Junction City won the opening tip, but it was Manhattan that scored the first basket and then controlled the game. Manhattan jumped out to a 16-0 lead and then led 20-4 at the end of the first quarter. 

MHS controlled the second quarter, but JC managed to score a little more than in the first. The Lady Indians led 39-12 at the half. 

In the second half, Manhattan took off and extended their lead to over 30 points, which led to a running clock in the fourth quarter. Manhattan beat the Lady Jays 68-27. The Lady Indians swept JC on the season. 

Manhattan was led in scoring by Kat Ball, with 15 points. Junction City was led by freshman Isabel Pruitt, who scored 21. 

Manhattan improves to 12-6 on the season and will host Emporia on Tuesday night. 

Junction City falls to 1-17 and will play at Topeka Hayden on Tuesday. 

The first meeting in mid-January was down to the wire, and Friday night's game between the two rivals was the same. Junction City once again edged out a victory and beat Manhattan 53-47. 

The Blue Jays got out to a fast start on both ends of the floor. JC led 15-4 at the end of the first quarter. 

JC extended their lead to 15 in the second quarter, but Manhattan went on a 7-0 run to end the first half, and cut the Blue Jay lead to six, at 28-22. 

The Indians continued their strong shooting into the third quarter and extended their run, to take their first lead of the game. Manhattan led by four, 39-35 at the end of the third quarter. It was a 35-20 run for the Indians, from the end of the first quarter through the end of the third. 

In the fourth quarter, Manhattan grew their lead to seven, at 44-37. Junction City head coach Nick Perez called timeout, and his team regrouped. The Blue Jays then went on a 14-0 run down the stretch and led 51-44 with less than a minute to go. Junction City held on and won the game 53-47. 

Junction City swept Manhattan on the season, their first season sweep over the Indians since the 2008-2009 basketball season. 

JC was led in scoring by Jackson Austin with 13 points, while Manhattan was led in scoring by Noah McFadden with 16. 

The Blue Jays go to 12-6 on the year and will play at Topeka Hayden Tuesday. 

Manhattan falls to 6-12 and will host Emporia on Tuesday night.

By Anthony GorgesGirls recapJunction City won the opening tip, but it was Manhattan that scored the first basket and then controlled the game. Manhattan jumped out to a 16-0 lead and then led 20-4 at the end of the first quarter. MHS controlled the second quarter, but JC managed to score a little more than in the first. The Lady Indians led 39-12 at the half. In the second half, Manhattan took off and extended their lead to over 30 points, which led to a running clock in the fourth quarter. Manhattan beat the Lady Jays 68-27. The Lady Indians swept JC on the season. Manhattan was led in scoring by Kat Ball, with 15 points. Junction City was led by freshman Isabel Pruitt, who scored 21. Manhattan improves to 12-6 on the season and will host Emporia on Tuesday night. Junction City falls to 1-17 and will play at Topeka Hayden on Tuesday. Boys recapThe first meeting in mid-January was down to the wire, and Friday night's game between the two rivals was the same. Junction City once again edged out a victory and beat Manhattan 53-47. The Blue Jays got out to a fast start on both ends of the floor. JC led 15-4 at the end of the first quarter. JC extended their lead to 15 in the second quarter, but Manhattan went on a 7-0 run to end the first half, and cut the Blue Jay lead to six, at 28-22. The Indians continued their strong shooting into the third quarter and extended their run, to take their first lead of the game. Manhattan led by four, 39-35 at the end of the third quarter. It was a 35-20 run for the Indians, from the end of the first quarter through the end of the third. In the fourth quarter, Manhattan grew their lead to seven, at 44-37. Junction City head coach Nick Perez called timeout, and his team regrouped. The Blue Jays then went on a 14-0 run down the stretch and led 51-44 with less than a minute to go. Junction City held on and won the game 53-47. Junction City swept Manhattan on the season, their first season sweep over the Indians since the 2008-2009 basketball season. JC was led in scoring by Jackson Austin with 13 points, while Manhattan was led in scoring by Noah McFadden with 16. The Blue Jays go to 12-6 on the year and will play at Topeka Hayden Tuesday. Manhattan falls to 6-12 and will host Emporia on Tuesday night.

Manhattan girls win big, JC boys rally late to win on senior night

The City of Manhattan says starting&nbsp;Monday, February 24, the next phase of Juliette Avenue construction will begin, with a closure extending south from Poyntz Avenue to the alley between Houston Street and Pierre Street.&nbsp;

Pierre Street will remain open to through traffic during this phase, which may last through the spring semester into&nbsp;May 2025. Detours during this phase will be:

Access to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=1d604c10d3&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Manhattan Public Library</a>&nbsp;will remain from the north on Poyntz Avenue and from the south parking lot on Houston Street from the east only.

During the second phase of construction starting in May, the closure on Juliette will move south, from the alley between Houston Street and Pierre Street south to the Pierre Street intersection.

This second phase in front of Manhattan Catholic Schools will be completed during summer break, from approximately&nbsp;May 16&nbsp;to&nbsp;August 8, 2025.

The estimate is about&nbsp;12 weeks&nbsp;to complete the first phase, depending on weather.

The City of Manhattan says starting&nbsp;Monday, February 24, the next phase of Juliette Avenue construction will begin, with a closure extending south from Poyntz Avenue to the alley between Houston Street and Pierre Street.&nbsp;Pierre Street will remain open to through traffic during this phase, which may last through the spring semester into&nbsp;May 2025. Detours during this phase will be:<ul>
 <li>For westbound traffic on Houston or Pierre Streets, divert north on 6th Street to Poyntz Avenue.</li><li>For northbound traffic on Juliette Avenue, divert east to 6th Street and follow this same detour to Poyntz.</li><li>For eastbound traffic on Poyntz or Houston, divert south to Pierre and either turn south on Juliette or continue on to 6th Street detour.</li><li>For southbound traffic on Juliette, divert east on Poyntz to 6th Street detour.</li>
 </ul>Access to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=1d604c10d3&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Manhattan Public Library</a>&nbsp;will remain from the north on Poyntz Avenue and from the south parking lot on Houston Street from the east only.During the second phase of construction starting in May, the closure on Juliette will move south, from the alley between Houston Street and Pierre Street south to the Pierre Street intersection.This second phase in front of Manhattan Catholic Schools will be completed during summer break, from approximately&nbsp;May 16&nbsp;to&nbsp;August 8, 2025.The estimate is about&nbsp;12 weeks&nbsp;to complete the first phase, depending on weather.

Juliette closing from Poyntz to Houston/Pierre alley

MANHATTAN, KS – kstate CREDIT UNION has presented a check for $6020 to Katie’s Way. These funds were raised during kstate CREDIT UNION’s annual employee jeans donation charity program which allows Credit Union employees to wear jeans at work throughout the year, in exchange for a $5 charitable donation per day. They can choose to donate in a lump sum or have the money payroll deducted. Employees select a local organization to receive the proceeds from this year-long program.

LaRae Kraemer, President/CEO for kstate CREDIT UNION said, “I am always amazed at the employee participation in the program each year! Our team loves to wear jeans. This charitable program has raised a lot of money over the years, mostly because our employees truly enjoy donating to a cause and helping in our community.”

Katie’s Way is a mental health care clinic dedicated to providing personalized care for individuals including psychotherapy and psychiatry. They emphasize a team-based approach in a non-institutional environment, aiming to make personal connections.

Jack Hess, Facility Director for Katie's Way said, "We are so honored to be selected as this year’s recipient of the donations from the employee jeans program. We want to thank the KState Credit Union and their team for supporting our community and behavioral health services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740174562104.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, KS – kstate CREDIT UNION has presented a check for $6020 to Katie’s Way. These funds were raised during kstate CREDIT UNION’s annual employee jeans donation charity program which allows Credit Union employees to wear jeans at work throughout the year, in exchange for a $5 charitable donation per day. They can choose to donate in a lump sum or have the money payroll deducted. Employees select a local organization to receive the proceeds from this year-long program.LaRae Kraemer, President/CEO for kstate CREDIT UNION said, “I am always amazed at the employee participation in the program each year! Our team loves to wear jeans. This charitable program has raised a lot of money over the years, mostly because our employees truly enjoy donating to a cause and helping in our community.”Katie’s Way is a mental health care clinic dedicated to providing personalized care for individuals including psychotherapy and psychiatry. They emphasize a team-based approach in a non-institutional environment, aiming to make personal connections.Jack Hess, Facility Director for Katie's Way said, "We are so honored to be selected as this year’s recipient of the donations from the employee jeans program. We want to thank the KState Credit Union and their team for supporting our community and behavioral health services.

kstate CREDIT UNION donates $6,020 to Katie’s Way

Riley County Police (RCPD ) have reported the arrest of Keavoyan Brown, 19, of Manhattan, in connection with a lewd and lascivious conduct report filed earlier this month.

The investigation began on February 3 at approximately 1:19 AM, when officers responded to a report of alleged lewd and lascivious conduct in the 2800 block of Kelly Drive. Following an extensive investigation, officers obtained a search warrant for a residence in the 2200 block of Browning Avenue.

Today, officers executed a search warrant and arrested Brown without incident. He was charged with two counts of criminal trespass, two counts of stalking, and one count of lewd and lascivious conduct, with his bond set at $13,000. Additionally, Brown was arrested on two separate Riley County District Court warrants. The first was for failure to appear, carrying a $6,000 bond. The second was for two counts of criminal threat, stalking, and harassment, with a bond set at $26,000.

Riley County Police (RCPD ) have reported the arrest of Keavoyan Brown, 19, of Manhattan, in connection with a lewd and lascivious conduct report filed earlier this month.The investigation began on February 3 at approximately 1:19 AM, when officers responded to a report of alleged lewd and lascivious conduct in the 2800 block of Kelly Drive. Following an extensive investigation, officers obtained a search warrant for a residence in the 2200 block of Browning Avenue.Today, officers executed a search warrant and arrested Brown without incident. He was charged with two counts of criminal trespass, two counts of stalking, and one count of lewd and lascivious conduct, with his bond set at $13,000. Additionally, Brown was arrested on two separate Riley County District Court warrants. The first was for failure to appear, carrying a $6,000 bond. The second was for two counts of criminal threat, stalking, and harassment, with a bond set at $26,000.The investigation remains ongoing.

Manhattan man jailed for alleged lewd and lascivious conduct  

MANHATTAN — Celebrate Irish music in style with premier folk group Shamrock Tenors as part of Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>&nbsp;at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 6.

Featuring performers from across the province of Ulster, vocalists from London's West End, the country's best multi-instrumentalists and a champion Irish dancer, the Shamrock Tenors show takes you on a journey through Ireland's most beloved classic songs in beautiful five-part harmony. With all your favorites, including "Danny Boy," "Whiskey in the Jar," "The Parting Glass" and "Wild Rover," this is a show for all ages.

The group recently filmed their debut concert TV special, and their first two singles have shot straight to No. 1 on the iTunes World Music Charts. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740167257542.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — Celebrate Irish music in style with premier folk group Shamrock Tenors as part of Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>&nbsp;at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 6.Featuring performers from across the province of Ulster, vocalists from London's West End, the country's best multi-instrumentalists and a champion Irish dancer, the Shamrock Tenors show takes you on a journey through Ireland's most beloved classic songs in beautiful five-part harmony. With all your favorites, including "Danny Boy," "Whiskey in the Jar," "The Parting Glass" and "Wild Rover," this is a show for all ages.The group recently filmed their debut concert TV special, and their first two singles have shot straight to No. 1 on the iTunes World Music Charts. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shamrock Tenors cross the pond to perform at McCain Auditorium

KDOT has announced that a pavement rehabilitation project on Juliette Avenue in Manhattan is scheduled to begin on Monday, Feb. 24. The project will remove the existing pavement from Poyntz Avenue to Pierre Street and replace with brick surface; and also includes improvements to storm drainage, sidewalks and sideroad tie-ins in the area.

In Phase 1, Juliette Avenue will be fully closed from Poyntz Avenue to Pierre Street while the area between Poyntz Avenue and the Houston/Pierre streets alley is completed. Houston Street will also be closed at the intersection of Juliette Avenue.

A marked detour will direct traffic around the closure area via Poyntz Avenue, 6th&nbsp;Street and Pierre Street. Traffic coming from the west will utilize 8th&nbsp;Street rather than Juliette Avenue. This phase is expected to be complete by mid-May.

In Phase 2, Juliette Avenue will be fully closed from the alley to just south of Pierre Street, while the area is completed.&nbsp;Pierre Street will also be closed at the Juliette Avenue intersection. &nbsp;

<a>The marked detour will direct traffic to Houston Street, 6th&nbsp;Street and Colorado Street. Traffic coming from the west will continue to utilize 8th&nbsp;Street. This phase is expected to be complete, and the area reopened to traffic, by early August.</a>

Bayer Construction Co., of Manhattan, is the prime contractor on the $1.2 million project, which is expected to be fully complete in early September

KDOT has announced that a pavement rehabilitation project on Juliette Avenue in Manhattan is scheduled to begin on Monday, Feb. 24. The project will remove the existing pavement from Poyntz Avenue to Pierre Street and replace with brick surface; and also includes improvements to storm drainage, sidewalks and sideroad tie-ins in the area.In Phase 1, Juliette Avenue will be fully closed from Poyntz Avenue to Pierre Street while the area between Poyntz Avenue and the Houston/Pierre streets alley is completed. Houston Street will also be closed at the intersection of Juliette Avenue.A marked detour will direct traffic around the closure area via Poyntz Avenue, 6th&nbsp;Street and Pierre Street. Traffic coming from the west will utilize 8th&nbsp;Street rather than Juliette Avenue. This phase is expected to be complete by mid-May.In Phase 2, Juliette Avenue will be fully closed from the alley to just south of Pierre Street, while the area is completed.&nbsp;Pierre Street will also be closed at the Juliette Avenue intersection. &nbsp;<a>The marked detour will direct traffic to Houston Street, 6th&nbsp;Street and Colorado Street. Traffic coming from the west will continue to utilize 8th&nbsp;Street. This phase is expected to be complete, and the area reopened to traffic, by early August.</a>Bayer Construction Co., of Manhattan, is the prime contractor on the $1.2 million project, which is expected to be fully complete in early September

 Pavement project scheduled on Juliette Avenue in Manhattan

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740150254233.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report February 21

House budget boosts aid by $10 million, not promised $73 million surge

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Rep. Steven Howe’s disappointment that state appropriations to school districts for special education hadn’t kept pace with legal thresholds for the past 14 years reflected a personal connection with students grappling with developmental, emotional, hearing or vision disabilities in the classroom.

“I want to represent students of my district and their families — students like Murray, who is confined to a wheelchair,” Howe said. “I think about people I know and people I’m neighbors with and people their kids go to school with my kids and the teachers that do come alongside them to support them.”

Howe, a Salina Republican, said it was frustrating lawmakers in the House voted to abandon a commitment made by the Kansas Legislature and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2024 to get behind an appropriation this year of $73 million for reimbursement of special education services delivered by school districts.

The amount was part of a four-year plan to gradually come into compliance with a law mandating the state pay 92% of extra costs of special education. Currently, the state reimburses districts for 75.4% of excess costs.

A House subcommittee had proposed a $30 million increase this year, but Rep. Kristey Williams, R-Augusta, proposed the funding be deleted from the budget. The House Appropriations Committee settled on a $10 million enhancement. That’s the amount included in the budget bill passed Wednesday by the House.

During debate on House spending priorities, Howe said he contemplated offering an amendment to amplify state aid to special education. He said there were House colleagues who would be upset by his decision, but he was convinced the amendment had no chance of passing.

“My motivation is the ability to come alongside our school kids and their families and to support them and equip them,” Howe said. “I didn’t come here to play political games or to get likes on Facebook. I’m not insinuating that anybody here is motivated by that, but I just don’t participate in that. I don’t understand all the politics that go on here at the Capitol.”

If the special education provision in the House budget were to be subsequently approved by the Kansas Senate and signed into law by the governor, Kansas school districts would be expected to continue diverting resources from general instructional areas to meet demand for special education services.

In Olathe, the annual shortfall stood at $36 million. The comparable annual deficit in the Blue Valley school district was $13.7 million. The hit in the Shawnee Mission district was $23 million annually. In Salina schools represented by Howe, the difference amounted to $5.4 million annually.

The bill forwarded to the Senate added $10 million to the estimated $601 million annually devoted by the state to special education in K-12 schools. It’s not clear whether that amount would keep pace with inflationary pressure on public schools or allow the state to slip further behind in the quest for 92% compliance.

Rep. Jared Ousley, D-Merriam, did propose an amendment to the budget that would have increased special education funding to local school districts by a total of $30 million.

He also proposed the additional $20 million for special education be drawn from a special fund fed by sports gambling revenue and designated to support recruitment of a professional sports franchise to Kansas.

A bill signed into law last year created a mechanism for the state to finance 70% of the cost of building new stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals, which have been located in Missouri for decades.

The idea of using sports stadium seed money to get closer to the state’s obligation to special education students was opposed by Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Stilwell Republican involved in developing the stadium legislation. He urged the House to reject Ousley’s amendment, and it was crushed 40-76.

“The fact that you’re going to take the money out of this sports fund in the middle of negotiating with a couple of great opportunities for the state of Kansas …. one of the teams is close to announcing a deal. What if that deal is in the state of Kansas? We’re sending them a message that says, ‘Hey, you know, never mind. We’re going to be just like Jackson County and we’re going to pull the rug out from underneath you and look like a bunch of idiots.'”

In April 2024, voters in Jackson County, Missouri, voted against a sales tax extension that would have supported renovations at Arrowhead Stadium for the Chiefs and built a new ballpark for the Royals in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.

Rep. Alexis Simmons, D-Topeka, said she understood what it meant to attend a Kansas public school with inadequate resources. She recalled attending school in classrooms that didn’t have enough desks for students. She recommended Kansas legalize cannabis sales and devote that tax revenue to K-12 education.

In this region, recreational marijuana sales have been made legal in Missouri and Colorado while Nebraska and Oklahoma legalized medicinal cannabis sales.

“We’re telling these kinds in special education that their needs are going to come last,” Simmons said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740146010870.png" alt="Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina, chose not to offer a budget amendment in the House to increase state aid to special education because he decided it had no chance to pass. The point was proven when Rep. Jarrod Ousley, D-Merriam, proposed an amendment to raise state aid for special education by $30 million, and it was defeated 40-76. The budget sent to the House contains a $10 million increase for special education. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Steven Howe, R-Salina, chose not to offer a budget amendment in the House to increase state aid to special education because he decided it had no chance to pass. The point was proven when Rep. Jarrod Ousley, D-Merriam, proposed an amendment to raise state aid for special education by $30 million, and it was defeated 40-76. The budget sent to the House contains a $10 million increase for special education. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>House budget boosts aid by $10 million, not promised $73 million surge</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Rep. Steven Howe’s disappointment that state appropriations to school districts for special education hadn’t kept pace with legal thresholds for the past 14 years reflected a personal connection with students grappling with developmental, emotional, hearing or vision disabilities in the classroom.“I want to represent students of my district and their families — students like Murray, who is confined to a wheelchair,” Howe said. “I think about people I know and people I’m neighbors with and people their kids go to school with my kids and the teachers that do come alongside them to support them.”Howe, a Salina Republican, said it was frustrating lawmakers in the House voted to abandon a commitment made by the Kansas Legislature and Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2024 to get behind an appropriation this year of $73 million for reimbursement of special education services delivered by school districts.The amount was part of a four-year plan to gradually come into compliance with a law mandating the state pay 92% of extra costs of special education. Currently, the state reimburses districts for 75.4% of excess costs.A House subcommittee had proposed a $30 million increase this year, but Rep. Kristey Williams, R-Augusta, proposed the funding be deleted from the budget. The House Appropriations Committee settled on a $10 million enhancement. That’s the amount included in the budget bill passed Wednesday by the House.During debate on House spending priorities, Howe said he contemplated offering an amendment to amplify state aid to special education. He said there were House colleagues who would be upset by his decision, but he was convinced the amendment had no chance of passing.“My motivation is the ability to come alongside our school kids and their families and to support them and equip them,” Howe said. “I didn’t come here to play political games or to get likes on Facebook. I’m not insinuating that anybody here is motivated by that, but I just don’t participate in that. I don’t understand all the politics that go on here at the Capitol.”<h2>Amendment intercepted</h2>If the special education provision in the House budget were to be subsequently approved by the Kansas Senate and signed into law by the governor, Kansas school districts would be expected to continue diverting resources from general instructional areas to meet demand for special education services.In Olathe, the annual shortfall stood at $36 million. The comparable annual deficit in the Blue Valley school district was $13.7 million. The hit in the Shawnee Mission district was $23 million annually. In Salina schools represented by Howe, the difference amounted to $5.4 million annually.The bill forwarded to the Senate added $10 million to the estimated $601 million annually devoted by the state to special education in K-12 schools. It’s not clear whether that amount would keep pace with inflationary pressure on public schools or allow the state to slip further behind in the quest for 92% compliance.Rep. Jared Ousley, D-Merriam, did propose an amendment to the budget that would have increased special education funding to local school districts by a total of $30 million.He also proposed the additional $20 million for special education be drawn from a special fund fed by sports gambling revenue and designated to support recruitment of a professional sports franchise to Kansas.A bill signed into law last year created a mechanism for the state to finance 70% of the cost of building new stadiums for the Kansas City Chiefs or Kansas City Royals, which have been located in Missouri for decades.<h2>‘Bunch of idiots’</h2>The idea of using sports stadium seed money to get closer to the state’s obligation to special education students was opposed by Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Stilwell Republican involved in developing the stadium legislation. He urged the House to reject Ousley’s amendment, and it was crushed 40-76.“The fact that you’re going to take the money out of this sports fund in the middle of negotiating with a couple of great opportunities for the state of Kansas …. one of the teams is close to announcing a deal. What if that deal is in the state of Kansas? We’re sending them a message that says, ‘Hey, you know, never mind. We’re going to be just like Jackson County and we’re going to pull the rug out from underneath you and look like a bunch of idiots.'”In April 2024, voters in Jackson County, Missouri, voted against a sales tax extension that would have supported renovations at Arrowhead Stadium for the Chiefs and built a new ballpark for the Royals in downtown Kansas City, Missouri.Rep. Alexis Simmons, D-Topeka, said she understood what it meant to attend a Kansas public school with inadequate resources. She recalled attending school in classrooms that didn’t have enough desks for students. She recommended Kansas legalize cannabis sales and devote that tax revenue to K-12 education.In this region, recreational marijuana sales have been made legal in Missouri and Colorado while Nebraska and Oklahoma legalized medicinal cannabis sales.“We’re telling these kinds in special education that their needs are going to come last,” Simmons said.

Kansas House punts funding increase commitment to special education in K-12 schools

Riley County Police Director Brian Peete told the Riley County Commission on Thursday that there's a lot of anxiety surfacing about Fake Patty's Day.

The Department is launching an online campaign, explained Peete.&nbsp;"What comes to us is the focus on safety and the position that at large we're hearing more people in the community that are dissatisfied with the behavior associated with it than there are people saying this is a good thing for the community."

Peete added, "We're breaking up with Fake Patty's Day."

The RCPD Director noted that they don't want to put out menacing messages threatening arrests and zero tolerance. "That's not how we operate, but we are saying that there are consequences to bad behavior and that we will be enforcing those consequences to that bad behavior."

Peete said there will be local media campaigns and a one minute video. He noted the topic will also be addressed during two virtual Town Hall meetings on Feb.24.

Fake Patty's Day is held in March before spring break. RCPD has noted that for some it is an opportunity to enjoy the company of friends but in the past the event has also been associated at times with sexual assault, overcrowding, public intoxication, traffic congestion, illegal parking and acts of violence.

Riley County Police Director Brian Peete told the Riley County Commission on Thursday that there's a lot of anxiety surfacing about Fake Patty's Day.The Department is launching an online campaign, explained Peete.&nbsp;"What comes to us is the focus on safety and the position that at large we're hearing more people in the community that are dissatisfied with the behavior associated with it than there are people saying this is a good thing for the community."Peete added, "We're breaking up with Fake Patty's Day."The RCPD Director noted that they don't want to put out menacing messages threatening arrests and zero tolerance. "That's not how we operate, but we are saying that there are consequences to bad behavior and that we will be enforcing those consequences to that bad behavior."Peete said there will be local media campaigns and a one minute video. He noted the topic will also be addressed during two virtual Town Hall meetings on Feb.24.Fake Patty's Day is held in March before spring break. RCPD has noted that for some it is an opportunity to enjoy the company of friends but in the past the event has also been associated at times with sexual assault, overcrowding, public intoxication, traffic congestion, illegal parking and acts of violence.

Fake Patty's Day comes into the spotlight

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a high speed chase in Wabaunsee Countuy.

While on an overnight patrol, a Wabaunsee Sheriff's Sergeant attempted to perform a lawful traffic stop on a brown Pontiac, according to a social media report from the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's office.

Upon activating emergency lights and audible sirens the driver, later identified as 36-year-old Justin Case Goodspeed of Eskkridge, attempted to flee from the Sheriff's Sergeant.

The Sergeant initiated a pursuit and gave chase of the suspect vehicle which attempted to evade law enforcement at high speeds on snow and ice. 

The Sergeant, out of an abundance of caution, deactivated emergency lights and sirens and reduced his own speed yet persisted forward towards the suspects last known direction of travel. 

Shortly thereafter Sergeant again activated emergency lights after discovering the suspect vehicle crashed the 15550 block of Wakarusa Road in Eskridge.

The Sergeant performed a felony car stop and arrested Goodspeed, the lone occupant, without incident and transported him to Wabounsee County Jail where he is being held on requested charges of Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving;&nbsp; Felong Driving while a habitual violator; Operate vehicle without registration or w/ expired tag; Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required; Basic rule governing speed of vehicle; too fast for conditions; Maximum speed limits; Failure to wear seatbelt; Transporting open container; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant (meth); Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body and Traffic contraband in correction facility. There were no injuries or property damages from the incident.

Goodspeed has previous convictions for theft, burglary, domestic battery and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740077810278.png" alt="Goodspeed -photo Wabaunsee County" />
 <figcaption>Goodspeed -photo Wabaunsee County</figcaption>
 </figure>WABAUNSEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a high speed chase in Wabaunsee Countuy.While on an overnight patrol, a Wabaunsee Sheriff's Sergeant attempted to perform a lawful traffic stop on a brown Pontiac, according to a social media report from the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's office.Upon activating emergency lights and audible sirens the driver, later identified as 36-year-old Justin Case Goodspeed of Eskkridge, attempted to flee from the Sheriff's Sergeant.The Sergeant initiated a pursuit and gave chase of the suspect vehicle which attempted to evade law enforcement at high speeds on snow and ice. The Sergeant, out of an abundance of caution, deactivated emergency lights and sirens and reduced his own speed yet persisted forward towards the suspects last known direction of travel. Shortly thereafter Sergeant again activated emergency lights after discovering the suspect vehicle crashed the 15550 block of Wakarusa Road in Eskridge.The Sergeant performed a felony car stop and arrested Goodspeed, the lone occupant, without incident and transported him to Wabounsee County Jail where he is being held on requested charges of Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving;&nbsp; Felong Driving while a habitual violator; Operate vehicle without registration or w/ expired tag; Vehicle liability insurance; Liability coverage required; Basic rule governing speed of vehicle; too fast for conditions; Maximum speed limits; Failure to wear seatbelt; Transporting open container; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant (meth); Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body and Traffic contraband in correction facility. There were no injuries or property damages from the incident.Goodspeed has previous convictions for theft, burglary, domestic battery and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. felon jailed after high-speed chase, crash on icy highway

The Junction City Comission and the Geary County Sheriff's Department have approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), re-establishing the joint interdiction team.This specialized unit is dedicated to interdicting criminal activity, with a focus on narcotics and firearms trafficking. 

According to the JCPD as part of this initiative, K9 Detective Blake has been deputized at the Geary County Sheriff's Office, allowing him to operate throughout the county alongside Geary County Sheriff's Deputies. We are excited to work together with the Geary County Sheriff’s Office to strengthen our efforts in combating crime and keeping our community safe.&nbsp;

The Junction City Comission and the Geary County Sheriff's Department have approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), re-establishing the joint interdiction team.This specialized unit is dedicated to interdicting criminal activity, with a focus on narcotics and firearms trafficking. According to the JCPD as part of this initiative, K9 Detective Blake has been deputized at the Geary County Sheriff's Office, allowing him to operate throughout the county alongside Geary County Sheriff's Deputies. We are excited to work together with the Geary County Sheriff’s Office to strengthen our efforts in combating crime and keeping our community safe.&nbsp;

Joint interdiction team reestablished

Fort Riley, Kan. (February 19, 2025)&nbsp;– Corvias, a leading energy and infrastructure solutions provider, in collaboration with Sunstone Energy Development and City, Light &amp; Power, completed Phase III of an ongoing energy independence and security effort at U.S. Army Garrison Fort Riley, recently marking a month of successful operations as part of its broader mission to support the U.S. Department of Defense’s operational resilience and readiness goals.

The project supports the DOD’s goal to provide 100% of the energy load required to sustain the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by the end of fiscal year 2030.&nbsp;

This latest phase consisted of two solar PV arrays, both of which finished interconnection in December and provide rate stabilization and energy security to Fort Riley housing communities. The program offsets nearly 40% of annual electricity consumed by the housing community and also contributed to the $2 billion of community economic impact recently announced by Fort Riley’s Garrison Commander, Col. Jerry Nunziato.

“This work continues to ensure a reliable and secure supply of energy to on-post housing and the surrounding area,” said Jim Champagne, Corvias Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Fort Riley. “Along with our partners, Corvias continues to implement strategies to mitigate vulnerabilities and potential disruptions that may affect the readiness of service members and their families.”

Over the past 10 years, Sunstone Energy Development, a joint venture between Corvias Solar Solutions and Onyx Renewables, has provided renewable energy solutions across the Corvias Army housing portfolio.

“For Onyx, delivering quality, resilient clean energy solutions is at the core of our mission,” said Kevin Cox, SVP of Origination at Onyx Renewables. “These onsite solar installations at Fort Riley not only enhance energy security and reliability for service members and their families but also underscore the long-term benefits of renewable energy in strengthening critical infrastructure.”

Corvias’ industry-first Solutions Through Partnerships approach is built on a shared commitment to assisting the Department of Defense in sustaining the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by supporting readiness.

The newly completed solar arrays add to two previously completed rooftop phases for the of the Corvias-led solar program at Fort Riley – already one of the largest in the state of Kansas.

For more information on Corvias improvements on Fort Riley, visit our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.corvias.com/news?keywords=Fort%20Riley&amp;division=14">website</a>.

Fort Riley, Kan. (February 19, 2025)&nbsp;– Corvias, a leading energy and infrastructure solutions provider, in collaboration with Sunstone Energy Development and City, Light &amp; Power, completed Phase III of an ongoing energy independence and security effort at U.S. Army Garrison Fort Riley, recently marking a month of successful operations as part of its broader mission to support the U.S. Department of Defense’s operational resilience and readiness goals.The project supports the DOD’s goal to provide 100% of the energy load required to sustain the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by the end of fiscal year 2030.&nbsp;This latest phase consisted of two solar PV arrays, both of which finished interconnection in December and provide rate stabilization and energy security to Fort Riley housing communities. The program offsets nearly 40% of annual electricity consumed by the housing community and also contributed to the $2 billion of community economic impact recently announced by Fort Riley’s Garrison Commander, Col. Jerry Nunziato.“This work continues to ensure a reliable and secure supply of energy to on-post housing and the surrounding area,” said Jim Champagne, Corvias Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Fort Riley. “Along with our partners, Corvias continues to implement strategies to mitigate vulnerabilities and potential disruptions that may affect the readiness of service members and their families.”Over the past 10 years, Sunstone Energy Development, a joint venture between Corvias Solar Solutions and Onyx Renewables, has provided renewable energy solutions across the Corvias Army housing portfolio.“For Onyx, delivering quality, resilient clean energy solutions is at the core of our mission,” said Kevin Cox, SVP of Origination at Onyx Renewables. “These onsite solar installations at Fort Riley not only enhance energy security and reliability for service members and their families but also underscore the long-term benefits of renewable energy in strengthening critical infrastructure.”Corvias’ industry-first Solutions Through Partnerships approach is built on a shared commitment to assisting the Department of Defense in sustaining the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by supporting readiness.The newly completed solar arrays add to two previously completed rooftop phases for the of the Corvias-led solar program at Fort Riley – already one of the largest in the state of Kansas.For more information on Corvias improvements on Fort Riley, visit our&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.corvias.com/news?keywords=Fort%20Riley&amp;division=14">website</a>.

Corvias Partnership Accelerates Army’s Fort Riley Energy Resiliency

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740064275431.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report February 19, 20

A public hearing will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, to consider changes to the administrative regulations relating to meat and poultry inspection. The hearing will be held in person at the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 1320 Research Park Dr. in Manhattan, as well as via video conferencing system.

KDA is proposing amendments to two regulations and the revocation of one existing regulation for the administration of the Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Act, K.S.A. 65-6a18,&nbsp;et seq. These proposed changes will incorporate the currently adopted federal code sections into a single, complete document that will allow the state meat and poultry inspection program’s regulatory scheme to remain at least equal to that of the federal inspection program.

A copy of the proposed regulation changes, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment">agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment</a>. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register to be provided with a video link; the registration is available in the notice of public hearing. Written comments can be submitted prior to the hearing on KDA’s public comment web page, or sent by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov">Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or by mail to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Attn: Ronda Hutton, 1320 Research Park Dr., Manhattan, KS, 66502.

Kansas Department of AgricultureA public hearing will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, to consider changes to the administrative regulations relating to meat and poultry inspection. The hearing will be held in person at the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 1320 Research Park Dr. in Manhattan, as well as via video conferencing system.KDA is proposing amendments to two regulations and the revocation of one existing regulation for the administration of the Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Act, K.S.A. 65-6a18,&nbsp;et seq. These proposed changes will incorporate the currently adopted federal code sections into a single, complete document that will allow the state meat and poultry inspection program’s regulatory scheme to remain at least equal to that of the federal inspection program.A copy of the proposed regulation changes, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment">agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment</a>. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register to be provided with a video link; the registration is available in the notice of public hearing. Written comments can be submitted prior to the hearing on KDA’s public comment web page, or sent by email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov">Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or by mail to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Attn: Ronda Hutton, 1320 Research Park Dr., Manhattan, KS, 66502.

Hearing for proposed changes to meat and poultry inspection regulations

<a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By Pat Melgares</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – An idea spawned at Kansas State University to support rural grocery stores in transition to new ownership has grown into a network of resource providers in 11 states.

Clara Misenhelter, a program manager with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ruralgrocery.org/">K-State’s Rural Grocery Initiative</a>, credits an online course for helping to address a growing concern in rural communities.

“In 2021, the Rural Grocery Initiative surveyed rural Kansas grocers and found that nearly 1 in 4 planned to retire within five years,” Misenhelter said. “Of those, the vast majority – 73% – did not have a plan for how store ownership would transition after their retirement.”

Beginning last year, the Rural Grocery Initiative hosted an online course to train those already working in rural communities with a baseline knowledge around what it takes to successfully transition a rural grocery store.

In 2024, 19 students in 11 states – Kansas included – completed the course, according to Misenhelter.

“Supporting grocery store owners through times of transition is critical to ensuring that rural communities retain access to their local grocery stores,” Misenhelter said.

Between 2008 and 2018, 1 in 5 Kansas grocery stores closed, a trend that Misenhelter said is also seen across the United States.

“Rural grocery stores are critical infrastructure in rural communities,” Misenhelter said. “Locally owned grocery stores contribute to their community’s health, economy and society. Keeping these stores open is critical.”

The online course is designed for extension professionals, community economic developers and others who provide resources and support to rural grocery stores across the country. Misenhelter said classes address such topics as building relationships with grocery store owners and managers; transition planning; business valuation; and other tools to support rural grocery stores.

“The assignments in the course are intentionally designed to have real-world applications,” she said.

More information, including how to sign up for a future course,&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralgrocery.org/specialist">is available online</a>&nbsp;from the Rural Grocery Initiative.

<a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By Pat Melgares</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – An idea spawned at Kansas State University to support rural grocery stores in transition to new ownership has grown into a network of resource providers in 11 states.Clara Misenhelter, a program manager with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ruralgrocery.org/">K-State’s Rural Grocery Initiative</a>, credits an online course for helping to address a growing concern in rural communities.“In 2021, the Rural Grocery Initiative surveyed rural Kansas grocers and found that nearly 1 in 4 planned to retire within five years,” Misenhelter said. “Of those, the vast majority – 73% – did not have a plan for how store ownership would transition after their retirement.”Beginning last year, the Rural Grocery Initiative hosted an online course to train those already working in rural communities with a baseline knowledge around what it takes to successfully transition a rural grocery store.In 2024, 19 students in 11 states – Kansas included – completed the course, according to Misenhelter.“Supporting grocery store owners through times of transition is critical to ensuring that rural communities retain access to their local grocery stores,” Misenhelter said.Between 2008 and 2018, 1 in 5 Kansas grocery stores closed, a trend that Misenhelter said is also seen across the United States.“Rural grocery stores are critical infrastructure in rural communities,” Misenhelter said. “Locally owned grocery stores contribute to their community’s health, economy and society. Keeping these stores open is critical.”The online course is designed for extension professionals, community economic developers and others who provide resources and support to rural grocery stores across the country. Misenhelter said classes address such topics as building relationships with grocery store owners and managers; transition planning; business valuation; and other tools to support rural grocery stores.“The assignments in the course are intentionally designed to have real-world applications,” she said.More information, including how to sign up for a future course,&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralgrocery.org/specialist">is available online</a>&nbsp;from the Rural Grocery Initiative.

K-State online course aids efforts to keep rural grocery stores open

Fort Riley and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/1stInfantryDivision?__cft__[0]=AZXcsULwgYe_a4GGwjTfnW7M8Khzu3nK9BC5okDHOT6vbxwiKw7yBDQ54R2fi-8epwVKKRow_8icr9EDFA2cEK88eRnFOzZHfgbChFpUh-kfOj8tl-mauBcjtlR4TII0pbE8FsvsYvLA58DA6b83cQbY-U5d76QRdpkeI3U0ZDZpTRKpbS68EO17GTMTZa1fAYDtRVX-X8V3T3Bkh_4dN8ni&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">1st Infantry Division</a> will resume normal operations Thursday, February 20, 2025. Installation agencies, services, facilities and gates will operate on regular weekday schedules&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Riley and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/1stInfantryDivision?__cft__[0]=AZXcsULwgYe_a4GGwjTfnW7M8Khzu3nK9BC5okDHOT6vbxwiKw7yBDQ54R2fi-8epwVKKRow_8icr9EDFA2cEK88eRnFOzZHfgbChFpUh-kfOj8tl-mauBcjtlR4TII0pbE8FsvsYvLA58DA6b83cQbY-U5d76QRdpkeI3U0ZDZpTRKpbS68EO17GTMTZa1fAYDtRVX-X8V3T3Bkh_4dN8ni&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">1st Infantry Division</a> will resume normal operations Thursday, February 20, 2025. Installation agencies, services, facilities and gates will operate on regular weekday schedules&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fort Riley returns to normal operations Thursday

As of 3:30 p.m. Wednesday the City of Manhattan said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/publicworks?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZW-JtcTOzSQX48Jl9YvU5B5GJzQNWEO67LSDW6LGVpH1LA4LH2QWuF9AX-F_NKXrR7oahupPcQePuwTIZsw3NvQI-5kZsWwvw3R5YNnT1XqccCq-_8cqHbo6yB87mG4dofvFvpUNG88dMY-0LaFFcDsYi6xPqvj1fRVLgbBbxH-6LRt-FNR_IzizhDaVFqK4hY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#PublicWorks</a> day shift crews had completed about 50% of the residential streets.They will continue this operation starting at 7 a.m. Thursday. Crews also will respond to any slick areas that are reported due to refreezing Wednesday

night.A crew is on Wednesday night for any reports of trouble areas. Snow pickup and removal is still scheduled for the overnight hours, starting in the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/downtownmhk?__cft__[0]=AZW-JtcTOzSQX48Jl9YvU5B5GJzQNWEO67LSDW6LGVpH1LA4LH2QWuF9AX-F_NKXrR7oahupPcQePuwTIZsw3NvQI-5kZsWwvw3R5YNnT1XqccCq-_8cqHbo6yB87mG4dofvFvpUNG88dMY-0LaFFcDsYi6xPqvj1fRVLgbBbxH-6LRt-FNR_IzizhDaVFqK4hY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Downtown Manhattan, </a>area and finishing up in Aggieville.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As of 3:30 p.m. Wednesday the City of Manhattan said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/publicworks?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZW-JtcTOzSQX48Jl9YvU5B5GJzQNWEO67LSDW6LGVpH1LA4LH2QWuF9AX-F_NKXrR7oahupPcQePuwTIZsw3NvQI-5kZsWwvw3R5YNnT1XqccCq-_8cqHbo6yB87mG4dofvFvpUNG88dMY-0LaFFcDsYi6xPqvj1fRVLgbBbxH-6LRt-FNR_IzizhDaVFqK4hY&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#PublicWorks</a> day shift crews had completed about 50% of the residential streets.They will continue this operation starting at 7 a.m. Thursday. Crews also will respond to any slick areas that are reported due to refreezing Wednesday night.A crew is on Wednesday night for any reports of trouble areas. Snow pickup and removal is still scheduled for the overnight hours, starting in the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/downtownmhk?__cft__[0]=AZW-JtcTOzSQX48Jl9YvU5B5GJzQNWEO67LSDW6LGVpH1LA4LH2QWuF9AX-F_NKXrR7oahupPcQePuwTIZsw3NvQI-5kZsWwvw3R5YNnT1XqccCq-_8cqHbo6yB87mG4dofvFvpUNG88dMY-0LaFFcDsYi6xPqvj1fRVLgbBbxH-6LRt-FNR_IzizhDaVFqK4hY&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Downtown Manhattan, </a>area and finishing up in Aggieville.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Public Works crews continue their snow removal work

Dangerous cold continues through midday Thursday. Wind chills will get as low as -15 to -28 degrees! Friday will only be slightly warmer. Limit time spent outdoors, cover all skin, and wear several layers if going outside! #kswx

The good news is, highs are expected to reach 60 degrees on Monday.

Dangerous cold continues through midday Thursday. Wind chills will get as low as -15 to -28 degrees! Friday will only be slightly warmer. Limit time spent outdoors, cover all skin, and wear several layers if going outside! #kswxThe good news is, highs are expected to reach 60 degrees on Monday.

RCPD advice on coping with the bitter cold

--JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–Due to the extreme cold temperatures in the area and for the safety of our students and staff, Geary County Schools USD 475 will remain closed on Thursday, Feb. 20. All athletic and after-school activities have been canceled.

Stay safe and warm. We can’t wait to see our students and staff back in our schools on Friday, Feb. 21. USD 475 will continue to monitor the weather and will notify parents of any school closings or changes.

--USD 475 Board of Education meeting scheduled at 6 p.m. Thursday has been canceled.

--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden Schools will be on a 2-hour delay for Thursday, February 20. Bus routes will begin 2 hours later than normal route time.

Middle and high schools: School day begins at 9:40 a.m. (instead of 7:40 a.m.). School dismissal time is the same - 2:50 p.m.

Elementary schools: School day begins at 10:45 a.m. (instead of 8:45 a.m.). School dismissal time is the same - 3:45 p.m.

Early Learning: Morning session will be canceled. Afternoon session will continue as normal. If students are there for full day sessions, the start time will be 10:40 a.m. School dismissal time is the same - 3:40 p.m.

--&nbsp;Due to extremely cold temperatures, St. Francis Xavier School in Junction City will be delayed 2 hours tomorrow, February 20th. Doors will open at 9:50, and school will begin at 10:20.

-- USD 473 Chapman will have a two-hour delay. All busses will run two hours late, and school will begin at 10:00 a.m.&nbsp;

--Abilene Schools will begin two-hours later than normal tomorrow, Thursday, February 20, 2025.

--USD 323 Rock Creek will open two hours late on Thursday

--USD 320 Wamego delayed two hours. No AM preschool

--Geary County Senior Center closed Thursday

--USD 378 Riley County will start two hours late

--USD 379 Clay County opening two hours late

--JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–Due to the extreme cold temperatures in the area and for the safety of our students and staff, Geary County Schools USD 475 will remain closed on Thursday, Feb. 20. All athletic and after-school activities have been canceled.Stay safe and warm. We can’t wait to see our students and staff back in our schools on Friday, Feb. 21. USD 475 will continue to monitor the weather and will notify parents of any school closings or changes.--USD 475 Board of Education meeting scheduled at 6 p.m. Thursday has been canceled.--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden Schools will be on a 2-hour delay for Thursday, February 20. Bus routes will begin 2 hours later than normal route time.Middle and high schools: School day begins at 9:40 a.m. (instead of 7:40 a.m.). School dismissal time is the same - 2:50 p.m.Elementary schools: School day begins at 10:45 a.m. (instead of 8:45 a.m.). School dismissal time is the same - 3:45 p.m.Early Learning: Morning session will be canceled. Afternoon session will continue as normal. If students are there for full day sessions, the start time will be 10:40 a.m. School dismissal time is the same - 3:40 p.m.--&nbsp;Due to extremely cold temperatures, St. Francis Xavier School in Junction City will be delayed 2 hours tomorrow, February 20th. Doors will open at 9:50, and school will begin at 10:20.-- USD 473 Chapman will have a two-hour delay. All busses will run two hours late, and school will begin at 10:00 a.m.&nbsp;--Abilene Schools will begin two-hours later than normal tomorrow, Thursday, February 20, 2025.--USD 323 Rock Creek will open two hours late on Thursday--USD 320 Wamego delayed two hours. No AM preschool--Geary County Senior Center closed Thursday--USD 378 Riley County will start two hours late--USD 379 Clay County opening two hours late--USD 487 Herington delayed two hours--USD 417 Morris County closed Thursday

Postponements and Cancellations, Thursday, Feb. 20 

DICKINSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Wednesday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Freightliner 206 driven by&nbsp; Marlon A.&nbsp;Castro Montes De Oca, 25, Portland, Oregon, was&nbsp;eastbound on Kansas 18 three and one half miles east of the K18/K15 East Junction.

The truck veered off the right shoulder and came to rest in a river embankment.&nbsp; EMS transported the driver to Salina Regional Medical Center. The KHP did not have seat belt usage details

DICKINSON COUNTY —While the snow has moved on, icy spots remain, and we’re still responding to crashes caused by slick conditions.

On Wednesday morning on&nbsp; Kansas Highway 18 near Paint Road in Dickinson County, KHP troopers and Dickinson County deputies responded to a single-vehicle injury crash, according to Trooper Ben Gardner.

A box truck left the highway, traveled into the south ditch, and ended up along a river embankment. The driver was transported to a Salina hospital with injuries, and troopers are following up to gather more details.

Even when the road looks clear, hidden icy patches can cause your vehicle to shift unexpectedly—before you know it, you’re just along for the ride.

Slow down. Stay alert. Adjust your driving well in advance for icy spots, drifting snow, debris, or slowed traffic. 

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739990527316.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 9a.m. Wednesday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Freightliner 206 driven by&nbsp; Marlon A.&nbsp;Castro Montes De Oca, 25, Portland, Oregon, was&nbsp;eastbound on Kansas 18 three and one half miles east of the K18/K15 East Junction.The truck veered off the right shoulder and came to rest in a river embankment.&nbsp; EMS transported the driver to Salina Regional Medical Center. The KHP did not have seat belt usage details--------------DICKINSON COUNTY —While the snow has moved on, icy spots remain, and we’re still responding to crashes caused by slick conditions.On Wednesday morning on&nbsp; Kansas Highway 18 near Paint Road in Dickinson County, KHP troopers and Dickinson County deputies responded to a single-vehicle injury crash, according to Trooper Ben Gardner.A box truck left the highway, traveled into the south ditch, and ended up along a river embankment. The driver was transported to a Salina hospital with injuries, and troopers are following up to gather more details.Even when the road looks clear, hidden icy patches can cause your vehicle to shift unexpectedly—before you know it, you’re just along for the ride.Slow down. Stay alert. Adjust your driving well in advance for icy spots, drifting snow, debris, or slowed traffic. Check the Post for additional details as they become available.&nbsp;

Driver injured after truck slides on the ice into river embankment

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Tuesday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Nissan Frontier driven by Lakota Allen&nbsp;Poe, 23, Bronaugh, Montana, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Kansas 57.

The driver lost control of the pickup as it traveled over a patch of ice. The vehicle struck the center guardrail.

EMS transported a passenger Sirinity&nbsp;Pritchard, 18, Junction City, to Stormont Vail in Junction City. Poe was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 5:30p.m. Tuesday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2019 Nissan Frontier driven by Lakota Allen&nbsp;Poe, 23, Bronaugh, Montana, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Kansas 57.The driver lost control of the pickup as it traveled over a patch of ice. The vehicle struck the center guardrail.EMS transported a passenger Sirinity&nbsp;Pritchard, 18, Junction City, to Stormont Vail in Junction City. Poe was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Junction City teen hospitalized after I-70 crash

With the recent bad weather, Riley County police say they've noticed a lot of vehicles driving without their lights on. Remember, headlights are required in the following situations:

--When conditions make people or vehicles hard to see at 1,000 feet ahead (think fog, smoke, snow, or heavy rain).

--When your windshield wipers are in continuous use due to rain, sleet, or snow.

Motorcycles (made after January 1, 1978) must have headlights and taillights on at all times while operating on any highway.

 Why does this matter?Using your lights isn’t just about seeing—it’s about being seen! Proper lighting keeps everyone safer on the road, especially in poor weather conditions.



With the recent bad weather, Riley County police say they've noticed a lot of vehicles driving without their lights on. Remember, headlights are required in the following situations:--From sunset to sunrise.--When conditions make people or vehicles hard to see at 1,000 feet ahead (think fog, smoke, snow, or heavy rain).--When your windshield wipers are in continuous use due to rain, sleet, or snow.Motorcycles (made after January 1, 1978) must have headlights and taillights on at all times while operating on any highway. Why does this matter?Using your lights isn’t just about seeing—it’s about being seen! Proper lighting keeps everyone safer on the road, especially in poor weather conditions.

Riley County police post a safety reminder

--Geary County Schools USD 475 will be closed on Wednesday. • 

--St. Francis Xavier School will be delayed 2 hours Wednesday, February 19th. Doors will open at 9:50, and school will begin at 10:20.

--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden is closed on Wednesday.

--Manhattan Catholic Schools is closed on Wednesday.

Fort Riley to delay start of work day February 19

Fort Riley offices and 1st Infantry Division units will operate with a 9:30 a.m. start time Wednesday. All gates will be open normal operating hours.&nbsp;

Irwin Army Community Hospital and the medical clinics will operate on normal hours. All dental clinics will open at 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;

Child Development Centers and the School Age Center will open at 8:30 a.m. All fitness centers will operate on normal hours.&nbsp;

Soldiers and civilian employees can contact their chain of command and supervisors for more details and work reporting requirements.&nbsp;

All Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) facilities and the Fort Riley Commissary will open at 10 a.m.&nbsp;

--&nbsp;Due to the continued dangerously cold wind chill, Abilene Schools, USD #435 will not have school tomorrow, Wednesday, February 19th.&nbsp;

---JC Breakfast Optimist Club meeting on Wednesday has been canceled due to weather

--USD 473 Chapman will be closed Wednesday.

--Manhattan Area Technical College delayed one hour Wednesday.

--USD 323 Rock Creek closed and all activities are postponed.

--USD 379 Clay County opening two hours late with no morning preschool.

--USD 384 Blue Valley opening two hours late with no morning preschool.

--Junction City Elks Lodge closed Wednesday

--Geary County Schools USD 475 will be closed on Wednesday. • --USD 320 Wamego closed Wednesday--USD 487 Heringtton closed.--St. Francis Xavier School will be delayed 2 hours Wednesday, February 19th. Doors will open at 9:50, and school will begin at 10:20.--USD 383 Manhattan - Ogden is closed on Wednesday.--Manhattan Catholic Schools is closed on Wednesday.Fort Riley to delay start of work day February 19Fort Riley offices and 1st Infantry Division units will operate with a 9:30 a.m. start time Wednesday. All gates will be open normal operating hours.&nbsp;Irwin Army Community Hospital and the medical clinics will operate on normal hours. All dental clinics will open at 9:30 a.m.&nbsp;Child Development Centers and the School Age Center will open at 8:30 a.m. All fitness centers will operate on normal hours.&nbsp;Soldiers and civilian employees can contact their chain of command and supervisors for more details and work reporting requirements.&nbsp;All Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) facilities and the Fort Riley Commissary will open at 10 a.m.&nbsp;--&nbsp;Due to the continued dangerously cold wind chill, Abilene Schools, USD #435 will not have school tomorrow, Wednesday, February 19th.&nbsp;---JC Breakfast Optimist Club meeting on Wednesday has been canceled due to weather--USD 473 Chapman will be closed Wednesday.--Manhattan Area Technical College delayed one hour Wednesday.--USD 323 Rock Creek closed and all activities are postponed.--USD 417 Morris County closed Wednesday--USD 481 Rural Vista closed Wednesday--USD 378 Riley County closed--USD 379 Clay County opening two hours late with no morning preschool.--USD 384 Blue Valley opening two hours late with no morning preschool.--Junction City Elks Lodge closed Wednesday