During the Click It or Ticket Campaign, which ran from May 18 through June 2, 2025, the Riley County Police Department conducted overtime saturation patrols to enforce Kansas occupant restraint, texting, impaired driving, and other traffic laws.

 During the campaign, officers wrote 42 safety belt citations, 42 speeding citations, 10 texting while driving citations, and 33 other citations and arrests. 128 vehicle stops were made during the campaign.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the Click It or Ticket Campaign, which ran from May 18 through June 2, 2025, the Riley County Police Department conducted overtime saturation patrols to enforce Kansas occupant restraint, texting, impaired driving, and other traffic laws. During the campaign, officers wrote 42 safety belt citations, 42 speeding citations, 10 texting while driving citations, and 33 other citations and arrests. 128 vehicle stops were made during the campaign.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Click It or Ticket results are released by RCPD

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Steve Smithers of the Abilene Railroad.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wThfInJo1G4?si=G3Nd_OswCAXvGIqf" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with Steve Smithers of the Abilene Railroad.

🎤 Forward Ever: Travel on the Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad

Juneteenth will be observed Friday and Saturday in Manhattan.

Friday evening activities will include a grilling cookoff and free concert by Heatwave at 7:30 p.m. in City Park. On Saturday there will be a communitywalk beginning at 10:30 a.m. from Longs Park to Douglas Park, a vendor fair and activities in Douglas Center Park. Other activities will include a speaker, Curtis Pitts, a Kids Experience Play, vendors and food trucks.

Juneteenth is a celebration of African American freedom dating back to the time in the 1860s when slaves in Texas learned about the Emancipation Provlamation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749776513550.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Juneteenth will be observed Friday and Saturday in Manhattan.Friday evening activities will include a grilling cookoff and free concert by Heatwave at 7:30 p.m. in City Park. On Saturday there will be a communitywalk beginning at 10:30 a.m. from Longs Park to Douglas Park, a vendor fair and activities in Douglas Center Park. Other activities will include a speaker, Curtis Pitts, a Kids Experience Play, vendors and food trucks.Juneteenth is a celebration of African American freedom dating back to the time in the 1860s when slaves in Texas learned about the Emancipation Provlamation.&nbsp;

Manhattan residents will celebrate Juneteenth

FORT RILEY, Kansas – A squad of 1st Infantry Division Soldiers proved they were the best during the III Armored Corps Best Squad Competition hosted at Fort Riley June 7-11, 2025.

Eleven teams from across the III Armored Corps competed in the 2025 Best Squad Competition, each representing the best their division or separate brigade has to offer. The winning team from 5th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, “Long Knife,” had a short train up prior to the competition, but the strength of their bond proved invaluable during the grueling events.

“I’m honored to have led this team, they’re a great group of Soldiers and they really left it all on the field,” said Staff Sgt. Jerico Kelley, squad leader of the winning team. He added that while they’re looking forward to a break, they’ll be back to training for the U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) Best Squad competition soon.

Kelley, along with his squad including Sgt. Jesse Sandoval, Sgt. Ruben Robles, Spc. Jonathan Atkinson, and Pvt. 1st Class David Kosciusko, stayed amongst the top three teams throughout the competition, excelling in some tasks and struggling in others.

“Everybody has their strengths and weaknesses, we were really able to capitalize on our strengths to make up for where we struggled,” Kelley explained.

The four-day contest consisted of a variety of physical and cognitive tests, all completed as a team, and emphasizing the importance of the squad level unit. Teams battled for position across 14 events in four days, including land navigation, weapons qualification, water survival test, obstacle course, 12-mile road march, and written test.

Command Sgt. Maj. Erik Andresen from 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 63rd Armor Regiment, 2nd ABCT, 1st Infantry Division planned, coordinated and executed the competition on behalf of III Armored Corps. It’s a formidable undertaking, with a wide variety of tasks from the reception and in-processing of teams to the execution of complex react to contact events and medical lanes.

“It was an honor to plan and conduct this competition, both for the 1st Infantry Division and III Armored Corps,” said Andresen. “These competitors showcased the very best the Army has to offer in both warfighting and professionalism.”

The Long Knife team will continue to train in advance of the FORSCOM competition, held at Fort Bliss, Texas in August this year.

Fort Riley releaseFORT RILEY, Kansas – A squad of 1st Infantry Division Soldiers proved they were the best during the III Armored Corps Best Squad Competition hosted at Fort Riley June 7-11, 2025.Eleven teams from across the III Armored Corps competed in the 2025 Best Squad Competition, each representing the best their division or separate brigade has to offer. The winning team from 5th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, “Long Knife,” had a short train up prior to the competition, but the strength of their bond proved invaluable during the grueling events.“I’m honored to have led this team, they’re a great group of Soldiers and they really left it all on the field,” said Staff Sgt. Jerico Kelley, squad leader of the winning team. He added that while they’re looking forward to a break, they’ll be back to training for the U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) Best Squad competition soon.Kelley, along with his squad including Sgt. Jesse Sandoval, Sgt. Ruben Robles, Spc. Jonathan Atkinson, and Pvt. 1st Class David Kosciusko, stayed amongst the top three teams throughout the competition, excelling in some tasks and struggling in others.“Everybody has their strengths and weaknesses, we were really able to capitalize on our strengths to make up for where we struggled,” Kelley explained.The four-day contest consisted of a variety of physical and cognitive tests, all completed as a team, and emphasizing the importance of the squad level unit. Teams battled for position across 14 events in four days, including land navigation, weapons qualification, water survival test, obstacle course, 12-mile road march, and written test.Command Sgt. Maj. Erik Andresen from 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 63rd Armor Regiment, 2nd ABCT, 1st Infantry Division planned, coordinated and executed the competition on behalf of III Armored Corps. It’s a formidable undertaking, with a wide variety of tasks from the reception and in-processing of teams to the execution of complex react to contact events and medical lanes.“It was an honor to plan and conduct this competition, both for the 1st Infantry Division and III Armored Corps,” said Andresen. “These competitors showcased the very best the Army has to offer in both warfighting and professionalism.”The Long Knife team will continue to train in advance of the FORSCOM competition, held at Fort Bliss, Texas in August this year.

Big Red One wins Corps-level Best Squad Competition

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Board of Regents on Thursday approved tuition and fee rates for the upcoming fiscal year at the state’s six public universities, emphasizing a continued focus on affordability and student success.

“The Regents’ strategic plan emphasizes affordability for Kansas families and success for students in our institutions,” said KBOR Chair Carl Ice in a statement. “These tuition rates balance those priorities by keeping costs as low as possible while ensuring that state universities can continue to help students succeed in the classroom and in their careers after graduation.”

The decision aligns with the Board’s strategic plan, Building a Future, which aims to improve student outcomes while expanding access to financial aid. According to KBOR, on-time graduation rates at state universities have increased by 10.2 percentage points over the last five years. Entry-level wages for graduates have risen more than 15% since 2020, and the total amount of need-based aid, grants, and scholarships has grown by 28%.

Individual tuition rate changes for each university are expected to be posted on the Board’s website.

The six state universities governed by KBOR include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University.

You can view the&nbsp;c<a href="https://www.kansasregents.gov/resources/University_Tuition_Proposals_to_KBOR_05142025.pdf">omprehensive tables of approved tuition and fees&nbsp;at this link.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721922122827.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. — The Kansas Board of Regents on Thursday approved tuition and fee rates for the upcoming fiscal year at the state’s six public universities, emphasizing a continued focus on affordability and student success.“The Regents’ strategic plan emphasizes affordability for Kansas families and success for students in our institutions,” said KBOR Chair Carl Ice in a statement. “These tuition rates balance those priorities by keeping costs as low as possible while ensuring that state universities can continue to help students succeed in the classroom and in their careers after graduation.”The decision aligns with the Board’s strategic plan, Building a Future, which aims to improve student outcomes while expanding access to financial aid. According to KBOR, on-time graduation rates at state universities have increased by 10.2 percentage points over the last five years. Entry-level wages for graduates have risen more than 15% since 2020, and the total amount of need-based aid, grants, and scholarships has grown by 28%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749751489597.png" alt="The table above shows resident undergraduate tuition increases at the state universities for full-time students per semester for Fiscal Year 2026" />
 <figcaption>The table above shows resident undergraduate tuition increases at the state universities for full-time students per semester for Fiscal Year 2026</figcaption>
 </figure>Individual tuition rate changes for each university are expected to be posted on the Board’s website.The six state universities governed by KBOR include the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University, Fort Hays State University and Pittsburg State University.You can view the&nbsp;c<a href="https://www.kansasregents.gov/resources/University_Tuition_Proposals_to_KBOR_05142025.pdf">omprehensive tables of approved tuition and fees&nbsp;at this link.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Regents approve tuition and fee rates 

MANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://engg.k-state.edu/">Carl R. Ice College of Engineering</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, with recent approval from the Kansas Board of Regents, will add&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://engg.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate/nuclear-engineering/">nuclear engineering</a>&nbsp;as its 15th Bachelor of Science degree program.Offered through the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mne.k-state.edu/">Alan Levin Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering</a>, the curriculum of 123 credit hours will be officially available in fall 2025.

Nuclear engineers impact the world through designing and improving reliable, efficient nuclear energy generation; developing life-saving innovations in medical imaging, treatments and therapies; and contributing to national security through the advancement of nuclear safety, radiation protection and defense technology.The degree was previously offered at K-State beginning in 1952 and ending in 1996, when the nuclear engineering and mechanical engineering departments merged. The bachelor's degree program was discontinued due to a nationwide decline in perceived demand for nuclear engineers; instead, the college has since offered nuclear engineering as a sub-plan within the mechanical engineering curriculum.In adding the bachelor's program back into its offerings, K-State will again offer nuclear engineering degrees at all levels. 

The university continues to be the exclusive home to a nuclear engineering program at any level in Kansas. Additionally, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mne.k-state.edu/research/reactor/">TRIGA Mark II Nuclear Reactor Facility</a>&nbsp;in Ward Hall is one of only 25 university research reactors in the nation and the only such facility in the state."We've seen substantial increases in the number of students interested in pursuing our nuclear engineering option within the mechanical engineering bachelor's degree program," said Amir Bahadori, nuclear engineering program director and associate professor in the mechanical and nuclear engineering department. "K-State already has nuclear-option graduates working for highly visible entities, such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, NASA's Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center and Evergy, as well as many of the country's top national laboratories. Adding this undergraduate degree will further strengthen K-State as a regional leader in this field.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749734831177.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By Grant GuggisbergDivision of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://engg.k-state.edu/">Carl R. Ice College of Engineering</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University, with recent approval from the Kansas Board of Regents, will add&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://engg.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate/nuclear-engineering/">nuclear engineering</a>&nbsp;as its 15th Bachelor of Science degree program.Offered through the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mne.k-state.edu/">Alan Levin Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering</a>, the curriculum of 123 credit hours will be officially available in fall 2025.Nuclear engineers impact the world through designing and improving reliable, efficient nuclear energy generation; developing life-saving innovations in medical imaging, treatments and therapies; and contributing to national security through the advancement of nuclear safety, radiation protection and defense technology.The degree was previously offered at K-State beginning in 1952 and ending in 1996, when the nuclear engineering and mechanical engineering departments merged. The bachelor's degree program was discontinued due to a nationwide decline in perceived demand for nuclear engineers; instead, the college has since offered nuclear engineering as a sub-plan within the mechanical engineering curriculum.In adding the bachelor's program back into its offerings, K-State will again offer nuclear engineering degrees at all levels. The university continues to be the exclusive home to a nuclear engineering program at any level in Kansas. Additionally, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.mne.k-state.edu/research/reactor/">TRIGA Mark II Nuclear Reactor Facility</a>&nbsp;in Ward Hall is one of only 25 university research reactors in the nation and the only such facility in the state."We've seen substantial increases in the number of students interested in pursuing our nuclear engineering option within the mechanical engineering bachelor's degree program," said Amir Bahadori, nuclear engineering program director and associate professor in the mechanical and nuclear engineering department. "K-State already has nuclear-option graduates working for highly visible entities, such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, NASA's Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center and Evergy, as well as many of the country's top national laboratories. Adding this undergraduate degree will further strengthen K-State as a regional leader in this field.

 K-State students can earn a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering starting fall 2025

MADISON COUNTY —Four people including a Fort Riley woman were injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Madison County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Toyota Rav4 driven by a 21-year-old Wright City, Missouri woman was northbound on MO 00&nbsp; two miles north of Junction City, Missouri. The Toyota turned into the path of a southbound 2013 Chevy Sonic driven by a 19-year-old Farmington, Missouri woman.

A private vehicle transported three passengers including a 47-year-old Fort Riley, Kansas, woman and two small children from Wright City, Missouri, to Madison Medical Center. EMS transported the 21-year-old driver to&nbsp; Madison Medical Center. There were no other injuries. All were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

MADISON COUNTY —Four people including a Fort Riley woman were injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Madison County, Missouri.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2018 Toyota Rav4 driven by a 21-year-old Wright City, Missouri woman was northbound on MO 00&nbsp; two miles north of Junction City, Missouri. The Toyota turned into the path of a southbound 2013 Chevy Sonic driven by a 19-year-old Farmington, Missouri woman.A private vehicle transported three passengers including a 47-year-old Fort Riley, Kansas, woman and two small children from Wright City, Missouri, to Madison Medical Center. EMS transported the 21-year-old driver to&nbsp; Madison Medical Center. There were no other injuries. All were properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.&nbsp;

Fort Riley woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

5 other women identified as possible victims

ELLIS COUNTY —On Monday, in an Ellis County courtroom in Hays, 21-year-old Alec Donald Vann of Wakefield was sentenced to 114 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to one count of aggravated sexual battery, according to a statement from the Ellis County Attorney's office.

Vann was initially charged with two counts of rape, both being level 1 person felonies, and one count of aggravated sexual battery, a severity level 5-person felony.

The charges alleged Vann knowingly engaged in sexual acts and intercourse with a woman, who did not consent and was overcome by force or fear, in Hays in October 2023.

Vann accepted a plea agreement from the state and pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated sexual battery. After serving his 114-month prison sentence, Vann will be required to register as a sex offender for 25 years and be subject to lifetime post-release supervision.

In addition to the victim in Hays, five additional people were identified as possible victims of Vann. Four victims were willing to speak with the prosecutor, and ultimately, three testified concerning the defendant’s prior acts of sexual misconduct.

The defendant was represented by Andy Vinduska, attorney from Manhattan. The state was represented by former Ellis County Attorney and now Special Prosecutor Appointed, Robert A. Anderson Jr. The Honorable Thomas Drees, 23rd Judicial District Court Judge, served as the sentencing judge.

"This defendant was finally held responsible for his actions, and the Ellis County Attorney's Office will continue to seek justice for victims and hold perpetrators accountable," Anderson said. "We are thankful to the courageous women who came forward in this matter and hope they can now move forward in peace and heal from the trauma caused by the defendant."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749666168670.png" alt="Vann-photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Vann-photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>5 other women identified as possible victims</h2>ELLIS COUNTY —On Monday, in an Ellis County courtroom in Hays, 21-year-old Alec Donald Vann of Wakefield was sentenced to 114 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to one count of aggravated sexual battery, according to a statement from the Ellis County Attorney's office.Vann was initially charged with two counts of rape, both being level 1 person felonies, and one count of aggravated sexual battery, a severity level 5-person felony.The charges alleged Vann knowingly engaged in sexual acts and intercourse with a woman, who did not consent and was overcome by force or fear, in Hays in October 2023.Vann accepted a plea agreement from the state and pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated sexual battery. After serving his 114-month prison sentence, Vann will be required to register as a sex offender for 25 years and be subject to lifetime post-release supervision.In addition to the victim in Hays, five additional people were identified as possible victims of Vann. Four victims were willing to speak with the prosecutor, and ultimately, three testified concerning the defendant’s prior acts of sexual misconduct.The defendant was represented by Andy Vinduska, attorney from Manhattan. The state was represented by former Ellis County Attorney and now Special Prosecutor Appointed, Robert A. Anderson Jr. The Honorable Thomas Drees, 23rd Judicial District Court Judge, served as the sentencing judge."This defendant was finally held responsible for his actions, and the Ellis County Attorney's Office will continue to seek justice for victims and hold perpetrators accountable," Anderson said. "We are thankful to the courageous women who came forward in this matter and hope they can now move forward in peace and heal from the trauma caused by the defendant."

Plea deal for sex crimes in northwest Kansas

USD 383 announced that Darin Stous has been named the principal of Frank Bergman Elementary School.

Mr. Stous has served as the Assistant Principal/MTSS Coordinator at Frank Bergman Elementary School since June of 2023. Prior to that, he served as a Social Emotional Coach and as an Assistant Principal/MTSS Coordinator at Lee Elementary School. He began his career as an elementary teacher (teaching grades 3 and 5) in the Holton, KS school district (USD 336).&nbsp;

“I am honored and excited to be named the new principal of Frank V. Bergman Elementary School,” states Stous. “I look forward to continuing to work with and lead an amazing group of students, staff, and parents. We have an incredible school community and excellent traditions. I can’t wait to get the year started!”

“We are pleased to have Mr. Stous leading the team at Frank Bergman Elementary,” states Superintendent Eric Reid. “He has demonstrated a great work ethic and commitment to the USD 383 schools that he has served, and we are excited for him to embrace this opportunity at Bergman.”

The USD 383 Board of Education will act on the appointment during the June 25 meeting. He will begin his role in July, 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749666478936.png" alt="Darin Stous" />
 <figcaption>Darin Stous</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 383 announced that Darin Stous has been named the principal of Frank Bergman Elementary School.Mr. Stous has served as the Assistant Principal/MTSS Coordinator at Frank Bergman Elementary School since June of 2023. Prior to that, he served as a Social Emotional Coach and as an Assistant Principal/MTSS Coordinator at Lee Elementary School. He began his career as an elementary teacher (teaching grades 3 and 5) in the Holton, KS school district (USD 336).&nbsp;“I am honored and excited to be named the new principal of Frank V. Bergman Elementary School,” states Stous. “I look forward to continuing to work with and lead an amazing group of students, staff, and parents. We have an incredible school community and excellent traditions. I can’t wait to get the year started!”“We are pleased to have Mr. Stous leading the team at Frank Bergman Elementary,” states Superintendent Eric Reid. “He has demonstrated a great work ethic and commitment to the USD 383 schools that he has served, and we are excited for him to embrace this opportunity at Bergman.”The USD 383 Board of Education will act on the appointment during the June 25 meeting. He will begin his role in July, 2025.

Stous Named Frank Bergman Elementary School Principal

A PLANNING HORIZON OF 10 YEARS —OR MORE — CAN HELP REACH GOALS

Preparing to transition a&nbsp;<a href="https://familybusinessmagazine.com/" target="_blank">family business</a>&nbsp;to the next owner — whether it be a family member or third-party buyer — is a process that requires taking the long view. The business owner who decides to retire one year from now without having made any preparations is about 10 years too late. The owner will be able to sell, but may have to make concessions on price, deal structure and tax consequences that would not have been necessary if the proper long-range planning had been done.&nbsp;

While every business is different, it is also true that every business is the same. That is, every business owner needs to look at the distant horizon, questioning basic assumptions about the business, assessing the talents and wishes of family members who may someday become owners, and innovating in ways that keep the company at the top of its game in order to maximize value. All of this takes time and careful planning, preferably with the help of trusted advisors along the way.&nbsp;

Business owners and family farm owners who follow certain steps in planning for exit are more likely to reach the goals they set for a successful transition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When it comes to setting goals for a business transition, your first thought may be,&nbsp;“Well, my goal is to sell the business.”&nbsp;But there’s so much more to think about.&nbsp;

Are there family members who may want to own the business, or whom you have been grooming to take over? Or are there key employees whom you have trained and entrusted with the company’s growth and operations over the years?&nbsp;You may think of them as family, too, and they may be candidates for ownership.&nbsp;

Additionally, you should consider what you are going to do in retirement. You may want to step away from the business altogether, or keep a hand in it as a consultant for a few years. Either way, you probably expect some type of retirement cash flow stream.&nbsp;

If you haven’t thought about your post-transition role, now is the time to think about it. And if you are not going to continue being active in the business, what will you do with your time? It’s important to envision your retirement life before you get there. Retirement isn’t just about selling your business and handing over the keys. It’s about having a life afterward, and if you are confident in what that life will look like, it will make it easier for you to do the planning and preparation that your business deserves.&nbsp;

Step 2 — Identify your successor

For owners of family businesses and farms, this can be the most emotional factor in transition planning. Perhaps the farm has been in your family for three generations, it is a thriving entity and your son or daughter is eager to take it over. Congratulations — you’re golden. But for many owners, the succession picture is more complicated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Maybe you are now 60 years old and you have decided you’ll work till age 70, which gives you 10 years for planning and preparation to transition your company or farm. But when you reach age 70, your children will likely be at least in their mid-40s. If they aren’t already working with you in the business or farm, they may have established careers elsewhere and will be in their prime earning years when you’re ready for them to take over.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This reality adds another wrinkle to the planning picture for family business and farm owners. If your long-range goal is for the next generation of your family to take over the business, planning must start while they are fairly young — high school is not too early — so they can gain a college education and work experience that will benefit them and prepare them for ownership.&nbsp;

Communication is one of the most critical factors in preparing for transition of a family entity. If you want and expect your children to take over the family business, it must be discussed at a time when the children can decide whether they want to succeed you and, if so, plan how to prepare themselves. Among&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/industries/agribusiness/">family farms,</a>&nbsp;the majority of transitions involve succession to family members, and it is more common for the younger generation to be involved in the business and to have gotten the education and training needed to run the farm.&nbsp;

In some families, the parents are reluctant to share much information with their children even when the children reach adulthood. But you can’t expect an adult to plan his or her life around taking over a family business if they aren’t privy to critical information that can help them decide, particularly if it could involve taking on a substantial debt. Business transactions can unravel over poor communication, even among family members. When that happens, the owner should have a Plan B, such as selling to a key employee or finding an outside buyer.&nbsp;

Another key point of communication is educating the successor as to the roles you have filled in the operation. Have you, like many owners, acted as the CEO, COO, CMO and HR director? When you transition the business, the next owner — whether it’s a family member or outside buyer — needs to understand all the roles involved and have job descriptions that will guide the hiring of new managers to help run the operation.&nbsp;

Step 3 — Identify your company's value&nbsp;

Often, business owners have an idea of what they think their business is worth, but it’s based more on emotion than hard data. Once planning for a transition starts, obtaining an independent business valuation is an essential step to set a benchmark.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Typically, the initial valuation is not used to determine an asking price, since the actual transaction is still years in the future. But the report from an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/services/advisory-consulting/business-valuations/">independent valuation professional</a>&nbsp;will reveal the value drivers in your business and help formulate a multi-year improvement plan that will increase the value. This is particularly important if the entity will be sold to an outside buyer or private equity group.&nbsp;

The value of a business helps determine the path toward transition. A $50 million business requires different transition strategies and tax planning than a $5 million business does. If partial gifting of an entity to a family member is part of the plan, the value of the business helps determine the size of the gifted portion, as well as financing and tax planning strategies for the rest.&nbsp;

Step 4 — Consider a buy-sell agreement

Buy-sell agreements are essential for any business that has more than one owner. This includes unrelated owners as well as extended family members who own a family business together. A buy-sell agreement stipulates how an owner’s share of a business may be transferred upon their death or departure. Often, these agreements are structured to prevent outsiders from gaining control of part of the business and provide a way to determine the value of each owner’s interest.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/preparing-to-sell-your-business/">Once transition planning has begun in a company, it’s important to review the buy-sell agreement if there is one in place.</a>&nbsp;If there is no buy-sell agreement, now is the time to put one in place. If there is a buy-sell agreement but it is outdated, it should be updated at this time. (Generally, buy-sell agreements should be reviewed every two to three years to ensure they are current.)&nbsp;

If there is more than one owner, the transition plans — even if exit is years away — will be coordinated according to the buy-sell agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

But agreements on paper are only part of the process. It’s important early in the transition planning to get all owners together for a group meeting to discuss the health of the business and the transition plans. After that, individual meetings with each owner can flesh out additional information that wouldn’t be brought up in a group setting, but which provides important insights into any concerns. Trusted advisors are key facilitators for these meetings, often bridging the communication gaps and helping participants work through hard messages.&nbsp;

Taking into account the value of the business, the proportion held by the seller and other factors, the deal structure is generally designed to be as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/tax-tips-when-buying-the-assets-of-a-business/">tax efficient as possible</a>. Some of the factors considered are:&nbsp;&nbsp;

Once the tax strategy is worked out and the deal structure is clear, everyone is on the same page and it’s time to start drafting the legal documents. At that point, the business transition starts to feel real.&nbsp;

One of the most important steps in planning for a business exit may also be one of the most difficult for many owners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ask yourself,&nbsp;“Will my business still be relevant five or ten years from now?”&nbsp;

Businesses need to adjust to changing times to stay relevant and to grow their value. Just because you envision retiring in five or ten years does not mean you can stop innovating in your company. Indeed, this is the time to step up innovations and improvements that will increase the value and marketability of the entity.&nbsp;

Is there a new technology that is driving innovation in your industry?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowntech.com/blog/5-steps-every-business-should-take-before-investing-in-ai/">Have you invested in artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help keep your business ahead of the curve?</a>&nbsp;

Most importantly, what is the long-term outlook for your industry? Markets change, technologies change and customer needs change, and failure to adapt and capitalize on changing conditions will render your business irrelevant and lower its value.&nbsp;

This is a lot to think about, but fortunately you have time — IF you are starting the transition process early enough. Moreover, you have a roadmap with clear steps to take.&nbsp;

If you would like to start the long-range process of family business planning succession,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">contact an Adams Brown advisor.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741211435367.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A PLANNING HORIZON OF 10 YEARS —OR MORE — CAN HELP REACH GOALS</h2><h2>Key Takeaways</h2><ol>
 <li>A successful business transition takes at least 10 years of planning — not just one.</li><li>Open communication, clear successor plans and a solid valuation are key to preserving your business’s legacy.</li><li>Failing to plan for taxes, relevance and family dynamics can cost you more than just money — it can cost your company’s future.</li>
 </ol>Preparing to transition a&nbsp;<a href="https://familybusinessmagazine.com/" target="_blank">family business</a>&nbsp;to the next owner — whether it be a family member or third-party buyer — is a process that requires taking the long view. The business owner who decides to retire one year from now without having made any preparations is about 10 years too late. The owner will be able to sell, but may have to make concessions on price, deal structure and tax consequences that would not have been necessary if the proper long-range planning had been done.&nbsp;While every business is different, it is also true that every business is the same. That is, every business owner needs to look at the distant horizon, questioning basic assumptions about the business, assessing the talents and wishes of family members who may someday become owners, and innovating in ways that keep the company at the top of its game in order to maximize value. All of this takes time and careful planning, preferably with the help of trusted advisors along the way.&nbsp;Business owners and family farm owners who follow certain steps in planning for exit are more likely to reach the goals they set for a successful transition.&nbsp;&nbsp;Step 1 — Clarify your goalsWhen it comes to setting goals for a business transition, your first thought may be,&nbsp;“Well, my goal is to sell the business.”&nbsp;But there’s so much more to think about.&nbsp;Are there family members who may want to own the business, or whom you have been grooming to take over? Or are there key employees whom you have trained and entrusted with the company’s growth and operations over the years?&nbsp;You may think of them as family, too, and they may be candidates for ownership.&nbsp;Additionally, you should consider what you are going to do in retirement. You may want to step away from the business altogether, or keep a hand in it as a consultant for a few years. Either way, you probably expect some type of retirement cash flow stream.&nbsp;If you haven’t thought about your post-transition role, now is the time to think about it. And if you are not going to continue being active in the business, what will you do with your time? It’s important to envision your retirement life before you get there. Retirement isn’t just about selling your business and handing over the keys. It’s about having a life afterward, and if you are confident in what that life will look like, it will make it easier for you to do the planning and preparation that your business deserves.&nbsp;Step 2 — Identify your successorFor owners of family businesses and farms, this can be the most emotional factor in transition planning. Perhaps the farm has been in your family for three generations, it is a thriving entity and your son or daughter is eager to take it over. Congratulations — you’re golden. But for many owners, the succession picture is more complicated.&nbsp;&nbsp;Maybe you are now 60 years old and you have decided you’ll work till age 70, which gives you 10 years for planning and preparation to transition your company or farm. But when you reach age 70, your children will likely be at least in their mid-40s. If they aren’t already working with you in the business or farm, they may have established careers elsewhere and will be in their prime earning years when you’re ready for them to take over.&nbsp;&nbsp;This reality adds another wrinkle to the planning picture for family business and farm owners. If your long-range goal is for the next generation of your family to take over the business, planning must start while they are fairly young — high school is not too early — so they can gain a college education and work experience that will benefit them and prepare them for ownership.&nbsp;Communication is one of the most critical factors in preparing for transition of a family entity. If you want and expect your children to take over the family business, it must be discussed at a time when the children can decide whether they want to succeed you and, if so, plan how to prepare themselves. Among&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/industries/agribusiness/">family farms,</a>&nbsp;the majority of transitions involve succession to family members, and it is more common for the younger generation to be involved in the business and to have gotten the education and training needed to run the farm.&nbsp;In some families, the parents are reluctant to share much information with their children even when the children reach adulthood. But you can’t expect an adult to plan his or her life around taking over a family business if they aren’t privy to critical information that can help them decide, particularly if it could involve taking on a substantial debt. Business transactions can unravel over poor communication, even among family members. When that happens, the owner should have a Plan B, such as selling to a key employee or finding an outside buyer.&nbsp;Another key point of communication is educating the successor as to the roles you have filled in the operation. Have you, like many owners, acted as the CEO, COO, CMO and HR director? When you transition the business, the next owner — whether it’s a family member or outside buyer — needs to understand all the roles involved and have job descriptions that will guide the hiring of new managers to help run the operation.&nbsp;Step 3 — Identify your company's value&nbsp;Often, business owners have an idea of what they think their business is worth, but it’s based more on emotion than hard data. Once planning for a transition starts, obtaining an independent business valuation is an essential step to set a benchmark.&nbsp;&nbsp;Typically, the initial valuation is not used to determine an asking price, since the actual transaction is still years in the future. But the report from an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/services/advisory-consulting/business-valuations/">independent valuation professional</a>&nbsp;will reveal the value drivers in your business and help formulate a multi-year improvement plan that will increase the value. This is particularly important if the entity will be sold to an outside buyer or private equity group.&nbsp;The value of a business helps determine the path toward transition. A $50 million business requires different transition strategies and tax planning than a $5 million business does. If partial gifting of an entity to a family member is part of the plan, the value of the business helps determine the size of the gifted portion, as well as financing and tax planning strategies for the rest.&nbsp;Step 4 — Consider a buy-sell agreementBuy-sell agreements are essential for any business that has more than one owner. This includes unrelated owners as well as extended family members who own a family business together. A buy-sell agreement stipulates how an owner’s share of a business may be transferred upon their death or departure. Often, these agreements are structured to prevent outsiders from gaining control of part of the business and provide a way to determine the value of each owner’s interest.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/preparing-to-sell-your-business/">Once transition planning has begun in a company, it’s important to review the buy-sell agreement if there is one in place.</a>&nbsp;If there is no buy-sell agreement, now is the time to put one in place. If there is a buy-sell agreement but it is outdated, it should be updated at this time. (Generally, buy-sell agreements should be reviewed every two to three years to ensure they are current.)&nbsp;If there is more than one owner, the transition plans — even if exit is years away — will be coordinated according to the buy-sell agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;But agreements on paper are only part of the process. It’s important early in the transition planning to get all owners together for a group meeting to discuss the health of the business and the transition plans. After that, individual meetings with each owner can flesh out additional information that wouldn’t be brought up in a group setting, but which provides important insights into any concerns. Trusted advisors are key facilitators for these meetings, often bridging the communication gaps and helping participants work through hard messages.&nbsp;Step 5 — Focus on tax strategyTaking into account the value of the business, the proportion held by the seller and other factors, the deal structure is generally designed to be as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/tax-tips-when-buying-the-assets-of-a-business/">tax efficient as possible</a>. Some of the factors considered are:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Which entity type will be the most advantageous, a C corporation, S corporation, partnership, LLC or other structure.&nbsp;</li><li>Whether an asset sale or a stock sale is most beneficial.&nbsp;</li><li>If the deal will include partial gifting, a leveraged gift structure that works for the owner may be considered.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Moving assets into some type of trust so when the assets are liquidated, such as land and machinery in the case of a farm, it is done on a tax-free basis.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Once the tax strategy is worked out and the deal structure is clear, everyone is on the same page and it’s time to start drafting the legal documents. At that point, the business transition starts to feel real.&nbsp;RelevanceOne of the most important steps in planning for a business exit may also be one of the most difficult for many owners.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ask yourself,&nbsp;“Will my business still be relevant five or ten years from now?”&nbsp;Businesses need to adjust to changing times to stay relevant and to grow their value. Just because you envision retiring in five or ten years does not mean you can stop innovating in your company. Indeed, this is the time to step up innovations and improvements that will increase the value and marketability of the entity.&nbsp;Is there a new technology that is driving innovation in your industry?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowntech.com/blog/5-steps-every-business-should-take-before-investing-in-ai/">Have you invested in artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help keep your business ahead of the curve?</a>&nbsp;Most importantly, what is the long-term outlook for your industry? Markets change, technologies change and customer needs change, and failure to adapt and capitalize on changing conditions will render your business irrelevant and lower its value.&nbsp;Questions?This is a lot to think about, but fortunately you have time — IF you are starting the transition process early enough. Moreover, you have a roadmap with clear steps to take.&nbsp;If you would like to start the long-range process of family business planning succession,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">contact an Adams Brown advisor.</a>

RCPD: Manhattan business lost over $4,100 in burglary

Approximately 10,000 Soldiers from Fort Riley participated in a Division Run on Monday to celebrate the Army's 250th birthday. Garrison Commander Col. Gerald "Jerry" Nunziato described the run in formation "awe inspiring when you see that number of Soldiers lined up to run in a formation."

This Friday there will be a free concert on the Arillery Parade featuring Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the concert begins at 7 p.m. Bring your own chairs. There will be food trucks, beverages, plus bouncy house activities for children. There is a link on the Fort Riley web page to sign up for an online pass to get on Main Post. The main parking area will be at the&nbsp; community center just up the road from the Artillery Parade Field.

Victory Week activities are scheduled from June 23 - 27 featuring competions from softball to combatives. There will be another free concert June 27 about 6:30 p.m. at the Artillery Parade Field featuring the 1st Infantry Division Rock Band and the country singers Matty &amp; Tae along with Haley Mae Campbell. Those performances will be followed by fireworks.

Approximately 10,000 Soldiers from Fort Riley participated in a Division Run on Monday to celebrate the Army's 250th birthday. Garrison Commander Col. Gerald "Jerry" Nunziato described the run in formation "awe inspiring when you see that number of Soldiers lined up to run in a formation."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749602042973.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;( Fort Riley )" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;( Fort Riley )</figcaption>
 </figure>This Friday there will be a free concert on the Arillery Parade featuring Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the concert begins at 7 p.m. Bring your own chairs. There will be food trucks, beverages, plus bouncy house activities for children. There is a link on the Fort Riley web page to sign up for an online pass to get on Main Post. The main parking area will be at the&nbsp; community center just up the road from the Artillery Parade Field.Victory Week activities are scheduled from June 23 - 27 featuring competions from softball to combatives. There will be another free concert June 27 about 6:30 p.m. at the Artillery Parade Field featuring the 1st Infantry Division Rock Band and the country singers Matty &amp; Tae along with Haley Mae Campbell. Those performances will be followed by fireworks.

Numerous activities are occurring at Fort Riley 

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating an aggravated robbery that occurred April 11, in the 1500 block of Pipher Lane in Manhattan have made another arrest.

Just before 1:30p.m. Monday, police arrested 17-year-old Kamryn Machor, of Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp; Machor is being held without bond at the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center.

This arrest was in connection to a report filed for aggravated robbery in the 1500 block of Pipher Ln. in Manhattan on April 11, 2025. A 16-year-old boy was listed as the victim and a 17-year-old girl, a 17-year-old boy, a 16-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl were listed as the suspects. 

The victim reported the suspects pointed a firearm at the victim and took items from him. This is an ongoing investigation and no additional information will be released at this time.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating an aggravated robbery that occurred April 11, in the 1500 block of Pipher Lane in Manhattan have made another arrest.Just before 1:30p.m. Monday, police arrested 17-year-old Kamryn Machor, of Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp; Machor is being held without bond at the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center.This arrest was in connection to a report filed for aggravated robbery in the 1500 block of Pipher Ln. in Manhattan on April 11, 2025. A 16-year-old boy was listed as the victim and a 17-year-old girl, a 17-year-old boy, a 16-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl were listed as the suspects. The victim reported the suspects pointed a firearm at the victim and took items from him. This is an ongoing investigation and no additional information will be released at this time.

Another Manhattan teen accused in armed robbery

Riley County police filed reports for theft Monday.

They occurred: in the 500 block of Pilsbury Dr. in Manhattan at approximately 7:48 a.m. Energy Center Manhattan Pool was listed as the victim when it was reported an unknown suspect took their dump trailer. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $18,000. At approximately 8:05 p.m., the trailer was recovered in Jackson County Missouri.&nbsp;

Officers filed a report for theft in the 2300 block of Sky-vue Lane in Manhattan at approximately 8:31 a.m. Flint Hills Breadbasket was listed as the victim when it was reported an unknown suspect took their gray 2003 Ford F-250 truck. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $5,000.&nbsp;

Officers filed a report for theft in the 3200 block of Kimball &nbsp;Ave. in Manhattan at approximately 10:29 a.m. Prairie Stone Inc. was listed as the victim when it was reported an unknown suspect took their mini skid steer. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $20,000.&nbsp;

Officers filed a report for theft in the 4600 block of Eureka Dr. in Manhattan at approximately 11:43 a.m. Officers listed the Department of Labor as the victim when it was reported a 37-year-old man took multiple power tools, a radio and a Lenovo computer. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $10,000.&nbsp;

Kamryn Machor, 17, of Manhattan was arrested at approximately 1:25 p.m. Machor was issued no bond and remains confined at the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center at the time of this report. This arrest was in connection to a report filed for aggravated robbery in the 1500 block of Pipher Ln. in Manhattan on April 11, 2025. A 16-year-old male was listed as the victim and a 17-year-old female, a 17-year-old male, a 16-year-old male and a 15-year-old female were listed as the suspects. The victim reported the suspects pointed a firearm at the victim and took items from him. This is an ongoing investigation and no additional information will be released at this time.

Braden Dinkel, 21, of Manhattan was arrested at approximately 5:53 p.m. for a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated battery. Dinkel was issued a total bond of $25,000 and is no longer confined at the time of this report.&nbsp;

Riley County police filed reports for theft Monday.They occurred: in the 500 block of Pilsbury Dr. in Manhattan at approximately 7:48 a.m. Energy Center Manhattan Pool was listed as the victim when it was reported an unknown suspect took their dump trailer. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $18,000. At approximately 8:05 p.m., the trailer was recovered in Jackson County Missouri.&nbsp;Officers filed a report for theft in the 2300 block of Sky-vue Lane in Manhattan at approximately 8:31 a.m. Flint Hills Breadbasket was listed as the victim when it was reported an unknown suspect took their gray 2003 Ford F-250 truck. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $5,000.&nbsp;Officers filed a report for theft in the 3200 block of Kimball &nbsp;Ave. in Manhattan at approximately 10:29 a.m. Prairie Stone Inc. was listed as the victim when it was reported an unknown suspect took their mini skid steer. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $20,000.&nbsp;Officers filed a report for theft in the 4600 block of Eureka Dr. in Manhattan at approximately 11:43 a.m. Officers listed the Department of Labor as the victim when it was reported a 37-year-old man took multiple power tools, a radio and a Lenovo computer. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $10,000.&nbsp;Kamryn Machor, 17, of Manhattan was arrested at approximately 1:25 p.m. Machor was issued no bond and remains confined at the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Center at the time of this report. This arrest was in connection to a report filed for aggravated robbery in the 1500 block of Pipher Ln. in Manhattan on April 11, 2025. A 16-year-old male was listed as the victim and a 17-year-old female, a 17-year-old male, a 16-year-old male and a 15-year-old female were listed as the suspects. The victim reported the suspects pointed a firearm at the victim and took items from him. This is an ongoing investigation and no additional information will be released at this time.Braden Dinkel, 21, of Manhattan was arrested at approximately 5:53 p.m. for a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated battery. Dinkel was issued a total bond of $25,000 and is no longer confined at the time of this report.&nbsp;

RCPD reports a series of thefts

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has rescheduled the start of the K-177 reconstruction project between Council Grove and Strong City to 2026 due to scheduling conflicts. The project originally was expected to begin this summer.

The replacement for the K-177 bridge over Fourmile Creek, which is part of the same project, has also been delayed and is now scheduled to begin in late August. Additional construction details will be shared at a later date.

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has rescheduled the start of the K-177 reconstruction project between Council Grove and Strong City to 2026 due to scheduling conflicts. The project originally was expected to begin this summer.The replacement for the K-177 bridge over Fourmile Creek, which is part of the same project, has also been delayed and is now scheduled to begin in late August. Additional construction details will be shared at a later date.

Road closure for K-177 reconstruction rescheduled

GEARY COUNTY - A six-year old girl drowned at Milford State Park on Monday.

Just before 5p.m. Geary County Sheriff's deputies&nbsp;responded to a call of a possible drowning at the park's swim beach by the Splashpad and South Boat Ramp. according to a media release.

EMS transported a six-year old girl to Stormont Vail Flint Hills campus, in Junction City where she was pronounced dead.&nbsp;

The incident is not believed to be criminal in nature.

Investigations Lt. Zachary, is requesting anyone who was present, may have witnessed the incident and/or may have any information to contact him at (785) 238-2261.

GEARY COUNTY - A six-year old girl drowned at Milford State Park on Monday.Just before 5p.m. Geary County Sheriff's deputies&nbsp;responded to a call of a possible drowning at the park's swim beach by the Splashpad and South Boat Ramp. according to a media release.EMS transported a six-year old girl to Stormont Vail Flint Hills campus, in Junction City where she was pronounced dead.&nbsp;The incident is not believed to be criminal in nature.Investigations Lt. Zachary, is requesting anyone who was present, may have witnessed the incident and/or may have any information to contact him at (785) 238-2261.

Six year old girl drowns at Milford State Park

The Fort Riley Transition Assistance Program is hosting the “Hiring Our Heroes Career Summit” June 10 at Riley’s Community Center. Morning workshops run from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a hiring fair, featuring more than 70 local, regional, and national employers, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.&nbsp;

The career summit is a specialized event designed to educate, inform, inspire, and connect the military community with military-ready employers. All service members, military spouses, veterans, and veterans’ caregivers are invited.

The morning workshops will cover topics including SkillBridge programs, fellowships,internships, professional development, and using platforms such as LinkedIn. Counselors will also be on hand to review resumes and offer job search tips. Participants should be prepared to interview for job opportunities. Pre-registration is available online at HiringOurHeroes.org/riley.

For more information, call the Fort Riley TAP office at 785-239-2278.


Fort Riley Garrison releaseThe Fort Riley Transition Assistance Program is hosting the “Hiring Our Heroes Career Summit” June 10 at Riley’s Community Center. Morning workshops run from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a hiring fair, featuring more than 70 local, regional, and national employers, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.&nbsp;The career summit is a specialized event designed to educate, inform, inspire, and connect the military community with military-ready employers. All service members, military spouses, veterans, and veterans’ caregivers are invited.The morning workshops will cover topics including SkillBridge programs, fellowships,internships, professional development, and using platforms such as LinkedIn. Counselors will also be on hand to review resumes and offer job search tips. Participants should be prepared to interview for job opportunities. Pre-registration is available online at HiringOurHeroes.org/riley.For more information, call the Fort Riley TAP office at 785-239-2278.

Hiring Our Heroes Career Summit Returns to Fort Riley 

A ribbon-cutting put on by Visit Manhattan was held on Monday to officially open the new visitor's pavilion at the Konza Prairie Biological Station (KPBS).

The new pavilion is located at the trailhead entrance of the Konza Prairie Nature Trail at 100 Konza Ln. Inside the pavilion, several informative signs are displayed that detail the history and other facts about the Konza Prairie Biological Station and Trail.

Dr. John Blair, the Director of the KPBS and also a university distinguished professor (UDP) at Kansas State University, explained that the Konza Prairie Biological Station was established in the 1970s as a partnership between The Nature Conservancy, and Kansas State University. It is managed by the Division of Biology at Kansas State University. The KPBS is 8,600 acres. 

"Konza is a special place to the public," Blair said. "It supports our local and regional community and provides them a place to come and experience the tallgrass prairie. It draws people from all fifty states and from other countries to come here to Geary and Riley County to experience some of the last remaining parcels of intact tallgrass prairie."

Jill Haukos, an Environmental Educator for the Konza Environmental Education Program (KEEP), explained that the pavilion and signage project is similar to a structure that she had visited in the Kansas City Area. "After we got that very general idea, I went to our staff here on-site, and the whole process progressed very quickly," Haukos said. "This has really gone from a general idea to a structure, to here we are, within one year. We are so thankful for all the people who were involved with that."

The announcement was made that the visitor's pavilion has been dedicated to Joe Gelroth, who has dedicated over 40 years to maintaining the nature trail. Gelroth said that it is an honor to be recognized. 

Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749507334702.jpeg" alt="All the members either on staff or partners who made the new Visitor's Pavilion possible cut the ribbon.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>All the members either on staff or partners who made the new Visitor's Pavilion possible cut the ribbon.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesA ribbon-cutting put on by Visit Manhattan was held on Monday to officially open the new visitor's pavilion at the Konza Prairie Biological Station (KPBS).<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749507484337.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The new pavilion is located at the trailhead entrance of the Konza Prairie Nature Trail at 100 Konza Ln. Inside the pavilion, several informative signs are displayed that detail the history and other facts about the Konza Prairie Biological Station and Trail.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749507819387.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749507844052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. John Blair, the Director of the KPBS and also a university distinguished professor (UDP) at Kansas State University, explained that the Konza Prairie Biological Station was established in the 1970s as a partnership between The Nature Conservancy, and Kansas State University. It is managed by the Division of Biology at Kansas State University. The KPBS is 8,600 acres. "Konza is a special place to the public," Blair said. "It supports our local and regional community and provides them a place to come and experience the tallgrass prairie. It draws people from all fifty states and from other countries to come here to Geary and Riley County to experience some of the last remaining parcels of intact tallgrass prairie."Jill Haukos, an Environmental Educator for the Konza Environmental Education Program (KEEP), explained that the pavilion and signage project is similar to a structure that she had visited in the Kansas City Area. "After we got that very general idea, I went to our staff here on-site, and the whole process progressed very quickly," Haukos said. "This has really gone from a general idea to a structure, to here we are, within one year. We are so thankful for all the people who were involved with that."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749507573621.jpeg" alt="Joe Gelroth stands next to the plaque that states the new pavilion is named after him.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Joe Gelroth stands next to the plaque that states the new pavilion is named after him.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The announcement was made that the visitor's pavilion has been dedicated to Joe Gelroth, who has dedicated over 40 years to maintaining the nature trail. Gelroth said that it is an honor to be recognized. Partners for the project included:1998 Jack Goldstein Charitable TrustCaroline Peine Charitable FoundationGeary County Convention and Visitors BureauEarl and Marcia AllenJoe and Janette Gelroth

New Visitor's Pavilion open at Konza Prairie Biological Station

The City of Manhattan announced that starting Monday (June 9), the first phase of Anderson Avenue water, street, and stormwater improvements will begin, starting with the section between Connecticut Avenue and Timberlane Drive/College Heights Road. While this section will not be fully closed, it will have shifting lane closures and many residential intersections will be closed. 

For updated project timelines, maps, and detours, visit <a href="http://andersonwaterstorm.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExazJsbWRIOGxxaU9iSnFRdgEesSwHxzENpb132if4b3GxMose5rMSNQwOff3wWCkyzKH71tFwLZkP2r-S75E_aem_b9dbmL-0gzkEH-9xIaqV1A" target="_blank">andersonwaterstorm.com.</a>Through traffic may prefer to use other east-west arterials such as Claflin Road, Fort Riley Boulevard, and Kimball Avenue.

The City of Manhattan announced that starting Monday (June 9), the first phase of Anderson Avenue water, street, and stormwater improvements will begin, starting with the section between Connecticut Avenue and Timberlane Drive/College Heights Road. While this section will not be fully closed, it will have shifting lane closures and many residential intersections will be closed. For updated project timelines, maps, and detours, visit <a href="http://andersonwaterstorm.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExazJsbWRIOGxxaU9iSnFRdgEesSwHxzENpb132if4b3GxMose5rMSNQwOff3wWCkyzKH71tFwLZkP2r-S75E_aem_b9dbmL-0gzkEH-9xIaqV1A" target="_blank">andersonwaterstorm.com.</a>Through traffic may prefer to use other east-west arterials such as Claflin Road, Fort Riley Boulevard, and Kimball Avenue.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749480473535.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Phase One of Anderson Avenue improvements begin

National Strategic Selling Institute event awards $58,295 in student merit awards

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/national-strategic-selling-institute/">National Strategic Selling Institute</a>&nbsp;gave students in the Advanced Selling class an invaluable opportunity to put their classroom learning into action&nbsp;at the 13th annual benefit auction. The event functioned as a real-world sales experience, challenging students to develop and apply professional selling skills from start to finish.Throughout the semester, students built sales pipelines, tracked prospects using Salesforce CRM, made live calls and received real-time coaching from faculty — all in preparation for executing a high-impact fundraising event.

"I want our students to leave this class with more than just a grade — I want them to walk away with a deep, firsthand understanding of what it truly means to be part of a salesforce," said Dawn Deeter, director of the National Strategic Selling Institute.&nbsp;

This year's class exceeded expectations by raising more than $232,314,with$58,295&nbsp;awarded to 55 students based on their class performance. These merit awards celebrate not only academic achievement, but also the professionalism, grit and resilience it takes to thrive in a sales career.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Top honors and awards ranging from $500-$1,500 went to the recipients of the Ninja Sales Cat Awards, which recognize the highest-performing students in the class: Halle Hartner, junior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Belleville; Gavin Smith, junior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Derby; Jacqueline Varney, senior in professional strategic selling and management,&nbsp;Lansing;Jack Pearson, junior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Overland Park; and Alyssa Ansay, senior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Gainesville, Texas. The awards were made possible through generous sponsorships.&nbsp;&nbsp;

National Strategic Selling Institute event awards $58,295 in student merit awardsMANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/national-strategic-selling-institute/">National Strategic Selling Institute</a>&nbsp;gave students in the Advanced Selling class an invaluable opportunity to put their classroom learning into action&nbsp;at the 13th annual benefit auction. The event functioned as a real-world sales experience, challenging students to develop and apply professional selling skills from start to finish.Throughout the semester, students built sales pipelines, tracked prospects using Salesforce CRM, made live calls and received real-time coaching from faculty — all in preparation for executing a high-impact fundraising event."I want our students to leave this class with more than just a grade — I want them to walk away with a deep, firsthand understanding of what it truly means to be part of a salesforce," said Dawn Deeter, director of the National Strategic Selling Institute.&nbsp;This year's class exceeded expectations by raising more than $232,314,with$58,295&nbsp;awarded to 55 students based on their class performance. These merit awards celebrate not only academic achievement, but also the professionalism, grit and resilience it takes to thrive in a sales career.&nbsp;&nbsp; Top honors and awards ranging from $500-$1,500 went to the recipients of the Ninja Sales Cat Awards, which recognize the highest-performing students in the class: Halle Hartner, junior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Belleville; Gavin Smith, junior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Derby; Jacqueline Varney, senior in professional strategic selling and management,&nbsp;Lansing;Jack Pearson, junior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Overland Park; and Alyssa Ansay, senior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Gainesville, Texas. The awards were made possible through generous sponsorships.&nbsp;&nbsp;By Karah HildebrandDivision of Communications and Marketing

Students gain real-world sales experience through 13th annual benefit auction

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly, in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Commerce, announced&nbsp;Friday a new web page for federal workers seeking employment in Kansas. The landing page provides an overview of the state's current job opportunities, quick links to programs that aid eligible Kansas employees, access to the State of Kansas job portal, and other helpful tools for jobseekers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flovekansas.com%2Ffederalworkers%2F/1/0101019722ad0e2c-0983de1b-40a2-463a-8bb6-e5811c13914a-000000/IPB1iZg6vVnWWF9MV1K94_hcDKeGjFbekXxQAL8yeoY=407">Click here</a>&nbsp;to view the new web page

“As many federal employees find themselves in need of new opportunities, I’m excited to launch a web page that showcases all the great career opportunities Kansas has to offer,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“With highly rated schools, low cost of living, and a competitive housing market, our state is ready to welcome new employees and their families with open arms.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The web page specifically highlights the Rural Opportunity Zone program, which offers Student Loan Repayment Assistance and/or 100% State Income Tax Credit for 95 counties across the state.

“Kansas is an incredible place,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland.&nbsp;“Since 2019, we’ve been enhancing our communities through quality-of-life perks and elevating our economy by ushering in new and innovative business opportunities — all with the purpose of welcoming folks from across the country to live the good life here in Kansas. If you’re a displaced federal worker — or just someone seeking new horizons — look no further than the Sunflower State.”

The web page can be found on the&nbsp;Love, Kansas&nbsp;site.&nbsp;Love, Kansas&nbsp;is the state’s talent recruitment campaign that highlights why Kansas is an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family. This marketing initiative, which was approved with bipartisan support of the Kansas Legislature, has a special emphasis on “boomerangs,” or individuals with previous ties to Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749478070737.png" alt="Image from the new website" />
 <figcaption>Image from the new website</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly, in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Commerce, announced&nbsp;Friday a new web page for federal workers seeking employment in Kansas. The landing page provides an overview of the state's current job opportunities, quick links to programs that aid eligible Kansas employees, access to the State of Kansas job portal, and other helpful tools for jobseekers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Flovekansas.com%2Ffederalworkers%2F/1/0101019722ad0e2c-0983de1b-40a2-463a-8bb6-e5811c13914a-000000/IPB1iZg6vVnWWF9MV1K94_hcDKeGjFbekXxQAL8yeoY=407">Click here</a>&nbsp;to view the new web page“As many federal employees find themselves in need of new opportunities, I’m excited to launch a web page that showcases all the great career opportunities Kansas has to offer,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“With highly rated schools, low cost of living, and a competitive housing market, our state is ready to welcome new employees and their families with open arms.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The web page specifically highlights the Rural Opportunity Zone program, which offers Student Loan Repayment Assistance and/or 100% State Income Tax Credit for 95 counties across the state.“Kansas is an incredible place,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland.&nbsp;“Since 2019, we’ve been enhancing our communities through quality-of-life perks and elevating our economy by ushering in new and innovative business opportunities — all with the purpose of welcoming folks from across the country to live the good life here in Kansas. If you’re a displaced federal worker — or just someone seeking new horizons — look no further than the Sunflower State.”The web page can be found on the&nbsp;Love, Kansas&nbsp;site.&nbsp;Love, Kansas&nbsp;is the state’s talent recruitment campaign that highlights why Kansas is an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family. This marketing initiative, which was approved with bipartisan support of the Kansas Legislature, has a special emphasis on “boomerangs,” or individuals with previous ties to Kansas.

New website for federal employees seeking jobs in Kansas

By: BRET LANZ The Technology Development Institute at K-State&nbsp;

A new product that reduces animal stress could be the key to increasing artificial insemination rates in cattle. Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/tdi/">Technology Development Institute</a>, or TDI, collaborated with faculty in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.k-state.edu/">College of Agriculture</a>&nbsp;to design, produce and test the product.

Assistant Professor&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/about/people/faculty/dias/">Nicholas Wege Dias</a>&nbsp;and Professor&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/about/people/faculty/johnson/">Sandy Johnson</a>, both in K-State's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/">animal science and industry department</a>, specialize in beef cattle reproduction and have been involved in several projects designed to improve the fertility of the animal. Their initial studies indicated that acclimating the animals to their surroundings during the artificial insemination, or AI, process reduced animal stress and increased reproduction by up to 10%.

"Once we saw the benefits of getting animals acquainted with the facilities on AI success, we began to think about adoptable strategies to promote positive reinforcement during handling," Dias said. "You often see cow brushes and how the animals enjoy rubbing against them on social media, so we thought, 'Let's come up with a way to place a cow brush in the alleyway so the animals can enjoy themselves while they wait their turn.'"

Their goal was to position a brush in the center of the alley just below bovine head height so the animals could rub their backs with the brush to reduce stress.

While Dias and Johnson had an idea of what they wanted, they needed help to design and fabricate a device that could be installed on any type or size of chute and that was able to withstand the force generated by the animals. Dias and Johnson contacted the Technology Development Institute to discuss the idea and determine if the institute could help develop a prototype product for testing.

TDI engineers and interns began working on various designs that could easily be installed on chutes made of wood, pipe or any number of materials. The device had to be adjustable in height due to differences in wall and animal heights, and it also needed to be able to adjust to sloped alley walls. TDI developed various concept designs and, with feedback from Dias and Johnson, finalized the design.

The team then fabricated two prototype devices that are currently being used by Dias and his students to determine the effectiveness of having such devices included during the AI process.

"We always enjoy working with industry experts who can clearly define their needs," said Bret Lanz, commercialization director of the Technology Development Institute. "This simplifies our job to create a product specification and design a new product that meets the needs of our customers. Nicholas and his team have been great to work with, and we are hopeful that this new tool will help to aid in their studies and perhaps have a large impact on the cattle industry."

K-State's Technology Development Institute in the&nbsp;<a href="https://engg.k-state.edu/">Carl R. Ice College of Engineering</a>&nbsp;is a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/university-centers">U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration University Center</a>&nbsp;and received a grant from the Research and Entrepreneurship Federal Matching Grant Dollars Fund. TDI provides a broad range of engineering and business development services to both private industry and university researchers to advance the commercial readiness of new products or technologies.

By: BRET LANZ The Technology Development Institute at K-State&nbsp;A new product that reduces animal stress could be the key to increasing artificial insemination rates in cattle. Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/tdi/">Technology Development Institute</a>, or TDI, collaborated with faculty in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ag.k-state.edu/">College of Agriculture</a>&nbsp;to design, produce and test the product.Assistant Professor&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/about/people/faculty/dias/">Nicholas Wege Dias</a>&nbsp;and Professor&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/about/people/faculty/johnson/">Sandy Johnson</a>, both in K-State's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/">animal science and industry department</a>, specialize in beef cattle reproduction and have been involved in several projects designed to improve the fertility of the animal. Their initial studies indicated that acclimating the animals to their surroundings during the artificial insemination, or AI, process reduced animal stress and increased reproduction by up to 10%.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749470516638.jpeg" alt="Nicholas Wege Dias, back, and Sandy Johnson test the new cattle stress reduction tool produced by the Technology Development Institute." />
 <figcaption>Nicholas Wege Dias, back, and Sandy Johnson test the new cattle stress reduction tool produced by the Technology Development Institute.</figcaption>
 </figure>"Once we saw the benefits of getting animals acquainted with the facilities on AI success, we began to think about adoptable strategies to promote positive reinforcement during handling," Dias said. "You often see cow brushes and how the animals enjoy rubbing against them on social media, so we thought, 'Let's come up with a way to place a cow brush in the alleyway so the animals can enjoy themselves while they wait their turn.'"Their goal was to position a brush in the center of the alley just below bovine head height so the animals could rub their backs with the brush to reduce stress.While Dias and Johnson had an idea of what they wanted, they needed help to design and fabricate a device that could be installed on any type or size of chute and that was able to withstand the force generated by the animals. Dias and Johnson contacted the Technology Development Institute to discuss the idea and determine if the institute could help develop a prototype product for testing.TDI engineers and interns began working on various designs that could easily be installed on chutes made of wood, pipe or any number of materials. The device had to be adjustable in height due to differences in wall and animal heights, and it also needed to be able to adjust to sloped alley walls. TDI developed various concept designs and, with feedback from Dias and Johnson, finalized the design.The team then fabricated two prototype devices that are currently being used by Dias and his students to determine the effectiveness of having such devices included during the AI process."We always enjoy working with industry experts who can clearly define their needs," said Bret Lanz, commercialization director of the Technology Development Institute. "This simplifies our job to create a product specification and design a new product that meets the needs of our customers. Nicholas and his team have been great to work with, and we are hopeful that this new tool will help to aid in their studies and perhaps have a large impact on the cattle industry."K-State's Technology Development Institute in the&nbsp;<a href="https://engg.k-state.edu/">Carl R. Ice College of Engineering</a>&nbsp;is a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eda.gov/funding/programs/university-centers">U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration University Center</a>&nbsp;and received a grant from the Research and Entrepreneurship Federal Matching Grant Dollars Fund. TDI provides a broad range of engineering and business development services to both private industry and university researchers to advance the commercial readiness of new products or technologies.

Brushing away bovine stress

A PLANNING HORIZON OF 10 YEARS —OR MORE —&nbsp;CAN HELP REACH GOALS

Step 2 — Identifying your Successor&nbsp;

Step 3 — Determine your Company’s Value

If you would like to start the long-range process of family business planning succession,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">contact an Adams Brown advisor.</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749048941698.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>A PLANNING HORIZON OF 10 YEARS —OR MORE —&nbsp;CAN HELP REACH GOALS</h2><h2>Key Takeaways:</h2><ul>
 <li>A successful business transition takes at least 10 years of planning — not just one.</li><li>Open communication, clear successor plans and a solid valuation are key to preserving your business’s legacy.</li><li>Failing to plan for taxes, relevance and family dynamics can cost you more than just money — it can cost your company’s future.</li>
 </ul>Preparing to transition a&nbsp;<a href="https://familybusinessmagazine.com/" target="_blank">family business</a>&nbsp;to the next owner — whether it be a family member or third-party buyer — is a process that requires taking the long view. The business owner who decides to retire one year from now without having made any preparations is about 10 years too late. The owner will be able to sell, but may have to make concessions on price, deal structure and tax consequences that would not have been necessary if the proper long-range planning had been done.&nbsp;While every business is different, it is also true that every business is the same. That is, every business owner needs to look at the distant horizon, questioning basic assumptions about the business, assessing the talents and wishes of family members who may someday become owners, and innovating in ways that keep the company at the top of its game in order to maximize value. All of this takes time and careful planning, preferably with the help of trusted advisors along the way.&nbsp;Business owners and family farm owners who follow certain steps in planning for exit are more likely to reach the goals they set for a successful transition.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Step 1 — Clarify your Goals</h2>When it comes to setting goals for a business transition, your first thought may be,&nbsp;“Well, my goal is to sell the business.”&nbsp;But there’s so much more to think about.&nbsp;Are there family members who may want to own the business, or whom you have been grooming to take over? Or are there key employees whom you have trained and entrusted with the company’s growth and operations over the years?&nbsp;You may think of them as family, too, and they may be candidates for ownership.&nbsp;Additionally, you should consider what you are going to do in retirement. You may want to step away from the business altogether, or keep a hand in it as a consultant for a few years. Either way, you probably expect some type of retirement cash flow stream.&nbsp;If you haven’t thought about your post-transition role, now is the time to think about it. And if you are not going to continue being active in the business, what will you do with your time? It’s important to envision your retirement life before you get there. Retirement isn’t just about selling your business and handing over the keys. It’s about having a life afterward, and if you are confident in what that life will look like, it will make it easier for you to do the planning and preparation that your business deserves.&nbsp;<h2>Step 2 — Identifying your Successor&nbsp;</h2>For owners of family businesses and farms, this can be the most emotional factor in transition planning. Perhaps the farm has been in your family for three generations, it is a thriving entity and your son or daughter is eager to take it over. Congratulations — you’re golden. But for many owners, the succession picture is more complicated.&nbsp;&nbsp;Maybe you are now 60 years old and you have decided you’ll work till age 70, which gives you 10 years for planning and preparation to transition your company or farm. But when you reach age 70, your children will likely be at least in their mid-40s. If they aren’t already working with you in the business or farm, they may have established careers elsewhere and will be in their prime earning years when you’re ready for them to take over.&nbsp;&nbsp;This reality adds another wrinkle to the planning picture for family business and farm owners. If your long-range goal is for the next generation of your family to take over the business, planning must start while they are fairly young — high school is not too early — so they can gain a college education and work experience that will benefit them and prepare them for ownership.&nbsp;Communication is one of the most critical factors in preparing for transition of a family entity. If you want and expect your children to take over the family business, it must be discussed at a time when the children can decide whether they want to succeed you and, if so, plan how to prepare themselves. Among&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/industries/agribusiness/">family farms,</a>&nbsp;the majority of transitions involve succession to family members, and it is more common for the younger generation to be involved in the business and to have gotten the education and training needed to run the farm.&nbsp;In some families, the parents are reluctant to share much information with their children even when the children reach adulthood. But you can’t expect an adult to plan his or her life around taking over a family business if they aren’t privy to critical information that can help them decide, particularly if it could involve taking on a substantial debt. Business transactions can unravel over poor communication, even among family members. When that happens, the owner should have a Plan B, such as selling to a key employee or finding an outside buyer.&nbsp;Another key point of communication is educating the successor as to the roles you have filled in the operation. Have you, like many owners, acted as the CEO, COO, CMO and HR director? When you transition the business, the next owner — whether it’s a family member or outside buyer — needs to understand all the roles involved and have job descriptions that will guide the hiring of new managers to help run the operation.&nbsp;<h2>Step 3 — Determine your Company’s Value</h2>Often, business owners have an idea of what they think their business is worth, but it’s based more on emotion than hard data. Once planning for a transition starts, obtaining an independent business valuation is an essential step to set a benchmark.&nbsp;&nbsp;Typically, the initial valuation is not used to determine an asking price, since the actual transaction is still years in the future. But the report from an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/services/advisory-consulting/business-valuations/">independent valuation professional</a>&nbsp;will reveal the value drivers in your business and help formulate a multi-year improvement plan that will increase the value. This is particularly important if the entity will be sold to an outside buyer or private equity group.&nbsp;The value of a business helps determine the path toward transition. A $50 million business requires different transition strategies and tax planning than a $5 million business does. If partial gifting of an entity to a family member is part of the plan, the value of the business helps determine the size of the gifted portion, as well as financing and tax planning strategies for the rest.&nbsp;<h2>Step 4 — Consider Buy-Sell Agreements</h2>Buy-sell agreements are essential for any business that has more than one owner. This includes unrelated owners as well as extended family members who own a family business together. A buy-sell agreement stipulates how an owner’s share of a business may be transferred upon their death or departure. Often, these agreements are structured to prevent outsiders from gaining control of part of the business and provide a way to determine the value of each owner’s interest.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/preparing-to-sell-your-business/">Once transition planning has begun in a company, it’s important to review the buy-sell agreement if there is one in place.</a>&nbsp;If there is no buy-sell agreement, now is the time to put one in place. If there is a buy-sell agreement but it is outdated, it should be updated at this time. (Generally, buy-sell agreements should be reviewed every two to three years to ensure they are current.)&nbsp;If there is more than one owner, the transition plans — even if exit is years away — will be coordinated according to the buy-sell agreement.&nbsp;&nbsp;But agreements on paper are only part of the process. It’s important early in the transition planning to get all owners together for a group meeting to discuss the health of the business and the transition plans. After that, individual meetings with each owner can flesh out additional information that wouldn’t be brought up in a group setting, but which provides important insights into any concerns. Trusted advisors are key facilitators for these meetings, often bridging the communication gaps and helping participants work through hard messages.&nbsp;<h2>Step 5 — Focus on Tax Strategy</h2>Taking into account the value of the business, the proportion held by the seller and other factors, the deal structure is generally designed to be as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/blog/tax-tips-when-buying-the-assets-of-a-business/">tax efficient as possible</a>. Some of the factors considered are:&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Which entity type will be the most advantageous, a C corporation, S corporation, partnership, LLC or other structure.&nbsp;</li><li>Whether an asset sale or a stock sale is most beneficial.&nbsp;</li><li>If the deal will include partial gifting, a leveraged gift structure that works for the owner may be considered.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Moving assets into some type of trust so when the assets are liquidated, such as land and machinery in the case of a farm, it is done on a tax-free basis.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Once the tax strategy is worked out and the deal structure is clear, everyone is on the same page and it’s time to start drafting the legal documents. At that point, the business transition starts to feel real.&nbsp;<h2>Relevance</h2>One of the most important steps in planning for a business exit may also be one of the most difficult for many owners.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ask yourself,&nbsp;“Will my business still be relevant five or ten years from now?”&nbsp;Businesses need to adjust to changing times to stay relevant and to grow their value. Just because you envision retiring in five or ten years does not mean you can stop innovating in your company. Indeed, this is the time to step up innovations and improvements that will increase the value and marketability of the entity.&nbsp;Is there a new technology that is driving innovation in your industry?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.adamsbrowntech.com/blog/5-steps-every-business-should-take-before-investing-in-ai/">Have you invested in artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help keep your business ahead of the curve?</a>&nbsp;Most importantly, what is the long-term outlook for your industry? Markets change, technologies change and customer needs change, and failure to adapt and capitalize on changing conditions will render your business irrelevant and lower its value.&nbsp;<h2>Questions?</h2>This is a lot to think about, but fortunately you have time — IF you are starting the transition process early enough. Moreover, you have a roadmap with clear steps to take.&nbsp;If you would like to start the long-range process of family business planning succession,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.adamsbrowncpa.com/contact/">contact an Adams Brown advisor.</a>&nbsp;

Motorcyclist hospitalized after rear-end crash

<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=5b168889f9&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Manhattan Parks and Recreation</a>&nbsp;recently celebrated the opening of Roger Schultz Community Park’s new entrance at Loma Ridge on&nbsp;Thursday, May 29.

Additionally,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=a4707d8b52&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Flint Hills Discovery Center</a>&nbsp;and Parks Division staff were host to an educational nature walk! It was a great way to learn more about the local plants and wildlife.

The City expressed appreciation to the Schultz family for their generous partnership on this project. Their support has helped make this a welcoming space for the entire community.

<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=5b168889f9&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Manhattan Parks and Recreation</a>&nbsp;recently celebrated the opening of Roger Schultz Community Park’s new entrance at Loma Ridge on&nbsp;Thursday, May 29.Additionally,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=a4707d8b52&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Flint Hills Discovery Center</a>&nbsp;and Parks Division staff were host to an educational nature walk! It was a great way to learn more about the local plants and wildlife.The City expressed appreciation to the Schultz family for their generous partnership on this project. Their support has helped make this a welcoming space for the entire community.

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