Fresh off citizen vitriol for rising property taxes during their 2024 campaigns, a fortified Republican super-majority Kansas Legislature began loading their prized horses into the starting gate of this year’s Property Tax Derby.

Kansas GOP leaders eye this as the final jewel in the coveted Tax Cut Triple Crown – sales, income, and property. In previous sessions, they successfully bet on both Governor Kelly’s food tax horse (Axe The Tax) and their income tax horse (Trickle Down) sired from the Brownback stud farm.

Elected jockeys have three levers at their disposal to determine the pace of property taxes in the derby. The State totally controls the first lever (assessments) and oversees county appraisals for the second lever (property values) which are really at the mercy of market forces. The most powerful lever (mill levy) is nearly all in the grip of local government.

Property taxes fund 60%-100% of local government budgets, but less than 1% of state government. Property tax revenue is the lifeblood for local services such as schools, police, roads, parks, transit, libraries, etc. with some hemorrhaging. Conversely, they mean virtually nothing to the State budget.

With that in mind, let’s handicap three GOP entrants while Democrats snooze in the barn.

· “Cap The Tax” (SCR 1603) – Senate Taxation Farms first entry is a Constitutional Amendment capping taxable property values at 3% annually thus artificially controlling property value – not the free market. This well-intentioned concept has all sorts of unintended consequences. Said cap is lifted for home sales and improvements causing vastly different taxable values on the same block while discouraging mobility and investment for an even tighter housing market. Local budgets get squeezed by inflation over 3% but still could effectively make themselves whole by pulling their prodigious mill levy lever. Ultimately, voters must approve if it gets that far. Given the House killed a 4% cap last year, this horse may get stuck on the rail again.

· “Building Biscuit” (SB 35) - Senate Taxation Farms’ second entry would repeal the State’s paltry 1.5 mill levy that goes towards deferred maintenance of state buildings. This is the most local government-friendly entry because it does not jeopardize local revenue. Building maintenance would shift to the State’s general fund made up of income and sales tax. Without a dedicated mill levy, universities are rightfully nervous their proverbial can could be kicked down the road. Homeowners would save a whopping $22 annually on a $200K house. This horse has the best legs for a stretch run but little return for wagers.

· “School Levy Sugar” (HB 2011) – The entry from House Taxation Stables has a similar profile to Building Biscuit. Instead of building maintenance, 1.5 mills are wiped from the State’s 20 mills for local schools. Relief for homeowners is just as paltry. Ostensibly, local schools would be made whole through the State’s sales and income taxes. But it puts their can on the line instead of universities. Without Supreme Court oversight for a school funding case, this horse is drifting a little wide at the turn.

If these don’t excite everybody, look for late entries like last year’s prized thoroughbred – exempting residential value from the State’s 20 mill school levy, expanding the homestead exemption, OR the ultimate horse trade – Medicaid expansion.

To paraphrase the State’s highest-paid employee (Bill Self), don’t worry about the mules, keep loading the wagon and don’t crash local services.

Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Fresh off citizen vitriol for rising property taxes during their 2024 campaigns, a fortified Republican super-majority Kansas Legislature began loading their prized horses into the starting gate of this year’s Property Tax Derby.Kansas GOP leaders eye this as the final jewel in the coveted Tax Cut Triple Crown – sales, income, and property. In previous sessions, they successfully bet on both Governor Kelly’s food tax horse (Axe The Tax) and their income tax horse (Trickle Down) sired from the Brownback stud farm.Elected jockeys have three levers at their disposal to determine the pace of property taxes in the derby. The State totally controls the first lever (assessments) and oversees county appraisals for the second lever (property values) which are really at the mercy of market forces. The most powerful lever (mill levy) is nearly all in the grip of local government.Property taxes fund 60%-100% of local government budgets, but less than 1% of state government. Property tax revenue is the lifeblood for local services such as schools, police, roads, parks, transit, libraries, etc. with some hemorrhaging. Conversely, they mean virtually nothing to the State budget.With that in mind, let’s handicap three GOP entrants while Democrats snooze in the barn.· “Cap The Tax” (SCR 1603) – Senate Taxation Farms first entry is a Constitutional Amendment capping taxable property values at 3% annually thus artificially controlling property value – not the free market. This well-intentioned concept has all sorts of unintended consequences. Said cap is lifted for home sales and improvements causing vastly different taxable values on the same block while discouraging mobility and investment for an even tighter housing market. Local budgets get squeezed by inflation over 3% but still could effectively make themselves whole by pulling their prodigious mill levy lever. Ultimately, voters must approve if it gets that far. Given the House killed a 4% cap last year, this horse may get stuck on the rail again.· “Building Biscuit” (SB 35) - Senate Taxation Farms’ second entry would repeal the State’s paltry 1.5 mill levy that goes towards deferred maintenance of state buildings. This is the most local government-friendly entry because it does not jeopardize local revenue. Building maintenance would shift to the State’s general fund made up of income and sales tax. Without a dedicated mill levy, universities are rightfully nervous their proverbial can could be kicked down the road. Homeowners would save a whopping $22 annually on a $200K house. This horse has the best legs for a stretch run but little return for wagers.· “School Levy Sugar” (HB 2011) – The entry from House Taxation Stables has a similar profile to Building Biscuit. Instead of building maintenance, 1.5 mills are wiped from the State’s 20 mills for local schools. Relief for homeowners is just as paltry. Ostensibly, local schools would be made whole through the State’s sales and income taxes. But it puts their can on the line instead of universities. Without Supreme Court oversight for a school funding case, this horse is drifting a little wide at the turn.If these don’t excite everybody, look for late entries like last year’s prized thoroughbred – exempting residential value from the State’s 20 mill school levy, expanding the homestead exemption, OR the ultimate horse trade – Medicaid expansion.To paraphrase the State’s highest-paid employee (Bill Self), don’t worry about the mules, keep loading the wagon and don’t crash local services.---Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Handicapping the Kansas Property Tax Derby

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience.

This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." 

.Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience. This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." .Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

See The Aluminum Show at McCain Auditorium

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;

SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.

“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”

Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;

If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.

Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:

Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.

In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738161277873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:<ul>
 <li>The child attends a Kansas school offering the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>OR<ul>
 <li>The school-aged child (7-17 years old) lives in a household where someone has received Food Assistance (SNAP) or TANF Cash Assistance at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

DCF: 2025 SUN Bucks Application Period Now Open

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:

“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

Moran: VA will not be impacted by federal funding pause

The way veterans sign in online to check on benefits, prescriptions, and appointments is changing this year.  

Communications Chief for the VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare system Brian Stephens says previously veterans were able to sign in through various websites, some less secure than others 

"All the VA is requiring veterans to go in and make accounts through either of the two options, and from there they're guaranteed a more secure connection to their information, either the login.gov option or the id.me option," Stephens tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

Stephens says to file, veterans must go online and fill out forms, and take a picture of the front and back of their photo ID.  

However, Stephens says with the photos of the ID is where some veterans run into a problem 

"What we're seeing is a lot of veterans are having problems, if you have a Kansas ID for example, there's a hologram that's designed to deter criminals from taking a picture and stealing your identity," Stephens explains. "Well, that same safety feature causes problems for veterans who are trying to verify their identity through this process." 

Stephens says this change is solely for security, and isn't impacting veterans receiving benefits 

"This is just access to electronic health records or communication methods or to check on their benefits or apply for benefits they would need this sign in, but it does not change their ability to receive those benefits," Stephens says. 

Stephens says if you run into a problem setting up your accounts you can go in person to the VA offices in Leavenworth.  You can also attend in person workshops around the region.  

The next closest workshop is on February 21st in Platte City.   

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738091933362.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The way veterans sign in online to check on benefits, prescriptions, and appointments is changing this year. Communications Chief for the VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare system Brian Stephens says previously veterans were able to sign in through various websites, some less secure than others "All the VA is requiring veterans to go in and make accounts through either of the two options, and from there they're guaranteed a more secure connection to their information, either the login.gov option or the id.me option," Stephens tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Stephens says to file, veterans must go online and fill out forms, and take a picture of the front and back of their photo ID. However, Stephens says with the photos of the ID is where some veterans run into a problem "What we're seeing is a lot of veterans are having problems, if you have a Kansas ID for example, there's a hologram that's designed to deter criminals from taking a picture and stealing your identity," Stephens explains. "Well, that same safety feature causes problems for veterans who are trying to verify their identity through this process." Stephens says this change is solely for security, and isn't impacting veterans receiving benefits "This is just access to electronic health records or communication methods or to check on their benefits or apply for benefits they would need this sign in, but it does not change their ability to receive those benefits," Stephens says. Stephens says if you run into a problem setting up your accounts you can go in person to the VA offices in Leavenworth. You can also attend in person workshops around the region. The next closest workshop is on February 21st in Platte City. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

VA advises about online changes for benefits

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Riley County Police Department is renewing its appeal for information regarding a potential witness in connection with an aggravated battery that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 31, 2018.

Just after 1p.m. that day, a 15-year-old girl was attacked and beaten in the head with an object resembling a bat or pipe.

During the initial investigation, Officer Deutsch interviewed a man near the intersection of the Linear Trail and Pecan Circle, in the vicinity of what was then a Schwan’s Food Service delivery center. The witness was described as taller, possibly in his late 50s or early 60s, and drove a silver passenger car. This individual reported seeing a white male wearing a white shirt and carrying a pipe. The suspect was also described as having visible tattoos, particularly around the neck area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the witness, the suspect was walking northeast on the Linear Trail toward S. Manhattan Avenue before turning around and walking southwest back toward Pecan Circle. This sighting occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to when Officer Deutsch arrived at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Authorities believe this witness may hold critical information that could aid in solving this case. Anyone with information about the incident, the suspect, or the potential witness is urged to come forward.

If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Riley County Police Department is renewing its appeal for information regarding a potential witness in connection with an aggravated battery that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 31, 2018.Just after 1p.m. that day, a 15-year-old girl was attacked and beaten in the head with an object resembling a bat or pipe.During the initial investigation, Officer Deutsch interviewed a man near the intersection of the Linear Trail and Pecan Circle, in the vicinity of what was then a Schwan’s Food Service delivery center. The witness was described as taller, possibly in his late 50s or early 60s, and drove a silver passenger car. This individual reported seeing a white male wearing a white shirt and carrying a pipe. The suspect was also described as having visible tattoos, particularly around the neck area.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the witness, the suspect was walking northeast on the Linear Trail toward S. Manhattan Avenue before turning around and walking southwest back toward Pecan Circle. This sighting occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to when Officer Deutsch arrived at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities believe this witness may hold critical information that could aid in solving this case. Anyone with information about the incident, the suspect, or the potential witness is urged to come forward.If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

RCPD: Search continues for witnesses in 2018 attack on 15-year-old

City crews Tuesday begin repairing the concrete steps on the south side of City Hall, leading to the Peace Memorial Auditorium entrance. This work is expected to continue through the remainder of this week.

During these repairs, the stairs will be inaccessible, and barricades have been placed at both the top and bottom for public safety.

However, the south entrance remains open and can be accessed via the ramp on the southeast side of the building (pictured below in comments).

City crews Tuesday begin repairing the concrete steps on the south side of City Hall, leading to the Peace Memorial Auditorium entrance. This work is expected to continue through the remainder of this week.During these repairs, the stairs will be inaccessible, and barricades have been placed at both the top and bottom for public safety.However, the south entrance remains open and can be accessed via the ramp on the southeast side of the building (pictured below in comments).

Repair project begins

MANHATTAN — An upcoming exhibition at Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://beach.k-state.edu/">Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art</a>&nbsp;will feature photography of the Nebraska National Forest by Midwesterner Dana Fritz.

"Field Guide to a Hybrid Landscape: Dana Fritz" will be open from Tuesday, Feb. 4, to Saturday, Aug. 2, in the Ruth Ann Wefald Gallery. Fritz, who was raised in&nbsp;Prairie Village&nbsp;and now resides in&nbsp;Lincoln, Nebraska, is the Hixson-Lied Professor of Art at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She is the museum's 2025 gift print artist, and limited-edition prints of her work will be available for purchase at the museum.

Fritz's photographs in this exhibition draw attention to the forces that shaped the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands' Bessey Ranger District in the Sandhills region. This hand-planted conifer forest was overlaid onto a semi-arid grassland in an ambitious late-19th-century experiment to create a timber industry and change the local climate.

MANHATTAN — An upcoming exhibition at Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://beach.k-state.edu/">Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art</a>&nbsp;will feature photography of the Nebraska National Forest by Midwesterner Dana Fritz. "Field Guide to a Hybrid Landscape: Dana Fritz" will be open from Tuesday, Feb. 4, to Saturday, Aug. 2, in the Ruth Ann Wefald Gallery. Fritz, who was raised in&nbsp;Prairie Village&nbsp;and now resides in&nbsp;Lincoln, Nebraska, is the Hixson-Lied Professor of Art at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She is the museum's 2025 gift print artist, and limited-edition prints of her work will be available for purchase at the museum.Fritz's photographs in this exhibition draw attention to the forces that shaped the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands' Bessey Ranger District in the Sandhills region. This hand-planted conifer forest was overlaid onto a semi-arid grassland in an ambitious late-19th-century experiment to create a timber industry and change the local climate.

Midwestern photographer featured in upcoming Beach Museum of Art exhibition

<a href="mailto:jbklaudt@ksu.edu">By Jacob Klaudt</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Non-irrigated cropland prices in Kansas rose 3.8% last year, while pasture and hay ground increased by approximately 2.7%, according to information in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/land-leasing/land-buying-valuing/kansas-land-values-book-2024">2024 Kansas Agricultural Land Values and Trends publication</a>&nbsp;released earlier this year.

Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid said these figures point to land prices tapering off after many years of rapid growth, as much as 24% per year in some areas. With some regions of the state seeing decreases compared to 2023, Reid notes that land values may lower even more considering tightening margins and decreasing farm income.

“If we look at the state level, we are up just a little bit,” she said. “You will see in the book there are regions that have come down, but overall, I would say the market is starting to flatten and that land values are stabilizing, not continuing to increase at the rapid, unsustainable pace that they have in recent years.”

The cause of this stabilization: a lower profitability environment in the farm economy. Apart from cattle, producers are seeing lower commodity prices after a period of really high ones.

“Add that to relatively high input costs, and specifically, when you're looking at financing and interest rates, we're just at a point where the difference between income and expenses are super tight, creating difficulty for our farmers,” Reid said.

Regarding non-irrigated crop ground, Reid said there is drastic variation in land value between different areas. In southwest Kansas, for example, prices jumped 11-12%, likely influenced by the dairies and feedyards located in that area. Yet, the north-central region of Kansas experienced a drop.

“That was due to a large increase last year,” Reid said. “The north central region had the largest increase in land value in 2023, and then turn around in 2024 and have dropped off the most. I would say that's more of a balancing.”

On the other hand, eastern Kansas continues to grow in land value both for non-irrigated crop ground and pastureland, which can be attributed to such factors as urbanization, hunting pressure and the quality of ground compared to the rest of the state, Reid said.

“The northeast region had a 16% increase,” she said. “The average per acre value for non-irrigated ground is at $7,479 – the highest average value and most rapidly increasing in the state.”

Looking ahead, economic assistance will affect the land market in 2025, according to Reid. A continuing resolution passed through both sides of the U.S. legislature at the end of 2024 will afford producers $10 billion in direct payments, with additional payments possible in the name of disaster assistance in drought-impacted areas

“Those get based on planted acres that a farmer had in 2024, and farmers can look at anywhere from $30 to $40 an acre that is coming in the name of economic assistance,” Reid said. “Those will influence the land market and the cash rental rates in 2025. If we didn't have those support payments, I think we would see things coming down more than we probably will.”

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 </figure><a href="mailto:jbklaudt@ksu.edu">By Jacob Klaudt</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – Non-irrigated cropland prices in Kansas rose 3.8% last year, while pasture and hay ground increased by approximately 2.7%, according to information in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/land-leasing/land-buying-valuing/kansas-land-values-book-2024">2024 Kansas Agricultural Land Values and Trends publication</a>&nbsp;released earlier this year.Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid said these figures point to land prices tapering off after many years of rapid growth, as much as 24% per year in some areas. With some regions of the state seeing decreases compared to 2023, Reid notes that land values may lower even more considering tightening margins and decreasing farm income.“If we look at the state level, we are up just a little bit,” she said. “You will see in the book there are regions that have come down, but overall, I would say the market is starting to flatten and that land values are stabilizing, not continuing to increase at the rapid, unsustainable pace that they have in recent years.”The cause of this stabilization: a lower profitability environment in the farm economy. Apart from cattle, producers are seeing lower commodity prices after a period of really high ones.“Add that to relatively high input costs, and specifically, when you're looking at financing and interest rates, we're just at a point where the difference between income and expenses are super tight, creating difficulty for our farmers,” Reid said.Regarding non-irrigated crop ground, Reid said there is drastic variation in land value between different areas. In southwest Kansas, for example, prices jumped 11-12%, likely influenced by the dairies and feedyards located in that area. Yet, the north-central region of Kansas experienced a drop.“That was due to a large increase last year,” Reid said. “The north central region had the largest increase in land value in 2023, and then turn around in 2024 and have dropped off the most. I would say that's more of a balancing.”On the other hand, eastern Kansas continues to grow in land value both for non-irrigated crop ground and pastureland, which can be attributed to such factors as urbanization, hunting pressure and the quality of ground compared to the rest of the state, Reid said.“The northeast region had a 16% increase,” she said. “The average per acre value for non-irrigated ground is at $7,479 – the highest average value and most rapidly increasing in the state.”Looking ahead, economic assistance will affect the land market in 2025, according to Reid. A continuing resolution passed through both sides of the U.S. legislature at the end of 2024 will afford producers $10 billion in direct payments, with additional payments possible in the name of disaster assistance in drought-impacted areas“Those get based on planted acres that a farmer had in 2024, and farmers can look at anywhere from $30 to $40 an acre that is coming in the name of economic assistance,” Reid said. “Those will influence the land market and the cash rental rates in 2025. If we didn't have those support payments, I think we would see things coming down more than we probably will.”

Land market starting to flatten, says K-State economist

The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) will host the second annual&nbsp;Manhattan Seed Swap event in conjunction with several community partners on Sunday, February 16&nbsp;from 1 to 4 p.m. in its atrium and second floor classroom. This come and go event is free and open to the public. Seeds will be available on a first come first serve basis.Seeds of all types are welcome and will be grouped by category. Tables will be setup in the classroom for vegetables, annual flowers, perennials, native plants, herbs, etc. Seeds can be commercially pre-packaged or harvested.Seed Swap Guidelines:

“Last year was our first event and we had a wonderful response with about 300 people showing up,” says event volunteer Kelly Yarbrough. “We’re looking forward to this becoming an annual tradition in Manhattan that grows over time.” Volunteers from Riley County Master Gardeners will&nbsp;be available to answer questions. In addition to seed tables, several organizations will have educational information and kid-friendly activities including Sunset Zoo, The Land Institute, Riley County Master Gardeners, the FHDC, and more.&nbsp; Guests can also register to win a gift basket of gardening related items.

The public is encouraged to harvest seeds at the end of the growing season for next year's annual Manhattan Seed Swap.



The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) will host the second annual&nbsp;Manhattan Seed Swap event in conjunction with several community partners on Sunday, February 16&nbsp;from 1 to 4 p.m. in its atrium and second floor classroom. This come and go event is free and open to the public. Seeds will be available on a first come first serve basis.Seeds of all types are welcome and will be grouped by category. Tables will be setup in the classroom for vegetables, annual flowers, perennials, native plants, herbs, etc. Seeds can be commercially pre-packaged or harvested.Seed Swap Guidelines:<ul>
 <li>Portion out seeds into "sample sizes" (1 teaspoon - 1 tablespoon depending on seed size) using envelopes or small baggies, if you can.</li><li>Label any non-commercially packaged seeds with the plant name, when to plant, when and where it was harvested (if applicable), and any other information needed for successful growing.</li><li>For bulk seed, label the bag so participants can package and label their individual bags.</li><li>Swappers are encouraged to bring their own containers, but a packaging and labeling station will be available.</li><li>Participants are encouraged to take only what they will use this year and take in proportion to what they contribute.</li><li>Everyone is welcome to attend, learn, and take a few samples, even without their own seeds to share.</li><li>Those who do not have seeds to contribute are encouraged to bring envelopes or small baggies to donate for seed&nbsp;packaging and storage.</li>
 </ul>“Last year was our first event and we had a wonderful response with about 300 people showing up,” says event volunteer Kelly Yarbrough. “We’re looking forward to this becoming an annual tradition in Manhattan that grows over time.” Volunteers from Riley County Master Gardeners will&nbsp;be available to answer questions. In addition to seed tables, several organizations will have educational information and kid-friendly activities including Sunset Zoo, The Land Institute, Riley County Master Gardeners, the FHDC, and more.&nbsp; Guests can also register to win a gift basket of gardening related items.The public is encouraged to harvest seeds at the end of the growing season for next year's annual Manhattan Seed Swap.

Manhattan Seed Swap is scheduled in February

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court has created an ad hoc group to advise the court on creating criminal mediation rules. The 12-member group is created by Supreme Court&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansascourts.org/l/ubH1rWJo7-g4kZkl2rKF5n7at8YX7y7RIxNYGsSEL4A">Administrative Order 2025-CM-011</a>&nbsp;signed by Chief Justice Marla Luckert.“In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in voluntary mediation as a method of resolving criminal cases outside of the traditional court process,” Luckert said. “In criminal cases, mediation could contribute to early case resolution, helping the criminal justice system operate more efficiently.

Statewide rules will help ensure standardized processes across jurisdictions and clarify when criminal mediation should or should not be used. ”What is criminal mediation? Criminal mediation is when an impartial third party meets with prosecutors, defendants, and defense attorneys to help resolve a pending criminal case before trial. The process is confidential and voluntary, and the third party is often a retired judge who has no decision-making authority in the case. Luckert said successful criminal mediation can give the person who has been charged an unbiased appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of their case. It can also make the law understandable, strengthening confidence in the judicial system. “Criminal mediators typically have real world experience with the criminal process, including applying complex sentencing guidelines,” Luckert said. “This knowledge makes them ideally suited to explaining the possible sentences to litigants.”

About the group The Ad Hoc Criminal Mediation Advisory Group will study best practices on criminal mediation and existing local rules in Kansas and in other states. The group will then help the Office of Judicial Administration draft statewide criminal mediation rules. The group is composed of district judges, district attorneys, defense attorneys, retired district judges, and a representative from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. The group will be supported by Amanda Jacobsen, director of dispute resolution with the Office of Judicial Administration. Group members are:

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court has created an ad hoc group to advise the court on creating criminal mediation rules. The 12-member group is created by Supreme Court&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansascourts.org/l/ubH1rWJo7-g4kZkl2rKF5n7at8YX7y7RIxNYGsSEL4A">Administrative Order 2025-CM-011</a>&nbsp;signed by Chief Justice Marla Luckert.“In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in voluntary mediation as a method of resolving criminal cases outside of the traditional court process,” Luckert said. “In criminal cases, mediation could contribute to early case resolution, helping the criminal justice system operate more efficiently. Statewide rules will help ensure standardized processes across jurisdictions and clarify when criminal mediation should or should not be used. ”What is criminal mediation? Criminal mediation is when an impartial third party meets with prosecutors, defendants, and defense attorneys to help resolve a pending criminal case before trial. The process is confidential and voluntary, and the third party is often a retired judge who has no decision-making authority in the case. Luckert said successful criminal mediation can give the person who has been charged an unbiased appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of their case. It can also make the law understandable, strengthening confidence in the judicial system. “Criminal mediators typically have real world experience with the criminal process, including applying complex sentencing guidelines,” Luckert said. “This knowledge makes them ideally suited to explaining the possible sentences to litigants.”About the group The Ad Hoc Criminal Mediation Advisory Group will study best practices on criminal mediation and existing local rules in Kansas and in other states. The group will then help the Office of Judicial Administration draft statewide criminal mediation rules. The group is composed of district judges, district attorneys, defense attorneys, retired district judges, and a representative from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. The group will be supported by Amanda Jacobsen, director of dispute resolution with the Office of Judicial Administration. Group members are:<ul>
 <li>Chief Judge Taylor Wine, 4th Judicial District</li><li>Chief Judge Jeffrey Goering, 18th Judicial District</li><li>District Judge Kendra Lewison, 21st Judicial District</li><li>Kevin Moriarty, retired district judge, 10th Judicial District</li><li>Mike Powers, retired district judge, 8th Judicial District</li><li>Tiffanie Askew, victim rights coordinator, Kansas Attorney General's Office</li><li>Marc Bennett, district attorney, Sedgwick County</li><li>Hatem Chahine, defense attorney, Douglas County</li><li>Michael Kagay, district attorney, Shawnee County</li><li>Charles Lindberg, defense attorney, Minneapolis</li><li>Michelle Neis, deputy public defender, 3rd Judicial District Public Defender Office</li><li>Kimberly Rodebaugh, senior assistant district attorney, Reno County</li>
 </ul>

Kan. Supreme Court creates ad hoc advisory group on criminal mediation

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two instances of gun violence in Manhattan.

Just after 11:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of criminal discharge of a firearm in the 1300 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Officers reported hearing a noise similar to that of a gunshot and upon investigation located evidence of a round being fired by an unknown subject in the parking garage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of an unlawful discharge of a firearm in the 400 block of S. Manhattan Avenue. 

&nbsp;A victim reported two bullet holes were located in the ceiling of an Air BNB. &nbsp;Anyone with information on these crimes can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two instances of gun violence in Manhattan.Just after 11:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of criminal discharge of a firearm in the 1300 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Officers reported hearing a noise similar to that of a gunshot and upon investigation located evidence of a round being fired by an unknown subject in the parking garage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of an unlawful discharge of a firearm in the 400 block of S. Manhattan Avenue. &nbsp;A victim reported two bullet holes were located in the ceiling of an Air BNB. &nbsp;Anyone with information on these crimes can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD investigating weekend gun violence in Manhattan

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

Researchers at Kansas State University say the number of cases of an allergic reaction to red meat tied to tick bites is increasing across the state.

Priscilla Brenes, K-State Research and Extension nutrition and wellness specialist, said cases of an allergy called alpha-gal syndrome are becoming more common through more rural areas of Kansas. Alpha-gal syndrome is the term used to describe the allergic reaction to red meats and mammalian related products, most often through a tick bite.

The main parasite responsible for the spread of alpha-gal syndrome is the Lone Star tick, a common variety in brushy and more heavily wooded parts of Kansas. Brenes said in a statement that she surveyed other Kansas extension agents and found there was a lack of available information about alpha-gal syndrome, and that the agents wanted more details to share within their communities.

K-State entomologist Yoonseong Park said studies indicate that less than 10% of people bitten by the Lone Star tick ever develop an allergic reaction to red meat. Symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome include hives, nausea or vomiting, severe stomach pain, dizziness, drops in blood pressure, shortness of breath and swollen lips and throat.

Park said tick activity picks up during spring months in Kansas, and every patient who develops the red meat allergy has a different level of sensitivity to it, like other allergies. In any case of possible alpha-gal syndrome, patients are encouraged to talk with their doctor immediately.

Michael Chao, K-State meat scientist, said a recent report from the Yale School of Medicine shows that the levels of antibodies which cause the reaction decline over time, giving some people the chance to consume red meat and related products again.

Chao uses mice in his research to test the reaction of various meat products, such as hot dogs and jerky. He said his hope is to use the data he gathers to help people reintroduce red meat into their diet “when they’re ready for it.”

Brenes and her colleagues are offering a survey to residents across all 105 Kansas counties as part of their effort to collect more information about alpha-gal syndrome. Brenes said those who participate in the survey may receive a financial incentive.

The survey and more information about alpha-gal syndrome can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://entomology.k-state.edu/ags/" target="_blank">online</a>&nbsp;and through local extension offices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737977963996.png" alt="The Lone Star tick is responsible for most cases of alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy that’s appearing more and more in Kansas. (Kansas State University Research and Extension.)" />
 <figcaption>The Lone Star tick is responsible for most cases of alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy that’s appearing more and more in Kansas. (Kansas State University Research and Extension.)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>Researchers at Kansas State University say the number of cases of an allergic reaction to red meat tied to tick bites is increasing across the state.Priscilla Brenes, K-State Research and Extension nutrition and wellness specialist, said cases of an allergy called alpha-gal syndrome are becoming more common through more rural areas of Kansas. Alpha-gal syndrome is the term used to describe the allergic reaction to red meats and mammalian related products, most often through a tick bite.The main parasite responsible for the spread of alpha-gal syndrome is the Lone Star tick, a common variety in brushy and more heavily wooded parts of Kansas. Brenes said in a statement that she surveyed other Kansas extension agents and found there was a lack of available information about alpha-gal syndrome, and that the agents wanted more details to share within their communities.K-State entomologist Yoonseong Park said studies indicate that less than 10% of people bitten by the Lone Star tick ever develop an allergic reaction to red meat. Symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome include hives, nausea or vomiting, severe stomach pain, dizziness, drops in blood pressure, shortness of breath and swollen lips and throat.Park said tick activity picks up during spring months in Kansas, and every patient who develops the red meat allergy has a different level of sensitivity to it, like other allergies. In any case of possible alpha-gal syndrome, patients are encouraged to talk with their doctor immediately.Michael Chao, K-State meat scientist, said a recent report from the Yale School of Medicine shows that the levels of antibodies which cause the reaction decline over time, giving some people the chance to consume red meat and related products again.Chao uses mice in his research to test the reaction of various meat products, such as hot dogs and jerky. He said his hope is to use the data he gathers to help people reintroduce red meat into their diet “when they’re ready for it.”Brenes and her colleagues are offering a survey to residents across all 105 Kansas counties as part of their effort to collect more information about alpha-gal syndrome. Brenes said those who participate in the survey may receive a financial incentive.The survey and more information about alpha-gal syndrome can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://entomology.k-state.edu/ags/" target="_blank">online</a>&nbsp;and through local extension offices.

K-State researchers say red meat allergy from tick bites is becoming more common

GARDEN CITY — Kansas mental health experts want rural residents to be aware of available resources as they work to enhance mental health services across more of the state.

NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn said she and her staff are preparing for a rural mental health summit on April 9 in Kiowa, a community of about 900 people in south-central Kansas, to bring the conversation about mental health care to more rural and frontier areas.

The summit is a continuation of the nonprofit agency’s Standing in the Gap series that began&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/28/kansas-mental-health-experts-discuss-gaps-in-services-for-farmers-and-ranchers-at-inaugural-summit/">in 2023 in Dodge City</a>. NAMI Kansas southwest steering committee chairwoman Itzel Moya said the initial event and four subsequent sessions have been “a great way for rural and frontier communities to bring light to mental health topics and resources.”

At that initial event, mental health experts and agricultural producers shared stories about their own mental health struggles and vocalized a need for more widespread mental health care services, particularly in the western half of the state.

The April 9 event is set to take place at the Kiowa Community Building from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://namikansas.org/get-involved/nami-kansas-events/sitg/" target="_blank">Registration is required</a>. The event will focus on how local faith leaders and church members can “stand in the gap” as links to mental health care for their communities, Vaughn said.

“Standing in the Gap presentations help to equip our local community leaders and members to start the conversation, learn about mental health conditions and statistical information, access its local resources, and seek solutions and opportunities to serve each other well,” Vaughn said.

Religious officials are often the first person to respond to a mental health crisis because of the lack of mental health care providers across the state, and because of preexisting trusting relationships formed within the community. At another Standing in the Gap event in November in Plainville, NAMI Kansas volunteer Tara Gwynn said Kansas has an average of one mental health care provider for every 450 residents.

In areas like Plainville, which is in Rooks County in north-central Kansas, Gwynn said the figure is closer to one provider per 4,000 people. But smaller communities often have multiple churches, all of which can have mental health information and support pamphlets available in view of their congregations.

Officials with the Kansas Department of Agriculture also are attempting to close the mental health care gap by partnering with Kansas Corn to offer the Kansas Ag Stress program. Created in 2019, the program website features&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/ag-aware-providers-in-kansas" target="_blank">a list of mental health care providers</a>&nbsp;who offer telehealth services or specialize in mental health needs related to the ag industry.

Additionally, Kansas Farm Bureau has the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kfb.org/Article/Mental-Health-Resources" target="_blank">Rural Minds Matter</a>&nbsp;program that includes training materials, links to mental health support guides, and the Advocate of the Year awards that were created in 2024. The inaugural Advocate of the Year award winner was Fort Hays State University professor and therapist Will Stutterheim. The first Young Advocate of the Year award recipient was Destiny Johnson, a pre-K through 12th-grade social worker for Stafford Unified School District 349.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate agricultural producers have a higher suicide rate than other professions. The CDC report, published in 2020 with data sourced in 2016, found that men who worked in agriculture were at a greater risk, with a ratio of 43 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people. Statewide, the suicide rate for men is 19 per 100,000 people. According to data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, more than 500 Kansans died by suicide in 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737927645951.png" alt=" NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn speaks at the inaugural Standing in the Gap summit in August 2023 in Dodge City. Vaughn and her staff are preparing for the next rural mental health summit, slated for April 9 in Kiowa. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector.)" />
 <figcaption> NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn speaks at the inaugural Standing in the Gap summit in August 2023 in Dodge City. Vaughn and her staff are preparing for the next rural mental health summit, slated for April 9 in Kiowa. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector.)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>GARDEN CITY — Kansas mental health experts want rural residents to be aware of available resources as they work to enhance mental health services across more of the state.NAMI Kansas executive director Sherrie Vaughn said she and her staff are preparing for a rural mental health summit on April 9 in Kiowa, a community of about 900 people in south-central Kansas, to bring the conversation about mental health care to more rural and frontier areas.The summit is a continuation of the nonprofit agency’s Standing in the Gap series that began&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/28/kansas-mental-health-experts-discuss-gaps-in-services-for-farmers-and-ranchers-at-inaugural-summit/">in 2023 in Dodge City</a>. NAMI Kansas southwest steering committee chairwoman Itzel Moya said the initial event and four subsequent sessions have been “a great way for rural and frontier communities to bring light to mental health topics and resources.”At that initial event, mental health experts and agricultural producers shared stories about their own mental health struggles and vocalized a need for more widespread mental health care services, particularly in the western half of the state.The April 9 event is set to take place at the Kiowa Community Building from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://namikansas.org/get-involved/nami-kansas-events/sitg/" target="_blank">Registration is required</a>. The event will focus on how local faith leaders and church members can “stand in the gap” as links to mental health care for their communities, Vaughn said.“Standing in the Gap presentations help to equip our local community leaders and members to start the conversation, learn about mental health conditions and statistical information, access its local resources, and seek solutions and opportunities to serve each other well,” Vaughn said.Religious officials are often the first person to respond to a mental health crisis because of the lack of mental health care providers across the state, and because of preexisting trusting relationships formed within the community. At another Standing in the Gap event in November in Plainville, NAMI Kansas volunteer Tara Gwynn said Kansas has an average of one mental health care provider for every 450 residents.In areas like Plainville, which is in Rooks County in north-central Kansas, Gwynn said the figure is closer to one provider per 4,000 people. But smaller communities often have multiple churches, all of which can have mental health information and support pamphlets available in view of their congregations.Officials with the Kansas Department of Agriculture also are attempting to close the mental health care gap by partnering with Kansas Corn to offer the Kansas Ag Stress program. Created in 2019, the program website features&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasagstress.org/ag-aware-providers-in-kansas" target="_blank">a list of mental health care providers</a>&nbsp;who offer telehealth services or specialize in mental health needs related to the ag industry.Additionally, Kansas Farm Bureau has the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kfb.org/Article/Mental-Health-Resources" target="_blank">Rural Minds Matter</a>&nbsp;program that includes training materials, links to mental health support guides, and the Advocate of the Year awards that were created in 2024. The inaugural Advocate of the Year award winner was Fort Hays State University professor and therapist Will Stutterheim. The first Young Advocate of the Year award recipient was Destiny Johnson, a pre-K through 12th-grade social worker for Stafford Unified School District 349.Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate agricultural producers have a higher suicide rate than other professions. The CDC report, published in 2020 with data sourced in 2016, found that men who worked in agriculture were at a greater risk, with a ratio of 43 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people. Statewide, the suicide rate for men is 19 per 100,000 people. According to data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, more than 500 Kansans died by suicide in 2023.

Kansas mental health professionals prepare listening session while working to enhance services

DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are reporting more fake cash circulating in Kansas.

On multiple occasions this week, individuals have attempted to pass fake $100 bills at Abilene businesses, according to a social media report from police.

The bills are not counterfeit but rather movie prop money. Please consider taking time to educate your employees on spotting these types of bills, and do not hesitate to contact the Abilene Police Department if you believe you have received one.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737832903693.png" alt="Photo Abilene Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Abilene Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are reporting more fake cash circulating in Kansas.On multiple occasions this week, individuals have attempted to pass fake $100 bills at Abilene businesses, according to a social media report from police.The bills are not counterfeit but rather movie prop money. Please consider taking time to educate your employees on spotting these types of bills, and do not hesitate to contact the Abilene Police Department if you believe you have received one.

Police report more fake movie money in Kansas

&nbsp;Soldiers from Kansas are being deployed to help secure the U.S. southern border.

Fort Riley issued a statement on Saturday.

1st Infantry Division to deploy Soldiers to southern border

The 1st Infantry Division from Fort Riley will deploy approximately 200 Soldiers to the southern border to protect and defend the territorial integrity of the United States as directed by the President. Under the direction of U.S. Northern Command and Joint Task Force North, the 41st Combat Engineer Company-Armored and the 977th Military Police Company will augment the 2,500 forces already at the border supporting Customs and Border Protection’s southern border mission.

 U.S. Northern Command&nbsp; announced elements of the following units have been activated as part of USNORTHCOM’s mission to bolster security at the United States southern border:

These approximately 1,500 active-duty personnel from the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps are deploying to the southern border to augment the approximately 2,500 service members already deployed supporting Customs and Border Protection’s southern border mission.&nbsp;

On Saturday, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, released the following statement after the announcement that Kansas troops from Fort Riley will be deployed to the southern border:

“My heart is with Kansas families and loved ones as soldiers from Fort Riley are sent to protect and secure our borders. Kansans and Americans across the country extend our deepest gratitude to them for keeping us safe. Under the previous administration, over 2 million known illegal alien gotaways entered our country – something that should have never happened, and compromised our national security.&nbsp;

President Trump is determined to stop the dangerous flow of fentanyl, cartels, and unvetted illegal immigrants coming into the United States and will protect our homeland.&nbsp;

The exact number of personnel will fluctuate as units rotate personnel and as additional forces are tasked to deploy once planning efforts are finalized.&nbsp;Specific units will be announced as soon as more information is made available.&nbsp;These military forces will support enhanced detection and monitoring efforts and repair and emplace physical barriers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737830991463.png" alt="Photo by Pfc. Kanneth Barnet, 19th Public Affairs Detachment" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pfc. Kanneth Barnet, 19th Public Affairs Detachment</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Soldiers from Kansas are being deployed to help secure the U.S. southern border.--Fort Riley issued a statement on Saturday.1st Infantry Division to deploy Soldiers to southern borderThe 1st Infantry Division from Fort Riley will deploy approximately 200 Soldiers to the southern border to protect and defend the territorial integrity of the United States as directed by the President. Under the direction of U.S. Northern Command and Joint Task Force North, the 41st Combat Engineer Company-Armored and the 977th Military Police Company will augment the 2,500 forces already at the border supporting Customs and Border Protection’s southern border mission.-- U.S. Northern Command&nbsp; announced elements of the following units have been activated as part of USNORTHCOM’s mission to bolster security at the United States southern border:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737839008559.png" alt="Photo U.S. Northern Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Northern Command</figcaption>
 </figure>From the U.S. Army:<ul>
 <li>977th Military Police Company, Fort Riley, Kansas</li><li>41st Combat Engineer Company-Armored, Fort Riley, Kansas</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Headquarters, 89th Military Police Brigade, Fort Cavazos, Texas</li><li>Headquarters, 720th Military Police Battalion, Fort Cavazos, Texas</li><li>401st Military Police Company, Fort Cavazos, Texas</li><li>202nd Military Police Company, Fort Bliss, Texas</li><li>Headquarters, 716th Military Police Battalion, Fort Campbell, Kentucky</li><li>23rd Military Police Company, Fort Drum, New York</li><li>549th Military Police Company, Fort Stewart, Georgia</li><li>530th Combat Engineer Company-Armored, Fort Stewart, Georgia</li><li>569th Combat Engineer Company-Armored, Fort Carson, Colorado</li><li>Headquarters, 759th Military Police Battalion, Fort Carson, Colorado</li><li>66th Military Police Company, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington</li>
 </ul>From the U.S. Marine Corps:<ul>
 <li>Detachment from 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st&nbsp;Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, California</li><li>Detachment from 7th Engineering Support Battalion, 1st&nbsp;Marine Logistics Group, Camp Pendleton, California</li>
 </ul>These approximately 1,500 active-duty personnel from the U.S. Army and the U.S. Marine Corps are deploying to the southern border to augment the approximately 2,500 service members already deployed supporting Customs and Border Protection’s southern border mission.&nbsp;On Saturday, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, released the following statement after the announcement that Kansas troops from Fort Riley will be deployed to the southern border:“My heart is with Kansas families and loved ones as soldiers from Fort Riley are sent to protect and secure our borders. Kansans and Americans across the country extend our deepest gratitude to them for keeping us safe. Under the previous administration, over 2 million known illegal alien gotaways entered our country – something that should have never happened, and compromised our national security.&nbsp;President Trump is determined to stop the dangerous flow of fentanyl, cartels, and unvetted illegal immigrants coming into the United States and will protect our homeland.&nbsp;The exact number of personnel will fluctuate as units rotate personnel and as additional forces are tasked to deploy once planning efforts are finalized.&nbsp;Specific units will be announced as soon as more information is made available.&nbsp;These military forces will support enhanced detection and monitoring efforts and repair and emplace physical barriers.&nbsp;

Soldiers from Fort Riley deployed to help secure the border

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award, a program recognizing the outstanding teaching skills of new educators.&nbsp;

The 32 educators chosen for this prestigious award will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference&nbsp;on Feb. 21, in Topeka.

The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.

Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each of the state’s four regions that correspond to the state’s U.S. congressional districts.

Recipients of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.

The 2025 Kansas Horizon Award recipients are as follows:

Denise Acosta, Spring Valley Elementary School, Geary County USD 475

Jasmine Colle, Hillsboro Middle/High School, Durham-Hillsboro-Lehigh USD 410

Jason Dester, Topeka West High School, Topeka USD 501

Brennen Feeback, Fort Scott High School, Fort Scott USD 234

Makayla Gray, Burlington Elementary School, Burlington USD 244

Michael Lager, Junction City High School, Geary County USD 475

Alyssa Larson, Gray Hawk Elementary School, Basehor-Linwood USD 458

Trenton Lowry, North Lawn Elementary School, Neodesha USD 461

Dalton Kraus, Victoria Elementary School, Victoria USD 432

Emma Lidstrom, Coronado Elementary School, Salina USD 305

Anglie Linden, Lyons Middle School, Lyons USD 405

Jessyka Mikkelson, Southeast of Saline Elementary School, Southeast of Saline USD 306

Rylie Sanders, Buhler High School, Buhler USD 313

Sarah Schlottman, Abilene High School, Abilene USD 435

Kiley Seidl, Haven Grade School, Haven USD 312

Brayden Smith, Hays High School, Hays USD 489

Sarah Alas, Delaware Ridge Elementary School, Bonner Springs USD 204

Ryleigh Diskin, Ray Marsh Elementary School, Shawnee Mission USD 512

Marie Jones, Scarborough Elementary School, Olathe USD 233

Brock LaPlante, Spring Hill High School, Spring Hill USD 230

Tara Mulcahy, Broadmoor Elementary School, Louisburg USD 416

Steve Murray, Olathe West High School, Olathe USD 233

Allaire Pigg, Turner High School, Turner USD 202

Eric Reece, Central Heights Middle School, Central Heights USD 288

Viridiana Arias, Maize South High School, Maize USD 266

Lexie Bullinger, Robert M. Martin Elementary School, Andover USD 385

Joshua Isaacs, West Elementary School, Valley Center USD 262

Tyler Kohlman, Amelia Earhart Elementary School, Goddard USD 265

Matt Miller, Truesdell Middle School, Wichita USD 259

Anna Patton, Augusta Middle School, Augusta USD 402

Hannah Reynolds, Eisenhower High School, Goddard USD 265

SubmittedThe Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) has announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award, a program recognizing the outstanding teaching skills of new educators.&nbsp;The 32 educators chosen for this prestigious award will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference&nbsp;on Feb. 21, in Topeka.The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligible, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each of the state’s four regions that correspond to the state’s U.S. congressional districts.Recipients of the 2025 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.The 2025 Kansas Horizon Award recipients are as follows:Region 2Denise Acosta, Spring Valley Elementary School, Geary County USD 475Jasmine Colle, Hillsboro Middle/High School, Durham-Hillsboro-Lehigh USD 410Jason Dester, Topeka West High School, Topeka USD 501Brennen Feeback, Fort Scott High School, Fort Scott USD 234Makayla Gray, Burlington Elementary School, Burlington USD 244Michael Lager, Junction City High School, Geary County USD 475Alyssa Larson, Gray Hawk Elementary School, Basehor-Linwood USD 458Trenton Lowry, North Lawn Elementary School, Neodesha USD 461Region 1Dalton Kraus, Victoria Elementary School, Victoria USD 432Emma Lidstrom, Coronado Elementary School, Salina USD 305Anglie Linden, Lyons Middle School, Lyons USD 405Jessyka Mikkelson, Southeast of Saline Elementary School, Southeast of Saline USD 306Rylie Sanders, Buhler High School, Buhler USD 313Sarah Schlottman, Abilene High School, Abilene USD 435Kiley Seidl, Haven Grade School, Haven USD 312Brayden Smith, Hays High School, Hays USD 489Region 3Sarah Alas, Delaware Ridge Elementary School, Bonner Springs USD 204Ryleigh Diskin, Ray Marsh Elementary School, Shawnee Mission USD 512Marie Jones, Scarborough Elementary School, Olathe USD 233Brock LaPlante, Spring Hill High School, Spring Hill USD 230Tara Mulcahy, Broadmoor Elementary School, Louisburg USD 416Steve Murray, Olathe West High School, Olathe USD 233Allaire Pigg, Turner High School, Turner USD 202Eric Reece, Central Heights Middle School, Central Heights USD 288Region 4Viridiana Arias, Maize South High School, Maize USD 266Lexie Bullinger, Robert M. Martin Elementary School, Andover USD 385Joshua Isaacs, West Elementary School, Valley Center USD 262Tyler Kohlman, Amelia Earhart Elementary School, Goddard USD 265Matt Miller, Truesdell Middle School, Wichita USD 259Anna Patton, Augusta Middle School, Augusta USD 402Hannah Reynolds, Eisenhower High School, Goddard USD 265

Local educators honored in 2025 Kansas Horizon Award program

The Geary County Sheriff's Department has confirmed the arrest of Junction City Commissioner Alovence "Al"Gordon on a requested charge of Domestic Battery. 

Junction City police were called to the 1700 block of Clover Drive just before 5 p.m. Thursday and the Geary County Sheriff's Department was called into investigate the incident. Also arrested at the same location on a requested charge of Domestic Battery was Corieyonna Trice.

The Sheriff's Department confirmed both are free on bond.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department has confirmed the arrest of Junction City Commissioner Alovence "Al"Gordon on a requested charge of Domestic Battery. Junction City police were called to the 1700 block of Clover Drive just before 5 p.m. Thursday and the Geary County Sheriff's Department was called into investigate the incident. Also arrested at the same location on a requested charge of Domestic Battery was Corieyonna Trice.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737757141297.jpeg" alt="Alovencce "Al " Gordon" />
 <figcaption>Alovencce "Al " Gordon</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737757177729.jpeg" alt="Corrieyonna Trice" />
 <figcaption>Corrieyonna Trice</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sheriff's Department confirmed both are free on bond.

Authorities confirm the arrest of a Junction City Commissioner

DICKINSON COUNTY—Sheriff's deputies are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

On Thursday, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit executed a search warrant in relation to a narcotics investigation, at a residence in the 2500 Block of Nicholson Road in Chapman, according to a media release.

While conducting the search warrant, deputies located THC edible products, Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, and firearms.

As a result of the investigation, Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies arrested 34-year-old Emma Gomez and booked her into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on the following requested charges that include Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, Possession with the Intent to Distribute Marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school, Unlawful Manufacturing of Controlled Substance, Aggravated Endangering a Child, Possession with Intent to Distribute Drug Paraphernalia within 1,000 feet of a school, Criminal Possession of weapons, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737740268993.png" alt="Gomez-photo Dickinson County." />
 <figcaption>Gomez-photo Dickinson County.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY—Sheriff's deputies are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.On Thursday, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit executed a search warrant in relation to a narcotics investigation, at a residence in the 2500 Block of Nicholson Road in Chapman, according to a media release.While conducting the search warrant, deputies located THC edible products, Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, and firearms.As a result of the investigation, Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Deputies arrested 34-year-old Emma Gomez and booked her into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on the following requested charges that include Possession with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, Possession with the Intent to Distribute Marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school, Unlawful Manufacturing of Controlled Substance, Aggravated Endangering a Child, Possession with Intent to Distribute Drug Paraphernalia within 1,000 feet of a school, Criminal Possession of weapons, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp

Sheriff: Kansas woman accused of selling meth, marijuana

Upcoming future leaders were honored during a 20 under 40 reception in Manhattan Thursday evening. The event was held at the Museum of Art and Light.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737740414605.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Upcoming future leaders were honored during a 20 under 40 reception in Manhattan Thursday evening. The event was held at the Museum of Art and Light.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737740589013.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

20 under 40 are honored

Riley COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Thursday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a Lincoln MKZ driven by Eugene Fells, 85, of Herrington struck a Mazda Tribute driven by Carrie Baker, 50, of Manhattan at the corner of S. 10th Street and Fort Riley Boulevard.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EMS transported Baker to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Fells was issued a citation for failure to yield at a red light, according to the RCPD.

Riley COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Thursday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a Lincoln MKZ driven by Eugene Fells, 85, of Herrington struck a Mazda Tribute driven by Carrie Baker, 50, of Manhattan at the corner of S. 10th Street and Fort Riley Boulevard.&nbsp;&nbsp;EMS transported Baker to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Fells was issued a citation for failure to yield at a red light, according to the RCPD.

Manhattan woman hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash

By ANDREW RAYO FTC If it’s not scammers spamming your phone with texts or filling up your inbox with emails, it’s your mailbox crammed with ads and other mail you didn’t ask for. The junk messages and mail might seem endless, but there are some ways to help scale it back.

Scammers send phishing texts and emails that look legitimate to trick you into giving them personal or financial information. Legitimate companies might send mail that you just don’t want things like magazines, catalogs, or prescreened offers of credit and insurance. While these aren’t necessarily scams, they can pile up quickly.

To help cut down on spam texts and emails, use filters. Check if your mobile phone has options to filter and block texts from unknown senders. Some call-blocking apps can also help block unwanted messages. Many popular email providers (like Gmail or Yahoo Mail) have strong <a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages">spam filters</a> turned on by default. If any spam gets into your inbox, mark it as spam or junk. You can also <a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-stop-unwanted-emails-texts-phone-calls">unsubscribe from unwanted emails</a>. Getting fewer unwanted emails helps you avoid clicking on links that can lead to phishing attacks. Additionally, report unwanted messages, as they often lead to scams. Use your phone’s report junk option or forward unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM) and unwanted emails to your email provider.

To help cut down on junk mail, <a href="https://dmachoice.thedma.org/">register with the Direct Marketing Association</a> to decide what types of mail you do and donâ€™t want from marketers. You can also <a href="https://www.optoutprescreen.com/">opt out of getting prescreened credit and insurance offers</a> in the mail. You can choose to opt out for five years or permanently.

Learn more about how to get fewer spam texts, emails, and junk mail. If you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at <a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732645350652.jpeg" alt="FTC SCAM" />
 <figcaption>FTC SCAM</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANDREW RAYO FTC If it’s not scammers spamming your phone with texts or filling up your inbox with emails, it’s your mailbox crammed with ads and other mail you didn’t ask for. The junk messages and mail might seem endless, but there are some ways to help scale it back.Scammers send phishing texts and emails that look legitimate to trick you into giving them personal or financial information. Legitimate companies might send mail that you just don’t want things like magazines, catalogs, or prescreened offers of credit and insurance. While these aren’t necessarily scams, they can pile up quickly.To help cut down on spam texts and emails, use filters. Check if your mobile phone has options to filter and block texts from unknown senders. Some call-blocking apps can also help block unwanted messages. Many popular email providers (like Gmail or Yahoo Mail) have strong <a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-recognize-and-report-spam-text-messages">spam filters</a> turned on by default. If any spam gets into your inbox, mark it as spam or junk. You can also <a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-stop-unwanted-emails-texts-phone-calls">unsubscribe from unwanted emails</a>. Getting fewer unwanted emails helps you avoid clicking on links that can lead to phishing attacks. Additionally, report unwanted messages, as they often lead to scams. Use your phone’s report junk option or forward unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM) and unwanted emails to your email provider.To help cut down on junk mail, <a href="https://dmachoice.thedma.org/">register with the Direct Marketing Association</a> to decide what types of mail you do and donâ€™t want from marketers. You can also <a href="https://www.optoutprescreen.com/">opt out of getting prescreened credit and insurance offers</a> in the mail. You can choose to opt out for five years or permanently.Learn more about how to get fewer spam texts, emails, and junk mail. If you spot a scam, report it to the FTC at <a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.