RILEY COUNTY–Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes.

On Monday, police arrested 64-year-old <a href="https://www.clarkpetersenchiropractic.com/">Clark Petersen</a> of Manhattan&nbsp; in connection to sex crimes reported to have occurred at his chiropractic office,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Petersen+Chiropractic:+Clark+A.+Petersen+D.C./@39.194001,-96.60703,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x816ed6b4af777c41!8m2!3d39.194001!4d-96.60703" target="_blank">1419 Westport Landing Place&nbsp; </a>#109 in Manhattan, between 2018 and 2022 involving five female victims now between the ages of 37 and 59, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Dept.

Petersen was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for 16 counts of sexual battery and one count each of rape, aggravated sexual battery, and lewd and lascivious behavior. He remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $300,000.

The investigation into Petersen continues, anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Jessie Ehrlich at (785) 473-2397. RCPD Victim Advocate Coordinator Melissa Mosher is available to assist any victims of crime with emotional support and resources. She can be reached at (785) 473-2390.

RILEY COUNTY–Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes.On Monday, police arrested 64-year-old <a href="https://www.clarkpetersenchiropractic.com/">Clark Petersen</a> of Manhattan&nbsp; in connection to sex crimes reported to have occurred at his chiropractic office,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Petersen+Chiropractic:+Clark+A.+Petersen+D.C./@39.194001,-96.60703,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x816ed6b4af777c41!8m2!3d39.194001!4d-96.60703" target="_blank">1419 Westport Landing Place&nbsp; </a>#109 in Manhattan, between 2018 and 2022 involving five female victims now between the ages of 37 and 59, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Dept.Petersen was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for 16 counts of sexual battery and one count each of rape, aggravated sexual battery, and lewd and lascivious behavior. He remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $300,000.The investigation into Petersen continues, anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Jessie Ehrlich at (785) 473-2397. RCPD Victim Advocate Coordinator Melissa Mosher is available to assist any victims of crime with emotional support and resources. She can be reached at (785) 473-2390.

Manhattan chiropractor accused of sex crimes at his office

Fort Riley will host an Armed Services Blood Program blood drive this week at Long Fitness Center. The blood drive starts on Tuesday, August 29, and will go through Thursday, August 31.&nbsp; The hours of the blood drive will be 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day.&nbsp;

Since 1962, the Armed Services Blood Program has been the official blood collection program of the United States military.&nbsp;

Fort Riley will host an Armed Services Blood Program blood drive this week at Long Fitness Center. The blood drive starts on Tuesday, August 29, and will go through Thursday, August 31.&nbsp; The hours of the blood drive will be 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day.&nbsp;Since 1962, the Armed Services Blood Program has been the official blood collection program of the United States military.&nbsp;

Fort Riley to hold blood drive this week 

<a>Beginning Wednesday, August 30, the Kansas Department of Transportation will move to K-189 for&nbsp;</a><a></a><a>a resurfacing project at multiple locations including K-209 in Dickinson and Morris counties, the K-244 spur in Geary County, and K-189 in Cloud County.</a>

Work on K-189 will begin at the east city limits of Miltonvale and continue north to U.S. 24. (See map.)

Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one 12-foot lane of traffic through the construction zone. Drivers should be prepared for a delay of up to 15 minutes and plan extra time in their travel schedules.&nbsp;

Shilling Construction Co. of Manhattan is the prime contractor for this $885,434 project.

<a>Beginning Wednesday, August 30, the Kansas Department of Transportation will move to K-189 for&nbsp;</a><a></a><a>a resurfacing project at multiple locations including K-209 in Dickinson and Morris counties, the K-244 spur in Geary County, and K-189 in Cloud County.</a>Work on K-189 will begin at the east city limits of Miltonvale and continue north to U.S. 24. (See map.)Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one 12-foot lane of traffic through the construction zone. Drivers should be prepared for a delay of up to 15 minutes and plan extra time in their travel schedules.&nbsp;Shilling Construction Co. of Manhattan is the prime contractor for this $885,434 project.

Resurfacing on K-189 begins Wednesday

There will be a joint Junction City, Geary County, USD 475 joint meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the C. L. Hoover Opera House.

The agenda includes discussion of the proposed Taylor Road Interchange on I-70 and development of streets and roads serving that area, and local partnership.

Other topics include joint agreements between units of government, a walking trail from Spring Valley Road to Blue jay Way and a sidewalk along Spring Valley Road to Valley Drive.

USD 475 agenda items will include a community awareness meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 14, the Morris Hill Elementary School ribbon cutting on Sept. 22 at 1:30 p.m., the Junction City Middle School parking lot, the opening of the school year, and a mental health grant.

There will be a joint Junction City, Geary County, USD 475 joint meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the C. L. Hoover Opera House.The agenda includes discussion of the proposed Taylor Road Interchange on I-70 and development of streets and roads serving that area, and local partnership.Other topics include joint agreements between units of government, a walking trail from Spring Valley Road to Blue jay Way and a sidewalk along Spring Valley Road to Valley Drive.USD 475 agenda items will include a community awareness meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 14, the Morris Hill Elementary School ribbon cutting on Sept. 22 at 1:30 p.m., the Junction City Middle School parking lot, the opening of the school year, and a mental health grant.

City, county, school board schedule a joint meeting

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherI admit going to Africa was never on my “bucket list”. Earlier this year I was offered the opportunity to travel there with the Kansas Farm Bureau Casten Fellows. Was I apprehensive? Absolutely. Was I nervous? You bet. However, after a quick check with my family it was clear this was a chance of a lifetime and something I could not pass up. Boy, am I glad I took that leap of faith because my perspective of the world will never be the same.I am not sure I ever completely wrapped my head around the fact I was halfway around the world from my home and my family. In some ways Uganda and Tanzania seemed so different but, in many ways, things seemed the same. On one hand I was in a land of banana trees and coffee plants; I saw giraffes casually walking through farm fields and monkeys dancing across the roof of my cabin. On the other hand, I talked to farmers with the same basic concerns I have — prices and weather. I met some of the most gracious, kind and caring people I have ever met. In many ways our worlds seemed very familiar.I have been asked to describe the trip and often I feel my explanation is very inadequate. What I experienced was so big that words and pictures are lacking. I do know, without a doubt, that my understanding of the world has grown immensely. I only wish that all of you could have experienced the same things I did. If you ever get that opportunity, make sure you take it. Your world will be richer because of the challenge you accepted.Here is the great thing, you will have that chance. Next year the Casten Fellows will be asking for applications. Do we know where they are going? No, but does it really matter? In my humble opinion, no. Like I said, Africa is somewhere I had not really ever thought about going and now I am very thankful I had that chance. Take that challenge and stretch yourself. Will it always be comfortable? Again, the answer is no. There were times that the trip took me far out of my comfort zone and that is a good thing. Real growth cannot happen if we are comfortable.It is tough to be gone for two weeks, I will not lie. I missed home, but the reward was more than worth it. I came away with both an appreciation of Africa and its people but also for what I have at home, my family and everything I have been blessed with in my life. If you at all think going abroad would be interesting or you are looking for a true growth experience, I highly recommend you apply for the Casten Fellows next year.Not only will you benefit personally from the trip, but our organization will also reap the rewards of having members who better understand the world we live in. Maybe travel to Africa wasn’t on my bucket list before, but I promise that list is much longer now.

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancherI admit going to Africa was never on my “bucket list”. Earlier this year I was offered the opportunity to travel there with the Kansas Farm Bureau Casten Fellows. Was I apprehensive? Absolutely. Was I nervous? You bet. However, after a quick check with my family it was clear this was a chance of a lifetime and something I could not pass up. Boy, am I glad I took that leap of faith because my perspective of the world will never be the same.I am not sure I ever completely wrapped my head around the fact I was halfway around the world from my home and my family. In some ways Uganda and Tanzania seemed so different but, in many ways, things seemed the same. On one hand I was in a land of banana trees and coffee plants; I saw giraffes casually walking through farm fields and monkeys dancing across the roof of my cabin. On the other hand, I talked to farmers with the same basic concerns I have — prices and weather. I met some of the most gracious, kind and caring people I have ever met. In many ways our worlds seemed very familiar.I have been asked to describe the trip and often I feel my explanation is very inadequate. What I experienced was so big that words and pictures are lacking. I do know, without a doubt, that my understanding of the world has grown immensely. I only wish that all of you could have experienced the same things I did. If you ever get that opportunity, make sure you take it. Your world will be richer because of the challenge you accepted.Here is the great thing, you will have that chance. Next year the Casten Fellows will be asking for applications. Do we know where they are going? No, but does it really matter? In my humble opinion, no. Like I said, Africa is somewhere I had not really ever thought about going and now I am very thankful I had that chance. Take that challenge and stretch yourself. Will it always be comfortable? Again, the answer is no. There were times that the trip took me far out of my comfort zone and that is a good thing. Real growth cannot happen if we are comfortable.It is tough to be gone for two weeks, I will not lie. I missed home, but the reward was more than worth it. I came away with both an appreciation of Africa and its people but also for what I have at home, my family and everything I have been blessed with in my life. If you at all think going abroad would be interesting or you are looking for a true growth experience, I highly recommend you apply for the Casten Fellows next year.Not only will you benefit personally from the trip, but our organization will also reap the rewards of having members who better understand the world we live in. Maybe travel to Africa wasn’t on my bucket list before, but I promise that list is much longer now.

A bigger bucket list

MANHATTAN — The 2023-2024&nbsp;<a href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">McCain Performance Series</a>&nbsp;opens election season with the Capitol Fools at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, in Kansas State University's McCain Auditorium.

The political satire originally performed by the Capitol Steps continues with the Capitol Fools — the new musical parody group created by the performers and co-writers from the Capitol Steps. The Capitol Fools group holds up a mirror to the nation's political culture, providing hilarious song parodies and foolish reflections that continue to inspire belly laughs. Audiences will continue to see cast members from past seasons of the Capitol Steps performing all the beloved bits, the show-ending and mind-boggling backward-talking spoonerisms, breakneck costume changes, over-the-top impressions, and all-new song parodies reflecting the day's news. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Kids 17 and under get 50% off the general price of admission for this show.

MANHATTAN — The 2023-2024&nbsp;<a href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">McCain Performance Series</a>&nbsp;opens election season with the Capitol Fools at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, in Kansas State University's McCain Auditorium. The political satire originally performed by the Capitol Steps continues with the Capitol Fools — the new musical parody group created by the performers and co-writers from the Capitol Steps. The Capitol Fools group holds up a mirror to the nation's political culture, providing hilarious song parodies and foolish reflections that continue to inspire belly laughs. Audiences will continue to see cast members from past seasons of the Capitol Steps performing all the beloved bits, the show-ending and mind-boggling backward-talking spoonerisms, breakneck costume changes, over-the-top impressions, and all-new song parodies reflecting the day's news. Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Kids 17 and under get 50% off the general price of admission for this show.

McCain Performance Series hosts a peaceful transition of comedy from Capitol Steps to Capitol Fools

GEARY COUNTY —One person was injured in a crash during a chase by law enforcement just before 10:30p.m. Saturday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Yamaha motorcycle driven by 23-year-old Calvin D.&nbsp;Amacker Jr.&nbsp; of Junction City was westbound in the 300 Block of Ash Street actively fleeing from Law Enforcement. 

The driver took the curve in the roadway too quickly. The motorcycle left the roadway to the south, struck a utility junction box and the driver was ejected.

EMS transported Amacker Jr. to Stormont Vail Junction City for treatment of serious injuries. He was wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Authorities have not released details on what prompted the chase or possible charges.

GEARY COUNTY —One person was injured in a crash during a chase by law enforcement just before 10:30p.m. Saturday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Yamaha motorcycle driven by 23-year-old Calvin D.&nbsp;Amacker Jr.&nbsp; of Junction City was westbound in the 300 Block of Ash Street actively fleeing from Law Enforcement. The driver took the curve in the roadway too quickly. The motorcycle left the roadway to the south, struck a utility junction box and the driver was ejected.EMS transported Amacker Jr. to Stormont Vail Junction City for treatment of serious injuries. He was wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Authorities have not released details on what prompted the chase or possible charges.

Junction City man injured in crash during police chase

You never need to pay to sign up for government student loan debt relief programs — but scammers will tell you otherwise. Here’s how to spot scam companies that charge illegal upfront fees for so-called help with your student loans.

The first thing to know is this: you don’t have to pay for help managing your student loans. If someone tries to charge you up front, before they’ve done anything, that’s your first clue that this is a scam.&nbsp;&nbsp;And nobody but a scammer will ever offer you quick loan forgiveness.

Take, for example,&nbsp;Apex, a company that — according to an FTC lawsuit — enrolled people in their sham student loan forgiveness program. During the&nbsp;<a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/covid-19">federal student loan pause</a>, when most borrowers weren’t in contact with their loan servicers, Apex signed people up for what they called debt relief programs.

So, how did they convince borrowers to get on board? Apex employees pretended they worked with the Department of Education (they didn’t) and told borrowers they were their new loan servicers (they weren’t). They then signed borrowers up to make automatic payments to a debt relief program that didn’t exist. The problem? Payments went to Apex’s pockets, rarely making it to actual loan servicers. And, to add insult to injury, the COVID-19 federal student loan pause meant that federal borrowers didn’t have to make any loan payments starting March 2020.

Now that the return to repayment is coming up, start at&nbsp;<a href="http://studentaid.gov/repay">StudentAid.gov/repay</a>&nbsp;to look at the status of your federal student loans. You’ll find, among other things, information on income-driven repayment plans that adjust your monthly payment based on your income. If your loans are private, go directly to your loan servicer.&nbsp;And if you spot a scam, the FTC wants to know about it:&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692717024908.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ARI LAZARUS FTCYou never need to pay to sign up for government student loan debt relief programs — but scammers will tell you otherwise. Here’s how to spot scam companies that charge illegal upfront fees for so-called help with your student loans.The first thing to know is this: you don’t have to pay for help managing your student loans. If someone tries to charge you up front, before they’ve done anything, that’s your first clue that this is a scam.&nbsp;&nbsp;And nobody but a scammer will ever offer you quick loan forgiveness.Take, for example,&nbsp;Apex, a company that — according to an FTC lawsuit — enrolled people in their sham student loan forgiveness program. During the&nbsp;<a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/covid-19">federal student loan pause</a>, when most borrowers weren’t in contact with their loan servicers, Apex signed people up for what they called debt relief programs.So, how did they convince borrowers to get on board? Apex employees pretended they worked with the Department of Education (they didn’t) and told borrowers they were their new loan servicers (they weren’t). They then signed borrowers up to make automatic payments to a debt relief program that didn’t exist. The problem? Payments went to Apex’s pockets, rarely making it to actual loan servicers. And, to add insult to injury, the COVID-19 federal student loan pause meant that federal borrowers didn’t have to make any loan payments starting March 2020.Now that the return to repayment is coming up, start at&nbsp;<a href="http://studentaid.gov/repay">StudentAid.gov/repay</a>&nbsp;to look at the status of your federal student loans. You’ll find, among other things, information on income-driven repayment plans that adjust your monthly payment based on your income. If your loans are private, go directly to your loan servicer.&nbsp;And if you spot a scam, the FTC wants to know about it:&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: Don’t pay for help with your federal student loans

The Black Start Exercise at Fort Riley has been rescheduled from 11 p.m. on Sept. 6 to&nbsp; 5 a.m. on Sept. 7.

According to a Fort Riley release the entire installation will be without power for about two hours, then the majority of the housing areas and partner businesses will have power restored. 

There will be minimal impacts to services across the installation and facilities are scheduled to operate during normal business hours after 5 a.m. on Sept. 7.

The Black Start Exercise at Fort Riley has been rescheduled from 11 p.m. on Sept. 6 to&nbsp; 5 a.m. on Sept. 7.According to a Fort Riley release the entire installation will be without power for about two hours, then the majority of the housing areas and partner businesses will have power restored. There will be minimal impacts to services across the installation and facilities are scheduled to operate during normal business hours after 5 a.m. on Sept. 7.

Black Start Exercise is rescheduled on Post

The Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program has announced the newest members of the training experience along with a milestone celebration. The program was formed in 1992 and is celebrating its 30th Anniversary of programming with the upcoming 2023-24 program year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The festivities were held in Manhattan at the Flint Hills Discovery Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to FHRLP Board chair and program alumnus, Sarah Keatley, “From that very first 1993-94 class, 636 members of this region have stepped up to make a measurable difference in the lives and livelihoods of generations of residents from the north-central Flint Hills and western KAW Valley communities we call home.”&nbsp;

Founding and continuously supporting organization representatives we’re recognized as well during the event including Fort Riley, The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Manhattan, the Riley County Commission, the Geary County Commission, City of Junction City, City of Wamego, Wamego Area Chamber of Commerce, Pottawatomie County, and the newly added Wabaunsee County Commission.&nbsp;

Lindsay Miller, FHRLP Treasurer, thanked the underwriters and sponsors including the founding organizations, session sponsors and businesses that help fund the eight-session experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;CORVIAS Military Living/Riley Communities received special recognition as the lead class 2023-24 underwriter.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Brandon French, FHRLP Alumni coordinator, honored a score of alumni that have joined the Lifetime Dues honorary for perpetual support of the program.&nbsp;

Program Executive Director, Jack Lindquist summarized the profile of the selected emerging leaders of the 2023-24 class, “The class members selected represent the success of collaborations, cooperation, bipartisanship, service, partnerships, commitment, teamwork, tenacity, and perseverance. Teamwork makes the dream work!”&nbsp;

In conclusion of the event Lindquist added,&nbsp;“We will keep the public tuned into the progress of the training experience through news and social media sources as we take the 2023-24 class through the steps to discover their role alongside key leaders that represent the bridge to a brighter pathway and future for our region.”&nbsp;

Holly Boice Junction City GE County Grant Specialist, Flint Hills Regional Council

Tiffany Cutting Manhattan RL County Manager, Varney &amp; Associates CPA's LLC

Israel Epping-Fuentes Manhattan PT County AVP Branch Manager, Bank of the Flint Hills

Vanessa Eymann Fort Riley GE County Leader and Workforce Development Specialist, DHR Fort Riley

Casey Frisbie St. George PT County Director of Public Works, Wamego

Amanda Gnadt Alma WB County Flint Hills Stone, Co-owner &amp; Community Relations Dir.

Natalie Gordon Westmoreland PT County Director of Business Development and Client Engagement, Anderson Knight Architects

Jason Hasby Manhattan RL County Mobilization Plans and Operations Specialist DPTMS USAG Fort Riley

Tracy Henry Alma WB County Executive Director, Greater Morris County Development Corporation

Jennifer “JJ” James Manhattan RL County Public Affairs Specialist, USAG Fort Riley

Jackie Jones Manhattan RL County Security Manager, DPTMS, USAG Fort Riley

Michaela Joyce Manhattan RL County Executive Director Junction City Mainstreet

Jerry Kellum Manhattan RL County Program Analyst, Army DPW

Stephanie Maike Alma WB County 4-H Program Assistant / Office Professional, K-State Research &amp; Extension: Wabaunsee County

Melissa McClure Manhattan RL County Garrison Operations Specialist, USAG Ft. Riley

Dustin Murphy Chapman DK County Investigations Lieutenant, Junction City Police Department

Patricia Pearson Junction City GE County Peer Mentor/Recovery Coach, Central Kansas Foundation

Jason Powell Wamego PT County Deputy Police Chief, Wamego Police Department

Michelle Seibel Manhattan RL County Senior Director of Human Resources, Florence Corporation

Jonathan Sumner Alta Vista WB County Corporal, Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office

Amanda Webb Manhattan RL County Planning Director, Riley County

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693067576646.jpeg" alt="leadership class.jpg" />
 <figcaption>leadership class.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>The Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program has announced the newest members of the training experience along with a milestone celebration. The program was formed in 1992 and is celebrating its 30th Anniversary of programming with the upcoming 2023-24 program year.&nbsp;&nbsp;The festivities were held in Manhattan at the Flint Hills Discovery Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;According to FHRLP Board chair and program alumnus, Sarah Keatley, “From that very first 1993-94 class, 636 members of this region have stepped up to make a measurable difference in the lives and livelihoods of generations of residents from the north-central Flint Hills and western KAW Valley communities we call home.”&nbsp;Founding and continuously supporting organization representatives we’re recognized as well during the event including Fort Riley, The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Manhattan, the Riley County Commission, the Geary County Commission, City of Junction City, City of Wamego, Wamego Area Chamber of Commerce, Pottawatomie County, and the newly added Wabaunsee County Commission.&nbsp;Lindsay Miller, FHRLP Treasurer, thanked the underwriters and sponsors including the founding organizations, session sponsors and businesses that help fund the eight-session experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;CORVIAS Military Living/Riley Communities received special recognition as the lead class 2023-24 underwriter.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Brandon French, FHRLP Alumni coordinator, honored a score of alumni that have joined the Lifetime Dues honorary for perpetual support of the program.&nbsp;Program Executive Director, Jack Lindquist summarized the profile of the selected emerging leaders of the 2023-24 class, “The class members selected represent the success of collaborations, cooperation, bipartisanship, service, partnerships, commitment, teamwork, tenacity, and perseverance. Teamwork makes the dream work!”&nbsp;In conclusion of the event Lindquist added,&nbsp;“We will keep the public tuned into the progress of the training experience through news and social media sources as we take the 2023-24 class through the steps to discover their role alongside key leaders that represent the bridge to a brighter pathway and future for our region.”&nbsp;2023-2034 Class members included:Holly Boice Junction City GE County Grant Specialist, Flint Hills Regional CouncilTiffany Cutting Manhattan RL County Manager, Varney &amp; Associates CPA's LLCIsrael Epping-Fuentes Manhattan PT County AVP Branch Manager, Bank of the Flint HillsVanessa Eymann Fort Riley GE County Leader and Workforce Development Specialist, DHR Fort RileyCasey Frisbie St. George PT County Director of Public Works, WamegoAmanda Gnadt Alma WB County Flint Hills Stone, Co-owner &amp; Community Relations Dir.Natalie Gordon Westmoreland PT County Director of Business Development and Client Engagement, Anderson Knight ArchitectsJason Hasby Manhattan RL County Mobilization Plans and Operations Specialist DPTMS USAG Fort RileyTracy Henry Alma WB County Executive Director, Greater Morris County Development CorporationJennifer “JJ” James Manhattan RL County Public Affairs Specialist, USAG Fort RileyJackie Jones Manhattan RL County Security Manager, DPTMS, USAG Fort RileyMichaela Joyce Manhattan RL County Executive Director Junction City MainstreetJerry Kellum Manhattan RL County Program Analyst, Army DPWStephanie Maike Alma WB County 4-H Program Assistant / Office Professional, K-State Research &amp; Extension: Wabaunsee CountyMelissa McClure Manhattan RL County Garrison Operations Specialist, USAG Ft. RileyDustin Murphy Chapman DK County Investigations Lieutenant, Junction City Police DepartmentPatricia Pearson Junction City GE County Peer Mentor/Recovery Coach, Central Kansas FoundationJason Powell Wamego PT County Deputy Police Chief, Wamego Police DepartmentMichelle Seibel Manhattan RL County Senior Director of Human Resources, Florence CorporationJonathan Sumner Alta Vista WB County Corporal, Wabaunsee County Sheriff's OfficeAmanda Webb Manhattan RL County Planning Director, Riley County

New Flint Hills Regional Leadership Program class is announced

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Samiyah Burton, Battery against a law enforcement officer, Interference with LEO, Domestic battery, Arrested 8/24

Kyong Smith, Driving while license cancelled / suspended / revoked; misdemeanor, Bribery, Give benefit to public official for performance of powers / duties, Arrested 8/24

Amanda Haggard, Use / possess / with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Arrested 8/24

Christopher Covert, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/24

Pu Lu, Driving under the influence of drugs / alcohol, Improper driving on laned roadway, Arrested 8/24

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693065212657.jpeg" alt="Tristin Fetters, Parole violation, Arrested 8/24" />
 <figcaption>Tristin Fetters, Parole violation, Arrested 8/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693065299374.jpeg" alt="Jeremiah Warren, Outside warrant, Arrested 8/24" />
 <figcaption>Jeremiah Warren, Outside warrant, Arrested 8/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693065351377.jpeg" alt="Amanda Wunder, Use . possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Arrested 8/24" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Wunder, Use . possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Arrested 8/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693065445982.jpeg" alt="Gregory&nbsp; Rodriguez, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/24" />
 <figcaption>Gregory&nbsp; Rodriguez, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/24</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Samiyah Burton, Battery against a law enforcement officer, Interference with LEO, Domestic battery, Arrested 8/24Kyong Smith, Driving while license cancelled / suspended / revoked; misdemeanor, Bribery, Give benefit to public official for performance of powers / duties, Arrested 8/24Amanda Haggard, Use / possess / with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Arrested 8/24Christopher Covert, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/24Pu Lu, Driving under the influence of drugs / alcohol, Improper driving on laned roadway, Arrested 8/24

Geary County Booking Photos Aug. 25

By AMY GEISZLER-JONES KU Medical Center

Concerned about the limited availability of maternal health services in rural Kansas and the state’s high infant mortality rate, leaders with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/research/kansas-center-for-rural-health.html">Kansas Center for Rural Health</a>&nbsp;on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/salina.html">KU School of Medicine-Salina</a>&nbsp;campus are bringing together providers, hospital CEOs, educators, researchers, students, residents and others for a symposium.

The five-hour Inaugural Rural Maternal Health Symposium, which starts at noon Friday, Sept. 29, will address factors that are impacting care for expectant and new mothers and their babies, with topics ranging from the financial side to the latest mental health care guidelines for new moms.

As a former 15-year rural health practitioner,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/l152f027.html">Lynn Fisher, M.D</a>., the center’s associate director of service and education and an assistant professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/wichita/academics/family-and-community-medicine-wichita.html">Department of Family &amp; Community Medicine</a>&nbsp;at KU School of Medicine-Wichita, understands the challenges for Kansas hospitals and clinics that provide maternal services.

The symposium is a perfect fit with the center’s mission of finding ways to reduce or eliminate health disparities in rural health through collaboration with other stakeholders passionate about rural health, according to Fisher and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/ljacobson.html">Lisette Jacobson, Ph.D., MPA,</a><a href="https://www.kumc.edu/ljacobson.html">&nbsp;M.A.</a>,&nbsp;who are helping organize the event. Jacobson is an associate professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/wichita/academics/population-health.html">Department of Population Health</a>&nbsp;at KU School of Medicine-Wichita and holds a secondary appointment in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/wichita/academics/obgyn-wichita.html">Department of Obstetrics &amp; Gynecology</a>. She serves as the director of the Rural Health Council and is on the center’s maternal health committee.

A clear indication of the critical state of rural health care in Kansas is a recently released report from the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chqpr.org/">Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform</a>&nbsp;that puts the state at the top of its list of hospitals at risk of closing. Of the state’s 104 hospitals, 60 (58%) are at risk of closing, with 29 being at immediate risk. And access to maternal health services is even more dire: Only 44 hospitals in rural Kansas offer maternal health services.

“Women already have long drive times to hospitals to deliver their babies so (Kansas hospital closures) will affect maternity services. Maternal morbidity and infant mortality are also higher in rural communities,” Jacobson noted.

Kansas’ death rate among infants is more than six deaths per 1,000 births, according to the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data from 2020. That’s higher than the national average of more than five deaths per 1,000 births.

Two staff members from the Kansas Department of Health and Education will give an overview of the state of Kansas’ maternal health care in the opening session of the symposium.

Hospital and patient health addressed

Later in the symposium, Emily Dilley, CEO of Kearny County Hospital in Lakin, will give a talk about the financial considerations involved in offering maternal health services, including reimbursements from Medicaid and private insurers.

“We want to be a service to the community, but it can be a financial drain. We get by because we have other services,” said Kearny County Hospital’s chief of nursing, Robin Allaman, MSN, BSN, RN. The hospital delivers about 350 babies a year, with many of those being from outside the county. When Allaman worked as a certified nurse aide at the hospital more than three decades ago, the annual delivery rate was about 30.

“A lot of people, unless they’re in management, don’t understand the financial aspects of providing maternal health care. It’s just not well paid for,” Fisher said.

To address patient care more directly, the symposium will also have sessions on pregnancy complications and outcomes, which will be led by Brian Brost, M.D., a maternal and fetal medicine specialist with the University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City.

It can be difficult to access high-risk pregnancy care in rural areas so having someone share those insights is important, said Jacobson.

During his days as a rural family practice doctor, Fisher said, he appreciated having specialists he could text or call for consultations.

The symposium, which offers the opportunity for continuing education credit, will also provide information on the latest best practices guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. For example, the USPSTF is recommending more proactive guidelines in mental health referrals during prenatal care and postpartum follow-ups, Fisher said.

The symposium is offering timely, important information for not just current practitioners in the field, but also medical school faculty, students and residents, Fisher and Jacobson agreed.

Many of the students and residents with KUSM-Wichita end up practicing in rural communities, so networking and hearing from those already “in the trenches” will be valuable, Fisher said.

As one of those in the trenches, Allaman said she’s looking forward to hearing how peers and health care professionals at other rural locations are addressing maternal health care.

“Any ideas — ways to be cost efficient, ways to be prepared for emergencies — because it’s two lives, and one is a young life, when you’re doing a delivery,” she said. “There are just many things that you can gain … even if it’s only one thing you walk away with, that one item is worth it, but usually it’s way more than that one item.”

She added, “KU has been very supportive in their rural health care initiatives, and I’ve found a tremendous amount of support throughout my career.”

The center in particular wants to be a collaborative resource, Fisher said.

That’s why the center is partnering with the&nbsp;<a href="https://kafponline.org/">Kansas Academy of Family Physicians</a>&nbsp;to offer an advanced life support in obstetrics provider class on Saturday, Sept. 30, the day after the symposium, also at the KU School of Medicine-Salina campus. The registration deadline has been extended to Sept. 27; visit the KAFP website to&nbsp;<a href="https://kafponline.org/also-training">register</a>.

Registration is still open for the Inaugural Rural Maternal Health Symposium; visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/research/kansas-center-for-rural-health.html">Kansas Center for Rural Health</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692995891677.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy KU Medical Center" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy KU Medical Center</figcaption>
 </figure>By AMY GEISZLER-JONES KU Medical CenterConcerned about the limited availability of maternal health services in rural Kansas and the state’s high infant mortality rate, leaders with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/research/kansas-center-for-rural-health.html">Kansas Center for Rural Health</a>&nbsp;on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/salina.html">KU School of Medicine-Salina</a>&nbsp;campus are bringing together providers, hospital CEOs, educators, researchers, students, residents and others for a symposium.The five-hour Inaugural Rural Maternal Health Symposium, which starts at noon Friday, Sept. 29, will address factors that are impacting care for expectant and new mothers and their babies, with topics ranging from the financial side to the latest mental health care guidelines for new moms.As a former 15-year rural health practitioner,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/l152f027.html">Lynn Fisher, M.D</a>., the center’s associate director of service and education and an assistant professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/wichita/academics/family-and-community-medicine-wichita.html">Department of Family &amp; Community Medicine</a>&nbsp;at KU School of Medicine-Wichita, understands the challenges for Kansas hospitals and clinics that provide maternal services.The symposium is a perfect fit with the center’s mission of finding ways to reduce or eliminate health disparities in rural health through collaboration with other stakeholders passionate about rural health, according to Fisher and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/ljacobson.html">Lisette Jacobson, Ph.D., MPA,</a><a href="https://www.kumc.edu/ljacobson.html">&nbsp;M.A.</a>,&nbsp;who are helping organize the event. Jacobson is an associate professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/wichita/academics/population-health.html">Department of Population Health</a>&nbsp;at KU School of Medicine-Wichita and holds a secondary appointment in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/campuses/wichita/academics/obgyn-wichita.html">Department of Obstetrics &amp; Gynecology</a>. She serves as the director of the Rural Health Council and is on the center’s maternal health committee.<h2>Critical state </h2>A clear indication of the critical state of rural health care in Kansas is a recently released report from the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chqpr.org/">Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform</a>&nbsp;that puts the state at the top of its list of hospitals at risk of closing. Of the state’s 104 hospitals, 60 (58%) are at risk of closing, with 29 being at immediate risk. And access to maternal health services is even more dire: Only 44 hospitals in rural Kansas offer maternal health services.“Women already have long drive times to hospitals to deliver their babies so (Kansas hospital closures) will affect maternity services. Maternal morbidity and infant mortality are also higher in rural communities,” Jacobson noted.Kansas’ death rate among infants is more than six deaths per 1,000 births, according to the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data from 2020. That’s higher than the national average of more than five deaths per 1,000 births.Two staff members from the Kansas Department of Health and Education will give an overview of the state of Kansas’ maternal health care in the opening session of the symposium.<h2>Hospital and patient health addressed </h2>Later in the symposium, Emily Dilley, CEO of Kearny County Hospital in Lakin, will give a talk about the financial considerations involved in offering maternal health services, including reimbursements from Medicaid and private insurers.“We want to be a service to the community, but it can be a financial drain. We get by because we have other services,” said Kearny County Hospital’s chief of nursing, Robin Allaman, MSN, BSN, RN. The hospital delivers about 350 babies a year, with many of those being from outside the county. When Allaman worked as a certified nurse aide at the hospital more than three decades ago, the annual delivery rate was about 30.“A lot of people, unless they’re in management, don’t understand the financial aspects of providing maternal health care. It’s just not well paid for,” Fisher said.To address patient care more directly, the symposium will also have sessions on pregnancy complications and outcomes, which will be led by Brian Brost, M.D., a maternal and fetal medicine specialist with the University of Kansas Health System in Kansas City.It can be difficult to access high-risk pregnancy care in rural areas so having someone share those insights is important, said Jacobson.During his days as a rural family practice doctor, Fisher said, he appreciated having specialists he could text or call for consultations.The symposium, which offers the opportunity for continuing education credit, will also provide information on the latest best practices guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. For example, the USPSTF is recommending more proactive guidelines in mental health referrals during prenatal care and postpartum follow-ups, Fisher said.<h2>Who should attend </h2>The symposium is offering timely, important information for not just current practitioners in the field, but also medical school faculty, students and residents, Fisher and Jacobson agreed.Many of the students and residents with KUSM-Wichita end up practicing in rural communities, so networking and hearing from those already “in the trenches” will be valuable, Fisher said.As one of those in the trenches, Allaman said she’s looking forward to hearing how peers and health care professionals at other rural locations are addressing maternal health care.“Any ideas — ways to be cost efficient, ways to be prepared for emergencies — because it’s two lives, and one is a young life, when you’re doing a delivery,” she said. “There are just many things that you can gain … even if it’s only one thing you walk away with, that one item is worth it, but usually it’s way more than that one item.”She added, “KU has been very supportive in their rural health care initiatives, and I’ve found a tremendous amount of support throughout my career.”The center in particular wants to be a collaborative resource, Fisher said.That’s why the center is partnering with the&nbsp;<a href="https://kafponline.org/">Kansas Academy of Family Physicians</a>&nbsp;to offer an advanced life support in obstetrics provider class on Saturday, Sept. 30, the day after the symposium, also at the KU School of Medicine-Salina campus. The registration deadline has been extended to Sept. 27; visit the KAFP website to&nbsp;<a href="https://kafponline.org/also-training">register</a>.Registration is still open for the Inaugural Rural Maternal Health Symposium; visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kumc.edu/school-of-medicine/research/kansas-center-for-rural-health.html">Kansas Center for Rural Health</a>.

Kansas symposium aims to address rural maternal health issues

WASHINGTON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after noon Friday in Washington County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Nicholas A.&nbsp; Bennett, 39, Manhattan, was westbound on Kansas 148 five miles south of Hanover.

The pickup traveled off the roadway to the east and&nbsp; overturned and came to rest on its roof.

&nbsp;Bennett was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Kinsley Mortuary. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

WASHINGTON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after noon Friday in Washington County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Chevy Silverado driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Nicholas A.&nbsp; Bennett, 39, Manhattan, was westbound on Kansas 148 five miles south of Hanover.The pickup traveled off the roadway to the east and&nbsp; overturned and came to rest on its roof.&nbsp;Bennett was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Kinsley Mortuary. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Manhattan man dies after pickup overturns

A Junction City High School reunion has been scheduled for Labor Day weekend. Organizers are calling the event, "The JC Kids Reunion".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Activities are scheduled for both Friday and Saturday. 

On Friday, September 1, their will be a meet and greet at 7:00 p.m. Food will be provided.&nbsp;

Saturday, September 2, their will be events going on all day.&nbsp; 

A car show begins at 8:00 a.m. behind the Main Street Market on Jefferson Street. At 1:00 p.m., everyone is invited to the high school for a walk through. To close out the reunion, at 7:00 p.m., their will be a comedy show with Tony Tone, a comedian from Universoul Circus.&nbsp;

The organizers of this reunion are: Mike Dishman, Henry Petty, and Robert Tharp. All three are Junction City High School alumni and invite anyone, from any class, to attend the reunion.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostA Junction City High School reunion has been scheduled for Labor Day weekend. Organizers are calling the event, "The JC Kids Reunion".&nbsp;&nbsp;Activities are scheduled for both Friday and Saturday. On Friday, September 1, their will be a meet and greet at 7:00 p.m. Food will be provided.&nbsp;Saturday, September 2, their will be events going on all day.&nbsp; A car show begins at 8:00 a.m. behind the Main Street Market on Jefferson Street. At 1:00 p.m., everyone is invited to the high school for a walk through. To close out the reunion, at 7:00 p.m., their will be a comedy show with Tony Tone, a comedian from Universoul Circus.&nbsp;The organizers of this reunion are: Mike Dishman, Henry Petty, and Robert Tharp. All three are Junction City High School alumni and invite anyone, from any class, to attend the reunion.&nbsp;

JC Kids Reunion will be held over Labor Day weekend

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Jason Sims, Motorcycle Cannonball organizer, about the upcoming event

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cm_Q9p6k63E?si=uFztXVOfOP5pEXoH" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;Jason Sims, Motorcycle Cannonball organizer, about the upcoming event

🎤 Forward Ever: Mr. Motorcycle Cannonball, Jason Sims

RILEY COUNTY — A fire at a skilled nursing facility prompted evacuations on Thursday.

Just after 9 p.m.,&nbsp; the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to 2121 Meadowlark Rd. #A 157 for a report of a fire in the building, according to a media relaase.

Upon arrival, crews found a small fire in a resident room in the Lyle House and extinguished it with a fire extinguisher. 

Crews then ventilated the building to remove all smoke.&nbsp; Nursing staff evacuated the residents of Lyle House prior to crew's arrival.&nbsp;&nbsp;One staff member was treated, and one resident was evaluated, by Riley County Emergency Medical Services for smoke inhalation.&nbsp;&nbsp; A total of 19 firefighters responded on 6 fire apparatus with the last units clearing just after 10:00 p.m. Lyle House is a skilled nursing household located in Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community.&nbsp; Loss is estimated at $2,000 to contents and $5,000 to the structure. The owner is listed as Manhattan Retirement Foundation Inc. The fire cause is accidental due to a blanket being placed over a lamp.

RILEY COUNTY — A fire at a skilled nursing facility prompted evacuations on Thursday.Just after 9 p.m.,&nbsp; the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to 2121 Meadowlark Rd. #A 157 for a report of a fire in the building, according to a media relaase.Upon arrival, crews found a small fire in a resident room in the Lyle House and extinguished it with a fire extinguisher. Crews then ventilated the building to remove all smoke.&nbsp; Nursing staff evacuated the residents of Lyle House prior to crew's arrival.&nbsp;&nbsp;One staff member was treated, and one resident was evaluated, by Riley County Emergency Medical Services for smoke inhalation.&nbsp;&nbsp; A total of 19 firefighters responded on 6 fire apparatus with the last units clearing just after 10:00 p.m. Lyle House is a skilled nursing household located in Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community.&nbsp; Loss is estimated at $2,000 to contents and $5,000 to the structure. The owner is listed as Manhattan Retirement Foundation Inc. The fire cause is accidental due to a blanket being placed over a lamp.

Fire at Meadowlark Hills leads to evacuation

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

Just after 2p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report for criminal use of a financial card in the 2800 block of Anderson Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Peerless Tire reported an unknown suspect purchased tires with a stolen credit card. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,020. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged fraud in Manhattan.Just after 2p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report for criminal use of a financial card in the 2800 block of Anderson Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Peerless Tire reported an unknown suspect purchased tires with a stolen credit card. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,020. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Suspect purchased tires with stolen credit card

MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health has received notification of multiple confirmed cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in horses across the state over the past few weeks. Confirmed cases have been reported in Barber, Butler, Douglas and Pratt counties.

WNV is a preventable disease, with annual vaccinations that have proven highly effective. All of the confirmed cases of WNV in Kansas were in unvaccinated horses or horses with an unknown vaccination history so were assumed to be unvaccinated. All horse owners should consult with their local veterinarians and make a vaccination plan for their horses.

WNV is a virus that can infect humans, horses, birds and other species. Horses infected with WNV can have symptoms that range from depression, loss of appetite and fever to severe neurologic signs such as incoordination, weakness, inability to rise, and hypersensitivity to touch or sound. WNV can be fatal in horses. If you see symptoms of WNV in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The virus is carried and transmitted by mosquitoes; it is not directly contagious from horse to horse or from horse to human. WNV is a reportable disease in Kansas, which means veterinarians are required by law to report any confirmed cases to the State Veterinarian.

For more information about West Nile virus or other animal disease issues in Kansas, go to the KDA Division of Animal Health website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuYWdyaWN1bHR1cmUua3MuZ292L0FuaW1hbERpc2Vhc2VzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjUuODE2NDY4NzEifQ.FCo4Qw0TucbKfZUq3ubBxPAmPXP5DOGDsQ1ugP1UMrs/s/1377891820/br/224810711204-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/AnimalDiseases</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575317042852.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health has received notification of multiple confirmed cases of West Nile virus (WNV) in horses across the state over the past few weeks. Confirmed cases have been reported in Barber, Butler, Douglas and Pratt counties.WNV is a preventable disease, with annual vaccinations that have proven highly effective. All of the confirmed cases of WNV in Kansas were in unvaccinated horses or horses with an unknown vaccination history so were assumed to be unvaccinated. All horse owners should consult with their local veterinarians and make a vaccination plan for their horses.WNV is a virus that can infect humans, horses, birds and other species. Horses infected with WNV can have symptoms that range from depression, loss of appetite and fever to severe neurologic signs such as incoordination, weakness, inability to rise, and hypersensitivity to touch or sound. WNV can be fatal in horses. If you see symptoms of WNV in your horse, contact your veterinarian immediately.The virus is carried and transmitted by mosquitoes; it is not directly contagious from horse to horse or from horse to human. WNV is a reportable disease in Kansas, which means veterinarians are required by law to report any confirmed cases to the State Veterinarian.For more information about West Nile virus or other animal disease issues in Kansas, go to the KDA Division of Animal Health website at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuYWdyaWN1bHR1cmUua3MuZ292L0FuaW1hbERpc2Vhc2VzP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MjUuODE2NDY4NzEifQ.FCo4Qw0TucbKfZUq3ubBxPAmPXP5DOGDsQ1ugP1UMrs/s/1377891820/br/224810711204-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/AnimalDiseases</a>.

West Nile Virus confirmed in horses in Kansas

Geary County Commission Chairman Keith Ascher joins me for this episode to talk about county operations; the commission's role in developing the Stormont Vail partnership to keep the hospital open; the benefits of employing a finance director; current and future planning for the Sheriff's Department and much more.&nbsp; He also gave me a little history about the 4-generation Ascher Farm he operates today.

<div><iframe title="Episode 10: Geary County Commissioner Keith Ascher" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=xvp8f-148b73c-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By Jerry BrecheisenGeary County Commission Chairman Keith Ascher joins me for this episode to talk about county operations; the commission's role in developing the Stormont Vail partnership to keep the hospital open; the benefits of employing a finance director; current and future planning for the Sheriff's Department and much more.&nbsp; He also gave me a little history about the 4-generation Ascher Farm he operates today.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673302793483.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Commissioner Keith Ascher" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Commissioner Keith Ascher</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691089937276.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

🎙: Paradox Coffee and Bistro "Coffee Talk" - Geary County Commissioner Keith Ascher

MANHATTAN&nbsp;— Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/">College of Education</a>&nbsp;is launching a program statewide that produced more than a 600% increase in the number of students pursuing education degrees at a community college in southwest Kansas.

The Kansas Statewide Teacher Education Pathway for Underserved and Place-bound students, or KSTEP-Up, is a site-based teacher pathway program. Faculty in the College of Education were awarded a $1.6 million Teacher Quality Partnership grant from the U.S. Department of Education in 2018 to fund the program with partners Seward County Community College and Liberal USD 480.

KSTEP-Up begins with a teacher pathway program in high school and transitions to the local community college, where students earn an associate degree then move seamlessly into online education courses through K-State. The game-changing element of the program is a one-year residency in a school district that culminates in a bachelor's degree in elementary education from K-State.

In 2018, the first year of the grant, 18 individuals — a mixture of paraprofessionals, high school students taking concurrent-credit courses, and community college education students — participated in the program. Today, 126 future teachers in Liberal are preparing to be elementary classroom teachers.

"The results of KSTEP-Up in Liberal have demonstrated the power of partnerships," said Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education. "We are grateful to everyone involved, and we're also excited about replicating this exceptionally successful and innovative 'grow your own' program in communities interested in addressing teacher supply."

Darin Workman, instructor in the department of humanities and social sciences at Seward County Community College, explained that KSTEP-Up benefitted all students interested in becoming teachers.

"This has been a great program for our place-bound students," Workman said. "We found out that this did not just help our traditional students, but it also helped our non-traditional students while they are working full-time jobs in the school system."

Tonnie Martinez, assistant professor and coordinator of the office of innovation and collaboration, and Todd Goodson, professor and chair of the department of curriculum and instruction — both College of Education faculty members who grew up and taught in rural communities — served as co-principal investigators for the grant.

"It's all about building relationships and ensuring a path for local future teachers," Martinez said. "The students are always surprised that they can complete their bachelor's degree online and complete their student teaching in local schools."

Martinez said College of Education faculty and staff visited Liberal to share information about the program. Additionally, academic advisors in the college's Center for Student Success and Professional Services provided one-on-one advising sessions for traditional and non-traditional students to address questions and hear more about the students' dreams of becoming teachers.

Goodson said the grant provided an opportunity for a proof of concept, and now that the pilot project in Liberal is ending, other community colleges are eager to partner.&nbsp;

"We are working our way across the state to share the opportunities KSTEP-Up can provide for addressing teacher vacancies in local districts while growing student enrollment in community college education departments, Goodson said. "That's a win for all of us."&nbsp;

By Patrice Scott, KSUMANHATTAN&nbsp;— Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a href="https://coe.k-state.edu/">College of Education</a>&nbsp;is launching a program statewide that produced more than a 600% increase in the number of students pursuing education degrees at a community college in southwest Kansas.The Kansas Statewide Teacher Education Pathway for Underserved and Place-bound students, or KSTEP-Up, is a site-based teacher pathway program. Faculty in the College of Education were awarded a $1.6 million Teacher Quality Partnership grant from the U.S. Department of Education in 2018 to fund the program with partners Seward County Community College and Liberal USD 480.KSTEP-Up begins with a teacher pathway program in high school and transitions to the local community college, where students earn an associate degree then move seamlessly into online education courses through K-State. The game-changing element of the program is a one-year residency in a school district that culminates in a bachelor's degree in elementary education from K-State.In 2018, the first year of the grant, 18 individuals — a mixture of paraprofessionals, high school students taking concurrent-credit courses, and community college education students — participated in the program. Today, 126 future teachers in Liberal are preparing to be elementary classroom teachers."The results of KSTEP-Up in Liberal have demonstrated the power of partnerships," said Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education. "We are grateful to everyone involved, and we're also excited about replicating this exceptionally successful and innovative 'grow your own' program in communities interested in addressing teacher supply."Darin Workman, instructor in the department of humanities and social sciences at Seward County Community College, explained that KSTEP-Up benefitted all students interested in becoming teachers."This has been a great program for our place-bound students," Workman said. "We found out that this did not just help our traditional students, but it also helped our non-traditional students while they are working full-time jobs in the school system."Tonnie Martinez, assistant professor and coordinator of the office of innovation and collaboration, and Todd Goodson, professor and chair of the department of curriculum and instruction — both College of Education faculty members who grew up and taught in rural communities — served as co-principal investigators for the grant."It's all about building relationships and ensuring a path for local future teachers," Martinez said. "The students are always surprised that they can complete their bachelor's degree online and complete their student teaching in local schools."Martinez said College of Education faculty and staff visited Liberal to share information about the program. Additionally, academic advisors in the college's Center for Student Success and Professional Services provided one-on-one advising sessions for traditional and non-traditional students to address questions and hear more about the students' dreams of becoming teachers.Goodson said the grant provided an opportunity for a proof of concept, and now that the pilot project in Liberal is ending, other community colleges are eager to partner.&nbsp;"We are working our way across the state to share the opportunities KSTEP-Up can provide for addressing teacher vacancies in local districts while growing student enrollment in community college education departments, Goodson said. "That's a win for all of us."&nbsp;

KSU to launch 'exceptionally successful' teacher pathway program statewide

Volunteer wheat is certain to be a significant issue in the upcoming growing season, thanks to the late rains that delayed harvest progress and the high rate of abandoned fields. Hidden among the spotty stands of volunteer wheat is a safe harbor for wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) and other diseases to ride out the winter months. Growers should actively manage their volunteer wheat early and often to head off this threat to next year’s harvest.&nbsp;

“We remind Kansas wheat farmers to take necessary steps to control volunteer wheat,” said Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations. “WSMV isn’t treatable, but it is preventable. By controlling volunteer wheat before planting begins and selecting varieties with built-in resistance, producers can help protect their future yields.”&nbsp;

The best way to WSMV is to control volunteer wheat early and often, according to a K-State Agronomy eUpdate from August 17. Stands of volunteer wheat provide a “green bridge” that allows the wheat curl mites that transmit WSMV to survive. This includes spots of volunteer wheat that emerge in double-cropped soybeans or cover crops as well as grassy weed species like barnyardgrass or foxtails that can serve as a disease reservoir.&nbsp;

After wheat harvest, Kansas producers often wait to apply herbicides with products like glyphosate or atrazine until sufficient volunteer wheat has emerged. However, another application or tillage is needed before planting to ensure the destruction of the “green bridge” created by volunteer wheat or other host plants. This is especially true during wet weather in the late summer months, which facilitates multiple flushes of volunteer wheat and other grassy weeds. K-State encourages wheat producers to terminate volunteer wheat at least two weeks prior to planting to allow enough time to kill all the wheat curl mites present in a field.&nbsp;

Producers also have the option to select varieties developed with built-in genetic resistance to WSMV, in most cases thanks to a gene called WSM2. K-State cautioned producers that these varieties are not a sole-source solution as they do have limitations, including missing resistance to other diseases spread by wheat curl mites — like triticum mosaic or wheat mosaic virus. The genetic resistance is also temperature sensitive, making the built-in shield less effective at hotter temperatures, especially if wheat is planted early for grazing or if high temperatures continue into October.&nbsp;

As an alternative, producers could also select varieties that have genetic resistance to the disease transmission agent — the wheat curl mite. The resistance to the vector means they are still susceptible to disease, but they help slow down the development of mite populations.&nbsp;

This genetic resistance is helpful, but their protection is more effective when used in combination with strategies to control volunteer wheat. By doing so this summer and early fall, producers can help stop the spread of WSMV and other viruses and reduce a substantial limiting factor to next year’s harvest.&nbsp;

“There are no chemical options such as insecticides or pesticides that are effective at controlling the wheat curl mite, so the best method to control WSMV is to control your volunteer wheat,” Harries said. “Be a good steward of your own fields and a good neighbor and help stop the streak of this yield-destroying disease.”

Learn more from K-State Agronomy on WSMV at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001hHf_LokHuAO_oHATY63WM4WnZaXnyb1B-Pw0W9ojslf3kv9tOAD9Pfd0r4enMHUG3z4cCQqGAmU5M795bfgdk1C-oktkhRbu5yJjKY8bN-JxEYmVxhfwy4whXJ0sO8T3aKun0r4OSHLapG1YJ336yjrrO8UJWYVn&amp;c=O2lM78Nn7IMNZcA36E-OE767QQkRUSYaa5o1k2qFHOafFhtWYfAPBg==&amp;ch=KVAe7HKwbmd9UqS6k0QXIPRWYLxAquoIUD25j1bGqIRunDn-AryVeg==" target="_blank">eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or explore wheat variety options and other guidance on controlling volunteer wheat at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001hHf_LokHuAO_oHATY63WM4WnZaXnyb1B-Pw0W9ojslf3kv9tOAD9PZDb153gPfYjUXwpJFpb7N3ALFgncNoRbcaljuzol6ACEbjgg8EE5-bhBii8zyoBraQSSg4pUTeXm0ceixLAzEUfVTePkrg9Ag==&amp;c=O2lM78Nn7IMNZcA36E-OE767QQkRUSYaa5o1k2qFHOafFhtWYfAPBg==&amp;ch=KVAe7HKwbmd9UqS6k0QXIPRWYLxAquoIUD25j1bGqIRunDn-AryVeg==" target="_blank">kswheat.com/wheatrx</a>.

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<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>JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatVolunteer wheat is certain to be a significant issue in the upcoming growing season, thanks to the late rains that delayed harvest progress and the high rate of abandoned fields. Hidden among the spotty stands of volunteer wheat is a safe harbor for wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV) and other diseases to ride out the winter months. Growers should actively manage their volunteer wheat early and often to head off this threat to next year’s harvest.&nbsp;“We remind Kansas wheat farmers to take necessary steps to control volunteer wheat,” said Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations. “WSMV isn’t treatable, but it is preventable. By controlling volunteer wheat before planting begins and selecting varieties with built-in resistance, producers can help protect their future yields.”&nbsp;The best way to WSMV is to control volunteer wheat early and often, according to a K-State Agronomy eUpdate from August 17. Stands of volunteer wheat provide a “green bridge” that allows the wheat curl mites that transmit WSMV to survive. This includes spots of volunteer wheat that emerge in double-cropped soybeans or cover crops as well as grassy weed species like barnyardgrass or foxtails that can serve as a disease reservoir.&nbsp;After wheat harvest, Kansas producers often wait to apply herbicides with products like glyphosate or atrazine until sufficient volunteer wheat has emerged. However, another application or tillage is needed before planting to ensure the destruction of the “green bridge” created by volunteer wheat or other host plants. This is especially true during wet weather in the late summer months, which facilitates multiple flushes of volunteer wheat and other grassy weeds. K-State encourages wheat producers to terminate volunteer wheat at least two weeks prior to planting to allow enough time to kill all the wheat curl mites present in a field.&nbsp;Producers also have the option to select varieties developed with built-in genetic resistance to WSMV, in most cases thanks to a gene called WSM2. K-State cautioned producers that these varieties are not a sole-source solution as they do have limitations, including missing resistance to other diseases spread by wheat curl mites — like triticum mosaic or wheat mosaic virus. The genetic resistance is also temperature sensitive, making the built-in shield less effective at hotter temperatures, especially if wheat is planted early for grazing or if high temperatures continue into October.&nbsp;As an alternative, producers could also select varieties that have genetic resistance to the disease transmission agent — the wheat curl mite. The resistance to the vector means they are still susceptible to disease, but they help slow down the development of mite populations.&nbsp;This genetic resistance is helpful, but their protection is more effective when used in combination with strategies to control volunteer wheat. By doing so this summer and early fall, producers can help stop the spread of WSMV and other viruses and reduce a substantial limiting factor to next year’s harvest.&nbsp;“There are no chemical options such as insecticides or pesticides that are effective at controlling the wheat curl mite, so the best method to control WSMV is to control your volunteer wheat,” Harries said. “Be a good steward of your own fields and a good neighbor and help stop the streak of this yield-destroying disease.”Learn more from K-State Agronomy on WSMV at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001hHf_LokHuAO_oHATY63WM4WnZaXnyb1B-Pw0W9ojslf3kv9tOAD9Pfd0r4enMHUG3z4cCQqGAmU5M795bfgdk1C-oktkhRbu5yJjKY8bN-JxEYmVxhfwy4whXJ0sO8T3aKun0r4OSHLapG1YJ336yjrrO8UJWYVn&amp;c=O2lM78Nn7IMNZcA36E-OE767QQkRUSYaa5o1k2qFHOafFhtWYfAPBg==&amp;ch=KVAe7HKwbmd9UqS6k0QXIPRWYLxAquoIUD25j1bGqIRunDn-AryVeg==" target="_blank">eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or explore wheat variety options and other guidance on controlling volunteer wheat at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001hHf_LokHuAO_oHATY63WM4WnZaXnyb1B-Pw0W9ojslf3kv9tOAD9PZDb153gPfYjUXwpJFpb7N3ALFgncNoRbcaljuzol6ACEbjgg8EE5-bhBii8zyoBraQSSg4pUTeXm0ceixLAzEUfVTePkrg9Ag==&amp;c=O2lM78Nn7IMNZcA36E-OE767QQkRUSYaa5o1k2qFHOafFhtWYfAPBg==&amp;ch=KVAe7HKwbmd9UqS6k0QXIPRWYLxAquoIUD25j1bGqIRunDn-AryVeg==" target="_blank">kswheat.com/wheatrx</a>.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile&nbsp;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; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Control volunteer wheat to stop the streak of yield-limiting diseases

The Victory Clinic TMS and Spravato Treatment Center had a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday afternoon at their clinic in Junction City.&nbsp;

Victory Clinic is the first center in the Flint Hills region with two approved management options for treatment resistant depression. These two treatments are Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato.&nbsp;

TMS is an effective, FDA-approved therapy for treatment resistant depression.&nbsp;

Spravato is a prescription nasal spray, FDA-approved to treat adults with treatment resistant depression.&nbsp;

The founder of Victory Clinic is Dr. Kristie Clark.&nbsp;

The Victory Clinic TMS and Spravato Treatment Center is located at 715 Southwind Drive in Junction City.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692908987602.jpeg" alt="Victory Clinic TMS and Spravato Treatment Center ribbon cutting. Pictured&nbsp; (from left to right) is Alissa Torres, Dan Krause, Kristie Clark (founder), Robert Clark, Malena Starr and Destiny Conklin. The ribbon cutting took place on Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Victory Clinic TMS and Spravato Treatment Center ribbon cutting. Pictured&nbsp; (from left to right) is Alissa Torres, Dan Krause, Kristie Clark (founder), Robert Clark, Malena Starr and Destiny Conklin. The ribbon cutting took place on Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Victory Clinic TMS and Spravato Treatment Center had a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday afternoon at their clinic in Junction City.&nbsp;Victory Clinic is the first center in the Flint Hills region with two approved management options for treatment resistant depression. These two treatments are Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Spravato.&nbsp;TMS is an effective, FDA-approved therapy for treatment resistant depression.&nbsp;Spravato is a prescription nasal spray, FDA-approved to treat adults with treatment resistant depression.&nbsp;The founder of Victory Clinic is Dr. Kristie Clark.&nbsp;The Victory Clinic TMS and Spravato Treatment Center is located at 715 Southwind Drive in Junction City.&nbsp;

Victory Clinic Ribbon Cutting took place on Thursday afternoon

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) issued an alert to healthcare providers on Thursday to raise awareness of a recent increase in emergency department visits for suicide attempts among females and to encourage providers to use evidence-based suicide prevention resources and practices.

In the month of July 2023, 162 suicide-related events occurred in Kansas among females. This is greater than two standard deviations above the previous 3-month mean of 126.7

KDHE is urging healthcare providers to become familiar with warning signs for suicide, suicide prevention practices, and community resources.

Immediate warning signs of suicide include talking about suicide, having a plan, expressing hopelessness about the future, and making preparations for suicide such as giving away belongings, writing a suicide note, or looking for means to attempt suicide.

Other potential warning signs can include changes in energy levels (i.e., unusual fatigue or more energy), lack of concentration, changes in personal hygiene, increased risky behavior such as use of alcohol or drugs, withdrawl from social activities, experience of loss, and. spending more time in isolation&nbsp;

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) issued an alert to healthcare providers on Thursday to raise awareness of a recent increase in emergency department visits for suicide attempts among females and to encourage providers to use evidence-based suicide prevention resources and practices.In the month of July 2023, 162 suicide-related events occurred in Kansas among females. This is greater than two standard deviations above the previous 3-month mean of 126.7KDHE is urging healthcare providers to become familiar with warning signs for suicide, suicide prevention practices, and community resources.Immediate warning signs of suicide include talking about suicide, having a plan, expressing hopelessness about the future, and making preparations for suicide such as giving away belongings, writing a suicide note, or looking for means to attempt suicide.Other potential warning signs can include changes in energy levels (i.e., unusual fatigue or more energy), lack of concentration, changes in personal hygiene, increased risky behavior such as use of alcohol or drugs, withdrawl from social activities, experience of loss, and. spending more time in isolation&nbsp;

KDHE reports increase  ER visits for suicide attempt among females 

JUNCTION CITY - On August 24th, the Kansas Highway Patrol announced the promotion of Master Trooper Wilmer Baquero Jr. to the rank of Lieutenant.

Lt. Baquero will serve the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C, Zone D in northeast Kansas.

In 2004, Baquero joined the Kansas Highway Patrol as part of the 41st Class, with his initial duty station in Geary County within Troop C.&nbsp;

Baquero in the Junction City as a Trooper and was promoted to Master Trooper in 2010.

He has served Troop C as a Criminal Investigator for one year, and has continued to serve as Master Trooper until his recent promotion.

In 2008, Baquero received the Commander's Commendation and in 2016, he was recognized by the Geary County Crime Stoppers as Trooper of the Year.

Baquero is originally from Los Angeles, California.&nbsp; He attended Franklin High School and graduated from Chaffey High School in Ontario, California.&nbsp; He obtained his associate degree in general studies from Barton Community College. He continued his education at Central Christian College where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

In addition to his career with the Kansas Highway Patrol, Baquero served in the United States Army from 1994 to 2004, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.&nbsp; His military service included a deployment to Iraq in 2003. Baquero continued to serve in the Kansas National Guard until 2005.

Family is Baquero’s passion.&nbsp; He has a very large extended family from Mexico, California, Texas, Oklahoma, Florida and Puerto Rico and he enjoys spending as much time as possible with them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692902400611.jpeg" alt="Lt. Wilmer Baquero, picture from KHP" />
 <figcaption>Lt. Wilmer Baquero, picture from KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY - On August 24th, the Kansas Highway Patrol announced the promotion of Master Trooper Wilmer Baquero Jr. to the rank of Lieutenant.Lt. Baquero will serve the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C, Zone D in northeast Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692902773089.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In 2004, Baquero joined the Kansas Highway Patrol as part of the 41st Class, with his initial duty station in Geary County within Troop C.&nbsp;Baquero in the Junction City as a Trooper and was promoted to Master Trooper in 2010.He has served Troop C as a Criminal Investigator for one year, and has continued to serve as Master Trooper until his recent promotion.In 2008, Baquero received the Commander's Commendation and in 2016, he was recognized by the Geary County Crime Stoppers as Trooper of the Year.Baquero is originally from Los Angeles, California.&nbsp; He attended Franklin High School and graduated from Chaffey High School in Ontario, California.&nbsp; He obtained his associate degree in general studies from Barton Community College. He continued his education at Central Christian College where he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.In addition to his career with the Kansas Highway Patrol, Baquero served in the United States Army from 1994 to 2004, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.&nbsp; His military service included a deployment to Iraq in 2003. Baquero continued to serve in the Kansas National Guard until 2005.Family is Baquero’s passion.&nbsp; He has a very large extended family from Mexico, California, Texas, Oklahoma, Florida and Puerto Rico and he enjoys spending as much time as possible with them.

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