By&nbsp;K-State News and Communications Services

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/band/about/staff/associatedirector.html">Alex Wimmer</a>, assistant professor and associate director of bands at Kansas State University, has been appointed as the director of bands effective June 7, 2026.&nbsp;As director of bands, Wimmer will provide visionary leadership and management for K-State’s comprehensive band program, including directing the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/band/ensembles/marchingband/">Pride of Wildcat Land</a>&nbsp;—&nbsp;the Kansas State University Marching Band.&nbsp;“Dr. Wimmer’s leadership is defined by excellence, humility and a genuine investment in students’ growth as musicians and people,” said Bryan&nbsp;Pinkall, director of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/mtd/">School of Music, Theatre, and Dance</a>. “He understands the responsibility of stewarding our storied program while ensuring it continues to innovate and lead at the highest level.”&nbsp;

A native of Gretna, Nebraska, Wimmer has already devoted 13 years to the K-State band program as a graduate student, assistant director of bands and associate director of bands. He directs the Wind Symphony, Cat Band, Volleyball Band and&nbsp;assists&nbsp;with the Pride of Wildcat Land, along with Pub Crawl Bands. He instructs undergraduate and graduate courses in conducting, wind band arranging, and marching band techniques, and also serves as the faculty sponsor for Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma.  “I am incredibly humbled and grateful for the opportunity to continue the legacy that has meant so much to generations of K-Staters,” said Wimmer. “Dr. Frank Tracz’s mentorship over the past 13 years has helped me become the musician, teacher and human being I am today. The foundation he built over his 33-year career is why the K-State band program is still as strong and successful now."

Wimmer received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, a Master of Music degree&nbsp;in education&nbsp;with an emphasis in&nbsp;wind conducting&nbsp;and a Doctorate in Philosophy in&nbsp;curriculum and instruction&nbsp;from Kansas State University.

K-State’s band program is nationally recognized for excellence in both athletic and concert ensembles and has been led by Frank Tracz for the last 33 years. The acclaimed&nbsp;Pride of Wildcat Land&nbsp;Marching Band,&nbsp;comprising&nbsp;more than 425 members, received the prestigious Sudler Trophy in 2015. The Wind Ensemble, K-State’s premier concert band, has been invited to perform at the American Bandmasters Association&nbsp;Conference, two regional&nbsp;College Band Directors National Association&nbsp;conferences, and a National Association for Music Education&nbsp;Conference, as well as at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, and on&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;national and international tours.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765837443388.jpeg" alt="( KSU photo ) Alex Wimmer" />
 <figcaption>( KSU photo ) Alex Wimmer</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;K-State News and Communications ServicesDivision of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN —&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/band/about/staff/associatedirector.html">Alex Wimmer</a>, assistant professor and associate director of bands at Kansas State University, has been appointed as the director of bands effective June 7, 2026.&nbsp;As director of bands, Wimmer will provide visionary leadership and management for K-State’s comprehensive band program, including directing the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/band/ensembles/marchingband/">Pride of Wildcat Land</a>&nbsp;—&nbsp;the Kansas State University Marching Band.&nbsp;“Dr. Wimmer’s leadership is defined by excellence, humility and a genuine investment in students’ growth as musicians and people,” said Bryan&nbsp;Pinkall, director of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/mtd/">School of Music, Theatre, and Dance</a>. “He understands the responsibility of stewarding our storied program while ensuring it continues to innovate and lead at the highest level.”&nbsp;A native of Gretna, Nebraska, Wimmer has already devoted 13 years to the K-State band program as a graduate student, assistant director of bands and associate director of bands. He directs the Wind Symphony, Cat Band, Volleyball Band and&nbsp;assists&nbsp;with the Pride of Wildcat Land, along with Pub Crawl Bands. He instructs undergraduate and graduate courses in conducting, wind band arranging, and marching band techniques, and also serves as the faculty sponsor for Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma. “I am incredibly humbled and grateful for the opportunity to continue the legacy that has meant so much to generations of K-Staters,” said Wimmer. “Dr. Frank Tracz’s mentorship over the past 13 years has helped me become the musician, teacher and human being I am today. The foundation he built over his 33-year career is why the K-State band program is still as strong and successful now."Wimmer received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, a Master of Music degree&nbsp;in education&nbsp;with an emphasis in&nbsp;wind conducting&nbsp;and a Doctorate in Philosophy in&nbsp;curriculum and instruction&nbsp;from Kansas State University.K-State’s band program is nationally recognized for excellence in both athletic and concert ensembles and has been led by Frank Tracz for the last 33 years. The acclaimed&nbsp;Pride of Wildcat Land&nbsp;Marching Band,&nbsp;comprising&nbsp;more than 425 members, received the prestigious Sudler Trophy in 2015. The Wind Ensemble, K-State’s premier concert band, has been invited to perform at the American Bandmasters Association&nbsp;Conference, two regional&nbsp;College Band Directors National Association&nbsp;conferences, and a National Association for Music Education&nbsp;Conference, as well as at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, and on&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;national and international tours.&nbsp;

Wimmer to lead K-State band program

Board of Regents selects Matthew Baker, a Kansas native and K-State graduate

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A 30-year higher education administrator at Northwest Missouri State University will return to Kansas for the opportunity to serve as president of Emporia State University.

Matthew Baker, who grew up in Kansas and earned a psychology degree at Kansas State University, has been vice president of student affairs at NMSU in Maryville, Missouri, for the past 14 years. Baker is expected to begin leadership duties at ESU in March. He holds a master’s degree from University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and a doctorate in educational leadership from University of Missouri in Columbia.

“It is the honor of my career to return to Kansas to serve as the university’s next president,” Baker said. “I will forever be grateful to Northwest for all it has done for me and my family. It is because of the experiences Northwest provided me that I am able to step into this role.”

Blake Benson, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, said Baker was a “proven leader with extensive experience developing and implementing initiatives designed to help students succeed in college and after graduation.” The Board of Regents unanimously voted to hire Baker.

Baker replaced Ken Hush, who became ESU president in 2021 and was an unusual appointee due to his lack of a graduate degree. Hush received an undergraduate degree from ESU and had a lengthy career in the private sector, including work with Koch Industries.

Benson, on behalf of the Board of Regents, said Hush “consistently exhibited an unwavering commitment to serving ESU’s students and has worked hard to improve affordability and student success.”

Hush invited controversy by deciding in 2022 to fire about 30 tenured or tenure-track faculty and to eliminate a cluster of academic programs, which exacerbated&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/10/02/emporia-state-university-continues-enrollment-slide-while-other-kansas-universities-post-gains/">the university’s enrollment decline</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/12/emporia-state-university-president-defends-cuts-firings-in-bid-to-recast-higher-education-culture/">Hush’s unilateral dismissal of</a>&nbsp;personnel prompted a wave of lawsuits, which have yet to be fully resolved.

During Hush’s time at ESU, the Kansas Legislature earmarked tens of millions of dollars in special funding to stabilize the university. In addition, an attorney employed by ESU led an effort to persuade the Legislature to retroactively undermine faculty tenure statewide.

Hush, who plans to retire this month from ESU, said he would donate $1.4 million, or the equivalent of his four years of salary at ESU, to the university. The money would be used over three years for student recruitment, scholarships and campus operations, officials said.

“This gift is in appreciation for the meaningful impact ESU has had on our community and on me, both as a student and in my role as president,” Hush said.

Baker has worked at the public, four-year Northwest Missouri State for more than 30 years. He began in 1993 as the university’s residence hall director. He was off campus from 1996 to 1998 while completing a master’s degree in higher education administration in Arkansas. He returned to Northwest Missouri State and moved through several administrative jobs before being named dean of students in 2008.

Baker said he would conduct a listening tour to better understand the needs of Emporia State. He said ESU would be marked, under his tenure, by “shared governance, enhance(d) communication.”

He said he would rely on data to chart ESU future, because benchmarks on student retention or recruitment would reveal “where our opportunities are, where our successes are, what we celebrate.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765821587566.png" alt=" The Kansas Board of Regents selected Matthew Baker, an administrator at Northwest Missouri State University, to be the 19th president of Emporia State University. Baker earned a bachelor's degree at Kansas State Universities, and graduate degrees in Missouri and Arkansas. This September 2023 image is of ESU's Memorial Union. (Photo by Max McCoy/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> The Kansas Board of Regents selected Matthew Baker, an administrator at Northwest Missouri State University, to be the 19th president of Emporia State University. Baker earned a bachelor's degree at Kansas State Universities, and graduate degrees in Missouri and Arkansas. This September 2023 image is of ESU's Memorial Union. (Photo by Max McCoy/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Board of Regents selects Matthew Baker, a Kansas native and K-State graduate</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A 30-year higher education administrator at Northwest Missouri State University will return to Kansas for the opportunity to serve as president of Emporia State University.Matthew Baker, who grew up in Kansas and earned a psychology degree at Kansas State University, has been vice president of student affairs at NMSU in Maryville, Missouri, for the past 14 years. Baker is expected to begin leadership duties at ESU in March. He holds a master’s degree from University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and a doctorate in educational leadership from University of Missouri in Columbia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765821533818.png" alt="Matthew Baker photo Emporia State University" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Baker photo Emporia State University</figcaption>
 </figure>“It is the honor of my career to return to Kansas to serve as the university’s next president,” Baker said. “I will forever be grateful to Northwest for all it has done for me and my family. It is because of the experiences Northwest provided me that I am able to step into this role.”Blake Benson, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, said Baker was a “proven leader with extensive experience developing and implementing initiatives designed to help students succeed in college and after graduation.” The Board of Regents unanimously voted to hire Baker.Baker replaced Ken Hush, who became ESU president in 2021 and was an unusual appointee due to his lack of a graduate degree. Hush received an undergraduate degree from ESU and had a lengthy career in the private sector, including work with Koch Industries.Benson, on behalf of the Board of Regents, said Hush “consistently exhibited an unwavering commitment to serving ESU’s students and has worked hard to improve affordability and student success.”Hush invited controversy by deciding in 2022 to fire about 30 tenured or tenure-track faculty and to eliminate a cluster of academic programs, which exacerbated&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/10/02/emporia-state-university-continues-enrollment-slide-while-other-kansas-universities-post-gains/">the university’s enrollment decline</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/12/emporia-state-university-president-defends-cuts-firings-in-bid-to-recast-higher-education-culture/">Hush’s unilateral dismissal of</a>&nbsp;personnel prompted a wave of lawsuits, which have yet to be fully resolved.During Hush’s time at ESU, the Kansas Legislature earmarked tens of millions of dollars in special funding to stabilize the university. In addition, an attorney employed by ESU led an effort to persuade the Legislature to retroactively undermine faculty tenure statewide.Hush, who plans to retire this month from ESU, said he would donate $1.4 million, or the equivalent of his four years of salary at ESU, to the university. The money would be used over three years for student recruitment, scholarships and campus operations, officials said.“This gift is in appreciation for the meaningful impact ESU has had on our community and on me, both as a student and in my role as president,” Hush said.Baker has worked at the public, four-year Northwest Missouri State for more than 30 years. He began in 1993 as the university’s residence hall director. He was off campus from 1996 to 1998 while completing a master’s degree in higher education administration in Arkansas. He returned to Northwest Missouri State and moved through several administrative jobs before being named dean of students in 2008.Baker said he would conduct a listening tour to better understand the needs of Emporia State. He said ESU would be marked, under his tenure, by “shared governance, enhance(d) communication.”He said he would rely on data to chart ESU future, because benchmarks on student retention or recruitment would reveal “where our opportunities are, where our successes are, what we celebrate.”

Emporia State turns to Mo. higher education administrator to lead university

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating alleged child sex crimes in Riley County have made an arrest.

Just after 5p.m. December 12,&nbsp;Dakota Garner, 34, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for three counts aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

This arrest stems from a report filed on July 5, 2025. Garner is being held on a $300,000 bond. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating alleged child sex crimes in Riley County have made an arrest.Just after 5p.m. December 12,&nbsp;Dakota Garner, 34, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for three counts aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.This arrest stems from a report filed on July 5, 2025. Garner is being held on a $300,000 bond. The RCPD released no additional details.

RCPD: Suspect arrested for alleged child sex crimes 

At 1:43 a.m. on Monday Geary County Fire was dispatched to the 7100 block of Old Milford Road for a detached garage fire. While enroute, they were advised that the fire had spread to an adjoining shed. It was threatening a residential structure along with another shed.

Geary County Fire responded with 3 engines, 1 tanker, and two staff vehicles.Assistance from Junction City Fire and Ft. Riley Fire was requested and received. The fire was brought under control in about 40 minutes.

&nbsp;There were no injuries.An investigator with the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s office has been asked to respond to assist the local investigator.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765810226395.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>At 1:43 a.m. on Monday Geary County Fire was dispatched to the 7100 block of Old Milford Road for a detached garage fire. While enroute, they were advised that the fire had spread to an adjoining shed. It was threatening a residential structure along with another shed.Geary County Fire responded with 3 engines, 1 tanker, and two staff vehicles.Assistance from Junction City Fire and Ft. Riley Fire was requested and received. The fire was brought under control in about 40 minutes.&nbsp;There were no injuries.An investigator with the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s office has been asked to respond to assist the local investigator.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
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Geary County rural firefighters respond to early morning blaze

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 December 14, 15

The City of Manhattan announced that the Museum of Art + Light has been nominated for USA TODAY’s 10Best New Museums! 

This recognition is a testament to the community — thank you for believing in a museum that elevates digital artistry, celebrates immersive creativity, and reimagines how we experience art in the 21st century.Now we need your help to bring this honor home!

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/10best?__cft__[0]=AZbv2_ROI2lpIkQZa_YNs9Aff0OtSjT0FqyI6mF8KcI8X_cg53koazCtSI70KfG4Hwk6hP8xPaqK6mJ_BqFvMqXvH306XKxBgE2LQllrb4STQuuEjQdPCq_hsyqumzEQrOlTyUq6hMXfhIZOtBaHmBXK1Fs1CmvabeLZpLe3vI5sQIZFeIInu8T0We-5Iwo6ihZcfGLOIpmmpQncj786d27tnLpFRZcIVhkHODBpL36kYw&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USA TODAY 10Best</a>

You can vote once per day through December 22. Cast your vote here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2F10best.usatoday.com%2Fqr%2F55282%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZzZPN1lSU2lHUVpKS2c3MHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR68VXKCjmIWCPw2vHVxpBT1AGtTjyWDsTfCp02COILz8kibYKk7O1AVdDm4tg_aem_QvBXzq-5eJTCd_OLY5gkCg&amp;h=AT2T6XztrKjuA1QsBnJolT0r61pJYXazMsetrYKauVf5SbPu5mrLt0rZXlGSfYSpDaNsD1BNohvgafxPdF_Abm2Fgfn1WhrgdP8_IEZCH7LL9pp6v7cvCncLIlrwi43jdCrCTle9XNHQX3jLjNkS7aRwFS023LD0&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3NJQFINgkalsmvNldzcp3PfR9dSoy2X5c1lFo-RwT7wCCIuMgB1gDn3DX_5Rph4i9GUJr7xW2wf3iqYw4qEdIoHCvrfKRb0m9HNh0piBjQ1GtunaIAVpUsY0e-Oix4rdNc0MpbFF9rfanEuF9FkeVkA38Qfzip8qvzCrICx5lgWkyrqBDXlDQEH8u_jq65_lxI6o7hi7bffmKFNBebrDSO4sMbyZRQNOpKdOaz_p_brkApTA" target="_blank">https://10best.usatoday.com/qr/55282/</a>

The City of Manhattan announced that the Museum of Art + Light has been nominated for USA TODAY’s 10Best New Museums! This recognition is a testament to the community — thank you for believing in a museum that elevates digital artistry, celebrates immersive creativity, and reimagines how we experience art in the 21st century.Now we need your help to bring this honor home!<a href="https://www.facebook.com/10best?__cft__[0]=AZbv2_ROI2lpIkQZa_YNs9Aff0OtSjT0FqyI6mF8KcI8X_cg53koazCtSI70KfG4Hwk6hP8xPaqK6mJ_BqFvMqXvH306XKxBgE2LQllrb4STQuuEjQdPCq_hsyqumzEQrOlTyUq6hMXfhIZOtBaHmBXK1Fs1CmvabeLZpLe3vI5sQIZFeIInu8T0We-5Iwo6ihZcfGLOIpmmpQncj786d27tnLpFRZcIVhkHODBpL36kYw&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USA TODAY 10Best</a> You can vote once per day through December 22. Cast your vote here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2F10best.usatoday.com%2Fqr%2F55282%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZzZPN1lSU2lHUVpKS2c3MHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR68VXKCjmIWCPw2vHVxpBT1AGtTjyWDsTfCp02COILz8kibYKk7O1AVdDm4tg_aem_QvBXzq-5eJTCd_OLY5gkCg&amp;h=AT2T6XztrKjuA1QsBnJolT0r61pJYXazMsetrYKauVf5SbPu5mrLt0rZXlGSfYSpDaNsD1BNohvgafxPdF_Abm2Fgfn1WhrgdP8_IEZCH7LL9pp6v7cvCncLIlrwi43jdCrCTle9XNHQX3jLjNkS7aRwFS023LD0&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3NJQFINgkalsmvNldzcp3PfR9dSoy2X5c1lFo-RwT7wCCIuMgB1gDn3DX_5Rph4i9GUJr7xW2wf3iqYw4qEdIoHCvrfKRb0m9HNh0piBjQ1GtunaIAVpUsY0e-Oix4rdNc0MpbFF9rfanEuF9FkeVkA38Qfzip8qvzCrICx5lgWkyrqBDXlDQEH8u_jq65_lxI6o7hi7bffmKFNBebrDSO4sMbyZRQNOpKdOaz_p_brkApTA" target="_blank">https://10best.usatoday.com/qr/55282/</a>

 Museum of Art + Light nominated for an award

&nbsp; Chapman, KS — Downtown Dance, Tumbling &amp; Aerial Arts along with the City of Chapman is proud to announced that they been awarded a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to support the creation of an expanded upper-level aerial arts and tumbling facility. This project will not only provide much-needed space for the studio’s rapidly growing programs, but will restore the second floor of the building—originally the historic Buhrer Opera House—to its intended purpose as a multifunctional community space.

The studio partnered with the Flint Hills Regional Council to prepare and submit the grant application. Their guidance and expertise were instrumental in securing this funding for Chapman’s downtown district.The renovated upper level will serve as a training facility for aerial arts and tumbling students, offering expanded class capacity, upgraded equipment, and enhanced safety features. 

Beyond supporting the studio’s continued growth, the restored opera hall will also function as a dual-use event space, opening the door for: Dance, tumbling, and aerial arts conventions,Community gatherings,Workshops and special events, Performances and visiting entertainment groups.

&nbsp; The lower level of the building already serves as a vibrant community hub. One side houses an active dance studio, while the other includes the welcoming lobby for Downtown Place Spa Suites &amp; Event Space, home to Massage by Sway, Downtown Nail Nook, and Downtown Tanning. The addition of the restored upper level will further enhance the building’s role as a cornerstone of local activity and small-business collaboration.

“We are incredibly grateful for this grant and excited to bring new life to such a historic part of Chapman,” said Victoria Woods, owner of Downtown Dance, Tumbling &amp; Aerial Arts. “This project will allow us to meet the needs of our growing student base while creating a space that our entire community can enjoy. It honors the building’s past while investing in Chapman’s future.”

&nbsp; Chapman, KS — Downtown Dance, Tumbling &amp; Aerial Arts along with the City of Chapman is proud to announced that they been awarded a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to support the creation of an expanded upper-level aerial arts and tumbling facility. This project will not only provide much-needed space for the studio’s rapidly growing programs, but will restore the second floor of the building—originally the historic Buhrer Opera House—to its intended purpose as a multifunctional community space.The studio partnered with the Flint Hills Regional Council to prepare and submit the grant application. Their guidance and expertise were instrumental in securing this funding for Chapman’s downtown district.The renovated upper level will serve as a training facility for aerial arts and tumbling students, offering expanded class capacity, upgraded equipment, and enhanced safety features. Beyond supporting the studio’s continued growth, the restored opera hall will also function as a dual-use event space, opening the door for: Dance, tumbling, and aerial arts conventions,Community gatherings,Workshops and special events, Performances and visiting entertainment groups.&nbsp; The lower level of the building already serves as a vibrant community hub. One side houses an active dance studio, while the other includes the welcoming lobby for Downtown Place Spa Suites &amp; Event Space, home to Massage by Sway, Downtown Nail Nook, and Downtown Tanning. The addition of the restored upper level will further enhance the building’s role as a cornerstone of local activity and small-business collaboration.“We are incredibly grateful for this grant and excited to bring new life to such a historic part of Chapman,” said Victoria Woods, owner of Downtown Dance, Tumbling &amp; Aerial Arts. “This project will allow us to meet the needs of our growing student base while creating a space that our entire community can enjoy. It honors the building’s past while investing in Chapman’s future.”Construction planning is underway.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765676973070.png" alt=". Photo - Heartland Photography )" />
 <figcaption>. Photo - Heartland Photography )</figcaption>
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Community Development Block Grant supports a Chapman project

MANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications for its 2026 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, May 31, through Saturday, June 6, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 34th consecutive session at KSU and 88th overall.

Traditionally, Kansas&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.

The American Legion&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community,&nbsp;state&nbsp;and nation.&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the&nbsp;state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

The cost to attend the&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas&nbsp;program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2026 session should visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2026 program is Thursday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Saturday, Jan. 31, will receive a KBS sweatshirt or polo. Furthermore, delegates who are returning for a second year have the opportunity to attend the 2026 session for just $50 total, provided they get at least three people from their school (or another school) to attend.

Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/collegecredit/">three-hour course credit</a>&nbsp;(Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110-C]) through Kansas State University at a 72% discount, as well as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/scouts/">earn merit badges</a>&nbsp;to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/our-program/samsung-scholarship/">apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship</a>. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.

Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ksbstate.org/sponsor">ksbstate.org/sponsor</a>. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@ksbstate.org">info@ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;or (785) 550-6492.&nbsp; For complete information about the American Legion Boys State of Kansas program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.

For information about the 2026 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held Sunday, May 31, through Friday, June 5, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

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 </figure>Kansas Boys StateMANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications for its 2026 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, May 31, through Saturday, June 6, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 34th consecutive session at KSU and 88th overall.Traditionally, Kansas&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.The American Legion&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community,&nbsp;state&nbsp;and nation.&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the&nbsp;state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.The cost to attend the&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas&nbsp;program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2026 session should visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2026 program is Thursday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Saturday, Jan. 31, will receive a KBS sweatshirt or polo. Furthermore, delegates who are returning for a second year have the opportunity to attend the 2026 session for just $50 total, provided they get at least three people from their school (or another school) to attend.Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/collegecredit/">three-hour course credit</a>&nbsp;(Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110-C]) through Kansas State University at a 72% discount, as well as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/scouts/">earn merit badges</a>&nbsp;to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/our-program/samsung-scholarship/">apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship</a>. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ksbstate.org/sponsor">ksbstate.org/sponsor</a>. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@ksbstate.org">info@ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;or (785) 550-6492.&nbsp; For complete information about the American Legion Boys State of Kansas program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.For information about the 2026 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held Sunday, May 31, through Friday, June 5, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

Applications open for 2026 Kansas Boys State 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 December 13

Fort Riley has announced that facial recognition lanes are coming to Fort Riley’s Ogden and Henry gates. Drivers of single occupant vehicles with registered biometrics in the Automated Installation Entry (AIE) system may use the facial recognition lanes. 

Those who have a CAC, Dependent ID, Retiree ID, AIE card or paper pass, Veteran Health ID Card, or registered REAL ID driver’s license may travel through the gate without stopping to show ID. 

 The expected date of initial operation is Friday, December 19, 2025. For more information visit the Fort Riley website.



Fort Riley has announced that facial recognition lanes are coming to Fort Riley’s Ogden and Henry gates. Drivers of single occupant vehicles with registered biometrics in the Automated Installation Entry (AIE) system may use the facial recognition lanes. Those who have a CAC, Dependent ID, Retiree ID, AIE card or paper pass, Veteran Health ID Card, or registered REAL ID driver’s license may travel through the gate without stopping to show ID. The expected date of initial operation is Friday, December 19, 2025. For more information visit the Fort Riley website.

Facial recognition lanes are coming to a pair of Fort Riley gates

&nbsp; Sunset Zoo staff found an early Christmas present the morning of Sunday, December 7 when they discovered Kivuli, the black-and-white colobus monkey, had given birth overnight. When Kivuli started showing signs of impending birth, zookeepers installed cameras and started “baby watch.” Footage revealed that Kivuli gave birth around 1:30 a.m.

Mother and baby are both doing well. Kivuli is proving to be a very attentive first-time mom, providing the level of care keepers expect to see at this stage. Bobby, the father, is also protective, demonstrating territorial behavior of his troop and their space. The other female in the troop, Azizi, is also helping with baby care and will hold the baby for Kivuli for short periods.Sunset Zoo Director Scott Shoemaker remarked, “We are very excited about the birth of this baby colobus monkey. Every birth is a significant achievement, and we are very proud to be able to add to the population of this charismatic primate.”

Interim Zoo Curator, Madison Brandon, added, "Kivuli is our shiest Colobus. With a lot of patience, her care team was able to build up her trust throughout her pregnancy. Kivuli now approaches keepers to accept food items, now toting baby along as well. Her favorite food items are mulberry leaves, avocado, potato, and primate biscuits."&nbsp;The Ballard Indoor Primate Viewing Gallery has been closed for the past week to give them time to bond in a quiet environment. The Gallery will reopen on Saturday, December&nbsp; 13, with limited hours of 2 – 5 pm to reduce potential noise and stress for the family as they adjust to public viewing with their new addition. 

The Zoo asks guests to be conscientious when visiting the colobus habitat by using quiet voices and calm behavior. Kivuli will continue to have access to her behind-the-scenes den throughout the day and may choose to remain out of public view. The family will not have access to their outside habitat until the baby is larger.

. Naming the newborn will wait until after the sex is determined and caretakers get a sense of its personality.Black-and-white colobus monkeys are native to the forests and woodlands of equatorial Africa. They are sometimes called “skunk monkeys” because of their distinctive coloration. Newborn colobus monkeys are born totally white and gradually develop the black and white coloration of their parents.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Sunset Zoo staff found an early Christmas present the morning of Sunday, December 7 when they discovered Kivuli, the black-and-white colobus monkey, had given birth overnight. When Kivuli started showing signs of impending birth, zookeepers installed cameras and started “baby watch.” Footage revealed that Kivuli gave birth around 1:30 a.m.Mother and baby are both doing well. Kivuli is proving to be a very attentive first-time mom, providing the level of care keepers expect to see at this stage. Bobby, the father, is also protective, demonstrating territorial behavior of his troop and their space. The other female in the troop, Azizi, is also helping with baby care and will hold the baby for Kivuli for short periods.Sunset Zoo Director Scott Shoemaker remarked, “We are very excited about the birth of this baby colobus monkey. Every birth is a significant achievement, and we are very proud to be able to add to the population of this charismatic primate.”Interim Zoo Curator, Madison Brandon, added, "Kivuli is our shiest Colobus. With a lot of patience, her care team was able to build up her trust throughout her pregnancy. Kivuli now approaches keepers to accept food items, now toting baby along as well. Her favorite food items are mulberry leaves, avocado, potato, and primate biscuits."&nbsp;The Ballard Indoor Primate Viewing Gallery has been closed for the past week to give them time to bond in a quiet environment. The Gallery will reopen on Saturday, December&nbsp; 13, with limited hours of 2 – 5 pm to reduce potential noise and stress for the family as they adjust to public viewing with their new addition. The Zoo asks guests to be conscientious when visiting the colobus habitat by using quiet voices and calm behavior. Kivuli will continue to have access to her behind-the-scenes den throughout the day and may choose to remain out of public view. The family will not have access to their outside habitat until the baby is larger.. Naming the newborn will wait until after the sex is determined and caretakers get a sense of its personality.Black-and-white colobus monkeys are native to the forests and woodlands of equatorial Africa. They are sometimes called “skunk monkeys” because of their distinctive coloration. Newborn colobus monkeys are born totally white and gradually develop the black and white coloration of their parents.&nbsp;

Colobus Monkeys at Sunset Zoo Welcome Baby! 

Schedule and speakers for Friday, Dec. 12 ceremonies

Schedule and speakers for Saturday, Dec. 13 ceremonies

Schedule and speakers for Friday, Dec. 12 ceremonies<ul>
 <li>1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum: Graduate School. Regent John Dicus will represent the Kansas Board of Regents at the ceremony. J. Ernest Minton, professor of animal sciences and industry, will be the speaker.</li><li>7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina: K-State Salina. Lt. Col. Matthew Shelly, U.S. Air Force, will be the speaker.</li>
 </ul>Schedule and speakers for Saturday, Dec. 13 ceremonies<ul>
 <li>8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum: College of Architecture, Planning &amp; Design; College of Arts and Sciences; and College of Education. The student speakers will be Tinashe Sekabanja, bachelor's candidate in statistics,&nbsp;Kampala, Uganda, and Jordan White, bachelor's candidate in secondary education and chemistry,&nbsp;Shawnee.</li><li>10 a.m., Forum Hall, K-State Student Union: Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion commissioning ceremony. The commissioning officer and guest speaker is U.S. Army Col. Dallas McMullen, Brigade Commander of the 69th Troop Command, Kansas Army National Guard.</li><li>Noon, Bramlage Coliseum: College of Agriculture and College of Business Administration. Mike Leikam, '87, the president and chief executive officer of Centralized Supply Chain Services, LLC, will be the speaker. Weston Schrader, bachelor's candidate in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;Minneapolis, Kansas, and Max Roberts, bachelor's candidate in finance,&nbsp;Olathe, will be the student speakers.</li><li>3:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum: Carl R. Ice College of Engineering and College of Health and Human Sciences. The student speakers are Robert Holt, bachelor's candidate in mechanical engineering,&nbsp;Overland Park, and Cara Johnson, bachelor's candidate in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Lenexa.</li>
 </ul>

KSU Fall Commencement schedule

The&nbsp;5th Engineer Battalion patching ceremony will be held at King Field House, Fort Riley at 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 16. This event will celebrate the reflagging of the 5th Engineer Battalion under the 1st Infantry Division

The Army announced the restructuring to meet force requirements in the Army 2030 Design which necessitated the realignment of 5th Engineer Battalion from 36th Engineer Brigade to 1st Infantry Division. In keeping with Fort Riley and Big Red One tradition, the commanding general is hosting the 5th Engineer Battalion patching ceremony to fully welcome the battalion and its family members to the 1st Infantry Division.

As part of the Army 2030 initiative, the 5th Engineer Battalion Headquarters and its associated companies will relocate from Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri to Fort Riley by October 2026. This will bring nearly 250 Soldiers and their families to the Flint Hills region and more combat power to the Big Red One.

The 5th Engineer Battalion traces its history back to 1861, with the establishment of "Battalion of Engineer Troops" supporting the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War. Their lineage is inlaid in the history of the U.S. Army, serving in World War I, World War II, Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve.&nbsp;

The First Division is honored to add the legacy of the Fighting Fifth to the 108 years of service the Big Red One patch signifies.

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 </figure>By Kirk HutchinsonFort Riley Public Affairs SpecialistThe&nbsp;5th Engineer Battalion patching ceremony will be held at King Field House, Fort Riley at 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 16. This event will celebrate the reflagging of the 5th Engineer Battalion under the 1st Infantry DivisionThe Army announced the restructuring to meet force requirements in the Army 2030 Design which necessitated the realignment of 5th Engineer Battalion from 36th Engineer Brigade to 1st Infantry Division. In keeping with Fort Riley and Big Red One tradition, the commanding general is hosting the 5th Engineer Battalion patching ceremony to fully welcome the battalion and its family members to the 1st Infantry Division.As part of the Army 2030 initiative, the 5th Engineer Battalion Headquarters and its associated companies will relocate from Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri to Fort Riley by October 2026. This will bring nearly 250 Soldiers and their families to the Flint Hills region and more combat power to the Big Red One.The 5th Engineer Battalion traces its history back to 1861, with the establishment of "Battalion of Engineer Troops" supporting the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War. Their lineage is inlaid in the history of the U.S. Army, serving in World War I, World War II, Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Inherent Resolve.&nbsp;The First Division is honored to add the legacy of the Fighting Fifth to the 108 years of service the Big Red One patch signifies.

5th Engineer Battalion joins the Big Red One

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an online scam in Manhattan.

Just before noon Wednesday, officers in Manhattan&nbsp;filed a report of theft, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 A 34-year-old woman reported she was a victim of a text and email scam. The total estimated loss associated with this case is $9,500

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an online scam in Manhattan.Just before noon Wednesday, officers in Manhattan&nbsp;filed a report of theft, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 34-year-old woman reported she was a victim of a text and email scam. The total estimated loss associated with this case is $9,500

Manhattan woman lost $9,500 in online scam

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 December 12

This week the Kansas Department of Transportation has begun efforts to reopen I-70 through Junction City for unrestricted winter travel.

Due to unexpected work, motorists should anticipate construction on I-70 in Junction City to resume in mid-March 2026. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction and carried through the construction zone.

Wildcat Construction Co., of Wichita, is the prime contractor of this multi-phase, $30 million project and has scheduled all project work to be completed by June 2026, conditions permitting.

KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone. For more information on the project, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Fprojects%2Fi-70-pavement-replacement-in-junction-city%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019b0f1b4a39-8d3f4a28-458a-42da-a9c3-963966d8a4c4-000000/0RaecIyR4hWd8_oRgZHLGdfW0oTLb41TrzbIwdq2Kfw=435">ksdot.gov/projects/i-70-pavement-replacement-in-junction-city</a>.

<figure>
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 </figure>KDOTThis week the Kansas Department of Transportation has begun efforts to reopen I-70 through Junction City for unrestricted winter travel.Due to unexpected work, motorists should anticipate construction on I-70 in Junction City to resume in mid-March 2026. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction and carried through the construction zone.Wildcat Construction Co., of Wichita, is the prime contractor of this multi-phase, $30 million project and has scheduled all project work to be completed by June 2026, conditions permitting.KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone. For more information on the project, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2Fprojects%2Fi-70-pavement-replacement-in-junction-city%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019b0f1b4a39-8d3f4a28-458a-42da-a9c3-963966d8a4c4-000000/0RaecIyR4hWd8_oRgZHLGdfW0oTLb41TrzbIwdq2Kfw=435">ksdot.gov/projects/i-70-pavement-replacement-in-junction-city</a>.

TRAFFIC ALERT: I-70 in Junction City reopens for winter travel

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information (LMI) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in September. This is unchanged from 3.8% in August and unchanged from 3.8% in September 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas increased to 67.1% in September, according to a media release from KDOL.

The unemployment rate in Riley County is down from 3.9 percent in August to 3.9 percent in September. The rate in Geary County dropped from 5.4 percent in July and August to 4.5 percent. The rate is also down significantly in Pottawatomie and Wabaunsee counties.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 300 from August. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 2,000 over the month, while government increased by 1,700. The largest job gains in the private sector were in&nbsp;financial activities&nbsp;(+600 jobs). The largest decrease was in professional and business services&nbsp;(-2,300 jobs).

Since September 2024 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have decreased by 1,700. This change is due to a decrease of 2,500 private sector jobs and an increase of 800 government jobs.

Technical Note: This statement includes nonfarm jobs and labor force estimates for September 2025, which are produced using data from two monthly surveys. Data for nonfarm job estimates is collected through a survey of employers while the main input for labor force estimates is a survey of households. Data collected for this report references the week including September 12.&nbsp;

Due to the lapse in federal funding during the federal government shutdown, all Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) operations were suspended from Oct. 1, 2025, through Nov. 12, 2025. As a result, KDOL will not publish a separate report for the October 2025 Kansas Labor Report.

<figure>
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 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information (LMI) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in September. This is unchanged from 3.8% in August and unchanged from 3.8% in September 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas increased to 67.1% in September, according to a media release from KDOL.The unemployment rate in Riley County is down from 3.9 percent in August to 3.9 percent in September. The rate in Geary County dropped from 5.4 percent in July and August to 4.5 percent. The rate is also down significantly in Pottawatomie and Wabaunsee counties.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 300 from August. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 2,000 over the month, while government increased by 1,700. The largest job gains in the private sector were in&nbsp;financial activities&nbsp;(+600 jobs). The largest decrease was in professional and business services&nbsp;(-2,300 jobs).Since September 2024 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have decreased by 1,700. This change is due to a decrease of 2,500 private sector jobs and an increase of 800 government jobs.Technical Note: This statement includes nonfarm jobs and labor force estimates for September 2025, which are produced using data from two monthly surveys. Data for nonfarm job estimates is collected through a survey of employers while the main input for labor force estimates is a survey of households. Data collected for this report references the week including September 12.&nbsp;Due to the lapse in federal funding during the federal government shutdown, all Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) operations were suspended from Oct. 1, 2025, through Nov. 12, 2025. As a result, KDOL will not publish a separate report for the October 2025 Kansas Labor Report.

Jobless rate is down in Riley County and across the region

PAT MELGARES K-State Extension News Service

Kansas Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith says biosecurity practices will be key to stemming the spread of a highly contagious virus in horses that can cause respiratory issues, abortion and neurological damage.

Equine Herpesvirus-1, or EHV-1, has affected horses globally, though a recent outbreak in the United States has been reported in at least seven states – Texas, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Arizona.

“This is a virus that we tend to see during the winter months, much like the common cold or flu in humans,” Smith said. “It becomes more prevalent as we shut the barn up and put horses in there…and this tends to be the time of year that we have large (horse) exhibitions.”

In fact, Smith notes, the first sign of spread this fall was following a large national event in Texas. Because of that, some states have begun implementing regulations concerning horse shows, or cancelling them altogether.

“We haven’t instigated any new regulations in Kansas; we have talked to several event organizers, and talked them through a process of keeping horses safe, but if they elect to cancel an event, that’s up to them,” Smith said.

The neurological form of the disease is called Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy, or EHM, which results from damage to the blood vessels in the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include hind limbness or incoordination; difficulty standing or walking; difficulty urinating; lethargy; and fever or nasal discharge.

The mortality rate due to EHM is estimated to be between 30-50%.

“I’m told that the first sign you will see is that horses begin dragging their toes,” Smith said. “So, as they’re walking, you can see that their back feet will be dragging. As it progresses, the virus spreads to the spinal cord and will causes paralysis in some horses.”

While a vaccine is available to reduce the risk of contracting EHV-1, they are not reliably protective against EHM, Smith said. Instead, horse owners should follow a set of biosecurity measures to protect horses:

“I do think that what is going to break the cycle of this disease is biosecurity,” Smith said. “So, as you plan your travels, or if you’re going to an event or moving those horses, just do your homework. Make sure that the exhibition has got the proper processes in place. If you can go there, show your horse and leave (the same day), that’s fantastic. Limiting exposure of your horses is a big deal.”

The Equine Disease Communication Center keeps the most updated information on the spread of EHV-1 and EHM. Current summaries and status reports are available at https://equinediseasecc.org.

Kansans who suspect an outbreak of EHV-1 or EHM should notify the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Animal Health at 785-564-6601.

PAT MELGARES K-State Extension News ServiceKansas Animal Health Commissioner Justin Smith says biosecurity practices will be key to stemming the spread of a highly contagious virus in horses that can cause respiratory issues, abortion and neurological damage.Equine Herpesvirus-1, or EHV-1, has affected horses globally, though a recent outbreak in the United States has been reported in at least seven states – Texas, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Arizona.“This is a virus that we tend to see during the winter months, much like the common cold or flu in humans,” Smith said. “It becomes more prevalent as we shut the barn up and put horses in there…and this tends to be the time of year that we have large (horse) exhibitions.”In fact, Smith notes, the first sign of spread this fall was following a large national event in Texas. Because of that, some states have begun implementing regulations concerning horse shows, or cancelling them altogether.“We haven’t instigated any new regulations in Kansas; we have talked to several event organizers, and talked them through a process of keeping horses safe, but if they elect to cancel an event, that’s up to them,” Smith said.The neurological form of the disease is called Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy, or EHM, which results from damage to the blood vessels in the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include hind limbness or incoordination; difficulty standing or walking; difficulty urinating; lethargy; and fever or nasal discharge.The mortality rate due to EHM is estimated to be between 30-50%.“I’m told that the first sign you will see is that horses begin dragging their toes,” Smith said. “So, as they’re walking, you can see that their back feet will be dragging. As it progresses, the virus spreads to the spinal cord and will causes paralysis in some horses.”While a vaccine is available to reduce the risk of contracting EHV-1, they are not reliably protective against EHM, Smith said. Instead, horse owners should follow a set of biosecurity measures to protect horses:<ol>
 <li>Isolate horses that have been exposed to EHV-1 or are returning from events for about 14 days, to prevent introduction to the general population.</li><li>Monitor the horse’s temperatures twice daily to detect and act quickly on fever, which is an early symptom.</li><li>Keep horse’s EHV-1 vaccinations updated; booster shots are recommended.</li><li>Disinfect water buckets, brushes, halters, bits, bridles, clothes and boots after exposure at other facilities or events.</li><li>Minimize contact between horses, such as avoiding nose-to-nose interactions, and use barriers or extra stall space at events.</li><li>Change clothes and boots after returning from events, and never share equipment between horses.</li><li>Check with state animal health officials before traveling to out-of-state events. Some states have their own additional requirements, such as recent health papers.</li>
 </ol>“I do think that what is going to break the cycle of this disease is biosecurity,” Smith said. “So, as you plan your travels, or if you’re going to an event or moving those horses, just do your homework. Make sure that the exhibition has got the proper processes in place. If you can go there, show your horse and leave (the same day), that’s fantastic. Limiting exposure of your horses is a big deal.”The Equine Disease Communication Center keeps the most updated information on the spread of EHV-1 and EHM. Current summaries and status reports are available at https://equinediseasecc.org.Kansans who suspect an outbreak of EHV-1 or EHM should notify the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Animal Health at 785-564-6601.

Kansas health commissioner urges biosecurity to curb spread of EHV-1

Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan has been recognized as a 2026 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News &amp; World Report, marking the fifth consecutive year the hospital has received this honor. The hospital was also recognized as a Maternity Care Access Hospital for its essential role in serving underserved communities at risk of becoming maternity care deserts. 

Only 147 hospitals – representing just 16% of all evaluated hospitals – earned this distinction for their critical contributions to maternity care access.The recognition reflects strong performance in quality measures including C-section rates in lower-risk pregnancies, severe newborn complication rates, exclusive breast milk feeding rates and birthing-friendly practices.

<figure>
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 </figure>By Bill Kueser Ascension Via ChristiVia Christi Hospital in Manhattan has been recognized as a 2026 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News &amp; World Report, marking the fifth consecutive year the hospital has received this honor. The hospital was also recognized as a Maternity Care Access Hospital for its essential role in serving underserved communities at risk of becoming maternity care deserts. Only 147 hospitals – representing just 16% of all evaluated hospitals – earned this distinction for their critical contributions to maternity care access.The recognition reflects strong performance in quality measures including C-section rates in lower-risk pregnancies, severe newborn complication rates, exclusive breast milk feeding rates and birthing-friendly practices.

Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan Named Best Hospital for Maternity Care

The Army reminds that the 1st Infantry Division Band takes the stage Friday evening at the C.L. Hoover Opera House for a holiday concert.

 Showtimes: are Dec. 12 at 7 PM and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 2 PM.

The Army reminds that the 1st Infantry Division Band takes the stage Friday evening at the C.L. Hoover Opera House for a holiday concert. Showtimes: are Dec. 12 at 7 PM and Sunday, Dec. 14 at 2 PM.There is free admission.

1st Infantry Division Band will perform a holiday concert

According to the Abilene CVB ﻿last week, the Kansas I-70 Association received an $8,000&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lxpkejcab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-BXEgii_3Jty0EnVtg7_Zd6q6fzIqc4jjBd-Bzzr4rHpJ9AyxYw9DCeCkbp6oJNTWmoXpc-qCatm1e3yYVjekzVk4ci0509A-_eDcfJO6vfUB5Y0kGpX0XU6h_plYLxV0T8BowCKP3mb_NuNER4tBBiBfaMZkwPsbDZ8hIOX-lJJAD4MnKu0-0OrxnnMHvPXpj-IO9rsYgG3cOgj554-HcJ9T5AmQfT4uWmhkYGaBBQQu6EhRnYSIMLF_Sgn_-OVReV-yYsSHdIus7EyyRGf6N_xyfxO__iaD2GtiMw0dkcxaaEXU7H_8zkq8QQZX04clTTn_0ISEvPYOzmgsp5xFb0TxVK-YxXo2mYRmVDB-sP4-UEvkVHh-5h2r0BWEFfjBYBT_IRa-3ea0QeNa_8h-hY_8KVue31WHyv28zg2N7KGLNc0w8IyCgUqBd__Rf1exMoN6paK_ulHpIeBclEfhBjX6NH0YG9d&amp;c=8Z5vH_Imp50N5I5LHpX2jQAmIaf_B4zr_y7IUgXP5mTiZoD_ZRKaAQ==&amp;ch=JUC4PuxPoJRiHah6cGKTHAdecbcE8a8QBWV6ZWmrI5P3NY7UHkuRLA==">Kansas Tourism</a>&nbsp;Marketing Grant to create a brand-new Digital Passport Program. This interactive experience will help travelers discover attractions all along the I-70 corridor and tie into both the World Cup and America 250 celebrations.

According to the Abilene CVB ﻿last week, the Kansas I-70 Association received an $8,000&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lxpkejcab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-BXEgii_3Jty0EnVtg7_Zd6q6fzIqc4jjBd-Bzzr4rHpJ9AyxYw9DCeCkbp6oJNTWmoXpc-qCatm1e3yYVjekzVk4ci0509A-_eDcfJO6vfUB5Y0kGpX0XU6h_plYLxV0T8BowCKP3mb_NuNER4tBBiBfaMZkwPsbDZ8hIOX-lJJAD4MnKu0-0OrxnnMHvPXpj-IO9rsYgG3cOgj554-HcJ9T5AmQfT4uWmhkYGaBBQQu6EhRnYSIMLF_Sgn_-OVReV-yYsSHdIus7EyyRGf6N_xyfxO__iaD2GtiMw0dkcxaaEXU7H_8zkq8QQZX04clTTn_0ISEvPYOzmgsp5xFb0TxVK-YxXo2mYRmVDB-sP4-UEvkVHh-5h2r0BWEFfjBYBT_IRa-3ea0QeNa_8h-hY_8KVue31WHyv28zg2N7KGLNc0w8IyCgUqBd__Rf1exMoN6paK_ulHpIeBclEfhBjX6NH0YG9d&amp;c=8Z5vH_Imp50N5I5LHpX2jQAmIaf_B4zr_y7IUgXP5mTiZoD_ZRKaAQ==&amp;ch=JUC4PuxPoJRiHah6cGKTHAdecbcE8a8QBWV6ZWmrI5P3NY7UHkuRLA==">Kansas Tourism</a>&nbsp;Marketing Grant to create a brand-new Digital Passport Program. This interactive experience will help travelers discover attractions all along the I-70 corridor and tie into both the World Cup and America 250 celebrations.

Kansas I-70 Association Receives Grant

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/2025/12/1765465950136.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report December 11

RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating a hit-and-run incident involving a police vehicle in Manhattan.

Just before 3 a.m. on Dec. 10 in the 1600 block of Fair Lane, victims including&nbsp;a 37-year-old man, a 42-year-old man, a 41-year-old man and D &amp; I Rentals reported two suspects attempted to strike two officers with their 2014 Chevy Silverado before reversing and driving into an occupied patrol unit during a traffic stop, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.

The suspects are wanted for allegedly fleeing or attempting to elude, aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer, interference with a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, reckless driving, criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute, possession of paraphernalia and possession of marijuana, according to the RCPD.

The suspects, identified as two 41-year-old men and a 42-year-old woman&nbsp; fled the scene. Anyone with information, contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000

RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating a hit-and-run incident involving a police vehicle in Manhattan.Just before 3 a.m. on Dec. 10 in the 1600 block of Fair Lane, victims including&nbsp;a 37-year-old man, a 42-year-old man, a 41-year-old man and D &amp; I Rentals reported two suspects attempted to strike two officers with their 2014 Chevy Silverado before reversing and driving into an occupied patrol unit during a traffic stop, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.The suspects are wanted for allegedly fleeing or attempting to elude, aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer, interference with a law enforcement officer, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, reckless driving, criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute, possession of paraphernalia and possession of marijuana, according to the RCPD.The suspects, identified as two 41-year-old men and a 42-year-old woman&nbsp; fled the scene. Anyone with information, contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000

RCPD: 3 wanted for hit-and-run crash into patrol vehicle

Joshua Kinder RCPD Public Information Officer&nbsp;

Whether as a teacher or dispatcher, or even in the next chapter of her life as a soon-to-be retiree and full-time grandmother, Evans has always been drawn to helping others.

In January, Evans will walk away from the Riley County Police Department after more than eight years on the job. She came to RCPD after teaching 17 years at Flint Hills Christian School where she taught 4th grade and also junior high and high school math. 

One thing is certain, though. Evans doesn’t plan to slow down, even in retirement.

“I’m retiring to things, not from things, like RCPD,” she said. “I love RCPD, but there are so many other things I really want to do as well. It’s been a great job and I have absolutely loved being a dispatcher. I’m going to miss it.

“But I’m going to be grandma, and my husband and I want to travel because we have a lot of adventures yet that we’re looking forward to.”

Evans came to the police department after answering a social media post about an open dispatcher position. She hadn’t considered a job in law enforcement before, but thought she might have the right skillset for the position. After all, the classroom can prepare a person for a lot of things.

“There was a tweet that said, ‘Did you ever want to tell a cop where to go? Come be a dispatcher,’” Evans said. “I thought that was really funny and I started thinking about what it takes to be a dispatcher.”

Evans wasn’t completely foreign to the life of first responders, though. Her grandfather was a firefighter and her brother was a volunteer firefighter, so there was some familiarity, but it’s still not quite the same.

“Law enforcement, it was just what I read in books,” said Evans, who turned down two other job offers without knowing for sure if she had the dispatcher position at RCPD. “I didn’t have experience with law enforcement at all, so it was really about understanding all of the details of why we do what we do – it didn’t come really easy to me. It was a huge learning curve.”

If there was one thing that did come natural to Evans, it was the confidence that she wouldn’t panic under pressure.

“As a teacher, I never panicked when a kid would fall and break their arm on the playground, and I taught at an inner-city Cincinnati school where there were some extreme behaviors, so I sort of knew I wasn’t going to panic,” said Evans, who was also a stay-at-home mom between her time teaching in Cincinnati and Manhattan. “I do love problem solving, so I thought that would be a skill I could bring to it. But I didn’t know for sure because none of us know until we’re actually doing it.”

But this was an entirely different kind of problem solving. As a dispatcher, they really are the community’s first responders in times of crisis. RCPD’s communications center handles all the emergency calls for Riley County, including police, fire and EMS.

“That’s a real honor, so to be able to give them hope, give them the encouragement and reassurance that somebody is on their way,” Evans said. “And to be able to know what kind of help they need and get the right response to them as quickly as possible – that’s really encouraging to me. That’s the reason I do it.

“We talk a lot about how dispatch brings order out of chaos. I love sorting through what is being reported, putting it into an orderly fashion and then be able to pass it on to first responders, so they can get there and respond appropriately.”

Responding appropriately really says it all for Evans, who has taken on RCPD’s Project: Guardians program with the same care and compassion she shows distressed callers. It’s important to her and hits close to home too.

Project: Guardians is a community program developed by RCPD to help officers and first responders provide appropriate responses to those who require special assistance in the community – like children, who have wandered away from home, or may have special needs. It also serves those in the community with cognitive disorders, Autism and Alzheimer’s and have a difficult time communicating. This program began in 2016, but Evans has really taken the lead in recent years, making presentations to community groups and organizations to help sign people up in the program.

“My aunt (with Alzheimer’s) was on a boat in Branson when she went in one door of the bathroom with my mom and then went out the other door and they couldn’t find her,” Evans said. “Just the fear in those situations and knowing how much reassurance there would have been if they had a photo of her already or a description. My mom was panicked, couldn’t even remember what she was wearing that day.”

Project: Guardians utilizes a private, secure database located with the records of RCPD that includes a digital photo, personal and contact information and ways to get in contact with a caregiver.

“We gather that information – not in the stress of the moment – but when you’re able to sit down and know they normally wear this kind of shoe, where they might hide or whatever behavior is their tendency,” Evans said. “You want to be able to think of those things calmly, not under stress. And then we have that information when there is a stressful situation or a crisis and we can pass that information along. It’s just beautiful when it works and we can easily resolve a situation without making it traumatic for either the officers or especially for the person we’re looking for or engaged with.”

“We had one who ran away and he loved superheroes and ambulances, and he loved police lights,” Evans said. “Mom was trying to get him to go to the hospital for a mental health crisis. We knew which direction he had gone – we had descriptors and mom was able to tell us what he was wearing that day. We already had height, weight, hair color because he was in Project: Guardians. The officer who was responding – he had that information and could see him up ahead. The officer called him by name and said, ‘Hey, I hear you like superheroes.’ The officer confirmed it was him and we got mom on the phone, and she asked, ‘Because he liked ambulances, can you get an ambulance to take him to the hospital?’

So, we staged an ambulance a block away, mom gave permission and the officer says, ‘Hey, there’s an ambulance over there, do you want to see it?’ They walk over to the ambulance and EMS has also communicated with us also, so they ask if he wants to ride in the ambulance. He willingly goes to the hospital and mom meets him there. Instead of any sort of crisis or escalation, it’s now de-escalated and he’s where he needs to be, but voluntarily and cooperating.”

Her work with Project: Guardians has inspired Evans to hopefully encourage other agencies to start similar initiatives. Perhaps in Lawrence, where she will be moving to be closer to her grandchildren.

“I’m hoping – because we’re moving – to contact agencies in that area and if they don’t have programs like that, to help them see the value of it and do whatever I can to help them start it,” she said. “I firmly believe the more information you can give officers or first responders ahead of time, the better the response is going to be and the better the outcome is going to be for everybody.”

Evans also has plans to assist the Lawrence unhoused population – in her own special way.

“We have a church that we’re already involved with there and one of the things I’m really excited about is something they have called a ‘washed ministry,’ where they have a trailer for unhoused people to take showers and do some laundry,” she said. “It’s a huge issue there, and one of things I’m going to be able to is help mend clothing – one of my skills is sewing – so I’m excited to be able to help with that population.

“It’s something that is important to me because I believe everyone needs to be seen and heard and treated as a human being.”

Joshua Kinder RCPD Public Information Officer&nbsp;Whether as a teacher or dispatcher, or even in the next chapter of her life as a soon-to-be retiree and full-time grandmother, Evans has always been drawn to helping others.In January, Evans will walk away from the Riley County Police Department after more than eight years on the job. She came to RCPD after teaching 17 years at Flint Hills Christian School where she taught 4th grade and also junior high and high school math. One thing is certain, though. Evans doesn’t plan to slow down, even in retirement.“I’m retiring to things, not from things, like RCPD,” she said. “I love RCPD, but there are so many other things I really want to do as well. It’s been a great job and I have absolutely loved being a dispatcher. I’m going to miss it.“But I’m going to be grandma, and my husband and I want to travel because we have a lot of adventures yet that we’re looking forward to.”Evans came to the police department after answering a social media post about an open dispatcher position. She hadn’t considered a job in law enforcement before, but thought she might have the right skillset for the position. After all, the classroom can prepare a person for a lot of things.“There was a tweet that said, ‘Did you ever want to tell a cop where to go? Come be a dispatcher,’” Evans said. “I thought that was really funny and I started thinking about what it takes to be a dispatcher.”Evans wasn’t completely foreign to the life of first responders, though. Her grandfather was a firefighter and her brother was a volunteer firefighter, so there was some familiarity, but it’s still not quite the same.“Law enforcement, it was just what I read in books,” said Evans, who turned down two other job offers without knowing for sure if she had the dispatcher position at RCPD. “I didn’t have experience with law enforcement at all, so it was really about understanding all of the details of why we do what we do – it didn’t come really easy to me. It was a huge learning curve.”If there was one thing that did come natural to Evans, it was the confidence that she wouldn’t panic under pressure.“As a teacher, I never panicked when a kid would fall and break their arm on the playground, and I taught at an inner-city Cincinnati school where there were some extreme behaviors, so I sort of knew I wasn’t going to panic,” said Evans, who was also a stay-at-home mom between her time teaching in Cincinnati and Manhattan. “I do love problem solving, so I thought that would be a skill I could bring to it. But I didn’t know for sure because none of us know until we’re actually doing it.”But this was an entirely different kind of problem solving. As a dispatcher, they really are the community’s first responders in times of crisis. RCPD’s communications center handles all the emergency calls for Riley County, including police, fire and EMS.“That’s a real honor, so to be able to give them hope, give them the encouragement and reassurance that somebody is on their way,” Evans said. “And to be able to know what kind of help they need and get the right response to them as quickly as possible – that’s really encouraging to me. That’s the reason I do it.“We talk a lot about how dispatch brings order out of chaos. I love sorting through what is being reported, putting it into an orderly fashion and then be able to pass it on to first responders, so they can get there and respond appropriately.”Responding appropriately really says it all for Evans, who has taken on RCPD’s Project: Guardians program with the same care and compassion she shows distressed callers. It’s important to her and hits close to home too.Project: Guardians is a community program developed by RCPD to help officers and first responders provide appropriate responses to those who require special assistance in the community – like children, who have wandered away from home, or may have special needs. It also serves those in the community with cognitive disorders, Autism and Alzheimer’s and have a difficult time communicating. This program began in 2016, but Evans has really taken the lead in recent years, making presentations to community groups and organizations to help sign people up in the program.“My aunt (with Alzheimer’s) was on a boat in Branson when she went in one door of the bathroom with my mom and then went out the other door and they couldn’t find her,” Evans said. “Just the fear in those situations and knowing how much reassurance there would have been if they had a photo of her already or a description. My mom was panicked, couldn’t even remember what she was wearing that day.”Project: Guardians utilizes a private, secure database located with the records of RCPD that includes a digital photo, personal and contact information and ways to get in contact with a caregiver.“We gather that information – not in the stress of the moment – but when you’re able to sit down and know they normally wear this kind of shoe, where they might hide or whatever behavior is their tendency,” Evans said. “You want to be able to think of those things calmly, not under stress. And then we have that information when there is a stressful situation or a crisis and we can pass that information along. It’s just beautiful when it works and we can easily resolve a situation without making it traumatic for either the officers or especially for the person we’re looking for or engaged with.”Evans knows this program works.“We had one who ran away and he loved superheroes and ambulances, and he loved police lights,” Evans said. “Mom was trying to get him to go to the hospital for a mental health crisis. We knew which direction he had gone – we had descriptors and mom was able to tell us what he was wearing that day. We already had height, weight, hair color because he was in Project: Guardians. The officer who was responding – he had that information and could see him up ahead. The officer called him by name and said, ‘Hey, I hear you like superheroes.’ The officer confirmed it was him and we got mom on the phone, and she asked, ‘Because he liked ambulances, can you get an ambulance to take him to the hospital?’So, we staged an ambulance a block away, mom gave permission and the officer says, ‘Hey, there’s an ambulance over there, do you want to see it?’ They walk over to the ambulance and EMS has also communicated with us also, so they ask if he wants to ride in the ambulance. He willingly goes to the hospital and mom meets him there. Instead of any sort of crisis or escalation, it’s now de-escalated and he’s where he needs to be, but voluntarily and cooperating.”Her work with Project: Guardians has inspired Evans to hopefully encourage other agencies to start similar initiatives. Perhaps in Lawrence, where she will be moving to be closer to her grandchildren.“I’m hoping – because we’re moving – to contact agencies in that area and if they don’t have programs like that, to help them see the value of it and do whatever I can to help them start it,” she said. “I firmly believe the more information you can give officers or first responders ahead of time, the better the response is going to be and the better the outcome is going to be for everybody.”Evans also has plans to assist the Lawrence unhoused population – in her own special way.“We have a church that we’re already involved with there and one of the things I’m really excited about is something they have called a ‘washed ministry,’ where they have a trailer for unhoused people to take showers and do some laundry,” she said. “It’s a huge issue there, and one of things I’m going to be able to is help mend clothing – one of my skills is sewing – so I’m excited to be able to help with that population.“It’s something that is important to me because I believe everyone needs to be seen and heard and treated as a human being.”

RCPD's Evans is the Calm in Callers' Storms

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/2025/12/1765379140974.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

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