The Junction City Police Department said that they were made aware on Wednesday afternoon&nbsp; of threats circulating on TikTok against Junction City Middle School. The threats originated from an apparent list of schools identified as targets for a potential school shooting.

After a thorough investigation conducted by School Resource Officers and USD 475 officials, it has been determined that the threat is unfounded, meaning there is no credible evidence to suggest any immediate danger to the students. The list appears to include Title 1 schools from across the state, which are schools receiving federal funding to support educational programs.

Authorities said regardless of the nature of these threats, the Junction City Police Department, Geary County Sheriff’s Office, and USD 475 are fully committed to the safety and well-being of all students.

As a precaution, there will be an increased officer presence at USD 475 schools over the coming days to ensure a safe learning environment.

Police said that these threats appear to be part of a concerning online trend not unique to USD 475. Similar threats have been reported in other districts across Kansas, as well as in states such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, and Florida. JCPD is actively working with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) to fully investigate the origins of this post and to ensure the safety of the schools.

They encouraged all community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or concerns to the Junction City Police Department immediately. Our priority is always the safety of our students and staff, and they will continue to work diligently to maintain that safety. If you have any information regarding this threat, please contact the JCPD at (785) 762-5912.

The Junction City Police Department said that they were made aware on Wednesday afternoon&nbsp; of threats circulating on TikTok against Junction City Middle School. The threats originated from an apparent list of schools identified as targets for a potential school shooting.After a thorough investigation conducted by School Resource Officers and USD 475 officials, it has been determined that the threat is unfounded, meaning there is no credible evidence to suggest any immediate danger to the students. The list appears to include Title 1 schools from across the state, which are schools receiving federal funding to support educational programs.Authorities said regardless of the nature of these threats, the Junction City Police Department, Geary County Sheriff’s Office, and USD 475 are fully committed to the safety and well-being of all students.As a precaution, there will be an increased officer presence at USD 475 schools over the coming days to ensure a safe learning environment.Police said that these threats appear to be part of a concerning online trend not unique to USD 475. Similar threats have been reported in other districts across Kansas, as well as in states such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, and Florida. JCPD is actively working with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) to fully investigate the origins of this post and to ensure the safety of the schools.They encouraged all community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or concerns to the Junction City Police Department immediately. Our priority is always the safety of our students and staff, and they will continue to work diligently to maintain that safety. If you have any information regarding this threat, please contact the JCPD at (785) 762-5912.

Police say threat against Junction City Middle School was unfounded

MARSHALL COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before noon Wednesday in Marshall County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Jeep Cherokee driven by&nbsp; Emily Jay Larson, 23, Breman, was westbound on U.S. 36 just east of West River Road.

The jeep crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2020 Buick Enclave driven by Bernice Marie&nbsp;Nietfeld, 89, Marysville.

&nbsp;Larson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Kinsley Mortuary. EMS transported&nbsp;Nietfeld to&nbsp;Bryan West Medical Center, Lincoln, Nebraska. Both drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

MARSHALL COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before noon Wednesday in Marshall County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1999 Jeep Cherokee driven by&nbsp; Emily Jay Larson, 23, Breman, was westbound on U.S. 36 just east of West River Road.The jeep crossed the center line and struck an eastbound 2020 Buick Enclave driven by Bernice Marie&nbsp;Nietfeld, 89, Marysville.&nbsp;Larson was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Kinsley Mortuary. EMS transported&nbsp;Nietfeld to&nbsp;Bryan West Medical Center, Lincoln, Nebraska. Both drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after 2 SUVs collide

Division of Communications and Marketing,

MANHATTAN — The College of Business Administration at Kansas State University recently hosted two sessions of its Summer Institute for high school students, held on June 2-5 and June 23-26.More than 75 high school students, grades 10-12, from seven states across the region, participated in this immersive program. 

Each day, students experienced life as a K-State College of Business Administration student, exploring key areas such as marketing, management, accounting and finance. Through interactive sessions, students were encouraged to challenge their creativity and leadership skills while gaining insights into the world of business. The program culminated in an entrepreneurial pitch challenge, where students applied their newly acquired knowledge to compete for K-State scholarships. In addition to their academic experiences, participants stayed on campus, dined in university facilities, and engaged with local business owners throughout their time at K-State. Faculty and staff from across the college, along with support from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/center-for-principled-business/">Center for Principled Business</a>, made the institute a success.

The program was supported by donors, including lead corporate partners Koch Industries and Deloitte, whose contributions made the scholarship opportunities possible. Thirty students earned top three placements in the entrepreneurial pitch competition over the two sessions, with each winner receiving scholarships ranging from $1,500 to $2,500.

Student scholarship recipients included: Ayden Fooshee,&nbsp;Andover; Isaiah Lang,&nbsp;Gardner; Josie Buchmeier,&nbsp;Harveyville; Grant Eskeldson,&nbsp;Herington; Nate Leduc,&nbsp;Kansas City; Will Fandel,&nbsp;Lenexa; Leini Tian,&nbsp;Liberal; Kate Kendig,&nbsp;Osborne; Shae Dougan, Theshiona Fleming, Jacob Milner, Sanay Patel, Caleb Park, all from&nbsp;Overland Park; Cooper Myers,&nbsp;Prairie Village; Ben Hissong and Calvin Fowler, both from&nbsp;Shawnee; Ella Sterling,&nbsp;Topeka; and Gabe Martin,&nbsp;Wamego.From out of state: Emmerson Allen and Grace Schumaker, both from&nbsp;Colorado Springs, Colorado; Maya Luke,&nbsp;Erie, Colorado; Rachael Fry and Ariana Ruiz, both from&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri; Makeda Armfield,&nbsp;Marionville, Missouri; Sean Marbarger,&nbsp;St. Louis, Missouri; Max Newman,&nbsp;St. Peters, Missouri; Leah Studer,&nbsp;Webb City, Missouri; Calvin Laverentz,&nbsp;Edmond, Oklahoma; Nihilaa Nisanth,&nbsp;Frisco, Texas; Ivy Manganiello,&nbsp;Richardson, Texas.In addition, all Summer Institute attendees were awarded $1,000 scholarships to use to pursue business education courses at K-State.Students who received $1,000 scholarships included:Ashton Lang,&nbsp;Gardner; Marcus Green Jr,&nbsp;Kansas City; Ted Henning and Ethan Jiang, both from&nbsp;Leawood; Lauren Gurley and Claire Railsback, both from&nbsp;Louisburg; Nomu Anglamenga, Pupiel Anglamenga, Zunuo Anglamenga, Talia Baltazor, Mailah Dillard, Daria Shemetova, all from&nbsp;Manhattan; Lily Long, Ethan Smith, Lauren Taylor, all from&nbsp;Olathe; Macie Gorman and Brayden Presley, both from&nbsp;Overland Park; Carissa Ebbert, Jordan Edwards, Noah Mincks, all from&nbsp;Salina; Luke Chalfie and Aidan Standley, both from&nbsp;Shawnee; Andrea Carlson and Nathan Montgomery, both from&nbsp;Spring Hill; Austin Oswalt,&nbsp;Topeka; and Cooper Bystrek, Aaliyah Flemming, Ky Hanes, Preston Lee, Xavier Van Hiel and Nick Vinduska, all from&nbsp;Wichita.From out of state: Isaac Merriman and Sofia Merriman, both from&nbsp;Bella Vista, Arkansas; Race Baird,&nbsp;Golden, Colorado; Dathan Stewart,&nbsp;Montrose, Colorado; Eric Kleffner,&nbsp;Blaine, Minnesota; Emily Muller,&nbsp;Grain Valley, Missouri; Nick Pitman and Alisa Garrett, both from&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri; Sophia Kudrna,&nbsp;Lake Winnebago, Missouri; Lindsey Watson,&nbsp;Lee's Summit, Missouri; Bianca Marbarger and Gabe Chambers, both from&nbsp;St. Louis, Missouri; Faith Hull,&nbsp;Blair, Nebraska; Kyle Harker and Owen Harker, both from&nbsp;Papillion, Nebraska; Gretta Geisler,&nbsp;Cordell, Oklahoma; and Emma Wyatt,&nbsp;San Antonio, Texas.Visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://cba.k-state.edu/success/new-students/summer-programs">program’s webpage</a>&nbsp;to see photos and learn more about this year's institute. Registration for the 2025 Summer Institute will open in early spring 2025.

By&nbsp;Haley AhlersDivision of Communications and Marketing,MANHATTAN — The College of Business Administration at Kansas State University recently hosted two sessions of its Summer Institute for high school students, held on June 2-5 and June 23-26.More than 75 high school students, grades 10-12, from seven states across the region, participated in this immersive program. Each day, students experienced life as a K-State College of Business Administration student, exploring key areas such as marketing, management, accounting and finance. Through interactive sessions, students were encouraged to challenge their creativity and leadership skills while gaining insights into the world of business. The program culminated in an entrepreneurial pitch challenge, where students applied their newly acquired knowledge to compete for K-State scholarships. In addition to their academic experiences, participants stayed on campus, dined in university facilities, and engaged with local business owners throughout their time at K-State. Faculty and staff from across the college, along with support from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/center-for-principled-business/">Center for Principled Business</a>, made the institute a success. The program was supported by donors, including lead corporate partners Koch Industries and Deloitte, whose contributions made the scholarship opportunities possible. Thirty students earned top three placements in the entrepreneurial pitch competition over the two sessions, with each winner receiving scholarships ranging from $1,500 to $2,500.Student scholarship recipients included: Ayden Fooshee,&nbsp;Andover; Isaiah Lang,&nbsp;Gardner; Josie Buchmeier,&nbsp;Harveyville; Grant Eskeldson,&nbsp;Herington; Nate Leduc,&nbsp;Kansas City; Will Fandel,&nbsp;Lenexa; Leini Tian,&nbsp;Liberal; Kate Kendig,&nbsp;Osborne; Shae Dougan, Theshiona Fleming, Jacob Milner, Sanay Patel, Caleb Park, all from&nbsp;Overland Park; Cooper Myers,&nbsp;Prairie Village; Ben Hissong and Calvin Fowler, both from&nbsp;Shawnee; Ella Sterling,&nbsp;Topeka; and Gabe Martin,&nbsp;Wamego.From out of state: Emmerson Allen and Grace Schumaker, both from&nbsp;Colorado Springs, Colorado; Maya Luke,&nbsp;Erie, Colorado; Rachael Fry and Ariana Ruiz, both from&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri; Makeda Armfield,&nbsp;Marionville, Missouri; Sean Marbarger,&nbsp;St. Louis, Missouri; Max Newman,&nbsp;St. Peters, Missouri; Leah Studer,&nbsp;Webb City, Missouri; Calvin Laverentz,&nbsp;Edmond, Oklahoma; Nihilaa Nisanth,&nbsp;Frisco, Texas; Ivy Manganiello,&nbsp;Richardson, Texas.In addition, all Summer Institute attendees were awarded $1,000 scholarships to use to pursue business education courses at K-State.Students who received $1,000 scholarships included:Ashton Lang,&nbsp;Gardner; Marcus Green Jr,&nbsp;Kansas City; Ted Henning and Ethan Jiang, both from&nbsp;Leawood; Lauren Gurley and Claire Railsback, both from&nbsp;Louisburg; Nomu Anglamenga, Pupiel Anglamenga, Zunuo Anglamenga, Talia Baltazor, Mailah Dillard, Daria Shemetova, all from&nbsp;Manhattan; Lily Long, Ethan Smith, Lauren Taylor, all from&nbsp;Olathe; Macie Gorman and Brayden Presley, both from&nbsp;Overland Park; Carissa Ebbert, Jordan Edwards, Noah Mincks, all from&nbsp;Salina; Luke Chalfie and Aidan Standley, both from&nbsp;Shawnee; Andrea Carlson and Nathan Montgomery, both from&nbsp;Spring Hill; Austin Oswalt,&nbsp;Topeka; and Cooper Bystrek, Aaliyah Flemming, Ky Hanes, Preston Lee, Xavier Van Hiel and Nick Vinduska, all from&nbsp;Wichita.From out of state: Isaac Merriman and Sofia Merriman, both from&nbsp;Bella Vista, Arkansas; Race Baird,&nbsp;Golden, Colorado; Dathan Stewart,&nbsp;Montrose, Colorado; Eric Kleffner,&nbsp;Blaine, Minnesota; Emily Muller,&nbsp;Grain Valley, Missouri; Nick Pitman and Alisa Garrett, both from&nbsp;Kansas City, Missouri; Sophia Kudrna,&nbsp;Lake Winnebago, Missouri; Lindsey Watson,&nbsp;Lee's Summit, Missouri; Bianca Marbarger and Gabe Chambers, both from&nbsp;St. Louis, Missouri; Faith Hull,&nbsp;Blair, Nebraska; Kyle Harker and Owen Harker, both from&nbsp;Papillion, Nebraska; Gretta Geisler,&nbsp;Cordell, Oklahoma; and Emma Wyatt,&nbsp;San Antonio, Texas.Visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://cba.k-state.edu/success/new-students/summer-programs">program’s webpage</a>&nbsp;to see photos and learn more about this year's institute. Registration for the 2025 Summer Institute will open in early spring 2025.

College of Business Administration awards more than $100,000 in scholarships to Summer Institute participants

RLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations

Just before 2:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 34-year-old&nbsp;Destiny Milam of Manhattan on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The original charge in this matter was for interference with an LEO.&nbsp; Milam has previous convictions for Interference with Law Enforcement; falsely accusing LEO of crime in felony case, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

She is being held on a $20,000 bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726071688589.png" alt="Milam-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Milam-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegationsJust before 2:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 34-year-old&nbsp;Destiny Milam of Manhattan on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The original charge in this matter was for interference with an LEO.&nbsp; Milam has previous convictions for Interference with Law Enforcement; falsely accusing LEO of crime in felony case, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.She is being held on a $20,000 bond.&nbsp;

Kansas felon jailed on new alleged crime in Riley County

While the 2024 presidential election may be more than a month and half away, it is time for Kansans to make a voting plan and check their voter registration status. This is because Kansas has chosen not to implement same-day voter registration.

For the most part, election law is state law. States decide the process and requirements for voter registration. In Kansas, voters hoping to participate in this year’s presidential election must register by October 15, which is 21 days prior to Election Day. Comparatively, nearly half of U.S. states allow citizens to register and vote on the same day.

Same-day voter registration is a policy that allows eligible citizens to both register and vote on the same day, typically during early voting periods or on Election Day itself.

Advocates for same-day voter registration argue that it has several benefits. First, it can lead to higher voter turnout. Same-day registration is convenient. It streamlines the process and removes bureaucratic barriers that dissuade some from participating.

Same-day registration also allows people to register and vote at a time when their interest in the election is most immediate. Not all potential voters are thinking about the actual process and requirements of voting weeks prior to the election. By allowing them to legally register and cast a ballot on Election Day, you encourage more people to engage in the democratic process.

Same-day registration also addresses the issue of voter disenfranchisement due to outdated or inaccurate voter rolls. Voters that discover that they have been purged from voter lists or that their registration information is incorrect on Election Day can correct their registration status and still participate if the state allows same-day registration. This flexibility is particularly important for younger voters, minorities, and people who move frequently, as they are more likely to encounter registration issues.

Finally, same-day registration strengthens democracy by making it more inclusive. Voter registration barriers disproportionately affect marginalized communities and removing them ensures that a broader cross-section of the population can have their votes heard. This leads to a more representative government.

Arguments against same-day registration typically rely on fears over voter fraud. However, research suggests that voter fraud is extremely rare across the United States, including in states that allow same-day registration.

Some opponents also argue that same-day registration puts additional burdens and pressure on election officials and poll workers. However, with adequate preparation and staffing, these concerns can be addressed prior to Election Day.

In conclusion, same-day voter registration is a powerful tool for increasing voter turnout, reducing disenfranchisement, and promoting a healthy, inclusive democracy. Currently, Kansas does not appear ready to move in this direction. Therefore, I encourage all Kansans to check their registration status now to make sure they are ready to cast their ballots in November.

You can check your registration status at https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview. You can find information about registering to vote at https://sos.ks.gov/elections/voter-information.html.

Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

By Brianne HeidbrederWhile the 2024 presidential election may be more than a month and half away, it is time for Kansans to make a voting plan and check their voter registration status. This is because Kansas has chosen not to implement same-day voter registration.For the most part, election law is state law. States decide the process and requirements for voter registration. In Kansas, voters hoping to participate in this year’s presidential election must register by October 15, which is 21 days prior to Election Day. Comparatively, nearly half of U.S. states allow citizens to register and vote on the same day.Same-day voter registration is a policy that allows eligible citizens to both register and vote on the same day, typically during early voting periods or on Election Day itself.Advocates for same-day voter registration argue that it has several benefits. First, it can lead to higher voter turnout. Same-day registration is convenient. It streamlines the process and removes bureaucratic barriers that dissuade some from participating.Same-day registration also allows people to register and vote at a time when their interest in the election is most immediate. Not all potential voters are thinking about the actual process and requirements of voting weeks prior to the election. By allowing them to legally register and cast a ballot on Election Day, you encourage more people to engage in the democratic process.Same-day registration also addresses the issue of voter disenfranchisement due to outdated or inaccurate voter rolls. Voters that discover that they have been purged from voter lists or that their registration information is incorrect on Election Day can correct their registration status and still participate if the state allows same-day registration. This flexibility is particularly important for younger voters, minorities, and people who move frequently, as they are more likely to encounter registration issues.Finally, same-day registration strengthens democracy by making it more inclusive. Voter registration barriers disproportionately affect marginalized communities and removing them ensures that a broader cross-section of the population can have their votes heard. This leads to a more representative government.Arguments against same-day registration typically rely on fears over voter fraud. However, research suggests that voter fraud is extremely rare across the United States, including in states that allow same-day registration.Some opponents also argue that same-day registration puts additional burdens and pressure on election officials and poll workers. However, with adequate preparation and staffing, these concerns can be addressed prior to Election Day.In conclusion, same-day voter registration is a powerful tool for increasing voter turnout, reducing disenfranchisement, and promoting a healthy, inclusive democracy. Currently, Kansas does not appear ready to move in this direction. Therefore, I encourage all Kansans to check their registration status now to make sure they are ready to cast their ballots in November.You can check your registration status at https://myvoteinfo.voteks.org/voterview. You can find information about registering to vote at https://sos.ks.gov/elections/voter-information.html.Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.

The Case for Same-Day Voter Registration

By TONY GUERRERO Hays Post

A man arrested in Hays on Aug. 25 on a charge of rape and kidnapping was released on bond with an ankle monitor.

According to court records, 20-year-old Tucker James Eisenhauer was arrested and booked into the Ellis County Jail on charges of alleged rape, kidnapping, aggravated burglary and criminal deprivation of property.

According to court records,&nbsp;Eisenhauer was a Manhattan Area Technical College student.

The incident on Aug. 25 allegedly involved Eisenhauer forcing the victim into his truck, locking the doors and driving away to prevent escape, according to court records. The victim has since obtained a restraining order against Eisenhauer.

Eisenhauer was released on bond by the Ellis County District Court and placed under house arrest in Pratt County after the bond was reduced from $250,000 to $25,000.

According to court records, he is being supervised by his parents and the Pratt County Court Services Office through electronic monitoring.

Eisenhauer's next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 8.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726060645545.png" alt="Eisenhauer photo Ellis Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Eisenhauer photo Ellis Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By TONY GUERRERO Hays PostA man arrested in Hays on Aug. 25 on a charge of rape and kidnapping was released on bond with an ankle monitor.According to court records, 20-year-old Tucker James Eisenhauer was arrested and booked into the Ellis County Jail on charges of alleged rape, kidnapping, aggravated burglary and criminal deprivation of property.According to court records,&nbsp;Eisenhauer was a Manhattan Area Technical College student.The incident on Aug. 25 allegedly involved Eisenhauer forcing the victim into his truck, locking the doors and driving away to prevent escape, according to court records. The victim has since obtained a restraining order against Eisenhauer.Eisenhauer was released on bond by the Ellis County District Court and placed under house arrest in Pratt County after the bond was reduced from $250,000 to $25,000.According to court records, he is being supervised by his parents and the Pratt County Court Services Office through electronic monitoring.Eisenhauer's next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 8.

Manhattan Area Technical College student accused of sex crime

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>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726063445627.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report September 11

USD 383 said Tuesday that four Manhattan High School (MHS) students and one Manhattan Virtual Academy (MVA) student were named Semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program – Asa Amama (MVA), George Durrett (MHS), Patrick Fu (MHS), Andrei Mazin (MHS), and Rachel Wei (MHS).

“These are great students and a perfect example of the amazing people that are at Manhattan High School,” MHS Principal Michael Dorst said. “I know wonderful things are in their future and this recognition through the National Merit Scholarship Program is just the beginning of how they will be recognized for their accomplishment while at MHS.”

Of the approximately 16,000 Semifinalists, about 15,000 are expected to advance to the Finalist level, and in February they will be notified of this designation. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of Finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.

NMSC, a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 400 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the national’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726002623115.jpeg" alt="Asa Amama" />
 <figcaption>Asa Amama</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726002484036.jpeg" alt="George Durrett" />
 <figcaption>George Durrett</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726002702939.jpeg" alt="Patrick Fu&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Patrick Fu&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726002730435.jpeg" alt="Andrei Mazin" />
 <figcaption>Andrei Mazin</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726002768523.jpeg" alt="Rachel Wei" />
 <figcaption>Rachel Wei</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 383 said Tuesday that four Manhattan High School (MHS) students and one Manhattan Virtual Academy (MVA) student were named Semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program – Asa Amama (MVA), George Durrett (MHS), Patrick Fu (MHS), Andrei Mazin (MHS), and Rachel Wei (MHS).“These are great students and a perfect example of the amazing people that are at Manhattan High School,” MHS Principal Michael Dorst said. “I know wonderful things are in their future and this recognition through the National Merit Scholarship Program is just the beginning of how they will be recognized for their accomplishment while at MHS.”Of the approximately 16,000 Semifinalists, about 15,000 are expected to advance to the Finalist level, and in February they will be notified of this designation. All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from this group of Finalists. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.NMSC, a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 400 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the national’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.-

USD 383 Semifinalists Named in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program

Fort Riley will host a&nbsp; &nbsp;9/11 Commemoration Ceremony, including a wreath laying, three-volley salute, and the playing of “Taps” on Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 10a.m.at the Global War on Terrorism Monument.

The monument is a small replica of the World Trade Center Towers on a Pentagon-shaped base. It bears the names of 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Soldiers who gave their lives in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Col. Gerald Nunziato, Fort Riley Garrison Commander will provide remarks. 1st Infantry Division Soldiers and first responders from police and fire departments will be represented.

The purpose of the ceremony is to remember those who perished on September 11, 2001, including the first responders, as well as the military men and women who gave their lives in service to this country during the Global War on Terrorism. It also honors those who serve today in the military and as first responders in our communities.

By Dewey TerrillFort Riley will host a&nbsp; &nbsp;9/11 Commemoration Ceremony, including a wreath laying, three-volley salute, and the playing of “Taps” on Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 10a.m.at the Global War on Terrorism Monument.The monument is a small replica of the World Trade Center Towers on a Pentagon-shaped base. It bears the names of 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Soldiers who gave their lives in Afghanistan and Iraq.Col. Gerald Nunziato, Fort Riley Garrison Commander will provide remarks. 1st Infantry Division Soldiers and first responders from police and fire departments will be represented.The purpose of the ceremony is to remember those who perished on September 11, 2001, including the first responders, as well as the military men and women who gave their lives in service to this country during the Global War on Terrorism. It also honors those who serve today in the military and as first responders in our communities.

9/11 Commemoration Ceremony scheduled at Fort Riley

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>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725977427692.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725977405797.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report September 10

There were a record number of visitors to the Flint Hills Discovery Center in 2023. Interim Director for the Center Stephen Bridenstine informed the Manhattan Parks and Recreation that there were 95,507 visitors. A total of 75,583 were regular visitors.

Seventy percent of the visitors were from outside the area. The economic impact on the community totaled in the 1.5 to 2.3 million dollar range. That comes not only admission fees but in areas such as eating out and shopping. There was a conservative estimate of $50 per day. The number of visitors to the Center is down this year.

The next upcoming exhibit at the facility, Stepping into the Prairie, opens Nov. 16. It is being funded by a $200,000 state grant and $200,000 from the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation.&nbsp; There are also plans to bring the popular Flint Hills Festival back in May of 2025. And funds are being raised for an all weather shade structure.

By Dewey TerrillLittle Apple PostThere were a record number of visitors to the Flint Hills Discovery Center in 2023. Interim Director for the Center Stephen Bridenstine informed the Manhattan Parks and Recreation that there were 95,507 visitors. A total of 75,583 were regular visitors.Seventy percent of the visitors were from outside the area. The economic impact on the community totaled in the 1.5 to 2.3 million dollar range. That comes not only admission fees but in areas such as eating out and shopping. There was a conservative estimate of $50 per day. The number of visitors to the Center is down this year.The next upcoming exhibit at the facility, Stepping into the Prairie, opens Nov. 16. It is being funded by a $200,000 state grant and $200,000 from the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation.&nbsp; There are also plans to bring the popular Flint Hills Festival back in May of 2025. And funds are being raised for an all weather shade structure.The Center is 12 years old.&nbsp;

Flint Hills Discovery Center enjoys good year in 2023

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;– The Riley County Police Department (RCPD) has announced the promotion of Erin Freidline to Assistant Director, effective January 1, 2025. Freidline will succeed Assistant Director Kurt Moldrup, who has served in the role with distinction.&nbsp;

CPT Freidline began her career with the Riley County Police Department in June 2000 as a Dispatcher, transitioning to a Patrol Officer in 2001. Over the course of her 24-year career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety, leading in various capacities, including School Resource Officer, Detective, and the Special Investigations Unit.

Freidline was promoted to Sergeant in 2007, overseeing both patrol and detective units. In 2013, she advanced to the rank of Lieutenant, where she led the evening patrol shift and supervised detectives, Crime Scene Investigations (CSI), and the Evidence unit. In 2018, Freidline was promoted to Captain, serving as Commander of the Support Division, and in 2021, she returned to Investigations as Commander, where she continues to lead with distinction.

Her career has been marked by numerous accolades, including a 2004 Life Saving Award and a 2006 Commendation. She has received numerous compliments from citizens and other agencies, recognizing her dedication and professionalism.

Freidline holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in Executive Leadership from Liberty University. She is also a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy (264th Session) in Quantico, Virginia, where she received advanced training in management and command. Additionally, Freidline was selected as a National Institute of Justice LEADS scholar, a recognition of her leadership in law enforcement.

“Erin has consistently demonstrated an exceptional commitment to this department and the community we serve,” said Director Peete. “Her leadership, experience, and dedication make her the ideal choice for Assistant Director, and we are confident she will continue to advance the mission and values of RCPD.”

As Assistant Director, Freidline will play a crucial role in the strategic direction of the department, helping to oversee operations and guide the department's future

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;– The Riley County Police Department (RCPD) has announced the promotion of Erin Freidline to Assistant Director, effective January 1, 2025. Freidline will succeed Assistant Director Kurt Moldrup, who has served in the role with distinction.&nbsp;CPT Freidline began her career with the Riley County Police Department in June 2000 as a Dispatcher, transitioning to a Patrol Officer in 2001. Over the course of her 24-year career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public safety, leading in various capacities, including School Resource Officer, Detective, and the Special Investigations Unit.Freidline was promoted to Sergeant in 2007, overseeing both patrol and detective units. In 2013, she advanced to the rank of Lieutenant, where she led the evening patrol shift and supervised detectives, Crime Scene Investigations (CSI), and the Evidence unit. In 2018, Freidline was promoted to Captain, serving as Commander of the Support Division, and in 2021, she returned to Investigations as Commander, where she continues to lead with distinction.Her career has been marked by numerous accolades, including a 2004 Life Saving Award and a 2006 Commendation. She has received numerous compliments from citizens and other agencies, recognizing her dedication and professionalism.Freidline holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in Executive Leadership from Liberty University. She is also a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy (264th Session) in Quantico, Virginia, where she received advanced training in management and command. Additionally, Freidline was selected as a National Institute of Justice LEADS scholar, a recognition of her leadership in law enforcement.“Erin has consistently demonstrated an exceptional commitment to this department and the community we serve,” said Director Peete. “Her leadership, experience, and dedication make her the ideal choice for Assistant Director, and we are confident she will continue to advance the mission and values of RCPD.”As Assistant Director, Freidline will play a crucial role in the strategic direction of the department, helping to oversee operations and guide the department's future( Photo - RCPD )

Riley County Police Department Announces Promotion of Erin Freidline to Assistant Director

In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has directed flags throughout the State of Kansas be lowered to half-staff from sunup to sundown on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024, to honor those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

“We will never forget the thousands who were injured and the nearly 3,000 Americans whose lives were tragically taken during an act of terrorism 23 years ago,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Despite the extreme tragedy of the day that scarred so many of us, we also remember the bravery and courage of our nation’s first responders who went above and beyond to save lives – even as they lost more than 400 of their own. On behalf of the State of Kansas, I thank them for their service and sacrifices.”

In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has directed flags throughout the State of Kansas be lowered to half-staff from sunup to sundown on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024, to honor those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.“We will never forget the thousands who were injured and the nearly 3,000 Americans whose lives were tragically taken during an act of terrorism 23 years ago,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“Despite the extreme tragedy of the day that scarred so many of us, we also remember the bravery and courage of our nation’s first responders who went above and beyond to save lives – even as they lost more than 400 of their own. On behalf of the State of Kansas, I thank them for their service and sacrifices.”

Gov. Kelly orders flags at half-staff on Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The most visible security for the Kansas State Fair may be the drone that is flying above the grounds thanks to Kansas State University, but that has worked in concert with the other measures to make this a safe fair for the over 100,000 people that attended so far from Friday, Sept. 6 to Sunday Sept. 8.

One of the concrete barriers set up for emergencies actually got caught on a Hutchinson Fire apparatus trying to turn into the fairgrounds Monday morning for Emergency Management day at the fair. That happened around 8:45 a.m. Monday.

"It looked like they turned a little too soon, got the tire of the truck caught and they stopped it, immediately," Schulz said.&nbsp;

The drone, in particular, was a help on the first night of the Fair.

"One of the situations we were told of yesterday was where we had two medicals up in the grandstand during Wynonna," Schulz said. "We had a little child and I think, a lady, one on each side. We were able to actually get the drone so that they could tell exactly, for the paramedics, where to go. They were able to pinpoint, go up about five more rows, that's where she's sitting. Those kinds of things have helped us immensely."

Lt. David Golden also told the fair board at their meeting on Monday that they have an ongoing case regarding brandishing firearms on the fairgrounds where the cameras helped them find an abandoned weapon before anyone could pick it up and that had they not had the camera access, it could have taken them much longer to get that situation resolved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695157318556.png" alt="File Photo Kansas State Fair" />
 <figcaption>File Photo Kansas State Fair</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The most visible security for the Kansas State Fair may be the drone that is flying above the grounds thanks to Kansas State University, but that has worked in concert with the other measures to make this a safe fair for the over 100,000 people that attended so far from Friday, Sept. 6 to Sunday Sept. 8.One of the concrete barriers set up for emergencies actually got caught on a Hutchinson Fire apparatus trying to turn into the fairgrounds Monday morning for Emergency Management day at the fair. That happened around 8:45 a.m. Monday."It looked like they turned a little too soon, got the tire of the truck caught and they stopped it, immediately," Schulz said.&nbsp;The drone, in particular, was a help on the first night of the Fair."One of the situations we were told of yesterday was where we had two medicals up in the grandstand during Wynonna," Schulz said. "We had a little child and I think, a lady, one on each side. We were able to actually get the drone so that they could tell exactly, for the paramedics, where to go. They were able to pinpoint, go up about five more rows, that's where she's sitting. Those kinds of things have helped us immensely."Lt. David Golden also told the fair board at their meeting on Monday that they have an ongoing case regarding brandishing firearms on the fairgrounds where the cameras helped them find an abandoned weapon before anyone could pick it up and that had they not had the camera access, it could have taken them much longer to get that situation resolved.

K-State drone helping with security at the State Fair

Every Friday and Saturday from approximately 11 PM-2:30 AM, RCPD will restrict traffic on Moro St and 12th St. (&nbsp; (shown in purple)

Use the open roads (shown in green) for traveling in or out of Aggieville during these times. A new ride share zone will be set up in front of Chipotle. RCPD will have marked patrol units at the Moro/N Manhattan Ave intersection and on 12th St at the alley between Laramie and Moro.&nbsp; 

The Handi-Corner parking lots will be closed after businesses close.  While this is a lot of new information, these changes are for the safety and security of all Aggieville patrons during peak hours&nbsp; &nbsp;

Riley County police issue a reminder:Every Friday and Saturday from approximately 11 PM-2:30 AM, RCPD will restrict traffic on Moro St and 12th St. (&nbsp; (shown in purple)Use the open roads (shown in green) for traveling in or out of Aggieville during these times. A new ride share zone will be set up in front of Chipotle. RCPD will have marked patrol units at the Moro/N Manhattan Ave intersection and on 12th St at the alley between Laramie and Moro.&nbsp; The Handi-Corner parking lots will be closed after businesses close. While this is a lot of new information, these changes are for the safety and security of all Aggieville patrons during peak hours&nbsp; &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725898306886.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Aggieville traffic reminder for Friday - Saturday late nights

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just before 7:30p.m. Friday, police arrested 53-year-old Brandale Williams of Junction City, in the 1300 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Williams was jailed on requested charges of possession of an opiate/opium/narcotic/certain stimulant and use/possess with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body. He is no longer in custody after meeting the requirement of the $6,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718376090522.jpeg" alt="Brandale Williams from an earlier drug arrest in Geary County" />
 <figcaption>Brandale Williams from an earlier drug arrest in Geary County</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just before 7:30p.m. Friday, police arrested 53-year-old Brandale Williams of Junction City, in the 1300 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Williams was jailed on requested charges of possession of an opiate/opium/narcotic/certain stimulant and use/possess with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body. He is no longer in custody after meeting the requirement of the $6,000 bond.

Junction City man accused of drug crimes in Manhattan

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home invasion burglary in Manhattan.

Just before 10a.m. Saturday, officers filed a report of aggravated burglary, criminal trespass, and violation of a protection order in the 2100 block of Northview Drive, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 29-year-old woman reported a known suspect entered her home without permission and in violation of an order of protection.&nbsp; Jake Lindsey, 38, of Manhattan, was arrested on requested charges that include&nbsp;aggravated burglary, criminal trespass, and violation of a protection order.

Lindsey remains jailed without bond, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home invasion burglary in Manhattan.Just before 10a.m. Saturday, officers filed a report of aggravated burglary, criminal trespass, and violation of a protection order in the 2100 block of Northview Drive, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 29-year-old woman reported a known suspect entered her home without permission and in violation of an order of protection.&nbsp; Jake Lindsey, 38, of Manhattan, was arrested on requested charges that include&nbsp;aggravated burglary, criminal trespass, and violation of a protection order.Lindsey remains jailed without bond, according to the RCPD.

Manhattan man accused of home-invasion burglary

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged battery involving a jail deputy in Manhattan.

Just after 3:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of battery of a corrections officer at the Riley County Jail, according to the Riley County. Police Department activity report.

A 36-year-old corrections officer reported a 39-year-old inmate spit on the officer.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional detail.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged battery involving a jail deputy in Manhattan.Just after 3:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of battery of a corrections officer at the Riley County Jail, according to the Riley County. Police Department activity report.A 36-year-old corrections officer reported a 39-year-old inmate spit on the officer.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional detail.

RCPD investigates alleged battery of jail deputy

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>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725890631259.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report September 9

By&nbsp;MARCIA LOCKE K-State&nbsp;Communications and Marketing

Bacterial pneumonia and sepsis are leading causes of hospitalization and death. Researchers in Kansas State University's Division of Biology have discovered that dysfunction of the body's immune response to bacterial infection may be part of the problem.

Pankaj Baral, assistant professor of biology, and Prabhu Raj Joshi, doctoral student in microbiology, are studying how nervous and immune system crosstalk, or bilateral signaling, impacts the body's ability to fight pneumonia caused by the Gram-negative bacteria known as carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, or CRKP.

The researchers published their study, "Lung-innervating nociceptor sensory neurons promote pneumonic sepsis during carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae lung infection," in Science Advances, a member of the Science family of journals.

CRKP bacteria are the most common cause of hospital-acquired lung infections and are a major contributor to fatal pneumonia-induced sepsis, or pneumonic sepsis, among hospitalized patients. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers CRKP and other Gram-negative bacteria an urgent public health threat and states that an alternative non-antibiotic treatment for Gram-negative pneumonia and pneumonic sepsis is essential.

Baral and Joshi's study investigated the role of neuroimmune signaling in bacterial pneumonia, focusing on lung-innervating nociceptor sensory neurons — neurons that mediate pain — during lung infection with CRKP.

Normally, the sensory nervous system protects the body by sensing and responding to noxious stimuli. However, the study showed that during lung infection by CRKP, the sensory nervous system is detrimental, and lung-innervating sensory neurons, meant to defend against pneumonia and sepsis, seem to be the culprit.

"Our study showed that nociceptor activation and pain sensations, normally considered critical defense mechanisms, actually enhance CRKP infection and pneumonia lethality," said Joshi. "So, we think that CRKP might employ nociceptor neuron activation to establish infection and cause severe disease such as sepsis."

This discovery could help scientists develop a non-antibiotic sepsis treatment that targets nociceptor neurons or blocks their receptor signaling pathways.

In fact, the team is collaborating with researchers at the University of Kansas to perform high-throughput screening of small molecules to identify the most potent chemical inhibitors of nociceptor signaling for use as a therapeutic treatment for Gram-negative pneumonia and sepsis.

Baral's research has received funding from the National Institutes of Health, the American Lung Association, the American Heart Association and Kansas State University's Johnson Cancer Research Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725888550071.jpeg" alt="Pankaj Baral, assistant professor of biology, and Prabhu Raj Joshi, doctoral student in microbiology, study the role of neuroimmune interactions in bacterial pneumonia and sepsis. They recently published their findings in Science Advances. Photo Courtesy K-State" />
 <figcaption>Pankaj Baral, assistant professor of biology, and Prabhu Raj Joshi, doctoral student in microbiology, study the role of neuroimmune interactions in bacterial pneumonia and sepsis. They recently published their findings in Science Advances. Photo Courtesy K-State</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;MARCIA LOCKE K-State&nbsp;Communications and MarketingBacterial pneumonia and sepsis are leading causes of hospitalization and death. Researchers in Kansas State University's Division of Biology have discovered that dysfunction of the body's immune response to bacterial infection may be part of the problem.Pankaj Baral, assistant professor of biology, and Prabhu Raj Joshi, doctoral student in microbiology, are studying how nervous and immune system crosstalk, or bilateral signaling, impacts the body's ability to fight pneumonia caused by the Gram-negative bacteria known as carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae, or CRKP.The researchers published their study, "Lung-innervating nociceptor sensory neurons promote pneumonic sepsis during carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae lung infection," in Science Advances, a member of the Science family of journals.CRKP bacteria are the most common cause of hospital-acquired lung infections and are a major contributor to fatal pneumonia-induced sepsis, or pneumonic sepsis, among hospitalized patients. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers CRKP and other Gram-negative bacteria an urgent public health threat and states that an alternative non-antibiotic treatment for Gram-negative pneumonia and pneumonic sepsis is essential.Baral and Joshi's study investigated the role of neuroimmune signaling in bacterial pneumonia, focusing on lung-innervating nociceptor sensory neurons — neurons that mediate pain — during lung infection with CRKP.Normally, the sensory nervous system protects the body by sensing and responding to noxious stimuli. However, the study showed that during lung infection by CRKP, the sensory nervous system is detrimental, and lung-innervating sensory neurons, meant to defend against pneumonia and sepsis, seem to be the culprit."Our study showed that nociceptor activation and pain sensations, normally considered critical defense mechanisms, actually enhance CRKP infection and pneumonia lethality," said Joshi. "So, we think that CRKP might employ nociceptor neuron activation to establish infection and cause severe disease such as sepsis."This discovery could help scientists develop a non-antibiotic sepsis treatment that targets nociceptor neurons or blocks their receptor signaling pathways.In fact, the team is collaborating with researchers at the University of Kansas to perform high-throughput screening of small molecules to identify the most potent chemical inhibitors of nociceptor signaling for use as a therapeutic treatment for Gram-negative pneumonia and sepsis.Baral's research has received funding from the National Institutes of Health, the American Lung Association, the American Heart Association and Kansas State University's Johnson Cancer Research Center.

K-State biologists' discovery could help treat fatal, drug-resistant pneumonia

According to Postal Regulatory Commission data, roughly 83% of first-class mail arrived on time in Kansas and Missouri in the first three months of 2024. That rate was the sixth worst of the 50 postal districts in the country.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlpr.org/kavahn-mansouri">Kavahn Mansouri</a>St. Louis Public Radio |&nbsp;

For days, Amy Gholson tracked a shipment of baby turkeys she ordered from an Ohio hatchery. She kept tabs online as the birds began the more than 500-mile trip to her home near St. Charles, Missouri, via the U.S. Postal Service.

The 10 birds needed to arrive in two days to ensure they’d survive the trip. It was late March and temperatures were still low, making the speed of the delivery more crucial than usual. But the baby turkeys, or poults, hadn’t even left Ohio when progress halted.

“I was going to be able to watch these babies digitally, basically, and they went to the Cleveland distribution warehouse, and they stayed there and stayed there,” Gholson said.

Postal Service delays have become more persistent in the years following the pandemic and a new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/usps-mail-slowdown-postmaster-louis-dejoy/" target="_blank">10-year plan was put in place by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy</a>&nbsp;aimed at ending losses in the billions of dollars a year. Slowing delivery is integral to the plan.

For days, the poults Gholson ordered remained at the Cleveland warehouse. By the time the shipment arrived, three days overdue, she knew what to expect inside the package marked “live birds.”

“I had already assumed they were dead. Our beloved mail lady just set a box of dead birds outside of our garage,” Gholson said. “I got home. I mean, you know what the situation was. A silent box is a dead box.”

Gholson said that inside the package, the fledgling turkeys were as “stiff as rocks.”

This wasn’t the first time that Gholson and her family received a Postal Service shipment of dead or dying birds. Once, after a delivery arrived during a cold spell, they warmed towels in the microwave, bundling the chicks inside the heated towels in hopes of saving them. Only four of the 10 in that shipment survived, and the chicks now roam the Gholsons’ backyard farm.

The Gholsons are a 4-H family, having participating in agricultural programs for years. They have a tradition of showing animals at the St. Charles County Fair, where Evie, now 18, planned to show the turkeys in that doomed March delivery. In the 4-H community, families talk about receiving shipments with dead birds all the time, said&nbsp;Amy Gholson.

In 2020,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-20/thousands-of-baby-chicks-die-in-mail-in-latest-postal-imbroglio" target="_blank">more than 4,800 chicks died in a single Postal Service shipment to a Maine customer.</a>&nbsp;And the problem has persisted far past the height of the pandemic as concerns mounted about the future of the Postal Service and its performance since DeJoy’s plan kicked off in 2021.

The Midwest Newsroom interviewed four hatchery owners and four backyard farmers in different parts of the U.S. who all say they’ve seen a marked increase in deaths while baby birds are in transit with the Postal Service over the past year.

One hatchery owner described 2024 as “hell” for shipping birds and said customer complaints over shipments arriving with more dead birds than usual are on the rise.

It is hard to know just how many Postal Service shipments of birds arrive at their destinations too late for survival.

In response to a records request from the Midwest Newsroom, the Postal Service said that after a “diligent search,” it could not locate any documents referring to the total number of animals that die while in transit with the Postal Service. The response stated the agency does not compile or track that sort of information.

Delivering birds through the mail is a longstanding practice in the U.S., and hatchers who spoke to the Midwest Newsroom said it’s an effective way for hatcheries to make money, with customers ranging from large-scale operations to backyard farmers.

A hatchery can make anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000 per shipment, depending on the breed and number of birds.

In an email to the Midwest Newsroom, communications specialist Mark Inglett said the Postal Service has worked for more than 100 years with hatcheries to “safely transport mail-order chicks seamlessly.”

“The U.S. Postal Service is one of just a few carriers that ship live animals, and we have established procedures for the safe handling of live animals,” the email read. “When properly packaged and labeled, these live parcels are given special handling outside of our normal automated process.”

The hatcheries and buyers interviewed by the Midwest Newsroom said that special handling hasn’t saved their animals.

The Postal Service declined a request for an interview.

Kelly Warren owns and operates Cocktown Funky Orpingtons in Lillington, North Carolina. She breeds Orpington chickens, which are popular as show birds. The small business relies heavily on shipping birds.

Warren estimates she’s lost at least a third of the birds she’s shipped this year to delays and other problems. A recent shipment saw her lose 80 chicks worth about $800. When birds die in transit, Warren has to refund her customers’ money.

“One box last week arrived three days late,” Warren said. “The whole box was dead. All I could do was get my shipping costs back. I lost the rest of it out of pocket.”

Warren said the Postal Service shipping delays greatly impact her business, which relies mainly on customers far from her rural North Carolina location.

“Some breeders are lucky enough to have enough (local customers) to get by. I don't,” Warren said. “All of mine are everywhere: California, Maine, New York, Nevada, Wisconsin, Washington. You name it, I ship there. So it kind of kills me.”

Not all bird deaths happen during transit, Warren said. One shipment arrived in time at a customer's local post office. But, she said, the customer reported the box of chicks had been left out on a loading dock during a thunderstorm. By the time the customer arrived to pick up the shipment, the chicks were dead.

“The babies were drenched,” she said, while sharing photos with a Midwest Newsroom reporter. “They were dead. The box was soaked. There’s nothing you can do about it.”

A statement from the Postal Service said its guidelines require delivery of poultry within 72 hours of hatching. All birds must be shipped using Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail services, which are designed to meet specific timing standards.

Tracy Brown Kelly owns a small hatchery near Warren's called Satin and Silk Ranch. She said she’s completely stopped shipping her chicks because of Postal Service problems. Now she relies only on local buyers to sustain her hatchery.

“We've been shipping for a very long time, and we rarely have any death or loss when we ship chicks,” she said. “But this year has been a nightmare, and it's not just me and Kelly; it's everybody.”

Hatcheries that rely on shipping chicks, poults and other live baby birds to customers have no choice but to use the Postal Service. Neither FedEx or UPS offers the service. However, FedEx planes are used to transport live birds across the country when needed as part of an agreement between the Postal Service and FedEx.

Blaze Baxter, who operates Bad Baxter Farms in Pottawatomie County, Okla., stopped ordering animals through the mail in 2017 after boxes full of ducks showed up at her farm looking like they were “used as pinatas.”

Of the 200 birds in the box, only 20 survived the journey. She remembers her mail carrier crying as she delivered the package.

Baxter decided she and her family would hatch and raise their own chickens to avoid more birds dying while in Postal Service transit. But in early August, roughly eight years after the failed shipment, she took a chance, placing an order for 10 ducks from a hatchery in August. She said she’s still beating herself up about it.

“I made the mistake and decided to try and trust the Postal Service one more time and completely regretted it,” Baxter said.

On the second day of tracking her shipment, she saw the package had made its way to California and stalled. From there, she knew what she would find when her shipment arrived. Only two of the eight ducks survived the trip.

“I told my post office lady last week that that would be the last time she’ll see me picking up birds from her,” she said.

Baxter isn’t the only person raising ethical concerns about the shipment of baby birds. Animal safety advocacy group&nbsp;<a href="https://www.upc-online.org/" target="_blank">United Poultry Concerns</a>&nbsp;and other organizations have called for the end of the long-standing tradition, calling it a cruelty to the animals.

In a 2020 post on its website, United Poultry Concerns said newborn chicks&nbsp;<a href="https://www.upc-online.org/pp/winter2020/urge_usps_to_stop_shipping_baby_chicks_and_other_animals.html" target="_blank">“quietly” die while in transit with the Postal Service.&nbsp;</a>

“Recent postal service changes have caused many thousands more baby chicks to suffer and die in transit,” a post by the group read. “Shipment of live birds and other animals through the Postal Service is one of the many hidden cruelties inflicted on chickens and other animals.

In July, the Postal Service inspector general’s office conducted an audit in the Kansas City region. The audit concluded that mail delays have been caused by a lack of management oversight and staffing shortages.

The audit also found that employees were&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article290342734.html" target="_blank">skipping important steps in the processing and transportation</a>&nbsp;of mail and that management allowed such practices to persist.

Further mail delays may be ahead for rural communities as a new Postal Service plan announced in late August aims to shave even more costs from its operations.

<a href="https://about.usps.com/newsroom/usps-operational-improvements-08-21-2024.pdf" target="_blank">Part of that plan includes overhauling logistics,</a>&nbsp;a move DeJoy said could increase slowdowns in mail deliveries, especially in rural areas where delivery could take an additional 12 to 24 hours.

It’s a decision that’s drawn the ire of customers and lawmakers.

U.S. Rep. Sam Graves of Missouri said complaints about the mail are a top concern for his constituents in the northern third of the state, which is largely rural. He told the Midwest Newsroom that mail delays and delivery problems are among the most common complaints his office receives, especially from rural communities and farmers.

“Other members of Congress all over the country are getting the same sort of complaint,” Graves said. ”It is something that the government should do, and should do well. And right now, it's not being done well at all.”

Graves blamed management at all levels of the Postal Service, noting that local mail carriers are caught in a system that’s working against them.

“It's just a huge management problem,” Graves said. “(Postal Service management) is not doing the job when it comes to doing what it is that they do, and that is getting the mail out to the post offices so it could be delivered on time.”

Graves, U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver and U.S. Rep. Mark Alford, also of Missouri,&nbsp;<a href="https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-graves-alford-introduce-pony-act-hold-usps-accountable" target="_blank">introduced the Pony Up Act to Congress to offer consumers protection from mail delays</a>. If passed, the act would require the Postal Service to pay late fees incurred due to delayed delivery service.

The Gholsons’ story didn’t end with a package of dead turkeys. The Ohio-based breeder they ordered from sent a new package that arrived on time and with all 10 birds alive and well.

Evie Gholson can’t forget the dead turkeys that arrived in March.

“It’s not fun,” she said. “You have to sort through the box and see which ones are stiff and which ones are floppy, essentially. There’s only so much you can do.”

Evie Gholson showed one of the replacement turkeys at the St. Charles County Fair in July.

“It makes me very happy,” she said of her nameless bird. “She’s not too big. She’s just the right age. She can walk around well and I can pick her up. It’s perfect.”

Isa Luzarraga contributed to this report.

This story comes from the Midwest Newsroom, an investigative journalism collaboration that includes&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iowapublicradio.org/" target="_blank">Iowa Public Radio</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/" target="_blank">KCUR</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskapublicmedia.org/en/" target="_blank">Nebraska Public Media</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://news.stlpublicradio.org/" target="_blank">St. Louis Public Radio</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/" target="_blank">NPR</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725638081548.png" alt="Evie Gholson, 18, speaks about her Broad Breasted White turkey while showing the bird to judge Mark Cunningham on July 24 at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. The turkey was a replacement bird after the one ordered died in transit while in the hands of the U.S. Postal Service. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>Evie Gholson, 18, speaks about her Broad Breasted White turkey while showing the bird to judge Mark Cunningham on July 24 at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. The turkey was a replacement bird after the one ordered died in transit while in the hands of the U.S. Postal Service. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>According to Postal Regulatory Commission data, roughly 83% of first-class mail arrived on time in Kansas and Missouri in the first three months of 2024. That rate was the sixth worst of the 50 postal districts in the country.</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlpr.org/kavahn-mansouri">Kavahn Mansouri</a>St. Louis Public Radio |&nbsp;For days, Amy Gholson tracked a shipment of baby turkeys she ordered from an Ohio hatchery. She kept tabs online as the birds began the more than 500-mile trip to her home near St. Charles, Missouri, via the U.S. Postal Service.The 10 birds needed to arrive in two days to ensure they’d survive the trip. It was late March and temperatures were still low, making the speed of the delivery more crucial than usual. But the baby turkeys, or poults, hadn’t even left Ohio when progress halted.“I was going to be able to watch these babies digitally, basically, and they went to the Cleveland distribution warehouse, and they stayed there and stayed there,” Gholson said.Postal Service delays have become more persistent in the years following the pandemic and a new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/usps-mail-slowdown-postmaster-louis-dejoy/" target="_blank">10-year plan was put in place by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy</a>&nbsp;aimed at ending losses in the billions of dollars a year. Slowing delivery is integral to the plan.For days, the poults Gholson ordered remained at the Cleveland warehouse. By the time the shipment arrived, three days overdue, she knew what to expect inside the package marked “live birds.”“I had already assumed they were dead. Our beloved mail lady just set a box of dead birds outside of our garage,” Gholson said. “I got home. I mean, you know what the situation was. A silent box is a dead box.”Gholson said that inside the package, the fledgling turkeys were as “stiff as rocks.”This wasn’t the first time that Gholson and her family received a Postal Service shipment of dead or dying birds. Once, after a delivery arrived during a cold spell, they warmed towels in the microwave, bundling the chicks inside the heated towels in hopes of saving them. Only four of the 10 in that shipment survived, and the chicks now roam the Gholsons’ backyard farm.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725638174393.png" alt="A market chicken is displayed ahead of being judged in July at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>A market chicken is displayed ahead of being judged in July at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>'Hell' for bird shipments</h2>The Gholsons are a 4-H family, having participating in agricultural programs for years. They have a tradition of showing animals at the St. Charles County Fair, where Evie, now 18, planned to show the turkeys in that doomed March delivery. In the 4-H community, families talk about receiving shipments with dead birds all the time, said&nbsp;Amy Gholson.In 2020,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-08-20/thousands-of-baby-chicks-die-in-mail-in-latest-postal-imbroglio" target="_blank">more than 4,800 chicks died in a single Postal Service shipment to a Maine customer.</a>&nbsp;And the problem has persisted far past the height of the pandemic as concerns mounted about the future of the Postal Service and its performance since DeJoy’s plan kicked off in 2021.The Midwest Newsroom interviewed four hatchery owners and four backyard farmers in different parts of the U.S. who all say they’ve seen a marked increase in deaths while baby birds are in transit with the Postal Service over the past year.One hatchery owner described 2024 as “hell” for shipping birds and said customer complaints over shipments arriving with more dead birds than usual are on the rise.It is hard to know just how many Postal Service shipments of birds arrive at their destinations too late for survival.In response to a records request from the Midwest Newsroom, the Postal Service said that after a “diligent search,” it could not locate any documents referring to the total number of animals that die while in transit with the Postal Service. The response stated the agency does not compile or track that sort of information.Delivering birds through the mail is a longstanding practice in the U.S., and hatchers who spoke to the Midwest Newsroom said it’s an effective way for hatcheries to make money, with customers ranging from large-scale operations to backyard farmers.A hatchery can make anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000 per shipment, depending on the breed and number of birds.In an email to the Midwest Newsroom, communications specialist Mark Inglett said the Postal Service has worked for more than 100 years with hatcheries to “safely transport mail-order chicks seamlessly.”“The U.S. Postal Service is one of just a few carriers that ship live animals, and we have established procedures for the safe handling of live animals,” the email read. “When properly packaged and labeled, these live parcels are given special handling outside of our normal automated process.”The hatcheries and buyers interviewed by the Midwest Newsroom said that special handling hasn’t saved their animals.The Postal Service declined a request for an interview.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725638240710.png" alt="Evie Gholson, 18, listens to instructions ahead of showing a series of birds in July at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>Evie Gholson, 18, listens to instructions ahead of showing a series of birds in July at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Left on a loading dock</h2>Kelly Warren owns and operates Cocktown Funky Orpingtons in Lillington, North Carolina. She breeds Orpington chickens, which are popular as show birds. The small business relies heavily on shipping birds.Warren estimates she’s lost at least a third of the birds she’s shipped this year to delays and other problems. A recent shipment saw her lose 80 chicks worth about $800. When birds die in transit, Warren has to refund her customers’ money.“One box last week arrived three days late,” Warren said. “The whole box was dead. All I could do was get my shipping costs back. I lost the rest of it out of pocket.”Warren said the Postal Service shipping delays greatly impact her business, which relies mainly on customers far from her rural North Carolina location.“Some breeders are lucky enough to have enough (local customers) to get by. I don't,” Warren said. “All of mine are everywhere: California, Maine, New York, Nevada, Wisconsin, Washington. You name it, I ship there. So it kind of kills me.”Not all bird deaths happen during transit, Warren said. One shipment arrived in time at a customer's local post office. But, she said, the customer reported the box of chicks had been left out on a loading dock during a thunderstorm. By the time the customer arrived to pick up the shipment, the chicks were dead.“The babies were drenched,” she said, while sharing photos with a Midwest Newsroom reporter. “They were dead. The box was soaked. There’s nothing you can do about it.”A statement from the Postal Service said its guidelines require delivery of poultry within 72 hours of hatching. All birds must be shipped using Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail services, which are designed to meet specific timing standards.Tracy Brown Kelly owns a small hatchery near Warren's called Satin and Silk Ranch. She said she’s completely stopped shipping her chicks because of Postal Service problems. Now she relies only on local buyers to sustain her hatchery.“We've been shipping for a very long time, and we rarely have any death or loss when we ship chicks,” she said. “But this year has been a nightmare, and it's not just me and Kelly; it's everybody.”Hatcheries that rely on shipping chicks, poults and other live baby birds to customers have no choice but to use the Postal Service. Neither FedEx or UPS offers the service. However, FedEx planes are used to transport live birds across the country when needed as part of an agreement between the Postal Service and FedEx.Blaze Baxter, who operates Bad Baxter Farms in Pottawatomie County, Okla., stopped ordering animals through the mail in 2017 after boxes full of ducks showed up at her farm looking like they were “used as pinatas.”Of the 200 birds in the box, only 20 survived the journey. She remembers her mail carrier crying as she delivered the package.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725638310582.png" alt="Evie Gholson, 18, holds her 3-year-old rooster Napoleon III ahead of showing the bird in July at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>Evie Gholson, 18, holds her 3-year-old rooster Napoleon III ahead of showing the bird in July at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure>Baxter decided she and her family would hatch and raise their own chickens to avoid more birds dying while in Postal Service transit. But in early August, roughly eight years after the failed shipment, she took a chance, placing an order for 10 ducks from a hatchery in August. She said she’s still beating herself up about it.“I made the mistake and decided to try and trust the Postal Service one more time and completely regretted it,” Baxter said.On the second day of tracking her shipment, she saw the package had made its way to California and stalled. From there, she knew what she would find when her shipment arrived. Only two of the eight ducks survived the trip.“I told my post office lady last week that that would be the last time she’ll see me picking up birds from her,” she said.Baxter isn’t the only person raising ethical concerns about the shipment of baby birds. Animal safety advocacy group&nbsp;<a href="https://www.upc-online.org/" target="_blank">United Poultry Concerns</a>&nbsp;and other organizations have called for the end of the long-standing tradition, calling it a cruelty to the animals.In a 2020 post on its website, United Poultry Concerns said newborn chicks&nbsp;<a href="https://www.upc-online.org/pp/winter2020/urge_usps_to_stop_shipping_baby_chicks_and_other_animals.html" target="_blank">“quietly” die while in transit with the Postal Service.&nbsp;</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725638364261.png" alt="A young Broad Breasted White turkey sits in its cage in July at the St. Charles County Fair. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>A young Broad Breasted White turkey sits in its cage in July at the St. Charles County Fair. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure>“Recent postal service changes have caused many thousands more baby chicks to suffer and die in transit,” a post by the group read. “Shipment of live birds and other animals through the Postal Service is one of the many hidden cruelties inflicted on chickens and other animals.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725638422462.png" alt="Evie Gholson, 18, adjusts her first-place ribbon after showing her Broad Breasted White turkey in July at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>Evie Gholson, 18, adjusts her first-place ribbon after showing her Broad Breasted White turkey in July at the St. Charles County Fair in Wentzville. Brian Munoz/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘A huge problem’</h2>In July, the Postal Service inspector general’s office conducted an audit in the Kansas City region. The audit concluded that mail delays have been caused by a lack of management oversight and staffing shortages.The audit also found that employees were&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article290342734.html" target="_blank">skipping important steps in the processing and transportation</a>&nbsp;of mail and that management allowed such practices to persist.According to Postal Regulatory Commission data, roughly 83% of first-class mail arrived on time in Kansas and Missouri in the first three months of 2024. That rate was the sixth worst of the 50 postal districts in the country.Further mail delays may be ahead for rural communities as a new Postal Service plan announced in late August aims to shave even more costs from its operations.<a href="https://about.usps.com/newsroom/usps-operational-improvements-08-21-2024.pdf" target="_blank">Part of that plan includes overhauling logistics,</a>&nbsp;a move DeJoy said could increase slowdowns in mail deliveries, especially in rural areas where delivery could take an additional 12 to 24 hours.It’s a decision that’s drawn the ire of customers and lawmakers.U.S. Rep. Sam Graves of Missouri said complaints about the mail are a top concern for his constituents in the northern third of the state, which is largely rural. He told the Midwest Newsroom that mail delays and delivery problems are among the most common complaints his office receives, especially from rural communities and farmers.“Other members of Congress all over the country are getting the same sort of complaint,” Graves said. ”It is something that the government should do, and should do well. And right now, it's not being done well at all.”Graves blamed management at all levels of the Postal Service, noting that local mail carriers are caught in a system that’s working against them.“It's just a huge management problem,” Graves said. “(Postal Service management) is not doing the job when it comes to doing what it is that they do, and that is getting the mail out to the post offices so it could be delivered on time.”Graves, U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver and U.S. Rep. Mark Alford, also of Missouri,&nbsp;<a href="https://cleaver.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-cleaver-graves-alford-introduce-pony-act-hold-usps-accountable" target="_blank">introduced the Pony Up Act to Congress to offer consumers protection from mail delays</a>. If passed, the act would require the Postal Service to pay late fees incurred due to delayed delivery service.<h2>Blue-ribbon bird</h2>The Gholsons’ story didn’t end with a package of dead turkeys. The Ohio-based breeder they ordered from sent a new package that arrived on time and with all 10 birds alive and well.Evie Gholson can’t forget the dead turkeys that arrived in March.“It’s not fun,” she said. “You have to sort through the box and see which ones are stiff and which ones are floppy, essentially. There’s only so much you can do.”Evie Gholson showed one of the replacement turkeys at the St. Charles County Fair in July.“It makes me very happy,” she said of her nameless bird. “She’s not too big. She’s just the right age. She can walk around well and I can pick her up. It’s perfect.”The turkey earned a blue ribbon.Isa Luzarraga contributed to this report.This story comes from the Midwest Newsroom, an investigative journalism collaboration that includes&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iowapublicradio.org/" target="_blank">Iowa Public Radio</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/" target="_blank">KCUR</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskapublicmedia.org/en/" target="_blank">Nebraska Public Media</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://news.stlpublicradio.org/" target="_blank">St. Louis Public Radio</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/" target="_blank">NPR</a>.

U.S. Postal Service slowdowns are so bad, baby birds are dying in transit

Join the Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) and&nbsp;hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world for International Observe the Moon Night on Saturday, September 14 from 5:30-8 p.m. There is no cost to attend this fun all-ages event. Guests will learn about lunar science and exploration, take part in celestial observations while looking through telescopes, and participate&nbsp;in fun activities.Ongoing activities:

Participate in fun hands-on learning with K-State Department of Physics and FHDC educators:

Enjoy presentations by the KAO,&nbsp;Chris Sorenson, and local astronomy enthusiasts:

"We are excited to partner with the K-State Physics Department and the Kansas Astronomical Observers to bring an International Observe the Moon Night event to the Discovery Center", says Sally Dreher, Curator of Education. "With experts, hands-on learning, telescopes, and, hopefully, cooperative weather, we will join hundreds of thousands of people from around the world to view the moon!"The first 50 youth (under 17) will receive a free goody box full of space-themed fun from the KAO and everyone can enter to win a free telescope and children's books (must be present to win).Guests are asked to&nbsp;enter through the front doors. FHDC exhibits will not be open during this time.&nbsp;Learn more about International Observe the Moon Night at the Flint Hills Discovery Center at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=bd3ea87dee&amp;e=ae94a9aa01">www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/moon</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725726681322.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Flint Hills Discovery CenterJoin the Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) and&nbsp;hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world for International Observe the Moon Night on Saturday, September 14 from 5:30-8 p.m. There is no cost to attend this fun all-ages event. Guests will learn about lunar science and exploration, take part in celestial observations while looking through telescopes, and participate&nbsp;in fun activities.Ongoing activities:<ul>
 <li>Kansas Astronomical Observers (KAO) will have an inflatable planetarium on loan from Fort Hays State University. Climb in for a one-of-a-kind cosmos experience.</li><li>Learn more about NASA's Artemis Program through a series of videos.</li><li>Observe the Moon through multiple telescopes on the Prairie Garden Terrace.</li>
 </ul>Participate in fun hands-on learning with K-State Department of Physics and FHDC educators:<ul>
 <li>Light experiments with lenses &amp; mirrors</li><li>Gravity demonstrations</li><li>Experience space in a new way through&nbsp;The Space Around Us&nbsp;tactile books</li><li>Telescopes 101 - learn how to use a telescope and practice looking through one with a telescope from the KAO</li>
 </ul>Enjoy presentations by the KAO,&nbsp;Chris Sorenson, and local astronomy enthusiasts:<ul>
 <li>Origin of the Moon</li><li>Features of the Moon</li><li>History of International Observe the Moon Night</li><li>and more!</li>
 </ul>"We are excited to partner with the K-State Physics Department and the Kansas Astronomical Observers to bring an International Observe the Moon Night event to the Discovery Center", says Sally Dreher, Curator of Education. "With experts, hands-on learning, telescopes, and, hopefully, cooperative weather, we will join hundreds of thousands of people from around the world to view the moon!"The first 50 youth (under 17) will receive a free goody box full of space-themed fun from the KAO and everyone can enter to win a free telescope and children's books (must be present to win).Guests are asked to&nbsp;enter through the front doors. FHDC exhibits will not be open during this time.&nbsp;Learn more about International Observe the Moon Night at the Flint Hills Discovery Center at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=bd3ea87dee&amp;e=ae94a9aa01">www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/moon</a>.

International observe the moon night at Discovery Center

Riley County police have announced that the Flint Hills Volunteer Center is hosting the 9/11 Day of Remembrance on Sunday September 8th from 3:00 – 6:00 pm at the Manhattan City Park. “This year, our goal is to honor and respect those who serve and protect through a day of service” said Lori Bishop, Executive Director.

In 2002, family members of those killed and injured on 9/11 joined with first responders and others to create “9/11 Day” to annually and forever encourage all Americans to remember and pay tribute on the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks through acts of service, including volunteerism, and to keep Americans’ promise to “Never Forget.” On Sunday local first responders will be inside the Wefald Pavilion to give away 400 pairs of shoes to elementary school children in grades K-5. Children will have the opportunity to interact with first responders and armed forces members. 

Additionally, Fort Riley will have a static display consisting of EOD bomb robot, and suit,&nbsp; MP display such as military working dogs, patrol car, and soldiers with some equipment.

The Riley County Police Department will host a picnic inside the Pavilion at 5:00 pm that is free and open to the public to the first 250 guests. Hosts and sponsors include Flint Hills Volunteer Center, Kansas Volunteer Commission, Volunteer Kansas, Flint Hills Veterans Coalition, Briggs Auto, Manhattan Military Relations, Parker Hannifin, Bank of the Flint Hills, Armed Forces Community Foundation, Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, and Chase Life Chiropractic.

Riley County police have announced that the Flint Hills Volunteer Center is hosting the 9/11 Day of Remembrance on Sunday September 8th from 3:00 – 6:00 pm at the Manhattan City Park. “This year, our goal is to honor and respect those who serve and protect through a day of service” said Lori Bishop, Executive Director.In 2002, family members of those killed and injured on 9/11 joined with first responders and others to create “9/11 Day” to annually and forever encourage all Americans to remember and pay tribute on the anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks through acts of service, including volunteerism, and to keep Americans’ promise to “Never Forget.” On Sunday local first responders will be inside the Wefald Pavilion to give away 400 pairs of shoes to elementary school children in grades K-5. Children will have the opportunity to interact with first responders and armed forces members. Additionally, Fort Riley will have a static display consisting of EOD bomb robot, and suit,&nbsp; MP display such as military working dogs, patrol car, and soldiers with some equipment.The Riley County Police Department will host a picnic inside the Pavilion at 5:00 pm that is free and open to the public to the first 250 guests. Hosts and sponsors include Flint Hills Volunteer Center, Kansas Volunteer Commission, Volunteer Kansas, Flint Hills Veterans Coalition, Briggs Auto, Manhattan Military Relations, Parker Hannifin, Bank of the Flint Hills, Armed Forces Community Foundation, Greater Manhattan Community Foundation, and Chase Life Chiropractic.( Cover photo - Pixabay )

Local