Geary Community Hospital reported 15 patients were being treated at the facility on Wednesday. Four of them were COVID-19 patients, with one vaccinated for the coronavirus and three unvaccinated.&nbsp;

Two of those being treated for COVID-19 were in the intensive care unit and one was on a ventilator.

Geary Community Hospital reported 15 patients were being treated at the facility on Wednesday. Four of them were COVID-19 patients, with one vaccinated for the coronavirus and three unvaccinated.&nbsp;Two of those being treated for COVID-19 were in the intensive care unit and one was on a ventilator.

GCH updates COVID-19 numbers

One state group sees increase of kids who have not previously sought treatment

MANHATTAN – Even as many parts of society begin to return to near normal routines, mental health specialists continue to monitor how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the mental health of Americans.&nbsp;

Elaine Johannes,&nbsp;the Kansas Health Foundation Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University, is especially interested in how teenagers are adjusting to new rules and ways of doing things.&nbsp;

“Many of us have had kids at home and we’ve raised some teenagers into adulthood and we understand what happens in that developmental stage where maybe the young person is not sure of their identity, not sure of how well they’re performing compared to peers, and maybe they’re not comfortable in their own skin because they’re growing so quickly – and that all creates anxiety,” Johannes said.&nbsp;

In the first few months of the pandemic, the&nbsp;<a href="https://4-h.org/about/research/#!healthy-living" target="_blank">National 4-H Council commissioned a survey</a>&nbsp;that concluded that more than 7 in 10 kids between the ages of 13-19 are struggling with their mental health.&nbsp;

Those numbers have seemingly not gotten better in the year since, as the global pandemic creeps toward two years of changed routines.&nbsp;

James Roberson, the vice president of programs and innovation for KVC Hospitals -- a system that provides children’s psychiatric treatment at facilities in Kansas City, Wichita and Hays – said his organization is seeing an increase of kids who have never sought treatment for mental health previously.&nbsp;

“The scary part is what we know about mental health,” he said. “It’s a little different from physical health because we don’t just look at the organic. We look at the context of the child in their environment, and the pandemic has really changed all of their environments.”&nbsp;

Roberson said support groups like KVC are working to become more visible in communities, break down the stigma of mental illness and work directly with families.&nbsp;

“I have not met a family yet that has regretted having their child engage in therapy,” he said. “The opportunity to get your child in front of a professional who can do an assessment and tell you that everything is okay, keep doing what you’re doing -- or to let you know that what they’re feeling is clinical – I think that is really valuable.”&nbsp;

Johannes said parents are key to their child’s mental well-being.&nbsp;

“It’s really up to the adults to understand their role in modeling, coping, talking about and helping the child to become resilient,” she said. “It’s the adults that can look for positive behaviors that they can support.”&nbsp;

Roberson added: “You don’t have to sit back and say, ‘is my child resilient or not resilient?’ No matter how old your child is, they’re actively developing resilience. If you’re present in their lives and you are helping them navigate the problems that they’re facing at school or in relationships…every time you help them solve problems, you’re building their resilience.”&nbsp;

Johannes said K-State Research and Extension is working to provide a mental health curriculum to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H</a>&nbsp;Clubs that is a self-guided study on how children can recognize behavioral health in themselves.&nbsp;

KVC Hospitals also is&nbsp;<a href="https://hospitals.kvc.org/freeceus/" target="_blank">hosting a free, three-part webinar series</a>&nbsp;beginning Sept. 13 to help families recognize and cope with mental health issues. That series also is offering free continuing education units for professionals.&nbsp;

Recognizing and treating mental health, “is just not that clean and simple,” Roberson said.&nbsp;

“We want people to have a sophisticated understanding of how they’re experiencing the world and how people around them support that. And I think teens are ready for this; they’re eager. We as providers and as a state system owe them solutions so that they can be their best selves and live a happy, long life.”&nbsp;

<h2>One state group sees increase of kids who have not previously sought treatment</h2>MANHATTAN – Even as many parts of society begin to return to near normal routines, mental health specialists continue to monitor how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the mental health of Americans.&nbsp;Elaine Johannes,&nbsp;the Kansas Health Foundation Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University, is especially interested in how teenagers are adjusting to new rules and ways of doing things.&nbsp;“Many of us have had kids at home and we’ve raised some teenagers into adulthood and we understand what happens in that developmental stage where maybe the young person is not sure of their identity, not sure of how well they’re performing compared to peers, and maybe they’re not comfortable in their own skin because they’re growing so quickly – and that all creates anxiety,” Johannes said.&nbsp;In the first few months of the pandemic, the&nbsp;<a href="https://4-h.org/about/research/#!healthy-living" target="_blank">National 4-H Council commissioned a survey</a>&nbsp;that concluded that more than 7 in 10 kids between the ages of 13-19 are struggling with their mental health.&nbsp;Those numbers have seemingly not gotten better in the year since, as the global pandemic creeps toward two years of changed routines.&nbsp;James Roberson, the vice president of programs and innovation for KVC Hospitals -- a system that provides children’s psychiatric treatment at facilities in Kansas City, Wichita and Hays – said his organization is seeing an increase of kids who have never sought treatment for mental health previously.&nbsp;“The scary part is what we know about mental health,” he said. “It’s a little different from physical health because we don’t just look at the organic. We look at the context of the child in their environment, and the pandemic has really changed all of their environments.”&nbsp;Roberson said support groups like KVC are working to become more visible in communities, break down the stigma of mental illness and work directly with families.&nbsp;“I have not met a family yet that has regretted having their child engage in therapy,” he said. “The opportunity to get your child in front of a professional who can do an assessment and tell you that everything is okay, keep doing what you’re doing -- or to let you know that what they’re feeling is clinical – I think that is really valuable.”&nbsp;Johannes said parents are key to their child’s mental well-being.&nbsp;“It’s really up to the adults to understand their role in modeling, coping, talking about and helping the child to become resilient,” she said. “It’s the adults that can look for positive behaviors that they can support.”&nbsp;Roberson added: “You don’t have to sit back and say, ‘is my child resilient or not resilient?’ No matter how old your child is, they’re actively developing resilience. If you’re present in their lives and you are helping them navigate the problems that they’re facing at school or in relationships…every time you help them solve problems, you’re building their resilience.”&nbsp;Johannes said K-State Research and Extension is working to provide a mental health curriculum to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H</a>&nbsp;Clubs that is a self-guided study on how children can recognize behavioral health in themselves.&nbsp;KVC Hospitals also is&nbsp;<a href="https://hospitals.kvc.org/freeceus/" target="_blank">hosting a free, three-part webinar series</a>&nbsp;beginning Sept. 13 to help families recognize and cope with mental health issues. That series also is offering free continuing education units for professionals.&nbsp;Recognizing and treating mental health, “is just not that clean and simple,” Roberson said.&nbsp;“We want people to have a sophisticated understanding of how they’re experiencing the world and how people around them support that. And I think teens are ready for this; they’re eager. We as providers and as a state system owe them solutions so that they can be their best selves and live a happy, long life.”&nbsp;-KSRE-

Experts share insight on how COVID-19 has affected teens’ mental health

With a goal of achieving a 95% attendance rate in mind and two new team members being hired USD 475&nbsp;is determined to keep students inside the classroom.

Marilu Avila and John Berrios-Gonzalez joined the district in August as the new role of truancy officers and being both military-affiliated and bilingual, they hope to appeal to all the diverse families in the district and help them achieve this attendance goal.

“We make sure that students are actually coming to school. We want to try to catch them before they’re officially truant,” Avila said. “We want to help families and let them know that we’re here for them and we’re trying to find solutions to make that possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;

With a goal of achieving a 95% attendance rate in mind and two new team members being hired USD 475&nbsp;is determined to keep students inside the classroom.Marilu Avila and John Berrios-Gonzalez joined the district in August as the new role of truancy officers and being both military-affiliated and bilingual, they hope to appeal to all the diverse families in the district and help them achieve this attendance goal.“We make sure that students are actually coming to school. We want to try to catch them before they’re officially truant,” Avila said. “We want to help families and let them know that we’re here for them and we’re trying to find solutions to make that possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Schools hires additional staff to combat truancy, keep students in school

Eagle Communications has been promoting local businesses through the Summer of Small Business and is wrapping the season up with a chance to win a $2,000 shopping spree from local businesses.&nbsp;

For more information on participating businesses, visit the Summer of Small Business tab above, and for your chance to win,&nbsp;<a href="https://eaglecommunicationsjunctioncitymanhattan.secondstreetapp.com/Summer-Of-Small-Business-Sweepstakes/">CLICK HERE</a>!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631126095936.jpeg" alt="Summer of Small Business" />
 <figcaption>Summer of Small Business</figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Communications has been promoting local businesses through the Summer of Small Business and is wrapping the season up with a chance to win a $2,000 shopping spree from local businesses.&nbsp;For more information on participating businesses, visit the Summer of Small Business tab above, and for your chance to win,&nbsp;<a href="https://eaglecommunicationsjunctioncitymanhattan.secondstreetapp.com/Summer-Of-Small-Business-Sweepstakes/">CLICK HERE</a>!

Summer of Small Business Sweepstakes

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members have approved a salary proposal for employees.

There will be a 2020-2021 one-time bonus of 2.75% for all classified and administrative employees, a total average raise of 3.05% for classified employees that includes step movement, longevity and base increase, plus a three percent increase in salary for administrators.

There will be a $750 COVID appreciation stipend for notification of wage and contract employees, with this one-time stipend occurring Oct. 1st. The guidelines for the stipend are $750 for full-time employees who work at least 30 hours per week, $500 for KPERS eligible working 17.5 to 30 hours per week, and $250 for part-time employees working 17.5 hours per week.

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members have approved a salary proposal for employees.There will be a 2020-2021 one-time bonus of 2.75% for all classified and administrative employees, a total average raise of 3.05% for classified employees that includes step movement, longevity and base increase, plus a three percent increase in salary for administrators.There will be a $750 COVID appreciation stipend for notification of wage and contract employees, with this one-time stipend occurring Oct. 1st. The guidelines for the stipend are $750 for full-time employees who work at least 30 hours per week, $500 for KPERS eligible working 17.5 to 30 hours per week, and $250 for part-time employees working 17.5 hours per week.

School board approves salary proposal

MANHATTAN, Kan. - A unique Manhattan eatery celebrated its first birthday recently, and considering the times, that's a pretty special milestone.&nbsp;

Guilty Biscuit, a fast-casual-style restaurant on Manhattan's west side offers biscuits, biscuit sandwiches, and several other unique cuisine options that throw a twist in a traditional breakfast staple.&nbsp;

"It's really, kind of quietly become something that I'm really unbelievably proud of," said Operator Evan Grier. "The creation of the whole concept of Guilty biscuit was done absolutely the wrong way, from what you would normally want to do when you're starting up a brand."

According to Grier, he and his colleagues cooked up Guilty Biscuit on a whim during the summer of 2020, and after just a few short weeks were baking up biscuits.&nbsp;

"There wasn't a lot of market research, there wasn't a lot of due diligence, there wasn't a lot of time to just think and stew on all the small decisions and details that need to go in to having a successful restaurant brand," said Grier. "We, and I, believed and trusted in our team to be able to pull that off on the fly and they did."

Grier believes he works with the best operations team in town, and with Guilty's success being evidence to that, he's confident in what lies ahead for the business, even if there's still some people struggling to wrap their head around having biscuits for every meal and not just breakfast, myself included.

"The neat thing about Guilty Biscuit is that the Guilty Biscuit brand isn't fully cooked," said Grier with a smirk. "So we still get to play and have fun inside the framework of&nbsp; the name Guilty biscuit, but I would encourage our patrons and fans in the community to continue to look and watch what we're doing there because that's really where we get to have some fun and play a little bit."

Even if you're not a "Biscuit-lover," Guilty offers plenty of substitutes, like buns instead.&nbsp;

Grier also added that although Guilty biscuit isn't really a breakfast-style restaurant, they just might be exploring an earlier opening on weekends for fans who want biscuits earlier in the day.&nbsp;

"We've listened to our customers, we hear you, we just need to get staffed up and we'll start focusing on some breakfast hours on the weekends and see how it goes," said Grier.

For Guilty fans, or people still getting familiar with one of Manhattan's newer, unique eateries, you can learn more about Guilty Biscuit on their website <a href="https://www.guiltybiscuit.com/">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631133478173.jpeg" alt="Guilty Biscuit" />
 <figcaption>Guilty Biscuit</figcaption>
 </figure>BY JACKSON SCHNEIDERMANHATTAN, Kan. - A unique Manhattan eatery celebrated its first birthday recently, and considering the times, that's a pretty special milestone.&nbsp;Guilty Biscuit, a fast-casual-style restaurant on Manhattan's west side offers biscuits, biscuit sandwiches, and several other unique cuisine options that throw a twist in a traditional breakfast staple.&nbsp;"It's really, kind of quietly become something that I'm really unbelievably proud of," said Operator Evan Grier. "The creation of the whole concept of Guilty biscuit was done absolutely the wrong way, from what you would normally want to do when you're starting up a brand."According to Grier, he and his colleagues cooked up Guilty Biscuit on a whim during the summer of 2020, and after just a few short weeks were baking up biscuits.&nbsp;"There wasn't a lot of market research, there wasn't a lot of due diligence, there wasn't a lot of time to just think and stew on all the small decisions and details that need to go in to having a successful restaurant brand," said Grier. "We, and I, believed and trusted in our team to be able to pull that off on the fly and they did."Grier believes he works with the best operations team in town, and with Guilty's success being evidence to that, he's confident in what lies ahead for the business, even if there's still some people struggling to wrap their head around having biscuits for every meal and not just breakfast, myself included."The neat thing about Guilty Biscuit is that the Guilty Biscuit brand isn't fully cooked," said Grier with a smirk. "So we still get to play and have fun inside the framework of&nbsp; the name Guilty biscuit, but I would encourage our patrons and fans in the community to continue to look and watch what we're doing there because that's really where we get to have some fun and play a little bit."Even if you're not a "Biscuit-lover," Guilty offers plenty of substitutes, like buns instead.&nbsp;Grier also added that although Guilty biscuit isn't really a breakfast-style restaurant, they just might be exploring an earlier opening on weekends for fans who want biscuits earlier in the day.&nbsp;"We've listened to our customers, we hear you, we just need to get staffed up and we'll start focusing on some breakfast hours on the weekends and see how it goes," said Grier.For Guilty fans, or people still getting familiar with one of Manhattan's newer, unique eateries, you can learn more about Guilty Biscuit on their website <a href="https://www.guiltybiscuit.com/">HERE</a>.

Guilty Biscuit looks back on its wild first year in MHK

DICKINSON COUNTY&nbsp;-&nbsp;Today, the Police Chief and Assistant Police Chief of the Herington Police Department were served summonses following an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), according to a media release from the agancy.

On Wednesday, Sept. 8, John V. Matula, 36, the Herington Police Chief, was ordered to appear in Dickinson County District Court for alleged criminal damage to property and criminal trespass.

Also ordered to appear in Dickinson County District Court was Curtis M. Tyra, 43, the Herington Assistant Chief, for alleged criminal trespass.

The suspected crimes are misdemeanors, and are believed to have occurred on May 18, 2021 related to Matula and Tyra forcing entry into a residence without a search warrant.

DICKINSON COUNTY&nbsp;-&nbsp;Today, the Police Chief and Assistant Police Chief of the Herington Police Department were served summonses following an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), according to a media release from the agancy.On Wednesday, Sept. 8, John V. Matula, 36, the Herington Police Chief, was ordered to appear in Dickinson County District Court for alleged criminal damage to property and criminal trespass.Also ordered to appear in Dickinson County District Court was Curtis M. Tyra, 43, the Herington Assistant Chief, for alleged criminal trespass.The suspected crimes are misdemeanors, and are believed to have occurred on May 18, 2021 related to Matula and Tyra forcing entry into a residence without a search warrant.

Herington Police Chief ordered to court after KBI investigation

Geary USD 475 was the first district in Kansas to implement the pilot of the Military Child Education Coalition's Purple Star School Program within its schools. There was a one-year anniversary recognition&nbsp; of the program during the Board of Education meeting Tuesday night.

This program helps schools “respond to the educational and social-emotional challenges military-connected children face during their transition to a new school,” according to the MCEC’s website, and keeps military-affiliated students “on track to be college, workforce, and life-ready.” Geary County will continue to report its results to state leaders throughout the process.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631126056340.jpeg" alt="(From left) Fort Riley Garrison Commander Col. William McKannay, Board of Education President Dr. Anwar Khoury, and Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston with the Purple Star School Program plaque" />
 <figcaption>(From left) Fort Riley Garrison Commander Col. William McKannay, Board of Education President Dr. Anwar Khoury, and Superintendent Dr. Reginald Eggleston with the Purple Star School Program plaque</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary USD 475 was the first district in Kansas to implement the pilot of the Military Child Education Coalition's Purple Star School Program within its schools. There was a one-year anniversary recognition&nbsp; of the program during the Board of Education meeting Tuesday night.This program helps schools “respond to the educational and social-emotional challenges military-connected children face during their transition to a new school,” according to the MCEC’s website, and keeps military-affiliated students “on track to be college, workforce, and life-ready.” Geary County will continue to report its results to state leaders throughout the process.

USD 475 recognizes Purple Star School Program anniversary

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a jewelry theft in Riley County.

Just after 2p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 200 block of S. Erpelding Avenue in Leonardville, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 68-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect stole a necklace with an estimated value of approximately $850. 

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.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a jewelry theft in Riley County.Just after 2p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 200 block of S. Erpelding Avenue in Leonardville, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 68-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect stole a necklace with an estimated value of approximately $850. 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.

RCPD investigates theft of $850 necklace

RILEY COUNTY— A Bergman elementary school student waiting for the school bus in Manhattan was hit by a vehicle Wednesday, according to the Riley County Police Department spokesman Aaron Wintermote.

Police responded to the call just after 8a.m.. at the intersection of Tuttle Cove and Terra Heights Drive.

EMS transported the 7-year-old boy to Via Christi in Manhattan. Lifestar then airlifted the boy to&nbsp;Stormont Vail&nbsp;in Topeka.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police had no update on the child's condition just after 10:30a.m.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY— A Bergman elementary school student waiting for the school bus in Manhattan was hit by a vehicle Wednesday, according to the Riley County Police Department spokesman Aaron Wintermote.Police responded to the call just after 8a.m.. at the intersection of Tuttle Cove and Terra Heights Drive.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F383Dolphins%2Fposts%2F4421588914555360&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="237" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>EMS transported the 7-year-old boy to Via Christi in Manhattan. Lifestar then airlifted the boy to&nbsp;Stormont Vail&nbsp;in Topeka.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police had no update on the child's condition just after 10:30a.m.&nbsp;

Update: Manhattan boy hit by car while waiting for school bus

If it felt like August was a long hot month, you are right. To put it in a nutshell August was hot and dry. Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte said temperatures were above normal. Precipitation was well below normal.

The average daily high for August was 91.3, 3.3 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 70.0, 3.7 degrees above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 80.7, 3.5 degrees above normal. While July is usually the warmest month of the year, August stole that title this year with the monthly mean temperature that was 1.5 degrees warmer than July! We reached 100 degrees on two separate occasions, in August, on the 24th and 26th. The lowest temperature for the month was 60 degrees on the morning of August 3rd. 

There were three temperature records set during the month and one tied. All were record high overnight lows. The low of 77 on the 12th tied the record for that date set in 2006 and reached again in 2010. The lows on the 24th, 25th and 26th all broke the record high lows for those dates. The low of 76 on the 24th broke the record of 75 set in 2006 and again in 2014. The low of 78 on the 25th broke the old record of 76 set in 1955 and the low on the 26th of 79 broke the old record of 78 set in 1954. 

While it was a hot month it wasn’t a record hot month. The hottest August on record was in 2000 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 85.0 degrees. It has been over a decade since we experienced an August monthly mean temperature above 80. August 2010 we matched this year’s monthly mean temperature of 80.7 The coldest August was in 1981 with a monthly mean temperature of 71.5

Rainfall events in August were few, far between and scattered. Average August rainfall is 4.55 inches. Milford Lake received 1.49 inches and Junction City 1.07 inches. Crops, pastures, lawns and gardens all suffered from the heat and lack of rain. Normal year to date precipitation through August is 25.65 inches. Milford Lake has received 18.39 inches this year and Junction City 23.27 inches. The driest August on record was 1971 when no rainfall was recorded. The wettest August on record was in 2013 when 10.33 inches of rain was recorded. August 16, 2013 4.30 inches of rain fell at Milford Lake in just a few hours in the afternoon causing localized flooding just northwest of Junction City.

September starts to flirt with fall type weather and the days shorten significantly as we approach the autumnal equinox (September 22nd at 2:11 p.m.) Shorter days bring with it cooler temperatures to most everyone’s delight. Rainfall starts to drop off noticeably as well as we start to head into the drier winter season. Average daily highs in September start the month around 85 and by the month’s end are down to 75. Overnight lows drop from 64 on the 1st to 51 on the 30th. Average September precipitation is 2.85 inches. While there have been a few records of first freezes in September (3 times in the past 70 years) we normally expect our first frosts to occur in mid to late October.

If it felt like August was a long hot month, you are right. To put it in a nutshell August was hot and dry. Geary County Extension Agent Chuck Otte said temperatures were above normal. Precipitation was well below normal.The average daily high for August was 91.3, 3.3 degrees above normal. The average overnight low was 70.0, 3.7 degrees above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 80.7, 3.5 degrees above normal. While July is usually the warmest month of the year, August stole that title this year with the monthly mean temperature that was 1.5 degrees warmer than July! We reached 100 degrees on two separate occasions, in August, on the 24th and 26th. The lowest temperature for the month was 60 degrees on the morning of August 3rd. There were three temperature records set during the month and one tied. All were record high overnight lows. The low of 77 on the 12th tied the record for that date set in 2006 and reached again in 2010. The lows on the 24th, 25th and 26th all broke the record high lows for those dates. The low of 76 on the 24th broke the record of 75 set in 2006 and again in 2014. The low of 78 on the 25th broke the old record of 76 set in 1955 and the low on the 26th of 79 broke the old record of 78 set in 1954. While it was a hot month it wasn’t a record hot month. The hottest August on record was in 2000 when we had a monthly mean temperature of 85.0 degrees. It has been over a decade since we experienced an August monthly mean temperature above 80. August 2010 we matched this year’s monthly mean temperature of 80.7 The coldest August was in 1981 with a monthly mean temperature of 71.5 Rainfall events in August were few, far between and scattered. Average August rainfall is 4.55 inches. Milford Lake received 1.49 inches and Junction City 1.07 inches. Crops, pastures, lawns and gardens all suffered from the heat and lack of rain. Normal year to date precipitation through August is 25.65 inches. Milford Lake has received 18.39 inches this year and Junction City 23.27 inches. The driest August on record was 1971 when no rainfall was recorded. The wettest August on record was in 2013 when 10.33 inches of rain was recorded. August 16, 2013 4.30 inches of rain fell at Milford Lake in just a few hours in the afternoon causing localized flooding just northwest of Junction City.September starts to flirt with fall type weather and the days shorten significantly as we approach the autumnal equinox (September 22nd at 2:11 p.m.) Shorter days bring with it cooler temperatures to most everyone’s delight. Rainfall starts to drop off noticeably as well as we start to head into the drier winter season. Average daily highs in September start the month around 85 and by the month’s end are down to 75. Overnight lows drop from 64 on the 1st to 51 on the 30th. Average September precipitation is 2.85 inches. While there have been a few records of first freezes in September (3 times in the past 70 years) we normally expect our first frosts to occur in mid to late October.

Extension Agent releases August weather summary

Digital Tickets are now available for purchase for the 2021-22 school year. Digital tickets will be redeemed electronically at ticket booths/entrances day of the event.

These tickets are for home Junction City High School regular season athletic events only.&nbsp;

JCHS offers individual game tickets, All-Season/All Sport passes, and fall/winter/spring sports passes – An additional convenience fee will be added to the pass/ticket price when purchasing online

Individual ticket prices are $5 for adults and $3 for students (K-12).

All-Season/All sports passes cost $120 adults $60 students (K-12) – great value if you plan on attending all JCHS athletic events

Fall/Winter/Spring passes cost $40 adults and $20 students (K-12) – choose this option if you attend only sports during a particular sports season.

Link to purchase tickets&nbsp;<a href="https://bluejayathletics.org/event-tickets">https://bluejayathletics.org/event-tickets</a>

If you have any questions, contact the JCHS Athletic Department at 785-717-4214

Director of Athletics – Junction City High School

Digital Tickets are now available for purchase for the 2021-22 school year. Digital tickets will be redeemed electronically at ticket booths/entrances day of the event.These tickets are for home Junction City High School regular season athletic events only.&nbsp;JCHS offers individual game tickets, All-Season/All Sport passes, and fall/winter/spring sports passes – An additional convenience fee will be added to the pass/ticket price when purchasing onlineIndividual ticket prices are $5 for adults and $3 for students (K-12).All-Season/All sports passes cost $120 adults $60 students (K-12) – great value if you plan on attending all JCHS athletic eventsFall/Winter/Spring passes cost $40 adults and $20 students (K-12) – choose this option if you attend only sports during a particular sports season.Link to purchase tickets&nbsp;<a href="https://bluejayathletics.org/event-tickets">https://bluejayathletics.org/event-tickets</a>If you have any questions, contact the JCHS Athletic Department at 785-717-4214Go Blue Jays!Matt WesterhausDirector of Athletics – Junction City High School

Digital Tickets Now Available for JCHS Athletic Events for the 21-22 school year

KDA to Host 15th Annual Kansas Grape Stomp at the Kansas State Fair.jpg

MANHATTAN, Kansas — Feel the squish of the grapes in the time-honored tradition of grape stomping as you help celebrate the grape and farm winery industries in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will host the 15th annual Kansas Grape Stomp on Saturday, Sept. 11, at 1:00 p.m. on the Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson.

Gather around the grape tubs to watch state and local agriculture leaders and others stomp grapes to salute the Kansas grape and farm winery industries. The competitive stomp-off will kick off the event and an open stomp for all Kansas State Fair attendees will follow.

As of September 2021, there are 59 farm wineries throughout Kansas.

KDA is committed to advocating for and promoting the agriculture industry, the state’s largest industry, employer and economic contributor, and encourages all fairgoers to attend the grape stomp to have fun while learning about the grape and farm winery industries in Kansas.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631114424525.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDA to Host 15th Annual Kansas Grape Stomp at the Kansas State Fair.jpgMANHATTAN, Kansas — Feel the squish of the grapes in the time-honored tradition of grape stomping as you help celebrate the grape and farm winery industries in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Agriculture will host the 15th annual Kansas Grape Stomp on Saturday, Sept. 11, at 1:00 p.m. on the Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System Stage at Lake Talbott at the Kansas State Fair in Hutchinson.Gather around the grape tubs to watch state and local agriculture leaders and others stomp grapes to salute the Kansas grape and farm winery industries. The competitive stomp-off will kick off the event and an open stomp for all Kansas State Fair attendees will follow.As of September 2021, there are 59 farm wineries throughout Kansas.KDA is committed to advocating for and promoting the agriculture industry, the state’s largest industry, employer and economic contributor, and encourages all fairgoers to attend the grape stomp to have fun while learning about the grape and farm winery industries in Kansas.

KDA to host annual grape stomp at the State Fair

Junction City Commissioners have approved a one-time pay stipend for city employees. Commissioner Nate Butler's motion for the bonus included $500 for fulltime employees and $250 for part-time employees on the payroll as of Tuesday.

The funding is a COVID-19 appreciation stipend for their efforts during the pandemic.

Junction City Commissioners have approved a one-time pay stipend for city employees. Commissioner Nate Butler's motion for the bonus included $500 for fulltime employees and $250 for part-time employees on the payroll as of Tuesday.The funding is a COVID-19 appreciation stipend for their efforts during the pandemic.

Junction City employees get a bonus

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members voted Tuesday night to accept a letter of resignation from Board member Sarah Talley. She and her husband Ken are moving to Hesston, KS.

Talley told JC Post that she and her husband have been making preparations for some time for any issues that may develop in the future in connection with Parkinson's disease experienced by Ken. "One of those things was to look at finding a home that was all on one level." Talley added that they also found that there were other opportunities and resources to make life better for him.&nbsp; "Parkinson's, not a fun disease and it's not something that you really know what's going to happen from day to day but we've been blessed. Kenny's doing well and we want to enjoy the time that we have."

"We actually put our home on the market thinking it would take awhile before it would be purchased and it went very very quickly and the individuals that made the purchase wanted to be in by Sept. 10, and so we were on a very fast time frame." They will reside in a retirement community in Hesston, not far from family members in Wichita.

Talley has served on the school board in USD 475 for nearly four years. Her term was due to expire in December.&nbsp; She has also served as a principal at Lincoln Elementary School and for the Early Childhood Center, and as the Head Start Director and Human Resources Director for the district. "I enjoyed my time on the Board. It was a learning experience." Talley added that she felt that the Board in the last four years had faced a lot of issues that probably many board members who had served for a much longer time never had to face. I feel like we stepped up and we made decisions, and they worked hard."

Sara explained that there were no concerns or issues for her in Junction City. The move was just due to the way the housing situation developed.

The school board has decided to leave the position on the BOE vacant until January after the November elections.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631067256534.jpeg" alt="Sarah Talley - Photo USD 475" />
 <figcaption>Sarah Talley - Photo USD 475</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary USD 475 Board of Education members voted Tuesday night to accept a letter of resignation from Board member Sarah Talley. She and her husband Ken are moving to Hesston, KS.Talley told JC Post that she and her husband have been making preparations for some time for any issues that may develop in the future in connection with Parkinson's disease experienced by Ken. "One of those things was to look at finding a home that was all on one level." Talley added that they also found that there were other opportunities and resources to make life better for him.&nbsp; "Parkinson's, not a fun disease and it's not something that you really know what's going to happen from day to day but we've been blessed. Kenny's doing well and we want to enjoy the time that we have.""We actually put our home on the market thinking it would take awhile before it would be purchased and it went very very quickly and the individuals that made the purchase wanted to be in by Sept. 10, and so we were on a very fast time frame." They will reside in a retirement community in Hesston, not far from family members in Wichita.Talley has served on the school board in USD 475 for nearly four years. Her term was due to expire in December.&nbsp; She has also served as a principal at Lincoln Elementary School and for the Early Childhood Center, and as the Head Start Director and Human Resources Director for the district. "I enjoyed my time on the Board. It was a learning experience." Talley added that she felt that the Board in the last four years had faced a lot of issues that probably many board members who had served for a much longer time never had to face. I feel like we stepped up and we made decisions, and they worked hard."Sara explained that there were no concerns or issues for her in Junction City. The move was just due to the way the housing situation developed.The school board has decided to leave the position on the BOE vacant until January after the November elections.&nbsp;

Sarah Talley steps down from USD 475 Board of Education

Geary USD 475 school board members voted Tuesday evening to allow talks to resume with the city on possible acquisition of the old Junction City High School property. The new JCHS opened in late August.

In June the city maintained an earlier $1 offer for the old high school site. They wanted the site at 900 N. Eisenhower Drive to be demolished and cleared before the City assumed maintenance of the property. 

There was an earlier counteroffer from the school district with multiple options ranging from&nbsp; USD 475 retaining 17 acres at the current site for construction of a new elementary school in the future to swapping the former high school site for 17 acres in the land bank for a future elementary school, or for an increase in the offer to include fair market value for the land, tennis courts and football field. No final action was taken.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631061617900.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Geary USD 475 school board members voted Tuesday evening to allow talks to resume with the city on possible acquisition of the old Junction City High School property. The new JCHS opened in late August.In June the city maintained an earlier $1 offer for the old high school site. They wanted the site at 900 N. Eisenhower Drive to be demolished and cleared before the City assumed maintenance of the property. There was an earlier counteroffer from the school district with multiple options ranging from&nbsp; USD 475 retaining 17 acres at the current site for construction of a new elementary school in the future to swapping the former high school site for 17 acres in the land bank for a future elementary school, or for an increase in the offer to include fair market value for the land, tennis courts and football field. No final action was taken.

BOE authorizes resumption of talks with the City on the old JCHS

There was a glitch in the process to seek a new Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau director. To correct it, an interview will be granted to another candidate whose application was lost. That was the end result of a lengthy discussion involving CVB Advisory Committee members, the HR Director Crystal Malchose and the county commission Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

Malchose issued her recommendation. "There was a glitch. She is qualified on paper so I think that since the other person has not accepted the offer that was made that we should extend this person an interview." The commission and Malchose will conduct the interview.&nbsp;

Malchose noted that a job offer was made to a candidate who then made a counteroffer. The County had not yet responded to the counteroffer. 

There was a glitch in the process to seek a new Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau director. To correct it, an interview will be granted to another candidate whose application was lost. That was the end result of a lengthy discussion involving CVB Advisory Committee members, the HR Director Crystal Malchose and the county commission Tuesday morning.&nbsp;Malchose issued her recommendation. "There was a glitch. She is qualified on paper so I think that since the other person has not accepted the offer that was made that we should extend this person an interview." The commission and Malchose will conduct the interview.&nbsp;Malchose noted that a job offer was made to a candidate who then made a counteroffer. The County had not yet responded to the counteroffer. The job remains open at this time.

County will grant CVB Director applicant an interview 

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a case of alleged domestic have made an arrest.

On Tuesday, the The Geary County sheriff's office reported they were attempting to locate 35-year-old David Paul Jones.

Prior to his arrest, deputies said Jones was seen in the area of the Otter Creek Bridge on Lyons Creek Road.

Jones was wanted in Dickinson County for Domestic Battery and ran from local law enforcement when located in Geary County and is being held in Geary County, according online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631035020562.png" alt="Jones photo&nbsp; from an earlier arrest in Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jones photo&nbsp; from an earlier arrest in Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a case of alleged domestic have made an arrest.On Tuesday, the The Geary County sheriff's office reported they were attempting to locate 35-year-old David Paul Jones.Prior to his arrest, deputies said Jones was seen in the area of the Otter Creek Bridge on Lyons Creek Road.Jones was wanted in Dickinson County for Domestic Battery and ran from local law enforcement when located in Geary County and is being held in Geary County, according online jail records.

Man accused of domestic battery arrested in Geary Co.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged theft in Manhattan.

Just after 2:30p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for theft, interference with LEO, use/possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia, display/possession fictitious/revoked/suspended driver's license, possession of stolen property, possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, making false information, attempted identity theft, unlawful to possess took to remove theft detection device and distribution of opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant in the 300 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Best Buy and a 44-year-old woman reported a 37-year-old female suspect stole a Lenovo computer, two pairs of Samsung earbuds and a Bang and Olsen Beoplay Portal headphones. 

The suspect was also found to be in possession of multiple pairs of stole sunglasses, drugs and drug paraphernalia, and fake identification. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,258.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged theft in Manhattan.Just after 2:30p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for theft, interference with LEO, use/possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia, display/possession fictitious/revoked/suspended driver's license, possession of stolen property, possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, making false information, attempted identity theft, unlawful to possess took to remove theft detection device and distribution of opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant in the 300 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Best Buy and a 44-year-old woman reported a 37-year-old female suspect stole a Lenovo computer, two pairs of Samsung earbuds and a Bang and Olsen Beoplay Portal headphones. The suspect was also found to be in possession of multiple pairs of stole sunglasses, drugs and drug paraphernalia, and fake identification. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,258.

RCPD investigating alleged ID theft

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged scam in Manhattan.

Just before 1:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for theft in the 1900 block of Casement Road. in Manhattan.

A 62-year-old man reported an unknown suspect stole $5,950 in miscellaneous gift cards from him through an internet scam. 

MANHATTAN —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged scam in Manhattan.Just before 1:30p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for theft in the 1900 block of Casement Road. in Manhattan.A 62-year-old man reported an unknown suspect stole $5,950 in miscellaneous gift cards from him through an internet scam. 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.

Manhattan man lost $5,900 in alleged gift card scam

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary that included over a dozen guns from a home in Manhattan.

Just after 7:30p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for burglary in the 900 block of De Hoff Drive in Manhattan.

A 42-year-old man reported an unknown suspect entered his unoccupied house and stole a black AK47 rifle, a Bear Creek Arsenal rifle, two Palmetto State Armory rifles, a Bravo Company USA rifle, a Stagg Arms AR rifle, an AKV PSA rifle, a Tavor IWI rifle, a Keltec Bullpup rifle, a CZ Scorpion rifle, a Patrol AR10 rifle, a 20 gauge shotgun, an EOTech 512 sight, Vortex and Bushnell red dot sights, Seymour, Trijicon and Primary scopes, Glock 17 and 19 handguns, and Walter PP22 and PPK handguns. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $15,250. 

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary that included over a dozen guns from a home in Manhattan.Just after 7:30p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for burglary in the 900 block of De Hoff Drive in Manhattan.A 42-year-old man reported an unknown suspect entered his unoccupied house and stole a black AK47 rifle, a Bear Creek Arsenal rifle, two Palmetto State Armory rifles, a Bravo Company USA rifle, a Stagg Arms AR rifle, an AKV PSA rifle, a Tavor IWI rifle, a Keltec Bullpup rifle, a CZ Scorpion rifle, a Patrol AR10 rifle, a 20 gauge shotgun, an EOTech 512 sight, Vortex and Bushnell red dot sights, Seymour, Trijicon and Primary scopes, Glock 17 and 19 handguns, and Walter PP22 and PPK handguns. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $15,250. 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.

RCPD: Over a dozen guns taken from Manhattan home

MANHATTAN—A Manhattan man was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Sunday in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity reported a 1996 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Raphael Byrd, 35, Manhattan, struck a 2004 Olds Alero driven by 18-year-old William Weatherford of Manhattan in the 2200 Block of College Ave. in Manhattan.

EMS transported Byrd to Via Christi for treatment of a broken leg, according to the RCPD.

MANHATTAN—A Manhattan man was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Sunday in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department activity reported a 1996 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Raphael Byrd, 35, Manhattan, struck a 2004 Olds Alero driven by 18-year-old William Weatherford of Manhattan in the 2200 Block of College Ave. in Manhattan.EMS transported Byrd to Via Christi for treatment of a broken leg, according to the RCPD.

Manhattan man injured in weekend accident

By NOAH TABORDA and SHELTON BROWN <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/09/06/thousands-of-kansans-face-threat-of-eviction-as-pandemic-exposes-housing-crisis/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Sheena Mooney has spent the 
past year without a job or a safety net, living in her orange Nissan 
Xterra in a trailer park a few miles from Washburn.

Mooney lost her job at Frito-Lay in 
March 2020, a job she enjoyed, fell behind on her rent and was evicted 
that August. She applied for unemployment but did not qualify, and her 
eviction was subsequently approved between May 26, 2020, when the 
state’s eviction moratorium expired, and Aug. 17, 2020, when <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/08/17/gov-laura-kelly-reimposes-temporary-statewide-ban-on-foreclosures-evictions/">Gov. Laura Kelly’s new order went into effect</a>.

“I don’t like telling people my 
business, you know. This was something that needed to be heard,” Mooney 
said. “How did this happen? How was I able to fall through the cracks 
and get no help?”

Mooney is one of the thousands who 
have been evicted or are facing the threat of eviction during the 
pandemic in Kansas. She joined Kansas housing advocates on a new episode
 of the Kansas Reflector podcast to discuss the realities of renting 
amid COVID-19.

Estimates from the Kansas Housing 
Resources Corporation indicate more than 27,000 Kansas are currently 
behind on their rent, and estimates from Zillow show about 14,600 
renters are at risk of eviction.

Federal and state moratoriums have 
provided temporary relief for those who can prove they are unable to pay
 rent because of COVID-19 related circumstances, but the narrow scope 
has left many without protection. Even during the moratorium period, 
evictions proceeded in some areas.

Dave Patel, who comanages the Motel 6
 in Topeka with his wife, said he has seen an influx of people staying 
at his hotel because of lost housing.

Vince Munoz, an organizer for the 
tenant advocacy group Rent Zero Kansas, said without substantive change,
 many more will be removed from their homes with nowhere to turn.

“Even those of us who do have a 
little bit of stability, we’re all just kind of teetering on the edge 
and we really deserve to be in a place as people where we’re not just 
one emergency or social issue away from losing our housing,” Munoz said.

One option available to both renters 
and landlords looking for relief is the Kansas Emergency Rental 
Assistance program. The initiative led by the Kansas Housing Resources 
Corporation is intended to provide rent, utility and internet assistance
 to households experiencing hardship because of the pandemic through a 
joint tenant-landlord application process.

Whether it’s an unwillingness from 
landlords to collaborate or the slow processing pace of applications, 
Munoz said, the program is insufficient. Recent KHRC data shows 6,593 of
 14,607 applicants have been served so far.

<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/28/supreme-court-rejection-of-eviction-ban-increases-pressure-to-dole-out-rental-aid-money/">The U.S. Treasury last month</a>
 said just 11% of the $46.5 billion approved by Congress for emergency 
rental assistance had been allocated. Of the $5.1 billion that was 
spent, $1.7 billion was doled out during July.

KHRC executives said they are processing applications in seven to 10 days.

Ryan Vincent, KHRC’s executive 
director, said the organization is seeking feedback to inform a new 
housing initiative, this time for homeowners. The Kansas Homeowner 
Assistance Fund, established by the American Rescue Plan Act, will aim 
to prevent the displacement of homeowners experiencing financial 
hardship associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In less than a year, we’ve provided 
almost $50 million in emergency rental assistance to Kansas renters, 
landlords and service providers,” Vincent said. “We’re proud to have 
helped more than 15,000 Kansas households avoid eviction and remain 
stably housed during the pandemic, but we know our state’s housing needs
 don’t stop with tenants. Kansas homeowners: Help is on the way.”

Noah Taborda started his journalism career in public radio at KBIA in Columbia, Missouri, covering local government and producing an episode of the podcast Show Me The State while earning his bachelor’s degree in radio broadcasting at the University of Missouri School of Journalism.

Shelton Brown is an audio reporter and producer based in Kansas City, Missouri. Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Shelton has contributed to organizations like The Chattanooga Times Free Press, SIPA USA and Now To Love in Sydney, Australia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630957751202.png" alt=" Eviction moratoriums provided temporary relief for many Kansans, but some, like Sheena Mooney, found themselves without a home during the pandemic. (Shelton Brown for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Eviction moratoriums provided temporary relief for many Kansans, but some, like Sheena Mooney, found themselves without a home during the pandemic. (Shelton Brown for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA and SHELTON BROWN <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/09/06/thousands-of-kansans-face-threat-of-eviction-as-pandemic-exposes-housing-crisis/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Sheena Mooney has spent the 
past year without a job or a safety net, living in her orange Nissan 
Xterra in a trailer park a few miles from Washburn.Mooney lost her job at Frito-Lay in 
March 2020, a job she enjoyed, fell behind on her rent and was evicted 
that August. She applied for unemployment but did not qualify, and her 
eviction was subsequently approved between May 26, 2020, when the 
state’s eviction moratorium expired, and Aug. 17, 2020, when <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/08/17/gov-laura-kelly-reimposes-temporary-statewide-ban-on-foreclosures-evictions/">Gov. Laura Kelly’s new order went into effect</a>.“I don’t like telling people my 
business, you know. This was something that needed to be heard,” Mooney 
said. “How did this happen? How was I able to fall through the cracks 
and get no help?”Mooney is one of the thousands who 
have been evicted or are facing the threat of eviction during the 
pandemic in Kansas. She joined Kansas housing advocates on a new episode
 of the Kansas Reflector podcast to discuss the realities of renting 
amid COVID-19.<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1119349120&color=%232b7fb4&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast" title="Reflector Podcast" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Reflector Podcast</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/kansas-reflector-podcast/renters-advocates-on-kansas-housing-issues" title="Renters, advocates on Kansas housing issues" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Renters, advocates on Kansas housing issues</a></div></div>Estimates from the Kansas Housing 
Resources Corporation indicate more than 27,000 Kansas are currently 
behind on their rent, and estimates from Zillow show about 14,600 
renters are at risk of eviction.Federal and state moratoriums have 
provided temporary relief for those who can prove they are unable to pay
 rent because of COVID-19 related circumstances, but the narrow scope 
has left many without protection. Even during the moratorium period, 
evictions proceeded in some areas.Dave Patel, who comanages the Motel 6
 in Topeka with his wife, said he has seen an influx of people staying 
at his hotel because of lost housing.Vince Munoz, an organizer for the 
tenant advocacy group Rent Zero Kansas, said without substantive change,
 many more will be removed from their homes with nowhere to turn.“Even those of us who do have a 
little bit of stability, we’re all just kind of teetering on the edge 
and we really deserve to be in a place as people where we’re not just 
one emergency or social issue away from losing our housing,” Munoz said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630957863106.png" alt="Vince Munoz is housing justice organizer with Rent Zero Kansas. He says many renters are searching for stability in uncertain times. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Vince Munoz is housing justice organizer with Rent Zero Kansas. He says many renters are searching for stability in uncertain times. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>One option available to both renters 
and landlords looking for relief is the Kansas Emergency Rental 
Assistance program. The initiative led by the Kansas Housing Resources 
Corporation is intended to provide rent, utility and internet assistance
 to households experiencing hardship because of the pandemic through a 
joint tenant-landlord application process.Whether it’s an unwillingness from 
landlords to collaborate or the slow processing pace of applications, 
Munoz said, the program is insufficient. Recent KHRC data shows 6,593 of
 14,607 applicants have been served so far.<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/28/supreme-court-rejection-of-eviction-ban-increases-pressure-to-dole-out-rental-aid-money/">The U.S. Treasury last month</a>
 said just 11% of the $46.5 billion approved by Congress for emergency 
rental assistance had been allocated. Of the $5.1 billion that was 
spent, $1.7 billion was doled out during July.KHRC executives said they are processing applications in seven to 10 days.Ryan Vincent, KHRC’s executive 
director, said the organization is seeking feedback to inform a new 
housing initiative, this time for homeowners. The Kansas Homeowner 
Assistance Fund, established by the American Rescue Plan Act, will aim 
to prevent the displacement of homeowners experiencing financial 
hardship associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.“In less than a year, we’ve provided 
almost $50 million in emergency rental assistance to Kansas renters, 
landlords and service providers,” Vincent said. “We’re proud to have 
helped more than 15,000 Kansas households avoid eviction and remain 
stably housed during the pandemic, but we know our state’s housing needs
 don’t stop with tenants. Kansas homeowners: Help is on the way.”Noah Taborda started his journalism career in public radio at KBIA in Columbia, Missouri, covering local government and producing an episode of the podcast Show Me The State while earning his bachelor’s degree in radio broadcasting at the University of Missouri School of Journalism.Shelton Brown is an audio reporter and producer based in Kansas City, Missouri. Originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Shelton has contributed to organizations like The Chattanooga Times Free Press, SIPA USA and Now To Love in Sydney, Australia.

Thousands of Kansans face eviction as pandemic exposes housing crisis

Geary County Commissioners, Junction City Commissioners and the Geary USD 475 Board of Education will all be in session on Tuesday.

The school board meets at 6:30 p.m. at the Devin Center. Discussion on a district strategic plan, consideration of all classified and administrative salaries for the 2021-2022 school year, and a public hearing and consideration of&nbsp; the 2021-2022 budget are among the agenda items.

County Commissioners are in session from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a discussion with Public Building Commission members on the emergency operations center and the courthouse at 11 a.m. There will also be discussion on the CVB director's position wth HR Director Crystal Malchose about 11:30 a.m.

Junction City Commissioners meet at 7 p.m. at 701 North Jefferson. They will conduct a public hearing and consider the proposed 2022 city budget.

Geary County Commissioners, Junction City Commissioners and the Geary USD 475 Board of Education will all be in session on Tuesday.The school board meets at 6:30 p.m. at the Devin Center. Discussion on a district strategic plan, consideration of all classified and administrative salaries for the 2021-2022 school year, and a public hearing and consideration of&nbsp; the 2021-2022 budget are among the agenda items.County Commissioners are in session from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be a discussion with Public Building Commission members on the emergency operations center and the courthouse at 11 a.m. There will also be discussion on the CVB director's position wth HR Director Crystal Malchose about 11:30 a.m.Junction City Commissioners meet at 7 p.m. at 701 North Jefferson. They will conduct a public hearing and consider the proposed 2022 city budget.

Busy public meeting slate is set for Tuesday

Chapman celebrated on Labor Day this year.&nbsp;

The celebration was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 but not this year. The traditional parade drew a big turnout as it wound through the middle of town.&nbsp;

Entries on Monday ranged from fire truck, law enforcement vehicles and tractors to the high school football team and band plus some vintage automobiles.

"Celebrating Hometown Volunteers" was the theme for the parade.

Chapman celebrated on Labor Day this year.&nbsp;The celebration was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 but not this year. The traditional parade drew a big turnout as it wound through the middle of town.&nbsp;Entries on Monday ranged from fire truck, law enforcement vehicles and tractors to the high school football team and band plus some vintage automobiles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630964705915.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630964721292.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630964736652.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630964751942.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630964770175.jpeg" alt="Ray and Lynn Kruse served as the parade grand marshalls" />
 <figcaption>Ray and Lynn Kruse served as the parade grand marshalls</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630964806977.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Celebrating Hometown Volunteers" was the theme for the parade.

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