The need for a major upgrade or new detention center was one focus of the Geary County Commission and the County Public Building Commission this week.

New Sheriff Nate Boeckman said, "I do believe this is definitely a huge priority moving forward. It is my belief that the jail needs a lot of work."

For some time officials have focused on the project. In April of 202 4 some possible options were mentioned for financing a project. They included general obligation bonds that might have to go to an election, G.O. bonds which could be retired by sales tax revenues, OR having the Public Building Commission handle the project. No decisions have been made on funding.

This week during discussion there was support for providing tours of the jail for the public which could show the need. The current jail has 189 beds but many of those cannot be used. The average daily census is between 90 and 100 inmates.

The need for a major upgrade or new detention center was one focus of the Geary County Commission and the County Public Building Commission this week.New Sheriff Nate Boeckman said, "I do believe this is definitely a huge priority moving forward. It is my belief that the jail needs a lot of work."For some time officials have focused on the project. In April of 202 4 some possible options were mentioned for financing a project. They included general obligation bonds that might have to go to an election, G.O. bonds which could be retired by sales tax revenues, OR having the Public Building Commission handle the project. No decisions have been made on funding.This week during discussion there was support for providing tours of the jail for the public which could show the need. The current jail has 189 beds but many of those cannot be used. The average daily census is between 90 and 100 inmates.

Jail receives attention of public offficials

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience.

This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." 

.Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience. This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." .Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

See The Aluminum Show at McCain Auditorium

Nicholas Throckmorton was recognized Wednesday in Jim Clark's Chevrolet showroom as the JC Breakfast Optimist Club's Junction City High School Student of the Month.&nbsp; Nicholas is a senior at JCHS, who takes pictures of athletic events for the PowWow Yearbook. He has a social media page titled Dream, Laugh, Imagine (DLI). 

Nicholas plans to attend Butler County Community College or Kansas State University upon graduation from JCHS and will&nbsp; focus on sports media. Sabrina Reiswig nominated Nicholas then the Junior Optimist Club at JCHS selected Nicholas for the recognition based on the statements in The Optimist Creed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738167403842.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Morgan Nabus, JCHS Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club President; Nicholas and Ricardo Gutierrez, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Facilitator for the JCHS JOI Club.&nbsp;Nicholas received a $25.00 gift certificate from JC's BBQ &amp; Grill and a framed certificate from the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.&nbsp; &nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Morgan Nabus, JCHS Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club President; Nicholas and Ricardo Gutierrez, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Facilitator for the JCHS JOI Club.&nbsp;Nicholas received a $25.00 gift certificate from JC's BBQ &amp; Grill and a framed certificate from the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.&nbsp; &nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast ClubNicholas Throckmorton was recognized Wednesday in Jim Clark's Chevrolet showroom as the JC Breakfast Optimist Club's Junction City High School Student of the Month.&nbsp; Nicholas is a senior at JCHS, who takes pictures of athletic events for the PowWow Yearbook. He has a social media page titled Dream, Laugh, Imagine (DLI). Nicholas plans to attend Butler County Community College or Kansas State University upon graduation from JCHS and will&nbsp; focus on sports media. Sabrina Reiswig nominated Nicholas then the Junior Optimist Club at JCHS selected Nicholas for the recognition based on the statements in The Optimist Creed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

JC Breakfast Optimist Club JCHS Student of the Month

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;

SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.

“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”

Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;

If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.

Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:

Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.

In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738161277873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:<ul>
 <li>The child attends a Kansas school offering the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>OR<ul>
 <li>The school-aged child (7-17 years old) lives in a household where someone has received Food Assistance (SNAP) or TANF Cash Assistance at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

DCF: 2025 SUN Bucks Application Period Now Open

The Junction City Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest High School on Tuesday night in Overland Park 56-51.

The Huskies won the opening tip and scored the first basket of the game, but Junction City led by three, 15-12, at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter featured the Huskies going on a run and the Blue Jays trailing by four, 30-26 at halftime.

The third quarter saw the Huskies get their largest lead of the game, nine, but late in the third quarter, the Blue Jays went on an 8-0 run to tie the game at 36, before Blue Valley Northwest took a four-point lead 43-39 into the fourth quarter.

After trailing for the whole second and third quarters, the Blue Jays went on another run in the fourth quarter and eventually took a 50-47 lead over the Huskies and held on to win 56-51.

Junction City had three players in double-digits on the night. Senior Jackson Austin had 16, Junior Lovell Autry also had 16, and senior Larkin Turner added 10 points.

For the second straight year, the Blue Jays knock off Blue Valley Northwest. With the win, Junction City goes to 9-2 on the season.

Next up for the Blue Jays is a Centennial league matchup on Thursday at Washburn Rural.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest High School on Tuesday night in Overland Park 56-51.The Huskies won the opening tip and scored the first basket of the game, but Junction City led by three, 15-12, at the end of the first quarter.The second quarter featured the Huskies going on a run and the Blue Jays trailing by four, 30-26 at halftime.The third quarter saw the Huskies get their largest lead of the game, nine, but late in the third quarter, the Blue Jays went on an 8-0 run to tie the game at 36, before Blue Valley Northwest took a four-point lead 43-39 into the fourth quarter.After trailing for the whole second and third quarters, the Blue Jays went on another run in the fourth quarter and eventually took a 50-47 lead over the Huskies and held on to win 56-51.Junction City had three players in double-digits on the night. Senior Jackson Austin had 16, Junior Lovell Autry also had 16, and senior Larkin Turner added 10 points.For the second straight year, the Blue Jays knock off Blue Valley Northwest. With the win, Junction City goes to 9-2 on the season.Next up for the Blue Jays is a Centennial league matchup on Thursday at Washburn Rural.

Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest, improve to 9-2

January 31 ( Friday ) is the deadline for nonprofit agencies and organizations to apply for United Way allocation funding in Junction City and Geary County.

United Way Executive Director Nichole Mader said recently that 12-15 volunteers are being sought. There will be four panels with each panel interviewing agencies and making recommendations on funding.

Agencies can go to the United Way web site to apply.

United way is also gearing up for the VITA ( Volunteer Income Tax Assistance ) program.

January 31 ( Friday ) is the deadline for nonprofit agencies and organizations to apply for United Way allocation funding in Junction City and Geary County.United Way Executive Director Nichole Mader said recently that 12-15 volunteers are being sought. There will be four panels with each panel interviewing agencies and making recommendations on funding.Agencies can go to the United Way web site to apply.United way is also gearing up for the VITA ( Volunteer Income Tax Assistance ) program.

Deadline for United Way allocation funding requests is nearing

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:

“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

Moran: VA will not be impacted by federal funding pause

The Junction City Blue Jay varsity basketball team was in Dodge City last week playing in the 82nd Tournament of Champions. While in Dodge City, the Blue Jays visited Beeson Elementary School and read to the students.&nbsp;

* Photos courtesy of Junction City Assistant basketball coach Allan McFarland.&nbsp;

Junction City placed fourth in the Dodge City TOC and is 8-2 on the season.&nbsp;

The Junction City Blue Jay varsity basketball team was in Dodge City last week playing in the 82nd Tournament of Champions. While in Dodge City, the Blue Jays visited Beeson Elementary School and read to the students.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093309326.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093330061.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093340566.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>* Photos courtesy of Junction City Assistant basketball coach Allan McFarland.&nbsp;Junction City placed fourth in the Dodge City TOC and is 8-2 on the season.&nbsp;

Blue Jays visit schools while playing in Dodge City TOC

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reports that Deputies arrested Allyssa Bailey of Junction City, KS in the 300 Block of West 6th St, on a Geary County District Court Warrant for Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (felony), Identity Theft, Identity Fraud, Forgery, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (misdemeanor), Interference with Law Enforcement, Driving While License Suspended, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Display of License Plate.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reports that Deputies arrested Allyssa Bailey of Junction City, KS in the 300 Block of West 6th St, on a Geary County District Court Warrant for Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (felony), Identity Theft, Identity Fraud, Forgery, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (misdemeanor), Interference with Law Enforcement, Driving While License Suspended, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Display of License Plate.The arrest occurred Monday.

Authorities make a District Court Warrant arrest

The way veterans sign in online to check on benefits, prescriptions, and appointments is changing this year.  

Communications Chief for the VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare system Brian Stephens says previously veterans were able to sign in through various websites, some less secure than others 

"All the VA is requiring veterans to go in and make accounts through either of the two options, and from there they're guaranteed a more secure connection to their information, either the login.gov option or the id.me option," Stephens tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

Stephens says to file, veterans must go online and fill out forms, and take a picture of the front and back of their photo ID.  

However, Stephens says with the photos of the ID is where some veterans run into a problem 

"What we're seeing is a lot of veterans are having problems, if you have a Kansas ID for example, there's a hologram that's designed to deter criminals from taking a picture and stealing your identity," Stephens explains. "Well, that same safety feature causes problems for veterans who are trying to verify their identity through this process." 

Stephens says this change is solely for security, and isn't impacting veterans receiving benefits 

"This is just access to electronic health records or communication methods or to check on their benefits or apply for benefits they would need this sign in, but it does not change their ability to receive those benefits," Stephens says. 

Stephens says if you run into a problem setting up your accounts you can go in person to the VA offices in Leavenworth.  You can also attend in person workshops around the region.  

The next closest workshop is on February 21st in Platte City.   

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738091933362.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The way veterans sign in online to check on benefits, prescriptions, and appointments is changing this year. Communications Chief for the VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare system Brian Stephens says previously veterans were able to sign in through various websites, some less secure than others "All the VA is requiring veterans to go in and make accounts through either of the two options, and from there they're guaranteed a more secure connection to their information, either the login.gov option or the id.me option," Stephens tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Stephens says to file, veterans must go online and fill out forms, and take a picture of the front and back of their photo ID. However, Stephens says with the photos of the ID is where some veterans run into a problem "What we're seeing is a lot of veterans are having problems, if you have a Kansas ID for example, there's a hologram that's designed to deter criminals from taking a picture and stealing your identity," Stephens explains. "Well, that same safety feature causes problems for veterans who are trying to verify their identity through this process." Stephens says this change is solely for security, and isn't impacting veterans receiving benefits "This is just access to electronic health records or communication methods or to check on their benefits or apply for benefits they would need this sign in, but it does not change their ability to receive those benefits," Stephens says. Stephens says if you run into a problem setting up your accounts you can go in person to the VA offices in Leavenworth. You can also attend in person workshops around the region. The next closest workshop is on February 21st in Platte City. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

VA advises about online changes for benefits

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Riley County Police Department is renewing its appeal for information regarding a potential witness in connection with an aggravated battery that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 31, 2018.

Just after 1p.m. that day, a 15-year-old girl was attacked and beaten in the head with an object resembling a bat or pipe.

During the initial investigation, Officer Deutsch interviewed a man near the intersection of the Linear Trail and Pecan Circle, in the vicinity of what was then a Schwan’s Food Service delivery center. The witness was described as taller, possibly in his late 50s or early 60s, and drove a silver passenger car. This individual reported seeing a white male wearing a white shirt and carrying a pipe. The suspect was also described as having visible tattoos, particularly around the neck area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the witness, the suspect was walking northeast on the Linear Trail toward S. Manhattan Avenue before turning around and walking southwest back toward Pecan Circle. This sighting occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to when Officer Deutsch arrived at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Authorities believe this witness may hold critical information that could aid in solving this case. Anyone with information about the incident, the suspect, or the potential witness is urged to come forward.

If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Riley County Police Department is renewing its appeal for information regarding a potential witness in connection with an aggravated battery that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 31, 2018.Just after 1p.m. that day, a 15-year-old girl was attacked and beaten in the head with an object resembling a bat or pipe.During the initial investigation, Officer Deutsch interviewed a man near the intersection of the Linear Trail and Pecan Circle, in the vicinity of what was then a Schwan’s Food Service delivery center. The witness was described as taller, possibly in his late 50s or early 60s, and drove a silver passenger car. This individual reported seeing a white male wearing a white shirt and carrying a pipe. The suspect was also described as having visible tattoos, particularly around the neck area.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the witness, the suspect was walking northeast on the Linear Trail toward S. Manhattan Avenue before turning around and walking southwest back toward Pecan Circle. This sighting occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to when Officer Deutsch arrived at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities believe this witness may hold critical information that could aid in solving this case. Anyone with information about the incident, the suspect, or the potential witness is urged to come forward.If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

RCPD: Search continues for witnesses in 2018 attack on 15-year-old

The Geary County Historical Society announced that If you have photos, items or stories related to Black history in Geary County, join the museum and The Black History Trail of Geary County on Saturday, February 1st for a donation event. 

Items can be donated or loaned for the upcoming Black history exhibit space. Photos can be donated or scanned. Stories can be recorded

The Geary County Historical Society announced that If you have photos, items or stories related to Black history in Geary County, join the museum and The Black History Trail of Geary County on Saturday, February 1st for a donation event. Items can be donated or loaned for the upcoming Black history exhibit space. Photos can be donated or scanned. Stories can be recorded

Black History donation event will be held Saturday

<a href="mailto:jbklaudt@ksu.edu">By Jacob Klaudt</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Non-irrigated cropland prices in Kansas rose 3.8% last year, while pasture and hay ground increased by approximately 2.7%, according to information in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/land-leasing/land-buying-valuing/kansas-land-values-book-2024">2024 Kansas Agricultural Land Values and Trends publication</a>&nbsp;released earlier this year.

Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid said these figures point to land prices tapering off after many years of rapid growth, as much as 24% per year in some areas. With some regions of the state seeing decreases compared to 2023, Reid notes that land values may lower even more considering tightening margins and decreasing farm income.

“If we look at the state level, we are up just a little bit,” she said. “You will see in the book there are regions that have come down, but overall, I would say the market is starting to flatten and that land values are stabilizing, not continuing to increase at the rapid, unsustainable pace that they have in recent years.”

The cause of this stabilization: a lower profitability environment in the farm economy. Apart from cattle, producers are seeing lower commodity prices after a period of really high ones.

“Add that to relatively high input costs, and specifically, when you're looking at financing and interest rates, we're just at a point where the difference between income and expenses are super tight, creating difficulty for our farmers,” Reid said.

Regarding non-irrigated crop ground, Reid said there is drastic variation in land value between different areas. In southwest Kansas, for example, prices jumped 11-12%, likely influenced by the dairies and feedyards located in that area. Yet, the north-central region of Kansas experienced a drop.

“That was due to a large increase last year,” Reid said. “The north central region had the largest increase in land value in 2023, and then turn around in 2024 and have dropped off the most. I would say that's more of a balancing.”

On the other hand, eastern Kansas continues to grow in land value both for non-irrigated crop ground and pastureland, which can be attributed to such factors as urbanization, hunting pressure and the quality of ground compared to the rest of the state, Reid said.

“The northeast region had a 16% increase,” she said. “The average per acre value for non-irrigated ground is at $7,479 – the highest average value and most rapidly increasing in the state.”

Looking ahead, economic assistance will affect the land market in 2025, according to Reid. A continuing resolution passed through both sides of the U.S. legislature at the end of 2024 will afford producers $10 billion in direct payments, with additional payments possible in the name of disaster assistance in drought-impacted areas

“Those get based on planted acres that a farmer had in 2024, and farmers can look at anywhere from $30 to $40 an acre that is coming in the name of economic assistance,” Reid said. “Those will influence the land market and the cash rental rates in 2025. If we didn't have those support payments, I think we would see things coming down more than we probably will.”

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561988751962.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><a href="mailto:jbklaudt@ksu.edu">By Jacob Klaudt</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – Non-irrigated cropland prices in Kansas rose 3.8% last year, while pasture and hay ground increased by approximately 2.7%, according to information in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/land-leasing/land-buying-valuing/kansas-land-values-book-2024">2024 Kansas Agricultural Land Values and Trends publication</a>&nbsp;released earlier this year.Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid said these figures point to land prices tapering off after many years of rapid growth, as much as 24% per year in some areas. With some regions of the state seeing decreases compared to 2023, Reid notes that land values may lower even more considering tightening margins and decreasing farm income.“If we look at the state level, we are up just a little bit,” she said. “You will see in the book there are regions that have come down, but overall, I would say the market is starting to flatten and that land values are stabilizing, not continuing to increase at the rapid, unsustainable pace that they have in recent years.”The cause of this stabilization: a lower profitability environment in the farm economy. Apart from cattle, producers are seeing lower commodity prices after a period of really high ones.“Add that to relatively high input costs, and specifically, when you're looking at financing and interest rates, we're just at a point where the difference between income and expenses are super tight, creating difficulty for our farmers,” Reid said.Regarding non-irrigated crop ground, Reid said there is drastic variation in land value between different areas. In southwest Kansas, for example, prices jumped 11-12%, likely influenced by the dairies and feedyards located in that area. Yet, the north-central region of Kansas experienced a drop.“That was due to a large increase last year,” Reid said. “The north central region had the largest increase in land value in 2023, and then turn around in 2024 and have dropped off the most. I would say that's more of a balancing.”On the other hand, eastern Kansas continues to grow in land value both for non-irrigated crop ground and pastureland, which can be attributed to such factors as urbanization, hunting pressure and the quality of ground compared to the rest of the state, Reid said.“The northeast region had a 16% increase,” she said. “The average per acre value for non-irrigated ground is at $7,479 – the highest average value and most rapidly increasing in the state.”Looking ahead, economic assistance will affect the land market in 2025, according to Reid. A continuing resolution passed through both sides of the U.S. legislature at the end of 2024 will afford producers $10 billion in direct payments, with additional payments possible in the name of disaster assistance in drought-impacted areas“Those get based on planted acres that a farmer had in 2024, and farmers can look at anywhere from $30 to $40 an acre that is coming in the name of economic assistance,” Reid said. “Those will influence the land market and the cash rental rates in 2025. If we didn't have those support payments, I think we would see things coming down more than we probably will.”

Land market starting to flatten, says K-State economist

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasAssociationofCounties?__cft__[0]=AZWvp3vXteECf34AiWU_DoAGKiQNtSA9WjIYMlT73DKMcsJBbg3VhrPliifcfytGtoZHOh7ogSvsXPyMVo76VheK0U7jgWwFU_Yi1e69mjkfNybRAVWs3u2JysA3k1v6JA9X8MlRvlzRM4_kIMazPhvGbRLPfUzZsjFg8nlmMZ0XlrJd9P1y8nAt32FOijPzZfs&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Association of Counties</a>&nbsp;have elected their 2025 Board of Directors. Geary County Director of Human Resources/Special Projects, Crystal Malchose (inside left), will serve as President; Rice County Commissioner, Terry David (right), will serve as Vice-President; Saline County Appraiser, Sean Robertson (outside left) will serve as Secretary; and Reno County Public Health Director, Karla Nichols (not pictured), will serve as Treasurer.

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasAssociationofCounties?__cft__[0]=AZWvp3vXteECf34AiWU_DoAGKiQNtSA9WjIYMlT73DKMcsJBbg3VhrPliifcfytGtoZHOh7ogSvsXPyMVo76VheK0U7jgWwFU_Yi1e69mjkfNybRAVWs3u2JysA3k1v6JA9X8MlRvlzRM4_kIMazPhvGbRLPfUzZsjFg8nlmMZ0XlrJd9P1y8nAt32FOijPzZfs&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Association of Counties</a>&nbsp;have elected their 2025 Board of Directors. Geary County Director of Human Resources/Special Projects, Crystal Malchose (inside left), will serve as President; Rice County Commissioner, Terry David (right), will serve as Vice-President; Saline County Appraiser, Sean Robertson (outside left) will serve as Secretary; and Reno County Public Health Director, Karla Nichols (not pictured), will serve as Treasurer.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738074670110.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Crystal Malchose elected KAC President

Geary County Commissioners will meet in executive session from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. They will be interviewing candidates for the Convention and Visitors Bureau director position.

Geary County Commissioners will meet in executive session from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. They will be interviewing candidates for the Convention and Visitors Bureau director position.

County will meet in executive session

Redoing the main electrical for the old portion of the hospital in Junction City is part of the plan at the Stormont Vail Flint Hills Campus. Geary County Public Building Commission members learned Monday changes are planned around the elevators by the electrical room. It will take 600 days to finish that $2.8 million project.

Redoing all the heating and cooling is under way in the facility, repairs are planned for the cooling tower and efforts are beginning to look at wastewater piping&nbsp; on the second and third floor of the Medical Arts building. It is not yet out for bid.

Initially $20 million was budgeted for the county for deferred maintenance at the hospital, but it is clear that will not be enough to meet needs. Beyond that total, costs would have to be considered by Stormont Vail.

Redoing the main electrical for the old portion of the hospital in Junction City is part of the plan at the Stormont Vail Flint Hills Campus. Geary County Public Building Commission members learned Monday changes are planned around the elevators by the electrical room. It will take 600 days to finish that $2.8 million project.Redoing all the heating and cooling is under way in the facility, repairs are planned for the cooling tower and efforts are beginning to look at wastewater piping&nbsp; on the second and third floor of the Medical Arts building. It is not yet out for bid.Initially $20 million was budgeted for the county for deferred maintenance at the hospital, but it is clear that will not be enough to meet needs. Beyond that total, costs would have to be considered by Stormont Vail.

Improvements are being made at the hospital facility

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Sarah Currin, Domestic battery, arrested 01/24

Christina Murphy, Failure to appear, arrested 01/24

Niket Patel,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 01/24

Calvin Fontenot,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 01/24

Kamal Fajari, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 01/24

Domanick Miller, Theft-All other, arrested 01/24

Christopher Cullison, Drivers license without valid DL, arrested 01/25

Heather Reese, Failure to appear, arrested 01/25

Sherman Sherin II, Violation of restrictions, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 01/25

Shawn Adair, Use/possess with intent tot use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 01/25

Keshawn Porter,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 01/25

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738007954463.jpeg" alt="Robin Bond, Probation violation, arrested 01/24" />
 <figcaption>Robin Bond, Probation violation, arrested 01/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738007986663.jpeg" alt="Dana Pleas, Criminal trespass, Theft of property or services (&lt; $1,500 with 2 or more convictions within 5 years), arrested 01/25" />
 <figcaption>Dana Pleas, Criminal trespass, Theft of property or services (&lt; $1,500 with 2 or more convictions within 5 years), arrested 01/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738008102438.jpeg" alt="Dale Corbin, Reckless driving, Duty of driver to report upon damaging unattended vehicle/property, Interference with LEO, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving, arrested 01/25" />
 <figcaption>Dale Corbin, Reckless driving, Duty of driver to report upon damaging unattended vehicle/property, Interference with LEO, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving, arrested 01/25</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738008211044.jpeg" alt="Jason Brumbeloe, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 01/27" />
 <figcaption>Jason Brumbeloe, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 01/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738008249101.jpeg" alt="Emclean Taylor IV, Unlawful damage to property, Domestic battery, arrested 01/27" />
 <figcaption>Emclean Taylor IV, Unlawful damage to property, Domestic battery, arrested 01/27</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Sarah Currin, Domestic battery, arrested 01/24Christina Murphy, Failure to appear, arrested 01/24Niket Patel,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 01/24Calvin Fontenot,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 01/24Kamal Fajari, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 01/24Domanick Miller, Theft-All other, arrested 01/24Christopher Cullison, Drivers license without valid DL, arrested 01/25Heather Reese, Failure to appear, arrested 01/25Sherman Sherin II, Violation of restrictions, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 01/25Shawn Adair, Use/possess with intent tot use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 01/25Keshawn Porter,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 01/25Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Jan. 25-27

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court has created an ad hoc group to advise the court on creating criminal mediation rules. The 12-member group is created by Supreme Court&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansascourts.org/l/ubH1rWJo7-g4kZkl2rKF5n7at8YX7y7RIxNYGsSEL4A">Administrative Order 2025-CM-011</a>&nbsp;signed by Chief Justice Marla Luckert.“In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in voluntary mediation as a method of resolving criminal cases outside of the traditional court process,” Luckert said. “In criminal cases, mediation could contribute to early case resolution, helping the criminal justice system operate more efficiently.

Statewide rules will help ensure standardized processes across jurisdictions and clarify when criminal mediation should or should not be used. ”What is criminal mediation? Criminal mediation is when an impartial third party meets with prosecutors, defendants, and defense attorneys to help resolve a pending criminal case before trial. The process is confidential and voluntary, and the third party is often a retired judge who has no decision-making authority in the case. Luckert said successful criminal mediation can give the person who has been charged an unbiased appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of their case. It can also make the law understandable, strengthening confidence in the judicial system. “Criminal mediators typically have real world experience with the criminal process, including applying complex sentencing guidelines,” Luckert said. “This knowledge makes them ideally suited to explaining the possible sentences to litigants.”

About the group The Ad Hoc Criminal Mediation Advisory Group will study best practices on criminal mediation and existing local rules in Kansas and in other states. The group will then help the Office of Judicial Administration draft statewide criminal mediation rules. The group is composed of district judges, district attorneys, defense attorneys, retired district judges, and a representative from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. The group will be supported by Amanda Jacobsen, director of dispute resolution with the Office of Judicial Administration. Group members are:

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court has created an ad hoc group to advise the court on creating criminal mediation rules. The 12-member group is created by Supreme Court&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansascourts.org/l/ubH1rWJo7-g4kZkl2rKF5n7at8YX7y7RIxNYGsSEL4A">Administrative Order 2025-CM-011</a>&nbsp;signed by Chief Justice Marla Luckert.“In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in voluntary mediation as a method of resolving criminal cases outside of the traditional court process,” Luckert said. “In criminal cases, mediation could contribute to early case resolution, helping the criminal justice system operate more efficiently. Statewide rules will help ensure standardized processes across jurisdictions and clarify when criminal mediation should or should not be used. ”What is criminal mediation? Criminal mediation is when an impartial third party meets with prosecutors, defendants, and defense attorneys to help resolve a pending criminal case before trial. The process is confidential and voluntary, and the third party is often a retired judge who has no decision-making authority in the case. Luckert said successful criminal mediation can give the person who has been charged an unbiased appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of their case. It can also make the law understandable, strengthening confidence in the judicial system. “Criminal mediators typically have real world experience with the criminal process, including applying complex sentencing guidelines,” Luckert said. “This knowledge makes them ideally suited to explaining the possible sentences to litigants.”About the group The Ad Hoc Criminal Mediation Advisory Group will study best practices on criminal mediation and existing local rules in Kansas and in other states. The group will then help the Office of Judicial Administration draft statewide criminal mediation rules. The group is composed of district judges, district attorneys, defense attorneys, retired district judges, and a representative from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. The group will be supported by Amanda Jacobsen, director of dispute resolution with the Office of Judicial Administration. Group members are:<ul>
 <li>Chief Judge Taylor Wine, 4th Judicial District</li><li>Chief Judge Jeffrey Goering, 18th Judicial District</li><li>District Judge Kendra Lewison, 21st Judicial District</li><li>Kevin Moriarty, retired district judge, 10th Judicial District</li><li>Mike Powers, retired district judge, 8th Judicial District</li><li>Tiffanie Askew, victim rights coordinator, Kansas Attorney General's Office</li><li>Marc Bennett, district attorney, Sedgwick County</li><li>Hatem Chahine, defense attorney, Douglas County</li><li>Michael Kagay, district attorney, Shawnee County</li><li>Charles Lindberg, defense attorney, Minneapolis</li><li>Michelle Neis, deputy public defender, 3rd Judicial District Public Defender Office</li><li>Kimberly Rodebaugh, senior assistant district attorney, Reno County</li>
 </ul>

Kan. Supreme Court creates ad hoc advisory group on criminal mediation

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two instances of gun violence in Manhattan.

Just after 11:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of criminal discharge of a firearm in the 1300 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Officers reported hearing a noise similar to that of a gunshot and upon investigation located evidence of a round being fired by an unknown subject in the parking garage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of an unlawful discharge of a firearm in the 400 block of S. Manhattan Avenue. 

&nbsp;A victim reported two bullet holes were located in the ceiling of an Air BNB. &nbsp;Anyone with information on these crimes can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two instances of gun violence in Manhattan.Just after 11:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of criminal discharge of a firearm in the 1300 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Officers reported hearing a noise similar to that of a gunshot and upon investigation located evidence of a round being fired by an unknown subject in the parking garage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of an unlawful discharge of a firearm in the 400 block of S. Manhattan Avenue. &nbsp;A victim reported two bullet holes were located in the ceiling of an Air BNB. &nbsp;Anyone with information on these crimes can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD investigating weekend gun violence in Manhattan

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

Researchers at Kansas State University say the number of cases of an allergic reaction to red meat tied to tick bites is increasing across the state.

Priscilla Brenes, K-State Research and Extension nutrition and wellness specialist, said cases of an allergy called alpha-gal syndrome are becoming more common through more rural areas of Kansas. Alpha-gal syndrome is the term used to describe the allergic reaction to red meats and mammalian related products, most often through a tick bite.

The main parasite responsible for the spread of alpha-gal syndrome is the Lone Star tick, a common variety in brushy and more heavily wooded parts of Kansas. Brenes said in a statement that she surveyed other Kansas extension agents and found there was a lack of available information about alpha-gal syndrome, and that the agents wanted more details to share within their communities.

K-State entomologist Yoonseong Park said studies indicate that less than 10% of people bitten by the Lone Star tick ever develop an allergic reaction to red meat. Symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome include hives, nausea or vomiting, severe stomach pain, dizziness, drops in blood pressure, shortness of breath and swollen lips and throat.

Park said tick activity picks up during spring months in Kansas, and every patient who develops the red meat allergy has a different level of sensitivity to it, like other allergies. In any case of possible alpha-gal syndrome, patients are encouraged to talk with their doctor immediately.

Michael Chao, K-State meat scientist, said a recent report from the Yale School of Medicine shows that the levels of antibodies which cause the reaction decline over time, giving some people the chance to consume red meat and related products again.

Chao uses mice in his research to test the reaction of various meat products, such as hot dogs and jerky. He said his hope is to use the data he gathers to help people reintroduce red meat into their diet “when they’re ready for it.”

Brenes and her colleagues are offering a survey to residents across all 105 Kansas counties as part of their effort to collect more information about alpha-gal syndrome. Brenes said those who participate in the survey may receive a financial incentive.

The survey and more information about alpha-gal syndrome can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://entomology.k-state.edu/ags/" target="_blank">online</a>&nbsp;and through local extension offices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737977963996.png" alt="The Lone Star tick is responsible for most cases of alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy that’s appearing more and more in Kansas. (Kansas State University Research and Extension.)" />
 <figcaption>The Lone Star tick is responsible for most cases of alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy that’s appearing more and more in Kansas. (Kansas State University Research and Extension.)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>Researchers at Kansas State University say the number of cases of an allergic reaction to red meat tied to tick bites is increasing across the state.Priscilla Brenes, K-State Research and Extension nutrition and wellness specialist, said cases of an allergy called alpha-gal syndrome are becoming more common through more rural areas of Kansas. Alpha-gal syndrome is the term used to describe the allergic reaction to red meats and mammalian related products, most often through a tick bite.The main parasite responsible for the spread of alpha-gal syndrome is the Lone Star tick, a common variety in brushy and more heavily wooded parts of Kansas. Brenes said in a statement that she surveyed other Kansas extension agents and found there was a lack of available information about alpha-gal syndrome, and that the agents wanted more details to share within their communities.K-State entomologist Yoonseong Park said studies indicate that less than 10% of people bitten by the Lone Star tick ever develop an allergic reaction to red meat. Symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome include hives, nausea or vomiting, severe stomach pain, dizziness, drops in blood pressure, shortness of breath and swollen lips and throat.Park said tick activity picks up during spring months in Kansas, and every patient who develops the red meat allergy has a different level of sensitivity to it, like other allergies. In any case of possible alpha-gal syndrome, patients are encouraged to talk with their doctor immediately.Michael Chao, K-State meat scientist, said a recent report from the Yale School of Medicine shows that the levels of antibodies which cause the reaction decline over time, giving some people the chance to consume red meat and related products again.Chao uses mice in his research to test the reaction of various meat products, such as hot dogs and jerky. He said his hope is to use the data he gathers to help people reintroduce red meat into their diet “when they’re ready for it.”Brenes and her colleagues are offering a survey to residents across all 105 Kansas counties as part of their effort to collect more information about alpha-gal syndrome. Brenes said those who participate in the survey may receive a financial incentive.The survey and more information about alpha-gal syndrome can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://entomology.k-state.edu/ags/" target="_blank">online</a>&nbsp;and through local extension offices.

K-State researchers say red meat allergy from tick bites is becoming more common

GARDEN CITY — Kansas mental health experts want rural residents to be aware of available resources as they work to enhance mental health services across more of the state.

NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn said she and her staff are preparing for a rural mental health summit on April 9 in Kiowa, a community of about 900 people in south-central Kansas, to bring the conversation about mental health care to more rural and frontier areas.

The summit is a continuation of the nonprofit agency’s Standing in the Gap series that began&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/28/kansas-mental-health-experts-discuss-gaps-in-services-for-farmers-and-ranchers-at-inaugural-summit/">in 2023 in Dodge City</a>. NAMI Kansas southwest steering committee chairwoman Itzel Moya said the initial event and four subsequent sessions have been “a great way for rural and frontier communities to bring light to mental health topics and resources.”

At that initial event, mental health experts and agricultural producers shared stories about their own mental health struggles and vocalized a need for more widespread mental health care services, particularly in the western half of the state.

The April 9 event is set to take place at the Kiowa Community Building from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://namikansas.org/get-involved/nami-kansas-events/sitg/" target="_blank">Registration is required</a>. The event will focus on how local faith leaders and church members can “stand in the gap” as links to mental health care for their communities, Vaughn said.

“Standing in the Gap presentations help to equip our local community leaders and members to start the conversation, learn about mental health conditions and statistical information, access its local resources, and seek solutions and opportunities to serve each other well,” Vaughn said.

Religious officials are often the first person to respond to a mental health crisis because of the lack of mental health care providers across the state, and because of preexisting trusting relationships formed within the community. At another Standing in the Gap event in November in Plainville, NAMI Kansas volunteer Tara Gwynn said Kansas has an average of one mental health care provider for every 450 residents.

In areas like Plainville, which is in Rooks County in north-central Kansas, Gwynn said the figure is closer to one provider per 4,000 people. But smaller communities often have multiple churches, all of which can have mental health information and support pamphlets available in view of their congregations.

Officials with the Kansas Department of Agriculture also are attempting to close the mental health care gap by partnering with Kansas Corn to offer the Kansas Ag Stress program. Created in 2019, the program website features&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/ag-aware-providers-in-kansas" target="_blank">a list of mental health care providers</a>&nbsp;who offer telehealth services or specialize in mental health needs related to the ag industry.

Additionally, Kansas Farm Bureau has the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kfb.org/Article/Mental-Health-Resources" target="_blank">Rural Minds Matter</a>&nbsp;program that includes training materials, links to mental health support guides, and the Advocate of the Year awards that were created in 2024. The inaugural Advocate of the Year award winner was Fort Hays State University professor and therapist Will Stutterheim. The first Young Advocate of the Year award recipient was Destiny Johnson, a pre-K through 12th-grade social worker for Stafford Unified School District 349.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate agricultural producers have a higher suicide rate than other professions. The CDC report, published in 2020 with data sourced in 2016, found that men who worked in agriculture were at a greater risk, with a ratio of 43 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people. Statewide, the suicide rate for men is 19 per 100,000 people. According to data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, more than 500 Kansans died by suicide in 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737927645951.png" alt=" NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn speaks at the inaugural Standing in the Gap summit in August 2023 in Dodge City. Vaughn and her staff are preparing for the next rural mental health summit, slated for April 9 in Kiowa. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector.)" />
 <figcaption> NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn speaks at the inaugural Standing in the Gap summit in August 2023 in Dodge City. Vaughn and her staff are preparing for the next rural mental health summit, slated for April 9 in Kiowa. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector.)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>GARDEN CITY — Kansas mental health experts want rural residents to be aware of available resources as they work to enhance mental health services across more of the state.NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn said she and her staff are preparing for a rural mental health summit on April 9 in Kiowa, a community of about 900 people in south-central Kansas, to bring the conversation about mental health care to more rural and frontier areas.The summit is a continuation of the nonprofit agency’s Standing in the Gap series that began&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/28/kansas-mental-health-experts-discuss-gaps-in-services-for-farmers-and-ranchers-at-inaugural-summit/">in 2023 in Dodge City</a>. NAMI Kansas southwest steering committee chairwoman Itzel Moya said the initial event and four subsequent sessions have been “a great way for rural and frontier communities to bring light to mental health topics and resources.”At that initial event, mental health experts and agricultural producers shared stories about their own mental health struggles and vocalized a need for more widespread mental health care services, particularly in the western half of the state.The April 9 event is set to take place at the Kiowa Community Building from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://namikansas.org/get-involved/nami-kansas-events/sitg/" target="_blank">Registration is required</a>. The event will focus on how local faith leaders and church members can “stand in the gap” as links to mental health care for their communities, Vaughn said.“Standing in the Gap presentations help to equip our local community leaders and members to start the conversation, learn about mental health conditions and statistical information, access its local resources, and seek solutions and opportunities to serve each other well,” Vaughn said.Religious officials are often the first person to respond to a mental health crisis because of the lack of mental health care providers across the state, and because of preexisting trusting relationships formed within the community. At another Standing in the Gap event in November in Plainville, NAMI Kansas volunteer Tara Gwynn said Kansas has an average of one mental health care provider for every 450 residents.In areas like Plainville, which is in Rooks County in north-central Kansas, Gwynn said the figure is closer to one provider per 4,000 people. But smaller communities often have multiple churches, all of which can have mental health information and support pamphlets available in view of their congregations.Officials with the Kansas Department of Agriculture also are attempting to close the mental health care gap by partnering with Kansas Corn to offer the Kansas Ag Stress program. Created in 2019, the program website features&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/ag-aware-providers-in-kansas" target="_blank">a list of mental health care providers</a>&nbsp;who offer telehealth services or specialize in mental health needs related to the ag industry.Additionally, Kansas Farm Bureau has the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kfb.org/Article/Mental-Health-Resources" target="_blank">Rural Minds Matter</a>&nbsp;program that includes training materials, links to mental health support guides, and the Advocate of the Year awards that were created in 2024. The inaugural Advocate of the Year award winner was Fort Hays State University professor and therapist Will Stutterheim. The first Young Advocate of the Year award recipient was Destiny Johnson, a pre-K through 12th-grade social worker for Stafford Unified School District 349.Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate agricultural producers have a higher suicide rate than other professions. The CDC report, published in 2020 with data sourced in 2016, found that men who worked in agriculture were at a greater risk, with a ratio of 43 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people. Statewide, the suicide rate for men is 19 per 100,000 people. According to data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, more than 500 Kansans died by suicide in 2023.

Kansas mental health professionals prepare listening session while working to enhance services

&nbsp; This week the H. D. Karns Innovations Academy Community Sponsorship Rugby Team, presented Vickie Bobbitt of I.C.A.R.E. with a Certificate of Appreciation for donating 100 pairs of Bombas Socks during the extreme cold weather. 

In addition, there were a total of 500 pair of Bombas Socks delivered last week to several elementary schools, said Bobbitt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737915349602.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; This week the H. D. Karns Innovations Academy Community Sponsorship Rugby Team, presented Vickie Bobbitt of I.C.A.R.E. with a Certificate of Appreciation for donating 100 pairs of Bombas Socks during the extreme cold weather. In addition, there were a total of 500 pair of Bombas Socks delivered last week to several elementary schools, said Bobbitt.

Certificate of Appreciation is presented

The Junction City Girl's wrestling team captured the championship of the DeSoto Invitational.&nbsp; With only 9 of 14 weight classes filled, those 9 girls took the team race by 34 points.&nbsp; 

Junction City scored 273.5 points beating Springdale with 239.5 points.&nbsp; All nine girls placed in the top six. 

--2nd place Jordis Serrano 110&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Junction City Girl's wrestling team captured the championship of the DeSoto Invitational.&nbsp; With only 9 of 14 weight classes filled, those 9 girls took the team race by 34 points.&nbsp; Junction City scored 273.5 points beating Springdale with 239.5 points.&nbsp; All nine girls placed in the top six. Finishers were:--5th place Znylah Slaughter 135--4th place Caity Dee 145--3rd place Catelin Owens 140--3rd place Kiera Lawton 120--3rd place Brandie Brown 155--2nd place Jordis Serrano 110&nbsp;&nbsp;CHAMPIONS--100 Jaidyn Alvarado--115 Juliana (Bree) Villanueva&nbsp;--125 Elaina Twitty

Lady jays capture the wrestling team title

In a matchup of two one-loss teams, the Wichita Heights Falcons beat the Junction City Blue Jays 72-57 on Saturday afternoon at the United Wireless Arena in Dodge City in the third-place game in the Tournament of Champions.

Wichita Heights won the opening tip, but Junction City jumped out to an early 5-0 lead. The first quarter was very tight, and the score was tied at 14 after one.

In the second quarter, the Falcons gained momentum and at one point led by seven, but Junction City finished the half on a shot at the buzzer by junior Lovell Autry, which cut the Heights lead to 30-27 at halftime.

In the second half, Heights used their height to their advantage, towering over Junction City. The Falcons had four players on their roster who were at least six feet four inches tall.

Junction City battled and kept it close after three, but Heights led by twenty points in the fourth quarter and beat JC 72-57.

In the game, Junction City had two players in double-digits. Senior Ja’Twaan Williams scored 15 points, and senior Larkin Turner added 11.

The Blue Jays finished fourth in the Dodge City Tournament of Champions and fall to 8-2 on the season.

Next up for Junction City is another top-tier opponent. The Blue Jays play at Blue Valley Northwest on Tuesday night.

In the Dodge City Tournament of Champions, Derby placed first, Kansas City Piper second, Wichita Heights third, Junction City fourth, Maize South fifth, Bishop Carroll sixth, Andover Central seventh, and Dodge City eighth.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostIn a matchup of two one-loss teams, the Wichita Heights Falcons beat the Junction City Blue Jays 72-57 on Saturday afternoon at the United Wireless Arena in Dodge City in the third-place game in the Tournament of Champions.Wichita Heights won the opening tip, but Junction City jumped out to an early 5-0 lead. The first quarter was very tight, and the score was tied at 14 after one.In the second quarter, the Falcons gained momentum and at one point led by seven, but Junction City finished the half on a shot at the buzzer by junior Lovell Autry, which cut the Heights lead to 30-27 at halftime.In the second half, Heights used their height to their advantage, towering over Junction City. The Falcons had four players on their roster who were at least six feet four inches tall.Junction City battled and kept it close after three, but Heights led by twenty points in the fourth quarter and beat JC 72-57.In the game, Junction City had two players in double-digits. Senior Ja’Twaan Williams scored 15 points, and senior Larkin Turner added 11.The Blue Jays finished fourth in the Dodge City Tournament of Champions and fall to 8-2 on the season.Next up for Junction City is another top-tier opponent. The Blue Jays play at Blue Valley Northwest on Tuesday night.In the Dodge City Tournament of Champions, Derby placed first, Kansas City Piper second, Wichita Heights third, Junction City fourth, Maize South fifth, Bishop Carroll sixth, Andover Central seventh, and Dodge City eighth.

Blue Jays finish fourth at Dodge City TOC

2024 weather for the Junction City region was, in short, normal precipitation but significantly above average in temperatures. The longer version of that was that precipitation was at times sporadic and the year will go down tied as the third hottest year on record (records dating back to 1949.)

The average daily high for the year was 68.9, 3.1 degrees above normal. The average low temperature was 48.1, 4.1 degrees above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 58.5, 3.6 degrees above the 30-year average annual temperature. 

January and July were the only months that had a monthly mean temperature below normal. January was 3.3 degrees below and July was 0.9 degree below normal. As is usually the case, January was our coldest month and July our hottest month. 2024 is tied with 1953 and 1956 for the third warmest year on record with a 58.5 mean annual temperature. 2012 was our second warmest year at 58.6 and 1954 was our hottest year with an annual temperature of 59.7. 

Based on 30 year moving averages of the local weather data (as kept by the Milford Lake Office of the US Army Corps of Engineers) the temperature has been increasing over the past 30 years. The highest temperature for the year was the 103 degree reading on August 25th. There were only three days during the year with temperatures of 100 or above, one each in June, July and August. This is well below the long-term average of nine days per year with temperatures of 100 or above. The record for that is that previously mentioned hot year of 1954 when there were 42 days with temperatures of 100 or above.

 The coldest temperature for the year was the morning low of -12 on January 15. This resulted in an annual temperature extreme of 115 degrees, slightly more than the long-term annual temperature extreme of 110 degrees. The growing season for 2024 (determined by the date of the last 32 degree reading in the spring to the first 32 degree reading in the fall) was 203 days. This is two weeks longer than the long-term average of 188 days. 

The last spring freeze was March 27th, and the first fall freeze was October 16th. Looking again at 30 year moving averages, the growing season has lengthened by more than 10 days over the last 40 years. Using that same measure, the average last frost in the spring is now six days earlier and the average last frost in the fall is five days later. 

Precipitation for 2024 was a case of extremes. Total liquid precipitation for the year was 33.43 inches, 0.14 of an inch below the 30-year average. Seven months of the year had below normal precipitation and five had above normal precipitation. May and June are normally our wettest and second wettest months of the year, respectively. In 2024 the two were reversed in order, but still the two wettest months. Of course, the rainfall of note for 2024 occurred the evening of Friday, June 28th. While the official weather station at Milford Lake Corps of Engineers Office recorded 1.57 inches of rain, a very isolated rainstorm sat over Junction City and Grandview Plaza dropping 5.5 to 6" of rain in less than six hours according to certified reports to the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS). 

Summer thunderstorms can be extremely variable and the town of Milford, just ten miles to the north of Junction City, received no rainfall during this event.

Snowfall season is October through May so overlaps the calendar year. The 2023-24 snowfall season delivered 17.5 inches of snow, just under the long-term average of 18" per season. (So far the 2024-2025 snowfall season has recorded 14.3 inches of now, most of that occurring in January 2025.) Looking at the calendar year of 2024, the area received 10.1 inches of snow, well below the 18 inch long term average. The majority of the snowfall for 2024 occurred during January when 7.6 inches was recorded.

By Chuck Otte&nbsp;County Extension Agent Retired2024 weather for the Junction City region was, in short, normal precipitation but significantly above average in temperatures. The longer version of that was that precipitation was at times sporadic and the year will go down tied as the third hottest year on record (records dating back to 1949.)The average daily high for the year was 68.9, 3.1 degrees above normal. The average low temperature was 48.1, 4.1 degrees above normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 58.5, 3.6 degrees above the 30-year average annual temperature. January and July were the only months that had a monthly mean temperature below normal. January was 3.3 degrees below and July was 0.9 degree below normal. As is usually the case, January was our coldest month and July our hottest month. 2024 is tied with 1953 and 1956 for the third warmest year on record with a 58.5 mean annual temperature. 2012 was our second warmest year at 58.6 and 1954 was our hottest year with an annual temperature of 59.7. Based on 30 year moving averages of the local weather data (as kept by the Milford Lake Office of the US Army Corps of Engineers) the temperature has been increasing over the past 30 years. The highest temperature for the year was the 103 degree reading on August 25th. There were only three days during the year with temperatures of 100 or above, one each in June, July and August. This is well below the long-term average of nine days per year with temperatures of 100 or above. The record for that is that previously mentioned hot year of 1954 when there were 42 days with temperatures of 100 or above. The coldest temperature for the year was the morning low of -12 on January 15. This resulted in an annual temperature extreme of 115 degrees, slightly more than the long-term annual temperature extreme of 110 degrees. The growing season for 2024 (determined by the date of the last 32 degree reading in the spring to the first 32 degree reading in the fall) was 203 days. This is two weeks longer than the long-term average of 188 days. The last spring freeze was March 27th, and the first fall freeze was October 16th. Looking again at 30 year moving averages, the growing season has lengthened by more than 10 days over the last 40 years. Using that same measure, the average last frost in the spring is now six days earlier and the average last frost in the fall is five days later. Precipitation for 2024 was a case of extremes. Total liquid precipitation for the year was 33.43 inches, 0.14 of an inch below the 30-year average. Seven months of the year had below normal precipitation and five had above normal precipitation. May and June are normally our wettest and second wettest months of the year, respectively. In 2024 the two were reversed in order, but still the two wettest months. Of course, the rainfall of note for 2024 occurred the evening of Friday, June 28th. While the official weather station at Milford Lake Corps of Engineers Office recorded 1.57 inches of rain, a very isolated rainstorm sat over Junction City and Grandview Plaza dropping 5.5 to 6" of rain in less than six hours according to certified reports to the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS). Summer thunderstorms can be extremely variable and the town of Milford, just ten miles to the north of Junction City, received no rainfall during this event.Snowfall season is October through May so overlaps the calendar year. The 2023-24 snowfall season delivered 17.5 inches of snow, just under the long-term average of 18" per season. (So far the 2024-2025 snowfall season has recorded 14.3 inches of now, most of that occurring in January 2025.) Looking at the calendar year of 2024, the area received 10.1 inches of snow, well below the 18 inch long term average. The majority of the snowfall for 2024 occurred during January when 7.6 inches was recorded.

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