Manhattan City officials said that work began this week to install a new temporary crosswalk signal at the intersection of 14th Street and Poyntz Avenue, at the southwest corner of City Park. This includes the signal, new pavement markings and additional signage. Weather pending, it is expected to begin operation Thursday, July 10.

Once it does, the intersection will shift from its current 4-way stop configuration and Poyntz Avenue will have unrestricted east-west travel, except when the signal is triggered by a crossing pedestrian. This will signal Poyntz traffic to stop first.

Stop signs will remain on 14th Street and north-south traffic must yield to oncoming Poyntz traffic, only entering the intersection when there is no oncoming east-west traffic.

Manhattan City officials said that work began this week to install a new temporary crosswalk signal at the intersection of 14th Street and Poyntz Avenue, at the southwest corner of City Park. This includes the signal, new pavement markings and additional signage. Weather pending, it is expected to begin operation Thursday, July 10.Once it does, the intersection will shift from its current 4-way stop configuration and Poyntz Avenue will have unrestricted east-west travel, except when the signal is triggered by a crossing pedestrian. This will signal Poyntz traffic to stop first.Stop signs will remain on 14th Street and north-south traffic must yield to oncoming Poyntz traffic, only entering the intersection when there is no oncoming east-west traffic.

Work begins on temporary crosswalk signal

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/2025/7/1751639454974.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report July 4

There is new funding for a Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Flint Hills Home Preservation Program in partnership with the City of Manhattan’s Home Rehabilitation and Repair Assistance Program (RRAP). This partnership will provide homeowners within the Manhattan city limits who have combined household gross incomes between $54,000 and $108,000. 

This initiative will support homeowners in the City of Manhattan to maintain safe and affordable workforce housing.  RRAP funding provides critical support for repairs that allow residents to remain safely in their homes, including roof replacements and other structural repairs, emergency heating and cooling, and accessibility improvements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To talk about your project, contact Partner@HabitatFlintHills.org or give us a call at 785-537-7545 ex.2

There is new funding for a Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Flint Hills Home Preservation Program in partnership with the City of Manhattan’s Home Rehabilitation and Repair Assistance Program (RRAP). This partnership will provide homeowners within the Manhattan city limits who have combined household gross incomes between $54,000 and $108,000. This initiative will support homeowners in the City of Manhattan to maintain safe and affordable workforce housing. RRAP funding provides critical support for repairs that allow residents to remain safely in their homes, including roof replacements and other structural repairs, emergency heating and cooling, and accessibility improvements.&nbsp;&nbsp;To talk about your project, contact Partner@HabitatFlintHills.org or give us a call at 785-537-7545 ex.2

Habitat for Humanity of the Northern Flint Hills works with City of Manhattan

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Thursday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported Amy L. Cook, 45, Ogden, exited a 2010 Ford Super Duty truck driven by Nicholas E. Cook, 45, Ogden at&nbsp;32,981 Windy Hill Road in the Maple Hill Truck Stop Parking Lot.

Amy Cook walked through the pumps. The Ford truck pulled in behind her and the trucks trailer pinched her into the front right of a stationary 2024 Ford Edge driven by Patricia J. Bowen, 62, Bloomington, Indiana.

EMS transported Amy Cook to Stormont Vail for treatment of minor injuries. There were no other injuries. The impact caused minor damage to the Ford Edge, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Thursday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported Amy L. Cook, 45, Ogden, exited a 2010 Ford Super Duty truck driven by Nicholas E. Cook, 45, Ogden at&nbsp;32,981 Windy Hill Road in the Maple Hill Truck Stop Parking Lot.Amy Cook walked through the pumps. The Ford truck pulled in behind her and the trucks trailer pinched her into the front right of a stationary 2024 Ford Edge driven by Patricia J. Bowen, 62, Bloomington, Indiana.EMS transported Amy Cook to Stormont Vail for treatment of minor injuries. There were no other injuries. The impact caused minor damage to the Ford Edge, according to the KHP.&nbsp;

Riley County woman injured in truck stop parking lot accident

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, about the Big Beautiful Bill.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661448577852.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Forward Ever: Sen. Jerry Moran" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:300px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=egx63-18f541d-pb&square=1&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=300" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, about the Big Beautiful Bill.

🎤 Forward Ever: Senator Moran on the Big Beautiful Bill

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/2025/7/1751555130468.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report July 3

This is day 8 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp; &nbsp;

While yields and protein levels remain generally average, Kansas wheat farmers are facing significant challenges this year, including the widespread impact of wheat streak mosaic virus and related diseases, drought during the growing season and scattered rainfall during harvest.&nbsp;

Mike McClellan, who farms in Rooks County with his nephew Cade Beesley, started harvest about five days ago. Their crew includes hired hand Dave and Cade’s son, Coy. With about two-thirds left to cut, they’re making steady progress.

Yields have been above average compared to the past three years and are landing around average overall. Protein levels are ranging from 11.5 to 15.5 percent, and test weights on their better fields, those not hit by wheat streak mosaic virus, have been coming in at 58 to 60 pounds per bushel.

McClellan said their biggest challenges this year have been drought and wheat streak mosaic virus. The virus hit hard in the spring, with large pockets showing up across fields, more widespread than usual. The impact has been noticeable, with lower yields, reduced plant height, and lighter test weights in affected areas. Scattered rain showers during harvest have added to the test weight struggles.

Jackson Hoelker with Skyland Grain in Kingman County says harvest is nearly a month in, with cutting beginning the first week of June. Yields are coming in between 50 and 55 bushels per acre. Protein levels range from 10.5 to 11.5 percent, and test weights, which began around 60 to 63 pounds, have dropped slightly and are now closer to 58.

Hoelker estimates harvest is 85 to 90 percent complete. For the most part, everything that can be cut has been, but growers will need fields to finish drying out before they can finish the rest. While they haven’t seen much sprouting in the area, the biggest challenge this year has simply been how long the harvest is taking to complete.

Jason Ochs, who farms in Hamilton County, reported that harvest began on June 20, but some of the wheat has had several rain showers since it has been ripe. Other areas have received very little rain the past three years. Wheat in the area is short and hard to get it all in the header. The moisture came a little too late, but they did have perfect grainfill weather, cool and rainy. Yields are ranging based on conditions, but test weights have been decent, ranging from 59 to 61 pounds per bushel. He mentioned some wheat streak mosaic virus in the area. Ochs has seen some wind shatter from 40 mile per hour winds. While the wheat is short, the residue out there “makes a huge difference for the next crop,” he said. “It retains moisture and protects from sun and wind.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751504909918.png" alt="2025 Harvest Report Day 8; photo courtesy of Kansas Wheat" />
 <figcaption>2025 Harvest Report Day 8; photo courtesy of Kansas Wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS WHEAT COMMISSION This is day 8 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp; &nbsp;While yields and protein levels remain generally average, Kansas wheat farmers are facing significant challenges this year, including the widespread impact of wheat streak mosaic virus and related diseases, drought during the growing season and scattered rainfall during harvest.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600284821318.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Mike McClellan, who farms in Rooks County with his nephew Cade Beesley, started harvest about five days ago. Their crew includes hired hand Dave and Cade’s son, Coy. With about two-thirds left to cut, they’re making steady progress.Yields have been above average compared to the past three years and are landing around average overall. Protein levels are ranging from 11.5 to 15.5 percent, and test weights on their better fields, those not hit by wheat streak mosaic virus, have been coming in at 58 to 60 pounds per bushel.McClellan said their biggest challenges this year have been drought and wheat streak mosaic virus. The virus hit hard in the spring, with large pockets showing up across fields, more widespread than usual. The impact has been noticeable, with lower yields, reduced plant height, and lighter test weights in affected areas. Scattered rain showers during harvest have added to the test weight struggles.Jackson Hoelker with Skyland Grain in Kingman County says harvest is nearly a month in, with cutting beginning the first week of June. Yields are coming in between 50 and 55 bushels per acre. Protein levels range from 10.5 to 11.5 percent, and test weights, which began around 60 to 63 pounds, have dropped slightly and are now closer to 58.Hoelker estimates harvest is 85 to 90 percent complete. For the most part, everything that can be cut has been, but growers will need fields to finish drying out before they can finish the rest. While they haven’t seen much sprouting in the area, the biggest challenge this year has simply been how long the harvest is taking to complete.Jason Ochs, who farms in Hamilton County, reported that harvest began on June 20, but some of the wheat has had several rain showers since it has been ripe. Other areas have received very little rain the past three years. Wheat in the area is short and hard to get it all in the header. The moisture came a little too late, but they did have perfect grainfill weather, cool and rainy. Yields are ranging based on conditions, but test weights have been decent, ranging from 59 to 61 pounds per bushel. He mentioned some wheat streak mosaic virus in the area. Ochs has seen some wind shatter from 40 mile per hour winds. While the wheat is short, the residue out there “makes a huge difference for the next crop,” he said. “It retains moisture and protects from sun and wind.”<div><iframe style="height:40rem;width:100%;" class="w-full" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.widgets.investing.com/live-commodities?theme=darkTheme&amp;pairs=8849,8869,8917,961618,954867,8913,8914,8862,959199,8918,8916"></iframe></div><div> </div><div> </div>

<iframe style="height:100rem;width:100%;" class="w-full" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://eagle-post.s3.amazonaws.com/iframes/agview.html"></iframe></div>

Kansas Wheat: Harvest day eight 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Social media can be a great way to connect with new friends, but it’s a different story when someone approaches you to be friends and then asks for money. That’s no friend — that’s a scammer.

Scammers create fake profiles and pretend to be someone they’re not — maybe a businessperson, servicemember, or member of an international organization, with profile details that seems to support their story. They try to become your friend, and as you start trusting them, they have explanations for why they can’t meet in person. And then, eventually, they ask you for money — maybe to finally travel to see you or to help them out of a crisis.

When they ask for money, these scammers will often tell you how to send it. People report that scammers told them to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/you-wire-money">wire money</a>&nbsp;through a company like Western Union or MoneyGram, send the numbers on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/paying-scammers-gift-cards">gift cards</a>, use a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/mobile-payment-apps-how-avoid-scam-when-you-use-one">payment app</a>, or send&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-cryptocurrency-and-scams">cryptocurrency</a>.&nbsp;

If you’re ever in a situation like this:

If you think someone you met on social media is a scammer, cut ties. Tell the social media platform, and then tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750179147852.png" alt="Image by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Federal Trade CommissionWASHINGTON, D.C. — Social media can be a great way to connect with new friends, but it’s a different story when someone approaches you to be friends and then asks for money. That’s no friend — that’s a scammer.Scammers create fake profiles and pretend to be someone they’re not — maybe a businessperson, servicemember, or member of an international organization, with profile details that seems to support their story. They try to become your friend, and as you start trusting them, they have explanations for why they can’t meet in person. And then, eventually, they ask you for money — maybe to finally travel to see you or to help them out of a crisis.When they ask for money, these scammers will often tell you how to send it. People report that scammers told them to&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/you-wire-money">wire money</a>&nbsp;through a company like Western Union or MoneyGram, send the numbers on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/paying-scammers-gift-cards">gift cards</a>, use a&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/mobile-payment-apps-how-avoid-scam-when-you-use-one">payment app</a>, or send&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-cryptocurrency-and-scams">cryptocurrency</a>.&nbsp;If you’re ever in a situation like this:<ul>
 <li>Talk to your friends or family about your new online relationship. See what they say about the person.</li><li>Search online for information about this person and their story, plus the word “scammer.”&nbsp;Have other people posted similar stories?</li><li>Do a reverse image search of the person’s profile picture.&nbsp;Is it associated with another name or with details that don’t match up?</li><li>Don’t send money to someone you’ve never met in person.&nbsp;If that person asks for money, no matter how friendly the online relationship seems, it’s probably a scam.</li>
 </ul>If you think someone you met on social media is a scammer, cut ties. Tell the social media platform, and then tell the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

FTC: Did a new online friend ask for money? Odds are it’s a scam

Junction City Fire Chief Jason Lankas has confirmed that the damage estimate from the apartment building fire Wednesday at 1541 West Ash Street totaled $275,000.

Junction City firefighters responded to a major apartment building fire at 1541 West Ash Wednesday&nbsp; afternoon. Fire Chief Jason Lankas confirmed there were no injuries but five families were displaced. The Red Cross is assisting those families.

The blaze is under investigation. Authorities were notified when they received a call about an active fire and multiple units then responded to the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751532795276.jpeg" alt="( JCFD )" />
 <figcaption>( JCFD )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJunction City Fire Chief Jason Lankas has confirmed that the damage estimate from the apartment building fire Wednesday at 1541 West Ash Street totaled $275,000.----Junction City firefighters responded to a major apartment building fire at 1541 West Ash Wednesday&nbsp; afternoon. Fire Chief Jason Lankas confirmed there were no injuries but five families were displaced. The Red Cross is assisting those families.The blaze is under investigation. Authorities were notified when they received a call about an active fire and multiple units then responded to the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751533129788.jpeg" alt="( JCFD )" />
 <figcaption>( JCFD )</figcaption>
 </figure>

Damage estimate is released from apartment building fire in Junction City

(MANHATTAN, KS – July 2, 2025)&nbsp;— City Manager Danielle Dulin announced Wednesday that Sarah Smith Barr has been hired as Manhattan’s new Municipal Court Judge, starting this week.

Judge Barr will replace current Municipal Judge James R. Kepple, who retired June 30 after three years of service to the City of Manhattan’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=776464d45a&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Municipal Court</a>.

Barr, who recently retired from Kansas State University after serving 23 years as Student Legal Services Attorney, will perform the judicial function of the City.

The judge is authorized and empowered to exercise independent judgment in all cases brought before the court, without influence or interference by any elected or appointed City official.

“We are fortunate to have someone with Judge Barr’s experience and qualifications right here in Manhattan,” Dulin said. “As we transition to Judge Barr, we are grateful for Judge Kepple’s dedication to the community for the past three years as Municipal Judge, and before that as a District Magistrate Judge for five years, and wish him well in his retirement.”

The municipal judge hears all cases brought into the Municipal Court, and works with the Court Administrator and City Attorney to ensure the orderly, efficient, and fiscally responsible operation of the Municipal Court.

“Being a judge is a sacred trust and I am humbled to be asked to serve the community as municipal judge,” said Judge Barr. “I am looking forward to working alongside the excellent City court staff as we continue to provide the high standard of justice and fairness that Manhattan is known for.”

She was born and raised in Dodge City. Her grandfather, William A. Smith, served as Attorney General of Kansas and also on the Kansas Supreme Court, retiring as Chief Justice. Her father, Don C. Smith, was an attorney and district court judge in the 16th Judicial District in southwest Kansas.

Judge Barr is married to Curtis Barr, and they have a son, Luke Henson. They have lived in Wamego since 1995.

Barr graduated from Fort Hays State University and earned her law degree at Washburn University School of Law. She is a member of the Kansas Bar Association.

(MANHATTAN, KS – July 2, 2025)&nbsp;— City Manager Danielle Dulin announced Wednesday that Sarah Smith Barr has been hired as Manhattan’s new Municipal Court Judge, starting this week.Judge Barr will replace current Municipal Judge James R. Kepple, who retired June 30 after three years of service to the City of Manhattan’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=776464d45a&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Municipal Court</a>.Barr, who recently retired from Kansas State University after serving 23 years as Student Legal Services Attorney, will perform the judicial function of the City.The judge is authorized and empowered to exercise independent judgment in all cases brought before the court, without influence or interference by any elected or appointed City official.“We are fortunate to have someone with Judge Barr’s experience and qualifications right here in Manhattan,” Dulin said. “As we transition to Judge Barr, we are grateful for Judge Kepple’s dedication to the community for the past three years as Municipal Judge, and before that as a District Magistrate Judge for five years, and wish him well in his retirement.”The municipal judge hears all cases brought into the Municipal Court, and works with the Court Administrator and City Attorney to ensure the orderly, efficient, and fiscally responsible operation of the Municipal Court.“Being a judge is a sacred trust and I am humbled to be asked to serve the community as municipal judge,” said Judge Barr. “I am looking forward to working alongside the excellent City court staff as we continue to provide the high standard of justice and fairness that Manhattan is known for.”She was born and raised in Dodge City. Her grandfather, William A. Smith, served as Attorney General of Kansas and also on the Kansas Supreme Court, retiring as Chief Justice. Her father, Don C. Smith, was an attorney and district court judge in the 16th Judicial District in southwest Kansas.Judge Barr is married to Curtis Barr, and they have a son, Luke Henson. They have lived in Wamego since 1995.Barr graduated from Fort Hays State University and earned her law degree at Washburn University School of Law. She is a member of the Kansas Bar Association.

Sarah Smith Barr named new municipal court judge for Manhattan as Judge Kepple retires

Furniture Amnesty Day is an annual event that allows all local residents in Manhattan to donate furniture they no longer need, and/or select from the donated furniture for free.

The City of Manhattan said that volunteers are needed to help load furniture and assist with general event needs. Sign up:&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4UW7PKjMUnqPuN8?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYTdKdHBtRnpoWDhiNGZFZQEejO0ehBGmBFYiYKvzNjjaSp4VPbv1K21hQqQQQovj-5jONvfYue9wpfC6oag_aem_2IFOw6zGio9z8f63OpXAIg" target="_blank">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4UW7PKjMUnqPuN8</a>

DonateTo request up to five pieces of furniture to be picked up from your residence. Sign up:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.manhattanks.gov%2FFormCenter%2FCity-Manager-Forms-3%2F2025-Furniture-Amnesty-Day-Furniture-Don-424%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYTdKdHBtRnpoWDhiNGZFZQEe9I5jtF7g9RynrTb8IMRE85JV2LHHMysZCx2yLyucq5TKizHyLXRF5VG7Dl4_aem_i2T82txaMgByA9YUZphbhQ&amp;h=AT3HRHUF6NkoLIKJ2aquZ541zO9UynDjvpOPYUWkfcATvXK_kh3wVq1GXGw7NfkERlybtHxM1zF1wkNT7EOGjCs5oN3qmv5YFQUGn53cnc5ojqvBUdUB8rf9jVBhG1_QucGiVJ3ralDYyMGIylDYgrDq80IP1hGo&amp;__tn__=q&amp;c[0]=AT0WBcuHokHysY7JuhF0DXipCHN_4WPZMhg_v0lOcD-cbPbt36r3xwnePnhFbEXFkTcJYkerwl-Eh-hr5bz4aPZ7SLTHVjXgckwcNDt7LlnOBU6arzDFmRny_rS3-AoUl-1xuxlpyLPxeFUI7T1eLWxbIoF7gGXj9PE7fQ" target="_blank">https://www.manhattanks.gov/.../2025-Furniture-Amnesty...</a>

<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.manhattanks.gov%2FFormCenter%2FCity-Manager-Forms-3%2F2025-Furniture-Amnesty-Day-Furniture-Don-424%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYTdKdHBtRnpoWDhiNGZFZQEe9I5jtF7g9RynrTb8IMRE85JV2LHHMysZCx2yLyucq5TKizHyLXRF5VG7Dl4_aem_i2T82txaMgByA9YUZphbhQ&amp;h=AT3HRHUF6NkoLIKJ2aquZ541zO9UynDjvpOPYUWkfcATvXK_kh3wVq1GXGw7NfkERlybtHxM1zF1wkNT7EOGjCs5oN3qmv5YFQUGn53cnc5ojqvBUdUB8rf9jVBhG1_QucGiVJ3ralDYyMGIylDYgrDq80IP1hGo&amp;__tn__=q&amp;c[0]=AT0WBcuHokHysY7JuhF0DXipCHN_4WPZMhg_v0lOcD-cbPbt36r3xwnePnhFbEXFkTcJYkerwl-Eh-hr5bz4aPZ7SLTHVjXgckwcNDt7LlnOBU6arzDFmRny_rS3-AoUl-1xuxlpyLPxeFUI7T1eLWxbIoF7gGXj9PE7fQ" target="_blank"></a>Take FurnitureCome to City Park at 8 a.m. to choose a time slot (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.) to pick out furniture.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp; -Accepted Donations: Chairs Coffee tables Desks Dressers End tables Entertainment centers Headboards Kitchen tables Sofas or couches Recliners&nbsp;&nbsp;

-

Not Accepting:Computers,Grills,Dishwashers Lamps Mattresses Pianos&nbsp; Refrigerators Televisions or monitors Washers or dryers



Furniture Amnesty Day is an annual event that allows all local residents in Manhattan to donate furniture they no longer need, and/or select from the donated furniture for free.The City of Manhattan said that volunteers are needed to help load furniture and assist with general event needs. Sign up:&nbsp;<a href="https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4UW7PKjMUnqPuN8?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYTdKdHBtRnpoWDhiNGZFZQEejO0ehBGmBFYiYKvzNjjaSp4VPbv1K21hQqQQQovj-5jONvfYue9wpfC6oag_aem_2IFOw6zGio9z8f63OpXAIg" target="_blank">https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4UW7PKjMUnqPuN8</a>DonateTo request up to five pieces of furniture to be picked up from your residence. Sign up:&nbsp;<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.manhattanks.gov%2FFormCenter%2FCity-Manager-Forms-3%2F2025-Furniture-Amnesty-Day-Furniture-Don-424%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYTdKdHBtRnpoWDhiNGZFZQEe9I5jtF7g9RynrTb8IMRE85JV2LHHMysZCx2yLyucq5TKizHyLXRF5VG7Dl4_aem_i2T82txaMgByA9YUZphbhQ&amp;h=AT3HRHUF6NkoLIKJ2aquZ541zO9UynDjvpOPYUWkfcATvXK_kh3wVq1GXGw7NfkERlybtHxM1zF1wkNT7EOGjCs5oN3qmv5YFQUGn53cnc5ojqvBUdUB8rf9jVBhG1_QucGiVJ3ralDYyMGIylDYgrDq80IP1hGo&amp;__tn__=q&amp;c[0]=AT0WBcuHokHysY7JuhF0DXipCHN_4WPZMhg_v0lOcD-cbPbt36r3xwnePnhFbEXFkTcJYkerwl-Eh-hr5bz4aPZ7SLTHVjXgckwcNDt7LlnOBU6arzDFmRny_rS3-AoUl-1xuxlpyLPxeFUI7T1eLWxbIoF7gGXj9PE7fQ" target="_blank">https://www.manhattanks.gov/.../2025-Furniture-Amnesty...</a><a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.manhattanks.gov%2FFormCenter%2FCity-Manager-Forms-3%2F2025-Furniture-Amnesty-Day-Furniture-Don-424%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYTdKdHBtRnpoWDhiNGZFZQEe9I5jtF7g9RynrTb8IMRE85JV2LHHMysZCx2yLyucq5TKizHyLXRF5VG7Dl4_aem_i2T82txaMgByA9YUZphbhQ&amp;h=AT3HRHUF6NkoLIKJ2aquZ541zO9UynDjvpOPYUWkfcATvXK_kh3wVq1GXGw7NfkERlybtHxM1zF1wkNT7EOGjCs5oN3qmv5YFQUGn53cnc5ojqvBUdUB8rf9jVBhG1_QucGiVJ3ralDYyMGIylDYgrDq80IP1hGo&amp;__tn__=q&amp;c[0]=AT0WBcuHokHysY7JuhF0DXipCHN_4WPZMhg_v0lOcD-cbPbt36r3xwnePnhFbEXFkTcJYkerwl-Eh-hr5bz4aPZ7SLTHVjXgckwcNDt7LlnOBU6arzDFmRny_rS3-AoUl-1xuxlpyLPxeFUI7T1eLWxbIoF7gGXj9PE7fQ" target="_blank"></a>Take FurnitureCome to City Park at 8 a.m. to choose a time slot (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.) to pick out furniture.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; -Accepted Donations: Chairs Coffee tables Desks Dressers End tables Entertainment centers Headboards Kitchen tables Sofas or couches Recliners&nbsp;&nbsp;-

Not Accepting:Computers,Grills,Dishwashers Lamps Mattresses Pianos&nbsp; Refrigerators Televisions or monitors Washers or dryers

Furniture Amnesty Day will be held in Manhattan

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751465321059.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report July 2

This is day 7 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Harvest progress continues across Kansas, with some areas moving slowly due to wet conditions while others have managed to dodge the rain and are preparing to wrap up harvest. Farmers and custom harvesters are adapting to challenges to keep things moving.

Shane Eck with the Pawnee County Coop Association in Larned reports that harvest is 75% to 85% complete in their region. Harvest conditions have been mostly favorable as they have missed most of the heavy rain events but had some scattered rains.

Yields are ranging from 20 to 60 bushels per acre, which is, for the most part, an improvement over the drought-stricken crops of the past two years. They have already exceeded their take of wheat from last year and are above their five-year average. Test weights were averaging 58 pounds with some lower numbers in rainfall areas. Test weights and yields have been impacted by wheat streak mosaic virus and other associated viral diseases which have become more common in the region over the past three years. Proteins are averaging around 12%.

Paul Penner, a farmer in Marion County, has been harvesting on and off due to repeated rain delays. Wet conditions have made progress slow, and Penner estimates he has about three to four days left to go. He’s working to balance wrapping up harvest while also getting soybeans in the ground without damaging fields.

Test weights started around 60 pounds but have since dipped, now ranging closer to 56 to 59 pounds following the recent rains. The wet fields have been one of the biggest challenges this season. Penner planted KS Providence, AG Radical and AP Prolific, all of which are performing well so far.

Custom harvester Jacob Hermesch is cutting wheat near Kinsley, Kansas, where recent rains have made fields difficult to access without specialized equipment. Hermesch said tracks have made the difference this season, allowing his crew to keep working while others are sidelined by the mud.

“I got my combine stuck four times in one day,” Hermesch said. “But the tracked machine just walks right through it, no problem.”

Despite good wheat in the area, the wet conditions are slowing progress and putting extra stress on equipment. Hermesch estimates yields are ranging from 30 to 70 bushels per acre, depending on how well the crop was managed. He noted that demand for help is high in the Kinsley area, especially from farmers short on equipment. Even with the challenges he has faced, Hermesch is open to picking up more acres, especially closer to home along Highway 36.

The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use #wheatharvest25. Tag at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751423226702.png" alt="Day 7 Harvest Report 2025;&nbsp;photo courtesy of Kansas Wheat" />
 <figcaption>Day 7 Harvest Report 2025;&nbsp;photo courtesy of Kansas Wheat</figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 7 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Harvest progress continues across Kansas, with some areas moving slowly due to wet conditions while others have managed to dodge the rain and are preparing to wrap up harvest. Farmers and custom harvesters are adapting to challenges to keep things moving.Shane Eck with the Pawnee County Coop Association in Larned reports that harvest is 75% to 85% complete in their region. Harvest conditions have been mostly favorable as they have missed most of the heavy rain events but had some scattered rains.Yields are ranging from 20 to 60 bushels per acre, which is, for the most part, an improvement over the drought-stricken crops of the past two years. They have already exceeded their take of wheat from last year and are above their five-year average. Test weights were averaging 58 pounds with some lower numbers in rainfall areas. Test weights and yields have been impacted by wheat streak mosaic virus and other associated viral diseases which have become more common in the region over the past three years. Proteins are averaging around 12%.Paul Penner, a farmer in Marion County, has been harvesting on and off due to repeated rain delays. Wet conditions have made progress slow, and Penner estimates he has about three to four days left to go. He’s working to balance wrapping up harvest while also getting soybeans in the ground without damaging fields.Test weights started around 60 pounds but have since dipped, now ranging closer to 56 to 59 pounds following the recent rains. The wet fields have been one of the biggest challenges this season. Penner planted KS Providence, AG Radical and AP Prolific, all of which are performing well so far.Custom harvester Jacob Hermesch is cutting wheat near Kinsley, Kansas, where recent rains have made fields difficult to access without specialized equipment. Hermesch said tracks have made the difference this season, allowing his crew to keep working while others are sidelined by the mud.“I got my combine stuck four times in one day,” Hermesch said. “But the tracked machine just walks right through it, no problem.”Despite good wheat in the area, the wet conditions are slowing progress and putting extra stress on equipment. Hermesch estimates yields are ranging from 30 to 70 bushels per acre, depending on how well the crop was managed. He noted that demand for help is high in the Kinsley area, especially from farmers short on equipment. Even with the challenges he has faced, Hermesch is open to picking up more acres, especially closer to home along Highway 36.The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use #wheatharvest25. Tag at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 7: Kansas Wheat Harvest report

In 2024, the Manhattan City Commission adopted the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=a808910d46&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Move&nbsp;MHK! Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan</a>. This 20-year strategy outlines possible development and a community feedback loop to guide future parks and recreation investments.

At the same time, a private coalition called&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=7a6a084e91&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Riverfront&nbsp;MHK</a>&nbsp;was gathering input from key community stakeholders and raising funds to energize the idea of developing the Kansas River on the east and west banks, adjacent to downtown Manhattan. With the funds they raised, this coalition hired a private firm,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=5c81f027fc&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">MCLV</a>, to facilitate conversations and produce a vision of how residents, visitors, and tourists could potentially access and engage with the riverfront.

City leadership, encouraged by these private efforts, challenged staff to partner with the groups to incorporate their work into a public planning process and plan. Since most of the study area is publicly owned land and envisioned as a park area, with accompanying amenities and programming, it made sense for the plan to live under the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=6c5cefae67&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Move&nbsp;MHK!</a>&nbsp;plan.

The City invites you to review the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=dbc27cdf30&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Riverfront&nbsp;MHK&nbsp;Vision Plan</a>&nbsp;developed by MCLV to spark ideas and generate comments on the potential development of the riverfront into a community asset. You are also invited to one of the open house sessions on&nbsp;Wednesday, July 2&nbsp;in the Commission Room at City Hall, 1101 Poyntz Avenue. Session 1 is&nbsp;noon to 1 p.m.&nbsp;and Session 2 is&nbsp;6 to 7 p.m.

Manhattan City releaseIn 2024, the Manhattan City Commission adopted the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=a808910d46&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Move&nbsp;MHK! Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan</a>. This 20-year strategy outlines possible development and a community feedback loop to guide future parks and recreation investments.At the same time, a private coalition called&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=7a6a084e91&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Riverfront&nbsp;MHK</a>&nbsp;was gathering input from key community stakeholders and raising funds to energize the idea of developing the Kansas River on the east and west banks, adjacent to downtown Manhattan. With the funds they raised, this coalition hired a private firm,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=5c81f027fc&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">MCLV</a>, to facilitate conversations and produce a vision of how residents, visitors, and tourists could potentially access and engage with the riverfront.City leadership, encouraged by these private efforts, challenged staff to partner with the groups to incorporate their work into a public planning process and plan. Since most of the study area is publicly owned land and envisioned as a park area, with accompanying amenities and programming, it made sense for the plan to live under the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=6c5cefae67&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Move&nbsp;MHK!</a>&nbsp;plan.The City invites you to review the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=dbc27cdf30&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Riverfront&nbsp;MHK&nbsp;Vision Plan</a>&nbsp;developed by MCLV to spark ideas and generate comments on the potential development of the riverfront into a community asset. You are also invited to one of the open house sessions on&nbsp;Wednesday, July 2&nbsp;in the Commission Room at City Hall, 1101 Poyntz Avenue. Session 1 is&nbsp;noon to 1 p.m.&nbsp;and Session 2 is&nbsp;6 to 7 p.m.<figure>
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Riverfront MHK open houses planned July 2

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

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents boosted salaries of state university presidents and the chancellor an average of 6.4%, despite the Legislature’s decision to provide no more than 2.5% raises to campus employees lagging the farthest behind market rates.

The Legislature earmarked $36.2 million to address state employee pay disparities in the new fiscal year starting July 1. These targeted increases would bring state workers up to 10% below market rate or enact raises of 2.5%, whichever was greater.

The Board of Regents universities received state funding equivalent to a 2.5% merit pool. Lawmakers left it to university administrators to fill other compensation gaps, but the reality was some campus employees won’t get a raise.

The Board of Regents awarded University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod a 12% surge of $105,000 to place his total compensation from state government and private endowment sources at $1 million per year.

After meeting in executive session, the Board of Regents also voted Friday without dissent to authorize a 7% increase for Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason to take her annual package to $355,000. Kansas State University President Richard Linton, who received a 10.2% raise last year, was provided a 5% increase this year to elevate his compensation to $750,000.

The low end of the scale were 4% adjustments for Wichita State University President Rick Muma and Emporia State University President Ken Hush. Muma’s annual compensation climbed to $635,000, while Hush’s was bumped to $370,000. The Board of Regents recently hired a new president for Pittsburg State University, so no raise was adopted for PSU.

“Some of the most important actions we take concern our CEOs,” said Carl Ice, chairman of the Board of Regents. “Leaders matter. Leaders set a vision — visions that are compelling.”

Becky Pottebaum, director of finance and administration with the Board of Regents, said the annual review of compensation for university leaders was designed to make certain salaries were based on performance and competitive with peer institutions.

The latest salary adjustments reflected the Board of Regents’ adoption of new principles regarding CEO compensation.

“Strong leadership is essential to the continued success of our institutions and the broader mission of advancing higher education in Kansas,” she said.

For more than six months, state university leaders expressed alarm about converging financial challenges that included general operational inflation, softness in student enrollment, loss of federal research funding and new financial obligations to college athletes.

In response, the Board of Regents approved tuition increases averaging 3.9% for in-state undergraduate university students. University administrators have moved to impose cost-cutting measures to deal with anticipated budget deficits.

Girod said the “challenges largely are due to external factors such as disruptions to federal funding, the lack of new state funding, rising costs associated with facilities construction and operations, and the projected nationwide decline in college enrollment.”

He said without decisive action KU’s Lawrence campus could wind up with a $4 million shortfall by the end of the fiscal year.

“The reality is higher education is at a crossroads, and universities must develop new financial models for the new world we are in,” Girod said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751394543031.png" alt=" Carl Ice, right, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, defended raises of 4% to 12% for top leadership of the state's public universities despite the Kansas Legislature appropriating funding for 2.5% market rate adjustments for certain university employees that could leave faculty and staff without any bump in compensation in the fiscal year starting July 1. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Carl Ice, right, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, defended raises of 4% to 12% for top leadership of the state's public universities despite the Kansas Legislature appropriating funding for 2.5% market rate adjustments for certain university employees that could leave faculty and staff without any bump in compensation in the fiscal year starting July 1. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents boosted salaries of state university presidents and the chancellor an average of 6.4%, despite the Legislature’s decision to provide no more than 2.5% raises to campus employees lagging the farthest behind market rates.The Legislature earmarked $36.2 million to address state employee pay disparities in the new fiscal year starting July 1. These targeted increases would bring state workers up to 10% below market rate or enact raises of 2.5%, whichever was greater.The Board of Regents universities received state funding equivalent to a 2.5% merit pool. Lawmakers left it to university administrators to fill other compensation gaps, but the reality was some campus employees won’t get a raise.The Board of Regents awarded University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod a 12% surge of $105,000 to place his total compensation from state government and private endowment sources at $1 million per year.After meeting in executive session, the Board of Regents also voted Friday without dissent to authorize a 7% increase for Fort Hays State University President Tisa Mason to take her annual package to $355,000. Kansas State University President Richard Linton, who received a 10.2% raise last year, was provided a 5% increase this year to elevate his compensation to $750,000.The low end of the scale were 4% adjustments for Wichita State University President Rick Muma and Emporia State University President Ken Hush. Muma’s annual compensation climbed to $635,000, while Hush’s was bumped to $370,000. The Board of Regents recently hired a new president for Pittsburg State University, so no raise was adopted for PSU.“Some of the most important actions we take concern our CEOs,” said Carl Ice, chairman of the Board of Regents. “Leaders matter. Leaders set a vision — visions that are compelling.”Becky Pottebaum, director of finance and administration with the Board of Regents, said the annual review of compensation for university leaders was designed to make certain salaries were based on performance and competitive with peer institutions.The latest salary adjustments reflected the Board of Regents’ adoption of new principles regarding CEO compensation.“Strong leadership is essential to the continued success of our institutions and the broader mission of advancing higher education in Kansas,” she said.For more than six months, state university leaders expressed alarm about converging financial challenges that included general operational inflation, softness in student enrollment, loss of federal research funding and new financial obligations to college athletes.In response, the Board of Regents approved tuition increases averaging 3.9% for in-state undergraduate university students. University administrators have moved to impose cost-cutting measures to deal with anticipated budget deficits.Girod said the “challenges largely are due to external factors such as disruptions to federal funding, the lack of new state funding, rising costs associated with facilities construction and operations, and the projected nationwide decline in college enrollment.”He said without decisive action KU’s Lawrence campus could wind up with a $4 million shortfall by the end of the fiscal year.“The reality is higher education is at a crossroads, and universities must develop new financial models for the new world we are in,” Girod said.

Kansas Board of Regents’ CEO raises exceed adjustments for university faculty, staff

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) Investigation Division was requested to assist with a fatality fire in the 200 block of West 6th&nbsp;Street, Solomon, on Tuesday.

KSFM Special Agents were requested by local authorities after they responded to a house fire with a fatality.&nbsp; Three Special Agents/Certified Fire Investigators were sent to assist with this fire event, according to a media release from the State Fire Marshal's office.

According to the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office, they were notified at 4:44 a.m. of the fire. The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.

Deputies assisted a man from the residence through a window. Two adults and a juvenile were able to make it out of the burning structure safely. They notified firefighters and deputies that there was teen still trapped inside. Deputies attempted to gain entry through a doorway and a window, but were not able to gain entry due to the intense heat and smoke.

After the fire was brought under control by firefighters, the female victim, Elizabeth Lillian Ohl, 17, was located inside the residence by firefighters.

The fire incident is classified as undetermined, with multiple potential causes that could not be ruled out.&nbsp;

DICKINSON COUNTY— Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Dickinson County.

&nbsp;Just after 4:30a.m. Tuesday the Sheriff’s Office was notified of a house fire in the 200 block of West 6th Street in Solomon, according to a statement from the Dickinson County Sheriff's office.

 The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.

Deputies assisted a man from the residence through a window. Two adults and a juvenile were able to make it out of the burning structure safely. They notified firefighters and deputies that there was another person still trapped inside. Deputies attempted to gain entry through a doorway and a window, but were unable to gain entry due to the intense heat and smoke.

After the fire was brought under control, firefighters found the victim was inside of the home. The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation. The sheriff's office has not released the name of the victim or additional details.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas State Fire Marshal (KSFM) Investigation Division was requested to assist with a fatality fire in the 200 block of West 6th&nbsp;Street, Solomon, on Tuesday.KSFM Special Agents were requested by local authorities after they responded to a house fire with a fatality.&nbsp; Three Special Agents/Certified Fire Investigators were sent to assist with this fire event, according to a media release from the State Fire Marshal's office.According to the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office, they were notified at 4:44 a.m. of the fire. The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.Deputies assisted a man from the residence through a window. Two adults and a juvenile were able to make it out of the burning structure safely. They notified firefighters and deputies that there was teen still trapped inside. Deputies attempted to gain entry through a doorway and a window, but were not able to gain entry due to the intense heat and smoke.After the fire was brought under control by firefighters, the female victim, Elizabeth Lillian Ohl, 17, was located inside the residence by firefighters.The fire incident is classified as undetermined, with multiple potential causes that could not be ruled out.&nbsp;-------------DICKINSON COUNTY— Authorities are investigating the cause of a fatal fire in Dickinson County.&nbsp;Just after 4:30a.m. Tuesday the Sheriff’s Office was notified of a house fire in the 200 block of West 6th Street in Solomon, according to a statement from the Dickinson County Sheriff's office. The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.Deputies assisted a man from the residence through a window. Two adults and a juvenile were able to make it out of the burning structure safely. They notified firefighters and deputies that there was another person still trapped inside. Deputies attempted to gain entry through a doorway and a window, but were unable to gain entry due to the intense heat and smoke.After the fire was brought under control, firefighters found the victim was inside of the home. The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation. The sheriff's office has not released the name of the victim or additional details.

FIre Marshal: 17-year-old died in Kansas house fire

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Special Hunts program provides limited access to areas not normally open to hunting. More than limited-entry opportunities will be available this fall and winter. While access through the program is free, hunters must still meet all licensing and permit requirements under Kansas law.

Opportunities for deer, upland game, waterfowl, dove, and furbearers will be offered, with hunts taking place on a mix of public lands, parks, private lands, and other select areas. Managers, biologists, landowners, and partners offer these hunts with safety, management, and positive relationships in mind.

All fall and winter special hunt opportunities are available through a single application period, open&nbsp;July 1-29, 2025. Details of each special hunt and application details are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FHunting%2FSpecial-Hunts-Information%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=specialhunts/1/01010197c625c3a2-85064a38-b045-4327-877a-57f8d59a220e-000000/2Qp25J40S0RWsDu6869Vgix9_7hIHgMPu8IkHyoMoSU=411">ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information</a>. Successful applicants will be selected through a random drawing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751386668896.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) Special Hunts program provides limited access to areas not normally open to hunting. More than limited-entry opportunities will be available this fall and winter. While access through the program is free, hunters must still meet all licensing and permit requirements under Kansas law.Opportunities for deer, upland game, waterfowl, dove, and furbearers will be offered, with hunts taking place on a mix of public lands, parks, private lands, and other select areas. Managers, biologists, landowners, and partners offer these hunts with safety, management, and positive relationships in mind.All fall and winter special hunt opportunities are available through a single application period, open&nbsp;July 1-29, 2025. Details of each special hunt and application details are available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fksoutdoors.com%2FHunting%2FSpecial-Hunts-Information%2F%3Futm_source=news%26utm_medium=press-release%26utm_campaign=specialhunts/1/01010197c625c3a2-85064a38-b045-4327-877a-57f8d59a220e-000000/2Qp25J40S0RWsDu6869Vgix9_7hIHgMPu8IkHyoMoSU=411">ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information</a>. Successful applicants will be selected through a random drawing.

KDWP special hunt application period now open  

WEEE Entertainment will operate the carnival at Freedom Fest in Junction City.

The carnival will run Wednesday night through Sunday evening.

WEEE Entertainment will operate the carnival at Freedom Fest in Junction City.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751384658167.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751384682879.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The carnival will run Wednesday night through Sunday evening.<a href="https://jcpost.com/category/local">l</a>

Freedom Fest preparations are under way in Junction City

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/2025/7/1751378914294.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report July 1

The Trump administration wants Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to raid worksites in the agriculture and hospitality industries, despite an initial reprieve this month. Experts say the policy could hurt businesses that rely on immigrant workers.

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>

Under orders from the Trump administration, ICE is ramping up arrests and deportations, with a reported goal to make a minimum of 3,000 arrests each day. That includes raids on farms, ranches and dairies.

The approach to immigration enforcement among farm workers continues to swing back and forth under the Trump administration.

On Friday, President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-says-he-is-looking-new-steps-farm-labor-2025-06-20/" target="_blank">said</a>&nbsp;he’s considering a new policy that would allow the agriculture industry to keep employing immigrants who are not authorized to work, if farmers and ranchers can assume “responsibility” for their workers.

“We're looking at doing something where, in the case of good, reputable farmers, they can take responsibility for the people that they hire and let them have responsibility, because we can't put the farms out of business," Trump said at a recent press conference. "And at the same time we don't want to hurt people that aren't criminals."

Yet last week, the Department of Homeland Security told Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/immigration/2025/06/16/trump-farms-hotels-immigration-raids/?utm_campaign=wp_main&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=social" target="_blank">continue raids</a>&nbsp;on farms, ranches and dairies across the United States.

That directive was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/13/us/politics/trump-ice-raids-farms-hotels.html" target="_blank">briefly paused</a>&nbsp;by Trump following large ICE operations earlier this month — including the arrests of more than 70 people at a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskapublicmedia.org/en/news/news-articles/people-are-scared-ice-agents-raid-facilities-in-omaha/" target="_blank">meat-packing facility</a>&nbsp;in Omaha, Nebraska. At the time, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114670684664650262" target="_blank">wrote on Truth Social</a>&nbsp;that the policy was “very aggressive” and could take long-time immigrant workers away from farms.

Despite&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/06/16/nx-s1-5430846/farming-industry-immigration-ice-worksite-enforcement-trump" target="_blank">pushback</a>&nbsp;from some leaders in the agriculture industry, as well as people advocating for immigrant worker rights, the Trump administration then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/19/trump-immigration-raids-farms-hotels-border-czar" target="_blank">said</a>&nbsp;it will continue targeting agriculture worksites, as well as in the hospitality industry, with a focus on people with a criminal background.

Many in the agriculture industry are concerned the policy will constrict labor and hurt both the farm business and everyday consumers. That includes Matt Teagarden, the head of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kla.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Livestock Association</a>, which represents more than 5,000 members in the state.

“These raids disrupt our food supply and contribute to higher food prices,” Teagarden said. “In addition to the workers who’ve been detained, these raids contribute to fear in these communities and lead to workers— fully legal workers — staying home out of fear.”

Under orders from the Trump administration, ICE is ramping up arrests and deportations around the U.S., with a reported goal to make a minimum of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/ices-tactics-draw-criticism-it-triples-daily-arrest-targets-2025-06-10/" target="_blank">3,000 arrests</a>&nbsp;each day.

“There will be no safe spaces for industries who harbor violent criminals or purposely try to undermine ICE’s efforts,” said Tricia McLaughlin, the assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, during an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/homeland-security-official-on-the-trump-administrations-immigration-policy-changes" target="_blank">interview with PBS</a>. “Worksite enforcement remains a cornerstone of our efforts to safeguard public safety, national security and economic stability.”

For immigrant workers and the rural communities who depend on their labor, the potential for incoming raids is concerning, said Sonia Parras, an immigration attorney in Des Moines, Iowa.

“The unintended consequence is that they destroyed the lives of the immigrant community, but also the industries, the mom-and-pops shops, and businesses,” Parras said. “Is the cost of a raid — on U.S. citizens and the economy of a town and surrounding areas — worth extracting or detaining immigrants in the area?”

In 2008, Parras provided pro-bono legal services when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2008/06/09/91327136/immigration-raid-leaves-mark-on-iowa-town" target="_blank">ICE raided a meat-packing plant</a>&nbsp;and arrested nearly 400 people in Postville, Iowa. This past week, she said her phone has been ringing “off the hook” with people calling in a panic, asking for help if they get arrested.

“When the administration — to me — prioritizes punitive enforcement that targets these workers, it creates a bit of a paradox where the very workforce that the farmers relied upon is being driven into the shadows,” said Parras.

Throughout the country, 42% of farm workers were not legally authorized to work in the U.S. in 2022, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/chart-gallery/chart-detail?chartId=63466" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Another 19% were immigrants authorized to work through visas or who had legal permanent resident status.

Although Teagarden and others in the agriculture industry support immigration enforcement in the form of “securing” the southern U.S. border and “removing violent criminals,” he said they want to work with Trump and Congress to address the issue in a “reasonable way” that supports the industry.

“It really is clear to me that the people pushing for these raids that target farms and feed yards and dairies, have no idea how farms operate.” Teagarden said. “You can’t just turn off a cow. It doesn’t work that way. Cows have to be milked, cattle have to be fed.”

Work from immigrants in the agriculture industry has allowed labor costs for farmers and ranchers to remain low, and ultimately keep food prices lower for consumers, according to David Ortega, a professor of food economics and policy at Michigan State University.

“The agricultural sector relies heavily on migrant workers in order to do some of those critical activities that many U.S. born workers are either unable or unwilling to perform,” Ortega said. “Things like harvesting, planting, working in meatpacking plants, all of the critical activities that are needed to get food from the farm all the way to the table.”

Some agriculture stakeholders throughout the Midwest, particularly in the specialty crop sector who rely on immigrant labor, are already raising concerns, Ortega said. Without some protections in place for immigrants working in the agriculture industry, the enforcement policy is having a “chilling effect” on workers who are not easily replaced — even those who are authorized to work in the U.S. — he said.

“It's not surprising that we're seeing producers reach out to individuals in elected positions, noting that these activities, the rhetoric that the Trump administration has on illegal immigration and these mass deportations, are affecting their business,” Ortega said.

This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest and Great Plains. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751055280443.png" alt="A Mason /&nbsp;U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement" />
 <figcaption>A Mason /&nbsp;U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The Trump administration wants Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to raid worksites in the agriculture and hospitality industries, despite an initial reprieve this month. Experts say the policy could hurt businesses that rely on immigrant workers.</h2><a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>Under orders from the Trump administration, ICE is ramping up arrests and deportations, with a reported goal to make a minimum of 3,000 arrests each day. That includes raids on farms, ranches and dairies.The approach to immigration enforcement among farm workers continues to swing back and forth under the Trump administration.On Friday, President Donald Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-says-he-is-looking-new-steps-farm-labor-2025-06-20/" target="_blank">said</a>&nbsp;he’s considering a new policy that would allow the agriculture industry to keep employing immigrants who are not authorized to work, if farmers and ranchers can assume “responsibility” for their workers.“We're looking at doing something where, in the case of good, reputable farmers, they can take responsibility for the people that they hire and let them have responsibility, because we can't put the farms out of business," Trump said at a recent press conference. "And at the same time we don't want to hurt people that aren't criminals."Yet last week, the Department of Homeland Security told Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/immigration/2025/06/16/trump-farms-hotels-immigration-raids/?utm_campaign=wp_main&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=social" target="_blank">continue raids</a>&nbsp;on farms, ranches and dairies across the United States.That directive was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/13/us/politics/trump-ice-raids-farms-hotels.html" target="_blank">briefly paused</a>&nbsp;by Trump following large ICE operations earlier this month — including the arrests of more than 70 people at a&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskapublicmedia.org/en/news/news-articles/people-are-scared-ice-agents-raid-facilities-in-omaha/" target="_blank">meat-packing facility</a>&nbsp;in Omaha, Nebraska. At the time, Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114670684664650262" target="_blank">wrote on Truth Social</a>&nbsp;that the policy was “very aggressive” and could take long-time immigrant workers away from farms.Despite&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/06/16/nx-s1-5430846/farming-industry-immigration-ice-worksite-enforcement-trump" target="_blank">pushback</a>&nbsp;from some leaders in the agriculture industry, as well as people advocating for immigrant worker rights, the Trump administration then&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/06/19/trump-immigration-raids-farms-hotels-border-czar" target="_blank">said</a>&nbsp;it will continue targeting agriculture worksites, as well as in the hospitality industry, with a focus on people with a criminal background.Many in the agriculture industry are concerned the policy will constrict labor and hurt both the farm business and everyday consumers. That includes Matt Teagarden, the head of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kla.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Livestock Association</a>, which represents more than 5,000 members in the state.“These raids disrupt our food supply and contribute to higher food prices,” Teagarden said. “In addition to the workers who’ve been detained, these raids contribute to fear in these communities and lead to workers— fully legal workers — staying home out of fear.”Under orders from the Trump administration, ICE is ramping up arrests and deportations around the U.S., with a reported goal to make a minimum of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/ices-tactics-draw-criticism-it-triples-daily-arrest-targets-2025-06-10/" target="_blank">3,000 arrests</a>&nbsp;each day.“There will be no safe spaces for industries who harbor violent criminals or purposely try to undermine ICE’s efforts,” said Tricia McLaughlin, the assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, during an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/homeland-security-official-on-the-trump-administrations-immigration-policy-changes" target="_blank">interview with PBS</a>. “Worksite enforcement remains a cornerstone of our efforts to safeguard public safety, national security and economic stability.”For immigrant workers and the rural communities who depend on their labor, the potential for incoming raids is concerning, said Sonia Parras, an immigration attorney in Des Moines, Iowa.“The unintended consequence is that they destroyed the lives of the immigrant community, but also the industries, the mom-and-pops shops, and businesses,” Parras said. “Is the cost of a raid — on U.S. citizens and the economy of a town and surrounding areas — worth extracting or detaining immigrants in the area?”In 2008, Parras provided pro-bono legal services when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2008/06/09/91327136/immigration-raid-leaves-mark-on-iowa-town" target="_blank">ICE raided a meat-packing plant</a>&nbsp;and arrested nearly 400 people in Postville, Iowa. This past week, she said her phone has been ringing “off the hook” with people calling in a panic, asking for help if they get arrested.“When the administration — to me — prioritizes punitive enforcement that targets these workers, it creates a bit of a paradox where the very workforce that the farmers relied upon is being driven into the shadows,” said Parras.Throughout the country, 42% of farm workers were not legally authorized to work in the U.S. in 2022, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/chart-gallery/chart-detail?chartId=63466" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Another 19% were immigrants authorized to work through visas or who had legal permanent resident status.Although Teagarden and others in the agriculture industry support immigration enforcement in the form of “securing” the southern U.S. border and “removing violent criminals,” he said they want to work with Trump and Congress to address the issue in a “reasonable way” that supports the industry.“It really is clear to me that the people pushing for these raids that target farms and feed yards and dairies, have no idea how farms operate.” Teagarden said. “You can’t just turn off a cow. It doesn’t work that way. Cows have to be milked, cattle have to be fed.”Work from immigrants in the agriculture industry has allowed labor costs for farmers and ranchers to remain low, and ultimately keep food prices lower for consumers, according to David Ortega, a professor of food economics and policy at Michigan State University.“The agricultural sector relies heavily on migrant workers in order to do some of those critical activities that many U.S. born workers are either unable or unwilling to perform,” Ortega said. “Things like harvesting, planting, working in meatpacking plants, all of the critical activities that are needed to get food from the farm all the way to the table.”Some agriculture stakeholders throughout the Midwest, particularly in the specialty crop sector who rely on immigrant labor, are already raising concerns, Ortega said. Without some protections in place for immigrants working in the agriculture industry, the enforcement policy is having a “chilling effect” on workers who are not easily replaced — even those who are authorized to work in the U.S. — he said.“It's not surprising that we're seeing producers reach out to individuals in elected positions, noting that these activities, the rhetoric that the Trump administration has on illegal immigration and these mass deportations, are affecting their business,” Ortega said.This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest and Great Plains. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

ICE raids push farm workers to stay home ‘out of fear.’ That could hurt U.S. food production

This is day 6 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Harvest continues across Kansas, with the USDA reporting it halfway complete, behind last year but close to the five-year average. Farmers are still seeing the effects of heavy rainfall, with muddy fields and delayed progress in several areas. Despite the setbacks, farmers across the state continue to make progress as June comes to an end.

Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 53 percent complete, well behind 76 percent complete last year but near 56 percent average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 29, 2025. Winter wheat conditions were rated 24 percent poor to very poor, 28 percent fair and 48 percent good to excellent.

In south central Kansas and north along the I-135 corridor, excessive rainfall on mature wheat has made harvest difficult. As fields start to dry out and combines cut around mud holes, some localized quality issues are being reported.

In Edwards County, farmer Danny Hattrup started cutting around June 17 and is now about two-thirds of the way through harvest. He’s hoping to wrap things up within the next week. Progress has been slowed by rain delays and lingering muddy spots, which have made fieldwork more complicated than usual.&nbsp;

On Monday, the field Hattrup was cutting was yielding around 50 bushels per acre, with a test weight a little below an average year, around 59 pounds per bushel. Hattrup planted two different wheat varieties this season, and both are performing about the same so far.&nbsp;

This past weekend, harvest became a true team effort with help from his daughters, Brooke and Shelby and his son-in-law Cole, all pitching in to keep things moving.

Harvest is underway in Scott County, where Brinlee McNary, grain merchandiser for the Scott Coop, reported they took in their first load on June 20. She said timely spring rains helped the wheat significantly in the area, contributing to a strong start. The elevator has received about 40 percent of its expected volume so far.

Yields have been highly variable, ranging from 40 to 80 bushels per acre, but McNary noted yields are a little higher than in an average year. Protein levels have ranged from 7 to 15 percent, with the average coming in just under 12 percent.

McNary said the main challenges of this harvest have been the wet conditions and the presence of wheat streak mosaic virus, which has affected some fields in the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751322219261.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS WHEAT COMMISSION&nbsp;This is day 6 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Harvest continues across Kansas, with the USDA reporting it halfway complete, behind last year but close to the five-year average. Farmers are still seeing the effects of heavy rainfall, with muddy fields and delayed progress in several areas. Despite the setbacks, farmers across the state continue to make progress as June comes to an end.Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 53 percent complete, well behind 76 percent complete last year but near 56 percent average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 29, 2025. Winter wheat conditions were rated 24 percent poor to very poor, 28 percent fair and 48 percent good to excellent.In south central Kansas and north along the I-135 corridor, excessive rainfall on mature wheat has made harvest difficult. As fields start to dry out and combines cut around mud holes, some localized quality issues are being reported.In Edwards County, farmer Danny Hattrup started cutting around June 17 and is now about two-thirds of the way through harvest. He’s hoping to wrap things up within the next week. Progress has been slowed by rain delays and lingering muddy spots, which have made fieldwork more complicated than usual.&nbsp;On Monday, the field Hattrup was cutting was yielding around 50 bushels per acre, with a test weight a little below an average year, around 59 pounds per bushel. Hattrup planted two different wheat varieties this season, and both are performing about the same so far.&nbsp;This past weekend, harvest became a true team effort with help from his daughters, Brooke and Shelby and his son-in-law Cole, all pitching in to keep things moving.Harvest is underway in Scott County, where Brinlee McNary, grain merchandiser for the Scott Coop, reported they took in their first load on June 20. She said timely spring rains helped the wheat significantly in the area, contributing to a strong start. The elevator has received about 40 percent of its expected volume so far.Yields have been highly variable, ranging from 40 to 80 bushels per acre, but McNary noted yields are a little higher than in an average year. Protein levels have ranged from 7 to 15 percent, with the average coming in just under 12 percent.McNary said the main challenges of this harvest have been the wet conditions and the presence of wheat streak mosaic virus, which has affected some fields in the area.

Kansas Wheat: Wheat harvest day 6

RILEY COUNTY —The investigation into the aggravated arson which occurred on June 13, at Walmart, 101 E Bluemont Avenue in Manhattan, is still an active investigation, according to a statement from the Riley County Police Department.

The RCPD has forwarded an affidavit to the Pottawatomie County District Attorney’s Office for review and consideration for prosecution.

The Riley County Police Department is leading the investigation into the incident while working closely with the Manhattan Fire Department.

Just before 5p.m. on June 13, the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a fire reported at Walmart,&nbsp; 101 Bluemont Avenue, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, crews found people evacuating and light smoke showing at the doors. Employees were extinguishing the fire as crews arrived at the middle of the store where the fire occurred.&nbsp;

Crews ensured that extinguishment was complete by overhauling the area and taking smoldering material outside.

Just before 7p.m., Walmart was still closed while fire crews evacuate smoke from inside the building. No injuries were reported.&nbsp; There was considerable smoke damage.

Riley County Police Department, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, and Pottawatomie County EMS responded to assist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751321189617.png" alt="Photo Manhattan Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Manhattan Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —The investigation into the aggravated arson which occurred on June 13, at Walmart, 101 E Bluemont Avenue in Manhattan, is still an active investigation, according to a statement from the Riley County Police Department.The RCPD has forwarded an affidavit to the Pottawatomie County District Attorney’s Office for review and consideration for prosecution.The Riley County Police Department is leading the investigation into the incident while working closely with the Manhattan Fire Department.Just before 5p.m. on June 13, the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a fire reported at Walmart,&nbsp; 101 Bluemont Avenue, according to a media release.Upon arrival, crews found people evacuating and light smoke showing at the doors. Employees were extinguishing the fire as crews arrived at the middle of the store where the fire occurred.&nbsp;Crews ensured that extinguishment was complete by overhauling the area and taking smoldering material outside.Just before 7p.m., Walmart was still closed while fire crews evacuate smoke from inside the building. No injuries were reported.&nbsp; There was considerable smoke damage.Riley County Police Department, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, and Pottawatomie County EMS responded to assist.

RCPD: Investigation of alleged arson fire at Walmart continues

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent crime in Manhattan.&nbsp;

Just before 3p.m. on Saturday, officers filed a report for criminal deprivation of property, domestic battery, kidnapping, harassment by telecom device, criminal threat and stalking, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The alleged crimes involved a 34-year-old woman as the victim.

Police arrested 36-year-old&nbsp;Ivan Krdzic, 36, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of criminal deprivation of property, domestic battery, kidnapping, harassment by telecom device, criminal threat and stalking. Krdzic is being held on a $350,000 bond, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent crime in Manhattan.&nbsp; Just before 3p.m. on Saturday, officers filed a report for criminal deprivation of property, domestic battery, kidnapping, harassment by telecom device, criminal threat and stalking, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The alleged crimes involved a 34-year-old woman as the victim.Police arrested 36-year-old&nbsp;Ivan Krdzic, 36, of Manhattan was arrested on requested charges of criminal deprivation of property, domestic battery, kidnapping, harassment by telecom device, criminal threat and stalking. Krdzic is being held on a $350,000 bond, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Alleged stalker held on $350,000 bond

Having a plan can help prepare children and those with PTSD.

MANHATTAN — With the Fourth of July approaching this week, people will soon gather for fireworks, food and fun. But for those with sensory sensitivities, especially children and individuals with PTSD, the holiday might not be one they look forward to. Two Kansas State University experts are here to help with tips for sensory-aware Fourth of July preparation.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/ahs/about/people/jfrancois/">Jennifer Francois</a>, professor of practice in the applied human sciences department and early childhood education program, and Arianna Williams, a licensed clinical professional counselor&nbsp;and the veteran and military-affiliated services counselor at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/counseling/">Lafene Counseling and Psychological Services</a>, say important steps include having a plan, paying attention to behaviors and reactions, finding a safe space, and having conversations about the situation.

Make a plan for firework anxietyThe Fourth of July can create a lot of anxiety and stress for individuals who have sensory sensitivities because of the loud and sometimes unexpected noises from fireworks. Francois suggests planning ahead to avoid extra stress in the event of a reaction."Having a plan before an event is important," Francois said. "For example, what is my plan going to be if my child becomes upset? Where are we going to go if I need to remove us from the situation?"For those with post-traumatic stress disorder, Williams suggests knowing where to go and having skills, such as grounding, mindfulness and meditation, that work for you if you do get triggered by something.She added that folks can also be aware of their neighborhood and discuss plans about fireworks with neighbors to find out if they are planning to start celebrating before the Fourth of July or continue celebrations after the holiday. &nbsp;

Watch for noise reactions and listen to requests for adjustment&nbsp;One of the most important things for parents is to listen to their child, Francois said."Pay attention to the child's reactions and behaviors, and watch for increased anxiety and stress," she said. "If the child becomes visibly upset and starts to cry or covers their ears or eyes, or says that they want to leave, then you want to honor that, and try and figure out a way to give them some respite from those sensory experiences."Francois also encourages parents to keep their child close."Have your child sit on your lap at first to give them the opportunity to stay close to someone they are familiar with," Francois said. "If the child seems comfortable and is having fun, then maybe the child could sit next to the adult."It's also important to be aware of signs that someone with PTSD might be struggling or need help during holiday celebrations."Sometimes it can be hard to recognize when someone with PTSD is triggered," Williams said. "They might become withdrawn, emotionally guarded or disengaged from those around them. In some cases, you might notice heightened alertness or hypervigilance to their surroundings. If someone starts talking or behaving in a way that is unrelated to the current situation, it could indicate they're experiencing a flashback. In these moments, it's important to engage empathetically to develop a better understanding of what may actually be occurring."

Williams emphasized that responses to triggers can vary widely from person to person."The most important thing is to offer support in a way that's respectful and non-intrusive," she said. "Avoid physical contact unless the person explicitly gives permission, and gently encourage them to take a break or step away if they need to."&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Taylor ProvineDivision of Communications and MarketingHaving a plan can help prepare children and those with PTSD.MANHATTAN — With the Fourth of July approaching this week, people will soon gather for fireworks, food and fun. But for those with sensory sensitivities, especially children and individuals with PTSD, the holiday might not be one they look forward to. Two Kansas State University experts are here to help with tips for sensory-aware Fourth of July preparation.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/ahs/about/people/jfrancois/">Jennifer Francois</a>, professor of practice in the applied human sciences department and early childhood education program, and Arianna Williams, a licensed clinical professional counselor&nbsp;and the veteran and military-affiliated services counselor at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/counseling/">Lafene Counseling and Psychological Services</a>, say important steps include having a plan, paying attention to behaviors and reactions, finding a safe space, and having conversations about the situation.Make a plan for firework anxietyThe Fourth of July can create a lot of anxiety and stress for individuals who have sensory sensitivities because of the loud and sometimes unexpected noises from fireworks. Francois suggests planning ahead to avoid extra stress in the event of a reaction."Having a plan before an event is important," Francois said. "For example, what is my plan going to be if my child becomes upset? Where are we going to go if I need to remove us from the situation?"For those with post-traumatic stress disorder, Williams suggests knowing where to go and having skills, such as grounding, mindfulness and meditation, that work for you if you do get triggered by something.She added that folks can also be aware of their neighborhood and discuss plans about fireworks with neighbors to find out if they are planning to start celebrating before the Fourth of July or continue celebrations after the holiday. &nbsp;Watch for noise reactions and listen to requests for adjustment&nbsp;One of the most important things for parents is to listen to their child, Francois said."Pay attention to the child's reactions and behaviors, and watch for increased anxiety and stress," she said. "If the child becomes visibly upset and starts to cry or covers their ears or eyes, or says that they want to leave, then you want to honor that, and try and figure out a way to give them some respite from those sensory experiences."Francois also encourages parents to keep their child close."Have your child sit on your lap at first to give them the opportunity to stay close to someone they are familiar with," Francois said. "If the child seems comfortable and is having fun, then maybe the child could sit next to the adult."It's also important to be aware of signs that someone with PTSD might be struggling or need help during holiday celebrations."Sometimes it can be hard to recognize when someone with PTSD is triggered," Williams said. "They might become withdrawn, emotionally guarded or disengaged from those around them. In some cases, you might notice heightened alertness or hypervigilance to their surroundings. If someone starts talking or behaving in a way that is unrelated to the current situation, it could indicate they're experiencing a flashback. In these moments, it's important to engage empathetically to develop a better understanding of what may actually be occurring."Williams emphasized that responses to triggers can vary widely from person to person."The most important thing is to offer support in a way that's respectful and non-intrusive," she said. "Avoid physical contact unless the person explicitly gives permission, and gently encourage them to take a break or step away if they need to."&nbsp;&nbsp;

 K-State experts offer Fourth of July tips for those with sensory sensitivities

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating an alleged motorcycle theft in Manhattan have recovered the stolen vehicle.

Just after 3:30p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for theft and criminal damage to property in the 900 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 32-year-old man reported an unknown suspect damaged then took his 2009 Kawasaki Motorcycle. 

The motorcycle was recovered later in the day, according to the RCPD. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $6,000.

 Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. 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 investigating an alleged motorcycle theft in Manhattan have recovered the stolen vehicle.Just after 3:30p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for theft and criminal damage to property in the 900 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 32-year-old man reported an unknown suspect damaged then took his 2009 Kawasaki Motorcycle. The motorcycle was recovered later in the day, according to the RCPD. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $6,000. Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

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