CLAY COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol on Monday identified the man who died in an accident that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.

According to the patrol, a 2023 Chevy Tahoe driven by Hannah Marie&nbsp;Fahey, 25, Clay Center, was northbound on Kansas 15&nbsp;attempting to turn westbound on Kansas Highway 9.&nbsp; The driver&nbsp;turned in front of a southbound 2002 Harley Davidson Electra Glide driven by Daniel Eugene Barnhilld, 56, Washington, Kansas.&nbsp; The motorcycle struck the SUV.

Barnhilld was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home. Fahey was not injured and had one juvenile in the Tahoe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barnhilld was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

CLAY COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.

A vehicle was southbound on Kansas 15 one mile north of 30th road. The vehicle struck a northbound vehicle that turned in front of the southbound vehicle while making a westbound turn on Kansas 9 Highway.

Both vehicles came to rest on Kansas 15. The KHP released no additional details early Sunday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

CLAY COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol on Monday identified the man who died in an accident that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.According to the patrol, a 2023 Chevy Tahoe driven by Hannah Marie&nbsp;Fahey, 25, Clay Center, was northbound on Kansas 15&nbsp;attempting to turn westbound on Kansas Highway 9.&nbsp; The driver&nbsp;turned in front of a southbound 2002 Harley Davidson Electra Glide driven by Daniel Eugene Barnhilld, 56, Washington, Kansas.&nbsp; The motorcycle struck the SUV.Barnhilld was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home. Fahey was not injured and had one juvenile in the Tahoe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Barnhilld was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.-------------CLAY COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Saturday in Clay County.A vehicle was southbound on Kansas 15 one mile north of 30th road. The vehicle struck a northbound vehicle that turned in front of the southbound vehicle while making a westbound turn on Kansas 9 Highway.Both vehicles came to rest on Kansas 15. The KHP released no additional details early Sunday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

KHP IDs Kansas man who died in motorcycle, SUV crash

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Sunday in Riley County.

A 2016 Dodge Caravan driven by 62-year-old Deanna Currey of Riley, rounded a corner at Barton and Falcon Roads, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Currey was unable to stop and the van rear-ended a 2023 Audi driven by 70-year-old Deborah Dugan of Castle Rock, Colorado. 

EMS transported Dugan to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Currey was issued a citation for following too close.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Sunday in Riley County.A 2016 Dodge Caravan driven by 62-year-old Deanna Currey of Riley, rounded a corner at Barton and Falcon Roads, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Currey was unable to stop and the van rear-ended a 2023 Audi driven by 70-year-old Deborah Dugan of Castle Rock, Colorado. EMS transported Dugan to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Currey was issued a citation for following too close.

Woman hospitalized after Riley Co. rear-end crash

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/2024/8/1722866708620.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report August 5

The Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) is excited to announce that voting for the next Kansas personalized license plate design is now open. Starting today, Kansans can visit <a href="http://ksplates.kansas.gov">ksplates.kansas.gov</a> to select their favorite design. Voting will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and the winning design will be announced on Monday, Aug. 12.

“We know how passionate Kansans are about license plates, and this initiative aims to give the public a direct say in selecting the next personalized plate design that will be featured on vehicles across the state for years to come,”&nbsp;said David Harper, Director of KDOR Division of Vehicles. “We look forward to seeing which design Kansans choose.”

The website offers five distinctive design options for Kansans to select from.

Voting on this round of personalized designs is different from the standard license plate designs Kansans voted on last December. To streamline the process and meet production deadlines, KDOR incorporated feedback from last year’s voting to inform aspects of these designs, including a Kansas outline, wheat, and sunflowers.

The winning design will replace the current “Powering the Future” personalized license plate design.

Residents may vote for their preferred design multiple times. Shortly after the voting concludes, the winning design will enter production and be available for purchase in 2025.

The voting website was made possible with help from the Information Network of Kansas. Kansans can cast their vote by visiting <a href="http://ksplates.kansas.gov">ksplates.kansas.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722865450776.png" alt="Kansans can visit ksplates.kansas.gov to select their favorite design. Voting will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and the winning design will be announced on Monday, Aug. 12." />
 <figcaption>Kansans can visit ksplates.kansas.gov to select their favorite design. Voting will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and the winning design will be announced on Monday, Aug. 12.</figcaption>
 </figure>KDORThe Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) is excited to announce that voting for the next Kansas personalized license plate design is now open. Starting today, Kansans can visit <a href="http://ksplates.kansas.gov">ksplates.kansas.gov</a> to select their favorite design. Voting will end at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and the winning design will be announced on Monday, Aug. 12.“We know how passionate Kansans are about license plates, and this initiative aims to give the public a direct say in selecting the next personalized plate design that will be featured on vehicles across the state for years to come,”&nbsp;said David Harper, Director of KDOR Division of Vehicles. “We look forward to seeing which design Kansans choose.”The website offers five distinctive design options for Kansans to select from.Voting on this round of personalized designs is different from the standard license plate designs Kansans voted on last December. To streamline the process and meet production deadlines, KDOR incorporated feedback from last year’s voting to inform aspects of these designs, including a Kansas outline, wheat, and sunflowers.The winning design will replace the current “Powering the Future” personalized license plate design.Residents may vote for their preferred design multiple times. Shortly after the voting concludes, the winning design will enter production and be available for purchase in 2025.The voting website was made possible with help from the Information Network of Kansas. Kansans can cast their vote by visiting <a href="http://ksplates.kansas.gov">ksplates.kansas.gov</a>.

Kansas Department of Revenue — Voting open for new personalized license plate design

Governor Laura Kelly recently signed a proclamation recognizing August as “Kansas Breastfeeding Month,” highlighting the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of Kansans. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition have partnered in bringing awareness to the many benefits of breastfeeding.

“We are extremely pleased with Governor Kelly’s proclamation, which highlights the importance of breastfeeding support for families in Kansas,”&nbsp;Brenda Bandy, IBCLC, Executive Director of the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition (KBC), said.&nbsp;“This proclamation supports their decision and fosters a landscape of breastfeeding support in our state for the benefit of Kansas children and families.”&nbsp;

Over 90 percent of families in Kansas choose to breastfeed. Yet less than one in four Kansas infants are exclusively breastfed through the critical first six months of life. Lack of support and barriers in the workplace can often be obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed.&nbsp;

“We know breastfeeding has many positive impacts,”&nbsp;Derik Flerlage, Director of KDHE Bureau of Family Health, said. “Strong statewide partnerships and community collaboration allow our programs to better serve the needs of Kansas families as they care for children during their critical first months.”

Breastfeeding support where families work and care for their children will improve the baby's and the mother’s future health.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vcHVibGljYXRpb25zLmFhcC5vcmcvcGVkaWF0cmljcy9hcnRpY2xlLzE1MC8xL2UyMDIyMDU3OTg4LzE4ODM0Ny9Qb2xpY3ktU3RhdGVtZW50LUJyZWFzdGZlZWRpbmctYW5kLXRoZS1Vc2Utb2Y_YXV0b2xvZ2luY2hlY2s9cmVkaXJlY3RlZCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.XLe3gFmm7LJekT6p23LCX6vuEs-x1L7WwQqaAZKZqMs/s/1305935158/br/246826442243-l">The American Academy of Pediatrics</a>&nbsp;guidance on breastfeeding calls for policy changes to address obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed, including universal paid maternity leave and insurance coverage for lactation support.

Governor Kelly’s proclamation stresses the role of every Kansan to make breastfeeding easier in our state. The KBC&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NicmVhc3RmZWVkaW5nLm9yZy93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyNC8wNC9zdGF0ZW9mQkZpbktTMjAyMy1yZXZfT2N0LnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.ddSn_8Q9Q3bRmuUpOLFPVFlA1NqNRWurK1aYvgUgNYo/s/1305935158/br/246826442243-l">State of Breastfeeding in Kansas 2023 report</a>&nbsp;has the most recent breastfeeding rates for Kansas along with action items and resources for individuals, employers, child care providers, health care professionals and others to support breastfeeding.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722863243122.jpeg" alt="(left to right) Jeff Usher, Amanda Peterson, Heather Braum, Stephanne Rupnicki, Mandy Chapin, Governor Laura Kelly, Danica Pelzel, Trini Murguia, Amy Trollinger and Diana Lady. Photo Courtesy Office of Governor Laura Kelly" />
 <figcaption>(left to right) Jeff Usher, Amanda Peterson, Heather Braum, Stephanne Rupnicki, Mandy Chapin, Governor Laura Kelly, Danica Pelzel, Trini Murguia, Amy Trollinger and Diana Lady. Photo Courtesy Office of Governor Laura Kelly</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Governor Laura KellyGovernor Laura Kelly recently signed a proclamation recognizing August as “Kansas Breastfeeding Month,” highlighting the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of Kansans. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition have partnered in bringing awareness to the many benefits of breastfeeding.“We are extremely pleased with Governor Kelly’s proclamation, which highlights the importance of breastfeeding support for families in Kansas,”&nbsp;Brenda Bandy, IBCLC, Executive Director of the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition (KBC), said.&nbsp;“This proclamation supports their decision and fosters a landscape of breastfeeding support in our state for the benefit of Kansas children and families.”&nbsp;Over 90 percent of families in Kansas choose to breastfeed. Yet less than one in four Kansas infants are exclusively breastfed through the critical first six months of life. Lack of support and barriers in the workplace can often be obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed.&nbsp;“We know breastfeeding has many positive impacts,”&nbsp;Derik Flerlage, Director of KDHE Bureau of Family Health, said. “Strong statewide partnerships and community collaboration allow our programs to better serve the needs of Kansas families as they care for children during their critical first months.”Breastfeeding support where families work and care for their children will improve the baby's and the mother’s future health.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vcHVibGljYXRpb25zLmFhcC5vcmcvcGVkaWF0cmljcy9hcnRpY2xlLzE1MC8xL2UyMDIyMDU3OTg4LzE4ODM0Ny9Qb2xpY3ktU3RhdGVtZW50LUJyZWFzdGZlZWRpbmctYW5kLXRoZS1Vc2Utb2Y_YXV0b2xvZ2luY2hlY2s9cmVkaXJlY3RlZCZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.XLe3gFmm7LJekT6p23LCX6vuEs-x1L7WwQqaAZKZqMs/s/1305935158/br/246826442243-l">The American Academy of Pediatrics</a>&nbsp;guidance on breastfeeding calls for policy changes to address obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed, including universal paid maternity leave and insurance coverage for lactation support.Governor Kelly’s proclamation stresses the role of every Kansan to make breastfeeding easier in our state. The KBC&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NicmVhc3RmZWVkaW5nLm9yZy93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyNC8wNC9zdGF0ZW9mQkZpbktTMjAyMy1yZXZfT2N0LnBkZj91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwODAyLjk4NTAzNTUxIn0.ddSn_8Q9Q3bRmuUpOLFPVFlA1NqNRWurK1aYvgUgNYo/s/1305935158/br/246826442243-l">State of Breastfeeding in Kansas 2023 report</a>&nbsp;has the most recent breastfeeding rates for Kansas along with action items and resources for individuals, employers, child care providers, health care professionals and others to support breastfeeding.

Governor Kelly proclaims August 'Kansas Breastfeeding Month'

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>
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Riley County Arrest Report August 4

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>
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Riley County Arrest Report August 3

(MANHATTAN, Kan. – August 2, 2024)&nbsp;— The City of Manhattan is pleased to announce that the City Commission will vote on&nbsp;Tuesday, August 6&nbsp;to appoint Danielle Dulin to serve as Manhattan’s ninth City Manager, with an anticipated start date of&nbsp;Monday, October 14.

Dulin was selected following a nationwide search conducted by Strategic Government Resources (SGR) that produced a field of 50 candidates and an extensive interview process involving four finalists who visited Manhattan.

“The process went smoothly, and we were very pleased with SGR’s services. The high quality of our candidate pool speaks to Manhattan’s tremendous appeal,” said Mayor Susan E. Adamchak.

“Our community will benefit from Danielle’s extensive experience and dynamic leadership. I’m excited to work with her.”

Dulin has more than 10 years of municipal leadership experience in the greater Kansas City area, including her current role as City Manager of Warrensburg, Missouri. Prior to her tenure with Warrensburg, she served as Assistant to the City Manager for the cities of Lenexa, Prairie Village, and Mission Hills. Dulin has an extensive background in capital project planning, economic development, community engagement, and negotiating complex agreements.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Kansas.

“I am honored to be selected as the next City Manager for Manhattan,” Dulin said. “I am excited to bring my passion for local government and commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents in Manhattan. I look forward to working with the City Commission, the City team, and our community partners to build on our success and secure our future. Additionally, we are thrilled to be moving back to the Sunflower State to be closer to our families.”

A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=c3d3d08a70&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">formal contract of employment</a>&nbsp;will be considered by the City Commission&nbsp;during the&nbsp;August 6&nbsp;legislative meeting, which starts at&nbsp;6 p.m.&nbsp;in the City Commission Room at City Hall, 1101 Poyntz Ave.

“SGR is honored to once again partner with the City of Manhattan to find the best fit for this organization,” said SGR Executive Recruiter Lynn Barboza.

“We’re dedicated to recruiting innovative, collaborative, and authentic leaders for local governments, and we appreciate the opportunity to be part of this successful City Manager recruitment!”

Deputy City Manager Jason Hilgers has been serving as Interim City Manager since April 2024, following the retirement of Ron Fehr after 24 years as City Manager and more than 42 years’ total employment with the City of Manhattan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722631617934.jpeg" alt="Danielle Dulin" />
 <figcaption>Danielle Dulin</figcaption>
 </figure>By Andrew LawsonCommunications manager / PIO(MANHATTAN, Kan. – August 2, 2024)&nbsp;— The City of Manhattan is pleased to announce that the City Commission will vote on&nbsp;Tuesday, August 6&nbsp;to appoint Danielle Dulin to serve as Manhattan’s ninth City Manager, with an anticipated start date of&nbsp;Monday, October 14.Dulin was selected following a nationwide search conducted by Strategic Government Resources (SGR) that produced a field of 50 candidates and an extensive interview process involving four finalists who visited Manhattan.“The process went smoothly, and we were very pleased with SGR’s services. The high quality of our candidate pool speaks to Manhattan’s tremendous appeal,” said Mayor Susan E. Adamchak.“Our community will benefit from Danielle’s extensive experience and dynamic leadership. I’m excited to work with her.”Dulin has more than 10 years of municipal leadership experience in the greater Kansas City area, including her current role as City Manager of Warrensburg, Missouri. Prior to her tenure with Warrensburg, she served as Assistant to the City Manager for the cities of Lenexa, Prairie Village, and Mission Hills. Dulin has an extensive background in capital project planning, economic development, community engagement, and negotiating complex agreements.She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Kansas.“I am honored to be selected as the next City Manager for Manhattan,” Dulin said. “I am excited to bring my passion for local government and commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents in Manhattan. I look forward to working with the City Commission, the City team, and our community partners to build on our success and secure our future. Additionally, we are thrilled to be moving back to the Sunflower State to be closer to our families.”A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=c3d3d08a70&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">formal contract of employment</a>&nbsp;will be considered by the City Commission&nbsp;during the&nbsp;August 6&nbsp;legislative meeting, which starts at&nbsp;6 p.m.&nbsp;in the City Commission Room at City Hall, 1101 Poyntz Ave.“SGR is honored to once again partner with the City of Manhattan to find the best fit for this organization,” said SGR Executive Recruiter Lynn Barboza.“We’re dedicated to recruiting innovative, collaborative, and authentic leaders for local governments, and we appreciate the opportunity to be part of this successful City Manager recruitment!”Deputy City Manager Jason Hilgers has been serving as Interim City Manager since April 2024, following the retirement of Ron Fehr after 24 years as City Manager and more than 42 years’ total employment with the City of Manhattan.

City Commission to vote August 6 on new City Manager for the City of Manhattan

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;ESOP Association CEO and president James Bonham.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V-Uo7DbbVLA?si=FYzKCOzNeQz_JpHy" 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&nbsp;ESOP Association CEO and president James Bonham.

🎤Forward Ever: ESOP Association president James Bonham

Riley County has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KDHEnews?__cft__[0]=AZWoQQszwNZF1Bt7m8jZ2VmR_7jIXqDc6laEI-aBhUEi4UbSLGws2QVabdYB4kkntQ4rmTHq-QLSHWqJBqDR37ZblYTXN2jYWLrBJv8PxqNjew6JjiPxnSz9Z3RVCavVULrR5FJXdPj2M6CSrOZ3LtCQQtqXuxdm2JTwgPYNqbzThnbgqhRFSBj2DxyjRupRCc-16z_vMhUaW2wcHdbyimni&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Department of Health and Environment</a> through the Local Environmental Protection Program (LEPP). This grant aims to assist low to moderate income residents in repairing or replacing their failed residential private wastewater systems or components.

The grant can be used for a variety of repairs, including full septic tank replacements and lateral field replacements. Additionally, funds can cover component repairs such as septic tank lids, baffles, lateral field pipes, inspection ports, distribution boxes, and the labor required for installation. The grant also extends to materials and labor needed to connect homes to an available public sewer system. Connection fees are not eligible. 

Applications for the grant will be accepted through October 4, 2024. Awards will be determined based on applicant income, need, and the severity of the system failure, utilizing the 2023 Poverty Guidelines.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;More info and link to printable application at <a href="https://www.rileycountyks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1707&amp;fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1A3QVlYQA8wUeBL6DEC8Hzvx7fWZQiEM2Yz0bZNjLO6h1Hf11pKCqlJGU_aem_8sQVrQ_loTRkLkTJSi6c0g" target="_blank">https://www.rileycountyks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1707</a>

Riley County releaseRiley County has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KDHEnews?__cft__[0]=AZWoQQszwNZF1Bt7m8jZ2VmR_7jIXqDc6laEI-aBhUEi4UbSLGws2QVabdYB4kkntQ4rmTHq-QLSHWqJBqDR37ZblYTXN2jYWLrBJv8PxqNjew6JjiPxnSz9Z3RVCavVULrR5FJXdPj2M6CSrOZ3LtCQQtqXuxdm2JTwgPYNqbzThnbgqhRFSBj2DxyjRupRCc-16z_vMhUaW2wcHdbyimni&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas Department of Health and Environment</a> through the Local Environmental Protection Program (LEPP). This grant aims to assist low to moderate income residents in repairing or replacing their failed residential private wastewater systems or components.The grant can be used for a variety of repairs, including full septic tank replacements and lateral field replacements. Additionally, funds can cover component repairs such as septic tank lids, baffles, lateral field pipes, inspection ports, distribution boxes, and the labor required for installation. The grant also extends to materials and labor needed to connect homes to an available public sewer system. Connection fees are not eligible. Applications for the grant will be accepted through October 4, 2024. Awards will be determined based on applicant income, need, and the severity of the system failure, utilizing the 2023 Poverty Guidelines.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;More info and link to printable application at <a href="https://www.rileycountyks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1707&amp;fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1A3QVlYQA8wUeBL6DEC8Hzvx7fWZQiEM2Yz0bZNjLO6h1Hf11pKCqlJGU_aem_8sQVrQ_loTRkLkTJSi6c0g" target="_blank">https://www.rileycountyks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1707</a>

Riley County receives grant through KDHE

MANHATTAN — Ever the curious and inventive 4-year-old boy, Harold never had much to say, but that was the point.As long as he could imagine it, any challenge could be overcome with the simple stroke of his trusty purple crayon, which he did several times over the course of seven books in Crockett Johnson's popular children's book series launched by "<a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/harold-and-the-purple-crayon-crockett-johnson?variant=41225417359394">Harold and the Purple Crayon.</a>" It's an ode to creativity that has inspired millions of children and adults over the past seven decades, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/english/about/people/nel.html">Philip Nel</a>, university distinguished professor in Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/english/">department of English</a>.

Nel is the author of "<a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/how-to-draw-the-world-9780197777596?cc=us&amp;lang=en&amp;">How to Draw the World: Harold and the Purple Crayon, and the Making of a Children's Classic</a>," a book that will be published later this fall by Oxford University Press. It will be the first of the publisher's upcoming series Children's Classics Critically.That series, which Nel will co-edit with friend and colleague&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/education/staff/melanieramdarshanbold/">Melanie Ramdarshan Bold</a>&nbsp;of the University of Glasgow, will aim to analyze both historic and contemporary staples of books for young readers.There is plenty of interest in revisiting some of these classics, Nel said, both from researchers and adults who want to think through some of the most memorable books from their childhoods from a more modern viewpoint. But Nel is excited to kickstart the series with one of his personal favorites.&nbsp;

Part of the enduring appeal of "Harold and the Purple Crayon" is that every kid — regardless of gender or ethnicity — can see themself in the four-year-old's shoes, said Philip Nel, university distinguished professor of English. |&nbsp;Download this photo.

"I had long thought that it would be a great idea to do a small book on this smaller one because it would be an occasion to invite people to look closely at children's books," Nel said. "'Harold and the Purple Crayon' is a perfect example because it appears so simple. What more could you say about a boy and a purple crayon? But there's actually a lot, from the design of the book to its philosophy of creativity."As a children's literature expert, Nel said the genre has too often been overlooked as too simplistic or "juvenile" to qualify as art or serious literature. Scholarship and research in the field has only picked up in the last few decades, and university courses like the ones he and his colleagues now teach were more rare when he was an undergraduate. But children's literature, as a simple and relatively fun genre, is also one of the most critical.

"Children's literature is the most important literature that we read because we read it when we are learning who we are and whose stories matter, and when we're forming our opinions about the world in which we live," Nel said. "It's a type of literature that can potentially have the largest impact upon a developing self." That impact is reflected in the ongoing popularity and continued adaptation of children's books like "Harold and the Purple Crayon." The book, which has been transformed into a television show and stage play in the decades since its 1955 publication, was recently adapted for the first time as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haroldandthepurplecrayon.movie/">a major motion picture</a>&nbsp;that premieres Aug. 2.

Why did Crockett Johnson choose the color purple for Harold's crayon? Philip Nel could only find one time the author ever addressed the issue. "He told his interviewer, 'Purple is the color of adventure,'" Nel said. |&nbsp;Download this photo.

Nel said he is curious about how the book will adjust to fit a 90-minute runtime. Even at just 64 pages of a sentence or two each, Crocket Johnson wove a cohesive and imaginative narrative that has resonated with children and acclaimed artists like musical genius Prince, Caldecott award-winner Chris Van Allsburg (Jumanji) and Pulitzer Prize-recipient novelist Richard Powers."The whole book is a giant mural, really, that is revealed a page or two at a time," Nel said. "Johnson must have plotted the entire thing out in his head in advance and then decided what moments to reveal, so that it looks like Harold is improvising the story, but it is not improvised and it's extremely carefully plotted out and very difficult to do."Regardless, he hopes the movie will make audiences have a better appreciation of the deep simplicity of the genre.Children's literature, too, is art, and not by accident, Nel said."Anyone who has spent any serious time with children's books, whether it's as a reader or as a writer, I think they start to understand that a lot of thought goes into something that is apparently quite simple -- like a boy drawing his world with a crayon.”

Rafael GarciaDivision of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — Ever the curious and inventive 4-year-old boy, Harold never had much to say, but that was the point.As long as he could imagine it, any challenge could be overcome with the simple stroke of his trusty purple crayon, which he did several times over the course of seven books in Crockett Johnson's popular children's book series launched by "<a href="https://www.harpercollins.com/products/harold-and-the-purple-crayon-crockett-johnson?variant=41225417359394">Harold and the Purple Crayon.</a>" It's an ode to creativity that has inspired millions of children and adults over the past seven decades, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/english/about/people/nel.html">Philip Nel</a>, university distinguished professor in Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/english/">department of English</a>.Nel is the author of "<a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/how-to-draw-the-world-9780197777596?cc=us&amp;lang=en&amp;">How to Draw the World: Harold and the Purple Crayon, and the Making of a Children's Classic</a>," a book that will be published later this fall by Oxford University Press. It will be the first of the publisher's upcoming series Children's Classics Critically.That series, which Nel will co-edit with friend and colleague&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/education/staff/melanieramdarshanbold/">Melanie Ramdarshan Bold</a>&nbsp;of the University of Glasgow, will aim to analyze both historic and contemporary staples of books for young readers.There is plenty of interest in revisiting some of these classics, Nel said, both from researchers and adults who want to think through some of the most memorable books from their childhoods from a more modern viewpoint. But Nel is excited to kickstart the series with one of his personal favorites.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://www.k-state.edu/media/images/aug24/purple-crayon/Pages-sm.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Part of the enduring appeal of "Harold and the Purple Crayon" is that every kid — regardless of gender or ethnicity — can see themself in the four-year-old's shoes, said Philip Nel, university distinguished professor of English. |&nbsp;Download this photo.</h2>"I had long thought that it would be a great idea to do a small book on this smaller one because it would be an occasion to invite people to look closely at children's books," Nel said. "'Harold and the Purple Crayon' is a perfect example because it appears so simple. What more could you say about a boy and a purple crayon? But there's actually a lot, from the design of the book to its philosophy of creativity."As a children's literature expert, Nel said the genre has too often been overlooked as too simplistic or "juvenile" to qualify as art or serious literature. Scholarship and research in the field has only picked up in the last few decades, and university courses like the ones he and his colleagues now teach were more rare when he was an undergraduate. But children's literature, as a simple and relatively fun genre, is also one of the most critical."Children's literature is the most important literature that we read because we read it when we are learning who we are and whose stories matter, and when we're forming our opinions about the world in which we live," Nel said. "It's a type of literature that can potentially have the largest impact upon a developing self." That impact is reflected in the ongoing popularity and continued adaptation of children's books like "Harold and the Purple Crayon." The book, which has been transformed into a television show and stage play in the decades since its 1955 publication, was recently adapted for the first time as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.haroldandthepurplecrayon.movie/">a major motion picture</a>&nbsp;that premieres Aug. 2.<figure>
 <img src="https://www.k-state.edu/media/images/aug24/purple-crayon/Purple-sm.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Why did Crockett Johnson choose the color purple for Harold's crayon? Philip Nel could only find one time the author ever addressed the issue. "He told his interviewer, 'Purple is the color of adventure,'" Nel said. |&nbsp;Download this photo.</h2>Nel said he is curious about how the book will adjust to fit a 90-minute runtime. Even at just 64 pages of a sentence or two each, Crocket Johnson wove a cohesive and imaginative narrative that has resonated with children and acclaimed artists like musical genius Prince, Caldecott award-winner Chris Van Allsburg (Jumanji) and Pulitzer Prize-recipient novelist Richard Powers."The whole book is a giant mural, really, that is revealed a page or two at a time," Nel said. "Johnson must have plotted the entire thing out in his head in advance and then decided what moments to reveal, so that it looks like Harold is improvising the story, but it is not improvised and it's extremely carefully plotted out and very difficult to do."Regardless, he hopes the movie will make audiences have a better appreciation of the deep simplicity of the genre.Children's literature, too, is art, and not by accident, Nel said."Anyone who has spent any serious time with children's books, whether it's as a reader or as a writer, I think they start to understand that a lot of thought goes into something that is apparently quite simple -- like a boy drawing his world with a crayon.”

Harold and his purple crayon still teach plenty, K-State professor says

By PAT MELGARESK-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN – Kansas farmers seem to be positioned for a bounce-back in net farm income as 2024 rolls along, according to a report from Kansas State University farm management economist Gregg Ibendahl.

And while, technically, that is good news, it is tempered by the fact that Kansas farmers are coming off one of the toughest years in about a decade. K-State reported earlier this year that 2023 net farm income in the state was, on average, $89,667 – about 56% below the year before.

But in his most recent analysis of 500 grain farms in the&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/kfma">Kansas Farm Management Association’s database</a>, Ibendahl says “I’m predicting a 23% to 30% increase in net farm income” in 2024 for Kansas farms.

“But that’s really from a very low base to start with, so overall, net farm income is going to be below what it has been for the previous 5-6 years.”

In pure numbers, Kansas farms may see 2024 net farm income hit an average $118,000, according to Ibendahl. In central and western Kansas, those numbers may top $156,000 and $149,000, respectively; net farm income in the east, however, may slow to $72,336 – the only region in the state that won’t see a rise compared to 2023.

Signs are mixed for 2025, he said. Average net farm income in the state may be just below his forecast for 2024, though slightly higher in the west and east and slightly lower in the central region.

“Remember that 2022 was a very good year in Kansas,” Ibendahl said. “Farmers were experiencing very good grain prices and everything looked pretty good. There was quite a bit of crop insurance that helped net farm income that year.”

“But in 2023, we had a case where grain prices dropped, which contributed to lower farm income and farm revenue. We also had a case where we had a big drop in inventory values for the stored grain that farmers had at the end of 2022, because of lower grain prices.”

Poor growing conditions in parts of Kansas also caused a dip in 2023’s grain revenue numbers, Ibendahl said. Crop insurance helped to pull many farmers from bigger losses, in many cases.

In 2024, Ibendahl said, “grain prices haven’t improved a whole lot; they’re still down from what they were a couple years ago. But we’re not going to see the big drop in inventory like we did in 2023, so that factor alone will help the revenue side.” He also doesn’t expect U.S. farmers to receive the level of government assistance that they have in recent years.

Longer term, ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and other parts of the world threaten oil prices, which in turn affects fertilizer prices. Ibendahl also keeps a watchful on inflation and interest rates, and knows that adverse weather will negatively affect production.

“Last year, we had 30% of our farms that had negative farm income,” Ibendahl said. “This year, that may jump to as much as 35% even though I’m looking at a slight increase in net farm income. What that means is that maybe more than one-third of our farms have the potential to have negative net farm income in 2024.”

“You can’t go too many years and have negative net farm income and expect to remain a farmer. So that’s something to look at going forward.”

By PAT MELGARESK-State Research and Extension News Service&nbsp;&nbsp;MANHATTAN – Kansas farmers seem to be positioned for a bounce-back in net farm income as 2024 rolls along, according to a report from Kansas State University farm management economist Gregg Ibendahl.And while, technically, that is good news, it is tempered by the fact that Kansas farmers are coming off one of the toughest years in about a decade. K-State reported earlier this year that 2023 net farm income in the state was, on average, $89,667 – about 56% below the year before.But in his most recent analysis of 500 grain farms in the&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/kfma">Kansas Farm Management Association’s database</a>, Ibendahl says “I’m predicting a 23% to 30% increase in net farm income” in 2024 for Kansas farms.“But that’s really from a very low base to start with, so overall, net farm income is going to be below what it has been for the previous 5-6 years.”In pure numbers, Kansas farms may see 2024 net farm income hit an average $118,000, according to Ibendahl. In central and western Kansas, those numbers may top $156,000 and $149,000, respectively; net farm income in the east, however, may slow to $72,336 – the only region in the state that won’t see a rise compared to 2023.Signs are mixed for 2025, he said. Average net farm income in the state may be just below his forecast for 2024, though slightly higher in the west and east and slightly lower in the central region.“Remember that 2022 was a very good year in Kansas,” Ibendahl said. “Farmers were experiencing very good grain prices and everything looked pretty good. There was quite a bit of crop insurance that helped net farm income that year.”“But in 2023, we had a case where grain prices dropped, which contributed to lower farm income and farm revenue. We also had a case where we had a big drop in inventory values for the stored grain that farmers had at the end of 2022, because of lower grain prices.”Poor growing conditions in parts of Kansas also caused a dip in 2023’s grain revenue numbers, Ibendahl said. Crop insurance helped to pull many farmers from bigger losses, in many cases.In 2024, Ibendahl said, “grain prices haven’t improved a whole lot; they’re still down from what they were a couple years ago. But we’re not going to see the big drop in inventory like we did in 2023, so that factor alone will help the revenue side.” He also doesn’t expect U.S. farmers to receive the level of government assistance that they have in recent years.Longer term, ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and other parts of the world threaten oil prices, which in turn affects fertilizer prices. Ibendahl also keeps a watchful on inflation and interest rates, and knows that adverse weather will negatively affect production.“Last year, we had 30% of our farms that had negative farm income,” Ibendahl said. “This year, that may jump to as much as 35% even though I’m looking at a slight increase in net farm income. What that means is that maybe more than one-third of our farms have the potential to have negative net farm income in 2024.”“You can’t go too many years and have negative net farm income and expect to remain a farmer. So that’s something to look at going forward.”

Kansas net farm income may be headed for bounce-back in 2024

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/2024/8/1722608846946.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report August 2

GEARY COUNTY —A Fort Riley man died in an accident just after 11a.m. Thursday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 KTM RC390 motorcycle driven by&nbsp;Brycen Chance&nbsp;Ronk, 21, Fort Riley, was traveling onto eastbound Interstate 70 at Grandview Plaza. 

The motorcycle was traveling at a high rate of speed on the on ramp and passed a vehicle on the right shoulder of the ramp. 

The motorcycle swerved back into the eastbound lane of Interstate 70, continued to swerve and crossed through the center line entering the westbound lanes of the Interstate and struck a 2022 International semi driven by Brian Lynn Plyer, 51, Bellvue, Nebraska, head-on.

Ronk was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Frontier Medical. Plyer was not injured and properly restrained, according to the KHP.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reported that eastbound traffic on I-70 opened up at 4 p.m. Precaution should still be used.

Traffic had been backed up in both directions due to the fatal accident on I-70.&nbsp;

Geary County Emergency Management has reported at mid-day that motorists should avoid the area of of I 70 at exit 299. Both east and west bound traffic is being rerouted through Grandview Plaza from 299 to 301 for the next 2 to 3 hours while the scene is worked due to a fatality accident.

Troopers and first responders are at the scene of a two-vehicle crash involving a semi and a motorcycle on I-70 in Geary County near Junction City. This area has ongoing construction. 

Please slow down and adjust your speed as they assist those involved. Expect traffic delays and possible reroutes.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722538918870.png" alt="Traffic backed up on Thursday due to the fatal accident-image KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>Traffic backed up on Thursday due to the fatal accident-image KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —A Fort Riley man died in an accident just after 11a.m. Thursday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 KTM RC390 motorcycle driven by&nbsp;Brycen Chance&nbsp;Ronk, 21, Fort Riley, was traveling onto eastbound Interstate 70 at Grandview Plaza. The motorcycle was traveling at a high rate of speed on the on ramp and passed a vehicle on the right shoulder of the ramp. The motorcycle swerved back into the eastbound lane of Interstate 70, continued to swerve and crossed through the center line entering the westbound lanes of the Interstate and struck a 2022 International semi driven by Brian Lynn Plyer, 51, Bellvue, Nebraska, head-on.Ronk was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Frontier Medical. Plyer was not injured and properly restrained, according to the KHP.------------------------UPDATE:The Geary County Sheriff's Department reported that eastbound traffic on I-70 opened up at 4 p.m. Precaution should still be used.Traffic had been backed up in both directions due to the fatal accident on I-70.&nbsp;---Geary County Emergency Management has reported at mid-day that motorists should avoid the area of of I 70 at exit 299. Both east and west bound traffic is being rerouted through Grandview Plaza from 299 to 301 for the next 2 to 3 hours while the scene is worked due to a fatality accident.Troopers and first responders are at the scene of a two-vehicle crash involving a semi and a motorcycle on I-70 in Geary County near Junction City. This area has ongoing construction. Please slow down and adjust your speed as they assist those involved. Expect traffic delays and possible reroutes.

KHP: Fort Riley man dies after wrong-way, head-on crash

RCALF USA’s Bill Bullard will be headlining a “Working Together for Better Prices” state meeting of Kansas National Farmers on August 7 at the Smoky Valley Distillery in Marquette, Kansas.

Bullard will speak at a free noon luncheon. His topic will be “America's Unprecedented Cattle Crisis Persists”. The public is invited. RSVPs are encouraged. Call Greg Stephens at 785-819-6887, or Ray Kohman at 785-479-6023.

Bullard's talk will also be livestreamed at this link- https://www.youtube.com/live/om109ko1t4E or by going to Kansas NFO's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kansasnfo/.

Also speaking will be USDA/NRCS Resource Conservationist Dean Krehbiel and National Farmers grain marketing representative Therese Seiler.

RCALF USA is located in Billings, Montana and is a cattle producer-only trade association dedicated to ensuring the continued profitability and viability of the U.S. cattle and sheep industries.

“We invited Bullard as our headline speaker because of the cattle industries importance to Kansas, the nation, and consumers,” said Solomon farmer and Kansas National Farmers president Ray Kohman.

Kansas has over 27,000 beef cattle ranches according to the Beef Council. It also ranks first in the number of cattle processed, second in fed cattle marketing and seventh in beef cows.

Other speakers will be Rinkes Cattle Company’s Justin Rinke, Holton, Kansas, and Kansas State Resource Conservationist Dean Krehbiel who will participate in a soil and livestock panel followed by Colwich, Kansas grain marketing representative Theresa Seiler who will give a grain marketing update.

Kansas National FarmersRCALF USA’s Bill Bullard will be headlining a “Working Together for Better Prices” state meeting of Kansas National Farmers on August 7 at the Smoky Valley Distillery in Marquette, Kansas.Bullard will speak at a free noon luncheon. His topic will be “America's Unprecedented Cattle Crisis Persists”. The public is invited. RSVPs are encouraged. Call Greg Stephens at 785-819-6887, or Ray Kohman at 785-479-6023.Bullard's talk will also be livestreamed at this link- https://www.youtube.com/live/om109ko1t4E or by going to Kansas NFO's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kansasnfo/.Also speaking will be USDA/NRCS Resource Conservationist Dean Krehbiel and National Farmers grain marketing representative Therese Seiler.RCALF USA is located in Billings, Montana and is a cattle producer-only trade association dedicated to ensuring the continued profitability and viability of the U.S. cattle and sheep industries.“We invited Bullard as our headline speaker because of the cattle industries importance to Kansas, the nation, and consumers,” said Solomon farmer and Kansas National Farmers president Ray Kohman.Kansas has over 27,000 beef cattle ranches according to the Beef Council. It also ranks first in the number of cattle processed, second in fed cattle marketing and seventh in beef cows.Other speakers will be Rinkes Cattle Company’s Justin Rinke, Holton, Kansas, and Kansas State Resource Conservationist Dean Krehbiel who will participate in a soil and livestock panel followed by Colwich, Kansas grain marketing representative Theresa Seiler who will give a grain marketing update.

“Working Together for Better Prices” topic of Kansas National Farmers meeting

Manager, Public and Government Affairs AAA Kansas / AAA South Dakota

Trip allows fans to immerse themselves in the cultural, culinary and scenic richness of the Emerald Isle before cheering on the team.

MANHATTAN, Kan. With plenty of purple-clad Wildcats fans setting their sights on following the team for its 2025 season kickoff on August 23, 2025 in Dublin, AAA Travel and partner CIE Tours have created a 9-night itinerary exploring Irish tradition and scenery, including transportation to/from Aviva Stadium in Dublin where the Cats will fight to win their first football came of the season.

Highlights of the tour include Galway, Kilbeggan Distillery tour, visit to Ireland’s oldest pub in Athlone, Inishmore in the Aran Islands, prehistoric Dun Aengus fortress, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Killarney, the castle and “Stone of Eloquence” in Blarney, the Dingle Peninsula, and while in Dublin, a driving tour of the city, visit to the Guinness Storehouse, motorcoach transportation to the game, trip to the Irish Emigration Museum and tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

“So many people have a vacation to the stunning Emerald Isle on their travel bucket lists,” said Roni Deeds, AAA Travel advisor in the AAA Manhattan store. “This game for the Wildcats in Dublin provides a perfect, perhaps once-in-a-lifetime, opportunity for fans to combine two amazing experiences into one memorable tour.&nbsp;

AAA Travel and CIE Tours are hosting an informational presentation about the tour. The free seminar is open to the public, but attendees are asked to RSVP, as seats are limited. This will be&nbsp; Wednesday, August 7, 2024 from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the AAA Manhattan Travel/ Retail Store, 321 Southwind Road in Manhattan.

WHERE:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AAA Manhattan Travel/Retail Store

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 321 Southwind Road, Manhattan, KS 66503

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;   RSVP required (785) 323-4960 or

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The AAA/CIE tour package includes services of a AAA trip leader, deluxe motor coach transportation while in Ireland, 9 nights accommodations, 12 meals (9 breakfasts and 3 dinners), meet and greet service at the airport and all attractions and tours on the itinerary. Airfare is not included in the package but will be provided as an optional addition in late 2024 and will include airport transfers.&nbsp;Game tickets are not included&nbsp;but may be purchased through the university or game organizer.

Interested travelers with questions, needing additional information or requesting a copy of the travel itinerary for the tour should contact AAA Travel advisor Roni Deeds at (785) 323-4960 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rdeeds@aca.aaa.com">rdeeds@aca.aaa.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1722552071333.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Shawn StewardManager, Public and Government Affairs AAA Kansas / AAA South DakotaAAA Club Alliance Inc.Trip allows fans to immerse themselves in the cultural, culinary and scenic richness of the Emerald Isle before cheering on the team.MANHATTAN, Kan. With plenty of purple-clad Wildcats fans setting their sights on following the team for its 2025 season kickoff on August 23, 2025 in Dublin, AAA Travel and partner CIE Tours have created a 9-night itinerary exploring Irish tradition and scenery, including transportation to/from Aviva Stadium in Dublin where the Cats will fight to win their first football came of the season.Highlights of the tour include Galway, Kilbeggan Distillery tour, visit to Ireland’s oldest pub in Athlone, Inishmore in the Aran Islands, prehistoric Dun Aengus fortress, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Killarney, the castle and “Stone of Eloquence” in Blarney, the Dingle Peninsula, and while in Dublin, a driving tour of the city, visit to the Guinness Storehouse, motorcoach transportation to the game, trip to the Irish Emigration Museum and tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.“So many people have a vacation to the stunning Emerald Isle on their travel bucket lists,” said Roni Deeds, AAA Travel advisor in the AAA Manhattan store. “This game for the Wildcats in Dublin provides a perfect, perhaps once-in-a-lifetime, opportunity for fans to combine two amazing experiences into one memorable tour.&nbsp;AAA Travel and CIE Tours are hosting an informational presentation about the tour. The free seminar is open to the public, but attendees are asked to RSVP, as seats are limited. This will be&nbsp; Wednesday, August 7, 2024 from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the AAA Manhattan Travel/ Retail Store, 321 Southwind Road in Manhattan.WHERE:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AAA Manhattan Travel/Retail Store&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 321 Southwind Road, Manhattan, KS 66503&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; RSVP required (785) 323-4960 or&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The AAA/CIE tour package includes services of a AAA trip leader, deluxe motor coach transportation while in Ireland, 9 nights accommodations, 12 meals (9 breakfasts and 3 dinners), meet and greet service at the airport and all attractions and tours on the itinerary. Airfare is not included in the package but will be provided as an optional addition in late 2024 and will include airport transfers.&nbsp;Game tickets are not included&nbsp;but may be purchased through the university or game organizer.Interested travelers with questions, needing additional information or requesting a copy of the travel itinerary for the tour should contact AAA Travel advisor Roni Deeds at (785) 323-4960 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rdeeds@aca.aaa.com">rdeeds@aca.aaa.com</a>.

Ireland travel tour leads up to Wildcats 2025 season kickoff in Dublin

Submitted for&nbsp;Insight Kansas&nbsp;by Michael A. Smith

“Are you better off than you were four years ago?”

It is no secret that President Biden is unpopular.&nbsp; In the 2023&nbsp;Kansas Speaks&nbsp;poll, a whopping 62.8% of respondents were dissatisfied with Biden’s performance, versus 32.9% who were dissatisfied with fellow Democrat, Governor Laura Kelly.&nbsp; Widespread approval of Biden’s withdrawal is one of the few issues these days that bring Democrats, Republicans and independents together.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The focus on Biden’s withdrawal centered on his age and his poor performance in the first Presidential debate–both legitimate concerns.&nbsp; Yet another issue lurks.&nbsp; By many measures, Biden’s presidency has been highly successful, characterized by a recovery from the COVID pandemic, a strong economy, falling violent crime rates, decreased poverty, and policies that have advanced the transition to domestically-produced clean energy and begun rebuilding the country’s decrepit infrastructure.&nbsp; One Biden policy even accomplished something no other President ever has–<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/09/12/biden-child-tax-credit-poverty-doubled/">cutting the child poverty rate in half</a>, to an all-time low.&nbsp; Congress did not renew the program.

Despite this, many voters&nbsp;perceive&nbsp;the country as doing poorly.&nbsp; In the first debate, former President Trump suggested that the country is worse off today than in the last year of his Administration.&nbsp; The year 2020 was so infamous that one TV commercial portrayed it as being in love with the Devil himself.&nbsp; It was the beginning and second-deadliest year of the COVID pandemic, which ultimately killed over a million Americans and tanked the economy.&nbsp; The murder of George Floyd triggered protests over police brutality throughout the nation– most were peaceful, but some turned deadly.&nbsp; Finally, Trump’s term culminated with the events of January 6, 2021.&nbsp; Yet Trump has no trouble claiming that the country is worse off today–and many Americans seem to agree.&nbsp; Why?

Except for his own approval ratings, most numbers look very strong for Biden’s legacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/fbi-data-shows-that-violent-crimes-in-the-u-s-decreased-in-2023">Violent crime is decreasing</a>, and remains&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/10/31/violent-crime-is-a-key-midterm-voting-issue-but-what-does-the-data-say/#:~:text=In%202021%2C%20the%20most%20recent,the%20National%20Crime%20Victimization%20Survey.">far below the levels of the mid-1960s to mid-1990s</a>. Unemployment dropped dramatically after the pandemic, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/charts/employment-situation/civilian-unemployment-rate.htm">remains at low levels</a>.&nbsp; The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.officialdata.org/us/stocks/s-p-500/2020#:~:text=Stock%20market%20returns%20since%202020&amp;text=This%20is%20a%20return%20on,%2C%20or%209.34%25%20per%20year.">stock market&nbsp;</a>is doing well. After a spike in 2021-22 ,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usinflationcalculator.com/inflation/current-inflation-rates/">inflation has been stabilized</a>.&nbsp; This requires high interest rates, but the Federal Reserve predicts&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.wsj.com/economy/central-banking/fed-near-interest-rate-cut-d303dbd5">these can start coming down&nbsp;</a>by the end of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even issues important to&nbsp;Republicans&nbsp;look good for Biden.&nbsp; For example, recently, unauthorized crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border have&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.texastribune.org/2024/07/16/texas-border-migrant-apprehensions-decrease/">declined steeply</a>, and there haven’t been any violent antifa or Black Lives Matter protests in years.

Despite all the good news,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/03/08/politics/biden-polling-independents/index.html">independent voters</a>&nbsp;perceive the country to be in trouble under Biden. &nbsp; One possible culprit is our long break from high inflation between the early 1980s and 2021.&nbsp; Older Americans have forgotten–and younger Americans never knew–that controlling inflation means slowing down the&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in prices, not reversing costs to those of previous years.&nbsp; The latter would require nothing less than deliberately sending the country into economic decline.&nbsp; Price increases are under control, but costs are not going back to pre-2021 levels. The economic toll of doing so would be far too high.

The nation also continues to struggle with major social challenges, including homelessness, exorbitant housing costs, and fentanyl addiction, all of which we see and feel here in Kansas. They need ongoing, thoughtful attention from policymakers. Blaming them on immigrants is neither accurate nor helpful.

Whatever the causes of today’s public opinion, Biden’s legacy and Vice President Harris’ candidacy both depend in large part on how Americans perceive the current state of the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Are you better off than you were four years ago?

Back to 2020?Submitted for&nbsp;Insight Kansas&nbsp;by Michael A. SmithJuly 31, 2024“Are you better off than you were four years ago?”-Ronald ReaganIt is no secret that President Biden is unpopular.&nbsp; In the 2023&nbsp;Kansas Speaks&nbsp;poll, a whopping 62.8% of respondents were dissatisfied with Biden’s performance, versus 32.9% who were dissatisfied with fellow Democrat, Governor Laura Kelly.&nbsp; Widespread approval of Biden’s withdrawal is one of the few issues these days that bring Democrats, Republicans and independents together.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The focus on Biden’s withdrawal centered on his age and his poor performance in the first Presidential debate–both legitimate concerns.&nbsp; Yet another issue lurks.&nbsp; By many measures, Biden’s presidency has been highly successful, characterized by a recovery from the COVID pandemic, a strong economy, falling violent crime rates, decreased poverty, and policies that have advanced the transition to domestically-produced clean energy and begun rebuilding the country’s decrepit infrastructure.&nbsp; One Biden policy even accomplished something no other President ever has–<a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/09/12/biden-child-tax-credit-poverty-doubled/">cutting the child poverty rate in half</a>, to an all-time low.&nbsp; Congress did not renew the program.Despite this, many voters&nbsp;perceive&nbsp;the country as doing poorly.&nbsp; In the first debate, former President Trump suggested that the country is worse off today than in the last year of his Administration.&nbsp; The year 2020 was so infamous that one TV commercial portrayed it as being in love with the Devil himself.&nbsp; It was the beginning and second-deadliest year of the COVID pandemic, which ultimately killed over a million Americans and tanked the economy.&nbsp; The murder of George Floyd triggered protests over police brutality throughout the nation– most were peaceful, but some turned deadly.&nbsp; Finally, Trump’s term culminated with the events of January 6, 2021.&nbsp; Yet Trump has no trouble claiming that the country is worse off today–and many Americans seem to agree.&nbsp; Why?Except for his own approval ratings, most numbers look very strong for Biden’s legacy.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/fbi-data-shows-that-violent-crimes-in-the-u-s-decreased-in-2023">Violent crime is decreasing</a>, and remains&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/10/31/violent-crime-is-a-key-midterm-voting-issue-but-what-does-the-data-say/#:~:text=In%202021%2C%20the%20most%20recent,the%20National%20Crime%20Victimization%20Survey.">far below the levels of the mid-1960s to mid-1990s</a>. Unemployment dropped dramatically after the pandemic, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bls.gov/charts/employment-situation/civilian-unemployment-rate.htm">remains at low levels</a>.&nbsp; The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.officialdata.org/us/stocks/s-p-500/2020#:~:text=Stock%20market%20returns%20since%202020&amp;text=This%20is%20a%20return%20on,%2C%20or%209.34%25%20per%20year.">stock market&nbsp;</a>is doing well. After a spike in 2021-22 ,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.usinflationcalculator.com/inflation/current-inflation-rates/">inflation has been stabilized</a>.&nbsp; This requires high interest rates, but the Federal Reserve predicts&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.wsj.com/economy/central-banking/fed-near-interest-rate-cut-d303dbd5">these can start coming down&nbsp;</a>by the end of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even issues important to&nbsp;Republicans&nbsp;look good for Biden.&nbsp; For example, recently, unauthorized crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border have&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.texastribune.org/2024/07/16/texas-border-migrant-apprehensions-decrease/">declined steeply</a>, and there haven’t been any violent antifa or Black Lives Matter protests in years.Despite all the good news,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2022/03/08/politics/biden-polling-independents/index.html">independent voters</a>&nbsp;perceive the country to be in trouble under Biden. &nbsp; One possible culprit is our long break from high inflation between the early 1980s and 2021.&nbsp; Older Americans have forgotten–and younger Americans never knew–that controlling inflation means slowing down the&nbsp;increase&nbsp;in prices, not reversing costs to those of previous years.&nbsp; The latter would require nothing less than deliberately sending the country into economic decline.&nbsp; Price increases are under control, but costs are not going back to pre-2021 levels. The economic toll of doing so would be far too high.The nation also continues to struggle with major social challenges, including homelessness, exorbitant housing costs, and fentanyl addiction, all of which we see and feel here in Kansas. They need ongoing, thoughtful attention from policymakers. Blaming them on immigrants is neither accurate nor helpful.Whatever the causes of today’s public opinion, Biden’s legacy and Vice President Harris’ candidacy both depend in large part on how Americans perceive the current state of the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Are you better off than you were four years ago?

Insight Kansas

There is a familiar name serving in the Interim Junction City Manager's job.&nbsp; Gerry Vernon is employed in that capacity but is not a stranger to the community. He served as the Junction City Manager from 2009 until 2013.

In the interim capacity he has been subcontracted by GPS to handle the job.

During his earlier stint Vernon helped oversee the City's operations and begin recovery from a budget crisis that occurred before his arrival. Now the goal is to make things better for the next city manager and keep things running smooth.

He most recently served as Public Works Director in Winter Park, Colorado before his retirement there.

There is a familiar name serving in the Interim Junction City Manager's job.&nbsp; Gerry Vernon is employed in that capacity but is not a stranger to the community. He served as the Junction City Manager from 2009 until 2013.In the interim capacity he has been subcontracted by GPS to handle the job.During his earlier stint Vernon helped oversee the City's operations and begin recovery from a budget crisis that occurred before his arrival. Now the goal is to make things better for the next city manager and keep things running smooth.He most recently served as Public Works Director in Winter Park, Colorado before his retirement there.

Junction City has an Interim City Manager

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident that occurred just after 3p.m. Wednesday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a vehicle driven by an 83-year-old&nbsp; Frederick Bammes of Manhattan struck an e-bike driven by 25-year-old Zackary Murphy of Manhattan at the corner of Osage and N. 5th Street, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

EMS transported Murphy to&nbsp;Via Christi for his injuries.  He was later air-lifted to Stromont Vail for further treatment of his injuries. The driver of the vehicle, Frederick Bammes, was cited for failure to yield the right of way.

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident that occurred just after 3p.m. Wednesday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a vehicle driven by an 83-year-old&nbsp; Frederick Bammes of Manhattan struck an e-bike driven by 25-year-old Zackary Murphy of Manhattan at the corner of Osage and N. 5th Street, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.EMS transported Murphy to&nbsp;Via Christi for his injuries. He was later air-lifted to Stromont Vail for further treatment of his injuries. The driver of the vehicle, Frederick Bammes, was cited for failure to yield the right of way.

Manhattan e-bike rider injured after struck by a vehicle

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/2024/8/1722521322327.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report August 1

Pawnee Mental Health&nbsp; has been granted $3,000 to address two critical needs. This grant, will be pivotal in acquiring essential equipment and training, directly benefiting&nbsp; clients and staff, and by extension, the community.

Pawnee has recognized the importance of a low-step medical-grade scale with a high-weight capacity and handlebars. This equipment is a necessity and a reassurance of their commitment to safety and quality care for all their clients. The scale will enable more accurate and safe assessments, a crucial aspect of high-quality care.

In addition to the scale, Pawnee will be implementing Bal-A-Vis-X training for its staff who work with serious emotional disturbances (SED) youth and adults with serious mental illness (SMI). Bal-A-Vis-X, a technique involving rhythmic, patterned exercises using a balance board and various balls, promotes calmness and sustained focus in the brain. This training is expected to enhance the therapeutic environment, benefiting clients and staff by fostering improved concentration and emotional regulation.

"We are incredibly grateful for this grant, which will allow us to make meaningful improvements in our services," said Shelli Schottler, Community Services Director at Pawnee Mental Health.&nbsp;

Pawnee Mental Health releasePawnee Mental Health&nbsp; has been granted $3,000 to address two critical needs. This grant, will be pivotal in acquiring essential equipment and training, directly benefiting&nbsp; clients and staff, and by extension, the community.Pawnee has recognized the importance of a low-step medical-grade scale with a high-weight capacity and handlebars. This equipment is a necessity and a reassurance of their commitment to safety and quality care for all their clients. The scale will enable more accurate and safe assessments, a crucial aspect of high-quality care.In addition to the scale, Pawnee will be implementing Bal-A-Vis-X training for its staff who work with serious emotional disturbances (SED) youth and adults with serious mental illness (SMI). Bal-A-Vis-X, a technique involving rhythmic, patterned exercises using a balance board and various balls, promotes calmness and sustained focus in the brain. This training is expected to enhance the therapeutic environment, benefiting clients and staff by fostering improved concentration and emotional regulation."We are incredibly grateful for this grant, which will allow us to make meaningful improvements in our services," said Shelli Schottler, Community Services Director at Pawnee Mental Health.&nbsp;

Pawnee Mental Health Receives $3,000 Grant to Enhance Client Services

The organizers of Sundown Salute do not intend to have the celebration Labor Day weekend in Junction City as originally hoped. The chairman for Sundown Salute this year,&nbsp; Charles Stimatze, confirmed that future events are however, still being planned.

In the past Sundown Salute was traditionally a Fourth of July celebration.&nbsp;

The organizers of Sundown Salute do not intend to have the celebration Labor Day weekend in Junction City as originally hoped. The chairman for Sundown Salute this year,&nbsp; Charles Stimatze, confirmed that future events are however, still being planned.In the past Sundown Salute was traditionally a Fourth of July celebration.&nbsp;

Sundown Salute still planning for the future

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations.

Just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 35-year-old TJ Grant of Ogden, in 1000 block of South Seth Child Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Grant was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for forgery. Total bond was set at $5,000. Grant was confined at the time of this report.

Grant has a previous conviction for drug possession in Geary County in 2013, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710788207974.jpeg" alt="Grant from an earlier arrest in Geary County" />
 <figcaption>Grant from an earlier arrest in Geary County</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations.Just before 4:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 35-year-old TJ Grant of Ogden, in 1000 block of South Seth Child Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Grant was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for forgery. Total bond was set at $5,000. Grant was confined at the time of this report.Grant has a previous conviction for drug possession in Geary County in 2013, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon jailed for alleged forgery

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/2024/7/1722434800423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report July 31

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement continue their investigation of a vehicle crash into two homes in Riley County.

According to an updated statement from the Riley County Police Department, just before 1a.m. Saturday, a vehicle traveled through two houses  1100 Block of Yuma and came to rest inside the second home and ran over a 23-year-old occupant of the residence who sleeping in his bed. The man was trapped and eventually extracted from under the vehicle.

He was taken to the hospital for treatment. &nbsp;

The vehicle occupants exited the vehicle. EMS was dispatched for the vehicle occupants with one being transported to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The other occupant of the vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

Police continue to work to gather all of the facts.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Saturday in Riley County.

A driver lost control of a vehicle in the 1100 Block of Yuma, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The vehicle struck a house and continued into another house where it&nbsp; ran over a 23-year-old occupant of the residence who sleeping in his bed. The man was trapped and eventually&nbsp;extracted from under the vehicle.

EMS transported the victim to Via Christi for treatment of his non-life-threatening injuries. He was later transferred to Stormont-Vail for advanced treatment, according to the RCPD.&nbsp;&nbsp;Before he was transported the injured man was stable and was able to communicate with officers, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Police had no additional information early Monday.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement continue their investigation of a vehicle crash into two homes in Riley County.According to an updated statement from the Riley County Police Department, just before 1a.m. Saturday, a vehicle traveled through two houses 1100 Block of Yuma and came to rest inside the second home and ran over a 23-year-old occupant of the residence who sleeping in his bed. The man was trapped and eventually extracted from under the vehicle.He was taken to the hospital for treatment. &nbsp;The vehicle occupants exited the vehicle. EMS was dispatched for the vehicle occupants with one being transported to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The other occupant of the vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Police continue to work to gather all of the facts.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.--------------------RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Saturday in Riley County.A driver lost control of a vehicle in the 1100 Block of Yuma, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The vehicle struck a house and continued into another house where it&nbsp; ran over a 23-year-old occupant of the residence who sleeping in his bed. The man was trapped and eventually&nbsp;extracted from under the vehicle.EMS transported the victim to Via Christi for treatment of his non-life-threatening injuries. He was later transferred to Stormont-Vail for advanced treatment, according to the RCPD.&nbsp;&nbsp;Before he was transported the injured man was stable and was able to communicate with officers, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Police had no additional information early Monday.&nbsp;