&nbsp;This week,&nbsp; Wabaunsee County Emergency Management contacted the Kansas Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), Emergency Response and Investigations Division to assist in the investigation of an exhibit that may have had deteriorating artifacts located inside the&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Historical Society and Museum, 227 Missouri Avenue in Alma, according to a media release from the State Fire Marshal.

A strategic plan was put in place with all responding agencies to investigate, assess and safely remove the materials from the museum and then proper disposal of the items.

Deteriorating chemicals can be dangerous if not handled properly. The OSFM commended the&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Historical Society and Museum and Marci Spaw, museum director, for handling this incident in a way that kept everyone safe. The museum is back open for business.

Responding agencies included the following Topeka Police Bomb Squad; Topeka Fire HazMat;&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Sheriff’s department;&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Emergency Management;&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Fire District No. 6; FBI Joint Terrorism Task force with fire personnel from KC Metro; an ATF rep from KC Metro; and the Emergency Response Division/HazMat and Investigation’s Division from the OSFM.

&nbsp;This week,&nbsp; Wabaunsee County Emergency Management contacted the Kansas Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), Emergency Response and Investigations Division to assist in the investigation of an exhibit that may have had deteriorating artifacts located inside the&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Historical Society and Museum, 227 Missouri Avenue in Alma, according to a media release from the State Fire Marshal.A strategic plan was put in place with all responding agencies to investigate, assess and safely remove the materials from the museum and then proper disposal of the items.Deteriorating chemicals can be dangerous if not handled properly. The OSFM commended the&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Historical Society and Museum and Marci Spaw, museum director, for handling this incident in a way that kept everyone safe. The museum is back open for business.Responding agencies included the following Topeka Police Bomb Squad; Topeka Fire HazMat;&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Sheriff’s department;&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Emergency Management;&nbsp;Wabaunsee&nbsp;County Fire District No. 6; FBI Joint Terrorism Task force with fire personnel from KC Metro; an ATF rep from KC Metro; and the Emergency Response Division/HazMat and Investigation’s Division from the OSFM.

Bomb disposal units clear dangerous materials from Wabaunsee Co. museum

TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.8% in April. This is an increase from 2.7% in March and an increase from 2.7% in April 2023, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Labor.

“The Kansas unemployment rate for April was 2.8%,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “The state has maintained an unemployment rate below 3.0% since October 2021.”

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 2,000 from March.

The unemployment rate in Riley County is down from 2.7 percent in March to 2..5&nbsp; percent in April. The rate in Geary County also dropped from from 4.1 to 3.7&nbsp; percent. The rate in Pottawatomie and Wabaunsee counties also saw a decline.

Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 1,700 over the month, while government increased by 300.

“Kansas continued to add jobs in April, with total nonfarm job estimates increasing by 2,000 jobs over the month,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen. “The state has experienced significant job growth over the past three months, with average monthly gains of 4,900 jobs.”

Since April 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 23,000. This change is due to an increase of 17,500 private sector jobs and an increase of 5,500 government jobs.

<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here for complete</a> Kansas labor market information for April

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715954877089.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.8% in April. This is an increase from 2.7% in March and an increase from 2.7% in April 2023, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Labor.“The Kansas unemployment rate for April was 2.8%,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “The state has maintained an unemployment rate below 3.0% since October 2021.”Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 2,000 from March.The unemployment rate in Riley County is down from 2.7 percent in March to 2..5&nbsp; percent in April. The rate in Geary County also dropped from from 4.1 to 3.7&nbsp; percent. The rate in Pottawatomie and Wabaunsee counties also saw a decline.Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs increased by 1,700 over the month, while government increased by 300.“Kansas continued to add jobs in April, with total nonfarm job estimates increasing by 2,000 jobs over the month,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen. “The state has experienced significant job growth over the past three months, with average monthly gains of 4,900 jobs.”Since April 2023 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 23,000. This change is due to an increase of 17,500 private sector jobs and an increase of 5,500 government jobs.<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==">Click here for complete</a> Kansas labor market information for April

Jobless rate in Riley Co. and across the region continues to decline

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - USD 383 Manhattan Ogden Schools has announced the new principal for Oliver Brown Elementary School is Amber Cook.

Since 2021, Cook served as the Early Childhood Center Principal in USD 475 Geary County Schools.

From 2016-2021, she was a 5th grade and 3rd grade classroom teacher in the Gardner Edgerton School District.&nbsp;

Cook has also been the Title 1 Elementary teacher/Intervention Coordinator for Lawrence Public Schools in 2015-2016.

In 2007, Cook began her career in education as a classroom teacher in Lawrence.

She received her Bachelor of Arts&nbsp;in Elementary Education from Kansas State University and a Master of Science in School Leadership from Baker University.

“I am honored and excited to join the Oliver Brown Elementary School community,” states Cook. “I am committed to building upon the school's achievements and fostering an inclusive environment where all students feel supported and valued, alongside their parents and families as our partners in education.” 

“We are excited for Mrs. Amber Cook to join our team as the Principal of Oliver Brown Elementary School,” states Superintendent Eric Reid. “She possesses the skill set needed to advance Oliver Brown toward its full potential. We are looking forward to supporting her in making the most of this leadership opportunity to benefit students, families, and staff.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715980865058.jpeg" alt="Amber Cook, photo courtesy USD 383" />
 <figcaption>Amber Cook, photo courtesy USD 383</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - USD 383 Manhattan Ogden Schools has announced the new principal for Oliver Brown Elementary School is Amber Cook.Since 2021, Cook served as the Early Childhood Center Principal in USD 475 Geary County Schools.From 2016-2021, she was a 5th grade and 3rd grade classroom teacher in the Gardner Edgerton School District.&nbsp;Cook has also been the Title 1 Elementary teacher/Intervention Coordinator for Lawrence Public Schools in 2015-2016.In 2007, Cook began her career in education as a classroom teacher in Lawrence.She received her Bachelor of Arts&nbsp;in Elementary Education from Kansas State University and a Master of Science in School Leadership from Baker University.“I am honored and excited to join the Oliver Brown Elementary School community,” states Cook. “I am committed to building upon the school's achievements and fostering an inclusive environment where all students feel supported and valued, alongside their parents and families as our partners in education.” “We are excited for Mrs. Amber Cook to join our team as the Principal of Oliver Brown Elementary School,” states Superintendent Eric Reid. “She possesses the skill set needed to advance Oliver Brown toward its full potential. We are looking forward to supporting her in making the most of this leadership opportunity to benefit students, families, and staff.”Cook officially begins her role in July.

USD 383 announces newly hired principal for Oliver Brown Elementary

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8_QapUV_xYo?si=MR_64btnWHxJsyzR" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall.

🎤Forward Ever: U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall

OGDEN - On Thursday May 16, around 8:15 pm, crews from Riley County Fire District #1 were paged out to Ogden on the report of a vehicle fire.

When crews arrived on the 100 block of 8th Street, they found 2 vehicles on fire and the fire had spread to a neighboring mobile home.

Twenty-four fire personnel and volunteers responded to the fire with 6 fire apparatus to extinguish the fire.

Both vehicles are a total loss and the mobile home received minor damage. Total damage for the incident is $82,000.

Both RCPD and the Kansas Fire Marshal are investigating the fire.&nbsp;

Just after 9:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of aggravated arson and arson in connection with the fire, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 57-year-old man, a 28-year-old woman and a 29-year-old man reported a known suspect pour gas onto a vehicle and set it on fire.

Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers. Using <a href="https://rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a> allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715961023964.jpeg" alt="photo courtesy of Riley County Fire District #1" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy of Riley County Fire District #1</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostOGDEN - On Thursday May 16, around 8:15 pm, crews from Riley County Fire District #1 were paged out to Ogden on the report of a vehicle fire.When crews arrived on the 100 block of 8th Street, they found 2 vehicles on fire and the fire had spread to a neighboring mobile home.Twenty-four fire personnel and volunteers responded to the fire with 6 fire apparatus to extinguish the fire.Both vehicles are a total loss and the mobile home received minor damage. Total damage for the incident is $82,000.No injuries were reported.Both RCPD and the Kansas Fire Marshal are investigating the fire.&nbsp;Just after 9:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of aggravated arson and arson in connection with the fire, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 57-year-old man, a 28-year-old woman and a 29-year-old man reported a known suspect pour gas onto a vehicle and set it on fire.Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers. Using <a href="https://rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a> allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD, Kansas Fire Marshal investigating alleged arson in Ogden

The annual Run for the Wall event is this weekend in Junction City.&nbsp;This&nbsp;is year 34 of official rides for Run for the Wall, and they have made an annual stop in Junction City for over 20 years.&nbsp;

Bonnie Templeton, Assistant Director of the Junction City Committee for Run for the Wall, said more than 300 riders&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;on Sunday evening and that over 300 flags will be handed out. "We anticipate the riders to arrive between 5:30 and 5:45 on Sunday afternoon," Templeton said. "We would like everyone to be in Heritage Park no later than 5:00 p.m. to pick up flags."&nbsp;

The riders will come off I-70 and make their way down Washington, where there will then be a ceremony in Heritage Park.&nbsp;68th District House of Representative Nate Butler will be the keynote speaker at the ceremony.&nbsp;

Following the ceremony and event,&nbsp;the riders will be provided&nbsp;with dinner at the Eagles, and on Monday morning, before departure, the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association will provide a breakfast.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe annual Run for the Wall event is this weekend in Junction City.&nbsp;This&nbsp;is year 34 of official rides for Run for the Wall, and they have made an annual stop in Junction City for over 20 years.&nbsp;Bonnie Templeton, Assistant Director of the Junction City Committee for Run for the Wall, said more than 300 riders&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;on Sunday evening and that over 300 flags will be handed out. "We anticipate the riders to arrive between 5:30 and 5:45 on Sunday afternoon," Templeton said. "We would like everyone to be in Heritage Park no later than 5:00 p.m. to pick up flags."&nbsp;The riders will come off I-70 and make their way down Washington, where there will then be a ceremony in Heritage Park.&nbsp;68th District House of Representative Nate Butler will be the keynote speaker at the ceremony.&nbsp;Following the ceremony and event,&nbsp;the riders will be provided&nbsp;with dinner at the Eagles, and on Monday morning, before departure, the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association will provide a breakfast.&nbsp;

Run for the Wall is this Sunday in Junction City

MANHATTAN - On Thursday morning, just before 3:00 am, an officer with the Riley County Police Department attempted to initiate a traffic stop, when the driver of the vehicle fled the area.

The vehicle was initially being stopped for an issue with the license plate/tag.

The officer pursued the vehicle from a distance, following the taillights, the officer located the empty vehicle in the 1300 block of N. 11th Street.

Officers then searched the route taken by the vehicle, and located a black backpack in the roadway. The backpack contained identification, along with substances that tested positive for methamphetamines as well as other substances suspected to be Fentanyl.

Just after 3:00 am, a stolen vehicle report was called in to the Riley County Dispatch Center, reporting the same vehicle involved in the flee and elude had been stolen.

Michael Curtis Skillern-Lewis reported his vehicle had been stolen.&nbsp;

Skillern-Lewis' identification was located within the black backpack found by officers containing illegal substances.

RCPD officers <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/e65b0940-eca4-4e22-baca-34b5f84c9a62">arrested Skillern-Lewis</a> on&nbsp;probable cause offenses of distribution of heroin/certain substances &gt; 100 grams, flee or attempt to elude, distribution of opiate/opium/narcotic/ certain stimulant 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram, and distribute/ possess with the intent to distribute/manufacture.

Total bond was set at $85,000. Skillern-Lewis remains confined to the Riley County Jail at the time of the release on Friday, May 17th.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671032449246.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Thursday morning, just before 3:00 am, an officer with the Riley County Police Department attempted to initiate a traffic stop, when the driver of the vehicle fled the area.The vehicle was initially being stopped for an issue with the license plate/tag.The officer pursued the vehicle from a distance, following the taillights, the officer located the empty vehicle in the 1300 block of N. 11th Street.Officers then searched the route taken by the vehicle, and located a black backpack in the roadway. The backpack contained identification, along with substances that tested positive for methamphetamines as well as other substances suspected to be Fentanyl.Just after 3:00 am, a stolen vehicle report was called in to the Riley County Dispatch Center, reporting the same vehicle involved in the flee and elude had been stolen.Michael Curtis Skillern-Lewis reported his vehicle had been stolen.&nbsp;Skillern-Lewis' identification was located within the black backpack found by officers containing illegal substances.RCPD officers <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/e65b0940-eca4-4e22-baca-34b5f84c9a62">arrested Skillern-Lewis</a> on&nbsp;probable cause offenses of distribution of heroin/certain substances &gt; 100 grams, flee or attempt to elude, distribution of opiate/opium/narcotic/ certain stimulant 100 grams - &lt; 1 kilogram, and distribute/ possess with the intent to distribute/manufacture.Total bond was set at $85,000. Skillern-Lewis remains confined to the Riley County Jail at the time of the release on Friday, May 17th.

RCPD: MHK man arrested following chase early Thursday morning

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;

JAYLYNN ALLANAH HORTON, 28, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Bond $2,000

DESTINEE FAITHE HYMAN, 27, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $2,000

BILLY ED HOOD III, 48, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $2,000

ADRAIN LAMBERT, 45, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $3,000

ALICIA RAE DUGAN, 32, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Bond $2,000

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;JAYLYNN ALLANAH HORTON, 28, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Bond $2,000DESTINEE FAITHE HYMAN, 27, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $2,000BILLY ED HOOD III, 48, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $2,000ADRAIN LAMBERT, 45, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $3,000ALICIA RAE DUGAN, 32, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Bond $2,000

Riley County Arrest Report May 17

The 2024 Wheat Quality Council’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour across Kansas wrapped up on May 16. During the three days of wheat scouting, tour participants traveled six routes from Manhattan to Colby to Wichita and back to Manhattan. This year's tour hosted 70 people from 19 U.S. states in 18 vehicles while traveling across the state. Of those participants, 50 people had never been on the tour before.

The three-day average yield for the fields that were calculated was 46.5 bushels per acre. While an estimated 7.5 million acres of wheat were planted in the fall, the Kansas wheat crop varies in condition based on amount of moisture received. What Mother Nature has in store for the wheat crop still remains to be seen, but the tour captures a moment in time for the yield potential for fields across the state.

The official tour projection for total production of wheat to be harvested in Kansas is 290.4 million bushels. This number is the average of estimated predictions from tour participants who gathered information from 449 fields across the state. Based on May 1 conditions, NASS predicted the crop to be slightly lower at 267.9 million bushels, with a yield of 38 bushels per acre.

These fields are still two to four weeks from harvest. A lot can happen during that time to affect final yields and production.

Dr. Romulo Lollato, K-State Wheat and Forages Extension Specialist, reminded tour participants that the yield number is based on the potential that the crop has as of now, if things go well from now until harvest.

“It’s where we could get,” he said. If Kansas gets cool and wet weather during grain fill, it has the potential to reach that yield. However, there are still many things that could go wrong before that wheat makes it into the bin. He said he believes the 46.5 yield is on the high end.

“Variability is the name of the game this year,” Lollato said, recapping what tour participants saw this year: freeze damage, drought stress and stripe rust coming on after it was too late to spray fungicide.

The tour is sponsored by the Wheat Quality Council, which is a coordinated effort by breeders, producers and processors to improve wheat and flour quality. Dave Green, executive director of the WQC, said there are several goals of the tour. The first is for participants to make connections within the wheat industry. Another is to “describe the wheat as well as we can at the current point in time, not knowing what will happen over the next few weeks.” A third goal is to highlight the agriculture industry.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655426692793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MARSHA BOSWELL Kansas WheatThe 2024 Wheat Quality Council’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour across Kansas wrapped up on May 16. During the three days of wheat scouting, tour participants traveled six routes from Manhattan to Colby to Wichita and back to Manhattan. This year's tour hosted 70 people from 19 U.S. states in 18 vehicles while traveling across the state. Of those participants, 50 people had never been on the tour before.The three-day average yield for the fields that were calculated was 46.5 bushels per acre. While an estimated 7.5 million acres of wheat were planted in the fall, the Kansas wheat crop varies in condition based on amount of moisture received. What Mother Nature has in store for the wheat crop still remains to be seen, but the tour captures a moment in time for the yield potential for fields across the state.The official tour projection for total production of wheat to be harvested in Kansas is 290.4 million bushels. This number is the average of estimated predictions from tour participants who gathered information from 449 fields across the state. Based on May 1 conditions, NASS predicted the crop to be slightly lower at 267.9 million bushels, with a yield of 38 bushels per acre.These fields are still two to four weeks from harvest. A lot can happen during that time to affect final yields and production.Dr. Romulo Lollato, K-State Wheat and Forages Extension Specialist, reminded tour participants that the yield number is based on the potential that the crop has as of now, if things go well from now until harvest.“It’s where we could get,” he said. If Kansas gets cool and wet weather during grain fill, it has the potential to reach that yield. However, there are still many things that could go wrong before that wheat makes it into the bin. He said he believes the 46.5 yield is on the high end.“Variability is the name of the game this year,” Lollato said, recapping what tour participants saw this year: freeze damage, drought stress and stripe rust coming on after it was too late to spray fungicide.The tour is sponsored by the Wheat Quality Council, which is a coordinated effort by breeders, producers and processors to improve wheat and flour quality. Dave Green, executive director of the WQC, said there are several goals of the tour. The first is for participants to make connections within the wheat industry. Another is to “describe the wheat as well as we can at the current point in time, not knowing what will happen over the next few weeks.” A third goal is to highlight the agriculture industry.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Wheat Tour 2024, Day 3 Final Report

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/">Harvest Public Media</a> By Grant Winterer

Planting is well underway across the Midwest, but farmers are still grappling with dry conditions that led to lower than normal corn yields last fall. It’s the third year of a near historic drought for parts of the Corn Belt.

Mark Mueller’s farm in Bremer County, Iowa, sat within a pocket of extreme drought in the northeast part of the state until a rainy April lifted the area into severe drought.

The fourth generation farmer says last year’s crop was below expectations, and even with recent rains, they're still behind.

Mueller typically plants two-thirds corn and one-third soybeans across his fields. This year, because of the drought, he’s scaling back his corn crop and splitting it closer to 50-50 ratio with his soybeans.

“It’s not quite Corn Belt-wide like it was during the Dust Bowl days,” he says, “but it could also develop into a Dust Bowl-type thing. All it has to do is quit raining tomorrow, and we’ll be dry within a month.”

Planting is well underway across the Midwest and Great Plains, and farmers in several regions are making similar adjustments, as much of the Corn Belt enters a third year of drought. The U.S. Drought Monitor shows significant areas of Kansas and Iowa are in severe drought, while portions of Nebraska, Oklahoma, Missouri, Minnesota and Wisconsin are also affected.

Dennis Todey, director of the USDA’s Midwest Climate Hub, said the area’s been parched for a historically long time.

“We would probably have to go back to some period in the 1950s or even some in the 1930s to compare with what we’ve seen in the way of longevity and precipitation deficit we’re dealing with,” he said.

The dry conditions have extended from Todey’s home base in Ames, Iowa, to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to as far south as the Ozarks, with a few wet pockets further east in Illinois and Indiana.

Todey says with less precipitation over the past few years, groundwater for corn could be a problem this season, as well.

“Because of the lack of rainfall over a longer period, deeper soil moisture profiles are dry,” he says. “Groundwater is being limited in some areas.”

In Wisconsin, officials said resilient groundwater reservoirs helped bring in better than expected yield last fall, despite dry conditions. But Sam Bibby, a crop educator with the University of Wisconsin Extension, said they can’t rely on that this year.

“If we ended up in a situation like we did last year during the summer, it would certainly be a lot worse than last year just because we are lower on that subsoil moisture,” he said.

The dry conditions are having impacts on livestock producers, as well.

In southeast Missouri, first-generation rancher August Horstmann says they weren’t able to raise their own hay, because of the dry weather. That led him to a tough decision.

“We were buying $108 hay,” he said. “You can only buy so much of that to get by, so we actually destocked 50% of our cow herd last year.”

To lower his feed costs, Horstmann is currently converting entire grazing fields back to native grasses to help keep subsoil moisture and his livestock’s food sources stable. He said so far it’s been a huge success.

“Our planted cover crops haven’t done very well at all,” Horstmann said. “But the native grasses – the old prairies that were here – performed really well in the drought we’ve had.”

Those changes helped Horstmann feel more confident, despite the dry conditions, and he recently bought 80 head of cattle.

“It looks like this is going to be one of our better grazing seasons, and it’s still very dry,” he said.

But in Iowa, where it’s been even drier, state extension field agronomist Terry Basol says they’ll be even more dependent on rainfall this year as the soil has mostly dried out.

And he said there’s a lot of catching up to do.

“Our 30-year average is roughly 30 inches of rain,” he said, “and last year, that total was 13-point-8.”

Despite 4 inches of rain in April, this year’s totals are still about 3 inches short of that. Basol’s concerned about conditions but trusts in the ingenuity of regional producers to make it through the dry spell.

“You have to have some hope, sometimes I call it faith, to get everybody through,” he said. “Growers are resilient, they’ll make it through.”

This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media,</a>&nbsp;a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/">Harvest Public Media</a> By Grant Winterer<h2>Planting is well underway across the Midwest, but farmers are still grappling with dry conditions that led to lower than normal corn yields last fall. It’s the third year of a near historic drought for parts of the Corn Belt.</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715888165005.png" alt="Mark Mueller looks over a field he’s set aside to return to native wetland in order to better conserve and filter water. The fourth-generation farmer in Bremer County, Iowa, is dealing with dry conditions for a third year.&nbsp;Grant Winterer/Harvest Public Media" />
 <figcaption>Mark Mueller looks over a field he’s set aside to return to native wetland in order to better conserve and filter water. The fourth-generation farmer in Bremer County, Iowa, is dealing with dry conditions for a third year.&nbsp;Grant Winterer/Harvest Public Media</figcaption>
 </figure>Mark Mueller’s farm in Bremer County, Iowa, sat within a pocket of extreme drought in the northeast part of the state until a rainy April lifted the area into severe drought.The fourth generation farmer says last year’s crop was below expectations, and even with recent rains, they're still behind.Mueller typically plants two-thirds corn and one-third soybeans across his fields. This year, because of the drought, he’s scaling back his corn crop and splitting it closer to 50-50 ratio with his soybeans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715888427753.png" alt="Mark Mueller stands in front of one of his tractors. A district director at the Iowa Corn Growers Association, he's planning to plant less corn this year because of the drought.&nbsp;Grant Winterer/Harvest Public Media" />
 <figcaption>Mark Mueller stands in front of one of his tractors. A district director at the Iowa Corn Growers Association, he's planning to plant less corn this year because of the drought.&nbsp;Grant Winterer/Harvest Public Media</figcaption>
 </figure>“It’s not quite Corn Belt-wide like it was during the Dust Bowl days,” he says, “but it could also develop into a Dust Bowl-type thing. All it has to do is quit raining tomorrow, and we’ll be dry within a month.”Planting is well underway across the Midwest and Great Plains, and farmers in several regions are making similar adjustments, as much of the Corn Belt enters a third year of drought. The U.S. Drought Monitor shows significant areas of Kansas and Iowa are in severe drought, while portions of Nebraska, Oklahoma, Missouri, Minnesota and Wisconsin are also affected.Dennis Todey, director of the USDA’s Midwest Climate Hub, said the area’s been parched for a historically long time.“We would probably have to go back to some period in the 1950s or even some in the 1930s to compare with what we’ve seen in the way of longevity and precipitation deficit we’re dealing with,” he said.The dry conditions have extended from Todey’s home base in Ames, Iowa, to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to as far south as the Ozarks, with a few wet pockets further east in Illinois and Indiana.Todey says with less precipitation over the past few years, groundwater for corn could be a problem this season, as well.“Because of the lack of rainfall over a longer period, deeper soil moisture profiles are dry,” he says. “Groundwater is being limited in some areas.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715888535322.png" alt="U.S. drought map as of May 7" />
 <figcaption>U.S. drought map as of May 7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715888596985.png" alt="The Kansas drought map with Ellis County highlighted as released Thursday. As of this morning Hays was about 3 inches below average precipitation year to date." />
 <figcaption>The Kansas drought map with Ellis County highlighted as released Thursday. As of this morning Hays was about 3 inches below average precipitation year to date.</figcaption>
 </figure>In Wisconsin, officials said resilient groundwater reservoirs helped bring in better than expected yield last fall, despite dry conditions. But Sam Bibby, a crop educator with the University of Wisconsin Extension, said they can’t rely on that this year.“If we ended up in a situation like we did last year during the summer, it would certainly be a lot worse than last year just because we are lower on that subsoil moisture,” he said.The dry conditions are having impacts on livestock producers, as well.In southeast Missouri, first-generation rancher August Horstmann says they weren’t able to raise their own hay, because of the dry weather. That led him to a tough decision.“We were buying $108 hay,” he said. “You can only buy so much of that to get by, so we actually destocked 50% of our cow herd last year.”To lower his feed costs, Horstmann is currently converting entire grazing fields back to native grasses to help keep subsoil moisture and his livestock’s food sources stable. He said so far it’s been a huge success.“Our planted cover crops haven’t done very well at all,” Horstmann said. “But the native grasses – the old prairies that were here – performed really well in the drought we’ve had.”Those changes helped Horstmann feel more confident, despite the dry conditions, and he recently bought 80 head of cattle.“It looks like this is going to be one of our better grazing seasons, and it’s still very dry,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715888277973.png" alt="Cattle graze on August Horstmann's southeast Missouri farm. He sold off half of his herd when he was unable to grow hay due to drought conditions. But Horstmann is now raising native grasses and recently bought 80 head of cattle.&nbsp;&nbsp;Provided By August Horstmann" />
 <figcaption>Cattle graze on August Horstmann's southeast Missouri farm. He sold off half of his herd when he was unable to grow hay due to drought conditions. But Horstmann is now raising native grasses and recently bought 80 head of cattle.&nbsp;&nbsp;Provided By August Horstmann</figcaption>
 </figure>But in Iowa, where it’s been even drier, state extension field agronomist Terry Basol says they’ll be even more dependent on rainfall this year as the soil has mostly dried out.And he said there’s a lot of catching up to do.“Our 30-year average is roughly 30 inches of rain,” he said, “and last year, that total was 13-point-8.”Despite 4 inches of rain in April, this year’s totals are still about 3 inches short of that. Basol’s concerned about conditions but trusts in the ingenuity of regional producers to make it through the dry spell.“You have to have some hope, sometimes I call it faith, to get everybody through,” he said. “Growers are resilient, they’ll make it through.”This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media,</a>&nbsp;a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

Drought lingers in parts of the Midwest: ‘You have to have some hope’

The Junction City Military Affairs Council is hosting an Armed Forces Day celebration this Saturday, May 18, in Downtown Junction City. The location for the event is at the northeast corner of 9th and Washington, with the event running from 8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. There will be ceremonies and presentations from 9:30-11:30 a.m. with several guest speakers.&nbsp;

The featured guest speaker is Sergeant Major of the Army (Retired) Michael Grinston, who&nbsp;was previously stationed&nbsp;at Fort Riley.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Armed Forces Day celebration will feature a future Swear-In of Soldiers ceremony, recognizing First Infantry Division Soldiers and a donation of over 100,000 servings of protein from Smithfield Foods. It is a free event and open to everyone, as there will be bounce houses, foam cannons, and dunk tanks for the kids as well as food trucks and a Fort Riley vehicle display.&nbsp;

Isreal Waddell, the Director of the Military Affairs Council, is excited to see the community come together to celebrate Armed Forces Day. “My slogan is better together,” Waddell said. “Just to see all these hundreds, maybe even thousands of people come together for military and just thanking our current soldiers and veterans is what it’s all about.”&nbsp;

The Armed Forces Day Celebration will also run in collaboration with the Junction City Main Street Market on Saturday.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715878030321.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony Gorges JC PostThe Junction City Military Affairs Council is hosting an Armed Forces Day celebration this Saturday, May 18, in Downtown Junction City. The location for the event is at the northeast corner of 9th and Washington, with the event running from 8:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. There will be ceremonies and presentations from 9:30-11:30 a.m. with several guest speakers.&nbsp;The featured guest speaker is Sergeant Major of the Army (Retired) Michael Grinston, who&nbsp;was previously stationed&nbsp;at Fort Riley.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Armed Forces Day celebration will feature a future Swear-In of Soldiers ceremony, recognizing First Infantry Division Soldiers and a donation of over 100,000 servings of protein from Smithfield Foods. It is a free event and open to everyone, as there will be bounce houses, foam cannons, and dunk tanks for the kids as well as food trucks and a Fort Riley vehicle display.&nbsp;Isreal Waddell, the Director of the Military Affairs Council, is excited to see the community come together to celebrate Armed Forces Day. “My slogan is better together,” Waddell said. “Just to see all these hundreds, maybe even thousands of people come together for military and just thanking our current soldiers and veterans is what it’s all about.”&nbsp;The Armed Forces Day Celebration will also run in collaboration with the Junction City Main Street Market on Saturday.&nbsp;

Armed Forces Day is this Saturday

MANHATTAN - On Wednesday, May 8th, former Manhattan mayor, Winfried(Wynn) Butler was arrested in connection <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/1eb1632e-ed16-4249-a414-541d6af70f9e">with an alleged DUI</a>, which occurred at Candlewood liquor just after 8:30 pm.

According to the City of Manhattan Municipal Court dockets, Butler is scheduled for an initial appearance in the Manhattan Municipal Court, on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 8:00 in connection with the alleged DUI charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715874852582.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Wednesday, May 8th, former Manhattan mayor, Winfried(Wynn) Butler was arrested in connection <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/1eb1632e-ed16-4249-a414-541d6af70f9e">with an alleged DUI</a>, which occurred at Candlewood liquor just after 8:30 pm.According to the City of Manhattan Municipal Court dockets, Butler is scheduled for an initial appearance in the Manhattan Municipal Court, on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 8:00 in connection with the alleged DUI charges.

Court date set for former MHK mayor, Winfried(Wynn) Butler

MICHEAEL CURTIS SKILLERN LEWIS, 29, Manhattan, Distribute heroin/certain stimulants; &gt;100 grams; Flee or attempt to elude; five or more moving violations; Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 100 grams -&lt;1 kilogram; Distribute/poss w/intent to distribute/manufacture paraph except 21-5706(b); Bond $85,000

ROMARIO CALDERON PASTRAN SR, 34, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $500

RICHARD ARON LOWERY, 26, Manhattan, Probation Violation, Remains confined to Riley County Jail

JORDAN KRISTOPHER HOWDEN, 29, Fort Riley, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $1,000

JUSTIN ALAN BROWN, 34, Manhattan, Escape from custody; While being held for misdemeanor; Bond $3,000

CHRISTOPHER JOHN WALTON ROSS, 56, Manhattan, Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance; Arrested by Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office on 5/11/2024; Remains confined to Riley County Jail

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;MICHEAEL CURTIS SKILLERN LEWIS, 29, Manhattan, Distribute heroin/certain stimulants; &gt;100 grams; Flee or attempt to elude; five or more moving violations; Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant; 100 grams -&lt;1 kilogram; Distribute/poss w/intent to distribute/manufacture paraph except 21-5706(b); Bond $85,000ROMARIO CALDERON PASTRAN SR, 34, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $500RICHARD ARON LOWERY, 26, Manhattan, Probation Violation, Remains confined to Riley County JailJORDAN KRISTOPHER HOWDEN, 29, Fort Riley, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $1,000JUSTIN ALAN BROWN, 34, Manhattan, Escape from custody; While being held for misdemeanor; Bond $3,000CHRISTOPHER JOHN WALTON ROSS, 56, Manhattan, Violation of protection order; Unknown circumstance; Arrested by Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office on 5/11/2024; Remains confined to Riley County Jail

Riley County Arrest Report May 16

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Wednesday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity reported a Jeep hydroplaned&nbsp;at mile marker &nbsp;185 on Fort Riley Blvd and struck a guardrail. EMS transported the driver to Via Christi with non-life threatening injuries.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 10:30a.m. Wednesday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity reported a Jeep hydroplaned&nbsp;at mile marker &nbsp;185 on Fort Riley Blvd and struck a guardrail. EMS transported the driver to Via Christi with non-life threatening injuries.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details.

Driver hospitalized after Jeep hydroplaned, struck guardrail

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall, M.D. has a simple theme for what he wants most out of the farm bill that is working its way through the legislative process.

"Crop insurance, crop insurance and crop insurance," Marshall said. "Crop insurance is the backbone of every farm bill. What crop insurance does is allow that farmer who got hailed out last week, to be able to plant next year's crop. They don't make any money off of it, but at least they can plant next year's crop."

Marshall understands that the farm bill has always been a nutrition bill, all he's asking for is help for the farmers that get the food to the market, considerably less than that being proposed for nutrition programs.

"What we've asked for, very specifically, is about a $400 million increase in funding for crop insurance per year," Marshall said. "On the other side of the aisle, we've given the Democrats at least a $60 billion hike in the food stamp program. We gave them $60 billion to help with food stamps, we're asking for $400 million and they are unwilling to give it. To me, it's about priorities."

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/758f6121-57e2-4310-9f1a-1bac7a6df3c9">It looks like the House side may be the first to the line with finished and marked up language</a> and Marshall is looking forward to seeing what comes across.

"I actually think we want to wait and see what we get out of the House," Marshall said. "I think the House bill is going to be much more farmer friendly. If we end up waiting until we have a different person in the White House, or a Republican majority in the Senate, I think we're going to have a farm bill that's much friendlier to rural America."

The current farm bill extension ends Sept. 30, before the November election, but it could be extended again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628092856057.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall, M.D. has a simple theme for what he wants most out of the farm bill that is working its way through the legislative process."Crop insurance, crop insurance and crop insurance," Marshall said. "Crop insurance is the backbone of every farm bill. What crop insurance does is allow that farmer who got hailed out last week, to be able to plant next year's crop. They don't make any money off of it, but at least they can plant next year's crop."Marshall understands that the farm bill has always been a nutrition bill, all he's asking for is help for the farmers that get the food to the market, considerably less than that being proposed for nutrition programs."What we've asked for, very specifically, is about a $400 million increase in funding for crop insurance per year," Marshall said. "On the other side of the aisle, we've given the Democrats at least a $60 billion hike in the food stamp program. We gave them $60 billion to help with food stamps, we're asking for $400 million and they are unwilling to give it. To me, it's about priorities."<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/758f6121-57e2-4310-9f1a-1bac7a6df3c9">It looks like the House side may be the first to the line with finished and marked up language</a> and Marshall is looking forward to seeing what comes across."I actually think we want to wait and see what we get out of the House," Marshall said. "I think the House bill is going to be much more farmer friendly. If we end up waiting until we have a different person in the White House, or a Republican majority in the Senate, I think we're going to have a farm bill that's much friendlier to rural America."The current farm bill extension ends Sept. 30, before the November election, but it could be extended again.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Marshall: Crop insurance number must be stronger in new farm bill

On Wednesday, 69 people on the Wheat Quality Council’s 2024 winter wheat tour made their way from Colby to Wichita, Kansas, stopping in wheat fields along six different routes.

Wednesday’s wheat tour scouts made 216 stops at wheat fields across western, central and southern Kansas, and into northern counties in Oklahoma.

The calculated yield from all cars was 42.4 bushels per acre. Scouts were able to use the late season formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, which includes counting wheat heads, number of spikelets and kernels per spikelet. The yield formula doesn’t take disease, pests or weed pressure into consideration.

Romulo Lollato said the theme of the day was variability, even within fields. Groups saw a lot of drought stress and freeze damage, with some fields already being destroyed. Not as much stripe rust or Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus were observed on Wednesday, compared to Tuesday, likely due to drought conditions.

Farmers in the area reported that combines will probably start rolling by June 1 in south central Kansas, about seven to ten days earlier than average. There wasn’t as much fungicide applied in the southern areas of Kansas because the stripe rust started coming on in a later growth stage.

“This year is a testament to the wheat breeders and researchers and the work they’ve done,” said Derek Sawyer, who farms near McPherson. “This year, everything has been stressed across the state, but we’re still looking at a decent crop.”

Dennis Schoenhals from Oklahoma Wheat Commission reported that the state’s production was estimated at 96.2 million bushels this year, up from 68.6 million bushels last year, according to USDA’s NASS. USDA/NASS estimates the Oklahoma crop will yield 37 bushels per acre, compared with 28 last year. Harvested acres are estimated at 2.6 million acres. A tour of agronomists and others in the industry estimated the production slightly lower than the NASS estimate, at 89.3 million bushels and a yield of 33 bushels per acre. He said the Oklahoma wheat crop had good moisture through the end of January, but then they had an 83 day flash drought, which took the top end of the crop. He said it has had good, cool grainfill weather.

Wheat Tour 24 continues Thursday with six routes between Wichita and Manhattan. Follow along with the tour at #wheattour24. A final production estimate will be announced Thursday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655426692793.jpeg" alt="Kansas Wheat Commission logo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Wheat Commission logo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>MARSHA BOSWELL Kansas WheatOn Wednesday, 69 people on the Wheat Quality Council’s 2024 winter wheat tour made their way from Colby to Wichita, Kansas, stopping in wheat fields along six different routes.Wednesday’s wheat tour scouts made 216 stops at wheat fields across western, central and southern Kansas, and into northern counties in Oklahoma.The calculated yield from all cars was 42.4 bushels per acre. Scouts were able to use the late season formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, which includes counting wheat heads, number of spikelets and kernels per spikelet. The yield formula doesn’t take disease, pests or weed pressure into consideration.Romulo Lollato said the theme of the day was variability, even within fields. Groups saw a lot of drought stress and freeze damage, with some fields already being destroyed. Not as much stripe rust or Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus were observed on Wednesday, compared to Tuesday, likely due to drought conditions.Farmers in the area reported that combines will probably start rolling by June 1 in south central Kansas, about seven to ten days earlier than average. There wasn’t as much fungicide applied in the southern areas of Kansas because the stripe rust started coming on in a later growth stage.“This year is a testament to the wheat breeders and researchers and the work they’ve done,” said Derek Sawyer, who farms near McPherson. “This year, everything has been stressed across the state, but we’re still looking at a decent crop.”Dennis Schoenhals from Oklahoma Wheat Commission reported that the state’s production was estimated at 96.2 million bushels this year, up from 68.6 million bushels last year, according to USDA’s NASS. USDA/NASS estimates the Oklahoma crop will yield 37 bushels per acre, compared with 28 last year. Harvested acres are estimated at 2.6 million acres. A tour of agronomists and others in the industry estimated the production slightly lower than the NASS estimate, at 89.3 million bushels and a yield of 33 bushels per acre. He said the Oklahoma wheat crop had good moisture through the end of January, but then they had an 83 day flash drought, which took the top end of the crop. He said it has had good, cool grainfill weather.Wheat Tour 24 continues Thursday with six routes between Wichita and Manhattan. Follow along with the tour at #wheattour24. A final production estimate will be announced Thursday afternoon.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Wheat Tour 2024, Day 2

MANHATTAN - Downtown Manhattan's annual street faire and maker's market, Third Thursday, returns to Poyntz Avenue on May 16th.

In 2024, each month will have a different theme.

September 19th:&nbsp;Come Together

More information on the <a href="https://downtownmhk.com/third-thursdays/">2024 Third Thursday events can be found here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715625747986.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - Downtown Manhattan's annual street faire and maker's market, Third Thursday, returns to Poyntz Avenue on May 16th.In 2024, each month will have a different theme.May 16th:&nbsp;Discover DowntownJune 20th: Summer FestJuly 18th: Midsummer FaireAugust 15th: Simmering SummerSeptember 19th:&nbsp;Come TogetherOctober 17th: Street PartyMore information on the <a href="https://downtownmhk.com/third-thursdays/">2024 Third Thursday events can be found here</a>.

Third Thursday returns to Downtown MHK on Thursday May 16th

submitted by K-State Communications and Marketing, written by Rafael Garcia

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is recognizing four faculty members for outstanding work in their roles as educators through the Commerce Bank and W.T. Kemper Foundation Undergraduate Teaching Awards.

This year's award recipients include&nbsp;<a href="https://apdesign.k-state.edu/about/faculty-staff/alford/">Grant Alford</a>, associate professor of architecture;&nbsp;<a href="https://are-cns.k-state.edu/people/faculty/juliakeen/">Julia Keen</a>, professor of architectural engineering and construction science and Bob and Betty Tointon Engineering Chair;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/chem/about/people/faculty/rafferty/">Ryan Rafferty</a>, associate professor of chemistry; and&nbsp;<a href="https://cba.k-state.edu/about/faculty-staff/directory/Brandon-Savage.html">Brandon Savage</a>, advanced instructor of management.

The four educators will receive a $5,000 honorarium from Commerce Bank and the W. T. Kemper Foundation, which sponsor the awards.

"Commerce Bank and the W.T. Kemper Foundation would like to congratulate this year's recipients," said Shawn Drew, market president and CEO of Commerce Bank. "This was another special year as it was the first year the value of each award was increased, and we were once again able to surprise the awardees in their classrooms with students and faculty cheering. Excellence in teaching should be celebrated and we are honored to be a part of this partnership with Kansas State University for over 30 years."

<a href="https://apdesign.k-state.edu/about/faculty-staff/alford/">Alford</a>&nbsp;has worked at K-State since 2018, when he was hired as an assistant professor. He began his career as a National Council of Architectural Registration Boards-certified architect, working for award-winning firms in New York, New Jersey and Texas before moving into higher education. Alford previously taught at Rice University and Texas Tech University. He received a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University and a Master of Architecture degree from Princeton University.

Alford's research focuses on the cultural contexts of digital technology and architecture, especially new media and two-dimensional representation. He's currently completing a manuscript on craft theory and contemporary architecture. Geometry, drawing, diagramming, and visions of suburbia are also frequent topics of his teaching and writing.

"In my courses, I try to model a critical curiosity about the built environment and the tools we use to create architectural ideas," Alford said. "I'm honored to be recognized for this effort and thank the students who embrace that curiosity and make teaching here a pleasure."

<a href="https://are-cns.k-state.edu/people/faculty/juliakeen/">Keen</a>&nbsp;is an accomplished mechanical/electrical project engineer, having been involved in design and construction of buildings such as hospitals, health clinics, assisted living facilities, schools, offices and more. She joined the K-State architectural engineering and construction science faculty in 2003, and she earned her bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees from K-State as well.

Her research and teaching work have involved both undergraduate and graduate students, with areas of interest including HVAC design and education, energy codes, high-performance design and the advancement of women in the building design and construction industry.

"Having the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with the next generation of building professionals is extremely rewarding," Keen said. "Being able to do this at my alma mater makes it even more meaningful. Awards such as this reinforce K-State's commitment to excellence in education especially at the undergraduate level."

<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/chem/about/people/faculty/rafferty/">Rafferty</a>&nbsp;has been at K-State since 2014, when he was hired as an assistant professor of chemistry, later earning a promotion to associate professor. Prior to arriving at K-State, Rafferty was a visiting and postdoctoral lecturer at the University of Illinois at Urbana. He earned two bachelor's degrees and a master's from the University of Northern Colorado, as well as a doctoral degree from Colorado state University.

Through his lecture and laboratory courses, Rafferty breaks down the stigmas that surround organic chemistry and its related fields as difficult or "degree busting" courses. Beyond the classroom, Rafferty has mentored 36 undergraduate students in his research lab as well as 10 undergraduates through the department's NSF-REU program from other universities.

"I’m so honored being recognized for my teaching by this prestigious award," Rafferty said. "With all that said, this award, and most importantly each of my course’s success is due to one major common thread — the amazing students here at K-State. I love to teach and share my passion for science, I truly considered it a blessing in my life."

<a href="https://cba.k-state.edu/about/faculty-staff/directory/Brandon-Savage.html">Savage</a>&nbsp;began his teaching career in 2016 as an adjunct instructor at K-State after a career as an operations and customer experience executive in the electronic security industry. He transitioned to a full-time instructor two years later. Savage holds a bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University and an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Currently, Savage teaches classes in operations, supply chain management, project management, and logistics/warehouse management. He has also taught classes in business strategy, business ethics and business presentation skills. He said he continually looks for feedback from student and professional development opportunities to improve his teaching practices.

"I love bringing my experience in the business world into the classroom. I've used many of the techniques we applied in the customer experience realm to improve the student experience," Savage said. "I'm grateful to receive this award and hope I can continue to make a difference in the lives of students here at Kansas State University."

Each educator was surprised with the award by K-State President Richard Linton during one of their course sessions in late April, and they were further honored at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/about/stats-strengths/achievements/all-university-awards/">All-University Awards Ceremony</a>&nbsp;in early May.

"These educators exemplify the world-class academic experience at K-State, inspiring the next generation of changemakers for Kansas and the world," Linton said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715788652597.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>submitted by K-State Communications and Marketing, written by Rafael GarciaMANHATTAN — Kansas State University is recognizing four faculty members for outstanding work in their roles as educators through the Commerce Bank and W.T. Kemper Foundation Undergraduate Teaching Awards.This year's award recipients include&nbsp;<a href="https://apdesign.k-state.edu/about/faculty-staff/alford/">Grant Alford</a>, associate professor of architecture;&nbsp;<a href="https://are-cns.k-state.edu/people/faculty/juliakeen/">Julia Keen</a>, professor of architectural engineering and construction science and Bob and Betty Tointon Engineering Chair;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/chem/about/people/faculty/rafferty/">Ryan Rafferty</a>, associate professor of chemistry; and&nbsp;<a href="https://cba.k-state.edu/about/faculty-staff/directory/Brandon-Savage.html">Brandon Savage</a>, advanced instructor of management.The four educators will receive a $5,000 honorarium from Commerce Bank and the W. T. Kemper Foundation, which sponsor the awards."Commerce Bank and the W.T. Kemper Foundation would like to congratulate this year's recipients," said Shawn Drew, market president and CEO of Commerce Bank. "This was another special year as it was the first year the value of each award was increased, and we were once again able to surprise the awardees in their classrooms with students and faculty cheering. Excellence in teaching should be celebrated and we are honored to be a part of this partnership with Kansas State University for over 30 years."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715794319441.jpeg" alt="Grant Alford, associate professor of architecture" />
 <figcaption>Grant Alford, associate professor of architecture</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://apdesign.k-state.edu/about/faculty-staff/alford/">Alford</a>&nbsp;has worked at K-State since 2018, when he was hired as an assistant professor. He began his career as a National Council of Architectural Registration Boards-certified architect, working for award-winning firms in New York, New Jersey and Texas before moving into higher education. Alford previously taught at Rice University and Texas Tech University. He received a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University and a Master of Architecture degree from Princeton University.Alford's research focuses on the cultural contexts of digital technology and architecture, especially new media and two-dimensional representation. He's currently completing a manuscript on craft theory and contemporary architecture. Geometry, drawing, diagramming, and visions of suburbia are also frequent topics of his teaching and writing."In my courses, I try to model a critical curiosity about the built environment and the tools we use to create architectural ideas," Alford said. "I'm honored to be recognized for this effort and thank the students who embrace that curiosity and make teaching here a pleasure."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715794381345.jpeg" alt="Julia Keen, professor of architectural engineering and construction science and Bob and Betty Tointon Engineering Chair" />
 <figcaption>Julia Keen, professor of architectural engineering and construction science and Bob and Betty Tointon Engineering Chair</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://are-cns.k-state.edu/people/faculty/juliakeen/">Keen</a>&nbsp;is an accomplished mechanical/electrical project engineer, having been involved in design and construction of buildings such as hospitals, health clinics, assisted living facilities, schools, offices and more. She joined the K-State architectural engineering and construction science faculty in 2003, and she earned her bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees from K-State as well.Her research and teaching work have involved both undergraduate and graduate students, with areas of interest including HVAC design and education, energy codes, high-performance design and the advancement of women in the building design and construction industry."Having the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with the next generation of building professionals is extremely rewarding," Keen said. "Being able to do this at my alma mater makes it even more meaningful. Awards such as this reinforce K-State's commitment to excellence in education especially at the undergraduate level."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715794467505.jpeg" alt="Ryan Rafferty, associate professor of chemistry" />
 <figcaption>Ryan Rafferty, associate professor of chemistry</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.k-state.edu/chem/about/people/faculty/rafferty/">Rafferty</a>&nbsp;has been at K-State since 2014, when he was hired as an assistant professor of chemistry, later earning a promotion to associate professor. Prior to arriving at K-State, Rafferty was a visiting and postdoctoral lecturer at the University of Illinois at Urbana. He earned two bachelor's degrees and a master's from the University of Northern Colorado, as well as a doctoral degree from Colorado state University.Through his lecture and laboratory courses, Rafferty breaks down the stigmas that surround organic chemistry and its related fields as difficult or "degree busting" courses. Beyond the classroom, Rafferty has mentored 36 undergraduate students in his research lab as well as 10 undergraduates through the department's NSF-REU program from other universities."I’m so honored being recognized for my teaching by this prestigious award," Rafferty said. "With all that said, this award, and most importantly each of my course’s success is due to one major common thread — the amazing students here at K-State. I love to teach and share my passion for science, I truly considered it a blessing in my life."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715794503430.png" alt="Brandon Savage, instructor of management" />
 <figcaption>Brandon Savage, instructor of management</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://cba.k-state.edu/about/faculty-staff/directory/Brandon-Savage.html">Savage</a>&nbsp;began his teaching career in 2016 as an adjunct instructor at K-State after a career as an operations and customer experience executive in the electronic security industry. He transitioned to a full-time instructor two years later. Savage holds a bachelor's degree from Brigham Young University and an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.Currently, Savage teaches classes in operations, supply chain management, project management, and logistics/warehouse management. He has also taught classes in business strategy, business ethics and business presentation skills. He said he continually looks for feedback from student and professional development opportunities to improve his teaching practices."I love bringing my experience in the business world into the classroom. I've used many of the techniques we applied in the customer experience realm to improve the student experience," Savage said. "I'm grateful to receive this award and hope I can continue to make a difference in the lives of students here at Kansas State University."Each educator was surprised with the award by K-State President Richard Linton during one of their course sessions in late April, and they were further honored at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/about/stats-strengths/achievements/all-university-awards/">All-University Awards Ceremony</a>&nbsp;in early May."These educators exemplify the world-class academic experience at K-State, inspiring the next generation of changemakers for Kansas and the world," Linton said.

Four Kansas State University professors receive top award for teaching excellence

MASON JOSIAH RANDOLPH, 35, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Violate protection order; Condition of pre-trial orders; Bond $12,000

JONATHAN LEWIS LEMUEL VALENTINE, Probation Violation; Bond $750

PAMELA MAY ANN HALL, 19, Failure to appear; Bond $500

ALICIA ANN SCOGGAN, 33, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drug or combination of drugs; 2nd conv; Bond $2,000

BENJAMYN WAYNE REAZIN, 15, Manhattan, Battery; Physical contact in rude, insulting, angry manner; Processed through North Central Kansas Juvenile Intake

CLINTON VINCE DUBRAY, 31, Parsons, Theft of property or services; Value $1,500 to $25,000; Shoplifting; Arrested and released on bond by Pottawatomie Co Sheriff's Office on 05/08/2024

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;MASON JOSIAH RANDOLPH, 35, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Violate protection order; Condition of pre-trial orders; Bond $12,000JONATHAN LEWIS LEMUEL VALENTINE, Probation Violation; Bond $750PAMELA MAY ANN HALL, 19, Failure to appear; Bond $500ALICIA ANN SCOGGAN, 33, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drug or combination of drugs; 2nd conv; Bond $2,000BENJAMYN WAYNE REAZIN, 15, Manhattan, Battery; Physical contact in rude, insulting, angry manner; Processed through North Central Kansas Juvenile IntakeCLINTON VINCE DUBRAY, 31, Parsons, Theft of property or services; Value $1,500 to $25,000; Shoplifting; Arrested and released on bond by Pottawatomie Co Sheriff's Office on 05/08/2024

Riley County Arrest Report May 15

JUNCTION CITY — July 4, 2024 marks the 48th year for the Junction City Freedom Run, which will take place as part of the Freedom Fest celebration. Registration is now open for the 1-mile, 5K and 10K. This year's run will begin in downtown Junction City with the finish remaining in Heritage Park. All races will begin at 7:30 a.m.

The Freedom Run Independence Day tradition, now in its 48 year, was founded on the idea of community connections, where freedom is celebrated and honored.&nbsp;Runners will simultaneously depart for all three courses at the intersection of 6th and Washington.

If you’re not a runner but would still like to be involved in this July 4th event, sign up to volunteer. The Freedom Run prides itself on fun water stops, excitement along the courses as you help with traffic and a unique finish line experience. If you’re interested in either opportunity, send a message to the Freedom Run – Junction City Facebook page.

The committee thanks the following community agencies collaborating to make this event a highlight of the holiday weekend:

● Fort Riley Directorate of Emergency Services and Public Works

Follow the Freedom Run - Junction City Facebook page for race day information and updates or if you have additional questions, email the Freedom Run committee at jcfreedomrun@gmail.com

Lindsey Snider and Terrah Stroda are serving as coordinators of the Freedom Run.

JUNCTION CITY — July 4, 2024 marks the 48th year for the Junction City Freedom Run, which will take place as part of the Freedom Fest celebration. Registration is now open for the 1-mile, 5K and 10K. This year's run will begin in downtown Junction City with the finish remaining in Heritage Park. All races will begin at 7:30 a.m.The Freedom Run Independence Day tradition, now in its 48 year, was founded on the idea of community connections, where freedom is celebrated and honored.&nbsp;Runners will simultaneously depart for all three courses at the intersection of 6th and Washington.If you’re not a runner but would still like to be involved in this July 4th event, sign up to volunteer. The Freedom Run prides itself on fun water stops, excitement along the courses as you help with traffic and a unique finish line experience. If you’re interested in either opportunity, send a message to the Freedom Run – Junction City Facebook page.The committee thanks the following community agencies collaborating to make this event a highlight of the holiday weekend:● Junction City Fire Department● Junction City Police Department● Geary County Sheriff's Department● Geary County Rural Fire Department● City of Junction City● Fort Riley Directorate of Emergency Services and Public Works● Red Dirt RacingFollow the Freedom Run - Junction City Facebook page for race day information and updates or if you have additional questions, email the Freedom Run committee at jcfreedomrun@gmail.comLindsey Snider and Terrah Stroda are serving as coordinators of the Freedom Run.

Freedom Run registration opens

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Riley County have captured an inmate who&nbsp;did not arrive at the workforce center and&nbsp; did not return to the jail. Just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday, the Riley County Police Department reported Justin Brown, 34, escaped from custody.

Brown was located at City Park and booked back into jail just before 2a.m. Wednesday, according to online jail records.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities in Riley County have captured an inmate who&nbsp;did not arrive at the workforce center and&nbsp; did not return to the jail. Just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday, the Riley County Police Department reported Justin Brown, 34, escaped from custody.Brown was located at City Park and booked back into jail just before 2a.m. Wednesday, according to online jail records.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details.

RCPD captures inmate who escaped custody 

Participants on the northern routes of this year’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour saw some of the better-looking wheat that they’ve seen in years, while participants on the southern routes saw drought-stricken fields. They calculated yields based on head counts and number of spikelets in the heads; however, tour scouts saw stripe rust, wheat streak mosaic virus and freeze damage.

About 69 people from 19 U.S. states, traveled in 18 cars on six routes between Manhattan and Colby, Kan., Tuesday, stopping at wheat fields every 15-20 miles along the routes, as part of the Wheat Quality Council’s 66th Annual Hard Winter Wheat Evaluation Tour.

About half the participants had not been on the tour before. They were shown how to take yield measurements from tour alumni, using the formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). This formula is based on 2014-2023 Kansas wheat objective yield data. Farmers can calculate their own field estimates using the same formula with instructions at kswheat.com.

Every tour participant makes yield calculations at each stop based on three to four different area samplings per field. These individual estimates are averaged with the rest of their route mates, and eventually added to a formula that produces a final yield estimate for the areas along the routes. While yields tend to be the spotlight of the Wheat Quality Tour, the real benefit is the ability to network among the ‘grain chain.’ This tour gives Kansas farmers the chance to interact with and influence their customers around the globe, on the tour, as well as at the #wheattour24 hashtag.

Tuesday’s cars of wheat tour scouts made 206 stops at wheat fields across north central, central and northwest Kansas, and into southern counties in Nebraska. The calculated yield is based on what scouts saw at this point in time. A lot can happen between now and harvest. The calculated yield from all cars was 49.9 bushels per acre, which was above trendline yields and is representative of areas of the state that are not most impacted by drought conditions. Day 2 of the tour will travel through southwest and south central Kansas, areas that have missed out on any recent precipitation.

Statewide, based on May 1 conditions, Kansas' 2024 winter wheat crop is forecast at 267.9 million bushels, up 66 million bushels from last year's crop, according to NASS. Average yield is forecast at 38 bushels per acre, up 3 bushels from last year. Acreage to be harvested for grain is estimated at 7.05 million acres, up from last year’s 5.75 million acres.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655426692793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MARSHA BOSWELL Kansas WheatParticipants on the northern routes of this year’s Hard Winter Wheat Tour saw some of the better-looking wheat that they’ve seen in years, while participants on the southern routes saw drought-stricken fields. They calculated yields based on head counts and number of spikelets in the heads; however, tour scouts saw stripe rust, wheat streak mosaic virus and freeze damage.About 69 people from 19 U.S. states, traveled in 18 cars on six routes between Manhattan and Colby, Kan., Tuesday, stopping at wheat fields every 15-20 miles along the routes, as part of the Wheat Quality Council’s 66th Annual Hard Winter Wheat Evaluation Tour.About half the participants had not been on the tour before. They were shown how to take yield measurements from tour alumni, using the formula provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). This formula is based on 2014-2023 Kansas wheat objective yield data. Farmers can calculate their own field estimates using the same formula with instructions at kswheat.com.Every tour participant makes yield calculations at each stop based on three to four different area samplings per field. These individual estimates are averaged with the rest of their route mates, and eventually added to a formula that produces a final yield estimate for the areas along the routes. While yields tend to be the spotlight of the Wheat Quality Tour, the real benefit is the ability to network among the ‘grain chain.’ This tour gives Kansas farmers the chance to interact with and influence their customers around the globe, on the tour, as well as at the #wheattour24 hashtag.Tuesday’s cars of wheat tour scouts made 206 stops at wheat fields across north central, central and northwest Kansas, and into southern counties in Nebraska. The calculated yield is based on what scouts saw at this point in time. A lot can happen between now and harvest. The calculated yield from all cars was 49.9 bushels per acre, which was above trendline yields and is representative of areas of the state that are not most impacted by drought conditions. Day 2 of the tour will travel through southwest and south central Kansas, areas that have missed out on any recent precipitation.Statewide, based on May 1 conditions, Kansas' 2024 winter wheat crop is forecast at 267.9 million bushels, up 66 million bushels from last year's crop, according to NASS. Average yield is forecast at 38 bushels per acre, up 3 bushels from last year. Acreage to be harvested for grain is estimated at 7.05 million acres, up from last year’s 5.75 million acres.For the week ending May 12, 2024, Kansas winter wheat condition rated 13% very poor, 22% poor, 34% fair, 28% good and 3% excellent. Kansas winter wheat jointed was 97%, ahead of 84% last year and 89% for the five-year average. Headed was 73%, well ahead of 48% last year and 43% average. Coloring was 1%.In addition to Kansas reports, scouts from Nebraska and Colorado met the group in Colby to give reports from their states.Royce Schaneman from Nebraska Wheat Board reported that USDA estimates the Nebraska crop at 40.8 million bushels, which is up from 36.96 million bushels last year. Yield is estimated at 48 bushels per acre.A report from Colorado estimated the crop at 72 million bushels, based on a yield of 44 bushels per acre and 2.1 million acres planted. This is lower than the May 1 USDA estimate of 81.4 million bushels, based on slightly higher abandonment. Last year’s production was 74.62 million bushels.These estimates are for this year’s hard winter wheat crop during this current snapshot in time.Wheat Tour 24 continues Wednesday with six routes between Colby and Wichita, Kansas.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

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