CASS COUNTY, MO., —Four people including three from Kansas died in an accident just after 11a.m. Monday in Cass County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Everett E. Ashley, Lowry City, Missouri, was southbound on MO 7 at Route Z.

The driver lost control of the semi. It traveled down an embankment and crossed the median into the northbound lanes of MO 7.&nbsp; 

The semi struck a northbound Nissan SUV driven by Stephen W. Bennett, 61, Junction City, head-on.

Ashley and two passengers in the SUV including Gerald R. Dittman, 68, Hope, Kansas and Jean M. Pariseau, 71 Herington, Kansas were pronounced dead at the scene. 

Harrisonville EMS transported Bennett to Cass Regional Medical Center where he died. Life Flight transported a third passenger in the SUV identified as Dakota M. Engel, 29, Junction City, to Research Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries. Ashley was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627935855599.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal crash photo courtesy KMBC-TV" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal crash photo courtesy KMBC-TV</figcaption>
 </figure>CASS COUNTY, MO., —Four people including three from Kansas died in an accident just after 11a.m. Monday in Cass County, Missouri.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Everett E. Ashley, Lowry City, Missouri, was southbound on MO 7 at Route Z.The driver lost control of the semi. It traveled down an embankment and crossed the median into the northbound lanes of MO 7.&nbsp; The semi struck a northbound Nissan SUV driven by Stephen W. Bennett, 61, Junction City, head-on.Ashley and two passengers in the SUV including Gerald R. Dittman, 68, Hope, Kansas and Jean M. Pariseau, 71 Herington, Kansas were pronounced dead at the scene. Harrisonville EMS transported Bennett to Cass Regional Medical Center where he died. Life Flight transported a third passenger in the SUV identified as Dakota M. Engel, 29, Junction City, to Research Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries. Ashley was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Junction City man, 3 others dead after head-on crash

Tuesday is the first day of the school year at Sheridan Elementary School in Junction City. Classes will be in session from 8 a.m. until 11:25 a.m. There will be a full day of classes beginning Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Dixie Coleman, Sheridan Principal, said they are piloting the district's alternative calendar. "It's a calendar that allows us to have some breaks in between quarters. Still have a full summer, still have all the other holidays but gives us time to reset, look at data, do some intensive tutoring with students."

The first week long break for students will occur at the end of the first week of October. Childcare will be provided via partnership with the Boys and Girls Club. There would be a one week break in January plus the Thanksgiving, Christmas and spring breaks. The final day of the school year would be May 19th.&nbsp;

Other elementary schools and the middle schools in the USD 475 begin classes Aug. 11. Junction City High School starts Aug. 25.&nbsp;

If the pilot program works at Sheridan, this model could possibly be implemented in the entire district in the 2022-2023 school year, but no final action has been taken.

Tuesday is the first day of the school year at Sheridan Elementary School in Junction City. Classes will be in session from 8 a.m. until 11:25 a.m. There will be a full day of classes beginning Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.Dixie Coleman, Sheridan Principal, said they are piloting the district's alternative calendar. "It's a calendar that allows us to have some breaks in between quarters. Still have a full summer, still have all the other holidays but gives us time to reset, look at data, do some intensive tutoring with students."The first week long break for students will occur at the end of the first week of October. Childcare will be provided via partnership with the Boys and Girls Club. There would be a one week break in January plus the Thanksgiving, Christmas and spring breaks. The final day of the school year would be May 19th.&nbsp;Other elementary schools and the middle schools in the USD 475 begin classes Aug. 11. Junction City High School starts Aug. 25.&nbsp;If the pilot program works at Sheridan, this model could possibly be implemented in the entire district in the 2022-2023 school year, but no final action has been taken.

School year begins Tuesday at Sheridan Elementary School

Face masks will be a requirement in USD 475 buildings and vehicles, including school buses, during the upcoming school year, at least until the first quarter comes to an end at which time there will be a reassessment. Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Superintendent of Schools, covered the recommendation that was approved by the Board of Education. "At the end of the first quarter we will return and reassess where we are based on data and be able to make the determination if we need to continue on with the mask provision."

USD 475 stated in a release that if a vaccinated student or staff member is exposed to COVID-19, they will have the opportunity to test to stay at school. More information regarding the district’s testing plan will be released by Aug. 11.


The end of the first quarter is Oct. 8th. Officials indicated that the new requirement will not apply on the playground or in sports. The action is being taken following the increase in COVID-19 with the Delta variant.

The move follows similar action by Fort Riley last week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627955155143.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Face masks will be a requirement in USD 475 buildings and vehicles, including school buses, during the upcoming school year, at least until the first quarter comes to an end at which time there will be a reassessment. Dr. Reginald Eggleston, Superintendent of Schools, covered the recommendation that was approved by the Board of Education. "At the end of the first quarter we will return and reassess where we are based on data and be able to make the determination if we need to continue on with the mask provision."USD 475 stated in a release that if a vaccinated student or staff member is exposed to COVID-19, they will have the opportunity to test to stay at school. More information regarding the district’s testing plan will be released by Aug. 11.
The end of the first quarter is Oct. 8th. Officials indicated that the new requirement will not apply on the playground or in sports. The action is being taken following the increase in COVID-19 with the Delta variant.The move follows similar action by Fort Riley last week.

USD 475 will require students, staff and visitors to wear face masks inside facilities

The average daily high in July was slightly below normal, the average daily low was slightly above normal with a resulting monthly mean temperature that was basically normal. While more rain was received in July than June it was still below average causing the year-to-date deficit to increase.

The average daily high during July was 88.9 degrees, eight tenths of a degree below average. The average overnight low was 69.5, one full degree above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 79.2, one tenth of a degree above normal. With daily high temperatures ranging only from 80 to 98 and overnight lows ranging from 63 to 78 there were no temperature records set or tied during July. The high of 98 was reached on the 9th, 29th and 30th. 

Over half the days during July had daily high temperatures at or below the long-term average. The lowest temperature for the month, 63 degrees, was reached on the 8th and the 13th. The hottest July on record was in 1954 with a monthly mean temperature of 87.0 degrees. That month there were 19 days with temperatures of 100 or higher and 6 of those days were 110 or higher! The coldest July is a tie between 1950 and 1967 with a comfortable monthly mean temperature of 73.8.

Several cold fronts rolled through the region during July bringing cooler temperatures and usually some greatly appreciated rainfall. Normal July precipitation is 4.14 inches. Milford Lake received 3.48 inches during July, but Junction City fared slightly better with 4.40 inches, a trend that has been occurring regularly in 2021. Year to date average precipitation through July is 21.10 inches. Milford Lake has received 16.90 inches and Junction City 22.20 inches. 

The wettest July on record was NOT 1951, but a year earlier in 1950 when 13.65 inches of rain flooded the region. In fact, 1951 is only the third wettest month at 12.43 inches. 1948 is second place with 12.99 inches of July rainfall. The driest July was in 1983 when a single rainfall event only managed to generate 0.04 inches of rain!

We usually expect August to bring us slightly cooler temperatures and slightly more rainfall. Daytime highs average 89 at the start of the month but only drop to 87 by the end of the month. Overnight lows cool slight as well from 68 on the 1st to 65 by the 31st. You usually have to wait for September to bring a serious autumnal cool down! Average rainfall for August is 4.55 inches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The average daily high in July was slightly below normal, the average daily low was slightly above normal with a resulting monthly mean temperature that was basically normal. While more rain was received in July than June it was still below average causing the year-to-date deficit to increase. The average daily high during July was 88.9 degrees, eight tenths of a degree below average. The average overnight low was 69.5, one full degree above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 79.2, one tenth of a degree above normal. With daily high temperatures ranging only from 80 to 98 and overnight lows ranging from 63 to 78 there were no temperature records set or tied during July. The high of 98 was reached on the 9th, 29th and 30th. Over half the days during July had daily high temperatures at or below the long-term average. The lowest temperature for the month, 63 degrees, was reached on the 8th and the 13th. The hottest July on record was in 1954 with a monthly mean temperature of 87.0 degrees. That month there were 19 days with temperatures of 100 or higher and 6 of those days were 110 or higher! The coldest July is a tie between 1950 and 1967 with a comfortable monthly mean temperature of 73.8. Several cold fronts rolled through the region during July bringing cooler temperatures and usually some greatly appreciated rainfall. Normal July precipitation is 4.14 inches. Milford Lake received 3.48 inches during July, but Junction City fared slightly better with 4.40 inches, a trend that has been occurring regularly in 2021. Year to date average precipitation through July is 21.10 inches. Milford Lake has received 16.90 inches and Junction City 22.20 inches. The wettest July on record was NOT 1951, but a year earlier in 1950 when 13.65 inches of rain flooded the region. In fact, 1951 is only the third wettest month at 12.43 inches. 1948 is second place with 12.99 inches of July rainfall. The driest July was in 1983 when a single rainfall event only managed to generate 0.04 inches of rain! We usually expect August to bring us slightly cooler temperatures and slightly more rainfall. Daytime highs average 89 at the start of the month but only drop to 87 by the end of the month. Overnight lows cool slight as well from 68 on the 1st to 65 by the 31st. You usually have to wait for September to bring a serious autumnal cool down! Average rainfall for August is 4.55 inches.&nbsp;&nbsp;

July 2021 Weather Summary

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating criminal damage at the county jail in Manhattan,

Just after 11:30p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property after an inmate identified as 34-year-old John Schum ripped out plastic the door frame of his cell door, according to police spokesperson Aaron Wintermote.

 The total estimated loss associated with this case is approximately $500.

In July police arrested Schum on requested charges of Battery; Physical contact in rude, insulting, angry manner, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption and Criminal damage to property and in May he spend time in the Riley County Jail for Disorderly conduct; Pedestrians under influence of alcohol or drugs, according to the RCPD arrest report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627923559375.png" alt="Schum from an earlier arrest in Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Schum from an earlier arrest in Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating criminal damage at the county jail in Manhattan,Just after 11:30p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for criminal damage to property after an inmate identified as 34-year-old John Schum ripped out plastic the door frame of his cell door, according to police spokesperson Aaron Wintermote. The total estimated loss associated with this case is approximately $500.In July police arrested Schum on requested charges of Battery; Physical contact in rude, insulting, angry manner, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption and Criminal damage to property and in May he spend time in the Riley County Jail for Disorderly conduct; Pedestrians under influence of alcohol or drugs, according to the RCPD arrest report.

RCPD: Inmate damaged his jail cell 

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - The Kroger Grocery Company, which owns all Dillons grocery stores, is now strongly recommending that customers and employees wear masks while in their stores regardless of vaccination status. This statement comes after the massive increase in Delta variant COVID-19 cases within the past few months.

Kroger released a statement regarding the rise of COVID-19 Delta cases in the U.S. and their compliance with the CDC’s current guidelines.

Based on the CDC’s science-based guidance and our associates’ input, we are updating our mask policy in a way that balances our values of safety and respect. Our current mask guidance requires unvaccinated associates to wear masks and requests that unvaccinated customers wear masks in our stores and facilities. In light of the Delta variant and updated CDC recommendations, we strongly encourage all individuals, including those vaccinated, to wear a mask when in our stores and facilities.

In the same statement, Kroger encouraged associates to get vaccinated and said it is offering $100 to those who get the shots.

While this is not mandatory, the company says it will continue to follow CDC guidelines and hopes customers will do the same.

By WIBW TVWICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - The Kroger Grocery Company, which owns all Dillons grocery stores, is now strongly recommending that customers and employees wear masks while in their stores regardless of vaccination status. This statement comes after the massive increase in Delta variant COVID-19 cases within the past few months.Kroger released a statement regarding the rise of COVID-19 Delta cases in the U.S. and their compliance with the CDC’s current guidelines.Based on the CDC’s science-based guidance and our associates’ input, we are updating our mask policy in a way that balances our values of safety and respect. Our current mask guidance requires unvaccinated associates to wear masks and requests that unvaccinated customers wear masks in our stores and facilities. In light of the Delta variant and updated CDC recommendations, we strongly encourage all individuals, including those vaccinated, to wear a mask when in our stores and facilities.-The Kroger Family of CompaniesIn the same statement, Kroger encouraged associates to get vaccinated and said it is offering $100 to those who get the shots.While this is not mandatory, the company says it will continue to follow CDC guidelines and hopes customers will do the same.

Kroger asks shoppers to wear masks regardless of vaccination status

WHITE CITY, Kan. (WIBW) - The Morris Co. Sheriff’s Office is looking for the owner of a dog that was dumped in White City.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Office says in a Facebook post that it is looking for the owner of a dog that was dumped in the White City holding area behind the city building sometime Friday night.

The Sheriff’s Office said if you know who the owner of this dog is, you should call the city office Monday at 785-349-2228 or the Sheriff’s Office at 620-767-6310.

By WIBW TV's Sarah MotterWHITE CITY, Kan. (WIBW) - The Morris Co. Sheriff’s Office is looking for the owner of a dog that was dumped in White City.The Morris County Sheriff’s Office says in a Facebook post that it is looking for the owner of a dog that was dumped in the White City holding area behind the city building sometime Friday night.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D4597422180308412%26id%3D166306613420013&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="627" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The Sheriff’s Office said if you know who the owner of this dog is, you should call the city office Monday at 785-349-2228 or the Sheriff’s Office at 620-767-6310.

Morris Co. Sheriff’s looks for owner of dog dumped in White City

On Monday, August 9th – 6:00PM Junction City High School will host an informational meeting for those who are interested in obtaining information about the upcoming fall sports season. Junction City High School offers G Golf, B/G Cross Country, Football, Boys Soccer, Girls Tennis and Volleyball during the fall sports season. A general meeting for all sports will start at 6:00pm and then each sport will conduct their own meeting to discuss tryouts, procedures, schedules, etc. for the upcoming season.

THIS MEETING WILL BE HELD AT JUNCTION CITY MIDDLE SCHOOL – 700 WILDCAT LANE.

Fall sports will begin their first day of practice on Monday, August 16th. First day for JCHS students at new high school is Wednesday, August 25th. We will start our practices at the old high school – 900 N. Eisenhower- More info shared at meeting.

– ONLINE REGISTRATION - NECESSARY FORMS FOR STUDENT PARTICIPATION –

Students attending Junction City High School will not be eligible to participate (games, practice, tryouts) in any sport without clearance from the Athletic Department. Parents/Students must complete online registration for sports prior to 1st day of tryouts/practice. When online registration process is completed and updated physical uploaded, the student athlete will then be entered on a cleared list given to the coaches. An athlete must be on this list to be allowed to practice/tryout/participate. Failure to have online registration process complete will prevent the student athlete from having the opportunity to tryout/practice/participate in that sport until process is complete. 

*** New online registration process instructions may be obtained by visiting

<a href="https://bluejayathletics.org/register-my-athlete-online-registration-for-student-athletes-in-usd-475/">https://bluejayathletics.org/register-my-athlete-online-registration-for-student-athletes-in-usd-475/</a>

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS - Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation Form (MUST BE DATED AFTER MAY 1, 2021)

Students are not eligible to represent their school in interscholastic athletics, spirit or performing groups until a signed physical evaluation form by a practicing physician is on file with the building AD. This form will certify that the student has passed an adequate physical examination and is physically fit to participate in interscholastic athletics, spirit or performing groups. This form shall also be signed by the parent or legal guardian, stating the student has permission to participate.

The physical examination must be reported on forms provided by the KSHSAA and shall not be completed earlier than May 1 preceding the school year for which it is applicable. The completed form must be filed with the building AD prior to the first practice session in which the student participates.

• Physical examination forms may be obtained at <a href="https://bluejayathletics.org/kshsaa-pre-participation-physical-evaluation-form/">https://bluejayathletics.org/kshsaa-pre-participation-physical-evaluation-form/</a>

You may also obtain a copy of the physical examination form by accessing the KSHSAA web site at <a href="http://www.kshsaa.org">www.kshsaa.org</a>

USD 475 ATHLETICS - Registration Information

Welcome to USD 475 athletics! Sports opportunities are open to students grades 7-12. To register for a sport, please complete ALL steps below at least one week prior to the first day of practice to ensure adequate time for processing.

If you are a new student interested in a sport that has already started, please communicate your interest to the Athletic Office as soon as possible to determine eligibility.

A sports physical is required every year and must be completed on the Kansas State High School Activities Association {KSHSAA} Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation form. The physical exam must be completed, signed and dated AFTER May 1 of the previous school year. (Example: For 2021-2022 registrations, the physical must be completed after May 1, 2021)

This can be found on page 5 of the Physical Evaluation Form. Parent/guardian and student should complete this form together.

Complete the online registration at <a href="http://www.registermyathlete.com">www.registermyathlete.com</a>

1. You will need to create a Parent Account. Click on “Login to Register" and then click “Create Account". You will only need to create one account for all your students who attend schools in USD 475. If you already have a register my athlete account, do not create a new account.

2. Click on “Start/Complete Registrations " and the “Select a School”. PLEASE TYPE IN JUNCTION CITY HIGH SCHOOL regardless of what school your student attends.

3. Click on “Select an Athlete" and choose “Add an Athlete" from the pop-up box. Fill in the required information and then press submit. If your athlete has already been added, you can select their name here.

4. Click on “Select Year/Sport" and select the school year and school/sport you are registering for. Select ALL sports your student is interested in participating in. 

Continue to click on and complete the red or yellow bars toward the left side of the page until you reach the Registration Checklist

REGISTRATION CHECKLIST: This is where documents will be read and agreed to, legally binding E-Signatures will be completed, and documents will be uploaded. Once this section is complete, the registration is complete. Any documents uploaded will require that the school's athletic administration approve the document. The status should say “Pending School Approval". If the registration is rejected for any reason, you will receive an email explaining what needs to be corrected.

ASTHMA ACTION PLAN: should only be completed if it applies to your student-athlete.

COMMON ERRORS- Please review all documents carefully to prevent a delay in processing your registration.

• Physical Exam Conducted prior to May 1 

• Eligibility Checklist- questions unanswered

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Athletic Secretary for your school

JCHS (785) 717-4214- sharonbloomdahl@usd475.org 

JCMS (785) 717-4415- annabradley@usd475.org

FRMS (785) 717-4519 - laceykehoe@usd475.org

On Monday, August 9th – 6:00PM Junction City High School will host an informational meeting for those who are interested in obtaining information about the upcoming fall sports season. Junction City High School offers G Golf, B/G Cross Country, Football, Boys Soccer, Girls Tennis and Volleyball during the fall sports season. A general meeting for all sports will start at 6:00pm and then each sport will conduct their own meeting to discuss tryouts, procedures, schedules, etc. for the upcoming season.THIS MEETING WILL BE HELD AT JUNCTION CITY MIDDLE SCHOOL – 700 WILDCAT LANE.Fall sports will begin their first day of practice on Monday, August 16th. First day for JCHS students at new high school is Wednesday, August 25th. We will start our practices at the old high school – 900 N. Eisenhower- More info shared at meeting.– ONLINE REGISTRATION - NECESSARY FORMS FOR STUDENT PARTICIPATION –Students attending Junction City High School will not be eligible to participate (games, practice, tryouts) in any sport without clearance from the Athletic Department. Parents/Students must complete online registration for sports prior to 1st day of tryouts/practice. When online registration process is completed and updated physical uploaded, the student athlete will then be entered on a cleared list given to the coaches. An athlete must be on this list to be allowed to practice/tryout/participate. Failure to have online registration process complete will prevent the student athlete from having the opportunity to tryout/practice/participate in that sport until process is complete. *** New online registration process instructions may be obtained by visiting<a href="https://bluejayathletics.org/register-my-athlete-online-registration-for-student-athletes-in-usd-475/">https://bluejayathletics.org/register-my-athlete-online-registration-for-student-athletes-in-usd-475/</a>PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS - Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation Form (MUST BE DATED AFTER MAY 1, 2021)Students are not eligible to represent their school in interscholastic athletics, spirit or performing groups until a signed physical evaluation form by a practicing physician is on file with the building AD. This form will certify that the student has passed an adequate physical examination and is physically fit to participate in interscholastic athletics, spirit or performing groups. This form shall also be signed by the parent or legal guardian, stating the student has permission to participate.The physical examination must be reported on forms provided by the KSHSAA and shall not be completed earlier than May 1 preceding the school year for which it is applicable. The completed form must be filed with the building AD prior to the first practice session in which the student participates.• Physical examination forms may be obtained at <a href="https://bluejayathletics.org/kshsaa-pre-participation-physical-evaluation-form/">https://bluejayathletics.org/kshsaa-pre-participation-physical-evaluation-form/</a>You may also obtain a copy of the physical examination form by accessing the KSHSAA web site at <a href="http://www.kshsaa.org">www.kshsaa.org</a>USD 475 ATHLETICS - Registration InformationWelcome to USD 475 athletics! Sports opportunities are open to students grades 7-12. To register for a sport, please complete ALL steps below at least one week prior to the first day of practice to ensure adequate time for processing.If you are a new student interested in a sport that has already started, please communicate your interest to the Athletic Office as soon as possible to determine eligibility.STEP 1-SPORTS PHYSICAL: A sports physical is required every year and must be completed on the Kansas State High School Activities Association {KSHSAA} Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation form. The physical exam must be completed, signed and dated AFTER May 1 of the previous school year. (Example: For 2021-2022 registrations, the physical must be completed after May 1, 2021)STEP 2- KSHSAA ELIGIBILITY CHECKLIST: This can be found on page 5 of the Physical Evaluation Form. Parent/guardian and student should complete this form together.STEP 3- ONLINE REGISTRATION: Complete the online registration at <a href="http://www.registermyathlete.com">www.registermyathlete.com</a>1. You will need to create a Parent Account. Click on “Login to Register" and then click “Create Account". You will only need to create one account for all your students who attend schools in USD 475. If you already have a register my athlete account, do not create a new account.2. Click on “Start/Complete Registrations " and the “Select a School”. PLEASE TYPE IN JUNCTION CITY HIGH SCHOOL regardless of what school your student attends.3. Click on “Select an Athlete" and choose “Add an Athlete" from the pop-up box. Fill in the required information and then press submit. If your athlete has already been added, you can select their name here.4. Click on “Select Year/Sport" and select the school year and school/sport you are registering for. Select ALL sports your student is interested in participating in. Continue to click on and complete the red or yellow bars toward the left side of the page until you reach the Registration ChecklistREGISTRATION CHECKLIST: This is where documents will be read and agreed to, legally binding E-Signatures will be completed, and documents will be uploaded. Once this section is complete, the registration is complete. Any documents uploaded will require that the school's athletic administration approve the document. The status should say “Pending School Approval". If the registration is rejected for any reason, you will receive an email explaining what needs to be corrected.ASTHMA ACTION PLAN: should only be completed if it applies to your student-athlete.COMMON ERRORS- Please review all documents carefully to prevent a delay in processing your registration.• Physical Exam Conducted prior to May 1 • Eligibility Checklist- questions unanswered• Incomplete or missing information • Missing Signatures/DatesIf you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the Athletic Secretary for your schoolJCHS (785) 717-4214- sharonbloomdahl@usd475.org JCMS (785) 717-4415- annabradley@usd475.orgFRMS (785) 717-4519 - laceykehoe@usd475.org

JCHS releases fall sports information

Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau is operating out of the Montgomery Building, 222 West 6th Street, Junction City. The bureau returned to that location on Monday.

Staff had complained of nose, throat and mouth irritation several weeks ago and the bureau was temporarily housed in the conference room at the Geary County Office Building. Tests of the air quality did not turn up any problems so county officials returned the operation to the Montgomery Building.&nbsp;

There is one staff member right now while the search is under way for a CVB director.

Geary County Convention &amp; Visitor's Bureau is operating out of the Montgomery Building, 222 West 6th Street, Junction City. The bureau returned to that location on Monday.Staff had complained of nose, throat and mouth irritation several weeks ago and the bureau was temporarily housed in the conference room at the Geary County Office Building. Tests of the air quality did not turn up any problems so county officials returned the operation to the Montgomery Building.&nbsp;There is one staff member right now while the search is under way for a CVB director.

CVB returns to the Montgomery Building

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and asking the public for help with information.

Just before 9p.m. Sunday. officers filed a report for burglary in the 2400 block of Daniels Dr. in Manhattan.

Sierra Enterprises LLC, Chelsea Park Enterprises LLC, and a 54-year-old male reported an unknown suspect stole a deposit pouch with cash and checks inside from the male victim's truck. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,190. 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 burglary and asking the public for help with information.Just before 9p.m. Sunday. officers filed a report for burglary in the 2400 block of Daniels Dr. in Manhattan.Sierra Enterprises LLC, Chelsea Park Enterprises LLC, and a 54-year-old male reported an unknown suspect stole a deposit pouch with cash and checks inside from the male victim's truck. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,190. 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.

$2190 burglary: Suspect took deposit pouch from truck

The Young People’s Department at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library is starting our first fall DBPL at DBPL fundraiser today – Genre Penny Wars.&nbsp; Patrons simply put pennies into the jar(s) of their favorite book genre(s) for their favorite(s) to win. Pennies earn each jar points. Patrons can also put nickels, dimes, and quarters in the other book genre jars for the genres they do not like. 

Silver coins deduct points. So for example, if a person puts a nickel in one jar, that jar loses five points. If a patron puts a dime in a jar, that jar loses 10 points. If a patron puts a quarter in a jar, that jar loses 25 points. The jar with the most points wins. 

The book genre jars we have are adventure, fantasy, historical fiction, mystery, romance and science fiction. Genre Penny Wars starts August 2, and ends on October 31. So, when you are at the library, drop by the Young People’s Department and drop a penny in your favorite book genre jar. All proceeds (pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters) benefit the book donation program – DBPL at DBPL: Donating Books to Promote Literacy. 

This program allows the library to donate new, free books to as many organizations in the community as possible. The library has donated books to schools, preschools, daycares, senior centers, health centers, and other organizations in the community. For more information on this fundraiser, please contact the library by phone (785-238-4311) or email (jclibrary@jclib.org)

The Young People’s Department at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library is starting our first fall DBPL at DBPL fundraiser today – Genre Penny Wars.&nbsp; Patrons simply put pennies into the jar(s) of their favorite book genre(s) for their favorite(s) to win. Pennies earn each jar points. Patrons can also put nickels, dimes, and quarters in the other book genre jars for the genres they do not like. Silver coins deduct points. So for example, if a person puts a nickel in one jar, that jar loses five points. If a patron puts a dime in a jar, that jar loses 10 points. If a patron puts a quarter in a jar, that jar loses 25 points. The jar with the most points wins. The book genre jars we have are adventure, fantasy, historical fiction, mystery, romance and science fiction. Genre Penny Wars starts August 2, and ends on October 31. So, when you are at the library, drop by the Young People’s Department and drop a penny in your favorite book genre jar. All proceeds (pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters) benefit the book donation program – DBPL at DBPL: Donating Books to Promote Literacy. This program allows the library to donate new, free books to as many organizations in the community as possible. The library has donated books to schools, preschools, daycares, senior centers, health centers, and other organizations in the community. For more information on this fundraiser, please contact the library by phone (785-238-4311) or email (jclibrary@jclib.org)

Fundraiser begins at the library

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in Riley County.

 A 52-year-old man reported an unknown suspect drove through his soybean fields in the 5500 and 6400 blocks of Anderson Ave. and 2600 block of W. 62nd St. damaging the crops, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The total estimated loss associated with this case is approximately $1,650. 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 alleged criminal damage to property in Riley County. A 52-year-old man reported an unknown suspect drove through his soybean fields in the 5500 and 6400 blocks of Anderson Ave. and 2600 block of W. 62nd St. damaging the crops, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The total estimated loss associated with this case is approximately $1,650. 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: Suspect damaged soybean fields

Junction City firefighters responded to a fire at an apartment building at 1521 West Ash Street just after 4 p.m. Saturday. No injuries were reported. The damage estimate was put at $205,000.

Cause of the blaze is under investigation.

According to the Fire Department when firefighters arrived on the scene they found smoke coming from the front of the building, and fire on the deck and back of the building at a third floor apartment. Fire burned into the roof area of apartments five and six, and there was extensive fire, smoke and water damage to both buildings. Water damage was also reported to apartment three, below apartment six, and there was water damage to a stairway.

No one was home at the time of the fire. The residents were offered assistance from the property management and the Red Cross.

Junction City firefighters responded to a fire at an apartment building at 1521 West Ash Street just after 4 p.m. Saturday. No injuries were reported. The damage estimate was put at $205,000.Cause of the blaze is under investigation.According to the Fire Department when firefighters arrived on the scene they found smoke coming from the front of the building, and fire on the deck and back of the building at a third floor apartment. Fire burned into the roof area of apartments five and six, and there was extensive fire, smoke and water damage to both buildings. Water damage was also reported to apartment three, below apartment six, and there was water damage to a stairway.No one was home at the time of the fire. The residents were offered assistance from the property management and the Red Cross.

Fire damages apartment building

Work is progressing on the Junction City High School to open for students on Aug. 25&nbsp; said architect Malcolm Watkins this past week. "Yes, to get students in to start school we are on target." Finishing touches on construction such as doors and interior winds, and getting the last of furniture is in place along with clean up are projects to be completed.

Watkins said the building includes a lot of flexible use spaces for the 21st century learning environment.&nbsp; "To where we can really plan and really try to prepare kids for the modern workforce. "There will be varied sizes and approaches to learning.&nbsp;

There is a lot of glass in the building where you can look from one room to the next. Watkins noted that is somewhat two-fold. "Both for observation to see what's going on and get natural light into the rooms which helps with academic performance. As well as from a safety and security standpoint. There's actually significant reduction in bullying and incidents of school violence if there's more observation abilities."

Teachers are scheduled to report to work on Aug. 12th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627868037171.jpeg" alt="Main gym" />
 <figcaption>Main gym</figcaption>
 </figure>Work is progressing on the Junction City High School to open for students on Aug. 25&nbsp; said architect Malcolm Watkins this past week. "Yes, to get students in to start school we are on target." Finishing touches on construction such as doors and interior winds, and getting the last of furniture is in place along with clean up are projects to be completed.Watkins said the building includes a lot of flexible use spaces for the 21st century learning environment.&nbsp; "To where we can really plan and really try to prepare kids for the modern workforce. "There will be varied sizes and approaches to learning.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627868273063.jpeg" alt="Architect Malcolm Watkins" />
 <figcaption>Architect Malcolm Watkins</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627868086854.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>There is a lot of glass in the building where you can look from one room to the next. Watkins noted that is somewhat two-fold. "Both for observation to see what's going on and get natural light into the rooms which helps with academic performance. As well as from a safety and security standpoint. There's actually significant reduction in bullying and incidents of school violence if there's more observation abilities."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627868111967.jpeg" alt="Auditorum, which seats 900 people." />
 <figcaption>Auditorum, which seats 900 people.</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627868143080.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Teachers are scheduled to report to work on Aug. 12th.

New high school on target to be opened by Aug. 25

Geary County Commissioners will meet with Don Osenbaugh of Osenbaugh Consulting on Monday to discuss a planed financial coordinator position for the county. That session is scheduled about 10:30a.m. at the county office building.

The governing will also receive a program update from representatives of the Food Pantry at 11a.m. Work will also continue on the 2022 county budget.

Geary County Commissioners will meet with Don Osenbaugh of Osenbaugh Consulting on Monday to discuss a planed financial coordinator position for the county. That session is scheduled about 10:30a.m. at the county office building.The governing will also receive a program update from representatives of the Food Pantry at 11a.m. Work will also continue on the 2022 county budget.

Financial coordinator discussion will be on the county agenda

Double Up Food Bucks offers a match program for SNAP participants

The Geary Community Farmers Market continues to offer the Double Up Food Bucks program, a healthy food incentive program that helps low-income families eat more healthy food and supports local farmers.

SNAP participants who shop at the Geary Community Farmers Market can swipe their EBT cards to get tokens to use for food purchases. Through the Double Up program, SNAP participants receive a matching number of Double Up Food Bucks tokens for free, up to $25 per day. This doubles the dollars they can spend on healthy food at the market. The SNAP tokens can be used to buy any SNAP-eligible items at the market, and the matching free Double

Up Food Bucks tokens can be used for any fresh fruits and vegetables. The Double Up tokens can be used any time at the market through the 2021 market season. The market is held every Thursday, 4-7 p.m., adjacent to South Washington Street in the parking lot in front of&nbsp; the JC Naz Church.

Double Up Food Bucks offers a match program for SNAP participantsThe Geary Community Farmers Market continues to offer the Double Up Food Bucks program, a healthy food incentive program that helps low-income families eat more healthy food and supports local farmers.SNAP participants who shop at the Geary Community Farmers Market can swipe their EBT cards to get tokens to use for food purchases. Through the Double Up program, SNAP participants receive a matching number of Double Up Food Bucks tokens for free, up to $25 per day. This doubles the dollars they can spend on healthy food at the market. The SNAP tokens can be used to buy any SNAP-eligible items at the market, and the matching free DoubleUp Food Bucks tokens can be used for any fresh fruits and vegetables. The Double Up tokens can be used any time at the market through the 2021 market season. The market is held every Thursday, 4-7 p.m., adjacent to South Washington Street in the parking lot in front of&nbsp; the JC Naz Church.

Geary Community Farmers Market is part of a program benefiting low-income families, farmers

Bills could increase by anywhere from $5 to $11 per month depending on which of KGS’ proposed plans is approved

By&nbsp;ALLISON KITE Kansas Reflector

Customers of Kansas’ largest natural gas utility could be paying off costs from<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/02/18/feds-ramp-up-emergency-help-for-kansas-other-states-hit-by-extreme-weather/">&nbsp;February’s deep freeze</a>&nbsp;for the next 10 years, the company revealed Friday.

The Kansas Gas Service, which serves more than 640,000 Kansas customers,<a target="_blank" href="https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/ViewFile.aspx/S202107301358431182.pdf?Id=5d765b67-4e68-4819-bbf2-85f5bc05d3b2">&nbsp;filed plans with regulators</a>&nbsp;to issue securitized bonds for approximately $390 million in extraordinary costs from the cold snap — plus carrying costs — and recoup the sum from customers over five, seven or 10 years, increasing residential bills by anywhere from about $5 to $11 per month. If the Kansas Corporation Commission doesn’t approve the arrangement, KGS said it would request to recover the costs over three years “to minimize the carrying costs” of the debt.

Its plans come after<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/news/article252184783.html">&nbsp;Black Hills Energy announced in June that its customers bills would increase by an average of $12.23</a>&nbsp;per month for five years to recover what amounted to a year’s worth of gas charges in one month.

“Compared to traditional regulatory methods over the same period, the company estimates that securitization will save customers from approximately $112 million to $188 million, depending on the recovery time frame approved by the KCC,” KGS spokeswoman Dawn Tripp said in a statement.

February’s deep freeze posed a huge disruption to both gas and electric utilities. In Kansas City, temperatures plunged below 15 degrees for 10 days. At the same time, natural gas prices shot up to record levels. KGS’ filing says, depending on the pipeline, average prices for the company to secure gas in February rose by as much as 10 or 20 times the average over the last five years. A s<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/03/04/mulberry-files-lawsuit-accusing-bp-energy-of-price-gouging-during-extreme-cold/">mall Kansas town suing BP Energy</a>&nbsp;said in its lawsuit the company inflated gas prices from $2.98 per mmbtu on Feb. 9 to $329.615 from Feb. 13 to Feb. 16.

Now utilities are<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/06/16/after-winter-cold-snap-drove-up-natural-gas-prices-utilities-grapple-with-who-should-pay/">&nbsp;grappling with how to recover the huge sums</a>&nbsp;they paid for natural gas in February to keep Kansans’ heat and lights on.

Customers may have already paid high bills for extraordinary usage to keep their homes warm. But natural gas rates are set in advance through the regulatory process, and those high prices weren’t immediately passed on.&nbsp;

The high price of natural gas and lack of supply has been identified as one of the primary reasons electrical utilities were instructed to institute rolling blackouts to avoid the uncontrolled outages affecting millions in Texas. The Southwest Power Pool, a regional transmission organization that coordinates electrical power in Kansas, earlier this week released findings saying that<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/07/26/fuel-shortages-drove-february-blackouts-southwest-power-pool-investigators-find/">&nbsp;natural gas was hard to come by during the deep freeze</a>.

During the storm, the KCC instructed natural gas utilities to keep service on and defer any extraordinary costs to be repaid later. It then opened dockets to investigate each utility and asked them to present a plan to minimize the crush to customers rather than requiring them to pay the exorbitant gas prices immediately.

<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/07/08/after-winter-storm-some-evergy-customers-could-see-savings-while-others-pay-for-years/">Evergy, too, will seek to recover costs</a>&nbsp;from customers. In the Kansas City area, the utility was able to generate more power than it needed and sell the excess to the Southwest Power Pool. But customers outside the metro in Kansas could gradually repay $152.3 million over two years. In parts of Missouri, the company is asking to defer costs from the storm and recover more than $297 million potentially over 15 years.

The figures in KGS’s plan are subject to change, the filing says. The company is disputing $15 million in gas charges from one supplier. Any federal or state relief or findings that the natural gas market was manipulated will be credited to offset the charges to customers, the company said.

David Nickel, executive director of the Citizens’ Utility Ratepayer Board, which advocates for residential customers, said the organization was still looking at the plan, which was filed Friday afternoon. But he said securitization shows promise.

The above story is republished with permission from <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627825393372.jpeg" alt="Andrew French, chairman of the Kansas Corporation Commission, warns in February that natural gas is being sold at far above normal rates. The Kansas Gas Service filed a plan to recover the exorbitant costs from ratepayers over five, seven or 10 years. Photo by Noah Taborda courtesy Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Andrew French, chairman of the Kansas Corporation Commission, warns in February that natural gas is being sold at far above normal rates. The Kansas Gas Service filed a plan to recover the exorbitant costs from ratepayers over five, seven or 10 years. Photo by Noah Taborda courtesy Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Bills could increase by anywhere from $5 to $11 per month depending on which of KGS’ proposed plans is approved</h2>By&nbsp;ALLISON KITE Kansas ReflectorCustomers of Kansas’ largest natural gas utility could be paying off costs from<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/02/18/feds-ramp-up-emergency-help-for-kansas-other-states-hit-by-extreme-weather/">&nbsp;February’s deep freeze</a>&nbsp;for the next 10 years, the company revealed Friday.The Kansas Gas Service, which serves more than 640,000 Kansas customers,<a target="_blank" href="https://estar.kcc.ks.gov/estar/ViewFile.aspx/S202107301358431182.pdf?Id=5d765b67-4e68-4819-bbf2-85f5bc05d3b2">&nbsp;filed plans with regulators</a>&nbsp;to issue securitized bonds for approximately $390 million in extraordinary costs from the cold snap — plus carrying costs — and recoup the sum from customers over five, seven or 10 years, increasing residential bills by anywhere from about $5 to $11 per month. If the Kansas Corporation Commission doesn’t approve the arrangement, KGS said it would request to recover the costs over three years “to minimize the carrying costs” of the debt.Its plans come after<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansas.com/news/article252184783.html">&nbsp;Black Hills Energy announced in June that its customers bills would increase by an average of $12.23</a>&nbsp;per month for five years to recover what amounted to a year’s worth of gas charges in one month.“Compared to traditional regulatory methods over the same period, the company estimates that securitization will save customers from approximately $112 million to $188 million, depending on the recovery time frame approved by the KCC,” KGS spokeswoman Dawn Tripp said in a statement.February’s deep freeze posed a huge disruption to both gas and electric utilities. In Kansas City, temperatures plunged below 15 degrees for 10 days. At the same time, natural gas prices shot up to record levels. KGS’ filing says, depending on the pipeline, average prices for the company to secure gas in February rose by as much as 10 or 20 times the average over the last five years. A s<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/03/04/mulberry-files-lawsuit-accusing-bp-energy-of-price-gouging-during-extreme-cold/">mall Kansas town suing BP Energy</a>&nbsp;said in its lawsuit the company inflated gas prices from $2.98 per mmbtu on Feb. 9 to $329.615 from Feb. 13 to Feb. 16.Now utilities are<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/06/16/after-winter-cold-snap-drove-up-natural-gas-prices-utilities-grapple-with-who-should-pay/">&nbsp;grappling with how to recover the huge sums</a>&nbsp;they paid for natural gas in February to keep Kansans’ heat and lights on.Customers may have already paid high bills for extraordinary usage to keep their homes warm. But natural gas rates are set in advance through the regulatory process, and those high prices weren’t immediately passed on.&nbsp;The high price of natural gas and lack of supply has been identified as one of the primary reasons electrical utilities were instructed to institute rolling blackouts to avoid the uncontrolled outages affecting millions in Texas. The Southwest Power Pool, a regional transmission organization that coordinates electrical power in Kansas, earlier this week released findings saying that<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/07/26/fuel-shortages-drove-february-blackouts-southwest-power-pool-investigators-find/">&nbsp;natural gas was hard to come by during the deep freeze</a>.During the storm, the KCC instructed natural gas utilities to keep service on and defer any extraordinary costs to be repaid later. It then opened dockets to investigate each utility and asked them to present a plan to minimize the crush to customers rather than requiring them to pay the exorbitant gas prices immediately.<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2021/07/08/after-winter-storm-some-evergy-customers-could-see-savings-while-others-pay-for-years/">Evergy, too, will seek to recover costs</a>&nbsp;from customers. In the Kansas City area, the utility was able to generate more power than it needed and sell the excess to the Southwest Power Pool. But customers outside the metro in Kansas could gradually repay $152.3 million over two years. In parts of Missouri, the company is asking to defer costs from the storm and recover more than $297 million potentially over 15 years.The figures in KGS’s plan are subject to change, the filing says. The company is disputing $15 million in gas charges from one supplier. Any federal or state relief or findings that the natural gas market was manipulated will be credited to offset the charges to customers, the company said.David Nickel, executive director of the Citizens’ Utility Ratepayer Board, which advocates for residential customers, said the organization was still looking at the plan, which was filed Friday afternoon. But he said securitization shows promise.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625673106778.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The above story is republished with permission from <a href="http://kansasreflector.com">Kansas Reflector</a>.

Kansas Gas Service customers could pay cold snap costs for 10 years

Junction City Police Chief John Lamb said the police department will host their annual block party next Friday, Aug. 6th in Heritage Park. Activities will begin at 5 p.m.

Lamb said there will be a lot of booths set up from different services in the community representing their agencies. "We'll have the dunking booth to raise money for the Shop With a Cop at Christmas. The Swat Team is going to be doing an expo, and then we have the nine o'clock Movie in the Park. " There will also be free food. "We're really excited and hoping we're going to have a great turnout."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627784748275.jpeg" alt="Junction City Police Chief John Lamb" />
 <figcaption>Junction City Police Chief John Lamb</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City Police Chief John Lamb said the police department will host their annual block party next Friday, Aug. 6th in Heritage Park. Activities will begin at 5 p.m.Lamb said there will be a lot of booths set up from different services in the community representing their agencies. "We'll have the dunking booth to raise money for the Shop With a Cop at Christmas. The Swat Team is going to be doing an expo, and then we have the nine o'clock Movie in the Park. " There will also be free food. "We're really excited and hoping we're going to have a great turnout."

JCPD will host their annual block party

&nbsp; MANHATTAN — Live performances will return to&nbsp;<a href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">McCain Auditorium</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University this fall. "We are offering six events in our fall McCain Performance Series, bringing K-State and the Flint Hills region the best in music, theatre and holiday fun," said Todd Holmberg, McCain Auditorium executive director. Tickets will go on sale online only, at&nbsp;<a href="http://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">mccain.k-state.edu</a>, beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, Aug. 2, and then will be available 24 hours a day. Tickets can be purchased in person or by phone, 785-532-6428, from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, beginning Wednesday, Aug. 18. In-person tickets can be purchased at McCain's Ticket Services office in the auditorium's newly expanded lobby. "Our fall lineup has something for everyone to enjoy," Holmberg said. "All shows start at 7:30 p.m. and will take place in McCain Auditorium." The fall 2021 McCain Performance Series: • Country music star Sara Evans on Thursday, Sept. 16. • America: 50th Anniversary Tour on Friday, Sept. 24. • Boz Scaggs: Out of the Blue Tour 2021 on Thursday, Sept. 30. • "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" on Thursday, Dec. 2. • A Canadian Brass Christmas on Wednesday, Dec. 8. • Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis on Tuesday, Dec. 14. Ticket prices for each performance are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">mccain.k-state.edu</a>. &nbsp;McCain&nbsp;will follow K-State's guidelines for COVID-19 health and safety procedures in place on the date of each performance. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/" target="_blank">k-state.edu/covid-19</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp; MANHATTAN — Live performances will return to&nbsp;<a href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">McCain Auditorium</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University this fall. "We are offering six events in our fall McCain Performance Series, bringing K-State and the Flint Hills region the best in music, theatre and holiday fun," said Todd Holmberg, McCain Auditorium executive director. Tickets will go on sale online only, at&nbsp;<a href="http://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">mccain.k-state.edu</a>, beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, Aug. 2, and then will be available 24 hours a day. Tickets can be purchased in person or by phone, 785-532-6428, from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, beginning Wednesday, Aug. 18. In-person tickets can be purchased at McCain's Ticket Services office in the auditorium's newly expanded lobby. "Our fall lineup has something for everyone to enjoy," Holmberg said. "All shows start at 7:30 p.m. and will take place in McCain Auditorium." The fall 2021 McCain Performance Series: • Country music star Sara Evans on Thursday, Sept. 16. • America: 50th Anniversary Tour on Friday, Sept. 24. • Boz Scaggs: Out of the Blue Tour 2021 on Thursday, Sept. 30. • "Beautiful: The Carole King Musical" on Thursday, Dec. 2. • A Canadian Brass Christmas on Wednesday, Dec. 8. • Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis on Tuesday, Dec. 14. Ticket prices for each performance are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">mccain.k-state.edu</a>. &nbsp;McCain&nbsp;will follow K-State's guidelines for COVID-19 health and safety procedures in place on the date of each performance. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/" target="_blank">k-state.edu/covid-19</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The wait is over: McCain Performance Series is back with six live events this fall

<ul>
 <li>Soldiers will be conducting a lot of range training in the coming weeks. In particular, expect there will be loud noise beginning 6 a.m. July 31 and during all hours August 1 through 8.</li>
 </ul>

Fort Riley issues a noise advisory

MANHATTAN — The Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;is offering interested students a chance to start their early admissions application process sooner rather than later. The college's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/admissions/early-admit/" target="_blank">Early Admission Program</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications beginning Aug. 1 and running through Feb. 1, 2022, after which interviews occur and selections will be announced. The program is open to high school seniors who have been admitted as undergraduate students to K-State with an interest in veterinary medicine and a 29 or above composite ACT score — or SAT equivalent. Students must currently be enrolled in high school and plan to attend K-State in the fall semester following their high school graduation. "The goal of the Early Admission Program is to recruit exceptional candidates for admission to the College of Veterinary Medicine and provide unique experiences that guide students toward advanced clinical and research training to produce future leaders in veterinary medicine," said Caroline Rost, assistant dean for admissions. Brittany Kovar, K-State fourth-year veterinary student from&nbsp;Manhattan, said being accepted into the Early Admission Program was a huge weight off her shoulders. "Knowing I wanted to pursue veterinary school, ideally at K-State, being accepted into the program allowed me to worry a little bit less about this step in my journey," Kovar said. "Not having to worry about my acceptance into veterinary school allowed me to focus more on clinical experiences and hands-on skills." Students admitted to the Early Admission Program qualify for myriad learning experiences and opportunities before and throughout their time in the College of Veterinary Medicine. "When I was a part of the program before beginning veterinary school, we had picnics with our veterinary school mentors and the opportunity to shadow them in the hospital and the classroom," Kovar said. "Through all of that, I was able to network and receive recommendations for different clinical experiences. My mentor in the early admissions program is somebody I still communicate with occasionally and they will absolutely be a close contact when I get into practice after graduation." More information about the program and how to apply is online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.vet.k-state.edu/admissions/early-admit/" target="_blank">vet.k-state.edu/admissions/early-admit</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627749264654.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN — The Kansas State University&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;is offering interested students a chance to start their early admissions application process sooner rather than later. The college's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/admissions/early-admit/" target="_blank">Early Admission Program</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications beginning Aug. 1 and running through Feb. 1, 2022, after which interviews occur and selections will be announced. The program is open to high school seniors who have been admitted as undergraduate students to K-State with an interest in veterinary medicine and a 29 or above composite ACT score — or SAT equivalent. Students must currently be enrolled in high school and plan to attend K-State in the fall semester following their high school graduation. "The goal of the Early Admission Program is to recruit exceptional candidates for admission to the College of Veterinary Medicine and provide unique experiences that guide students toward advanced clinical and research training to produce future leaders in veterinary medicine," said Caroline Rost, assistant dean for admissions. Brittany Kovar, K-State fourth-year veterinary student from&nbsp;Manhattan, said being accepted into the Early Admission Program was a huge weight off her shoulders. "Knowing I wanted to pursue veterinary school, ideally at K-State, being accepted into the program allowed me to worry a little bit less about this step in my journey," Kovar said. "Not having to worry about my acceptance into veterinary school allowed me to focus more on clinical experiences and hands-on skills." Students admitted to the Early Admission Program qualify for myriad learning experiences and opportunities before and throughout their time in the College of Veterinary Medicine. "When I was a part of the program before beginning veterinary school, we had picnics with our veterinary school mentors and the opportunity to shadow them in the hospital and the classroom," Kovar said. "Through all of that, I was able to network and receive recommendations for different clinical experiences. My mentor in the early admissions program is somebody I still communicate with occasionally and they will absolutely be a close contact when I get into practice after graduation." More information about the program and how to apply is online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.vet.k-state.edu/admissions/early-admit/" target="_blank">vet.k-state.edu/admissions/early-admit</a>.&nbsp;

Applications open for Early Admission Program at College of Veterinary Medicine

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.

Warning • Gathering Pond at Milford, Geary County • Milford Lake&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjkuNDM4ODE5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.gXqriph-z4JqCaCslszXA6sAgfIBxIO3y9zGlc2gpbo/s/1305913623/br/110134475695-l" target="_blank">Zone C</a>, Geary County • Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County • Altamont City Lake “Idle Hour” Main Lake, Labette County • Big Hill Lake, Labette County • Parsons Lake, Labette County (new) • Marion County Lake, Marion County (upgraded 7/22) • Melvern Outlet Pond, Osage County (upgraded 7/22) • Webster Reservoir, Rooks County • Jerry Ivey Pond, Saline County • Hargis Lake, Sumner County (new) • Big Eleven Lake, Wyandotte County

Watch • Brown State Fishing Lake, Brown County • Mission Lake Horton, Brown County • Milford Lake&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjkuNDM4ODE5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.5Kb1Oqq2SC50_z-f0jEgJviKStEOsN5rRV4EYsmCkFU/s/1305913623/br/110134475695-l" target="_blank">Zones A</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjkuNDM4ODE5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.1iBT-t35pxuQzbl-ckiH-6JyEH0PcCHpjvYzHVCYRYY/s/1305913623/br/110134475695-l" target="_blank">B</a>, Geary County • South Lake, Johnson County • Altamont City Lake “Idle Hour” North Lake, Labette County •Marion Reservoir, Marion County (downgraded 7/22) • Overbook City Lake, Osage County • Agra City Lake, Phillips County • Atwood Township Lake, Rawlins County

Advisories Lifted 7/22/21 • Herington Reservoir (New City Lake), Dickinson County • Herington City Lake (Old Lake), Dickinson County • Geary State Fishing Lake, Geary County • Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County • Linn Valley Lake, Linn County • River Pond below Tuttle Reservoir, Riley County

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

Direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.

KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.

Signs of a possible bloom include if there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjkuNDM4ODE5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9pbmRleC5odG0_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.dvVV_dz3sXQQnfTAr9cee-gB6EGdaeGq0mLCTE6XMrU/s/1305913623/br/110134475695-l" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm</a>.

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has issued several public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae.<h2>Active advisories</h2>Warning • Gathering Pond at Milford, Geary County • Milford Lake&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjkuNDM4ODE5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.gXqriph-z4JqCaCslszXA6sAgfIBxIO3y9zGlc2gpbo/s/1305913623/br/110134475695-l" target="_blank">Zone C</a>, Geary County • Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County • Altamont City Lake “Idle Hour” Main Lake, Labette County • Big Hill Lake, Labette County • Parsons Lake, Labette County (new) • Marion County Lake, Marion County (upgraded 7/22) • Melvern Outlet Pond, Osage County (upgraded 7/22) • Webster Reservoir, Rooks County • Jerry Ivey Pond, Saline County • Hargis Lake, Sumner County (new) • Big Eleven Lake, Wyandotte CountyWatch • Brown State Fishing Lake, Brown County • Mission Lake Horton, Brown County • Milford Lake&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjkuNDM4ODE5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.5Kb1Oqq2SC50_z-f0jEgJviKStEOsN5rRV4EYsmCkFU/s/1305913623/br/110134475695-l" target="_blank">Zones A</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjkuNDM4ODE5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9kb3dubG9hZC9taWxmb3JkLWxha2Utem9uZWQucGRmP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.1iBT-t35pxuQzbl-ckiH-6JyEH0PcCHpjvYzHVCYRYY/s/1305913623/br/110134475695-l" target="_blank">B</a>, Geary County • South Lake, Johnson County • Altamont City Lake “Idle Hour” North Lake, Labette County •Marion Reservoir, Marion County (downgraded 7/22) • Overbook City Lake, Osage County • Agra City Lake, Phillips County • Atwood Township Lake, Rawlins CountyAdvisories Lifted 7/22/21 • Herington Reservoir (New City Lake), Dickinson County • Herington City Lake (Old Lake), Dickinson County • Geary State Fishing Lake, Geary County • Horsethief Reservoir, Hodgeman County • Linn Valley Lake, Linn County • River Pond below Tuttle Reservoir, Riley CountyWhen a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.</li><li>Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.</li>
 </ul>A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ul>
 <li>Signage will be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid</li>
 </ul>Direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.<ul>
 <li>Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ul>KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.Signs of a possible bloom include if there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTA3MjkuNDM4ODE5NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvYWxnYWUtaWxsbmVzcy9pbmRleC5odG0_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.dvVV_dz3sXQQnfTAr9cee-gB6EGdaeGq0mLCTE6XMrU/s/1305913623/br/110134475695-l" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm</a>.

Public health advisories continue for local, area lakes

USD 475 has announced via social media that all school breakfast and lunches for the 2021-2022 school year will be free! Instead of filling out the Free and Reduced Lunch application, they are asking parents to complete a Home Economic Survey. This will be available at our schools' back-to-school orientations!

USD 475 has announced via social media that all school breakfast and lunches for the 2021-2022 school year will be free! Instead of filling out the Free and Reduced Lunch application, they are asking parents to complete a Home Economic Survey. This will be available at our schools' back-to-school orientations!

There will be free school meals in USD 475

MANHATTAN–&nbsp;A Manhattan man was arrested late Friday afternoon in connection to a domestic incident that occurred Thursday in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department, Desie Chatfield, 41, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of aggravated kidnapping and aggravated battery&nbsp; stemming from the incident involving a 42-year-old female victim. Chatfield is alleged to have prevented the victim from leaving a residence after an argument and stabbing her in the arm with a fork.

Chatfield is currently confined in the Riley County Jail on a $150,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627734777137.png" alt="Chatfield has previous convictions for criminal threat, domestic battery, aggravated domestic battery, criminal damage to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Chatfield has previous convictions for criminal threat, domestic battery, aggravated domestic battery, criminal damage to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN–&nbsp;A Manhattan man was arrested late Friday afternoon in connection to a domestic incident that occurred Thursday in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department, Desie Chatfield, 41, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of aggravated kidnapping and aggravated battery&nbsp; stemming from the incident involving a 42-year-old female victim. Chatfield is alleged to have prevented the victim from leaving a residence after an argument and stabbing her in the arm with a fork.Chatfield is currently confined in the Riley County Jail on a $150,000 bond.

RCPD: Manhattan man stabbed woman with a fork

Geary County Commissioners began their work session on Friday hoping to make reductions in their proposed county budget for 2022. Trish Giordano, Commission Chair, had estimated spending totaling about seven mills of the property tax levy needed to be cut. They reduced about half of that, but she said more needs to be done. "Just have some hard decisions to make but that's what we got elected for."

"We just made suggestions to different departments. Nothing set in stone so I don't want to put anything out there yet and we're going to see what the figures say," said Giordano.&nbsp; More discussion is expected during the county commission Monday and the commission chair indicated another work session would be necessary.

Final approval budget approval occurs later in August.

Geary County Commissioners began their work session on Friday hoping to make reductions in their proposed county budget for 2022. Trish Giordano, Commission Chair, had estimated spending totaling about seven mills of the property tax levy needed to be cut. They reduced about half of that, but she said more needs to be done. "Just have some hard decisions to make but that's what we got elected for.""We just made suggestions to different departments. Nothing set in stone so I don't want to put anything out there yet and we're going to see what the figures say," said Giordano.&nbsp; More discussion is expected during the county commission Monday and the commission chair indicated another work session would be necessary.Final approval budget approval occurs later in August.

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