Dr. Randy Watson, Kansas Commissioner of Education, surprised Mrs. Whitney George's 4th grade class at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School. He was a guest reader in celebration of Read Across America Week. 

Dr. Watson was joined by USD 383 Superintendent, Eric Reid, and Dr. Beryl Ann New from the Kansas State Board of Education.&nbsp;

Dr. Randy Watson, Kansas Commissioner of Education, surprised Mrs. Whitney George's 4th grade class at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School. He was a guest reader in celebration of Read Across America Week. Dr. Watson was joined by USD 383 Superintendent, Eric Reid, and Dr. Beryl Ann New from the Kansas State Board of Education.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741357819728.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Read Across America Week

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Thursday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Parol reported a 2019 Jeep Compass driven by Paul J, Pacholski, 32, Junction City, was westbound on Farnum Creek Road from U.S. 77.&nbsp; The Jeep struck a pole, a delineator post, traveled off the roadway and came to rest in Milford Lake.

EMS transported Pacholski to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP

The Geary County Sheriff's Office/Junction City Fire Department joint dive team was able to recover the submerged vehicle and the Farnum Creek Boat Ramp is once again open.

The Geary County Sheriff's Office said there is a vehicle submerged at the Milford Lake Farnum Creek Boat Ramp that is not visible. 

The ramp is closed for use. Please avoid the area from the water as well.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741291836399.jpeg" alt="(Photo courtesy of Geary County Sheriff's Office Facebook page)" />
 <figcaption>(Photo courtesy of Geary County Sheriff's Office Facebook page)</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Thursday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Parol reported a 2019 Jeep Compass driven by Paul J, Pacholski, 32, Junction City, was westbound on Farnum Creek Road from U.S. 77.&nbsp; The Jeep struck a pole, a delineator post, traveled off the roadway and came to rest in Milford Lake.EMS transported Pacholski to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP----------------UPDATE:The Geary County Sheriff's Office/Junction City Fire Department joint dive team was able to recover the submerged vehicle and the Farnum Creek Boat Ramp is once again open.--The Geary County Sheriff's Office said there is a vehicle submerged at the Milford Lake Farnum Creek Boat Ramp that is not visible. The ramp is closed for use. Please avoid the area from the water as well.

Junction City man hospitalized after Jeep lands in Milford Lake 

USD 383 says March is Music in Our Schools Month.

&nbsp; Manhattan High School&nbsp; has its musical production, Mary Poppins, on March 7-9 and a band concert on March 11.

USD 383 says March is Music in Our Schools Month.&nbsp; Manhattan High School&nbsp; has its musical production, Mary Poppins, on March 7-9 and a band concert on March 11.

Performances scheduled at Manhattan High School

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;&nbsp;This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution honoring the victims of the Jan. 29,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;collision of American Eagle Flight 5342 and Black Hawk PAT (Priority Air Transport) 25. The Kansas delegation introduced the resolution with more than 90&nbsp;cosponsors.&nbsp;U.S. Representative Tracey Mann&nbsp;(KS-01),&nbsp;as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, hosted other members on the House Floor to express condolences. The House passed the resolution unanimously by voice vote.&nbsp;Rep. Ron Estes (KS-04)&nbsp;introduced&nbsp;the bill.

“Today, I join the Kansas delegation in honoring the lives lost in the tragic accident on January 29, 2025,” said&nbsp;Rep. Mann. “We will always&nbsp;remember&nbsp;our fellow Kansans and fellow Americans whose lives were tragically lost—farmers, parents, professors, college students with bright futures, taken from us far too soon. As the investigation into the accident continues to unfold, we must learn from our findings to prevent this from ever happening again. Audrey and I continue to express our deepest condolences and prayers to those impacted by the accident and mourn the lives tragically lost.”

“While it’s been just a little more than one month since this tragic incident, there are still no words to adequately express the heartbreak we all feel at your loss, and no words that can properly console you. I pray that, in time, God would give you and all those impacted a peace that would surpass all understanding,” said&nbsp;Rep. Estes. “It is in each home, school, workplace and community where each of the 67 victims was known and loved that they will continue to be remembered, celebrated and honored. As we’ve learned more about the individual passengers aboard the plane, as well as the pilots and flight crew of Flight 5342 and the crew of the Black Hawk, we’ve come to know how much they meant to the people around them – and how much they will be missed.”

“Today, I stand alongside my colleagues from Kansas to honor the lives lost, including those from our own state, in the tragic collision between Flight 5342 and PAT 25,” said&nbsp;Rep. Davids. “My heart is with the families and communities grieving this profound loss. We must continue working to improve aviation safety to ensure no other family faces such unimaginable heartache. The memory of those we lost will continue to guide our commitment to a safer future.”

“Today, our Kansas delegation stands united as we remember the victims of Flight 5342,” said&nbsp;Rep. Schmidt.&nbsp;“Our prayers remain with the family and friends of all affected by this horrible tragedy, and our gratitude remains with all the first responders who worked diligently around the clock on rescue and recovery efforts. My colleagues and I will continue working with federal agencies to determine how this collision occurred and what steps can be taken to prevent future tragedies.”

“My prayers go out to all the victims of the January 29th tragedy in our nation’s capital, and to all their loved ones, including the people of Kansas, who are suffering from their loss,” said&nbsp;Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06). “I also appreciate the heroic actions of the first responders and the many others who were involved in the response and recovery efforts following the accident.&nbsp;I commend Congressman Estes and his colleagues for leading this resolution to honor those that we lost on that day, express our condolences to those who are grieving, and praise the efforts of all those who responded to this tragedy.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741291088630.jpeg" alt="Photo Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>Photo Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>Representative Tracey MannWASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;&nbsp;This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution honoring the victims of the Jan. 29,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;collision of American Eagle Flight 5342 and Black Hawk PAT (Priority Air Transport) 25. The Kansas delegation introduced the resolution with more than 90&nbsp;cosponsors.&nbsp;U.S. Representative Tracey Mann&nbsp;(KS-01),&nbsp;as a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, hosted other members on the House Floor to express condolences. The House passed the resolution unanimously by voice vote.&nbsp;Rep. Ron Estes (KS-04)&nbsp;introduced&nbsp;the bill.“Today, I join the Kansas delegation in honoring the lives lost in the tragic accident on January 29, 2025,” said&nbsp;Rep. Mann. “We will always&nbsp;remember&nbsp;our fellow Kansans and fellow Americans whose lives were tragically lost—farmers, parents, professors, college students with bright futures, taken from us far too soon. As the investigation into the accident continues to unfold, we must learn from our findings to prevent this from ever happening again. Audrey and I continue to express our deepest condolences and prayers to those impacted by the accident and mourn the lives tragically lost.”“While it’s been just a little more than one month since this tragic incident, there are still no words to adequately express the heartbreak we all feel at your loss, and no words that can properly console you. I pray that, in time, God would give you and all those impacted a peace that would surpass all understanding,” said&nbsp;Rep. Estes. “It is in each home, school, workplace and community where each of the 67 victims was known and loved that they will continue to be remembered, celebrated and honored. As we’ve learned more about the individual passengers aboard the plane, as well as the pilots and flight crew of Flight 5342 and the crew of the Black Hawk, we’ve come to know how much they meant to the people around them – and how much they will be missed.”“Today, I stand alongside my colleagues from Kansas to honor the lives lost, including those from our own state, in the tragic collision between Flight 5342 and PAT 25,” said&nbsp;Rep. Davids. “My heart is with the families and communities grieving this profound loss. We must continue working to improve aviation safety to ensure no other family faces such unimaginable heartache. The memory of those we lost will continue to guide our commitment to a safer future.”“Today, our Kansas delegation stands united as we remember the victims of Flight 5342,” said&nbsp;Rep. Schmidt.&nbsp;“Our prayers remain with the family and friends of all affected by this horrible tragedy, and our gratitude remains with all the first responders who worked diligently around the clock on rescue and recovery efforts. My colleagues and I will continue working with federal agencies to determine how this collision occurred and what steps can be taken to prevent future tragedies.”“My prayers go out to all the victims of the January 29th tragedy in our nation’s capital, and to all their loved ones, including the people of Kansas, who are suffering from their loss,” said&nbsp;Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06). “I also appreciate the heroic actions of the first responders and the many others who were involved in the response and recovery efforts following the accident.&nbsp;I commend Congressman Estes and his colleagues for leading this resolution to honor those that we lost on that day, express our condolences to those who are grieving, and praise the efforts of all those who responded to this tragedy.”

Rep. Mann, other U.S. House members pass resolution honoring victims of air collision

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an armed robbery and have a teen in custody.

Just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday, police arrested 17-year-old Delron Tyree, Jr. of Topeka, in the 6000 block of SW 10th Street in Topeka, according to a media release from the RCPD.

 Tyree was taken into custody on a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated robbery armed with a dangerous weapon and criminal use of weapons.

Following his arrest, Tyree was transported to the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Facility. Tyree was confined at the time of this report.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an armed robbery and have a teen in custody. Just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday, police arrested 17-year-old Delron Tyree, Jr. of Topeka, in the 6000 block of SW 10th Street in Topeka, according to a media release from the RCPD. Tyree was taken into custody on a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated robbery armed with a dangerous weapon and criminal use of weapons.Following his arrest, Tyree was transported to the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Facility. Tyree was confined at the time of this report.

RCPD arrests 17-year-old for armed robbery

&nbsp; (RILEY COUNTY, KS – March 5, 2025) The public is invited to attend a free Storm Spotter Class from 7:00 to 8:30 PM on Monday, March 10. The class will be held at Pottorf Hall, located at 1710 Avery Avenue in Manhattan. No registration is needed.&nbsp;

At the event, a National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologist will teach thunderstorm development and structure, thunderstorm safety, and what, when, and how to report information.“Weather plays such a huge role in daily life for Kansans, and the more you know, the better. This event is perfect for people who want to learn about severe weather, or those who might want to volunteer as storm spotters and report weather observations directly to the National Weather Service. The NWS will provide additional training for storm spotters, as needed,” explains Laurie Harrison, Assistant Director for Riley County Emergency Management.&nbsp;

Riley County also has a local storm spotter program administered through Emergency Management. To join the local program, volunteers also need to be amateur radio operators. Any radio operators interested in volunteering for the local program should call Riley County Emergency Management at (785) 537-6333 during regular business hours. Those interested in joining the NWS Storm Spotter&nbsp; program&nbsp; should contact the Topeka office at 785-234-2592.

The National Weather Service office in Topeka works together with county emergency managers to offer storm spotter classes in numerous locations across northeast Kansas to prepare for severe weather season. Spotters provide critical information during severe weather events that aid in warning operations at the National Weather Service.&nbsp;Riley County Emergency Management is the designated disaster agency for the county. RCEM is responsible for coordinating the mitigation of, preparedness for, response to, and recovery from disasters for all cities and rural areas in Riley County, Kansas. Find more information about RCEM at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=18cd043e6d&amp;e=fd06d17886">www.rileycountyks.gov/em</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-537-6333 during regular business hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; (RILEY COUNTY, KS – March 5, 2025) The public is invited to attend a free Storm Spotter Class from 7:00 to 8:30 PM on Monday, March 10. The class will be held at Pottorf Hall, located at 1710 Avery Avenue in Manhattan. No registration is needed.&nbsp;At the event, a National Weather Service (NWS) meteorologist will teach thunderstorm development and structure, thunderstorm safety, and what, when, and how to report information.“Weather plays such a huge role in daily life for Kansans, and the more you know, the better. This event is perfect for people who want to learn about severe weather, or those who might want to volunteer as storm spotters and report weather observations directly to the National Weather Service. The NWS will provide additional training for storm spotters, as needed,” explains Laurie Harrison, Assistant Director for Riley County Emergency Management.&nbsp;Riley County also has a local storm spotter program administered through Emergency Management. To join the local program, volunteers also need to be amateur radio operators. Any radio operators interested in volunteering for the local program should call Riley County Emergency Management at (785) 537-6333 during regular business hours. Those interested in joining the NWS Storm Spotter&nbsp; program&nbsp; should contact the Topeka office at 785-234-2592.The National Weather Service office in Topeka works together with county emergency managers to offer storm spotter classes in numerous locations across northeast Kansas to prepare for severe weather season. Spotters provide critical information during severe weather events that aid in warning operations at the National Weather Service.&nbsp;Riley County Emergency Management is the designated disaster agency for the county. RCEM is responsible for coordinating the mitigation of, preparedness for, response to, and recovery from disasters for all cities and rural areas in Riley County, Kansas. Find more information about RCEM at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://gmail.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95221c46aac4689e49a7c0bfc&amp;id=18cd043e6d&amp;e=fd06d17886">www.rileycountyks.gov/em</a>&nbsp;or by calling 785-537-6333 during regular business hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Storm Spotter Class in Manhattan Next Week

This week, Kansas Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed kicked off KDOT’s annual Transportation Safety Conference in Wichita by emphasizing the key components of decreasing fatalities on Kansas’s streets and highways: safer drivers, safer vehicles, safer speeds, and safer roads. He was immediately followed by the conference’s keynote speaker, Charles Marohn, the founder of Strong Towns, an organization dedicated to helping America’s cities manage their finances and built environments better. Chuck made the case that, practically speaking, Kansas’s cities should just ignore the first three factors and focus on the last. He’s right.

Kansas’s traffic statistics aren’t terrible, but they aren’t good. Like the rest of the country, Kansas mostly saw fatalities from road accidents increase throughout the 2010s and the first part of this decade. There have been some&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/10/kansas-traffic-fatalities-trend-downward-after-seven-years-averaging-more-than-420-deaths/">dramatic improvements over the past two years</a>; 2024 saw the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kake.com/home/kansas-sees-record-low-traffic-fatalities-in-2024-but-2025-trends-spark-concern/article_5bbfab2c-dd11-11ef-baf2-13b1610ed7bf.html">lowest number of Kansans killed in car crashes</a>—344—in nearly 80 years. Still<a target="_blank" href="https://tripnet.org/reports/addressing-americas-traffic-safety-crisis-kansas-news-release-07-02-2024/">, Kansas remains above the national average of fatal accidents per population</a>, and so it’s reasonable that KDOT has made reducing traffic deaths—through their “Drive to Zero” initiative—a key priority.

For a variety of reasons, though, most of the actual work that’s been done in support of that initiative has been focused on educating (or shaming) drivers—for speeding, or being distracted, or failing to follow every traffic rule—and on inducing (or requiring) municipalities to lower the speeds on their arterial roads and streets. When asked after his presentation about the Drive to Zero plan, Marohn applauded it—but also argued that 98% of the problem here is road design, with driver responsibility, vehicle quality, and speed calculations taking up the tiny remainder.

Marohn’s argument builds upon the basic idea the human beings, being human, will always make mistakes, always be distracted, etc., and thus one ought to focus on fixing the conditions humans operate in, rather than fixing humans themselves. In the design of highways, this principle took the form of “forgiving design”—these roads needed to be wide, and the drivers speeding on them needed to be channeled in the same direction, all to minimize the deadly costs of mistakes.

But over the decades these lessons were taken from high-speed, cross-country roads and imposed on city streets. Thus we have what Marohn calls “stroads”: neighborhood streets lined with sidewalks and schools and businesses and houses, but designed in ways that assume everyone will drive fast and poorly, requiring them to be huge and thus pedestrian-unfriendly. This, obviously, discourages pedestrian use, which not only has negative economic, civic, and public health consequences, but also implicitly encourages drivers to drive even faster and more poorly.

The characteristics of such design assumptions are dangerous one-way streets, drivers gunning at intersections, near-unusable cross-walks, and more. Marohn wants to see cities focus on changing these design assumptions, rather than chastising drivers for acting in exactly the way the conditions they encounter on the road encourage them to do. Makes sense to me.

And fortunately, it makes sense to many city leaders and planners across Kansas as well (Marohn likely wouldn’t have been KDOT’s guest of honor otherwise). In Wichita, Kansas City, Salina, and elsewhere, Kansas municipalities are slowly but surely making changes. One-way streets are being converted to two-way; unnecessary lanes are being shrunk and made safer; designers are thinking more about traffic calming (putting in meridians, for example) and less about draconian speed reductions. Zero traffic fatalities may be a distant goal, but we’ll get closer to it by fixing the streets that carry traffic, rather than the drivers negotiating it.

This week, Kansas Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed kicked off KDOT’s annual Transportation Safety Conference in Wichita by emphasizing the key components of decreasing fatalities on Kansas’s streets and highways: safer drivers, safer vehicles, safer speeds, and safer roads. He was immediately followed by the conference’s keynote speaker, Charles Marohn, the founder of Strong Towns, an organization dedicated to helping America’s cities manage their finances and built environments better. Chuck made the case that, practically speaking, Kansas’s cities should just ignore the first three factors and focus on the last. He’s right.Kansas’s traffic statistics aren’t terrible, but they aren’t good. Like the rest of the country, Kansas mostly saw fatalities from road accidents increase throughout the 2010s and the first part of this decade. There have been some&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/10/kansas-traffic-fatalities-trend-downward-after-seven-years-averaging-more-than-420-deaths/">dramatic improvements over the past two years</a>; 2024 saw the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kake.com/home/kansas-sees-record-low-traffic-fatalities-in-2024-but-2025-trends-spark-concern/article_5bbfab2c-dd11-11ef-baf2-13b1610ed7bf.html">lowest number of Kansans killed in car crashes</a>—344—in nearly 80 years. Still<a target="_blank" href="https://tripnet.org/reports/addressing-americas-traffic-safety-crisis-kansas-news-release-07-02-2024/">, Kansas remains above the national average of fatal accidents per population</a>, and so it’s reasonable that KDOT has made reducing traffic deaths—through their “Drive to Zero” initiative—a key priority.For a variety of reasons, though, most of the actual work that’s been done in support of that initiative has been focused on educating (or shaming) drivers—for speeding, or being distracted, or failing to follow every traffic rule—and on inducing (or requiring) municipalities to lower the speeds on their arterial roads and streets. When asked after his presentation about the Drive to Zero plan, Marohn applauded it—but also argued that 98% of the problem here is road design, with driver responsibility, vehicle quality, and speed calculations taking up the tiny remainder.Marohn’s argument builds upon the basic idea the human beings, being human, will always make mistakes, always be distracted, etc., and thus one ought to focus on fixing the conditions humans operate in, rather than fixing humans themselves. In the design of highways, this principle took the form of “forgiving design”—these roads needed to be wide, and the drivers speeding on them needed to be channeled in the same direction, all to minimize the deadly costs of mistakes.But over the decades these lessons were taken from high-speed, cross-country roads and imposed on city streets. Thus we have what Marohn calls “stroads”: neighborhood streets lined with sidewalks and schools and businesses and houses, but designed in ways that assume everyone will drive fast and poorly, requiring them to be huge and thus pedestrian-unfriendly. This, obviously, discourages pedestrian use, which not only has negative economic, civic, and public health consequences, but also implicitly encourages drivers to drive even faster and more poorly.The characteristics of such design assumptions are dangerous one-way streets, drivers gunning at intersections, near-unusable cross-walks, and more. Marohn wants to see cities focus on changing these design assumptions, rather than chastising drivers for acting in exactly the way the conditions they encounter on the road encourage them to do. Makes sense to me.And fortunately, it makes sense to many city leaders and planners across Kansas as well (Marohn likely wouldn’t have been KDOT’s guest of honor otherwise). In Wichita, Kansas City, Salina, and elsewhere, Kansas municipalities are slowly but surely making changes. One-way streets are being converted to two-way; unnecessary lanes are being shrunk and made safer; designers are thinking more about traffic calming (putting in meridians, for example) and less about draconian speed reductions. Zero traffic fatalities may be a distant goal, but we’ll get closer to it by fixing the streets that carry traffic, rather than the drivers negotiating it.

 Drive to zero begins with the streets we drive on, not the drivers themselves

Riley County Emergency Management release

&nbsp; (Riley County, KS – 03/05/2025) Riley County Fire District #1 responded to a report of a structure fire at 1809 South Manhattan Ave at approximately 4:40 pm on Friday, February 28. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke coming from a two-story residence south of the City of Manhattan. Within 10 minutes of the call, volunteer firefighters arrived and made entry to aggressively combat the fire.&nbsp;Tragically, one dog perished in the fire, while another was found alive. All occupants of the home were able to exit safely, and no other injuries were reported. 

Damage to the structure and contents is estimated at $200,000. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Riley County Police Department.&nbsp;“It is heartbreaking to see the loss of a pet and the significant damage to the home. We are deeply grateful for the dedication and hard work of our firefighters. They kept this from becoming a wildfire and spreading to other homes,” said Deputy Chief Doug Russell. “We sincerely thank our dedicated volunteer

&nbsp;firefighters for their quick response and tireless efforts in battling this fire.”A total of 32 firefighters responded on 12 apparatus to the incident, and responders remained on scene mopping up hot spots, including a grass fire outside the residence, for several hours.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Riley County Emergency Management release&nbsp; (Riley County, KS – 03/05/2025) Riley County Fire District #1 responded to a report of a structure fire at 1809 South Manhattan Ave at approximately 4:40 pm on Friday, February 28. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke coming from a two-story residence south of the City of Manhattan. Within 10 minutes of the call, volunteer firefighters arrived and made entry to aggressively combat the fire.&nbsp;Tragically, one dog perished in the fire, while another was found alive. All occupants of the home were able to exit safely, and no other injuries were reported. Damage to the structure and contents is estimated at $200,000. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Riley County Police Department.&nbsp;“It is heartbreaking to see the loss of a pet and the significant damage to the home. We are deeply grateful for the dedication and hard work of our firefighters. They kept this from becoming a wildfire and spreading to other homes,” said Deputy Chief Doug Russell. “We sincerely thank our dedicated volunteer

&nbsp;firefighters for their quick response and tireless efforts in battling this fire.”A total of 32 firefighters responded on 12 apparatus to the incident, and responders remained on scene mopping up hot spots, including a grass fire outside the residence, for several hours.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Home destroyed and pet perished in house fire south of Manhattan

WASHINGTON —Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation are sharing their thoughts on President Trump's address to Congress.

Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann wrote on social media, "America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage.

 I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept. 

Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "In his first address to Congress in his second term, President Trump highlighted his America First policies that Americans overwhelmingly voted for in November and that congressional Republicans are working hard to advance," said Rep. Estes. 

"We are renewing the American Dream, and the president’s victories have been evident through record-low illegal border crossings, the reduction of governmental waste and fraud with the help of DOGE, and new investments in our country. I support President Trump’s efforts to restore America’s economy and make our nation secure and competitive once again, and I look forward to continuing to deliver on his bold agenda that will benefit all Kansans."

Kansas 2nd District Rep. Derek Schmidt wrote,&nbsp;“After four years of weakness, strength is back in the White House and President Trump is already delivering on his promise of a safe and prosperous nation for the American people. House Republicans are moving quickly and decisively to implement the President’s America First agenda by passing legislation to secure the border, restore energy independence, shrink the size of government, and curb the runaway federal spending that has fueled inflation. We’re slashing red tape, taking power back from unelected bureaucrats, and working hard every day to make the changes Kansans expect us to make.”

WASHINGTON —Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation are sharing their thoughts on President Trump's address to Congress.Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann wrote on social media, "America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage. I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept.… <a href="https://t.co/bBWCxBsiH5">pic.twitter.com/bBWCxBsiH5</a>&mdash; Tracey Mann (@RepMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMann/status/1897152308666097785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept. Thank you, President Trump!Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "In his first address to Congress in his second term, President Trump highlighted his America First policies that Americans overwhelmingly voted for in November and that congressional Republicans are working hard to advance," said Rep. Estes. "We are renewing the American Dream, and the president’s victories have been evident through record-low illegal border crossings, the reduction of governmental waste and fraud with the help of DOGE, and new investments in our country. I support President Trump’s efforts to restore America’s economy and make our nation secure and competitive once again, and I look forward to continuing to deliver on his bold agenda that will benefit all Kansans."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> has brought common sense back to the White House.&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1897114382225826239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">America is the strongest country in the world. After four years of weakness, we once again have a President who acts like it.&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1897125228536643778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas 2nd District Rep. Derek Schmidt wrote,&nbsp;“After four years of weakness, strength is back in the White House and President Trump is already delivering on his promise of a safe and prosperous nation for the American people. House Republicans are moving quickly and decisively to implement the President’s America First agenda by passing legislation to secure the border, restore energy independence, shrink the size of government, and curb the runaway federal spending that has fueled inflation. We’re slashing red tape, taking power back from unelected bureaucrats, and working hard every day to make the changes Kansans expect us to make.”

🎥Kansas First District Rep. on Trump's address to Congress

Tuesday night was the opening night of sub-state semifinal basketball, and the six-seed Junction City Blue Jays hosted the 11-seed Manhattan High Indians in Junction City. 

The Manhattan High Indians snagged an early 5-1 lead over the Blue Jays as both teams struggled on the offensive end in the first quarter. Junction City's shots began to fall, and JC led 10-9 after the first quarter. 

The second quarter featured more points and better offense from both sides, but the Blue Jays led by eight, 27-19, at halftime. 

In the second half, the Indians never could get within six points, as every time Manhattan scored, the Blue Jays had a response. To end the third quarter, Junction City senior Jackson Austin was fouled on a half-court heave. Austin made all three free throws, and JC led 41-29. 

In the fourth quarter, Junction City pulled away and led by as many as 17 points. The Blue Jays held on and won 59-45 to beat Manhattan for the third time this season. 

Junction City was led in scoring by senior Larkin Turner, who scored a career-high 28 points in his last home game. 

For Manhattan, the Indians were led in scoring by senior Landon Knopp with 11 points. 

The Indians end their season with a 6-15 record. For Junction City, the Blue Jays will play three-seed Washburn Rural in Topeka on Friday night. The winner of the sub-state final will advance to the 6A State tournament in Wichita.

By Anthony GorgesTuesday night was the opening night of sub-state semifinal basketball, and the six-seed Junction City Blue Jays hosted the 11-seed Manhattan High Indians in Junction City. The Manhattan High Indians snagged an early 5-1 lead over the Blue Jays as both teams struggled on the offensive end in the first quarter. Junction City's shots began to fall, and JC led 10-9 after the first quarter. The second quarter featured more points and better offense from both sides, but the Blue Jays led by eight, 27-19, at halftime. In the second half, the Indians never could get within six points, as every time Manhattan scored, the Blue Jays had a response. To end the third quarter, Junction City senior Jackson Austin was fouled on a half-court heave. Austin made all three free throws, and JC led 41-29. In the fourth quarter, Junction City pulled away and led by as many as 17 points. The Blue Jays held on and won 59-45 to beat Manhattan for the third time this season. Junction City was led in scoring by senior Larkin Turner, who scored a career-high 28 points in his last home game. For Manhattan, the Indians were led in scoring by senior Landon Knopp with 11 points. The Indians end their season with a 6-15 record. For Junction City, the Blue Jays will play three-seed Washburn Rural in Topeka on Friday night. The winner of the sub-state final will advance to the 6A State tournament in Wichita.

Junction City beats Manhattan, Blue Jays advance to Sub-State Finals

Manhattan City Commissioners have voted 3-0 to adopt a resolution for an industrial revenue bond issue that includes&nbsp; a project totaling just over $50 million at Meadowlark Hills. The City would not be liable for repayment of the bonds but would serve as a conduit for Meadowlark Hills to receive the benefits and be responsible for the debt.

The plan calls for the building of 43 independent living units on the Meadowlark campus ranging in size from 1,200 to 1,400 square feet. There would be a clubhouse community room, under building parking, fitness center and space for fitness classes. There would be room for rock steady boxing which can help Parkinson's patients and improvement work with the pond and trails around the pond on the Meadowlark campus.

Manhattan City Commissioners have voted 3-0 to adopt a resolution for an industrial revenue bond issue that includes&nbsp; a project totaling just over $50 million at Meadowlark Hills. The City would not be liable for repayment of the bonds but would serve as a conduit for Meadowlark Hills to receive the benefits and be responsible for the debt.The plan calls for the building of 43 independent living units on the Meadowlark campus ranging in size from 1,200 to 1,400 square feet. There would be a clubhouse community room, under building parking, fitness center and space for fitness classes. There would be room for rock steady boxing which can help Parkinson's patients and improvement work with the pond and trails around the pond on the Meadowlark campus.

Manhattan City Commission adopts IRB resolution

The National Weather Service is canceling the scheduled tornado drill on Wednesday for their service area due to expected impacts from the long duration high winds and wet snow overnight into Wednesday morning.&nbsp; &nbsp;

They expect much of northeast Kansas to endure a prolonged&nbsp;period of damaging wind gusts of 55 to 70 mph tonight.&nbsp; There will also be an area of heavy wet snow that will fall across parts of northeast Kansas which could exacerbate&nbsp;any impacts of the wind gusts on power lines, tree limbs, etc.

The National Weather Service is canceling the scheduled tornado drill on Wednesday for their service area due to expected impacts from the long duration high winds and wet snow overnight into Wednesday morning.&nbsp; &nbsp;They expect much of northeast Kansas to endure a prolonged&nbsp;period of damaging wind gusts of 55 to 70 mph tonight.&nbsp; There will also be an area of heavy wet snow that will fall across parts of northeast Kansas which could exacerbate&nbsp;any impacts of the wind gusts on power lines, tree limbs, etc.

NWS cancels statewide tornado drill

TREGO COUNTY —If you’re driving through Trego County Tuesday, you are going to encounter blowing dust, according to a social media report from KHP Trooper Tod Heilman. 

Slow down and turn your headlights on. Kansas law requires headlights if the visibility is less than 1,000 ft.&nbsp;

TREGO COUNTY —If you’re driving through Trego County Tuesday, you are going to encounter blowing dust, according to a social media report from KHP Trooper Tod Heilman. <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">If you’re driving through Trego County this morning, you’re going to encounter blowing dust. Slow down and turn your headlights on. KS law requires headlights if the visibility is less than 1,000 ft. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KSwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KSwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/N3jDCS1US8">pic.twitter.com/N3jDCS1US8</a>&mdash; Trooper Tod (@TrooperTodKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperTodKHP/status/1896951067822404016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Slow down and turn your headlights on. Kansas law requires headlights if the visibility is less than 1,000 ft.&nbsp;

KHP: Drivers encounter blowing dust in northwest Kansas

The 8-week healthy lifestyle challenge called Walk Kansas will be celebrating 25 years of existence from March 30 - May 24. You can register from now through April 7.

Yu can register a team of six or go solo this year. Register online at WalkKansas.org or by contacting your local K-State Research and Extension office.

This program is intended to inspire a healthier life by being more active, making better nutrition choices and learning positive ways to deal with stress.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe 8-week healthy lifestyle challenge called Walk Kansas will be celebrating 25 years of existence from March 30 - May 24. You can register from now through April 7.Yu can register a team of six or go solo this year. Register online at WalkKansas.org or by contacting your local K-State Research and Extension office.This program is intended to inspire a healthier life by being more active, making better nutrition choices and learning positive ways to deal with stress.Anyone can participate.

Walk Kansas will celebrate 25 years

● A highly impactful storm system is beginning to affect much of the forecast area today.&nbsp;&nbsp;Potentially severe thunderstorms occur this afternoon, very strong non-thunderstorm winds increase this evening as rain changes to snow.

There is the possibility area-wide of a&nbsp; combination of strong winds and falling snow tonight/early Wednesday morning.

Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Including the cities of Seneca, Sabetha, Blue Rapids, Wamego, Holton, St. Marys, Frankfort, Horton, Hiawatha, Manhattan, and Marysville.

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAID A BLIZZARD WARNING IS IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM TUESDAY EVENING TO 4 AM CST WEDNESDAY...

Blizzard conditions are&nbsp; expected with total snow accumulations of  one to three inches and winds gusting as high as 65 mph.

This is for a portion of northeast Kansas from 8 PM Tuesday evening to 4 AM Wednesday.

Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. Plan on slippery road conditions.

Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

UPDATE:● A highly impactful storm system is beginning to affect much of the forecast area today.&nbsp;&nbsp;Potentially severe thunderstorms occur this afternoon, very strong non-thunderstorm winds increase this evening as rain changes to snow.There is the possibility area-wide of a&nbsp; combination of strong winds and falling snow tonight/early Wednesday morning.---Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Including the cities of Seneca, Sabetha, Blue Rapids, Wamego, Holton, St. Marys, Frankfort, Horton, Hiawatha, Manhattan, and Marysville.THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAID A BLIZZARD WARNING IS IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM TUESDAY EVENING TO 4 AM CST WEDNESDAY...Blizzard conditions are&nbsp; expected with total snow accumulations of one to three inches and winds gusting as high as 65 mph.This is for a portion of northeast Kansas from 8 PM Tuesday evening to 4 AM Wednesday.Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. Plan on slippery road conditions.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, have a winter survival kit with you. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.

Blizzard warning for portion of northeast Kansas 

The National Weather Service said a strong and impactful storm system is set to affect the area tonight into Wednesday.

● Multiple hazards are expected during this timeframe, including potentially severe thunderstorms, strong non-thunderstorm winds and accumulating snow.

● Blizzard or near-blizzard conditions could occur with the combination of strong winds and falling snow Tuesday night/early Wednesday morning

&nbsp; Geary County Emergency Management passed along information from the National Weather Service.

A strong system is set to impact the area Monday night through Wednesday. A round of thunderstorms is expected Monday night into early Tuesday. A few more storms could develop Tuesday afternoon. Hail and damaging winds are the main concerns.

 Winds then increase, with gusts to 50 and 60 mph Tuesday night and Wednesday. Rain changes to snow Tuesday evening and night. Blizzard conditions will be possible north of I-70 due to the strong winds. Snow ends by sunrise Wednesday with generally around one inch of accumulation.

UPDATE:The National Weather Service said a strong and impactful storm system is set to affect the area tonight into Wednesday.● Multiple hazards are expected during this timeframe, including potentially severe thunderstorms, strong non-thunderstorm winds and accumulating snow.● Blizzard or near-blizzard conditions could occur with the combination of strong winds and falling snow Tuesday night/early Wednesday morning----&nbsp; Geary County Emergency Management passed along information from the National Weather Service.A strong system is set to impact the area Monday night through Wednesday. A round of thunderstorms is expected Monday night into early Tuesday. A few more storms could develop Tuesday afternoon. Hail and damaging winds are the main concerns. Winds then increase, with gusts to 50 and 60 mph Tuesday night and Wednesday. Rain changes to snow Tuesday evening and night. Blizzard conditions will be possible north of I-70 due to the strong winds. Snow ends by sunrise Wednesday with generally around one inch of accumulation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741011425128.jpeg" alt="( National Weather Service )" />
 <figcaption>( National Weather Service )</figcaption>
 </figure>

Weather could get rough this week

Division of Communications and Marketing&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University has been identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/fda-organization/center-veterinary-medicine">Center for Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;as one of four&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-announces-animal-and-veterinary-innovation-centers-partnerships">Animal and Veterinary Innovation Centers</a>&nbsp;that will receive funding for work advancing regulatory science and further developing innovative products and approaches to better support animal health and veterinary interventions.While there are three areas of concentration for the innovation centers, K-State’s center was identified for its efforts to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2025/02/coetzee-bortoluzzi-receive-usda-nifa-grant-agricultural-animal-welfare.html">develop models that reliably and consistently evaluate the efficacy of analgesics</a>in food animals in support of new drug approvals. This work specifically supports pain relief in pigs, goats and cattle for painful diseases or surgical pain.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/apley/">Mike Apley</a>, professor of clinical pharmacology and interim head of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/">Department of Anatomy and Physiology</a>, is one of the principal investigators and project leaders at K-State. He is joined by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/faculty-staff/faculty/bortoluzzi/bortoluzzi.html">Eduarda Bortoluzzi</a>, assistant professor of animal welfare.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/faculty-staff/faculty/coetzee/">Hans Coetzee</a>, K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/research/about/profile/">interim vice president of research</a>, is a collaborator due to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2025-02/hans-coetzee-awarded-national-academy-prize-food-agriculture-science/">his expertise in animal welfare and pain reliefs studies</a>.Co-investigators include&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/amachawadi/">Raghavendra Amachawadi</a>, associate professor of food animal therapeutics, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/reppert/">Emily Reppert</a>, associate professor of large animal medicine.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;staff members Misty Bear and Mikaela Weeder were also instrumental in putting the grant together.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741012692712.jpeg" alt="Mike Apley and Eduarda Bortoluzzi, researchers in Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, are leading a new, FDA-sponsored Animal and Veterinary Innovation Center to develop approaches to better support animal health and veterinary interventions." />
 <figcaption>Mike Apley and Eduarda Bortoluzzi, researchers in Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, are leading a new, FDA-sponsored Animal and Veterinary Innovation Center to develop approaches to better support animal health and veterinary interventions.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Joe MontgomeryDivision of Communications and Marketing&nbsp;&nbsp;MANHATTAN — Kansas State University has been identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/fda-organization/center-veterinary-medicine">Center for Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;as one of four&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-announces-animal-and-veterinary-innovation-centers-partnerships">Animal and Veterinary Innovation Centers</a>&nbsp;that will receive funding for work advancing regulatory science and further developing innovative products and approaches to better support animal health and veterinary interventions.While there are three areas of concentration for the innovation centers, K-State’s center was identified for its efforts to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2025/02/coetzee-bortoluzzi-receive-usda-nifa-grant-agricultural-animal-welfare.html">develop models that reliably and consistently evaluate the efficacy of analgesics</a>in food animals in support of new drug approvals. This work specifically supports pain relief in pigs, goats and cattle for painful diseases or surgical pain.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/apley/">Mike Apley</a>, professor of clinical pharmacology and interim head of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/">Department of Anatomy and Physiology</a>, is one of the principal investigators and project leaders at K-State. He is joined by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/faculty-staff/faculty/bortoluzzi/bortoluzzi.html">Eduarda Bortoluzzi</a>, assistant professor of animal welfare.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/faculty-staff/faculty/coetzee/">Hans Coetzee</a>, K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/research/about/profile/">interim vice president of research</a>, is a collaborator due to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2025-02/hans-coetzee-awarded-national-academy-prize-food-agriculture-science/">his expertise in animal welfare and pain reliefs studies</a>.Co-investigators include&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/amachawadi/">Raghavendra Amachawadi</a>, associate professor of food animal therapeutics, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/reppert/">Emily Reppert</a>, associate professor of large animal medicine.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;staff members Misty Bear and Mikaela Weeder were also instrumental in putting the grant together.

K-State selected to house Animal and Veterinary Innovation Center 

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged online scam.

Just before 5pm. Saturday, officers filed a theft by deception report in the 1100 block of Bakers Way, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. 

A 22-year-old woman reported she had money stolen in an internet scam. Total loss associated with this report is $1,200. &nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://ks-rileycountypolice.civicplus.com/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged online scam.Just before 5pm. Saturday, officers filed a theft by deception report in the 1100 block of Bakers Way, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 22-year-old woman reported she had money stolen in an internet scam. Total loss associated with this report is $1,200. &nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://ks-rileycountypolice.civicplus.com/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: woman lost $1,200 in alleged online scam

At the Kansas District Optimist Club's meeting held in Manhattan on March 1, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club was recognized by Optimist International as an Honor Club for the second time in three years.&nbsp; There are 3,000 Optimist clubs throughout the world and 36 clubs in Kansas.&nbsp; 

Junction City's Optimist Club was the only&nbsp;club in Kansas recognized for their work during the 2023-24 fiscal year.&nbsp; The local club is also the only club in Kansas to have two Junior Optimist International (JOI) clubs with one each at St. Xavier's Catholic Schools and Junction City High School.&nbsp;

Judy Morris, Kansas District Governor presented Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Ron Johnson, Treasurer (unable to attend) and Ferrell Miller, Secretary/Programs Chairperson with the Honor Club Citation "for having successfully guided the Club in its internal and community-serving&nbsp;activities, making a significant contribution to&nbsp; the annual, aggregate accomplishments&nbsp;of all Optimist clubs and having attained standards of administration established by Optimist International.

By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast Optimist ClubAt the Kansas District Optimist Club's meeting held in Manhattan on March 1, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club was recognized by Optimist International as an Honor Club for the second time in three years.&nbsp; There are 3,000 Optimist clubs throughout the world and 36 clubs in Kansas.&nbsp; Junction City's Optimist Club was the only&nbsp;club in Kansas recognized for their work during the 2023-24 fiscal year.&nbsp; The local club is also the only club in Kansas to have two Junior Optimist International (JOI) clubs with one each at St. Xavier's Catholic Schools and Junction City High School.&nbsp;Judy Morris, Kansas District Governor presented Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Ron Johnson, Treasurer (unable to attend) and Ferrell Miller, Secretary/Programs Chairperson with the Honor Club Citation "for having successfully guided the Club in its internal and community-serving&nbsp;activities, making a significant contribution to&nbsp; the annual, aggregate accomplishments&nbsp;of all Optimist clubs and having attained standards of administration established by Optimist International.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741011970168.jpeg" alt=""Pictured left to right: Judy Morris, Kansas District Optimist Clubs Governor; Ricardo Gutierrez, member and co-facilitator of the JOI Clubs in Junction City; Mike Taylor, local club member; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Ferrell Miller, Secretary/Programs Chairperson; Morgan Nabus, JCHS JOI Club President; Bianca Neth, JCHS JOI Club member. Not pictured, but present was Amy Johnson.&nbsp; &nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>"Pictured left to right: Judy Morris, Kansas District Optimist Clubs Governor; Ricardo Gutierrez, member and co-facilitator of the JOI Clubs in Junction City; Mike Taylor, local club member; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Ferrell Miller, Secretary/Programs Chairperson; Morgan Nabus, JCHS JOI Club President; Bianca Neth, JCHS JOI Club member. Not pictured, but present was Amy Johnson.&nbsp; &nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

JC Breakfast Optimist Club Recognized By Optimist International

Fire danger is high on Monday so Geary and Riley County both have implemented outdoor burning bans.

Fire danger is high on Monday so Geary and Riley County both have implemented outdoor burning bans.

No burning on Monday

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson

Including the cities of Seneca, Hiawatha, Washington, Blue Rapids, Frankfort, Belleville, Manhattan, Concordia, Hanover, Greenleaf, Horton, Marysville, Holton, Clifton, St. Marys, Sabetha, Linn, Wamego, and Clay Center

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAID A WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY EVENING THROUGH LATETUESDAY NIGHT...

Blizzard conditions possible. Total snow accumulations up&nbsp;  to one inch possible. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph in portions of north central and northeast Kansas from Tuesday evening through late Tuesday night.

Whiteout conditions are possible and may make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Plan on slippery road conditions.

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-JacksonIncluding the cities of Seneca, Hiawatha, Washington, Blue Rapids, Frankfort, Belleville, Manhattan, Concordia, Hanover, Greenleaf, Horton, Marysville, Holton, Clifton, St. Marys, Sabetha, Linn, Wamego, and Clay CenterTHE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAID A WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM TUESDAY EVENING THROUGH LATETUESDAY NIGHT...Blizzard conditions possible. Total snow accumulations up&nbsp; to one inch possible. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph in portions of north central and northeast Kansas from Tuesday evening through late Tuesday night.Whiteout conditions are possible and may make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Plan on slippery road conditions.

Snow is in the Tuesday forecast

Although some days it may not seem like it, spring is on its way and with it the prospect of severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, and floods.

To remind Kansans to be prepared for such weather,&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;signed a proclamation on Feb. 28 designating March 3-7, 2025, as Severe Weather/Flood Preparedness Week in Kansas.

“Preparedness is key to staying safe during Kansas’ severe weather events,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said. “I urge all Kansans to ensure they are prepared in case severe weather hits comes their way and to remain vigilant during the coming months.”

Being prepared includes being aware of weather conditions and having a family emergency kit and emergency plan. The Kansas Division of Emergency Management advises everyone to prepare a home emergency kit with supplies to sustain every family member for a minimum of seven days. Kits should include nonperishable foods, a gallon of water per person per day, blankets, flashlights and batteries, a weather radio, extra clothing, necessary medications, and other survival items. Kits should also be prepared for household pets.

As part of the week’s activities, Kansans are urged to take part in the statewide tornado safety drill on Wednesday, March 5, at 10 a.m. The far eastern tier of counties (Doniphan, Atchison, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson, Miami, and Linn) will do their test at 11 a.m.

To avoid any confusion to the public, a live tornado warning will not be sent out on the NOAA Weather Radio. Instead, there will be a Routine Weekly Test message asking people to practice sheltering. County emergency management offices may also sound alert sirens at that time.

Information on emergency preparedness and building a home disaster kit can be found online at <a href="http://www.ready.gov">www.ready.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727295768279.png" alt="Kansas Division of Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Division of Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAlthough some days it may not seem like it, spring is on its way and with it the prospect of severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, and floods.To remind Kansans to be prepared for such weather,&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;signed a proclamation on Feb. 28 designating March 3-7, 2025, as Severe Weather/Flood Preparedness Week in Kansas.“Preparedness is key to staying safe during Kansas’ severe weather events,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said. “I urge all Kansans to ensure they are prepared in case severe weather hits comes their way and to remain vigilant during the coming months.”Being prepared includes being aware of weather conditions and having a family emergency kit and emergency plan. The Kansas Division of Emergency Management advises everyone to prepare a home emergency kit with supplies to sustain every family member for a minimum of seven days. Kits should include nonperishable foods, a gallon of water per person per day, blankets, flashlights and batteries, a weather radio, extra clothing, necessary medications, and other survival items. Kits should also be prepared for household pets.As part of the week’s activities, Kansans are urged to take part in the statewide tornado safety drill on Wednesday, March 5, at 10 a.m. The far eastern tier of counties (Doniphan, Atchison, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson, Miami, and Linn) will do their test at 11 a.m.To avoid any confusion to the public, a live tornado warning will not be sent out on the NOAA Weather Radio. Instead, there will be a Routine Weekly Test message asking people to practice sheltering. County emergency management offices may also sound alert sirens at that time.Information on emergency preparedness and building a home disaster kit can be found online at <a href="http://www.ready.gov">www.ready.gov</a>.

Governor Kelly signs proclamation for Severe Weather/Flood Preparedness Week

By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/02/25/kansas-property-tax-where-do-tax-cuts-stand-so-far/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=Free%20stories%20from%20The%20Beacon&amp;utm_campaign=Republishing%20email%2022525">The Beacon</a>

Debbie Detmer has a lot of memories in her house. She’s lived there 40 years and raised three children in it.&nbsp;

Detmer is retired now and lives on a fixed income in Johnson County. She hasn’t done any work on her house, yet she pays more in property taxes each year. The bill is rising so much it’s becoming too much to manage.&nbsp;

Last year, she paid $100 more a month and this year she is paying $50 more a month in property taxes. That’s before her homeowner’s insurance goes up because a more expensive house means more expensive insurance.&nbsp;

Her property taxes are making her choose between paying for taxes or other essentials — compromising her retirement.&nbsp;

“You keep turning the heat down. You keep (it) hotter in the summer,” she said. “You just got to cut back.”&nbsp;

Lawmakers have multiple tax proposals&nbsp;

Kansas lawmakers are trying to ease the property tax burden, but&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/02/21/new-kansas-laws-lawmakers-advance-dozens-of-bills/">halfway through the session</a>&nbsp;it doesn’t look like there’s consensus on how to do so.&nbsp;

Constitutional amendments on property taxes have headlined the tax cut debate so far.

The Senate passed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1603/">3% cap on valuation increases</a>. Property taxes could increase more than 3% in a year, but the appraised value of a home would be capped at 3% unless it was renovated or qualifies for other exemptions.

The House has a similar proposal that would use a rolling average of a home’s value, likely a six-year rolling average.

Both ideas would need to be approved by voters.&nbsp;

The Senate’s proposal passed with more than a two-thirds majority. But the House hasn’t acted on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hcr5011/">valuation cap proposal</a>.&nbsp;

House Committee on Taxation chair Rep. Adam Smith, a Weskan Republican, said these constitutional amendments are gimmicks that don’t provide real relief. He isn’t alone. Some Senate Republicans voted against the 3% cap and almost every Senate Democrat opposed it.&nbsp;

Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said this is California tax policy that shouldn’t come to Kansas.&nbsp;

Senate Democrats have instead proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb217/">increasing property tax exemptions</a>&nbsp;from $75,000 to $125,000. Democrats will also get a hearing on a bill expanding “<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb215/">the property tax rebate program</a>&nbsp;for seniors and disabled veterans by excluding Social Security payments from the definition of household income and increasing the household income and appraised value thresholds for eligibility related to increased property tax homestead claims.”&nbsp;

Sen. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, has another idea. He tried to amend the 3% cap during an early February floor debate to tie tax increases with inflation. Property taxes could only rise with the rate of inflation. Taxing bodies could still raise taxes higher than inflation, but that would require voters to approve of the increase.&nbsp;Owens’ amendment failed.&nbsp;

“We certainly cannot predict the actions of the other chamber,” Owens said during the Senate debate. “It is generally assumed that (<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1603/">this constitutional amendment</a>) is not the final product. If this is not the final product, we want to go in with the strongest position possible on truly giving our taxpayers a tax break.”&nbsp;

Concern about a 3% cap is simple. Capping the appraised value doesn’t stop governing bodies from just raising property taxes anyway. Agricultural associations and business lobbyists also worry that capping residential valuations would then shift more tax burden to farms and businesses.&nbsp;

Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican, is the chair of the Senate Committee on Assessment and Taxation. She is leading the push to pass the constitutional amendment. She disagrees that her 3% cap does nothing. She’s looked back at decades of tax rates and has seen valuations jump. Had the cap been in place, those valuations would not have jumped as high and those homeowners would pay less in property taxes.&nbsp;

The property tax cap also would start based on 2022 home values. That would cap property tax increases before a recent surge in valuations.

Tyson said she’s seen someone’s property tax rise even though they did no work on their house. The price jumped because their neighbor renovated their home. The current system doesn’t work, she said.&nbsp;

“We are not inventing the wheel here,” Tyson said at a past debate. “We have looked to other states to see what to model after.”

For Detmer, the homeowner on a fixed income, property tax relief needs to come soon. She might have to move, and depending where she buys, that could mean moving farther away from her grandchildren.&nbsp;

Property taxes mean cutting back, Detmer said. But she’s annoyed that the county government doesn’t cut back as hard as she does.&nbsp;

“When I bought it, I had no intention of moving,” Detmer said. “I raised my family here. I have no intentions of going anywhere unless (taxes) force me out.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740674495312.jpeg" alt="Lawmakers may be hashing out how to provide tax relief, but there is bipartisan consensus on the need to address property taxes. Photo by Niko Schmidt / The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>Lawmakers may be hashing out how to provide tax relief, but there is bipartisan consensus on the need to address property taxes. Photo by Niko Schmidt / The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/02/25/kansas-property-tax-where-do-tax-cuts-stand-so-far/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=Free%20stories%20from%20The%20Beacon&amp;utm_campaign=Republishing%20email%2022525">The Beacon</a>Debbie Detmer has a lot of memories in her house. She’s lived there 40 years and raised three children in it.&nbsp;Detmer is retired now and lives on a fixed income in Johnson County. She hasn’t done any work on her house, yet she pays more in property taxes each year. The bill is rising so much it’s becoming too much to manage.&nbsp;Last year, she paid $100 more a month and this year she is paying $50 more a month in property taxes. That’s before her homeowner’s insurance goes up because a more expensive house means more expensive insurance.&nbsp;Her property taxes are making her choose between paying for taxes or other essentials — compromising her retirement.&nbsp;“You keep turning the heat down. You keep (it) hotter in the summer,” she said. “You just got to cut back.”&nbsp;<h2>Lawmakers have multiple tax proposals&nbsp;</h2>Kansas lawmakers are trying to ease the property tax burden, but&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/02/21/new-kansas-laws-lawmakers-advance-dozens-of-bills/">halfway through the session</a>&nbsp;it doesn’t look like there’s consensus on how to do so.&nbsp;Constitutional amendments on property taxes have headlined the tax cut debate so far.The Senate passed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1603/">3% cap on valuation increases</a>. Property taxes could increase more than 3% in a year, but the appraised value of a home would be capped at 3% unless it was renovated or qualifies for other exemptions.The House has a similar proposal that would use a rolling average of a home’s value, likely a six-year rolling average.Both ideas would need to be approved by voters.&nbsp;The Senate’s proposal passed with more than a two-thirds majority. But the House hasn’t acted on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hcr5011/">valuation cap proposal</a>.&nbsp;House Committee on Taxation chair Rep. Adam Smith, a Weskan Republican, said these constitutional amendments are gimmicks that don’t provide real relief. He isn’t alone. Some Senate Republicans voted against the 3% cap and almost every Senate Democrat opposed it.&nbsp;Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said this is California tax policy that shouldn’t come to Kansas.&nbsp;Senate Democrats have instead proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb217/">increasing property tax exemptions</a>&nbsp;from $75,000 to $125,000. Democrats will also get a hearing on a bill expanding “<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb215/">the property tax rebate program</a>&nbsp;for seniors and disabled veterans by excluding Social Security payments from the definition of household income and increasing the household income and appraised value thresholds for eligibility related to increased property tax homestead claims.”&nbsp;Sen. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, has another idea. He tried to amend the 3% cap during an early February floor debate to tie tax increases with inflation. Property taxes could only rise with the rate of inflation. Taxing bodies could still raise taxes higher than inflation, but that would require voters to approve of the increase.&nbsp;Owens’ amendment failed.&nbsp;“We certainly cannot predict the actions of the other chamber,” Owens said during the Senate debate. “It is generally assumed that (<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1603/">this constitutional amendment</a>) is not the final product. If this is not the final product, we want to go in with the strongest position possible on truly giving our taxpayers a tax break.”&nbsp;<h2>Debate over passed plans</h2>Concern about a 3% cap is simple. Capping the appraised value doesn’t stop governing bodies from just raising property taxes anyway. Agricultural associations and business lobbyists also worry that capping residential valuations would then shift more tax burden to farms and businesses.&nbsp;Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican, is the chair of the Senate Committee on Assessment and Taxation. She is leading the push to pass the constitutional amendment. She disagrees that her 3% cap does nothing. She’s looked back at decades of tax rates and has seen valuations jump. Had the cap been in place, those valuations would not have jumped as high and those homeowners would pay less in property taxes.&nbsp;The property tax cap also would start based on 2022 home values. That would cap property tax increases before a recent surge in valuations.Tyson said she’s seen someone’s property tax rise even though they did no work on their house. The price jumped because their neighbor renovated their home. The current system doesn’t work, she said.&nbsp;“We are not inventing the wheel here,” Tyson said at a past debate. “We have looked to other states to see what to model after.”For Detmer, the homeowner on a fixed income, property tax relief needs to come soon. She might have to move, and depending where she buys, that could mean moving farther away from her grandchildren.&nbsp;Property taxes mean cutting back, Detmer said. But she’s annoyed that the county government doesn’t cut back as hard as she does.&nbsp;“When I bought it, I had no intention of moving,” Detmer said. “I raised my family here. I have no intentions of going anywhere unless (taxes) force me out.”

Kansas lawmakers offer dueling ideas on property tax relief

For the first time in school history, the Manhattan High Schools Boys Wrestling&nbsp; Team has won back to back 6A State Championships. The Girls Team finished 8th. Hutchinson wins an individual state title for the 3rd consecutive year! 

USD 383 - Manhattan High School release-For the first time in school history, the Manhattan High Schools Boys Wrestling&nbsp; Team has won back to back 6A State Championships. The Girls Team finished 8th. Hutchinson wins an individual state title for the 3rd consecutive year! ChampionsBoys132lb: Caeleb HutchinsonGirls135lb: Alayna SliferBoys Placers:106: 5th Place - Franke Force113: 3rd Place - Jack Hutchinson126: 3rd Place - Cameron Coonrod 144: 2nd Place- Brecken Crist-Funk150: 3rd Place - Logan Lagerman175: 3rd Place - Max Evans-Pryor190: 6th Place - Ben Uher215: 2nd Place- Landon DobsonGirls placers:100: 4th Place - Eva Lucios125: 6th Place - Evelyn Thornburg130: 4th Place - Eleanor Radi 140: 6th Place - Tierra Young145: 5th Place - Sophia Hoeme

Manhattan High Boys win 6A State Wrestling Title for second straight year

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

The most extensive database on Vietnam War causalities was the passion of a man from Hays.

The late Richard Coffelt, a longtime Hays attorney, spent years and his own money researching and amassing the <a href="https://www.coffeltdatabase.org/">Coffelt Database</a>, which is now available for free through the National Archives.

Although others contributed to the database and Coffelt wanted the record source named something more accessible, the database was named in honor of him.

Jo Ann Jennings, Coffelt's wife, recounted information about the database during a lecture at the Hays VFW on Feb. 16.

Coffelt was a U.S. Army veteran who served during the Korean War. He had no connection with the Vietnam War.

However, in 1980, he became acquainted with the mother of&nbsp;Gary Lee Binder of Hays. Gary Binder, who served with the Navy, was killed in action in 1967 in Vietnam, and Coffelt wanted to learn more about the circumstances of Binder's death.

Jennings explained this was before the rise of personal computing and Google, which meant hours spent at libraries, especially the&nbsp;Presidential Library of Lyndon Baines Johnson in Austin, Texas. She said she spent many vacations accompanying Richard on research trips, sometimes at his side in study rooms.

Johnson sent a letter of condolence to every family of a service member killed in Vietnam during his administration. Those letters included the unit numbers of the service members, which made them valuable in Coffelt's research.

Jennings said Richard spent countless hours taking notes on yellow legal pads.

Coffelt saw the need to connect soldiers with other soldiers. The men who served wanted to know what had happened to their buddies.

Jennings said Coffelt was interested in working on the research because the federal government didn't keep track of the units the men who were killed in action were from.

He said having a unit designation was the most important thing to know if you wanted to know what happened to your friend.

“I felt that if I just looked long enough, hard enough, I would hit the mother lode,” Coffelt was quoted as saying in a story published in the February 2012 edition of the VVA Veteran magazine. 

“I still felt that there had to be some government source that would have all this information. It became kind of a game to try and locate the information in some government repository somewhere.”

In 1993-94, after PCs had become commonplace, Tom Holloway (Emory University, Atlanta) changed the landscape by obtaining the Department of Defense's casualty database and the Army Adjutant General's database in digital form, according to the database's website.

"Using the university's mainframe computers to read the reel-to-reel computer tapes,&nbsp;Holloway integrated the two databases and converted the information into a commonly used small-computer format. The "Holloway Database" effectively became the public's sole source of information regarding all American Vietnam dead," the database website said.

The database website said that in the late 1990s, others joined Coffelt's effort, contributing information and collating the collected material into digital form using the Holloway database as a baseline, the database said.

"The additional resources allowed the project's scope to expand to include units of assignment information for all service branches," according to the database's website. "In 2002, an early version of the Coffelt Database was deeded to the National Archives, which made it available online as a searchable database," the database said.

Jennings said Coffelt amassed a library that filled a room floor to ceiling with more than 300 books on Vietnam. She said her husband had read every book.

She said her husband had an almost photographic memory of the information. She recalled a person from Australia writing Coffelt, asking him if he might know what happened to his uncle.&nbsp;

Without the need to look at any source, Coffelt was able to write him a page of the entire account of the battle in which the man's uncle was killed and what happened in that battle.

"He had super-detailed information just from his remembrance," Jennings said.

A Vietnam veteran who worked on the database with Coffelt spoke at his funeral and said, "Richard knew more about what happened in Vietnam than any soldier that was there, and he wasn't there."

Today, the database contains more than 60,000 names and more than 1 million pieces of information. Gary L. Noller, Co. B, 1/46th Infantry, Vietnam 1970-71, called the database a gift to and for Vietnam veterans and their families.

He said in a letter on the database, often, the child or grandchild of a Vietnam casualty wishes to contact a veteran who served with their deceased family member.

Prior to the Coffelt Database, a search of this kind was often overwhelming. The official record listed casualties by unit at the division or brigade level,&nbsp;Noller said in his letter.

Coffelt's research expanded the casualty database to list the company and battalion-level casualties, Noller said.

"This effectively reduced the search for a veteran from a magnitude of 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 100. It can be said that the Coffelt Database made the search at least 100 times easier to conduct,"&nbsp;Noller said.

Vietnam veteran Dick Arnold worked on the database with Coffelt.&nbsp;

In a 2011 letter published on the database's website, he said, "I consider my participation in the creation and continued improvement of The Coffelt Database to be one of the proudest parts of my life. I also consider it a singular honor to have known and worked with Richard these last few years. All of us Vietnam veterans owe him a huge debt ..."

Although Coffelt and the others who contributed to the database were offered money to privatize the data, Coffelt and his fellow researchers insisted the database remain a free, open-source of information, Jennings said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740765066874.png" alt="Richard Coffelt Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Richard Coffelt Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post The most extensive database on Vietnam War causalities was the passion of a man from Hays.The late Richard Coffelt, a longtime Hays attorney, spent years and his own money researching and amassing the <a href="https://www.coffeltdatabase.org/">Coffelt Database</a>, which is now available for free through the National Archives.Although others contributed to the database and Coffelt wanted the record source named something more accessible, the database was named in honor of him.Jo Ann Jennings, Coffelt's wife, recounted information about the database during a lecture at the Hays VFW on Feb. 16.Coffelt was a U.S. Army veteran who served during the Korean War. He had no connection with the Vietnam War.However, in 1980, he became acquainted with the mother of&nbsp;Gary Lee Binder of Hays. Gary Binder, who served with the Navy, was killed in action in 1967 in Vietnam, and Coffelt wanted to learn more about the circumstances of Binder's death.Jennings explained this was before the rise of personal computing and Google, which meant hours spent at libraries, especially the&nbsp;Presidential Library of Lyndon Baines Johnson in Austin, Texas. She said she spent many vacations accompanying Richard on research trips, sometimes at his side in study rooms.Johnson sent a letter of condolence to every family of a service member killed in Vietnam during his administration. Those letters included the unit numbers of the service members, which made them valuable in Coffelt's research.Jennings said Richard spent countless hours taking notes on yellow legal pads.Coffelt saw the need to connect soldiers with other soldiers. The men who served wanted to know what had happened to their buddies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740519068072.png" alt="Richard Coffelt when he was in the service. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Richard Coffelt when he was in the service. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Jennings said Coffelt was interested in working on the research because the federal government didn't keep track of the units the men who were killed in action were from.He said having a unit designation was the most important thing to know if you wanted to know what happened to your friend.“I felt that if I just looked long enough, hard enough, I would hit the mother lode,” Coffelt was quoted as saying in a story published in the February 2012 edition of the VVA Veteran magazine. “I still felt that there had to be some government source that would have all this information. It became kind of a game to try and locate the information in some government repository somewhere.”In 1993-94, after PCs had become commonplace, Tom Holloway (Emory University, Atlanta) changed the landscape by obtaining the Department of Defense's casualty database and the Army Adjutant General's database in digital form, according to the database's website."Using the university's mainframe computers to read the reel-to-reel computer tapes,&nbsp;Holloway integrated the two databases and converted the information into a commonly used small-computer format. The "Holloway Database" effectively became the public's sole source of information regarding all American Vietnam dead," the database website said.The database website said that in the late 1990s, others joined Coffelt's effort, contributing information and collating the collected material into digital form using the Holloway database as a baseline, the database said."The additional resources allowed the project's scope to expand to include units of assignment information for all service branches," according to the database's website. "In 2002, an early version of the Coffelt Database was deeded to the National Archives, which made it available online as a searchable database," the database said.Jennings said Coffelt amassed a library that filled a room floor to ceiling with more than 300 books on Vietnam. She said her husband had read every book.She said her husband had an almost photographic memory of the information. She recalled a person from Australia writing Coffelt, asking him if he might know what happened to his uncle.&nbsp;Without the need to look at any source, Coffelt was able to write him a page of the entire account of the battle in which the man's uncle was killed and what happened in that battle."He had super-detailed information just from his remembrance," Jennings said.A Vietnam veteran who worked on the database with Coffelt spoke at his funeral and said, "Richard knew more about what happened in Vietnam than any soldier that was there, and he wasn't there."Today, the database contains more than 60,000 names and more than 1 million pieces of information. Gary L. Noller, Co. B, 1/46th Infantry, Vietnam 1970-71, called the database a gift to and for Vietnam veterans and their families.He said in a letter on the database, often, the child or grandchild of a Vietnam casualty wishes to contact a veteran who served with their deceased family member.Prior to the Coffelt Database, a search of this kind was often overwhelming. The official record listed casualties by unit at the division or brigade level,&nbsp;Noller said in his letter.Coffelt's research expanded the casualty database to list the company and battalion-level casualties, Noller said."This effectively reduced the search for a veteran from a magnitude of 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 100. It can be said that the Coffelt Database made the search at least 100 times easier to conduct,"&nbsp;Noller said.Vietnam veteran Dick Arnold worked on the database with Coffelt.&nbsp;In a 2011 letter published on the database's website, he said, "I consider my participation in the creation and continued improvement of The Coffelt Database to be one of the proudest parts of my life. I also consider it a singular honor to have known and worked with Richard these last few years. All of us Vietnam veterans owe him a huge debt ..."Although Coffelt and the others who contributed to the database were offered money to privatize the data, Coffelt and his fellow researchers insisted the database remain a free, open-source of information, Jennings said.By 2009, Coffelt developed Lewy body dementia. He died on Jan. 25, 2012.Hays VVA Chapter 939&nbsp;dedicated a plaque at the Hays Regional Airport to honor Coffelt's work in creating the database.Not only is the Coffelt database still available and in use today. But a story on the database sparked an unlikely friendship between Jennings and a WWII veteran who read a story on the database in a veterans magazine.Frank Malizia, who was 92 at the time, read that story and recognized Hays as a familiar place. He had been stationed in Great Bend during the war and was familiar with Hays and Ellis County. This led him to contact Jennings.Read more on Malizia and Jennings' long friendship and correspondents at&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/74f5a4c8-b37b-458a-b1a8-ddb7a744b869">NWester: WWII soldier laid to rest next to 'love of his life' in Antonino</a>.You can access the Coffelt Database online for free. <a href="https://www.coffeltdatabase.org/">Click here for a link</a>.

Local