Freedom Run Press Release - 2025 division race finishers announced

Junction City, Kansas:&nbsp;The 49th Annual Freedom Run brought over 460 registered runners to Junction City, marking a record-breaking year for participation in the event's storied history. Race organizers celebrated this milestone achievement alongside the honoring of the 2025 Freedom Runners: Junction City High School and Chapman High School's state-qualifying Cross Country teams.

This year's event also marked a significant milestone as the 10K race received its first official certification, adding prestige and accuracy to the longer distance competition.

Over 100 committed community volunteers and support from local agencies made the race possible. JC Fire Dept., Geary County Fire Dept., JC Police Dept., Ft Riley Police Dept., Geary County Sheriff Dept., JC Parks &amp; Rec, JC Public Works, Grandview Fire Dept. and Kaw Valley Engineering were all on board to make the event a success.

The comprehensive volunteer support, from traffic management to hydration stations, kept runners safe and hydrated throughout the course, allowing participants to fully enjoy this cherished Independence Day tradition.

The record-breaking participation demonstrates the continued growth and community support for this Independence Day tradition that brings together competitive athletes and recreational runners alike.

Top three finishers for each race:

1 Mile: 1st - Isaiah Byers (5:48) 2nd - Rosie Spreer (5:56) 3rd - Joey Cruz (6:04)

5K:&nbsp;1st - Ryan Stade (15:53) 2nd - Ambrose Childs (17:00) 3rd - Riley Delorenzo (17:28)

10K: 1st - Joe Moore (33:07) 2nd - Drew Elliott (34:44) 3rd - Anthony Testa (37:31)

To find all race results visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.athlinks.com/event/33905/results/Event/1105995/Result">https://www.athlinks.com/event/33905/results/Event/1105995/Result</a>

Check out and follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092584437390">Freedom Run - Junction City Facebook page</a>&nbsp;to view photos from the race and to stay up-to-date on future race announcements. For any additional questions, email the Freedom Run committee at jcfreedomrun@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752001620493.jpeg" alt="Freedom Run photo - Photo courtesy (Freedom Run _Junction City - Deer Creek Drones, LLC)" />
 <figcaption>Freedom Run photo - Photo courtesy (Freedom Run _Junction City - Deer Creek Drones, LLC)</figcaption>
 </figure>Freedom Run Press Release - 2025 division race finishers announcedJunction City, Kansas:&nbsp;The 49th Annual Freedom Run brought over 460 registered runners to Junction City, marking a record-breaking year for participation in the event's storied history. Race organizers celebrated this milestone achievement alongside the honoring of the 2025 Freedom Runners: Junction City High School and Chapman High School's state-qualifying Cross Country teams.This year's event also marked a significant milestone as the 10K race received its first official certification, adding prestige and accuracy to the longer distance competition.Over 100 committed community volunteers and support from local agencies made the race possible. JC Fire Dept., Geary County Fire Dept., JC Police Dept., Ft Riley Police Dept., Geary County Sheriff Dept., JC Parks &amp; Rec, JC Public Works, Grandview Fire Dept. and Kaw Valley Engineering were all on board to make the event a success.The comprehensive volunteer support, from traffic management to hydration stations, kept runners safe and hydrated throughout the course, allowing participants to fully enjoy this cherished Independence Day tradition.The record-breaking participation demonstrates the continued growth and community support for this Independence Day tradition that brings together competitive athletes and recreational runners alike.Top three finishers for each race:1 Mile: 1st - Isaiah Byers (5:48) 2nd - Rosie Spreer (5:56) 3rd - Joey Cruz (6:04)5K:&nbsp;1st - Ryan Stade (15:53) 2nd - Ambrose Childs (17:00) 3rd - Riley Delorenzo (17:28)10K: 1st - Joe Moore (33:07) 2nd - Drew Elliott (34:44) 3rd - Anthony Testa (37:31)To find all race results visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.athlinks.com/event/33905/results/Event/1105995/Result">https://www.athlinks.com/event/33905/results/Event/1105995/Result</a>Check out and follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092584437390">Freedom Run - Junction City Facebook page</a>&nbsp;to view photos from the race and to stay up-to-date on future race announcements. For any additional questions, email the Freedom Run committee at jcfreedomrun@gmail.com.

Junction City's 49th Annual Freedom Run Results in Record-Breaking Community Success

Geary County Finance Director Tami Robison has received the Government Finance Officers Association Outstanding Public Service Award.&nbsp; It was presented&nbsp;at the Government Finance Officer Association conference in Washington DC last week.&nbsp;Robison was the only person from Kansas to receive the honor.

Commissioner Trish Giordano nominated Robison, who joined Geary County in April 2021 as its first Finance Director, a newly established position. Tasked with building her role and department from the ground up, she immediately addressed significant inefficiencies and a lack of checks and balances within the county’s $40 million budget. In just three years, Robison has transformed the county’s financial landscape. She has worked closely with department heads to develop detailed line-item budgets, identifying inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities.

Giordano noted that under Robison's leadership, the County Commission consolidated numerous levied funds into two, increasing flexibility in meeting county needs. She also introduced a simplified, transparent budget format that allows the public to clearly see how tax dollars are allocated. 

Thanks to the improvements, Geary County has been able to conduct and implement a wage study with full compression, ensuring fair employee compensation and aiding in staff recruitment and retention, secure a $30 million bond to address long-overdue maintenance for the county hospital, preventing its potential closure, with no additional impact on the taxpayer, transition of Sheriff’s Deputies to a significantly improved retirement system, establishment and fund a comprehensive Capital Improvement Plan

Giordano said that under Robison’s guidance, Geary County has successfully lowered its mill levy by 15 mills over the past three years, resulting in significant tax savings. Most notably, her sound financial management recently led to an improved S&amp;P Global Rating, increasing the county’s General Obligation rating from A to A+.

Robison’s leadership, innovation, and dedication have positioned Geary County for long-term financial stability.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751990337991.jpeg" alt="Tami Robison" />
 <figcaption>Tami Robison</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Finance Director Tami Robison has received the Government Finance Officers Association Outstanding Public Service Award.&nbsp; It was presented&nbsp;at the Government Finance Officer Association conference in Washington DC last week.&nbsp;Robison was the only person from Kansas to receive the honor.Commissioner Trish Giordano nominated Robison, who joined Geary County in April 2021 as its first Finance Director, a newly established position. Tasked with building her role and department from the ground up, she immediately addressed significant inefficiencies and a lack of checks and balances within the county’s $40 million budget. In just three years, Robison has transformed the county’s financial landscape. She has worked closely with department heads to develop detailed line-item budgets, identifying inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751990607774.jpeg" alt="( Tami Robison ( L ) with members of the Finance and HR Departments she manages. ( L - R ) Tami Robison, Jayme Coffey, Tiffany Havener, Crystal Malchose, Jennifer Gatlin and Luisa White." />
 <figcaption>( Tami Robison ( L ) with members of the Finance and HR Departments she manages. ( L - R ) Tami Robison, Jayme Coffey, Tiffany Havener, Crystal Malchose, Jennifer Gatlin and Luisa White.</figcaption>
 </figure>Giordano noted that under Robison's leadership, the County Commission consolidated numerous levied funds into two, increasing flexibility in meeting county needs. She also introduced a simplified, transparent budget format that allows the public to clearly see how tax dollars are allocated. Thanks to the improvements, Geary County has been able to conduct and implement a wage study with full compression, ensuring fair employee compensation and aiding in staff recruitment and retention, secure a $30 million bond to address long-overdue maintenance for the county hospital, preventing its potential closure, with no additional impact on the taxpayer, transition of Sheriff’s Deputies to a significantly improved retirement system, establishment and fund a comprehensive Capital Improvement PlanGiordano said that under Robison’s guidance, Geary County has successfully lowered its mill levy by 15 mills over the past three years, resulting in significant tax savings. Most notably, her sound financial management recently led to an improved S&amp;P Global Rating, increasing the county’s General Obligation rating from A to A+.Robison’s leadership, innovation, and dedication have positioned Geary County for long-term financial stability.&nbsp;

Geary County Finance Director is honored with a prestigous award

Fake texts that appear to come from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and demand payment for tolls and tickets are continuing to be sent to the public. These texts sometimes threaten to have driver’s licenses revoked or penalties for not paying promptly.

Please remember – KDOT does not collect money for tickets or tolls, and the agency does not send unsolicited texts.

Do not click or open any links within these scam texts and never provide personal or financial details by clicking unknown links. Clicking on these links could expose your information to scammers

If you’ve received a scam message, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Freportfraud.ftc.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197d13001eb-40aabf1c-6456-4420-bacd-134ffd6b8b6b-000000/lpkY0HvdlXkls57886hNV4IB30AywXklCzOX5BHL6rw=412">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>&nbsp;and/or the Internet Crime Complaint Center at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ic3.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197d13001eb-40aabf1c-6456-4420-bacd-134ffd6b8b6b-000000/1HwCrEOz5nUqkqN484rlXzvnSugA9RRzNV7EOxSAtQg=412">https://www.ic3.gov/</a>. Delete the text and report it as junk. If you’ve provided payment information at a fraudulent web site, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.

Stay informed about official KDOT information by visiting our official website at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197d13001eb-40aabf1c-6456-4420-bacd-134ffd6b8b6b-000000/FkFx39i_BOXT2XAF56xPL70QoY6JudGOFSyr4m_TV-0=412">ksdot.gov</a>&nbsp;and our verified social media channels.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751563202440.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Fake texts that appear to come from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and demand payment for tolls and tickets are continuing to be sent to the public. These texts sometimes threaten to have driver’s licenses revoked or penalties for not paying promptly.Please remember – KDOT does not collect money for tickets or tolls, and the agency does not send unsolicited texts.Do not click or open any links within these scam texts and never provide personal or financial details by clicking unknown links. Clicking on these links could expose your information to scammersIf you’ve received a scam message, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Freportfraud.ftc.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197d13001eb-40aabf1c-6456-4420-bacd-134ffd6b8b6b-000000/lpkY0HvdlXkls57886hNV4IB30AywXklCzOX5BHL6rw=412">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>&nbsp;and/or the Internet Crime Complaint Center at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ic3.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197d13001eb-40aabf1c-6456-4420-bacd-134ffd6b8b6b-000000/1HwCrEOz5nUqkqN484rlXzvnSugA9RRzNV7EOxSAtQg=412">https://www.ic3.gov/</a>. Delete the text and report it as junk. If you’ve provided payment information at a fraudulent web site, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.Stay informed about official KDOT information by visiting our official website at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.ksdot.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010197d13001eb-40aabf1c-6456-4420-bacd-134ffd6b8b6b-000000/FkFx39i_BOXT2XAF56xPL70QoY6JudGOFSyr4m_TV-0=412">ksdot.gov</a>&nbsp;and our verified social media channels.

Text scams involving KDOT continue to plague motorists

This is day 9 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Kansas wheat farmers have been facing a challenging wheat harvest due to persistent rains on mature wheat. While test weights have suffered because of this, the 2025 crop has shown stronger yields than the past three drought-stricken years.

Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 82 percent complete, behind 90 percent complete last year but ahead of 77 percent average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending July 6, 2025.&nbsp;

Josh Debes, a wheat farmer in northern Barton County, is among those still navigating the final stretch of harvest. Rainfall over the past week has forced Debes to chase dry fields across the county in hopes of finishing before another rain delay sets in. His wheat crop, already stressed by drought and a high incidence of wheat streak mosaic virus, is now facing quality declines due to the rain.

“We started with test weights at 60 pounds per bushel on our better fields,” Debes said. “But test weights have dropped since the wheat has been rained on.” Equally stressful has been a constant stream of equipment breakdowns that have kept one or both combines out of fields when Mother Nature has opened up a window for cutting.

Despite the setbacks, Debes expects to harvest&nbsp;more bushels this year than in either of the past two years, when extreme drought nearly wiped out his wheat entirely. “Morale is low, but at least we’ve got bushels to sell to cover the costs of getting this fall’s sorghum crop in the ground,” he added.

Jeff Boyd, CEO of Garden City Coop, reported that wheat harvest in their trade territory is 90 to 95 percent complete. Rains over the holiday weekend have slowed progress, and it may be another two days before combines can roll again in Finney County. Recent storms have also caused lodging in some fields.&nbsp;

Harvest began June 14 at their Hooker, Oklahoma, location. Boyd noted that test weights are averaging around 59 pounds per bushel, and protein levels are coming in at 11.8 percent. Overall, Boyd expects an average to above-average crop in terms of total bushels, with quality landing around average. Yields have ranged widely from the 30s to the 80s, with some of the strongest wheat coming from Finney and Lane counties. Yields have tended to decrease further north. The wheat streak mosaic virus complex has impacted yields and test weights in certain areas, while unusually high humidity has caused threshing issues with some varieties.

In Atchison County, Jay Armstrong wrapped up his Soft Red Winter wheat harvest on July 2 with a farm-wide average of 119 bushels per acre. Only 4.2% of wheat grown in Kansas is SRW, according to USDA/NASS’s winter wheat variety survey for 2025. While Armstrong reported good — but not exceptional — quality and test weights, the biggest challenge this season was getting the crop out between frequent rain delays. His harvested acres have already been planted to doublecrop soybeans.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684379707210.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>This is day 9 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Kansas wheat farmers have been facing a challenging wheat harvest due to persistent rains on mature wheat. While test weights have suffered because of this, the 2025 crop has shown stronger yields than the past three drought-stricken years.Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 82 percent complete, behind 90 percent complete last year but ahead of 77 percent average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending July 6, 2025.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600284821318.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Josh Debes, a wheat farmer in northern Barton County, is among those still navigating the final stretch of harvest. Rainfall over the past week has forced Debes to chase dry fields across the county in hopes of finishing before another rain delay sets in. His wheat crop, already stressed by drought and a high incidence of wheat streak mosaic virus, is now facing quality declines due to the rain.“We started with test weights at 60 pounds per bushel on our better fields,” Debes said. “But test weights have dropped since the wheat has been rained on.” Equally stressful has been a constant stream of equipment breakdowns that have kept one or both combines out of fields when Mother Nature has opened up a window for cutting.Despite the setbacks, Debes expects to harvest&nbsp;more bushels this year than in either of the past two years, when extreme drought nearly wiped out his wheat entirely. “Morale is low, but at least we’ve got bushels to sell to cover the costs of getting this fall’s sorghum crop in the ground,” he added.Jeff Boyd, CEO of Garden City Coop, reported that wheat harvest in their trade territory is 90 to 95 percent complete. Rains over the holiday weekend have slowed progress, and it may be another two days before combines can roll again in Finney County. Recent storms have also caused lodging in some fields.&nbsp;Harvest began June 14 at their Hooker, Oklahoma, location. Boyd noted that test weights are averaging around 59 pounds per bushel, and protein levels are coming in at 11.8 percent. Overall, Boyd expects an average to above-average crop in terms of total bushels, with quality landing around average. Yields have ranged widely from the 30s to the 80s, with some of the strongest wheat coming from Finney and Lane counties. Yields have tended to decrease further north. The wheat streak mosaic virus complex has impacted yields and test weights in certain areas, while unusually high humidity has caused threshing issues with some varieties.In Atchison County, Jay Armstrong wrapped up his Soft Red Winter wheat harvest on July 2 with a farm-wide average of 119 bushels per acre. Only 4.2% of wheat grown in Kansas is SRW, according to USDA/NASS’s winter wheat variety survey for 2025. While Armstrong reported good — but not exceptional — quality and test weights, the biggest challenge this season was getting the crop out between frequent rain delays. His harvested acres have already been planted to doublecrop soybeans.The 2025 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on social media, use #wheatharvest25. Tag us at @kansaswheat to share your harvest story and photos.

Kansas Wheat: Harvest report day nine

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —A Manhattan woman was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Monday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Toyota Camry driven by&nbsp; Stephanie M. Stallings, 35, Manhattan, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of Snokomo Road. An unknown vehicle swerved into the Toyota's lane. The driver lost control of the Camry.&nbsp; The car traveled off the roadway to the left and came to rest against a tree line.

EMS transported&nbsp;Stallings to Stormont Vail. A passenger in the Toyota was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —A Manhattan woman was injured in an accident just before 11a.m. Monday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Toyota Camry driven by&nbsp; Stephanie M. Stallings, 35, Manhattan, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just east of Snokomo Road. An unknown vehicle swerved into the Toyota's lane. The driver lost control of the Camry.&nbsp; The car traveled off the roadway to the left and came to rest against a tree line.EMS transported&nbsp;Stallings to Stormont Vail. A passenger in the Toyota was not injured. Both were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Manhattan woman injured after I-70 incident

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating alleged sex crimes in Manhattan.&nbsp;

Just after 9p.m. July 5, officers filed a report for aggravated criminal sodomy and rape in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 14-year-old girl was listed as the victim and a 33-year-old man known to her was listed as the suspect. 

The RCPD released no additional information.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating alleged sex crimes in Manhattan.&nbsp;Just after 9p.m. July 5, officers filed a report for aggravated criminal sodomy and rape in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 14-year-old girl was listed as the victim and a 33-year-old man known to her was listed as the suspect. The RCPD released no additional information.

RCPD investigating alleged sex crime involving 14-year-old victim

The City of Manhattan announced that two new asphalt maintenance projects kick off today ( Monday ).

1) Bluemont Avenue (4th to 11th streets) — expected to last 2 weeks 2) College Avenue (north of Kimball Avenue, starting near Agronomy Central Drive and extending about 2,000 feet north) — expected to last 1 week.

The City of Manhattan announced that two new asphalt maintenance projects kick off today ( Monday ).1) Bluemont Avenue (4th to 11th streets) — expected to last 2 weeks 2) College Avenue (north of Kimball Avenue, starting near Agronomy Central Drive and extending about 2,000 feet north) — expected to last 1 week.

Asphalt maintenance projects begin

&nbsp; The&nbsp;Flint&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;Discovery&nbsp;Center&nbsp;(FHDC) has announced its participation in the 2025 Kansas Tourism Sunflower Summer program. The&nbsp;Flint&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;Discovery&nbsp;Center, with&nbsp;Prairie Playscape; a dedicated interactive play area; the temporary exhibit,&nbsp;Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies, which explores the nests of dinosaurs and how they cared for their young; and&nbsp;a 4D theater experience that brings the prairie to life.The Sunflower Summer Program is a benefit for Kansas families with school-aged children, pre-K through Grade 12, to encourage them to explore, and fall in love with Kansas.

The program is designed to give affordable access to tourism attractions across the state and support the Kansas tourism economy. Eligible Kansas families will download the Sunflower Summer App to claim digital tickets to participating venues. One (1) adult ticket is eligible for free admission with eligible students. Tickets are redeemed at participating venues upon their arrival. Each user can only use tickets once per venue during the 2025 season.

The 2025 Sunflower Summer season will run from July 12 through&nbsp;August 3. During this time, the FHDC will be open 7 days a week, Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Flint&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;Discovery&nbsp;Center&nbsp;is one of nine (9) 2025 Sunflower Summer locations in Manhattan.&nbsp;A &amp; H Farm/Pumpkin Patch, K-State Insect Zoo, Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, Museum of Art + Light, Midwest Dream Car Collection, Riley County Historical Museum, Sunset Zoo, and Tuttle Creek State Park are also destinations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Discovery Center release&nbsp; The&nbsp;Flint&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;Discovery&nbsp;Center&nbsp;(FHDC) has announced its participation in the 2025 Kansas Tourism Sunflower Summer program. The&nbsp;Flint&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;Discovery&nbsp;Center, with&nbsp;Prairie Playscape; a dedicated interactive play area; the temporary exhibit,&nbsp;Tiny Titans: Dinosaur Eggs and Babies, which explores the nests of dinosaurs and how they cared for their young; and&nbsp;a 4D theater experience that brings the prairie to life.The Sunflower Summer Program is a benefit for Kansas families with school-aged children, pre-K through Grade 12, to encourage them to explore, and fall in love with Kansas.The program is designed to give affordable access to tourism attractions across the state and support the Kansas tourism economy. Eligible Kansas families will download the Sunflower Summer App to claim digital tickets to participating venues. One (1) adult ticket is eligible for free admission with eligible students. Tickets are redeemed at participating venues upon their arrival. Each user can only use tickets once per venue during the 2025 season.The 2025 Sunflower Summer season will run from July 12 through&nbsp;August 3. During this time, the FHDC will be open 7 days a week, Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;Flint&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;Discovery&nbsp;Center&nbsp;is one of nine (9) 2025 Sunflower Summer locations in Manhattan.&nbsp;A &amp; H Farm/Pumpkin Patch, K-State Insect Zoo, Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, Museum of Art + Light, Midwest Dream Car Collection, Riley County Historical Museum, Sunset Zoo, and Tuttle Creek State Park are also destinations.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://ads.empowerlocal.co/adserve/;MID=181918;type=e959fb862;placementID=2944946;setID=524604;channelID=0;CID=0;BID=523042349;TAID=0;place=0;rnd=3372530399;psrtype=api;referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fjcpost.com%2Fposts%2F3ddf76e0-bb95-4788-9278-54d6b49f4209;mt=1751851410969304;hc=99d6ad91ceee57e42f9332719b1bef187ec34f8b" alt="" />
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Explore the Flint Hills Discovery Center through the 2025 Sunflower Summer Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Scammers know that many people want to make money working from home. So they send emails, texts, or advertise jobs that claim you can make thousands of dollars a month working from home with little time and effort. What do they really want? Your money or personal information.

Scammers might try to recruit you by saying&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/when-business-offer-or-coaching-program-scam">you can be your own boss</a>, start your own business, or set your own schedule. But instead of making money, you might end up paying for starter kits, so-called training, or certifications that are useless.

Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/jobscams">ftc.gov/jobscams</a>. And if you spot a job scam, let the FTC know:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750778973576.jpeg" alt="Federal Trade Commission" />
 <figcaption>Federal Trade Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>Federal Trade CommissionWASHINGTON, D.C. — Scammers know that many people want to make money working from home. So they send emails, texts, or advertise jobs that claim you can make thousands of dollars a month working from home with little time and effort. What do they really want? Your money or personal information.Scammers might try to recruit you by saying&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/when-business-offer-or-coaching-program-scam">you can be your own boss</a>, start your own business, or set your own schedule. But instead of making money, you might end up paying for starter kits, so-called training, or certifications that are useless.Before you accept a job offer:<ul>
 <li>Search online.&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-evaluate-online-reviews">Look up the name of the company or the person</a>&nbsp;who’s hiring you, plus the words “scam,” “review,” or “complaint.” See if others say they’ve been scammed by that company or person.</li><li>Talk to someone you trust. Describe the offer to them. What do they think? This also helps give you time to think about the offer.</li><li>Don't pay for the promise of a job. Honest employers will never ask you to pay to get a job. Anyone who does is a scammer.</li><li>Never bank on a “cleared” check.&nbsp;No honest potential employer will ever send you a check and then tell you to send on part of the money, or to buy&nbsp;<a href="http://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/gift-card-scams">gift cards</a>&nbsp;with it. That’s a&nbsp;<a href="http://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-report-fake-check-scams">fake check scam</a>. The check will bounce, and the bank will want you to repay the money.</li>
 </ul>Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/jobscams">ftc.gov/jobscams</a>. And if you spot a job scam, let the FTC know:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;

FTC: How to avoid work-from-home job scams

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

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

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

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

Work begins on temporary crosswalk signal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Riley County woman injured in truck stop parking lot accident

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

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

🎤 Forward Ever: Senator Moran on the Big Beautiful Bill

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Kansas Wheat: Harvest day eight 

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

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

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

If you’re ever in a situation like this:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Damage estimate is released from apartment building fire in Junction City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-

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



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

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

Furniture Amnesty Day will be held in Manhattan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Kansas Wheat Harvest report

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

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

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

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

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

Riverfront MHK open houses planned July 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KDWP special hunt application period now open  

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

The carnival will run Wednesday night through Sunday evening.

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

Freedom Fest preparations are under way in Junction City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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