TOPEKA&nbsp;–The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is proud to announce the Flint Hills Trail State Park's nomination to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.railstotrails.org%2FHallOfFame/1/01010198622bd22f-56b7390d-c780-4b22-9f43-9d63d44547a8-000000/Y_d_0_ag3JCwzMD6h6xMEYFeTdHIvkG7kpi56uckgfA=416">Rails to Trails Conservancy’s (RTC) Hall of Fame</a>.

Since 2007, RTC’s Hall of Fame has honored America’s outstanding trails, recognized for their scenic value, use, amenities, historical significance, and community benefit.

“This nomination speaks volumes about the communities, volunteers, and staff who have made the Flint Hills Trail State Park a place where nature, recreation, and heritage come together,” said KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy. “We hope every Kansan and trail lovers beyond will cast a vote to celebrate this achievement.”

Stretching 118 miles from Osawatomie to Herington through the heart of the Flint Hills, Flint Hills Trail State Park is the longest rail-trail in Kansas. Popular among walkers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians, the trail was designated a state park in 2018 and recognized as a National Recreation Trail in 2020. It also connects directly to Prairie Spirit Trail State Park—a 53-mile corridor and prior RTC Hall of Fame inductee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1754005802980.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By   Laura Rose Clawson, Chief of Public AffairsTOPEKA&nbsp;–The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is proud to announce the Flint Hills Trail State Park's nomination to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.railstotrails.org%2FHallOfFame/1/01010198622bd22f-56b7390d-c780-4b22-9f43-9d63d44547a8-000000/Y_d_0_ag3JCwzMD6h6xMEYFeTdHIvkG7kpi56uckgfA=416">Rails to Trails Conservancy’s (RTC) Hall of Fame</a>.Since 2007, RTC’s Hall of Fame has honored America’s outstanding trails, recognized for their scenic value, use, amenities, historical significance, and community benefit.“This nomination speaks volumes about the communities, volunteers, and staff who have made the Flint Hills Trail State Park a place where nature, recreation, and heritage come together,” said KDWP Secretary Christopher Kennedy. “We hope every Kansan and trail lovers beyond will cast a vote to celebrate this achievement.”Stretching 118 miles from Osawatomie to Herington through the heart of the Flint Hills, Flint Hills Trail State Park is the longest rail-trail in Kansas. Popular among walkers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians, the trail was designated a state park in 2018 and recognized as a National Recreation Trail in 2020. It also connects directly to Prairie Spirit Trail State Park—a 53-mile corridor and prior RTC Hall of Fame inductee.

Flint Hills Trail State Park Nominated for National Rail-Trail Hall of Fame

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa&nbsp;(July 31, 2025)&nbsp;– Hy-Vee, Inc. announces today that SNAP/EBT payment is now available for online grocery delivery at all its store locations that offer the service.

Hy-Vee first began accepting SNAP/EBT payment for pickup orders in 2020. To streamline the payment process, Hy-Vee has now introduced a new digital experience that allows customers to pay online using SNAP/EBT for both pickup and delivery orders. The new digital experience also features badges to help customers easily identify SNAP-eligible grocery products when shopping online.

“By offering SNAP/EBT payment for delivery orders, Hy-Vee can now reach more customers and increase grocery access throughout the communities we serve,” said Dan Gubbins, vice president of e-commerce at Hy-Vee. “With additional digital features, the online experience makes it even easier for our SNAP/EBT customers to shop for groceries.”

To learn more about Hy-Vee’s SNAP/EBT services, customers can visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hy-vee.com/aisles-online/brand/snapebt">https://www.hy-vee.com/aisles-online/brand/snapebt</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hyvee News release--WEST DES MOINES, Iowa&nbsp;(July 31, 2025)&nbsp;– Hy-Vee, Inc. announces today that SNAP/EBT payment is now available for online grocery delivery at all its store locations that offer the service.Hy-Vee first began accepting SNAP/EBT payment for pickup orders in 2020. To streamline the payment process, Hy-Vee has now introduced a new digital experience that allows customers to pay online using SNAP/EBT for both pickup and delivery orders. The new digital experience also features badges to help customers easily identify SNAP-eligible grocery products when shopping online.“By offering SNAP/EBT payment for delivery orders, Hy-Vee can now reach more customers and increase grocery access throughout the communities we serve,” said Dan Gubbins, vice president of e-commerce at Hy-Vee. “With additional digital features, the online experience makes it even easier for our SNAP/EBT customers to shop for groceries.”To learn more about Hy-Vee’s SNAP/EBT services, customers can visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hy-vee.com/aisles-online/brand/snapebt">https://www.hy-vee.com/aisles-online/brand/snapebt</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hy-Vee Stores Now Accept SNAP/EBT Payment for Online Grocery Delivery

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's commitment to being a top employer in Kansas and higher education was recognized in the national spotlight on July 30 when Forbes ranked the university No. 3 on its list of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/lists/best-employers-women/">America's Best Employers for Women</a>.Forbes also included a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/haniyarae/2025/07/30/meet-americas-best-employers-for-women-2025/">profile on the university</a>&nbsp;as one of its featured companies.

K-State placed third out of 700 U.S. companies and first among 50 universities/colleges ranked nationwide. It is one of only three employers in the state of Kansas to be ranked; AMC Entertainment in Leawood is ranked 626 and Garmin in Olathe is ranked 643.“This recognition underscores K-State’s ongoing commitment to becoming an employer of choice — one that empowers faculty and staff with the opportunities and resources they need to succeed and thrive,” said Shanna Legleiter, chief human resources officer. “Supporting our people in this way is essential to realizing our vision of becoming the next-generation land-grant university.”&nbsp;

Of K-State’s nearly 4,600 employees, 56% are women. Women also comprise 50% of K-State’s 1,662 supervisors and 40% of the university’s academic deans/interim deans.&nbsp; 

&nbsp; The ranking is based on a survey of more than 140,000 women working at companies with at least 1,000 employees. Survey respondents were asked how likely they were to recommend their current — and previous employers — and if they would recommend any employers they knew in their industry or through family and friends. Participants were also asked to rate their current employers in areas like working environment, pay equity, parental leave and the company’s handling of incidents related to sexual misconduct and discrimination.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

By Vicki WatsonDivision of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — Kansas State University's commitment to being a top employer in Kansas and higher education was recognized in the national spotlight on July 30 when Forbes ranked the university No. 3 on its list of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/lists/best-employers-women/">America's Best Employers for Women</a>.Forbes also included a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/haniyarae/2025/07/30/meet-americas-best-employers-for-women-2025/">profile on the university</a>&nbsp;as one of its featured companies.K-State placed third out of 700 U.S. companies and first among 50 universities/colleges ranked nationwide. It is one of only three employers in the state of Kansas to be ranked; AMC Entertainment in Leawood is ranked 626 and Garmin in Olathe is ranked 643.“This recognition underscores K-State’s ongoing commitment to becoming an employer of choice — one that empowers faculty and staff with the opportunities and resources they need to succeed and thrive,” said Shanna Legleiter, chief human resources officer. “Supporting our people in this way is essential to realizing our vision of becoming the next-generation land-grant university.”&nbsp;Of K-State’s nearly 4,600 employees, 56% are women. Women also comprise 50% of K-State’s 1,662 supervisors and 40% of the university’s academic deans/interim deans.&nbsp; &nbsp; The ranking is based on a survey of more than 140,000 women working at companies with at least 1,000 employees. Survey respondents were asked how likely they were to recommend their current — and previous employers — and if they would recommend any employers they knew in their industry or through family and friends. Participants were also asked to rate their current employers in areas like working environment, pay equity, parental leave and the company’s handling of incidents related to sexual misconduct and discrimination.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

 Forbes ranks K-State No. 3 among America's Best Employers for Women

Note: This Fact Sheet has been updated July 25 by adding to the section on “No Tax on Car Loan Interest” new language describing the requirement for “Final assembly in the United States.”&nbsp;

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Below are descriptions of new provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, as Public Law 119-21, that go into effect for 2025.

If a qualifying vehicle loan is later refinanced, interest paid on the refinanced amount is generally eligible for the deduction.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753712489835.png" alt="Image by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Image by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>Internal Revenue ServiceNote: This Fact Sheet has been updated July 25 by adding to the section on “No Tax on Car Loan Interest” new language describing the requirement for “Final assembly in the United States.”&nbsp;WASHINGTON, D.C. — Below are descriptions of new provisions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, as Public Law 119-21, that go into effect for 2025.“No Tax on Tips”<ul>
 <li>New deduction: Effective for 2025 through 2028, employees and self-employed individuals may deduct qualified tips received in occupations that are listed by the IRS as customarily and regularly receiving tips on or before December 31, 2024, and that are reported on a Form W-2, Form 1099, or other specified statement furnished to the individual or reported directly by the individual on Form 4137.“Qualified tips” are voluntary cash or charged tips received from customers or through tip sharing.Maximum annual deduction is $25,000; for self-employed, deduction may not exceed individual’s net income (without regard to this deduction) from the trade or business in which the tips were earned.Deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers).</li><li>“Qualified tips” are voluntary cash or charged tips received from customers or through tip sharing.</li><li>Maximum annual deduction is $25,000; for self-employed, deduction may not exceed individual’s net income (without regard to this deduction) from the trade or business in which the tips were earned.</li><li>Deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers).</li><li>Taxpayer eligibility: Deduction is available for both itemizing and non-itemizing taxpayers.Self-employed individuals in a Specified Service Trade or Business (SSTB) under section 199A are not eligible. Employees whose employer is in an SSTB also are not eligible.Taxpayers must:include their Social Security Number on the return andfile jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li><li>Self-employed individuals in a Specified Service Trade or Business (SSTB) under section 199A are not eligible. Employees whose employer is in an SSTB also are not eligible.</li><li>Taxpayers must:include their Social Security Number on the return andfile jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li><li>include their Social Security Number on the return and</li><li>file jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li><li>Reporting: Employers and other payors must file information returns with the IRS (or SSA) and furnish statements to taxpayers showing certain cash tips received and the occupation of the tip recipient.</li><li>Guidance: By October 2, 2025, the IRS must publish a list of occupations that “customarily and regularly” received tips on or before December 31, 2024.The IRS will provide transition relief for tax year 2025 for taxpayers claiming the deduction and for employers and payors subject to the new reporting requirements.</li><li>The IRS will provide transition relief for tax year 2025 for taxpayers claiming the deduction and for employers and payors subject to the new reporting requirements.</li>
 </ul>“No Tax on Overtime”<ul>
 <li>New deduction: Effective for 2025 through 2028, individuals who receive qualified overtime compensation may deduct the pay that exceeds their regular rate of pay – such as the “half” portion of “time-and-a-half” compensation -- that is required by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and that is reported on aForm W-2, Form 1099, or other specified statement furnished to the individual.Maximum annual deduction is $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers).Deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers).</li><li>Form W-2, Form 1099, or other specified statement furnished to the individual.</li><li>Maximum annual deduction is $12,500 ($25,000 for joint filers).</li><li>Deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers).</li><li>Taxpayer eligibility:&nbsp;Deduction is available for both itemizing and non-itemizing taxpayers.Taxpayers must:include their Social Security Number on the return andfile jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li><li>Taxpayers must:include their Social Security Number on the return andfile jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li><li>include their Social Security Number on the return and</li><li>file jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li><li>Reporting: Employers and other payors are required to file information returns with the IRS (or SSA) and furnish statements to taxpayers showing the total amount of qualified overtime compensation paid during the year.</li><li>Guidance: The IRS will provide transition relief for tax year 2025 for taxpayers claiming the deduction and for employers and other payors subject to the new reporting requirements.</li>
 </ul>“No Tax on Car Loan Interest”<ul>
 <li>New deduction: Effective for 2025 through 2028, individuals may deduct interest paid on a loan used to purchase a qualified vehicle, provided the vehicle is purchased for personal use and meets other eligibility criteria. (Lease payments do not qualify.)Maximum annual deduction is $10,000.Deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $100,000 ($200,000 for joint filers).</li><li>Maximum annual deduction is $10,000.</li><li>Deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $100,000 ($200,000 for joint filers).</li><li>Qualified interest: To qualify for the deduction, the interest must be paid on a loan that is:originated after December 31, 2024,used to purchase a vehicle, the original use of which starts with the taxpayer (used vehicles do not qualify),for a personal use vehicle (not for business or commercial use) andsecured by a lien on the vehicle.</li><li>originated after December 31, 2024,</li><li>used to purchase a vehicle, the original use of which starts with the taxpayer (used vehicles do not qualify),</li><li>for a personal use vehicle (not for business or commercial use) and</li><li>secured by a lien on the vehicle.</li>
 </ul>If a qualifying vehicle loan is later refinanced, interest paid on the refinanced amount is generally eligible for the deduction.<ul>
 <li>Qualified vehicle: A qualified vehicle is a car, minivan, van, SUV, pick-up truck or motorcycle, with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 14,000 pounds, and that has undergone final assembly in the United States.</li><li>Final assembly in the United States: The location of final assembly will be listed on the vehicle information label attached to each vehicle on a dealer's premises. Alternatively, taxpayers may rely on the vehicle’s plant of manufacture as reported in the vehicle identification number (VIN) to determine whether a vehicle has undergone final assembly in the United States.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.nhtsa.gov%2Fvin-decoder/1/0100019842c65f21-85c1b982-14df-41c6-bb9c-7e1a8e13357c-000000/HeRnMr-6mBjItfxcIcwTwcU7SxL1fMxFz6NQGAe6KUc=415">VIN Decoder</a>&nbsp;website for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides plant of manufacture information. Taxpayers can follow the instructions on that website to determine if the vehicle’s plant of manufacture was located in the United States.</li><li>The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-1.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.nhtsa.gov%2Fvin-decoder/1/0100019842c65f21-85c1b982-14df-41c6-bb9c-7e1a8e13357c-000000/HeRnMr-6mBjItfxcIcwTwcU7SxL1fMxFz6NQGAe6KUc=415">VIN Decoder</a>&nbsp;website for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides plant of manufacture information. Taxpayers can follow the instructions on that website to determine if the vehicle’s plant of manufacture was located in the United States.</li><li>Taxpayer eligibility: Deduction is available for both itemizing and non-itemizing taxpayers.The taxpayer must include the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the qualified vehicle on the tax return for any year in which the deduction is claimed.</li><li>The taxpayer must include the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the qualified vehicle on the tax return for any year in which the deduction is claimed.</li><li>Reporting: Lenders or other recipients of qualified interest must file information returns with the IRS and furnish statements to taxpayers showing the total amount of interest received during the taxable year.</li><li>Guidance: The IRS will provide transition relief for tax year 2025 for interest recipients subject to the new reporting requirements.</li>
 </ul>Deduction for Seniors<ul>
 <li>New deduction:&nbsp;Effective for 2025 through 2028, individuals who are age 65 and older may claim an additional deduction of $6,000. This new deduction is in addition to the current additional standard deduction for seniors under existing law.The $6,000 senior deduction is per eligible individual (i.e., $12,000 total for a married couple where both spouses qualify).Deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $75,000 ($150,000 for joint filers).</li><li>The $6,000 senior deduction is per eligible individual (i.e., $12,000 total for a married couple where both spouses qualify).</li><li>Deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $75,000 ($150,000 for joint filers).</li><li>Qualifying taxpayers:&nbsp;To qualify for the additional deduction, a taxpayer must attain age 65 on or before the last day of the taxable year.</li><li>Taxpayer eligibility:&nbsp;Deduction is available for both itemizing and non-itemizing taxpayers.Taxpayers must:include the Social Security Number of the qualifying individual(s) on the return, and file jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li><li>Taxpayers must:include the Social Security Number of the qualifying individual(s) on the return, and file jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li><li>include the Social Security Number of the qualifying individual(s) on the return, and</li><li>file jointly if married, to claim the deduction.</li>
 </ul>

IRS: One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Tax deductions for working Americans, seniors

MANHATTAN— Hikers on the Konza Prairie may look up this summer and see something unusual in the air. It's K-State research in action. K-State researchers are employing aerial data in their mission to understand and manage the rapid spread of woody plants across the Great Plains. Known as woody encroachment, the transformation of open grasslands into shrub and tree-dominated landscapes is impacting biodiversity, livestock forage, water resources and even wildfire risk.

"Woody encroachment is a pattern that is happening in grasslands all around the world, where areas that used to be grasses, wildflowers and other herbaceous species are seeing a rapid and large increase in shrubs and trees," said&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology/about/people/faculty/ratajczak/">Zak Ratajczak</a>, assistant professor of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology/">biology</a>&nbsp;at K-State. "That's not to say that all of these changes are negative, but in a lot of these grassy ecosystems, shrubs and trees move in and change things drastically."

Remote sensing meets machine learningPublished in the open-access journal Remote Sensing,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-4292/17/13/2224">a recent study</a>&nbsp;led by K-State master's student Brynn Noble and Ratajczak offers a cost-effective, open-access approach to detecting woody encroachment across landscapes as small as six-by-six feet. The system combines aerial imagery from federal programs with ground-based data collected by K-State researchers."We're at the point where we can say if that area is a grassland, if it's a shrub, if it's a tree or if it's an evergreen tree with around 97% accuracy," Ratajczak said. "Meaning that 97% of the time we say that pixel is this type of vegetation, we're getting it right.

A training ground for technology — and students

The researchers developed the classification models using data from the Konza Prairie, a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lter.konza.ksu.edu/">long-term ecological research</a>&nbsp;site jointly managed by K-State and The Nature Conservancy."In this relatively small area of about 10 square miles, we have a lot of the major vegetation types that you find across eastern Kansas," Ratajczak said. "And when we're trying to train a computer to find a diverse array of vegetation types, that's an invaluable resource."That means researchers — including students — can quickly validate or correct model predictions based on firsthand knowledge of the landscape. The students gather training data for the models and get experience working with a Geographic Information System, or GIS, and computer coding along the way.One of those students is Brynn Noble, who co-led the research study. Her work alongside Ratajczak has made a major contribution to what the team hopes will become a regional, if not statewide, mapping tool.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ratajczak said he hopes to share the resources through a website or an app for regional early-warning systems.Eventually, the team envisions partnerships with landowners to gather additional training data and refine their models.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Written by:&nbsp;Emily BoragineDivision of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN— Hikers on the Konza Prairie may look up this summer and see something unusual in the air. It's K-State research in action. K-State researchers are employing aerial data in their mission to understand and manage the rapid spread of woody plants across the Great Plains. Known as woody encroachment, the transformation of open grasslands into shrub and tree-dominated landscapes is impacting biodiversity, livestock forage, water resources and even wildfire risk."Woody encroachment is a pattern that is happening in grasslands all around the world, where areas that used to be grasses, wildflowers and other herbaceous species are seeing a rapid and large increase in shrubs and trees," said&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology/about/people/faculty/ratajczak/">Zak Ratajczak</a>, assistant professor of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/biology/">biology</a>&nbsp;at K-State. "That's not to say that all of these changes are negative, but in a lot of these grassy ecosystems, shrubs and trees move in and change things drastically."Remote sensing meets machine learningPublished in the open-access journal Remote Sensing,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mdpi.com/2072-4292/17/13/2224">a recent study</a>&nbsp;led by K-State master's student Brynn Noble and Ratajczak offers a cost-effective, open-access approach to detecting woody encroachment across landscapes as small as six-by-six feet. The system combines aerial imagery from federal programs with ground-based data collected by K-State researchers."We're at the point where we can say if that area is a grassland, if it's a shrub, if it's a tree or if it's an evergreen tree with around 97% accuracy," Ratajczak said. "Meaning that 97% of the time we say that pixel is this type of vegetation, we're getting it right.A training ground for technology — and studentsThe researchers developed the classification models using data from the Konza Prairie, a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lter.konza.ksu.edu/">long-term ecological research</a>&nbsp;site jointly managed by K-State and The Nature Conservancy."In this relatively small area of about 10 square miles, we have a lot of the major vegetation types that you find across eastern Kansas," Ratajczak said. "And when we're trying to train a computer to find a diverse array of vegetation types, that's an invaluable resource."That means researchers — including students — can quickly validate or correct model predictions based on firsthand knowledge of the landscape. The students gather training data for the models and get experience working with a Geographic Information System, or GIS, and computer coding along the way.One of those students is Brynn Noble, who co-led the research study. Her work alongside Ratajczak has made a major contribution to what the team hopes will become a regional, if not statewide, mapping tool.&nbsp;&nbsp;An eye toward the futureRatajczak said he hopes to share the resources through a website or an app for regional early-warning systems.Eventually, the team envisions partnerships with landowners to gather additional training data and refine their models.&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State research takes flight to combat woody encroachment with precision mapping

Manhattan, Kan. -- Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas has announced the expansion of its outreach services to include the Enterprise community. This move aims to provide essential support to families who may require additional assistance.

"On behalf of Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas, I am excited to announce our expansion into Enterprise," said Megan Robl, Executive Director of Catholic Charities. "Our goal is to reach families on the margins throughout Northern Kansas, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need."

On Thursday, August 21st, Catholic Charities will conduct a trial run, delivering food and hygiene items directly to residents of Enterprise. This initiative reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of individuals and families facing hardship.

Here are the details for the Enterprise outreach stop:

During the outreach stops, guests are requested to remain in their vehicles for their convenience and safety. Catholic Charities staff will come directly to them, streamlining the process and ensuring efficient distribution.

In order to receive assistance, attendees must have incomes at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines. Proof of income will be required.

Catholic Charities currently visits 28 rural communities across the Diocese of Salina every month, in addition to serving from its three office locations in Hays, Salina, and Manhattan. Future monthly visits to Enterprise will depend on the needs observed and the community response during the August 21st outreach stop

Manhattan, Kan. -- Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas has announced the expansion of its outreach services to include the Enterprise community. This move aims to provide essential support to families who may require additional assistance."On behalf of Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas, I am excited to announce our expansion into Enterprise," said Megan Robl, Executive Director of Catholic Charities. "Our goal is to reach families on the margins throughout Northern Kansas, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need."On Thursday, August 21st, Catholic Charities will conduct a trial run, delivering food and hygiene items directly to residents of Enterprise. This initiative reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of individuals and families facing hardship.Here are the details for the Enterprise outreach stop:Enterprise Stop:<ul>
 <li>Location:&nbsp;In front of City Hall, 206 S Factory St</li><li>Time:&nbsp;10:00 am - 11:00 am</li>
 </ul>During the outreach stops, guests are requested to remain in their vehicles for their convenience and safety. Catholic Charities staff will come directly to them, streamlining the process and ensuring efficient distribution.In order to receive assistance, attendees must have incomes at or below 130% of the federal poverty guidelines. Proof of income will be required.Catholic Charities currently visits 28 rural communities across the Diocese of Salina every month, in addition to serving from its three office locations in Hays, Salina, and Manhattan. Future monthly visits to Enterprise will depend on the needs observed and the community response during the August 21st outreach stop

Catholic Charities Expands Outreach Services to Enterprise: Supporting Families in Need

Join us at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=fd4e372b24&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Sunset Zoo</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=2eb5b40afd&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Water Safari &amp; Water Matters Day</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, August 2, where water play and water conservation collide!

Join us at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=fd4e372b24&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Sunset Zoo</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=2eb5b40afd&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Water Safari &amp; Water Matters Day</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, August 2, where water play and water conservation collide!

Water Safari & Water Matters Day at Sunset Zoo

By&nbsp;ZANE IRWIN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2025-07-29/kansas-snap-funding-harvesters-food-banks">Kansas News Service</a>

State lawmakers must soon decide whether to cover the extra costs to provide food assistance. If they don’t, food banks and pantries alone can’t make up the difference.

On Steve Vossler’s 56th volunteer shift of the year at the Harvesters food bank distribution center in Lawrence, Kansas, he packed corn and cucumbers.

“I like the assembly line aspect of it,” he chuckled.

He was one of a dozen or so volunteers on a July morning cheerfully chatting and packing produce into red mesh bags, ready to stock the shelves at a local food pantry.

Aside from volunteer work, Vossler said, he reads the news. He knew that Congress just approved&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/07/03/nx-s1-5454841/house-republicans-trump-tax-bill-medicaid" target="_blank">historic changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a>, which could cause many more low-income families to rely on food banks like Harvesters.

“I don't like it and I'm sure there will be some changes,” Vossler said. “But who knows what they’ll be.”

In a major policy shift for SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, individual states will have to shoulder some of the costs to help feed low-income families.

Administrative costs will jump for every state. New work eligibility requirements will shut some recipients out, while creating more work for state agencies that run the program. And states will face steep penalties if they don’t run SNAP to a certain degree of precision.

Supporters of those measures don’t see them as “cuts,” so much as policies that force states to run SNAP more responsibly. Critics, like the progressive Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, say the changes could cause millions of low-income people to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/food-assistance/senate-republican-leaders-proposal-risks-deep-cuts-to-food-assistance-some#states-snap-error-rates-vary-cbpp-anchor" target="_blank">lose some or all of their food assistance.</a>

Either way, individual states must figure out how to fill significant budget holes when the policies take effect in 2028. Those decisions will affect how many of&nbsp;<a href="https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/snap-state-factsheet-ks.pdf" target="_blank">Kansas’ 180,000 SNAP recipients</a>&nbsp;are able to rely on federal food assistance to get by.

Faced with steep cost-sharing expectations, some states are feeling the same kind of financial panic as families who may see their food benefits dwindle.

SNAP costs for the state of Kansas will rise against the backdrop of an uncertain fiscal future. While the state&nbsp;<a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/KSOG/2025/06/02/file_attachments/3279686/11_May_Revenue_FY2025_06-02-2025_Final.pdf" target="_blank">recently took in far more tax revenues</a>&nbsp;than expected, it is still slated to spend more money each year than it raises — leaving an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/state-budget-and-tax/roundup-state-budgets-increasingly-strained-as-house-senate#kansas-cbpp-anchor" target="_blank">estimated $731 million shortfall by 2029</a>.

Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said changes to SNAP in President Trump’s recent tax and spending package — known as the One Big Beautiful Bill — could mean more than $50 million in extra costs.

Part of that comes from the boring stuff: administrative expenses. It costs money to hire SNAP case workers, train them and invest in technology to make sure the program is running as it should.

Now, states will pay 75% of those costs rather than half — raising Kansas’ obligation by $15 million.

The bill also expands the range of people who must work or attend training programs for at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits.

Before, certain able-bodied adults without dependents, or ABAWDs, were exempt. Now, people in that category who are aged 55 to 64, parents with children aged 14 or older, veterans, former foster children and people experiencing homelessness must prove they meet new requirements — or lose access to food assistance.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees SNAP,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/research/snap/characteristics-fy23" target="_blank">over two-thirds of recipients are children, elderly or disabled.</a>

Some analyses suggest stricter work requirements do not lead to increased work or earnings. Rather, such restrictions often keep eligible individuals from starting or remaining on food assistance,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/20250407_THP_SNAPWorkRequirements_Paper.pdf" target="_blank">according to the center-left Brookings Institute</a>.

Work requirements do, however, create more work for state agencies. Kelly estimates Kansas will have to hire and train 40 new employees to keep up with new reporting requirements.

Of all the changes to SNAP, the most difficult to plan for involves payment error rates.

States sometimes overpay or underpay SNAP recipients. That’s usually due to incorrect applications or administrative mistakes.

Payment error rates surged throughout the country during the COVID-19 pandemic, topping 12% in Kansas and reaching as high as 60% in Alaska.

The problem has since eased. The 2024 error rate in Kansas dropped under 10%,&nbsp;<a href="https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/snap-fy24QC-PER.pdf" target="_blank">below the national average</a>. But many state and federal officials remain dissatisfied, and Congress used its latest budget bill to penalize payment inaccuracies.

Now, states with error rates above 6% must pay anywhere from 5% to 15% of the cost of SNAP benefits themselves, on top of regular administrative expenses.

If Kansas keeps its current error rate when the penalty takes effect in 2028, it will need to pay an extra $41 million per year to operate SNAP at the same level. That would bring the total increased cost to $56 million — a total that could vary widely based on the error rate.

“It is part of the state having skin in the game,” said Republican Ty Masterson, president of the Kansas Senate.

He said the panic over added SNAP costs for states is overwrought, and that the Kansas Legislature can easily account for added costs — so long as the state gets its payment error rate down.

Kelly said Kansas has until October 2026 to reduce errors and avoid penalties.

“We are all hands on deck out there right now,” she said. “Hiring, training our folks, working on our technology systems, our computer systems, programming, to bring that down.

“Because if we don't, it'll just cost us so much more,” she said.

Stephen Davis, who is president and CEO of the food bank Harvesters, said his family relied on food assistance when he was young.

“We struggled the way that many other families struggle on a daily basis,” he said. “So I know firsthand what it means to be food insecure.”

Harvesters&nbsp;<a href="https://www.harvesters.org/learn-about-hunger/hunger-in-our-region" target="_blank">defines food insecurity</a>&nbsp;as “a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.”

In the 17 counties that Harvesters serves in Kansas, Davis said 375,000 people, or 1 in 7 individuals, are food insecure.

Davis is concerned cuts to SNAP will make the state’s hunger problem more severe. Even if Kansas finds the funds to continue operating as before, he worries that work requirements will strip people of their benefits.

There’s only so much his organization can do to help. For every meal Harvesters provides, Davis said, SNAP provides nine.

At the same time, the Trump administration has scaled back federal assistance for food banks, in one recent instance&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-03-28/harvesters-food-bank-deliveries-trump-administration-missouri-kansas" target="_blank">canceling dozens of truckloads of expected food shipments</a>&nbsp;for Harvesters.

Davis said all of those policies combined will result in more people going hungry.

“Those families that lose their SNAP benefits ... will likely try to turn to the charitable food system,” he said. “And we already don't have the capacity to meet the current need.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753892861960.png" alt="Steve Vossler, left, volunteers at the Harvesters distribution center in Lawrence, Kansas. Photo by Zane Irwin:Kansas News Service&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Steve Vossler, left, volunteers at the Harvesters distribution center in Lawrence, Kansas. Photo by Zane Irwin:Kansas News Service&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;ZANE IRWIN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2025-07-29/kansas-snap-funding-harvesters-food-banks">Kansas News Service</a><h2>State lawmakers must soon decide whether to cover the extra costs to provide food assistance. If they don’t, food banks and pantries alone can’t make up the difference.</h2>On Steve Vossler’s 56th volunteer shift of the year at the Harvesters food bank distribution center in Lawrence, Kansas, he packed corn and cucumbers.“I like the assembly line aspect of it,” he chuckled.He was one of a dozen or so volunteers on a July morning cheerfully chatting and packing produce into red mesh bags, ready to stock the shelves at a local food pantry.Aside from volunteer work, Vossler said, he reads the news. He knew that Congress just approved&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/07/03/nx-s1-5454841/house-republicans-trump-tax-bill-medicaid" target="_blank">historic changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a>, which could cause many more low-income families to rely on food banks like Harvesters.“I don't like it and I'm sure there will be some changes,” Vossler said. “But who knows what they’ll be.”In a major policy shift for SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, individual states will have to shoulder some of the costs to help feed low-income families.Administrative costs will jump for every state. New work eligibility requirements will shut some recipients out, while creating more work for state agencies that run the program. And states will face steep penalties if they don’t run SNAP to a certain degree of precision.Supporters of those measures don’t see them as “cuts,” so much as policies that force states to run SNAP more responsibly. Critics, like the progressive Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, say the changes could cause millions of low-income people to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/food-assistance/senate-republican-leaders-proposal-risks-deep-cuts-to-food-assistance-some#states-snap-error-rates-vary-cbpp-anchor" target="_blank">lose some or all of their food assistance.</a>Either way, individual states must figure out how to fill significant budget holes when the policies take effect in 2028. Those decisions will affect how many of&nbsp;<a href="https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/snap-state-factsheet-ks.pdf" target="_blank">Kansas’ 180,000 SNAP recipients</a>&nbsp;are able to rely on federal food assistance to get by.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753893194503.png" alt="At the Harvesters food bank distribution center in Lawrence, Kansas, volunteers pack produce destined for a local food pantry. Photo by Zane Irwin:Kansas News Service ." />
 <figcaption>At the Harvesters food bank distribution center in Lawrence, Kansas, volunteers pack produce destined for a local food pantry. Photo by Zane Irwin:Kansas News Service .</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>How will SNAP change?</h2>Faced with steep cost-sharing expectations, some states are feeling the same kind of financial panic as families who may see their food benefits dwindle.SNAP costs for the state of Kansas will rise against the backdrop of an uncertain fiscal future. While the state&nbsp;<a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/KSOG/2025/06/02/file_attachments/3279686/11_May_Revenue_FY2025_06-02-2025_Final.pdf" target="_blank">recently took in far more tax revenues</a>&nbsp;than expected, it is still slated to spend more money each year than it raises — leaving an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/state-budget-and-tax/roundup-state-budgets-increasingly-strained-as-house-senate#kansas-cbpp-anchor" target="_blank">estimated $731 million shortfall by 2029</a>.Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said changes to SNAP in President Trump’s recent tax and spending package — known as the One Big Beautiful Bill — could mean more than $50 million in extra costs.Part of that comes from the boring stuff: administrative expenses. It costs money to hire SNAP case workers, train them and invest in technology to make sure the program is running as it should.Now, states will pay 75% of those costs rather than half — raising Kansas’ obligation by $15 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753894643115.png" alt="SNAP cuts will cost the state millions to keep the program running at the same level. If the funds aren’t made up, charity won’t be able to fill the gap. Photo by Zane Irwin:Kansas News Service&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>SNAP cuts will cost the state millions to keep the program running at the same level. If the funds aren’t made up, charity won’t be able to fill the gap. Photo by Zane Irwin:Kansas News Service&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The bill also expands the range of people who must work or attend training programs for at least 80 hours per month to receive benefits.Before, certain able-bodied adults without dependents, or ABAWDs, were exempt. Now, people in that category who are aged 55 to 64, parents with children aged 14 or older, veterans, former foster children and people experiencing homelessness must prove they meet new requirements — or lose access to food assistance.According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees SNAP,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/research/snap/characteristics-fy23" target="_blank">over two-thirds of recipients are children, elderly or disabled.</a>Some analyses suggest stricter work requirements do not lead to increased work or earnings. Rather, such restrictions often keep eligible individuals from starting or remaining on food assistance,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/20250407_THP_SNAPWorkRequirements_Paper.pdf" target="_blank">according to the center-left Brookings Institute</a>.Work requirements do, however, create more work for state agencies. Kelly estimates Kansas will have to hire and train 40 new employees to keep up with new reporting requirements.<h2>Margin for error</h2>Of all the changes to SNAP, the most difficult to plan for involves payment error rates.States sometimes overpay or underpay SNAP recipients. That’s usually due to incorrect applications or administrative mistakes.Payment error rates surged throughout the country during the COVID-19 pandemic, topping 12% in Kansas and reaching as high as 60% in Alaska.The problem has since eased. The 2024 error rate in Kansas dropped under 10%,&nbsp;<a href="https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/snap-fy24QC-PER.pdf" target="_blank">below the national average</a>. But many state and federal officials remain dissatisfied, and Congress used its latest budget bill to penalize payment inaccuracies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753894755555.png" alt="Carla Whiteside-Hicks is the director of economic and employment services at the Kansas Department for Children and Families, which administers SNAP in the state. She appeared before state lawmakers at an April committee hearing on payment error rates. Screenshot of legislative hearing" />
 <figcaption>Carla Whiteside-Hicks is the director of economic and employment services at the Kansas Department for Children and Families, which administers SNAP in the state. She appeared before state lawmakers at an April committee hearing on payment error rates. Screenshot of legislative hearing</figcaption>
 </figure>Now, states with error rates above 6% must pay anywhere from 5% to 15% of the cost of SNAP benefits themselves, on top of regular administrative expenses.If Kansas keeps its current error rate when the penalty takes effect in 2028, it will need to pay an extra $41 million per year to operate SNAP at the same level. That would bring the total increased cost to $56 million — a total that could vary widely based on the error rate.“It is part of the state having skin in the game,” said Republican Ty Masterson, president of the Kansas Senate.He said the panic over added SNAP costs for states is overwrought, and that the Kansas Legislature can easily account for added costs — so long as the state gets its payment error rate down.Kelly said Kansas has until October 2026 to reduce errors and avoid penalties.“We are all hands on deck out there right now,” she said. “Hiring, training our folks, working on our technology systems, our computer systems, programming, to bring that down.“Because if we don't, it'll just cost us so much more,” she said.<h2>Fewer options on the table&amp;nbsp;</h2>Stephen Davis, who is president and CEO of the food bank Harvesters, said his family relied on food assistance when he was young.“We struggled the way that many other families struggle on a daily basis,” he said. “So I know firsthand what it means to be food insecure.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753888646966.png" alt="In 2023, Harvesters said it partnered with 900 nonprofit organizations to provide more than 52.5 million meals. Photo by Zane Irwin/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>In 2023, Harvesters said it partnered with 900 nonprofit organizations to provide more than 52.5 million meals. Photo by Zane Irwin/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Harvesters&nbsp;<a href="https://www.harvesters.org/learn-about-hunger/hunger-in-our-region" target="_blank">defines food insecurity</a>&nbsp;as “a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.”In the 17 counties that Harvesters serves in Kansas, Davis said 375,000 people, or 1 in 7 individuals, are food insecure.Davis is concerned cuts to SNAP will make the state’s hunger problem more severe. Even if Kansas finds the funds to continue operating as before, he worries that work requirements will strip people of their benefits.There’s only so much his organization can do to help. For every meal Harvesters provides, Davis said, SNAP provides nine.At the same time, the Trump administration has scaled back federal assistance for food banks, in one recent instance&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-03-28/harvesters-food-bank-deliveries-trump-administration-missouri-kansas" target="_blank">canceling dozens of truckloads of expected food shipments</a>&nbsp;for Harvesters.Davis said all of those policies combined will result in more people going hungry.“Those families that lose their SNAP benefits ... will likely try to turn to the charitable food system,” he said. “And we already don't have the capacity to meet the current need.”

Kansas could lose millions after Congress cut SNAP funds. Thousands may go hungry

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a&nbsp; suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.

Just before 2p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 46-year-old&nbsp;Kelly Ware, 46, of Wichita, on a Manhattan Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 This warrant stems from the original charges of driving while suspended/revoked, too fast for conditions and filing a false report. Ware was issued a total bond of $8,500 is no longer confined in the Riley County Jail at the time of this report.

Anyone with information about a crime can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/Admin/%22/287/Crime-Stoppers%22">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753891100303.png" alt="Ware from an arrest in Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Ware from an arrest in Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a&nbsp; suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.Just before 2p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 46-year-old&nbsp;Kelly Ware, 46, of Wichita, on a Manhattan Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. This warrant stems from the original charges of driving while suspended/revoked, too fast for conditions and filing a false report. Ware was issued a total bond of $8,500 is no longer confined in the Riley County Jail at the time of this report.Anyone with information about a crime can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/Admin/%22/287/Crime-Stoppers%22">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Kan. woman filed false report, skipped court

The Sunflower Summer Program has officially been extended until August 8th.

According to Kansas Tourism, the Sunflower Summer program which&nbsp;complimentary admission to more than 230 attractions across the state, is extending its program until Friday, August 8th.&nbsp;

Participating attractions include museums, discovery centers, historic sites, arboretums, zoos and more. The full list of attractions participating in the 2025 Sunflower Summer program can be found on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsunflowersummer.org%2F/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/6iWXPonvYPpvvXiay0tPmIcijH-XT6uRT4CZeWVPqY4=412">SunflowerSummer.org</a>&nbsp;and on the mobile app.&nbsp;

The Sunflower Summer program is open to all Kansas school-aged students, pre-K through 12th grade, including public, private and homeschooled. Out-of-state students and families are not eligible to participate. The program covers admission costs for eligible students and one adult guardian per attraction, per season. Tickets can be claimed through the free Sunflower Summer app and redeemed at the venue upon arrival. You can download the Sunflower Summer app at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapps.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fsunflower-summer%2Fid1574268821/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/lxOezytosbDVIdhQYVah2PF0bnplJ1lsAzJef2A6DzU=412">Apple App Store</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fplay.google.com%2Fstore%2Fapps%2Fdetails%3Fid=com.slcket.sunflower%26hl=en_US%26gl=US%26pli=1/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/Zhtt8dlFczKPsm-y6zYAOJc9AbKvg_roBJqiqXRahw4=412">Google Play Store</a>&nbsp;or at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsunflowersummer.org%2F/2/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/Jg29JDaM5RfB1IKebpTcE0E1CxuYDp_R3qhH5InaeQ0=412">SunflowerSummer.org</a>.

To share your Sunflower Summer experiences on social media, use the hashtags&nbsp;#ToTheStarsKS&nbsp;and&nbsp;#SunflowerSummer&nbsp;as you post your travels. 

For more travel inspiration and tips about exploring Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.travelks.com%2F/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/5DACAzDIlxfJ2Ka4UlTGNdoPdgDDPldn1Qi_YQgt7nY=412">TravelKS.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752011469899.png" alt="Museum at Prairiefire in Overland Park, KS; photo from the Sunflower Summer website" />
 <figcaption>Museum at Prairiefire in Overland Park, KS; photo from the Sunflower Summer website</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sunflower Summer Program has officially been extended until August 8th.According to Kansas Tourism, the Sunflower Summer program which&nbsp;complimentary admission to more than 230 attractions across the state, is extending its program until Friday, August 8th.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTravelKS%2Fvideos%2F1305280587630832%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Participating attractions include museums, discovery centers, historic sites, arboretums, zoos and more. The full list of attractions participating in the 2025 Sunflower Summer program can be found on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsunflowersummer.org%2F/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/6iWXPonvYPpvvXiay0tPmIcijH-XT6uRT4CZeWVPqY4=412">SunflowerSummer.org</a>&nbsp;and on the mobile app.&nbsp;The Sunflower Summer program is open to all Kansas school-aged students, pre-K through 12th grade, including public, private and homeschooled. Out-of-state students and families are not eligible to participate. The program covers admission costs for eligible students and one adult guardian per attraction, per season. Tickets can be claimed through the free Sunflower Summer app and redeemed at the venue upon arrival. You can download the Sunflower Summer app at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapps.apple.com%2Fus%2Fapp%2Fsunflower-summer%2Fid1574268821/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/lxOezytosbDVIdhQYVah2PF0bnplJ1lsAzJef2A6DzU=412">Apple App Store</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fplay.google.com%2Fstore%2Fapps%2Fdetails%3Fid=com.slcket.sunflower%26hl=en_US%26gl=US%26pli=1/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/Zhtt8dlFczKPsm-y6zYAOJc9AbKvg_roBJqiqXRahw4=412">Google Play Store</a>&nbsp;or at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fsunflowersummer.org%2F/2/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/Jg29JDaM5RfB1IKebpTcE0E1CxuYDp_R3qhH5InaeQ0=412">SunflowerSummer.org</a>.To share your Sunflower Summer experiences on social media, use the hashtags&nbsp;#ToTheStarsKS&nbsp;and&nbsp;#SunflowerSummer&nbsp;as you post your travels. For more travel inspiration and tips about exploring Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.travelks.com%2F/1/01010197eb450097-5520da5c-be16-443d-aee6-cd26ba30e7e1-000000/5DACAzDIlxfJ2Ka4UlTGNdoPdgDDPldn1Qi_YQgt7nY=412">TravelKS.com</a>.

Sunflower Summer program officially extended

U.S. Representative Tracy Mann called the recently signed "Big Beautiful Bill" a major step forward for Kansas agriculture, aviation, and tax policy, in an interview on the BW Morning Show. Signed by President Donald Trump on July 4, the bill includes several provisions Mann described as “Farm Bill 1.0,” laying the groundwork for a broader, long-term farm package later this year.

“There’s still more to do,” Mann said, “but we were able to deliver a lot of wins for Kansas producers.” Among those wins: stronger crop insurance protections, updated reference prices indexed to inflation, and significant estate tax relief for generational farms.

The estate tax exemption was raised to $15 million per person, or $30 million for a married couple, indexed to inflation. “That’s going to exempt out many of our producers so they won’t have to worry about estate taxes,” Mann said.

Additional agricultural investments in the bill include federal funding for animal health research, support for the livestock industry, and tax policy changes that Mann said lock in “the biggest tax cut in history for middle and working-class Americans.”

Mann, who serves on the House Agriculture Committee, said a follow-up bill—dubbed “Farm Bill 2.0”—is expected this fall to finalize so-called “orphan programs” that weren’t included in the July package. These include conservation efforts like the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), along with ag research initiatives.

He also addressed concerns about the structure of farm legislation. “Eighty-one percent of the Farm Bill is food and nutrition programs,” Mann said, referring primarily to SNAP benefits. The new law includes reforms requiring work for able-bodied adults without dependents to receive SNAP benefits.

Mann also touched on provisions benefiting Kansas’ second-largest industry—aviation. As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, he noted that the bill included a “down payment” on modernizing the nation’s air traffic control system and locked in low corporate tax rates important to aviation companies and their customers.

Reflecting on the first six months of President Trump’s second term, Mann praised progress on immigration, citing a record-low number of illegal border crossings in June, and efforts to reduce the size of the federal government.

“Promises made, promises kept,” Mann said.

The representative also addressed the Trump administration’s use of tariffs to renegotiate global trade agreements. He said the strategy—while not ideal in a free-market economy—has led to new export opportunities for U.S. beef and ethanol, particularly with the United Kingdom and the European Union.

Looking ahead, Mann said Kansas farmers are facing challenging margins due to high input costs and low crop prices, though weather conditions so far point to a potentially strong fall harvest.

He closed by highlighting key tax reforms in the law, including exemptions from taxes on Social Security for most seniors, as well as new provisions eliminating federal taxes on tips and overtime.

“These are really important provisions that are now signed into law—and they’ll be permanent,” Mann said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753879999372.png" alt="Rep. Tracey Mann, Kansas First District" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Tracey Mann, Kansas First District</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostU.S. Representative Tracy Mann called the recently signed "Big Beautiful Bill" a major step forward for Kansas agriculture, aviation, and tax policy, in an interview on the BW Morning Show. Signed by President Donald Trump on July 4, the bill includes several provisions Mann described as “Farm Bill 1.0,” laying the groundwork for a broader, long-term farm package later this year.“There’s still more to do,” Mann said, “but we were able to deliver a lot of wins for Kansas producers.” Among those wins: stronger crop insurance protections, updated reference prices indexed to inflation, and significant estate tax relief for generational farms.The estate tax exemption was raised to $15 million per person, or $30 million for a married couple, indexed to inflation. “That’s going to exempt out many of our producers so they won’t have to worry about estate taxes,” Mann said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753888391801.png" alt="<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8577e40b-9ef5-4402-90f5-e0a520b97836">Click here to listen to the BW Morning Show interview with Rep. Tracey Mann&nbsp;</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/8577e40b-9ef5-4402-90f5-e0a520b97836">Click here to listen to the BW Morning Show interview with Rep. Tracey Mann&nbsp;</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Additional agricultural investments in the bill include federal funding for animal health research, support for the livestock industry, and tax policy changes that Mann said lock in “the biggest tax cut in history for middle and working-class Americans.”Mann, who serves on the House Agriculture Committee, said a follow-up bill—dubbed “Farm Bill 2.0”—is expected this fall to finalize so-called “orphan programs” that weren’t included in the July package. These include conservation efforts like the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), along with ag research initiatives.He also addressed concerns about the structure of farm legislation. “Eighty-one percent of the Farm Bill is food and nutrition programs,” Mann said, referring primarily to SNAP benefits. The new law includes reforms requiring work for able-bodied adults without dependents to receive SNAP benefits.Mann also touched on provisions benefiting Kansas’ second-largest industry—aviation. As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, he noted that the bill included a “down payment” on modernizing the nation’s air traffic control system and locked in low corporate tax rates important to aviation companies and their customers.Reflecting on the first six months of President Trump’s second term, Mann praised progress on immigration, citing a record-low number of illegal border crossings in June, and efforts to reduce the size of the federal government.“Promises made, promises kept,” Mann said.The representative also addressed the Trump administration’s use of tariffs to renegotiate global trade agreements. He said the strategy—while not ideal in a free-market economy—has led to new export opportunities for U.S. beef and ethanol, particularly with the United Kingdom and the European Union.Looking ahead, Mann said Kansas farmers are facing challenging margins due to high input costs and low crop prices, though weather conditions so far point to a potentially strong fall harvest.He closed by highlighting key tax reforms in the law, including exemptions from taxes on Social Security for most seniors, as well as new provisions eliminating federal taxes on tips and overtime.“These are really important provisions that are now signed into law—and they’ll be permanent,” Mann said.

Mann discusses reconciliation bill, Trump's first six months

Everybody Counts, a grassroots community effort organized in January 2014 in Manhattan in response to a report to the USD 383 Board of Education that a significant number of students were self reporting to be experiencing homelessness in Manhattan schools is hosting its 14th community celebration on Saturday, August 2 from 9am to 12pm at the Douglass RecreationCenter Complex in the 900 block of Yuma.

This summer’s event is the 12th time it will be held at the Douglass Recreation Center Complex. The first year Everybody Counts hosted an event in January and then again in August but starting in 2016 went to the annual summer only event.&nbsp;

Agencies and organizations sit up booths in Douglass Park, the grassy area west of the Douglass Center Annex, to share information about their services, to coordinate services with other agencies, and to educate the public about the community’s social services resources and needs. Many offer free services and others will have giveaways.

Inside the Douglass Community Center and Douglass Center Annex, examples of some of the free health services community members can access from 9am to 12pm include:

• Review of vaccination records – Riley County Health Department

• School and sports physicals – Stormont Vail Health

• Mental health screenings – Pawnee Mental Health Services, Inc.

• Hearing screenings – Hearing Doctors of Kansas

• Glucose checks, balance checks, and blood pressure checks - Ascension Via Christi Hospital

• Dental screenings – Konza Prairie Community Health Center

Translators will be available for those who need assistance.

Activities for children include face painting and temporary tattoos and skills-based activities, as well as a firsthand look at one of Manhattan Fire Department’s engines, the Riley County Police Department Bearcat SWAT vehicle, and a Riley County Emergency Medical Services ambulance.

Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine will be onsite again with their mobile veterinary clinic to provide free vaccinations and wellness checks for dogs/cats and to distribute dog and cat food. Prairie Paws Animal Shelter staff will also be on hand to share information about pet licensure.&nbsp;

The Flint Hills Breadbasket will bring their box truck to the event at 11am to offer a limited Harvesters’ commodities distribution. Their truck will be parked on Yuma Street in front of Douglass Park. In 2024, nearly 100 families representing more than 250 individuals were served by the limited distribution.

Hy-Vee has provided a free community brunch for the past seven years and will participate again this year. The brunch begins at 10am and is served to the first 250 people on a first come, first served basis. This is located outside on the east side of the Community Center.

The Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency provides free rides city wide on the day of the event.

Pilgrim Baptist Church has organized a free clothing giveaway for the past five years and is doing so again.&nbsp;

The sponsoring organization for Everybody Counts is the Riley County Council of Social Service Agencies (RCCSSA), a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Everybody Counts, a grassroots community effort organized in January 2014 in Manhattan in response to a report to the USD 383 Board of Education that a significant number of students were self reporting to be experiencing homelessness in Manhattan schools is hosting its 14th community celebration on Saturday, August 2 from 9am to 12pm at the Douglass RecreationCenter Complex in the 900 block of Yuma.This summer’s event is the 12th time it will be held at the Douglass Recreation Center Complex. The first year Everybody Counts hosted an event in January and then again in August but starting in 2016 went to the annual summer only event.&nbsp;Agencies and organizations sit up booths in Douglass Park, the grassy area west of the Douglass Center Annex, to share information about their services, to coordinate services with other agencies, and to educate the public about the community’s social services resources and needs. Many offer free services and others will have giveaways.Inside the Douglass Community Center and Douglass Center Annex, examples of some of the free health services community members can access from 9am to 12pm include:• Review of vaccination records – Riley County Health Department• Vision screenings – Lion’s Club• School and sports physicals – Stormont Vail Health• Mental health screenings – Pawnee Mental Health Services, Inc.• Hearing screenings – Hearing Doctors of Kansas• Glucose checks, balance checks, and blood pressure checks - Ascension Via Christi Hospital• Dental screenings – Konza Prairie Community Health CenterTranslators will be available for those who need assistance.Activities for children include face painting and temporary tattoos and skills-based activities, as well as a firsthand look at one of Manhattan Fire Department’s engines, the Riley County Police Department Bearcat SWAT vehicle, and a Riley County Emergency Medical Services ambulance.Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine will be onsite again with their mobile veterinary clinic to provide free vaccinations and wellness checks for dogs/cats and to distribute dog and cat food. Prairie Paws Animal Shelter staff will also be on hand to share information about pet licensure.&nbsp;The Flint Hills Breadbasket will bring their box truck to the event at 11am to offer a limited Harvesters’ commodities distribution. Their truck will be parked on Yuma Street in front of Douglass Park. In 2024, nearly 100 families representing more than 250 individuals were served by the limited distribution.Hy-Vee has provided a free community brunch for the past seven years and will participate again this year. The brunch begins at 10am and is served to the first 250 people on a first come, first served basis. This is located outside on the east side of the Community Center.The Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency provides free rides city wide on the day of the event.Pilgrim Baptist Church has organized a free clothing giveaway for the past five years and is doing so again.&nbsp;The sponsoring organization for Everybody Counts is the Riley County Council of Social Service Agencies (RCCSSA), a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Everybody Counts holds community event on August 2 at Douglass Park

MANHATTAN, KAN- The 17th annual Speedy PD Race for Parkinson’s Disease is Saturday, Aug. 23, at Tuttle Creek State Park. The race features a Half-Mile Walk/Run, Don Rasmussen 5K, and a 10K race. This year, we are excited to announce a partnership with Manhattan Running Company, providing race directing, logistics, and timing services. A full list of sponsors can be found on the Speedy PD webpage at <a href="http://www.runspeedypd.org./">www.runspeedypd.org.</a>

Manhattan Running Company (MRC) will be a key partner during the race to ensure smooth execution and accurate timing. Founded by former collegiate runners, the company will bring expertise to the event that will enhance the experience of all participants. The organization's passion for running, combined with professional experience, will ensure a memorable event for all.

Register for the event by visiting <a href="https://www.meadowlark.org/speedy-pd">www.runspeedypd.org</a>. Packet pick-up will take place on Friday, Aug. 22, at the Holiday Inn at the Campus from 4:30 to 7 p.m. On race day, final packet pick-up and registration will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. The Half-Mile Run/Walk will start at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K and 10K races at 8:30 a.m. The VIPDs (Very Important People with Parkinson’s Disease) will sing the national anthem at 7:45 a.m.

Funds collected from the event will directly benefit Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program, which provides vital services at no cost to individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease (PD) in the Flint Hills region. These services include support for persons with PD, caregivers, therapists, nurses, and other providers.

Even if you are not a runner, you can still make a difference! Donations to Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program directly support individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease in our community. Donations may be made directly to Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program by contacting the Meadowlark Foundation office at (785) 323-3843. Questions about the race or program can be directed to Michelle Haub, Special Programs Leader, via email at michelle.haub@meadowlark.org or (785) 323-3899. Want to volunteer? Volunteers can sign up by visiting <a href="https://www.meadowlark.org/speedy-pd">meadowlark.org/speedy-pd</a>. Thank you to all volunteers who will support the 17th annual Speedy PD!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753819065877.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, KAN- The 17th annual Speedy PD Race for Parkinson’s Disease is Saturday, Aug. 23, at Tuttle Creek State Park. The race features a Half-Mile Walk/Run, Don Rasmussen 5K, and a 10K race. This year, we are excited to announce a partnership with Manhattan Running Company, providing race directing, logistics, and timing services. A full list of sponsors can be found on the Speedy PD webpage at <a href="http://www.runspeedypd.org./">www.runspeedypd.org.</a>Manhattan Running Company (MRC) will be a key partner during the race to ensure smooth execution and accurate timing. Founded by former collegiate runners, the company will bring expertise to the event that will enhance the experience of all participants. The organization's passion for running, combined with professional experience, will ensure a memorable event for all.Register for the event by visiting <a href="https://www.meadowlark.org/speedy-pd">www.runspeedypd.org</a>. Packet pick-up will take place on Friday, Aug. 22, at the Holiday Inn at the Campus from 4:30 to 7 p.m. On race day, final packet pick-up and registration will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. The Half-Mile Run/Walk will start at 8 a.m., followed by the 5K and 10K races at 8:30 a.m. The VIPDs (Very Important People with Parkinson’s Disease) will sing the national anthem at 7:45 a.m.Funds collected from the event will directly benefit Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program, which provides vital services at no cost to individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease (PD) in the Flint Hills region. These services include support for persons with PD, caregivers, therapists, nurses, and other providers.Even if you are not a runner, you can still make a difference! Donations to Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program directly support individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease in our community. Donations may be made directly to Meadowlark Parkinson’s Program by contacting the Meadowlark Foundation office at (785) 323-3843. Questions about the race or program can be directed to Michelle Haub, Special Programs Leader, via email at michelle.haub@meadowlark.org or (785) 323-3899. Want to volunteer? Volunteers can sign up by visiting <a href="https://www.meadowlark.org/speedy-pd">meadowlark.org/speedy-pd</a>. Thank you to all volunteers who will support the 17th annual Speedy PD!

Speedy PD Race for Parkinson's 17th Annual Race is Saturday, Aug. 23

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) introduced a bipartisan bill to cut taxes for veterans who start a small business in underserved communities. The bipartisan&nbsp;Veterans Jobs Opportunity Act&nbsp;would create new tax credits to provide veterans who are starting a small business with a 15 percent tax credit on the first $50,000 of the startup costs.“By offering support to veteran entrepreneurs, we can help bolster local economies and help veterans channel the military work ethic into creating new businesses,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Veteran-owned small businesses play an important role in rural communities and underserved areas, and this legislation will empower veterans to start their own businesses while benefiting the communities they invest in.”

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) introduced a bipartisan bill to cut taxes for veterans who start a small business in underserved communities. The bipartisan&nbsp;Veterans Jobs Opportunity Act&nbsp;would create new tax credits to provide veterans who are starting a small business with a 15 percent tax credit on the first $50,000 of the startup costs.“By offering support to veteran entrepreneurs, we can help bolster local economies and help veterans channel the military work ethic into creating new businesses,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Veteran-owned small businesses play an important role in rural communities and underserved areas, and this legislation will empower veterans to start their own businesses while benefiting the communities they invest in.”

Sen. Moran supports bill helping veterans starting small businesses

The Central Kansas Free Fair runs Tuesday through Sunday in Abilene.

&nbsp;The early week schedule on Tuesday includes "Just a Small Town Throwdown Parade at 4 p.m. Tuesday, the Chapman FFA Barbeque following the parade and the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo opens its run at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The Great Plains Amusement Carnival starts at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

The Central Kansas Free Fair runs Tuesday through Sunday in Abilene.&nbsp;The early week schedule on Tuesday includes "Just a Small Town Throwdown Parade at 4 p.m. Tuesday, the Chapman FFA Barbeque following the parade and the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo opens its run at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.The Great Plains Amusement Carnival starts at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Fair week in Abilene

&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/383Bobcats?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USD 383 has announced Bluemont Elementary</a> , <a href="https://www.facebook.com/383Longhorns?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USD 383: Lee Elementary School</a> , <a href="https://www.facebook.com/northviewelementaryschool?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Northview Elementary School</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/383Panthers?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USD 383: Ogden Elementary</a> , <a href="https://www.facebook.com/383Wolves?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USD 383: Woodrow Wilson Elementary</a> and—new this year— <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TRPTO?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School</a> have all been selected to receive the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Grant for the upcoming school year

Students at these schools will enjoy a free to every student fresh fruit and vegetable snack multiple times per week, helping to promote healthy habits, support focus in the classroom, and provide nutritious snacks. USDA grant&nbsp;

&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/383Bobcats?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USD 383 has announced Bluemont Elementary</a> , <a href="https://www.facebook.com/383Longhorns?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USD 383: Lee Elementary School</a> , <a href="https://www.facebook.com/northviewelementaryschool?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Northview Elementary School</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/383Panthers?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USD 383: Ogden Elementary</a> , <a href="https://www.facebook.com/383Wolves?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USD 383: Woodrow Wilson Elementary</a> and—new this year— <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TRPTO?__cft__[0]=AZW26WTBlmwpykJaTp9mzX6csNMWOrwnPIdGNjF0jv3V7CV0S9HvctC8eJIagSGmx1FHeNWEHc7KpGXErnO_WyIMcheop3_zIevXrkH4KgsTrvzhb8j-2p_tY8CiyWADiBvG9a435oeUt4wAlS9We6HO7OqhaJ_OxqLmMY2pKXWCRBZDyQuQoi9bgd655smUWZ8f0A_0BZI2bIpa0pRQ_GHGBU6Hh_QdBDA9mKYcZoTR3w&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School</a> have all been selected to receive the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Grant for the upcoming school yearStudents at these schools will enjoy a free to every student fresh fruit and vegetable snack multiple times per week, helping to promote healthy habits, support focus in the classroom, and provide nutritious snacks. USDA grant&nbsp;

USDA grant will support schools

BHS Construction,&nbsp; Inc. is replacing bollards on N Manhattan Ave July 28-July 30. Use Little Moro to enter Aggieville during this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

BHS Construction,&nbsp; Inc. is replacing bollards on N Manhattan Ave July 28-July 30. Use Little Moro to enter Aggieville during this time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Temporary closure

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent robbery in Manhattan.

Just after 11p.m. Friday, officers filed a report for aggravated robbery and aggravated battery in the 3600 block of Everett Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;A 17-year-old man was listed as the victim when it was reported unknown suspects battered him in his driveway and stole personal property. 

Anyone with information, contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent robbery in Manhattan.Just after 11p.m. Friday, officers filed a report for aggravated robbery and aggravated battery in the 3600 block of Everett Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;A 17-year-old man was listed as the victim when it was reported unknown suspects battered him in his driveway and stole personal property. Anyone with information, contact RCPD or the Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000.

RCPD: Teen battered in alleged robbery at his home

The City of Manhattan announced that 12th St construction is moving along and some changes are happening to pedestrian walkways and the alley south of Moro. 

There will be a middle walkway with offshoots to businesses so patrons can easily access them. The goal is to have the new sidewalks completed by Aug 22. 

 Alley work is starting, and no thru traffic will be allowed for about 2 months. Learn More



The City of Manhattan announced that 12th St construction is moving along and some changes are happening to pedestrian walkways and the alley south of Moro. There will be a middle walkway with offshoots to businesses so patrons can easily access them. The goal is to have the new sidewalks completed by Aug 22. Alley work is starting, and no thru traffic will be allowed for about 2 months. Learn More

12th Street construction progresses

K-STATE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION NEWS SERVICE

MANHATTAN, Kan. – As the temperatures climb into the 90s and above, most trees require more water, but more water means more costs. Kansas State horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini says modifying soaker hoses can help homeowners save a few dollars.

“Soaker hoses are notorious for non-uniform watering,” Domenghini said. “In other words, you often receive too much water from one part of the hose and not enough from the other part.”

Patchy water application may not affect smaller trees, as the soaker will circle the tree several times, but can affect larger trees. For more uniform watering, Domenghini suggests hooking the beginning and end of the soaker hose to a y-adapter to equalize pressure and provide more uniform watering. The parts needed are just a y-adapter and a female-to-female connector.

“It is also helpful if the y-adapter has shut-off valves so the volume of flow can be controlled,” Domenghini said. “Too high a flow rate can allow water to run off rather than soak.”

The position of the hose can also make a difference. On larger trees, Domenghini said the soaker hose can circle the trunk at least half the distance to the drip line. On smaller trees, she said the hose can circle the tree several times so only the soil that contains tree roots will be watered.

To check if the watering is effective, Domenghini said the soil should be wet at least 12 inches deep. A metal rod or something similar can be used to check.

“Dry soil is much harder to push through than wet and your probe will stop when it hits dry soil,” she said. “How long it takes water to reach a 12 inch depth varies depending on the rate of water flow and soil.”

As a test when first watering the tree, record the amount of time it takes to reach a 12-inch depth of dampness. The tree can then be watered for that amount of time in subsequent watering.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753583856468.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>K-STATE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION NEWS SERVICEMANHATTAN, Kan. – As the temperatures climb into the 90s and above, most trees require more water, but more water means more costs. Kansas State horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini says modifying soaker hoses can help homeowners save a few dollars.“Soaker hoses are notorious for non-uniform watering,” Domenghini said. “In other words, you often receive too much water from one part of the hose and not enough from the other part.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743385101463.png" alt="K-State Research and Extension " />
 <figcaption>K-State Research and Extension </figcaption>
 </figure>Patchy water application may not affect smaller trees, as the soaker will circle the tree several times, but can affect larger trees. For more uniform watering, Domenghini suggests hooking the beginning and end of the soaker hose to a y-adapter to equalize pressure and provide more uniform watering. The parts needed are just a y-adapter and a female-to-female connector.“It is also helpful if the y-adapter has shut-off valves so the volume of flow can be controlled,” Domenghini said. “Too high a flow rate can allow water to run off rather than soak.”The position of the hose can also make a difference. On larger trees, Domenghini said the soaker hose can circle the trunk at least half the distance to the drip line. On smaller trees, she said the hose can circle the tree several times so only the soil that contains tree roots will be watered.To check if the watering is effective, Domenghini said the soil should be wet at least 12 inches deep. A metal rod or something similar can be used to check.“Dry soil is much harder to push through than wet and your probe will stop when it hits dry soil,” she said. “How long it takes water to reach a 12 inch depth varies depending on the rate of water flow and soil.”As a test when first watering the tree, record the amount of time it takes to reach a 12-inch depth of dampness. The tree can then be watered for that amount of time in subsequent watering.

Cut the cost of watering trees

MADELINE DRAKE K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Kansas cotton fields are entering the critical squaring phase, so Kansas State University agronomist Logan Simon and entomologist Anthony Zukoff say timely scouting will be essential to protect yield potential.

“Overall, Kansas cotton acres are down this year like most of the US cotton belt and the cotton we have is generally behind in development compared to normal,” Simon said. “Although south-central Kansas had severe storm damage that hurt the cotton down there, many were able to hold on pretty good.”

As cotton enters this key reproductive stage, as evidenced by early formation of flower buds, K-State Extension entomologist Anthony Zukoff shared the importance of monitoring for cotton fleahoppers and tarnished plant bugs, also known as lygus bugs.

“These two insects can be very detrimental to overall yield so it’s important to keep an eye out for them now,” Zukoff said.

“They are very excitable, so they can be tricky to scout for. We recommend using a drop cloth or sweep net method to determine if these insects are in the field,” Zukoff said. “Depending on the method, the threshold will be different, so we recommend using our&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/cotton-insect-pest-management-2025_MF2674">cotton insect management guide</a>&nbsp;to determine if the insect count is over that threshold.”

The cotton flea hopper is about 1/8 of an inch and lime green color, while the lygus bug is about twice the size and a tan color. Zukoff noted that control options are available if populations reach economic thresholds.

“If they do reach that threshold, all is not lost,” he said. “Producers can save their fields if they take action quickly. The important thing is to be proactive rather than reactive; get out there right now and scout.”

“The early and first position squares are the most important fruiting positions on a cotton plant as they will contribute the most to the final yield,” Simon said. “Once the plant matures, those insects will not be as much of a problem for later squares.”

Zukoff and Simon also advised corn growers to be scouting for western bean cutworm.

“The western bean cutworm is a pest of corn, specifically corn ears as they tassel,” Zukoff said.

“Western bean cutworm overwinters in the soil as pupa, and this time of year adult moths will be emerging from those pupae and laying eggs. Those eggs hatch and caterpillars make their way to the tasseling corn fields,” Zukoff said. “Once the pest gets to the field, it will eat developing kernels and cut the silks on its way up, which makes it detrimental to final yields and developing crops.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753534659308.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy of K-State research and extension&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of K-State research and extension&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>MADELINE DRAKE K-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. — Kansas cotton fields are entering the critical squaring phase, so Kansas State University agronomist Logan Simon and entomologist Anthony Zukoff say timely scouting will be essential to protect yield potential.“Overall, Kansas cotton acres are down this year like most of the US cotton belt and the cotton we have is generally behind in development compared to normal,” Simon said. “Although south-central Kansas had severe storm damage that hurt the cotton down there, many were able to hold on pretty good.”As cotton enters this key reproductive stage, as evidenced by early formation of flower buds, K-State Extension entomologist Anthony Zukoff shared the importance of monitoring for cotton fleahoppers and tarnished plant bugs, also known as lygus bugs.“These two insects can be very detrimental to overall yield so it’s important to keep an eye out for them now,” Zukoff said.“They are very excitable, so they can be tricky to scout for. We recommend using a drop cloth or sweep net method to determine if these insects are in the field,” Zukoff said. “Depending on the method, the threshold will be different, so we recommend using our&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/cotton-insect-pest-management-2025_MF2674">cotton insect management guide</a>&nbsp;to determine if the insect count is over that threshold.”The cotton flea hopper is about 1/8 of an inch and lime green color, while the lygus bug is about twice the size and a tan color. Zukoff noted that control options are available if populations reach economic thresholds.“If they do reach that threshold, all is not lost,” he said. “Producers can save their fields if they take action quickly. The important thing is to be proactive rather than reactive; get out there right now and scout.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690555797266.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>“The early and first position squares are the most important fruiting positions on a cotton plant as they will contribute the most to the final yield,” Simon said. “Once the plant matures, those insects will not be as much of a problem for later squares.”Zukoff and Simon also advised corn growers to be scouting for western bean cutworm.“The western bean cutworm is a pest of corn, specifically corn ears as they tassel,” Zukoff said.“Western bean cutworm overwinters in the soil as pupa, and this time of year adult moths will be emerging from those pupae and laying eggs. Those eggs hatch and caterpillars make their way to the tasseling corn fields,” Zukoff said. “Once the pest gets to the field, it will eat developing kernels and cut the silks on its way up, which makes it detrimental to final yields and developing crops.”

Scout for insects in cotton and corn fields 

RILEY COUNTY—Teo people were injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Friday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Trailblazer driven by Trinity M. Sproul, 18, Wamego, was eastbound on Kansas 18 one half mile east of Kansas 114.

The driver one lost control and struck a 2007 Pontiac G6 which was parked with flashers on on the side of the roadway.&nbsp; After impact, the Pontiac struck 2 pedestrians identified as Koltyn T. Moore, 29, Manhattan, and&nbsp; Rod&nbsp; Marti, 40, who were in&nbsp;front of it.

EMS transported Moore and Marti to Via Christi in Manhattan. Sproul was not transported and properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RILEY COUNTY—Teo people were injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Friday in Riley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Chevy Trailblazer driven by Trinity M. Sproul, 18, Wamego, was eastbound on Kansas 18 one half mile east of Kansas 114.The driver one lost control and struck a 2007 Pontiac G6 which was parked with flashers on on the side of the roadway.&nbsp; After impact, the Pontiac struck 2 pedestrians identified as Koltyn T. Moore, 29, Manhattan, and&nbsp; Rod&nbsp; Marti, 40, who were in&nbsp;front of it.EMS transported Moore and Marti to Via Christi in Manhattan. Sproul was not transported and properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Two hospitalized after Riley County pedestrian accident

RILEY COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Friday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Cruz driven by Frank&nbsp;Macias, 34, Upland, California. was eastbound on Kansas 18 one half&nbsp; mile east of Kansas 114. The vehicle&nbsp;struck debris in roadway from a previous accident.

RILEY COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30p.m. Friday in Riley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Chevy Cruz driven by Frank&nbsp;Macias, 34, Upland, California. was eastbound on Kansas 18 one half&nbsp; mile east of Kansas 114. The vehicle&nbsp;struck debris in roadway from a previous accident.EMS transported Macias to Via Christi in Manhattan. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

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