By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

After a case lasting almost four years, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission was sentenced Wednesday in federal court in Kansas City&nbsp; on a multimillion check kiting scheme.

Tyler Gillum, former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, per a sentencing agreement, was sentenced by Judge Daniel Crabtree to 60 months in prison and more than $7.2 million in restitution.

Gillum's sentences on all counts will run concurrently. He will be required to serve three years of post-release supervision.

The restitution included $6.8 million to Landmark National Bank of Manhattan, Kan., $250,000 to Federal Insurance Company and $208,000 to TBK Bank of Dallas.

Gillum will owe an additional $3,300 in fines.

As a part of his sentencing agreement, he has agreed not to appeal his conviction or sentencing.

Gillum was convicted on 33 federal counts, including 31 counts of bank fraud, one count of making a false statement in connection with a Small Business Administration guaranteed loan, and one count of making a false statement in a loan or credit card application.

In the aftermath of Gillum's crimes, payments to ranchers for the sale of their cattle were delayed almost a year, banks were defrauded of millions of dollars and a rural bank closed.

Gillum owned and operated Plainville Livestock Commission Inc. from 2006 until 2019.

Between January 2015 and August 2017, Gillum wrote checks and made wire transfers between various accounts under his control at various banks in a scheme commonly known as check kiting, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

This is when checks are continually written back and forth to fraudulently inflate account balances, tricking banks into honoring checks written with insufficient funds. Gillum’s scheme resulted in losses of more than $10 million to the banking system, according to the U.S. Attorney's office.

Bank officials stepped in in February 2019. Almena Bank froze Gillum's accounts, including a custodial account, which was supposed to hold money due to ranchers who sold cattle at Gillum's livestock auctions.

Checks from the Plainville Livestock Commission for two sales — one at the end of January 2019 and the other on Feb. 5, 2019 — bounced.

Ranchers who were due more than $900,000 in auction proceeds had to wait more than 10 months to receive payment for their cattle.

Plainville Livestock Commission declared bankruptcy on March 1, 2019

In October 2020, Almena Bank failed. "The $69 million-asset bank was closed by its state regulator, then sold by the FDIC to Equity Bank in Andover," according to a story in the American Banker on March 26, 2021.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e0ef87c4-7036-4352-a580-28d25241adc0">The delayed payment to ranchers and Plainville Livestock Commission bankruptcy had lasting effects on the Plainville and area ag communities.</a>

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAfter a case lasting almost four years, the former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission was sentenced Wednesday in federal court in Kansas City&nbsp; on a multimillion check kiting scheme.Tyler Gillum, former owner of the Plainville Livestock Commission, per a sentencing agreement, was sentenced by Judge Daniel Crabtree to 60 months in prison and more than $7.2 million in restitution.Gillum's sentences on all counts will run concurrently. He will be required to serve three years of post-release supervision.The restitution included $6.8 million to Landmark National Bank of Manhattan, Kan., $250,000 to Federal Insurance Company and $208,000 to TBK Bank of Dallas.Gillum will owe an additional $3,300 in fines.As a part of his sentencing agreement, he has agreed not to appeal his conviction or sentencing. Gillum was convicted on 33 federal counts, including 31 counts of bank fraud, one count of making a false statement in connection with a Small Business Administration guaranteed loan, and one count of making a false statement in a loan or credit card application. In the aftermath of Gillum's crimes, payments to ranchers for the sale of their cattle were delayed almost a year, banks were defrauded of millions of dollars and a rural bank closed. Gillum owned and operated Plainville Livestock Commission Inc. from 2006 until 2019.Between January 2015 and August 2017, Gillum wrote checks and made wire transfers between various accounts under his control at various banks in a scheme commonly known as check kiting, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. This is when checks are continually written back and forth to fraudulently inflate account balances, tricking banks into honoring checks written with insufficient funds. Gillum’s scheme resulted in losses of more than $10 million to the banking system, according to the U.S. Attorney's office. Bank officials stepped in in February 2019. Almena Bank froze Gillum's accounts, including a custodial account, which was supposed to hold money due to ranchers who sold cattle at Gillum's livestock auctions.Checks from the Plainville Livestock Commission for two sales — one at the end of January 2019 and the other on Feb. 5, 2019 — bounced.Ranchers who were due more than $900,000 in auction proceeds had to wait more than 10 months to receive payment for their cattle.Plainville Livestock Commission declared bankruptcy on March 1, 2019In October 2020, Almena Bank failed. "The $69 million-asset bank was closed by its state regulator, then sold by the FDIC to Equity Bank in Andover," according to a story in the American Banker on March 26, 2021.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e0ef87c4-7036-4352-a580-28d25241adc0">The delayed payment to ranchers and Plainville Livestock Commission bankruptcy had lasting effects on the Plainville and area ag communities.</a>

Manhattan bank ordered $7M in restitution over scheme

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

UPDATE: Riley County Police Department says a 2018 Dodge Caravan (not Dodge Journey, as previously reported) was westbound on Walters Drive, driven by 45-year-old Gregory Briscoe of Manhattan, when Briscoe attempted a left turn onto Tuttle Creek Blvd.

Briscoe's Caravan was hit by a northbound 2013 Dodge Avenger, driven by 22-year-old Rylee Dickson of Manhattan, the impact caused the Caravan to flip onto its passenger side.

Briscoe was trapped inside the Caravan for a short time before breaking through the windshield and exiting the vehicle with the help of passers-by.

Both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Dickson was transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of chest pain.

Briscoe was issued a citation for failure to yield.

UPDATE: At 7:34 am, Tuesday, November 29th, Riley County Police Department were called to the scene of a two vehicle crash at the intersection of Tuttle Creek Blvd and Walters Drive.

According to RCPD, upon arrival, officers found a Dodge Journey on it's passenger side, had been involved in a crash with a Dodge Avenger.

Prior to the arrival of emergency personnel, citizens who had been driving in the area assisted in getting all occupants out of the vehicles.

No serious injuries were reported. At least one person was transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of injuries.

MANHATTAN - A crash around 7:30 am on Tuesday, slowed &nbsp;traffic on Tuttle Creek Blvd., near the intersection with Walters Drive.

This is a developing story, more details will be added as they are released by Riley County Police Department.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostUPDATE: Riley County Police Department says a 2018 Dodge Caravan (not Dodge Journey, as previously reported) was westbound on Walters Drive, driven by 45-year-old Gregory Briscoe of Manhattan, when Briscoe attempted a left turn onto Tuttle Creek Blvd.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669819360417.jpeg" alt="Tuesday morning crash at Walters Dr and Tuttle Creek Blvd" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday morning crash at Walters Dr and Tuttle Creek Blvd</figcaption>
 </figure>Briscoe's Caravan was hit by a northbound 2013 Dodge Avenger, driven by 22-year-old Rylee Dickson of Manhattan, the impact caused the Caravan to flip onto its passenger side.Briscoe was trapped inside the Caravan for a short time before breaking through the windshield and exiting the vehicle with the help of passers-by.Both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.Dickson was transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of chest pain.Briscoe was issued a citation for failure to yield.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669730224134.jpeg" alt="Crash slows traffic on Tuttle Creek Blvd Tuesday morning" />
 <figcaption>Crash slows traffic on Tuttle Creek Blvd Tuesday morning</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: At 7:34 am, Tuesday, November 29th, Riley County Police Department were called to the scene of a two vehicle crash at the intersection of Tuttle Creek Blvd and Walters Drive.According to RCPD, upon arrival, officers found a Dodge Journey on it's passenger side, had been involved in a crash with a Dodge Avenger.Prior to the arrival of emergency personnel, citizens who had been driving in the area assisted in getting all occupants out of the vehicles.No serious injuries were reported. At least one person was transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of injuries.MANHATTAN - A crash around 7:30 am on Tuesday, slowed &nbsp;traffic on Tuttle Creek Blvd., near the intersection with Walters Drive.This is a developing story, more details will be added as they are released by Riley County Police Department.

UPDATE: Driver cited for failure to yield in 2 vehicle crash Tues. morning

MANHATTAN —One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 1995 Buick Regal driven by Alexander Arnwine, 19, of Manhattan was westbound in the 2600 Block on Kimball Avenue.

The car left the roadway, struck a tree and overturned in the front yard of a house. 

EMS transported Arnwine to Via Christi for treatment for treatment of a significant leg laceration and ankle and hand pain.

MANHATTAN —One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Tuesday in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 1995 Buick Regal driven by Alexander Arnwine, 19, of Manhattan was westbound in the 2600 Block on Kimball Avenue.The car left the roadway, struck a tree and overturned in the front yard of a house. EMS transported Arnwine to Via Christi for treatment for treatment of a significant leg laceration and ankle and hand pain.The RCPD released no additional details.

Man hospitalized after car overturns in front yard of house

Congratulations to Jeff Ryser of Salina, the Week 12 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!

Jeff, who scored 14 of 16 points, wins $100.

Although the season is underway, you still have time to win!

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up today</a>&nbsp;to make your picks for a chance to win great weekly prizes, including cash,&nbsp;gift cards, concert tickets, and Chiefs tickets.&nbsp;If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!

Don't miss out on the state's best pro football pick'em contest!&nbsp;

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Click here to register for Gridiron Glory</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662062091203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Jeff Ryser of Salina, the Week 12 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!Jeff, who scored 14 of 16 points, wins $100.Although the season is underway, you still have time to win!<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up today</a>&nbsp;to make your picks for a chance to win great weekly prizes, including cash,&nbsp;gift cards, concert tickets, and Chiefs tickets.&nbsp;If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!Don't miss out on the state's best pro football pick'em contest!&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Click here to register for Gridiron Glory</a>

Gridiron Glory: Congratulations Jeff Ryser!

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged arson at Manhattan High School.

Just before 11a.m. Monday, officers filed a report for aggravated arson at Manhattan High School in the 2100 block of Poyntz Avenue.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a bathroom soap dispenser was lit on fire. A teacher with a fire extinguisher&nbsp; quickly put the fire out.&nbsp; The incident remains under investigation.&nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged arson at Manhattan High School.Just before 11a.m. Monday, officers filed a report for aggravated arson at Manhattan High School in the 2100 block of Poyntz Avenue.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a bathroom soap dispenser was lit on fire. A teacher with a fire extinguisher&nbsp; quickly put the fire out.&nbsp; The incident remains under investigation.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Alleged arson fire in bathroom at Manhattan High

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

UPDATE: As of 5:50 pm on November 28th, the Riley County Police Department states missing 13-year-old has been located safely.

OGDEN - Riley County Police Department is asking for help in locating 13-year-old Rosemaree from Ogden.

Rosemaree was last seen in the 200 Block of Riley Avenue in Ogden on November 26th around 7:00pm, before running away heading south on Walnut Street.

Rosemaree is approximately 5'05", 115 lbs, has hazel eyes and currently has dyed red hair. She was last seen wearing a tie-dye hoodie, black shorts, Crocs, and a black backpack. If you have any information about her whereabouts, please call us at (785) 537-2112 or contact Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777.&nbsp;&nbsp;

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostUPDATE: As of 5:50 pm on November 28th, the Riley County Police Department states missing 13-year-old has been located safely.OGDEN - Riley County Police Department is asking for help in locating 13-year-old Rosemaree from Ogden.Rosemaree was last seen in the 200 Block of Riley Avenue in Ogden on November 26th around 7:00pm, before running away heading south on Walnut Street.Rosemaree is approximately 5'05", 115 lbs, has hazel eyes and currently has dyed red hair. She was last seen wearing a tie-dye hoodie, black shorts, Crocs, and a black backpack. If you have any information about her whereabouts, please call us at (785) 537-2112 or contact Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777.&nbsp;&nbsp;

UPDATE: RCPD says missing 13-year-old from Ogden located safely

GEARY COUNTY —One person died in a fire early Monday in Junction City.

Just before 1a.m. Monday, Junction City firefighters responded to a trailer house fire at 948 Grant Avenue lot 381, according to a media release.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On arrival the trailer house was fully involved with fire. A single fatality was found inside the residence. The Kansas State Fire Marshal office was called and took over investigations once on scene.&nbsp;

No first responder injuries were reported. Multiple agencies were involved to help assist with this scene, included JCPD, Investigations, and KSFM.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669650927727.jpeg" alt="Photo Junction City fire department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Junction City fire department</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostGEARY COUNTY —One person died in a fire early Monday in Junction City.Just before 1a.m. Monday, Junction City firefighters responded to a trailer house fire at 948 Grant Avenue lot 381, according to a media release.&nbsp;&nbsp;On arrival the trailer house was fully involved with fire. A single fatality was found inside the residence. The Kansas State Fire Marshal office was called and took over investigations once on scene.&nbsp;No first responder injuries were reported. Multiple agencies were involved to help assist with this scene, included JCPD, Investigations, and KSFM.

One dead in Junction City trailer house fire

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Veterans who may have been denied service-connected benefits before need to apply again after the passage of the&nbsp;Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins Act of 2022, also known as the PACT Act back in August.

"The PACT Act is really probably the largest health care and benefit expansion in VA history," said&nbsp;VBA Regional Office Director Donna Meyer-Hickel. "It expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances."

Because of the expansion of benefit dates and exposure opportunities that are now considered qualifying for VA assistance, any Veterans from Vietnam forward should consider reapplication.

"Because this is going to be such a massive expansion, we're going to have to phase in hospital care, medical services and other care gradually, over time for three different categories of Veterans," said spokesperson Jeff Herndon. "Category one is Veterans who participated in a toxic exposure risk activity while serving on active duty, during training, or even inactive duty training. Category two is Veterans who were assigned to a duty station in certain locations during specific periods of time. There's a lot of information, a lot of locations, a lot of dates. That is on or after August 2, 1990, running up through September 11, 2001. Category three is going to be Veterans who deployed in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Freedom Sentinel, Iraqi Freedom and a few others, as well. It's critical that Veterans visit <a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/">VA.gov/PACT</a> and apply for health care as quickly as possible."

If you're not internet savvy, you can still take your DD-214 and this past year's tax return to any <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/255ab594-fa22-4473-8fd9-2674a0bee548">VA clinic</a> to sign up, or there is a special event coming up next month in Wichita.

"You do not have to pay anybody to file for your health care," Herndon said. "You do not have to pay anybody to file a disability claim. Come see us December 10, Saturday. Down at the medical center in Wichita, in our auditorium, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., we're going to have a one stop shop for Veterans to come in and handle PACT Act related issues. If you're already enrolled for VA health care, you'll have an opportunity to get your toxic exposure screening. We'll have some education classes going on to learn more about the PACT Act. We'll have plenty of people there to assist with disability claims and we'll be able to enroll you for health care, if you're not enrolled already."

The passage of the PACT Act helps VA improve research, staff education, and treatment related to toxic exposures.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608820708708.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Veterans who may have been denied service-connected benefits before need to apply again after the passage of the&nbsp;Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxins Act of 2022, also known as the PACT Act back in August."The PACT Act is really probably the largest health care and benefit expansion in VA history," said&nbsp;VBA Regional Office Director Donna Meyer-Hickel. "It expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances."Because of the expansion of benefit dates and exposure opportunities that are now considered qualifying for VA assistance, any Veterans from Vietnam forward should consider reapplication."Because this is going to be such a massive expansion, we're going to have to phase in hospital care, medical services and other care gradually, over time for three different categories of Veterans," said spokesperson Jeff Herndon. "Category one is Veterans who participated in a toxic exposure risk activity while serving on active duty, during training, or even inactive duty training. Category two is Veterans who were assigned to a duty station in certain locations during specific periods of time. There's a lot of information, a lot of locations, a lot of dates. That is on or after August 2, 1990, running up through September 11, 2001. Category three is going to be Veterans who deployed in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Freedom Sentinel, Iraqi Freedom and a few others, as well. It's critical that Veterans visit <a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/">VA.gov/PACT</a> and apply for health care as quickly as possible."If you're not internet savvy, you can still take your DD-214 and this past year's tax return to any <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/255ab594-fa22-4473-8fd9-2674a0bee548">VA clinic</a> to sign up, or there is a special event coming up next month in Wichita."You do not have to pay anybody to file for your health care," Herndon said. "You do not have to pay anybody to file a disability claim. Come see us December 10, Saturday. Down at the medical center in Wichita, in our auditorium, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., we're going to have a one stop shop for Veterans to come in and handle PACT Act related issues. If you're already enrolled for VA health care, you'll have an opportunity to get your toxic exposure screening. We'll have some education classes going on to learn more about the PACT Act. We'll have plenty of people there to assist with disability claims and we'll be able to enroll you for health care, if you're not enrolled already."The passage of the PACT Act helps VA improve research, staff education, and treatment related to toxic exposures.

PACT Act means more health benefits for Veterans

UPDATE: According to the Riley County Police Department, Jose Orona, of Manhattan, was traveling northbound on Seth Child Road in the inside lane, when he crossed into the outside lane hitting the rear of Sabrina Reyes' Toyota Highlander, who was traveling northbound in the outside lane.

The impact caused Reyes to veer right, strike the guard rail and roll several times coming to a stop upside down on the embankment near the shoulder.

Orona lost control and spun several times before coming to a stop in the southbound lanes.

Both were transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of injuries.

Reyes was evaluated for general soreness with no serious injuries.

Orona was life-flighted to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of a severe head laceration and dislocated hip, he is expected to recover.

*According to RCPD, Orona was not suffering a brain bleed as previously reported.

MANHATTAN - Around 11:30 pm Thursday, November 24th, officers from the Riley County Police Department responded to the report of an injury crash near the intersection of Seth Child Road and Anderson Avenue.

Upon arrival officers found a 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse, driven by 25-year-old, Jose Orona, of Manhattan, was involved in a crash with a 2006 Toyota Highlander driven by 21-year-old Sabrina Reyes also of Manhattan.

Both Orona and Reyes were transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of injuries.

Orona was later life-flighted to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of bleeding on the brain*.&nbsp;

The severity of Reyes injuries have not been released.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation. More details will be added as they become available.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostUPDATE: According to the Riley County Police Department, Jose Orona, of Manhattan, was traveling northbound on Seth Child Road in the inside lane, when he crossed into the outside lane hitting the rear of Sabrina Reyes' Toyota Highlander, who was traveling northbound in the outside lane.The impact caused Reyes to veer right, strike the guard rail and roll several times coming to a stop upside down on the embankment near the shoulder.Orona lost control and spun several times before coming to a stop in the southbound lanes.Both were transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of injuries.Reyes was evaluated for general soreness with no serious injuries.Orona was life-flighted to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of a severe head laceration and dislocated hip, he is expected to recover.*According to RCPD, Orona was not suffering a brain bleed as previously reported.MANHATTAN - Around 11:30 pm Thursday, November 24th, officers from the Riley County Police Department responded to the report of an injury crash near the intersection of Seth Child Road and Anderson Avenue.Upon arrival officers found a 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse, driven by 25-year-old, Jose Orona, of Manhattan, was involved in a crash with a 2006 Toyota Highlander driven by 21-year-old Sabrina Reyes also of Manhattan.Both Orona and Reyes were transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of injuries.Orona was later life-flighted to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of bleeding on the brain*.&nbsp;The severity of Reyes injuries have not been released.The cause of the crash remains under investigation. More details will be added as they become available.

UPDATE: Two injured in crash that closed Seth Child Road Thursday night

RILEY COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before noon Friday in Riley County.

The Riley County Police Department reported a 2017 Cadillac CTS drive by&nbsp;by Joni Feldkamp, 64, of Baileyville, was involved in a single-car in the 4600 Block of Highway 13.

EMS transportd Feldkamp to Via Christi for treatment of a leg injury. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY —A Kansas woman was injured in an accident just before noon Friday in Riley County.The Riley County Police Department reported a 2017 Cadillac CTS drive by&nbsp;by Joni Feldkamp, 64, of Baileyville, was involved in a single-car in the 4600 Block of Highway 13.EMS transportd Feldkamp to Via Christi for treatment of a leg injury. The RCPD released no additional details.

Kansas woman hospitalized after crash

Watch live from Blue Earth Plaza as Whoville's Manhattan's Festival of Lights Tree lighting ceremony kicks off at 7:00pm on Friday, November 25, 2022.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostWatch live from Blue Earth Plaza as Whoville's Manhattan's Festival of Lights Tree lighting ceremony kicks off at 7:00pm on Friday, November 25, 2022.<div><iframe width="720" height="405" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/videoseries?list=PLVFaUxtxvp24mmb35grMCpemgNsw3TAw7" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

🎥: 10th annual Manhattan's Festival of Lights tree lighting ceremony 

On Wednesday, November 23rd, Brig. Gen. Niave Knell, deputy commanding general of the 1st Inf. Div. and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran helped serve a Thanksgiving holiday meal to Soldiers at the Cantigny Warrior Restaurant on Fort Riley.

The Thanksgiving meal was open to all Soldiers and civilians and included nine protein options including:&nbsp;roasted and smoked turkey, steamship round, and glazed ham.

On Wednesday, November 23rd, Brig. Gen. Niave Knell, deputy commanding general of the 1st Inf. Div. and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran helped serve a Thanksgiving holiday meal to Soldiers at the Cantigny Warrior Restaurant on Fort Riley.<div><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/SLZuWlQ6-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Fort Riley Thx Dinner" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>The Thanksgiving meal was open to all Soldiers and civilians and included nine protein options including:&nbsp;roasted and smoked turkey, steamship round, and glazed ham.

1st Infantry Division leaders, Senator Moran served Thanksgiving dinner to Soldiers

UPDATE: According to Riley County Police Department, missing 14-year-old Jaslynn was located safe around 12:15pm on Thursday, November 24th.

*Photos have been removed since she's been located.

The Riley County Police Department is searching for missing 14-year-old, Jaslynn, who was last seen around 10pm on Wednesday, November 23rd in the 900 block of Vattier Street in Manhattan.

Jaslynn was last known to have her hair in braids and was wearing glasses.

It's believed that Jaslynn ran away sometime between 10:30pm Wednesday, November 23 and 7:00am Thursday, November 24.

Jaslynn is approximately 5'1" tall and weighs approximately 100 pounds.

If you have any information about her whereabouts, please call us at (785) 537-2112 and ask for Officer Swearingen or contact <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MHKCrimeStoppers/?__cft__[0]=AZV8QBwP7lzSm7TlQNKPLHpWME3uKd8zEMYw_zQ8sa1K1DDvhSJpc1dC07fshwBzDo2rgF4pXd8Ck3tj7pdvYUJYDI-UXH1mGp3d6OKLxYdM1HZpOo0ViLEFnRRZYtJRud4&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a> at (785) 539-7777&nbsp;&nbsp;

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostUPDATE: According to Riley County Police Department, missing 14-year-old Jaslynn was located safe around 12:15pm on Thursday, November 24th.*Photos have been removed since she's been located.The Riley County Police Department is searching for missing 14-year-old, Jaslynn, who was last seen around 10pm on Wednesday, November 23rd in the 900 block of Vattier Street in Manhattan.Jaslynn was last known to have her hair in braids and was wearing glasses.It's believed that Jaslynn ran away sometime between 10:30pm Wednesday, November 23 and 7:00am Thursday, November 24.Jaslynn is approximately 5'1" tall and weighs approximately 100 pounds.If you have any information about her whereabouts, please call us at (785) 537-2112 and ask for Officer Swearingen or contact <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MHKCrimeStoppers/?__cft__[0]=AZV8QBwP7lzSm7TlQNKPLHpWME3uKd8zEMYw_zQ8sa1K1DDvhSJpc1dC07fshwBzDo2rgF4pXd8Ck3tj7pdvYUJYDI-UXH1mGp3d6OKLxYdM1HZpOo0ViLEFnRRZYtJRud4&amp;__tn__=kK-R">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a> at (785) 539-7777&nbsp;&nbsp;

UPDATE: Missing 14-year-old located safe

JUNCTION CITY — Justin Aaron of Junction City has advanced to the Top 10 in the competition on "The Voice" on NBC. 

Monday evening, he sang Tasha Cobb's "Break Every Chain" during the live round.

The competition continues through mid-December.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669220448607.jpeg" alt="Justin Aaron" />
 <figcaption>Justin Aaron</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY — Justin Aaron of Junction City has advanced to the Top 10 in the competition on "The Voice" on NBC. Monday evening, he sang Tasha Cobb's "Break Every Chain" during the live round.The competition continues through mid-December.

Junction City resident advances to the Top Ten in 'The Voice' competition

Isle of Lights will return to Milford State Park&nbsp; for a second consecutive year. This is a drive through event scheduled Dec. 9-11 and 16-17 from 5:30 - 8 p.m. Santa Claus will be available each night from 6-8 p.m. to visit with children and there will be hot cocoa and cookies being given through sponsorship by Acorns Resort.&nbsp;

Milford Nature Center Director Pat Silovsky said some community partners are also assisting with the sponsorship of Santa Claus each night.&nbsp;

Your $10 donation per vehicle will support Milford Friends Group. A State Park vehicle pass will be required for entry. (&nbsp; milfordfriendsgroup.org/events )

Isle of Lights will return to Milford State Park&nbsp; for a second consecutive year. This is a drive through event scheduled Dec. 9-11 and 16-17 from 5:30 - 8 p.m. Santa Claus will be available each night from 6-8 p.m. to visit with children and there will be hot cocoa and cookies being given through sponsorship by Acorns Resort.&nbsp;Milford Nature Center Director Pat Silovsky said some community partners are also assisting with the sponsorship of Santa Claus each night.&nbsp;Your $10 donation per vehicle will support Milford Friends Group. A State Park vehicle pass will be required for entry. (&nbsp; milfordfriendsgroup.org/events )

Isle of Lights will return to Milford State Park

Congratulations to Chauncey Baxter of Salina, the Week 11 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!

Chauncey, who scored 13 of 14 points, wins $100.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662062091203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Chauncey Baxter of Salina, the Week 11 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!Chauncey, who scored 13 of 14 points, wins $100.Although the season is underway, you still have time to win!<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up today</a>&nbsp;to make your picks for a chance to win great weekly prizes, including cash,&nbsp;gift cards, concert tickets, and Chiefs tickets.&nbsp;If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!Don't miss out on the state's best pro football pick'em contest!&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Click here to register for Gridiron Glory</a>

Gridiron Glory: Congratulations Chauncey Baxter!

By Dewey Terrill JC Post

Brig. Gen. Niave Knell, deputy commanding general of the 1st Inf. Div. and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran will help serve a Thanksgiving holiday meal to Soldiers on Wednesday at the Cantigny Warrior Restaurant, Fort Riley.

Officers and senior noncommissioned officers will serve Thanksgiving dinner to Soldiers and their families from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Cantigny Warrior Restaurant while Sen. Moran will join from 12:30 until 1:30.

The Thanksgiving meal is open to all Soldiers and civilians. The standard meal price is $10.05, but family members of Soldiers ranked specialist and below receive a discounted rate of $7.45. The meal will include roasted and smoked turkey, steamship round, glazed ham and more.&nbsp;

By Dewey Terrill JC PostBrig. Gen. Niave Knell, deputy commanding general of the 1st Inf. Div. and U.S. Senator Jerry Moran will help serve a Thanksgiving holiday meal to Soldiers on Wednesday at the Cantigny Warrior Restaurant, Fort Riley.Officers and senior noncommissioned officers will serve Thanksgiving dinner to Soldiers and their families from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Wednesday at the Cantigny Warrior Restaurant while Sen. Moran will join from 12:30 until 1:30.The Thanksgiving meal is open to all Soldiers and civilians. The standard meal price is $10.05, but family members of Soldiers ranked specialist and below receive a discounted rate of $7.45. The meal will include roasted and smoked turkey, steamship round, glazed ham and more.&nbsp;

1st Infantry Division leaders and Sen. Jerry Moran will serve Thanksgiving dinner to Soldiers

FORT RILEY - Starting at 11:30 am on Tuesday, November 22nd, Fort Riley Fire and Emergency Services will conduct a prescribed burn at Training Area 10, along with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

Fort Riley emergency vehicles will be operating along Williston Point and Huebner Roads, no smoke impact is anticipated along these roadways.

Smoke is expected to impact Campbell Hill Tank Road and will be monitored during the prescribed burn operation.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostFORT RILEY - Starting at 11:30 am on Tuesday, November 22nd, Fort Riley Fire and Emergency Services will conduct a prescribed burn at Training Area 10, along with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.Fort Riley emergency vehicles will be operating along Williston Point and Huebner Roads, no smoke impact is anticipated along these roadways.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d7159.046495350548!2d-96.75018887560178!3d39.09806395030602!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc3562f6aae67b%3A0x11a57f870eb373f3!2sHuebner%20Rd%20%26%20Williston%20Point%20Rd%2C%20Fort%20Riley%2C%20KS%2066442!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1669134827166!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Smoke is expected to impact Campbell Hill Tank Road and will be monitored during the prescribed burn operation.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d18198.421394803245!2d-96.76405890729728!3d39.110726392806626!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc3550ad1a47c5%3A0xa52bae796a9d7aec!2sCampbell%20Hill%20Rd%2C%20Fort%20Riley%2C%20KS!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1669134899475!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>

Fort Riley conducts prescribed burn on Tuesday

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged arson and have two suspects in custody.

On Friday, officers filed three reports for arson. Bushes near the intersection of N. 11th and Bertrand Streets and bushes and roadside grass in the 1400 block of Sunnyslope Lane were reported to be set on fire shortly before 11:00 p.m, and a tree was reported to be set on fire in the 1600 block of Sunnyslope Lane. around 11:15 p.m. by two men with gas lanterns, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Manhattan Fire Department responded and quickly extinguished all three fires. 

Just before 11:45 p.m. police located Jacob Eyster, 22, and Ryan Eyster, 23, both of Manhattan near Triangle Park in Aggieville and arrested them on requested charges that include three counts of arson each.

 They were each issued bonds of $5,000 and are no longer in custody

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged arson and have two suspects in custody.On Friday, officers filed three reports for arson. Bushes near the intersection of N. 11th and Bertrand Streets and bushes and roadside grass in the 1400 block of Sunnyslope Lane were reported to be set on fire shortly before 11:00 p.m, and a tree was reported to be set on fire in the 1600 block of Sunnyslope Lane. around 11:15 p.m. by two men with gas lanterns, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Manhattan Fire Department responded and quickly extinguished all three fires. Just before 11:45 p.m. police located Jacob Eyster, 22, and Ryan Eyster, 23, both of Manhattan near Triangle Park in Aggieville and arrested them on requested charges that include three counts of arson each. They were each issued bonds of $5,000 and are no longer in custody

RCPD: 2 accused of setting fires in Manhattan

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Sunday in Manhattan.

A 2018 Kia Soul driven by David Labombarbe, 36, Manhattan, was northbound on Scenic Drive, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

An unknown southbound vehicle entered the lane causing Labombarbe to swerve. The car left the west side of the roadway, struck a road sign and traveled down an embankment. 

EMS transported Labombarbe to Via Christi for treatment of leg, hip, neck, and back pain, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Sunday in Manhattan.A 2018 Kia Soul driven by David Labombarbe, 36, Manhattan, was northbound on Scenic Drive, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.An unknown southbound vehicle entered the lane causing Labombarbe to swerve. The car left the west side of the roadway, struck a road sign and traveled down an embankment. EMS transported Labombarbe to Via Christi for treatment of leg, hip, neck, and back pain, according to the RCPD.

Manhattan man injured after car lands down embankment

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Friday in Manhattan.

A 2017 Nissan Versa driven by Emily Litke, 19, of Abilene, was northbound on Tuttle Creek Boulevard when she traveled through a red light at the intersection of Leavenworth Street, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

the Nissan struck a southbound 2017 Hyundai Tuscon driven by Maggie Barbe, 19, of Manhattan head-on as she turned onto Leavenworth Street.

EMS transported Barbe to Via Christi for treatment of head pain. Litke was issued a citation for inattentive driving.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30p.m. Friday in Manhattan.A 2017 Nissan Versa driven by Emily Litke, 19, of Abilene, was northbound on Tuttle Creek Boulevard when she traveled through a red light at the intersection of Leavenworth Street, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.the Nissan struck a southbound 2017 Hyundai Tuscon driven by Maggie Barbe, 19, of Manhattan head-on as she turned onto Leavenworth Street.EMS transported Barbe to Via Christi for treatment of head pain. Litke was issued a citation for inattentive driving.

Manhattan woman hospitalized after head-on crash

GEARY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a stabbing and have a suspect in custody.

Just after 7 a.m. Sunday, police were called to the 400 block of W 18th Street in Junction City after a report of someone screaming for help, according to a media release.

First responders found 31-year-old Rollin McClam with a possible stab wound. EMS transported him to Geary Community Hospital and he was later transferred to&nbsp;Stormont Vail&nbsp;in Topeka due to the extent of his injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;Alexius B. Mims, 47, is in custody in Geary County on requested charges&nbsp; attempted first degree murder and aggravated battery, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668979019592.png" alt="Mims-photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Mims-photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a stabbing and have a suspect in custody.Just after 7 a.m. Sunday, police were called to the 400 block of W 18th Street in Junction City after a report of someone screaming for help, according to a media release.First responders found 31-year-old Rollin McClam with a possible stab wound. EMS transported him to Geary Community Hospital and he was later transferred to&nbsp;Stormont Vail&nbsp;in Topeka due to the extent of his injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alexius B. Mims, 47, is in custody in Geary County on requested charges&nbsp; attempted first degree murder and aggravated battery, according to online jail records.

Suspect jailed for alleged stabbing in Junction City

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just after 6a.m. Sunday in Pottawatomie County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Honda Accord driven by Alexis Brianna Ward, 22,&nbsp; Topeka, westbound on U.S. 24. 

Vehicle 1 left the roadway to the right. The driver over corrected. The car crossed the middle lane lines and left the roadway to the left. The driver over corrected again. The car rolled and the driver was ejected.

Ward was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Piper Funeral Home. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—A Kansas woman died in an accident just after 6a.m. Sunday in Pottawatomie County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Honda Accord driven by Alexis Brianna Ward, 22,&nbsp; Topeka, westbound on U.S. 24. Vehicle 1 left the roadway to the right. The driver over corrected. The car crossed the middle lane lines and left the roadway to the left. The driver over corrected again. The car rolled and the driver was ejected.Ward was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Piper Funeral Home. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after ejected in rollover crash

GEARY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Saturday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Colorado driven by Saeu T. Suluvale, 34, Kansas City, Mo., was westbound on Interstate 70 at Moritz Road. 

The pickup crossed the median and struck a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by Timothy&nbsp;Wiley, 47, Middleburg, Florida, head-on.

Suluvale was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Johnson Funeral Home. EMS transported Wiley and a passenger Gregory&nbsp;Moniz, 52, Debary, Florida, to Geary Community Hospital. The drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Saturday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Chevy Colorado driven by Saeu T. Suluvale, 34, Kansas City, Mo., was westbound on Interstate 70 at Moritz Road. The pickup crossed the median and struck a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by Timothy&nbsp;Wiley, 47, Middleburg, Florida, head-on.Suluvale was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Johnson Funeral Home. EMS transported Wiley and a passenger Gregory&nbsp;Moniz, 52, Debary, Florida, to Geary Community Hospital. The drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Woman dead after I-70 pickup, semi head-on crash

By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/18/alex-gino-author-of-book-that-sparked-effort-to-close-kansas-towns-library-speaks-out/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Alex Gino wanted to write a 
book that reflected transgender youths’ experiences, the sort of book 
they wished they’d had when they were young.

It took them 12 years to write the 
book, which went on to receive several literary awards, including a 
Children’s Choice award and the Lambda literary award.

Now, the St. Marys City Commission is <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/16/future-of-kansas-towns-library-uncertain-after-outpouring-of-support-at-commission-meeting/">threatening the existence</a> of a public library for simply <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/14/future-of-kansas-towns-library-in-jeopardy-over-refusal-to-remove-divisive-books/">having Gino’s book in stock</a>.

“It hurts my heart,” Gino said. “The 
implication is that my existence is so monstrous that it should be 
withheld from children. And what happens is, you end up with adults like
 me, who didn’t have good role models or good reflections of people like
 them growing up, and the road does not change who you are, but it makes
 the road much more painful. And it makes the road a lot more 
dangerous.”

The book in question, “Melissa,” is 
about a transgender girl in middle school who fights to be accepted as a
 girl among her peers, family, and fellow students. Melissa learns to 
advocate for herself and her friends by playing the role of Charlotte in
 her school’s production of “Charlotte’s Web.”

The book, which was published in 2015, was added to the Pottawatomie
 Wabaunsee Regional Library in St. Marys after it made the William Allen
 White Award 2017-2018 Master List for grades 3-5.

“Melissa” had only been checked out 
four times from the library when it became the center of uproar this 
summer. Parent Dave Perry demanded the book be removed from the library,
 saying the contents were unsuitable for children and encouraged 
“chemical castration.”

Following Perry’s demands for 
removal, St. Marys city commissioners asked the library to accept a 
lease clause that would remove all books that dealt with sexuality, 
race, or LGBTQ themes.

The lease stipulated that the library
 not “supply, distribute, loan, encourage, or coerce acceptance of or 
approval of explicit sexual or racially or socially divisive material, 
or events (such as ‘drag queen story hours’) that support the LGBTQ+ or 
critical theory ideology or practice.”

The library refused to accept the 
“morals clause,” and commissioners remain undetermined on whether or not
 they’ll allow the library to stay in the St. Marys location. At the 
latest commission meeting, officials discussed allowing the library to 
have a short-term lease while they decided if the library met the “moral
 standards” of the commissioners. The commissioners will vote on the 
lease in early December. The library’s lease ends Dec. 31.

The American Civil Liberties Union of
 Kansas issued a statement in support of the library Wednesday, urging 
that the library continue to be funded and that the commission abandon 
the ban of these materials. The ACLU condemned the actions of the 
commission and said it will&nbsp; monitor the situation.

“The residents of the various cities 
served by the library have a First Amendment right to the targeted 
content,” said Sharon Brett, legal director of the ACLU of Kansas. “And 
the St. Mary’s commission’s insistence on banning items containing 
content they don’t like could have constitutional implications when it 
comes to library patrons’ rights to free expression and the right to 
receive information.”

Gino said the commissioners’ actions 
would damage transgender and LGBTQ youths in St. Marys, a town which is 
already heavily conservative and contains a large religious population 
associated with the Society of Saint Pius X.

St. Marys Vice-Mayor Francis 
Awerkamp, a Republican who also serves in the Kansas House, said he 
wouldn’t support the public library in any form because of the LGBTQ 
material it housed.

Gino said they are used to extreme reactions to “Melissa” but that this case was fairly extreme.

“When trans people are harmed because the people in his community don’t know who we are, that blood is on his hands,” Gino said.

Gino’s book is no longer kept in the 
library: Perry, the parent who objected to Gino’s book, said he had paid
 to have the book removed from the library.

Gino referenced Perry’s speech in 
support of the library during a Nov. 15 debate on whether or not to 
renew the library’s lease. Perry had said he wanted the library to stay,
 and that the whole thing had gone too far.

“The parent who brought up the book 
does not want the library closed. And it’s this case of, ‘No, no, I 
wanted censorship my way, but now you’re going too far.’ But you opened 
the door to censorship. That’s why we don’t do that,” Gino said.

“The scary thing is that the 
alternative is to remove the library, so I don’t even know how to feel,”
 Gino added. “But in general, the idea of taking my book off the shelves
 because one individual or small group of individuals are trying to 
outweigh the librarian and the library, it’s selfish. I think it’s a 
fragile action. And I think it’s not American. It is not in favor of 
free speech, and it’s not the world I want to be in.”

Gino said the sort of censorship seen
 in St. Marys and in the U.S. at large has worsened over the past few 
years, though they’ve been battling harsh responses to the book since it
 was published.

Gino said “Melissa” was the No.1 most
 banned and challenged book on the American Library Association’s banned
 books list for three years in a row. The book has been challenged in 
Kansas before, with Wichita Public Schools refusing to buy the book in 
2017, bucking the custom of purchasing books from the William Allen 
White Children’s Book Awards Committee.

“The issue of banned and challenged 
books is much, much worse in the last two or so years,” Gino said. “It’s
 becoming a real epidemic. It’s gotten to the point where people are 
going in with an entire list of books that they want removed.”

At the November commission meeting, 
many St. Marys residents spoke in favor of keeping the library, but few 
supported the book itself. One speaker said the book would encourage 
children to become “frankensteins.” More than one person said “Melissa” 
would cause the town youths to want to chemically castrate themselves. 
Another said that LGBTQ books were the work of a “silver tongued devil.”

“I really just want to send my 
support to the trans kids, to the queer kids out there, to the families 
out there,” Gino said. “The majority does support you, and you are 
loved, and you are welcome in your space.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668797134203.png" alt="St. Marys residents line the walls to listen to the discussion of the library’s lease renewal during a Nov. 15, 2022, city commission meeting. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>St. Marys residents line the walls to listen to the discussion of the library’s lease renewal during a Nov. 15, 2022, city commission meeting. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/18/alex-gino-author-of-book-that-sparked-effort-to-close-kansas-towns-library-speaks-out/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Alex Gino wanted to write a 
book that reflected transgender youths’ experiences, the sort of book 
they wished they’d had when they were young.It took them 12 years to write the 
book, which went on to receive several literary awards, including a 
Children’s Choice award and the Lambda literary award.Now, the St. Marys City Commission is <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/16/future-of-kansas-towns-library-uncertain-after-outpouring-of-support-at-commission-meeting/">threatening the existence</a> of a public library for simply <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/11/14/future-of-kansas-towns-library-in-jeopardy-over-refusal-to-remove-divisive-books/">having Gino’s book in stock</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668797191108.jpeg" alt="Alex Gino, author of “Melissa,” says transgender youths need to hear stories that reflect their experiences. (Submitted by Alex Gino)" />
 <figcaption>Alex Gino, author of “Melissa,” says transgender youths need to hear stories that reflect their experiences. (Submitted by Alex Gino)</figcaption>
 </figure>“It hurts my heart,” Gino said. “The 
implication is that my existence is so monstrous that it should be 
withheld from children. And what happens is, you end up with adults like
 me, who didn’t have good role models or good reflections of people like
 them growing up, and the road does not change who you are, but it makes
 the road much more painful. And it makes the road a lot more 
dangerous.”The book in question, “Melissa,” is 
about a transgender girl in middle school who fights to be accepted as a
 girl among her peers, family, and fellow students. Melissa learns to 
advocate for herself and her friends by playing the role of Charlotte in
 her school’s production of “Charlotte’s Web.”The book, which was published in 2015, was added to the Pottawatomie
 Wabaunsee Regional Library in St. Marys after it made the William Allen
 White Award 2017-2018 Master List for grades 3-5.“Melissa” had only been checked out 
four times from the library when it became the center of uproar this 
summer. Parent Dave Perry demanded the book be removed from the library,
 saying the contents were unsuitable for children and encouraged 
“chemical castration.”Following Perry’s demands for 
removal, St. Marys city commissioners asked the library to accept a 
lease clause that would remove all books that dealt with sexuality, 
race, or LGBTQ themes.The lease stipulated that the library
 not “supply, distribute, loan, encourage, or coerce acceptance of or 
approval of explicit sexual or racially or socially divisive material, 
or events (such as ‘drag queen story hours’) that support the LGBTQ+ or 
critical theory ideology or practice.”The library refused to accept the 
“morals clause,” and commissioners remain undetermined on whether or not
 they’ll allow the library to stay in the St. Marys location. At the 
latest commission meeting, officials discussed allowing the library to 
have a short-term lease while they decided if the library met the “moral
 standards” of the commissioners. The commissioners will vote on the 
lease in early December. The library’s lease ends Dec. 31.The American Civil Liberties Union of
 Kansas issued a statement in support of the library Wednesday, urging 
that the library continue to be funded and that the commission abandon 
the ban of these materials. The ACLU condemned the actions of the 
commission and said it will&nbsp; monitor the situation.“The residents of the various cities 
served by the library have a First Amendment right to the targeted 
content,” said Sharon Brett, legal director of the ACLU of Kansas. “And 
the St. Mary’s commission’s insistence on banning items containing 
content they don’t like could have constitutional implications when it 
comes to library patrons’ rights to free expression and the right to 
receive information.”Gino said the commissioners’ actions 
would damage transgender and LGBTQ youths in St. Marys, a town which is 
already heavily conservative and contains a large religious population 
associated with the Society of Saint Pius X.St. Marys Vice-Mayor Francis 
Awerkamp, a Republican who also serves in the Kansas House, said he 
wouldn’t support the public library in any form because of the LGBTQ 
material it housed.Gino said they are used to extreme reactions to “Melissa” but that this case was fairly extreme.“When trans people are harmed because the people in his community don’t know who we are, that blood is on his hands,” Gino said.Gino’s book is no longer kept in the 
library: Perry, the parent who objected to Gino’s book, said he had paid
 to have the book removed from the library.Gino referenced Perry’s speech in 
support of the library during a Nov. 15 debate on whether or not to 
renew the library’s lease. Perry had said he wanted the library to stay,
 and that the whole thing had gone too far.“The parent who brought up the book 
does not want the library closed. And it’s this case of, ‘No, no, I 
wanted censorship my way, but now you’re going too far.’ But you opened 
the door to censorship. That’s why we don’t do that,” Gino said.“The scary thing is that the 
alternative is to remove the library, so I don’t even know how to feel,”
 Gino added. “But in general, the idea of taking my book off the shelves
 because one individual or small group of individuals are trying to 
outweigh the librarian and the library, it’s selfish. I think it’s a 
fragile action. And I think it’s not American. It is not in favor of 
free speech, and it’s not the world I want to be in.”Gino said the sort of censorship seen
 in St. Marys and in the U.S. at large has worsened over the past few 
years, though they’ve been battling harsh responses to the book since it
 was published.Gino said “Melissa” was the No.1 most
 banned and challenged book on the American Library Association’s banned
 books list for three years in a row. The book has been challenged in 
Kansas before, with Wichita Public Schools refusing to buy the book in 
2017, bucking the custom of purchasing books from the William Allen 
White Children’s Book Awards Committee.“The issue of banned and challenged 
books is much, much worse in the last two or so years,” Gino said. “It’s
 becoming a real epidemic. It’s gotten to the point where people are 
going in with an entire list of books that they want removed.”At the November commission meeting, 
many St. Marys residents spoke in favor of keeping the library, but few 
supported the book itself. One speaker said the book would encourage 
children to become “frankensteins.” More than one person said “Melissa” 
would cause the town youths to want to chemically castrate themselves. 
Another said that LGBTQ books were the work of a “silver tongued devil.”Gino’s message remains firm.“I really just want to send my 
support to the trans kids, to the queer kids out there, to the families 
out there,” Gino said. “The majority does support you, and you are 
loved, and you are welcome in your space.”

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