JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Junction City High School (JCHS) is celebrating 20 years of providing students a head start in their future endeavors through its Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.

Developed in 2002, the school’s Career Academy structure allows students to choose one of three career academies their sophomore year: Business, Public Service and Hospitality (BPSH); Science, Engineering and Health (SEH); and Fine Arts and Human Services (FAHS). Each academy provides career clusters and courses corresponding to the CTE pathways, where students take a sequence of courses focusing on their career interests.

“We help students see the ‘why’ of their education while at JCHS,” said Becky Coy, CTE administrator at JCHS. “Our program helps students find an interest in a job field to pursue outside of high school.”

After finding a career pathway of interest, JCHS students can apply for an internship in that career. This allows them to explore that position in an in-depth, hands-on approach to learning and observation, with employers across the community. This year, JCHS is piloting a program with Fort Riley, allowing students to intern at Irwin Army Community Hospital and the Fort Riley Public Affairs Office.

JCHS students can choose among 14 career pathways: Business Finance; Law, Public Safety, and Security; Restaurant and Event Management; Web and Digital Communications; Marketing; Apparel Production; Comprehensive Agricultural Science; Health Science; Mobile Equipment; Production; Construction and Design; A/V Communications; Early Childhood Development; Teaching and Learning.

By Lindley LundUSD 475JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Junction City High School (JCHS) is celebrating 20 years of providing students a head start in their future endeavors through its Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.Developed in 2002, the school’s Career Academy structure allows students to choose one of three career academies their sophomore year: Business, Public Service and Hospitality (BPSH); Science, Engineering and Health (SEH); and Fine Arts and Human Services (FAHS). Each academy provides career clusters and courses corresponding to the CTE pathways, where students take a sequence of courses focusing on their career interests.“We help students see the ‘why’ of their education while at JCHS,” said Becky Coy, CTE administrator at JCHS. “Our program helps students find an interest in a job field to pursue outside of high school.”After finding a career pathway of interest, JCHS students can apply for an internship in that career. This allows them to explore that position in an in-depth, hands-on approach to learning and observation, with employers across the community. This year, JCHS is piloting a program with Fort Riley, allowing students to intern at Irwin Army Community Hospital and the Fort Riley Public Affairs Office.JCHS students can choose among 14 career pathways: Business Finance; Law, Public Safety, and Security; Restaurant and Event Management; Web and Digital Communications; Marketing; Apparel Production; Comprehensive Agricultural Science; Health Science; Mobile Equipment; Production; Construction and Design; A/V Communications; Early Childhood Development; Teaching and Learning.

Junction City High School CTE, internship programs prepare students for after graduation

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities and USD 383 are investigating an alleged school threat in Manhattan.

Just after noon Wednesday, officers&nbsp;filed a report for aggravated criminal threat at Manhattan High School, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.

 Officers listed a 16-year-old identified as Daniel Marshall of Manhattan as the suspect when it was reported he used an educational technology site, Padlet, to post a threat towards Manhattan High School. 

Just after 11:30a.m. Thursday police arrested Marshall on requested charges of aggravated criminal threat and he was transported to the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center Facility in Junction City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573757762937.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities and USD 383 are investigating an alleged school threat in Manhattan.Just after noon Wednesday, officers&nbsp;filed a report for aggravated criminal threat at Manhattan High School, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report. Officers listed a 16-year-old identified as Daniel Marshall of Manhattan as the suspect when it was reported he used an educational technology site, Padlet, to post a threat towards Manhattan High School. Just after 11:30a.m. Thursday police arrested Marshall on requested charges of aggravated criminal threat and he was transported to the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center Facility in Junction City.

RCPD: Teen accused of online threat at Manhattan High School

Cottonwood Falls, Kan. – Tickets for the 2022 Symphony in the Flint Hills&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm6x4Tsz6U_Im7-g2V-fx8PQcWt1xYyOWO1vcC6I9qDJArT5i4zjE6fA1jQCE6zwJdkWa2DeA5u9sA9xOMAtmprTMxWxK062RABSeAbq9Hu95f2VrcgKzCYOUsoPNJJxIWtCCb52JzJ-k&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">Signature Event</a>&nbsp;will go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 5. The 17th&nbsp;annual event will take place at Irma’s Pasture near Bazaar, Kan., in Chase County on June 11th.

The Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event is an annual gathering on the prairie celebrating music, art and the ecology of the Flint Hills that moves to a different site each year. This year’s day-long event will focus on “Weather in the Flint Hills” and will feature inspirational talks and presentations, covered wagon rides and guided prairie walks. The&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm5QqNOu4pGwdtczBSo-9pY3P6_X_ZMdZQm6ZZB92XcB-kSbWbANCJjNDQkOgtsjFzshFDIs7xTo0RGPVKfSlup9_sHyHe787mA==&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">Kansas City Symphony</a>&nbsp;performance will conclude with a Flint Hills sunset. After concert experiences include dancing, stargazing and stories by local musicians and poets.&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm5QqNOu4pGwd0HQ2uetOpxmrzJNlozN7XXe1wTiIwMKfB5GpXWnKSvC3zdR4oLKTSxf7MC6xGSDTpHod-jXkmmc=&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">BNSF Railway</a>is the event’s Major Presenting Sponsor for the eighth year.

“From drought to flood and sizzling hot to well below zero, Flint Hills weather is significant to the prairie and its people. That’s why we’ve made the weather our focus for this year’s annual event. It’s a topic that hits close to home, too – this year’s event will take place at the same location of our 2019 Signature Event that was cancelled due to damage caused by a microburst. We’re excited to finally have the opportunity to share this beautiful piece of land and provide a one-of-a-kind experience on the prairie featuring a spectacular Kansas sunset accompanying the Kansas City Symphony,” said Julie Hower, board chair for Symphony in the Flint Hills.

General admission tickets will go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 5 and can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm-TgozwDNXGGRigIBwfJFcFeSdNDAqwOOCTuowQvYIUxDzMz_3JHalhEYt6m38uu5qNWTp_QCSJX0iq9IScK75kJpyAJtJNYVSSZMfnUvWmQ&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">SymphonyInTheFlintHills.org</a>. Tickets are $95 plus taxes and fees for adults and $50 plus taxes and fees for children 12 and under. Patron packages and sponsorships are also available for the VIP experience. Call 620-273-8955 for details.

For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm-TgozwDNXGGRigIBwfJFcFeSdNDAqwOOCTuowQvYIUxDzMz_3JHalhEYt6m38uu5qNWTp_QCSJX0iq9IScK75kJpyAJtJNYVSSZMfnUvWmQ&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">SymphonyInTheFlintHills.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cottonwood Falls, Kan. – Tickets for the 2022 Symphony in the Flint Hills&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm6x4Tsz6U_Im7-g2V-fx8PQcWt1xYyOWO1vcC6I9qDJArT5i4zjE6fA1jQCE6zwJdkWa2DeA5u9sA9xOMAtmprTMxWxK062RABSeAbq9Hu95f2VrcgKzCYOUsoPNJJxIWtCCb52JzJ-k&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">Signature Event</a>&nbsp;will go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 5. The 17th&nbsp;annual event will take place at Irma’s Pasture near Bazaar, Kan., in Chase County on June 11th. The Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event is an annual gathering on the prairie celebrating music, art and the ecology of the Flint Hills that moves to a different site each year. This year’s day-long event will focus on “Weather in the Flint Hills” and will feature inspirational talks and presentations, covered wagon rides and guided prairie walks. The&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm5QqNOu4pGwdtczBSo-9pY3P6_X_ZMdZQm6ZZB92XcB-kSbWbANCJjNDQkOgtsjFzshFDIs7xTo0RGPVKfSlup9_sHyHe787mA==&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">Kansas City Symphony</a>&nbsp;performance will conclude with a Flint Hills sunset. After concert experiences include dancing, stargazing and stories by local musicians and poets.&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm5QqNOu4pGwd0HQ2uetOpxmrzJNlozN7XXe1wTiIwMKfB5GpXWnKSvC3zdR4oLKTSxf7MC6xGSDTpHod-jXkmmc=&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">BNSF Railway</a>is the event’s Major Presenting Sponsor for the eighth year. “From drought to flood and sizzling hot to well below zero, Flint Hills weather is significant to the prairie and its people. That’s why we’ve made the weather our focus for this year’s annual event. It’s a topic that hits close to home, too – this year’s event will take place at the same location of our 2019 Signature Event that was cancelled due to damage caused by a microburst. We’re excited to finally have the opportunity to share this beautiful piece of land and provide a one-of-a-kind experience on the prairie featuring a spectacular Kansas sunset accompanying the Kansas City Symphony,” said Julie Hower, board chair for Symphony in the Flint Hills. General admission tickets will go on sale to the public at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 5 and can be purchased online at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm-TgozwDNXGGRigIBwfJFcFeSdNDAqwOOCTuowQvYIUxDzMz_3JHalhEYt6m38uu5qNWTp_QCSJX0iq9IScK75kJpyAJtJNYVSSZMfnUvWmQ&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">SymphonyInTheFlintHills.org</a>. Tickets are $95 plus taxes and fees for adults and $50 plus taxes and fees for children 12 and under. Patron packages and sponsorships are also available for the VIP experience. Call 620-273-8955 for details. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001e_AUahXkGrKfeyOh1WF1OHYayAaOVWF44SE9EoAt5yEatSVumzfGm-TgozwDNXGGRigIBwfJFcFeSdNDAqwOOCTuowQvYIUxDzMz_3JHalhEYt6m38uu5qNWTp_QCSJX0iq9IScK75kJpyAJtJNYVSSZMfnUvWmQ&amp;c=AaKMj463wISXO0qqao8uCpwOYD5uryssPE1XJPGWvdwsRk6Uw1oKWg==&amp;ch=AOMRySK8L14_hAohrdlfnCbkX6iVPblvX6XhQk2PpnhekxXkFVqYjw==" target="_blank">SymphonyInTheFlintHills.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tickets go on sale March 5 for the Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event

Geary County Senior Center will be closed to the public until Monday. Assistant Director Stacey Kyle noted that there will not be any in-house dining but homebound meals will go out.

The building was also&nbsp; closed to the public on Thursday due to unforseen circumstances.

Geary County Senior Center will be closed to the public until Monday. Assistant Director Stacey Kyle noted that there will not be any in-house dining but homebound meals will go out.The building was also&nbsp; closed to the public on Thursday due to unforseen circumstances.

Senior Center building will be closed to the public on Friday

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members will reconsider the district's face mask requirement as an action item at their March 7th meeting.&nbsp;

Board member Kristy Haden said she believes face masks allowed the district to remain open during the pandemic but masks and tests were always meant to be temporary. "And prior to the meeting I would ask that ( Superintendent ) Dr. Eggleston and his staff prepare new procedures and plans for having masks optional at city schools while being mandated on post, a plan to remove the test to stay program in all of our schools and also to advise us to come back on what we plan to do with our COVID staff going forward."

Following school board discussion Thursday evening, Eggleston and staff will bring proposals to the March 7th meeting.

Board member Dr. Jason Butler said he still stood with his recent comments from an earlier meeting two weeks ago. "That I am all in or all out. I don't think we can go back and forth on masks. I think we choose one path and we go down that path."

Board member Dr. Anwar Khoury observed that the governor has removed masking requirements for state agencies as of Friday, all the surrounding school districts including Manhattan have gone without masks. "We're always the leaders and now I feel like we're sitting behind. The numbers are going down, COVID, and it's not even talked about much in the media. I think we should just proceed and remove the masks like all the districts around us today."

Board President Ron Johnson noted that there is pressure from all sides on this topic. "So far we've been operating in what we feel is the best interests for all involved."&nbsp;

Board member Mark Hatcher wanted to make a motion to remove the mask requirement at the Thursday session but couldn't do so because the topic was not an action item on the agenda for that meeting. It will be addressed March 7th.

While there have been a few specific mission requirements Fort Riley Garrison Commander Col. Will McKannay noted Fort Riley has generally operated in line with CDC guidance during the pandemic. We're as eager as everyone else to see CDC guidance change in a more positive direction. I'd use that word. But we're going to go along with that." The garrison commander asked that if the Board makes any type of statement or policy that if they're in a different place with CDC guidance that it be in line with Fort Riley policies instead of having masks mandatory on Post.&nbsp;

The current policy for the district requires face masks to be worn in district facilities and school buses until April 4th when it was scheduled to be reevaluated.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary USD 475 Board of Education members will reconsider the district's face mask requirement as an action item at their March 7th meeting.&nbsp;Board member Kristy Haden said she believes face masks allowed the district to remain open during the pandemic but masks and tests were always meant to be temporary. "And prior to the meeting I would ask that ( Superintendent ) Dr. Eggleston and his staff prepare new procedures and plans for having masks optional at city schools while being mandated on post, a plan to remove the test to stay program in all of our schools and also to advise us to come back on what we plan to do with our COVID staff going forward."Following school board discussion Thursday evening, Eggleston and staff will bring proposals to the March 7th meeting.Board member Dr. Jason Butler said he still stood with his recent comments from an earlier meeting two weeks ago. "That I am all in or all out. I don't think we can go back and forth on masks. I think we choose one path and we go down that path."Board member Dr. Anwar Khoury observed that the governor has removed masking requirements for state agencies as of Friday, all the surrounding school districts including Manhattan have gone without masks. "We're always the leaders and now I feel like we're sitting behind. The numbers are going down, COVID, and it's not even talked about much in the media. I think we should just proceed and remove the masks like all the districts around us today."Board President Ron Johnson noted that there is pressure from all sides on this topic. "So far we've been operating in what we feel is the best interests for all involved."&nbsp;Board member Mark Hatcher wanted to make a motion to remove the mask requirement at the Thursday session but couldn't do so because the topic was not an action item on the agenda for that meeting. It will be addressed March 7th.While there have been a few specific mission requirements Fort Riley Garrison Commander Col. Will McKannay noted Fort Riley has generally operated in line with CDC guidance during the pandemic. We're as eager as everyone else to see CDC guidance change in a more positive direction. I'd use that word. But we're going to go along with that." The garrison commander asked that if the Board makes any type of statement or policy that if they're in a different place with CDC guidance that it be in line with Fort Riley policies instead of having masks mandatory on Post.&nbsp;The current policy for the district requires face masks to be worn in district facilities and school buses until April 4th when it was scheduled to be reevaluated.

BOE will reevaluate face mask policy in March

MANHATTAN —Five undergraduate researchers from Kansas State University will take part in Kansas Undergraduate Research Days, March 1-3. This select virtual event can be viewed live for free at&nbsp;<a href="https://symposium.foragerone.com/kansas-undergraduate-research-days/registration">symposium.foragerone.com/kansas-undergraduate-research-days/registration</a>. The K-State students will be joined by undergraduate researchers from each of the other Kansas Board of Regents four-year public universities in presenting their projects online. The event is sponsored this year by the University of Kansas. "Undergraduate Research Days showcases undergraduate research in Kansas, providing a forum for undergraduates from across Kansas to present their research to our state legislators and other guests visiting the website," said Dawn Tallchief, assistant director for student programs with the Center for Undergraduate Research at KU and the coordinator of this year's event. The Kansas Undergraduate Research Days website will feature posters and accompanying student videos describing the research projects. Visitors will be able to comment and post questions for the student presenters. Students, faculty, Kansas Board of Regents members, state lawmakers and members of the public from across the state are invited to participate. The event is intended to raise awareness of research being conducted by undergraduate students and to highlight the transformational educational opportunities available to students at each Regents university. The following K-State students will present their work at the Undergraduate Research Days: • Nassima Amiar, senior in biology,&nbsp;Manhattan, mentored by Loretta Johnson, professor of biology, will present "Do Soil Microbes Enhance Leaf Area and Biomass in Big Bluestem Growing Across a Precipitation Gradient?"

• Carson Gido, junior in biochemistry,&nbsp;Manhattan, mentored by Brian Geisbrecht, professor of biochemistry and molecular biophysics, will present "Inhibition of Neutrophil Serine Proteases by Staphylococcus aureus Extracellular Adherence Protein Domains." • Stephanie Ma, junior in chemical engineering,&nbsp;Rosehill, mentored by Chuancheng Duan, assistant professor of chemical engineering, will present "Opening the Black Box of Catalytic CO2 Conversion Into Fuel." • Kinsley Searles, senior in English literature,&nbsp;Topeka, mentored by Lisa Tatonetti, professor of English, and Mary Kohn, associate professor of English, will present "Kansas Land Treaties Project." • Dewey Leierer, senior in biochemistry,&nbsp;Wichita, mentored by Brenda Oppert, K-State adjunct professor of entomology and research molecular biologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will present "Shotgun Metagenomic Case Study of a Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio Molitor) Colony Collapse." "We are excited for the opportunity to showcase and celebrate the excellent undergraduate research at Kansas State University," said Brenee King, director of K-State's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/undergradresearch/">Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry</a>. "Our group of student presenters represents the interdisciplinary research that undergraduate students can engage with during their time on campus. We are proud of all the undergraduate research and creative inquiry occurring at K-State."

MANHATTAN —Five undergraduate researchers from Kansas State University will take part in Kansas Undergraduate Research Days, March 1-3. This select virtual event can be viewed live for free at&nbsp;<a href="https://symposium.foragerone.com/kansas-undergraduate-research-days/registration">symposium.foragerone.com/kansas-undergraduate-research-days/registration</a>. The K-State students will be joined by undergraduate researchers from each of the other Kansas Board of Regents four-year public universities in presenting their projects online. The event is sponsored this year by the University of Kansas. "Undergraduate Research Days showcases undergraduate research in Kansas, providing a forum for undergraduates from across Kansas to present their research to our state legislators and other guests visiting the website," said Dawn Tallchief, assistant director for student programs with the Center for Undergraduate Research at KU and the coordinator of this year's event. The Kansas Undergraduate Research Days website will feature posters and accompanying student videos describing the research projects. Visitors will be able to comment and post questions for the student presenters. Students, faculty, Kansas Board of Regents members, state lawmakers and members of the public from across the state are invited to participate. The event is intended to raise awareness of research being conducted by undergraduate students and to highlight the transformational educational opportunities available to students at each Regents university. The following K-State students will present their work at the Undergraduate Research Days: • Nassima Amiar, senior in biology,&nbsp;Manhattan, mentored by Loretta Johnson, professor of biology, will present "Do Soil Microbes Enhance Leaf Area and Biomass in Big Bluestem Growing Across a Precipitation Gradient?"• Carson Gido, junior in biochemistry,&nbsp;Manhattan, mentored by Brian Geisbrecht, professor of biochemistry and molecular biophysics, will present "Inhibition of Neutrophil Serine Proteases by Staphylococcus aureus Extracellular Adherence Protein Domains." • Stephanie Ma, junior in chemical engineering,&nbsp;Rosehill, mentored by Chuancheng Duan, assistant professor of chemical engineering, will present "Opening the Black Box of Catalytic CO2 Conversion Into Fuel." • Kinsley Searles, senior in English literature,&nbsp;Topeka, mentored by Lisa Tatonetti, professor of English, and Mary Kohn, associate professor of English, will present "Kansas Land Treaties Project." • Dewey Leierer, senior in biochemistry,&nbsp;Wichita, mentored by Brenda Oppert, K-State adjunct professor of entomology and research molecular biologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will present "Shotgun Metagenomic Case Study of a Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio Molitor) Colony Collapse." "We are excited for the opportunity to showcase and celebrate the excellent undergraduate research at Kansas State University," said Brenee King, director of K-State's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/undergradresearch/">Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry</a>. "Our group of student presenters represents the interdisciplinary research that undergraduate students can engage with during their time on campus. We are proud of all the undergraduate research and creative inquiry occurring at K-State."

5 KSU students taking part in Kansas Undergraduate Research Days

Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association is offering an orientation for new gun owners for those who would like to learn more about safe operation, storage, ammunition, cleaning, and shooting their newly acquired firearm. 

 The session will be held on Saturday, 26 February from 9:00am to 12:00pm. The location will be at Sportsman’s Acres, 3922 Highway K-244 Spur, Junction City, Kansas.  This facility is just south of Milford Lake Dam.  Cost will be $10.00 per person. 

 Training will be specific to the firearms brought to the class and will be conducted by NRA certified instructors.  Range time will be included if weather permits.  Participants should bring their firearm and ammunition. 

Class size is limited so pre-registration is required. For more information and sign-up contact Dan Hammond at email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:danhammondsr@yahoo.com" target="_blank">danhammondsr@yahoo.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Fish &amp; Game Association is offering an orientation for new gun owners for those who would like to learn more about safe operation, storage, ammunition, cleaning, and shooting their newly acquired firearm. The session will be held on Saturday, 26 February from 9:00am to 12:00pm. The location will be at Sportsman’s Acres, 3922 Highway K-244 Spur, Junction City, Kansas. This facility is just south of Milford Lake Dam. Cost will be $10.00 per person. Training will be specific to the firearms brought to the class and will be conducted by NRA certified instructors. Range time will be included if weather permits. Participants should bring their firearm and ammunition. Class size is limited so pre-registration is required. For more information and sign-up contact Dan Hammond at email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:danhammondsr@yahoo.com" target="_blank">danhammondsr@yahoo.com</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Orientation provided for new gun owners

First United Methodist Church is coordinating a community Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 16th in Heritage Park in Junction City. Activities will begin at 10 a.m. and the Easter egg hunt will begin at 11 a.m.

Donations are being sought to help provide eggs for the event. You can make a donation at the First United Methodist Church at 804 North Jefferson in Junction City.

The event is open to all youth in the community.

First United Methodist Church is coordinating a community Easter egg hunt on Saturday, April 16th in Heritage Park in Junction City. Activities will begin at 10 a.m. and the Easter egg hunt will begin at 11 a.m.Donations are being sought to help provide eggs for the event. You can make a donation at the First United Methodist Church at 804 North Jefferson in Junction City.The event is open to all youth in the community.

Community Easter egg hunt is scheduled April 16th

MANHATTAN - Kansas State women’s basketball coach Jeff Mittie's wife has been diagnosed with cancer.

On Thursday morning, coach Jeff Mittie reported through his social media account that his wife, Shanna, has been diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

"Shanna and I have been waiting until after she met with family, team, and staff to announce she has been diagnosed with Breast Cancer.  The past month we have met with her medical team and we now have a treatment plan in place and are confident it is treatable and beatable."

"We are thankful for the people at KU Medical Center and their Women’s Cancer Center.  As she faces this difficult challenge we appreciate everyone’s prayers and well wishes."

Mittie and his wife, Dr. Shanna Mittie, who is a native of Junction City, Kansas, and a graduate of Chapman High School, are the proud parents of three children, daughters Logan and Madison and son Jordan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645129135262.png" alt="Coach Jeff Mittie-photo KSU" />
 <figcaption>Coach Jeff Mittie-photo KSU</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN - Kansas State women’s basketball coach Jeff Mittie's wife has been diagnosed with cancer.On Thursday morning, coach Jeff Mittie reported through his social media account that his wife, Shanna, has been diagnosed with Breast Cancer."Shanna and I have been waiting until after she met with family, team, and staff to announce she has been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. The past month we have met with her medical team and we now have a treatment plan in place and are confident it is treatable and beatable.""We are thankful for the people at KU Medical Center and their Women’s Cancer Center. As she faces this difficult challenge we appreciate everyone’s prayers and well wishes."Mittie and his wife, Dr. Shanna Mittie, who is a native of Junction City, Kansas, and a graduate of Chapman High School, are the proud parents of three children, daughters Logan and Madison and son Jordan.

KSU women's basketball coach's wife diagnosed with cancer 

Most Geary County Offices will be closed on Monday, February 21, in observance of the President’s Day Holiday.

County Clerk Rebecca Nordyke said regular hours for the offices will resume Tuesday, February 22.

The Geary County Transfer Station will be OPEN during their regular hours on the President's Day holiday, Monday, February 21. The Transfer Station is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Most Geary County Offices will be closed on Monday, February 21, in observance of the President’s Day Holiday.County Clerk Rebecca Nordyke said regular hours for the offices will resume Tuesday, February 22.There is one exception on Monday.&nbsp;The Geary County Transfer Station will be OPEN during their regular hours on the President's Day holiday, Monday, February 21. The Transfer Station is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Schedule announcements are made for Geary County offices on Monday

Geary County 4-H Club Day will be held this Saturday, February 19th&nbsp;at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City.&nbsp; Events will begin at 8:00am and are scheduled to be completed with an awards ceremony around 11:45am.&nbsp; 

4-H members will be presenting speeches, music numbers, drama programs, and parliamentary procedure demonstrations.&nbsp; Members will also be able to participate in photography and family and consumer sciences judging contests throughout the morning.

The public is welcome to attend this event and support the youth in Geary County 4-H.&nbsp; If you have questions, contact Ginger Kopfer at the Geary County K-State Research and Extension Office at 785-238-4161.

Geary County 4-H Club Day will be held this Saturday, February 19th&nbsp;at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City.&nbsp; Events will begin at 8:00am and are scheduled to be completed with an awards ceremony around 11:45am.&nbsp; 4-H members will be presenting speeches, music numbers, drama programs, and parliamentary procedure demonstrations.&nbsp; Members will also be able to participate in photography and family and consumer sciences judging contests throughout the morning.The public is welcome to attend this event and support the youth in Geary County 4-H.&nbsp; If you have questions, contact Ginger Kopfer at the Geary County K-State Research and Extension Office at 785-238-4161.

4-H Day is Saturday

Junction City Public Works has announced that there will be no trash/garbage pick-up by the City of Junction City on Monday, February 21st due to Presidents’ Day Holiday.

However, trash/garbage pickup will be picked up the next workday as follows:

Monday’s pickup day will be Tuesday, February 22nd

Tuesday’s pickup day will be Wednesday, February 23rd

Wednesday’s pickup day will be Thursday, February 24th

Thursday’s pickup day will be Friday, February 25th

Friday’s pickup day will be Saturday, February 26th

To ensure pick-up, your trash should be set out by 6 AM, Tuesday morning.

Junction City Public Works has announced that there will be no trash/garbage pick-up by the City of Junction City on Monday, February 21st due to Presidents’ Day Holiday.However, trash/garbage pickup will be picked up the next workday as follows:Monday’s pickup day will be Tuesday, February 22ndTuesday’s pickup day will be Wednesday, February 23rdWednesday’s pickup day will be Thursday, February 24thThursday’s pickup day will be Friday, February 25thFriday’s pickup day will be Saturday, February 26thTo ensure pick-up, your trash should be set out by 6 AM, Tuesday morning.

Junction City Public Works updates trash pick-up schedule

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Thursday in Shawnee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Honda Fit driven by Alexandra Jane Anderson, 27, Manhattan, was eastbound on Interstate 70 at West Union Road.&nbsp;

The driver lost control of the car. It traveled through the right ditch and came to rest on the off ramp to West Union Road.

EMS transported Anderson and a 6-year-old passenger to Stormont Vail in Topeka.&nbsp; A second adult passenger was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645123947142.png" alt="photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Thursday in Shawnee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Honda Fit driven by Alexandra Jane Anderson, 27, Manhattan, was eastbound on Interstate 70 at West Union Road.&nbsp; The driver lost control of the car. It traveled through the right ditch and came to rest on the off ramp to West Union Road.EMS transported Anderson and a 6-year-old passenger to Stormont Vail in Topeka.&nbsp; A second adult passenger was not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Manhattan woman, 6-year-old hospitalized after crash on I-70

--Geary County Senior Center will be closed to the public until Monday. There will not be any in-house dining but homebound meals will go out.

--

Due to inclement weather, Geary County Schools will be delayed two hours on&nbsp;Thursday, February 17th. Early Childhood morning classes and before-school activities will not occur. Breakfast will not be served. School will resume as normal Friday, February 18th unless notified otherwise.&nbsp;&nbsp;

--USD 481 Rural Vista will be closed Thursday

--USD 487 Herington closed on Thursday. All activities are cancelled.

--USD 417 Morris County ( Council Grove ) closed on Thursday

--Fort Riley officials confirmed via a social media announcement that the installation will operate on a 9 a.m. work call on Thursday, Feb. 17. Parker and Grant Access Control Points (Gates) open at 8 a.m. All other ACPs conduct normal operations. 

Visitor Control Center operates as normal. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IrwinArmyCommunityHospital/?__cft__[0]=AZXuBDp8CyD8BnqI1REMhS02tTaIQguXfHbNiebIdLX70yakZCIV3jBM9GqaAbuOYHRgUQlsxGCp5VCeMcUJYJUKmUHNCmQU_3Yz9mazY7uefa3oIUu1BHg6XzQ_y2INQ4YzBzmU0g-8MzVWKxVGzljX&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Irwin Army Community Hospital</a> conducts normal operations. Patients may cancel, or reschedule appointments by contacting 785-239-DOCS.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/RileyCYS/?__cft__[0]=AZXuBDp8CyD8BnqI1REMhS02tTaIQguXfHbNiebIdLX70yakZCIV3jBM9GqaAbuOYHRgUQlsxGCp5VCeMcUJYJUKmUHNCmQU_3Yz9mazY7uefa3oIUu1BHg6XzQ_y2INQ4YzBzmU0g-8MzVWKxVGzljX&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Riley CYS</a> Child Development Centers open at 8 a.m. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rileymwr/?__cft__[0]=AZXuBDp8CyD8BnqI1REMhS02tTaIQguXfHbNiebIdLX70yakZCIV3jBM9GqaAbuOYHRgUQlsxGCp5VCeMcUJYJUKmUHNCmQU_3Yz9mazY7uefa3oIUu1BHg6XzQ_y2INQ4YzBzmU0g-8MzVWKxVGzljX&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Fort Riley MWR</a> Fitness Centers open at 9 a.m. 24/7 Fitness Centers remain open. Commissary opens at 10 a.m. Exchange Shoppettes open at 10 a.m. Main PX is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Military, Civilian supervisors are empowered to approve leave for personnel that feel conditions are unsafe for travel. Consult your supervisor for details.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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

--Geary County Senior Center will be closed to the public until Monday. There will not be any in-house dining but homebound meals will go out.--

Due to inclement weather, Geary County Schools will be delayed two hours on&nbsp;Thursday, February 17th. Early Childhood morning classes and before-school activities will not occur. Breakfast will not be served. School will resume as normal Friday, February 18th unless notified otherwise.&nbsp;&nbsp;--USD 481 Rural Vista will be closed Thursday--USD 487 Herington closed on Thursday. All activities are cancelled.--USD 417 Morris County ( Council Grove ) closed on Thursday--Fort Riley officials confirmed via a social media announcement that the installation will operate on a 9 a.m. work call on Thursday, Feb. 17. Parker and Grant Access Control Points (Gates) open at 8 a.m. All other ACPs conduct normal operations. Visitor Control Center operates as normal. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IrwinArmyCommunityHospital/?__cft__[0]=AZXuBDp8CyD8BnqI1REMhS02tTaIQguXfHbNiebIdLX70yakZCIV3jBM9GqaAbuOYHRgUQlsxGCp5VCeMcUJYJUKmUHNCmQU_3Yz9mazY7uefa3oIUu1BHg6XzQ_y2INQ4YzBzmU0g-8MzVWKxVGzljX&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Irwin Army Community Hospital</a> conducts normal operations. Patients may cancel, or reschedule appointments by contacting 785-239-DOCS.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/RileyCYS/?__cft__[0]=AZXuBDp8CyD8BnqI1REMhS02tTaIQguXfHbNiebIdLX70yakZCIV3jBM9GqaAbuOYHRgUQlsxGCp5VCeMcUJYJUKmUHNCmQU_3Yz9mazY7uefa3oIUu1BHg6XzQ_y2INQ4YzBzmU0g-8MzVWKxVGzljX&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Riley CYS</a> Child Development Centers open at 8 a.m. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rileymwr/?__cft__[0]=AZXuBDp8CyD8BnqI1REMhS02tTaIQguXfHbNiebIdLX70yakZCIV3jBM9GqaAbuOYHRgUQlsxGCp5VCeMcUJYJUKmUHNCmQU_3Yz9mazY7uefa3oIUu1BHg6XzQ_y2INQ4YzBzmU0g-8MzVWKxVGzljX&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Fort Riley MWR</a> Fitness Centers open at 9 a.m. 24/7 Fitness Centers remain open. Commissary opens at 10 a.m. Exchange Shoppettes open at 10 a.m. Main PX is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Military, Civilian supervisors are empowered to approve leave for personnel that feel conditions are unsafe for travel. Consult your supervisor for details.&nbsp;&nbsp;--Neighborhood Learning Center in Junction City will open at 9 a.m.

Postponements and cancellations

C.L. Hoover Opera House will welcome the Thundering Cats Big Band to the stage on Sunday, February 27th at 2:00pm. Thundering Cats Big Band was founded in Manhattan in 2009. Its members consist of local musicians from all walks of life.

Sharing the stage with The Thundering Cats is a Chapman native and currently, Manhattan&nbsp; resident, Emily Markley. She graduated from the New School for Jazz in New York, NY with a degree in Vocal Jazz. As a student at Chapman High School, Emily enjoyed summers playing French Horn in the Abilene Community Band. She currently lives in Manhattan with her husband, Adam and three children.

Joining Emily is local musician Steve Seitz. Steve has served as the technical director for the CL Hoover Opera House for 10 years. Steve performs at area venues in his spare time, singing and playing the guitar.&nbsp;

Thundering Cats Big Band will play the classics as well as more contemporary music. Tickets are $10 and are available at jcoperahouse.org or call 785-238-3906.

C.L. Hoover Opera House will welcome the Thundering Cats Big Band to the stage on Sunday, February 27th at 2:00pm. Thundering Cats Big Band was founded in Manhattan in 2009. Its members consist of local musicians from all walks of life.Sharing the stage with The Thundering Cats is a Chapman native and currently, Manhattan&nbsp; resident, Emily Markley. She graduated from the New School for Jazz in New York, NY with a degree in Vocal Jazz. As a student at Chapman High School, Emily enjoyed summers playing French Horn in the Abilene Community Band. She currently lives in Manhattan with her husband, Adam and three children.Joining Emily is local musician Steve Seitz. Steve has served as the technical director for the CL Hoover Opera House for 10 years. Steve performs at area venues in his spare time, singing and playing the guitar.&nbsp;Thundering Cats Big Band will play the classics as well as more contemporary music. Tickets are $10 and are available at jcoperahouse.org or call 785-238-3906.

Thundering Cats Big Band will perform at the Opera house

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel said this week that the city wants to apply for money through the Kansas Department of Commerce base fund program. Dinkel said that is basically COVID money received by the state.&nbsp;

The city wants the money to extend water and sewer service to the area on the southwest side of the town where a new Taylor Road interchange off I-70 is planned in the future. Dinkel said officials hope the interchange is there in the next two to four years. "We'll need infrastructure out there to serve people that want to build and expand business and industries, and anything else out in that area."

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel said this week that the city wants to apply for money through the Kansas Department of Commerce base fund program. Dinkel said that is basically COVID money received by the state.&nbsp;The city wants the money to extend water and sewer service to the area on the southwest side of the town where a new Taylor Road interchange off I-70 is planned in the future. Dinkel said officials hope the interchange is there in the next two to four years. "We'll need infrastructure out there to serve people that want to build and expand business and industries, and anything else out in that area."

City wants to seek funding to prepare for Taylor Road interchange

Geary County Commission Chair Alex Tyson said Thursday morning&nbsp; that due to lack of impact by severe weather on the roads the county will continue operations today as usual. He noted that if you have employees with children allow flexibility since USD 475 is on a two hour delay today.

Geary County Commission Chair Alex Tyson said Thursday morning&nbsp; that due to lack of impact by severe weather on the roads the county will continue operations today as usual. He noted that if you have employees with children allow flexibility since USD 475 is on a two hour delay today.

Geary County will continue normal operations Thursday

Representative Tracey Mann's Office

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Last night, the U.S. Senate passed U.S. Representative Tracey Mann's (KS-01) bill to designate the post office in Herington as the "Captain Emil J. Kapaun Post Office Building."

Emil Kapaun was born and raised in Pilsen on a family farm. He was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1940 and joined the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps in 1944, where he served his country in World War II and the Korean War. He died in a prisoner of war camp on May 23, 1951, at only 35 years old. Father Kapaun was awarded a Bronze Star and a Medal of Honor for his valiant service in the Korean War.

In March 2021, Father Kapaun's remains were identified in Hawaii, and in September 2021, brought back to his hometown of Pilsen in September for a celebration of life. TheRomanCatholic Church is in the process of examining Father Kapaun's life to potentially canonize him as a saint.

"Father Emil Kapaun was a man of God who served Jesus and his country honorably," said Mann. "It's my privilege to honor his life through this legislation. I'm pleased that the U.S. Senate passed my bill to rename the Herington post office after Father Kapaun, and I look forward to the President signing it into law.”

“Father Emil Kapaun is an American hero whose selfless actions inspired his fellow soldiers and continue to inspire generations of Kansans today,” said Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS). “I’m pleased Herington, a place so close to Father Kapaun’s home, will pay tribute to his life and sacrifice by renaming its post office the Captain Emil J. Kapaun Post Office Building, and I appreciate Congressman Mann leading this effort to commemorate Father Kapaun’s incredible life.”

“As a Kansan and fellow veteran I know well the honorable work Father Kapaun did for our troops and our great nation,”&nbsp;said Sen. Marshall (R-KS). “Father Kapaun truly is a national hero and with the Senate’s recent passage of this legislation, the people of Kansas will be reminded of his service and sacrifice for generations to come.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Representative Tracey Mann's OfficeWASHINGTON, D.C.- Last night, the U.S. Senate passed U.S. Representative Tracey Mann's (KS-01) bill to designate the post office in Herington as the "Captain Emil J. Kapaun Post Office Building."Emil Kapaun was born and raised in Pilsen on a family farm. He was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1940 and joined the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps in 1944, where he served his country in World War II and the Korean War. He died in a prisoner of war camp on May 23, 1951, at only 35 years old. Father Kapaun was awarded a Bronze Star and a Medal of Honor for his valiant service in the Korean War. In March 2021, Father Kapaun's remains were identified in Hawaii, and in September 2021, brought back to his hometown of Pilsen in September for a celebration of life. TheRomanCatholic Church is in the process of examining Father Kapaun's life to potentially canonize him as a saint."Father Emil Kapaun was a man of God who served Jesus and his country honorably," said Mann. "It's my privilege to honor his life through this legislation. I'm pleased that the U.S. Senate passed my bill to rename the Herington post office after Father Kapaun, and I look forward to the President signing it into law.” “Father Emil Kapaun is an American hero whose selfless actions inspired his fellow soldiers and continue to inspire generations of Kansans today,” said Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS). “I’m pleased Herington, a place so close to Father Kapaun’s home, will pay tribute to his life and sacrifice by renaming its post office the Captain Emil J. Kapaun Post Office Building, and I appreciate Congressman Mann leading this effort to commemorate Father Kapaun’s incredible life.” “As a Kansan and fellow veteran I know well the honorable work Father Kapaun did for our troops and our great nation,”&nbsp;said Sen. Marshall (R-KS). “Father Kapaun truly is a national hero and with the Senate’s recent passage of this legislation, the people of Kansas will be reminded of his service and sacrifice for generations to come.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Senate passes Mann's bill to name Herington post office for Kapaun

TOPEKA—The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/-vfNmHq4EqXhiV6TFR5aFyJluhm0zwrVK0j-QS6GhFg" target="_blank">8th Judicial District Nominating Commission</a>&nbsp;will meet at 9 a.m. Friday, March 4, 2022, to interview nominees to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Dickinson County.

The vacancy was created when Judge Keith Collett was sworn in as a district judge October 29.&nbsp;&nbsp; The 8th Judicial District is composed of Dickinson, Geary, Marion, and Morris counties.&nbsp; Interview schedule : 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; Eric Gares, Herington, special investigator, Sedgwick County Public Defender Office 9:45 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; Neal Gugler, Chapman, special investigator, Kansas Bureau of Investigation 10 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; Mark Guilfoyle, Abilene, private practice 10:15 a.m.

Anthony Haug, Abilene, small business owner 10:40 a.m.&nbsp;

Michael Leyba III, Salina, assistant public defender

10:55 a.m. Steven Olson, Abilene, court services officer

Kathleen Souza, Herington, former plant office manager

Lori Welch, Abilene, trial court clerk, Geary County District Court Interviews are open to the public. They will take place at the Geary County Courthouse in Junction City.

TOPEKA—The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/-vfNmHq4EqXhiV6TFR5aFyJluhm0zwrVK0j-QS6GhFg" target="_blank">8th Judicial District Nominating Commission</a>&nbsp;will meet at 9 a.m. Friday, March 4, 2022, to interview nominees to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Dickinson County.The vacancy was created when Judge Keith Collett was sworn in as a district judge October 29.&nbsp;&nbsp; The 8th Judicial District is composed of Dickinson, Geary, Marion, and Morris counties.&nbsp; Interview schedule : 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; Eric Gares, Herington, special investigator, Sedgwick County Public Defender Office 9:45 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; Neal Gugler, Chapman, special investigator, Kansas Bureau of Investigation 10 a.m.&nbsp;&nbsp; Mark Guilfoyle, Abilene, private practice 10:15 a.m.Anthony Haug, Abilene, small business owner 10:40 a.m.&nbsp; Michael Leyba III, Salina, assistant public defender 10:55 a.m. Steven Olson, Abilene, court services officer11:10 a.m.Kathleen Souza, Herington, former plant office manager11:25 a.m.Lori Welch, Abilene, trial court clerk, Geary County District Court Interviews are open to the public. They will take place at the Geary County Courthouse in Junction City.

8th Judicial District Nominating Commission announces interview schedule for district judge vacancy

Opponents of the proposed beef harvesting plant project in Junction City were direct in their comments to the Junction City Commission Tuesday night.

Kelsey Mann called for transparency on what city and county leaders have looked at as they do their due diligence. "Your actions tell us that you are moving forward with this. " She pointed to soil samples and a request for a base grant. "So as a community member I am asking for transparency on what you have looked into and what you have learned doing your due diligence."

Mann noted that she had about 500 signed petitions and asked what it would take for the leaders to hear their voice that they do not want the project in the community. "We do not want this in our residential neighborhoods. We do not want to live next to this."

Mann also pointed out that when approached with a petition many of the city and county employees expressed that they are against the slaughterhouse but fear signing it due to retaliation against their employers. "That's so disappointing that that is the type of leadership we have when we have, that they fear expressing their opinion because they could lose their job."

Mayor Jeff Underhill responded by noting that the State is putting another interchange ( Taylor Road ) in. "It's not for any specific project but Junction City is getting another interchange so we have to pursue all funding aspects to get water, utilities and roads and that sort of thing out there regardless of what could come. " Underhill said the base grant is not because anything is moving forward. "We want to be prepared and utilize all the assets at our disposal."

Susan Kamm said she has been doing due diligence on this project. "And I want to make sure all of you are. I was born and raised here. This is not what we want for our community. I don't know how desperate we must be as a community to even consider having this. "

Kamm said her father, Don Sjoholm, served as mayor in Junction City for many years. "And again I've had many employees say I can't sign this, I can't give my opinion. There will be retaliation. Come on guys you can't do that. This is our home and we are entitled to have an opinion.&nbsp;

Kamm observed that Junction City has changed the reputation of this city. "If you go on&nbsp; the world wide web people aren't calling us junk town. We are getting military families wanting to settle here. Do you think that we're going to get those military families if the housing development that they're living in is less than three miles from the slaughterhouse. No you're not!

Kamm added that opponents are not going to stop. "I won't stop and I will fight you on this until the bitter end, so I'm not going anywhere and I really hope you do your due diligence.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostOpponents of the proposed beef harvesting plant project in Junction City were direct in their comments to the Junction City Commission Tuesday night.Kelsey Mann called for transparency on what city and county leaders have looked at as they do their due diligence. "Your actions tell us that you are moving forward with this. " She pointed to soil samples and a request for a base grant. "So as a community member I am asking for transparency on what you have looked into and what you have learned doing your due diligence."Mann noted that she had about 500 signed petitions and asked what it would take for the leaders to hear their voice that they do not want the project in the community. "We do not want this in our residential neighborhoods. We do not want to live next to this."Mann also pointed out that when approached with a petition many of the city and county employees expressed that they are against the slaughterhouse but fear signing it due to retaliation against their employers. "That's so disappointing that that is the type of leadership we have when we have, that they fear expressing their opinion because they could lose their job."Mayor Jeff Underhill responded by noting that the State is putting another interchange ( Taylor Road ) in. "It's not for any specific project but Junction City is getting another interchange so we have to pursue all funding aspects to get water, utilities and roads and that sort of thing out there regardless of what could come. " Underhill said the base grant is not because anything is moving forward. "We want to be prepared and utilize all the assets at our disposal."Susan Kamm said she has been doing due diligence on this project. "And I want to make sure all of you are. I was born and raised here. This is not what we want for our community. I don't know how desperate we must be as a community to even consider having this. "Kamm said her father, Don Sjoholm, served as mayor in Junction City for many years. "And again I've had many employees say I can't sign this, I can't give my opinion. There will be retaliation. Come on guys you can't do that. This is our home and we are entitled to have an opinion.&nbsp;Kamm observed that Junction City has changed the reputation of this city. "If you go on&nbsp; the world wide web people aren't calling us junk town. We are getting military families wanting to settle here. Do you think that we're going to get those military families if the housing development that they're living in is less than three miles from the slaughterhouse. No you're not!Kamm added that opponents are not going to stop. "I won't stop and I will fight you on this until the bitter end, so I'm not going anywhere and I really hope you do your due diligence.

 Beef harvesting plant opponents call for transparency

The C. L. Hoover Opera House has celebrated 10 year employment anniversaries for three staff members. They include Danny O'Brien, Box Office/Operations Manager, Steve Seitz, Technical Director and DeGe Boller, Custodian.

Three separate celebrations were held to thank these fine people for their work that keeps the Opera House a vital venue that serves the community and region.

Danny O'Brien, plays the trumpet in Kansas City in his off time. He has performed extensively for cruise ships and toured with the Maria Schneider Jazz Band.

Steve Seitz, performs at area venues in his spare time, singing and playing the guitar. At the Opera House, Steve has performed on Stage and at Lobby Concerts . Steve worked in television and radio before coming to the Opera House.

DeGe Boller, loves horses and her beloved dogs, which she cares for in her time away from the Opera House. She is also a caregiver for the Nursery at First Presbyterian Church. We makes us look beautiful from top to bottom at the C. L. Hoover Opera House.

Sheila Markley, Co-Director said "We could not do this job without the fine work performed by our staff (and friends) who are our "behind the scenes heroes" at the C. L. Hoover Opera House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The C. L. Hoover Opera House has celebrated 10 year employment anniversaries for three staff members. They include Danny O'Brien, Box Office/Operations Manager, Steve Seitz, Technical Director and DeGe Boller, Custodian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645037469864.jpeg" alt="Steve Seitz" />
 <figcaption>Steve Seitz</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645037541514.jpeg" alt="Danny O'Brien" />
 <figcaption>Danny O'Brien</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645037561676.jpeg" alt="DeGe Boller" />
 <figcaption>DeGe Boller</figcaption>
 </figure>Three separate celebrations were held to thank these fine people for their work that keeps the Opera House a vital venue that serves the community and region. Danny O'Brien, plays the trumpet in Kansas City in his off time. He has performed extensively for cruise ships and toured with the Maria Schneider Jazz Band. Steve Seitz, performs at area venues in his spare time, singing and playing the guitar. At the Opera House, Steve has performed on Stage and at Lobby Concerts . Steve worked in television and radio before coming to the Opera House. DeGe Boller, loves horses and her beloved dogs, which she cares for in her time away from the Opera House. She is also a caregiver for the Nursery at First Presbyterian Church. We makes us look beautiful from top to bottom at the C. L. Hoover Opera House. Sheila Markley, Co-Director said "We could not do this job without the fine work performed by our staff (and friends) who are our "behind the scenes heroes" at the C. L. Hoover Opera House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Longtime employees are recognized at the Opera House

JC Breakfast Optimist Club members hosted representatives from the Junction City High School JROTC program on Wednesday.

LTC (retired) Richard Hodgson; SFC (retired) Ted Ehlers; Cadet Mahkayla Cole; Blue Jay Battalion Commander Cadet LTC Grant Shrader and SSG Jack Kalen from the Junction City High School JROTC program shared information about the high school’s Raider Team, which recently won First Place in the Raiders National Competition in Medina, Georgia.

Cadet LTC Shader explained that “there are several events in a Raiders meet. Some of the events include a 5K team obstacle course with ruck sacks; climbing over walls and through wooded areas; flipping tires and a one rope river bridge.” LTC Hodgson stated that “the cadets have to be strong physically and mentally to do well.”

SGT Ehlers, the Raiders Team Coach, told the Optimists that he “wasn’t sure what kind of Raider team he would have this year. Our numbers were down during summer training, and we were concerned about the cadet’s fitness and skill level at the beginning of the school year.” He also said that “the program is about more than competing and learning about the military, but ours is a life skills course to help students learn to be quality citizens, learn about careers and grow. That is why I do what I do as their teacher and coach”.

Cadet Cole shared that she recently applied and was selected to be a part of a choir which recently performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The participants came from all over the world. It was an amazing experience” she said.

LTC Hodgson helped the Optimist Club members understand that the JROTC program at Junction City High School encourages students to be well rounded people who will positively impact their school, community and around the world. The&nbsp; Optimist Club donated $200 to the JCHS JROTC program.

JC Breakfast Optimist  Club members have voted to become a part of the Greater Geary Community Foundation (GGCF) By becoming a member of the GGCF, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club will participate in Match Day on October 18.

Optimists are also thankful for the community support at their fundraiser at JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill on February 14. Ten percent of purchases at the restaurant on that day will be donated to the club and individuals also donated. The money raised will be shared with 17 Geary County youth organizations.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645025133325.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast Optimist Club members hosted representatives from the Junction City High School JROTC program on Wednesday.LTC (retired) Richard Hodgson; SFC (retired) Ted Ehlers; Cadet Mahkayla Cole; Blue Jay Battalion Commander Cadet LTC Grant Shrader and SSG Jack Kalen from the Junction City High School JROTC program shared information about the high school’s Raider Team, which recently won First Place in the Raiders National Competition in Medina, Georgia.Cadet LTC Shader explained that “there are several events in a Raiders meet. Some of the events include a 5K team obstacle course with ruck sacks; climbing over walls and through wooded areas; flipping tires and a one rope river bridge.” LTC Hodgson stated that “the cadets have to be strong physically and mentally to do well.”SGT Ehlers, the Raiders Team Coach, told the Optimists that he “wasn’t sure what kind of Raider team he would have this year. Our numbers were down during summer training, and we were concerned about the cadet’s fitness and skill level at the beginning of the school year.” He also said that “the program is about more than competing and learning about the military, but ours is a life skills course to help students learn to be quality citizens, learn about careers and grow. That is why I do what I do as their teacher and coach”.Cadet Cole shared that she recently applied and was selected to be a part of a choir which recently performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The participants came from all over the world. It was an amazing experience” she said.LTC Hodgson helped the Optimist Club members understand that the JROTC program at Junction City High School encourages students to be well rounded people who will positively impact their school, community and around the world. The&nbsp; Optimist Club donated $200 to the JCHS JROTC program.JC Breakfast Optimist Club members have voted to become a part of the Greater Geary Community Foundation (GGCF) By becoming a member of the GGCF, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club will participate in Match Day on October 18.Optimists are also thankful for the community support at their fundraiser at JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill on February 14. Ten percent of purchases at the restaurant on that day will be donated to the club and individuals also donated. The money raised will be shared with 17 Geary County youth organizations.

Optimist Club learns about the JCHS JROTC Raiders team

Geary County Public Works will be closing a section of Otter Creek Road for bridge maintenance. Otter Creek Road will be closed on both sides of the Katy Bridge.

South bound Otter Creek traffic will be diverted east on Lyons Creek Road to Skiddy Road south to Red Road west. North bound Otter Creek Road traffic will be diverted east on Red Road to Skiddy Road and back north to intersect with Lyons Creek Road.

Weather permitting, this work is scheduled in the Feb. 22nd through Feb. 24th time frame.

Geary County Public Works will be closing a section of Otter Creek Road for bridge maintenance. Otter Creek Road will be closed on both sides of the Katy Bridge.South bound Otter Creek traffic will be diverted east on Lyons Creek Road to Skiddy Road south to Red Road west. North bound Otter Creek Road traffic will be diverted east on Red Road to Skiddy Road and back north to intersect with Lyons Creek Road.Weather permitting, this work is scheduled in the Feb. 22nd through Feb. 24th time frame.

County announces road closure for bridge maintenance

CLAY CENTER, Kan. (WIBW) - Some Clay County parents are concerned about the potential closure of a couple of schools.

Suggestions to clean up inefficiencies within the Clay County School District were presented at Monday night’s&nbsp;<a href="https://go.boarddocs.com/ks/usd379/Board.nsf/Public" target="_blank">board meeting</a>.

Among them were the&nbsp;<a href="https://go.boarddocs.com/ks/usd379/Board.nsf/files/CBGJ844BDCF6/$file/EDC%20Presentation.pdf" target="_blank">proposed closing</a>&nbsp;of Wakefield, Kansas’s, middle and high school.

Those students would then be transferred to Clay Center Community High School.

A vote on the proposal will be held off until a public hearing is held on the matter.

“The board has to hold a public hearing…to present the proposal to close, from the board’s perspective and then hear public comment and yay or nay, in favor or against that.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd379.org/" target="_blank">USD 379</a>&nbsp;Board Attorney, Dusty Mullin says.

A hearing has not been scheduled -- the board is required to publish the meeting date for at least two weeks before the scheduled meeting date.

By WIBW TVCLAY CENTER, Kan. (WIBW) - Some Clay County parents are concerned about the potential closure of a couple of schools.Suggestions to clean up inefficiencies within the Clay County School District were presented at Monday night’s&nbsp;<a href="https://go.boarddocs.com/ks/usd379/Board.nsf/Public" target="_blank">board meeting</a>.Among them were the&nbsp;<a href="https://go.boarddocs.com/ks/usd379/Board.nsf/files/CBGJ844BDCF6/$file/EDC%20Presentation.pdf" target="_blank">proposed closing</a>&nbsp;of Wakefield, Kansas’s, middle and high school.Those students would then be transferred to Clay Center Community High School.A vote on the proposal will be held off until a public hearing is held on the matter.“The board has to hold a public hearing…to present the proposal to close, from the board’s perspective and then hear public comment and yay or nay, in favor or against that.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usd379.org/" target="_blank">USD 379</a>&nbsp;Board Attorney, Dusty Mullin says.A hearing has not been scheduled -- the board is required to publish the meeting date for at least two weeks before the scheduled meeting date.

Proposed closure of Wakefield Middle and High Schools surfaces

The large grass fire in Morris County covered a wide swath of property. Garry Berges, Geary County Rural Fire Chief was among firefighters battling the blaze. "It stretched from the south end to the north end about 13 miles, is what they're estimating."Berges estimated that the fire ran east to west for about two miles.

Much of the property that burned involved pasture land with tall native grass. "According to the incident commander down there 14 fire departments from around Morris County, Geary County, Dickinson County responded on that fire, said Berges." There were not any injuries.&nbsp;

Gusty winds and dry conditions led to a series of grass fires in the region on Tuesday. No injuries were reported. One abandoned stone house burned.

According to authorities in Morris and Geary County&nbsp; the largest fire covered about a two mile stretch east of Herington between 2200 and 2300 Roads and resulted in the temporary closure of a one mile stretch of U.S. 56 Highway. Multiple fire departments including Geary, Morris and others responded to that fire.

In Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges reported five different fires. One burned about 80 acres near the Dickinson - Geary County line, another 4-6 acres near Old 77 Highway and one occurred approximately 7-8 miles north of Dwight. Another fire occurred on K-57, south of I-70 where a wood pile and grassland burned and there was also a blaze that burned a small shed on Old Highway 40 about two miles southwest of Junction City.

Berges noted that some of the fires rekindled from controlled burns in previous days while the cause of others was still unknown.

UPDATE:The large grass fire in Morris County covered a wide swath of property. Garry Berges, Geary County Rural Fire Chief was among firefighters battling the blaze. "It stretched from the south end to the north end about 13 miles, is what they're estimating."Berges estimated that the fire ran east to west for about two miles.Much of the property that burned involved pasture land with tall native grass. "According to the incident commander down there 14 fire departments from around Morris County, Geary County, Dickinson County responded on that fire, said Berges." There were not any injuries.&nbsp;Gusty winds and dry conditions led to a series of grass fires in the region on Tuesday. No injuries were reported. One abandoned stone house burned.---According to authorities in Morris and Geary County&nbsp; the largest fire covered about a two mile stretch east of Herington between 2200 and 2300 Roads and resulted in the temporary closure of a one mile stretch of U.S. 56 Highway. Multiple fire departments including Geary, Morris and others responded to that fire.In Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges reported five different fires. One burned about 80 acres near the Dickinson - Geary County line, another 4-6 acres near Old 77 Highway and one occurred approximately 7-8 miles north of Dwight. Another fire occurred on K-57, south of I-70 where a wood pile and grassland burned and there was also a blaze that burned a small shed on Old Highway 40 about two miles southwest of Junction City.Berges noted that some of the fires rekindled from controlled burns in previous days while the cause of others was still unknown.

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