The Riley County Commission has approved a letter of support for a Riley County Emergency Management grant application to the U.S. Department of the Interior. Funds are being sought to help mitigate or reduce the spread of wildfires. The work on preparing the application should be completed by the end of next week.

Emergency management Director Russel Stuky confirmed that work is under way on the University Park housing development in the 10,000 block of Lakeview Drive near Tuttle Creek Reservoir.

Stucky also noted that four used fire trucks have been acquired for service to replace older trucks.

By Dewey TerrillLittle Apple PostThe Riley County Commission has approved a letter of support for a Riley County Emergency Management grant application to the U.S. Department of the Interior. Funds are being sought to help mitigate or reduce the spread of wildfires. The work on preparing the application should be completed by the end of next week.--Emergency management Director Russel Stuky confirmed that work is under way on the University Park housing development in the 10,000 block of Lakeview Drive near Tuttle Creek Reservoir.--Stucky also noted that four used fire trucks have been acquired for service to replace older trucks.

Riley County Commission approves a Letter of Support

The Army said that a lockdown at Fort Riley has been lifted. ACPs have resumed normal operations.

Earlier today Fort Riley emergency personnel implemented lockdown procedures based on a report of a possible shooting. Further investigation produced no evidence of a shooting and there was no threat to the community. Details are attached and copied below.

Fort Riley, Kansas, emergency services personnel responded this morning to a report of gun shots on Fort Riley. Per standard procedures, units on Custer Hill and the access control points were directed to lock down at 11:42 a.m. The lock down was lifted at 1:04 p.m., and the post and all access control points have resumed normal operations. After a thorough search of the area, there is no evidence of a shooting. There are no injuries and no current threat to the installation.

The safety and security of our community is our top priority, and we take all reports of potential threats extremely seriously. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the community during this incident.

We would like to extend our appreciation to the law enforcement agencies and emergency medical teams (EMTs) who responded to the situation with professionalism and dedication. Their effective response ensured the safety of everyone involved, and we are incredibly proud of their service.

Fort Riley Public Affairs issued a statement. Fort Riley emergency services personnel responded this Thursday )morning to a report of a possible shooting. Per standard procedures, facilities on Custer Hill were directed to lock down until further notice. Access control points were closed while emergency personnel responded. At this time, the report has not been verified and there are no known injuries. The gates have reopened.

UPDATE: The Army said that a lockdown at Fort Riley has been lifted. ACPs have resumed normal operations. Earlier today Fort Riley emergency personnel implemented lockdown procedures based on a report of a possible shooting. Further investigation produced no evidence of a shooting and there was no threat to the community. Details are attached and copied below.Fort Riley lockdown lifted&nbsp;Fort Riley, Kansas, emergency services personnel responded this morning to a report of gun shots on Fort Riley. Per standard procedures, units on Custer Hill and the access control points were directed to lock down at 11:42 a.m. The lock down was lifted at 1:04 p.m., and the post and all access control points have resumed normal operations. After a thorough search of the area, there is no evidence of a shooting. There are no injuries and no current threat to the installation.The safety and security of our community is our top priority, and we take all reports of potential threats extremely seriously. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the community during this incident.We would like to extend our appreciation to the law enforcement agencies and emergency medical teams (EMTs) who responded to the situation with professionalism and dedication. Their effective response ensured the safety of everyone involved, and we are incredibly proud of their service.--Fort Riley Public Affairs issued a statement. Fort Riley emergency services personnel responded this Thursday )morning to a report of a possible shooting. Per standard procedures, facilities on Custer Hill were directed to lock down until further notice. Access control points were closed while emergency personnel responded. At this time, the report has not been verified and there are no known injuries. The gates have reopened.

Fort Riley authorities provide an update on emergency situation 

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce is&nbsp; recognizing six organizations that have been members since the Chamber’s founding 100 years ago. These businesses and organizations have demonstrated a century-long commitment to the growth, development, and prosperity of the Manhattan community.

The six organizations being honored for 100 years of continuous Chamber membership are:

These organizations join an esteemed group of existing century-long Chamber members, including&nbsp;The Manhattan Mercury, Commerce Bank-Manhattan, Kellstrom Pharmacy, and Kansas Gas Service, in receiving this distinction. Their commitment to the Chamber and the Manhattan community has helped shape the economic landscape and quality of life in the region.

“This milestone is a testament to the lasting impact of these businesses and organizations in our community,” said Jason Smith, Chamber President/CEO. “Their dedication to the Chamber and to Manhattan for a full century is truly remarkable, and we are grateful for their continued investment in our shared success.”

The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce will formally recognize these organizations at their Annual Meeting and Banquet on Friday, February 7, as part of its centennial celebrations, highlighting their contributions and legacy in the community.

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce is&nbsp; recognizing six organizations that have been members since the Chamber’s founding 100 years ago. These businesses and organizations have demonstrated a century-long commitment to the growth, development, and prosperity of the Manhattan community.The six organizations being honored for 100 years of continuous Chamber membership are:<ul>
 <li>Ascension Via Christi</li><li>Dunne’s Pharmacy</li><li>Griffith Lumber</li><li>Landmark National Bank</li><li>Manhattan Broadcasting</li><li>The Wareham Company</li>
 </ul>These organizations join an esteemed group of existing century-long Chamber members, including&nbsp;The Manhattan Mercury, Commerce Bank-Manhattan, Kellstrom Pharmacy, and Kansas Gas Service, in receiving this distinction. Their commitment to the Chamber and the Manhattan community has helped shape the economic landscape and quality of life in the region.“This milestone is a testament to the lasting impact of these businesses and organizations in our community,” said Jason Smith, Chamber President/CEO. “Their dedication to the Chamber and to Manhattan for a full century is truly remarkable, and we are grateful for their continued investment in our shared success.”The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce will formally recognize these organizations at their Annual Meeting and Banquet on Friday, February 7, as part of its centennial celebrations, highlighting their contributions and legacy in the community.

Six Organizations Recognized for 100 Years of Continuous Chamber Membership

The Riley County Police Department says that Director Brian R. Peete has officially released the 2025 Crime Reduction Plan, outlining strategies to enhance public safety, reduce crime, and strengthen the community. This plan focuses on addressing key concerns such as violent crime, narcotics, property theft, and more through prevention, proactivity, and collaboration.

To ensure community voices are heard, the RCPD is hosting two virtual town hall meetings here on Facebook to discuss the plan and gather your feedback:

February 24, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Join to share your thoughts and help shape the future of public safety in Riley County. The full plan and a Questions and Comments form are available on the RCPD website for review and input. You can find it here: <a href="https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR18jAogTV4kFtrbFe1_RtVXCxsiN3siGe3Waiw_IzqZHEROUa0ESB8M_wk_aem_1KzwlacDVKqEtIgGDDQPtQ" target="_blank">https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0</a>

The Riley County Police Department says that Director Brian R. Peete has officially released the 2025 Crime Reduction Plan, outlining strategies to enhance public safety, reduce crime, and strengthen the community. This plan focuses on addressing key concerns such as violent crime, narcotics, property theft, and more through prevention, proactivity, and collaboration.To ensure community voices are heard, the RCPD is hosting two virtual town hall meetings here on Facebook to discuss the plan and gather your feedback: February 24, 2025 at Noon February 24, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Join to share your thoughts and help shape the future of public safety in Riley County. The full plan and a Questions and Comments form are available on the RCPD website for review and input. You can find it here: <a href="https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR18jAogTV4kFtrbFe1_RtVXCxsiN3siGe3Waiw_IzqZHEROUa0ESB8M_wk_aem_1KzwlacDVKqEtIgGDDQPtQ" target="_blank">https://loom.ly/a-Faxy0</a>

Crime Reduction Plan has been prepared

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

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738854448414.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report February 6

The U.S. Senate on Tuesday confirmed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-doug-collins-veterans-affairs-va-georgia-f9a14a486cb12fd5ac3f07b3068eb20a">Doug Collins</a>&nbsp;as secretary of veterans affairs, putting the former congressman and Iraq War veteran at the helm of a department that provides crucial care to America’s veterans.

Collins, a former Air Force chaplain, was confirmed on a 77-23 vote.

The Department of Veterans Affairs manages a more than $350 billion budget and oversees nearly 200 medical centers and hospitals nationwide. It also manages national cemeteries and works closely with the Defense Department on personnel matters.

The U.S. Senate on Tuesday confirmed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-doug-collins-veterans-affairs-va-georgia-f9a14a486cb12fd5ac3f07b3068eb20a">Doug Collins</a>&nbsp;as secretary of veterans affairs, putting the former congressman and Iraq War veteran at the helm of a department that provides crucial care to America’s veterans.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My day 1 message is simple. We will deliver nothing short of the highest quality care to Vets and elevate the VA to new heights. It’s a new day at the VA. Bring it on. <a href="https://t.co/7qje9bA1Ti">pic.twitter.com/7qje9bA1Ti</a>&mdash; Doug Collins (@RepDougCollins) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDougCollins/status/1887278766109696234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Collins, a former Air Force chaplain, was confirmed on a 77-23 vote.The Department of Veterans Affairs manages a more than $350 billion budget and oversees nearly 200 medical centers and hospitals nationwide. It also manages national cemeteries and works closely with the Defense Department on personnel matters.

🎥New VA Secretary's day one message is simple

MANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/">Kansas State University College of Business Administration</a>&nbsp;has announced the adaptation of its accounting department into the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/accounting/">Herbel Family School of Accountancy</a>, a new and improved academic experience that more closely aligns with the goals of its strategic plan. This defining step in the school’s evolution was made possible by alumni and longtime&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;advocates Vern and Joan Herbel, who stepped forward in December of 2024 with a lead gift that established critical, long-term sustainable funding, provided the momentum for immediate success and laid a strong foundation of philanthropic support.

The Herbels are members of the KSU Foundation Board of Trustees and life members of the&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;Alumni Association, with Vern sitting on the College of Business Administration’s accounting advisory and dean’s business cdvisory councils as well. He retired as executive vice president and chief administrative officer at Torchmark Corporation, a public financial services holding company specializing in insurance. Vern was inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2019 and the Distinguished Business Leaders Hall of Fame in 2024.“When students see that&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;and its alumni invest in outstanding programming that prepares them for a successful career, it makes the decision to come to&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;that much easier,” Vern said. “K-State&nbsp;prepared me well for a long and successful business career, and Joan and I are honored to help the university envision and construct a state-of-the-art accounting school for today’s aspiring professionals.”

The Herbel Family School of Accountancy, like the former department, will continue to promote accounting careers to high school and college students and deliver exceptional academic programs, generous scholarship support, international travel opportunities and advanced career readiness. Program enhancements will include formalized strategies to increase industry collaboration and elevated philanthropic efforts will fund innovative teaching and research through support for endowed professorships.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738804417265.jpeg" alt="Longtime Kansas State University advocates and alumni Vern and Joan Herbel have stepped forward with a lead gift to establish the Herbel Family School of Accountancy in the College of Business Administration. ( Photo - KSU )" />
 <figcaption>Longtime Kansas State University advocates and alumni Vern and Joan Herbel have stepped forward with a lead gift to establish the Herbel Family School of Accountancy in the College of Business Administration. ( Photo - KSU )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Alison Rogers&nbsp;Division of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/">Kansas State University College of Business Administration</a>&nbsp;has announced the adaptation of its accounting department into the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/accounting/">Herbel Family School of Accountancy</a>, a new and improved academic experience that more closely aligns with the goals of its strategic plan. This defining step in the school’s evolution was made possible by alumni and longtime&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;advocates Vern and Joan Herbel, who stepped forward in December of 2024 with a lead gift that established critical, long-term sustainable funding, provided the momentum for immediate success and laid a strong foundation of philanthropic support.The Herbels are members of the KSU Foundation Board of Trustees and life members of the&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;Alumni Association, with Vern sitting on the College of Business Administration’s accounting advisory and dean’s business cdvisory councils as well. He retired as executive vice president and chief administrative officer at Torchmark Corporation, a public financial services holding company specializing in insurance. Vern was inducted into the Accounting Hall of Fame in 2019 and the Distinguished Business Leaders Hall of Fame in 2024.“When students see that&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;and its alumni invest in outstanding programming that prepares them for a successful career, it makes the decision to come to&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;that much easier,” Vern said. “K-State&nbsp;prepared me well for a long and successful business career, and Joan and I are honored to help the university envision and construct a state-of-the-art accounting school for today’s aspiring professionals.”The Herbel Family School of Accountancy, like the former department, will continue to promote accounting careers to high school and college students and deliver exceptional academic programs, generous scholarship support, international travel opportunities and advanced career readiness. Program enhancements will include formalized strategies to increase industry collaboration and elevated philanthropic efforts will fund innovative teaching and research through support for endowed professorships.

K-State introduces new school of accountancy named for Herbel family

MANHATTAN, KS – February 5, 2025)&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=6a4c23ee3b&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Manhattan Regional Airport</a>&nbsp;(MHK) has announces 2024 set new records for passengers using the airport.

One such record was enplanements, with&nbsp;81,712&nbsp;total passengers boarding a flight out of MHK in 2024. The previous enplanement record of 77,553 was set in 2019. Last year saw a 5.3% increase when compared to 2019.

Similarly, the airport also set a new record for deplanements, with&nbsp;81,971&nbsp;total passengers exiting a flight in Manhattan for 2024.

“We have experienced steady growth at Manhattan Regional Airport since the temporary closure for runway reconstruction in 2023,” said Mayor Karen McCulloh. “To see that we have recovered all of our business from prior to that disruption, and now even exceeded the highest rates we were experiencing prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, is very exciting and encouraging.”

In all, a total of&nbsp;163,683&nbsp;passengers traveled on American Airlines through MHK, which represents a 5% increase from 2019 levels (156,387).

“We are thrilled to set this new benchmark and remain committed to providing the community with an exceptional travel experience at Manhattan Regional Airport,” said Airport Director Brandon Keazer.

By Andrew LawsonPIO City of ManhattanMANHATTAN, KS – February 5, 2025)&nbsp;—&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=6a4c23ee3b&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Manhattan Regional Airport</a>&nbsp;(MHK) has announces 2024 set new records for passengers using the airport.One such record was enplanements, with&nbsp;81,712&nbsp;total passengers boarding a flight out of MHK in 2024. The previous enplanement record of 77,553 was set in 2019. Last year saw a 5.3% increase when compared to 2019.Similarly, the airport also set a new record for deplanements, with&nbsp;81,971&nbsp;total passengers exiting a flight in Manhattan for 2024.“We have experienced steady growth at Manhattan Regional Airport since the temporary closure for runway reconstruction in 2023,” said Mayor Karen McCulloh. “To see that we have recovered all of our business from prior to that disruption, and now even exceeded the highest rates we were experiencing prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, is very exciting and encouraging.”In all, a total of&nbsp;163,683&nbsp;passengers traveled on American Airlines through MHK, which represents a 5% increase from 2019 levels (156,387).“We are thrilled to set this new benchmark and remain committed to providing the community with an exceptional travel experience at Manhattan Regional Airport,” said Airport Director Brandon Keazer.

 Manhattan Regional Airport sets several new passenger milestones in 2024

By&nbsp;AUDREY HAMBRIGHT K-State News Service

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Veterinary and public health officials are urging cat owners to remain vigilant as cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, or&nbsp;H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, have been detected in domestic cats.

Kansas State University's&nbsp;Susan Nelson, clinical professor and veterinarian in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/">Hill's Pet Health and Nutrition Center</a>, emphasized that&nbsp;there is no need for panic but cautioned&nbsp;that proactive measures should be taken to prevent infections.

H5N1, a strain of avian influenza type A, has been a growing concern in the poultry industry for nearly four years, leading to the culling of thousands of infected birds. The virus has also been detected in wild bird populations and,&nbsp;most recently, in U.S. dairy cattle as of March 2024. Alongside these outbreaks, reports have emerged of domestic and wild cats becoming infected, with many cases resulting in fatalities.

According to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-health/avian-influenza/avian-influenza-h5n1-cats">American Veterinary Medical Association</a>, one of the primary sources of transmission in cats is through food, specifically raw poultry and unpasteurized dairy products.

"There have been several reports of cats becoming infected from consuming raw poultry or unpasteurized milk,"&nbsp;Nelson explained.&nbsp;"Other possible exposure routes include contact with infected birds, livestock&nbsp;or contaminated surfaces, as well as interaction with humans who have worked on affected farms."

Nelson said infected cats often exhibit severe respiratory symptoms, including loss of appetite, fever, large amounts of eye and nasal discharge, coughing, and labored breathing. Neurological signs, such as tremors, seizures and blindness, have also been reported."

Symptoms of H5N1 can sometimes mimic rabies, making prompt veterinary assessment critical,"&nbsp;Nelson&nbsp;said.

Pet owners who suspect their sick cat may have been exposed should contact their veterinarian immediately.&nbsp;Nelson recommends limiting&nbsp;exposure to other pets and people in the house, especially anyone who is immunocompromised, and wearing&nbsp;a mask and gloves when handling them.

"It is important to call ahead before bringing your cat in,"&nbsp;Nelson said. "While no cat-to-human transmission has been reported, precautionary measures need to be taken to protect staff and other patients.

"To minimize the risk of H5N1 infection, veterinary professionals recommend the following preventive measures:&nbsp; 

•&nbsp;Do not feed&nbsp;cats&nbsp;raw meat, especially poultry or unpasteurized dairy&nbsp;products. •&nbsp;Keep cats indoors to prevent contact with infected birds and wildlife. •&nbsp;Do not handle dead birds;&nbsp;report them to local health authorities instead. If you must handle one, wear protective&nbsp;gear, including a mask and disposable gloves.&nbsp; • Keep cats away from livestock, poultry and their environments, especially in areas with known H5N1 outbreaks. Change your clothes and wash hands thoroughly after handling these species before interacting with your cat. •&nbsp;Ensure rabies vaccinations are up to date, as H5N1 symptoms can resemble rabies.

While H5N1 cases in domestic cats remain low, experts stress the importance of awareness and precautionary measures.

"Vigilance is key in preventing further infections,"&nbsp;Nelson said.&nbsp;"We must report any signs of disease in our cats, local wildlife,&nbsp;or birds and take the proper precautions to reduce the risk of spread.

"For further information about H5N1 in pets, visit the websites of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-health/avian-influenza/avian-influenza-h5n1-cats">American Veterinary Medical Association</a>&nbsp;and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/mammals">resources for avian influenza</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738687741211.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;AUDREY HAMBRIGHT K-State News ServiceMANHATTAN —&nbsp;Veterinary and public health officials are urging cat owners to remain vigilant as cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, or&nbsp;H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, have been detected in domestic cats.Kansas State University's&nbsp;Susan Nelson, clinical professor and veterinarian in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/">Hill's Pet Health and Nutrition Center</a>, emphasized that&nbsp;there is no need for panic but cautioned&nbsp;that proactive measures should be taken to prevent infections.H5N1, a strain of avian influenza type A, has been a growing concern in the poultry industry for nearly four years, leading to the culling of thousands of infected birds. The virus has also been detected in wild bird populations and,&nbsp;most recently, in U.S. dairy cattle as of March 2024. Alongside these outbreaks, reports have emerged of domestic and wild cats becoming infected, with many cases resulting in fatalities.According to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-health/avian-influenza/avian-influenza-h5n1-cats">American Veterinary Medical Association</a>, one of the primary sources of transmission in cats is through food, specifically raw poultry and unpasteurized dairy products."There have been several reports of cats becoming infected from consuming raw poultry or unpasteurized milk,"&nbsp;Nelson explained.&nbsp;"Other possible exposure routes include contact with infected birds, livestock&nbsp;or contaminated surfaces, as well as interaction with humans who have worked on affected farms."Nelson said infected cats often exhibit severe respiratory symptoms, including loss of appetite, fever, large amounts of eye and nasal discharge, coughing, and labored breathing. Neurological signs, such as tremors, seizures and blindness, have also been reported."Symptoms of H5N1 can sometimes mimic rabies, making prompt veterinary assessment critical,"&nbsp;Nelson&nbsp;said.Pet owners who suspect their sick cat may have been exposed should contact their veterinarian immediately.&nbsp;Nelson recommends limiting&nbsp;exposure to other pets and people in the house, especially anyone who is immunocompromised, and wearing&nbsp;a mask and gloves when handling them."It is important to call ahead before bringing your cat in,"&nbsp;Nelson said. "While no cat-to-human transmission has been reported, precautionary measures need to be taken to protect staff and other patients."To minimize the risk of H5N1 infection, veterinary professionals recommend the following preventive measures:&nbsp; •&nbsp;Do not feed&nbsp;cats&nbsp;raw meat, especially poultry or unpasteurized dairy&nbsp;products. •&nbsp;Keep cats indoors to prevent contact with infected birds and wildlife. •&nbsp;Do not handle dead birds;&nbsp;report them to local health authorities instead. If you must handle one, wear protective&nbsp;gear, including a mask and disposable gloves.&nbsp; • Keep cats away from livestock, poultry and their environments, especially in areas with known H5N1 outbreaks. Change your clothes and wash hands thoroughly after handling these species before interacting with your cat. •&nbsp;Ensure rabies vaccinations are up to date, as H5N1 symptoms can resemble rabies.While H5N1 cases in domestic cats remain low, experts stress the importance of awareness and precautionary measures."Vigilance is key in preventing further infections,"&nbsp;Nelson said.&nbsp;"We must report any signs of disease in our cats, local wildlife,&nbsp;or birds and take the proper precautions to reduce the risk of spread."For further information about H5N1 in pets, visit the websites of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-health/avian-influenza/avian-influenza-h5n1-cats">American Veterinary Medical Association</a>&nbsp;and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/mammals">resources for avian influenza</a>.

K-State veterinarian warns cat owners about bird flu risks amid rising cases  

The City of Manhattan said the outside westbound lane of Poyntz Avenue is closed from South Manhattan Avenue to 14th Street, due to emergency water main break repairs. Westbound traffic on Poyntz still will be able to turn north on 14th Street.

The City of Manhattan said the outside westbound lane of Poyntz Avenue is closed from South Manhattan Avenue to 14th Street, due to emergency water main break repairs. Westbound traffic on Poyntz still will be able to turn north on 14th Street.

Water main break repairs

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $4.13 million in tax credits will be made available under the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP).

“Revitalizing our communities and state requires targeted investments that make people want to live and work in Kansas,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “CSP supports communities by substantially reducing the cost for donors to make contributions to charitable organizations that help fund important local projects.”

The Community Service Tax Credit Program provides an opportunity for private, non-profit organizations and public healthcare entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns involving community service, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and technical training, and healthcare services.

Under the program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors who contribute to approved projects. Organizations are chosen through a competitive selection process in which applications are thoroughly analyzed to determine award sizes and final awardees.

Proposed projects must be unique or one-time in nature while creating lasting value for charitable organizations. Projects could include a capital campaign, major equipment purchase, major renovation, capacity building and more.

Applications will be open from March 1 through April 30. Those applying may request up to $200,000 in tax credits. Applicants in rural communities with a population of less than 15,000 are eligible for a 70% credit. Those applicants not located in rural areas are eligible for a 50% credit.

If your organization is interested in applying for CSP, the Department of Commerce will host an introductory webinar at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, February 27. For more information and to register for the webinar, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%2Fprogram%2Fcommunity-programs%2Fcsp%2F/1/01010194d793142d-34520ddf-58b0-40f7-a827-1df2efee96da-000000/a5r9k3zfO7lnRyHPxqLWc-xpqcqTX1RfvMxdED6U8Ts=391">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575319731629.jpeg" alt="Kansas Department of Commerce sq.JPG" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Department of Commerce sq.JPG</figcaption>
 </figure><h2></h2>SubmittedLieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $4.13 million in tax credits will be made available under the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Community Service Tax Credit Program (CSP).“Revitalizing our communities and state requires targeted investments that make people want to live and work in Kansas,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “CSP supports communities by substantially reducing the cost for donors to make contributions to charitable organizations that help fund important local projects.”The Community Service Tax Credit Program provides an opportunity for private, non-profit organizations and public healthcare entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns involving community service, non-governmental crime prevention, youth apprenticeship and technical training, and healthcare services.Under the program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors who contribute to approved projects. Organizations are chosen through a competitive selection process in which applications are thoroughly analyzed to determine award sizes and final awardees.Proposed projects must be unique or one-time in nature while creating lasting value for charitable organizations. Projects could include a capital campaign, major equipment purchase, major renovation, capacity building and more.Applications will be open from March 1 through April 30. Those applying may request up to $200,000 in tax credits. Applicants in rural communities with a population of less than 15,000 are eligible for a 70% credit. Those applicants not located in rural areas are eligible for a 50% credit.If your organization is interested in applying for CSP, the Department of Commerce will host an introductory webinar at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, February 27. For more information and to register for the webinar, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kansascommerce.gov%2Fprogram%2Fcommunity-programs%2Fcsp%2F/1/01010194d793142d-34520ddf-58b0-40f7-a827-1df2efee96da-000000/a5r9k3zfO7lnRyHPxqLWc-xpqcqTX1RfvMxdED6U8Ts=391">here</a>.

Lt. Gov. Toland announces more than $4M for Community Service Tax Credit Program

On Tuesday night Junction City Commissioner Al Gordon addressed the case involving his recent arrest and misdemeanor Domestic Battery charge against him. "I know people have been looking for a statement for events that's gone on my behalf. I want to say that I maintain my innocence and look forward to presenting my case in court."

Gordon spoke during a Junction City Commission meeting.

On Tuesday night Junction City Commissioner Al Gordon addressed the case involving his recent arrest and misdemeanor Domestic Battery charge against him. "I know people have been looking for a statement for events that's gone on my behalf. I want to say that I maintain my innocence and look forward to presenting my case in court."Gordon spoke during a Junction City Commission meeting.

Commissioner Gordon maintains his innocence

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/2025/2/1738767827032.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report February 5

Farm life also includes the need for stress management.

<a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By Pat Melgares</a>

MANHATTAN, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Agriculture reports that there are more than 100,000 farmers in the state, and the average age of those farmers is just over 58.

Tawnie Larson, a project consultant for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/kash/">Kansas Agriculture Safety and Health program</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, said the KDA’s statistics combined with national figures on heart disease serve as a cautionary tale for those who live in rural areas of the Sunflower State.

“Male farmers aged 45 and older have an increased risk of heart disease compared to their non-farming peers,” Larson said. “And women in rural areas also are at an increased risk for heart disease.”

Larson urges rural residents to take a moment to recognize heart health in February, which is recognized nationally by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcross.org/">American Red Cross</a>&nbsp;as American Heart Month. The Red Cross reports that heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States.

Farmers, she said, tend to experience high levels of stress due to such job-related factors as weather, market fluctuations, equipment malfunctions and financial hardship.

Plus, a by-product of living in rural communities is that those areas tend to have decreased access to health care, “or (farmers) do not see their doctor on a regular basis,” according to Larson.

As much as 44% of women in the United States are living with some sort of heart disease, according to figures from the U.S. National Institutes of Health -- for many of the same reasons that men suffer from heart disease. In Kansas, many of those women are farmers; the Kansas Department of Agriculture reports that of the 100,000-plus farmers in the state, more than one-third of those are women.

“Blood pressure tends to rise in women earlier than men,” Larson said. “Early signs of hypertension for women include fatigue, sleeping issues, bloating, headaches and blurred vision or dizziness. Don’t write these symptoms off; talk to your doctor before you have a problem.”

Larson says men and women should check their blood pressure on a regular basis; if you can’t get by the doctor’s office regularly, take advantage of blood pressure machines often available at a local pharmacy or other location.

“You can also buy a small cuff to use at home,” Larson said. “Log your numbers routinely and discuss these with your doctor.”

In addition to elevated blood pressure, other conditions that affect heart health include high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney disease, smoking, excessive use of alcohol, poor diet, obesity, limited cardiovascular activity and hearing loss.

“People, in general, may also ignore or downplay their susceptibility to heart disease and put off necessary actions to improve their wellness,” Larson said. “Poor heart health can lead to heart attack or stroke.”

According to Larson, some ideas for improving heart health include:

<a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/">Larson said the website, Kansas Ag Stress Resources</a>, is available to help farmers cope with ag-related stress. In some parts of the state, free counseling may be available; Larson cited the example of Pawnee Mental Health in northeast Kansas.

Farm life also includes the need for stress management.<a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By Pat Melgares</a>MANHATTAN, Kan. – The Kansas Department of Agriculture reports that there are more than 100,000 farmers in the state, and the average age of those farmers is just over 58.Tawnie Larson, a project consultant for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/kash/">Kansas Agriculture Safety and Health program</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, said the KDA’s statistics combined with national figures on heart disease serve as a cautionary tale for those who live in rural areas of the Sunflower State.“Male farmers aged 45 and older have an increased risk of heart disease compared to their non-farming peers,” Larson said. “And women in rural areas also are at an increased risk for heart disease.”Larson urges rural residents to take a moment to recognize heart health in February, which is recognized nationally by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redcross.org/">American Red Cross</a>&nbsp;as American Heart Month. The Red Cross reports that heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States.Farmers, she said, tend to experience high levels of stress due to such job-related factors as weather, market fluctuations, equipment malfunctions and financial hardship.Plus, a by-product of living in rural communities is that those areas tend to have decreased access to health care, “or (farmers) do not see their doctor on a regular basis,” according to Larson.As much as 44% of women in the United States are living with some sort of heart disease, according to figures from the U.S. National Institutes of Health -- for many of the same reasons that men suffer from heart disease. In Kansas, many of those women are farmers; the Kansas Department of Agriculture reports that of the 100,000-plus farmers in the state, more than one-third of those are women.“Blood pressure tends to rise in women earlier than men,” Larson said. “Early signs of hypertension for women include fatigue, sleeping issues, bloating, headaches and blurred vision or dizziness. Don’t write these symptoms off; talk to your doctor before you have a problem.”Larson says men and women should check their blood pressure on a regular basis; if you can’t get by the doctor’s office regularly, take advantage of blood pressure machines often available at a local pharmacy or other location.“You can also buy a small cuff to use at home,” Larson said. “Log your numbers routinely and discuss these with your doctor.”In addition to elevated blood pressure, other conditions that affect heart health include high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney disease, smoking, excessive use of alcohol, poor diet, obesity, limited cardiovascular activity and hearing loss.“People, in general, may also ignore or downplay their susceptibility to heart disease and put off necessary actions to improve their wellness,” Larson said. “Poor heart health can lead to heart attack or stroke.”According to Larson, some ideas for improving heart health include:<ul>
 <li>Make healthy choices, such as eating a healthy diet, being more active and maintaining a healthy weight.</li><li>Make small changes. Set one goal per week, rather many changes at once.</li><li>Reduce stress by focusing on what you can control.</li><li>Find a favorite stress-reducing activity and do it regularly.</li><li>Start a regular walking routine. Listen to music or a podcast.</li><li>Read books.</li><li>Spend time with family or friends.</li><li>Take up an activity that gets your heart rate up, and gradually build to higher rates of activity.</li>
 </ul><a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/">Larson said the website, Kansas Ag Stress Resources</a>, is available to help farmers cope with ag-related stress. In some parts of the state, free counseling may be available; Larson cited the example of Pawnee Mental Health in northeast Kansas..

K-State ag safety expert urges farmers to monitor heart health

The Junction City Commission has voted 4-0 to accept the resignation of Mayor Jeff Underhill.

The City will now seek to fill the seat. According to City Manager Kim Zimmerman if you are interested in serving bring your resume to his office by next Tuesday. That provides time for the current commissioners to review the resumes.&nbsp;

According to City Attorney Britain Stites the City has until March 3rd to fill the vacancy. There are approximately 11 months remaining on the term.

Underhill submitted his resignation after a blank recall petition was submitted last week alleging&nbsp; misconduct while in office,&nbsp; revoking of his insurance license due to fraud and deception. Underhill resigned before action to verify the petition and collect signatures had been undertaken.

The vice mayor, Pat Landes, can fill in as mayor while the commissioner vacancy is being filled. The mayor's spot will be filled in the future by a vote of the city commission.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738601122897.jpeg" alt="Jeff Underhill" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Underhill</figcaption>
 </figure>The Junction City Commission has voted 4-0 to accept the resignation of Mayor Jeff Underhill.The City will now seek to fill the seat. According to City Manager Kim Zimmerman if you are interested in serving bring your resume to his office by next Tuesday. That provides time for the current commissioners to review the resumes.&nbsp;According to City Attorney Britain Stites the City has until March 3rd to fill the vacancy. There are approximately 11 months remaining on the term.Underhill submitted his resignation after a blank recall petition was submitted last week alleging&nbsp; misconduct while in office,&nbsp; revoking of his insurance license due to fraud and deception. Underhill resigned before action to verify the petition and collect signatures had been undertaken.The vice mayor, Pat Landes, can fill in as mayor while the commissioner vacancy is being filled. The mayor's spot will be filled in the future by a vote of the city commission.<figure>
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Junction City Commission accepts the mayor's resignation

Submitted for Insight Kansas by Mark R. Joslyn

For decades, there has been a general understanding of the coalitions that define the two parties.

The wealthy and college educated leaned Republican, while the less educated, working class, and the disadvantaged supported Democrats.

We knew generally what to expect from both sides.

The college educated and affluent are drifting leftward. The working class and those without a college degree are moving right. The so-called “diploma divide” has arrived.

The divide first took shape in 2008, when Obama carried college educated voters and McCain won those without a college degree.

Since then, the split has expanded considerably. College educated whites now comprise a plurality of the Democrat coalition, reaching nearly 40 percent of the total Democrat presidential vote. A majority of the college educated, in fact, voted for Kamala Harris in 2024 while a majority without a college degree voted for Donald Trump. And, for the first time since the advent of reliable exit polling, the Republican candidate won the lowest income group – under $50,000 while the Democrat secured the highest income category – $100,000 plus.

This helps explain why Biden pushed so hard for student loan forgiveness and approved tax credits for electric vehicles.

It also sheds light on Trump’s support for tariffs and a no tax on tips plan.

As new coalition members join, they shape the parties’ cultures which are showcased every four years during party conventions.

In 2020, Democrats choose Pulitzer Prize winning author and presidential historian Jon Meacham and former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD to deliver remarks on the final evening of their convention. By contrast, Republicans featured Franklin Graham, son of Christian evangelist Billy Graham, and Dana White CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

White was spotlighted again in 2024, this time presenting Trump to convention delegates. Former professional wrestler Hulk Hogan and Teamster president Sean O’ Brien also received coveted primetime slots.

The party transformations have impacted Kansans as well. Wealthy and well educated Kansas counties now represent opportunities for Democrats.

Johnson County, a historical stronghold of Republicans, is experiencing a noticeable shift toward Democrats. In 2008, Obama secured nearly 45 percent of the county’s vote, reaching the highest percentage by a Democrat since FDR in 1932.

Hillary Clinton nearly equaled that percentage in 2016 and Biden surpassed it with 52.7 percent in 2020, marking the first time a Democrat had won Johnson County in over 100 years.

Kamala Harris then improved on Biden’s percentage and won Riley County as well.

Less affluent and less educated counties are moving rightward.

Crawford County for example in the southeast quadrant voted for Carter in 1976, Dukakis in 1988, Clinton in 1992 and 1996. And then in 2008, Crawford joined Douglas and Wyandotte as the only counties to support Obama. But over the last four presidential contests, Crawford turned red.

Hillary Clinton’s 35 percent was the worst performance by a Democrat since 1924 – Biden and Harris managed only a modest uptick.

These changes can be confusing and frustrating for many long-time party loyalists. After all, the parties they had once aligned with and cast their votes for have effectively vanished.

Submitted for Insight Kansas by Mark R. JoslynUniversity of KansasFor decades, there has been a general understanding of the coalitions that define the two parties.The wealthy and college educated leaned Republican, while the less educated, working class, and the disadvantaged supported Democrats.We knew generally what to expect from both sides.No longer.The college educated and affluent are drifting leftward. The working class and those without a college degree are moving right. The so-called “diploma divide” has arrived.The divide first took shape in 2008, when Obama carried college educated voters and McCain won those without a college degree.Since then, the split has expanded considerably. College educated whites now comprise a plurality of the Democrat coalition, reaching nearly 40 percent of the total Democrat presidential vote. A majority of the college educated, in fact, voted for Kamala Harris in 2024 while a majority without a college degree voted for Donald Trump. And, for the first time since the advent of reliable exit polling, the Republican candidate won the lowest income group – under $50,000 while the Democrat secured the highest income category – $100,000 plus.This helps explain why Biden pushed so hard for student loan forgiveness and approved tax credits for electric vehicles.It also sheds light on Trump’s support for tariffs and a no tax on tips plan.As new coalition members join, they shape the parties’ cultures which are showcased every four years during party conventions.In 2020, Democrats choose Pulitzer Prize winning author and presidential historian Jon Meacham and former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, MD to deliver remarks on the final evening of their convention. By contrast, Republicans featured Franklin Graham, son of Christian evangelist Billy Graham, and Dana White CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.White was spotlighted again in 2024, this time presenting Trump to convention delegates. Former professional wrestler Hulk Hogan and Teamster president Sean O’ Brien also received coveted primetime slots.The party transformations have impacted Kansans as well. Wealthy and well educated Kansas counties now represent opportunities for Democrats.Johnson County, a historical stronghold of Republicans, is experiencing a noticeable shift toward Democrats. In 2008, Obama secured nearly 45 percent of the county’s vote, reaching the highest percentage by a Democrat since FDR in 1932.Hillary Clinton nearly equaled that percentage in 2016 and Biden surpassed it with 52.7 percent in 2020, marking the first time a Democrat had won Johnson County in over 100 years.Kamala Harris then improved on Biden’s percentage and won Riley County as well.Less affluent and less educated counties are moving rightward.Crawford County for example in the southeast quadrant voted for Carter in 1976, Dukakis in 1988, Clinton in 1992 and 1996. And then in 2008, Crawford joined Douglas and Wyandotte as the only counties to support Obama. But over the last four presidential contests, Crawford turned red.Hillary Clinton’s 35 percent was the worst performance by a Democrat since 1924 – Biden and Harris managed only a modest uptick.These changes can be confusing and frustrating for many long-time party loyalists. After all, the parties they had once aligned with and cast their votes for have effectively vanished.It’s time to reset our expectations.

Adjusting to the new political reality

The National Weather Service in Topeka says patchy freezing drizzle is possible Tuesday night and into Wednesday
morning. This could cause slick spots to develop, especially on
bridges and overpasses. Be on the lookout for slippery road
conditions for the Wednesday morning commute.&nbsp;

The National Weather Service in Topeka says patchy freezing drizzle is possible Tuesday night and into Wednesday
morning. This could cause slick spots to develop, especially on
bridges and overpasses. Be on the lookout for slippery road
conditions for the Wednesday morning commute.&nbsp;

Patchy freezing drizzle is in the forecast

A grant from the Kansas State Historical Society that was announced over the weekend will help the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad’s efforts to get its prized steam locomotive back on the rails as soon as possible.The grant in the amount of $79,152 will cover part of the cost of rebuilding Santa Fe 3415, which is out of service this season as work crews rebuild the engine, a maintenance procedure required every 15 years by the Federal Railroad Administration.&nbsp;

The KSHS Heritage Trust Fund provides matching funds to help preserve properties listed in the National Record of Historic Places. Santa Fe 3415 was placed on the national record in 2011.The grant will help cover the cost of inspecting the locomotive’s boiler and replacing an intricate system of flue tubes, a process that requires outside consulting and skilled labor.&nbsp;

A crew from the Durango and Silverton steam railroad in Colorado was in Abilene last month to supervise a group of volunteers on the process of removing the old tubing and other construction tasks. About 15 volunteers from four states were in Abilene for January’s work weekend. The railroad plans to conduct organized work weekends every month until the project is completed.

A&amp;SV President and General Manager Ross Boelling said that the railroad will need more money and volunteer hours to complete the rebuild, but work crews have done a remarkable job of dismantling the engine and carefully cataloging and storing parts. “We would like to have the engine back in service late this year,” Boelling explained. “Santa Fe 3415 figures to play a major role in Abilene’s observance of America’s 250th&nbsp;birthday in 2026, so we need to get the engine up and running. This grant will make us one step closer to completing that goal.”

By Steven SmethersA grant from the Kansas State Historical Society that was announced over the weekend will help the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad’s efforts to get its prized steam locomotive back on the rails as soon as possible.The grant in the amount of $79,152 will cover part of the cost of rebuilding Santa Fe 3415, which is out of service this season as work crews rebuild the engine, a maintenance procedure required every 15 years by the Federal Railroad Administration.&nbsp;The KSHS Heritage Trust Fund provides matching funds to help preserve properties listed in the National Record of Historic Places. Santa Fe 3415 was placed on the national record in 2011.The grant will help cover the cost of inspecting the locomotive’s boiler and replacing an intricate system of flue tubes, a process that requires outside consulting and skilled labor.&nbsp;A crew from the Durango and Silverton steam railroad in Colorado was in Abilene last month to supervise a group of volunteers on the process of removing the old tubing and other construction tasks. About 15 volunteers from four states were in Abilene for January’s work weekend. The railroad plans to conduct organized work weekends every month until the project is completed.A&amp;SV President and General Manager Ross Boelling said that the railroad will need more money and volunteer hours to complete the rebuild, but work crews have done a remarkable job of dismantling the engine and carefully cataloging and storing parts. “We would like to have the engine back in service late this year,” Boelling explained. “Santa Fe 3415 figures to play a major role in Abilene’s observance of America’s 250th&nbsp;birthday in 2026, so we need to get the engine up and running. This grant will make us one step closer to completing that goal.”&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad receives a grant

Legislature is mulling proposal for $67 million in budget enhancements

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents is playing defense against cyberattacks on campuses, catch-up on employee salary increases and offense to secure a hike in need-based student aid.

This $67 million package of enhancements must run the gauntlet of the 2025 Legislature led by politicians interested in tightening screws on spending, including budgets for public higher education. To make the point clearly, the House Appropriations Committee asked how universities would respond if compelled to slash expenditures by 7.5%.

Blake Flanders, president and CEO of the state Board of Regents, said proposed investment in priorities of the six state universities included $10 million to upgrade information technology systems routinely targeted by extortionists. Another $10 million was requested for the state’s community colleges and technical colleges for the same purpose, he said.

The problem is more than hypothetical. Kansas State University confirmed a cyberattack in January 2024 that temporarily disrupted IT services.

“People&nbsp;are&nbsp;trying&nbsp;to&nbsp;hit&nbsp;your&nbsp;network,” Flanders said on the Kansas Reflector podcast. “Only&nbsp;one&nbsp;has&nbsp;to&nbsp;get&nbsp;through. So,&nbsp;the&nbsp;state&nbsp;rightfully&nbsp;has&nbsp;said&nbsp;we&nbsp;need&nbsp;to&nbsp;increase&nbsp;our&nbsp;level&nbsp;of&nbsp;cyber&nbsp;defense.”

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, in budget recommendations presented to the Legislature, would provide about half what the Board of Regents requested for IT security.

The Board of Regents also proposed appropriation of $27 million to increase salaries at University of Kansas, Kansas State University and the four other state universities by 5%. The governor recommended a 2.5% increase for all state employees.

Flanders said the Board of Regents’ proposal recognized lawmakers hadn’t appropriated enough from the state general fund in previous years so all campus employees were provided the standard raise. In other words, the process delivered enough for university employees to get a 2.5% raise when other state agencies were granted 5% increases for staff compensation.

“We’ve&nbsp;put&nbsp;that&nbsp;into&nbsp;our&nbsp;request,&nbsp;really,&nbsp;to&nbsp;keep&nbsp;our&nbsp;talent,” Flanders said. “Here’s&nbsp;what&nbsp;we&nbsp;know. We&nbsp;have&nbsp;researchers&nbsp;who&nbsp;are&nbsp;leaving&nbsp;the&nbsp;state,&nbsp;and&nbsp;when&nbsp;a&nbsp;researcher&nbsp;leaves&nbsp;the&nbsp;state&nbsp;they&nbsp;take&nbsp;their&nbsp;grant&nbsp;dollars&nbsp;with&nbsp;them. So,&nbsp;that’s&nbsp;an&nbsp;economic&nbsp;loss&nbsp;for&nbsp;our&nbsp;state&nbsp;and&nbsp;for&nbsp;the&nbsp;university.”

In addition, the Board of Regents sought to expand state funding for need-based student aid by $30 million annually. The objective would be to press ahead with a strategy to keep higher education affordable, fill workforce shortages and create economic prosperity.

The Legislature&nbsp;and governor&nbsp;over&nbsp;the&nbsp;past&nbsp;few&nbsp;years&nbsp;substantially increased that line item with a surge&nbsp;from&nbsp;about&nbsp;$25&nbsp;million&nbsp;to&nbsp;$96&nbsp;million.

“It’s&nbsp;been&nbsp;a&nbsp;tremendous&nbsp;increase,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;began&nbsp;to&nbsp;pay&nbsp;off.&nbsp;We&nbsp;have&nbsp;more&nbsp;first-generation&nbsp;students.&nbsp;Our&nbsp;student&nbsp;debt&nbsp;load&nbsp;is&nbsp;down,” Flanders said.

He said one consequence of budget tightening would likely be higher tuition rates. In the current academic year, tuition went up 2.8% at Kansas State and 6% at Fort Hays State University. Several universities ranged from 3.5% to 4%.

“We&nbsp;have&nbsp;really&nbsp;kept&nbsp;the&nbsp;cost&nbsp;of&nbsp;tuition&nbsp;increases&nbsp;lower&nbsp;than&nbsp;the&nbsp;rate&nbsp;of&nbsp;inflation.&nbsp;We&nbsp;want&nbsp;to&nbsp;try&nbsp;to&nbsp;continue&nbsp;to&nbsp;do&nbsp;that.&nbsp;That&nbsp;requires&nbsp;partnership,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it&nbsp;requires&nbsp;state&nbsp;investment&nbsp;and&nbsp;then&nbsp;it&nbsp;also&nbsp;requires&nbsp;us&nbsp;being&nbsp;as&nbsp;efficient&nbsp;as&nbsp;possible,” Flanders said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738677297770.png" alt="lake Flanders, president and CEO of the Kansas Board of Regents, said on the Kansas Reflector podcast the budget request for state universities centers on a 5% employee pay raise, $10 million for IT security and $30 million in new funding of student financial aid. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>lake Flanders, president and CEO of the Kansas Board of Regents, said on the Kansas Reflector podcast the budget request for state universities centers on a 5% employee pay raise, $10 million for IT security and $30 million in new funding of student financial aid. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Legislature is mulling proposal for $67 million in budget enhancements</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents is playing defense against cyberattacks on campuses, catch-up on employee salary increases and offense to secure a hike in need-based student aid.This $67 million package of enhancements must run the gauntlet of the 2025 Legislature led by politicians interested in tightening screws on spending, including budgets for public higher education. To make the point clearly, the House Appropriations Committee asked how universities would respond if compelled to slash expenditures by 7.5%.Blake Flanders, president and CEO of the state Board of Regents, said proposed investment in priorities of the six state universities included $10 million to upgrade information technology systems routinely targeted by extortionists. Another $10 million was requested for the state’s community colleges and technical colleges for the same purpose, he said.The problem is more than hypothetical. Kansas State University confirmed a cyberattack in January 2024 that temporarily disrupted IT services.“People&nbsp;are&nbsp;trying&nbsp;to&nbsp;hit&nbsp;your&nbsp;network,” Flanders said on the Kansas Reflector podcast. “Only&nbsp;one&nbsp;has&nbsp;to&nbsp;get&nbsp;through. So,&nbsp;the&nbsp;state&nbsp;rightfully&nbsp;has&nbsp;said&nbsp;we&nbsp;need&nbsp;to&nbsp;increase&nbsp;our&nbsp;level&nbsp;of&nbsp;cyber&nbsp;defense.”Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, in budget recommendations presented to the Legislature, would provide about half what the Board of Regents requested for IT security.The Board of Regents also proposed appropriation of $27 million to increase salaries at University of Kansas, Kansas State University and the four other state universities by 5%. The governor recommended a 2.5% increase for all state employees.Flanders said the Board of Regents’ proposal recognized lawmakers hadn’t appropriated enough from the state general fund in previous years so all campus employees were provided the standard raise. In other words, the process delivered enough for university employees to get a 2.5% raise when other state agencies were granted 5% increases for staff compensation.“We’ve&nbsp;put&nbsp;that&nbsp;into&nbsp;our&nbsp;request,&nbsp;really,&nbsp;to&nbsp;keep&nbsp;our&nbsp;talent,” Flanders said. “Here’s&nbsp;what&nbsp;we&nbsp;know. We&nbsp;have&nbsp;researchers&nbsp;who&nbsp;are&nbsp;leaving&nbsp;the&nbsp;state,&nbsp;and&nbsp;when&nbsp;a&nbsp;researcher&nbsp;leaves&nbsp;the&nbsp;state&nbsp;they&nbsp;take&nbsp;their&nbsp;grant&nbsp;dollars&nbsp;with&nbsp;them. So,&nbsp;that’s&nbsp;an&nbsp;economic&nbsp;loss&nbsp;for&nbsp;our&nbsp;state&nbsp;and&nbsp;for&nbsp;the&nbsp;university.”In addition, the Board of Regents sought to expand state funding for need-based student aid by $30 million annually. The objective would be to press ahead with a strategy to keep higher education affordable, fill workforce shortages and create economic prosperity.The Legislature&nbsp;and governor&nbsp;over&nbsp;the&nbsp;past&nbsp;few&nbsp;years&nbsp;substantially increased that line item with a surge&nbsp;from&nbsp;about&nbsp;$25&nbsp;million&nbsp;to&nbsp;$96&nbsp;million.“It’s&nbsp;been&nbsp;a&nbsp;tremendous&nbsp;increase,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;began&nbsp;to&nbsp;pay&nbsp;off.&nbsp;We&nbsp;have&nbsp;more&nbsp;first-generation&nbsp;students.&nbsp;Our&nbsp;student&nbsp;debt&nbsp;load&nbsp;is&nbsp;down,” Flanders said.He said one consequence of budget tightening would likely be higher tuition rates. In the current academic year, tuition went up 2.8% at Kansas State and 6% at Fort Hays State University. Several universities ranged from 3.5% to 4%.“We&nbsp;have&nbsp;really&nbsp;kept&nbsp;the&nbsp;cost&nbsp;of&nbsp;tuition&nbsp;increases&nbsp;lower&nbsp;than&nbsp;the&nbsp;rate&nbsp;of&nbsp;inflation.&nbsp;We&nbsp;want&nbsp;to&nbsp;try&nbsp;to&nbsp;continue&nbsp;to&nbsp;do&nbsp;that.&nbsp;That&nbsp;requires&nbsp;partnership,&nbsp;and&nbsp;it&nbsp;requires&nbsp;state&nbsp;investment&nbsp;and&nbsp;then&nbsp;it&nbsp;also&nbsp;requires&nbsp;us&nbsp;being&nbsp;as&nbsp;efficient&nbsp;as&nbsp;possible,” Flanders said.

Kansas Board of Regents seeks political help with salaries, IT security and student aid

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/2025/2/1738681848259.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report February 4

Social Security Administration&nbsp;

Social Security imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email, or call, do not respond.&nbsp;

We only send text messages in limited situations including:


If
you owe money to us, we will mail you a letter with payment options
and appeal rights. Social Security employees do contact the
public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency
calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit,
are already receiving payments and require an update to their record
or have requested a phone call from the agency. If there is a problem
with a person's Social Security number or record, Social Security
will typically mail a letter.

We
encourage you to report suspected Social Security imposter scams —
and other Social Security fraud — to the OIG’s website at
<a href="https://oig.ssa.gov/report/">oig.ssa.gov/report</a>.
You can find more information about scams at <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/scam">www.ssa.gov/scam</a>.
Please share this information with your friends, family, and
colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter
scams.

CLICK HERE TO GET DAILY UPDATES!&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697549458437.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Social Security Administration&nbsp;Social Security imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email, or call, do not respond.&nbsp;We will never: <ul>
 <li>
	Text
	or email images of an employee’s official government
	identification.
</li><li>Suspend your Social Security Number&nbsp;</li><li>Threaten you with arrest or other legal action unless you immediately pay a fine or fee</li><li>Require payment by retail gift card, wire transfer, internet currency, or cash by mail&nbsp;</li><li>Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment</li><li>Mail or email "official" letters or reports containing your personal information&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>We only send text messages in limited situations including: <ul>
 <li>
	When
	you have subscribed to receive updates and notifications by text.
</li><li>As part of our enhanced security when accessing your personal my Social Security account.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>
If
you owe money to us, we will mail you a letter with payment options
and appeal rights. Social Security employees do contact the
public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency
calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit,
are already receiving payments and require an update to their record
or have requested a phone call from the agency. If there is a problem
with a person's Social Security number or record, Social Security
will typically mail a letter.
We
encourage you to report suspected Social Security imposter scams —
and other Social Security fraud — to the OIG’s website at
<a href="https://oig.ssa.gov/report/">oig.ssa.gov/report</a>.
You can find more information about scams at <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/scam">www.ssa.gov/scam</a>.
Please share this information with your friends, family, and
colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter
scams.CLICK HERE TO GET DAILY UPDATES!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Social Security warns about scams, provides scam awareness information 

Measure modeled after federal legislation responding to Trump agenda item

TOPEKA — State and federal lawmakers from Kansas convened Monday at the Celtic Fox pub to celebrate legislation to exempt tipped earnings of service and hospitality workers from income taxation.

The approach at the state level would be modeled after congressional bills promoted by President Donald Trump that ditch the federal income tax on tips received by restaurant workers, servers, valets as well as bellhops, bartenders or caddies.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and state Sen. Caryn Tyson joined U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, also a Republican, at the pub to talk about ending taxation of tips received in the form of cash, debits or credit cards.

“The intention is to take tax off tips in Kansas,” said Masterson, of Andover. “We love that idea from the federal government. Gratuity is gratitude, right? It’s not ordinary income to somebody.”

Tyson, the Parker chair of the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, said matching state law to federal reform made sense. She estimated the reduction in state tax revenue could range from $4 million to $10 million annually.

“It helps simplify the tax code,” she said. “We need to help those in need, and we did that last year with legislation that we passed, especially exempting state income tax from Social Security. I look forward to getting this passed.”

Marshall, an ally of Trump in Washington, D.C., said the federal tipped-income bill should be regarded as a vehicle for making Kansas affordable again. He said the federal measure — likely to pass Congress sometime between March and June — was part of Trump’s broader strategy to promote domestic prosperity and security.

“What he’s done from the security standpoint is very self-evident on his impetus to control the border and get the illegal criminal aliens out of this country,” the U.S. senator said. “We’re here today to talk about the prosperity part of this.”

He said the federal tipped income initiative was one piece of an effort to lend a hand to hard-working taxpayers.

Overall, he said, the congressional priority in 2025 would be renewal of federal tax cuts initiated during Trump’s first term. He also said Congress and the president should consider ending the federal income tax on Social Security income.

“And, how about no taxes on overtime?” Marshall said.

The nonprofit Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimated enactment of a federal exemption on tips would cost $150 billion to $250 billion over a 10-year period. The organization indicated the exemption could prompt employers and employees to reclassify ordinary income as tips to avoid paying federal income taxes.

A pending bill in the U.S. Senate would incluce a yearly $25,000 deduction cap as well as occupational limits to the exemption. The U.S. House version would limit the tipped-income exclusion from federal taxes to $20,000 annually.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738673045321.png" alt=" Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, and U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said during a Monday news conference in Topeka that tip income ought to be exempt from state and federal income tax collections. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, and U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said during a Monday news conference in Topeka that tip income ought to be exempt from state and federal income tax collections. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Measure modeled after federal legislation responding to Trump agenda item</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — State and federal lawmakers from Kansas convened Monday at the Celtic Fox pub to celebrate legislation to exempt tipped earnings of service and hospitality workers from income taxation.The approach at the state level would be modeled after congressional bills promoted by President Donald Trump that ditch the federal income tax on tips received by restaurant workers, servers, valets as well as bellhops, bartenders or caddies.Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and state Sen. Caryn Tyson joined U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, also a Republican, at the pub to talk about ending taxation of tips received in the form of cash, debits or credit cards.“The intention is to take tax off tips in Kansas,” said Masterson, of Andover. “We love that idea from the federal government. Gratuity is gratitude, right? It’s not ordinary income to somebody.”Tyson, the Parker chair of the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, said matching state law to federal reform made sense. She estimated the reduction in state tax revenue could range from $4 million to $10 million annually.“It helps simplify the tax code,” she said. “We need to help those in need, and we did that last year with legislation that we passed, especially exempting state income tax from Social Security. I look forward to getting this passed.”Marshall, an ally of Trump in Washington, D.C., said the federal tipped-income bill should be regarded as a vehicle for making Kansas affordable again. He said the federal measure — likely to pass Congress sometime between March and June — was part of Trump’s broader strategy to promote domestic prosperity and security.“What he’s done from the security standpoint is very self-evident on his impetus to control the border and get the illegal criminal aliens out of this country,” the U.S. senator said. “We’re here today to talk about the prosperity part of this.”He said the federal tipped income initiative was one piece of an effort to lend a hand to hard-working taxpayers.Overall, he said, the congressional priority in 2025 would be renewal of federal tax cuts initiated during Trump’s first term. He also said Congress and the president should consider ending the federal income tax on Social Security income.“And, how about no taxes on overtime?” Marshall said.The nonprofit Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimated enactment of a federal exemption on tips would cost $150 billion to $250 billion over a 10-year period. The organization indicated the exemption could prompt employers and employees to reclassify ordinary income as tips to avoid paying federal income taxes.A pending bill in the U.S. Senate would incluce a yearly $25,000 deduction cap as well as occupational limits to the exemption. The U.S. House version would limit the tipped-income exclusion from federal taxes to $20,000 annually.

Kansas GOP senators promoting bill to exempt tips from state income tax

Manhattan officials are still calculating statistics and snow removal totals for the January 4-5 major snowstorm.

More than two thousand tons of snow were removed from arterial and major collector streets. Five hundred lane miles were plowed and 400 tons of salt were used. Crews plowed 42, 240, 000 cubic feet of snow. These are some of the statistics from the first phase of the city's blizzard response.

Manhattan officials are still calculating statistics and snow removal totals for the January 4-5 major snowstorm.More than two thousand tons of snow were removed from arterial and major collector streets. Five hundred lane miles were plowed and 400 tons of salt were used. Crews plowed 42, 240, 000 cubic feet of snow. These are some of the statistics from the first phase of the city's blizzard response.

Preliminary snow removal totals are released for Manhattan

DICKINSON COUNTY —Sheriff's deputies in central Kansas are investigating a woman on multiple drug allegations.

On January 31, deputies responded to a call of suspicious activity on W 1st Avenue in Hope, Kansas, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.&nbsp; 

Deputies made contact with woman at the residence and began investigating the suspicious activity. During the investigation, deputies developed probable cause that illegal drugs were present in the residence.

The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit was contacted to assist. Investigators applied for a search warrant which was granted and executed at the residence. While conducting the search, deputies located Methamphetamine, Marijuana, and Drug Paraphernalia.

As a result of the investigation, deputies arrested 48-year-old Beverly Lynette Hall and booked her into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738610022383.png" alt="Hall-photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Hall-photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Sheriff's deputies in central Kansas are investigating a woman on multiple drug allegations.On January 31, deputies responded to a call of suspicious activity on W 1st Avenue in Hope, Kansas, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.&nbsp; Deputies made contact with woman at the residence and began investigating the suspicious activity. During the investigation, deputies developed probable cause that illegal drugs were present in the residence.The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit was contacted to assist. Investigators applied for a search warrant which was granted and executed at the residence. While conducting the search, deputies located Methamphetamine, Marijuana, and Drug Paraphernalia.As a result of the investigation, deputies arrested 48-year-old Beverly Lynette Hall and booked her into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Search warrant led to drug bust at Kansas home

DICKINSON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 10a.m. Monday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Jeep Patriot driven by&nbsp; Brittany D.&nbsp; Lovelace, 32, Junction City, was westbound in the 1500 block of Old 40 Highway one mile east of Detroit, Kansas.

The Jeep crossed the center line, entered the south ditch, stuck the railroad tracks and rolled onto its roof

EMS transported Lovelace and a 1-year-old passenger to the hospital in Abilene. Lovelace and the child were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

DICKINSON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 10a.m. Monday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Jeep Patriot driven by&nbsp; Brittany D.&nbsp; Lovelace, 32, Junction City, was westbound in the 1500 block of Old 40 Highway one mile east of Detroit, Kansas.The Jeep crossed the center line, entered the south ditch, stuck the railroad tracks and rolled onto its roofEMS transported Lovelace and a 1-year-old passenger to the hospital in Abilene. Lovelace and the child were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

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