MANHATTAN — Special education is one of Kansas' hard-to-fill teaching disciplines. To address this challenge, Kansas State University is now offering a new path for individuals with bachelor's degrees in any field who want to transition into a high-demand teaching career.

K-State's College of Education has launched a new pathway for its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://coe.k-state.edu/academics/program-areas/master-of-arts-teaching/">Master of Arts in Teaching</a>, or MAT, degree — the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://online.k-state.edu/programs/master-arts-in-teaching-unified-elementary-special-education/">Unified Elementary and Special Education (K–6) program</a>. This accelerated graduate program is designed specifically for career changers, allowing them to earn their master's degrees and gain initial Kansas teaching licensure for elementary and special education in as few as 18 months."Kansas schools are facing a critical shortage of licensed special education teachers," said Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education. "Our newest MAT pathway directly addresses that need. We are proud to offer a rigorous, flexible and affordable program that prepares professionals for their new careers in education."

By earning both credentials simultaneously, graduates will expand their career opportunities and enhance their ability to meet the diverse learning needs of students in inclusive classrooms."This program is intentionally designed to address the realities of today's schools," said Barbara Mitchell, coordinator of the Unified MAT program. "Our candidates will graduate prepared to teach in elementary settings and to provide specialized support for students with exceptionalities. It's a powerful combination that serves schools and students well."

To make the program even more accessible,&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;has a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://coe.k-state.edu/academics/program-areas/master-of-arts-teaching/unified-elementary-special-education-scholarship.html">Unified Elementary and Special Education Scholarship</a> for qualified Kansas residents. The scholarship offers substantial financial support to candidates pursuing the MAT degree and underscores the university's commitment to enhancing the state's educator workforce. "To help interested candidates understand how their non-teaching degree can lead to a teaching credential, the College of Education is hosting two live informational webinars, one on<a target="_blank" href="https://gradapply.ksu.edu/register/?id=1a81388e-0de0-450d-8628-eaa4cee74e5c">&nbsp;Oct. 29</a>&nbsp;and another on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://gradapply.ksu.edu/register/?id=a7b49f31-b9e9-426c-aba2-f5a869e89352">Nov. 19</a>. Join faculty to learn about the curriculum, field experience requirements, scholarships and the application process.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://gradapply.ksu.edu/portal/mat_webinars">Registration</a>&nbsp;is required.

By Patrice ScottDivision of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — Special education is one of Kansas' hard-to-fill teaching disciplines. To address this challenge, Kansas State University is now offering a new path for individuals with bachelor's degrees in any field who want to transition into a high-demand teaching career.K-State's College of Education has launched a new pathway for its&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://coe.k-state.edu/academics/program-areas/master-of-arts-teaching/">Master of Arts in Teaching</a>, or MAT, degree — the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://online.k-state.edu/programs/master-arts-in-teaching-unified-elementary-special-education/">Unified Elementary and Special Education (K–6) program</a>. This accelerated graduate program is designed specifically for career changers, allowing them to earn their master's degrees and gain initial Kansas teaching licensure for elementary and special education in as few as 18 months."Kansas schools are facing a critical shortage of licensed special education teachers," said Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education. "Our newest MAT pathway directly addresses that need. We are proud to offer a rigorous, flexible and affordable program that prepares professionals for their new careers in education."By earning both credentials simultaneously, graduates will expand their career opportunities and enhance their ability to meet the diverse learning needs of students in inclusive classrooms."This program is intentionally designed to address the realities of today's schools," said Barbara Mitchell, coordinator of the Unified MAT program. "Our candidates will graduate prepared to teach in elementary settings and to provide specialized support for students with exceptionalities. It's a powerful combination that serves schools and students well."To make the program even more accessible,&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;has a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://coe.k-state.edu/academics/program-areas/master-of-arts-teaching/unified-elementary-special-education-scholarship.html">Unified Elementary and Special Education Scholarship</a> for qualified Kansas residents. The scholarship offers substantial financial support to candidates pursuing the MAT degree and underscores the university's commitment to enhancing the state's educator workforce. "To help interested candidates understand how their non-teaching degree can lead to a teaching credential, the College of Education is hosting two live informational webinars, one on<a target="_blank" href="https://gradapply.ksu.edu/register/?id=1a81388e-0de0-450d-8628-eaa4cee74e5c">&nbsp;Oct. 29</a>&nbsp;and another on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://gradapply.ksu.edu/register/?id=a7b49f31-b9e9-426c-aba2-f5a869e89352">Nov. 19</a>. Join faculty to learn about the curriculum, field experience requirements, scholarships and the application process.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://gradapply.ksu.edu/portal/mat_webinars">Registration</a>&nbsp;is required.

 New fast-track master's program to grow future elementary and special education teachers

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, and potential SNAP benefits being delayed for the month of November, local organizations in Manhattan are hosting an Urgent Food Drive this Sunday, Nov. 2.&nbsp;

The food drive will be from Noon-4:00 p.m. at the City Park Shelter on Poyntz in Manhattan. The food that is donated will be given to the Flint Hills Breadbasket, who is experiencing an unprecedented demand for food.&nbsp;

The most needed items are: Bread, Proteins, and Produce.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761674760688.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, and potential SNAP benefits being delayed for the month of November, local organizations in Manhattan are hosting an Urgent Food Drive this Sunday, Nov. 2.&nbsp;The food drive will be from Noon-4:00 p.m. at the City Park Shelter on Poyntz in Manhattan. The food that is donated will be given to the Flint Hills Breadbasket, who is experiencing an unprecedented demand for food.&nbsp;The most needed items are: Bread, Proteins, and Produce.&nbsp;

Food Drive to be held this Sunday at the City Park Shelter in Manhattan 

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a drug bust in Manhattan.

Just before 5:30p.m. Monday, police&nbsp;executed a search warrant in the 700 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

As a result, officers arrested 60-year-old Joseph Fabre of Manhattan on requested charges of distribution of opiate/narcotic/certain stim/heroin within 1000 feet of a school; possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia; possession of a depressant and possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance. Fabre remains jailed on a $40,000 bond.

He has previous convictions that include Forgery, Robbery, Criminal Threat, Intent or reckless cause child less than 18 in situation w/childs life, body, health is injured or endangered and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761665407790.png" alt="Fabre has previous convictions that include Forgery, Robbery, Criminal Threat,&nbsp;Intent or reckless cause child less than 18 in situation w/childs life, body, health is injured or endangered and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections- photo Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Fabre has previous convictions that include Forgery, Robbery, Criminal Threat,&nbsp;Intent or reckless cause child less than 18 in situation w/childs life, body, health is injured or endangered and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections- photo Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a drug bust in Manhattan.Just before 5:30p.m. Monday, police&nbsp;executed a search warrant in the 700 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.As a result, officers arrested 60-year-old Joseph Fabre of Manhattan on requested charges of distribution of opiate/narcotic/certain stim/heroin within 1000 feet of a school; possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia; possession of a depressant and possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance. Fabre remains jailed on a $40,000 bond.He has previous convictions that include Forgery, Robbery, Criminal Threat, Intent or reckless cause child less than 18 in situation w/childs life, body, health is injured or endangered and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon accused of selling drugs in Manhattan

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz driven by Larry Limbocker, 78, of Manhattan, struck a pedestrian identified as Collin Rankin, 21, of Manhattan, who was in the crosswalk. 

Rankin was transported to Via Christi Hospital for treatment of his injuries. Limbocker was issued a citation for failure to stop at a red light.

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Monday in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz driven by Larry Limbocker, 78, of Manhattan, struck a pedestrian identified as Collin Rankin, 21, of Manhattan, who was in the crosswalk. Rankin was transported to Via Christi Hospital for treatment of his injuries. Limbocker was issued a citation for failure to stop at a red light.

RCPD: Vehicle struck Manhattan man in crosswalk

You can set your clocks back one hour on Sunday. Daylight Saving Time comes to an end at 2 am Sunday as we return to Standard Time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761663002282.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>You can set your clocks back one hour on Sunday. Daylight Saving Time comes to an end at 2 am Sunday as we return to Standard Time.

Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday

Geary County Emergency Management reported that north-northwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected.From 7 PM this evening to 10 AM CDT Wednesday. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Small tree limbs could be blown down too. Isolated power outages may result as well.

.Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for highprofile vehicles. Use extra caution while driving. Secure outdoor objects.

Geary County Emergency Management reported that north-northwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected.From 7 PM this evening to 10 AM CDT Wednesday. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Small tree limbs could be blown down too. Isolated power outages may result as well..Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for highprofile vehicles. Use extra caution while driving. Secure outdoor objects.

Wind Advisory Tuesday night

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

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
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Riley County Arrest Report October 28

A Manhattan tradition, Bewitching in Westloop, will be held Friday evening. Rhere will be a Treat &amp; Fun Trail with more than 25 stops from 4-6 pm.

A costume contest is scheduled at 5 pm in front of Bellus Academy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761612957914.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>A Manhattan tradition, Bewitching in Westloop, will be held Friday evening. Rhere will be a Treat &amp; Fun Trail with more than 25 stops from 4-6 pm.A costume contest is scheduled at 5 pm in front of Bellus Academy.

Bewitching in Westloop

&nbsp; K-State football kicks off at 2:30pm this Saturday, November 1, as the Wildcats take on #13 Texas Tech inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. This weekend features a K-State tradition, Harley Day. It brings more than 100 motorcycles roaring around the field just minutes before kickoff.

&nbsp; K-State football kicks off at 2:30pm this Saturday, November 1, as the Wildcats take on #13 Texas Tech inside Bill Snyder Family Stadium. This weekend features a K-State tradition, Harley Day. It brings more than 100 motorcycles roaring around the field just minutes before kickoff.

Harley Day at the K-State football game will be this Saturday

MANHATTAN — Halloween's tricks and treats can be frighteningly risky for pets, but a few simple precautions can keep them safe during the holiday festivities."There are many hazards associated with Halloween," said Susan Nelson, clinical professor and veterinarian in the Kansas State University&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/">Hill's Pet Health and Nutrition Center</a>. "From candy and costumes to spooky decorations, these things can pose real dangers to our pets. By planning ahead, we can help them stay safe and stress-free."

Keep candy and other spooky treats out of reach&nbsp;Nelson encourages pet owners to keep all candy out of reach. Chocolate, xylitol and other artificial sweeteners, raisins, and certain nuts can be toxic to pets or cause gastrointestinal blockages and injuries.Moldy pumpkins should be discarded promptly to prevent pets from eating them and becoming ill.Keep pets away from electrical cords,&nbsp;<a>candles</a>&nbsp;and decorations — like glow sticks — to prevent injuries or accidental ingestion.

Familiarize pets with costumes&nbsp;Costumes can also pose hazards. Nelson suggests choosing pet-friendly outfits that avoid small or loose decorations that could be swallowed and cause obstructions."Owners should try costumes on their pets in advance," she said. "If a costume makes them stressed or restricts their ability to see, hear, smell or breathe, it should be skipped altogether. Consider opting for a simple Halloween-themed bandana instead. This is a fun and safe alternative."Pets may become frightened by even their own family members in costume. To help them feel at ease, consider letting the pets see and smell the costume in advance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Rylee CoyDivision of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — Halloween's tricks and treats can be frighteningly risky for pets, but a few simple precautions can keep them safe during the holiday festivities."There are many hazards associated with Halloween," said Susan Nelson, clinical professor and veterinarian in the Kansas State University&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksvhc.org/services/pet-health-center/">Hill's Pet Health and Nutrition Center</a>. "From candy and costumes to spooky decorations, these things can pose real dangers to our pets. By planning ahead, we can help them stay safe and stress-free."Keep candy and other spooky treats out of reach&nbsp;Nelson encourages pet owners to keep all candy out of reach. Chocolate, xylitol and other artificial sweeteners, raisins, and certain nuts can be toxic to pets or cause gastrointestinal blockages and injuries.Moldy pumpkins should be discarded promptly to prevent pets from eating them and becoming ill.Keep pets away from electrical cords,&nbsp;<a>candles</a>&nbsp;and decorations — like glow sticks — to prevent injuries or accidental ingestion.Familiarize pets with costumes&nbsp;Costumes can also pose hazards. Nelson suggests choosing pet-friendly outfits that avoid small or loose decorations that could be swallowed and cause obstructions."Owners should try costumes on their pets in advance," she said. "If a costume makes them stressed or restricts their ability to see, hear, smell or breathe, it should be skipped altogether. Consider opting for a simple Halloween-themed bandana instead. This is a fun and safe alternative."Pets may become frightened by even their own family members in costume. To help them feel at ease, consider letting the pets see and smell the costume in advance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prevent Halloween pet scares with these tips from a K-State veterinarian

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged fraud in Manhattan.&nbsp;

Just after 3p.m. Friday,&nbsp; officers filed a report of fraud in the 1000 block of Westloop Place, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

An 87-year-old man reported unknown individuals falsely identified themselves as federal agents and threatened to close his bank accounts if he didn’t pay them.

 The total estimated loss associated with this case is $1,250.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged fraud in Manhattan.&nbsp;Just after 3p.m. Friday,&nbsp; officers filed a report of fraud in the 1000 block of Westloop Place, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.An 87-year-old man reported unknown individuals falsely identified themselves as federal agents and threatened to close his bank accounts if he didn’t pay them. The total estimated loss associated with this case is $1,250.

RCPD: Man says suspects falsely identified themselves as federal agents

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
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Riley County Arrest Report October 26, 27

High costs and limited access in some parts of the country can keep people from getting needed health care.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/suzanne-king/">SUZANNE KING</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/10/16/kansas-and-missouri-lag-national-average-for-medicare-recipient/">The Beacon</a>

Kansas and Missouri are below average when it comes to the cost and quality of Medicare coverage.

That’s according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/scorecard/2025/oct/state-scorecard-medicare-performance">new scorecard</a>&nbsp;from The Commonwealth Fund that looks at how seniors are faring under the government health insurance program that covers one in five Americans.

The report, released on the second day people could sign up for 2026 Medicare benefits, assessed 50 states and Washington, D.C. Researchers considered access to care; quality of care; cost and affordability; and population health.&nbsp;

Overall, Kansas ranked 27th and Missouri ranked 34th.&nbsp;

Medicare, which is marking its 60th anniversary, covers hospital stays and doctor visits for&nbsp;<a href="https://data.cms.gov/tools/medicare-enrollment-dashboard">69 million Americans</a>, including most people aged 65 and older and younger people with long-term disabilities. The program also covers prescription drugs for 56 million people.

Although Medicare is administered by the federal government and includes core benefits that are largely consistent across the country, some factors that vary by state influence how well it is working for beneficiaries.&nbsp;

These include the cost and availability of supplemental insurance plans and prescription coverage, how easy it is to find care close to home and the quality of that care.

“The report uncovers wide gaps in health care access, cost and quality,” Dr. Joseph Betancourt, president of The Commonwealth Fund, said during a conference call with reporters, “and clearly shows that Medicare, while a vital safety net for millions of Americans, is not working the same for everyone.”

Betancourt said he hopes policymakers use the report to identify gaps and adopt strategies to close them.

Missouri ranked 35th in cost and affordability, 32nd in access to care, 29th in quality of care and 28th in population health, according to The Commonwealth Fund’s scorecard. About 1.3 million Missourians — 21.5% of the state’s population — have Medicare.

Kansas ranked 50th on cost and affordability, 19th on both access to care and quality of care and 24th in population health, according to the scorecard. About 597,000 Kansans — 20% of the state’s population — have Medicare.

Only 13.7% of beneficiaries in Kansas receive a low-income subsidy, compared to 18% in Missouri and 20% nationwide. And 13.5% of older adults in Kansas have income at or near the federal poverty level, compared to 14.9% of older adults in Missouri and 18.9% nationwide.

The U.S. government launched Medicare in 1965, 20 years after the Truman administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/education/presidential-inquiries/challenge-national-healthcare">tried and failed</a>&nbsp;to push through a national health insurance program that would have provided government-sponsored insurance to people of all ages.

Eventually, Medicare became a compromise to get basic coverage to older Americans. As health insurance was becoming more common, younger Americans were largely getting coverage through their employers, leaving retired people without insurance as they reached an age when they were more likely to need health care.

Medicare began as very basic coverage to pay the bill if someone ended up in the hospital. Later, coverage for outpatient care was added. Today, it has evolved even more.

Now when people turn 65, they can choose to enroll in a traditional Medicare plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that offers more coverage. Under traditional plans, the government pays insurance claims. But with Medicare Advantage, coverage comes through private insurance companies.

Medicare Advantage, which generally costs patients less upfront, has steadily become more popular in recent years. In 2010,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/medicare/health-policy-101-medicare/?entry=table-of-contents-what-is-medicare-advantage-and-how-is-it-different-from-traditional-medicare">only one quarter</a>&nbsp;of Medicare participants chose a Medicare Advantage plan, but by 2025, the&nbsp;<a href="https://data.cms.gov/tools/medicare-enrollment-dashboard">private plans had 51%</a>&nbsp;of the national market. In Missouri, 54% of Medicare recipients are enrolled in private plans, compared to one-third of Kansans.

Medicare is divided into parts. Everyone gets Part A, which covers inpatient, hospital care. And most people get Part B, which covers outpatient care. Part D, which covers prescriptions, is optional and often paired with traditional Medicare coverage.

In addition to Part D, people who opt for traditional Medicare also usually pay for supplemental coverage, known as Medigap coverage, which fills in some of the services left out of Medicare coverage. Medicaid or an employer plan could also serve that purpose.

People who choose Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, get everything rolled up together, including traditional coverage, plus other coverage, such as prescription, dental, vision and hearing. Advantage plans also sometimes include add-on services like gym memberships and transportation. And people on the plans often have to pay no or only minimal premiums.

The drawbacks of Medicare Advantage plans are that they can only be used with hospitals and physicians in an insurance plan’s network, and they are limited to certain geographic regions. And Medicare Advantage frequently requires patients to have specialty services pre-approved, known as prior authorization.&nbsp;

Finally, once a patient opts out of traditional Medicare in favor of Medicare Advantage, it may be difficult to switch back. That’s because in most states the insurance carriers that provide supplemental coverage aren’t required to accept patients once their initial Medicare enrollment is over.&nbsp;

“Insurance companies can look at your history and decide not to cover you,” said Louise Norris, health policy analyst with&nbsp;<a href="http://medicareresources.org/">MedicareResources.org</a>.&nbsp;

While commercial insurance rates are&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/09/16/kansas-city-workers-can-bet-on-paying-more-for-health-insurance-next-year/">expected to jump</a>&nbsp;an average of 9% next year, and premiums for plans in the Affordable Care Act marketplace&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/08/18/brace-for-sticker-shock-if-youre-buying-health-insurance-on-the-aca-marketplace/">will shoot up</a>&nbsp;even more, the premiums and out-of-pocket costs for Medicare recipients are expected to stay relatively stable.&nbsp;

Part A doesn’t cost beneficiaries anything, but Part B comes with a premium. Next year, those premiums are expected to be $206 a month, up from $185 in 2025, Norris said.&nbsp;

Average premiums for standalone Part D plans are expected to fall slightly to an average of $34.50, compared to $38.31 this year, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/medicare-advantage-medicare-prescription-drug-programs-expected-remain-stable-2026">projections</a>&nbsp;from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. But the annual cap for out-of-pocket costs&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicareresources.org/newsroom/press-releases/what-to-know-about-medicare-changes-before-you-shop-for-a-2026-plan/">will increase</a>&nbsp;to $2,100 from $2,000. And Part D drug plans also come with a deductible that patients must cover, and those will also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicareresources.org/faqs/what-kind-of-medicare-benefit-changes-can-i-expect-this-year/#footnote_1_1035">go up slightly</a>.

Meanwhile, the average monthly premium for Medicare Advantage plans, including plans with drug coverage, is expected to fall to $14 in 2026 from $16.40 this year. In Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cms.gov/files/document/2026-ma-part-d-landscape-state-state-fact-sheet.pdf">average monthly premiums</a>&nbsp;will drop to $8.56 in 2026, from $10.66 this year. And Kansas’ will increase to $10.11 in 2026, from $9.54 this year.

But prices and plans available vary by region. People can look to&nbsp;<a href="http://medicare.gov/">Medicare.gov</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare">Medicare Plan Finder</a>, both government websites, for help. And independent sites like&nbsp;<a href="http://medicareresources.org/">MedicareResources.org</a>&nbsp;also provide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicareresources.org/medicare-open-enrollment/">guides</a>&nbsp;and information that can help.

For personal help or to ask questions, every state offers a federally funded&nbsp;<a href="https://www.shiphelp.org/ships/">health insurance assistance program</a>, which provides free counselors who will help people sort through prescription needs and preferred providers to assess Medicare plans and choose the best option.

But even with help and advice, making a choice can be daunting, said Scott Miniea, executive director of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missouriship.org/">Missouri SHIP</a>, that state’s assistance program.

Missouri has so many choices for Medicare coverage, including 157 plans in 2026, people get “decision paralysis,” Miniea said. SHIP counselors can’t make the decision, but they can be sure people they work with know all the options and potential pitfalls.

Missouri’s SHIP program has the capacity to help about 50,000 people with Medicare choices each year. And the organization will provide most of that help during the seven-week open enrollment period running from Oct. 15 to Dec.7.

“It’s a crazy 36 days starting tomorrow,” Miniea said in an Oct. 14 phone call.

He doesn’t expect the federal government shutdown to have an immediate effect on people trying to enroll. But on Oct. 15, CMS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cms.gov/medicare/payment/fee-for-service-providers">said it would pause</a>&nbsp;Medicare payments to doctors due to the shutdown.

For the first time this year, people will need an email address in order to enroll in Medicare, which could create an obstacle for some people without a computer or internet access, Miniea said.&nbsp;

He knows his organization won’t be able to help every Missourian who needs it. But other nonprofits also offer navigation services. And insurance brokers can provide assistance, too. But Miniea cautioned people to be aware of any conflicts of interest when seeking advice. Some brokers, for example, get paid by insurance plans for enrolling patients.

Before making any decisions about a Medicare plan, people should look closely at all the details. Miniea advises people to go to an insurance company’s website or call the company directly to ask questions to be certain that the hospitals and doctors they will need fall within the plan’s coverage network. He also suggests documenting those conversations and capturing information found online in case an appeal is required later.

And, finally, he said, ask about discounts that may be available for people whose income is low enough, or about hidden perks and extra services that might make a plan more attractive.&nbsp;

The main thing, Miniea said, is to do your homework before settling.

“It’s a constantly changing landscape,” he said. “Get as educated as you can.”

Authors of The Commonwealth Fund scorecard said that the discrepancies in care across states are less pronounced for Medicare patients than for people getting health coverage in other ways.

“In many respects,” the authors wrote, “Medicare has succeeded in ensuring that the people it covers — no matter which state they live in — have similar experiences with health care.”

But there are still definite differences, they said. States that scored best offered Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans with better coverage, making accessing and affording care easier.&nbsp;

Top states, for example, had plans that are less likely to require prior authorization for preventative services and specialty care, which can be an obstacle.

In addition, top-ranked states had low Medicare program spending per person, which helped keep costs down for beneficiaries who often are charged a percentage of what Medicare pays. In Kansas, average out-of-pocket spending on prescriptions was $458, compared to the national average of $386. The average out-of-pocket cost in Missouri was $399.

And the best-ranked states also tended to have health care systems that performed well for people not covered by Medicare.&nbsp;

“This is a clear indication that a state’s policies, health care infrastructure and local clinical practice norms are having a positive impact on all residents,” the report said, “not just those in Medicare.”

High costs and limited access in some parts of the country can keep people from getting needed health care.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761227634176.jpeg" alt="Medicare covers health care for one in five Americans. Photo by Suzanne King/The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>Medicare covers health care for one in five Americans. Photo by Suzanne King/The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/suzanne-king/">SUZANNE KING</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/10/16/kansas-and-missouri-lag-national-average-for-medicare-recipient/">The Beacon</a>Kansas and Missouri are below average when it comes to the cost and quality of Medicare coverage.That’s according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/scorecard/2025/oct/state-scorecard-medicare-performance">new scorecard</a>&nbsp;from The Commonwealth Fund that looks at how seniors are faring under the government health insurance program that covers one in five Americans.The report, released on the second day people could sign up for 2026 Medicare benefits, assessed 50 states and Washington, D.C. Researchers considered access to care; quality of care; cost and affordability; and population health.&nbsp;Overall, Kansas ranked 27th and Missouri ranked 34th.&nbsp;Medicare, which is marking its 60th anniversary, covers hospital stays and doctor visits for&nbsp;<a href="https://data.cms.gov/tools/medicare-enrollment-dashboard">69 million Americans</a>, including most people aged 65 and older and younger people with long-term disabilities. The program also covers prescription drugs for 56 million people.Although Medicare is administered by the federal government and includes core benefits that are largely consistent across the country, some factors that vary by state influence how well it is working for beneficiaries.&nbsp;These include the cost and availability of supplemental insurance plans and prescription coverage, how easy it is to find care close to home and the quality of that care.“The report uncovers wide gaps in health care access, cost and quality,” Dr. Joseph Betancourt, president of The Commonwealth Fund, said during a conference call with reporters, “and clearly shows that Medicare, while a vital safety net for millions of Americans, is not working the same for everyone.”Betancourt said he hopes policymakers use the report to identify gaps and adopt strategies to close them.Missouri ranked 35th in cost and affordability, 32nd in access to care, 29th in quality of care and 28th in population health, according to The Commonwealth Fund’s scorecard. About 1.3 million Missourians — 21.5% of the state’s population — have Medicare.Kansas ranked 50th on cost and affordability, 19th on both access to care and quality of care and 24th in population health, according to the scorecard. About 597,000 Kansans — 20% of the state’s population — have Medicare.Only 13.7% of beneficiaries in Kansas receive a low-income subsidy, compared to 18% in Missouri and 20% nationwide. And 13.5% of older adults in Kansas have income at or near the federal poverty level, compared to 14.9% of older adults in Missouri and 18.9% nationwide.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761227804418.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Medicare comes with options</h2>The U.S. government launched Medicare in 1965, 20 years after the Truman administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trumanlibrary.gov/education/presidential-inquiries/challenge-national-healthcare">tried and failed</a>&nbsp;to push through a national health insurance program that would have provided government-sponsored insurance to people of all ages.Eventually, Medicare became a compromise to get basic coverage to older Americans. As health insurance was becoming more common, younger Americans were largely getting coverage through their employers, leaving retired people without insurance as they reached an age when they were more likely to need health care.Medicare began as very basic coverage to pay the bill if someone ended up in the hospital. Later, coverage for outpatient care was added. Today, it has evolved even more.Now when people turn 65, they can choose to enroll in a traditional Medicare plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that offers more coverage. Under traditional plans, the government pays insurance claims. But with Medicare Advantage, coverage comes through private insurance companies.Medicare Advantage, which generally costs patients less upfront, has steadily become more popular in recent years. In 2010,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/medicare/health-policy-101-medicare/?entry=table-of-contents-what-is-medicare-advantage-and-how-is-it-different-from-traditional-medicare">only one quarter</a>&nbsp;of Medicare participants chose a Medicare Advantage plan, but by 2025, the&nbsp;<a href="https://data.cms.gov/tools/medicare-enrollment-dashboard">private plans had 51%</a>&nbsp;of the national market. In Missouri, 54% of Medicare recipients are enrolled in private plans, compared to one-third of Kansans.Medicare is divided into parts. Everyone gets Part A, which covers inpatient, hospital care. And most people get Part B, which covers outpatient care. Part D, which covers prescriptions, is optional and often paired with traditional Medicare coverage.In addition to Part D, people who opt for traditional Medicare also usually pay for supplemental coverage, known as Medigap coverage, which fills in some of the services left out of Medicare coverage. Medicaid or an employer plan could also serve that purpose.People who choose Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, get everything rolled up together, including traditional coverage, plus other coverage, such as prescription, dental, vision and hearing. Advantage plans also sometimes include add-on services like gym memberships and transportation. And people on the plans often have to pay no or only minimal premiums.The drawbacks of Medicare Advantage plans are that they can only be used with hospitals and physicians in an insurance plan’s network, and they are limited to certain geographic regions. And Medicare Advantage frequently requires patients to have specialty services pre-approved, known as prior authorization.&nbsp;Finally, once a patient opts out of traditional Medicare in favor of Medicare Advantage, it may be difficult to switch back. That’s because in most states the insurance carriers that provide supplemental coverage aren’t required to accept patients once their initial Medicare enrollment is over.&nbsp;“Insurance companies can look at your history and decide not to cover you,” said Louise Norris, health policy analyst with&nbsp;<a href="http://medicareresources.org/">MedicareResources.org</a>.&nbsp;<h2>Medicare cost</h2>While commercial insurance rates are&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/09/16/kansas-city-workers-can-bet-on-paying-more-for-health-insurance-next-year/">expected to jump</a>&nbsp;an average of 9% next year, and premiums for plans in the Affordable Care Act marketplace&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/08/18/brace-for-sticker-shock-if-youre-buying-health-insurance-on-the-aca-marketplace/">will shoot up</a>&nbsp;even more, the premiums and out-of-pocket costs for Medicare recipients are expected to stay relatively stable.&nbsp;Part A doesn’t cost beneficiaries anything, but Part B comes with a premium. Next year, those premiums are expected to be $206 a month, up from $185 in 2025, Norris said.&nbsp;Average premiums for standalone Part D plans are expected to fall slightly to an average of $34.50, compared to $38.31 this year, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/medicare-advantage-medicare-prescription-drug-programs-expected-remain-stable-2026">projections</a>&nbsp;from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. But the annual cap for out-of-pocket costs&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicareresources.org/newsroom/press-releases/what-to-know-about-medicare-changes-before-you-shop-for-a-2026-plan/">will increase</a>&nbsp;to $2,100 from $2,000. And Part D drug plans also come with a deductible that patients must cover, and those will also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicareresources.org/faqs/what-kind-of-medicare-benefit-changes-can-i-expect-this-year/#footnote_1_1035">go up slightly</a>.Meanwhile, the average monthly premium for Medicare Advantage plans, including plans with drug coverage, is expected to fall to $14 in 2026 from $16.40 this year. In Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cms.gov/files/document/2026-ma-part-d-landscape-state-state-fact-sheet.pdf">average monthly premiums</a>&nbsp;will drop to $8.56 in 2026, from $10.66 this year. And Kansas’ will increase to $10.11 in 2026, from $9.54 this year.But prices and plans available vary by region. People can look to&nbsp;<a href="http://medicare.gov/">Medicare.gov</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare">Medicare Plan Finder</a>, both government websites, for help. And independent sites like&nbsp;<a href="http://medicareresources.org/">MedicareResources.org</a>&nbsp;also provide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.medicareresources.org/medicare-open-enrollment/">guides</a>&nbsp;and information that can help.For personal help or to ask questions, every state offers a federally funded&nbsp;<a href="https://www.shiphelp.org/ships/">health insurance assistance program</a>, which provides free counselors who will help people sort through prescription needs and preferred providers to assess Medicare plans and choose the best option.But even with help and advice, making a choice can be daunting, said Scott Miniea, executive director of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missouriship.org/">Missouri SHIP</a>, that state’s assistance program.Missouri has so many choices for Medicare coverage, including 157 plans in 2026, people get “decision paralysis,” Miniea said. SHIP counselors can’t make the decision, but they can be sure people they work with know all the options and potential pitfalls.Missouri’s SHIP program has the capacity to help about 50,000 people with Medicare choices each year. And the organization will provide most of that help during the seven-week open enrollment period running from Oct. 15 to Dec.7.“It’s a crazy 36 days starting tomorrow,” Miniea said in an Oct. 14 phone call.He doesn’t expect the federal government shutdown to have an immediate effect on people trying to enroll. But on Oct. 15, CMS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cms.gov/medicare/payment/fee-for-service-providers">said it would pause</a>&nbsp;Medicare payments to doctors due to the shutdown.For the first time this year, people will need an email address in order to enroll in Medicare, which could create an obstacle for some people without a computer or internet access, Miniea said.&nbsp;He knows his organization won’t be able to help every Missourian who needs it. But other nonprofits also offer navigation services. And insurance brokers can provide assistance, too. But Miniea cautioned people to be aware of any conflicts of interest when seeking advice. Some brokers, for example, get paid by insurance plans for enrolling patients.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761227923988.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Before making any decisions about a Medicare plan, people should look closely at all the details. Miniea advises people to go to an insurance company’s website or call the company directly to ask questions to be certain that the hospitals and doctors they will need fall within the plan’s coverage network. He also suggests documenting those conversations and capturing information found online in case an appeal is required later.And, finally, he said, ask about discounts that may be available for people whose income is low enough, or about hidden perks and extra services that might make a plan more attractive.&nbsp;The main thing, Miniea said, is to do your homework before settling.“It’s a constantly changing landscape,” he said. “Get as educated as you can.”<h2>States’ winning ways</h2>Authors of The Commonwealth Fund scorecard said that the discrepancies in care across states are less pronounced for Medicare patients than for people getting health coverage in other ways.“In many respects,” the authors wrote, “Medicare has succeeded in ensuring that the people it covers — no matter which state they live in — have similar experiences with health care.”But there are still definite differences, they said. States that scored best offered Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans with better coverage, making accessing and affording care easier.&nbsp;Top states, for example, had plans that are less likely to require prior authorization for preventative services and specialty care, which can be an obstacle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761231780689.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>In addition, top-ranked states had low Medicare program spending per person, which helped keep costs down for beneficiaries who often are charged a percentage of what Medicare pays. In Kansas, average out-of-pocket spending on prescriptions was $458, compared to the national average of $386. The average out-of-pocket cost in Missouri was $399.And the best-ranked states also tended to have health care systems that performed well for people not covered by Medicare.&nbsp;“This is a clear indication that a state’s policies, health care infrastructure and local clinical practice norms are having a positive impact on all residents,” the report said, “not just those in Medicare.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761231862800.png" alt=" " />
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 </figure>

As the Medicare enrollment window opens, a new study gives Missouri, Kansas below-average scores

Recent rains have brought much-needed soil moisture across Kansas, improving prospects for fall wheat stands. But the same weather that restored soil moisture has also slowed progress, leaving many farmers behind schedule.

In central Kansas, Derek Sawyer, chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission, said planting progress in his area is only about halfway complete. Sawyer stated that KS Providence and AP Prolific are among the most commonly planted varieties this season for his area.

“Acres are fairly steady so far, but overall I think acres will be down because fall harvest has been delayed,” Sawyer said. “We’re up against the deadline for double-cropping behind corn or beans.”

According to K-State wheat production specialist Romulo Lollato, recent rainfall has provided strong moisture reserves, though planting remains well behind normal.&nbsp;

“We’ve received quite a bit of rain the last two weeks, with parts of the state close to five inches,” Lollato said. “Once fields dry, that moisture sets us up for good stand establishment.” He added that statewide planting progress is about half the long-term average for this date.

While moisture conditions are favorable, the season has also brought reports of fall armyworms. Damage has been mostly to early-grazing wheat, but growers are encouraged to watch for pressure on emerging stands. Lollato said fields can often recover if the pressure drops quickly, but replanting may be necessary in heavily affected areas.

In northwest Kansas, Chris Tanner, president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, wrapped up drilling by mid-October. He said planted acres in his area are likely down this year after some producers delayed planting due to armyworm pressure. Tanner seeded AP Sunbird and KS Bill Snyder, noting that recent rains made conditions ideal for finishing the job.

“After a dry stretch like we’ve had, it feels great to drill into this kind of moisture,” Tanner said.

Concerns about wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) remain high as cooler weather slows volunteer control. K-State wheat pathologist Kelsey Andersen Onofre said later flushes of volunteer wheat near planting are generally lower risk.&nbsp;

“If that green bridge is gone, curl mites are likely gone too because they need living tissue,” Onofre said. K-State continues to offer free testing for volunteer wheat and grassy hosts for the wheat streak complex, helping farmers assess risk and plan management.

K-State’s Agronomy e-Update reports that planting in late October to early November remains acceptable in southeast and far south-central Kansas but is considered late in other areas and falls beyond full crop insurance coverage. Research from Garden City shows that delaying planting from October 1 to November 1 can delay heading by six days and reduce yield by about 23 percent.

To offset the effects of late planting, agronomists recommend increasing seeding rates, maintaining a planting depth of 1 to 1.5 inches, and applying starter phosphorus fertilizer with the seed. About 20 to 30 pounds per acre of phosphorus is advised to promote early growth and tillering. Grain-only wheat requires little nitrogen in the fall - roughly 20 to 30 pounds per acre is sufficient until spring topdress.

As fields begin to dry, producers across Kansas are expected to move quickly to wrap up planting. Despite delays, this fall’s moisture could help set the stage for strong stands heading into winter. For more information on late-planting management and fall fertility, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001_epm6ztXfJ4Gh9VqsMmcfF__2PB4J0xd-A-LEoYRe10NbmAfFlLExd9QyBEzf5TCH3Qc5-gfKUIJK8zyPYD1dY7bovek9-iAaYfpr1dXfrj--2uFLaf1GbS3ZyFQWred3-HwVguoykMJMB2q_MQ4WhUfvCGqVgo-PURqaByKGT-hO9OD2OSd6Y1Ap3_Xsgvi4lVs0R4gB2vU8ekBK7MkrhM6qobSVAkbQnnwhysxNc9St-2sOZouDQ==&amp;c=7LIePr55zsVF7FeoSmUwiE_6wKIncvHAIIMK9QxrrO2wCtkynIdo5A==&amp;ch=z88ml27_Y-ZN1eyuM3uSNtCYSjJG4vaowVvdFT_0eAGXsDwRvWmC_A==">K-State Agronomy’s e-Update</a>&nbsp;or contact your local extension office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753449863742.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS WHEATRecent rains have brought much-needed soil moisture across Kansas, improving prospects for fall wheat stands. But the same weather that restored soil moisture has also slowed progress, leaving many farmers behind schedule.In central Kansas, Derek Sawyer, chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission, said planting progress in his area is only about halfway complete. Sawyer stated that KS Providence and AP Prolific are among the most commonly planted varieties this season for his area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600284821318.jpeg" alt="<a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a>" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://www.dieselfuelinjectionrepair.com/diesel-fuel-injector-rebuilds?useYB=2,4&amp;cam=ppc-m-m178243-c851458-g-">Click here to visit Diesel Control Technicians website</a></figcaption>
 </figure>“Acres are fairly steady so far, but overall I think acres will be down because fall harvest has been delayed,” Sawyer said. “We’re up against the deadline for double-cropping behind corn or beans.”According to K-State wheat production specialist Romulo Lollato, recent rainfall has provided strong moisture reserves, though planting remains well behind normal.&nbsp;“We’ve received quite a bit of rain the last two weeks, with parts of the state close to five inches,” Lollato said. “Once fields dry, that moisture sets us up for good stand establishment.” He added that statewide planting progress is about half the long-term average for this date.While moisture conditions are favorable, the season has also brought reports of fall armyworms. Damage has been mostly to early-grazing wheat, but growers are encouraged to watch for pressure on emerging stands. Lollato said fields can often recover if the pressure drops quickly, but replanting may be necessary in heavily affected areas.In northwest Kansas, Chris Tanner, president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, wrapped up drilling by mid-October. He said planted acres in his area are likely down this year after some producers delayed planting due to armyworm pressure. Tanner seeded AP Sunbird and KS Bill Snyder, noting that recent rains made conditions ideal for finishing the job.“After a dry stretch like we’ve had, it feels great to drill into this kind of moisture,” Tanner said.Concerns about wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) remain high as cooler weather slows volunteer control. K-State wheat pathologist Kelsey Andersen Onofre said later flushes of volunteer wheat near planting are generally lower risk.&nbsp;“If that green bridge is gone, curl mites are likely gone too because they need living tissue,” Onofre said. K-State continues to offer free testing for volunteer wheat and grassy hosts for the wheat streak complex, helping farmers assess risk and plan management.K-State’s Agronomy e-Update reports that planting in late October to early November remains acceptable in southeast and far south-central Kansas but is considered late in other areas and falls beyond full crop insurance coverage. Research from Garden City shows that delaying planting from October 1 to November 1 can delay heading by six days and reduce yield by about 23 percent.To offset the effects of late planting, agronomists recommend increasing seeding rates, maintaining a planting depth of 1 to 1.5 inches, and applying starter phosphorus fertilizer with the seed. About 20 to 30 pounds per acre of phosphorus is advised to promote early growth and tillering. Grain-only wheat requires little nitrogen in the fall - roughly 20 to 30 pounds per acre is sufficient until spring topdress.As fields begin to dry, producers across Kansas are expected to move quickly to wrap up planting. Despite delays, this fall’s moisture could help set the stage for strong stands heading into winter. For more information on late-planting management and fall fertility, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001_epm6ztXfJ4Gh9VqsMmcfF__2PB4J0xd-A-LEoYRe10NbmAfFlLExd9QyBEzf5TCH3Qc5-gfKUIJK8zyPYD1dY7bovek9-iAaYfpr1dXfrj--2uFLaf1GbS3ZyFQWred3-HwVguoykMJMB2q_MQ4WhUfvCGqVgo-PURqaByKGT-hO9OD2OSd6Y1Ap3_Xsgvi4lVs0R4gB2vU8ekBK7MkrhM6qobSVAkbQnnwhysxNc9St-2sOZouDQ==&amp;c=7LIePr55zsVF7FeoSmUwiE_6wKIncvHAIIMK9QxrrO2wCtkynIdo5A==&amp;ch=z88ml27_Y-ZN1eyuM3uSNtCYSjJG4vaowVvdFT_0eAGXsDwRvWmC_A==">K-State Agronomy’s e-Update</a>&nbsp;or contact your local extension office.<div><iframe style="height:40rem;width:100%;" class="w-full" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.widgets.investing.com/live-commodities?theme=darkTheme&amp;pairs=8849,8869,8917,961618,954867,8913,8914,8862,959199,8918,8916"></iframe></div><div> </div><div> </div></div>

Wheat Scoop: Moisture boosts fall wheat outlook, but delays drilling

K-State News &amp; Communications Services

The institute convenes interdisciplinary faculty and community partners to co-design projects addressing local needs. Through the institute, the faculty and community partners will conduct collaborative research, connect communities with proven practices, provide technical assistance and grant writing support, and engage students in applied learning experiences.

K-State's presence in all 105 Kansas counties, combined with existing interdisciplinary research expertise, positions the university to deliver coordinated solutions that build on established relationships and expertise.

"We're not starting from scratch," said Marshall Stewart, K-State's executive vice president for external engagement and chief of staff. "We have faculty, extension staff and community partners already doing this work across the state. The institute creates the framework to align these efforts, share resources and amplify impact."

The institute's work will involve close collaboration with&nbsp;K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/engagement/innovation-and-partnerships/economic-development/">Economic Development</a>&nbsp;team and external partners, including the Kansas Health Foundation. Through the institute, local communities will have access to faculty support to assist with grant writing and collaborative projects, and some local initiatives will receive small community grants.By engaging students in applied learning experiences alongside faculty and community partners, the institute addresses immediate challenges and prepares the next generation of leaders in public health, rural education, community development and public service."Our students see firsthand how research translates into real-world solutions," Metzger said. "Many go on to build their careers serving the communities they've worked with. That's powerful."&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State has committed $500,000 to support the institute over the next two to three years as it establishes partnerships, launches interdisciplinary projects and builds the infrastructure for long-term success.

K-State News &amp; Communications ServicesThe institute convenes interdisciplinary faculty and community partners to co-design projects addressing local needs. Through the institute, the faculty and community partners will conduct collaborative research, connect communities with proven practices, provide technical assistance and grant writing support, and engage students in applied learning experiences.K-State's presence in all 105 Kansas counties, combined with existing interdisciplinary research expertise, positions the university to deliver coordinated solutions that build on established relationships and expertise."We're not starting from scratch," said Marshall Stewart, K-State's executive vice president for external engagement and chief of staff. "We have faculty, extension staff and community partners already doing this work across the state. The institute creates the framework to align these efforts, share resources and amplify impact."The institute's work will involve close collaboration with&nbsp;K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/engagement/innovation-and-partnerships/economic-development/">Economic Development</a>&nbsp;team and external partners, including the Kansas Health Foundation. Through the institute, local communities will have access to faculty support to assist with grant writing and collaborative projects, and some local initiatives will receive small community grants.By engaging students in applied learning experiences alongside faculty and community partners, the institute addresses immediate challenges and prepares the next generation of leaders in public health, rural education, community development and public service."Our students see firsthand how research translates into real-world solutions," Metzger said. "Many go on to build their careers serving the communities they've worked with. That's powerful."&nbsp;&nbsp;K-State has committed $500,000 to support the institute over the next two to three years as it establishes partnerships, launches interdisciplinary projects and builds the infrastructure for long-term success.

Institute for Community Health and Well-being to strengthen rural Kansas

The City of Manhattanounced a heads up if you will be traveling on Fremont Street this week.

This will be a one week closure on Fremont that started last Friday. This closure is to repair the street removed during waterline installation for the apartment complex at 1124 Fremont.

The City of Manhattanounced a heads up if you will be traveling on Fremont Street this week.This will be a one week closure on Fremont that started last Friday. This closure is to repair the street removed during waterline installation for the apartment complex at 1124 Fremont.

Temporary closure on Fremont Street

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761405359776.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report October 25

The trash is taking over... and only you can stop it. Come as a zombie, dressed in your favorite costume or as you are, and join us for a&nbsp; community-friendly adventure packed with games, prizes, and real-world impact. All are welcome!

This Trashpocalypse cleanup event will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, October 25 at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=d61b897132&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Anneberg Park</a>. Cider and donuts will be served, water bottles will be available, prizes will be won and there will be zombie fun.

Race the clock to collect the most trash, complete your mission and be eligible for prizes, and at the end, discover what we found, what we can change and how you can make a difference! Register today at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=59b81b912c&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">kacee.org/trashcleanup</a>.

City of ManhattanThe trash is taking over... and only you can stop it. Come as a zombie, dressed in your favorite costume or as you are, and join us for a&nbsp; community-friendly adventure packed with games, prizes, and real-world impact. All are welcome!This Trashpocalypse cleanup event will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, October 25 at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=d61b897132&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Anneberg Park</a>. Cider and donuts will be served, water bottles will be available, prizes will be won and there will be zombie fun.Race the clock to collect the most trash, complete your mission and be eligible for prizes, and at the end, discover what we found, what we can change and how you can make a difference! Register today at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=59b81b912c&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">kacee.org/trashcleanup</a>.

‘Trashpocalypse’ set for Oct. 25 in Anneberg

&nbsp;KO in the City will be held tonight, Friday, October 24th. KO Boxing is excited to bring an action-packed night of amateur boxing fights to JC! 

The event will be held at the Junction City Municipal Building located at 700 N Jefferson. Doors open at 6pm and fights start at 7pm. &nbsp;$20 cash only entry, kids 12 and under are free (ATM available on site). VIP Tables for 6 people are available for $150. Food and drinks will be available! 

Come out and support boxers who will leave it all in the ring in 3-round fights! Fighters will be from different areas of Kansas and the Midwest to attend, including fighters from Junction City, Manhattan and Fort Riley. 

A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit the Geary County Historical Society. A table of historic sports information and artifacts will be on site during the event. 

Questions should be directed to Pedro Marquez atKOboxingusa@gmail.com

This event is sponsored by: Campus Barbershop, Your Car Guys, and Audio Affair Productions .

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761334135443.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;KO in the City will be held tonight, Friday, October 24th. KO Boxing is excited to bring an action-packed night of amateur boxing fights to JC! The event will be held at the Junction City Municipal Building located at 700 N Jefferson. Doors open at 6pm and fights start at 7pm. &nbsp;$20 cash only entry, kids 12 and under are free (ATM available on site). VIP Tables for 6 people are available for $150. Food and drinks will be available! Come out and support boxers who will leave it all in the ring in 3-round fights! Fighters will be from different areas of Kansas and the Midwest to attend, including fighters from Junction City, Manhattan and Fort Riley. A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit the Geary County Historical Society. A table of historic sports information and artifacts will be on site during the event. Questions should be directed to Pedro Marquez atKOboxingusa@gmail.comThis event is sponsored by: Campus Barbershop, Your Car Guys, and Audio Affair Productions .

K.O. in the City will be held Friday night at Municipal Auditorium in Junction City

Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges confirms electric service and the power pole have been restored in Milford.

Geary County Rural Fire Department Director Garry Berges reports that a lightning strike about 6:30 .m. has resulted in the loss of power in Milford for an estimated 8-12 hours.

Lightning struck a power pole inside the substation serving&nbsp; Milford. Evergy must replace the pole to restore electricity.

UPDATE:Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges confirms electric service and the power pole have been restored in Milford.----Geary County Rural Fire Department Director Garry Berges reports that a lightning strike about 6:30 .m. has resulted in the loss of power in Milford for an estimated 8-12 hours.Lightning struck a power pole inside the substation serving&nbsp; Milford. Evergy must replace the pole to restore electricity.There were not any injuries.

Power is back on in Milford

ABILENE, Kan. (October 24, 2025) – The national morning show Fox &amp; Friends featured Abilene, Kansas, Friday morning in its Main Street U.S.A. segment, sharing with more than 1.3 million viewers why Abilene continues to shine as one of America’s Best Small Towns to Visit.

Former Abilene resident and Fox &amp; Friends co-host Steve Doocy returned home to highlight the people, places, and pride that make Abilene special. More than 200 residents lined the streets for the live broadcast, which showcased the community’s historic downtown, locally owned businesses, and patriotic spirit.

Filming began at Little Ike Park and followed a route along NW 3rd Street and Buckeye Avenue, wrapping up at Amanda’s Bakery &amp; Bistro. Viewers were introduced to several Abilene businesses, including RHV Do It Best Hardware, Cypress Bridge Candle Co., Great Plains Manufacturing, Rawhide Portable Corral, Thunder Struck Bumpers, Holm Automotive Center, Robson Oil Company, and the National Greyhound Association—plus a few four-legged stars, the greyhounds themselves.

Adding to the excitement, 54 members of the Abilene High School Marching Band performed on their day off from school, helping Abilene sound its best. Mary Jean Eisenhower, Dwight D. Eisenhower’s granddaughter, joined the celebration and presented Doocy with a Key to the City

“This morning’s broadcast was an incredible opportunity to share Abilene’s story with a national audience,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau. “The energy was contagious and reminded me just how special our town truly is. The best part? We’re already receiving requests for visitor information, and local businesses are getting calls and orders for products!”

Despite the early hour and rain, Abilene’s enthusiasm never faded. Residents and visitors filled sidewalks, waved flags and signs, and proudly showed why Abilene is known for its charm and patriotic pride.

The Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau coordinated the event in partnership with Fox &amp; Friends producers, community volunteers, and local businesses. The Main Street U.S.A. feature adds to Abilene’s growing list of national accolades, including recognition from USA TODAY as one of the Best Historic Small Towns, True West Magazine as a Top 10 True Western Town, and Newsweek as the #1 Best Presidential Attraction for the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761322970447.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE, Kan. (October 24, 2025) – The national morning show Fox &amp; Friends featured Abilene, Kansas, Friday morning in its Main Street U.S.A. segment, sharing with more than 1.3 million viewers why Abilene continues to shine as one of America’s Best Small Towns to Visit.Former Abilene resident and Fox &amp; Friends co-host Steve Doocy returned home to highlight the people, places, and pride that make Abilene special. More than 200 residents lined the streets for the live broadcast, which showcased the community’s historic downtown, locally owned businesses, and patriotic spirit.Filming began at Little Ike Park and followed a route along NW 3rd Street and Buckeye Avenue, wrapping up at Amanda’s Bakery &amp; Bistro. Viewers were introduced to several Abilene businesses, including RHV Do It Best Hardware, Cypress Bridge Candle Co., Great Plains Manufacturing, Rawhide Portable Corral, Thunder Struck Bumpers, Holm Automotive Center, Robson Oil Company, and the National Greyhound Association—plus a few four-legged stars, the greyhounds themselves.Adding to the excitement, 54 members of the Abilene High School Marching Band performed on their day off from school, helping Abilene sound its best. Mary Jean Eisenhower, Dwight D. Eisenhower’s granddaughter, joined the celebration and presented Doocy with a Key to the City<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761322921951.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>“This morning’s broadcast was an incredible opportunity to share Abilene’s story with a national audience,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau. “The energy was contagious and reminded me just how special our town truly is. The best part? We’re already receiving requests for visitor information, and local businesses are getting calls and orders for products!”Despite the early hour and rain, Abilene’s enthusiasm never faded. Residents and visitors filled sidewalks, waved flags and signs, and proudly showed why Abilene is known for its charm and patriotic pride.The Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau coordinated the event in partnership with Fox &amp; Friends producers, community volunteers, and local businesses. The Main Street U.S.A. feature adds to Abilene’s growing list of national accolades, including recognition from USA TODAY as one of the Best Historic Small Towns, True West Magazine as a Top 10 True Western Town, and Newsweek as the #1 Best Presidential Attraction for the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum

“Fox & Friends” Main Street U.S.A. Broadcast Shines National Spotlight on Abilene, Kansas

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a violent crime in Manhattan.

Just before 5p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of aggravated burglary and aggravated sexual battery, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp; 

A 55-year-old woman reported an unknown male suspect entered her home and sexually battered her. Due to the nature of the crime reported, police released no additional information.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a violent crime in Manhattan.Just before 5p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of aggravated burglary and aggravated sexual battery, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp; A 55-year-old woman reported an unknown male suspect entered her home and sexually battered her. Due to the nature of the crime reported, police released no additional information.

RCPD investigating alleged sexual battery, burglary

KSU Division of Communications and Marketing

MANHATTAN — See a cappella sensation Straight No Chaser perform their new "Holiday Road" show at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, at McCain Auditorium in the first holiday show of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>&nbsp;season.

Straight No Chaser has emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase and a long list of accomplishments, including 2 Recording Industry Association of America Gold Certified albums, more than 1.5 million concert tickets sold, more than 1 billion streams on Pandora, and more than 2 million albums sold worldwide.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761315924441.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KSU Division of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — See a cappella sensation Straight No Chaser perform their new "Holiday Road" show at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, at McCain Auditorium in the first holiday show of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>&nbsp;season.Straight No Chaser has emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase and a long list of accomplishments, including 2 Recording Industry Association of America Gold Certified albums, more than 1.5 million concert tickets sold, more than 1 billion streams on Pandora, and more than 2 million albums sold worldwide.Ticket information:<ul>
 <li>Online:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">k-state.edu</a></li><li>Box office: McCain Auditorium lobby, noon to 4 p.m., Wednesday-Friday</li><li>Phone: 785-532-6428</li>
 </ul>

Straight No Chaser returns to K-State for the McCain Performance Series season

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761314956398.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report October 24

&nbsp; &nbsp;USD 475 announced that due to power issues in the area Milford Elementary School will be closed on Friday. All after school activities have been cancelled. Staff waited with students inside the building and school personnel were contacting families about the dismissal

&nbsp; &nbsp;USD 475 announced that due to power issues in the area Milford Elementary School will be closed on Friday. All after school activities have been cancelled. Staff waited with students inside the building and school personnel were contacting families about the dismissal

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