Kevin Suther is the new Superintendent of Schools for Chapman USD 473. He had been serving as interim superintendent since early September but was promoted to the permanent position by the school board this week.

Suther has been an administrator at the high school level in Chapman for 21 years, including many years as the high school principal. "I've become very invested in the school, invested into the community. The next progression I've always thought about was being superintendent."

Suther noted that it's exciting for him and also could be a challenge. "But I hope that it's going to be a positive challenge to help out our district in the right direction."

The new superintendent has been a part of the process in the district. "Our big thing is systematically bringing our district together. " The Chapman district covers 550 square miles with elementary, middle and high schools. "My biggest push is to be able to get input from all different levels. We've really put together a strong district level team which includes administrators and coordinators. The next level we've actually put together this year is building level teams. "

There are also new professional learning communities that include teacher teams that meet every week. "It doesn't come from just one person. It should come from a united group working together towards a common goal, " said Suther.

Suther succeeds Jerry Hodson in the superintendent's post. Hodson was placed on paid administrative leave in early September and later resigned.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634862253589.jpeg" alt="USD 473 Superintendent of Schools Kevin Suther" />
 <figcaption>USD 473 Superintendent of Schools Kevin Suther</figcaption>
 </figure>Kevin Suther is the new Superintendent of Schools for Chapman USD 473. He had been serving as interim superintendent since early September but was promoted to the permanent position by the school board this week.Suther has been an administrator at the high school level in Chapman for 21 years, including many years as the high school principal. "I've become very invested in the school, invested into the community. The next progression I've always thought about was being superintendent."Suther noted that it's exciting for him and also could be a challenge. "But I hope that it's going to be a positive challenge to help out our district in the right direction."The new superintendent has been a part of the process in the district. "Our big thing is systematically bringing our district together. " The Chapman district covers 550 square miles with elementary, middle and high schools. "My biggest push is to be able to get input from all different levels. We've really put together a strong district level team which includes administrators and coordinators. The next level we've actually put together this year is building level teams. "There are also new professional learning communities that include teacher teams that meet every week. "It doesn't come from just one person. It should come from a united group working together towards a common goal, " said Suther.Suther succeeds Jerry Hodson in the superintendent's post. Hodson was placed on paid administrative leave in early September and later resigned.

Chapman USD 473 promotes Suther to superintendent

Registrations are now being taken for the <a href="https://web.junctioncitychamber.org/events/26thAnnual%20Christmas%20Parade-17116/register">26th Annual Christmas Parade</a> from 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK and the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce.&nbsp; This Christmas tradition is the day after Thanksgiving Friday, November 26th. The parade follows a route from 6th and Eisenhower Streets and makes its way east on 6th Street to the downtown area. It also features a visit by Santa Claus. The Parade theme this year is "Christmas at the Movies." Awards presented prior to the parade include:

$200 Mayor's Award - Best use of Theme, sponsored by Central National Bank

$150 Chamber Award - Best Commercial Float, sponsored by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce

$150 County Commission Award - Best Non-Profit/Religious/Government Float, sponsored by the Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

$150 Founder's Award - Creativity and Originality, sponsored by D.E.L. Motors

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634158783306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Registrations are now being taken for the <a href="https://web.junctioncitychamber.org/events/26thAnnual%20Christmas%20Parade-17116/register">26th Annual Christmas Parade</a> from 107.9 FM/1420 KJCK and the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce.&nbsp; This Christmas tradition is the day after Thanksgiving Friday, November 26th. The parade follows a route from 6th and Eisenhower Streets and makes its way east on 6th Street to the downtown area. It also features a visit by Santa Claus. The Parade theme this year is "Christmas at the Movies." Awards presented prior to the parade include:$200 Mayor's Award - Best use of Theme, sponsored by Central National Bank$150 Chamber Award - Best Commercial Float, sponsored by the Junction City Area Chamber of Commerce$150 County Commission Award - Best Non-Profit/Religious/Government Float, sponsored by the Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau.$150 Founder's Award - Creativity and Originality, sponsored by D.E.L. Motors$150 Youth Award, Youth Involvement.

Christmas Parade Registration Now Open

RILEY COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Thursday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2016 Subaru Crosstrek driven by Dakota G. Swanson, 26, Wichita, was eastbound on Kansas 18 just west of Davis Drive and struck deer.

EMS transported&nbsp;Swanson to Via Christi in Manhattan. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RILEY COUNTY—A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Thursday in Riley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a&nbsp; 2016 Subaru Crosstrek driven by Dakota G. Swanson, 26, Wichita, was eastbound on Kansas 18 just west of Davis Drive and struck deer.EMS transported&nbsp;Swanson to Via Christi in Manhattan. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after SUV strikes a deer

Junction City will host Highland Park in football Friday night and there will be a food drive at the stadium. You can bring a canned food item for the the Geary County Food Pantry. The drop off for the food items will be near the ticket booths.

Kickoff is set 7 p.m. It will also be Senior Night.

You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM. The pregame broadcast will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Junction City will host Highland Park in football Friday night and there will be a food drive at the stadium. You can bring a canned food item for the the Geary County Food Pantry. The drop off for the food items will be near the ticket booths.Kickoff is set 7 p.m. It will also be Senior Night.You can hear the game on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM. The pregame broadcast will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Food drive will support the Geary County Food Pantry

There will be a vaccine clinic at the Junction City Animal Shelter on Saturday, Nov. 6. All vaccines will be $10 each. Rabies, Distemper / Parvo/Adenovirus Type 2/Parainfluenza Combo, FVRCP ( Feline Vaccine ) and Oral Bordetella will offered.

According Shelter Director Vanessa Gray said the hours for the clinic will be 1-5 p.m. "You will drive up, it will be kind of a drive through type thing so you'll drive up to our front door when it's your turn and come on in. We'll get those taken care of for you. " The vaccines will be administered inside one family at a time, and there is no limit on&nbsp; the number of animals you can bring to be vaccinated. Cash or card will be accepted for payment.

There will be a vaccine clinic at the Junction City Animal Shelter on Saturday, Nov. 6. All vaccines will be $10 each. Rabies, Distemper / Parvo/Adenovirus Type 2/Parainfluenza Combo, FVRCP ( Feline Vaccine ) and Oral Bordetella will offered.According Shelter Director Vanessa Gray said the hours for the clinic will be 1-5 p.m. "You will drive up, it will be kind of a drive through type thing so you'll drive up to our front door when it's your turn and come on in. We'll get those taken care of for you. " The vaccines will be administered inside one family at a time, and there is no limit on&nbsp; the number of animals you can bring to be vaccinated. Cash or card will be accepted for payment.

Animal Shelter will host a vaccination clinic

Sons of the American Legion will host a meal Friday, Nov. 5 from 5:30 - 7p.m. at the Legion. The menu will include barbecue spare ribs, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and a tropical fruit. The cost of the meal will be $10.

Meals are open to the public. RSVP by calling 785-238-2432 or sign up in the American Legion lounge. Facebook or email al45earlcgormley@gmail.com with the number in the party that will be attending by Wednesday, Nov. 3. This is a dine-in or carry-out meal.

Sons of the American Legion will host a meal Friday, Nov. 5 from 5:30 - 7p.m. at the Legion. The menu will include barbecue spare ribs, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and a tropical fruit. The cost of the meal will be $10.Meals are open to the public. RSVP by calling 785-238-2432 or sign up in the American Legion lounge. Facebook or email al45earlcgormley@gmail.com with the number in the party that will be attending by Wednesday, Nov. 3. This is a dine-in or carry-out meal.

Sons of the American Legion schedule a meal

One of the major projects in the nearly $1.4 million Junction City street maintenance program involves mill and overlay of Ash Street from Washington to Spring Valley Road. Ray Ibarra, Public Works Director, said Ash has been completed from Washington to U.S. 77. " We still have to go from 77 to Spring Valley. "

Work still also has to be completed in&nbsp; the Wheatland residential area. Franklin Street from Grant Ave. to 6th Street is another key project that has been completed.

Ibarra noted that the budget for street maintenance in 2022 will total approximately $1.3 million.

One of the major projects in the nearly $1.4 million Junction City street maintenance program involves mill and overlay of Ash Street from Washington to Spring Valley Road. Ray Ibarra, Public Works Director, said Ash has been completed from Washington to U.S. 77. " We still have to go from 77 to Spring Valley. "Work still also has to be completed in&nbsp; the Wheatland residential area. Franklin Street from Grant Ave. to 6th Street is another key project that has been completed.Ibarra noted that the budget for street maintenance in 2022 will total approximately $1.3 million.

Street maintenance program moves forward

Sundown Salute Committee Chair Michelle Stimatze confirmed this week that there has been discussion about possibly moving the Fourth of July celebration to Milford Lake, but there have been no final decisions by the committee.

Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel wants the celebration to remain in the city. "I think we need to have it here in town. The City offers a lot of resources that we've put in place." Dinkel pointed to the effort to put in place state of the art electrical hookups. "I also think in town you have all the City staff, be it parks, public works and also our police department. Would be here but wouldn't be out at the lake because not in our jurisdiction."

Next year will be the 50th year for Sundown Salute.

Sundown Salute Committee Chair Michelle Stimatze confirmed this week that there has been discussion about possibly moving the Fourth of July celebration to Milford Lake, but there have been no final decisions by the committee.Junction City Manager Allen Dinkel wants the celebration to remain in the city. "I think we need to have it here in town. The City offers a lot of resources that we've put in place." Dinkel pointed to the effort to put in place state of the art electrical hookups. "I also think in town you have all the City staff, be it parks, public works and also our police department. Would be here but wouldn't be out at the lake because not in our jurisdiction."Next year will be the 50th year for Sundown Salute.

City Manager favors keeping Sundown Salute in town

Business After Hours will be hosted by Konza Prairie Community Health Center, 361 Grant Ave. on Thursday from 5-7 p.m. The event will be held outdoors in the parking lot. The Chamber of Commerce said there will be free appetizers and refreshments available.

Business After Hours will be hosted by Konza Prairie Community Health Center, 361 Grant Ave. on Thursday from 5-7 p.m. The event will be held outdoors in the parking lot. The Chamber of Commerce said there will be free appetizers and refreshments available.

Business After Hours will be held on Thursday

There are plans to replace the US-40 ( East 6th viaduct ) bridge in 2022. Junction City manager Allen Dinkel said the city commission has agreed to work with KDOT on the project. "It is a city street but also a highway that KDOT has through here. They're going to be replacing the bridge next year at all their cost. " There will not be any cost for the city with the exception of some beautification work with lighting.

Dinkel expects the project to be bid out in the spring and the work to be undertaken beginning in the summer.&nbsp; Detours will involve use of the exit 296 off I-70 at South Washington Street. Inside the city he anticipates motorists will use streets near the bridge site such as 8th Street and East Chestnut.&nbsp; The bridge lies on a direct route between Junction City and Grandview Plaza so detours will have to be utilized.

There are plans to replace the US-40 ( East 6th viaduct ) bridge in 2022. Junction City manager Allen Dinkel said the city commission has agreed to work with KDOT on the project. "It is a city street but also a highway that KDOT has through here. They're going to be replacing the bridge next year at all their cost. " There will not be any cost for the city with the exception of some beautification work with lighting.Dinkel expects the project to be bid out in the spring and the work to be undertaken beginning in the summer.&nbsp; Detours will involve use of the exit 296 off I-70 at South Washington Street. Inside the city he anticipates motorists will use streets near the bridge site such as 8th Street and East Chestnut.&nbsp; The bridge lies on a direct route between Junction City and Grandview Plaza so detours will have to be utilized.

US-40 Business Bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad will be replaced

Governor Laura Kelly today honored minority- and woman-owned businesses and others who help them achieve success as part of Kansas Minority Enterprise Development (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.XiCvBWCulT7_QFoAhKRhiWI_aYsIrURzOT1U5-zm0P8/s/1372079104/br/114319368024-l" target="_blank">MED</a>) Week.

“I am impressed by the outstanding accomplishments and contributions of our state’s minority- and women-owned companies honored today,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“When women and minority-owned businesses succeed, everyone succeeds: our economy, our communities, and our state. This week and every week, my administration will search for opportunities to&nbsp;support&nbsp;them&nbsp;reaching&nbsp;their full potential.”

The Kansas Department of Commerce’s&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.xSqNDzXHtbE28vuZ50u17_hdhBXy3r1Z_NRcN-R1X8U/s/1372079104/br/114319368024-l" target="_blank">Office of Minority and Women Business Development</a>&nbsp;hosted its 36th&nbsp;Annual Minority and Women Business Awards Luncheon Wednesday, Oct. 20, at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka.&nbsp;

Today, minority- and woman-owned businesses have a major economic impact that translates into the creation and maintenance of jobs. These jobs not only sustain the individual worker, but contribute to the economic security of their families, the economic vitality of their communities and of the nation.

“MED Week is a time to spotlight so many outstanding achievements in Kansas, and also showcase the resources available to Kansans who are already in business, or considering a new venture,”&nbsp;Office of Minority and Women Business Development Director Rhonda Harris said. “It’s important that we recognize these efforts during MED Week and every week.”

Companies being recognized during the MED Week celebration include:

Construction Firm Universal Construction Company, Inc. Kansas City

Manufacturing Firm Thimesch Enterprises, LLC dba BEPC Wichita

Professional Service Firm LimeLight Marketing Pittsburg

Retail Firm Reese’s Enterprises, Inc. Ulysses

Service Industry Firm Onyx Salon, Spa and Wellness Cafe Topeka

Supplier/Distributor Firm N’Credibly Sweet, LLC Andover

Construction Firm Blue Bear, Inc. Shawnee

Manufacturing Firm Natural Choice Company St. Mary’s

Professional Service Firm CJD Consulting Solutions, LLC Junction City

Retail Firm Reliant Apparel, LLC Topeka

Service Industry Firm Maze Freight Solutions, Inc. Overland Park&nbsp;

Supplier/Distributor Firm Mid Star Lab, Inc. Tonganoxie

Young Entrepreneur Nelson McConnell Nelson’s Flavorades, LLC Kansas City

Minority Business Advocate Sheila Ellis-Glasper SEG Media Collective, LLC Manhattan

Women Business Advocate Sheri Berger Here To There Consulting Shawnee

Corporation of the Year Kiewit Energy Group Lenexa

Governor Laura Kelly today honored minority- and woman-owned businesses and others who help them achieve success as part of Kansas Minority Enterprise Development (<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.XiCvBWCulT7_QFoAhKRhiWI_aYsIrURzOT1U5-zm0P8/s/1372079104/br/114319368024-l" target="_blank">MED</a>) Week.“I am impressed by the outstanding accomplishments and contributions of our state’s minority- and women-owned companies honored today,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“When women and minority-owned businesses succeed, everyone succeeds: our economy, our communities, and our state. This week and every week, my administration will search for opportunities to&nbsp;support&nbsp;them&nbsp;reaching&nbsp;their full potential.”The Kansas Department of Commerce’s&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.xSqNDzXHtbE28vuZ50u17_hdhBXy3r1Z_NRcN-R1X8U/s/1372079104/br/114319368024-l" target="_blank">Office of Minority and Women Business Development</a>&nbsp;hosted its 36th&nbsp;Annual Minority and Women Business Awards Luncheon Wednesday, Oct. 20, at the Capitol Plaza Hotel in Topeka.&nbsp;Today, minority- and woman-owned businesses have a major economic impact that translates into the creation and maintenance of jobs. These jobs not only sustain the individual worker, but contribute to the economic security of their families, the economic vitality of their communities and of the nation.“MED Week is a time to spotlight so many outstanding achievements in Kansas, and also showcase the resources available to Kansans who are already in business, or considering a new venture,”&nbsp;Office of Minority and Women Business Development Director Rhonda Harris said. “It’s important that we recognize these efforts during MED Week and every week.”Companies being recognized during the MED Week celebration include:Woman-Owned BusinessesConstruction Firm Universal Construction Company, Inc. Kansas CityManufacturing Firm Thimesch Enterprises, LLC dba BEPC WichitaProfessional Service Firm LimeLight Marketing PittsburgRetail Firm Reese’s Enterprises, Inc. UlyssesService Industry Firm Onyx Salon, Spa and Wellness Cafe TopekaSupplier/Distributor Firm N’Credibly Sweet, LLC AndoverMinority-Owned BusinessesConstruction Firm Blue Bear, Inc. ShawneeManufacturing Firm Natural Choice Company St. Mary’sProfessional Service Firm CJD Consulting Solutions, LLC Junction CityRetail Firm Reliant Apparel, LLC TopekaService Industry Firm Maze Freight Solutions, Inc. Overland Park&nbsp;Supplier/Distributor Firm Mid Star Lab, Inc. TonganoxieYoung Entrepreneur Nelson McConnell Nelson’s Flavorades, LLC Kansas CityMinority Business Advocate Sheila Ellis-Glasper SEG Media Collective, LLC ManhattanWomen Business Advocate Sheri Berger Here To There Consulting ShawneeCorporation of the Year Kiewit Energy Group Lenexa

Governor Honors Kansas Minority- and Women-Owned Businesses

Geary County CVB officials report that 91 boats are signed up for the Catmaster Tournament Trail event this week at Milford Lake.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There will be a captains meeting from 5-8 p.m. Thursday at the Milford Lake Conference Center. Fishing will begin at 7 a.m. Friday and Saturday with a stop time of 3 p.m. and weigh-in beginning both days at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Awards will be presented Saturday after the final weigh-in.

Geary County CVB officials report that 91 boats are signed up for the Catmaster Tournament Trail event this week at Milford Lake.&nbsp;&nbsp;There will be a captains meeting from 5-8 p.m. Thursday at the Milford Lake Conference Center. Fishing will begin at 7 a.m. Friday and Saturday with a stop time of 3 p.m. and weigh-in beginning both days at 3:30 p.m.&nbsp;Awards will be presented Saturday after the final weigh-in.

Catmaster Tournament Trail comes to Milford Lake

Kansas State Wildcat coach Chris Klieman held his weekly press conference on Tuesday, ahead of this Saturday's game at Texas Tech.

Big weekend for us heading down to Lubbock against a really good Texas Tech team. They're playing well. Happy for Coach (Matt) Wells. He's one of my close friends in the profession and happy to see him having success, doing it in a variety of ways, but an explosive offense, veteran quarterback, a lot of good skill players playing really well up front offensively. Defensively, people have gotten after them a little bit. I think they have some really good talent, some good athletes. They run to the football and they smack you, but they've run into a couple of teams that have been able to rush the football, and then they have to play catch up. That's kind of where we're at right now as far as we need to play from ahead more so than from behind, and that's what we've done the last few weeks is play from behind. That's probably not suited best for us. You see when we play ahead against Stanford or against Nevada, our ability to dictate some of the tempo and pace and calls we make both offensively and defensively. We're playing from behind, we have probably been more aggressive on defense, which causes some bigger plays. Then, offensively, we'd like to be balanced. We're better balanced right now. It's a big week for us, an important week for us. Guys had good spirits and good energy yesterday and are excited for another opportunity.”

On the ability to run the football this week…

“That's really important for us to be able to sustain the run, and then have balance and continue to be able to throw the ball because I think Skylar (Thompson) is playing at a really high level. So, I don't want to take the ball out of his hands, and we also believe there's going to be some wind out there on Saturday. So, based on that, you may have to be able to run the ball a little bit more into a breeze. Then the kicking game becomes a big factor too.”

On the status of defensive end Bronson Massie…

“It's either going to be this week or next week. We're still hoping for this week, and we're just getting into practice today. He's going to do a few things today. We'll see how he responds, but we'll feel confident whether it’s this Saturday and it's a good chance it still could be, if not it should be the next Saturday.”

“I think that's why he's (Skylar Thompson) able to make those plays because Deuce (Vaughn) is an active contributor and people are always knowing where Deuce is, which opens up a lot of guys in the pass game. I think it's opened up Joe Ervin. Joe’s been playing really well. Excited for Joe because he's getting stronger, and we got to find ways to get Joe the football, because Joe is doing some really good things. I like the fact that we have a couple of backs that are explosive guys as well as a really good passing game that you have to account for.”

On seeing the potential of the wide receivers…

“I don't know. We've got good wide receivers. Phillip (Brooks), Malik (Knowles), Landry (Weber) are good players. I think we saw Tyrone Howell can do some things. We've got good players at wide receiver.”

Kansas State Wildcat coach Chris Klieman held his weekly press conference on Tuesday, ahead of this Saturday's game at Texas Tech.Big weekend for us heading down to Lubbock against a really good Texas Tech team. They're playing well. Happy for Coach (Matt) Wells. He's one of my close friends in the profession and happy to see him having success, doing it in a variety of ways, but an explosive offense, veteran quarterback, a lot of good skill players playing really well up front offensively. Defensively, people have gotten after them a little bit. I think they have some really good talent, some good athletes. They run to the football and they smack you, but they've run into a couple of teams that have been able to rush the football, and then they have to play catch up. That's kind of where we're at right now as far as we need to play from ahead more so than from behind, and that's what we've done the last few weeks is play from behind. That's probably not suited best for us. You see when we play ahead against Stanford or against Nevada, our ability to dictate some of the tempo and pace and calls we make both offensively and defensively. We're playing from behind, we have probably been more aggressive on defense, which causes some bigger plays. Then, offensively, we'd like to be balanced. We're better balanced right now. It's a big week for us, an important week for us. Guys had good spirits and good energy yesterday and are excited for another opportunity.”On the ability to run the football this week…“That's really important for us to be able to sustain the run, and then have balance and continue to be able to throw the ball because I think Skylar (Thompson) is playing at a really high level. So, I don't want to take the ball out of his hands, and we also believe there's going to be some wind out there on Saturday. So, based on that, you may have to be able to run the ball a little bit more into a breeze. Then the kicking game becomes a big factor too.”On the status of defensive end Bronson Massie…“It's either going to be this week or next week. We're still hoping for this week, and we're just getting into practice today. He's going to do a few things today. We'll see how he responds, but we'll feel confident whether it’s this Saturday and it's a good chance it still could be, if not it should be the next Saturday.”On the balance on offense…“I think that's why he's (Skylar Thompson) able to make those plays because Deuce (Vaughn) is an active contributor and people are always knowing where Deuce is, which opens up a lot of guys in the pass game. I think it's opened up Joe Ervin. Joe’s been playing really well. Excited for Joe because he's getting stronger, and we got to find ways to get Joe the football, because Joe is doing some really good things. I like the fact that we have a couple of backs that are explosive guys as well as a really good passing game that you have to account for.”On the message to the team…“1-0 today, and 1-0 for the week.”On seeing the potential of the wide receivers…“I don't know. We've got good wide receivers. Phillip (Brooks), Malik (Knowles), Landry (Weber) are good players. I think we saw Tyrone Howell can do some things. We've got good players at wide receiver.”

K-State coach Chris Klieman meets with the media

Junction City, 9-25, will play Derby, 24-11, in the first round of a Class 6A Substate Volleyball Tournament on Saturday at Lawrence Free State High School. 

The other half of the bracket will pit Free State, 22-9, against Haysville Campus, 7-23, at 2 p.m. The Junction City - Derby match will followed with the tournament championship match wrapping up competition for the day.

Junction City, 9-25, will play Derby, 24-11, in the first round of a Class 6A Substate Volleyball Tournament on Saturday at Lawrence Free State High School. The other half of the bracket will pit Free State, 22-9, against Haysville Campus, 7-23, at 2 p.m. The Junction City - Derby match will followed with the tournament championship match wrapping up competition for the day.

Volleyball substate pairings are released

State records were set over the weekend by two local Junction City residents at the University of Lawrence in a USPA Powerlifting meet. 

 Terry Montgomery set the new state record in the men’s open division for deadlifting with a weight of 711 pounds.  Rhonda Freeman beat the records she had previously set in the women’s masters division in all three categories with a squat of 220 pounds, bench of 160 pounds and a deadlift of 275 pounds in her weight division.  Both competitors also brought home the overall best lifter award in the men’s division and women’s division.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

State records were set over the weekend by two local Junction City residents at the University of Lawrence in a USPA Powerlifting meet. Terry Montgomery set the new state record in the men’s open division for deadlifting with a weight of 711 pounds. Rhonda Freeman beat the records she had previously set in the women’s masters division in all three categories with a squat of 220 pounds, bench of 160 pounds and a deadlift of 275 pounds in her weight division. Both competitors also brought home the overall best lifter award in the men’s division and women’s division.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

New records are set in powerlifting

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and ESPN announced Monday that Kansas State’s Homecoming Game against TCU on October 30 will be played at 2:30 p.m., and will be shown on ESPNU.

K-State has won each of the last two games against the Horned Frogs by narrow margins. In 2019 in Manhattan, the Wildcats earned a 24-17 victory, while they edged TCU in Fort Worth last season, 21-14. The Wildcats are 4-3 all-time in home games against TCU, which includes a 2-2 mark in Big 12 play.

As previously announced late Saturday night, K-State at Texas Tech will kick off at 11 a.m., this Saturday inside Jones AT&amp;T Stadium in a game shown on FS1.

Both contests can be heard on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCZK AM.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference and ESPN announced Monday that Kansas State’s Homecoming Game against TCU on October 30 will be played at 2:30 p.m., and will be shown on ESPNU.K-State has won each of the last two games against the Horned Frogs by narrow margins. In 2019 in Manhattan, the Wildcats earned a 24-17 victory, while they edged TCU in Fort Worth last season, 21-14. The Wildcats are 4-3 all-time in home games against TCU, which includes a 2-2 mark in Big 12 play.As previously announced late Saturday night, K-State at Texas Tech will kick off at 11 a.m., this Saturday inside Jones AT&amp;T Stadium in a game shown on FS1.Both contests can be heard on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCZK AM.

K-State football kickoff times are set for next two games

Chapman finished fifth in the boys varsity competition at the NCKL cross country meet.&nbsp;

Drew Elliott led the way with a 3rd place time of 16:38 while Chris Falls finished 13th in 18:24. Bother achieve All League recognition.

Taryn Hoffman finished 24th with a personal record time of 19:43, Raymond Johnson 25th in 19:44, Levi Gaston 28th in 20:05, Travis Leasure 34th in a personal record time of 21:24 and Joey Alonzo 36th in a personal record time of 21:57.

For the varsity girls Paisly Jaderborg achieved All NCKL status with a 12th place time of 24:01.&nbsp; Finishers in the Top 20 medaled.

Chapman finished fifth in the boys varsity competition at the NCKL cross country meet.&nbsp;Drew Elliott led the way with a 3rd place time of 16:38 while Chris Falls finished 13th in 18:24. Bother achieve All League recognition.Taryn Hoffman finished 24th with a personal record time of 19:43, Raymond Johnson 25th in 19:44, Levi Gaston 28th in 20:05, Travis Leasure 34th in a personal record time of 21:24 and Joey Alonzo 36th in a personal record time of 21:57.For the varsity girls Paisly Jaderborg achieved All NCKL status with a 12th place time of 24:01.&nbsp; Finishers in the Top 20 medaled.

Chapman competes at NCKL cross country

LANDOVER, Md. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for 397 yards and engineered three second-half touchdown drives to compensate for a pair of interceptions, leading the Kansas City Chiefs to a 31-13 comeback victory at Washington that got them back to .500. 

After throwing two picks before halftime, Mahomes connected with Tyreek Hill on a 2-yard touchdown pass late in the third quarter and put the game out of reach with a 24-yarder to Demarcus Robinson with 3:14 left in the fourth. In between, new starting running back Darrel Williams rushed for his second TD of the game to help Kansas City (3-3) avoid what would have been an embarrassing loss.

LANDOVER, Md. (AP) — Patrick Mahomes threw for 397 yards and engineered three second-half touchdown drives to compensate for a pair of interceptions, leading the Kansas City Chiefs to a 31-13 comeback victory at Washington that got them back to .500. After throwing two picks before halftime, Mahomes connected with Tyreek Hill on a 2-yard touchdown pass late in the third quarter and put the game out of reach with a 24-yarder to Demarcus Robinson with 3:14 left in the fourth. In between, new starting running back Darrel Williams rushed for his second TD of the game to help Kansas City (3-3) avoid what would have been an embarrassing loss.

Chiefs defeat Washington

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State found itself playing from behind after Iowa State's very first play from scrimmage, suffered sweeping frustration in all three phases of the game, and proved unable to keep running back Breece Hall from enjoying the best game of his career in a 33-20 loss at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. It was the Wildcats' first home loss to the Cyclones since 2004.

Hall rushed for a career-high 197 yards on 30 carries and scored his first of two touchdowns just 12 seconds into the game when he bounced outside and raced 75 yards into the end zone, quieting a crowd that saw the Wildcats, 3-3 overall and 0-3 in the Big 12 Conference.

"We missed a fit and two guys ran into each other, and it popped a big play," K-State head coach Chris Klieman said of Hall's touchdown. "We can't make the critical errors and give a kid of that ability the space to make a big run."

After winning 10 straight in the series, K-State has lost two straight against Iowa State for the first time in 16 years. After starting this season at 3-0 and ranked No. 25 in the Associated Press Poll, the Wildcats have suffered their bumps against arguably the top three teams in the league in Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, and Iowa State.

Asked if he had concern regarding his team's mental ability to bounce back, Klieman replied, "No, not at all."

The Wildcats' inability to slow one of the top rushers in the nation served as only one frustration in a contest that featured inconsistencies on offense, defense, and special teams. K-State struggled to execute the big play, couldn't prevent lengthy Iowa State drives, and a normally excellent kicking game endured a missed field goal and extra point.

Sixth-year senior quarterback Skylar Thompson afterward suggested that he and his teammates needed to take an introspective approach before moving ahead, which begins with Saturday's game at Texas Tech.

"Everybody on our team has to look at themselves in the mirror," he said. "There's more to give. There's more we can do. We have to execute better. We have to find those inches. There are a handful of plays in the game that are dictating the outcomes of the games and we're not making those plays. It's obviously frustrating. I hate to lose."

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Kansas State found itself playing from behind after Iowa State's very first play from scrimmage, suffered sweeping frustration in all three phases of the game, and proved unable to keep running back Breece Hall from enjoying the best game of his career in a 33-20 loss at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. It was the Wildcats' first home loss to the Cyclones since 2004.Hall rushed for a career-high 197 yards on 30 carries and scored his first of two touchdowns just 12 seconds into the game when he bounced outside and raced 75 yards into the end zone, quieting a crowd that saw the Wildcats, 3-3 overall and 0-3 in the Big 12 Conference."We missed a fit and two guys ran into each other, and it popped a big play," K-State head coach Chris Klieman said of Hall's touchdown. "We can't make the critical errors and give a kid of that ability the space to make a big run."After winning 10 straight in the series, K-State has lost two straight against Iowa State for the first time in 16 years. After starting this season at 3-0 and ranked No. 25 in the Associated Press Poll, the Wildcats have suffered their bumps against arguably the top three teams in the league in Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, and Iowa State.Asked if he had concern regarding his team's mental ability to bounce back, Klieman replied, "No, not at all."The Wildcats' inability to slow one of the top rushers in the nation served as only one frustration in a contest that featured inconsistencies on offense, defense, and special teams. K-State struggled to execute the big play, couldn't prevent lengthy Iowa State drives, and a normally excellent kicking game endured a missed field goal and extra point.Sixth-year senior quarterback Skylar Thompson afterward suggested that he and his teammates needed to take an introspective approach before moving ahead, which begins with Saturday's game at Texas Tech."Everybody on our team has to look at themselves in the mirror," he said. "There's more to give. There's more we can do. We have to execute better. We have to find those inches. There are a handful of plays in the game that are dictating the outcomes of the games and we're not making those plays. It's obviously frustrating. I hate to lose."

K-State falls to Iowa State

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Henry Columbi threw for a touchdown, ran for another as Texas Tech had four rushing touchdowns in a 41-14 win over Kansas. 

 Columbi went 14-for-20 for 124 yards passing and added 35 rushing yards while Jason Bean went11-for-21 passing for 80 yards and one interception for Kansas.  Texas Tech led 24-0 at halftime. Donovan Smith added a rushing touchdown in the third quarter.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Henry Columbi threw for a touchdown, ran for another as Texas Tech had four rushing touchdowns in a 41-14 win over Kansas. Columbi went 14-for-20 for 124 yards passing and added 35 rushing yards while Jason Bean went11-for-21 passing for 80 yards and one interception for Kansas. Texas Tech led 24-0 at halftime. Donovan Smith added a rushing touchdown in the third quarter.

Texas Tech defeats Kansas 41-14

Central Plains 32, Hutchinson Central Christian 6

North Cross, Va. 28, St. Michael The Archangel Catholic 7

PREP FOOTBALL=Andale 65, Clearwater 6Andover Central 27, Andover 20Arkansas City 24, Valley Center 21Atchison 51, KC Schlagle 22Atchison County 14, Republic County 12Attica/Argonia 44, Medicine Lodge 14Augusta 28, Abilene 0Axtell 64, Wetmore 16Basehor-Linwood 58, Lansing 13Beloit 50, Minneapolis 0Bennington 46, Lincoln 22Blue Valley 23, BV West 17Bucklin 54, Ingalls 6Buhler 35, Wellington 3Burlingame 58, Maranatha Academy 12Burlington 26, Anderson County 7Cair Paravel 54, Cornerstone Family 12Caney Valley 21, Baxter Springs 0Canton-Galva 62, Solomon 0Canton-Galva 62, Stafford 6Central Heights 19, Uniontown 18Central Plains 32, Hutchinson Central Christian 6Centralia 26, Lyndon 0Chanute 48, Coffeyville 6Chaparral 27, Douglass 0Chapman 55, Council Grove 14Chase County 52, Udall 0Cheney 54, Nickerson 0Cimarron 11, Hays-TMP-Marian 8Circle 33, El Dorado 14Clifton-Clyde 50, Washington County 0Colby 44, Scott City 14Conway Springs 65, Stanton County 0DeSoto 52, Leavenworth 36Derby 42, Maize 41Dighton 46, Minneola 0Dodge City 36, Garden City 29Doniphan West 56, Valley Falls 46Dumas, Texas 30, Ulysses 6Ellis 52, Southwestern Hts. 0Fredonia 30, Riverton 28Frontenac 26, Prairie View 12Galena 38, Cherryvale 0Garden Plain 37, Belle Plaine 7Girard 42, Iola 6Goddard-Eisenhower 33, Great Bend 2Goessel 68, Pretty Prairie 22Goodland 16, Russell 14Hanover 58, Linn 12Haven 20, Hutchinson Trinity 14Hays 47, Maize South 43Hesston 43, Wichita Trinity 7Hiawatha 56, Royal Valley 0Hill City 56, Trego 50Hillsboro 54, Lyons 7Hoisington 48, Norton 21Holcomb 41, Pratt 20Holton 41, Rock Creek 21Hoxie 80, Stockton 0Hugoton 20, Larned 14Hutchinson 28, Wichita Campus 17Independence 42, Labette County 12Inman 60, Remington 0Jackson Heights 48, Valley Heights 12Jayhawk Linn 32, West Franklin 13Jefferson North 22, Troy 12Junction City 30, Emporia 6KC Bishop Ward 49, Osawatomie 0KC Sumner 60, KC Harmon 0Kapaun Mount Carmel 51, Liberal 0Kingman 54, Bluestem 0Kinsley 62, St. John 8La Crosse 62, Pratt Skyline 14Lakeside 64, St. John's Beloit-Tipton 48Lawrence 17, Olathe North 14Lawrence Free State 33, SM East 7Lebo 74, Rural Vista 0Little River 54, Herington 6Louisburg 40, Ottawa 13Lutheran North, Mo. 50, Bishop Miege 34Macksville 52, Kiowa County 6Madison/Hamilton 50, Flinthills 0Manhattan 59, Topeka West 0Marais des Cygnes Valley 60, Hartford 40Marion 34, Sterling 14Marysville 10, Clay Center 3Meade 56, Ness City 6Mission Valley 34, McLouth 6Moundridge 49, Fairfield 0Mulvane 22, McPherson 12Nemaha Central 46, Riverside 12Newton 35, Salina South 27North Cross, Va. 28, St. Michael The Archangel Catholic 7Oakley 52, Salina Sacred Heart 0Olathe Northwest 17, SM South 6Olathe West 31, Olathe South 28Olpe 59, Northern Heights 0Onaga 70, BV Randolph 26Osage City 49, Eureka 6Osborne def. Southern Cloud, forfeitOtis-Bison 68, Chase 14Paola 43, Eudora 42Parsons 21, Columbus 20Peabody-Burns 64, South Haven 34Phillipsburg 26, Ellsworth 14Pike Valley 42, Rock Hills 6Pittsburg 63, KC Wyandotte 16Pittsburg Colgan 41, Erie 8Plainville 55, Ellinwood 0Pleasant Ridge 34, Oskaloosa 14Quinter 58, Wallace County 14Rawlins County 48, Oberlin-Decatur 0Riley County 48, Concordia 7Rose Hill 14, Winfield 12Rossville 24, Silver Lake 19SM Northwest 34, Gardner-Edgerton 21SM West 18, SM North 13Sabetha 56, Jefferson West 13Salina Central 34, Goddard 6Santa Fe Trail 37, Baldwin 28Sedan 60, Cedar Vale/Dexter Co-op 0Sedgwick 56, Elkhart 8Shawnee Heights 23, BV Southwest 7Smith Center 41, Ell-Saline 0Solomon 62, Wakefield 16South Barber 46, Caldwell 34South Gray 23, Hodgeman County 16Southeast 43, Neodesha 7Southeast Saline 45, Smoky Valley 0Spring Hill 32, KC Piper 27St. James Academy 37, BV North 22St. Paul 70, Chetopa 24St. Thomas Aquinas 35, BV Northwest 16Sylvan-Lucas 52, Wilson 0Thunder Ridge 60, Frankfort 12Tonganoxie 49, Bonner Springs 12Topeka Hayden 46, Perry-Lecompton 18Topeka Seaman 20, Topeka 0Triplains-Brewster 44, Logan/Palco 28Victoria 45, Tescott 0Wabaunsee 49, Horton 0Wamego 35, Fort Scott 0Washburn Rural 58, Highland Park 18Wellston, Okla. 48, Wichita Life Prep 34Wellsville 40, Humboldt 0West Elk 60, Oswego 15Wheatland-Grinnell 46, St. Francis 0Wichita Bishop Carroll 34, Wichita West 13Wichita Collegiate 82, Halstead 16Wichita County 66, Spearville 20Wichita East 88, Wichita North 0Wichita Heights 49, Wichita Southeast 6Wichita Independent 26, Sublette 18Wichita Northwest 63, Wichita South 22Yates Center 88, Marmaton Valley 52POSTPONEMENTS AND CANCELLATIONS=Maur Hill - Mount Academy vs. St. Mary's, ccd.Satanta vs. South Central, ccd.Waverly vs. Altoona-Midway, ccd.

Friday night high school football results

WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions more Americans can get a COVID-19 booster and choose a different company’s vaccine for that next shot, federal health officials said Thursday.

Certain people who received Pfizer vaccinations months ago already are eligible for a booster and now the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says specific Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson recipients qualify, too. And in a bigger change, the agency is allowing the flexibility of “mixing and matching” that extra dose regardless of which type people received first.

The Food and Drug Administration had already authorized such an expansion of the nation’s booster campaign on Wednesday, and it was also endorsed Thursday by a CDC advisory panel. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky had the final word on who gets the extra doses.

“These past 20 months have taught us many things, but mostly to have humility,” she told the panel. “We are constantly learning about this virus, growing the evidence base and accumulating more data.”

There still are restrictions on who qualifies and when for a booster. Starting six months past their last Pfizer or Moderna vaccination, people are urged to get a booster if they’re 65 or older, nursing home residents, or at least 50 and at increased risk of severe disease because of health problems. Boosters also were allowed, but not urged, for adults of any age at increased risk of infection because of health problems or their jobs or living conditions. That includes health care workers, teachers and people in jails or homeless shelters.

Moderna’s booster will come at half the dose of the original two shots.

As for recipients of the single-shot J&amp;J vaccine, a COVID-19 booster is recommended for everyone at least two months after their vaccination. That’s because the J&amp;J vaccine hasn’t proved as protective as the two-dose Moderna or Pfizer options.

The CDC panel didn’t explicitly recommend anyone get a different brand than they started with but left open the option — saying only that a booster of some sort was recommended. And some of the advisers said they would prefer that J&amp;J recipients receive a competitor’s booster, citing preliminary data from an ongoing government study that suggested a bigger boost in virus-fighting antibodies from that combination.

“We’re at a different place in the pandemic than we were earlier” when supply constraints meant people had to take whatever shot they were offered, noted CDC adviser Dr. Helen Keipp Talbot of Vanderbilt University.

She called it “priceless” to be able to choose a different kind for the booster if, for example, someone might be at risk for a rare side effect from a specific vaccine.

About two-thirds of Americans eligible for COVID-19 shots are fully vaccinated, and the government says getting first shots to the unvaccinated remain the priority. While health authorities hope boosters will shore up waning immunity against milder coronavirus infections, all the vaccines still offer strong protection against hospitalizations and death, even as the extra-contagious delta variant burned through the country.

And CDC’s advisers wrestled with whether people who didn’t really need boosters might be getting them, especially young, otherwise healthy adults whose only qualification was their job.

Dr. Sarah Long of Drexel University voiced concerns about opening those people to rare but serious side effects from another dose if they already were adequately protected.

“I have my own concerns that we appear to be recommending vaccines for people who I don’t think need it,” added Dr. Beth Bell of the University of Washington.

But she stressed that the vaccines work and that moving forward with the recommendations makes sense for the sake of being clear and allowing flexibility when it comes to boosters.

Despite the concerns by some members, the panels’ votes ended up being unanimous.

The vast majority of the nearly 190 million Americans who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 have received the Pfizer or Moderna options, while J&amp;J recipients account for only about 15 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634854349255.png" alt="CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky had the final word on who gets the extra doses." />
 <figcaption>CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky had the final word on who gets the extra doses.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions more Americans can get a COVID-19 booster and choose a different company’s vaccine for that next shot, federal health officials said Thursday.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qoqia5YkwHc?start=24501" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Certain people who received Pfizer vaccinations months ago already are eligible for a booster and now the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says specific Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson recipients qualify, too. And in a bigger change, the agency is allowing the flexibility of “mixing and matching” that extra dose regardless of which type people received first.The Food and Drug Administration had already authorized such an expansion of the nation’s booster campaign on Wednesday, and it was also endorsed Thursday by a CDC advisory panel. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky had the final word on who gets the extra doses.“These past 20 months have taught us many things, but mostly to have humility,” she told the panel. “We are constantly learning about this virus, growing the evidence base and accumulating more data.”There still are restrictions on who qualifies and when for a booster. Starting six months past their last Pfizer or Moderna vaccination, people are urged to get a booster if they’re 65 or older, nursing home residents, or at least 50 and at increased risk of severe disease because of health problems. Boosters also were allowed, but not urged, for adults of any age at increased risk of infection because of health problems or their jobs or living conditions. That includes health care workers, teachers and people in jails or homeless shelters.Moderna’s booster will come at half the dose of the original two shots.As for recipients of the single-shot J&amp;J vaccine, a COVID-19 booster is recommended for everyone at least two months after their vaccination. That’s because the J&amp;J vaccine hasn’t proved as protective as the two-dose Moderna or Pfizer options.The CDC panel didn’t explicitly recommend anyone get a different brand than they started with but left open the option — saying only that a booster of some sort was recommended. And some of the advisers said they would prefer that J&amp;J recipients receive a competitor’s booster, citing preliminary data from an ongoing government study that suggested a bigger boost in virus-fighting antibodies from that combination.“We’re at a different place in the pandemic than we were earlier” when supply constraints meant people had to take whatever shot they were offered, noted CDC adviser Dr. Helen Keipp Talbot of Vanderbilt University.She called it “priceless” to be able to choose a different kind for the booster if, for example, someone might be at risk for a rare side effect from a specific vaccine.About two-thirds of Americans eligible for COVID-19 shots are fully vaccinated, and the government says getting first shots to the unvaccinated remain the priority. While health authorities hope boosters will shore up waning immunity against milder coronavirus infections, all the vaccines still offer strong protection against hospitalizations and death, even as the extra-contagious delta variant burned through the country.And CDC’s advisers wrestled with whether people who didn’t really need boosters might be getting them, especially young, otherwise healthy adults whose only qualification was their job.Dr. Sarah Long of Drexel University voiced concerns about opening those people to rare but serious side effects from another dose if they already were adequately protected.“I have my own concerns that we appear to be recommending vaccines for people who I don’t think need it,” added Dr. Beth Bell of the University of Washington.But she stressed that the vaccines work and that moving forward with the recommendations makes sense for the sake of being clear and allowing flexibility when it comes to boosters.Despite the concerns by some members, the panels’ votes ended up being unanimous.The vast majority of the nearly 190 million Americans who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 have received the Pfizer or Moderna options, while J&amp;J recipients account for only about 15 million.___

🎥 COVID-19 vaccine: CDC panel backs expanded booster rollout

SEWARD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged human trafficking.

On Thursday, police stopped a westbound mini van on U.S. 54 in Liberal, according to a media release.&nbsp; Through the investigation officers also found 14 passengers in the vehicle who were being smuggled through the United States by a criminal organization, according to the release.

Some of the individuals were stacked on top of each other in the trunk.

Police arrested a 23-year-old man on a requested charge of human trafficking.&nbsp; Police released no additional details

SEWARD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged human trafficking.On Thursday, police stopped a westbound mini van on U.S. 54 in Liberal, according to a media release.&nbsp; Through the investigation officers also found 14 passengers in the vehicle who were being smuggled through the United States by a criminal organization, according to the release.Some of the individuals were stacked on top of each other in the trunk.Police arrested a 23-year-old man on a requested charge of human trafficking.&nbsp; Police released no additional details

Human trafficking: Police find 14 stacked in van in SW Kansas

SUPERIOR, Neb. (AP) — A man who had been fired from a grain elevator in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/nebraska">Nebraska</a>&nbsp;on Thursday returned with a gun and shot three people, killing one, before he was shot and killed by another employee, the Nebraska State Patrol said.

The patrol said the shooting occurred at the Agrex Elevator in Superior, a town in southeast Nebraska near the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;border.

A preliminary investigation showed that Max Hoskinson, 61, of Superior, was fired from the grain elevator on Thursday. He returned around 2 p.m. with a handgun and shot three people, the patrol said.

Another employee retrieved a shotgun from an office and shot Hoskinson, who was pronounced dead at a hospital, according to the patrol.

One of the victims shot by Hoskinson died at the scene. Another was flown to a hospital in Lincoln with injuries considered life-threatening. The third person was treated and released at a hospital in Superior.

Police have not released names of the victims.

&nbsp;NUCKOLL COUNTY, NE. —The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a shooting incident that occurred in Superior Thursday afternoon, according to a media release from the agency.&nbsp;

At approximately 2:00 p.m. Thursday, NSP was dispatched to assist the Nuckolls County Sheriff’s Office and Superior Police Department with response to an active shooter incident at the Agrex Elevator in Superior. The Superior and Nelson Fire Departments also responded to the scene. The facility is located at 1401 E. 3rd&nbsp;Street in Superior.

Upon arrival, investigators located one deceased individual and multiple other victims. The reported shooter was also injured. There were no outstanding suspects at the time investigators arrived on scene.

A preliminary investigation has identified the shooter as Max Hoskinson, 61, of Superior. Hoskinson’s employment with Agrex had been terminated earlier in the day.

Shortly before 2:00 p.m., Hoskinson returned to Agrex with a handgun and opened fire, striking three individuals. An employee then retrieved a shotgun from an office and returned fire, striking Hoskinson.

One of the victims shot by Hoskinson has been pronounced deceased at the scene. Another has been transported by life-flight to Bryan Health West Campus in Lincoln with life-threatening injuries. The third victim has been treated and released from the hospital in Superior. Hoskinson was transported to the hospital in Superior and was pronounced deceased.

SUPERIOR, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska State Patrol says a man who was fired from a grain elevator returned later in the day and shot three people, killing one, before he was shot to death by another employee. 

The patrol says the shooting happened Thursday afternoon at the Agrex Elevator in Superior. 

A preliminary investigation found that 61-year-old Max Hoskinson, of Superior, was fired Thursday. The patrol says he came back around 2 p.m. and shot three people before an employee retrieved a shotgun and shot Hoskinson, who died at a hospital. One of the people shot by Hoskinson had life-threatening injuries. The other was treated and released at a Superior hospital.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634854632151.png" alt="The shooting happened Thursday afternoon at the Agrex Elevator in Superior.Photo courtesy KSNB TV" />
 <figcaption>The shooting happened Thursday afternoon at the Agrex Elevator in Superior.Photo courtesy KSNB TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SUPERIOR, Neb. (AP) — A man who had been fired from a grain elevator in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/nebraska">Nebraska</a>&nbsp;on Thursday returned with a gun and shot three people, killing one, before he was shot and killed by another employee, the Nebraska State Patrol said.The patrol said the shooting occurred at the Agrex Elevator in Superior, a town in southeast Nebraska near the&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;border.A preliminary investigation showed that Max Hoskinson, 61, of Superior, was fired from the grain elevator on Thursday. He returned around 2 p.m. with a handgun and shot three people, the patrol said.Another employee retrieved a shotgun from an office and shot Hoskinson, who was pronounced dead at a hospital, according to the patrol.One of the victims shot by Hoskinson died at the scene. Another was flown to a hospital in Lincoln with injuries considered life-threatening. The third person was treated and released at a hospital in Superior.Police have not released names of the victims.----------&nbsp;NUCKOLL COUNTY, NE. —The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating a shooting incident that occurred in Superior Thursday afternoon, according to a media release from the agency.&nbsp;At approximately 2:00 p.m. Thursday, NSP was dispatched to assist the Nuckolls County Sheriff’s Office and Superior Police Department with response to an active shooter incident at the Agrex Elevator in Superior. The Superior and Nelson Fire Departments also responded to the scene. The facility is located at 1401 E. 3rd&nbsp;Street in Superior.Upon arrival, investigators located one deceased individual and multiple other victims. The reported shooter was also injured. There were no outstanding suspects at the time investigators arrived on scene.A preliminary investigation has identified the shooter as Max Hoskinson, 61, of Superior. Hoskinson’s employment with Agrex had been terminated earlier in the day.Shortly before 2:00 p.m., Hoskinson returned to Agrex with a handgun and opened fire, striking three individuals. An employee then retrieved a shotgun from an office and returned fire, striking Hoskinson.One of the victims shot by Hoskinson has been pronounced deceased at the scene. Another has been transported by life-flight to Bryan Health West Campus in Lincoln with life-threatening injuries. The third victim has been treated and released from the hospital in Superior. Hoskinson was transported to the hospital in Superior and was pronounced deceased.--------------SUPERIOR, Neb. (AP) — The Nebraska State Patrol says a man who was fired from a grain elevator returned later in the day and shot three people, killing one, before he was shot to death by another employee. The patrol says the shooting happened Thursday afternoon at the Agrex Elevator in Superior. A preliminary investigation found that 61-year-old Max Hoskinson, of Superior, was fired Thursday. The patrol says he came back around 2 p.m. and shot three people before an employee retrieved a shotgun and shot Hoskinson, who died at a hospital. One of the people shot by Hoskinson had life-threatening injuries. The other was treated and released at a Superior hospital.

Update: Fired grain elevator worker shot 3 people, killing 2

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Workers began digging holes this week to erect an 8-foot wall outside a northwest Missouri abbey after shots were fired into the abbey's walls at least four times in the last two years.

The Clinton County Sheriff's office said it is investigating the shootings at the abbey for the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles near Gower but has not identified any suspects.

The last shooting in March sent bullets into Mother Abbess Cecilia's bedroom, <a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/shootings-catholic-abbey-benedictines-of-mary-queen-of-apostles-clinton-county/38017670?fbclid=IwAR26P5hOlbBuGVmeddYnnYjmX75jx6QZUXAjxl0sMK72ClWTFEiu4QWEjTg#">KMBC reported.</a> Two other shootings were in February and the first was reported in July 2019.

Mother Cecilia said she doesn't believe the shots were from hunters or nearby property because they happened late in the evening.

“There’s more to life than shooting at sisters,” Mother Cecilia said. “We’re just trying to live a life given to God, praying for them, praying for the world.” Gower is about 37 miles north of Kansas City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634846263682.png" alt="PHoto courtesy KMBC TV" />
 <figcaption>PHoto courtesy KMBC TV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Workers began digging holes this week to erect an 8-foot wall outside a northwest Missouri abbey after shots were fired into the abbey's walls at least four times in the last two years.The Clinton County Sheriff's office said it is investigating the shootings at the abbey for the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles near Gower but has not identified any suspects.No one has been injured.The last shooting in March sent bullets into Mother Abbess Cecilia's bedroom, <a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/shootings-catholic-abbey-benedictines-of-mary-queen-of-apostles-clinton-county/38017670?fbclid=IwAR26P5hOlbBuGVmeddYnnYjmX75jx6QZUXAjxl0sMK72ClWTFEiu4QWEjTg#">KMBC reported.</a> Two other shootings were in February and the first was reported in July 2019.Mother Cecilia said she doesn't believe the shots were from hunters or nearby property because they happened late in the evening.“There’s more to life than shooting at sisters,” Mother Cecilia said. “We’re just trying to live a life given to God, praying for them, praying for the world.” Gower is about 37 miles north of Kansas City.

Sheriff investigates after shots fired at abbey near Kansas City

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Supply chain issues are forcing Siemens Gamesa to implement a rolling furlough through the Hutchinson nacelle plant.&nbsp;

Company spokesperson Myca Welch says the furloughs are underway and will continue through December.

The company had to furlough 200 workers in April of 2020 when the pandemic was putting a severe break in the supply chain from overseas. The furloughs were short-lived, however, and most workers were back at their jobs by the end of April.

Welch says the company strategy is to have employees work 50 percent of the weekly hours and utilize the Kansas Shared Work Program which allows employees to collect a portion of available unemployment benefits to supplement their reduced work hours.

Welch also said that with the additional deterioration in the global supply chain, especially the unprecedented congestion at the West Coast ports, the company has been forced to cut some full weeks of production this month.&nbsp; Welch also said that the company will be under reduced work hours through December (as originally planned) but will need to adjust week to week based on the supply chain.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Supply chain issues are forcing Siemens Gamesa to implement a rolling furlough through the Hutchinson nacelle plant.&nbsp;Company spokesperson Myca Welch says the furloughs are underway and will continue through December.The company had to furlough 200 workers in April of 2020 when the pandemic was putting a severe break in the supply chain from overseas. The furloughs were short-lived, however, and most workers were back at their jobs by the end of April.Welch says the company strategy is to have employees work 50 percent of the weekly hours and utilize the Kansas Shared Work Program which allows employees to collect a portion of available unemployment benefits to supplement their reduced work hours.Welch also said that with the additional deterioration in the global supply chain, especially the unprecedented congestion at the West Coast ports, the company has been forced to cut some full weeks of production this month.&nbsp; Welch also said that the company will be under reduced work hours through December (as originally planned) but will need to adjust week to week based on the supply chain.

Supply chain: Hutchinson plant implementing rolling furloughs

BARTON COUNTY—Over the course the past several days, Barton County Sheriff’s Office detectives became aware of an attempted unlawful solicitation of a child, according to a media release.

The online organization Motor City Justice contacted local authorities with the information. The facts were reviewed by Sheriff’s Office detectives and the Barton County Attorney’s Office. It was determined the best course of action would be to conduct a sting operation to capture the suspect.

At 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, detectives facilitated a sting operation near the intersection of 24th and Washington in Great Bend. The suspect identified as 24-year-old Dakota Payne arrived at the scene believing he was meeting a juvenile female. Shortly thereafter, deputies arrested Payne without incident.

He is being held on $100,000 bond on requested charges of indecent solicitation of a child, attempted exploitation of a child and electronic solicitation of a child.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634829699507.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Over the course the past several days, Barton County Sheriff’s Office detectives became aware of an attempted unlawful solicitation of a child, according to a media release.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Flonestarrjusticeog%2Fvideos%2F944259933168673%2F&show_text=true&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The online organization Motor City Justice contacted local authorities with the information. The facts were reviewed by Sheriff’s Office detectives and the Barton County Attorney’s Office. It was determined the best course of action would be to conduct a sting operation to capture the suspect.At 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, detectives facilitated a sting operation near the intersection of 24th and Washington in Great Bend. The suspect identified as 24-year-old Dakota Payne arrived at the scene believing he was meeting a juvenile female. Shortly thereafter, deputies arrested Payne without incident.He is being held on $100,000 bond on requested charges of indecent solicitation of a child, attempted exploitation of a child and electronic solicitation of a child.&nbsp;

🎥 Sheriff: Sting operation leads to Kansas sex crime arrest

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A 20-year-old Kansas City man has pleaded guilty to killing another man during a struggle last year.

Thorne McKendrick pleaded guilty Monday to second-degree murder and armed criminal action in the shooting death of Michael Brown outside an east Kansas City home, according to the Jackson County prosecutor's office.

McKendrick’s sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 28.

Brown was shot to death on Aug. 1, 2020. Security video showed Brown and McKendrick were struggling over a gun when McKendrick shot him, according to court records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598024632194.png" alt="McKendrick photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>McKendrick photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A 20-year-old Kansas City man has pleaded guilty to killing another man during a struggle last year.Thorne McKendrick pleaded guilty Monday to second-degree murder and armed criminal action in the shooting death of Michael Brown outside an east Kansas City home, according to the Jackson County prosecutor's office.McKendrick’s sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 28.Brown was shot to death on Aug. 1, 2020. Security video showed Brown and McKendrick were struggling over a gun when McKendrick shot him, according to court records.

20-year-old enters plea to killing in struggle over gun

SHAWNEE COUNTY — A man who fled to Mexico in 2017 after being accused of rape of a woman in Topeka has been sentenced for the crime.&nbsp; Daniel Arreola, 22, Topeka, will spend 20 years in prison, according to the Shawnee County District Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628871442106.png" alt="Arreola-photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Arreola-photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — A man who fled to Mexico in 2017 after being accused of rape of a woman in Topeka has been sentenced for the crime.&nbsp; Daniel Arreola, 22, Topeka, will spend 20 years in prison, according to the Shawnee County District Attorney's office.A jury in August found Arreola guilty of seven felony counts.Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said Arreola forced his way into a woman's apartment in July 2015 and raped her at gunpoint.&nbsp;The case was set for jury trial to begin in February of 2017. However, four days prior to the trial Arreola cut off his court-ordered GPS ankle bracelet and fled to Mexico.&nbsp; Arreola was apprehended in Mexico and returned to Kansas in August of 2019 and has remained in custody since.

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