The Riley County Police Department has received multiple calls regarding possible Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the Manhattan area on Thursday morning, according to a social media statement from police.

The Riley County Police Department confirms there were operations that were conducted. RCPD was not involved in these operations. 

The RCPD advised the public to refer all questions to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The Riley County Police Department has received multiple calls regarding possible Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the Manhattan area on Thursday morning, according to a social media statement from police.The Riley County Police Department confirms there were operations that were conducted. RCPD was not involved in these operations. The RCPD advised the public to refer all questions to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

RCPD issues statement on ICE operations in Manhattan

Four Junction City High School Blue Jay football players signed their National Letters of Intent (NLI) on Wednesday afternoon at Junction City High School. Each athlete has now committed and signed to play college football this coming fall.

Jackson Hollie – Kansas State University, Manhattan


Jamarcus Tyson – William Jewell University, Liberty, Missouri


J’Sean Green – Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina


Kingston Timms – Butler Community College, El Dorado

Junction City High School head football coach Randall Zimmerman spoke about the four student-athletes before they signed. “These are great kids that have been raised the right way,” Coach Zimmerman said. “They are tremendous leaders in our community.”

Several students from Junction City High School were in attendance, including many football players from this year’s JCHS team. Zimmerman addressed the younger athletes in attendance, encouraging them to follow the examples set by the four signees. “These are great examples for you younger guys to follow,” Zimmerman said. “Watch them in the classroom, watch them in the hallways, watch them in the weight room, and watch how they go about their everyday lives. Then mimic it. If you do that, you’ll be in great shape.” *In the 2025 football season, Junction City went 7-3 and won the Centennial League.&nbsp;

Many family members and friends were in attendance at the Signing Day ceremony. Each player thanked their family, coaches, and the Junction City community for supporting them from the beginning.

Following each player signing their National Letter of Intent, family members were called to the stage to take photos with their student-athletes. Below are more photos from the Signing Day ceremony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770244564822.jpeg" alt="Four Blue Jay Players sign Letters of Intent - Pictured left to right - Jackson Hollie, Jamarcus Tyson, J'Sean Green, and Kingston Timms." />
 <figcaption>Four Blue Jay Players sign Letters of Intent - Pictured left to right - Jackson Hollie, Jamarcus Tyson, J'Sean Green, and Kingston Timms.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostFour Junction City High School Blue Jay football players signed their National Letters of Intent (NLI) on Wednesday afternoon at Junction City High School. Each athlete has now committed and signed to play college football this coming fall.Jackson Hollie – Kansas State University, Manhattan
Jamarcus Tyson – William Jewell University, Liberty, Missouri
J’Sean Green – Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina
Kingston Timms – Butler Community College, El DoradoJunction City High School head football coach Randall Zimmerman spoke about the four student-athletes before they signed. “These are great kids that have been raised the right way,” Coach Zimmerman said. “They are tremendous leaders in our community.”Several students from Junction City High School were in attendance, including many football players from this year’s JCHS team. Zimmerman addressed the younger athletes in attendance, encouraging them to follow the examples set by the four signees. “These are great examples for you younger guys to follow,” Zimmerman said. “Watch them in the classroom, watch them in the hallways, watch them in the weight room, and watch how they go about their everyday lives. Then mimic it. If you do that, you’ll be in great shape.” *In the 2025 football season, Junction City went 7-3 and won the Centennial League.&nbsp;Many family members and friends were in attendance at the Signing Day ceremony. Each player thanked their family, coaches, and the Junction City community for supporting them from the beginning.Following each player signing their National Letter of Intent, family members were called to the stage to take photos with their student-athletes. Below are more photos from the Signing Day ceremony.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770244505470.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770245121994.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Four Junction City High School Football Players sign National Letter of Intent to play College Football

Topeka, Kan. -&nbsp;The Kansas Recreation and Parks Association recognized Joe Minick of Abilene with the Distinguished Volunteer Award during its annual awards luncheon in Topeka.At 90 years young, Minick is widely regarded as one of Kansas’ most impactful volunteers, quietly shaping some of the state’s most beloved recreation and tourism assets through decades of hands-on service, mechanical skill, and community leadership.

A diesel and automotive mechanic by trade, Minick has been instrumental in launching and sustaining the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, now one of Kansas’ top heritage attractions. From engineering and maintenance to the massive restoration of the Santa Fe 3415 steam locomotive, Minick played a central role in transforming a dormant relic into a working engine that continues to delight riders from across the country.

His impact extends well beyond the rails. Minick helped bring the Hoffman Grist Mill in Enterprise to life as a working 1880s-style flour mill, restored the C.W. Parker Carousel steam engine, relocated and preserved the historic Volkman log cabin at the Dickinson County Heritage Center, and assisted with the recovery and restoration of the Steamboat Arabia steam engine, now displayed at the Arabia Steamboat Museum in Kansas City.When communities across Kansas sought outdoor recreation opportunities during the pandemic, Minick once again stepped forward. As trail development costs soared, he helped create the Iron Horse Trail, a five-mile rail-trail completed for just $200,000. Today, it stands as the only rails-with-trails project in the Midwest and a model for community-driven recreation development.

Minick’s service also includes decades of volunteer leadership. He is a longtime board member of the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, a former Volunteer of the Year with the Abilene Area Chamber of Commerce, a recipient of Kansas Tourism’s Kansas’ Finest recognition, the Community Foundation of Dickinson County’s Quiet Hero award, and a past board member of the Dickinson County Heritage Center. Behind the scenes, he has also worked with youth completing court-mandated community service hours, offering guidance, purpose, and encouragement along the way.

“Joe Minick is proof that one person can make a lasting difference,” said representatives of the Kansas Recreation and Parks Association. “His work has strengthened communities, preserved Kansas history, and created places where people come together to learn, explore, and enjoy the outdoors.”

The Distinguished Volunteer Award honors individuals whose dedication has advanced recreation, parks, and quality of life across Kansas. For Minick, the recognition reflects a lifetime of service grounded in action, humility, and an enduring belief in community. about&nbsp;

By Julie Roller WeekAbilene CVBTopeka, Kan. -&nbsp;The Kansas Recreation and Parks Association recognized Joe Minick of Abilene with the Distinguished Volunteer Award during its annual awards luncheon in Topeka.At 90 years young, Minick is widely regarded as one of Kansas’ most impactful volunteers, quietly shaping some of the state’s most beloved recreation and tourism assets through decades of hands-on service, mechanical skill, and community leadership.A diesel and automotive mechanic by trade, Minick has been instrumental in launching and sustaining the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, now one of Kansas’ top heritage attractions. From engineering and maintenance to the massive restoration of the Santa Fe 3415 steam locomotive, Minick played a central role in transforming a dormant relic into a working engine that continues to delight riders from across the country.His impact extends well beyond the rails. Minick helped bring the Hoffman Grist Mill in Enterprise to life as a working 1880s-style flour mill, restored the C.W. Parker Carousel steam engine, relocated and preserved the historic Volkman log cabin at the Dickinson County Heritage Center, and assisted with the recovery and restoration of the Steamboat Arabia steam engine, now displayed at the Arabia Steamboat Museum in Kansas City.When communities across Kansas sought outdoor recreation opportunities during the pandemic, Minick once again stepped forward. As trail development costs soared, he helped create the Iron Horse Trail, a five-mile rail-trail completed for just $200,000. Today, it stands as the only rails-with-trails project in the Midwest and a model for community-driven recreation development.Minick’s service also includes decades of volunteer leadership. He is a longtime board member of the Abilene &amp; Smoky Valley Railroad, a former Volunteer of the Year with the Abilene Area Chamber of Commerce, a recipient of Kansas Tourism’s Kansas’ Finest recognition, the Community Foundation of Dickinson County’s Quiet Hero award, and a past board member of the Dickinson County Heritage Center. Behind the scenes, he has also worked with youth completing court-mandated community service hours, offering guidance, purpose, and encouragement along the way.“Joe Minick is proof that one person can make a lasting difference,” said representatives of the Kansas Recreation and Parks Association. “His work has strengthened communities, preserved Kansas history, and created places where people come together to learn, explore, and enjoy the outdoors.”The Distinguished Volunteer Award honors individuals whose dedication has advanced recreation, parks, and quality of life across Kansas. For Minick, the recognition reflects a lifetime of service grounded in action, humility, and an enduring belief in community. about&nbsp;

 Kansas Recreation and Parks Association Honors Joe Minick with Distinguished Volunteer Award

&nbsp;--Portrait of a Graduate was highlighted at the USD 475 Board of Education meeting. Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Superintendent of Schools, shared his 2026 Portrait of a Graduate presentation with board members. The Portrait of a Graduate is a shared community vision that defines the knowledge and skills a USD 475 student needs to thrive in college, career and life. 

--The Board approved a new position for a part-time early childhood speech para for the remainder of the 2025-26 school year. 

The BOE agreed to send a proposed Memorandum of Agreement to the City of Milford for consideration. The Agreement would be a cooperative arrangement between the district and the City of Milford where the city would provide certain municipal services to support the operations of Milford Elementary. 

&nbsp;The Board of Education has previously requested that the district look into other options to manage USD 475’s school food service program. On Monday night, the USD 475 Board of Education approved to move forward with a request for proposal to manage the district’s school food service program. 

The Board of Education discussed a therapy dog policy on Monday night. The purpose of the policy is to establish a board-authorized requirements for the use of therapy dogs in district schools and programs, ensuring student safety, staff accountability and compliance with applicable state and federal law. This topic will be brought back to the boa

By Matt HooverUSD 475 Communications Coordinator&nbsp;--Portrait of a Graduate was highlighted at the USD 475 Board of Education meeting. Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Superintendent of Schools, shared his 2026 Portrait of a Graduate presentation with board members. The Portrait of a Graduate is a shared community vision that defines the knowledge and skills a USD 475 student needs to thrive in college, career and life. --The Board approved a new position for a part-time early childhood speech para for the remainder of the 2025-26 school year. The BOE agreed to send a proposed Memorandum of Agreement to the City of Milford for consideration. The Agreement would be a cooperative arrangement between the district and the City of Milford where the city would provide certain municipal services to support the operations of Milford Elementary. &nbsp;The Board of Education has previously requested that the district look into other options to manage USD 475’s school food service program. On Monday night, the USD 475 Board of Education approved to move forward with a request for proposal to manage the district’s school food service program. The Board of Education discussed a therapy dog policy on Monday night. The purpose of the policy is to establish a board-authorized requirements for the use of therapy dogs in district schools and programs, ensuring student safety, staff accountability and compliance with applicable state and federal law. This topic will be brought back to the boa

USD 475 Board of Education Report

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club will have a fundraiser on Monday, February 9 at JC's BBQ &amp; Grill from 11:00 AM until close.&nbsp; 10% of all purchases and donations received will be used to support the club's work in the community.&nbsp; 

The Optimists donate to 15 different youth organizations; The Magdalene Project; offer three scholarships to high school students and support a Junior Optimist Club at each Junction City High School and St. Xavier's Catholic Schools.&nbsp; To date the club has also donated $1,000 to "Project Lift The Burden" to help with unpaid balances for student's breakfasts and lunches in USD 475.&nbsp;

By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast Optimist ClubThe JC Breakfast Optimist Club will have a fundraiser on Monday, February 9 at JC's BBQ &amp; Grill from 11:00 AM until close.&nbsp; 10% of all purchases and donations received will be used to support the club's work in the community.&nbsp; The Optimists donate to 15 different youth organizations; The Magdalene Project; offer three scholarships to high school students and support a Junior Optimist Club at each Junction City High School and St. Xavier's Catholic Schools.&nbsp; To date the club has also donated $1,000 to "Project Lift The Burden" to help with unpaid balances for student's breakfasts and lunches in USD 475.&nbsp;

Optimist Club will host a fundraiser

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Ericka Powell, Failure to appear, arrested 02/03

Solrelys Calcano-Carrasquillo, Failure to appear, arrested 02/03

Michael Hyster, Cruelty to animals (Failure to provide food/water/shelter); Interference with LEO, Falsely report a crime - intending action on information, arrested 02/03

Lamont Ray, DUI-Liquor/Drugs (2nd offense), arrested 02/04

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770233516455.jpeg" alt="Davion Rhodes, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Violation of protection order, arrested 02/03" />
 <figcaption>Davion Rhodes, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Violation of protection order, arrested 02/03</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770233527183.jpeg" alt="William Mitchell, Possession of stolen property, value $1,500 to $25,000, arrested 02/03" />
 <figcaption>William Mitchell, Possession of stolen property, value $1,500 to $25,000, arrested 02/03</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770233538695.jpeg" alt="Dandrea Jenkins, Urinating or defecating in public; Duty to give information-unattended vehicle or property; Battery against a law enforcement officer; Resisting arrest, arrested 02/04" />
 <figcaption>Dandrea Jenkins, Urinating or defecating in public; Duty to give information-unattended vehicle or property; Battery against a law enforcement officer; Resisting arrest, arrested 02/04</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Ericka Powell, Failure to appear, arrested 02/03Solrelys Calcano-Carrasquillo, Failure to appear, arrested 02/03Michael Hyster, Cruelty to animals (Failure to provide food/water/shelter); Interference with LEO, Falsely report a crime - intending action on information, arrested 02/03Lamont Ray, DUI-Liquor/Drugs (2nd offense), arrested 02/04Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 4, 2026

&nbsp;K‑15, bridge number 062 over Chapman Creek, located 4.38 miles north of the K‑18/K‑15 east junction will be the site of a bridge replacement project.

Bridges Inc. of Newton, Kansas, got the bid of $3,995,297.28 approved by KDOT.

&nbsp;K‑15, bridge number 062 over Chapman Creek, located 4.38 miles north of the K‑18/K‑15 east junction will be the site of a bridge replacement project.Bridges Inc. of Newton, Kansas, got the bid of $3,995,297.28 approved by KDOT.

KDOT approves bid for Chapman Creek replacement

Fort Riley services return to normal operations on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. Employees had been temporarily furloughed due to a lapse in federal appropriations.

Fort RileyFort Riley services return to normal operations on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. Employees had been temporarily furloughed due to a lapse in federal appropriations.

Fort Riley civilian employees return to work

Main Street | Downtown JC Happenings | Feb 02 - Feb 08, 2026

● <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/love-local-reviews/">Love Local Reviews Campaign!</a> This Valentine season, we’re flooding our downtown
businesses with love through positive online reviews, and we’re doing giveaways as the
reviews roll in! Head to our website for a concise list of links to downtown
businesses, leave a review, screenshot it, and submit it to enter.

○ The more reviews we receive, the more giveaways we unlock!


A few kind words go a long way. Let’s show our downtown just how loved it is!

● <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/event/cups-of-culture/">Cups of Culture: Great American Sip Trip | Buy Your Tickets Here!</a> Cheers to 250
years! In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Cups of Culture: Great American
Sip Trip 2026 turns Downtown JC into a coast-to-coast tasting experience, with small
businesses serving drinks and hors d’oeuvres inspired by the flavors and traditions that
shape our nation. Stroll downtown, shop local, and sip your way across the country as we
celebrate America’s past, present, and future- perfect for date night, friends, or a group
outing. This event is for guests 21 and older.

● <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/event/taste-of-jc/">Taste of JC: Food Tour | Tickets on Sale Now!</a> Come hungry and explore! Join
Junction City Main Street for Taste of JC, a community food stroll showcasing the
flavors that make our town unique. Grab a passport and sample tasting portions from
local favorites and new vendors as you snack your way through downtown, discover new
go-to spots, and shop local along the way. All you need to bring is an appetite for good
food and good company.

<a href="https://godfreystactical.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawNHs4pleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF3azdKYjl2RWk5ZmtmZXd1AR7vhwSejcARqGfdIgGQkNIKI-9W1f8wAp9LA6zYmUh9BA_zvjKanVPtC7NwRw_aem_f0i9mu0uejSZDFi2oo4DVA">Did you know?</a>: Every Wednesday is Ladies Night at Godfrey’s Indoor Ranges and Tactical
Supply! And Fridays are Free Rental Friday!

<a href="https://junctioncityartscouncil.org/new-art-class-schedule-jan-feb-2026/">Junction City Arts Council: Reserve your spot today!</a>

<a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/flag-fundraiser/">Flags of Geary County:</a> “Proudly United, Community Ignited”

*Want to receive these weekly Main Street Mondays through email? Sign up to be on our
mailing list here: <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/latest-news/">https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/latest-news/</a>

<a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=987505~59c6ff9a-ee4b-4f24-81ca-9df9ebf6275d&amp;epguid=77258fea-27dd-4e9c-b969-eb8f4d21beb2&amp;mdy=2/6/2026&amp;showing=987506&amp;">Junction City Little Theater’s: Private Lives </a>- The Junction City Little Theater is back at the
historic C.L Hoover Opera House with another wonderful production for our community! In
Noël Coward’s sophisticated comedy classic, exes Elyot and Amanda, now honeymooning with
new spouses, meet by chance in a French hotel and rekindle their former passion and their old
feuds. A witty, stylish adult romantic comedy full of sharp humor and timeless charm. Buy your
tickets now!

<a href="https://www.gemstudiosjc.com/#xpUBXQ">GEM Studios Art Classes and Workshops:</a> Buy tickets now to reserve your spot!

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555597640369&amp;sk=events">Blu Restaurant and Bar Weekly Events:</a> Margarita Monday, Taco ‘Bout a Tuesday, Wing
Wednesday, Thirsty Thursday, Cheers to the Weekend on Fridays.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086549072848&amp;sk=events">Highwind events:</a> Steak Night, Tuesday @ 4-9PM | Music Bingo, Wednesday @ 6:30PM |
Stock Up on Beer for the Game - 10% Off Beer To Go | Brunch, Sunday @ 9:30AM-2PM | Super Bowl Watch Party, Sunday

The karaoke bug is going around and The Spot Karaoke is the place to be! Pick from 4 private
karaoke suites, all with different themes, and enjoy a private jam session with you + 11 other
people per room. Check them out and reserve a karaoke suite here: <a href="https://thespot785.com/">https://thespot785.com/</a>

Got a sweet tooth? Get your fix of delicious treats, coffee, dirty sodas and more at Celestial
Sweets. Located at 725 N Washington St.,<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CelestialSweetsJC"> Celestial Sweets</a> has something for everyone! Open
Wednesday-Saturday, 11AM-8PM!

Follow <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/">Junction City Main Street</a> for event updates and more.

Support local. Stay connected. Love where you live.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678470039677.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Main Street | Downtown JC Happenings | Feb 02 - Feb 08, 2026Upcoming JC Main Street Events● <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/love-local-reviews/">Love Local Reviews Campaign!</a> This Valentine season, we’re flooding our downtown
businesses with love through positive online reviews, and we’re doing giveaways as the
reviews roll in! Head to our website for a concise list of links to downtown
businesses, leave a review, screenshot it, and submit it to enter.
○ Every review = 1 giveaway entry
○ The more reviews we receive, the more giveaways we unlock!
A few kind words go a long way. Let’s show our downtown just how loved it is!● <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/event/cups-of-culture/">Cups of Culture: Great American Sip Trip | Buy Your Tickets Here!</a> Cheers to 250
years! In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, Cups of Culture: Great American
Sip Trip 2026 turns Downtown JC into a coast-to-coast tasting experience, with small
businesses serving drinks and hors d’oeuvres inspired by the flavors and traditions that
shape our nation. Stroll downtown, shop local, and sip your way across the country as we
celebrate America’s past, present, and future- perfect for date night, friends, or a group
outing. This event is for guests 21 and older.● <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/event/taste-of-jc/">Taste of JC: Food Tour | Tickets on Sale Now!</a> Come hungry and explore! Join
Junction City Main Street for Taste of JC, a community food stroll showcasing the
flavors that make our town unique. Grab a passport and sample tasting portions from
local favorites and new vendors as you snack your way through downtown, discover new
go-to spots, and shop local along the way. All you need to bring is an appetite for good
food and good company.<a href="https://godfreystactical.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawNHs4pleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF3azdKYjl2RWk5ZmtmZXd1AR7vhwSejcARqGfdIgGQkNIKI-9W1f8wAp9LA6zYmUh9BA_zvjKanVPtC7NwRw_aem_f0i9mu0uejSZDFi2oo4DVA">Did you know?</a>: Every Wednesday is Ladies Night at Godfrey’s Indoor Ranges and Tactical
Supply! And Fridays are Free Rental Friday!<a href="https://junctioncityartscouncil.org/new-art-class-schedule-jan-feb-2026/">Junction City Arts Council: Reserve your spot today!</a><ul>
 <li>Valentine Card Making (Ages 16+) | Date: February 8th | Time: 2:00–3:00 PM
</li><li>Paper Stained Glass Hearts (Kindergarten-2nd Grade) | Date: February 14th | Time:
12PM
</li><li>Clay Pinch Pot Hearts (3rd-5th Grade) | Date: February 14th | Time: 2PM
</li>
 </ul><a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/flag-fundraiser/">Flags of Geary County:</a> “Proudly United, Community Ignited”<ul>
 <li>2026 is America’s 250th birthday! To celebrate, Junction City Main Street invites you to
take part in the Flag Project supporting multiple local organizations. For a small
donation, Main Street will place and remove a leased 3x5 ft U.S. flag on a 10 ft pole in
front of your home or business on seven major holidays, throughout the year. Flags will
not be displayed in the event of rain.
</li>
 </ul>*Want to receive these weekly Main Street Mondays through email? Sign up to be on our
mailing list here: <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/latest-news/">https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/latest-news/</a><a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=987505~59c6ff9a-ee4b-4f24-81ca-9df9ebf6275d&amp;epguid=77258fea-27dd-4e9c-b969-eb8f4d21beb2&amp;mdy=2/6/2026&amp;showing=987506&amp;">Junction City Little Theater’s: Private Lives </a>- The Junction City Little Theater is back at the
historic C.L Hoover Opera House with another wonderful production for our community! In
Noël Coward’s sophisticated comedy classic, exes Elyot and Amanda, now honeymooning with
new spouses, meet by chance in a French hotel and rekindle their former passion and their old
feuds. A witty, stylish adult romantic comedy full of sharp humor and timeless charm. Buy your
tickets now!<a href="https://www.gemstudiosjc.com/#xpUBXQ">GEM Studios Art Classes and Workshops:</a> Buy tickets now to reserve your spot!<ul>
 <li>Kids Kitty Loves Snow | January 24th | 10:00 - 11:00AM
</li><li>Kids Cookie and Cocoa | February 7th | 11:00AM - 12:00PM
</li><li>Brushes and Booze: Naughty Painters | February 7th | 6:00 - 8:00PM | 21+
</li><li>Kids Valentine Fox | February 14th | 10:00 - 11:00AM
</li><li>Brushes and Booze: Valentine Wreath | February 14th | 6:00 - 8:00PM | 21+
</li><li>Kids Penguin Friends | February 21st | 10:00 - 12:00PM
</li><li>Brushes and Booze: Winter Wonders | February 21st | 6:00 - 8:00PM | 21+
</li>
 </ul><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555597640369&amp;sk=events">Blu Restaurant and Bar Weekly Events:</a> Margarita Monday, Taco ‘Bout a Tuesday, Wing
Wednesday, Thirsty Thursday, Cheers to the Weekend on Fridays.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086549072848&amp;sk=events">Highwind events:</a> Steak Night, Tuesday @ 4-9PM | Music Bingo, Wednesday @ 6:30PM |
Stock Up on Beer for the Game - 10% Off Beer To Go | Brunch, Sunday @ 9:30AM-2PM | Super Bowl Watch Party, SundayThe karaoke bug is going around and The Spot Karaoke is the place to be! Pick from 4 private
karaoke suites, all with different themes, and enjoy a private jam session with you + 11 other
people per room. Check them out and reserve a karaoke suite here: <a href="https://thespot785.com/">https://thespot785.com/</a>Got a sweet tooth? Get your fix of delicious treats, coffee, dirty sodas and more at Celestial
Sweets. Located at 725 N Washington St.,<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CelestialSweetsJC"> Celestial Sweets</a> has something for everyone! Open
Wednesday-Saturday, 11AM-8PM!Follow <a href="https://junctioncitymainstreet.org/">Junction City Main Street</a> for event updates and more.
Support local. Stay connected. Love where you live.

Junction City Main Street | Downtown JC Happenings 

--The Junction City Commission has approved a contract for the City Manager, Kim Zimmerman, that includes a 6% salary increase equal to other non-union employees retroactive to the first payroll of the fiscal&nbsp; year, and an increase to $800 for a vehicle stipend.&nbsp;

--An annual city-wide cleanup is scheduled on April 18.

--Commissioners awarded a bid totaling $791,807 to Bayer Constuction for the 12th Street parking lot.

--The governing body awarded a bid for 2.2 miles of 2-inch mill and ovrrlay work on Grant Avenue totaling $1,292,808 to Shilling Construction Company. It must be finished by July.

--The Junction City Commission has approved a contract for the City Manager, Kim Zimmerman, that includes a 6% salary increase equal to other non-union employees retroactive to the first payroll of the fiscal&nbsp; year, and an increase to $800 for a vehicle stipend.&nbsp;--An annual city-wide cleanup is scheduled on April 18.--Commissioners awarded a bid totaling $791,807 to Bayer Constuction for the 12th Street parking lot.--The governing body awarded a bid for 2.2 miles of 2-inch mill and ovrrlay work on Grant Avenue totaling $1,292,808 to Shilling Construction Company. It must be finished by July.

City addresses issues during Tuesday night meeting

The latest data show enrollment fell about 12% in Missouri and 3.5% in Kansas for 2026. But experts say that doesn’t tell the full story

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/megcunningham/">Meg Cunningham</a>

As small-business owners, Sonya Andrews and her husband are used to uncertainty.

Sonya runs a business offering graphic and web design services, while her husband is a commercial photographer. They also own a studio in Kansas City’s West Bottoms and have one employee who works remotely from Florida.

Every month is different for them when it comes to business. But this year, they’re feeling more pressure, thanks to the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits available for Americans enrolled in the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.

Andrews and her husband also have a daughter with autism and need higher levels of coverage. Previously, they carried Aetna insurance through the marketplace, but Aetna is no longer an option for them. For 2026, as their daughter gets older and with enhanced subsidies expiring, they made the tough decision to downgrade their&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/11/10/aca-premiums-set-to-soar-out-of-reach-for-many-kansas-citians/" target="_blank">ACA coverage</a>&nbsp;rather than pay a much higher premium.

But arriving at that decision wasn’t easy. Sonya spent weeks researching and comparing plans with marketplace navigators and her husband. They’re planning to closely monitor their income to make sure they don’t make too much and lose their subsidies entirely, adding more pressure to the realities of owning a small business.

“I spent a lot of time trying to figure out how to make this decision,” Andrews said. “You’re making choices like, ‘Well, we’re in our mid-40s. Our daughter is young and has already had most of the expensive things done. Can we roll the dice for a few years?’”

But, unlike Andrews, tens of thousands of Missourians have opted out of the Affordable Care Act marketplace altogether after the enhanced subsidies expired.

Enhanced subsidies came into Obamacare in 2021 as part of the American Rescue Plan Act, in an effort to ease the cost of the Affordable Care Act for Americans. The enhanced subsidies were extended again through the end of 2025, but were allowed to expire ahead of open enrollment in 2026.

Without the enhanced subsidies, which offered tax credits to Americans enrolled in Obamacare, people were told they could expect an average 114% increase in their premium costs for 2026.

For someone with a household income of $55,000 (about 351% of the federal poverty line), premium costs shot up nearly $1,500 annually heading into 2026, KFF estimates.

Experts like the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that hundreds of thousands of Americans would move away from Obamacare in 2026 as a result.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/quick-take/aca-signups-are-down-but-still-an-incomplete-picture/" target="_blank">Nationwide</a>, enrollment so far has dropped by about 1.2 million people.

In Missouri, nearly 51,000 people dropped off the Affordable Care Act rolls from January 2025 through the end of the 2026 open enrollment period, the latest data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services show. Nearly 366,000 people enrolled this year, compared to 417,000 enrollees in January 2025.

Kansas had a smaller drop. Nearly 193,000 people enrolled, compared to about 200,000 who were enrolled in January of last year, the data show.

More people are enrolled in both states than in 2024, data shows.

Still, in Missouri, 50,000 people potentially without insurance is a large number when the state’s uninsured population is already around 457,000, said Timothy McBride, a health care economist and professor at Washington University in St. Louis.

“That’s over a 10% increase in that number,” McBride said.

Plus, McBride said, the numbers don’t reflect those who may have downgraded their plans to lower premiums, like the Andrews family did, or those who may disenroll or let their plans lapse by not paying their now-higher premiums.

Data&nbsp;<a href="https://chir.georgetown.edu/clues-in-state-data-suggest-declines-in-early-marketplace-enrollment-data-may-be-just-the-tip-of-the-iceberg/" target="_blank">compiled</a>&nbsp;by Georgetown University’s Center on Health Insurance Reforms found that several state-based marketplaces were reporting that Americans were canceling their plans at higher rates than in the past. In Idaho and Pennsylvania, disenrollments have so far quadrupled compared to last year, with more people citing affordability concerns.

In December, Pennsylvania’s state-based marketplace reported that only 77% of enrollees had paid their initial premium for the year, compared to 88% the year before.

Without data from the federal government on what plans people chose, it’s too early to say what the impact of more bronze than silver plans will be, McBride said.

But people are generally choosing to trade lower premiums for higher deductibles, based on what Kevin Wehner, a marketplace navigator at Missouri Connections for Health, saw throughout the open enrollment period.

“The silver plan premiums were just out of reach for a lot of people,” Wehner said. “They ended up switching to bronze or gold plans.”

Others opted for the higher monthly premiums — up to&nbsp; $1,000 in some cases — or chose to become part of a health-sharing community, where a group of people all pay into a shared pot to split the cost of care.

It’s a consideration Craig Heimericks and his husband have had for years, amid rising health care costs. The pair co-own rental properties around Rolla, Missouri, and the variable costs of the business constantly keep them on their toes, especially when it comes to health insurance.

“My husband and I had a plan on the exchange last year. It was great coverage, but was getting more and more expensive every year, to the point where we had been discussing ways to drop coverage and self insure,” Heimericks said in an email.

“But as a business owner, the risk is just too high that one big medical event would bankrupt everything we’ve worked for the last 20 years. Honestly, sometimes it feels like we’re being held hostage by the health care industry as a whole, and there doesn’t seem to be a way out,” he said.

Heimericks ended up downgrading his plan for 2026, with deductibles just under $5,000 per person and their maximum out-of-pocket costs capped at $20,300. Still, Heimericks and his husband are planning on over $1,655 a month in premiums, and they don’t yet have a grasp on what the cost of their prescriptions will be under their new plan.

In 2025, they paid about $1,630 a month, but had lower deductibles and caps on out-of-pocket costs.

“The big difference was people who would normally qualify for the cost-sharing reduction would enroll in the silver plan in previous years,” Wehner said. “Hardly anyone did that this year.”

So far, California’s state-based marketplace is seeing more people enroll in bronze plans, at 37% in 2026 compared to 23% in 2025. Other states like Maine, New Jersey and Rhode Island are reporting a higher share of customers switching to bronze plans for 2026, the Georgetown data shows.

What the data doesn’t show, McBride said, was the higher deductible cost that those in Missouri and Kansas will take on.

People may have a costly health event and not expect to have to pay higher out-of-pocket costs before meeting their deductible, McBride said, which ultimately can pass the cost onto other health care customers.

“One of the things we saw early on, because the premiums were so low for bronze plans … younger people, especially healthy people, would pick that plan and have a $7,000 or $8,000 deductible,” McBride said. “They’d get bad luck … and then they’d show up to the hospital and get a bill for $8,000 and they’d be like, ‘Wait a minute, I thought I had Obamacare.’”

Ultimately, many aren’t prepared to take on that higher cost and end up unable to pay their bills, McBride said, and that is then passed onto the consumer.

“The hospital or health system can try to get the money from them but usually can only get a fraction of it,” McBride said. “Then the hospital just has to bury that cost, or shift it to the rest of us. It has a short or long-term effect on someone’s health status, and it also ends up rippling to all the rest of us.”

This&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2026/02/02/affordable-care-act-enrollment-missouri-kansas-2026-enhanced-subsidies/" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;first appeared on&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/" target="_blank">Beacon: Kansas City</a>&nbsp;and is republished here under a&nbsp;<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770204169677.png" alt=" Tens of thousands of Missourians and Kansans opted out out of the Affordable Care Act marketplace altogether after the enhanced subsidies expired (Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon)." />
 <figcaption> Tens of thousands of Missourians and Kansans opted out out of the Affordable Care Act marketplace altogether after the enhanced subsidies expired (Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The latest data show enrollment fell about 12% in Missouri and 3.5% in Kansas for 2026. But experts say that doesn’t tell the full story</h2>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/megcunningham/">Meg Cunningham</a>As small-business owners, Sonya Andrews and her husband are used to uncertainty.Sonya runs a business offering graphic and web design services, while her husband is a commercial photographer. They also own a studio in Kansas City’s West Bottoms and have one employee who works remotely from Florida.Every month is different for them when it comes to business. But this year, they’re feeling more pressure, thanks to the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits available for Americans enrolled in the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.Andrews and her husband also have a daughter with autism and need higher levels of coverage. Previously, they carried Aetna insurance through the marketplace, but Aetna is no longer an option for them. For 2026, as their daughter gets older and with enhanced subsidies expiring, they made the tough decision to downgrade their&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/11/10/aca-premiums-set-to-soar-out-of-reach-for-many-kansas-citians/" target="_blank">ACA coverage</a>&nbsp;rather than pay a much higher premium.But arriving at that decision wasn’t easy. Sonya spent weeks researching and comparing plans with marketplace navigators and her husband. They’re planning to closely monitor their income to make sure they don’t make too much and lose their subsidies entirely, adding more pressure to the realities of owning a small business.“I spent a lot of time trying to figure out how to make this decision,” Andrews said. “You’re making choices like, ‘Well, we’re in our mid-40s. Our daughter is young and has already had most of the expensive things done. Can we roll the dice for a few years?’”But, unlike Andrews, tens of thousands of Missourians have opted out of the Affordable Care Act marketplace altogether after the enhanced subsidies expired.<h2>Significant drops in enrollment&nbsp;</h2>Enhanced subsidies came into Obamacare in 2021 as part of the American Rescue Plan Act, in an effort to ease the cost of the Affordable Care Act for Americans. The enhanced subsidies were extended again through the end of 2025, but were allowed to expire ahead of open enrollment in 2026.Without the enhanced subsidies, which offered tax credits to Americans enrolled in Obamacare, people were told they could expect an average 114% increase in their premium costs for 2026.For someone with a household income of $55,000 (about 351% of the federal poverty line), premium costs shot up nearly $1,500 annually heading into 2026, KFF estimates.Experts like the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated that hundreds of thousands of Americans would move away from Obamacare in 2026 as a result.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/quick-take/aca-signups-are-down-but-still-an-incomplete-picture/" target="_blank">Nationwide</a>, enrollment so far has dropped by about 1.2 million people.In Missouri, nearly 51,000 people dropped off the Affordable Care Act rolls from January 2025 through the end of the 2026 open enrollment period, the latest data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services show. Nearly 366,000 people enrolled this year, compared to 417,000 enrollees in January 2025.Kansas had a smaller drop. Nearly 193,000 people enrolled, compared to about 200,000 who were enrolled in January of last year, the data show.More people are enrolled in both states than in 2024, data shows.Still, in Missouri, 50,000 people potentially without insurance is a large number when the state’s uninsured population is already around 457,000, said Timothy McBride, a health care economist and professor at Washington University in St. Louis.“That’s over a 10% increase in that number,” McBride said.Plus, McBride said, the numbers don’t reflect those who may have downgraded their plans to lower premiums, like the Andrews family did, or those who may disenroll or let their plans lapse by not paying their now-higher premiums.Data&nbsp;<a href="https://chir.georgetown.edu/clues-in-state-data-suggest-declines-in-early-marketplace-enrollment-data-may-be-just-the-tip-of-the-iceberg/" target="_blank">compiled</a>&nbsp;by Georgetown University’s Center on Health Insurance Reforms found that several state-based marketplaces were reporting that Americans were canceling their plans at higher rates than in the past. In Idaho and Pennsylvania, disenrollments have so far quadrupled compared to last year, with more people citing affordability concerns.In December, Pennsylvania’s state-based marketplace reported that only 77% of enrollees had paid their initial premium for the year, compared to 88% the year before.<h2>The impact of lower-coverage plans</h2>Without data from the federal government on what plans people chose, it’s too early to say what the impact of more bronze than silver plans will be, McBride said.But people are generally choosing to trade lower premiums for higher deductibles, based on what Kevin Wehner, a marketplace navigator at Missouri Connections for Health, saw throughout the open enrollment period.“The silver plan premiums were just out of reach for a lot of people,” Wehner said. “They ended up switching to bronze or gold plans.”Others opted for the higher monthly premiums — up to&nbsp; $1,000 in some cases — or chose to become part of a health-sharing community, where a group of people all pay into a shared pot to split the cost of care.It’s a consideration Craig Heimericks and his husband have had for years, amid rising health care costs. The pair co-own rental properties around Rolla, Missouri, and the variable costs of the business constantly keep them on their toes, especially when it comes to health insurance.“My husband and I had a plan on the exchange last year. It was great coverage, but was getting more and more expensive every year, to the point where we had been discussing ways to drop coverage and self insure,” Heimericks said in an email.“But as a business owner, the risk is just too high that one big medical event would bankrupt everything we’ve worked for the last 20 years. Honestly, sometimes it feels like we’re being held hostage by the health care industry as a whole, and there doesn’t seem to be a way out,” he said.Heimericks ended up downgrading his plan for 2026, with deductibles just under $5,000 per person and their maximum out-of-pocket costs capped at $20,300. Still, Heimericks and his husband are planning on over $1,655 a month in premiums, and they don’t yet have a grasp on what the cost of their prescriptions will be under their new plan.In 2025, they paid about $1,630 a month, but had lower deductibles and caps on out-of-pocket costs.“The big difference was people who would normally qualify for the cost-sharing reduction would enroll in the silver plan in previous years,” Wehner said. “Hardly anyone did that this year.”So far, California’s state-based marketplace is seeing more people enroll in bronze plans, at 37% in 2026 compared to 23% in 2025. Other states like Maine, New Jersey and Rhode Island are reporting a higher share of customers switching to bronze plans for 2026, the Georgetown data shows.What the data doesn’t show, McBride said, was the higher deductible cost that those in Missouri and Kansas will take on.People may have a costly health event and not expect to have to pay higher out-of-pocket costs before meeting their deductible, McBride said, which ultimately can pass the cost onto other health care customers.“One of the things we saw early on, because the premiums were so low for bronze plans … younger people, especially healthy people, would pick that plan and have a $7,000 or $8,000 deductible,” McBride said. “They’d get bad luck … and then they’d show up to the hospital and get a bill for $8,000 and they’d be like, ‘Wait a minute, I thought I had Obamacare.’”Ultimately, many aren’t prepared to take on that higher cost and end up unable to pay their bills, McBride said, and that is then passed onto the consumer.“The hospital or health system can try to get the money from them but usually can only get a fraction of it,” McBride said. “Then the hospital just has to bury that cost, or shift it to the rest of us. It has a short or long-term effect on someone’s health status, and it also ends up rippling to all the rest of us.”This&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2026/02/02/affordable-care-act-enrollment-missouri-kansas-2026-enhanced-subsidies/" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;first appeared on&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/" target="_blank">Beacon: Kansas City</a>&nbsp;and is republished here under a&nbsp;<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License</a>.

As ACA subsidies expire, thousands drop coverage or downgrade plans

Trey Campbell,&nbsp; Failure to appear, arrested 01/30

Romeo Suah, Criminal damage to property; Domestic battery, arrested 01/30

Terressa Burgess, Probation violation, arrested 01/30

Indya Vereen, Failure to appear, arrested 01/30

Anthony Henderson, Probation violation, arrested 01/30

Aaron Grant, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 01/30

Charles Reeves, Failure to appear; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 01/30

Martial Bonnet-Maes, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 01/31

Manuel Garcia-Peralta, Domestic battery, arrested 02/01

Travis Golden, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 02/01

Terry Moye, Failure to appear, arrested 02/02

Ricky Martinez,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/02

Danielle Shelton,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/02

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770161282668.jpeg" alt="Angel Jimenez, Violation of a protective order; Violation of protection order; Stalking - after served a protection order prohibiting contact, arrested 01/31" />
 <figcaption>Angel Jimenez, Violation of a protective order; Violation of protection order; Stalking - after served a protection order prohibiting contact, arrested 01/31</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770161348396.jpeg" alt="Austin Martin, Theft &gt; $1,500 &lt; $25,000 - pocket picking, arrested 01/31" />
 <figcaption>Austin Martin, Theft &gt; $1,500 &lt; $25,000 - pocket picking, arrested 01/31</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770161404184.jpeg" alt="Heidi Mealer, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 01/31" />
 <figcaption>Heidi Mealer, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 01/31</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770161437146.jpeg" alt="Vincent Holman, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Possession of hallucinogenic drug; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Criminal trespass, arrested 02/01" />
 <figcaption>Vincent Holman, Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Possession of hallucinogenic drug; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Criminal trespass, arrested 02/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770161445858.jpeg" alt="Dylan Mcsherley, Failure to appear (Five counts), arrested 02/01" />
 <figcaption>Dylan Mcsherley, Failure to appear (Five counts), arrested 02/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770161575682.jpeg" alt="Dmarco Rabe, Probation violation, arrested 02/02" />
 <figcaption>Dmarco Rabe, Probation violation, arrested 02/02</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770161584211.jpeg" alt="Chelsea Clark, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 02/02" />
 <figcaption>Chelsea Clark, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 02/02</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Trey Campbell,&nbsp; Failure to appear, arrested 01/30Romeo Suah, Criminal damage to property; Domestic battery, arrested 01/30Terressa Burgess, Probation violation, arrested 01/30Indya Vereen, Failure to appear, arrested 01/30Anthony Henderson, Probation violation, arrested 01/30Aaron Grant, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 01/30Charles Reeves, Failure to appear; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 01/30Martial Bonnet-Maes, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 01/31Manuel Garcia-Peralta, Domestic battery, arrested 02/01Travis Golden, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 02/01Terry Moye, Failure to appear, arrested 02/02Ricky Martinez,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/02Danielle Shelton,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/02Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Jan. 31-Feb. 3, 2026

&nbsp;The Junction City High School boys wrestling team won The Junction City Invitational Wrestling Tournament on Saturday at the Blue Jay Event Center. The tournament victory marks the Blue Jays’ third consecutive tournament win this season.

Junction City wrapped up the regular season with a 16-4 record in duals, and is currently ranked No. 9 in Class 6A.

The JCHS boys team had several individual performances during the tournament, with the following wrestlers earning top-four finishes in their respective weight classes:

The Junction City girls wrestling team placed third at their home tournament and crowned two first-place finishers.

Tournament champions for the Blue Jays were Bre Villanueva (115 lbs.) and Elizabeth Edgergton-Diaz (130 lbs.).

Additional placers included Shalina Hicks, who finished third at 190 lbs., and Miracle Simon, who earned a fourth-place finish at 135 lbs. Ammy Ngircheungel also placed fourth at 170 lbs.

*The Junction City High School boys and girls wrestling teams will return to action this Saturday for the Centennial League Wrestling Tournament at Washburn Rural. Wrestling begins at 9:00 a.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770154489711.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony Gorges&nbsp;JC Post&nbsp;The Junction City High School boys wrestling team won The Junction City Invitational Wrestling Tournament on Saturday at the Blue Jay Event Center. The tournament victory marks the Blue Jays’ third consecutive tournament win this season.Junction City wrapped up the regular season with a 16-4 record in duals, and is currently ranked No. 9 in Class 6A.The JCHS boys team had several individual performances during the tournament, with the following wrestlers earning top-four finishes in their respective weight classes:<ul>
 <li>106 lbs: Colden Blockcolsky (27-5), 1st place
</li><li>113 lbs: Riley Luckenbill (27-6), 4th place
</li><li>126 lbs: Jayden Melton (28-5), 2nd place
</li><li>132 lbs: Gavin Sieker (8-13), 4th place
</li><li>138 lbs: Ka’yun Herring (19-8), 1st place
</li><li>157 lbs: Tyler Proietti (20-11), 2nd place
</li><li>165 lbs: Cody Owens (21-10), 3rd place
</li><li>190 lbs: Christian Simmers (29-4), 3rd place
</li><li>215 lbs: Chris Coy (20-5), 2nd place
</li><li>285 lbs: Avery Florence (16-10), 4th place
</li>
 </ul>Girls Wrestling ResultsThe Junction City girls wrestling team placed third at their home tournament and crowned two first-place finishers.Tournament champions for the Blue Jays were Bre Villanueva (115 lbs.) and Elizabeth Edgergton-Diaz (130 lbs.).Additional placers included Shalina Hicks, who finished third at 190 lbs., and Miracle Simon, who earned a fourth-place finish at 135 lbs. Ammy Ngircheungel also placed fourth at 170 lbs.*The Junction City High School boys and girls wrestling teams will return to action this Saturday for the Centennial League Wrestling Tournament at Washburn Rural. Wrestling begins at 9:00 a.m.

Junction City Boys Win Junction City Invitational, Girls Place 3rd

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — Geary County K-State Extension is inviting community members to participate in the Hypertension Awareness &amp; Prevention Program (HAPp), a self-monitoring blood pressure program designed to help individuals better manage and lower their blood pressure.

The HAPp Kick-Off Session will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Geary County 4-H/Senior Center, located at 1025 S. Spring Valley Road in Junction City. During the session, participants will learn how self-monitoring blood pressure can support and improve blood pressure management.

In addition to the kick-off meeting, participants are encouraged to attend a series of Nutrition Education Workshops, which will also be held at the Geary County 4-H/Senior Center. 

For more information or to register, contact Renae Riedy, Geary County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, at 785-238-4161 or <a>renaer@ksu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770145107874.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — Geary County K-State Extension is inviting community members to participate in the Hypertension Awareness &amp; Prevention Program (HAPp), a self-monitoring blood pressure program designed to help individuals better manage and lower their blood pressure.The HAPp Kick-Off Session will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Geary County 4-H/Senior Center, located at 1025 S. Spring Valley Road in Junction City. During the session, participants will learn how self-monitoring blood pressure can support and improve blood pressure management.In addition to the kick-off meeting, participants are encouraged to attend a series of Nutrition Education Workshops, which will also be held at the Geary County 4-H/Senior Center. Workshop dates include:<ul>
 <li>February 25,&nbsp; at 10:30 a.m.
</li><li>March 4, at 10:30 a.m.
</li><li>April 1, at 10:30 a.m.
</li><li>May 6,&nbsp; at 10:30 a.m.
</li>
 </ul>For more information or to register, contact Renae Riedy, Geary County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, at 785-238-4161 or <a>renaer@ksu.edu</a>.

Hypertension Awareness & Prevention Program Scheduled in Junction City

RILEY COUNTY –&nbsp;Sexual assault and the trauma that comes with it makes these cases often the most difficult to report. The Riley County Police Department recognizes this and is now offering “Seek Then Speak” as a safe alternative to help support survivors of sexual violence, according to a media release from the RCPD.

<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/569/Seek-Then-Speak">Click here for more&nbsp;</a>information

This online tool is for survivors to explore their options, connect with valuable resources and begin the process of reporting their sexual assault, straight from their phone. Seek Then Speak has been endorsed by other community victim service partners in Riley County and RCPD is the second law enforcement agency in the state to endorse this online resource.“Seek” is a tool designed to help survivors privately gather information and explore options for medical exams, support services and reporting to police when they are ready. 

“Speak” is a self-guided series of questions with prompts that lead survivors through careful documentation of the evidence that will be critical to an initial police report. Survivors can provide as much or as little information as they feel comfortable with. When they finish, the program will generate a PDF document that can be saved for their own reference or forwarded to law enforcement. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770139946879.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY –&nbsp;Sexual assault and the trauma that comes with it makes these cases often the most difficult to report. The Riley County Police Department recognizes this and is now offering “Seek Then Speak” as a safe alternative to help support survivors of sexual violence, according to a media release from the RCPD.<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/569/Seek-Then-Speak">Click here for more&nbsp;</a>informationThis online tool is for survivors to explore their options, connect with valuable resources and begin the process of reporting their sexual assault, straight from their phone. Seek Then Speak has been endorsed by other community victim service partners in Riley County and RCPD is the second law enforcement agency in the state to endorse this online resource.“Seek” is a tool designed to help survivors privately gather information and explore options for medical exams, support services and reporting to police when they are ready. “Speak” is a self-guided series of questions with prompts that lead survivors through careful documentation of the evidence that will be critical to an initial police report. Survivors can provide as much or as little information as they feel comfortable with. When they finish, the program will generate a PDF document that can be saved for their own reference or forwarded to law enforcement.

RCPD: New online resource to report sexual assault 

--The Geary USD Board of Education has adopted a resolution for a Region I Hazard Mitigation Plan. The County and City had already given their approval. The move allows them to seek funding help in the event of disasters.

--The Executive Director of Personnel Services, Tim Winter, is retiring at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.

--David Cunningham, KASB attorney, will be the facilitator for the Board at the 2026-2027 teacher contract&nbsp; negotiation process.

--The BOE adopted a proposed memorandum of understanding agreement and a staff recommendation to send it to the City of Milford.&nbsp;The City of Milford has proposed to the district that they would provide certain municipal services to support the operations of Milford Elementary School.

--The Geary USD Board of Education has adopted a resolution for a Region I Hazard Mitigation Plan. The County and City had already given their approval. The move allows them to seek funding help in the event of disasters.--The Executive Director of Personnel Services, Tim Winter, is retiring at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.--David Cunningham, KASB attorney, will be the facilitator for the Board at the 2026-2027 teacher contract&nbsp; negotiation process.--The BOE adopted a proposed memorandum of understanding agreement and a staff recommendation to send it to the City of Milford.&nbsp;The City of Milford has proposed to the district that they would provide certain municipal services to support the operations of Milford Elementary School.

Board of Education News Notes

--The Geary County Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau reported Monday that the former Super 8 Motel has been rebranded as a Red Lion Motel.

--Motels that have closed include Econolodge in Grandview Plaza, and in Junction City the Homestead Motel was removed to make way for the new Caseys. The Great Western Inn recently closed and now operates as The Dels facility.

--In other business CVB Director Raquel Cinco reported that they participated in a recent show in Denver. Future trips are planned to shows in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

By Dewey TerrillJC Post--The Geary County Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau reported Monday that the former Super 8 Motel has been rebranded as a Red Lion Motel.--Motels that have closed include Econolodge in Grandview Plaza, and in Junction City the Homestead Motel was removed to make way for the new Caseys. The Great Western Inn recently closed and now operates as The Dels facility.--In other business CVB Director Raquel Cinco reported that they participated in a recent show in Denver. Future trips are planned to shows in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

Motel updates in Geary County

Beginning Wednesday, February 4 through Thursday, February 5, from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, customers in the Madison &amp; Vine and Jackson &amp; Vine areas may experience low to no water pressure as Public Works completes critical water system improvements

Junction City announcementBeginning Wednesday, February 4 through Thursday, February 5, from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, customers in the Madison &amp; Vine and Jackson &amp; Vine areas may experience low to no water pressure as Public Works completes critical water system improvements

 Temporary Water Pressure Impact

Geary County Extension Agent ( Ret. ) Chuck Otte

The January 2026 weather summary can be summed up by saying it was a tale of two extremes. The average for the month was right where it would be expected, but it took extremes to get it there.      

The average daily high for January was 40.4, six tenths of a degree above average. The average overnight low was 19.1, three tenths of a degree below normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 29.7, one tenth of a degree above the long term average. Now for the extremes. The first three weeks of January had an average temperature of 37.6, 8 degrees above normal. The last ten days had an average temperature of 13.2, 16.4 degrees below normal. The highest temperature for the month was 68 degrees on the 7th. The lowest temperature was -10 on the morning of the 27th. This gave us a monthly temperature range of 78 degrees. 

The warmest January on record was in 2006 with a monthly mean temperature of 43.9. For the first three weeks of the year we were on track to have a top five warmest January. Then the polar vortex arrived and reset the month to “average”. The coldest January on record was in 1979 with a monthly mean temperature of 12.1 degrees. Imagine the weather we had the last ten days of the month for the entire month. That is what it was like! 

There were two temperature records set during the month and one tied. The high of 62 on the 6th broke the old record high for that date of 59 set in 2019. The overnight low of 44 on the 8th broke the previous record high low temperature of 41 set in 2018. The low of -10 on the 27th tied the record low for that date first set in 1963. The record high of 62 on the 6th is significant as it was previously one of two daily record highs that was below 60 degrees. We are now left with the record high of 59 on December 12th (1948) as the only daily record high below 60 degrees for the entire year.      

There were two significant precipitation events for the month. In the first ten days of January we had a very nice rainfall event, and a little snow. Towards the end of the month we had a significant snowfall event that brought 6 to 8 inches to the area. The combination of these two brought a total of 1.52 inches of liquid precipitation. This is double our average January precipitation which is 0.73 inches. January is our driest month of the year so these two events were very welcome! Snowfall for January, measured near Milford, &nbsp;totaled 8.5 inches. Normal for January is 4.7 inches. Snowfall, season to date, we have received 9.7 inches. Normal through January is 9.4 inches.     

 February normally will bring us warming temperatures, about the same amount of snow as we receive in January but overall slightly more liquid precipitation. Average temperatures in February start the month around 40 degrees and by the end of our shortest month of the year we have risen to about 50 degrees. Overnight lows start the month around 19 degrees and have risen to about 26 degrees by the end of the month. Average snowfall is 4.7 inches and average liquid precipitation is 1.10 inches which makes February tied with January for our snowiest month, but also our second driest month.&nbsp;

By Chuck OtteGeary County Extension Agent ( Ret. ) Chuck OtteThe January 2026 weather summary can be summed up by saying it was a tale of two extremes. The average for the month was right where it would be expected, but it took extremes to get it there.      The average daily high for January was 40.4, six tenths of a degree above average. The average overnight low was 19.1, three tenths of a degree below normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 29.7, one tenth of a degree above the long term average. Now for the extremes. The first three weeks of January had an average temperature of 37.6, 8 degrees above normal. The last ten days had an average temperature of 13.2, 16.4 degrees below normal. The highest temperature for the month was 68 degrees on the 7th. The lowest temperature was -10 on the morning of the 27th. This gave us a monthly temperature range of 78 degrees. The warmest January on record was in 2006 with a monthly mean temperature of 43.9. For the first three weeks of the year we were on track to have a top five warmest January. Then the polar vortex arrived and reset the month to “average”. The coldest January on record was in 1979 with a monthly mean temperature of 12.1 degrees. Imagine the weather we had the last ten days of the month for the entire month. That is what it was like! There were two temperature records set during the month and one tied. The high of 62 on the 6th broke the old record high for that date of 59 set in 2019. The overnight low of 44 on the 8th broke the previous record high low temperature of 41 set in 2018. The low of -10 on the 27th tied the record low for that date first set in 1963. The record high of 62 on the 6th is significant as it was previously one of two daily record highs that was below 60 degrees. We are now left with the record high of 59 on December 12th (1948) as the only daily record high below 60 degrees for the entire year.      There were two significant precipitation events for the month. In the first ten days of January we had a very nice rainfall event, and a little snow. Towards the end of the month we had a significant snowfall event that brought 6 to 8 inches to the area. The combination of these two brought a total of 1.52 inches of liquid precipitation. This is double our average January precipitation which is 0.73 inches. January is our driest month of the year so these two events were very welcome! Snowfall for January, measured near Milford, &nbsp;totaled 8.5 inches. Normal for January is 4.7 inches. Snowfall, season to date, we have received 9.7 inches. Normal through January is 9.4 inches.      February normally will bring us warming temperatures, about the same amount of snow as we receive in January but overall slightly more liquid precipitation. Average temperatures in February start the month around 40 degrees and by the end of our shortest month of the year we have risen to about 50 degrees. Overnight lows start the month around 19 degrees and have risen to about 26 degrees by the end of the month. Average snowfall is 4.7 inches and average liquid precipitation is 1.10 inches which makes February tied with January for our snowiest month, but also our second driest month.&nbsp;

January 2026 Junction City Area Weather Summary

Fort Riley announced via social media Tuesday that due to a lapse in federal appropriations, many civilian employees at Fort Riley were furloughed. As a result: Emails and phone calls to affected civilian would not be answered.

 Many social media channels would be unmonitored

 Some services may be limited or temporarily unavailable.

Normal operations will resume once federal funding is restored.

Fort Riley will continue to deliver life, health and safety services. Irwin Army Community Hospital remains open 24/7 to provide emergency and inpatient care.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693496966407.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Riley announced via social media Tuesday that due to a lapse in federal appropriations, many civilian employees at Fort Riley were furloughed. As a result: Emails and phone calls to affected civilian would not be answered. Many social media channels would be unmonitored Some services may be limited or temporarily unavailable.Normal operations will resume once federal funding is restored.Fort Riley will continue to deliver life, health and safety services. Irwin Army Community Hospital remains open 24/7 to provide emergency and inpatient care.

Many civilian employees at Fort Riley were furloughed

USD 475 Board of Education member Mark Hatcher has been voicing support for the return of livestreaming of BOE meetings. Monday night Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston confirmed that it is something the District is moving toward. The goal is to try to have it in place by the Board's March meeting.

Livestream was used in the past but had been discontinued in recent months.

USD 475 Board of Education member Mark Hatcher has been voicing support for the return of livestreaming of BOE meetings. Monday night Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston confirmed that it is something the District is moving toward. The goal is to try to have it in place by the Board's March meeting.Livestream was used in the past but had been discontinued in recent months.

Board of Education meeting livestream may be returning

Geary County Commissioners received a briefing Monday from the Rural Fire Department.

--There have been eight rural fire calls.

--One recent fire burned 150 bales at an estimated loss of $34,000. It was caused by a welder working on a fence in the wind.

--Seven new recruits received training, four of them for Geary and three for Grandview Plaza.

--The annual severe weather spotter training will be held at 7 p.m. March 16 at the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center.

--Snow removal numbers from January 23 - 25 ranged from 2,253 miles driven by graders and dump trucks on day one to 109 hours worked on day two to 450 gallons of fuel, also on day two.

Geary County Commissioners received a briefing Monday from the Rural Fire Department.--There have been eight rural fire calls.--One recent fire burned 150 bales at an estimated loss of $34,000. It was caused by a welder working on a fence in the wind.--Seven new recruits received training, four of them for Geary and three for Grandview Plaza.--The annual severe weather spotter training will be held at 7 p.m. March 16 at the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center.--Snow removal numbers from January 23 - 25 ranged from 2,253 miles driven by graders and dump trucks on day one to 109 hours worked on day two to 450 gallons of fuel, also on day two.

County gets an update on numerous topics

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two horses were shot and killed, from the road, by an unknown assailant in the vicinity of Bradford and Mission Valley Road northeast of Eskridge in rural Wabaunsee County over the weekend, according to Wabaunsee&nbsp; County Sheriff's&nbsp;Eric Kirsch.

These horses were used for therapy for veterans and first responders suffering from&nbsp;Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

The sheriff's department is devoting the full might of their investigative resources towards the relentless pursuit and capture of those responsible "for this reprehensible atrocity against these beautiful, innocent and defenseless animals"

The animals were taken to K-State for forensic examination and the sheriff's office is treating this like a homicide. The sheriff's office pledge $500 leading to a lawful arrest and conviction of the perpetrators.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1770066102754.png" alt="Photo Wabaunsee County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wabaunsee County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two horses were shot and killed, from the road, by an unknown assailant in the vicinity of Bradford and Mission Valley Road northeast of Eskridge in rural Wabaunsee County over the weekend, according to Wabaunsee&nbsp; County Sheriff's&nbsp;Eric Kirsch.These horses were used for therapy for veterans and first responders suffering from&nbsp;Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.The sheriff's department is devoting the full might of their investigative resources towards the relentless pursuit and capture of those responsible "for this reprehensible atrocity against these beautiful, innocent and defenseless animals"The animals were taken to K-State for forensic examination and the sheriff's office is treating this like a homicide. The sheriff's office pledge $500 leading to a lawful arrest and conviction of the perpetrators.

Reward offered after horses shot and killed in Wabaunsee County

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – February 2, 2026 – Non-profit agencies have a shot at receiving up to $10,000 through&nbsp;Evergy’s&nbsp;Connecting for Good Hometown Grants Program.

EvergyKANSAS CITY, Mo. – February 2, 2026 – Non-profit agencies have a shot at receiving up to $10,000 through&nbsp;Evergy’s&nbsp;Connecting for Good Hometown Grants Program.This year’s Connecting for Good Hometown&nbsp;Grants will support a&nbsp;project or program for organizations that focus on basic needs. Examples include, but aren’t limited to, food insecurity, housing, hygiene, and bill payment. The one-time $10,000 grant is geared toward expanding capacity or special projects outside of normal operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Qualifying organizations can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC7p02zN8gNoRZT5AtMG7euVgL1Urg2O-2BLUXNRuX72jpCqF0gKSL5LrOj0wEXI-2FHvhNq43mNI5QEFkxjAnw41nBs-3DJYpy_6n4-2BiDMUzpddSZX1Wt-2FWUJw49AQHSmsMB-2FCEltLGfW-2FgxXViF68B5RuuPoTByQpAbUylFj0p0kZpAbY3WvQgwDzUXB7D3Y-2BBPYx-2FG6ERHgNP24ff5rVEHYtaMUEcAv0-2FXRhAv4Ptf9wml8VDIl-2FRDffW83p0dtJiGaiOqMwabI3OtDtJB-2Fc4Iiw-2BnRaXBha7zgKC77hTILJl2PiOtvEIdONIfYO8-2FHQW9mK0dh5p9VshwOGG-2FRyUV4Qq2Nns1giZnTq-2BWyJsR8UHp9NOP2tuX70Uf7tm6GayPMd0q6vZYBbFK2BSUtQYBI3upRU0KA8m7WQLEij-2FIliVaIvdBvFjNvNA11IuF1uf-2B4BHmIVHiHE-3D">apply now through March 4</a>. Evergy’s Community Relations team will select the top ten projects to be put up for public voting through the Evergy&nbsp;Facebook page. The three agencies with the most votes will receive up to $10,000 each. The organizations must serve residents in Evergy’s service area.“The Connecting for Good Hometown Grants program is another way we can help communities build stability, strengthen families, and create a foundation for long‑term well‑being,” said Elizabeth Danforth, Evergy’s director of corporate social impact. “We want to help organizations that are out there every day helping our customers with basic needs.”Online voting will take place March 16 – 25. Evergy will announce the three Hometown Grant recipients on March 31.Details:<ul>
 <li>Non-profit 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) organizations can apply by visiting our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC35TwTH0E8lucg51qq3ahf0gEedEBp06Nse0Xf9ytJqo6iWkK7Oz6ke-2BUuwKNGkogA-3D-3Ds-X4_6n4-2BiDMUzpddSZX1Wt-2FWUJw49AQHSmsMB-2FCEltLGfW-2FgxXViF68B5RuuPoTByQpAbUylFj0p0kZpAbY3WvQgwDzUXB7D3Y-2BBPYx-2FG6ERHgNP24ff5rVEHYtaMUEcAv0-2FXRhAv4Ptf9wml8VDIl-2FRDffW83p0dtJiGaiOqMwabI3OtDtJB-2Fc4Iiw-2BnRaXBha7zgKC77hTILJl2PiOtvEIdLRfJveJPFdyYnmMFIGWlH9Xzoj4aiKfJYSLv7mzyYfDiy3Rmm0MKlA-2Bgon4wSCvSS081Nf478KC5dn019QttWmP9Z-2FhJ-2FIjnwDwmbdnm7JyjoFnnieZ4z265yq5fJeoHPsSJp9jXwWxhrnl7KZnE6w-3D">Connecting for Good Hometown Grants website</a>.</li><li>Completed applications must be received by 5 p.m. Central time on March 4, 2026.</li><li>Evergy will select ten finalists after thoroughly reviewing project proposals. They will be based on criteria set forth in the application guidelines.</li><li>The top ten projects will be posted for public voting on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC2uXWRbeRx8LovizvJxmFGa4T-2B3QJNfJbxS9lRbJN3EsNFJ8b97aljzAH-2BiKNeJk-2Fw-3D-3DVby-_6n4-2BiDMUzpddSZX1Wt-2FWUJw49AQHSmsMB-2FCEltLGfW-2FgxXViF68B5RuuPoTByQpAbUylFj0p0kZpAbY3WvQgwDzUXB7D3Y-2BBPYx-2FG6ERHgNP24ff5rVEHYtaMUEcAv0-2FXRhAv4Ptf9wml8VDIl-2FRDffW83p0dtJiGaiOqMwabI3OtDtJB-2Fc4Iiw-2BnRaXBha7zgKC77hTILJl2PiOtvEIdBFMry-2FIGTaUM81-2FBR3xgb9xqlAcbdvtpJslqoJNI37PoPev2tmr70IBTdLo4EAuEaX7eja1daU-2BjPjJ7MEkKa3grvF9Ik167XmKO13ql-2FqCTH-2FsrlnNzoOkwYNxlYcKQ6Fdx-2FvPvMwCbIGd3jED6eg-3D">Evergy’s Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;The top three vote recipients will be named the 2026 winners and receive up to $10,000 each.</li>
 </ul>