As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Sen. Jerry Moran has secured a $5 million-dollar federal investment for the Kansas State University Research Reactor (KSURR) project.

His staff noted that this federal investment will support the project’s work to restore and enhance the facility through upgrading infrastructure, completing licensing updates and expanding research capabilities to support advanced nuclear research, workforce development and national energy priorities.

Congress has passed the legislation, and it has been sent to the President to be signed into law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769201695787.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Sen. Jerry Moran has secured a $5 million-dollar federal investment for the Kansas State University Research Reactor (KSURR) project.His staff noted that this federal investment will support the project’s work to restore and enhance the facility through upgrading infrastructure, completing licensing updates and expanding research capabilities to support advanced nuclear research, workforce development and national energy priorities.Congress has passed the legislation, and it has been sent to the President to be signed into law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769201793187.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Sen. Moran Announces Federal Investment for Kansas State University Nuclear Engineering Program

NASA’s giant new moon rocket, Artemis II, moved to the launch pad Jan. 17, in preparation for astronauts’ first fly-around the moon in more than half a century. The out-and-back trip could blast off as early as February.

The trip will send astronauts farther than any crew has traveled.  Last spring we visited with the pilot of the mission, Victor Glover.

He was selected as an astronaut in 2013 and most recently served as pilot of the Crew-1 Dragon spacecraft which flew to the International Space Station.  Here is our interview with NASA astronaut Victor Glover.

Gary Shorman:&nbsp;&nbsp;Welcome again to "Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times" with a special guest from Houston, astronaut Victor.&nbsp;Thanks for being on our program today.

Victor Glover:&nbsp;Thanks, Gary, great to be here. Thanks for&nbsp;having me.

Gary Shorman:&nbsp;&nbsp;You know, one of the things I know that we talk about on this program is leadership. You have walked in space four times. I believe you've been on the space station. You've lived up there for a while. What puts you in position?

Victor Glover:&nbsp;You know, from a leadership, from a career standpoint, to be in the astronaut program, I love talking about leadership.&nbsp;I love the subject and, well, I think a part of it would be following having a bunch of great leaders to work with and look up to. 

Initially, when you're put into a leadership position, you can freestyle it, or you can mimic what you've seen. So I would say some great leaders do imitate. 

I worked for some amazing people. My squadron commanders, I worked for John McCain for almost a year. Charlie Bolden, who ran NASA, but he was a Marine Corps general when I worked for him the first time, and so I think that's a big part of it, having some really amazing leaders to look up to in the beginning.

Gary Shorman:&nbsp;Were there some key moments in your career that kind of turned you towards being an astronaut?

Victor Glover:&nbsp;Key moments? Wow. I was in college, tutoring for a program, and loved working with kids, teaching engineering, and felt like I really had found my calling. I was considering the military and teaching at the time.

So my boss in that program, thinking she was going to help, really set the hook for being an educator, had me meet the executive director of this program.

I went up to the University of California office, and I walk in his office, and there's a constellation of our solar system and a rocket. And he sees me, leans back in his chair, he takes his glasses off and sets it on a book.

I shake his hand, and sit down, and he taps on that book. And he says, you see that right there? That's how I live my dreams of space exploration and flying. And he says, You have a chance to go fly in the Navy. Go do it, and if anything else, it'll make you a better educator. 

That conversation, which was that quick, really turned my thinking. I've always loved education and the impact we can have on young people, but that really helped me get comfortable with the idea of going and starting this Navy journey, which, you know, lots of other decisions on the way, but that was the big one, whether or not to leave college and go be an educator or to go serve in the military.

Gary Shorman: In our story, you talk to students about that. I'm sure you make those choices, make those things that can change your life. You've done that.

You had a chance to be at the space station, walk in space. Let's talk a little bit about that. What did it feel like to step outside the spaceship and just go shooting? I see space right there that has to be a breathtaking experience.

Victor Glover:&nbsp;That is it? It is breathtaking because you don't know what it's going to feel like when you first get out there. The advice I received that really just kept repeating in my head was, "Keep your world small."

 One of my classmates said to me, and so I just focused on right what was in front of my face, my hands and the handrail, where I'm going next. And so it took me about three hours before I felt like, OK.

I kind of got the hang of this. I'm going to start looking around and maybe taking some pictures. Actually, on my first spacewalk, I did not take a single picture. There were no selfies to be taken on. it, but it was busy. 

I'll tell you, that's what it is. You're busy. When you're outside, there's a lot to be done, and it all requires intense focus. 

I&nbsp;wrestled in college, and I think space walking has a lot in common with wrestling, even though it may be physical in a different way. It's very physical. It's very three-dimensional.

Your success requires you to integrate the three dimensions and to think about what's coming next. And that's very true in wrestling and space walks. It's so challenging. It's busy physically and mentally.

But most importantly, you're working with a team. And that team, Mike Hopkins, who had been out on a spacewalk before, and led our first one, the first one I went on, and also the ground team, they all helped to make that possible. 

But that first moment when you look out, and you can see that for real, there are just no words to describe it. We train in a pool where you can see the bottom of the pool. When you look out, and it's 250 miles straight down, you go, "Wow! this is amazing and special. But also, what am I doing?"

Gary Shorman:&nbsp;Letting go to actually float would have to be one of those experiences that you can think about, and I can say, "Boy, that'd be hard to do." But letting go when you're out there, and you see that space out there, that's amazing. What did it feel like when you were named to be on the Artemis mission?

Victor Glover:&nbsp;Ah, wow. It's interesting, because people ask about the excitement, and excitement is a part of it. But the professionals who do what I do, understand the risks associated with this.

There's a lot of software, a lot of pieces and parts to this, hardware, lots of people. This is made all over the country, in all 50 states of the Union, and then also parts overseas. 

And it all has to work flawlessly the first time for the duration of the mission. 

So we understand the risk. And so I would say the overriding feeling was, first of all shocked, because I didn't expect to be on this mission, so I was a little shocked. But then also, I know focus isn't a feeling, but the seriousness, that's my overriding feeling, was the seriousness of this. 

This means a lot for our country, for our agency, for our Artemis Accords, international partners, and it's risky. My family is going to have to go on this journey with&nbsp;me. We have a lot to get done in the next couple of years. And so, yeah, profundity, if it's a if that's an emotion, it was profundity.

Gary Shorman:&nbsp;If you look at 50 years since we've had a mission like this, and you'll be the first one to head to the moon, there's more to it than just circling the moon, though. Tell us a little bit more about the long-term plans for the Artemis mission.

Victor Glover:&nbsp;Artemis is our generation's deep-space exploration program. It's not just the Moon Program. We're going to make sure this Orion capsule is safe for humans to fly, so that we can fly it to eventually dock to a lunar lander.

That will get us to the surface of the moon, or to a gateway space station that's orbiting the moon. Both of those things are going to enable future technologies and future techniques and future teams to go beyond the moon on to Mars.

And continue to understand, maybe, how the Earth looked in its past, or where we may be headed in the future, if we don't take better care of our planet. 

So the Artemis program is a big campaign. The moon is just one destination, and that's our mission. Our mission is to do the free return trajectory around the moon, but really to test out Orion as one big step on this journey that's going to eventually get humans to Mars.

Gary Shorman:&nbsp;Orion is your spaceship, and you'll be the pilot of that as you approach the moon and circle the moon. What are you going to be looking for?

Victor Glover:&nbsp;Oh, wow. So there's a potential. The region of the moon, what we would call the Western Hemisphere, looking at it from Earth on the far side. That part has not been completely seen by human eyes, and I just learned that recently.

So the fact that there's a potential for us to see something that's never been seen before, that's amazing. 

But no matter what, even if it's completely dark, to look out the window of the spacecraft and to look at the moon in the foreground, and then see the Earth in the background, in the distance, a quarter of a million miles away, with my crewmates, Reed, Cristina, and Jeremy. I don't know what that's going to feel like, but I'm looking forward to that. That's going to be amazing.

Gary Shorman:&nbsp;I hope you send us pictures back, Victor.&nbsp; I know you're short on time because you have a lot of people and you have a lot of training to do. That has to be intense training, because there are so many moving parts, as you say, that intensity, that focus it takes. How many hours a day do you train?

Victor Glover:&nbsp;So we will start training next month, and I imagine it's going to be chock full. I think they're going to schedule our days full. And you know, while some of it will be technical training, some of it will be continuing to engage the public, like we are now.

But also, we will be engaging the team that's developing the hardware or building hardware and software, and thanking them for their hard work and letting them know how much we count on their technical expertise. And so they're going to keep us busy. Gary, you can be best believe we'll have some full days until launch.

Gary Shorman:&nbsp;I can't wait to see how this all develops. Look forward to it, and maybe again later on, once you're back, get a chance to follow up on that. But Victor, thanks for being on our program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769203436542.png" alt="The crew of NASA’s Artemis II mission (left to right):NASA astronauts Christina Hammock Koch, Reid Wiseman (seated), Victor Glover, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen- Credits: NASA" />
 <figcaption>The crew of NASA’s Artemis II mission (left to right):NASA astronauts Christina Hammock Koch, Reid Wiseman (seated), Victor Glover, and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen- Credits: NASA</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YJ_Q6DXnnVo?si=gvZ1wvb7HSk3HYnX" 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>NASA’s giant new moon rocket, Artemis II, moved to the launch pad Jan. 17, in preparation for astronauts’ first fly-around the moon in more than half a century. The out-and-back trip could blast off as early as February.The trip will send astronauts farther than any crew has traveled. Last spring we visited with the pilot of the mission, Victor Glover.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1661448577852.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>He was selected as an astronaut in 2013 and most recently served as pilot of the Crew-1 Dragon spacecraft which flew to the International Space Station. Here is our interview with NASA astronaut Victor Glover.Gary Shorman:&nbsp;&nbsp;Welcome again to "Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times" with a special guest from Houston, astronaut Victor.&nbsp;Thanks for being on our program today. Victor Glover:&nbsp;Thanks, Gary, great to be here. Thanks for&nbsp;having me. Gary Shorman:&nbsp;&nbsp;You know, one of the things I know that we talk about on this program is leadership. You have walked in space four times. I believe you've been on the space station. You've lived up there for a while. What puts you in position? Victor Glover:&nbsp;You know, from a leadership, from a career standpoint, to be in the astronaut program, I love talking about leadership.&nbsp;I love the subject and, well, I think a part of it would be following having a bunch of great leaders to work with and look up to. Initially, when you're put into a leadership position, you can freestyle it, or you can mimic what you've seen. So I would say some great leaders do imitate. I worked for some amazing people. My squadron commanders, I worked for John McCain for almost a year. Charlie Bolden, who ran NASA, but he was a Marine Corps general when I worked for him the first time, and so I think that's a big part of it, having some really amazing leaders to look up to in the beginning.Gary Shorman:&nbsp;Were there some key moments in your career that kind of turned you towards being an astronaut?Victor Glover:&nbsp;Key moments? Wow. I was in college, tutoring for a program, and loved working with kids, teaching engineering, and felt like I really had found my calling. I was considering the military and teaching at the time. So my boss in that program, thinking she was going to help, really set the hook for being an educator, had me meet the executive director of this program.I went up to the University of California office, and I walk in his office, and there's a constellation of our solar system and a rocket. And he sees me, leans back in his chair, he takes his glasses off and sets it on a book.I shake his hand, and sit down, and he taps on that book. And he says, you see that right there? That's how I live my dreams of space exploration and flying. And he says, You have a chance to go fly in the Navy. Go do it, and if anything else, it'll make you a better educator. That conversation, which was that quick, really turned my thinking. I've always loved education and the impact we can have on young people, but that really helped me get comfortable with the idea of going and starting this Navy journey, which, you know, lots of other decisions on the way, but that was the big one, whether or not to leave college and go be an educator or to go serve in the military.Gary Shorman: In our story, you talk to students about that. I'm sure you make those choices, make those things that can change your life. You've done that. You had a chance to be at the space station, walk in space. Let's talk a little bit about that. What did it feel like to step outside the spaceship and just go shooting? I see space right there that has to be a breathtaking experience.Victor Glover:&nbsp;That is it? It is breathtaking because you don't know what it's going to feel like when you first get out there. The advice I received that really just kept repeating in my head was, "Keep your world small." One of my classmates said to me, and so I just focused on right what was in front of my face, my hands and the handrail, where I'm going next. And so it took me about three hours before I felt like, OK.I kind of got the hang of this. I'm going to start looking around and maybe taking some pictures. Actually, on my first spacewalk, I did not take a single picture. There were no selfies to be taken on. it, but it was busy. I'll tell you, that's what it is. You're busy. When you're outside, there's a lot to be done, and it all requires intense focus. I&nbsp;wrestled in college, and I think space walking has a lot in common with wrestling, even though it may be physical in a different way. It's very physical. It's very three-dimensional.Your success requires you to integrate the three dimensions and to think about what's coming next. And that's very true in wrestling and space walks. It's so challenging. It's busy physically and mentally.But most importantly, you're working with a team. And that team, Mike Hopkins, who had been out on a spacewalk before, and led our first one, the first one I went on, and also the ground team, they all helped to make that possible. But that first moment when you look out, and you can see that for real, there are just no words to describe it. We train in a pool where you can see the bottom of the pool. When you look out, and it's 250 miles straight down, you go, "Wow! this is amazing and special. But also, what am I doing?"Gary Shorman:&nbsp;Letting go to actually float would have to be one of those experiences that you can think about, and I can say, "Boy, that'd be hard to do." But letting go when you're out there, and you see that space out there, that's amazing. What did it feel like when you were named to be on the Artemis mission?Victor Glover:&nbsp;Ah, wow. It's interesting, because people ask about the excitement, and excitement is a part of it. But the professionals who do what I do, understand the risks associated with this. There's a lot of software, a lot of pieces and parts to this, hardware, lots of people. This is made all over the country, in all 50 states of the Union, and then also parts overseas. And it all has to work flawlessly the first time for the duration of the mission. So we understand the risk. And so I would say the overriding feeling was, first of all shocked, because I didn't expect to be on this mission, so I was a little shocked. But then also, I know focus isn't a feeling, but the seriousness, that's my overriding feeling, was the seriousness of this. This means a lot for our country, for our agency, for our Artemis Accords, international partners, and it's risky. My family is going to have to go on this journey with&nbsp;me. We have a lot to get done in the next couple of years. And so, yeah, profundity, if it's a if that's an emotion, it was profundity.Gary Shorman:&nbsp;If you look at 50 years since we've had a mission like this, and you'll be the first one to head to the moon, there's more to it than just circling the moon, though. Tell us a little bit more about the long-term plans for the Artemis mission.Victor Glover:&nbsp;Artemis is our generation's deep-space exploration program. It's not just the Moon Program. We're going to make sure this Orion capsule is safe for humans to fly, so that we can fly it to eventually dock to a lunar lander.That will get us to the surface of the moon, or to a gateway space station that's orbiting the moon. Both of those things are going to enable future technologies and future techniques and future teams to go beyond the moon on to Mars.And continue to understand, maybe, how the Earth looked in its past, or where we may be headed in the future, if we don't take better care of our planet. So the Artemis program is a big campaign. The moon is just one destination, and that's our mission. Our mission is to do the free return trajectory around the moon, but really to test out Orion as one big step on this journey that's going to eventually get humans to Mars.Gary Shorman:&nbsp;Orion is your spaceship, and you'll be the pilot of that as you approach the moon and circle the moon. What are you going to be looking for?Victor Glover:&nbsp;Oh, wow. So there's a potential. The region of the moon, what we would call the Western Hemisphere, looking at it from Earth on the far side. That part has not been completely seen by human eyes, and I just learned that recently. So the fact that there's a potential for us to see something that's never been seen before, that's amazing. But no matter what, even if it's completely dark, to look out the window of the spacecraft and to look at the moon in the foreground, and then see the Earth in the background, in the distance, a quarter of a million miles away, with my crewmates, Reed, Cristina, and Jeremy. I don't know what that's going to feel like, but I'm looking forward to that. That's going to be amazing.Gary Shorman:&nbsp;I hope you send us pictures back, Victor.&nbsp; I know you're short on time because you have a lot of people and you have a lot of training to do. That has to be intense training, because there are so many moving parts, as you say, that intensity, that focus it takes. How many hours a day do you train?Victor Glover:&nbsp;So we will start training next month, and I imagine it's going to be chock full. I think they're going to schedule our days full. And you know, while some of it will be technical training, some of it will be continuing to engage the public, like we are now.But also, we will be engaging the team that's developing the hardware or building hardware and software, and thanking them for their hard work and letting them know how much we count on their technical expertise. And so they're going to keep us busy. Gary, you can be best believe we'll have some full days until launch.Gary Shorman:&nbsp;I can't wait to see how this all develops. Look forward to it, and maybe again later on, once you're back, get a chance to follow up on that. But Victor, thanks for being on our program.

🎥 Forward Ever: Astronaut Victor Glover discusses Artemis II mission to moon

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.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769180816457.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report January 23

The Fort Riley Garrison Commander will address area leaders Friday at the Flint Hills Regional Growth Summit in Manhattan, Kansas, highlighting the installation's $2 billon economic impact. Col. Jerry Nunziato will stress that the commitment to Soldier and Family quality of life made by&nbsp; Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division drives both combat readiness and regional economic prosperity.

"Caring for our Soldiers, Civilians, and Families isn't secondary to our mission—it is the mission," Nunziato says. "You cannot build warfighting readiness without taking care of people, and that's where our community partnerships become critical to national defense."

Col. Nunziato is scheduled to speak during the afternoon session of the Flint Hills Regional Growth Summit being held at the Kansas State University Alumni Association. Fort Riley’s Fiscal Year 2025 Economic Impact Summary is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://home.army.mil/riley/8517/6832/4952/Fort_Riley_Annual_Economic_Impact_Summary.pdf">https://home.army.mil/riley/8517/6832/4952/Fort_Riley_Annual_Economic_Impact_Summary.pdf</a>.

The Fort Riley Garrison Commander will address area leaders Friday at the Flint Hills Regional Growth Summit in Manhattan, Kansas, highlighting the installation's $2 billon economic impact. Col. Jerry Nunziato will stress that the commitment to Soldier and Family quality of life made by&nbsp; Fort Riley and the 1st Infantry Division drives both combat readiness and regional economic prosperity."Caring for our Soldiers, Civilians, and Families isn't secondary to our mission—it is the mission," Nunziato says. "You cannot build warfighting readiness without taking care of people, and that's where our community partnerships become critical to national defense."Key TopicsThe commander's remarks will address:<ul>
 <li>Economic Impact: Fort Riley's $2 billion in direct economic expenditures, including $1.27 billion in payroll, $95 million in healthcare spending directly into the regional healthcare system, and $386 million in veteran expenditures</li><li>Strategic Partnerships: Five active Intergovernmental Support Agreements (IGSAs) that have saved more than $34 million over five years while strengthening community collaboration with the City of Manhattan, Kansas State University, USD 475, and state agencies</li><li>Deployment Readiness: The 1st Infantry Division's operational tempo, including upcoming rotations to the National Training Center and deployments to Europe in support of the EUCOM mission</li><li>Workforce Development: Fort Riley's Transition Assistance Program, which supports approximately 2,400 transitioning service members annually, and the Kansas Employment Exploration Program (KEEP) designed to retain talent in the state</li><li>Future Investments: More than $400 million in planned infrastructure improvements, including new barracks, childcare facilities, and readiness infrastructure</li>
 </ul>Col. Nunziato is scheduled to speak during the afternoon session of the Flint Hills Regional Growth Summit being held at the Kansas State University Alumni Association. Fort Riley’s Fiscal Year 2025 Economic Impact Summary is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://home.army.mil/riley/8517/6832/4952/Fort_Riley_Annual_Economic_Impact_Summary.pdf">https://home.army.mil/riley/8517/6832/4952/Fort_Riley_Annual_Economic_Impact_Summary.pdf</a>.

Fort Riley Garrison Commander to Address Flint Hills Regional Growth Summit

Including the cities of Valley Falls, Holton, Nortonville,
Harveyville, Wamego, Meriden, Ottawa, Topeka, Alma, Lyndon,
Lawrence, Overbrook, Perry, Clay Center, Herington, Council
Grove, Junction City, Eskridge, Concordia, Emporia, Osage City,
McLouth, McFarland, Maple Hill, Carbondale, Garnett, Oskaloosa,
Grantville, Bennington, Alta Vista, Paxico, Burlington,
Minneapolis, Burlingame, Lebo, Manhattan, Abilene, and St. Marys


WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 5 and
  8 inches.

* 

WHERE...Portions of central, east central, north central, and
  northeast Kansas.&nbsp;

 IMPACTS...Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will
  likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult.



PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.&nbsp;

Including the cities of Valley Falls, Holton, Nortonville,
Harveyville, Wamego, Meriden, Ottawa, Topeka, Alma, Lyndon,
Lawrence, Overbrook, Perry, Clay Center, Herington, Council
Grove, Junction City, Eskridge, Concordia, Emporia, Osage City,
McLouth, McFarland, Maple Hill, Carbondale, Garnett, Oskaloosa,
Grantville, Bennington, Alta Vista, Paxico, Burlington,
Minneapolis, Burlingame, Lebo, Manhattan, Abilene, and St. Marys
WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 5 and
 8 inches.

* WHERE...Portions of central, east central, north central, and
 northeast Kansas.&nbsp; IMPACTS...Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will
 likely become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.&nbsp;

Winter Storm Warning

The 20 under 40 rception for Manhattan, Junction City and Wamego was held at the Museum of Art and Light in Manhattan.

&nbsp; Eagle Media was a program sponsor.

&nbsp;The 20&nbsp;under&nbsp;40&nbsp;class of young professionals make a difference in their communities.

Winners were nominated from the three counties that make up the Manhattan MSA (Riley, Pottawatomie and Geary). Nominees were then asked to complete an application that outlined their achievements in their profession as well as work in the community. From the nearly 75 nominees and over 60 applicants, an appointed committee selected the final&nbsp;20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769133564617.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The 20 under 40 rception for Manhattan, Junction City and Wamego was held at the Museum of Art and Light in Manhattan.&nbsp; Eagle Media was a program sponsor.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769133824688.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769133913544.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769133980872.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The 20&nbsp;under&nbsp;40&nbsp;class of young professionals make a difference in their communities.Winners were nominated from the three counties that make up the Manhattan MSA (Riley, Pottawatomie and Geary). Nominees were then asked to complete an application that outlined their achievements in their profession as well as work in the community. From the nearly 75 nominees and over 60 applicants, an appointed committee selected the final&nbsp;20.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769134329137.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

20 under 40 participants are recognized

RILEY COUNTY –&nbsp; The Riley County Police Department seized significant quantities of illegal drugs during proactive investigations conducted throughout the last 30 days as part of ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crime in the community, according to a media release from the RCPD.

RCPD officers and detectives seized a variety of illegal substances, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and marijuana, along with drug paraphernalia and other evidence related to drug distribution in Riley County.

In all, nearly 2 pounds of fentanyl powder was seized and more than 200 grams of methamphetamine, 96 grams of heroin, 8 grams of cocaine, and more than 100 pills of various controlled prescription drugs. In addition to the controlled substances, five handguns were seized during the investigations.

“Thanks to the hard work of our officers and detectives, RCPD has identified and arrested individuals who have sold a significant amount of deadly illegal narcotics throughout our community,” RCPD Director Brian Peete said. 

“Illegal drugs destroy lives and families, and it is one of our biggest priority focuses. I would also like to thank the people of Riley County for their diligence in reporting illegal activities and their zero tolerance for illegal drugs.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608245358476.png" alt="Photo DEA" />
 <figcaption>Photo DEA</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY –&nbsp; The Riley County Police Department seized significant quantities of illegal drugs during proactive investigations conducted throughout the last 30 days as part of ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crime in the community, according to a media release from the RCPD.RCPD officers and detectives seized a variety of illegal substances, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and marijuana, along with drug paraphernalia and other evidence related to drug distribution in Riley County.In all, nearly 2 pounds of fentanyl powder was seized and more than 200 grams of methamphetamine, 96 grams of heroin, 8 grams of cocaine, and more than 100 pills of various controlled prescription drugs. In addition to the controlled substances, five handguns were seized during the investigations.“Thanks to the hard work of our officers and detectives, RCPD has identified and arrested individuals who have sold a significant amount of deadly illegal narcotics throughout our community,” RCPD Director Brian Peete said. “Illegal drugs destroy lives and families, and it is one of our biggest priority focuses. I would also like to thank the people of Riley County for their diligence in reporting illegal activities and their zero tolerance for illegal drugs.”

RCPD seized fentanyl, cocaine, heroin and more over the past month

Fort Riley had a total direct economic impact of $2,011, 977,246 in 2025. Factoring in an economic multiplier the total came in at $4,426, 552,041.

Those numbers were reported by Garison Commander Col. Gerald Nunziato during the Military Affairs Council breakfast on Thursday at JC Naz in Junction City.

The total population served by the Post was calculated at 58,450 including soldiers, families, reserves and the civilian workforce.

In 2026 1st Infantry Division troops will deploy including the 2nd Armored Brigade to the National Training Center in the spring and to Europe in the fall, and the Division Headquarters to Europe in the summer. 1st Brigade troops return home to Fort Riley in the spring. At the lowest point 6,000 to 8,000 soldiers will remain on the installation. Approximately 15,000 family members will stay here.

The next full nest at Fort Riley will occur in the fall of 2027.

Military construction projects will include a deployment ready reaction facility, three barracks, child youth center repairs and a new air traffic control tower.

--a $7 milion reduction in federal impact aid for education

--An 8% reduction in the civilian workforce on the installation in 2025.

This was the first MAC breakfast in 2026.

By Dewey Terrill&nbsp;JC / Little Apple PostFort Riley had a total direct economic impact of $2,011, 977,246 in 2025. Factoring in an economic multiplier the total came in at $4,426, 552,041.Those numbers were reported by Garison Commander Col. Gerald Nunziato during the Military Affairs Council breakfast on Thursday at JC Naz in Junction City.The total population served by the Post was calculated at 58,450 including soldiers, families, reserves and the civilian workforce.In 2026 1st Infantry Division troops will deploy including the 2nd Armored Brigade to the National Training Center in the spring and to Europe in the fall, and the Division Headquarters to Europe in the summer. 1st Brigade troops return home to Fort Riley in the spring. At the lowest point 6,000 to 8,000 soldiers will remain on the installation. Approximately 15,000 family members will stay here.The next full nest at Fort Riley will occur in the fall of 2027.Military construction projects will include a deployment ready reaction facility, three barracks, child youth center repairs and a new air traffic control tower.Other MAC Breakfast news notes included:--a $7 milion reduction in federal impact aid for education--A concert planned on Post on May 8.--An 8% reduction in the civilian workforce on the installation in 2025.This was the first MAC breakfast in 2026.

Fort Riley economic impact discussed at  MAC breakfast

The National Weather Service estimates snowfall possibilities this weekend at 2-5 inches north of I-70 and 4-8 inches south of I-70.

Light and and fluffy snowfall will occur and then increase Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. Two rounds of heavier snow ae appearing with light snow or a lull in between. The heavier periods are Friday night into Sunday morning and Saturday night into Sunday morning.

The National Weather Service estimates snowfall possibilities this weekend at 2-5 inches north of I-70 and 4-8 inches south of I-70.Light and and fluffy snowfall will occur and then increase Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. Two rounds of heavier snow ae appearing with light snow or a lull in between. The heavier periods are Friday night into Sunday morning and Saturday night into Sunday morning.

Good chance for snow Friday through Sunday

Activation of F Company, 1st Attack Battalion, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade is scheduled&nbsp;at Hangar, 802 Marshall Dr, Fort Riley at 2:00 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23.

The Army said that this activation signifies a new chapter in Army aviation with the introduction of a Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System – Launched Effects (TUAS-LE) company within the 1st Attack Battalion, led by Captain Paul Shorkey-Chacon&nbsp;and 1st Sergeant Adam Schuetz.

The activation brings a new level of lethality and reach to the Gunfighter Battalion, effectively extending the eyes and ears of Apache pilots, allowing them to detect, identify, and engage threats long before they enter the enemy’s weapons engagement zone.

The Soldiers of Fox Company are tasked with a mission that did not exist a decade ago. They will operate systems designed not just for surveillance, but for "Launched Effects," deployable assets that can confuse, disable, or destroy adversary defenses autonomously or under the control of aviation crews.

Activation of F Company, 1st Attack Battalion, 1st Combat Aviation Brigade is scheduled&nbsp;at Hangar, 802 Marshall Dr, Fort Riley at 2:00 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23.The Army said that this activation signifies a new chapter in Army aviation with the introduction of a Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System – Launched Effects (TUAS-LE) company within the 1st Attack Battalion, led by Captain Paul Shorkey-Chacon&nbsp;and 1st Sergeant Adam Schuetz.The activation brings a new level of lethality and reach to the Gunfighter Battalion, effectively extending the eyes and ears of Apache pilots, allowing them to detect, identify, and engage threats long before they enter the enemy’s weapons engagement zone.The Soldiers of Fox Company are tasked with a mission that did not exist a decade ago. They will operate systems designed not just for surveillance, but for "Launched Effects," deployable assets that can confuse, disable, or destroy adversary defenses autonomously or under the control of aviation crews.

Army Activates New Unmanned Aircraft Unit at Fort Riley

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.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769094332529.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report January 22

KDOT said prepare NOW for the extreme cold and snow events headed our way this weekend:

Check and refill fluids, including de-icing fluid

KDOT said prepare NOW for the extreme cold and snow events headed our way this weekend:Check and refill fluids, including de-icing fluidFill up your gas tankPack emergency kitInspect vehicle battery and cablesCheck your tires

Prepare for cold and snow

The American Red Cross has issued a severe blood shortage warning after the national blood supply dropped by approximately 35% over the past month, raising concerns for hospitals and patients nationwide.

The decline comes as flu activity surges across nearly every state, sidelining many potential donors and placing additional strain on already overburdened hospitals. As inventories continue to fall, some hospitals are being forced to triage critical blood products, prioritizing limited supplies for the most urgent cases.

The shortage is particularly acute for blood types O, A negative, and B negative. Patients who depend on regular transfusions—including trauma victims, mothers in childbirth, and individuals undergoing cancer treatment or living with sickle cell disease—could face serious risks if supplies are not replenished quickly.

Winter weather has further complicated collection efforts. According to the Red Cross, approximately 400 blood drives were disrupted by severe winter conditions last month alone—more than three times the number affected during the same period last year. Those cancellations resulted in thousands of donations going uncollected, deepening the shortage.

“This time of year is always challenging for blood collection — but right now, the perfect storm of a long holiday season, record flu activity and winter weather are all impeding donation efforts,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, executive medical director for the Red Cross. “Every person’s blood donation can help save lives — plus you help ease the tremendous burden on our doctors and nurses, allowing them to focus on caring for patients.”

With additional winter storms forecast in the coming weeks, the Red Cross warns the situation could worsen without immediate donor action. Eligible donors are urged to schedule an appointment as soon as possible by using the Blood Donor App, visiting <a href="http://RedCrossBlood.org">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769011658428.jpeg" alt="Blood Cross National Blood Shortage" />
 <figcaption>Blood Cross National Blood Shortage</figcaption>
 </figure>The American Red Cross has issued a severe blood shortage warning after the national blood supply dropped by approximately 35% over the past month, raising concerns for hospitals and patients nationwide.The decline comes as flu activity surges across nearly every state, sidelining many potential donors and placing additional strain on already overburdened hospitals. As inventories continue to fall, some hospitals are being forced to triage critical blood products, prioritizing limited supplies for the most urgent cases.The shortage is particularly acute for blood types O, A negative, and B negative. Patients who depend on regular transfusions—including trauma victims, mothers in childbirth, and individuals undergoing cancer treatment or living with sickle cell disease—could face serious risks if supplies are not replenished quickly.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769004280498.png" alt="<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/b1bdf795-f32f-4559-ab8a-c8f3af3afd47">Battle of the Badges blood drive is being held in Hutchinson on Jan. 24, 26-28 2026.&nbsp;</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/b1bdf795-f32f-4559-ab8a-c8f3af3afd47">Battle of the Badges blood drive is being held in Hutchinson on Jan. 24, 26-28 2026.&nbsp;</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Winter weather has further complicated collection efforts. According to the Red Cross, approximately 400 blood drives were disrupted by severe winter conditions last month alone—more than three times the number affected during the same period last year. Those cancellations resulted in thousands of donations going uncollected, deepening the shortage.“This time of year is always challenging for blood collection — but right now, the perfect storm of a long holiday season, record flu activity and winter weather are all impeding donation efforts,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, executive medical director for the Red Cross. “Every person’s blood donation can help save lives — plus you help ease the tremendous burden on our doctors and nurses, allowing them to focus on caring for patients.”With additional winter storms forecast in the coming weeks, the Red Cross warns the situation could worsen without immediate donor action. Eligible donors are urged to schedule an appointment as soon as possible by using the Blood Donor App, visiting <a href="http://RedCrossBlood.org">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Red Cross issues blood shortage warning

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two Fort Riley men for alleged barcode swapping at a store in Salina.

On Monday, security from Target on South 9th Street in Salina took two male suspects into custody for allegedly barcode swapping on trading cards.

Salina Police Department were dispatched to the store and arrested 23, year-old&nbsp;Austin Martin and 24-year-old Colby Flowers, both from Fort Riley, according to a statement from Salina Police.

Martin and Flowers allegedly stole two boxes of sports cards, valued at $100 and two packs of pokemon cards, valued $10. The suspects committed the thefts on January 11 and the 17.

Martin and Flowers were booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charge of Felony Theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768920785988.jpeg" alt="Flowers photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Flowers photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two Fort Riley men for alleged barcode swapping at a store in Salina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769015181676.png" alt="Martin-photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Martin-photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, security from Target on South 9th Street in Salina took two male suspects into custody for allegedly barcode swapping on trading cards.Salina Police Department were dispatched to the store and arrested 23, year-old&nbsp;Austin Martin and 24-year-old Colby Flowers, both from Fort Riley, according to a statement from Salina Police.Martin and Flowers allegedly stole two boxes of sports cards, valued at $100 and two packs of pokemon cards, valued $10. The suspects committed the thefts on January 11 and the 17.Martin and Flowers were booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charge of Felony Theft.

Police: Two Fort Riley men accused of barcode swapping 

Snow is looking more likely to impact northeast Kansas Friday afternoon through early Sunday, although exact amounts remain uncertain. The National Weather Service said most locations will see at least some light snow accumulations and the potential for hazardous travel from falling and accumulating snow. Very cold air also builds in behind the system with wind chill values as low as -20 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings.

Snow is looking more likely to impact northeast Kansas Friday afternoon through early Sunday, although exact amounts remain uncertain. The National Weather Service said most locations will see at least some light snow accumulations and the potential for hazardous travel from falling and accumulating snow. Very cold air also builds in behind the system with wind chill values as low as -20 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings.

Cold and snow are likely

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Tuesday in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a&nbsp;2017 Kia Niro driven by Anthony Corral, 24, of Manhattan, and&nbsp; a 2014 Buick Encore driven by Adam Hopper, 22, of Manhattan, collided at the intersection of Tuttle Creek Boulevard and Bluemont Avenue.

Corral was transported to Via Christi for treatment of minor injuries. The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 7p.m. Tuesday in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a&nbsp;2017 Kia Niro driven by Anthony Corral, 24, of Manhattan, and&nbsp; a 2014 Buick Encore driven by Adam Hopper, 22, of Manhattan, collided at the intersection of Tuttle Creek Boulevard and Bluemont Avenue.Corral was transported to Via Christi for treatment of minor injuries. The RCPD released no additional details.

Manhattan man injured after 2-vehicle 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.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769007752020.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report January 21

Policies aim to get ahead of Legislature’s debate about weakening tenure rights

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

TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents ordered state public universities to implement faculty workload and tenure review policies that will bring underperforming professors to remediation, with termination a potential consequence for failure to address deficiencies.

The mandate applied to thousands of faculty employed at Kansas State University, the University of Kansas, Pittsburg State University, Fort Hays State University, Emporia State University and Wichita State University. Expectations for nontenure, tenure-track and tenured faculty wouldn’t be identical from university to university, but all would be assigned annual course instructional loads and undergo yearly reviews in terms of teaching, research and public service.

Faculty at the state’s three research-oriented universities — KU, K-State and WSU — would be expected to teach six to nine credit hours per semester. Annual reviews of these faculty would be based on teaching at 40% to 55% of the workload. Research obligations would range from 35% to 45% of the total. Public service would be 5% to 20% of the job.

Faculty at the three regional universities — PSU, ESU and FHSU — would be assigned 12 credit hours of instructional course work each semester. The faculty evaluation breakdown: teaching, 60% to 75%; research, 15% to 30%; and public service, 5% to 20%.

Tenured university faculty in the Board of Regents system would undergo performance assessments by a campus committee every five years. Those determined to be less than satisfactory would be placed on self-improvement plans. If a faculty member earned a second unsatisfactory annual review, the policy said, the individual would be subject to dismissal, reassignment or other personnel action.

Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the post-tenure and workload policies would help administrators identify faculty falling short of standards and those exceeding those metrics. The goal was to make evaluation of faculty less subjective and to address consternation about the rigor of decisions about faculty appointments, he said.

He expected few university faculty to fail to abide by new productivity standards because the “work they do is good.”

“These are very important policies that are impactful. We want to make sure we get it right,” said Alysia Johnston, a member of the Board of Regents.

Johnston, a former president of Fort Scott Community College, said the final version of policies approved by the Board of Regents left the analysis of tenure review cases to university administrators because the state board didn’t have the expertise to make scholarly judgments. She said the Board of Regents would consider tenure appeals based on claims that due process rights were violated by university administrators.

The Board of Regents voted unanimously at its January meeting to require the six universities to begin documenting and reporting faculty performance data that would be shared with legislators and others to enhance transparency and accountability in higher education.

University reporting would include statistics on student credit hours produced, percentage of credit hours by full-time faculty, bachelor’s degrees awarded, student retention, faculty scholarship and faculty research funding. Information about the number of people granted and denied tenure and the number of faculty who left each university must be documented.

Board of Regents member Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman, said he appreciated that the development of a systemwide faculty review policy involved considerable effort by the Board of Regents. He said there was an expectation among members of the Kansas Legislature that faculty workload policies would be rigorous. In the past two years, members of the Legislature raised the possibility of modifying tenure at the state universities.

“The question I seem to get all the time, especially here in Topeka, is making sure I’m a good steward for the state’s funding for higher education,” he said.

Under the Board of Regents policy, each university would craft faculty workload expectations that were “equitable, fair and balanced, and aligned with the unique needs of each department and the whole institution.” While all faculty would be assigned teaching loads, the policy said, exceptions would be permitted for clinical or research faculty, librarians and other personnel in noninstructional roles.

The new systemwide policy was developed by Board of Regents’ staff, university administrators and faculty as well as state politicians. At least four drafts were circulated for review and comment during the past seven months.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768943639729.png" alt=" Kansas Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who leads the board’s academic affairs committee, endorses faculty workload and post-tenure review policies applicable at the six public universities in the state system. This image of Johnston is of her at a Board of Regents meeting in 2024 in Manhattan. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Board of Regents member Alysia Johnston, who leads the board’s academic affairs committee, endorses faculty workload and post-tenure review policies applicable at the six public universities in the state system. This image of Johnston is of her at a Board of Regents meeting in 2024 in Manhattan. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Policies aim to get ahead of Legislature’s debate about weakening tenure rights</h2>By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas Board of Regents ordered state public universities to implement faculty workload and tenure review policies that will bring underperforming professors to remediation, with termination a potential consequence for failure to address deficiencies.The mandate applied to thousands of faculty employed at Kansas State University, the University of Kansas, Pittsburg State University, Fort Hays State University, Emporia State University and Wichita State University. Expectations for nontenure, tenure-track and tenured faculty wouldn’t be identical from university to university, but all would be assigned annual course instructional loads and undergo yearly reviews in terms of teaching, research and public service.Faculty at the state’s three research-oriented universities — KU, K-State and WSU — would be expected to teach six to nine credit hours per semester. Annual reviews of these faculty would be based on teaching at 40% to 55% of the workload. Research obligations would range from 35% to 45% of the total. Public service would be 5% to 20% of the job.Faculty at the three regional universities — PSU, ESU and FHSU — would be assigned 12 credit hours of instructional course work each semester. The faculty evaluation breakdown: teaching, 60% to 75%; research, 15% to 30%; and public service, 5% to 20%.Tenured university faculty in the Board of Regents system would undergo performance assessments by a campus committee every five years. Those determined to be less than satisfactory would be placed on self-improvement plans. If a faculty member earned a second unsatisfactory annual review, the policy said, the individual would be subject to dismissal, reassignment or other personnel action.Rusty Monhollon, vice president of academic affairs for the Board of Regents, said the post-tenure and workload policies would help administrators identify faculty falling short of standards and those exceeding those metrics. The goal was to make evaluation of faculty less subjective and to address consternation about the rigor of decisions about faculty appointments, he said.He expected few university faculty to fail to abide by new productivity standards because the “work they do is good.”“These are very important policies that are impactful. We want to make sure we get it right,” said Alysia Johnston, a member of the Board of Regents.Johnston, a former president of Fort Scott Community College, said the final version of policies approved by the Board of Regents left the analysis of tenure review cases to university administrators because the state board didn’t have the expertise to make scholarly judgments. She said the Board of Regents would consider tenure appeals based on claims that due process rights were violated by university administrators.The Board of Regents voted unanimously at its January meeting to require the six universities to begin documenting and reporting faculty performance data that would be shared with legislators and others to enhance transparency and accountability in higher education.University reporting would include statistics on student credit hours produced, percentage of credit hours by full-time faculty, bachelor’s degrees awarded, student retention, faculty scholarship and faculty research funding. Information about the number of people granted and denied tenure and the number of faculty who left each university must be documented.Board of Regents member Matt Crocker, a Manhattan businessman, said he appreciated that the development of a systemwide faculty review policy involved considerable effort by the Board of Regents. He said there was an expectation among members of the Kansas Legislature that faculty workload policies would be rigorous. In the past two years, members of the Legislature raised the possibility of modifying tenure at the state universities.“The question I seem to get all the time, especially here in Topeka, is making sure I’m a good steward for the state’s funding for higher education,” he said.Under the Board of Regents policy, each university would craft faculty workload expectations that were “equitable, fair and balanced, and aligned with the unique needs of each department and the whole institution.” While all faculty would be assigned teaching loads, the policy said, exceptions would be permitted for clinical or research faculty, librarians and other personnel in noninstructional roles.The new systemwide policy was developed by Board of Regents’ staff, university administrators and faculty as well as state politicians. At least four drafts were circulated for review and comment during the past seven months.

Kansas adopts faculty workload, post-tenure review system for public universities

Geary County Rural Firefighters responded on three fire calls starting about 2:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The Department reported that at 2:39 p.m. they went to Old Hwy 13 in Eastern Geary County for a large grass fire. Subjects welding on a fence ignited the dry grass.  Due to strong winds, the fire spread to the east and then started over 150 large hay bales on fire.  Assistance from Alta Vista Rural Fire and Riley County Fire was received to control and extinguish the fire.  There was approximately an additional 150-200 large bales that the department was able to protect.  

At 3:40pm  a page went out for a rekindle of a previous fire from last week in the area of Old 77 and Range Road in northern Geary County. 

Fire Units had just cleared from both of these calls when a possible vehicle fire was reported on I-70 mile post 292 west of Junction City.  Law Enforcement arrived on scene and advised that there was no fire.  All units were cancelled. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768962535131.jpeg" alt="( Rural Fire Department ) Old Highway fire site" />
 <figcaption>( Rural Fire Department ) Old Highway fire site</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Rural Firefighters responded on three fire calls starting about 2:30 p.m. Tuesday.The Department reported that at 2:39 p.m. they went to Old Hwy 13 in Eastern Geary County for a large grass fire. Subjects welding on a fence ignited the dry grass. Due to strong winds, the fire spread to the east and then started over 150 large hay bales on fire. Assistance from Alta Vista Rural Fire and Riley County Fire was received to control and extinguish the fire. There was approximately an additional 150-200 large bales that the department was able to protect. At 3:40pm a page went out for a rekindle of a previous fire from last week in the area of Old 77 and Range Road in northern Geary County. Fire Units had just cleared from both of these calls when a possible vehicle fire was reported on I-70 mile post 292 west of Junction City. Law Enforcement arrived on scene and advised that there was no fire. All units were cancelled.

Geary County Rural firefighters respond to three calls

Kansas Department for Children and Families

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) has announced that applications are now being accepted for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). The application period runs from&nbsp;Tuesday, Jan. 20, through 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

LIEAP provides a one-time per year benefit to help qualifying households pay winter heating costs, whether the home is heated with electricity, natural gas, propane, or other home heating fuels. In 2025, more than 43,000 Kansas households received an average benefit of about $680.

“LIEAP plays a critical role in helping Kansas families remain safe and warm through the state’s often harsh winter months,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.

The federal government shutdown in late 2025 delayed the distribution of LIEAP funding to states for the 2026 season, which in turn delayed DCF’s planning efforts and the start of the 2026 application period.

To qualify, households must have an adult at the address responsible for the home's heating costs. Applicants must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level (see the 2026 income eligibility guidelines below).&nbsp;The level of benefit received varies according to household income, number of people living in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel, and utility rates.

Applications can be accessed online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%25E2%2580%258B/1/0101019bdc5b00e6-51a900d0-1fb0-4b1c-b6ab-0411c56cc74c-000000/UFIfgafp6bvq1HU70HOchgtkPYZMle9vBwlDihLTxaM=440">dcf.ks.gov​</a>&nbsp;by clicking the “Apply for Services” button on the top right side of the website.

DCF is planning in-person events to help Kansans submit their LIEAP applications. For a schedule of in-person LIEAP application events, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FEnergyAssistance.aspx/1/0101019bdc5b00e6-51a900d0-1fb0-4b1c-b6ab-0411c56cc74c-000000/6zcibZiwwqtT4grbsMiw--lEpbTTwbuvZJKiG2FuMa8=440">lieap.dcf.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;and click on “Where are the in-person LIEAP application events being held this year” in the drop-down menu.

When applying for LIEAP, Kansans should have their identification, proof of income for all adult household members, copies of heating utility bills (gas, electric, propane, etc.), and a copy of their rental agreement if they are living in subsidized housing.

2026&nbsp;Income Eligibility Guidelines

&nbsp; Learn more about&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FEnergyAssistance.aspx/2/0101019bdc5b00e6-51a900d0-1fb0-4b1c-b6ab-0411c56cc74c-000000/oR1t_2sfzk4onCdY7dc55Orcl7z4SqhgSe0O8xgbbAg=440">LIEAP​</a>&nbsp;in Kansas, including frequently asked questions, other community resources, and the complete schedule of LIEAP application events at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FEnergyAssistance.aspx/3/0101019bdc5b00e6-51a900d0-1fb0-4b1c-b6ab-0411c56cc74c-000000/TQALKuXTDMaPEQYpyfed9GLejq-MLAtTFX-AXQd9oMM=440">lieap.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

Funding for LIEAP is provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Community Service through the Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768928912883.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure>Kansas Department for Children and FamiliesTOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) has announced that applications are now being accepted for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). The application period runs from&nbsp;Tuesday, Jan. 20, through 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.LIEAP provides a one-time per year benefit to help qualifying households pay winter heating costs, whether the home is heated with electricity, natural gas, propane, or other home heating fuels. In 2025, more than 43,000 Kansas households received an average benefit of about $680.“LIEAP plays a critical role in helping Kansas families remain safe and warm through the state’s often harsh winter months,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.The federal government shutdown in late 2025 delayed the distribution of LIEAP funding to states for the 2026 season, which in turn delayed DCF’s planning efforts and the start of the 2026 application period.Qualifying for LIEAPTo qualify, households must have an adult at the address responsible for the home's heating costs. Applicants must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level (see the 2026 income eligibility guidelines below).&nbsp;The level of benefit received varies according to household income, number of people living in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel, and utility rates.Applying for LIEAPApplications can be accessed online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%25E2%2580%258B/1/0101019bdc5b00e6-51a900d0-1fb0-4b1c-b6ab-0411c56cc74c-000000/UFIfgafp6bvq1HU70HOchgtkPYZMle9vBwlDihLTxaM=440">dcf.ks.gov​</a>&nbsp;by clicking the “Apply for Services” button on the top right side of the website.DCF is planning in-person events to help Kansans submit their LIEAP applications. For a schedule of in-person LIEAP application events, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FEnergyAssistance.aspx/1/0101019bdc5b00e6-51a900d0-1fb0-4b1c-b6ab-0411c56cc74c-000000/6zcibZiwwqtT4grbsMiw--lEpbTTwbuvZJKiG2FuMa8=440">lieap.dcf.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;and click on “Where are the in-person LIEAP application events being held this year” in the drop-down menu.When applying for LIEAP, Kansans should have their identification, proof of income for all adult household members, copies of heating utility bills (gas, electric, propane, etc.), and a copy of their rental agreement if they are living in subsidized housing.2026&nbsp;Income Eligibility Guidelines<figure>
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 </figure>&nbsp; Learn more about&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FEnergyAssistance.aspx/2/0101019bdc5b00e6-51a900d0-1fb0-4b1c-b6ab-0411c56cc74c-000000/oR1t_2sfzk4onCdY7dc55Orcl7z4SqhgSe0O8xgbbAg=440">LIEAP​</a>&nbsp;in Kansas, including frequently asked questions, other community resources, and the complete schedule of LIEAP application events at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FEnergyAssistance.aspx/3/0101019bdc5b00e6-51a900d0-1fb0-4b1c-b6ab-0411c56cc74c-000000/TQALKuXTDMaPEQYpyfed9GLejq-MLAtTFX-AXQd9oMM=440">lieap.dcf.ks.gov</a>. Funding for LIEAP is provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Community Service through the Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Low Income Energy Assistance Program applications open in Kansas

1st Infantry Division Soldiers living in Unaccompanied Housing, commonly referred to as barracks, will be able to take advantage of free Wi-Fi internet service under a pilot program the Army launched Tuesday at Fort Riley, the first location in the Army to begin this program. They said that under the program, the Army will cover the cost of the Wi-Fi service in 10 barracks buildings, making the free service available to approximately 1,400 Soldiers on Fort Riley.

Soldiers living in the barracks served by this program will receive instructions on signing up for the program. Soldier usage rate, as well as an assessment of the quality of the internet service, will help the Army determine next steps for free internet service across the force. 

The Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act authorized free Wi-Fi for service members living in Unaccompanied Housing. Boldyn Networks is the internet service provider under this pilot program and will be tracking utilization rates, outages, and fixes to those outages.

1st Infantry Division Soldiers living in Unaccompanied Housing, commonly referred to as barracks, will be able to take advantage of free Wi-Fi internet service under a pilot program the Army launched Tuesday at Fort Riley, the first location in the Army to begin this program. They said that under the program, the Army will cover the cost of the Wi-Fi service in 10 barracks buildings, making the free service available to approximately 1,400 Soldiers on Fort Riley.Soldiers living in the barracks served by this program will receive instructions on signing up for the program. Soldier usage rate, as well as an assessment of the quality of the internet service, will help the Army determine next steps for free internet service across the force. The Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act authorized free Wi-Fi for service members living in Unaccompanied Housing. Boldyn Networks is the internet service provider under this pilot program and will be tracking utilization rates, outages, and fixes to those outages.

Army Launches Wi-Fi Pilot Program at Fort Riley   

The City of Manhattan announced that Manhattan Regional Airport (MHK) set new all‑time passenger marks in 2025, recording 83,220 enplanements (boardings) and 166,623 total passengers on its American Airlines services. Both figures surpassed&nbsp;the previous records set in 2024—an increase of about 2% year over year.

“MHK closed the year with a new all‑time passenger travel record, marking our second consecutive record year,” said Airport Director Brandon Keazer. “This milestone underscores sustained regional demand and strong traveler confidence in Manhattan Regional Airport. We appreciate the community’s support and look forward to building on this momentum in 2026.”

In addition to record growth in passenger traffic, MHK reached several operational and infrastructure milestones that strengthened service for the region. May 2025 set the all‑time monthly record with 8,360 enplanements—the first month in airport history to surpass 8,000 boardings. For the full year, the airport recorded 30,568 aircraft operations, including 119 military and athletic charter flights, reflecting a broad mix of commercial, general aviation, and charter activity.

"The Manhattan Regional Airport continues to grow as an important asset for our community, serving the needs of residents as well as our military, university and business partners,"&nbsp;said Mayor Susan Adamchak. "The infrastructure enhancements of expanded runway, additional hangars, and soon a new taxiway all contribute to the safety and convenience of flying through MHK.

Early in 2025, MHK opened eight new general aviation hangars—the airport’s first new hangars in more than two decades—expanding capacity for based aircraft, increasing hangar rental revenue, and driving higher fuel sales. The project received strong community support and was fully funded through a Federal Aviation Administration grant and the State of Kansas Build Kansas Fund. Design also began in 2025 for the reconstruction of Taxiway Alpha, the primary taxiway serving the main runway. Design is scheduled to be completed by the end of April 2026, after which the airport will seek construction bids and apply for an FAA grant expected to fund 95% of the total project cost, including both design and construction. 

Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2026 and continue into 2027, with phased work to avoid disruptions to flight operations.&nbsp;

The City of Manhattan announced that Manhattan Regional Airport (MHK) set new all‑time passenger marks in 2025, recording 83,220 enplanements (boardings) and 166,623 total passengers on its American Airlines services. Both figures surpassed&nbsp;the previous records set in 2024—an increase of about 2% year over year.“MHK closed the year with a new all‑time passenger travel record, marking our second consecutive record year,” said Airport Director Brandon Keazer. “This milestone underscores sustained regional demand and strong traveler confidence in Manhattan Regional Airport. We appreciate the community’s support and look forward to building on this momentum in 2026.”In addition to record growth in passenger traffic, MHK reached several operational and infrastructure milestones that strengthened service for the region. May 2025 set the all‑time monthly record with 8,360 enplanements—the first month in airport history to surpass 8,000 boardings. For the full year, the airport recorded 30,568 aircraft operations, including 119 military and athletic charter flights, reflecting a broad mix of commercial, general aviation, and charter activity."The Manhattan Regional Airport continues to grow as an important asset for our community, serving the needs of residents as well as our military, university and business partners,"&nbsp;said Mayor Susan Adamchak. "The infrastructure enhancements of expanded runway, additional hangars, and soon a new taxiway all contribute to the safety and convenience of flying through MHK.Early in 2025, MHK opened eight new general aviation hangars—the airport’s first new hangars in more than two decades—expanding capacity for based aircraft, increasing hangar rental revenue, and driving higher fuel sales. The project received strong community support and was fully funded through a Federal Aviation Administration grant and the State of Kansas Build Kansas Fund. Design also began in 2025 for the reconstruction of Taxiway Alpha, the primary taxiway serving the main runway. Design is scheduled to be completed by the end of April 2026, after which the airport will seek construction bids and apply for an FAA grant expected to fund 95% of the total project cost, including both design and construction. Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2026 and continue into 2027, with phased work to avoid disruptions to flight operations.&nbsp;<figure>
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Manhattan Regional Airport sets passenger records

Manhattan City Hall and other City offices will be closed for the morning of Wednesday, January 21 for employee training. City Hall will reopen at 1:30 PM. Municipal Court will open at 1 PM.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Manhattan City Hall and other City offices will be closed for the morning of Wednesday, January 21 for employee training. City Hall will reopen at 1:30 PM. Municipal Court will open at 1 PM.&nbsp;&nbsp;

City employee training is scheduled Wednesday

The Geary County Emergency Management Office said that coldest air of the season so far builds into the region Thursday night and holds through the weekend. 

Morning wind chill values of 5 to 15 degrees below zero are forecast Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. Afternoon wind chills only warm into the single digits Friday and Saturday.

The Geary County Emergency Management Office said that coldest air of the season so far builds into the region Thursday night and holds through the weekend. Morning wind chill values of 5 to 15 degrees below zero are forecast Friday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. Afternoon wind chills only warm into the single digits Friday and Saturday.

Bitter cold  is expected later this week

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged identity theft crimes.

Just before 6p.m. Jan. 16, police arrested 47-year-old Kahlil Kilian, 47, of Kansas City, Missouri, according to the Riley County Police De partment activity report.

He is being held on a $10,000 bond on requested charges that include three counts of forgery; making or altering a written instrument, three counts of identity theft, two counts of theft by deception, one count of attempted theft by deception and three counts of forgery; distributing or issuing written instrument. This arrest stems from an original report filed in March of 2023.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged identity theft crimes.Just before 6p.m. Jan. 16, police arrested 47-year-old Kahlil Kilian, 47, of Kansas City, Missouri, according to the Riley County Police De partment activity report.He is being held on a $10,000 bond on requested charges that include three counts of forgery; making or altering a written instrument, three counts of identity theft, two counts of theft by deception, one count of attempted theft by deception and three counts of forgery; distributing or issuing written instrument. This arrest stems from an original report filed in March of 2023.&nbsp;

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