;Nothing less than a total reversal of his approach is necessary. &nbsp;This is the signal that President Biden needs to send to the world to stop the decline of American energy security. &nbsp;Certain times require a re-evaluation of priorities and a reorganization of values. &nbsp;The global crisis that Putin has set in motion is such a moment. &nbsp;

Putin tends to lash out when energy prices are high. &nbsp;Lowering these costs will not be easy. &nbsp;It will take time. &nbsp;And the only effective means of lowering the price of energy is increasing its supply.&nbsp;

President Biden should embrace oil and gas exploration. &nbsp;If the U.S. is energy independent, then we don’t beg people in the Middle East or Russia to help us and Putin would not have the financial reserves to subsidize an invasion. &nbsp;America was energy independent just a few years ago. &nbsp;Biden should do everything&nbsp;he&nbsp;can to make us energy independent again.

​President Biden and all federal and state policymakers should prioritize advancing American energy leadership with policies that encourage development of responsibly produced energy here at home. &nbsp;These policies should recognize the volatile world we live in and the long-term impacts of returning to the days of foreign energy dependency.&nbsp;

Edward Cross is president of the&nbsp;Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584027001010.png" alt="Edward Cross is president of the&nbsp;Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association." />
 <figcaption>Edward Cross is president of the&nbsp;Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.</figcaption>
 </figure>By EDWARD CROSS Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas AssociationWe all feel the effects of rising energy prices. &nbsp;The Russian invasion of Ukraine only adds to our energy concerns and heightens the importance of the role of U.S. energy policy.European countries are starting to realize their fears about energy access and affordability with the breakout of conflict in Ukraine. &nbsp;Broadly similar to green new deal style policies, the European Union (EU) has been cutting off their own fossil fuel production and usage without a viable alternative to meet that baseline demand. &nbsp;With their domestic sources waning, Russia stepped in to meet that demand. &nbsp;Now that Russian supply is threatened, renewable sources are not able to meet demand and energy prices continue to increase sharply across the continent.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>​The lesson learned from Europe is that renewable energy sources are not ready to meet national energy demand. &nbsp;Over-reliance on renewable energy and Russian gas has been a recipe for disaster for the EU. &nbsp;President Biden should heed this as a warning of what his energy agenda will bring if he continues his war on American oil and gas.Americans had fairly stable energy prices in 2017-2019, and fairly low ones, in part due to the tremendous increase in energy production in the United States – both oil and natural gas. &nbsp;In 2018, the U.S. produced 95% of its domestic energy requirements, the largest share since 1967. &nbsp;Gas prices, the marker Americans watch almost to the exclusion of everything else, averaged $2.60/gal in 2019, 4% lower than in 2018.Here’s a key point: &nbsp;when a country becomes the leading producer of&nbsp;oil&nbsp;and&nbsp;natural gas&nbsp;and has reduced&nbsp;CO2&nbsp;emissions by 70% in 10 years, it is clearly doing many things right.The Biden Administration need look no further than their own actions to find the primary reason energy prices have escalated since he took office. &nbsp;First, a pipeline bringing oil from Canada to the U.S. was quickly cancelled. &nbsp;Then, new leasing for energy development on federal acreage was stopped. &nbsp;Added to that was a batch of proposed punitive, unnecessary, and burdensome regulations on oil and gas operations. &nbsp;These actions have severely hampered American oil and gas companies’ ability to adequately supply the market and have put American Energy Independence at risk. &nbsp;These are short-sighted energy policies that result in higher energy costs that disproportionately harm low-income groups.&nbsp;U.S.&nbsp;energy&nbsp;policies that restrict domestic production force our country to seek relief from&nbsp;foreign suppliers of energy,&nbsp;undermining our energy independence. &nbsp;The problem is that when certain foreign governments control your energy, they have the power to use it for their own purposes, not yours. &nbsp;America should not be in the position of asking for foreign energy supplies, especially when we have abundant resources produced to standards that are among the highest in the world, right here at home.&nbsp;Instead, we should be leading. &nbsp;Energy should be a bipartisan priority. &nbsp;Nothing is more essential to economic growth than reliable, affordable and abundant energy. &nbsp;To lose that advantage is not in anybody’s best interest. &nbsp; &nbsp;John Kerry, President Biden’s Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, is concerned that the war in Ukraine will distract attention away from the ‘climate crisis’. &nbsp;Unserious statements like those coming from Kerry and others in the Biden Administration are creating a geopolitical power vacuum. &nbsp;We might not be serious, but our enemies are ruthlessly so. &nbsp;They raise a toast to our self-inflicted demise. &nbsp;We are left with a simple choice in the U.S.: get serious about our energy policy and preserve our place in the geopolitical order or be forced to stop play-acting as a superpower. &nbsp;​It is time for President Biden to recognize the strategic importance of American energy production. &nbsp;He should abandon his&nbsp;quixotic&nbsp;energy strategy immediately. &nbsp;Senseless pandering to the green left has helped foster the very conditions that have given Vladimir Putin confidence that his war on Ukraine will be met with little resistance from the U.S.​While claiming to fight to bring energy prices down, President Biden has made the wrong move at every turn. &nbsp;Nothing less than a total reversal of his approach is necessary. &nbsp;This is the signal that President Biden needs to send to the world to stop the decline of American energy security. &nbsp;Certain times require a re-evaluation of priorities and a reorganization of values. &nbsp;The global crisis that Putin has set in motion is such a moment. &nbsp;Putin tends to lash out when energy prices are high. &nbsp;Lowering these costs will not be easy. &nbsp;It will take time. &nbsp;And the only effective means of lowering the price of energy is increasing its supply.&nbsp;President Biden should embrace oil and gas exploration. &nbsp;If the U.S. is energy independent, then we don’t beg people in the Middle East or Russia to help us and Putin would not have the financial reserves to subsidize an invasion. &nbsp;America was energy independent just a few years ago. &nbsp;Biden should do everything&nbsp;he&nbsp;can to make us energy independent again.​President Biden and all federal and state policymakers should prioritize advancing American energy leadership with policies that encourage development of responsibly produced energy here at home. &nbsp;These policies should recognize the volatile world we live in and the long-term impacts of returning to the days of foreign energy dependency.&nbsp;Edward Cross is president of the&nbsp;Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association.

CROSS: U.S. energy policy highlighted by Russian invasion of Ukraine

Many members of law enforcement community serving Junction City, Geary County, Fort Riley and Grandview Plaza gathered at the Milford Lake Conference Center Friday evening. The occasion was the 7th annual law enforcement banquet.

The large audience in attendance enjoyed a good meal, heard from 1st District Congressman Tracey Mann and recognized 14 members of the law enforcement community who were honored for their work.

Mann said in his recent State of the Union speech the president finally said, "that we should fund the police. I hope the rest of his party agrees with him." Mann stated, "We need to make sure that men and women who protect American citizens, you all, from criminals have all&nbsp; the resources that you need to do your jobs well."

&nbsp;Mann observed that murders in the United States last year rose by approximately 30%, the largest one year increase ever recorded. "Now more than ever we need to stand with our law enforcement officers as you all protect our communities, our homes and our children. "

Numerous members of different departments and organizations were honored during the banquet.

--Derrick Davis, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

--Troy Watson, Law Enforcement Detective of the year

--Cathy Fahey, Citizen Employee of the Year

From the Geary County Sheriff's Department:

--Justin Floberg, Corrections Officer of the Year

--James Garcia, 20-21 Law Enforcement Officer of the year

--Kevin Albrecht, 2021 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

--Charles ( Nick ) Prather, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

--Curtis Haug, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

--John Mohlman, Emergency Service Dispatcher of the Year

8th Judicial District Community Corrections:

--Dale Dennison, Juvenile ISO of the Year

--Ashlynn Griffin, Juvenile &amp; Assessment Employee of the Year

--Katelyn Gloe, Juvenile &amp; Assessment Employee of the Year

Many members of law enforcement community serving Junction City, Geary County, Fort Riley and Grandview Plaza gathered at the Milford Lake Conference Center Friday evening. The occasion was the 7th annual law enforcement banquet.The large audience in attendance enjoyed a good meal, heard from 1st District Congressman Tracey Mann and recognized 14 members of the law enforcement community who were honored for their work.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646452504228.jpeg" alt="Congressman Tracey Mann" />
 <figcaption>Congressman Tracey Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>Mann said in his recent State of the Union speech the president finally said, "that we should fund the police. I hope the rest of his party agrees with him." Mann stated, "We need to make sure that men and women who protect American citizens, you all, from criminals have all&nbsp; the resources that you need to do your jobs well."&nbsp;Mann observed that murders in the United States last year rose by approximately 30%, the largest one year increase ever recorded. "Now more than ever we need to stand with our law enforcement officers as you all protect our communities, our homes and our children. "Numerous members of different departments and organizations were honored during the banquet.From the JCPD:--Derrick Davis, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646454284610.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>--Troy Watson, Law Enforcement Detective of the year<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646454358806.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>--Cathy Fahey, Citizen Employee of the Year--Cindy Sinklier, Employee of the YearFrom the Geary County Sheriff's Department:--Justin Floberg, Corrections Officer of the Year--James Garcia, 20-21 Law Enforcement Officer of the year<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646454625764.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>--Kevin Albrecht, 2021 Law Enforcement Officer of the YearGrandview Plaza PD:--Charles ( Nick ) Prather, Law Enforcement Officer of the YearFort Riley PD:--Curtis Haug, Law Enforcement Officer of the YearFort Riley CID:--John Mohlman, Emergency Service Dispatcher of the Year8th Judicial District:--Victoria Rumbaugh8th Judicial District Community Corrections:--Dale Dennison, Juvenile ISO of the Year--Ashlynn Griffin, Juvenile &amp; Assessment Employee of the Year--Katelyn Gloe, Juvenile &amp; Assessment Employee of the Year

Crime Stoppers honors members of law enforcement

USD 475, Fort Riley and state leaders including Gov. Laura Kelly turned shovels full of dirt during the groundbreaking for a new elementary school on Post. The 81,000 square foot facility that will also include six Pre-K classrooms,&nbsp; will be built on Leonard Ave. on the site of the former Jefferson Elementary School.

Kelly told the audience the event was meaningful to her, noting that her father was career Army and she spent much of her "grade school years attending school on Army posts all over the United States and overseas. I'm also gratified to learn that one thing of the new school would be dedicated to an early childhood program."

Perry Wiggins, Executive Director of the Governor's Military Council, said he was the son of a noncommissioned officer. "I'm a proud military brat and I'm a product of a school just like this one. " Wiggins added, "It makes me feel good that I can be a part of something that's going to make a difference in the eyes and the hearts of our young people."

Col. William McAnnay, Fort Riley Garrison Commander, called the relationship between the school district and Fort Riley the best school - installation partnership that he has seen in his 27 years in the Army.

Federal grant funds are paying 80% of the cost of the school while USD 475 will fund 20%.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646432824655.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>USD 475, Fort Riley and state leaders including Gov. Laura Kelly turned shovels full of dirt during the groundbreaking for a new elementary school on Post. The 81,000 square foot facility that will also include six Pre-K classrooms,&nbsp; will be built on Leonard Ave. on the site of the former Jefferson Elementary School.Kelly told the audience the event was meaningful to her, noting that her father was career Army and she spent much of her "grade school years attending school on Army posts all over the United States and overseas. I'm also gratified to learn that one thing of the new school would be dedicated to an early childhood program."Perry Wiggins, Executive Director of the Governor's Military Council, said he was the son of a noncommissioned officer. "I'm a proud military brat and I'm a product of a school just like this one. " Wiggins added, "It makes me feel good that I can be a part of something that's going to make a difference in the eyes and the hearts of our young people."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646434248385.jpeg" alt="USD 475 Board of Education President Ron Johnson speaking during the groundbreaking." />
 <figcaption>USD 475 Board of Education President Ron Johnson speaking during the groundbreaking.</figcaption>
 </figure>Col. William McAnnay, Fort Riley Garrison Commander, called the relationship between the school district and Fort Riley the best school - installation partnership that he has seen in his 27 years in the Army.Federal grant funds are paying 80% of the cost of the school while USD 475 will fund 20%.

 Leaders participate in new school groundbreaking

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;City Manager Ron Fehr announced Friday that previous Assistant to the City Manager, Jared Wasinger, has been named Assistant City Manager for the City of Manhattan, according to a media release from the city. Wasinger will be responsible for assisting with the day-to-day management of City operations including supervision of staff&nbsp;and administrative policy development; working with the City Manager and Deputy City Manager on various projects and redevelopment activities; serving as the City Manager’s designated representative to the Riley County Law Board, and staff liaison to the City-University Special Projects Fund Committee. “I am excited to announce the promotion of Jared Wasinger to serve as Assistant City Manager for the City of Manhattan. Jared has worked for the City successfully for the past six&nbsp;years,” says Ron Fehr. “I believe Jared will continue to have a positive impact within the organization and the community by assisting with day-to-day project management as well as helping to identify creative and innovative solutions to community challenges while enhancing City services. He has done an excellent job recently leading and starting the implementation of the City’s Strategic Plan.” Wasinger is from Hays, KS and graduated from Kansas State University for both his undergraduate&nbsp;degree and Master’s Degree in Public Administration. He began working for the City in 2015&nbsp;as a summer intern in the Human Resources Department, then as a Management intern in the the City Manager’s Office. Jared was hired full-time with the City as a Management Assistant in 2016. In December 2017, he he was promoted to Assistant to the City Manager. “I am honored to serve in this role and work for this organization and the community,” says Wasinger. "We have amazing, dedicated people working for the City and I am proud to work with them." Kristen Dolf will&nbsp;fill&nbsp;the position previously held by Wasinger, and be promoted to the role of Assistant to the City Manager. Dolf previously served&nbsp;as a Management Assistant and has worked in the City Manager's Office since 2016. Prior to joining the City Manager's Office, Dolf worked in the Public Works Department from 2013-2016 as a Senior Administrative Assistant. In 2020, Dolf received her Master's Degree&nbsp;in Public Administration at K-State.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646415472991.png" alt="Jared Wasinger-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Jared Wasinger-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN —&nbsp;City Manager Ron Fehr announced Friday that previous Assistant to the City Manager, Jared Wasinger, has been named Assistant City Manager for the City of Manhattan, according to a media release from the city. Wasinger will be responsible for assisting with the day-to-day management of City operations including supervision of staff&nbsp;and administrative policy development; working with the City Manager and Deputy City Manager on various projects and redevelopment activities; serving as the City Manager’s designated representative to the Riley County Law Board, and staff liaison to the City-University Special Projects Fund Committee. “I am excited to announce the promotion of Jared Wasinger to serve as Assistant City Manager for the City of Manhattan. Jared has worked for the City successfully for the past six&nbsp;years,” says Ron Fehr. “I believe Jared will continue to have a positive impact within the organization and the community by assisting with day-to-day project management as well as helping to identify creative and innovative solutions to community challenges while enhancing City services. He has done an excellent job recently leading and starting the implementation of the City’s Strategic Plan.” Wasinger is from Hays, KS and graduated from Kansas State University for both his undergraduate&nbsp;degree and Master’s Degree in Public Administration. He began working for the City in 2015&nbsp;as a summer intern in the Human Resources Department, then as a Management intern in the the City Manager’s Office. Jared was hired full-time with the City as a Management Assistant in 2016. In December 2017, he he was promoted to Assistant to the City Manager. “I am honored to serve in this role and work for this organization and the community,” says Wasinger. "We have amazing, dedicated people working for the City and I am proud to work with them." Kristen Dolf will&nbsp;fill&nbsp;the position previously held by Wasinger, and be promoted to the role of Assistant to the City Manager. Dolf previously served&nbsp;as a Management Assistant and has worked in the City Manager's Office since 2016. Prior to joining the City Manager's Office, Dolf worked in the Public Works Department from 2013-2016 as a Senior Administrative Assistant. In 2020, Dolf received her Master's Degree&nbsp;in Public Administration at K-State.

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