Therese Hoff has dedicated four decades of service to Geary County. Hoff, currently Deputy County Clerk, was among the many employees recognized for years of service on Monday.&nbsp;

Honored for 35 years of service were Steve Opat, County Counselor, and Teresa Dixon from the Treasurer's Office.

Other employees honored along with years of service included Ed Wheeler Jr. Court Trustee 25 years, Justin Floberg&nbsp; Sheriff's Department, Michelle Brown County Attorney and Jennifer Gatlin Human Resources all 15 years, Dale Dennison Community Corrections 10 years, Jon Thummel Human Resources, Kirt Nichols Jr. and Carla Burrell both from the Sheriff's Department 5 years.

Therese Hoff has dedicated four decades of service to Geary County. Hoff, currently Deputy County Clerk, was among the many employees recognized for years of service on Monday.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606174348588.jpeg" alt="Therese Hoff" />
 <figcaption>Therese Hoff</figcaption>
 </figure>Honored for 35 years of service were Steve Opat, County Counselor, and Teresa Dixon from the Treasurer's Office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606174679857.jpeg" alt="Steve Opat" />
 <figcaption>Steve Opat</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606174715513.jpeg" alt="Teresa Dixon" />
 <figcaption>Teresa Dixon</figcaption>
 </figure>Other employees honored along with years of service included Ed Wheeler Jr. Court Trustee 25 years, Justin Floberg&nbsp; Sheriff's Department, Michelle Brown County Attorney and Jennifer Gatlin Human Resources all 15 years, Dale Dennison Community Corrections 10 years, Jon Thummel Human Resources, Kirt Nichols Jr. and Carla Burrell both from the Sheriff's Department 5 years.

Longtime Geary County employees are recognized

Positive COVID-19 case numbers in Geary County surged upward over this past weekend.&nbsp; There were 44 new positive cases and 21 recovered cases reported by&nbsp; the Health Department. Active cases in the county totaled 76.

Since the pandemic began there have been 556 confirmed positive cases and 475 total recovered cases.&nbsp;

One person&nbsp; from Geary County is hospitalized and five people have died.

Positive COVID-19 case numbers in Geary County surged upward over this past weekend.&nbsp; There were 44 new positive cases and 21 recovered cases reported by&nbsp; the Health Department. Active cases in the county totaled 76.Since the pandemic began there have been 556 confirmed positive cases and 475 total recovered cases.&nbsp;One person&nbsp; from Geary County is hospitalized and five people have died.

COVID-19 cases rise in Geary County

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High 55°	Not as cool. Rain likely in the morning, then rain and slight chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 50s. South winds 10 to 20 mph. Chance of precipitation 90 percent.

High 55°	Not as cool. Rain likely in the morning, then rain and slight chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 50s. South winds 10 to 20 mph. Chance of precipitation 90 percent.

Tuesday weather forecast

Work on a new elevator for the Geary County Detention Center is 90% complete. Keith Ascher, County Commissioner, noted that officials hope to have the project finished this week.

He said once that is complete work can begin on four negative pressure cells for the jail. "Those are specifically for COVID cases if they get them." Sheriff Dan Jackson made a report to the commission.&nbsp;

There will not be any out of town training for Sheriff's Department personnel this month, there were 291 incidents this past week, and 100 inmates were in the detention center.&nbsp;

The Sheriff's Department is saving several thousand dollars on the average extradition of a prisoner. The department is handling those extraditions.&nbsp;

Numerous employees from the department were quarantined during the past month due to close contact issues with COVID. One employee is currently in isolation, has COVID and is symptomatic.

Another inmate at the jail tested positive but due to strict COVID protocols in place and followed, the infection was contained to that inmate with no spread to staff or other inmates.

New Sheriff's school has been postponed indefinitely due to COVID. Officials expect it to be held sometime in the spring.

Work on a new elevator for the Geary County Detention Center is 90% complete. Keith Ascher, County Commissioner, noted that officials hope to have the project finished this week.He said once that is complete work can begin on four negative pressure cells for the jail. "Those are specifically for COVID cases if they get them." Sheriff Dan Jackson made a report to the commission.&nbsp;There will not be any out of town training for Sheriff's Department personnel this month, there were 291 incidents this past week, and 100 inmates were in the detention center.&nbsp;The Sheriff's Department is saving several thousand dollars on the average extradition of a prisoner. The department is handling those extraditions.&nbsp;Numerous employees from the department were quarantined during the past month due to close contact issues with COVID. One employee is currently in isolation, has COVID and is symptomatic.Another inmate at the jail tested positive but due to strict COVID protocols in place and followed, the infection was contained to that inmate with no spread to staff or other inmates.New Sheriff's school has been postponed indefinitely due to COVID. Officials expect it to be held sometime in the spring.

County Commissioners get an update on  the Sheriff's Department

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of burglaries in&nbsp;Pottawatomie County, according to the sheriff's department.

Authorities have received multiple reports of vehicle burglaries occurring in the early morning hours in and around the town of Emmett. 

Deputies have taken 7 reports and some of the stolen items taken included firearms.. Anyone that may have information about these burglaries, or that can identify the vehicle owner is asked to call Detective Rob Gordon at 785-457-3353, or leave a tip via our crimestoppers link at <a href="http://www.ptsheriff.com/?fbclid=IwAR3ZOJEq3NX1Fnj6XdKaLjScxGcTe4C-u_H8Pg0NCftJklcxO3JF4ph_f38" target="_blank">www.ptsheriff.com.</a>

<a href="http://www.ptsheriff.com/?fbclid=IwAR3ZOJEq3NX1Fnj6XdKaLjScxGcTe4C-u_H8Pg0NCftJklcxO3JF4ph_f38" target="_blank"></a>The sheriff asked the public to pay extra attention during the holiday seasons about what items you are leaving unattended in your vehicle. If you are unable to take the item with you lock it in your trunk or cover it up in the rear of your vehicle, make the item so it isn’t so noticeable.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606163216367.png" alt="This passenger vehicle was identified in the area at the time of the burglaries- photo Pottawatomie Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>This passenger vehicle was identified in the area at the time of the burglaries- photo Pottawatomie Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of burglaries in&nbsp;Pottawatomie County, according to the sheriff's department.Authorities have received multiple reports of vehicle burglaries occurring in the early morning hours in and around the town of Emmett. Deputies have taken 7 reports and some of the stolen items taken included firearms.. Anyone that may have information about these burglaries, or that can identify the vehicle owner is asked to call Detective Rob Gordon at 785-457-3353, or leave a tip via our crimestoppers link at <a href="http://www.ptsheriff.com/?fbclid=IwAR3ZOJEq3NX1Fnj6XdKaLjScxGcTe4C-u_H8Pg0NCftJklcxO3JF4ph_f38" target="_blank">www.ptsheriff.com.</a><a href="http://www.ptsheriff.com/?fbclid=IwAR3ZOJEq3NX1Fnj6XdKaLjScxGcTe4C-u_H8Pg0NCftJklcxO3JF4ph_f38" target="_blank"></a>The sheriff asked the public to pay extra attention during the holiday seasons about what items you are leaving unattended in your vehicle. If you are unable to take the item with you lock it in your trunk or cover it up in the rear of your vehicle, make the item so it isn’t so noticeable.

Sheriff ask for help to ID vehicle involved in burglaries

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a report of alleged fraud in Manhattan.

Just after 8a.m. Saturday, police filed a report for criminal use of a financial card and theft in the 1000 block of N. 5th Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.

 Officers listed Dillons, Navy Federal Credit Union, and a 28-year-old man as the victims when it was reported an unknown suspect entered a car and stole a Fossil wallet and a Sony A6400 Digital Camera, then used a debit card from the stolen wallet at Dillons. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,580.00.

 Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a report of alleged fraud in Manhattan.Just after 8a.m. Saturday, police filed a report for criminal use of a financial card and theft in the 1000 block of N. 5th Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report. Officers listed Dillons, Navy Federal Credit Union, and a 28-year-old man as the victims when it was reported an unknown suspect entered a car and stole a Fossil wallet and a Sony A6400 Digital Camera, then used a debit card from the stolen wallet at Dillons. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,580.00. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.00.

RCPD: Suspect stole debit card, went shopping at Dillons

Debut program gives youth a look at the life of a kernel of wheat

MANHATTAN – On an otherwise routine Thursday night in mid-November, about 40 Kansas 4-H members were transported by computer screen to a flour mill and baking lab on the Kansas State University campus.&nbsp;

Such is the life of online learning during a global pandemic, though this trip was symbolic. The one-hour journey marked the kickoff of a program – called Bring Your 4-H Projects to Life -- that aims to connect youth to college and career opportunities related to their interests.&nbsp;

“Not only does this provide an additional opportunity for youth to learn about their 4-H projects, but it is also purposeful programming to enhance our mission toward career readiness,” said Lindsey Mueting, a 4-H youth development agent in McPherson County.&nbsp;

Mueting and Sarah Maass, a 4-H youth development agent in the Central Kansas extension district, developed the series to run on the second Thursday of each month. Each month’s program will connect youth to professionals currently working in an area related to one of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/projects" target="_blank">34 projects offered by Kansas 4-H</a>.&nbsp;

“We are making connections with new people and using our amazing resource of the university to bring college and career ideas and opportunities to our 4-H youth,” Mueting said.&nbsp;

On its maiden voyage, the program took the youth and their parents to the inner-workings of the K-State Department of Grain Science and Industry, where faculty members walked them through the life of a kernel of wheat as it is taken from a farm field, processed into flour, made into dough, and formed into scones for baking.&nbsp;

Jason Watt, the Buhler Instructor of Milling at K-State, explained the anatomy of a wheat kernel and explained how three parts – the bran, germ and endosperm – are all needed for whole wheat flour.&nbsp;

He used simple equipment to show the youth how a kernel is first cleaned, then crushed to its finest form. The process he demonstrated was tedious when done by hand; larger, more automated equipment gets the job done in just a fraction of the time.&nbsp;

“How long does it take to process one pound of flour?” one youth asked.&nbsp;

On a small scale – such as what Watt demonstrated – the answer is 30 minutes. But, he said: “The average wheat flour mill will make 750,000 pounds of flour a day, to upwards of 1.2 million pounds of flour a day. If you’re talking about one pound of flour…well, probably just a few seconds.”&nbsp;

Up the hallway, baking science instructor Aaron Clanton, was preparing dough to make scones. As the online learning shifted to his baking lab, he began with a chemistry lesson on the important differences associated with using baking powder or baking soda in recipes.&nbsp;

“Both are leavening agents which cause baked goods to rise,” he said, “but they are not created equal.”&nbsp;

Clanton then showed how each product reacted to cold water, hot water and vinegar. Baking powder, which contains both an acid and an alkaline component, bubbled as it interacted with each ingredient. Baking soda, which does not contain acid, only reacts when it is combined with an acid, such as vinegar.&nbsp;

The lesson became more clear when Clanton showed examples of scones made with each ingredient. The scones with baking powder rose to a good height and color with fluffy air pockets in the middle. The one’s without baking powder were flat and crumbly.&nbsp;

“There is a lot of science involved in baking,” said Clanton, a 4-H member as a youth. “It’s a very rewarding thing to learn about. It’s something you can learn about in your 4-H foods project, and as you go on, you’ll learn that the food industry relies on a lot of science to make products.”&nbsp;

Each of the youth received baking ingredients and a recipe to make their own scones at home. In the week following the online lesson, they were encouraged to post pictures, videos and description of their own scones online, Mueting said.&nbsp;

“The pandemic definitely brought about a new way of thinking for educators and our families,” Mueting said. “I don't think something like this would have come about a year ago, but there are some changes we made that I hope we as extension professionals don't ever lose. Stepping outside our comfort zones to collaborate between units on projects has been a blessing that hopefully extends well past the pandemic.”&nbsp;

Gordon Smith, head of the Department of Grain Science and Industry, said the interaction with the 4-H youth was mutually beneficial. He hopes some of those kids will develop an early connection to the university and eventually choose to get their own education on campus.&nbsp;

“Extension agents are part of our family,” Smith said. “We’re all committed to the education of students at any age. And we believe that you guys (the 4-H youth) are the future.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606101164708.jpeg" alt="Katelyn and Wyatt Griffin, members of the Smoky View 4-H Club, participated in the online project. Photo courtesy Smoky View 4-H Club" />
 <figcaption>Katelyn and Wyatt Griffin, members of the Smoky View 4-H Club, participated in the online project. Photo courtesy Smoky View 4-H Club</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Debut program gives youth a look at the life of a kernel of wheat</h2>MANHATTAN – On an otherwise routine Thursday night in mid-November, about 40 Kansas 4-H members were transported by computer screen to a flour mill and baking lab on the Kansas State University campus.&nbsp;Such is the life of online learning during a global pandemic, though this trip was symbolic. The one-hour journey marked the kickoff of a program – called Bring Your 4-H Projects to Life -- that aims to connect youth to college and career opportunities related to their interests.&nbsp;“Not only does this provide an additional opportunity for youth to learn about their 4-H projects, but it is also purposeful programming to enhance our mission toward career readiness,” said Lindsey Mueting, a 4-H youth development agent in McPherson County.&nbsp;Mueting and Sarah Maass, a 4-H youth development agent in the Central Kansas extension district, developed the series to run on the second Thursday of each month. Each month’s program will connect youth to professionals currently working in an area related to one of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/projects" target="_blank">34 projects offered by Kansas 4-H</a>.&nbsp;“We are making connections with new people and using our amazing resource of the university to bring college and career ideas and opportunities to our 4-H youth,” Mueting said.&nbsp;On its maiden voyage, the program took the youth and their parents to the inner-workings of the K-State Department of Grain Science and Industry, where faculty members walked them through the life of a kernel of wheat as it is taken from a farm field, processed into flour, made into dough, and formed into scones for baking.&nbsp;Jason Watt, the Buhler Instructor of Milling at K-State, explained the anatomy of a wheat kernel and explained how three parts – the bran, germ and endosperm – are all needed for whole wheat flour.&nbsp;He used simple equipment to show the youth how a kernel is first cleaned, then crushed to its finest form. The process he demonstrated was tedious when done by hand; larger, more automated equipment gets the job done in just a fraction of the time.&nbsp;“How long does it take to process one pound of flour?” one youth asked.&nbsp;On a small scale – such as what Watt demonstrated – the answer is 30 minutes. But, he said: “The average wheat flour mill will make 750,000 pounds of flour a day, to upwards of 1.2 million pounds of flour a day. If you’re talking about one pound of flour…well, probably just a few seconds.”&nbsp;Up the hallway, baking science instructor Aaron Clanton, was preparing dough to make scones. As the online learning shifted to his baking lab, he began with a chemistry lesson on the important differences associated with using baking powder or baking soda in recipes.&nbsp;“Both are leavening agents which cause baked goods to rise,” he said, “but they are not created equal.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606101731329.jpeg" alt="Aaron Clanton, a baking science instructor in K-State’s Department of Grain Science and Industry, gave Kansas 4-Her members a chemistry lesson on the important differences associated with using baking powder or baking soda in recipes. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Aaron Clanton, a baking science instructor in K-State’s Department of Grain Science and Industry, gave Kansas 4-Her members a chemistry lesson on the important differences associated with using baking powder or baking soda in recipes. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>Clanton then showed how each product reacted to cold water, hot water and vinegar. Baking powder, which contains both an acid and an alkaline component, bubbled as it interacted with each ingredient. Baking soda, which does not contain acid, only reacts when it is combined with an acid, such as vinegar.&nbsp;The lesson became more clear when Clanton showed examples of scones made with each ingredient. The scones with baking powder rose to a good height and color with fluffy air pockets in the middle. The one’s without baking powder were flat and crumbly.&nbsp;“There is a lot of science involved in baking,” said Clanton, a 4-H member as a youth. “It’s a very rewarding thing to learn about. It’s something you can learn about in your 4-H foods project, and as you go on, you’ll learn that the food industry relies on a lot of science to make products.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606101942629.jpeg" alt="Smoky View 4-H members Acacia, Eian, and Maia Pracht make scones as a part of the project. Photo courtesy Smoky View 4-H Club" />
 <figcaption>Smoky View 4-H members Acacia, Eian, and Maia Pracht make scones as a part of the project. Photo courtesy Smoky View 4-H Club</figcaption>
 </figure>Each of the youth received baking ingredients and a recipe to make their own scones at home. In the week following the online lesson, they were encouraged to post pictures, videos and description of their own scones online, Mueting said.&nbsp;“The pandemic definitely brought about a new way of thinking for educators and our families,” Mueting said. “I don't think something like this would have come about a year ago, but there are some changes we made that I hope we as extension professionals don't ever lose. Stepping outside our comfort zones to collaborate between units on projects has been a blessing that hopefully extends well past the pandemic.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606102333228.jpeg" alt="Smoky View 4-H Club members Eddie and Emma Littich made chocolate chip and coconut scones as a part of the project. Photo courtesy&nbsp; Smoky View 4-H Club" />
 <figcaption>Smoky View 4-H Club members Eddie and Emma Littich made chocolate chip and coconut scones as a part of the project. Photo courtesy&nbsp; Smoky View 4-H Club</figcaption>
 </figure>Gordon Smith, head of the Department of Grain Science and Industry, said the interaction with the 4-H youth was mutually beneficial. He hopes some of those kids will develop an early connection to the university and eventually choose to get their own education on campus.&nbsp;“Extension agents are part of our family,” Smith said. “We’re all committed to the education of students at any age. And we believe that you guys (the 4-H youth) are the future.”&nbsp;

From field to scone: K-State grain scientists bring life to 4-Her’s projects

Junction City police are searching for a missing truck. They posted a notice on social media.

Stolen from Junction City. Truck has Wilhite Moving and Storage on the door. Kansas Tag 508081.  You can leave a web tip on Geary County Crime Stopper or call 785-762-8477. You may be eligible for a cash reward.&nbsp;

Junction City police are searching for a missing truck. They posted a notice on social media.Stolen from Junction City. Truck has Wilhite Moving and Storage on the door. Kansas Tag 508081. You can leave a web tip on Geary County Crime Stopper or call 785-762-8477. You may be eligible for a cash reward.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606020562855.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Police search for a missing truck

MANHATTAN — A public hearing will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Dec. 7, 2020, to consider the adoption of proposed regulations to govern commercial industrial hemp production in Kansas. 

Due to public health concerns posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the hearing proceedings will be held via a video conferencing system to provide the opportunity for virtual participation online. Although in-person participation is also an option, attendance will be limited to allow for social distancing and to comply with local health requirements.&nbsp;

Due to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which removed hemp from the federal Controlled Substances Act, and the Commercial Industrial Hemp Act passed in Kansas in 2019, the Kansas Department of Agriculture is proposing rules and regulations K.A.R. 4-34-22 through 4-34-30.

A copy of the proposed new regulations, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2FPublicComment&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7Ccaa9b94ad3064b6d703a08d88c0a1fab%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637413322869329381%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=gr1%2FmFdEfedQBADRZedl3g2fVU3jvSRvHYcPLlV1ZAw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment</a>. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference or in person must pre-register and be provided with a video link or instructions for in-person attendance. Written comments can be submitted on the public comment web page prior to the hearing or sent to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 1320 Research Park Drive, Manhattan, KS, 66502.

Any individual with a disability may request accommodation in order to participate in the public hearing and may request a copy of the regulations in an accessible format. Persons who require special accommodations must make their needs known at least five working days prior to the hearing. For more information, including special accommodations or a copy of the regulations, please contact Ronda Hutton at 785-564-6715 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov" target="_blank">Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov</a>.

MANHATTAN — A public hearing will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Dec. 7, 2020, to consider the adoption of proposed regulations to govern commercial industrial hemp production in Kansas. Due to public health concerns posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the hearing proceedings will be held via a video conferencing system to provide the opportunity for virtual participation online. Although in-person participation is also an option, attendance will be limited to allow for social distancing and to comply with local health requirements.&nbsp;Due to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which removed hemp from the federal Controlled Substances Act, and the Commercial Industrial Hemp Act passed in Kansas in 2019, the Kansas Department of Agriculture is proposing rules and regulations K.A.R. 4-34-22 through 4-34-30.A copy of the proposed new regulations, as well as an expanded notice of public hearing, may be accessed on the KDA website at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.agriculture.ks.gov%2FPublicComment&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7Ccaa9b94ad3064b6d703a08d88c0a1fab%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637413322869329381%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&amp;sdata=gr1%2FmFdEfedQBADRZedl3g2fVU3jvSRvHYcPLlV1ZAw%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment</a>. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference or in person must pre-register and be provided with a video link or instructions for in-person attendance. Written comments can be submitted on the public comment web page prior to the hearing or sent to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 1320 Research Park Drive, Manhattan, KS, 66502.Any individual with a disability may request accommodation in order to participate in the public hearing and may request a copy of the regulations in an accessible format. Persons who require special accommodations must make their needs known at least five working days prior to the hearing. For more information, including special accommodations or a copy of the regulations, please contact Ronda Hutton at 785-564-6715 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov" target="_blank">Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov</a>.

Hearing set for proposed adoption of commercial industrial hemp regs

Junction City Athletic Training Center with the support of the R2B4 Bramlage Family Foundation, has worked to upgrade the local&nbsp; Baseball Academy facility in&nbsp; the Westside Shopping Center just off West 6th Street. It is has been named the Upper Deck Sports Academy.

Training Center Director Rick Bazan said there are six bays and netting systems, a dugout, meeting room, video monitors, full paint throughout the 20,000 square foot facility, new field turf, carpet and laminate wood flooring, upgraded lighting, an audio system, large banners, updated pitching machine and coaches locker room for storage for the teams.

Bazan said the facility is for teams but there will be some open hitting. "But we designed it for better flow so that when we do have traveling teams we can get more sessions in the evening, so we can open it up to more people in&nbsp; the community. So we are planning on having some open nights where anybody can go up and hit and train up there."

Bazan said the Academy is impressive. " Our goal was to give more opportunity to the baseball, softball players and teams. We wanted to provide a top line training academy and ultimately inspire our youth. Give these kids something to be proud of, essentially to make it their house and want to be able to take ownership of it."

Bazan said they have created a flow where teams can overlap but not encounter each other which creates more opportunities each evening. "We're trying to get not only all the baseball traveling teams but the softball as well. And we also want to create some time for the city league. " Bazan added they want to have some camps and clinic for those players as well and an opportunity to use the facility.

Bazan indicated officials plan to start use of&nbsp; the academy facility approximately Dec. 1.

The Junction City Athletic Training Center is located at 935 East 4th, and includes facilities for activities such as wrestling, youth boxing, outdoor batting cages and obstacle course. Mathis Rehab is also located in that facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605985332633.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City Athletic Training Center with the support of the R2B4 Bramlage Family Foundation, has worked to upgrade the local&nbsp; Baseball Academy facility in&nbsp; the Westside Shopping Center just off West 6th Street. It is has been named the Upper Deck Sports Academy.Training Center Director Rick Bazan said there are six bays and netting systems, a dugout, meeting room, video monitors, full paint throughout the 20,000 square foot facility, new field turf, carpet and laminate wood flooring, upgraded lighting, an audio system, large banners, updated pitching machine and coaches locker room for storage for the teams.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605985376745.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bazan said the facility is for teams but there will be some open hitting. "But we designed it for better flow so that when we do have traveling teams we can get more sessions in the evening, so we can open it up to more people in&nbsp; the community. So we are planning on having some open nights where anybody can go up and hit and train up there."Bazan said the Academy is impressive. " Our goal was to give more opportunity to the baseball, softball players and teams. We wanted to provide a top line training academy and ultimately inspire our youth. Give these kids something to be proud of, essentially to make it their house and want to be able to take ownership of it."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605985488480.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Bazan said they have created a flow where teams can overlap but not encounter each other which creates more opportunities each evening. "We're trying to get not only all the baseball traveling teams but the softball as well. And we also want to create some time for the city league. " Bazan added they want to have some camps and clinic for those players as well and an opportunity to use the facility.Bazan indicated officials plan to start use of&nbsp; the academy facility approximately Dec. 1.The Junction City Athletic Training Center is located at 935 East 4th, and includes facilities for activities such as wrestling, youth boxing, outdoor batting cages and obstacle course. Mathis Rehab is also located in that facility.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605985149442.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>( Photos courtesy of Rick Bazan )

Baseball Academy facility gets a makeover

Quarterback Andrew Khoury – Junction City-Sr.. #6

Backs DJ Giddens – Junction City-Sr #26

Tight End Braden Colley – Seaman-Jr. #86

Receivers Marcello Bussey – Junction City-Sr. #8

Lineman Anson Jacobsen – Junction City-Sr. #74

Lineman Damian Ilalio – Manhattan-Sr. #45

Elijah Clarke-Boyd – Junction City-So. #71

Linebackers Nathan Zeferjahn – Seaman-Sr. #17

Backs Javon George – Junction City-Sr. #4

Returner Ty Zhaun Jackson – Manhattan-Sr. #22

Punter DJ Giddens – Junction City-Sr #26

2020 Coach of the Year Glenn O’Neil – Seaman

2020 Offensive player of the year: Andrew Khoury – Junction City-Sr.. #6

2020 Defensive player of the year: Damian Ilalio – Manhattan-Sr. #45

Quarterback Reid Cowan – Seaman – Sr. #5

Backs Casen Stallbaumer – Seaman-Jr. #14

MaKenttis Adams – Washburn Rural-So. #2

Tight End Mason Reid – Manhattan-Sr. #14

Receivers Robby Bolin – Washburn Rural-Jr. #11

Lineman Chance Gragg – Highland Park-Sr. #53

Lineman Eric Schnur – Washburn Rural-Sr. #72

Linebackers Peyton Murray – Seaman-Sr. #3

Michael Boganowski – Junction City-Fr. #45

Keghan McConnell – Junction City-Jr. #17

Backs Caeden Heydenreich – Seaman-Sr. #6

Returner Trevontae Richardson - Highland Park-So. #6

Kicker Giles Frederickson – Washburn Rural-Jr. #6

Punter Dayton Smoot – Washburn Rural-So. #3

Quarterback Cooper Carlgren – Washburn Rural – Sr. #7

Backs Tylan Alegos – Topeka High-Jr. #7 Camden Kirmer – Emporia-Sr. #3

Tight End Nate Green – Junction City-Sr. #85 Lukas Hanks – Washburn Rural-So. #81

Receivers Trevontae Richardson – H. Park-So #6 Trei Goggins – Junction City-Sr. #5

Jordan Zahn – Seaman-Sr. #15 Trevion Alexander – Topeka West-Sr. #13

Mikael Glenn – Topeka West-Jr. #2 Christian Tabora – Junction City-Sr. #22

Offensive Chris Owens – Junction City-Sr. #55 Wyatt Miller – Topeka West-Sr. #73

Lineman TJ Osa – Junction City-Jr. #52 Elijah Dold – Emporia – Sr. #54

Morgan Dean – Highland Park-Jr. #77 Trent Long – Highland Park-Jr. #54

Lineman Charles Snyder – Emporia-Sr. #9 Diego Flores – Emporia-Sr. #67

Linebackers Ethan Garate – Emporia-Sr. #28 Corey O’Connor – Junction City-So. #16

Skyler Higgins – Emporia-Sr. #30 Austin Fager – Washburn Rural-Jr. #33

Backs Camden Kirmer – Emporia-Sr. #3 Robby Bolin – Washburn Rural-Jr. #11

Daniel Knapp – Emporia-Sr. #15 Landon MacEwan – Washburn Rural-Jr. #28

Returner Camden Kirmer – Emporia-Sr. #3

Kicker Grant Snowden – Manhattan-Jr. #15

1st Team All-LeagueQuarterback Andrew Khoury – Junction City-Sr.. #6Backs DJ Giddens – Junction City-Sr #26Dayne Aschenbrenner – Manhattan-Sr. #9Nathan Zeferjahn – Seaman-Sr. #17Tight End Braden Colley – Seaman-Jr. #86Receivers Marcello Bussey – Junction City-Sr. #8Russell Wilkey – Junction City-Sr. #2OffensiveLineman Anson Jacobsen – Junction City-Sr. #74Ewan Mills – Seaman-Sr. #66Cade Wilson – Manhattan-Sr. #53Jeff Moore – Topeka High-Sr. #64Uriel Soria – Washburn Rural-Sr. #71DefensiveLineman Damian Ilalio – Manhattan-Sr. #45Darius O’Connell – Manhattan-Sr. #55Elijah Clarke-Boyd – Junction City-So. #71Rudy Vargas – Junction City-Jr. #44Linebackers Nathan Zeferjahn – Seaman-Sr. #17Sequoia Robinson – Manhattan-Jr. #21Sadiki Smith – Junction City-Sr. #31Ty Weber-Washburn Rural-So. #9DefensiveBacks Javon George – Junction City-Sr. #4Ty Zhaun Jackson – Manhattan-Sr. #22Chaz Ruffin – Junction City-Jr. #25Jordan Irby – Junction City-Sr. #9Returner Ty Zhaun Jackson – Manhattan-Sr. #22Kicker Isaac Prengel – Seaman-Sr. #31Punter DJ Giddens – Junction City-Sr #262020 Coach of the Year Glenn O’Neil – Seaman2020 Offensive player of the year: Andrew Khoury – Junction City-Sr.. #62020 Defensive player of the year: Damian Ilalio – Manhattan-Sr. #452nd Team All-LeagueQuarterback Reid Cowan – Seaman – Sr. #5Backs Casen Stallbaumer – Seaman-Jr. #14JaVion Lee – Topeka West-Jr. #9MaKenttis Adams – Washburn Rural-So. #2Tight End Mason Reid – Manhattan-Sr. #14Receivers Robby Bolin – Washburn Rural-Jr. #11Joe Hall – Manhattan-Jr - #3OffensiveLineman Chance Gragg – Highland Park-Sr. #53Setu Toala – Junction City-Sr. #76Hunter Boyer – Manhattan-Sr. #76Tony Wadkins – Seaman-Jr. #79Jaden Magana – Manhattan-Sr. #51DefensiveLineman Eric Schnur – Washburn Rural-Sr. #72Reid Cowan – Seaman-Sr. #5Koby Jordan – Seaman-Jr. #32Kasen Hasenkamp – Seaman-So. #65Linebackers Peyton Murray – Seaman-Sr. #3Bobby Trujillo – Emporia-So. #44Michael Boganowski – Junction City-Fr. #45Keghan McConnell – Junction City-Jr. #17Connor Conklin – Washburn Rural-Jr #52DefensiveBacks Caeden Heydenreich – Seaman-Sr. #6Kaden Ireland – Seaman-Jr. #23Ayden Prettyman – Highland Park-Sr. #1David Dean – Washburn Rural-Sr. #32Returner Trevontae Richardson - Highland Park-So. #6Peyton Murray – Seaman-Sr. #3Kicker Giles Frederickson – Washburn Rural-Jr. #6Punter Dayton Smoot – Washburn Rural-So. #3Honorable Mention All-LeagueQuarterback Cooper Carlgren – Washburn Rural – Sr. #7Backs Tylan Alegos – Topeka High-Jr. #7 Camden Kirmer – Emporia-Sr. #3Tight End Nate Green – Junction City-Sr. #85 Lukas Hanks – Washburn Rural-So. #81Receivers Trevontae Richardson – H. Park-So #6 Trei Goggins – Junction City-Sr. #5Jordan Zahn – Seaman-Sr. #15 Trevion Alexander – Topeka West-Sr. #13Mikael Glenn – Topeka West-Jr. #2 Christian Tabora – Junction City-Sr. #22Offensive Chris Owens – Junction City-Sr. #55 Wyatt Miller – Topeka West-Sr. #73Lineman TJ Osa – Junction City-Jr. #52 Elijah Dold – Emporia – Sr. #54Morgan Dean – Highland Park-Jr. #77 Trent Long – Highland Park-Jr. #54Morris James – Highland Park-So. #50DefensiveLineman Charles Snyder – Emporia-Sr. #9 Diego Flores – Emporia-Sr. #67Trey Strawder – Emporia-Sr. #53Linebackers Ethan Garate – Emporia-Sr. #28 Corey O’Connor – Junction City-So. #16Skyler Higgins – Emporia-Sr. #30 Austin Fager – Washburn Rural-Jr. #33DefensiveBacks Camden Kirmer – Emporia-Sr. #3 Robby Bolin – Washburn Rural-Jr. #11Daniel Knapp – Emporia-Sr. #15 Landon MacEwan – Washburn Rural-Jr. #28Returner Camden Kirmer – Emporia-Sr. #3Kicker Grant Snowden – Manhattan-Jr. #15Punter

2020 Centennial League All-League Football selections

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Brock Purdy passed for 236 yards and three touchdowns as No. 17 Iowa State beat Kansas State 45-0 for its most lopsided win over the Wildcats in 77 years. Breece Hall was Iowa State’s leading rusher with 135 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries.

 The Cyclones hadn’t had such a wide winning margin against the Wildcats since they beat them 48-0 in 1943. It was their biggest win over a Big 12 opponent since beating Kansas 45-0 three years ago. 

Iowa State improved to 6-2 overall and 6-1 in the Big 12, matching the school record for conference wins. Kansas State had won 11 of the previous 12 meetings.

AMES, Iowa (AP) — Brock Purdy passed for 236 yards and three touchdowns as No. 17 Iowa State beat Kansas State 45-0 for its most lopsided win over the Wildcats in 77 years. Breece Hall was Iowa State’s leading rusher with 135 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries. The Cyclones hadn’t had such a wide winning margin against the Wildcats since they beat them 48-0 in 1943. It was their biggest win over a Big 12 opponent since beating Kansas 45-0 three years ago. Iowa State improved to 6-2 overall and 6-1 in the Big 12, matching the school record for conference wins. Kansas State had won 11 of the previous 12 meetings.

Wildcats are shut out by Iowa State

Derby proved to be too powerful for the Junction&nbsp; City Blue Jays in their Class 6A semifinal round playoff football game at Al Simpler Stadium Friday night. The Panthers defeated the Blue Jays 62-27.&nbsp;

Derby opened with a 22 yard touchdown run by Dylan Edwards with 8:28 remaining in the first quarter and never trailed in the game. The Panthers forged a 27-14 lead at halftime and then moved onto the victory.

Blue Jay coach Randall Zimmerman saw his team end the season with a 9-2 record. "These kids are so special, this community is so special." He stated that he was proud of the growth by his team "They were league champs and then sectional champs and regional champs and could not just quite get over the top."

The contest was the final game in the 55 year history of Al Simpler Stadium since the Blue Jays will play in a new stadium next year on the campus of the new Junction City High School that is under construction.

Derby ( 8-2 ) will advance to the 6A state championship game on Saturday, Nov. 28 in Olathe against Blue Valley North.&nbsp;

Derby proved to be too powerful for the Junction&nbsp; City Blue Jays in their Class 6A semifinal round playoff football game at Al Simpler Stadium Friday night. The Panthers defeated the Blue Jays 62-27.&nbsp;Derby opened with a 22 yard touchdown run by Dylan Edwards with 8:28 remaining in the first quarter and never trailed in the game. The Panthers forged a 27-14 lead at halftime and then moved onto the victory.Blue Jay coach Randall Zimmerman saw his team end the season with a 9-2 record. "These kids are so special, this community is so special." He stated that he was proud of the growth by his team "They were league champs and then sectional champs and regional champs and could not just quite get over the top."The contest was the final game in the 55 year history of Al Simpler Stadium since the Blue Jays will play in a new stadium next year on the campus of the new Junction City High School that is under construction.Derby ( 8-2 ) will advance to the 6A state championship game on Saturday, Nov. 28 in Olathe against Blue Valley North.&nbsp;

Blue Jay football season comes to an end

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with KSHSAA executive director Bill Faflick.

<div><iframe title="Forward Ever: KSHSAA executive director Bill Faflick" height="400" width="400" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/fq28t-f2d40d?from=pb6admin&download=1&version=1&vjs=1&auto=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Helvetica&skin=3&pfauth="></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with KSHSAA executive director Bill Faflick.

🎤Forward Ever: KSHSAA executive director Bill Faflick

Wichita Northwest 41, Wichita Bishop Carroll 21

Little River 48, Madison/Hamilton Co-op 24

PREP FOOTBALL=Sub-State=Class 1A=Oakley 9, Inman 0Olpe 14, Lyndon 12Class 2A=Hoisington 26, Beloit 0Rossville 31, Nemaha Central 19Class 3A=Andale 49, Wichita Collegiate 0Perry-Lecompton 22, Holton 9Class 4A=Arkansas City 28, McPherson 27Class 5A=Mill Valley 42, St. Thomas Aquinas 7Wichita Northwest 41, Wichita Bishop Carroll 21Eight Player DI=Little River 48, Madison/Hamilton Co-op 24Wichita County 58, Hoxie 6Eight Player DII=St. Francis 44, Victoria 22

Friday night high school football scores

MANHATTAN, Kansas –&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball has adjusted its exhibition opponent for the opening weekend of the 2020-21 season.

Due to COVID-19 protocols, K-State’s game at Fort Hays State has been canceled. The Wildcats will travel to Wichita, Kansas, to face Newman on Friday, November 27, at 6 p.m., at Fugate Gymnasium.

Attendance at Fugate Gymnasium will be limited to Pass List only. No visiting fans will be allowed due to limited capacity. The game will be available on The MIAA Network (themiaanetwork.com/newman).

K-State was selected for a fourth-place finish in the 2020-21 Big 12 Preseason Coaches Poll. The Wildcats will be led into the season by unanimous Preseason All-Big 12 selection and 2021 All-America candidate Ayoka Lee and Preseason All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection Rachel Ranke.

Kansas State returns nine letter winners for the 2020-21 season. K-State also welcomes in graduate transfer Sydney Goodson, junior Makayla Pippin, redshirt freshman Jada Thorpe from injury and freshmen Taylor Lauterbach and Jada Moore.

Following its exhibition game at Newman, the Wildcats will begin a seven-game home stand in non-conference action on Sunday, November 29, against Southern at 1 p.m.

MANHATTAN, Kansas –&nbsp;K-State women’s basketball has adjusted its exhibition opponent for the opening weekend of the 2020-21 season.Due to COVID-19 protocols, K-State’s game at Fort Hays State has been canceled. The Wildcats will travel to Wichita, Kansas, to face Newman on Friday, November 27, at 6 p.m., at Fugate Gymnasium.Attendance at Fugate Gymnasium will be limited to Pass List only. No visiting fans will be allowed due to limited capacity. The game will be available on The MIAA Network (themiaanetwork.com/newman).K-State was selected for a fourth-place finish in the 2020-21 Big 12 Preseason Coaches Poll. The Wildcats will be led into the season by unanimous Preseason All-Big 12 selection and 2021 All-America candidate Ayoka Lee and Preseason All-Big 12 Honorable Mention selection Rachel Ranke.Kansas State returns nine letter winners for the 2020-21 season. K-State also welcomes in graduate transfer Sydney Goodson, junior Makayla Pippin, redshirt freshman Jada Thorpe from injury and freshmen Taylor Lauterbach and Jada Moore.Following its exhibition game at Newman, the Wildcats will begin a seven-game home stand in non-conference action on Sunday, November 29, against Southern at 1 p.m.

K-State Women’s Basketball Adjusts Exhibition Game

&nbsp; Tonight’s semifinal varsity football game for Junction City vs. Derby will not be streamed to the Blue Jay YouTube channel.&nbsp; The KSHSAA owns the broadcasting rights to the game, and it will be streamed through their partner, the NFHS network.&nbsp; 

There is a charge of $10.99 for a monthly pass, and you can cancel the pass at any time. &nbsp;USD 475 is does not receive any part of the fee. If the Blue Jays are victorious tonight, you will also be able to view the championship game on the same channel for no additional cost.&nbsp; 

The link to view the game can be found here, or on the JCHS Facebook page:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/kshsaa/gamdf655e9ca5" target="_blank">https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/kshsaa/gamdf655e9ca5</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; Tonight’s semifinal varsity football game for Junction City vs. Derby will not be streamed to the Blue Jay YouTube channel.&nbsp; The KSHSAA owns the broadcasting rights to the game, and it will be streamed through their partner, the NFHS network.&nbsp; There is a charge of $10.99 for a monthly pass, and you can cancel the pass at any time. &nbsp;USD 475 is does not receive any part of the fee. If the Blue Jays are victorious tonight, you will also be able to view the championship game on the same channel for no additional cost.&nbsp; The link to view the game can be found here, or on the JCHS Facebook page:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/kshsaa/gamdf655e9ca5" target="_blank">https://www.nfhsnetwork.com/events/kshsaa/gamdf655e9ca5</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Live stream information provided for Junction City - Derby football game

Junction City ( 9-1 )&nbsp; hosts the Derby Panthers ( 7-2 ) in the substate ( semifinal ) round of the Class 6a postseason football playoffs Friday night. The winner advances to the state championship game on Saturday, Nov. 28th,&nbsp; at the Olathe-College Boulevard Activity Center.

Derby has played in five consecutive 6A state championship games and has won four of the five. Blue Jay coach Randall Zimmerman said Derby is a very good football team but so is Junction City. "I really like our chances when we're playing fast, playing with discipline, when we're playing with our eyes right." Zimmerman added it will take a great effort because the Blue Jays know what kind of team is coming into Al Simpler Stadium.&nbsp;

Derby averages 397 yards of rushing per game while the defense gives up an average of 241 yards per contest. The Blue Jays have thrown for 2,918 yards this season and have a strong running game.

This is the third playoff meeting in recent years between the two teams. Junction City defeated Derby 22-3 in 2008 while the Panthers defeated Junction City 46-27 in 2015.

The winner of the Junction City - Derby contest plays the winner of the Blue Valley North - Olathe North semifinal game in the state championship game.

Junction City and Derby will kick off at 7 p.m. Friday, with the pregame starting at 6:30 p.m. The contest can be heard on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM.

Junction City ( 9-1 )&nbsp; hosts the Derby Panthers ( 7-2 ) in the substate ( semifinal ) round of the Class 6a postseason football playoffs Friday night. The winner advances to the state championship game on Saturday, Nov. 28th,&nbsp; at the Olathe-College Boulevard Activity Center.Derby has played in five consecutive 6A state championship games and has won four of the five. Blue Jay coach Randall Zimmerman said Derby is a very good football team but so is Junction City. "I really like our chances when we're playing fast, playing with discipline, when we're playing with our eyes right." Zimmerman added it will take a great effort because the Blue Jays know what kind of team is coming into Al Simpler Stadium.&nbsp;Derby averages 397 yards of rushing per game while the defense gives up an average of 241 yards per contest. The Blue Jays have thrown for 2,918 yards this season and have a strong running game.This is the third playoff meeting in recent years between the two teams. Junction City defeated Derby 22-3 in 2008 while the Panthers defeated Junction City 46-27 in 2015.The winner of the Junction City - Derby contest plays the winner of the Blue Valley North - Olathe North semifinal game in the state championship game.Junction City and Derby will kick off at 7 p.m. Friday, with the pregame starting at 6:30 p.m. The contest can be heard on 107.9 FM / 1420 KJCK AM.

Blue Jays will play for a berth in the Class 6A State football championship game

Head coach Aaron Craig has announced the roster for the Blue Jay boys swimming team for the upcoming season at Junction City High school. He noted that there is a large group of upperclassmen who have been with the program for 4 plus years.

The roster was released via Blue Jay Athletics Twitter.

Newcomers: Adrian Duarte, Zane Khoury, Tristan Trujillo, Dereck Pacheco-Soto, Gabriel Lamb, Earl DeGuzman, Caden Collette, Jerry Murray, and Creytin Sanner.

Returners: Seth Ortega, Manny Villamor, Abner Gonzalez, Jordan Jenkins, Hunter Gaston, James Hawkins, Omer Asku, Kaden Miller, Taj Ihklaas, Xavier Robles, Renzo Canzano, Aidan Gold, Faybien Michael, Nate Green, Anson Jacobsen, and TJ Osa.

7:00 pm &nbsp;<a href="https://bluejayathletics.org/events">View All Events</a>

Head coach Aaron Craig has announced the roster for the Blue Jay boys swimming team for the upcoming season at Junction City High school. He noted that there is a large group of upperclassmen who have been with the program for 4 plus years.The roster was released via Blue Jay Athletics Twitter.Newcomers: Adrian Duarte, Zane Khoury, Tristan Trujillo, Dereck Pacheco-Soto, Gabriel Lamb, Earl DeGuzman, Caden Collette, Jerry Murray, and Creytin Sanner.Returners: Seth Ortega, Manny Villamor, Abner Gonzalez, Jordan Jenkins, Hunter Gaston, James Hawkins, Omer Asku, Kaden Miller, Taj Ihklaas, Xavier Robles, Renzo Canzano, Aidan Gold, Faybien Michael, Nate Green, Anson Jacobsen, and TJ Osa.<ul>
 
 </ul> 7:00 pm &nbsp;<a href="https://bluejayathletics.org/events">View All Events</a>

JCHS Boys swimming roster is released

The Junction City Lady Jay 2020-2021 basketball roster has been announced by head coach Tim Testa via Blue Jay Athletics Twitter.

Seniors Andrea Davis Mellana Davis Lucy Rivera Dorian Robinson

Juniors Karen Exantus Jayda Harris Jashala Hekekia Jada Nabus

Sophomores Ava Deguzman Arianna Gold Grace Harris Addy Hatcher Sophia Holloway Veda Howell Mariah Jackson Mariah Parrott Naomi Tanaka

Freshman Macie Muto Amyah O’Neal Sara Rexrode Aaleyah Whisenhunt

The Junction City Lady Jay 2020-2021 basketball roster has been announced by head coach Tim Testa via Blue Jay Athletics Twitter.Seniors Andrea Davis Mellana Davis Lucy Rivera Dorian RobinsonJuniors Karen Exantus Jayda Harris Jashala Hekekia Jada NabusSophomores Ava Deguzman Arianna Gold Grace Harris Addy Hatcher Sophia Holloway Veda Howell Mariah Jackson Mariah Parrott Naomi TanakaFreshman Macie Muto Amyah O’Neal Sara Rexrode Aaleyah Whisenhunt

Lady Jay basketball roster is set

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/22/kansas-schools-seek-balance-between-best-practices-for-education-safety/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — As
 Thanksgiving approaches and COVID-19 case numbers rise, Kansas school 
officials are contemplating how to best alter plans to protect students 
and faculty.

School
 boards and districts across the state are instituting new safety 
precautions as concerns grow over how long schools can remain open for 
face-to-face learning. Teacher staffing in Kansas is also bottoming out 
as a growing number of educators are in quarantine.

At
 Wichita Public Schools, students and staff will now have an additional 
two days of Thanksgiving vacation, providing a full week off from the 
classroom. They also decided Nov. 9 to keep middle and high school 
students remote until the end of the second semester.

The
 decision was made after the district faced a shortage of teachers and 
substitutes as many were forced to quarantine after contact with someone
 carrying the virus, said Susan Arensman, a spokeswoman for the Wichita 
Public Schools.

While
 the district is hopeful the extended break will allow time for everyone
 to recuperate physically and emotionally, she said, administrators are 
advising families to be prepared should Sedgwick County case numbers 
continue to trend in the wrong direction.

“Wichita
 Public Schools is a reflection of our community, which is a reflection 
of the state, and as cases keep rising, so are cases of COVID among our 
staff,” Arensman said. “We had sent a message last week to elementary 
families asking them to have a plan in place in case we have to pivot in
 schools, and students who were going in person now need to learn 
remotely.”

As
 cases rise, districts and educators fear a similar crisis to the 
beginning of the pandemic may be mounting. Statewide staffing shortages 
are forcing several schools to revisit academic and safety plans.

The
 Shawnee Mission school district announced middle and high school 
students in the district would return to remote learning in an effort to
 maintain in-person learning for elementary students. The school 
district recently reported it was becoming increasingly difficult to 
adequately staff classrooms.

As of last week, more than 800 students and staff within the district were isolating or in quarantine. Students will begin remote learning from Nov. 30 through Jan. 22, 2021.

In Blue Valley,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluevalleyk12.org/Page/35656" target="_blank">district administrators took similar steps</a>, returning middle and high school students to remote-only learning between Thanksgiving and winter break.&nbsp;

“The
 change in learning modes from Nov. 30 to Dec. 22 will allow us to focus
 limited resources, including substitutes, on the youngest students and 
students with disabilities, who are least able to benefit from distance 
learning,” said Tonya Merrigan, superintendent of Blue Valley Schools, 
adding “additional school closures are possible if the district cannot 
staff buildings with qualified substitutes.”

<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/coronavirus/staff-shortages-hitting-kansas-city-area-school-districts" target="_blank">Reports from substitute staffing agencies</a>&nbsp;indicate
 finding qualified teachers is growing increasingly difficult. Mark 
Tallman, associate executive director for advocacy and communications at
 the Kansas Association of School Boards, said districts now face a 
difficult decision about how to handle these shortages.

“Districts
 are faced with this terrible dilemma, which is do you do you back away 
from in-person learning, knowing that creates great difficulties for 
students, for families and for learning, or do you try to keep going in 
the situation where you literally may not have the staff to do it,” 
Tallman said. “The more you press ahead, it may cost you more staff in 
the future if people continue to get sick.”

The
 rise in cases and staff needing to quarantine is increasing anxiety 
among Kansas educators, said Marcus Baltzell, a spokesman for the Kansas
 National Education Association. Baltzell said educators want to keep 
education in-person, but not if current conditions persist.

“We
 say this over and over again, but things are becoming unsustainable,” 
he said. “Really, what this all boils down to is that there are a lot of
 moving standards out there about what’s safe and what isn’t. I think 
that’s really increasing the anxiety in educators.”

To
 provide insight into the day-to-day concerns of educators, KNEA is 
producing a series of testimonies submitted by teachers across the 
state.&nbsp;

In
 one video, Megan Epperson, an elementary teacher, likened the 
experience to that of Apollo 13 — a mission to the moon that was aborted
 after an oxygen tank ruptured.

“We
 are facing life and death options,” Epperson said. “We are trying to 
look at the duct tape we have in front of us and saying how can we make 
this into something that is least harmful and most beneficial knowing 
that no solution is ideal. It’s never a good idea to get a space shuttle
 through space with duct tape.”

Concerns
 over teacher shortages and rising COVID-19 cases are not just impacting
 more urban areas. In Scott City, where case numbers are still 
relatively low, the school has been able to maintain in-person learning 
so far. While it would like to remain that way, district superintendent 
Jamie Rumford said, school leaders are taking it every few weeks at a 
time.

South
 of Scott City, case numbers are spiking in Finney County. Garden City 
Public Schools were all in-person until Nov. 6, but the district has 
pivoted to a hybrid model with some schools dealing with staffing issues
 and shifting to remote learning.

If
 current data trends do not improve by Nov. 20, the district will move 
all students and schools to remote learning, said Roy Cessna, a 
spokesman for Garden City Public Schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606141702301.png" alt="Students and Faculty at Wichita Public Schools will have two extra days of rest and recovery over Thanksgiving break as the district, like much of the state, faces a teacher shortage. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Students and Faculty at Wichita Public Schools will have two extra days of rest and recovery over Thanksgiving break as the district, like much of the state, faces a teacher shortage. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/22/kansas-schools-seek-balance-between-best-practices-for-education-safety/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — As
 Thanksgiving approaches and COVID-19 case numbers rise, Kansas school 
officials are contemplating how to best alter plans to protect students 
and faculty.School
 boards and districts across the state are instituting new safety 
precautions as concerns grow over how long schools can remain open for 
face-to-face learning. Teacher staffing in Kansas is also bottoming out 
as a growing number of educators are in quarantine.At
 Wichita Public Schools, students and staff will now have an additional 
two days of Thanksgiving vacation, providing a full week off from the 
classroom. They also decided Nov. 9 to keep middle and high school 
students remote until the end of the second semester.The
 decision was made after the district faced a shortage of teachers and 
substitutes as many were forced to quarantine after contact with someone
 carrying the virus, said Susan Arensman, a spokeswoman for the Wichita 
Public Schools.While
 the district is hopeful the extended break will allow time for everyone
 to recuperate physically and emotionally, she said, administrators are 
advising families to be prepared should Sedgwick County case numbers 
continue to trend in the wrong direction.“Wichita
 Public Schools is a reflection of our community, which is a reflection 
of the state, and as cases keep rising, so are cases of COVID among our 
staff,” Arensman said. “We had sent a message last week to elementary 
families asking them to have a plan in place in case we have to pivot in
 schools, and students who were going in person now need to learn 
remotely.”As
 cases rise, districts and educators fear a similar crisis to the 
beginning of the pandemic may be mounting. Statewide staffing shortages 
are forcing several schools to revisit academic and safety plans.The
 Shawnee Mission school district announced middle and high school 
students in the district would return to remote learning in an effort to
 maintain in-person learning for elementary students. The school 
district recently reported it was becoming increasingly difficult to 
adequately staff classrooms.As of last week, more than 800 students and staff within the district were isolating or in quarantine. Students will begin remote learning from Nov. 30 through Jan. 22, 2021.In Blue Valley,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bluevalleyk12.org/Page/35656" target="_blank">district administrators took similar steps</a>, returning middle and high school students to remote-only learning between Thanksgiving and winter break.&nbsp;“The
 change in learning modes from Nov. 30 to Dec. 22 will allow us to focus
 limited resources, including substitutes, on the youngest students and 
students with disabilities, who are least able to benefit from distance 
learning,” said Tonya Merrigan, superintendent of Blue Valley Schools, 
adding “additional school closures are possible if the district cannot 
staff buildings with qualified substitutes.”<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/coronavirus/staff-shortages-hitting-kansas-city-area-school-districts" target="_blank">Reports from substitute staffing agencies</a>&nbsp;indicate
 finding qualified teachers is growing increasingly difficult. Mark 
Tallman, associate executive director for advocacy and communications at
 the Kansas Association of School Boards, said districts now face a 
difficult decision about how to handle these shortages.“Districts
 are faced with this terrible dilemma, which is do you do you back away 
from in-person learning, knowing that creates great difficulties for 
students, for families and for learning, or do you try to keep going in 
the situation where you literally may not have the staff to do it,” 
Tallman said. “The more you press ahead, it may cost you more staff in 
the future if people continue to get sick.”The
 rise in cases and staff needing to quarantine is increasing anxiety 
among Kansas educators, said Marcus Baltzell, a spokesman for the Kansas
 National Education Association. Baltzell said educators want to keep 
education in-person, but not if current conditions persist.“We
 say this over and over again, but things are becoming unsustainable,” 
he said. “Really, what this all boils down to is that there are a lot of
 moving standards out there about what’s safe and what isn’t. I think 
that’s really increasing the anxiety in educators.”To
 provide insight into the day-to-day concerns of educators, KNEA is 
producing a series of testimonies submitted by teachers across the 
state.&nbsp;In
 one video, Megan Epperson, an elementary teacher, likened the 
experience to that of Apollo 13 — a mission to the moon that was aborted
 after an oxygen tank ruptured.“We
 are facing life and death options,” Epperson said. “We are trying to 
look at the duct tape we have in front of us and saying how can we make 
this into something that is least harmful and most beneficial knowing 
that no solution is ideal. It’s never a good idea to get a space shuttle
 through space with duct tape.”Concerns
 over teacher shortages and rising COVID-19 cases are not just impacting
 more urban areas. In Scott City, where case numbers are still 
relatively low, the school has been able to maintain in-person learning 
so far. While it would like to remain that way, district superintendent 
Jamie Rumford said, school leaders are taking it every few weeks at a 
time.South
 of Scott City, case numbers are spiking in Finney County. Garden City 
Public Schools were all in-person until Nov. 6, but the district has 
pivoted to a hybrid model with some schools dealing with staffing issues
 and shifting to remote learning.If
 current data trends do not improve by Nov. 20, the district will move 
all students and schools to remote learning, said Roy Cessna, a 
spokesman for Garden City Public Schools.“Because
 of the higher cases of COVID amongst our staff, we just can’t 
effectively and safely instruct students in those schools,” Cessna said.
 “As the cases start to move down in the community, and those gating 
triggers are not being hit, we would move back in our operational level,
 back down to face to face instruction.”

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