TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly, alongside the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, announced the launch of the Build Kansas Fund, which provides state matching dollars to Kansas communities for infrastructure projects approved under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.&nbsp;

The Build Kansas Fund will invest $200 million directly into Kansas communities to support projects that include water, transportation, energy, cybersecurity, and broadband through Fiscal Year 2027.&nbsp;

“The Build Kansas Fund&nbsp;makes it possible for communities&nbsp;across the state&nbsp;to seize the tremendous opportunities provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” Kelly said. “These matching dollars empower our local leaders to forge ahead with projects that&nbsp;will grow our economy,&nbsp;connect&nbsp;people and businesses to&nbsp;high-speed internet,&nbsp;and&nbsp;build safer infrastructure&nbsp;that&nbsp;improves&nbsp;life for all Kansans.”&nbsp;

Governor Kelly announced the creation of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub in 2022 to ensure Kansas has an effective and efficient distribution of the funds received from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

The Kansas Infrastructure Hub, a coordinating body comprised of representatives from the Kansas Departments of Administration, Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Environment and Transportation, along with the Kansas Corporation Commission and the Kansas Water Office, will manage the Build Kansas Fund, offering technical assistance, tracking funds, and promoting grant opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The Kansas Infrastructure Hub has been working diligently to unite cross-sector stakeholders around Kansas’ infrastructure priorities,”&nbsp;said Calvin Reed, secretary of the Kansas Department of Transportation. “We look forward to supporting Build Kansas Fund applicants as they strive to optimize their BIL projects’ potential.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eligible entities include Kansas state agencies, counties, municipalities, special districts, community organizations, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes that have or intend to apply for a federal BIL program requiring a non-federal match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Build Kansas Fund Application is live. Entities can apply via the Kansas Infrastructure Hub website at:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NodWIub3JnL2tzLWluZnJhc3RydWN0dXJlLWh1Yi1idWlsZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTkuODI4MTcxMTEifQ.jHFM4Wc7NC8qs5eap64ebC8bnOapVZhMmavOf62fLtg/s/1303161001/br/226210595650-l" target="_blank">https://kshub.org/ks-infrastructure-hub-build</a>&nbsp;

To learn more about the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.1fYzePq0BelMvX889O1KO06E2fDKtQG3_Rc97Hk_GiI/s/1303161001/br/226210595650-l" target="_blank">kshub.org</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695225954348.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Office of GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly, alongside the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, announced the launch of the Build Kansas Fund, which provides state matching dollars to Kansas communities for infrastructure projects approved under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.&nbsp;The Build Kansas Fund will invest $200 million directly into Kansas communities to support projects that include water, transportation, energy, cybersecurity, and broadband through Fiscal Year 2027.&nbsp;“The Build Kansas Fund&nbsp;makes it possible for communities&nbsp;across the state&nbsp;to seize the tremendous opportunities provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” Kelly said. “These matching dollars empower our local leaders to forge ahead with projects that&nbsp;will grow our economy,&nbsp;connect&nbsp;people and businesses to&nbsp;high-speed internet,&nbsp;and&nbsp;build safer infrastructure&nbsp;that&nbsp;improves&nbsp;life for all Kansans.”&nbsp;Governor Kelly announced the creation of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub in 2022 to ensure Kansas has an effective and efficient distribution of the funds received from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The Kansas Infrastructure Hub, a coordinating body comprised of representatives from the Kansas Departments of Administration, Agriculture, Commerce, Health and Environment and Transportation, along with the Kansas Corporation Commission and the Kansas Water Office, will manage the Build Kansas Fund, offering technical assistance, tracking funds, and promoting grant opportunities.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Kansas Infrastructure Hub has been working diligently to unite cross-sector stakeholders around Kansas’ infrastructure priorities,”&nbsp;said Calvin Reed, secretary of the Kansas Department of Transportation. “We look forward to supporting Build Kansas Fund applicants as they strive to optimize their BIL projects’ potential.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Eligible entities include Kansas state agencies, counties, municipalities, special districts, community organizations, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes that have or intend to apply for a federal BIL program requiring a non-federal match.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Build Kansas Fund Application is live. Entities can apply via the Kansas Infrastructure Hub website at:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NodWIub3JnL2tzLWluZnJhc3RydWN0dXJlLWh1Yi1idWlsZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTkuODI4MTcxMTEifQ.jHFM4Wc7NC8qs5eap64ebC8bnOapVZhMmavOf62fLtg/s/1303161001/br/226210595650-l" target="_blank">https://kshub.org/ks-infrastructure-hub-build</a>&nbsp;To learn more about the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.1fYzePq0BelMvX889O1KO06E2fDKtQG3_Rc97Hk_GiI/s/1303161001/br/226210595650-l" target="_blank">kshub.org</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Build Kansas Fund will accelerate community infrastructure projects

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.&nbsp;

JERETH JACOB JULiO ROYBAL, 27, Ogden, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; 

DARRYL BRUCE WHEELER JR, 52, Manhattan, Parole Violation; Failure to appear; Bond $2,000

BRIAN JAMES DROGE, 42, Wichita, Failure to appear; Bond $8,000

MICHAEL DUANE WESTGATE, 43, Manhattan, Violation of Court Order; Bond $25,000

EMMETT SIC, 20, Fort Riley, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv.; blood breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $1,500

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.&nbsp;JERETH JACOB JULiO ROYBAL, 27, Ogden, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; DARRYL BRUCE WHEELER JR, 52, Manhattan, Parole Violation; Failure to appear; Bond $2,000BRIAN JAMES DROGE, 42, Wichita, Failure to appear; Bond $8,000MICHAEL DUANE WESTGATE, 43, Manhattan, Violation of Court Order; Bond $25,000EMMETT SIC, 20, Fort Riley, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv.; blood breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $1,500

Riley County Arrest Report September 25

Tracy Duran, MSN, BSN, RN, has been named Interim Administrator at the Stormont Vail Health Flint Hills Campus providing leadership to the hospital and rural health care clinic. Tracy is filling the role that was held by Tim Bergeron, who has resigned.

Duran has been a strong leader at the Flint Hills Campus. She served as an integral transition team member to bring the Junction City operations into the Stormont Vail system and has continued to be a leader through her post as Acute Care Director at Flint Hills/Regional Director of Nursing.

Duran has a background in acute care operations, regulatory and compliance work, virtual nursing, and Emergency Department nursing. Duran began at Stormont Vail in 2004 as a patient care technician while she was working toward her nursing degree and joined the organization as a Registered Nurse in 2008. Tracy has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Baker University School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing in Healthcare Administration from MidAmerican Nazarene University. She was honored as an Ingram’s Magazine Heroes in Healthcare in Nursing in 2019.

Stormont Vail Health Flint Hills CampusTracy Duran, MSN, BSN, RN, has been named Interim Administrator at the Stormont Vail Health Flint Hills Campus providing leadership to the hospital and rural health care clinic. Tracy is filling the role that was held by Tim Bergeron, who has resigned.Duran has been a strong leader at the Flint Hills Campus. She served as an integral transition team member to bring the Junction City operations into the Stormont Vail system and has continued to be a leader through her post as Acute Care Director at Flint Hills/Regional Director of Nursing.Duran has a background in acute care operations, regulatory and compliance work, virtual nursing, and Emergency Department nursing. Duran began at Stormont Vail in 2004 as a patient care technician while she was working toward her nursing degree and joined the organization as a Registered Nurse in 2008. Tracy has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Baker University School of Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing in Healthcare Administration from MidAmerican Nazarene University. She was honored as an Ingram’s Magazine Heroes in Healthcare in Nursing in 2019.

Tracy Duran named interim administrator at Stormont Vail Health Flint Hills Campus

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Jobseekers are encouraged to attend the upcoming State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 27.

This month’s virtual fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, will feature many exciting employment opportunities available across the state’s 98 government agencies. Currently, there are more than 700 vacancies across the state.

“Our agencies are looking for talented individuals who want to serve Kansas and make it the best place to work, play and raise a family,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“These are good-paying jobs with great benefits. When we bring in skilled people to fill them, we’re setting the stage for a bright future of growth and prosperity in our great state.”

Registration is required to participate in the event, regardless of previous participation. The Virtual Job Fair portal features a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device, but it is highly recommended to use a computer to be most effective during the job fairs. 

If a jobseeker does not have access to a personal computer, they are available at&nbsp;KANSASWORKS offices as well as local libraries throughout the state. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at 877-509-6757 prior to the event.

To register for the September 27 State Agencies Virtual Job Fair, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLnByZW1pZXJ2aXJ0dWFsLmNvbS9ldmVudHMvNjQ4MjBiMTItM2YyNC00MGM0LWIwYTgtM2Q1MTZjOTYwOWUxL3N0YXRlLW9mLWthbnNhcy1hZ2VuY2llcy1nb3Zlcm5tZW50LWpvYnMtdmlydHVhbC1qb2ItZmFpci1zZXB0ZW1iZXItMjcsLTIwMjMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTIwLjgyODc3MzQxIn0.UsA5Stn2Xbl1zCykB0KMzdpBH4ykKaSXOTQMSlJhEkE/s/1303161001/br/226280206399-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690385736137.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDCTOPEKA&nbsp;– Jobseekers are encouraged to attend the upcoming State of Kansas Agencies Virtual Job Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 27. This month’s virtual fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, will feature many exciting employment opportunities available across the state’s 98 government agencies. Currently, there are more than 700 vacancies across the state.“Our agencies are looking for talented individuals who want to serve Kansas and make it the best place to work, play and raise a family,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said.&nbsp;“These are good-paying jobs with great benefits. When we bring in skilled people to fill them, we’re setting the stage for a bright future of growth and prosperity in our great state.”Registration is required to participate in the event, regardless of previous participation. The Virtual Job Fair portal features a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.Candidates can participate through any digital device, but it is highly recommended to use a computer to be most effective during the job fairs. If a jobseeker does not have access to a personal computer, they are available at&nbsp;KANSASWORKS offices as well as local libraries throughout the state. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at 877-509-6757 prior to the event.To register for the September 27 State Agencies Virtual Job Fair, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXBwLnByZW1pZXJ2aXJ0dWFsLmNvbS9ldmVudHMvNjQ4MjBiMTItM2YyNC00MGM0LWIwYTgtM2Q1MTZjOTYwOWUxL3N0YXRlLW9mLWthbnNhcy1hZ2VuY2llcy1nb3Zlcm5tZW50LWpvYnMtdmlydHVhbC1qb2ItZmFpci1zZXB0ZW1iZXItMjcsLTIwMjMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwOTIwLjgyODc3MzQxIn0.UsA5Stn2Xbl1zCykB0KMzdpBH4ykKaSXOTQMSlJhEkE/s/1303161001/br/226280206399-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Virtual job fair to highlight hundreds of state agency opportunities

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is setting the stage as a national leader in digital agriculture with the launch of the interdisciplinary&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/id3a">Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics</a>.The institute is a people-centered interdisciplinary collective transforming learning, research and outreach around digital technologies and advanced analytical methods to enhance agricultural, environmental and socioeconomic decision making.

Work done at the institute will include developing and integrating analytical methods and digital technologies — like sensors, automation and robots — that enhance food production and inform decision making for sustainable and resilient systems."

A next-generation land-grant university is an innovative university, and that's exactly what we're doing with our new Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics," said K-State President Richard Linton. 

"Through this new institute, Kansas State University is working across disciplines to solve global agricultural problems and build the economic prosperity of Kansas and one of our state's key industries."Harnessing expertise from the College of Agriculture, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education, the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus, and K-State Research and Extension, the institute will advance research and learning in the digital agriculture and advanced analytics realm.The institute's core administrative team consists of Ignacio Ciampitti, professor of agronomy; Brian McCornack, professor and department head of entomology; Ajay Sharda, professor of biological and agricultural engineering; Trevor Hefley, associate professor of statistics; Shawn Hutchinson, professor of geography and geospatial sciences; Pascal Hitzler, professor of computer science and director of the center for artificial intelligence and data science; and Susan Metzger, director of both the Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment and the Kansas Water Resources Institute."

The interdisciplinary structure of the institute will give faculty and students the opportunity to experience firsthand how professionals in different disciplines approach and solve problems," said Hutchinson. "These perspectives and deep technological expertise will enrich agricultural research and outreach efforts and strengthen degree programs, producing our next-generation agricultural practitioners, researchers and policymakers."

The innovation of the institute won't be isolated to just the university; in fact, public-private partnerships with industry experts and collaboration with Kansas communities are key components of the institute's success."The goal is to expand our digital footprint to rural communities to facilitate innovative and entrepreneurial ideas with research-driven expertise as it pertains to digital ag," said Ciampitti. "

Our team has faculty with K-State Research and Extension appointments facilitating the translation of our science from the research and classroom to every county in Kansas."The institute will directly align with the interdisciplinary areas of focus outlined in the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan that comprise the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/strategic-planning/plan/opportunity-agenda/">K-State Opportunity Agenda</a>: community health and well-being, sustainability, global food security and biosecurity, and enabling technologies."The current challenges our producers are facing and the technology innovation needed to bridge those gaps are interdisciplinary," said Sharda.

"Developing technological and digital agriculture solutions that are easy to use through interdisciplinary teams that are accessible and robust is one of the foundational goals and core missions of the institute."The culmination of this collaborative effort will ensure that K-State is positioned as a leader in digital agriculture with an effective foundation to develop programs that sustain the long-term competitiveness of agriculture in Kansas."

Our team is ready to develop and expand the digital ag capacity at K-State to enhance the lives of Kansans, now and into the future," said Metzger. "We will not only help train the next generations of thinkers using existing university personnel and programs, but we feel this cooperation will help us prepare the new workforce for the future of our state while developing a universitywide road map on these critical topics in research, teaching and extension."

For more information about K-State's Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/strategic-planning/interdisciplinary-institutes/digital-ag-advanced-analytics/">institute's website</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:id3a@k-state.edu">id3a@k-state.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695645692229.png" alt="Kansas State University is launching the interdisciplinary Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics, a people-centered collective transforming learning, research and outreach around digital technologies and advanced analytical methods." />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University is launching the interdisciplinary Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics, a people-centered collective transforming learning, research and outreach around digital technologies and advanced analytical methods.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Malorie SougéyMANHATTAN — Kansas State University is setting the stage as a national leader in digital agriculture with the launch of the interdisciplinary&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/id3a">Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics</a>.The institute is a people-centered interdisciplinary collective transforming learning, research and outreach around digital technologies and advanced analytical methods to enhance agricultural, environmental and socioeconomic decision making.Work done at the institute will include developing and integrating analytical methods and digital technologies — like sensors, automation and robots — that enhance food production and inform decision making for sustainable and resilient systems."A next-generation land-grant university is an innovative university, and that's exactly what we're doing with our new Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics," said K-State President Richard Linton. "Through this new institute, Kansas State University is working across disciplines to solve global agricultural problems and build the economic prosperity of Kansas and one of our state's key industries."Harnessing expertise from the College of Agriculture, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Education, the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus, and K-State Research and Extension, the institute will advance research and learning in the digital agriculture and advanced analytics realm.The institute's core administrative team consists of Ignacio Ciampitti, professor of agronomy; Brian McCornack, professor and department head of entomology; Ajay Sharda, professor of biological and agricultural engineering; Trevor Hefley, associate professor of statistics; Shawn Hutchinson, professor of geography and geospatial sciences; Pascal Hitzler, professor of computer science and director of the center for artificial intelligence and data science; and Susan Metzger, director of both the Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment and the Kansas Water Resources Institute."The interdisciplinary structure of the institute will give faculty and students the opportunity to experience firsthand how professionals in different disciplines approach and solve problems," said Hutchinson. "These perspectives and deep technological expertise will enrich agricultural research and outreach efforts and strengthen degree programs, producing our next-generation agricultural practitioners, researchers and policymakers."The innovation of the institute won't be isolated to just the university; in fact, public-private partnerships with industry experts and collaboration with Kansas communities are key components of the institute's success."The goal is to expand our digital footprint to rural communities to facilitate innovative and entrepreneurial ideas with research-driven expertise as it pertains to digital ag," said Ciampitti. "Our team has faculty with K-State Research and Extension appointments facilitating the translation of our science from the research and classroom to every county in Kansas."The institute will directly align with the interdisciplinary areas of focus outlined in the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan that comprise the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/strategic-planning/plan/opportunity-agenda/">K-State Opportunity Agenda</a>: community health and well-being, sustainability, global food security and biosecurity, and enabling technologies."The current challenges our producers are facing and the technology innovation needed to bridge those gaps are interdisciplinary," said Sharda. "Developing technological and digital agriculture solutions that are easy to use through interdisciplinary teams that are accessible and robust is one of the foundational goals and core missions of the institute."The culmination of this collaborative effort will ensure that K-State is positioned as a leader in digital agriculture with an effective foundation to develop programs that sustain the long-term competitiveness of agriculture in Kansas."Our team is ready to develop and expand the digital ag capacity at K-State to enhance the lives of Kansans, now and into the future," said Metzger. "We will not only help train the next generations of thinkers using existing university personnel and programs, but we feel this cooperation will help us prepare the new workforce for the future of our state while developing a universitywide road map on these critical topics in research, teaching and extension."For more information about K-State's Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/strategic-planning/interdisciplinary-institutes/digital-ag-advanced-analytics/">institute's website</a>&nbsp;or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:id3a@k-state.edu">id3a@k-state.edu</a>.

K-State launches next-gen Institute for Digital Agriculture, Advanced Analytics

KANSAS CITY— Kansas State men's basketball head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jerome-tang/2353">Jerome Tang</a>&nbsp;served as the Drum Honoree before Sunday's game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Chicago Bears at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.

At every home game, the Chiefs organization invites an honored guest – Drum Honoree – to bang the team's 8-foot-tall drum and lead the Arrowhead faithful in the Chop right before kickoff. Those selected as Drum Honorees demonstrate Kansas City Chiefs founder&nbsp;Lamar Hunt's&nbsp;best qualities, including vision, a pioneering spirit, compassion, humility and love for community.

Since the tradition was reintroduced at Arrowhead beginning in 2012, other Drum Honorees have included owner&nbsp;Clark Hunt, Voice of the Chiefs and K-State Athletics Hall of Fame member&nbsp;Mitch Holthus, Hall of Fame NFL Coach&nbsp;Dick Vermeil&nbsp;and Kansas City Royals shortstop&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.Former Chiefs quarterback&nbsp;Chad Henne&nbsp;was the first Drum Honoree of the season.

KANSAS CITY— Kansas State men's basketball head coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jerome-tang/2353">Jerome Tang</a>&nbsp;served as the Drum Honoree before Sunday's game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Chicago Bears at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🥁🥁🥁<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KStateMBB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KStateMBB</a> x <a href="https://twitter.com/Chiefs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Chiefs</a> <a href="https://t.co/jzjv7xkgE5">pic.twitter.com/jzjv7xkgE5</a>&mdash; K-State Men&#39;s Basketball (@KStateMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateMBB/status/1706058080935420292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>At every home game, the Chiefs organization invites an honored guest – Drum Honoree – to bang the team's 8-foot-tall drum and lead the Arrowhead faithful in the Chop right before kickoff. Those selected as Drum Honorees demonstrate Kansas City Chiefs founder&nbsp;Lamar Hunt's&nbsp;best qualities, including vision, a pioneering spirit, compassion, humility and love for community.Since the tradition was reintroduced at Arrowhead beginning in 2012, other Drum Honorees have included owner&nbsp;Clark Hunt, Voice of the Chiefs and K-State Athletics Hall of Fame member&nbsp;Mitch Holthus, Hall of Fame NFL Coach&nbsp;Dick Vermeil&nbsp;and Kansas City Royals shortstop&nbsp;Bobby Witt Jr.Former Chiefs quarterback&nbsp;Chad Henne&nbsp;was the first Drum Honoree of the season.

🎥 K-State coach Jerome Tang Chiefs drum deck honoree

The Kansas Association of Wheat Growers joins U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) and the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) in thanking Senator Mike Braun (R-IN), Senator Jon Tester (D-MT), Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) for introduction of the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 in the U.S. Senate. The bi-partisan legislation would restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional Farm Bill resources, while also safeguarding the interests of hard-working American farmers in providing food to those in need around the world.

USW and NAWG have joined the broader agriculture industry in backing the legislation, seeing it as an effort to use U.S.-grown commodities to fight global hunger rather than spending American taxpayers’ dollars to purchase food from competitors of the U.S. wheat industry.

“The Kansas Association of Wheat Growers applauds the support of Senator Marshall on the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023,” said Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat. “The Food for Peace program has a storied history in Kansas, sparked by a Kansas farmer who suggested U.S. farmers could share their harvest with global neighbors. Wheat food aid donations now average around 30 million bushels per year. Keeping the food in food aid remains an important aspect of these programs that are designed to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need around the world.”

“Wheat farmers in Kansas and all across the country have a long history supporting international food aid going back to the origins of Food for Peace,” said Brian Linin, a Goodland, Kansas, wheat farmer who serves on the Kansas Wheat Commission and U.S. Wheat Associates boards and on the USW/NAWG Food Aid Working Group Committee. “Our nation, and those in need, benefit most directly and transparently from receiving American commodities instead of cash and vouchers.”

“It is exciting to see the Senate join the House in supporting the role of U.S. farmers in the Farm Bill’s international food aid programs,” said USW Director of Trade policy Peter Laudeman. “The American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 offers an important rebalancing to ensure that Food for Peace remains focused on effectively delivering as much American-grown food to as many people in need as possible. We certainly want to offer a huge thank you to Senator Braun, Senator Tester, Senator Marshall and Senator Rickets for championing this important bill.”

The American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 was introduced in the U.S. House on June 22. USW and NAWG have worked with a coalition of other agriculture groups to advance this legislation through the upcoming new Farm Bill.

“As Congress considers reauthorizing the Farm Bill later this year, this legislation provides an opportunity to revitalize the role of American agriculture in addressing global hunger,” said Brent Cheyne, President of the National Association of Wheat Growers and a wheat farmer from Oregon. “It underscores our dedication to providing food assistance to vulnerable populations while prioritizing our farmers ahead of foreign agricultural competitors.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684379707210.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Association of Wheat Growers joins U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) and the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) in thanking Senator Mike Braun (R-IN), Senator Jon Tester (D-MT), Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) for introduction of the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 in the U.S. Senate. The bi-partisan legislation would restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional Farm Bill resources, while also safeguarding the interests of hard-working American farmers in providing food to those in need around the world.USW and NAWG have joined the broader agriculture industry in backing the legislation, seeing it as an effort to use U.S.-grown commodities to fight global hunger rather than spending American taxpayers’ dollars to purchase food from competitors of the U.S. wheat industry.“The Kansas Association of Wheat Growers applauds the support of Senator Marshall on the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023,” said Justin Gilpin, CEO of Kansas Wheat. “The Food for Peace program has a storied history in Kansas, sparked by a Kansas farmer who suggested U.S. farmers could share their harvest with global neighbors. Wheat food aid donations now average around 30 million bushels per year. Keeping the food in food aid remains an important aspect of these programs that are designed to provide humanitarian assistance to those in need around the world.”“Wheat farmers in Kansas and all across the country have a long history supporting international food aid going back to the origins of Food for Peace,” said Brian Linin, a Goodland, Kansas, wheat farmer who serves on the Kansas Wheat Commission and U.S. Wheat Associates boards and on the USW/NAWG Food Aid Working Group Committee. “Our nation, and those in need, benefit most directly and transparently from receiving American commodities instead of cash and vouchers.”“It is exciting to see the Senate join the House in supporting the role of U.S. farmers in the Farm Bill’s international food aid programs,” said USW Director of Trade policy Peter Laudeman. “The American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 offers an important rebalancing to ensure that Food for Peace remains focused on effectively delivering as much American-grown food to as many people in need as possible. We certainly want to offer a huge thank you to Senator Braun, Senator Tester, Senator Marshall and Senator Rickets for championing this important bill.”The American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 was introduced in the U.S. House on June 22. USW and NAWG have worked with a coalition of other agriculture groups to advance this legislation through the upcoming new Farm Bill.“As Congress considers reauthorizing the Farm Bill later this year, this legislation provides an opportunity to revitalize the role of American agriculture in addressing global hunger,” said Brent Cheyne, President of the National Association of Wheat Growers and a wheat farmer from Oregon. “It underscores our dedication to providing food assistance to vulnerable populations while prioritizing our farmers ahead of foreign agricultural competitors.”

Wheat Scoop: Wheat industry applauds American Farmers Feed the World Act

JAMIELYNN DENISE HOTALIND, 33, Shawnee, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm; Bond $4,000

CONNOR JOSEPH DREILING, 18, Hays, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

MACKENZIE LEIGH ROWE, 21, Olathe, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

JOSEPH WALTER MEYER, 20, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

NATHAN DANIEL FINK, 33, Towanda, Failure to appear; Bond $1,000

ANTWAJUANE JEROME MCNEIL, 30, Ogden, Probation Violation X2; Bond $50,000

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.&nbsp;JAMIELYNN DENISE HOTALIND, 33, Shawnee, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm; Bond $4,000CONNOR JOSEPH DREILING, 18, Hays, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750MACKENZIE LEIGH ROWE, 21, Olathe, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750JOSEPH WALTER MEYER, 20, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750NATHAN DANIEL FINK, 33, Towanda, Failure to appear; Bond $1,000ANTWAJUANE JEROME MCNEIL, 30, Ogden, Probation Violation X2; Bond $50,000

Riley County Arrest Report September 24

DEITRICH DAVENTA DUNCAN, 30, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship; 2nd/5 yrs; Bond $5,000

ANDREW JORDAN MCVEY, 26, Copeland, KS, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $750

LINDSEY NICOLE DEWITT, 20, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; competent evidence of blood/breath .08+; Bond $750

EYAN WILLIAM PHIPPS, 19, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv.; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

ANDREY GEVKO, 33, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value&nbsp; &gt; $25,000; Bond $5,000

CAMERON FRANCIS FISHER, 31, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $10,000

ALEXANDER DAVID WILSON, 18, Manhattan, Violate probation order; Abuse order per KSA 63105, 63106, 63107; Bond $1,000

BLAKE MORTON MILLER, 25, Manhattan, Parole Violation; Bond $1,000

WENDELL LILTON PARRISH, 40, Manhattan, Interference with LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution x2; Bond $5,000

STEVEN ALEXANDER MITCHELL, 38, Ogden, Aggravated intimidation of witness/victim; Witness/victim &lt;18 YOA; Aggravated domestic battery; choke in rude manner; family member/dating relationship; Interference with LEO; falsely report intending to obstruct; Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Intimidation of witness or victim; Prevent reporting of victimization; Bond $10,000

BRITTANY JUNE JUSTINE HOLT, 28, Salina, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Salina Police Department on 09/20/2023

MIKAL DEANGLEO KAIRSON, 17, Junction City, Criminal discharge of firearm; Recklessly at occupied dwelling; Attempted murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated; Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon; Arrested by Junction City Police Department on 09/18/2023

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.&nbsp;DEITRICH DAVENTA DUNCAN, 30, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship; 2nd/5 yrs; Bond $5,000ANDREW JORDAN MCVEY, 26, Copeland, KS, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $750LINDSEY NICOLE DEWITT, 20, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; competent evidence of blood/breath .08+; Bond $750EYAN WILLIAM PHIPPS, 19, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv.; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750ANDREY GEVKO, 33, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value&nbsp; &gt; $25,000; Bond $5,000CAMERON FRANCIS FISHER, 31, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $10,000ALEXANDER DAVID WILSON, 18, Manhattan, Violate probation order; Abuse order per KSA 63105, 63106, 63107; Bond $1,000BLAKE MORTON MILLER, 25, Manhattan, Parole Violation; Bond $1,000WENDELL LILTON PARRISH, 40, Manhattan, Interference with LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution x2; Bond $5,000STEVEN ALEXANDER MITCHELL, 38, Ogden, Aggravated intimidation of witness/victim; Witness/victim &lt;18 YOA; Aggravated domestic battery; choke in rude manner; family member/dating relationship; Interference with LEO; falsely report intending to obstruct; Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Intimidation of witness or victim; Prevent reporting of victimization; Bond $10,000BRITTANY JUNE JUSTINE HOLT, 28, Salina, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Salina Police Department on 09/20/2023MIKAL DEANGLEO KAIRSON, 17, Junction City, Criminal discharge of firearm; Recklessly at occupied dwelling; Attempted murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated; Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon; Arrested by Junction City Police Department on 09/18/2023

Riley County Arrest Report September 23

KANSAS CITY – Geographic information system staff at the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks are proud to offer hunters a new tool this year designed to make locating fields managed specifically for dove easier than ever. Each year, KDWP’s public land managers work diligently to provide quality wildlife habitat for public enjoyment – to include crops of sunflowers, milo and wheat stubble – that are sure to attract good numbers of wildlife, including dove.

To make locating these areas as seamless as possible, hunters should:

PRO TIP: Hunters should note the tool’s “Nearest Field Locator,” which allows users to select a point on the map and then search within a distance radius of their choosing.

The 2023 Kansas dove hunting season will run September 1 through November 29, during which time hunters may take mourning, white-winged, Eurasian collared, and ringed turtle doves. After the season closes, only Eurasian collared and ringed turtle doves may be harvested.

Hunters may keep a daily bag limit of up to 15 doves total, which can be mourning and white-winged doves in any combination; There is no limit on Eurasian collared or ringed turtle doves, but any taken in addition to the mourning and white-winged dove daily bag limit must have a fully-feathered wing attached for identification while in transport. The possession limit for dove is 45.

Lastly, hunters should keep in mind that migratory doves may only be taken while in flight.

To learn more about doves in Kansas, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9rc291dGRvb3JzLmNvbS9IdW50aW5nL01pZ3JhdG9yeS1CaXJkcy9Eb3ZlMiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjUuODE2ODExODEifQ.ak3r5x3CyxwKDuIaGsYQNr_xEHZ_EVsl9Lvbyk7JBxg/s/1303179659/br/224844693337-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

To purchase 2023 Kansas hunting licenses and permits, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9nb291dGRvb3Jza2Fuc2FzLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODI1LjgxNjgxMTgxIn0.zMaQ5QTQjjyPzMIymtb0tS7PCnHQkhvsR2dALiZh_AI/s/1303179659/br/224844693337-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsKansas.com</a>&nbsp;or download the Go Outdoor Kansas mobile app,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0tEV1AtTW9iaWxlLUFwcHMvR29PdXRkb29yc0tTLU1vYmlsZS1BcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODI1LjgxNjgxMTgxIn0.m1IJqxP08xMy1tvtUwgAmzCFKn-sdvaZLfibeQwoWOM/s/1303179659/br/224844693337-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695223855161.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPKANSAS CITY – Geographic information system staff at the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks are proud to offer hunters a new tool this year designed to make locating fields managed specifically for dove easier than ever. Each year, KDWP’s public land managers work diligently to provide quality wildlife habitat for public enjoyment – to include crops of sunflowers, milo and wheat stubble – that are sure to attract good numbers of wildlife, including dove.To make locating these areas as seamless as possible, hunters should:<ol>
 <li>Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9NaWdyYXRvcnktQmlyZHMvRG92ZTIiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODI1LjgxNjgxMTgxIn0.wenS8Nj00xi82JeHo6R-W3rOuhHxVDq2pR6nhbxwPKQ/s/1303179659/br/224844693337-l" target="_blank">https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Migratory-Birds/Dove2</a>.</li><li>Click the first available link,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZXhwZXJpZW5jZS5hcmNnaXMuY29tL2V4cGVyaWVuY2UvMWQ2YjRmNTU4NmJjNGNjMmEzMGNmNDEyMjA1YTc2MDciLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODI1LjgxNjgxMTgxIn0.mz2AwLeSu8qaeVQq18Mio46GueCDwLa1hf46nSgHzs4/s/1303179659/br/224844693337-l" target="_blank">https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/1d6b4f5586bc4cc2a30cf412205a7607</a>.</li><li>Zoom in on the area they’d like to visit.</li><li>Adjust layers accordingly. (Layers allow the user to filter results, based on things such as handicap accessibility or youth-mentor fields. A table-view pop-out at the bottom of the map allows users to sort by different attributes, including wildlife area.)</li>
 </ol>PRO TIP: Hunters should note the tool’s “Nearest Field Locator,” which allows users to select a point on the map and then search within a distance radius of their choosing.The 2023 Kansas dove hunting season will run September 1 through November 29, during which time hunters may take mourning, white-winged, Eurasian collared, and ringed turtle doves. After the season closes, only Eurasian collared and ringed turtle doves may be harvested.Hunters may keep a daily bag limit of up to 15 doves total, which can be mourning and white-winged doves in any combination; There is no limit on Eurasian collared or ringed turtle doves, but any taken in addition to the mourning and white-winged dove daily bag limit must have a fully-feathered wing attached for identification while in transport. The possession limit for dove is 45.Lastly, hunters should keep in mind that migratory doves may only be taken while in flight.To learn more about doves in Kansas, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9rc291dGRvb3JzLmNvbS9IdW50aW5nL01pZ3JhdG9yeS1CaXJkcy9Eb3ZlMiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjUuODE2ODExODEifQ.ak3r5x3CyxwKDuIaGsYQNr_xEHZ_EVsl9Lvbyk7JBxg/s/1303179659/br/224844693337-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.To purchase 2023 Kansas hunting licenses and permits, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly9nb291dGRvb3Jza2Fuc2FzLmNvbS8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODI1LjgxNjgxMTgxIn0.zMaQ5QTQjjyPzMIymtb0tS7PCnHQkhvsR2dALiZh_AI/s/1303179659/br/224844693337-l" target="_blank">GoOutdoorsKansas.com</a>&nbsp;or download the Go Outdoor Kansas mobile app,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vTGljZW5zZS1QZXJtaXRzL0tEV1AtTW9iaWxlLUFwcHMvR29PdXRkb29yc0tTLU1vYmlsZS1BcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODI1LjgxNjgxMTgxIn0.m1IJqxP08xMy1tvtUwgAmzCFKn-sdvaZLfibeQwoWOM/s/1303179659/br/224844693337-l" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

KDWP has new tool to locate fields for dove hunting

MARSHALL COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Friday in Marshall County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Kenworth semi driven by John Wayne Kiser, 46, Shawnee Mission, struck a 2021 Subaru Outback driven by Denise M. Torrey, 63, Axtell, who was attempting a left turn onto Kansas 110 from U.S. 36 two miles south of Axtell.&nbsp; 

A westbound 2008 Chevy Silverado driven by Timothy E. Winkler, 39, Sabetha, then struck the Subaru.

Torrey was pronounced dead at the scene EMS transported Winkler to Bryan Trauma in Lincoln, Nebraska. EMS transported a passenger in the pickup identified as Margaret C. Winkler, 59, Sabetha, to Stormont Vail. Kiser was not injured. A juvenile was present in the Subaru; juvenile record is protected data, according to the KHP. All were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

MARSHALL COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4:30p.m. Friday in Marshall County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Kenworth semi driven by John Wayne Kiser, 46, Shawnee Mission, struck a 2021 Subaru Outback driven by Denise M. Torrey, 63, Axtell, who was attempting a left turn onto Kansas 110 from U.S. 36 two miles south of Axtell.&nbsp; A westbound 2008 Chevy Silverado driven by Timothy E. Winkler, 39, Sabetha, then struck the Subaru.Torrey was pronounced dead at the scene EMS transported Winkler to Bryan Trauma in Lincoln, Nebraska. EMS transported a passenger in the pickup identified as Margaret C. Winkler, 59, Sabetha, to Stormont Vail. Kiser was not injured. A juvenile was present in the Subaru; juvenile record is protected data, according to the KHP. All were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dead after 3-vehicle semi crash

ANTONIO FLORES GUZMAN, 39, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

NOAH CRESENCIO BRIONES, 23, Manhattan, Aggravated domestic battery; choke in rude manner; family member/dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $10,000

JORDAN ERIC KIMBROUGH, 30, Clay Center; Probation Violation; Bond $1,500

JOSEPH VERNON HODGES, 48, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Bond $1,000

CHRISTOPHER ROBERT RUSSO, 55, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $1,000

CURTIS RASHAWN SIMMS, JR, 24, Manhattan, Probation violation; Bond $750

CONNER WAYNE BRUCE, 19, Manhattan, Failure to appear x2; Bond $1,500

ALEXANDER MICHAEL DARNELL, 18, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consetn value &lt;$1000; Bond $500

COLIN MICHAEL BURMERIER, 19, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $1,000

CURTIS RASHAWN SIMMS JR, 24, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $50,000

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.&nbsp;ANTONIO FLORES GUZMAN, 39, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750NOAH CRESENCIO BRIONES, 23, Manhattan, Aggravated domestic battery; choke in rude manner; family member/dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $10,000JORDAN ERIC KIMBROUGH, 30, Clay Center; Probation Violation; Bond $1,500JOSEPH VERNON HODGES, 48, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Bond $1,000CHRISTOPHER ROBERT RUSSO, 55, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $1,000CURTIS RASHAWN SIMMS, JR, 24, Manhattan, Probation violation; Bond $750CONNER WAYNE BRUCE, 19, Manhattan, Failure to appear x2; Bond $1,500ALEXANDER MICHAEL DARNELL, 18, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consetn value &lt;$1000; Bond $500COLIN MICHAEL BURMERIER, 19, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $1,000CURTIS RASHAWN SIMMS JR, 24, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $50,000

Riley County Arrest Report September 22

Geary Unified School District Board of Education Member Ron Johnson joins me on the program.  He talks about the now well underway school year; the remarkable number of new or newer school facilities in USD 475, the partnership between the district and Fort Riley for operation of the schools on Post, a proposal to build new Early Childhood Development facilities to serve the district and much more.

<div><iframe title="Episode 14 - USD 475 Board of Education Member Ron Johnson" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=z3acc-14ae37a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By Jerry BrecheisenGeary Unified School District Board of Education Member Ron Johnson joins me on the program. He talks about the now well underway school year; the remarkable number of new or newer school facilities in USD 475, the partnership between the district and Fort Riley for operation of the schools on Post, a proposal to build new Early Childhood Development facilities to serve the district and much more.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695233370989.png" alt="Ron Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Ron Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙: Coffee Talk with guest, BOE Member Ron Johnson

Following a vote at the September 8 meeting of the Kansas State University Foundation's board of trustees in Manhattan, two members were reelected to a three-year term on the foundation's board of directors, two members were newly elected to the board of directors and 35 new members were elected to four-year terms on its board of trustees. Additionally, 82 members were reelected to the board of trustees.

The KSU Foundation now has 346 trustees serving as the university's premier advocates, ambassadors and investors. The KSU Foundation's board of directors oversees management, control and supervision of the KSU Foundation's business and affairs.

Reelected to the board of directors were Leanne Caret, Argyle, Texas, and Sue Barsamian, Park City, Utah.

Mark Gardiner, Ashland, and John Buser, Dallas, Texas, were each elected to their first three-year term on the board of directors. Buser received his bachelor's degree in accounting from Kansas State University's College of Business Administration. Gardiner received his bachelor's degree in animal science and industry from K-State's College of Agriculture.

The following individuals were elected to the board of trustees for the first time: John and Lynda Tobald, Glasco; Kathleen Parke, Hays; Randy McGrath, Lawrence; Larry Durant and Brian Britton, Cindy Wallis-Lage and Kent Lage, and Dale and Christina Silvius, all from Leawood; David and Janet Oswalt, Lenexa; Tanner and Kelsi Coble, David and Lynda Dawson, and John and Shawn Lagemann, all from Olathe; and Steve and Connie Brown, Robert and Laura Sidlinger, and Tracy and Kipp Van Camp, all from Topeka;

From out of state: Shelley Casagrande, Castle Pines, Colorado; Renee Laird, Castle Rock, Colorado; Deb McCullough, Parker, Colorado; Jim and Marsha Reed, Naples, Florida; Norman Anderson, Indianola, Iowa; Dusty Garner, New York, New York; Jim and Jada Hill, Cincinnati, Ohio; John and Leslie Martin, Bluffton, South Carolina;

Reelected to the board of trustees were the following: Lyndsey and Liz Barclay, Sue Barsamian, John and Nancy Blackwell, Cheryl Blake, Lee Borck and Jackie Hartman Borck, Karen Campbell, Charlie and Marla Chandler, Nancy Chiou-Siepman, Craig and Kate Cillessen, Jim and Ann Coen, Ray and Alysia Dempsey, Dave and Ellie Everitt, Rick and Linda Fornelli, Curt and Sherry Frasier, Janie Gamba Massey, Gary and Victoria Grimes, Lee and Barb Harris, Pat and Jill Harrison, Gabe Hernandez, Don and Gretta Hoffman, Keith and Debra Houghton, Carolyn Jackson, Phil and Shelly Kirk, Kurt and Jill Kolbeck, Rick Malir and Bonnie Coley-Malir, Joe Miller and Louise Burke, Leo and Amy Sue Nunnink, Mike and Judy O'Brate, Pat Parke, Tom and Connie Paulson, Karen Pence, Cory and Kendra Ramsey, Robert and Becca Reichenberger, Tim and Holly Roberts, Larry and Barbara Schulte, Ken Selzer and Deb Grimes, Tim and Sharon Taylor, Steve and Kay Theede, Marty Vanier, Jay and Jan Vavricek, Mike and Renee Walczak, Jerry and Robin Westhoff, Mark and Chris Whitehead, Don Wilbur, Meg and Kris Yaege, and Mark and Kim Young.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693320991674.jpeg" alt="Anderson Hall- Image Courtesy K-State" />
 <figcaption>Anderson Hall- Image Courtesy K-State</figcaption>
 </figure>Following a vote at the September 8 meeting of the Kansas State University Foundation's board of trustees in Manhattan, two members were reelected to a three-year term on the foundation's board of directors, two members were newly elected to the board of directors and 35 new members were elected to four-year terms on its board of trustees. Additionally, 82 members were reelected to the board of trustees.The KSU Foundation now has 346 trustees serving as the university's premier advocates, ambassadors and investors. The KSU Foundation's board of directors oversees management, control and supervision of the KSU Foundation's business and affairs.Reelected to the board of directors were Leanne Caret, Argyle, Texas, and Sue Barsamian, Park City, Utah.Mark Gardiner, Ashland, and John Buser, Dallas, Texas, were each elected to their first three-year term on the board of directors. Buser received his bachelor's degree in accounting from Kansas State University's College of Business Administration. Gardiner received his bachelor's degree in animal science and industry from K-State's College of Agriculture.The following individuals were elected to the board of trustees for the first time: John and Lynda Tobald, Glasco; Kathleen Parke, Hays; Randy McGrath, Lawrence; Larry Durant and Brian Britton, Cindy Wallis-Lage and Kent Lage, and Dale and Christina Silvius, all from Leawood; David and Janet Oswalt, Lenexa; Tanner and Kelsi Coble, David and Lynda Dawson, and John and Shawn Lagemann, all from Olathe; and Steve and Connie Brown, Robert and Laura Sidlinger, and Tracy and Kipp Van Camp, all from Topeka;From out of state: Shelley Casagrande, Castle Pines, Colorado; Renee Laird, Castle Rock, Colorado; Deb McCullough, Parker, Colorado; Jim and Marsha Reed, Naples, Florida; Norman Anderson, Indianola, Iowa; Dusty Garner, New York, New York; Jim and Jada Hill, Cincinnati, Ohio; John and Leslie Martin, Bluffton, South Carolina;Reelected to the board of trustees were the following: Lyndsey and Liz Barclay, Sue Barsamian, John and Nancy Blackwell, Cheryl Blake, Lee Borck and Jackie Hartman Borck, Karen Campbell, Charlie and Marla Chandler, Nancy Chiou-Siepman, Craig and Kate Cillessen, Jim and Ann Coen, Ray and Alysia Dempsey, Dave and Ellie Everitt, Rick and Linda Fornelli, Curt and Sherry Frasier, Janie Gamba Massey, Gary and Victoria Grimes, Lee and Barb Harris, Pat and Jill Harrison, Gabe Hernandez, Don and Gretta Hoffman, Keith and Debra Houghton, Carolyn Jackson, Phil and Shelly Kirk, Kurt and Jill Kolbeck, Rick Malir and Bonnie Coley-Malir, Joe Miller and Louise Burke, Leo and Amy Sue Nunnink, Mike and Judy O'Brate, Pat Parke, Tom and Connie Paulson, Karen Pence, Cory and Kendra Ramsey, Robert and Becca Reichenberger, Tim and Holly Roberts, Larry and Barbara Schulte, Ken Selzer and Deb Grimes, Tim and Sharon Taylor, Steve and Kay Theede, Marty Vanier, Jay and Jan Vavricek, Mike and Renee Walczak, Jerry and Robin Westhoff, Mark and Chris Whitehead, Don Wilbur, Meg and Kris Yaege, and Mark and Kim Young.

KSU Foundation elects 35 new members, reelects 82

MANHATTAN - The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has named three Manhattan High School students as Commended Students.

Garric Nowlin, Sydney Rivera and Ryan Thein were named Commended Students based on their academic achievements and their outstanding performances on the qualifying tests used for the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Students who have taken the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Text(PSAT/NMSQT) during the previous school year are eligible to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program.&nbsp;

The NMSC chooses approximately 34,000 students of the 50,000 highest scorers and names them as Commended Students based on their high scores.

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&nbsp;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/2023/9/1695328428285.png" alt="MHS National Merit Scholarship Commended Students" />
 <figcaption>MHS National Merit Scholarship Commended Students</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY GOFFLittle Apple PostMANHATTAN - The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has named three Manhattan High School students as Commended Students.Garric Nowlin, Sydney Rivera and Ryan Thein were named Commended Students based on their academic achievements and their outstanding performances on the qualifying tests used for the National Merit Scholarship Program.Students who have taken the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Text(PSAT/NMSQT) during the previous school year are eligible to enter the National Merit Scholarship Program.&nbsp;The NMSC chooses approximately 34,000 students of the 50,000 highest scorers and names them as Commended Students based on their high scores.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&nbsp;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.

3 MHS students named Commended Students by National Merit Scholarship Corporation

Broken Wing Ranch Ministries will host their Fall Festival this Saturday, September 23. The festival will be at their ranch located at 3581 Carr Rd, S. Junction City.

The event will begin at 1:00 p.m. with activities happening all day. The festival concludes at 8:00 p.m.&nbsp;

There will be activities for all ages. For the kids, there will be a bouncy house, scavenger hunt, face painting and much more. Along with these activities, there will be opportunities to meet some of the ministry horses, and you will also hear directly from Karen Carr, one of the founders of Broken Wing Ranch Ministries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There will be a silent auction that opens at 1:00 and closes at 6:00 p.m. At 5:00 p.m., there will be a barbecue dinner provided by Bobby's food company, and at 6:00 p.m., there will be a concert featuring Savannah Chestnut and the Field Hands.&nbsp;

Get your tickets for the event online at&nbsp; &nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.brokenwingranchministries.org/events-1/fall-festival">www.brokenwingranchministries.org/events-1/fall-festival</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695317731800.jpeg" alt="Broken Wing Ranch Ministries is hosting their Fall Festival this Saturday, Sept 23. The event is from 1:00-8:00 p.m." />
 <figcaption>Broken Wing Ranch Ministries is hosting their Fall Festival this Saturday, Sept 23. The event is from 1:00-8:00 p.m.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC postBroken Wing Ranch Ministries will host their Fall Festival this Saturday, September 23. The festival will be at their ranch located at 3581 Carr Rd, S. Junction City.The event will begin at 1:00 p.m. with activities happening all day. The festival concludes at 8:00 p.m.&nbsp;There will be activities for all ages. For the kids, there will be a bouncy house, scavenger hunt, face painting and much more. Along with these activities, there will be opportunities to meet some of the ministry horses, and you will also hear directly from Karen Carr, one of the founders of Broken Wing Ranch Ministries.&nbsp;&nbsp;There will be a silent auction that opens at 1:00 and closes at 6:00 p.m. At 5:00 p.m., there will be a barbecue dinner provided by Bobby's food company, and at 6:00 p.m., there will be a concert featuring Savannah Chestnut and the Field Hands.&nbsp;Get your tickets for the event online at&nbsp; &nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.brokenwingranchministries.org/events-1/fall-festival">www.brokenwingranchministries.org/events-1/fall-festival</a>

Broken Wing Ranch Ministries to host Fall Festival this Saturday

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Texas man in connection with an ATM theft.

Just after 9:30p.m. Wednesday, police arrested 23-year-old Augustus Sherman Jr, 23, of Houston, Texas on a Riley County District Court warrant for burglary of a motor vehicle, two counts of theft, and two counts of criminal damage to property, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The charges stem from a 2022 incident in which Sherman was alleged to be involved in the theft of a vehicle and money from an ATM in Manhattan. 

The total bond was set at $12,000 and he remains confined in the Riley County Jail at the time of this report.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Texas man in connection with an ATM theft.Just after 9:30p.m. Wednesday, police arrested 23-year-old Augustus Sherman Jr, 23, of Houston, Texas on a Riley County District Court warrant for burglary of a motor vehicle, two counts of theft, and two counts of criminal damage to property, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The charges stem from a 2022 incident in which Sherman was alleged to be involved in the theft of a vehicle and money from an ATM in Manhattan. The total bond was set at $12,000 and he remains confined in the Riley County Jail at the time of this report.

RCPD captures suspect in 2022 ATM theft

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.&nbsp;

TEILA JANAY MASENTHIN, 36, Riley, Driving under the influence; 4th or subsequent conv.; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; w/in 3hrs; Driving while habitual violator; 1st conviction; Transporting an open container; Arrested and transported to the Pottawatomie County Jail

CAITLYN ELIZABETH IRVIN SPRAGUE, 25, Manhattan, Criminal deprivation of property; Bond $500

AUGUSTUS CORNELLIOUS SHERMAN JR, 23, Houston, TX, Burglary; Vehicle with intent to steal a firearm; Theft from motor vehicle; Theft of property or services; Value $1,500 to $25,000; Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts or Accessories; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1,000 to $25,000; Theft of property or services; value $1,500 to $25,000; All Other Larceny; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $12,000

CESAR RAMIREZ CALLEJA, 33, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;:Bond $750

ANDREW PAUL BRANDENBURG, 44, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Interference with LEO; Falsely report intending to obstruct; Bond $1,500

ZANE AUSTIN THOMAS, 28, Junction City, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $500

CURTIS RASHAWN SIMMS JR, 24, Manhattan, Probation Violation X2; Bond $100,000; Remains confined to the Riley County Jail

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.&nbsp;TEILA JANAY MASENTHIN, 36, Riley, Driving under the influence; 4th or subsequent conv.; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; w/in 3hrs; Driving while habitual violator; 1st conviction; Transporting an open container; Arrested and transported to the Pottawatomie County JailCAITLYN ELIZABETH IRVIN SPRAGUE, 25, Manhattan, Criminal deprivation of property; Bond $500AUGUSTUS CORNELLIOUS SHERMAN JR, 23, Houston, TX, Burglary; Vehicle with intent to steal a firearm; Theft from motor vehicle; Theft of property or services; Value $1,500 to $25,000; Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts or Accessories; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1,000 to $25,000; Theft of property or services; value $1,500 to $25,000; All Other Larceny; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $12,000CESAR RAMIREZ CALLEJA, 33, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;:Bond $750ANDREW PAUL BRANDENBURG, 44, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Interference with LEO; Falsely report intending to obstruct; Bond $1,500ZANE AUSTIN THOMAS, 28, Junction City, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $500CURTIS RASHAWN SIMMS JR, 24, Manhattan, Probation Violation X2; Bond $100,000; Remains confined to the Riley County Jail

Riley County Arrest Report September 21

Geary County Schools and USD 475 will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow for Morris Hill Elementary School. The ribbon-cutting will take place at 1:30 p.m.

Morris Hill opened this school year and is located at 4722 Normandy Drive on Fort Riley.

The new building combines the former Jefferson Elementary and Morris Hill Elementary schools and is 99,000 square feet. Eventually, the school will accommodate 590 students. 

 Several new features are in the new school, such as the collaboration areas in each grade level, a separate gymnasium, cafeteria, library/media center, and specific art and science class rooms. 

By Anthony GorgesJC PostGeary County Schools and USD 475 will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow for Morris Hill Elementary School. The ribbon-cutting will take place at 1:30 p.m.Morris Hill opened this school year and is located at 4722 Normandy Drive on Fort Riley.The new building combines the former Jefferson Elementary and Morris Hill Elementary schools and is 99,000 square feet. Eventually, the school will accommodate 590 students. Several new features are in the new school, such as the collaboration areas in each grade level, a separate gymnasium, cafeteria, library/media center, and specific art and science class rooms.

Morris Hill Elementary School will host ribbon-cutting on Friday

GREAT BEND&nbsp;– A host of butterflies, bees and bugs will all be in residence at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center’s (592 NE K 156 Hwy, Great Bend) annual Butterfly Festival from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 23. 

In addition to a variety of family-friendly activities, “The Instars,” Steve Craig and Amy Short, will present their “Butterfly Magic” show – a melding of humor and magic that illustrates the astonishing butterfly life cycle.

“This year promises to be a much better year for the monarch butterfly migration, as millions undertake their annual fall flight to Mexico,” said Pam Martin, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks education specialist.

Nets and tags will be available for those who want to capture and tag monarch butterflies ­– a critical citizen-science effort that helps track monarch migration activity. 

To do this, participants head out into the flower-filled fields and shelter belt around KWEC to spot monarchs, with tagging leaders stationed along the trail to help with the tagging process. For the past several years, monarchs tagged at the event were recovered at three Mexico roost sites.

New this year, a grant from the Kansas Wildscape Foundation’s Outdoors for Kansas (OK) Kids program is being used to sponsor a wide selection of outdoor-related prizes for youth attendees. Prizes include insect nets and carriers, field guides, nature vests, t-shirts, exploration kits, and more.&nbsp;

In addition to butterflies, festival guests can also expect to see walking stick insects, caterpillars, chrysalises, fluorescing scorpions; and enjoy fun activities like crafting and games. Plan to spend the morning, as door prizes will be presented around noon, along with free milkweed plants (one per family while supplies last). Then, stick around to visit the butterfly and pollinator garden to get wildflower planting ideas to implement at home.

For more information, contact the KWEC at 1-877-243-9268 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd2V0bGFuZHNjZW50ZXIuZmhzdS5lZHUvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkyMC44Mjg4NTkyMSJ9.F_ih97EaChXdhvKp-clXm2O9Vb4TmGkd-jm25MBNVT4/s/1303161001/br/226315781068-l" target="_blank">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695238370852.jpeg" alt="Tagged monarch butterfly at Kansas Wetlands Education Center. Photo courtesy KWEC&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Tagged monarch butterfly at Kansas Wetlands Education Center. Photo courtesy KWEC&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPGREAT BEND&nbsp;– A host of butterflies, bees and bugs will all be in residence at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center’s (592 NE K 156 Hwy, Great Bend) annual Butterfly Festival from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 23. In addition to a variety of family-friendly activities, “The Instars,” Steve Craig and Amy Short, will present their “Butterfly Magic” show – a melding of humor and magic that illustrates the astonishing butterfly life cycle.“This year promises to be a much better year for the monarch butterfly migration, as millions undertake their annual fall flight to Mexico,” said Pam Martin, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks education specialist.Nets and tags will be available for those who want to capture and tag monarch butterflies ­– a critical citizen-science effort that helps track monarch migration activity. To do this, participants head out into the flower-filled fields and shelter belt around KWEC to spot monarchs, with tagging leaders stationed along the trail to help with the tagging process. For the past several years, monarchs tagged at the event were recovered at three Mexico roost sites.New this year, a grant from the Kansas Wildscape Foundation’s Outdoors for Kansas (OK) Kids program is being used to sponsor a wide selection of outdoor-related prizes for youth attendees. Prizes include insect nets and carriers, field guides, nature vests, t-shirts, exploration kits, and more.&nbsp;In addition to butterflies, festival guests can also expect to see walking stick insects, caterpillars, chrysalises, fluorescing scorpions; and enjoy fun activities like crafting and games. Plan to spend the morning, as door prizes will be presented around noon, along with free milkweed plants (one per family while supplies last). Then, stick around to visit the butterfly and pollinator garden to get wildflower planting ideas to implement at home.For more information, contact the KWEC at 1-877-243-9268 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd2V0bGFuZHNjZW50ZXIuZmhzdS5lZHUvIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDkyMC44Mjg4NTkyMSJ9.F_ih97EaChXdhvKp-clXm2O9Vb4TmGkd-jm25MBNVT4/s/1303161001/br/226315781068-l" target="_blank">wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu</a>.

KDWP: "Much better year for monarch butterfly"; annual festival Saturday near Great Bend 

According to Garry Berges, the Geary County Emergency Management Director and County Fire Chief, a semi-trucks back tires caught on fire, which then spread to the trailer and then into a grass fire. The incident was on westbound I-70 near exit 306.&nbsp;

Westbound traffic is down to one lane and speed is currently reduced.&nbsp;

Geary County Fire Department and the Riley County Fire Department were both on the scene, as well as the Geary County Sherriff Department and the Kansas Highway Patrol.&nbsp;

Drivers should still use caution when going through the area.&nbsp;

There is a grass fire near exit 306 westbound on I-70.&nbsp;

A semi-truck caught on fire and that engulfed into a grass fire. The alternate route that drivers should use is exit 307.&nbsp;

All drivers should pay attention to traffic controls, slow down and be prepared to stop. Drivers on East-bound I-70 will need to use caution for smoke over the roadway.&nbsp;

More details will be provided as soon as they are made available.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695237926488.jpeg" alt="A semi-truck caught on fire on Wednesday afternoon - the back tires of the truck caught fire and burned the trailer as seen in the picture. This photo courtesy of the Geary County Emergency Management Facebook Page.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A semi-truck caught on fire on Wednesday afternoon - the back tires of the truck caught fire and burned the trailer as seen in the picture. This photo courtesy of the Geary County Emergency Management Facebook Page.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE:&nbsp;According to Garry Berges, the Geary County Emergency Management Director and County Fire Chief, a semi-trucks back tires caught on fire, which then spread to the trailer and then into a grass fire. The incident was on westbound I-70 near exit 306.&nbsp;Westbound traffic is down to one lane and speed is currently reduced.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695238292140.jpeg" alt="Crews are still working on the scene. Westbound traffic is currently reduced to one lane.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Crews are still working on the scene. Westbound traffic is currently reduced to one lane.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Fire Department and the Riley County Fire Department were both on the scene, as well as the Geary County Sherriff Department and the Kansas Highway Patrol.&nbsp;Drivers should still use caution when going through the area.&nbsp;--By Anthony GorgesJC PostThere is a grass fire near exit 306 westbound on I-70.&nbsp;A semi-truck caught on fire and that engulfed into a grass fire. The alternate route that drivers should use is exit 307.&nbsp;All drivers should pay attention to traffic controls, slow down and be prepared to stop. Drivers on East-bound I-70 will need to use caution for smoke over the roadway.&nbsp;More details will be provided as soon as they are made available.&nbsp;

Semi-truck fire started I-70 grass fire near McDowell Creek Road

 Fragrant Blends Candle Bar is the newest business in the Junction City Community. 

On Wednesday afternoon, Jack and Karen Cunningham held a ribbon cutting to open their new business. "We are excited to be here in Junction City," Jack Cunningham said. "The ability to come back into a military community and to offer a service to this community and offer something that wasn't around is exciting."

 "We offer a unique, hands-on experience for creating candles and other products," Karen Cunningham said.

Fragrant Blends Candle Bar is located at 622 N. Washington Street in Junction City. They also have a location in Manhattan, inside the Manhattan Town Center. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695235210863.jpeg" alt="Fragrant Blends Candle Bar held a ribbon-cutting on Wednesday afternoon in Junction City. Pictured from left to right, Cammie Roark, (family friend), owners Jack and Karen Cunningham, and Sylvia Thompson is on the far right, she is the mother of Karen.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Fragrant Blends Candle Bar held a ribbon-cutting on Wednesday afternoon in Junction City. Pictured from left to right, Cammie Roark, (family friend), owners Jack and Karen Cunningham, and Sylvia Thompson is on the far right, she is the mother of Karen.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC Post Fragrant Blends Candle Bar is the newest business in the Junction City Community. On Wednesday afternoon, Jack and Karen Cunningham held a ribbon cutting to open their new business. "We are excited to be here in Junction City," Jack Cunningham said. "The ability to come back into a military community and to offer a service to this community and offer something that wasn't around is exciting." "We offer a unique, hands-on experience for creating candles and other products," Karen Cunningham said.Fragrant Blends Candle Bar is located at 622 N. Washington Street in Junction City. They also have a location in Manhattan, inside the Manhattan Town Center.

Fragrant Blends Candle Bar hosts ribbon cutting on Wednesday

MELISSA SUE CARSON, 36, Manhattan, Failure to appear x; Bond $1,000; Remains confined to Riley County Jail

JOSHUA CHRISTOPHER MCCORMICK, 38, Clay Center, Failuret to appear; Bond $500

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.&nbsp;MELISSA SUE CARSON, 36, Manhattan, Failure to appear x; Bond $1,000; Remains confined to Riley County JailJOSHUA CHRISTOPHER MCCORMICK, 38, Clay Center, Failuret to appear; Bond $500

Riley County Arrest Report September 20

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Tuesday, September 19th, the Manhattan City Commission voted 4-0 to outsource the operation of the City's animal shelter, T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter.

City staff presented an agreement to allow Prairie Paws Animal Shelter, Inc. (PPAS), a private 501(c)3 no-kill shelter to operate the shelter.

PPAS was founding in Franklin County, Kansas in 1946 and serves more than 3,000 pets in six counties annually.

“Our organization is fortunate to have robust programming and stable financial support, but as our costs continue to rise, we have had to identify strategies to leverage our resources responsibly,” said Vanessa Cowie, executive director for Prairie Paws Animal Shelter. “Serving more animals and more citizens is the most effective way to achieve that.”

In January 2023, City staff began discussions which prompted a thorough examination of how to provide the most effective and efficient, high-quality services to the citizens and animals of Manhattan without the use of additional tax dollars.

During this time, it was determined that many of the challenges faced by municipalities when operating animal shelters, is that privately run animal shelters are less disruptive and have access to more funding and flexibility in management and policymaking.

“Animal welfare agencies can operate without some of the restrictions of municipal government. They may have better connections with donors, with fundraisers, with grants that not-for-profits can pursue that cities can’t,” explained Assistant City Manager Wyatt Thompson.

Following a presentation made to City Commissioners, a request for proposals was released and a recommendation was made to contract PPAS to operate the Animal Shelter.

On Tuesday, Commisssioners voted to allow PPAS to operate the T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter.

 PPAS will receive compensation of $350,000 annually to provide services required by the City. They will also be paid $13,850 for the cost of transitioning the shelter from the City of Manhattan operations to PPAS operating systems.

The operations agreement includes leasing the current T. Russell Reitz facilities for $1 per year, with operations scheduled to begin before the end of 2023.

Citizens in Manhattan may notice changes in branding, and additional fundraising efforts as the transition from City operations to private operations takes place.

Additional programs will become available at the shelter, including low-cost spay/neuter and a trap/neuter/release program for community cats.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Tuesday, September 19th, the Manhattan City Commission voted 4-0 to outsource the operation of the City's animal shelter, T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter.City staff presented an agreement to allow Prairie Paws Animal Shelter, Inc. (PPAS), a private 501(c)3 no-kill shelter to operate the shelter.PPAS was founding in Franklin County, Kansas in 1946 and serves more than 3,000 pets in six counties annually.“Our organization is fortunate to have robust programming and stable financial support, but as our costs continue to rise, we have had to identify strategies to leverage our resources responsibly,” said Vanessa Cowie, executive director for Prairie Paws Animal Shelter. “Serving more animals and more citizens is the most effective way to achieve that.”In January 2023, City staff began discussions which prompted a thorough examination of how to provide the most effective and efficient, high-quality services to the citizens and animals of Manhattan without the use of additional tax dollars.During this time, it was determined that many of the challenges faced by municipalities when operating animal shelters, is that privately run animal shelters are less disruptive and have access to more funding and flexibility in management and policymaking.“Animal welfare agencies can operate without some of the restrictions of municipal government. They may have better connections with donors, with fundraisers, with grants that not-for-profits can pursue that cities can’t,” explained Assistant City Manager Wyatt Thompson.Following a presentation made to City Commissioners, a request for proposals was released and a recommendation was made to contract PPAS to operate the Animal Shelter.On Tuesday, Commisssioners voted to allow PPAS to operate the T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter. PPAS will receive compensation of $350,000 annually to provide services required by the City. They will also be paid $13,850 for the cost of transitioning the shelter from the City of Manhattan operations to PPAS operating systems.The operations agreement includes leasing the current T. Russell Reitz facilities for $1 per year, with operations scheduled to begin before the end of 2023.Citizens in Manhattan may notice changes in branding, and additional fundraising efforts as the transition from City operations to private operations takes place.Additional programs will become available at the shelter, including low-cost spay/neuter and a trap/neuter/release program for community cats.More information about the City can be found online at <a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=cd1c1e634a&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">www.cityofmhk.com</a>, or by following the City on Facebook <a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=f8d663cceb&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">@cityofmanhattan</a> or Twitter <a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=c78e832cd4&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">@cityofmhk</a>.

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