WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has signed an order restoring the name of a storied special operations forces base back to Fort Bragg. The North Carolina base was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/army-base-renaming-fort-bragg-liberty-dcfe8bd9eeaa8373d2338bf99a4cac69">renamed Fort Liberty</a>&nbsp;in 2023 as part of a national effort under the Biden administration to remove names that honored Confederate leaders.

The base’s original namesake, Gen. Braxton Bragg, was a Confederate general from Warrenton, North Carolina, who was known for owning slaves and losing key Civil War battles, contributing to the Confederacy’s downfall.

But a Pentagon spokesman said Monday that Hegseth was renaming the base to honor Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, who he said was a World War II hero who earned the Silver Star and the Purple Heart for his exceptional courage during the Battle of the Bulge.

“This change underscores the installation’s legacy of recognizing those who have demonstrated extraordinary service and sacrifice for the nation,” spokesman John Ullyot said in a statement.

On Tuesday, the Army released an initial service verification for Bragg, who was born in Webster, Maine, and served as a toxic gas handler from July 1943 to November 1945. Bragg deployed to England from August 1944 to August 1945 and left the Army in the rank of private first class, said Army spokesman Maj. Travis Shaw.

Bragg's awards include the World War II Victory Medal, the Silver Star Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three bronze stars, a Parachute Badge and a Combat Infantry Badge, Shaw said.

The choice of the World War II private first class got around a law prohibiting the military from naming a base after a Confederate leader.

In a video he posted on X announcing that he was renaming the base, Hegseth said: “That's right. Bragg is back!”

In reality, the base had still been widely known as Bragg, the new name having not really taken hold. On Hegseth's first official day as defense secretary he made a point of calling it Fort Bragg in his first exchange with reporters.

The renaming also adds cost when President Donald Trump's administration is trying to find savings through it's Department of Government Efficiency. The 2022 base renaming commission estimated that renaming Bragg, including all the signage, paint jobs on police and emergency responder vehicles and other items, would cost at least $6.3 million. In 2023, the base said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/army-base-renaming-fort-bragg-liberty-dcfe8bd9eeaa8373d2338bf99a4cac69">the total costs</a>&nbsp;were going to be around $8 million.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has signed an order restoring the name of a storied special operations forces base back to Fort Bragg. The North Carolina base was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/army-base-renaming-fort-bragg-liberty-dcfe8bd9eeaa8373d2338bf99a4cac69">renamed Fort Liberty</a>&nbsp;in 2023 as part of a national effort under the Biden administration to remove names that honored Confederate leaders.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NEWS: <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecDef</a> signs a memorandum reversing the naming of Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg. <a href="https://t.co/ChATiPwTO3">pic.twitter.com/ChATiPwTO3</a>&mdash; Department of Defense 🇺🇸 (@DeptofDefense) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofDefense/status/1889119616200302676?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The base’s original namesake, Gen. Braxton Bragg, was a Confederate general from Warrenton, North Carolina, who was known for owning slaves and losing key Civil War battles, contributing to the Confederacy’s downfall.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bragg is back! I just signed a memorandum reversing the naming of Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg. <a href="https://t.co/EGgZNHK72x">pic.twitter.com/EGgZNHK72x</a>&mdash; Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (@SecDef) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef/status/1889119135759585562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>But a Pentagon spokesman said Monday that Hegseth was renaming the base to honor Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, who he said was a World War II hero who earned the Silver Star and the Purple Heart for his exceptional courage during the Battle of the Bulge.“This change underscores the installation’s legacy of recognizing those who have demonstrated extraordinary service and sacrifice for the nation,” spokesman John Ullyot said in a statement.On Tuesday, the Army released an initial service verification for Bragg, who was born in Webster, Maine, and served as a toxic gas handler from July 1943 to November 1945. Bragg deployed to England from August 1944 to August 1945 and left the Army in the rank of private first class, said Army spokesman Maj. Travis Shaw.Bragg's awards include the World War II Victory Medal, the Silver Star Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three bronze stars, a Parachute Badge and a Combat Infantry Badge, Shaw said.The choice of the World War II private first class got around a law prohibiting the military from naming a base after a Confederate leader.In a video he posted on X announcing that he was renaming the base, Hegseth said: “That's right. Bragg is back!”In reality, the base had still been widely known as Bragg, the new name having not really taken hold. On Hegseth's first official day as defense secretary he made a point of calling it Fort Bragg in his first exchange with reporters.The renaming also adds cost when President Donald Trump's administration is trying to find savings through it's Department of Government Efficiency. The 2022 base renaming commission estimated that renaming Bragg, including all the signage, paint jobs on police and emergency responder vehicles and other items, would cost at least $6.3 million. In 2023, the base said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/army-base-renaming-fort-bragg-liberty-dcfe8bd9eeaa8373d2338bf99a4cac69">the total costs</a>&nbsp;were going to be around $8 million.

Defense Secretary brings back Fort Bragg name, with a different namesake

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
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Riley County Arrest Report February 15

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

A Kansas State University weed specialist says farmers should be on the lookout for early-emergence of a troublesome weed that competes with farm crops for nutrients, water and light.

Sarah Lancaster said kochia is among the first summer annual weeds to emerge in the spring. 

In 2024, kochia was found as early as Feb. 7, following a snowstorm in late January, and temperatures that hit the 50s and 60s in early February – conditions that were very similar to what much of Kansas experienced this year, as well.

“Early-emerging kochia seedlings use the limited spring soil moisture in dryland production fields,” said Lancaster, noting that good control of the first dense flush of kochia is essential for obtaining a good crop yield later in the season.

Lancaster said that kochia seedlings emerge in dense populations, which makes adequate herbicide coverage difficult. In addition, glyphosate-resistant kochia is prevalent across western Kansas.

“For these reasons, it is important to apply pre-emergence herbicides in late winter or early spring to control kochia before it emerges,” Lancaster said.

According to Lancaster, an herbicide program needs two components in order to successfully manage kochia:

· A very soluble and effective herbicide that can be incorporated with very little precipitation, such as dicamba.

· A herbicide that has longer residual activity, which will require perhaps ¾ inches or more precipitation for adequate incorporation, such as atrazine.

“Precipitation events during late winter are often too small to activate longer-lasting residual herbicides, but dicamba may control kochia for 4-6 weeks until atrazine is incorporated,” Lancaster said.

For those reasons, the best time to apply herbicides is generally January through the first week of March, according to Lancaster.

Other herbicides with good pre-emergence kochia activity include mesotrione, metribuzin, saflufenacil (Sharpen) and sulfentrazone. Lancaster urges farmers and herbicide applicators to check product labels for crop-specific planting intervals.

More information on controlling kochia and many other weeds is available in a recently released publication from the K-State Research and Extension bookstore, Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland and Noncropland. 

Farmers can also get information at local extension offices in Kansas.

Brand names appearing in this article are used for identification purposes only and are not intended to indicate endorsement of any particular product.

Submitted by Stacy Campbell

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District, which includes Barton and Ellis counties, for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739287786436.png" alt="Kochia that&nbsp;exhibits red colored stems. Found on a disturbed site along a&nbsp;gravel road. Riley County, Kansas. Photo by P. Allen Casey, USDA-NRCS" />
 <figcaption>Kochia that&nbsp;exhibits red colored stems. Found on a disturbed site along a&nbsp;gravel road. Riley County, Kansas. Photo by P. Allen Casey, USDA-NRCS</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension&nbsp; A Kansas State University weed specialist says farmers should be on the lookout for early-emergence of a troublesome weed that competes with farm crops for nutrients, water and light.Sarah Lancaster said kochia is among the first summer annual weeds to emerge in the spring. In 2024, kochia was found as early as Feb. 7, following a snowstorm in late January, and temperatures that hit the 50s and 60s in early February – conditions that were very similar to what much of Kansas experienced this year, as well.“Early-emerging kochia seedlings use the limited spring soil moisture in dryland production fields,” said Lancaster, noting that good control of the first dense flush of kochia is essential for obtaining a good crop yield later in the season.Lancaster said that kochia seedlings emerge in dense populations, which makes adequate herbicide coverage difficult. In addition, glyphosate-resistant kochia is prevalent across western Kansas.“For these reasons, it is important to apply pre-emergence herbicides in late winter or early spring to control kochia before it emerges,” Lancaster said.According to Lancaster, an herbicide program needs two components in order to successfully manage kochia:· A very soluble and effective herbicide that can be incorporated with very little precipitation, such as dicamba.· A herbicide that has longer residual activity, which will require perhaps ¾ inches or more precipitation for adequate incorporation, such as atrazine.“Precipitation events during late winter are often too small to activate longer-lasting residual herbicides, but dicamba may control kochia for 4-6 weeks until atrazine is incorporated,” Lancaster said.For those reasons, the best time to apply herbicides is generally January through the first week of March, according to Lancaster.Other herbicides with good pre-emergence kochia activity include mesotrione, metribuzin, saflufenacil (Sharpen) and sulfentrazone. Lancaster urges farmers and herbicide applicators to check product labels for crop-specific planting intervals.More information on controlling kochia and many other weeds is available in a recently released publication from the K-State Research and Extension bookstore, Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland and Noncropland. Farmers can also get information at local extension offices in Kansas.Brand names appearing in this article are used for identification purposes only and are not intended to indicate endorsement of any particular product.Submitted by Stacy CampbellStacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District, which includes Barton and Ellis counties, for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

K-State weed specialist shares tips on controlling early-emerging kochia

TOPEKA, KAN. – A federal jury has convicted a Kansas woman of murdering her husband who was a U.S. Army soldier assigned to Fort Riley, according to the United State's Attorney

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Margaret E. Shafe, 31, was found guilty of murder in the second degree for shooting and killing her husband Greg Shafe in February 2024 at their home on Fort Riley.

Shafe faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Army Criminal Investigation Division, and Fort Riley Fire and Emergency Services are investigating the case.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739588332020.png" alt="Shafe-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Shafe-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, KAN. – A federal jury has convicted a Kansas woman of murdering her husband who was a U.S. Army soldier assigned to Fort Riley, according to the United State's AttorneyAccording to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Margaret E. Shafe, 31, was found guilty of murder in the second degree for shooting and killing her husband Greg Shafe in February 2024 at their home on Fort Riley.Shafe faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Army Criminal Investigation Division, and Fort Riley Fire and Emergency Services are investigating the case.

Jury convicts wife of murdering husband on Fort Riley

MANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksufoundation.org/">Kansas State University Foundation</a>&nbsp;is one of only 32 organizations to make a list of the region’s best work environments, according to a survey conducted by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://topworkplaces.com/">Great Plains Top Workplaces</a>.This list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC.

The confidential survey measures the employee experience, including employees’ opinions on feeling respected and supported, enabled to grow and empowered to execute decisions.“Each day brings new opportunities for me to tackle challenges in a way that helps me positively impact others,” said one KSUF employee in a survey response. “I love working through a problem and reaching an outcome that moves our organization forward. My coworkers care about our organization’s mission, and it’s fun to work with people who are just as passionate as I am.”

The Top Workplaces program is built on 18 years of culture research and results from 27 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations. Its 2025 list of honorees in the Great Plains region included 32 companies, with the KSU Foundation one of 11 in the 150-499 employees category.“

By Allison RogersK-State News and Communication ServicesMANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksufoundation.org/">Kansas State University Foundation</a>&nbsp;is one of only 32 organizations to make a list of the region’s best work environments, according to a survey conducted by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://topworkplaces.com/">Great Plains Top Workplaces</a>.This list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage LLC.The confidential survey measures the employee experience, including employees’ opinions on feeling respected and supported, enabled to grow and empowered to execute decisions.“Each day brings new opportunities for me to tackle challenges in a way that helps me positively impact others,” said one KSUF employee in a survey response. “I love working through a problem and reaching an outcome that moves our organization forward. My coworkers care about our organization’s mission, and it’s fun to work with people who are just as passionate as I am.”The Top Workplaces program is built on 18 years of culture research and results from 27 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations. Its 2025 list of honorees in the Great Plains region included 32 companies, with the KSU Foundation one of 11 in the 150-499 employees category.“

KSU Foundation recognized as one of 2025’s top regional workplaces

WASHINGTON —The U.S. Army will no longer allow transgender individuals to join the military.&nbsp; The announcement came on social media Friday afternoon.

The Army will also stop performing or facilitating procedures associated with gender transition for service members.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Army and the JAG Corps is in compliance with President Trump's&nbsp;executive orders and orders from the Secretary of Defense.

WASHINGTON —The U.S. Army will no longer allow transgender individuals to join the military.&nbsp; The announcement came on social media Friday afternoon.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USArmy</a> will no longer allow transgender individuals to join the military and will stop performing or facilitating procedures associated with gender transition for service members. Stay tuned for more details.&mdash; U.S. Army (@USArmy) <a href="https://twitter.com/USArmy/status/1890490320313286788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Army will also stop performing or facilitating procedures associated with gender transition for service members.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Army and the JAG Corps is in compliance with President Trump's&nbsp;executive orders and orders from the Secretary of Defense.

U.S. Army announcement on transgenders in the military

The National Weather Service says a&nbsp; wintry mix is possible Saturday as a cold front pushes south in the morning.

● Dangerously cold temperatures are forecast through next week.

● Chances for snow Monday night and Tuesday have increased.

● The storm appears capable of several inches of snow by Tuesday afternoon. Although it is still to early to focus on totals. Preparations for more snow should be made.

The National Weather Service says a&nbsp; wintry mix is possible Saturday as a cold front pushes south in the morning.● Dangerously cold temperatures are forecast through next week.● Chances for snow Monday night and Tuesday have increased.● The storm appears capable of several inches of snow by Tuesday afternoon. Although it is still to early to focus on totals. Preparations for more snow should be made.

Cold front could bring a wintry mix

The City of Manhattan has announced that starting&nbsp;Monday, February 24, the next phase of Juliette Avenue construction will begin, with a closure extending south from Poyntz Avenue to the alley between Houston Street and Pierre Street.

Pierre Street will remain open to through traffic during this phase, which may last through the spring semester into&nbsp;May 2025.

During this following phase of construction starting in May, the closure on Juliette will move south, from the alley between Houston Street and Pierre Street south to the Pierre Street intersection.

This second phase in front of Manhattan Catholic Schools will be completed during summer break, from approximately&nbsp;May 16&nbsp;to&nbsp;August 8, 2025.

Expect light to moderate traffic and some delays on Houston Street, Juliette Avenue, Pierre Street, and Poyntz Avenue. The estimate is about&nbsp;12 weeks&nbsp;to complete the first phase, depending on weather.

The City of Manhattan has announced that starting&nbsp;Monday, February 24, the next phase of Juliette Avenue construction will begin, with a closure extending south from Poyntz Avenue to the alley between Houston Street and Pierre Street.Pierre Street will remain open to through traffic during this phase, which may last through the spring semester into&nbsp;May 2025.During this following phase of construction starting in May, the closure on Juliette will move south, from the alley between Houston Street and Pierre Street south to the Pierre Street intersection.This second phase in front of Manhattan Catholic Schools will be completed during summer break, from approximately&nbsp;May 16&nbsp;to&nbsp;August 8, 2025.Expect light to moderate traffic and some delays on Houston Street, Juliette Avenue, Pierre Street, and Poyntz Avenue. The estimate is about&nbsp;12 weeks&nbsp;to complete the first phase, depending on weather.

Juliette closing from Poyntz to Houston/Pierre alley

GEARY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) updated on the investigation into a juvenile’s death at the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Junction City, Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.

KBI agents interviewed detention center employees and youth corrections officers about what happened on Nov. 5, and their interactions with the 17-year-old while he was at the facility. The teen had been living at the detention center since August.

The final autopsy report determined the teen’s cause of death was combined intoxication by buprenorphine, norbuprenorphine, hydroxyzine, quetiapine, and trazodone. These medications were prescribed to the juvenile. Contributing factors to his death were listed as cardiomegaly, obesity and asthma. His manner of death was ruled an accident.

The Kansas State Child Death Review Board reviews all child fatalities that occur in Kansas, and will evaluate this case.

GEARY COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) updated on the investigation into a juvenile’s death at the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Junction City, Kansas, according to a media release from the agency.KBI agents interviewed detention center employees and youth corrections officers about what happened on Nov. 5, and their interactions with the 17-year-old while he was at the facility. The teen had been living at the detention center since August.The final autopsy report determined the teen’s cause of death was combined intoxication by buprenorphine, norbuprenorphine, hydroxyzine, quetiapine, and trazodone. These medications were prescribed to the juvenile. Contributing factors to his death were listed as cardiomegaly, obesity and asthma. His manner of death was ruled an accident.The Kansas State Child Death Review Board reviews all child fatalities that occur in Kansas, and will evaluate this case.

KBI reveals cause of death of teen at juvenile detention facility

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Amy France from Scott City Kansas. She is chairman of the National Sorghum Producers Association and testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yjo5T4F0Z5Y?si=zvLRdXCigR7GItCb" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Amy France from Scott City Kansas. She is chairman of the National Sorghum Producers Association and testified before a U.S. Senate committee last week.

Forward Ever: Amy France, chairman of National Sorghum Producers Association

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
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Riley County Arrest Report February 14

More than half of the base acres in Kansas are assigned as wheat base, meaning what’s going on with wheat has a major impact on the commodity programs established under the Farm Bill. K-State Research and Extension has new resources available and advises producers to carefully consider their selection choice this year between the two primary programs in Kansas — Price Loss Coverage (PLC) or Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC). 

“With another extension of the 2018 Farm Bill, farmers are now able to make an election decision between commodity programs on their base acres for 2025,” Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid stated in an extension publication on January 24. “The decision between ARC or PLC needs to be made by April 15, 2025, and will be for the crop harvested in 2025, with payment (if any) being made in October of 2026.” 

According to Reid in a webinar on Wednesday, February 12, Kansas wheat producers are now evenly split across the two programs with 54 percent enrolling in PLC in 2024, compared to 46 percent in ARC. This trend is a big difference from the first years of the program — 2019 and 2020 — when 93 percent of producers elected for PLC coverage. This year’s selection may not be as quick and easy as prior years; however, primarily due to a higher reference price for PLC and higher benchmark prices for ARC. This week’s edition of Wheat Scoop breaks down the basics and decision factors with resources from K-State’s resources through AgManager.info. 

Price Loss Coverage (PLC) is catastrophic price protection. For this program, producers should know two important numbers — the effective reference price and the national marketing year average price. 

The effective reference price is laid out in the Farm Bill. For 2025, the new effective reference price for 2025 is $5.56 for wheat. 

A payment is triggered when the national marketing year average price falls below this reference price. The national marketing year average price is set by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Each month’s price is weighted at the end of the marketing year based on the amount of grain sold in that month to determine a single national price for the entire marketing year. Two considerations are specific to wheat. First, the marketing year runs June 1 through May 31 with the most heavily weighted months in June through September when the most wheat is sold. Second, there is a single price set for all wheat in the United States, regardless of the class of wheat a producer may plant in their fields. 

That means the national marketing year average price will not be finalized until after the 2025 marketing year concludes on May 31, 2026. However, because NASS publishes data monthly, producers can track actual and projected prices as the marketing year progresses. 

The difference between these two numbers is the payment rate. If a payment is triggered, the payment rate is multiplied by the farm’s established yield (PLC yield), which producers see on their USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) paperwork and then multiplied by 85 percent of the base acres for that commodity. The payment under this program is not capped until the national marketing year average price falls below the national loan rate, which is $3.38 for wheat. 

The takeaway here is that if the national marketing year average price for wheat falls below $5.56, a payment would be triggered, and producers would receive a payment in October 2026. 

The Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) is a shallow revenue loss program. Nationally, there are two different options for ARC — based on either county or individual benchmarks — but only ARC-CO (county-based) is commonly selected by Kansas producers. 

ARC-CO payments under this program are based on county yields, not those of individual producers. This means the county could have a revenue loss, a farmer not, and the farmer would still receive a payment. The inverse is also true — a farmer could have a loss, but the county does not, and no payment is triggered. 

County benchmark revenue is based on a five-year Olympic average of the national marketing year average price multiplied by the five-year Olympic average county yield.

For reference, a five-year Olympic average takes five years, removes the high and the low and then averages the remaining three years. Using an Olympic average means that the county’s benchmark revenue will change on an annual basis as new years are added to the data set and the oldest are removed. There is also a lag year, meaning that the five-year calculation for the 2025 marketing year is based on 2019 to 2023 county-level data.

An ARC-CO payment is triggered when the county revenue falls below 86 percent of the county’s benchmark revenue. It’s important to remember that these payments differ from crop to crop and from county to county, which producers can track at AgManager.Info. 

“If the current year revenue (national marketing year average price multiplied by actual county yield) falls below the guarantee, payment is made in the amount of the difference,” Reid wrote, cautioning producers that these payments are capped at 10 percent of the county’s benchmark revenue. “The payment being capped at 10% of the benchmark revenue is really the downfall of this program and in years of low prices can make PLC the better choice.”

Here’s how ARC-CO works in practice. The 2025 ARC-CO benchmark price for wheat is set at $6.72. This benchmark price does not change from county to county. 

Reid used an example from Rooks County to run the scenario, which has a five-year Olympic average county yield of 46.75 bushels. As a result, average yields (rounded up to 47 bushels per acre) in Rooks County would trigger a payment if the price falls under $5.78, which is 86 percent of the benchmark price. 

However, producers also need to run scenarios where county yields exceed or fall below average. A 10 percent yield loss would trigger a payment at a higher price — $6.42. In contrast, however, a 10 percent yield gain would result in a much lower price threshold needed to trigger a payment — $5.25. 

Reid noted that under current conditions, ARC-CO may trigger payments at a slightly higher price and could have higher payments, but producers must keep track of that maximum county payment rate and their own payment limitations. 

Don’t Forget About Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO)

A final consideration for producers is whether or not to use the Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) on crop insurance. This option provides coverage from the individuals’ crop insurance level up to 86 percent of the projected revenue. The premiums are subsidized at 65 percent, meaning producers pay 35 percent of the premium. According to Reid, these policies are likely to pay out over time, but there the higher premiums from the additional coverage could have sticker shock for producers considering it for the first time. 

Also, SCO payouts are triggered on a county loss compared to an individual farm loss. As such, if the farm has a crop loss, but the county does not, no payment would trigger. Producers cannot enroll in SCO if they have enrolled base acres in ARC-CO for that commodity. 

“While it is county-based coverage and not individual, the subsidy level would lead a person to believe it should pay off in the long-run (assuming the product is properly rated),” Reid wrote. “However, the premiums may still be cost-prohibitive for many farmers.”

Ultimately, commodity programs are complex, and the final marketing year average prices and yields are only forecasts at this point. But, wheat base acres — at least those planted to winter wheat — have a leg up on spring-planted crops — the 2025 crop has been planted and producers know how much moisture they have or have not received to date. 

“The one advantage we have with winter wheat is that the crop is already in the ground,” Reid said. “Although it’s a long time until harvest, we do have some knowledge of the crop’s condition. Is it going to be a complete failure? Is everything looking great? So that is something we can gauge a little bit on wheat versus other crops.” 

It’s also important to note that the marketing year for wheat does not start until June 1, 2025. So while producers have to choose one of the two commodity programs by April 15, 2025, there is still a lot of time for prices to fluctuate before being included in the official calculations. 

“Current projections are near or even slightly below these ‘trigger’ prices for both PLC and 86 percent of the ARC benchmark,” Reid wrote. “ARC-CO will pay at higher prices in the event of yield losses at the county level, and vice versa, where higher county yields will require lower prices to trigger an ARC-CO payment. But, the overall price risk is really high right now with the current uncertainty in the market.” 

K-State does have a free, online trade-off tool to aid producers in making their decisions for this year. The tool allows producers to look up their county averages, apply their own program yields, determine when ARC payments will max out and, most importantly, determine at what price level PLC payments will exceed the maximum ARC-CO payments. Find the trade-off tool and the latest information and recommendations as they prepare to make their decisions at <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/ag-policy/2018-farm-bill">https://www.agmanager.info/ag-policy/2018-farm-bill</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628192871161.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatARC/PLC deadline is April 15More than half of the base acres in Kansas are assigned as wheat base, meaning what’s going on with wheat has a major impact on the commodity programs established under the Farm Bill. K-State Research and Extension has new resources available and advises producers to carefully consider their selection choice this year between the two primary programs in Kansas — Price Loss Coverage (PLC) or Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC). “With another extension of the 2018 Farm Bill, farmers are now able to make an election decision between commodity programs on their base acres for 2025,” Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid stated in an extension publication on January 24. “The decision between ARC or PLC needs to be made by April 15, 2025, and will be for the crop harvested in 2025, with payment (if any) being made in October of 2026.” According to Reid in a webinar on Wednesday, February 12, Kansas wheat producers are now evenly split across the two programs with 54 percent enrolling in PLC in 2024, compared to 46 percent in ARC. This trend is a big difference from the first years of the program — 2019 and 2020 — when 93 percent of producers elected for PLC coverage. This year’s selection may not be as quick and easy as prior years; however, primarily due to a higher reference price for PLC and higher benchmark prices for ARC. This week’s edition of Wheat Scoop breaks down the basics and decision factors with resources from K-State’s resources through AgManager.info. Price Loss Coverage (PLC)Price Loss Coverage (PLC) is catastrophic price protection. For this program, producers should know two important numbers — the effective reference price and the national marketing year average price. The effective reference price is laid out in the Farm Bill. For 2025, the new effective reference price for 2025 is $5.56 for wheat. A payment is triggered when the national marketing year average price falls below this reference price. The national marketing year average price is set by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Each month’s price is weighted at the end of the marketing year based on the amount of grain sold in that month to determine a single national price for the entire marketing year. Two considerations are specific to wheat. First, the marketing year runs June 1 through May 31 with the most heavily weighted months in June through September when the most wheat is sold. Second, there is a single price set for all wheat in the United States, regardless of the class of wheat a producer may plant in their fields. That means the national marketing year average price will not be finalized until after the 2025 marketing year concludes on May 31, 2026. However, because NASS publishes data monthly, producers can track actual and projected prices as the marketing year progresses. The difference between these two numbers is the payment rate. If a payment is triggered, the payment rate is multiplied by the farm’s established yield (PLC yield), which producers see on their USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) paperwork and then multiplied by 85 percent of the base acres for that commodity. The payment under this program is not capped until the national marketing year average price falls below the national loan rate, which is $3.38 for wheat. The takeaway here is that if the national marketing year average price for wheat falls below $5.56, a payment would be triggered, and producers would receive a payment in October 2026. Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC)The Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) is a shallow revenue loss program. Nationally, there are two different options for ARC — based on either county or individual benchmarks — but only ARC-CO (county-based) is commonly selected by Kansas producers. ARC-CO payments under this program are based on county yields, not those of individual producers. This means the county could have a revenue loss, a farmer not, and the farmer would still receive a payment. The inverse is also true — a farmer could have a loss, but the county does not, and no payment is triggered. County benchmark revenue is based on a five-year Olympic average of the national marketing year average price multiplied by the five-year Olympic average county yield.For reference, a five-year Olympic average takes five years, removes the high and the low and then averages the remaining three years. Using an Olympic average means that the county’s benchmark revenue will change on an annual basis as new years are added to the data set and the oldest are removed. There is also a lag year, meaning that the five-year calculation for the 2025 marketing year is based on 2019 to 2023 county-level data.An ARC-CO payment is triggered when the county revenue falls below 86 percent of the county’s benchmark revenue. It’s important to remember that these payments differ from crop to crop and from county to county, which producers can track at AgManager.Info. “If the current year revenue (national marketing year average price multiplied by actual county yield) falls below the guarantee, payment is made in the amount of the difference,” Reid wrote, cautioning producers that these payments are capped at 10 percent of the county’s benchmark revenue. “The payment being capped at 10% of the benchmark revenue is really the downfall of this program and in years of low prices can make PLC the better choice.”Here’s how ARC-CO works in practice. The 2025 ARC-CO benchmark price for wheat is set at $6.72. This benchmark price does not change from county to county. Reid used an example from Rooks County to run the scenario, which has a five-year Olympic average county yield of 46.75 bushels. As a result, average yields (rounded up to 47 bushels per acre) in Rooks County would trigger a payment if the price falls under $5.78, which is 86 percent of the benchmark price. However, producers also need to run scenarios where county yields exceed or fall below average. A 10 percent yield loss would trigger a payment at a higher price — $6.42. In contrast, however, a 10 percent yield gain would result in a much lower price threshold needed to trigger a payment — $5.25. Reid noted that under current conditions, ARC-CO may trigger payments at a slightly higher price and could have higher payments, but producers must keep track of that maximum county payment rate and their own payment limitations. Don’t Forget About Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO)A final consideration for producers is whether or not to use the Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) on crop insurance. This option provides coverage from the individuals’ crop insurance level up to 86 percent of the projected revenue. The premiums are subsidized at 65 percent, meaning producers pay 35 percent of the premium. According to Reid, these policies are likely to pay out over time, but there the higher premiums from the additional coverage could have sticker shock for producers considering it for the first time. Also, SCO payouts are triggered on a county loss compared to an individual farm loss. As such, if the farm has a crop loss, but the county does not, no payment would trigger. Producers cannot enroll in SCO if they have enrolled base acres in ARC-CO for that commodity. “While it is county-based coverage and not individual, the subsidy level would lead a person to believe it should pay off in the long-run (assuming the product is properly rated),” Reid wrote. “However, the premiums may still be cost-prohibitive for many farmers.”Deciding Between PLC and ARC-COUltimately, commodity programs are complex, and the final marketing year average prices and yields are only forecasts at this point. But, wheat base acres — at least those planted to winter wheat — have a leg up on spring-planted crops — the 2025 crop has been planted and producers know how much moisture they have or have not received to date. “The one advantage we have with winter wheat is that the crop is already in the ground,” Reid said. “Although it’s a long time until harvest, we do have some knowledge of the crop’s condition. Is it going to be a complete failure? Is everything looking great? So that is something we can gauge a little bit on wheat versus other crops.” It’s also important to note that the marketing year for wheat does not start until June 1, 2025. So while producers have to choose one of the two commodity programs by April 15, 2025, there is still a lot of time for prices to fluctuate before being included in the official calculations. “Current projections are near or even slightly below these ‘trigger’ prices for both PLC and 86 percent of the ARC benchmark,” Reid wrote. “ARC-CO will pay at higher prices in the event of yield losses at the county level, and vice versa, where higher county yields will require lower prices to trigger an ARC-CO payment. But, the overall price risk is really high right now with the current uncertainty in the market.” K-State does have a free, online trade-off tool to aid producers in making their decisions for this year. The tool allows producers to look up their county averages, apply their own program yields, determine when ARC payments will max out and, most importantly, determine at what price level PLC payments will exceed the maximum ARC-CO payments. Find the trade-off tool and the latest information and recommendations as they prepare to make their decisions at <a href="https://www.agmanager.info/ag-policy/2018-farm-bill">https://www.agmanager.info/ag-policy/2018-farm-bill</a>.

Wheat Scoop: Producers should run their numbers now before choosing a commodity program

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reported that at 10:12 a.m. Thursday Deputies responded to K-177 Highway at Mile Marker 96 for a three vehicle non-injury accident.

 Breeze Wardrup of Hiawatha was southbound in her 2019 Chevrolet Cruze and she slowed down to make a right hand turn when her vehicle was struck. Rebecca Juska of Manhattan was traveling southbound on K-177 at mile marker 96 in her Mercedes passenger car. Rebecca attempted to swerve to miss striking Breeze and struck a 2019 Freightliner box truck being driven by Seth Keeton of Wichita,&nbsp; and then struck Breeze’s vehicle. No injuries were reported. 

The Mercedes was removed from the scene by Buds Wrecker Service. The other vehicles involved were removed by the drivers

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reported that at 10:12 a.m. Thursday Deputies responded to K-177 Highway at Mile Marker 96 for a three vehicle non-injury accident. Breeze Wardrup of Hiawatha was southbound in her 2019 Chevrolet Cruze and she slowed down to make a right hand turn when her vehicle was struck. Rebecca Juska of Manhattan was traveling southbound on K-177 at mile marker 96 in her Mercedes passenger car. Rebecca attempted to swerve to miss striking Breeze and struck a 2019 Freightliner box truck being driven by Seth Keeton of Wichita,&nbsp; and then struck Breeze’s vehicle. No injuries were reported. The Mercedes was removed from the scene by Buds Wrecker Service. The other vehicles involved were removed by the drivers

Deputies work a non-injury accident

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reminds taxpayers in Kansas that they can file their taxes quickly, easily and for free directly with the agency using IRS Direct File.

The web-based service, available in English and Spanish, offers guided help for preparing and filing a federal tax return from a smartphone, tablet or computer.

Direct File does not replace existing filing options like tax professionals, IRS Free File, free return preparation sites, commercial software or authorized e-file providers.

IRS customer service representatives staffing the Direct File support function can provide technical support and provide basic clarification of tax law related to the scope of Direct File. Questions related to issues other than Direct File will be routed to other IRS customer support, as appropriate.

Although the deadline to file a 2024 tax return and pay any tax owed is April 15, 2025, Direct File will be open until Oct. 15, 2025, for people who may need additional time to file.

Enhancements for the 2025 filing season

For the 2025 filing season, Direct File includes new features that make filing taxes quicker and easier.

· Import W-2 wages and other tax information directly from the IRS with step-by-step guidance

· Chat bot helps guide taxpayers through the eligibility checker

· Live chat feature is available in English and Spanish

· Opt-in option allows authenticated and verified taxpayers to access additional customer support or

· Request a callback from an IRS Direct File customer support representative.

Income. IRS Direct File is available for taxpayers who lived and worked in Kansas for all of 2024, file simple federal tax returns and report the following types of income: · W-2 wage income · SSA-1099 Social Security income · 1099-G unemployment compensation · 1099-INT interest income · 1099-R retirement income

Direct File is not available to taxpayers with other types of income, such as gig economy, rental or business income, or for taxpayers that itemize deductions. Taxpayers can check their eligibility and see if Direct File is a good fit. For those not eligible, they have alternative filing options.

Credits. IRS Direct File will automatically identify and apply the following tax credits for eligible taxpayers: · Earned Income Tax Credit · Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents · Child and Dependent Care Credit · Premium Tax Credit · Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled · Retirement Savings Contributions Credit

In addition to covering taxpayers claiming the standard deduction and deductions for student loan interest and educator expenses, Direct File supports taxpayers claiming deductions for Health Savings Account contributions.

Direct File won’t prepare Kansas state tax returns. Once taxpayers have completed their federal tax return, Direct File automatically guides them to Kansas services to complete their state taxes. Visit the state websites to find information about income tax filing in each state.

Free filing options for all taxpayers

· IRS Free File provides a free online alternative to file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software to any individual or family who earned $84,000 or less in 2024. · People who make over $84,000 can use the IRS' Free File Fillable Forms. These are the electronic version of IRS paper forms. This product is best for people who are comfortable preparing their own taxes.

· People who generally make $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, limited English-speaking taxpayers and those who are 60 years of age and older, can also find free one-on-one tax preparation help around the nation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. · The Department of Defense provides MilTax as a free tax resource for the military community. MilTax is a suite of tax services available for members of the military, as well as qualifying veterans and family members. There are no income limits. Eligible taxpayers can use MilTax to electronically file a federal tax return and up to three state returns for free.

Taxpayers may also use online resources at IRS.gov to quickly get answers to tax questions, check a refund status or pay taxes. There’s no wait time or appointment needed. Online tools and resources are available 24 hours a day, including the IRS’ Interactive Tax Assistant tool and Let us help you resources. Taxpayers considering using Direct File are encouraged to subscribe to the Direct File newsletter.

More information · Publication 5916, File for Free with IRS Direct File · Publication 5917, IRS Direct File – What You Need to Know · Publication 5949, Helpful Tips to Prepare You for IRS Direct File · Publication 5952, Are You Ready to File with IRS Direct File?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reminds taxpayers in Kansas that they can file their taxes quickly, easily and for free directly with the agency using IRS Direct File.The web-based service, available in English and Spanish, offers guided help for preparing and filing a federal tax return from a smartphone, tablet or computer.Direct File does not replace existing filing options like tax professionals, IRS Free File, free return preparation sites, commercial software or authorized e-file providers.IRS customer service representatives staffing the Direct File support function can provide technical support and provide basic clarification of tax law related to the scope of Direct File. Questions related to issues other than Direct File will be routed to other IRS customer support, as appropriate.Although the deadline to file a 2024 tax return and pay any tax owed is April 15, 2025, Direct File will be open until Oct. 15, 2025, for people who may need additional time to file.Enhancements for the 2025 filing seasonFor the 2025 filing season, Direct File includes new features that make filing taxes quicker and easier.· Import W-2 wages and other tax information directly from the IRS with step-by-step guidance· Chat bot helps guide taxpayers through the eligibility checker· Live chat feature is available in English and Spanish· Opt-in option allows authenticated and verified taxpayers to access additional customer support or· Request a callback from an IRS Direct File customer support representative.EligibilityIncome. IRS Direct File is available for taxpayers who lived and worked in Kansas for all of 2024, file simple federal tax returns and report the following types of income: · W-2 wage income · SSA-1099 Social Security income · 1099-G unemployment compensation · 1099-INT interest income · 1099-R retirement incomeDirect File is not available to taxpayers with other types of income, such as gig economy, rental or business income, or for taxpayers that itemize deductions. Taxpayers can check their eligibility and see if Direct File is a good fit. For those not eligible, they have alternative filing options.Credits. IRS Direct File will automatically identify and apply the following tax credits for eligible taxpayers: · Earned Income Tax Credit · Child Tax Credit and Credit for Other Dependents · Child and Dependent Care Credit · Premium Tax Credit · Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled · Retirement Savings Contributions CreditIn addition to covering taxpayers claiming the standard deduction and deductions for student loan interest and educator expenses, Direct File supports taxpayers claiming deductions for Health Savings Account contributions.Direct File won’t prepare Kansas state tax returns. Once taxpayers have completed their federal tax return, Direct File automatically guides them to Kansas services to complete their state taxes. Visit the state websites to find information about income tax filing in each state.Free filing options for all taxpayers· IRS Free File provides a free online alternative to file federal income tax returns online using guided tax preparation software to any individual or family who earned $84,000 or less in 2024. · People who make over $84,000 can use the IRS' Free File Fillable Forms. These are the electronic version of IRS paper forms. This product is best for people who are comfortable preparing their own taxes.· People who generally make $67,000 or less, persons with disabilities, limited English-speaking taxpayers and those who are 60 years of age and older, can also find free one-on-one tax preparation help around the nation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs. · The Department of Defense provides MilTax as a free tax resource for the military community. MilTax is a suite of tax services available for members of the military, as well as qualifying veterans and family members. There are no income limits. Eligible taxpayers can use MilTax to electronically file a federal tax return and up to three state returns for free.Additional resourcesTaxpayers may also use online resources at IRS.gov to quickly get answers to tax questions, check a refund status or pay taxes. There’s no wait time or appointment needed. Online tools and resources are available 24 hours a day, including the IRS’ Interactive Tax Assistant tool and Let us help you resources. Taxpayers considering using Direct File are encouraged to subscribe to the Direct File newsletter.More information · Publication 5916, File for Free with IRS Direct File · Publication 5917, IRS Direct File – What You Need to Know · Publication 5949, Helpful Tips to Prepare You for IRS Direct File · Publication 5952, Are You Ready to File with IRS Direct File?

Eligible taxpayers in Kansas file for free with IRS Direct File

TOPEKA—Kayla Acosta, Ellis County District Court clerk, was elected president of the Kansas Association of District Court Clerks and Administrators at the organization’s annual meeting.

Nikki Davenport has become the president-elect. Davenport is the court administrator for the 8th Judicial District, which is composed of Dickinson, Geary, Marion, and Morris counties.

TOPEKA—Kayla Acosta, Ellis County District Court clerk, was elected president of the Kansas Association of District Court Clerks and Administrators at the organization’s annual meeting.Nikki Davenport has become the president-elect. Davenport is the court administrator for the 8th Judicial District, which is composed of Dickinson, Geary, Marion, and Morris counties.

 Kansas Association of District Court Clerks and Administrators annual elections

&nbsp; RILEY COUNTY—At 4:45 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, Riley County Fire District #1 (RCFD#1) was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 4377 Fawn Circle north of Manhattan. When firefighters arrived, they found Riley County Police Department officers already on scene. The officers were able to successfully extinguish the fire using fire extinguishers before firefighters arrived.Firefighters found no additional hazards, and no injuries were reported as a result of the fire. 

Damage is estimated at less than $1,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

By Vivienne Leyva PIO Riley County&nbsp; RILEY COUNTY—At 4:45 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, Riley County Fire District #1 (RCFD#1) was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 4377 Fawn Circle north of Manhattan. When firefighters arrived, they found Riley County Police Department officers already on scene. The officers were able to successfully extinguish the fire using fire extinguishers before firefighters arrived.Firefighters found no additional hazards, and no injuries were reported as a result of the fire. Damage is estimated at less than $1,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Fire at Fawn Circle causes minor damage

Carl and Mary Ice to be recognized April 11

The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) Foundation will recognize Carl and Mary Ice as their 2025 Friend of the Flint Hills at their annual spring event on Friday, April 11.“It’s an honor to introduce and recognize our 2025 Friend of the Flint Hills. Kansans, Carl and Mary Ice, have demonstrated in many ways their love for the Flint Hills by not only owning and preserving a part of the prairie but in their support of the Flint Hills Discovery Center to help future generations understand the history and vital role our tall grass prairie continues to play”, said Foundation President Lyle Butler.

The FHDC Foundation has given the “Friend of the Flint Hills” award to an individual, couple, non-government organization or public institution each year since 2012. The award honors significant time, effort and resources devoted to the cause of conserving the Flint Hills of Kansas and northern Oklahoma. 

Carl and Mary, both Kansas State University graduates, have a true passion for protecting and conserving the region and the ecosystem.Carl, now retired, built a distinguished career with BNSF Railway. Mary, a graduate of the College of Health and Human Sciences, earned her master’s degree from the College of Education. Over the years, she worked as a substitute teacher and volunteered in the various communities where they lived. Improving the lives of others is her life’s passion and for this work, she has been recognized and honored by several organizations that support education

Together, Carl and Mary were the major benefactors to the&nbsp;Prairie Playscape, the newly renovated children’s exhibit, which opened in May 2022 at the Flint Hills Discovery Center.“The Ice’s generous gift towards the Prairie Playscape contributed to the complete renovation and upgrade of the second-floor children’s area. Thus, allowing very young children the opportunity to experience and learn about the basics of the tall grass prairie in a fun age-appropriate environment”, said Lyle Butler.

Carl and Mary Ice to be recognized April 11The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) Foundation will recognize Carl and Mary Ice as their 2025 Friend of the Flint Hills at their annual spring event on Friday, April 11.“It’s an honor to introduce and recognize our 2025 Friend of the Flint Hills. Kansans, Carl and Mary Ice, have demonstrated in many ways their love for the Flint Hills by not only owning and preserving a part of the prairie but in their support of the Flint Hills Discovery Center to help future generations understand the history and vital role our tall grass prairie continues to play”, said Foundation President Lyle Butler.The FHDC Foundation has given the “Friend of the Flint Hills” award to an individual, couple, non-government organization or public institution each year since 2012. The award honors significant time, effort and resources devoted to the cause of conserving the Flint Hills of Kansas and northern Oklahoma. Carl and Mary, both Kansas State University graduates, have a true passion for protecting and conserving the region and the ecosystem.Carl, now retired, built a distinguished career with BNSF Railway. Mary, a graduate of the College of Health and Human Sciences, earned her master’s degree from the College of Education. Over the years, she worked as a substitute teacher and volunteered in the various communities where they lived. Improving the lives of others is her life’s passion and for this work, she has been recognized and honored by several organizations that support educationTogether, Carl and Mary were the major benefactors to the&nbsp;Prairie Playscape, the newly renovated children’s exhibit, which opened in May 2022 at the Flint Hills Discovery Center.“The Ice’s generous gift towards the Prairie Playscape contributed to the complete renovation and upgrade of the second-floor children’s area. Thus, allowing very young children the opportunity to experience and learn about the basics of the tall grass prairie in a fun age-appropriate environment”, said Lyle Butler.

Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation Announces 2025 Friend of the Flint Hills 

(Riley County, KS – February 13, 2025) Riley County staff, in partnership with Stantec Consulting and a&nbsp;group of 39 community volunteers, are working to update the county’s Comprehensive Plan. At their February 5th meeting, committee members gathered virtually and in person to get an update from Adam Jones, Project Manager for Stantec. He discussed methodology for the plan, highlighted some of the identified challenges, and shared how the consulting firm will involve the public by incorporating the existing community outreach data and providing additional opportunities for feedback. 

The group asked questions and helped identify additional stakeholders who should be included in the process.“Next, Stantec will prepare an existing conditions study that will be ready for review in April. This study will give a detailed picture of the current status – population demographics, land uses and capacities, industry, etc. This is important information, so officials know exactly where we’re starting from for this update. 

They will also hold additional community engagement workshops starting in April. In the meantime, Stantec is doing background work to prepare for upcoming tasks,” explained Amanda Webb, Riley County Planning and Development Director.This planning process aims to ensure the new plan reflects the evolving needs of the community and establishes a framework for responsible growth and development over the next 15 years. The updated plan is expected to be finalized and presented to the Board of Riley County Commissioners this fall for approval.“The purpose of this update is to equip the county with clear guidance to shape policy decisions, programming, and regulations through 2040. By regularly revising the plan, we make sure we are working towards a safe, enjoyable, and economically sound environment for residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial, and public uses,” said Webb.

Riley County initiated the planning process in the fall of 2023 with the intention of completing the work in-house using existing personnel. However, recognizing the plan’s significance and the challenging scope of the work, Commissioners opted to bring in a consultant to assist. While this decision extended the timeline, it ensures a more thorough process and allows staff to continue moving forward with other projects.&nbsp;So far, staff have gathered input from the community by hosting a series of 11 public meetings, conducting a survey, and assembling an impressive committee of volunteers. The work they’ve done to this point will be used during the next steps in the process. 

Additional opportunities for public input will be available in the coming months.“Public input is a crucial part of this process,” Webb emphasized. “The final plan needs to represent the voices of the people who live and work here, addressing their needs and aspirations for the future of Riley County.”For more information about the comprehensive planning process and opportunities to provide input, please visit www.rileycountyks.gov/plan and sign up for updates by emailing compplan@rileycountyks.gov&nbsp;

By Vivienne Leyva&nbsp;PIO Riley County(Riley County, KS – February 13, 2025) Riley County staff, in partnership with Stantec Consulting and a&nbsp;group of 39 community volunteers, are working to update the county’s Comprehensive Plan. At their February 5th meeting, committee members gathered virtually and in person to get an update from Adam Jones, Project Manager for Stantec. He discussed methodology for the plan, highlighted some of the identified challenges, and shared how the consulting firm will involve the public by incorporating the existing community outreach data and providing additional opportunities for feedback. The group asked questions and helped identify additional stakeholders who should be included in the process.“Next, Stantec will prepare an existing conditions study that will be ready for review in April. This study will give a detailed picture of the current status – population demographics, land uses and capacities, industry, etc. This is important information, so officials know exactly where we’re starting from for this update. They will also hold additional community engagement workshops starting in April. In the meantime, Stantec is doing background work to prepare for upcoming tasks,” explained Amanda Webb, Riley County Planning and Development Director.This planning process aims to ensure the new plan reflects the evolving needs of the community and establishes a framework for responsible growth and development over the next 15 years. The updated plan is expected to be finalized and presented to the Board of Riley County Commissioners this fall for approval.“The purpose of this update is to equip the county with clear guidance to shape policy decisions, programming, and regulations through 2040. By regularly revising the plan, we make sure we are working towards a safe, enjoyable, and economically sound environment for residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial, and public uses,” said Webb.Riley County initiated the planning process in the fall of 2023 with the intention of completing the work in-house using existing personnel. However, recognizing the plan’s significance and the challenging scope of the work, Commissioners opted to bring in a consultant to assist. While this decision extended the timeline, it ensures a more thorough process and allows staff to continue moving forward with other projects.&nbsp;So far, staff have gathered input from the community by hosting a series of 11 public meetings, conducting a survey, and assembling an impressive committee of volunteers. The work they’ve done to this point will be used during the next steps in the process. Additional opportunities for public input will be available in the coming months.“Public input is a crucial part of this process,” Webb emphasized. “The final plan needs to represent the voices of the people who live and work here, addressing their needs and aspirations for the future of Riley County.”For more information about the comprehensive planning process and opportunities to provide input, please visit www.rileycountyks.gov/plan and sign up for updates by emailing compplan@rileycountyks.gov&nbsp;<h2></h2>&nbsp;

Riley County Updating Comprehensive Plan for Future Development

&nbsp; The City of Manhattan issued a snow removal update.

All primary routes were completed by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/publicworks?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXU0dKYCRf0dNNVSyR_4L0pc351o-SlI12ZLK0XqVmLZtW2m9RQZZZOtWm8FOPLMT9UUJr_xkXC4Q-DnhS8MmGeK8A49UZmBjy9SM9uJ6XSXDFnlw1-LOvnIzwH-DGt14yLnZZmIWU18R7_LXyyR7JRIIBFrAG7EenEMVCVhILoldYVSfwFNqQzTCk2swldK4c&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#PublicWorks</a> crews by 9 p.m. Wednesday, February 12. Day shift personnel finished their shift by preparing and refueling trucks for the night shift, which reported to work at midnight. Night shift completed snow pickup in the Aggieville and Downtown business districts at 5:45 a.m. Thursday and clocked out at 8 a.m., when the City shifted back to normal 8-hour operations with the return of the day shift.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Per standard operating procedures for snow and ice, the City will not be clearing residential streets as the recorded 2.6 inches of snowfall that Winter Storm Iliana deposited within the Manhattan city limits is below the 4-inch threshold that would trigger that action. Day shift crews are available to deal with trouble spots as they arise. If you encounter slick spots or other traffic safety concerns or hazards, please Report It using this link:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fseeclickfix.com%2Fweb_portal%2F8pxCMZLiHHQwCpXCF4PfVNxj%2Freport%2Fcategory%2F56667%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2yJp0LMXHU_Ro6xw64nJccFObfRLwdkVSxuc6pRkPkS_U7LJe00hD3iUs_aem_9ZI6towBDxWA5X0xhBUYxw&amp;h=AT2rggMGgmz-z37sygTaRYIk7_zfT6dYJqnAeyxY6F_d1f_QYWiF09wZ7zdp2w8pCWYJpULT97Z5aYzmfFcE4BxygnRI2aKmvaF-5QUfE6GNEqBnoQgUImdC7zet0-Uwct2CtmMOnOFiCwKW31uZ&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3MLSzNYzaI8Vxcbxl0ksgJn6FnNoqqNbQN9nC78aOx9SYJkM3OjxTPJAyYvHGOjw2AbIz8Z6WbRsVCxssLSVnmY2RoXaWPHRjh3n4v-EaoHgL1BFVleUqFKkONb620MCUwP6KgI7f9xpj8snSt8WY0ICFvgUSUhY4unUdSHLJyBv_RvQylUvyL4CeZiFzIyknRMgBBKCGyVfQXqVhmCBgR1f4" target="_blank">https://seeclickfix.com/.../8pxCMZL.../report/category/56667</a>

&nbsp; The City of Manhattan issued a snow removal update.All primary routes were completed by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/publicworks?__eep__=6&amp;__cft__[0]=AZXU0dKYCRf0dNNVSyR_4L0pc351o-SlI12ZLK0XqVmLZtW2m9RQZZZOtWm8FOPLMT9UUJr_xkXC4Q-DnhS8MmGeK8A49UZmBjy9SM9uJ6XSXDFnlw1-LOvnIzwH-DGt14yLnZZmIWU18R7_LXyyR7JRIIBFrAG7EenEMVCVhILoldYVSfwFNqQzTCk2swldK4c&amp;__tn__=*NK-R">#PublicWorks</a> crews by 9 p.m. Wednesday, February 12. Day shift personnel finished their shift by preparing and refueling trucks for the night shift, which reported to work at midnight. Night shift completed snow pickup in the Aggieville and Downtown business districts at 5:45 a.m. Thursday and clocked out at 8 a.m., when the City shifted back to normal 8-hour operations with the return of the day shift.&nbsp;&nbsp; Per standard operating procedures for snow and ice, the City will not be clearing residential streets as the recorded 2.6 inches of snowfall that Winter Storm Iliana deposited within the Manhattan city limits is below the 4-inch threshold that would trigger that action. Day shift crews are available to deal with trouble spots as they arise. If you encounter slick spots or other traffic safety concerns or hazards, please Report It using this link:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fseeclickfix.com%2Fweb_portal%2F8pxCMZLiHHQwCpXCF4PfVNxj%2Freport%2Fcategory%2F56667%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2yJp0LMXHU_Ro6xw64nJccFObfRLwdkVSxuc6pRkPkS_U7LJe00hD3iUs_aem_9ZI6towBDxWA5X0xhBUYxw&amp;h=AT2rggMGgmz-z37sygTaRYIk7_zfT6dYJqnAeyxY6F_d1f_QYWiF09wZ7zdp2w8pCWYJpULT97Z5aYzmfFcE4BxygnRI2aKmvaF-5QUfE6GNEqBnoQgUImdC7zet0-Uwct2CtmMOnOFiCwKW31uZ&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT3MLSzNYzaI8Vxcbxl0ksgJn6FnNoqqNbQN9nC78aOx9SYJkM3OjxTPJAyYvHGOjw2AbIz8Z6WbRsVCxssLSVnmY2RoXaWPHRjh3n4v-EaoHgL1BFVleUqFKkONb620MCUwP6KgI7f9xpj8snSt8WY0ICFvgUSUhY4unUdSHLJyBv_RvQylUvyL4CeZiFzIyknRMgBBKCGyVfQXqVhmCBgR1f4" target="_blank">https://seeclickfix.com/.../8pxCMZL.../report/category/56667</a>

Snow pick-up work completed in Manhattan

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
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Riley County Arrest Report February 13

By KENNY LANNOU Executive Associate Athletics Director for Communications/PR

MANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;K-State Athletics generates more than $486 million in annual economic activity for the Manhattan community and the state of Kansas according to a thorough economic impact study performed by nationally-renowned Tripp Umbach and the athletics department.

Tripp Umbach, who also recently performed a similar study with the university, utilized data from 2022-23 to conduct the study, which also revealed that more than 3,850 jobs resulted from the department’s impact. From a tax perspective, K-State Athletics generated $26.2 million in direct and indirect/induced tax payments for state and local governments in Kansas, with $21.0 million amount specifically benefiting Manhattan.

“The experience surrounding game days in Manhattan is an amazing site to see – from Aggieville, restaurants, hotels and of course our purple-filled stadiums,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “On the heels of the most recent University-wide study, we wanted to exhaustively study ourselves on various fronts, and this summary from Tripp Umbach paints a solid picture of the overall value and impact K-State Athletics has on the local economy.”

Visitors from outside of the community have a tremendous impact as more than $161 million in expenditures were accounted for in Manhattan and $201 million for the state. In addition, the 450 Wildcat student-athletes who live in the community accounted for $9.1 million of that spending.

A significant portion of K-State Athletics’ economic impact is driven by visitor and fan spending before, during, and after sporting events. As a member of the Big 12 Conference, K-State attracts fans from across the country. Visitors from inside and outside Kansas flock to Manhattan to attend football, basketball, and other games. In FY23 alone, K-State Athletics welcomed 527,280 patrons to ticketed events, with many more attending non-ticketed games and matches.

By KENNY LANNOU Executive Associate Athletics Director for Communications/PRMANHATTAN, Kan. –&nbsp;K-State Athletics generates more than $486 million in annual economic activity for the Manhattan community and the state of Kansas according to a thorough economic impact study performed by nationally-renowned Tripp Umbach and the athletics department.Tripp Umbach, who also recently performed a similar study with the university, utilized data from 2022-23 to conduct the study, which also revealed that more than 3,850 jobs resulted from the department’s impact. From a tax perspective, K-State Athletics generated $26.2 million in direct and indirect/induced tax payments for state and local governments in Kansas, with $21.0 million amount specifically benefiting Manhattan.“The experience surrounding game days in Manhattan is an amazing site to see – from Aggieville, restaurants, hotels and of course our purple-filled stadiums,” Athletics Director Gene Taylor said. “On the heels of the most recent University-wide study, we wanted to exhaustively study ourselves on various fronts, and this summary from Tripp Umbach paints a solid picture of the overall value and impact K-State Athletics has on the local economy.”Visitors from outside of the community have a tremendous impact as more than $161 million in expenditures were accounted for in Manhattan and $201 million for the state. In addition, the 450 Wildcat student-athletes who live in the community accounted for $9.1 million of that spending.A significant portion of K-State Athletics’ economic impact is driven by visitor and fan spending before, during, and after sporting events. As a member of the Big 12 Conference, K-State attracts fans from across the country. Visitors from inside and outside Kansas flock to Manhattan to attend football, basketball, and other games. In FY23 alone, K-State Athletics welcomed 527,280 patrons to ticketed events, with many more attending non-ticketed games and matches.– kstatesports.com –

K-State athletics generates $486.1 million impact for state of Kansas

The Riley County Police Department says that there will be a Virtual Townhall on Crime Reduction.

The RCPD is hosting two virtual Townhall meetings on Monday, February 24 at 12:00 PM (noon) and 6:00 PM via Facebook Live.This is your chance to learn more about the Crime Reduction Plan and share your thoughts.

The plan is now available on their website, where you can review it and submit your questions or comments in advance using a Questions and Comments Form here:&nbsp;<a href="https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1JE9mgXXuMbL80ExVZDkWsfdi5pQMj-0hflMtaeORopv6SAaaharr-zWU_aem_MWjJXjzDGIadYQgbQnYGlQ" target="_blank">https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0</a>. During the event, they’ll also take live questions to the best of their ability.&nbsp;

Crime Reduction Plan &amp; Form:&nbsp;<a href="https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3Ux2UyKeL1GFpAxQocs_qFngMIPc0znAGzsaVjWx9vtRp49pVMEQYYWSI_aem_cnRK5CyEIloyEErxZWW-3Q" target="_blank">https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0</a>

Where: RCPD Facebook Page (Facebook Live)

The Riley County Police Department says that there will be a Virtual Townhall on Crime Reduction.The RCPD is hosting two virtual Townhall meetings on Monday, February 24 at 12:00 PM (noon) and 6:00 PM via Facebook Live.This is your chance to learn more about the Crime Reduction Plan and share your thoughts.The plan is now available on their website, where you can review it and submit your questions or comments in advance using a Questions and Comments Form here:&nbsp;<a href="https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1JE9mgXXuMbL80ExVZDkWsfdi5pQMj-0hflMtaeORopv6SAaaharr-zWU_aem_MWjJXjzDGIadYQgbQnYGlQ" target="_blank">https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0</a>. During the event, they’ll also take live questions to the best of their ability.&nbsp;Crime Reduction Plan &amp; Form:&nbsp;<a href="https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3Ux2UyKeL1GFpAxQocs_qFngMIPc0znAGzsaVjWx9vtRp49pVMEQYYWSI_aem_cnRK5CyEIloyEErxZWW-3Q" target="_blank">https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0</a>Where: RCPD Facebook Page (Facebook Live)<figure>
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You can give your input on a Crime Reduction Plan

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Wednesday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Lexus ES driven by Lisa M.&nbsp;Good, 46, Salina, was eastbound on Interstate 70 near just east of the U.S. 77 exit.

 The driver lost control of the car due to a truck passing her and causing the car to move further to the right. The Lexus then traveled into the south ditch, went into a spin and struck a delineator post.

EMS transported Good to Stormont Vail. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Wednesday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Lexus ES driven by Lisa M.&nbsp;Good, 46, Salina, was eastbound on Interstate 70 near just east of the U.S. 77 exit. The driver lost control of the car due to a truck passing her and causing the car to move further to the right. The Lexus then traveled into the south ditch, went into a spin and struck a delineator post.EMS transported Good to Stormont Vail. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after car spins, strikes delineator post

MANHATTAN — Following a national search, the Office of the Provost has appointed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/kines/about/people/behnke.html">Brad Behnke</a>&nbsp;as Betty L. Tointon Dean of Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/">College of Health and Human Sciences</a>, effective Feb. 16."Over the past two years as interim dean, Dr. Behnke has led the college through transformative change and collaborative efforts to develop the college's strategic plan,” said Jesse Perez Mendez, provost and executive vice president. " As a K-State alumnus, researcher, esteemed professor and proven leader with a passion for excellence, he is well positioned to elevate the college as a next-generation hub for health and human sciences education, research and outreach."

As chief academic and administrative officer, Behnke will oversee the college as it implements its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/about/faculty/strategic-plan/">strategic plan</a>, launched in fall 2024 as part of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/">Next-Gen K-State</a>&nbsp;initiative, which itself puts the College of Health and Human Sciences at the forefront of addressing community health and wellness.The plan, rooted in K-State's strong tradition of health and human sciences over the past 150 years, looks to empower the college's faculty, staff and students in reestablishing and expanding the university's impact on the lives of Kansans.

MANHATTAN — Following a national search, the Office of the Provost has appointed&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/kines/about/people/behnke.html">Brad Behnke</a>&nbsp;as Betty L. Tointon Dean of Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/">College of Health and Human Sciences</a>, effective Feb. 16."Over the past two years as interim dean, Dr. Behnke has led the college through transformative change and collaborative efforts to develop the college's strategic plan,” said Jesse Perez Mendez, provost and executive vice president. " As a K-State alumnus, researcher, esteemed professor and proven leader with a passion for excellence, he is well positioned to elevate the college as a next-generation hub for health and human sciences education, research and outreach."As chief academic and administrative officer, Behnke will oversee the college as it implements its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/about/faculty/strategic-plan/">strategic plan</a>, launched in fall 2024 as part of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/next-gen/">Next-Gen K-State</a>&nbsp;initiative, which itself puts the College of Health and Human Sciences at the forefront of addressing community health and wellness.The plan, rooted in K-State's strong tradition of health and human sciences over the past 150 years, looks to empower the college's faculty, staff and students in reestablishing and expanding the university's impact on the lives of Kansans.

Brad Behnke named Betty L. Tointon Dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences

RILEY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after&nbsp; noon Tuesday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, Courtney Downs of Manhattan failed to yield the right of way at the traffic light at the corner of Southwind Road and S. Seth Child Road in Manhattan.

Down's vehicle struck a vehicle driven by Dauane Briggs of Salina. EMS transported Downs and a passenger from Briggs' vehicle to Via Christi&nbsp; for treatment of non life-threatening injuries. The Riley County Police Department released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after&nbsp; noon Tuesday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, Courtney Downs of Manhattan failed to yield the right of way at the traffic light at the corner of Southwind Road and S. Seth Child Road in Manhattan.Down's vehicle struck a vehicle driven by Dauane Briggs of Salina. EMS transported Downs and a passenger from Briggs' vehicle to Via Christi&nbsp; for treatment of non life-threatening injuries. The Riley County Police Department released no additional details.

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