The Geary County Emergency Operation Center held a meeting Thursday morning with Junction City, Milford, Grandview Plaza and Geary County Officials in attendance to go over the current status and update everyone on damages sustained from Wednesday’s severe weather.  Junction City and Grandview Plaza residents are being asked to conserve water as the Junction City Water Plant had sustained damage and is currently being worked on to restore services.

Grandview Plaza has received authorization from the State of Kansas to setup a temporary burn site off Witt Rd. for downed trees and limbs.

For Geary County Residents who are still without power there are three locations currently accepting residents for shelter.&nbsp; Please check the following list for location and operating hours:

Hours of operation: 9:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m.

Hours of Operation: 7:00 a.m. through 8:00 p.m.

The Geary County Emergency Operation Center held a meeting Thursday morning with Junction City, Milford, Grandview Plaza and Geary County Officials in attendance to go over the current status and update everyone on damages sustained from Wednesday’s severe weather. Junction City and Grandview Plaza residents are being asked to conserve water as the Junction City Water Plant had sustained damage and is currently being worked on to restore services.Grandview Plaza has received authorization from the State of Kansas to setup a temporary burn site off Witt Rd. for downed trees and limbs.For Geary County Residents who are still without power there are three locations currently accepting residents for shelter.&nbsp; Please check the following list for location and operating hours:JC Naz1025 S. Washington St. Junction CityHours of operation: 9:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m.Fresh Start Emergency Shelter136 W. 3rd&nbsp;St. Junction CityHours of operation: 24 hours12th&nbsp;Street Community Center1002 W. 12th&nbsp;St. Junction CityHours of Operation: 7:00 a.m. through 8:00 p.m.

Storm follow up information is released

Emergency Management said at mid-morning that many residents in Geary County are still out of power following the high winds experienced on Wednesday.&nbsp; Evergy, DS&amp;O, and others are currently working to get powered restored.  If you are out of power please check the outage maps online for your power company.&nbsp;

Emergency Management also announced&nbsp; that no burning will be allowed in Geary County on Thursday.

Emergency Management said at mid-morning that many residents in Geary County are still out of power following the high winds experienced on Wednesday.&nbsp; Evergy, DS&amp;O, and others are currently working to get powered restored. If you are out of power please check the outage maps online for your power company.&nbsp;Emergency Management also announced&nbsp; that no burning will be allowed in Geary County on Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639675157858.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Power restoration efforts continue

The Dec. 15 damaging wind event, which impacted the region, damaged more than 80 facilities and numerous homes on Fort Riley, caused some low-hanging or downed power lines and broke numerous trees or limbs. 

According to information released by Fort Riley officials damages occurred across the Army installation with primary significant building damage on historic main post. Several facilities, including numerous family homes, lost power Wednesday afternoon. By 3 a.m. Thursday technicians restored power with all but a few exceptions. No Soldiers or families were displaced. 

Col. Will McKannay, Garrison Commander, said, "Fort Riley professionals did a great job protecting the community and responding to damages from this unprecedented event. We are grateful there were no injuries and are committed to the quickest possible return to normal operations."

The Dec. 15 damaging wind event, which impacted the region, damaged more than 80 facilities and numerous homes on Fort Riley, caused some low-hanging or downed power lines and broke numerous trees or limbs. According to information released by Fort Riley officials damages occurred across the Army installation with primary significant building damage on historic main post. Several facilities, including numerous family homes, lost power Wednesday afternoon. By 3 a.m. Thursday technicians restored power with all but a few exceptions. No Soldiers or families were displaced. Col. Will McKannay, Garrison Commander, said, "Fort Riley professionals did a great job protecting the community and responding to damages from this unprecedented event. We are grateful there were no injuries and are committed to the quickest possible return to normal operations."

Fort Riley evaluates storm damage

Junction City officials have issued a boil water advisory.

Just after 10 a.m. water remained at least six feet deep in the basement of the Junction City Water Plant following an overnight flooding problem at the facility. Fire crews are working to remove the water down to a level where officials can get in to inspect the pumps.

At this point City Manager Allen Dinkel said there is no problem with the water ( service ) but people need to conserve usage to a minimum, "so we can conserve everything we have. If we do that we'll probably get along in good shape and move through this. "

City officials planned to meet with the local Emergency Operations Center Board to discuss the option of bringing in water if that becomes necessary. Dinkel confirmed that in addition to the plant there is still water remaining in the water towers. He estimated that as of mid-morning they were about half full. " There are also underground water sources and the city manager noted that an engineering firm is looking at possible options there.

Geary County Emergency Management Director GarryBerges explained earlier on Wednesday why a&nbsp;conserve water request was issued by the City to local residents. "The generator when it shut down when power was restored back to that water treatment plant last night, a valve didn't close and allowed water to flow into the basement. They estimate about 600,000 gallons of water is in the basement that they need to get out of there so that they can inspect the pumps and the equipment down there to get everything back running again."

Berges said the estimate on reducing the water level back down before officials could begin inspecting the equipment was six to eight hours. The work to remove the water was under way early Thursday morning.&nbsp;

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel told JC Post when power was switched off the generator at the water plant to Evergy there were problems. "And then water started coming into the bottom of the building from the pumps. " Once the water level is lowered damage will be assessed. "Right now we need people to conserve ( water ) as much as possible. We've worked with our biggest water users in town, and of course school is not open&nbsp; today so that helps. " Dinkel added that the larger water users are cutting back on usage.

Water in the towers is being used right now and the city manager noted that they are looking at the alternative of pumping water out of underground storage, and the City has an engineering firm working on that as well. Dinkel added the damage to the pumps in the basement of the Water Plant may or may not be bad. Right now it is a wait and see situation.

Junction City residents again....are advised to conserve water.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639672799663.jpeg" alt="Water is being pumped out of the basement of the Junction City Water Plant." />
 <figcaption>Water is being pumped out of the basement of the Junction City Water Plant.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostUPDATE:Junction City officials have issued a boil water advisory.---Just after 10 a.m. water remained at least six feet deep in the basement of the Junction City Water Plant following an overnight flooding problem at the facility. Fire crews are working to remove the water down to a level where officials can get in to inspect the pumps.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639673947627.jpeg" alt="Worker checks the depth of&nbsp; the water at mid-morning. At that location just entering&nbsp; the basement the water was about six feet deep." />
 <figcaption>Worker checks the depth of&nbsp; the water at mid-morning. At that location just entering&nbsp; the basement the water was about six feet deep.</figcaption>
 </figure>At this point City Manager Allen Dinkel said there is no problem with the water ( service ) but people need to conserve usage to a minimum, "so we can conserve everything we have. If we do that we'll probably get along in good shape and move through this. "City officials planned to meet with the local Emergency Operations Center Board to discuss the option of bringing in water if that becomes necessary. Dinkel confirmed that in addition to the plant there is still water remaining in the water towers. He estimated that as of mid-morning they were about half full. " There are also underground water sources and the city manager noted that an engineering firm is looking at possible options there.---Geary County Emergency Management Director GarryBerges explained earlier on Wednesday why a&nbsp;conserve water request was issued by the City to local residents. "The generator when it shut down when power was restored back to that water treatment plant last night, a valve didn't close and allowed water to flow into the basement. They estimate about 600,000 gallons of water is in the basement that they need to get out of there so that they can inspect the pumps and the equipment down there to get everything back running again."Berges said the estimate on reducing the water level back down before officials could begin inspecting the equipment was six to eight hours. The work to remove the water was under way early Thursday morning.&nbsp;Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel told JC Post when power was switched off the generator at the water plant to Evergy there were problems. "And then water started coming into the bottom of the building from the pumps. " Once the water level is lowered damage will be assessed. "Right now we need people to conserve ( water ) as much as possible. We've worked with our biggest water users in town, and of course school is not open&nbsp; today so that helps. " Dinkel added that the larger water users are cutting back on usage.Water in the towers is being used right now and the city manager noted that they are looking at the alternative of pumping water out of underground storage, and the City has an engineering firm working on that as well. Dinkel added the damage to the pumps in the basement of the Water Plant may or may not be bad. Right now it is a wait and see situation.Junction City residents again....are advised to conserve water.

Crews are pumping water out of the Water Plant basement

As you travel today, please be aware that there are still downed power lines and tree limbs throughout town. Crews have worked through the night to try and restore power to all of Junction City's residents. However, some intersections still do not have working traffic lights. 

JCPD announced that if you come to one of these intersections, treat this as a 4 way stop. With no working traffic lights, no one road has the right of way and all directions of travel must come to a complete stop before proceeding. Plan for delays during your morning commute and any travel you plan today.

As you travel today, please be aware that there are still downed power lines and tree limbs throughout town. Crews have worked through the night to try and restore power to all of Junction City's residents. However, some intersections still do not have working traffic lights. JCPD announced that if you come to one of these intersections, treat this as a 4 way stop. With no working traffic lights, no one road has the right of way and all directions of travel must come to a complete stop before proceeding. Plan for delays during your morning commute and any travel you plan today.

JCPD issues travel advisory

Geary County Emergency Manager Garry Berges has reported that the winds on Wednesday produced damage to the north wall of the County Transfer Station. A determination will be made this morning on whether the facility can be used.

Additional damage was reported to the roof of Rainbow International, a shelter house in Coronado Park was destroyed when an uprooted tree came down on it, four large power poles on Lacy Drive were knocked over, part of the roof from a motel entry was was blown off into a wall of an adjacent building causing damage to a wall and several windows.

Geary County Emergency Manager Garry Berges has reported that the winds on Wednesday produced damage to the north wall of the County Transfer Station. A determination will be made this morning on whether the facility can be used.Additional damage was reported to the roof of Rainbow International, a shelter house in Coronado Park was destroyed when an uprooted tree came down on it, four large power poles on Lacy Drive were knocked over, part of the roof from a motel entry was was blown off into a wall of an adjacent building causing damage to a wall and several windows.Numerous power outages were reported.

Storm damage reported in Geary County

Fort Riley officials are assessing the aftermath of a damaging wind event Wednesday. Reports include downed power lines and power outages. Do not drive over downed power lines.

Damage to building roofs has also been reported on post. Emergency crews and public works crews responded to those locations. Fort Riley continues making damage assessments.&nbsp;

There are reports of damaged roofs and some debris. Corvias has asked residents of on-post housing to call 844-533-0456 for emergency work orders.

Report power outages and other damage to facilities around post to the Directorate of Public Works at 785-239-0900.

Fort Riley officials are assessing the aftermath of a damaging wind event Wednesday. Reports include downed power lines and power outages. Do not drive over downed power lines.Damage to building roofs has also been reported on post. Emergency crews and public works crews responded to those locations. Fort Riley continues making damage assessments.&nbsp;There are reports of damaged roofs and some debris. Corvias has asked residents of on-post housing to call 844-533-0456 for emergency work orders.Report power outages and other damage to facilities around post to the Directorate of Public Works at 785-239-0900.

Officials assess damage on Fort Riley

--Geary USD 475 has cancelled classes for Thursday. There will not be any school. Junction City High School students will return to class on Friday, but other schools will not have classes on Friday because it is a teacher work day.

--Chapman USD 473 will be on a two hour delay

--Riley County grade school will not have classes due to storm damage

--Neighborhood Learning Center in Junction City is closed

--Geary USD 475 has cancelled classes for Thursday. There will not be any school. Junction City High School students will return to class on Friday, but other schools will not have classes on Friday because it is a teacher work day.--Chapman USD 473 will be on a two hour delay--Riley County grade school will not have classes due to storm damage--Neighborhood Learning Center in Junction City is closed

Cancellations and postponements

Due to electric problems at the Junction City Water Plant, all water users in Junction City, Grandview Plaza, and in Geary Rural Water District Water #1 are asked to conserve water immediately as the problem is being investigated and solved. The City will keep you informed as we move ahead.

Due to electric problems at the Junction City Water Plant, all water users in Junction City, Grandview Plaza, and in Geary Rural Water District Water #1 are asked to conserve water immediately as the problem is being investigated and solved. The City will keep you informed as we move ahead.

Junction City issues notice to conserve water

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Wednesday in Wabaunsee County.

&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Peterbilt semi driven by Timothy Stone, 55, Maysville, KY., was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of Keene Eskridge Road.&nbsp; The semi overturned due to high wind speeds.

EMS transported Stone to Stormont Vail in Topeka. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4:30p.m. Wednesday in Wabaunsee County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Peterbilt semi driven by Timothy Stone, 55, Maysville, KY., was westbound on Interstate 70 just east of Keene Eskridge Road.&nbsp; The semi overturned due to high wind speeds.EMS transported Stone to Stormont Vail in Topeka. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after wind blows semi off I-70

By Scott Edger&nbsp; Little Apple Post&nbsp;

Riley County police&nbsp;officers&nbsp;were forced to shoot a 79-year-old man with rubber bullets in the middle of Bluemont Avenue Tuesday,&nbsp;after&nbsp;the non-compliant&nbsp;man brandished two firearms in a standoff&nbsp;just before noon today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County police responded to the 1000 block of Bluemont Avenue&nbsp;Wednesday morning for a report of a&nbsp;female&nbsp;in crisis.&nbsp;

An RCPD officer was&nbsp;responding to&nbsp;the&nbsp;woman&nbsp;when the&nbsp;man arrived and contacted the officer, parking his vehicle on the street and failing to follow the officer’s orders.&nbsp;

Authorities say the man, later identified as 79-year-old Stanley Hoerman of Manhattan,  had at least one firearm in the bed of his truck, and they&nbsp;are unclear as to why&nbsp;the man stopped his vehicle or why he would not comply.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A nearly 30-minute standoff&nbsp;in the middle of Bluemont Avenue&nbsp;ensued between RCPD officers&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Hoerman.

Police blocked off the street during the standoff.&nbsp;The public was asked through the Northeast Kansas Regional Notification System to avoid the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Aaron Wintermote from the RCPD said that officers&nbsp;soon&nbsp;realized the man was having a mental health episode.&nbsp;One of the&nbsp;department’s mental health co-responders&nbsp;quickly arrived on the scene to attempt to de-escalate the situation.&nbsp;

Eventually Hoerman brandished a shotgun pulled from the bed of his pickup. Police ordered him to drop the weapon, which he did.&nbsp;Shortly thereafter the man&nbsp;picked up another shotgun and, after&nbsp;the man&nbsp;failed&nbsp;to comply with another order to disarm, officers fired&nbsp;at least five&nbsp;rubber&nbsp;rounds&nbsp;to&nbsp;subdue&nbsp;him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Several rounds appeared&nbsp;to strike the Hoerman before he&nbsp;began to&nbsp;fall and officers converged on him.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Wintermote said&nbsp;RCPD officers are well-trained in dealing with mental health extremes&nbsp;and&nbsp;do all they can to avoid force&nbsp;in&nbsp;this type of situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hoerman was&nbsp;examined&nbsp;for minor injuries&nbsp;at Via Christi&nbsp;and released&nbsp;to police. He is currently in&nbsp;custody&nbsp;at the&nbsp;Riley County on requested charges of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and aggravated interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639599839737.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Scott Edger&nbsp; Little Apple Post&nbsp;Riley County police&nbsp;officers&nbsp;were forced to shoot a 79-year-old man with rubber bullets in the middle of Bluemont Avenue Tuesday,&nbsp;after&nbsp;the non-compliant&nbsp;man brandished two firearms in a standoff&nbsp;just before noon today.&nbsp;&nbsp;Riley County police responded to the 1000 block of Bluemont Avenue&nbsp;Wednesday morning for a report of a&nbsp;female&nbsp;in crisis.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639599879290.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An RCPD officer was&nbsp;responding to&nbsp;the&nbsp;woman&nbsp;when the&nbsp;man arrived and contacted the officer, parking his vehicle on the street and failing to follow the officer’s orders.&nbsp;Authorities say the man, later identified as 79-year-old Stanley Hoerman of Manhattan, had at least one firearm in the bed of his truck, and they&nbsp;are unclear as to why&nbsp;the man stopped his vehicle or why he would not comply.&nbsp;&nbsp;A nearly 30-minute standoff&nbsp;in the middle of Bluemont Avenue&nbsp;ensued between RCPD officers&nbsp;and&nbsp;the Hoerman.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639599959714.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Police blocked off the street during the standoff.&nbsp;The public was asked through the Northeast Kansas Regional Notification System to avoid the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;Aaron Wintermote from the RCPD said that officers&nbsp;soon&nbsp;realized the man was having a mental health episode.&nbsp;One of the&nbsp;department’s mental health co-responders&nbsp;quickly arrived on the scene to attempt to de-escalate the situation.&nbsp;Eventually Hoerman brandished a shotgun pulled from the bed of his pickup. Police ordered him to drop the weapon, which he did.&nbsp;Shortly thereafter the man&nbsp;picked up another shotgun and, after&nbsp;the man&nbsp;failed&nbsp;to comply with another order to disarm, officers fired&nbsp;at least five&nbsp;rubber&nbsp;rounds&nbsp;to&nbsp;subdue&nbsp;him.&nbsp;&nbsp;Several rounds appeared&nbsp;to strike the Hoerman before he&nbsp;began to&nbsp;fall and officers converged on him.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wintermote said&nbsp;RCPD officers are well-trained in dealing with mental health extremes&nbsp;and&nbsp;do all they can to avoid force&nbsp;in&nbsp;this type of situation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hoerman was&nbsp;examined&nbsp;for minor injuries&nbsp;at Via Christi&nbsp;and released&nbsp;to police. He is currently in&nbsp;custody&nbsp;at the&nbsp;Riley County on requested charges of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and aggravated interference with law enforcement.

RCPD IDs man arrested after armed standoff in Manhattan

UPDATE - I-70 is now OPEN to traffic across Kansas.
All highways have now been opened to traffic, but motorists should continue to use extra caution. Some winds and blowing dust are expected to continue into the evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kandrive.org/@-101.43512,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,weatherRadar">Click here for</a>&nbsp;updated road conditions.

Several road closures in Kansas due to blowing dust, including westbound Interstate 70 from Salina to the Colorado border.

In addition,&nbsp;K-156, between US 283 and US 183 is closed.

<a href="https://www.kandrive.org/@-101.43512,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,weatherRadar">Click here for</a> updated road conditions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639595859540.png" alt="KHP photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>KHP photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE - I-70 is now OPEN to traffic across Kansas.
All highways have now been opened to traffic, but motorists should continue to use extra caution. Some winds and blowing dust are expected to continue into the evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kandrive.org/@-101.43512,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,weatherRadar">Click here for</a>&nbsp;updated road conditions.---------Several road closures in Kansas due to blowing dust, including westbound Interstate 70 from Salina to the Colorado border.In addition,&nbsp;K-156, between US 283 and US 183 is closed.<a href="https://www.kandrive.org/@-101.43512,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,weatherRadar">Click here for</a> updated road conditions.

KDOT: I-70 now open across Kansas

There were multiple reports of the smell of smoke in Junction City late Wednesday afternoon in Junction City but a check with the Fire Department revealed that no structure fires had occurred. Interim Fire Chief Jason Lankas advised the public that if you spot a structure fire call 9-1-1.

There were multiple reports of the smell of smoke in Junction City late Wednesday afternoon in Junction City but a check with the Fire Department revealed that no structure fires had occurred. Interim Fire Chief Jason Lankas advised the public that if you spot a structure fire call 9-1-1.

Fire Department issues advisory 

More damage reports are coming in from Geary County following the Wednesday afternoon storms.

Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges confirmed damage in the Lacy Drive area. "Rainbow International, they've got damage to their building. Believe the roof blew off or part of&nbsp; the roof did." Berges added there was a report of a roof off of a building on the west side of Junction City, part of the roof from a motel entry way in Grandview Plaza was blown off into a wall of an adjacent building causing damage to a wall and several windows. There were power lines down in the Grandview Plaza area, and Berges noted there was no electricity on U.S. 77 from I-70 north to the city of Milford.

As of about 5:45 p.m. there were approximately 100 power outages in both the Manhattan and Junction City areas.

Severe thunderstorm cells moving through the area led the National Weather Service to issue a pair of tornado warnings that included portions of Geary, Dickinson and Riley counties. There was never any confirmation that a tornado touched down.

Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said there were power outages in the downtown Junction City area, especially with traffic lights. There was a report of roof damage on a building west of Junction City. No injuries have been reported.

There were additional severe thunderstorm warnings for the region including Geary County. Gusty winds blew through as part of a major cell stretching from Nebraska down through central Kansas.&nbsp;

The tall Festival of Lights tree in downtown Manhattan was blown over onto its side. There were multiple power outages in Manhattan.

UPDATE:By Dewey TerrillMore damage reports are coming in from Geary County following the Wednesday afternoon storms.Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges confirmed damage in the Lacy Drive area. "Rainbow International, they've got damage to their building. Believe the roof blew off or part of&nbsp; the roof did." Berges added there was a report of a roof off of a building on the west side of Junction City, part of the roof from a motel entry way in Grandview Plaza was blown off into a wall of an adjacent building causing damage to a wall and several windows. There were power lines down in the Grandview Plaza area, and Berges noted there was no electricity on U.S. 77 from I-70 north to the city of Milford.As of about 5:45 p.m. there were approximately 100 power outages in both the Manhattan and Junction City areas.----Severe thunderstorm cells moving through the area led the National Weather Service to issue a pair of tornado warnings that included portions of Geary, Dickinson and Riley counties. There was never any confirmation that a tornado touched down.Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said there were power outages in the downtown Junction City area, especially with traffic lights. There was a report of roof damage on a building west of Junction City. No injuries have been reported.There were additional severe thunderstorm warnings for the region including Geary County. Gusty winds blew through as part of a major cell stretching from Nebraska down through central Kansas.&nbsp;The tall Festival of Lights tree in downtown Manhattan was blown over onto its side. There were multiple power outages in Manhattan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639608947604.jpeg" alt="( Photo courtesy of Kathy Tremont )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo courtesy of Kathy Tremont )</figcaption>
 </figure>

Storms create issues

BULLETIN - EAS ACTIVATION REQUESTED
Tornado Warning
National Weather Service Topeka KS
329 PM CST Wed Dec 15 2021

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a

* Tornado Warning for...
 Northeastern Dickinson County in central Kansas...
 Northwestern Geary County in east central Kansas...
 Southwestern Riley County in northeastern Kansas...

* Until 400 PM CST.

* At 328 PM CST, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado
 was located 4 miles northeast of Chapman, moving northeast at 50
 mph.

 HAZARD...Tornado.

 SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

 IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without
 shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.
 Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree
 damage is likely.

* This dangerous storm will be near...
 Junction City around 335 PM CST.
 Grandview Plaza around 340 PM CST.
 Ogden around 350 PM CST.
 Manhattan around 355 PM CST.

This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 288 and 291, and
between mile markers 301 and 308.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest
floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a
mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter
and protect yourself from flying debris.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a

  Northeastern Dickinson County in central Kansas...

  Northern Geary County in east central Kansas...

  Northwestern Wabaunsee County in east central Kansas...

  Pottawatomie County in northeastern Kansas...

  West central Jackson County in northeastern Kansas...

  Nemaha County in northeastern Kansas...

  Eastern Washington County in north central Kansas...

  Southeastern Clay County in north central Kansas...  Marshall County in northeastern Kansas...

* At 318 PM CST, severe thunderstorms were located along a line  extending from near Odell to Chapman, moving east at 55 mph.

  THESE ARE DESTRUCTIVE STORMS FOR the warned area.

  HAZARD...80 mph wind gusts and nickel size hail.

  IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without           shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged. Expect considerable damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles.

           Extensive tree damage and power outages are likely.

  Manhattan, Junction City, Wamego, Marysville, Seneca, Blue Rapids,  Westmoreland, Blaine, St. Marys, Ogden, Grandview Plaza, Wakefield,  Riley, Frankfort, Onaga, Hanover, Waterville, St. George, Milford  and Centralia.

This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 299 and 323.

  Dickinson County in central Kansas...  Southwestern Geary County in east central Kansas...  West central Morris County in east central Kansas...

* At 259 PM CST, severe thunderstorms were located along a line  extending from 3 miles northeast of Niles to near Gypsum to 7 miles  east of Lindsborg, moving northeast at 45 mph.

  SOURCE...Trained weather spotters. WInds around Salina have gusted           over 80 mph.

  IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without           shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged. Expect           considerable damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles.

  Abilene, Herington, Chapman, Solomon, Enterprise, Hope, Woodbine,  Carlton and Moonlight.

This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 267 and 292.

This is an EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION. These storms are producing widespread wind damage across Ottawa and Saline counties. SEEK

SHELTER NOW inside a sturdy structure and stay away from windows!

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...&nbsp;  Northwestern Dickinson County in central Kansas...&nbsp;  Northwestern Riley County in northeastern Kansas...&nbsp;  Ottawa County in north central Kansas...  Eastern Republic County in north central Kansas...  Washington County in north central Kansas...  Clay County in north central Kansas...  Eastern Cloud County in north central Kansas...  Northwestern Marshall County in northeastern Kansas...

* At 240 PM CST, severe thunderstorms were located along a line  extending from 5 miles north of Hubbell to near Agenda to 4 miles  east of Culver, moving northeast at 60 mph.

  IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without           shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged. Expect           considerable damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles.           Extensive tree damage and power outages are likely.

  Clay Center, Minneapolis, Washington, Wakefield, Clyde, Hanover,  Bennington, Clifton, Miltonvale, Linn, Greenleaf, Morganville,  Barnes, Cuba, Morrowville, Green, Culver, Wells, Palmer and Haddam.

BULLETIN - EAS ACTIVATION REQUESTED
Tornado Warning
National Weather Service Topeka KS
329 PM CST Wed Dec 15 2021

The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a

* Tornado Warning for...
 Northeastern Dickinson County in central Kansas...
 Northwestern Geary County in east central Kansas...
 Southwestern Riley County in northeastern Kansas...

* Until 400 PM CST.

* At 328 PM CST, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado
 was located 4 miles northeast of Chapman, moving northeast at 50
 mph.

 HAZARD...Tornado.

 SOURCE...Radar indicated rotation.

 IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without
 shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed.
 Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree
 damage is likely.

* This dangerous storm will be near...
 Junction City around 335 PM CST.
 Grandview Plaza around 340 PM CST.
 Ogden around 350 PM CST.
 Manhattan around 355 PM CST.

This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 288 and 291, and
between mile markers 301 and 308.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest
floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a
mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter
and protect yourself from flying debris.&nbsp; ----The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for... Northeastern Dickinson County in central Kansas... Northern Geary County in east central Kansas... Riley County in northeastern Kansas... Northwestern Wabaunsee County in east central Kansas... Pottawatomie County in northeastern Kansas... West central Jackson County in northeastern Kansas... Nemaha County in northeastern Kansas... Eastern Washington County in north central Kansas... Southeastern Clay County in north central Kansas... Marshall County in northeastern Kansas...* Until 400 PM CST.* At 318 PM CST, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from near Odell to Chapman, moving east at 55 mph. THESE ARE DESTRUCTIVE STORMS FOR the warned area. HAZARD...80 mph wind gusts and nickel size hail. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged. Expect considerable damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles. Extensive tree damage and power outages are likely.* Locations impacted include... Manhattan, Junction City, Wamego, Marysville, Seneca, Blue Rapids, Westmoreland, Blaine, St. Marys, Ogden, Grandview Plaza, Wakefield, Riley, Frankfort, Onaga, Hanover, Waterville, St. George, Milford and Centralia.This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 299 and 323.The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for... Dickinson County in central Kansas... Southwestern Geary County in east central Kansas... West central Morris County in east central Kansas...* Until 345 PM CST.* At 259 PM CST, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 3 miles northeast of Niles to near Gypsum to 7 miles east of Lindsborg, moving northeast at 45 mph. THESE ARE DESTRUCTIVE STORMS! HAZARD...80 mph wind gusts. SOURCE...Trained weather spotters. WInds around Salina have gusted over 80 mph. IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged. Expect considerable damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles. Extensive tree damage and power outages are likely.* Locations impacted include... Abilene, Herington, Chapman, Solomon, Enterprise, Hope, Woodbine, Carlton and Moonlight.This includes Interstate 70 between mile markers 267 and 292.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...This is an EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION. These storms are producing widespread wind damage across Ottawa and Saline counties. SEEKSHELTER NOW inside a sturdy structure and stay away from windows!----The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...&nbsp; Northwestern Dickinson County in central Kansas...&nbsp; Northwestern Riley County in northeastern Kansas...&nbsp; Ottawa County in north central Kansas... Eastern Republic County in north central Kansas... Washington County in north central Kansas... Clay County in north central Kansas... Eastern Cloud County in north central Kansas... Northwestern Marshall County in northeastern Kansas...* Until 330 PM CST.* At 240 PM CST, severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from 5 miles north of Hubbell to near Agenda to 4 miles east of Culver, moving northeast at 60 mph. THESE ARE DESTRUCTIVE STORMS! HAZARD...80 mph wind gusts. SOURCE...Trained weather spotters. IMPACT...Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be heavily damaged. Expect considerable damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles. Extensive tree damage and power outages are likely.* Locations impacted include... Clay Center, Minneapolis, Washington, Wakefield, Clyde, Hanover, Bennington, Clifton, Miltonvale, Linn, Greenleaf, Morganville, Barnes, Cuba, Morrowville, Green, Culver, Wells, Palmer and Haddam.

Storm warnings issued

As of early afternoon Evergy had reported five power outages in Junction City. Winds had picked up and in Coronado Park on South Washington a tree was uprooted, wiping out a shelter.&nbsp;

As of early afternoon Evergy had reported five power outages in Junction City. Winds had picked up and in Coronado Park on South Washington a tree was uprooted, wiping out a shelter.&nbsp;<figure>
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Winds arrive in Junction City

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED TORNADO WATCH 563 IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM CST THIS EVENING FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS.

IN KANSAS THIS WATCH INCLUDES 11 COUNTIES

BROWN JACKSON MARSHALL NEMAHA POTTAWATOMIE RILEY

THIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF BELLEVILLE, BENNINGTON, BLUE RAPIDS, CLAY CENTER, CLIFTON, CONCORDIA, FRANKFORT,

GREENLEAF, HANOVER, HIAWATHA, HOLTON, HORTON, LINN, MANHATTAN, MARYSVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, SABETHA, SENECA, ST.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED TORNADO WATCH 563 IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM CST THIS EVENING FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS.IN KANSAS THIS WATCH INCLUDES 11 COUNTIESIN NORTH CENTRAL KANSASCLAY CLOUD OTTAWA REPUBLIC WASHINGTONIN NORTHEAST KANSASBROWN JACKSON MARSHALL NEMAHA POTTAWATOMIE RILEYTHIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF BELLEVILLE, BENNINGTON, BLUE RAPIDS, CLAY CENTER, CLIFTON, CONCORDIA, FRANKFORT,GREENLEAF, HANOVER, HIAWATHA, HOLTON, HORTON, LINN, MANHATTAN, MARYSVILLE, MINNEAPOLIS, SABETHA, SENECA, ST.MARYS, WAMEGO, AND WASHINGTON

Riley and Pottawatomie Counties are in tornado watch area, but Geary County is not

REO Speedwagon will perform in concert Wednesday, February 16th at the Tony's Pizza Event Center in Salina.&nbsp; The band is noted here in Junction City for attracting the largest crowd ever to attend a concert when they&nbsp; performed during the 2007 Sundown Salute Independence Day celebration in downtown Heritage Park.

&nbsp;Be listening&nbsp; to the 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK Morning Show this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday&nbsp; 6 to 10 a.m. with Jerry for your chance to&nbsp;"Win-it-before-you-can-buy-it"&nbsp;tickets for the REO concert.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Over the course of their career, the band has sold more than 40 million records and has charted 13 Top 40 hits.

Tickets for the REO concert go on sale at 10 a.m. this coming Friday from the <a href="https://ev9.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetGroupList?prc=LIVEITUP&amp;caller=PR&amp;linkID=global-bc&amp;RSRC=EAGLE&amp;RDAT=REO2022">Tony's Pizza Event Center Box Office</a>.

Performer information courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center

Formed in 1967, signed in 1971, and fronted by iconic vocalist Kevin Cronin since 1972, REO Speedwagon’s unrelenting drive, as well as non-stop touring and recording jump-started the burgeoning rock movement in the Midwest.

Platinum albums and radio staples soon followed, setting the stage for the release of the band’s explosive "Hi Infidelity" in 1980, which contained the massive hit singles “Keep On Loving You” and “Take It On the Run.” That landmark album spent 15 weeks in the No. 1 slot and has since sold over 10 million units in the United States.

Today, REO Speedwagon has sold more than 40 million albums around the globe, and Cronin and bandmates Bruce Hall (bass), Neal Doughty (keyboards), Dave Amato (guitar), and Bryan Hitt (drums) are still electrifying audiences worldwide in concert with hits and fan-favorites such as “In Your Letter,” “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” “Time For Me To Fly,” “Roll With The Changes,” the aforementioned “Keep On Loving You” and “Take It On the Run,” and many, many more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639504736291.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>REO Speedwagon will perform in concert Wednesday, February 16th at the Tony's Pizza Event Center in Salina.&nbsp; The band is noted here in Junction City for attracting the largest crowd ever to attend a concert when they&nbsp; performed during the 2007 Sundown Salute Independence Day celebration in downtown Heritage Park.&nbsp;Be listening&nbsp; to the 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK Morning Show this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday&nbsp; 6 to 10 a.m. with Jerry for your chance to&nbsp;"Win-it-before-you-can-buy-it"&nbsp;tickets for the REO concert.&nbsp;&nbsp;Over the course of their career, the band has sold more than 40 million records and has charted 13 Top 40 hits.Tickets for the REO concert go on sale at 10 a.m. this coming Friday from the <a href="https://ev9.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetGroupList?prc=LIVEITUP&amp;caller=PR&amp;linkID=global-bc&amp;RSRC=EAGLE&amp;RDAT=REO2022">Tony's Pizza Event Center Box Office</a>.Performer information courtesy Tony's Pizza Events CenterFormed in 1967, signed in 1971, and fronted by iconic vocalist Kevin Cronin since 1972, REO Speedwagon’s unrelenting drive, as well as non-stop touring and recording jump-started the burgeoning rock movement in the Midwest.Platinum albums and radio staples soon followed, setting the stage for the release of the band’s explosive "Hi Infidelity" in 1980, which contained the massive hit singles “Keep On Loving You” and “Take It On the Run.” That landmark album spent 15 weeks in the No. 1 slot and has since sold over 10 million units in the United States.Today, REO Speedwagon has sold more than 40 million albums around the globe, and Cronin and bandmates Bruce Hall (bass), Neal Doughty (keyboards), Dave Amato (guitar), and Bryan Hitt (drums) are still electrifying audiences worldwide in concert with hits and fan-favorites such as “In Your Letter,” “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” “Time For Me To Fly,” “Roll With The Changes,” the aforementioned “Keep On Loving You” and “Take It On the Run,” and many, many more.

REO Speedwagon coming to Salina

Junction City firefighters responded to a structure fire involving a trailer at 9th and Meir about 11:30 a.m. Tuesday. It was brought under control. That information was provided through Geary County Emergency Management, who also noted that officials were responding to a power line issue at Spring Valley Road and Ash Street.

Junction City firefighters responded to a structure fire involving a trailer at 9th and Meir about 11:30 a.m. Tuesday. It was brought under control. That information was provided through Geary County Emergency Management, who also noted that officials were responding to a power line issue at Spring Valley Road and Ash Street.<figure>
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Firefighters respond to blaze and 9th and Meir

Economic development leaders have been working on a prospect that is beginning to receive public attention. Some members of the community are concerned about the potential impact in the community with odor and on property values.

Chamber officials have not been able to reveal all the details, but no final action has occurred . Junction City Mayor Jeff Underhill confirmed a group of citizens met Tuesday evening at the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center to express their concerns and provide statistics to back up those concerns. " I was there as mayor to hear them out and listen, and help them out as we continue along and research and move forward on EDC project."

Underhill stated that,&nbsp; "A Kansas family wants to "vertically integrate their cattle operation and is looking at Junction City as a possibility because we have resources, people and I-70 visibility. " One of the locations that could be developed is in the area of the proposed Taylor Road interchange on the southwest edge of the city. When asked if this was a live-kill operation, the mayor indicated he could not answer that question.&nbsp;

Underhill addressed the concerns that were raised. "The citizens had concerns regarding the smell of that type of facility and the type of worker that could be brought by that type of facility. Underhill added that both he and County Commission Chair Trish Giordano were there and they do not want to do anything that would give the community a "black eye or create smells, or devalue our properties or anything like that. Simply at this point we're just exploring what could be high paying jobs." Underhill assured that at some time&nbsp; this project would be opened up to the public so all facts are known, and that there would be opportunities for discussion. "Last night the theme was you're either for or against this and the point that we were trying to get across is we're not at that point yet. There's nothing to be for or against yet."

Giordano said, "There are some concerns about a traditional slaughterhouse going in off I-70 and Taylor Road. I have the same concerns as the group that held the meeting. I live in that area and I let them know that I would not support anything that was detrimental to our community or devalue any of our homes. "She wants to do her due diligence on the project. "I am not convinced that there won't be a smell but I'm going to do some checking." The commissioner added that there are allegedly several new technologies that would dissipate or contain the smell.

Giordano confirmed that more research will be done on what the company is proposing to bring to the community, and input will be obtained from the community. She estimated that more than 100 people were in attendance at the 4-H / Senior Center.

EDC Director Mickey Fornaro-Dean talked with JC Post and stated that it's their job as an economic development organization to make contact, build relationships and hopefully they can recruit investment and jobs to the community. "In the process of doing that there's an awful lot of confidential information that gets exchanged between companies and / or our community and we are under a responsible point to not step out of bounds with confidential information that firm may have while they're in the process of working on a project."

Fornaro-Dean noted that this project is in the due diligence phase from the standpoint of both the community leadership and the company. "I personally and several members of this community are in what we call a non-disclosure agreement. The EDC director added that is not because companies want to be coy but it's a private industry, "and they have business concerns that they have to look after in order to be successful, whether they make a decision to come here or not, we have to have the respect and the ethics to honor that."

Fornaro-Dean indicated the project will be taken public when the time is right. She added that companies sometimes have issues that local leaders may not know about, possibly ranging from vendors to contracts that they may be working on. "Nobody would want their private industry to be jeopardized when they're in the process of looking at a potential opportunity."&nbsp;

Fornaro-Dean stressed that "this is not a done deal." The proposal is in the due diligence phase, which could take months to complete.

By Dewey TerrillEconomic development leaders have been working on a prospect that is beginning to receive public attention. Some members of the community are concerned about the potential impact in the community with odor and on property values.Chamber officials have not been able to reveal all the details, but no final action has occurred . Junction City Mayor Jeff Underhill confirmed a group of citizens met Tuesday evening at the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center to express their concerns and provide statistics to back up those concerns. " I was there as mayor to hear them out and listen, and help them out as we continue along and research and move forward on EDC project."Underhill stated that,&nbsp; "A Kansas family wants to "vertically integrate their cattle operation and is looking at Junction City as a possibility because we have resources, people and I-70 visibility. " One of the locations that could be developed is in the area of the proposed Taylor Road interchange on the southwest edge of the city. When asked if this was a live-kill operation, the mayor indicated he could not answer that question.&nbsp;Underhill addressed the concerns that were raised. "The citizens had concerns regarding the smell of that type of facility and the type of worker that could be brought by that type of facility. Underhill added that both he and County Commission Chair Trish Giordano were there and they do not want to do anything that would give the community a "black eye or create smells, or devalue our properties or anything like that. Simply at this point we're just exploring what could be high paying jobs." Underhill assured that at some time&nbsp; this project would be opened up to the public so all facts are known, and that there would be opportunities for discussion. "Last night the theme was you're either for or against this and the point that we were trying to get across is we're not at that point yet. There's nothing to be for or against yet."Giordano said, "There are some concerns about a traditional slaughterhouse going in off I-70 and Taylor Road. I have the same concerns as the group that held the meeting. I live in that area and I let them know that I would not support anything that was detrimental to our community or devalue any of our homes. "She wants to do her due diligence on the project. "I am not convinced that there won't be a smell but I'm going to do some checking." The commissioner added that there are allegedly several new technologies that would dissipate or contain the smell.Giordano confirmed that more research will be done on what the company is proposing to bring to the community, and input will be obtained from the community. She estimated that more than 100 people were in attendance at the 4-H / Senior Center.EDC Director Mickey Fornaro-Dean talked with JC Post and stated that it's their job as an economic development organization to make contact, build relationships and hopefully they can recruit investment and jobs to the community. "In the process of doing that there's an awful lot of confidential information that gets exchanged between companies and / or our community and we are under a responsible point to not step out of bounds with confidential information that firm may have while they're in the process of working on a project."Fornaro-Dean noted that this project is in the due diligence phase from the standpoint of both the community leadership and the company. "I personally and several members of this community are in what we call a non-disclosure agreement. The EDC director added that is not because companies want to be coy but it's a private industry, "and they have business concerns that they have to look after in order to be successful, whether they make a decision to come here or not, we have to have the respect and the ethics to honor that."Fornaro-Dean indicated the project will be taken public when the time is right. She added that companies sometimes have issues that local leaders may not know about, possibly ranging from vendors to contracts that they may be working on. "Nobody would want their private industry to be jeopardized when they're in the process of looking at a potential opportunity."&nbsp;Fornaro-Dean stressed that "this is not a done deal." The proposal is in the due diligence phase, which could take months to complete.

Public concerns about an economic development prospect are surfacing

Tom Brungardt, Past President of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club, was the guest speaker at the December 15 “Celebration of Optimism” Gathering. His topic was Pandemics and The Worlds They Create – Too Many To Talk About.

Brungardt told the Optimists that “over time there have been pandemics prior to COVID-19, which began in another part of the world and spread. As early as 430 BCE two-thirds of the population died in Athens, Greece because of a typhoid outbreak. In 541 BCE the Justinian Plague spread in Egypt and Palestine with deaths of 26% of the world’s population. In 1492 disease was spread by Europeans during the Columbian Exchange. The disease was a contributing factor in helping Europe conquer North and South America. In 1889 the Russian Flu contributed to 360,000 Russian deaths and one million deaths worldwide. During the years of 1346 and 1353 The Black Death was spread by fleas and rats in France, Italy, England, and Wales. Disease often spread in seaports and was then brought on land by the sailors and/or passengers.

In 1353, efforts were made to improve public health with the use of quarantines, improvement in sanitation and an increase in governmental involvement in seeking ways to combat disease. There was also a rise in antisemitism.” Mr. Brungardt stated that “the economic effects of disease reduced the work force and laborers were worth more to their employers, which brought about change.

Some historians agree that the Spanish Flu spread from Fort Riley, Kansas in 1918. Government officials were warned not to deploy soldiers from here to fight in WWI, however the warning went unheeded. Six hundred seventy-five thousand people died in the United States from the Spanish Flu. The most recent count of deaths in the U.S. lists about 800,000 deaths from COVID-19.

Now there is the question of what kind of world will COVID -19 create? There are people working from home. In April of 2020, there was an all time high of people resigning from their jobs. In August of the same year the record was broken again.” Tom said “It is not that people are lazy. They may have had experiences in their jobs where the public had repeatedly been rude, and employees were not going to put up with it anymore; the stimulus checks and rent moratorium made it possible for people to leave the jobs they hated and seek something better.”

Tom concluded with an observation that “during COVID-19, some people have indicated by their statements or actions that their job does not (nor will it any longer) describe who they are. He also shared a slide in his power point presentation: “Nothing should go back to “normal”. Normal wasn’t working. If we go back to the way things were, we will have lost the lesson. May we rise up and do better.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639582700917.jpeg" alt="Tom Brungardt" />
 <figcaption>Tom Brungardt</figcaption>
 </figure>Tom Brungardt, Past President of the JC Breakfast Optimist Club, was the guest speaker at the December 15 “Celebration of Optimism” Gathering. His topic was Pandemics and The Worlds They Create – Too Many To Talk About.Brungardt told the Optimists that “over time there have been pandemics prior to COVID-19, which began in another part of the world and spread. As early as 430 BCE two-thirds of the population died in Athens, Greece because of a typhoid outbreak. In 541 BCE the Justinian Plague spread in Egypt and Palestine with deaths of 26% of the world’s population. In 1492 disease was spread by Europeans during the Columbian Exchange. The disease was a contributing factor in helping Europe conquer North and South America. In 1889 the Russian Flu contributed to 360,000 Russian deaths and one million deaths worldwide. During the years of 1346 and 1353 The Black Death was spread by fleas and rats in France, Italy, England, and Wales. Disease often spread in seaports and was then brought on land by the sailors and/or passengers.In 1353, efforts were made to improve public health with the use of quarantines, improvement in sanitation and an increase in governmental involvement in seeking ways to combat disease. There was also a rise in antisemitism.” Mr. Brungardt stated that “the economic effects of disease reduced the work force and laborers were worth more to their employers, which brought about change.Some historians agree that the Spanish Flu spread from Fort Riley, Kansas in 1918. Government officials were warned not to deploy soldiers from here to fight in WWI, however the warning went unheeded. Six hundred seventy-five thousand people died in the United States from the Spanish Flu. The most recent count of deaths in the U.S. lists about 800,000 deaths from COVID-19.Now there is the question of what kind of world will COVID -19 create? There are people working from home. In April of 2020, there was an all time high of people resigning from their jobs. In August of the same year the record was broken again.” Tom said “It is not that people are lazy. They may have had experiences in their jobs where the public had repeatedly been rude, and employees were not going to put up with it anymore; the stimulus checks and rent moratorium made it possible for people to leave the jobs they hated and seek something better.”Tom concluded with an observation that “during COVID-19, some people have indicated by their statements or actions that their job does not (nor will it any longer) describe who they are. He also shared a slide in his power point presentation: “Nothing should go back to “normal”. Normal wasn’t working. If we go back to the way things were, we will have lost the lesson. May we rise up and do better.”

Tom Brungardt covers the history of pandemics

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft from&nbsp; packages in Manhattan.

Just before 9a.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 1100 block of Hayes Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

United Parcel Service (UPS) reported a 21-year-old man opened packages and stole 6 cell phones and other electronic devices. 

Authorities are still working to determine the estimated total loss associated with this case. The RCPD released no additional details early Wednesday.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft from&nbsp; packages in Manhattan.Just before 9a.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 1100 block of Hayes Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.United Parcel Service (UPS) reported a 21-year-old man opened packages and stole 6 cell phones and other electronic devices. Authorities are still working to determine the estimated total loss associated with this case. The RCPD released no additional details early Wednesday.

RCPD: Suspect opened UPS packages, stole electronic devices 

National Weather Service officials have posted a high wind warning from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday and a red flag warning from noon until 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges feels there could problems with people discarding cigarettes. "Also high profile vehicles are going to have problems on the highways. " Berges noted if semis aren't carrying a load they could be swaying back and forth.

"Power lines could also be a problem. They start whipping around and break, the poles might snap. If that happens we could have the potential for fire there, "said Berges.

Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte noted that it's been dry. "We haven't had any significant rain in over 30 days so all the vegetation is dry. Any fire that gets started in this stuff it's going to be a big problem and you just don't control fire like that when you have winds like this." Also watch out for blowing dust coming off some farm fields.

The Weather Service has forecast wind gusts of up to 60-70 miles per hour, which could create major problems.&nbsp;

National Weather Service officials have posted a high wind warning from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday and a red flag warning from noon until 9 p.m. Wednesday.Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges feels there could problems with people discarding cigarettes. "Also high profile vehicles are going to have problems on the highways. " Berges noted if semis aren't carrying a load they could be swaying back and forth."Power lines could also be a problem. They start whipping around and break, the poles might snap. If that happens we could have the potential for fire there, "said Berges.Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte noted that it's been dry. "We haven't had any significant rain in over 30 days so all the vegetation is dry. Any fire that gets started in this stuff it's going to be a big problem and you just don't control fire like that when you have winds like this." Also watch out for blowing dust coming off some farm fields.The Weather Service has forecast wind gusts of up to 60-70 miles per hour, which could create major problems.&nbsp;

Prepare for high wind and fire concerns on Wednesday

Junction City vs Manhattan Basketball

MANHATTAN, KAN —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting in Manhattan early Sunday&nbsp;at Tate’s Bar in Aggieville  arrested Joshua Cummings, 20, of Ft. Riley without incident just before 4p.m. Tuesday, according to RCPD spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.

Cummings was arrested with assistance from Ft. Riley officials, on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder and aggravated battery.

He is currently being held in the Riley County Jail in lieu of bond, pending his first appearance in court.

Just before 2a.m. Sunday RCPD officers heard and responded to the reports of gun shots inside Tate’s Bar,&nbsp; 1109 Moro, in the Aggieville Business District, according to a media release from police.

Officers arrived on scene immediately after the shots were fired and found a 24-year-old male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound and a second 24-year-old male suffering from a minor head injury (concussion). Both victims were transported to Via Christi for treatment of their injuries. The victim suffering from the gunshot wound was later life flighted to Stormont Vail for further treatment.

RCPD Detectives continue to investigate this incident. Anyone with information, pictures or videos from the incident to please contact Detective Janelle Compagnone at (785) 537-2112 ext. 2301 or jcompagnone@rileycountypolice.org.

MANHATTAN, KAN —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting in Manhattan early Sunday&nbsp;at Tate’s Bar in Aggieville arrested Joshua Cummings, 20, of Ft. Riley without incident just before 4p.m. Tuesday, according to RCPD spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.Cummings was arrested with assistance from Ft. Riley officials, on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder and aggravated battery.He is currently being held in the Riley County Jail in lieu of bond, pending his first appearance in court.Just before 2a.m. Sunday RCPD officers heard and responded to the reports of gun shots inside Tate’s Bar,&nbsp; 1109 Moro, in the Aggieville Business District, according to a media release from police.Officers arrived on scene immediately after the shots were fired and found a 24-year-old male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound and a second 24-year-old male suffering from a minor head injury (concussion). Both victims were transported to Via Christi for treatment of their injuries. The victim suffering from the gunshot wound was later life flighted to Stormont Vail for further treatment.RCPD Detectives continue to investigate this incident. Anyone with information, pictures or videos from the incident to please contact Detective Janelle Compagnone at (785) 537-2112 ext. 2301 or jcompagnone@rileycountypolice.org.

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