KSU has released the following is the schedule of K-State fall 2024 commencement ceremonies:

KSU has released the following is the schedule of K-State fall 2024 commencement ceremonies:May 10<ul>
 <li>K-State Salina, 10 a.m., Tony's Pizza Events Center</li>
 </ul>May 16<ul>
 <li>Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 8 a.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall</li><li>Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 10 a.m., K-State Student Union Forum Hall</li><li>College of Architecture, Planning &amp; Design, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li><li>Graduate School,1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li><li>College of Veterinary Medicine, 3:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li>
 </ul>May 17<ul>
 <li>College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li><li>College of Education, 11 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li><li>College of Business Administration, 12:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li><li>College of Agriculture, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li><li>College of Health and Human Sciences, 4:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li><li>Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 6:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum</li>
 </ul>

K-State spring commencement ceremonies are scheduled

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746799451116.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report May 9

Pawnee Mental Health has announced the promotion of Amanda Yenzer, LMSW, M.S., to director of crisis services. Yenzer has been with Pawnee for four years and brings a deep commitment to serving individuals and families during mental health crises.

Yenzer began her career at Pawnee as a crisis intern and has since held positions as a case manager, crisis therapist, crisis services manager and now director. She also interned with the Youth Community Services program and served as a community-based therapist.

In her new role, Yenzer oversees Pawnee’s 24/7 crisis response services, including crisis screenings, mobile crisis support, and care coordination for individuals needing mental health assistance across the organization’s 10-county service area.

“Working in crisis services changed my perspective on therapy,” said Yenzer. “Every day is different, and it’s a privilege to help people through some of thardest moments of their lives.”

Pawnee Mental Health has announced the promotion of Amanda Yenzer, LMSW, M.S., to director of crisis services. Yenzer has been with Pawnee for four years and brings a deep commitment to serving individuals and families during mental health crises.Yenzer began her career at Pawnee as a crisis intern and has since held positions as a case manager, crisis therapist, crisis services manager and now director. She also interned with the Youth Community Services program and served as a community-based therapist.In her new role, Yenzer oversees Pawnee’s 24/7 crisis response services, including crisis screenings, mobile crisis support, and care coordination for individuals needing mental health assistance across the organization’s 10-county service area.“Working in crisis services changed my perspective on therapy,” said Yenzer. “Every day is different, and it’s a privilege to help people through some of thardest moments of their lives.”

Amanda Yenzer Promoted to Director of Crisis Services at Pawnee Mental Health

The seond annual Little Apple Cleanup is scheduled in Manhattan Saturday, May 10 from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM at the Big Blue River Boat Ramp/Linear Park.

You can meet at the Big Blue River/Linear Park boat ramp then break into teams to pick up litter along the Big Blue River. Learn more and RSVP at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bit.ly%2F2025LittleAppleCleanupRSVP%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdUJzMEVCRGg4OVJhVlFWTAEetmvg7LO4-_u4JSsoRKbscWCfn0X1FmbUEuyQTgGLqPuB_J2HMLczAjQzGnE_aem_OUZhAzOXB_ZZS5uhdwgd5A&amp;h=AT1gT2GwO6QUZrl47aTG3Xe5fpwdRbf5bUY-9Ax2raqNIIBr0Xcr3MiVaRfRjRPjjmpD3Z5dKiCD5QZ2HkuZx3dyua6mUYyvynRaQbuqG41h0IATTvztUOgN9NFCef4x9XgGto7Buddk5I6iEXdN8WQQgdG08bbu&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT1LqrzTUWKdJZFp7GpARSnKElC3AsxNc89gy_4H8Sop-jrKzjqoIAd8CuUuGJxx0ShHavBYR5aC9sc3SHWliZkjiAiWs6RtQXmWLHWD-fVIpDniYLeVuYXNp9NI8uqx3h8ypzHIa0-9ylAshkROw01ocpj5cS8MHDtKv2KzJHuLTu9-YWf0321PfGQ8prAVReQ_Lj7O3AzSVy3mfqZN34IG2GEll9Epyre1Ix0L0sbefwStpf6Z" target="_blank">www.bit.ly/2025LittleAppleCleanupRSVP</a>.

Questions? Email Kim Bellemere at kim.bellemere@kansasriver.org for more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The seond annual Little Apple Cleanup is scheduled in Manhattan Saturday, May 10 from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM at the Big Blue River Boat Ramp/Linear Park.You can meet at the Big Blue River/Linear Park boat ramp then break into teams to pick up litter along the Big Blue River. Learn more and RSVP at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bit.ly%2F2025LittleAppleCleanupRSVP%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdUJzMEVCRGg4OVJhVlFWTAEetmvg7LO4-_u4JSsoRKbscWCfn0X1FmbUEuyQTgGLqPuB_J2HMLczAjQzGnE_aem_OUZhAzOXB_ZZS5uhdwgd5A&amp;h=AT1gT2GwO6QUZrl47aTG3Xe5fpwdRbf5bUY-9Ax2raqNIIBr0Xcr3MiVaRfRjRPjjmpD3Z5dKiCD5QZ2HkuZx3dyua6mUYyvynRaQbuqG41h0IATTvztUOgN9NFCef4x9XgGto7Buddk5I6iEXdN8WQQgdG08bbu&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT1LqrzTUWKdJZFp7GpARSnKElC3AsxNc89gy_4H8Sop-jrKzjqoIAd8CuUuGJxx0ShHavBYR5aC9sc3SHWliZkjiAiWs6RtQXmWLHWD-fVIpDniYLeVuYXNp9NI8uqx3h8ypzHIa0-9ylAshkROw01ocpj5cS8MHDtKv2KzJHuLTu9-YWf0321PfGQ8prAVReQ_Lj7O3AzSVy3mfqZN34IG2GEll9Epyre1Ix0L0sbefwStpf6Z" target="_blank">www.bit.ly/2025LittleAppleCleanupRSVP</a>.Questions? Email Kim Bellemere at kim.bellemere@kansasriver.org for more information.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cleanup is planned along the Big Blue River

Major construction is coming to Anderson Avenue in Manhattan this summer

If you are a resident impacted by any of the phases (Anderson from Connecticut to Harris avenues and any side streets in between), you should have already received an invitation to a public meeting for this project at 5:30 p.m. Thursday in the City Commission Room at City Hall, located at 1101 Poyntz Ave.The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the construction impacts and phasing, but it is primarily targeted to affected area residents, especially those closer to the Connecticut to Timberlane area, which will be the first phase kicking off soon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Major construction is coming to Anderson Avenue in Manhattan this summerIf you are a resident impacted by any of the phases (Anderson from Connecticut to Harris avenues and any side streets in between), you should have already received an invitation to a public meeting for this project at 5:30 p.m. Thursday in the City Commission Room at City Hall, located at 1101 Poyntz Ave.The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about the construction impacts and phasing, but it is primarily targeted to affected area residents, especially those closer to the Connecticut to Timberlane area, which will be the first phase kicking off soon.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Construction is planned on Anderson Avenue

Kansas has long been a member of Hail Alley. 

Home Gnome ranked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tryhomegnome.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2adedf90ff4cb2fe5e712f3bf&amp;id=4120709ae1&amp;e=cc2dea7ebb">2025’s Top U.S. Counties Most at Risk For Hail Damage</a>, and Kansas landed 31 counties in the top half of the ranking.With frequent storms and high home exposure, the Sunflower State is no stranger to costly weather events. In 2024, hailstorms caused around $170 million in damage statewide.&nbsp;

Largest Kansas Counties Most at Risk for Hail Damage: A population-focused look at where hail poses the most significant threat across the Sunflower State.&nbsp;

Home Gnome releaseKansas has long been a member of Hail Alley. Home Gnome ranked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tryhomegnome.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2adedf90ff4cb2fe5e712f3bf&amp;id=4120709ae1&amp;e=cc2dea7ebb">2025’s Top U.S. Counties Most at Risk For Hail Damage</a>, and Kansas landed 31 counties in the top half of the ranking.With frequent storms and high home exposure, the Sunflower State is no stranger to costly weather events. In 2024, hailstorms caused around $170 million in damage statewide.&nbsp;Largest Kansas Counties Most at Risk for Hail Damage: A population-focused look at where hail poses the most significant threat across the Sunflower State.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Johnson County (Overland Park): 533rd</li><li>Sedgwick County (Wichita): 26th</li><li>Wyandotte County (Kansas City): 517th</li><li>Douglas County (Lawrence): 140th</li><li>Riley County (Manhattan): 83rd</li>
 </ul>

Riley County makes list for hail damage risk

GEARY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Toyota Corolla driven by Salman&nbsp;Shinwari, 16, Manhattan, was&nbsp;northbound on U.S. 77 approximately one mile south of West Lyons Creek Road.&nbsp;

The car crossed the centerline and struck a southbound 2017 Chevy Cruz driven by Donna Marie Mitchell, 62, Herington,&nbsp;

EMS transported&nbsp;Shinwari, Mitchell and a passengers in the Chevy&nbsp; Linda Kay&nbsp; Schreiner, 66, Herington, to&nbsp;Stormont Vail in Junction City. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Toyota Corolla driven by Salman&nbsp;Shinwari, 16, Manhattan, was&nbsp;northbound on U.S. 77 approximately one mile south of West Lyons Creek Road.&nbsp;The car crossed the centerline and struck a southbound 2017 Chevy Cruz driven by Donna Marie Mitchell, 62, Herington,&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Shinwari, Mitchell and a passengers in the Chevy&nbsp; Linda Kay&nbsp; Schreiner, 66, Herington, to&nbsp;Stormont Vail in Junction City. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Manhattan teen, 2 adults hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

The United Soybean Board, which oversees the funds of the national checkoff, is seeking farmer-leaders to serve on the national board. Kansas has two director positions to fill following December term completions for Kurt Maurath, Oakley, and Lance Rezac, Onaga.

The mission of the soybean checkoff is to create value for U.S. soybean farmers by investing in research, education and promotion of U.S.-grown soy. Farmer-leaders are able to elevate their perspectives and direct those investments through service on the board. The checkoff’s current return-on-investment of $12.30 back to farmers for each dollar invested demonstrates the checkoff’s efficacy in driving profitability for every acre of soybeans.

Dennis Gruenbacher, Andale, sought a USB director position in 2018 because he saw an opportunity to find more end uses for soybeans and ultimately improve prices for growers. He remarks that the checkoff has done just that through developing tires from soybean oil and other value-added projects.

“I enjoyed serving on USB to work with Clean Fuels Alliance America and see trade development through the U.S. Soybean Export Council,” Gruenbacher says. “The best experience from USB was traveling to Germany with USSEC to meet with 120 soybean buyers. We were able to discuss high oleic soybeans with Egypt and much more.”

Though he stepped back from USB in 2023, Gruenbacher continues to serve as a Kansas Soybean Commissioner.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, which handles the appointment process, eligible nominees include “soybean producers within the U.S. who own or share ownership and risk of loss of soybean production.” Board members are required to attend the February, July and December meetings annually as well as various conference calls and other events. Leaders volunteer their time to serve but are reimbursed for travel and other expenses related to attending meetings and events on behalf of USB.

The position is open to all individuals without regard to their protected statuses including race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital or family status, political beliefs, parental status, or other protected information. KSC works to ensure that its nominees to USB reflect the diversity in the size of enterprise, experience, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors that represent Kansas soybean farmers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692745881332.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS SOYBEAN COMMISSIONThe United Soybean Board, which oversees the funds of the national checkoff, is seeking farmer-leaders to serve on the national board. Kansas has two director positions to fill following December term completions for Kurt Maurath, Oakley, and Lance Rezac, Onaga.The mission of the soybean checkoff is to create value for U.S. soybean farmers by investing in research, education and promotion of U.S.-grown soy. Farmer-leaders are able to elevate their perspectives and direct those investments through service on the board. The checkoff’s current return-on-investment of $12.30 back to farmers for each dollar invested demonstrates the checkoff’s efficacy in driving profitability for every acre of soybeans.Dennis Gruenbacher, Andale, sought a USB director position in 2018 because he saw an opportunity to find more end uses for soybeans and ultimately improve prices for growers. He remarks that the checkoff has done just that through developing tires from soybean oil and other value-added projects.“I enjoyed serving on USB to work with Clean Fuels Alliance America and see trade development through the U.S. Soybean Export Council,” Gruenbacher says. “The best experience from USB was traveling to Germany with USSEC to meet with 120 soybean buyers. We were able to discuss high oleic soybeans with Egypt and much more.”Though he stepped back from USB in 2023, Gruenbacher continues to serve as a Kansas Soybean Commissioner.According to the United States Department of Agriculture, which handles the appointment process, eligible nominees include “soybean producers within the U.S. who own or share ownership and risk of loss of soybean production.” Board members are required to attend the February, July and December meetings annually as well as various conference calls and other events. Leaders volunteer their time to serve but are reimbursed for travel and other expenses related to attending meetings and events on behalf of USB.The position is open to all individuals without regard to their protected statuses including race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital or family status, political beliefs, parental status, or other protected information. KSC works to ensure that its nominees to USB reflect the diversity in the size of enterprise, experience, methods of production and distribution, marketing strategies, and other distinguishing factors that represent Kansas soybean farmers.

Soybean growers invited to apply for national checkoff board seat

The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting on Wednesday afternoon to officially open the Flint Hills BreadBasket's new location at 2326 Skyvue Lane in Manhattan. The ribbon-cutting drew a large turnout, with many elected officials, business professionals, and patrons in attendance. 

Flint Hills BreadBasket Executive Director Karla Hagemeister addressed the crowd, and her message was that the new facility would not have been possible without the communities support.

"There's just a reality that our services are needed and will continue to be needed for some time to come," Hagemeister said. "When our board, staff, and volunteers talk about the guests that we serve and the community that we serve, we felt that it was important to us and to our values that we offer a space and a service that is dignified and valuable and treats people the way we would want any one of us to be treated. I feel like our community has made that space happen here." In her speech, Hagemeister recognized the Flint Hills BreadBasket Board of Directors, the staff, all their volunteers, business partners, and the community for all their support.

The community campaign for the project was $3.1 million, and the money raised by the community helped with equipment and construction. The construction budget was $2.5 million. 

The new location at 2326 Skyvue Lane will be open for the first time Thursday, May 8, at 10:00 a.m. and be open until 6:00 p.m.  This location allows for expanded hours and a less crowded space for patrons and staff. 

According to Hagemeister, the Flint Hills BreadBasket serves approximately 400 families per week. Daily, the Flint Hills BreadBasket serves between 60-70 families. 

"This place is going to serve our community, and serve our community well and in changing ways over time," Hagemeister said. "I am so excited for that to happen."

Following the ribbon-cutting, the large crowd was able to tour the new facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746655698319.jpeg" alt="Flint Hills BreadBasket Executive Director Karla Hagemeister cuts the ribbon to officially open their new location at 2326 Skyvue Lane in Manhattan." />
 <figcaption>Flint Hills BreadBasket Executive Director Karla Hagemeister cuts the ribbon to officially open their new location at 2326 Skyvue Lane in Manhattan.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesLittle Apple PostThe Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting on Wednesday afternoon to officially open the Flint Hills BreadBasket's new location at 2326 Skyvue Lane in Manhattan. The ribbon-cutting drew a large turnout, with many elected officials, business professionals, and patrons in attendance. Flint Hills BreadBasket Executive Director Karla Hagemeister addressed the crowd, and her message was that the new facility would not have been possible without the communities support.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746655855670.jpeg" alt="Flint Hills BreadBasket Executive Director Karla Hagemeister delivers remarks to a large crowd at the ribbon-cutting." />
 <figcaption>Flint Hills BreadBasket Executive Director Karla Hagemeister delivers remarks to a large crowd at the ribbon-cutting.</figcaption>
 </figure>"There's just a reality that our services are needed and will continue to be needed for some time to come," Hagemeister said. "When our board, staff, and volunteers talk about the guests that we serve and the community that we serve, we felt that it was important to us and to our values that we offer a space and a service that is dignified and valuable and treats people the way we would want any one of us to be treated. I feel like our community has made that space happen here." In her speech, Hagemeister recognized the Flint Hills BreadBasket Board of Directors, the staff, all their volunteers, business partners, and the community for all their support.The community campaign for the project was $3.1 million, and the money raised by the community helped with equipment and construction. The construction budget was $2.5 million. The new location at 2326 Skyvue Lane will be open for the first time Thursday, May 8, at 10:00 a.m. and be open until 6:00 p.m. This location allows for expanded hours and a less crowded space for patrons and staff. According to Hagemeister, the Flint Hills BreadBasket serves approximately 400 families per week. Daily, the Flint Hills BreadBasket serves between 60-70 families. "This place is going to serve our community, and serve our community well and in changing ways over time," Hagemeister said. "I am so excited for that to happen."Following the ribbon-cutting, the large crowd was able to tour the new facility.<figure>
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Flint Hills BreadBasket opens a new location with a ribbon-cutting

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In an unprecedented nationwide operation to protect children and mark April’s National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the FBI announces Operation Restore Justice, a five day, sweeping FBI initiative to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators across the country in coordination with all 55 of our FBI field offices.

The Kansas City Field Office arrested 6 people as part of this week-long operation. This included the following announcements:

Trevor Teegarden, 34, of Liberty, Missouri was charged with attempted production, distribution of Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM), and possession of CSAM, transfer of obscene material.&nbsp; Andrew Charles Nicholls, 38, of Columbia, Missouri was charged with receipt of CSAM.

Clinton John Gray, 47, of Joplin, Missouri was charged with distribution/ receipt of child pornography.

Andrew Charles Nicholls, 38, of Columbia, Missouri was charged with receipt of CSAM.&nbsp;

Christopher Davis, 39, of Wellington, Kansas was charged with distribution of CSAM and possession of CSAM.

Christopher Slattery, 42 of Manhattan, Kansas was charged with possession of CSAM.

One additional person was charged with receipt and possession of CSAM.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746646043143.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In an unprecedented nationwide operation to protect children and mark April’s National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the FBI announces Operation Restore Justice, a five day, sweeping FBI initiative to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators across the country in coordination with all 55 of our FBI field offices.The Kansas City Field Office arrested 6 people as part of this week-long operation. This included the following announcements:Trevor Teegarden, 34, of Liberty, Missouri was charged with attempted production, distribution of Child Sex Abuse Material (CSAM), and possession of CSAM, transfer of obscene material.&nbsp; Andrew Charles Nicholls, 38, of Columbia, Missouri was charged with receipt of CSAM.Clinton John Gray, 47, of Joplin, Missouri was charged with distribution/ receipt of child pornography.Andrew Charles Nicholls, 38, of Columbia, Missouri was charged with receipt of CSAM.&nbsp;Christopher Davis, 39, of Wellington, Kansas was charged with distribution of CSAM and possession of CSAM.Christopher Slattery, 42 of Manhattan, Kansas was charged with possession of CSAM.One additional person was charged with receipt and possession of CSAM.

FBI: Manhattan man arrested in Operation Restore Justice sweep

The next phase of Aggieville Redevelopment will get started on May 19th. 

Dennis Cook, Aggieville Business Association Executive Director, said that the 1st thing that needs to be done is to dig out the intersection of 12th and Moro to get to the underground infrastructure, so that intersection will be closed for approximately 30 days.  Because of the closure, there will be no parking allowed on either block of Moro from N.Manhattan Ave to 11th Street.

The City passed an Aggieville request for 24/7 free parking in the garage starting May 19 until the intersection is back open.  Parking is free, no registration needed.  But all other rules are in effect, such as nose-in parking only. Any cars left more than 48 hours will be ticketed.

The next phase of Aggieville Redevelopment will get started on May 19th. Dennis Cook, Aggieville Business Association Executive Director, said that the 1st thing that needs to be done is to dig out the intersection of 12th and Moro to get to the underground infrastructure, so that intersection will be closed for approximately 30 days. Because of the closure, there will be no parking allowed on either block of Moro from N.Manhattan Ave to 11th Street.The City passed an Aggieville request for 24/7 free parking in the garage starting May 19 until the intersection is back open. Parking is free, no registration needed. But all other rules are in effect, such as nose-in parking only. Any cars left more than 48 hours will be ticketed.

Aggieville redevelopment will move forward later this month

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a road rage incident in Manhattan.

Just after noon Tuesday, officers filed a report of aggravated assault near the intersection of 68th Avenue and Deer Trail Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 A 61-year-old man reported that a 59-year-old woman armed herself with a handgun and discharged it during a road rage incident. No persons were injured during the event. 

Just before 2p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 59-year-old Tracey Meredith of Manhattan in the 2700 block of Brookhollow Court on requested charges aggravated assault. Meredith met the requirement of $5000 bond and is no longer in custody.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a road rage incident in Manhattan.Just after noon Tuesday, officers filed a report of aggravated assault near the intersection of 68th Avenue and Deer Trail Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 61-year-old man reported that a 59-year-old woman armed herself with a handgun and discharged it during a road rage incident. No persons were injured during the event. Just before 2p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 59-year-old Tracey Meredith of Manhattan in the 2700 block of Brookhollow Court on requested charges aggravated assault. Meredith met the requirement of $5000 bond and is no longer in custody.

Road Rage: Manhattan woman accused of firing a handgun at man

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Three advocacy organizations filed a lawsuit Monday in Douglas County District Court challenging the Kansas Legislature’s attempt to “arbitrarily” reject advance ballots of voters if the mail system fails to deliver them by Election Day.&nbsp;

Kansas Appleseed, Loud Light and Disability Rights Center of Kansas are asking the court to find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb4/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 4</a>&nbsp;unconstitutional. Defendants are Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab and Douglas County Clerk Jamie Shew.

SB 4, which the Legislature passed this year, disqualifies any mail-in ballots not received by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Previously, mail-in ballots were counted if they were postmarked by Election Day and arrived within three days later.

Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed SB4 but that veto was overturned in both chambers, with votes falling along party lines.

In a statement, the three advocacy organizations called SB 4 a “deliberate and unconstitutional assault on Kansans’ fundamental right to vote.”

“This reckless law carelessly disregards the realities of postal delivery delays, which will disproportionately harm rural, elderly, and disabled voters,” the statement said. “Furthermore, this law deliberately undermines the will of Kansas voters who have increasingly chosen to vote by mail in recent election cycles.”&nbsp;

In the lawsuit, the advocacy organizations make a point that Kansans have been voting by mail ever since the Civil War. In 2017, the Legislature recognized that mail-in ballots arriving late deprived voters of their right to vote, and they instituted the three-day grace period.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During legislative debate on SB4, former Rep. Ann Mah, a Topeka Democrat, called the bill “pure partisan politics.” Statistics show&nbsp;<a href="https://elections-blog.mit.edu/articles/how-policy-influenced-partisan-divide-over-voting-mail" target="_blank">far more Democrats than Republicans use mail-in ballots</a>, and she noted the bill’s lack of funding for an education program that would inform citizens of the change.

More Democratic votes would be rejected than Republican votes, Mah said.

“If you make this change and do not fund an education program, you’re intentionally causing thousands of votes to be thrown out,” she said. “That’s voter suppression.”

The lawsuit said 32,000 mail-in ballots were received after Election Day in the 2020 general election during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the 2024 general election, 2,110 ballots arrived during the grace period.

In Douglas County, Shew said he rejected more than 200 ballots in the Aug. 6, 2024, primary for arriving after the grace period, even though they were postmarked in July, the lawsuit said.

“SB 4’s threat of disenfranchisement is particularly acute for some of Kansas’s most vulnerable populations,” the lawsuit said. “The elderly and Kansans with disabilities often have little to no choice but to vote by mail. And rural voters and voters who are temporarily out-of-state, such as many college students, will also be disproportionately affected because their mail is less likely to be delivered in a timely manner.”

The lawsuit said the state of Kansas mails its ballots just 20 days before elections, unlike other states that send them out 30-45 days in advance. Kansas ties with Iowa as the two states with the shortest turnaround time, the filing said.

SB4 is unconstitutional because it violates the equal protection clause that bans the state from arbitrarily rejecting voters’ ballots based on their geography and whether the post office did its job effectively, the lawsuit said.

“Its due process clause requires that Kansas establish adequate procedures to ensure that voters have a reliable, fair, and effective method to cast their ballots,” it said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720316487639.png" alt="A lawsuit filed May 5, 2025, is challenging a Senate Bill 4 that eliminated the 3-day grace period for mail-in ballots.-Post photo" />
 <figcaption>A lawsuit filed May 5, 2025, is challenging a Senate Bill 4 that eliminated the 3-day grace period for mail-in ballots.-Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Three advocacy organizations filed a lawsuit Monday in Douglas County District Court challenging the Kansas Legislature’s attempt to “arbitrarily” reject advance ballots of voters if the mail system fails to deliver them by Election Day.&nbsp;Kansas Appleseed, Loud Light and Disability Rights Center of Kansas are asking the court to find&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb4/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 4</a>&nbsp;unconstitutional. Defendants are Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab and Douglas County Clerk Jamie Shew.SB 4, which the Legislature passed this year, disqualifies any mail-in ballots not received by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Previously, mail-in ballots were counted if they were postmarked by Election Day and arrived within three days later.Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed SB4 but that veto was overturned in both chambers, with votes falling along party lines.In a statement, the three advocacy organizations called SB 4 a “deliberate and unconstitutional assault on Kansans’ fundamental right to vote.”“This reckless law carelessly disregards the realities of postal delivery delays, which will disproportionately harm rural, elderly, and disabled voters,” the statement said. “Furthermore, this law deliberately undermines the will of Kansas voters who have increasingly chosen to vote by mail in recent election cycles.”&nbsp;In the lawsuit, the advocacy organizations make a point that Kansans have been voting by mail ever since the Civil War. In 2017, the Legislature recognized that mail-in ballots arriving late deprived voters of their right to vote, and they instituted the three-day grace period.&nbsp;&nbsp;During legislative debate on SB4, former Rep. Ann Mah, a Topeka Democrat, called the bill “pure partisan politics.” Statistics show&nbsp;<a href="https://elections-blog.mit.edu/articles/how-policy-influenced-partisan-divide-over-voting-mail" target="_blank">far more Democrats than Republicans use mail-in ballots</a>, and she noted the bill’s lack of funding for an education program that would inform citizens of the change.More Democratic votes would be rejected than Republican votes, Mah said.“If you make this change and do not fund an education program, you’re intentionally causing thousands of votes to be thrown out,” she said. “That’s voter suppression.”The lawsuit said 32,000 mail-in ballots were received after Election Day in the 2020 general election during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the 2024 general election, 2,110 ballots arrived during the grace period.In Douglas County, Shew said he rejected more than 200 ballots in the Aug. 6, 2024, primary for arriving after the grace period, even though they were postmarked in July, the lawsuit said.“SB 4’s threat of disenfranchisement is particularly acute for some of Kansas’s most vulnerable populations,” the lawsuit said. “The elderly and Kansans with disabilities often have little to no choice but to vote by mail. And rural voters and voters who are temporarily out-of-state, such as many college students, will also be disproportionately affected because their mail is less likely to be delivered in a timely manner.”The lawsuit said the state of Kansas mails its ballots just 20 days before elections, unlike other states that send them out 30-45 days in advance. Kansas ties with Iowa as the two states with the shortest turnaround time, the filing said.SB4 is unconstitutional because it violates the equal protection clause that bans the state from arbitrarily rejecting voters’ ballots based on their geography and whether the post office did its job effectively, the lawsuit said.“Its due process clause requires that Kansas establish adequate procedures to ensure that voters have a reliable, fair, and effective method to cast their ballots,” it said.

Lawsuit challenges ‘unconstitutional’ Kansas law cutting grace period for mail-in ballots

On Wednesday the Flint Hills Breadbasket will be closed as they clear out their building on Yuma Street in Manhattan and celebrate with a 3:30 pm ribbon cutting at their new space! 

Starting Thursday at 10 am they will welcome guests to shop at The Market in&nbsp; their new location: 2326 Skyvue Lane&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Wednesday the Flint Hills Breadbasket will be closed as they clear out their building on Yuma Street in Manhattan and celebrate with a 3:30 pm ribbon cutting at their new space! Starting Thursday at 10 am they will welcome guests to shop at The Market in&nbsp; their new location: 2326 Skyvue Lane&nbsp;&nbsp;

Flint Hills Breadbasket will move to a new location

Travel spending generates $23.7 million in state and local sales tax revenue in Manhattan.&nbsp;

City commissioners heard Tuesday night that travel is an economic driving force that benefits businesses. Visitors are drawn to Manhattan where they can explore experiences ranging from Big 12 sports and the Flint Hills Discovery Center to the Museum of Art and Light, hiking and biking trails, zipline, hunting and fishing.

May 4-10 has been proclaimed as National Travel and Tourism Week.

The Director of Visit Manhattan, Marcia Rozell, said "Tourism does matter in Manhattan." Restaurants, hotels and retail shops offer something unique to visitors. "In return those visitors bring in outside dollars that are vital to our local economy."

Travel spending generates $23.7 million in state and local sales tax revenue in Manhattan.&nbsp;City commissioners heard Tuesday night that travel is an economic driving force that benefits businesses. Visitors are drawn to Manhattan where they can explore experiences ranging from Big 12 sports and the Flint Hills Discovery Center to the Museum of Art and Light, hiking and biking trails, zipline, hunting and fishing.May 4-10 has been proclaimed as National Travel and Tourism Week.The Director of Visit Manhattan, Marcia Rozell, said "Tourism does matter in Manhattan." Restaurants, hotels and retail shops offer something unique to visitors. "In return those visitors bring in outside dollars that are vital to our local economy."

Impact of travel and tourism is highlighted in Manhattan

Beginning Friday, May 9, The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a resurfacing project on K-15/K-18 and K-197 in Clay and Dickinson counties.

Project work will consist of a mill and overlay on K-18/K-15 from the K-18/K-15 west junction to the K-15/K-18 east junction in Dickinson County and K-197 from Industry to K-15 in Clay County. (See map.)

During construction, flaggers and a pilot car will guide one lane of traffic through construction at a reduced speed during daylight hours. Drivers should be prepared for a delay of up to 15 minutes and plan extra time in their travel schedules.

Shilling Construction Co., of Manhattan, is the prime contractor for this $982,000 project, which is scheduled to be completed in July, weather permitting.

KDOT releaseBeginning Friday, May 9, The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a resurfacing project on K-15/K-18 and K-197 in Clay and Dickinson counties.Project work will consist of a mill and overlay on K-18/K-15 from the K-18/K-15 west junction to the K-15/K-18 east junction in Dickinson County and K-197 from Industry to K-15 in Clay County. (See map.)During construction, flaggers and a pilot car will guide one lane of traffic through construction at a reduced speed during daylight hours. Drivers should be prepared for a delay of up to 15 minutes and plan extra time in their travel schedules.Shilling Construction Co., of Manhattan, is the prime contractor for this $982,000 project, which is scheduled to be completed in July, weather permitting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746570338338.jpeg" alt=" " />
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 </figure>

Resurfacing to begin May 9 in Dickinson, Clay counties

Candidate Doug Billings wants to implement DOGE framework in Topeka

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

TOPEKA — Conservative podcaster and MAGA enthusiast Doug Billings is the lone person to formally file as a candidate for the Kansas Republican Party’s nomination for governor in 2026.

Billings, not a household name in Kansas politics, said in an interview Monday that he was a reluctant candidate in a GOP field that could grow substantially as Secretary of State Scott Schwab, Senate President Ty Masterson, state Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, former Gov. Jeff Colyer, former Johnson County Commissioner Charlotte O’Hara and others make decisions to join the ballot or stay on the sideline. No Democrat has officially entered the race.

“The truth is, honest to God, I don’t want to run,” Billings said. “We need a strong conservative governor in that office. We need a politician who’s going to tell the truth.”

Billings, who worked in human resources before starting “The Right Side” podcast five years ago in Olathe, said he would implement at the state level the federal DOGE framework embraced by President Donald Trump and adviser Elon Musk. He said the state’s economy would flourish by cutting unnecessary spending and by diminishing income and businesses taxes, including the potentially unconstitutional property tax.

“Through the Kansas Department of Government Efficiency, I will root out fraud, waste and bureaucracy across state agencies,” he said.

Targets of his budget ax would include administrative costs in public schools, fraud in poverty and unemployment benefit programs, transportation project cost overruns, ill-advised economic development incentives and operational inefficiency in prisons. He vowed to scan state agencies large and small for waste.

Billings said his Catholic values required that he provide leadership in the movement to curtail abortion rights in Kansas. He would expand the state’s support for anti-abortion pregnancy resource centers and faith-based adoption agencies as well as enact policies reflecting a “shared commitment to the dignity of every human life.” At minimum, he said, the state ought to enact and enforce a law forbidding abortion after detection of a fetal heartbeat.

The Kansas Supreme Court declared a woman’s decision to terminate a pregnancy a fundamental right anchored in the Bill of Rights of the Kansas Constitution. In 2022, voters in Kansas rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would have nullified the state Supreme Court’s opinion on abortion. Abortion remains legal in Kansas despite the U.S. Supreme Court decision striking the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion nationwide.

Billings said he would strive as governor to restore Christian values that inspired the nation’s Founding Fathers and to breath new life into founding documents written by those men. He said school classes would start with a moment of private prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, which would reinforce “our unity under God.”

“Kansas must return to its roots as a society grounded in faith, morality and reverence for God,” he said. “Not as a theocracy, but as a republic that honors its Christian heritage with pride and conviction.”

He said his administration would be a bulwark against attempts to erode the “God-given” right to bear arms. He would oppose burdensome regulations, excessive fees and bureaucratic red tape that infringed on the ability of law-abiding citizens to possess firearms.

Diversity, equity and inclusion programs or “woke” agendas in K-12 schools would be eliminated to avoid advocacy for “divisive ideologies,” Billings said. The state should invest tax dollars in ways that supported decisions of parents to send their children to public, private or home schools, he said.

In terms of election security, Billings said he would order the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to launch inquiries into past election “irregularities” and decisions that undercut election fraud investigations.

Secretary of State Schwab, who said he would run for the GOP nomination for governor, has repeatedly contended Kansas elections were fair and accurate. However, Billings said “anyone telling you that we don’t have election integrity issues in Kansas is either vastly uninformed or is lying to you.”

“I will work to eliminate electronic voting machines, which are vulnerable to manipulation and erode public confidence,” Billings said. “In their place, I will implement watermarked paper ballots.”

In January, Schwab was the first Republican to confirm plans to seek the August 2026 nomination for governor. He was elected the state’s top election official in 2018 and won reelection in 2022. He served 14 years in the Kansas House representing an Olathe district. In March, Schwab said he had been diagnosed with cancer in the lung. He said the cancer was detected at an early stage and surgery would be relied on to combat the health threat.

Schwab said his campaign would concentrate on necessity of the state to bring property assessments and taxation under control. He expressed alarm the 2025 Legislature did little to moderate state property tax collections, despite bipartisan promises after the 2024 session to tackle the issue.

“When it came time to lead, both the governor and leadership came up short,” he said.

O’Hara, a former Johnson County Commission member and one-term Kansas House member, said in February that she would campaign for governor because it was time to have a “true, proven conservative” leading the Republican supermajority in the Legislature. She vowed to deal with wasteful state spending and “ludicrous corporate welfare” in the form of business subsidies, ban DEI in government institutions and “get schools back on track.”

“I cannot stand silent and watch small businesses and homeowners be destroyed through high property taxes or watch our children drown in the sewer of wokeism in our schools,” she said.

O’Hara lost a 2024 reelection campaign for county commission to a Democrat after objecting to COVID-19 restrictions and opposing vaccination mandates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746542160693.png" alt=" Doug Billings, a conservative podcaster and MAGA champion, stands as the only formal candidate for the Kansas Republican Party’s nomination to find a replacement for term-limited Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2026. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Billings’ podcast)" />
 <figcaption> Doug Billings, a conservative podcaster and MAGA champion, stands as the only formal candidate for the Kansas Republican Party’s nomination to find a replacement for term-limited Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly in 2026. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Billings’ podcast)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Candidate Doug Billings wants to implement DOGE framework in Topeka</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Conservative podcaster and MAGA enthusiast Doug Billings is the lone person to formally file as a candidate for the Kansas Republican Party’s nomination for governor in 2026.Billings, not a household name in Kansas politics, said in an interview Monday that he was a reluctant candidate in a GOP field that could grow substantially as Secretary of State Scott Schwab, Senate President Ty Masterson, state Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, former Gov. Jeff Colyer, former Johnson County Commissioner Charlotte O’Hara and others make decisions to join the ballot or stay on the sideline. No Democrat has officially entered the race.“The truth is, honest to God, I don’t want to run,” Billings said. “We need a strong conservative governor in that office. We need a politician who’s going to tell the truth.”Billings, who worked in human resources before starting “The Right Side” podcast five years ago in Olathe, said he would implement at the state level the federal DOGE framework embraced by President Donald Trump and adviser Elon Musk. He said the state’s economy would flourish by cutting unnecessary spending and by diminishing income and businesses taxes, including the potentially unconstitutional property tax.“Through the Kansas Department of Government Efficiency, I will root out fraud, waste and bureaucracy across state agencies,” he said.Targets of his budget ax would include administrative costs in public schools, fraud in poverty and unemployment benefit programs, transportation project cost overruns, ill-advised economic development incentives and operational inefficiency in prisons. He vowed to scan state agencies large and small for waste.Billings said his Catholic values required that he provide leadership in the movement to curtail abortion rights in Kansas. He would expand the state’s support for anti-abortion pregnancy resource centers and faith-based adoption agencies as well as enact policies reflecting a “shared commitment to the dignity of every human life.” At minimum, he said, the state ought to enact and enforce a law forbidding abortion after detection of a fetal heartbeat.The Kansas Supreme Court declared a woman’s decision to terminate a pregnancy a fundamental right anchored in the Bill of Rights of the Kansas Constitution. In 2022, voters in Kansas rejected a proposed constitutional amendment that would have nullified the state Supreme Court’s opinion on abortion. Abortion remains legal in Kansas despite the U.S. Supreme Court decision striking the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling that legalized abortion nationwide.<h2>God, guns, voting</h2>Billings said he would strive as governor to restore Christian values that inspired the nation’s Founding Fathers and to breath new life into founding documents written by those men. He said school classes would start with a moment of private prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, which would reinforce “our unity under God.”“Kansas must return to its roots as a society grounded in faith, morality and reverence for God,” he said. “Not as a theocracy, but as a republic that honors its Christian heritage with pride and conviction.”He said his administration would be a bulwark against attempts to erode the “God-given” right to bear arms. He would oppose burdensome regulations, excessive fees and bureaucratic red tape that infringed on the ability of law-abiding citizens to possess firearms.Diversity, equity and inclusion programs or “woke” agendas in K-12 schools would be eliminated to avoid advocacy for “divisive ideologies,” Billings said. The state should invest tax dollars in ways that supported decisions of parents to send their children to public, private or home schools, he said.In terms of election security, Billings said he would order the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to launch inquiries into past election “irregularities” and decisions that undercut election fraud investigations.Secretary of State Schwab, who said he would run for the GOP nomination for governor, has repeatedly contended Kansas elections were fair and accurate. However, Billings said “anyone telling you that we don’t have election integrity issues in Kansas is either vastly uninformed or is lying to you.”“I will work to eliminate electronic voting machines, which are vulnerable to manipulation and erode public confidence,” Billings said. “In their place, I will implement watermarked paper ballots.”<h2>Schwab, O’Hara</h2>In January, Schwab was the first Republican to confirm plans to seek the August 2026 nomination for governor. He was elected the state’s top election official in 2018 and won reelection in 2022. He served 14 years in the Kansas House representing an Olathe district. In March, Schwab said he had been diagnosed with cancer in the lung. He said the cancer was detected at an early stage and surgery would be relied on to combat the health threat.Schwab said his campaign would concentrate on necessity of the state to bring property assessments and taxation under control. He expressed alarm the 2025 Legislature did little to moderate state property tax collections, despite bipartisan promises after the 2024 session to tackle the issue.“When it came time to lead, both the governor and leadership came up short,” he said.O’Hara, a former Johnson County Commission member and one-term Kansas House member, said in February that she would campaign for governor because it was time to have a “true, proven conservative” leading the Republican supermajority in the Legislature. She vowed to deal with wasteful state spending and “ludicrous corporate welfare” in the form of business subsidies, ban DEI in government institutions and “get schools back on track.”“I cannot stand silent and watch small businesses and homeowners be destroyed through high property taxes or watch our children drown in the sewer of wokeism in our schools,” she said.O’Hara lost a 2024 reelection campaign for county commission to a Democrat after objecting to COVID-19 restrictions and opposing vaccination mandates.

Kansas podcaster seeks GOP gubernatorial nomination to copy Trump crusade at state level

By Chelsi Medved Division of Communications and Marketing

MANHATTAN — A new certificate at Kansas State University will train students to support the economic development of rural communities by showcasing the heartbeat of the heartland — agriculture — to tourists and visitors.&nbsp; K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/">College of Health and Human Sciences</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ag.k-state.edu/">College of Agriculture</a>&nbsp;have teamed up to provide the new certificate for learners interested in bringing communities to farms or ranches for recreational, educational or retail purposes, otherwise known as agritourism.

Agritourism has become an increasingly popular area of expertise, especially for those in the Midwest and Kansas. The new certificate consists of 15 credit hours and prepares students with the necessary skills to lead and manage businesses in agriculturally based tourism operations."The agritourism certificate is a vital asset for Kansas and the greater Midwest, equipping students with the skills to strengthen rural economies through sustainable, tourism-based agricultural ventures," said Kevin R. Roberts, interim department head and professor of hospitality management. 

The agritourism certificate is open to all degree-seeking learners and can also be obtained as a free-standing credential. Learners interested in a career in hospitality and tourism, small business, agribusiness, agricultural economics, agricultural sales, global food systems leadership and outdoor enterprises management are encouraged to consider an agritourism certificate. 

For more information, please visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://catalog.k-state.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=62&amp;poid=24501&amp;returnto=12627">undergraduate catalo</a>

By Chelsi Medved Division of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — A new certificate at Kansas State University will train students to support the economic development of rural communities by showcasing the heartbeat of the heartland — agriculture — to tourists and visitors.&nbsp; K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/">College of Health and Human Sciences</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ag.k-state.edu/">College of Agriculture</a>&nbsp;have teamed up to provide the new certificate for learners interested in bringing communities to farms or ranches for recreational, educational or retail purposes, otherwise known as agritourism.Agritourism has become an increasingly popular area of expertise, especially for those in the Midwest and Kansas. The new certificate consists of 15 credit hours and prepares students with the necessary skills to lead and manage businesses in agriculturally based tourism operations."The agritourism certificate is a vital asset for Kansas and the greater Midwest, equipping students with the skills to strengthen rural economies through sustainable, tourism-based agricultural ventures," said Kevin R. Roberts, interim department head and professor of hospitality management. The agritourism certificate is open to all degree-seeking learners and can also be obtained as a free-standing credential. Learners interested in a career in hospitality and tourism, small business, agribusiness, agricultural economics, agricultural sales, global food systems leadership and outdoor enterprises management are encouraged to consider an agritourism certificate. For more information, please visit the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://catalog.k-state.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=62&amp;poid=24501&amp;returnto=12627">undergraduate catalo</a>

New agritourism certificate to help Wildcats strengthen rural economies

Pawnee Mental Health is excited to announce the naming of its 1558 Hayes Drive location in Manhattan to the Behavioral Health Access Center. This new name better represents the wide range of essential behavioral health services housed within the building. It reinforces Pawnee’s commitment to accessible, comprehensive care for individuals and families across the region.

The building is home to several critical programs, including Crisis Services, the Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU), Social Detox services and Same Day Access (SDA). While the CSU retains its name, renaming the overall facility reflects the integration of available services under one roof.

The CSU continues to offer 24/7 voluntary treatment for individuals experiencing an acute mental health crisis. The 11-bed unit provides short-term, intensive therapeutic support in a safe, supportive environment, helping individuals stabilize before transitioning to ongoing community-based care.

Pawnee’s Social Detox program offers a nonmedical approach to managing withdrawal from drugs or alcohol in a safe, supportive setting. It focuses on emotional support, monitoring and guidance—rather than medication—to help individuals through the initial stages of recovery. A Kansas Fights Addiction (KFA) grant awarded to Riley County Community Corrections funded the recent construction of a bathroom to support these services. The KFA program, funded through the state’s opioid settlement, is designed to support efforts to address and prevent substance use across Kansas.

The other branch of the Behavioral Health Access Center houses the Same Day Access (SDA) services. This program offers individuals the ability to walk in and begin behavioral health services without a prior appointment. These services offer timely support when needed most. Prior to the opening of (SDA) community members often had to wait months to get their first appointment. With this model not only are they evaluated that day, but they are able to meet with their assigned provider within 7-10 days of their initial visit. The SDA program is a game changer when it comes to addressing behavioral health concerns.

“The term ‘Behavioral Health’ better reflects the accessible, comprehensive care available in this building,” said Michael Rezkalla, Chief Executive Officer of Pawnee Mental Health. “Whether someone walks in for Same Day Access, needs urgent crisis support, or is beginning social detox, this center brings essential services together in one place.”

Pawnee Mental Health is excited to announce the naming of its 1558 Hayes Drive location in Manhattan to the Behavioral Health Access Center. This new name better represents the wide range of essential behavioral health services housed within the building. It reinforces Pawnee’s commitment to accessible, comprehensive care for individuals and families across the region.The building is home to several critical programs, including Crisis Services, the Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU), Social Detox services and Same Day Access (SDA). While the CSU retains its name, renaming the overall facility reflects the integration of available services under one roof.The CSU continues to offer 24/7 voluntary treatment for individuals experiencing an acute mental health crisis. The 11-bed unit provides short-term, intensive therapeutic support in a safe, supportive environment, helping individuals stabilize before transitioning to ongoing community-based care.Pawnee’s Social Detox program offers a nonmedical approach to managing withdrawal from drugs or alcohol in a safe, supportive setting. It focuses on emotional support, monitoring and guidance—rather than medication—to help individuals through the initial stages of recovery. A Kansas Fights Addiction (KFA) grant awarded to Riley County Community Corrections funded the recent construction of a bathroom to support these services. The KFA program, funded through the state’s opioid settlement, is designed to support efforts to address and prevent substance use across Kansas.The other branch of the Behavioral Health Access Center houses the Same Day Access (SDA) services. This program offers individuals the ability to walk in and begin behavioral health services without a prior appointment. These services offer timely support when needed most. Prior to the opening of (SDA) community members often had to wait months to get their first appointment. With this model not only are they evaluated that day, but they are able to meet with their assigned provider within 7-10 days of their initial visit. The SDA program is a game changer when it comes to addressing behavioral health concerns.“The term ‘Behavioral Health’ better reflects the accessible, comprehensive care available in this building,” said Michael Rezkalla, Chief Executive Officer of Pawnee Mental Health. “Whether someone walks in for Same Day Access, needs urgent crisis support, or is beginning social detox, this center brings essential services together in one place.”

Pawnee Mental Health names 1558 Hayes Drive location to Behavioral Health Access Center

Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/">Climate Resilient Cereals Innovation Lab</a>&nbsp;continues work after federal funding resumed earlier this month.

The innovation lab aims to help double the world's food supply by 2050 through crop production improvements for four of the world's most important cereals: sorghum, millet, wheat and rice. All four crops are grown in the United States, and more than 50% of sorghum is grown in Kansas.

"K-State's innovation lab is helping bolster American agriculture by creating crops that are resistant to drought and disease," said U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran. "I appreciate Secretary Rubio for recognizing the importance of the work being done at Kansas State University and supporting the continuation of this program. Kansans, Americans and individuals around the world face a brighter future due to the work being done at K-State to help feed the world."

The innovation lab collaborates with U.S. and international partners to advance the breeding of these cereal crops to be more resistant to heat, drought, insects and disease, with the goal of making farmers more prosperous.

"This work is vital to the success of American and international agricultural production," said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/about/dalton.html">Timothy Dalton</a>, professor of agricultural economics and interim director of the innovation lab. "The work we are doing ultimately results in grains that are more tolerant to real-world challenges farmers are facing now."

Researchers are using the latest technologies — including phenotyping with uncrewed aerial drones, next-generation DNA sequencing and genotyping, AI-assisted crop modeling and simulations, and speed breeding — in projects around the world.

Dalton said the international partnerships allow for testing crops in conditions similar to U.S. farmers' current and forecast challenges. In Asia, rice varieties are studied for resistance to rice blast, a fungal disease. Through this work, new rice varieties will be available for farmers in the southern U.S. Wheat and sorghum yields will be improved through testing in some of the hottest and driest regions of the world bordering the Sahara Desert.

"We're searching for scientific advances to make crops stronger and food production more reliable and safer," Dalton said. "This makes farmers here in Kansas and in partner nations more prosperous and ready to meet global food needs far into the future."

The funding is for the collaborative, interdisciplinary research to improve these four crops. K-State's collaborative partners are the University of Florida, Texas A&amp;M University, Texas Tech University, Purdue University, Cornell University, Louisiana State University, Clemson University, and national agricultural research systems in Senegal, Ethiopia and Bangladesh.

"Thank you to Senator Moran and his team for their dedicated efforts in supporting and ensuring the continuation of this important research at Kansas State University," said Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension. "Advancing agricultural innovation and ensuring resilient crop production are critical priorities for global food and national security."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743088206929.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>K-STATE NEWS AND COMMUNICATIONS&nbsp;Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/">Climate Resilient Cereals Innovation Lab</a>&nbsp;continues work after federal funding resumed earlier this month.The innovation lab aims to help double the world's food supply by 2050 through crop production improvements for four of the world's most important cereals: sorghum, millet, wheat and rice. All four crops are grown in the United States, and more than 50% of sorghum is grown in Kansas."K-State's innovation lab is helping bolster American agriculture by creating crops that are resistant to drought and disease," said U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran. "I appreciate Secretary Rubio for recognizing the importance of the work being done at Kansas State University and supporting the continuation of this program. Kansans, Americans and individuals around the world face a brighter future due to the work being done at K-State to help feed the world."The innovation lab collaborates with U.S. and international partners to advance the breeding of these cereal crops to be more resistant to heat, drought, insects and disease, with the goal of making farmers more prosperous."This work is vital to the success of American and international agricultural production," said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/crcil/about/dalton.html">Timothy Dalton</a>, professor of agricultural economics and interim director of the innovation lab. "The work we are doing ultimately results in grains that are more tolerant to real-world challenges farmers are facing now."Researchers are using the latest technologies — including phenotyping with uncrewed aerial drones, next-generation DNA sequencing and genotyping, AI-assisted crop modeling and simulations, and speed breeding — in projects around the world.Dalton said the international partnerships allow for testing crops in conditions similar to U.S. farmers' current and forecast challenges. In Asia, rice varieties are studied for resistance to rice blast, a fungal disease. Through this work, new rice varieties will be available for farmers in the southern U.S. Wheat and sorghum yields will be improved through testing in some of the hottest and driest regions of the world bordering the Sahara Desert."We're searching for scientific advances to make crops stronger and food production more reliable and safer," Dalton said. "This makes farmers here in Kansas and in partner nations more prosperous and ready to meet global food needs far into the future."The funding is for the collaborative, interdisciplinary research to improve these four crops. K-State's collaborative partners are the University of Florida, Texas A&amp;M University, Texas Tech University, Purdue University, Cornell University, Louisiana State University, Clemson University, and national agricultural research systems in Senegal, Ethiopia and Bangladesh."Thank you to Senator Moran and his team for their dedicated efforts in supporting and ensuring the continuation of this important research at Kansas State University," said Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension. "Advancing agricultural innovation and ensuring resilient crop production are critical priorities for global food and national security."

K-State lab resumes work on world's top crops

The Junction City / Geary County Catbackers are hosting their 2025 golf tournament on Saturday, June 14. The tournament will be held at Rolling Meadows Golf Course and will have a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. Check-in will begin at 8:00.

The tournament is a four-person golf scramble, and registration is $75 per player. The registration includes the green fees, a cart, the driving range, and lunch after the round. Beer, hole prizes, and a raffle are also available.

To register a team, contact Rolling Meadows Golf Course at 785-238-4303.  

Hole Sponsors are $100, and if interested in sponsoring a hole, contact the Junction City/Geary County Catbackers at jcgc.catbackers@yahoo.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746479003839.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City / Geary County Catbackers are hosting their 2025 golf tournament on Saturday, June 14. The tournament will be held at Rolling Meadows Golf Course and will have a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. Check-in will begin at 8:00.The tournament is a four-person golf scramble, and registration is $75 per player. The registration includes the green fees, a cart, the driving range, and lunch after the round. Beer, hole prizes, and a raffle are also available.To register a team, contact Rolling Meadows Golf Course at 785-238-4303. Hole Sponsors are $100, and if interested in sponsoring a hole, contact the Junction City/Geary County Catbackers at jcgc.catbackers@yahoo.com.

JC/GC Catbackers Golf Tournament scheduled for Saturday, June 14

On Sunday at 5:59 p.m. Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to K-18 Highway and North Ritter Road in reference to a 2-vehicle injury accident. Jeremias Wilcox of Junction City, KS was traveling eastbound on K-18 at mile marker 165 in a 2014 Chevrolet Malibu when he attempted to turn northbound onto Munson Road. Joshua Zumbrunn of Wakefield was traveling westbound on K-18 Highway in his 2018 Ram truck when Wilcox failed to yield right of way to oncoming traffic

The Sheriff's department said both vehicles collided head on. Zumbrunn was transported to Stormont Vail for medical evaluation. Both vehicles were removed from the scene by Bud’s Wrecker Service.

On Sunday at 5:59 p.m. Geary County Sheriff's Deputies responded to K-18 Highway and North Ritter Road in reference to a 2-vehicle injury accident. Jeremias Wilcox of Junction City, KS was traveling eastbound on K-18 at mile marker 165 in a 2014 Chevrolet Malibu when he attempted to turn northbound onto Munson Road. Joshua Zumbrunn of Wakefield was traveling westbound on K-18 Highway in his 2018 Ram truck when Wilcox failed to yield right of way to oncoming trafficThe Sheriff's department said both vehicles collided head on. Zumbrunn was transported to Stormont Vail for medical evaluation. Both vehicles were removed from the scene by Bud’s Wrecker Service.

One taken to the hospital for evaluation

The Court has denied a defense motion for immunity from prosecution by Junction City Commissioner Al ( Alovence ) Gordon in the Geary County District Court case in which he is charged with a misdemeanor count of Domestic Battery. The charge stems from a Jan. 23 incident in which Gordon and Corieyonna Trice were allegedly involved in a fight revolving around possession of hair clips. The pair had been in a relationship for nearly seven years. 

Seperately in connection with the Jan. 23 incident,&nbsp; Trice also faces a misdemeanor charge of Domestic Battery.

On Monday in District Court a June 2 arraignment date was set for Gordon, at which time the defense has indicated he could be expected to plead not guilty. A scheduling conference is also planned on June 2, at which time if necessary, a jury trial could be scheduled for Gordon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746475327375.jpeg" alt="Al Gordon" />
 <figcaption>Al Gordon</figcaption>
 </figure>The Court has denied a defense motion for immunity from prosecution by Junction City Commissioner Al ( Alovence ) Gordon in the Geary County District Court case in which he is charged with a misdemeanor count of Domestic Battery. The charge stems from a Jan. 23 incident in which Gordon and Corieyonna Trice were allegedly involved in a fight revolving around possession of hair clips. The pair had been in a relationship for nearly seven years. Seperately in connection with the Jan. 23 incident,&nbsp; Trice also faces a misdemeanor charge of Domestic Battery.On Monday in District Court a June 2 arraignment date was set for Gordon, at which time the defense has indicated he could be expected to plead not guilty. A scheduling conference is also planned on June 2, at which time if necessary, a jury trial could be scheduled for Gordon..<figure>
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Motion for immunity from prosecution is denied

RILEY COUNTY —On Friday, police arrested Corina Gutierrez Demille, 50, of Junction City, in the 4100 block of Fort Riley Boulevard, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp; for an extraditable arrest warrant out of Olero County, New Mexico. 

&nbsp;Gutierrez Demille is being held without in the Riley County Jail.

RILEY COUNTY —On Friday, police arrested Corina Gutierrez Demille, 50, of Junction City, in the 4100 block of Fort Riley Boulevard, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp; for an extraditable arrest warrant out of Olero County, New Mexico. &nbsp;Gutierrez Demille is being held without in the Riley County Jail.

Junction City woman jailed for arrest warrant in New Mexico

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating theft from two local businesses have made an arrest.

Just before 7p.m. April 21,&nbsp; officers filed a report for theft of property or services, theft by deception and making false information from Central Mechanical Construction Company and Howies Recycling Inc., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The report list a 43-year-old man as the suspect. On Friday, police arrested Adam Rundell, 43, of Manhattan for theft of property or service, theft by deception and making false information. Rundell is being held on a $5,000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating theft from two local businesses have made an arrest.Just before 7p.m. April 21,&nbsp; officers filed a report for theft of property or services, theft by deception and making false information from Central Mechanical Construction Company and Howies Recycling Inc., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The report list a 43-year-old man as the suspect. On Friday, police arrested Adam Rundell, 43, of Manhattan for theft of property or service, theft by deception and making false information. Rundell is being held on a $5,000 bond.

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