On August 14th, Dolly Parton is coming to Kansas to celebrate the statewide success of her Imagination Library program.

Dolly's Imagination Library is an example of how music, art, and culture can intersect with social change. Through her deep commitment to education and literacy, Dolly has shown that celebrities can be powerful catalysts for positive transformation.

Founded in 1995 by Dolly Parton herself, the Imagination Library is a unique book-gifting program that provides free books to children from birth to five years old with the mission of fostering a lifelong passion for reading.

The program runs in all 50 US states, including our very own Kansas, and has gifted over 200 million free books across the globe.

The Imagination Library has had a significant positive impact on childhood development and literacy skills for Kansas’ children.

Research has consistently shown that early exposure to books and reading positively influences a child's cognitive development, language skills, and emotional well-being.

Children who have participated in the program have demonstrated better preparedness for school, stronger reading and math skills, improved vocabulary, and increased levels of reading comprehension.

Some studies have indicated that children who participated in the Imagination Library program are more likely to perform better academically throughout their school years. Improved early literacy skills have been associated with higher achievement levels in later grades.

The Imagination Library has also become a significant force in leveling the playing field for young readers.

By delivering carefully selected books tailored to each child's age and interests, Dolly's Library has equalized access to education for children irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.

The Imagination Library ensures that every child, regardless of their family’s socio-economic status, has access to books from an early age.

By providing free books directly to children's homes, the Library ensures that even those in underserved and disadvantaged communities have access to quality literature. This reduces educational disparities and helps bridge the gap between different social and economic groups, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all children.

While Dolly’s Imagination Library provides an incredibly important service for children, and certainly earns the praise it receives, it is also indicative of a concerning societal shift towards the outsourcing of public services.

Rather than coming together in collective action and making demands on government — like increasing funding to local libraries — citizens are relying on private entities to provide public goods — like sending free books through the mail.

When public services are outsourced to private entities, citizens may feel less connected to the provision of those services. They might also perceive their role in contributing to the common good as diminished.

Research on civic engagement suggests that this leads to a reduced sense of civic duty, which results in a less engaged, informed, and active citizenry.

Civic duty refers to the responsibility and obligation citizens feel to actively engage in the democratic process and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

When citizens experience a weakening of this sense of duty, it can lead to reduced levels of participation in several ways: a decline in political engagement, decreased interest in public affairs, and lower levels of volunteering and community involvement, just to name a few.

Citizen involvement is essential for a robust and thriving society. Historically, such involvement has pressured government to create comprehensive and equitable social safety nets that address the broad spectrum of societal needs. Charitable organizations like the Imagination Library can complement and enhance government efforts, but a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors is most effective in achieving lasting social change.

So, while charitable organizations like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library provide an important service to young children, they should not be viewed as a replacement for government-provided public goods.

______________________________________________________________________

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.

By Alexandra MiddlewoodOn August 14th, Dolly Parton is coming to Kansas to celebrate the statewide success of her Imagination Library program.Dolly's Imagination Library is an example of how music, art, and culture can intersect with social change. Through her deep commitment to education and literacy, Dolly has shown that celebrities can be powerful catalysts for positive transformation.Founded in 1995 by Dolly Parton herself, the Imagination Library is a unique book-gifting program that provides free books to children from birth to five years old with the mission of fostering a lifelong passion for reading.The program runs in all 50 US states, including our very own Kansas, and has gifted over 200 million free books across the globe.The Imagination Library has had a significant positive impact on childhood development and literacy skills for Kansas’ children.Research has consistently shown that early exposure to books and reading positively influences a child's cognitive development, language skills, and emotional well-being.Children who have participated in the program have demonstrated better preparedness for school, stronger reading and math skills, improved vocabulary, and increased levels of reading comprehension.Some studies have indicated that children who participated in the Imagination Library program are more likely to perform better academically throughout their school years. Improved early literacy skills have been associated with higher achievement levels in later grades.The Imagination Library has also become a significant force in leveling the playing field for young readers.By delivering carefully selected books tailored to each child's age and interests, Dolly's Library has equalized access to education for children irrespective of their socio-economic backgrounds.The Imagination Library ensures that every child, regardless of their family’s socio-economic status, has access to books from an early age.By providing free books directly to children's homes, the Library ensures that even those in underserved and disadvantaged communities have access to quality literature. This reduces educational disparities and helps bridge the gap between different social and economic groups, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all children.While Dolly’s Imagination Library provides an incredibly important service for children, and certainly earns the praise it receives, it is also indicative of a concerning societal shift towards the outsourcing of public services.Rather than coming together in collective action and making demands on government — like increasing funding to local libraries — citizens are relying on private entities to provide public goods — like sending free books through the mail.When public services are outsourced to private entities, citizens may feel less connected to the provision of those services. They might also perceive their role in contributing to the common good as diminished.Research on civic engagement suggests that this leads to a reduced sense of civic duty, which results in a less engaged, informed, and active citizenry.Civic duty refers to the responsibility and obligation citizens feel to actively engage in the democratic process and contribute to the well-being of their communities.When citizens experience a weakening of this sense of duty, it can lead to reduced levels of participation in several ways: a decline in political engagement, decreased interest in public affairs, and lower levels of volunteering and community involvement, just to name a few.Citizen involvement is essential for a robust and thriving society. Historically, such involvement has pressured government to create comprehensive and equitable social safety nets that address the broad spectrum of societal needs. Charitable organizations like the Imagination Library can complement and enhance government efforts, but a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors is most effective in achieving lasting social change.So, while charitable organizations like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library provide an important service to young children, they should not be viewed as a replacement for government-provided public goods.______________________________________________________________________Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Wichita State University.

Private Organizations Are No Replacement for Government Public Goods

RILEY - On Wednesday, just after midnight, the City of Riley Fire Department and the Riley County Fire District #1 volunteers were called out to the 300 block of North Broadway in Riley, Kansas for the report of a structure fire.

Upon arrival crews found the two-story home with flames and smoke visible.&nbsp;

Twenty-five firefighters with 13 fire apparatus responded to the scene along with the Riley County Police Department and Riley County Emergency Medical Services.

According to the Riley County FD#1, two adults and one dog were inside the home at the time of the fire.

One adult escaped without injury, the other one was injured while escaping an upstairs bedroom. Unfortunately the family dog perished in the fire.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. A damage estimate is not yet available.

&nbsp; “It appears the fire started on the front porch and quickly spread to other areas of the home,” said RCFD#1 Deputy Fire Chief Doug Russell. “We want to thank all the volunteers&nbsp;for their hard work to extinguish this fire. We have a dedicated crew&nbsp;who give their time to support the community, and we are extremely fortunate to have their support.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690988395682.jpeg" alt="House damaged by fire in Riley- photo from Kevin Bellamy" />
 <figcaption>House damaged by fire in Riley- photo from Kevin Bellamy</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY - On Wednesday, just after midnight, the City of Riley Fire Department and the Riley County Fire District #1 volunteers were called out to the 300 block of North Broadway in Riley, Kansas for the report of a structure fire.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3710.5462476199577!2d-96.82765682360142!3d39.30113342278065!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bdb9f1f0aa940f%3A0x931992beae47e0d7!2s300%20N%20Broadway%20St%2C%20Riley%2C%20KS%2066531!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1690988768087!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Upon arrival crews found the two-story home with flames and smoke visible.&nbsp;Twenty-five firefighters with 13 fire apparatus responded to the scene along with the Riley County Police Department and Riley County Emergency Medical Services.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690988656716.jpeg" alt="House damaged by fire in Riley, KS, photo from Kevin Bellamy" />
 <figcaption>House damaged by fire in Riley, KS, photo from Kevin Bellamy</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the Riley County FD#1, two adults and one dog were inside the home at the time of the fire.One adult escaped without injury, the other one was injured while escaping an upstairs bedroom. Unfortunately the family dog perished in the fire.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690989590722.jpeg" alt="House damaged by fire in Riley, KS,&nbsp;photo from Kevin Bellamy" />
 <figcaption>House damaged by fire in Riley, KS,&nbsp;photo from Kevin Bellamy</figcaption>
 </figure>The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. A damage estimate is not yet available.&nbsp; “It appears the fire started on the front porch and quickly spread to other areas of the home,” said RCFD#1 Deputy Fire Chief Doug Russell. “We want to thank all the volunteers&nbsp;for their hard work to extinguish this fire. We have a dedicated crew&nbsp;who give their time to support the community, and we are extremely fortunate to have their support.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Family pet dies in Riley house fire

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged fraud.

Just before 3p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft/fraud in the 1600 block of Fishermans Lane in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;A 57-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect opened an account in her name for a loan with a bank in October of 2020. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,774. &nbsp;

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.Just before 3p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft/fraud in the 1600 block of Fishermans Lane in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;A 57-year-old woman reported an unknown suspect opened an account in her name for a loan with a bank in October of 2020. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $2,774. &nbsp;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 took out bank loan in victim's name

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have posted. Photos are unavailable.

Benjamin Goeden, Maximum speed limits, Driving while suspended, Arrested 8/1

Louisa Bowling, Vehicle liability insurance; liability coverage required, Vehicle; operate vehicle without registration or with expired tag, Operate a motor vehicle without valid license, Arrested 8/1

Jazlyn Washington, Interference with LEO, Theft-all other, Arrested 8/1

Preston Haynes, No registration; illegal or expired tags, No proof of insurance, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Exceeding posted limit, Arrested 8/1

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690985409595.jpeg" alt="Rafael&nbsp; Figueroa, Violation of protection order, Arrested 8/1" />
 <figcaption>Rafael&nbsp; Figueroa, Violation of protection order, Arrested 8/1</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690985553579.jpeg" alt="Mason Zuber, Rape, Aggravated indecent liberties with a child, Arrested 8/2" />
 <figcaption>Mason Zuber, Rape, Aggravated indecent liberties with a child, Arrested 8/2</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690985672914.jpeg" alt="Barbara Robinson, Use / possess with intent&nbsp; to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Maximum speed limits, Arrested 8/1" />
 <figcaption>Barbara Robinson, Use / possess with intent&nbsp; to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Maximum speed limits, Arrested 8/1</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690985855829.jpeg" alt="Iven Love, Outside warrant, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/1" />
 <figcaption>Iven Love, Outside warrant, Failure to appear, Arrested 8/1</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have posted. Photos are unavailable.Benjamin Goeden, Maximum speed limits, Driving while suspended, Arrested 8/1Louisa Bowling, Vehicle liability insurance; liability coverage required, Vehicle; operate vehicle without registration or with expired tag, Operate a motor vehicle without valid license, Arrested 8/1Jazlyn Washington, Interference with LEO, Theft-all other, Arrested 8/1Preston Haynes, No registration; illegal or expired tags, No proof of insurance, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, Exceeding posted limit, Arrested 8/1Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law

Geary County Booking Photos Aug. 2

RILEY COUNTY —Victor Schmidt, 29, of Spearville, Kansas was arrested while at the Riley County Law Enforcement Center after being extradited from Pennsylvania on a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated sexual battery; force or fear, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

On May 25, Schmidt was booked into the&nbsp;Centre County Correctional Facility in&nbsp;Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, according to online jail records.

The original case was reported in November 2022. Schmidt remains jailed on a total bond of $100,000, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY —Victor Schmidt, 29, of Spearville, Kansas was arrested while at the Riley County Law Enforcement Center after being extradited from Pennsylvania on a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated sexual battery; force or fear, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.On May 25, Schmidt was booked into the&nbsp;Centre County Correctional Facility in&nbsp;Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, according to online jail records.The original case was reported in November 2022. Schmidt remains jailed on a total bond of $100,000, according to the RCPD.

Sexual battery suspect extradited from Pennsylvania

Junction City Commissioners have approved a request from the Sundown Salute Committee to move that celebration to Heritage Park over the Labor Day weekend in 2024. The dates would be Friday Aug. 30 through Sunday Sept. 1.

City leaders have been informed in writing that there will not be a Sundown Salute event this year. The celebration was last held in 2022 during the Fourth of July time period in the Milford City Park.

Tricia Verschage, Chair of the Sundown Salute Committee, noted it would be like past Sundown Salute events, except it would move to Labor Day. "We moved it to Labor Day so we could work in conjunction with the Freedom Fest, because they're rocking the Fourth of July, so why not bring in a second event to Junction City for everyone in the county."

Verschage noted that there would not be activities on Monday, Labor Day, allowing people who are traveling to have that day off for travel. "And then we would have music events, working on a carnival right now, vendors - food vendors, basically everything that we've had in the past for the last 50 years."

Junction City Commissioners have approved a request from the Sundown Salute Committee to move that celebration to Heritage Park over the Labor Day weekend in 2024. The dates would be Friday Aug. 30 through Sunday Sept. 1.City leaders have been informed in writing that there will not be a Sundown Salute event this year. The celebration was last held in 2022 during the Fourth of July time period in the Milford City Park.Tricia Verschage, Chair of the Sundown Salute Committee, noted it would be like past Sundown Salute events, except it would move to Labor Day. "We moved it to Labor Day so we could work in conjunction with the Freedom Fest, because they're rocking the Fourth of July, so why not bring in a second event to Junction City for everyone in the county."Verschage noted that there would not be activities on Monday, Labor Day, allowing people who are traveling to have that day off for travel. "And then we would have music events, working on a carnival right now, vendors - food vendors, basically everything that we've had in the past for the last 50 years."

Sundown Salute will move to Junction City

The Junction City Police Department is continuing its investigation into the January 6th, 2023, homicide of Carson Simon. They would like to ask anyone who spoke to or interacted with Simon from the dates of January 3rd, 2023 to January 6th, to contact the Junction City Police Department or the Geary County Crime Stoppers. Information provided could be eligible for a cash reward.

This case is still actively being investigated.

The Junction City Police Department is continuing its investigation into the January 6th, 2023, homicide of Carson Simon. They would like to ask anyone who spoke to or interacted with Simon from the dates of January 3rd, 2023 to January 6th, to contact the Junction City Police Department or the Geary County Crime Stoppers. Information provided could be eligible for a cash reward.This case is still actively being investigated.

Police seek more information in homicide case

BROWN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 1130a.m. Tuesday in Brown County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Tanner J..&nbsp; Shobney, 30, Saint Marys, was westbound on U.S. 36 just west of U.S. 75.

The semi crossed the center line and struck a 2007&nbsp; Kenworth semi that was legally parked on the shoulder of the highway. The driver&nbsp;Matthew D. Cairns, 47, Batesville, Indiana, was standing outside the vehicle when the accident occurred.

EMS transported Cairns and&nbsp; Shobney to the Sabetha hospital. Shobney was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

BROWN COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 1130a.m. Tuesday in Brown County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Kenworth semi driven by&nbsp; &nbsp;Tanner J..&nbsp; Shobney, 30, Saint Marys, was westbound on U.S. 36 just west of U.S. 75.The semi crossed the center line and struck a 2007&nbsp; Kenworth semi that was legally parked on the shoulder of the highway. The driver&nbsp;Matthew D. Cairns, 47, Batesville, Indiana, was standing outside the vehicle when the accident occurred.EMS transported Cairns and&nbsp; Shobney to the Sabetha hospital. Shobney was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Saint Marys man hospitalized after 2-vehicle semi crash

Naomi Bundley is the 2022 Ben Kitchens Volunteer of the Year for United Way of Junction City - Geary County.

Nichole Mader, United Way Executive Director, said Bundley is a volunteer for CASA ( Court Appointed Special Advocates ). She assigns children in the system, or CASA children. "It is her responsibility to ensure that she's a good advocate and voice for those children, that they are getting the attention and the needed care that they require."

Paul Rosell and Julius Mader also nominees for Volunteer of the Year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690920406859.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;( L-R ) Daphne Maxwell, Naomi Bundley and Nichole Mader" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;( L-R ) Daphne Maxwell, Naomi Bundley and Nichole Mader</figcaption>
 </figure>Naomi Bundley is the 2022 Ben Kitchens Volunteer of the Year for United Way of Junction City - Geary County.Nichole Mader, United Way Executive Director, said Bundley is a volunteer for CASA ( Court Appointed Special Advocates ). She assigns children in the system, or CASA children. "It is her responsibility to ensure that she's a good advocate and voice for those children, that they are getting the attention and the needed care that they require."Paul Rosell and Julius Mader also nominees for Volunteer of the Year.

United Way names their Volunteer of the Year

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– Last week, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Rudy Yakym (IN-02) introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0019EsEXgLSypynVgIoQ_wbEwoeNEG2vkAeXp3dEapZzMCdrLnyIveqnvnKBbXJjwVnoLDnPbe_M4opVFpBAJdi-BL7BwgB_JVRtQqyw0qIqZ9Xis42LOUhr3Gq3Alp-l1ZUdaqtJli1Q1sA27PiA51XGia4ztGgjLT7H70rIJWjlgtJ2H16yGoeod8TKdo68e8lLtzGQF3Vvhk-IM_q-Q4Z7z26TQ8smQMDsw6CgjkGlpCHxUXCvUbz80dseakNd97kieL6evWTImwg_6GEdBgRQWf4efCDOl4URD4mgZ0D2s=&amp;c=C7Pq2wO2qTEFPFMwezyYdzjTcyj_Bp-YKUXKOh7EoC128ei9EKanQg==&amp;ch=HdrEwYfNVGPEpKFiE5Frhd2NssBmP06WSMNZEAG2IIQ1pwY02zlGwA==" target="_blank">H.R. 4956, the Farmer-Informed WOTUS Act</a>, in response to President Biden’s overreaching, unconstitutional Waters of the U.S. rule.

“Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers know their operations far better than the federal government does,”&nbsp;said Rep. Mann. “They deserve a seat at the table when policies impacting their livelihoods are up for discussion. This legislation would establish a farmer-led advisory committee at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to bring together real-world experience, share insight into how rules like President Biden’s Waters of the U.S. rule negatively impacts agriculture, and offer solutions to eliminate unnecessary red-tape hindering agricultural productivity. I am proud to represent farmers and ranchers in the Big First District, remain committed to hearing their concerns, and am thankful to introduce this legislation alongside Representative Yakym.”

“Hoosier farmers make some of the best product anywhere in the world, but all too often they have had to contend with heavy-handed federal overreach from the Biden Administration,”&nbsp;said Rep. Yakym. “Nowhere has this been clearer than with this Administration’s overzealous enforcement of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. Our commonsense legislation is an important way to fight back against federal overreach and support America’s farmers and ag producers by giving them a seat at the table when it comes to policy decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods. I am proud to work with Representative Mann on this legislation that will help ensure our farmers can continue to feed&nbsp;our nation and the rest of the world.”

This legislation establishes an advisory committee at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, comprised of farmers, ranchers, agricultural producers, trade association representatives, and representatives from state departments of agriculture. The committee will examine:

● The impact of rules like the Waters of the U.S. rule on production agriculture. ● Cases where the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provided conflicting rulings for the same or similarly situated tracts of land.

 ● The impact of overreaching regulations on&nbsp;food supply chains. 

● Solutions for a clearer Waters of the U.S. rule, including exemptions for those involved in production agriculture

Rep. Mann proudly serves on the House Agriculture Committee and is the Chairman of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry. The Big First is home to 60,000 farms and ranches, is the third-largest agriculture production district in the country, and Kansas agricultural producers sell $10 billion worth of livestock, dairy, poultry, and products like beef, milk, and eggs every year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690912187206.png" alt="U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann newsletter cover image.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann newsletter cover image.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedWASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– Last week, U.S. Representatives Tracey Mann (KS-01) and Rudy Yakym (IN-02) introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0019EsEXgLSypynVgIoQ_wbEwoeNEG2vkAeXp3dEapZzMCdrLnyIveqnvnKBbXJjwVnoLDnPbe_M4opVFpBAJdi-BL7BwgB_JVRtQqyw0qIqZ9Xis42LOUhr3Gq3Alp-l1ZUdaqtJli1Q1sA27PiA51XGia4ztGgjLT7H70rIJWjlgtJ2H16yGoeod8TKdo68e8lLtzGQF3Vvhk-IM_q-Q4Z7z26TQ8smQMDsw6CgjkGlpCHxUXCvUbz80dseakNd97kieL6evWTImwg_6GEdBgRQWf4efCDOl4URD4mgZ0D2s=&amp;c=C7Pq2wO2qTEFPFMwezyYdzjTcyj_Bp-YKUXKOh7EoC128ei9EKanQg==&amp;ch=HdrEwYfNVGPEpKFiE5Frhd2NssBmP06WSMNZEAG2IIQ1pwY02zlGwA==" target="_blank">H.R. 4956, the Farmer-Informed WOTUS Act</a>, in response to President Biden’s overreaching, unconstitutional Waters of the U.S. rule.“Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers know their operations far better than the federal government does,”&nbsp;said Rep. Mann. “They deserve a seat at the table when policies impacting their livelihoods are up for discussion. This legislation would establish a farmer-led advisory committee at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to bring together real-world experience, share insight into how rules like President Biden’s Waters of the U.S. rule negatively impacts agriculture, and offer solutions to eliminate unnecessary red-tape hindering agricultural productivity. I am proud to represent farmers and ranchers in the Big First District, remain committed to hearing their concerns, and am thankful to introduce this legislation alongside Representative Yakym.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611836622184.jpeg" alt="Rep-Tracey-Mann-KS01 Official Photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep-Tracey-Mann-KS01 Official Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>“Hoosier farmers make some of the best product anywhere in the world, but all too often they have had to contend with heavy-handed federal overreach from the Biden Administration,”&nbsp;said Rep. Yakym. “Nowhere has this been clearer than with this Administration’s overzealous enforcement of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. Our commonsense legislation is an important way to fight back against federal overreach and support America’s farmers and ag producers by giving them a seat at the table when it comes to policy decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods. I am proud to work with Representative Mann on this legislation that will help ensure our farmers can continue to feed&nbsp;our nation and the rest of the world.”This legislation establishes an advisory committee at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, comprised of farmers, ranchers, agricultural producers, trade association representatives, and representatives from state departments of agriculture. The committee will examine:● The impact of rules like the Waters of the U.S. rule on production agriculture. ● Cases where the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provided conflicting rulings for the same or similarly situated tracts of land. ● The impact of overreaching regulations on&nbsp;food supply chains. ● Solutions for a clearer Waters of the U.S. rule, including exemptions for those involved in production agricultureRep. Mann proudly serves on the House Agriculture Committee and is the Chairman of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry. The Big First is home to 60,000 farms and ranches, is the third-largest agriculture production district in the country, and Kansas agricultural producers sell $10 billion worth of livestock, dairy, poultry, and products like beef, milk, and eggs every year.

Rep. Mann protects agricultural producers from 'unconstitutional overreach'

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Cordesia Zsaquell, Vehicle liability insurance; liability coverage required, Maximum speed limits, Driving while suspended, Arrested 7/31

Alejandro Lopez Jr., Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31

Making Marvin Moriel Watson, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690899889888.jpeg" alt="Danielle Cannefax, Disorderly conduct, Arrested 7/31" />
 <figcaption>Danielle Cannefax, Disorderly conduct, Arrested 7/31</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690899980372.jpeg" alt="Marcus Grant, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31" />
 <figcaption>Marcus Grant, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690900038761.jpeg" alt="Myles Vaughn, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31" />
 <figcaption>Myles Vaughn, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Cordesia Zsaquell, Vehicle liability insurance; liability coverage required, Maximum speed limits, Driving while suspended, Arrested 7/31Alejandro Lopez Jr., Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31Making Marvin Moriel Watson, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Aug. 1

This is day 16, the final day of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

The Kansas wheat harvest is finally drawing to a close with 95 percent of wheat harvest complete, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service in its crop progress report for the week ending July 30, 2023. That is still well behind last year’s 100 percent completion at this time and the five-year average of nearly 99 percent.

Ahead of the weekend, the last remaining farmers in the harvest field were cutting down toward the Oklahoma border, primarily so they could report numbers to crop insurance, according to Lawson Hemberger, MKC senior location manager of rail terminals who is based out of the Sumner County Terminal in Milan. Hemberger oversees both of MKC’s current terminal elevators as well as the one under construction near Sterling. The terminal in Milan covers Sumner County, southwest of Wichita, and into neighboring Harper and Cowley counties.

The terminal took in its first loads of wheat around June 8. While that makes the length of harvest very long in total, Hemberger noted the majority of acres were harvested by the Fourth of July. The area caught five to six inches of rain that week, forcing farmers out of the field and starting a cycle of every-other-day rain delays, increasing weed pressure and falling test weights.

“This is definitely the first year I’ve seen a wheat harvest go darn near two months long,” he said.

Hemberger noted the area was pretty decent on moisture compared to other areas of Kansas as the wheat came out of dormancy. The wheat was up and looking pretty average, but then the area went all the way to early May before finally catching rain.

Hemberger estimated abandonment ranged from 10 to 15 percent. Some of those planted acres were abandoned before harvest so farmers could plant a second crop, others were zeroed out during harvest when some producers could send the combine down and back once in the field and not even fill up a coffee can.

He noted he was holding his breath when the rains arrived — calling it the do-or-die moment — but the wheat was at the exact right stage to fill the kernels that it put on. Test weights were excellent during the first few weeks of harvest, right at 60 to 60.5 pounds per bushel.

Yields were widespread from five bushels per acre — primarily where crop insurance would not release acres ahead of harvest — up to 48 bushels per acre. For the early part of harvest ahead of the holiday, Hemberger estimated most farmers averaged about 20 bushels per acre.

Protein was exceptional — even higher than last year’s drought-stressed crop — with Hemberger estimating 80 percent of wheat coming in was at 13 percent protein or higher. He noted for wheat report readers that the protein levels are mostly locked in once the wheat matures, meaning the protein values do not drop significantly like test weight.

The Sumner County Terminal has four different pits, allowing MKC to set up a really good segregation plan. Hemberger explained that most of the time they have four to five protein breaks — so trying to separate every percentage point (10 percent, 11 percent, etc.). This year, the crop came in so much higher with protein content that they had to adjust that segregation plan every other day to continue separating the highest protein wheat. He noted they are putting higher protein wheat — 14 and higher — into long-term storage, stashing it away for another time when good protein wheat may not be as readily available as this year’s crop.

Hemberger reported the most consistently reported top wheat variety this year was AgriPro’s Bob Dole, which was developed by K-State. He noted producers also highlighted Larry, also developed at K-State, and Paradise from Polansky Seed, as varieties that performed well in the area this year.

After the big rains around July 4, however, the rain kept coming. As a result, damage has substantially increased on those tail-end acres and test weights dropped off and at the end of harvest were down to 56 to 57 pounds per bushel. Weeds were a whole other debacle as producers struggled to control late-season emergence options in order to harvest. Crop insurance ended up zeroing out some fields due to crabgrass that came in after pigweed was sprayed.

Even with the frustrating end of harvest, Hemberger reported this year’s harvest was better than expected.

“We figured we got about 60 to 65 percent compared to a normal year,” Hemberger said. “Looking back at where we were going into May, we didn’t think we would have a crop at all.”

Despite the challenges the rain caused for the wheat, the ample moisture means the fall crops are looking really good, even with the long period of triple-digit weather that is threatening the crop at a critical growth period. Hemberger noted a rain at the end of last week of 1.5 to 3 inches could not have come at a better time.

Now the challenge is to turn house quickly at the terminal to make space for those fall crops. Most of the wheat will be sent to local mills. The MKC terminal does have two train loaders, but with such a short crop, there is not a strong export market out of Kansas this year. Still, he noted they will load a few trains that were contracted back this spring.

Overall, this wheat harvest will be one for the record books, although not in the way that producers would prefer, according to Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. As of its last estimate, USDA predicted Kansas wheat production will total 208 million bushels on 6.5 million acres, the smallest crop since 1966.

Breaking down that overall number, however, average yields for 2023 are currently estimated at 32 bushels per acre compared to 19.5 bushels per acre in 1966. That gain is directly attributable to the improvement in available wheat genetics, recommended farming practices and decades of on-farm knowledge.

“What shouldn’t be lost in everything that’s going on is the gains that have been made through genetics to try and keep a disaster from being more of a disaster,” Gilpin said. “The 2023 wheat crop had more than its share of twists and turns, but overall, we’ve come a long way. Every year is a little bit different, but 2023 is probably going to be one of those years that does stand out for a long time on charts, and not just due to the overall challenges this crop faced. Combined with the market volatility and unprecedented geopolitical events — everything that is occurring simultaneously within the wheat market right now is pretty incredible.”

Learn more about Gilpin’s perspectives on this year’s harvest, supply-and-demand factors across wheat classes, end-use quality, international market influences and more in the latest episode of the “Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001IWM8VLBC0qICfIjJkUmKTJa95zUxiq6RWEMfAaMhOKUOsF8WGVfvOWcrlc5SP7ZpcQxXI137SA99AhfBowPXtFt2XQ1r_nkRNTFRSbtAgPyNFLxxh8qAGyZWWCc-Ha5fAmD-TQHAEpiwY0wSMJof9A==&amp;c=VdgotDc_FxtE1DYsBGeQS8KQrvDxRU2upxoCbBSLKDGbI5FU5_t_cQ==&amp;ch=tENeIJUPUyKWq1YYKDxnXbfuacqjeUmEmW3qNNHLrGnPpbA23E13VQ==" target="_blank">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.

The 2023 Harvest Reports were brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690890009072.png" alt="Final Wheat Harvest Report" />
 <figcaption>Final Wheat Harvest Report</figcaption>
 </figure> By JULIA DEBESKansas WheatThis is day 16, the final day of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.The Kansas wheat harvest is finally drawing to a close with 95 percent of wheat harvest complete, according to the official statistics provided by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service in its crop progress report for the week ending July 30, 2023. That is still well behind last year’s 100 percent completion at this time and the five-year average of nearly 99 percent.Ahead of the weekend, the last remaining farmers in the harvest field were cutting down toward the Oklahoma border, primarily so they could report numbers to crop insurance, according to Lawson Hemberger, MKC senior location manager of rail terminals who is based out of the Sumner County Terminal in Milan. Hemberger oversees both of MKC’s current terminal elevators as well as the one under construction near Sterling. The terminal in Milan covers Sumner County, southwest of Wichita, and into neighboring Harper and Cowley counties.The terminal took in its first loads of wheat around June 8. While that makes the length of harvest very long in total, Hemberger noted the majority of acres were harvested by the Fourth of July. The area caught five to six inches of rain that week, forcing farmers out of the field and starting a cycle of every-other-day rain delays, increasing weed pressure and falling test weights.“This is definitely the first year I’ve seen a wheat harvest go darn near two months long,” he said.Hemberger noted the area was pretty decent on moisture compared to other areas of Kansas as the wheat came out of dormancy. The wheat was up and looking pretty average, but then the area went all the way to early May before finally catching rain.Hemberger estimated abandonment ranged from 10 to 15 percent. Some of those planted acres were abandoned before harvest so farmers could plant a second crop, others were zeroed out during harvest when some producers could send the combine down and back once in the field and not even fill up a coffee can.He noted he was holding his breath when the rains arrived — calling it the do-or-die moment — but the wheat was at the exact right stage to fill the kernels that it put on. Test weights were excellent during the first few weeks of harvest, right at 60 to 60.5 pounds per bushel.Yields were widespread from five bushels per acre — primarily where crop insurance would not release acres ahead of harvest — up to 48 bushels per acre. For the early part of harvest ahead of the holiday, Hemberger estimated most farmers averaged about 20 bushels per acre.Protein was exceptional — even higher than last year’s drought-stressed crop — with Hemberger estimating 80 percent of wheat coming in was at 13 percent protein or higher. He noted for wheat report readers that the protein levels are mostly locked in once the wheat matures, meaning the protein values do not drop significantly like test weight.The Sumner County Terminal has four different pits, allowing MKC to set up a really good segregation plan. Hemberger explained that most of the time they have four to five protein breaks — so trying to separate every percentage point (10 percent, 11 percent, etc.). This year, the crop came in so much higher with protein content that they had to adjust that segregation plan every other day to continue separating the highest protein wheat. He noted they are putting higher protein wheat — 14 and higher — into long-term storage, stashing it away for another time when good protein wheat may not be as readily available as this year’s crop.Hemberger reported the most consistently reported top wheat variety this year was AgriPro’s Bob Dole, which was developed by K-State. He noted producers also highlighted Larry, also developed at K-State, and Paradise from Polansky Seed, as varieties that performed well in the area this year.After the big rains around July 4, however, the rain kept coming. As a result, damage has substantially increased on those tail-end acres and test weights dropped off and at the end of harvest were down to 56 to 57 pounds per bushel. Weeds were a whole other debacle as producers struggled to control late-season emergence options in order to harvest. Crop insurance ended up zeroing out some fields due to crabgrass that came in after pigweed was sprayed.Even with the frustrating end of harvest, Hemberger reported this year’s harvest was better than expected.“We figured we got about 60 to 65 percent compared to a normal year,” Hemberger said. “Looking back at where we were going into May, we didn’t think we would have a crop at all.”Despite the challenges the rain caused for the wheat, the ample moisture means the fall crops are looking really good, even with the long period of triple-digit weather that is threatening the crop at a critical growth period. Hemberger noted a rain at the end of last week of 1.5 to 3 inches could not have come at a better time.Now the challenge is to turn house quickly at the terminal to make space for those fall crops. Most of the wheat will be sent to local mills. The MKC terminal does have two train loaders, but with such a short crop, there is not a strong export market out of Kansas this year. Still, he noted they will load a few trains that were contracted back this spring.Overall, this wheat harvest will be one for the record books, although not in the way that producers would prefer, according to Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. As of its last estimate, USDA predicted Kansas wheat production will total 208 million bushels on 6.5 million acres, the smallest crop since 1966.Breaking down that overall number, however, average yields for 2023 are currently estimated at 32 bushels per acre compared to 19.5 bushels per acre in 1966. That gain is directly attributable to the improvement in available wheat genetics, recommended farming practices and decades of on-farm knowledge.“What shouldn’t be lost in everything that’s going on is the gains that have been made through genetics to try and keep a disaster from being more of a disaster,” Gilpin said. “The 2023 wheat crop had more than its share of twists and turns, but overall, we’ve come a long way. Every year is a little bit different, but 2023 is probably going to be one of those years that does stand out for a long time on charts, and not just due to the overall challenges this crop faced. Combined with the market volatility and unprecedented geopolitical events — everything that is occurring simultaneously within the wheat market right now is pretty incredible.”Learn more about Gilpin’s perspectives on this year’s harvest, supply-and-demand factors across wheat classes, end-use quality, international market influences and more in the latest episode of the “Wheat’s On Your Mind” podcast at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001IWM8VLBC0qICfIjJkUmKTJa95zUxiq6RWEMfAaMhOKUOsF8WGVfvOWcrlc5SP7ZpcQxXI137SA99AhfBowPXtFt2XQ1r_nkRNTFRSbtAgPyNFLxxh8qAGyZWWCc-Ha5fAmD-TQHAEpiwY0wSMJof9A==&amp;c=VdgotDc_FxtE1DYsBGeQS8KQrvDxRU2upxoCbBSLKDGbI5FU5_t_cQ==&amp;ch=tENeIJUPUyKWq1YYKDxnXbfuacqjeUmEmW3qNNHLrGnPpbA23E13VQ==" target="_blank">wheatsonyourmind.com</a>.The 2023 Harvest Reports were brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Day 16, Final Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

By PAT MELGARES K-State News Service

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;A Kansas State University agricultural economist has been selected to lead a five-year project to develop decision-making tools and improve communication on the economic impacts of animal disease, ultimately improving the health of those animals. Dustin Pendell, a professor in K-State's&nbsp;department of&nbsp;agricultural&nbsp;economics, was named head of the&nbsp;Americas region of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-offer/expertise-network/collaborating-centres/" target="_blank">Collaborating Center for the Economics of Animal Health</a>. The project is supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.woah.org/en/home/" target="_blank">World Organisation for Animal Health</a>, or WOAH,&nbsp;which has headquarters in Paris, France. WOAH&nbsp;—&nbsp;similar in purpose to that of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a>, which preserves and promotes human health&nbsp;—&nbsp;approved the creation of the center during its 90th General Assembly in late May. WOAH has 183 member countries, 33 of which are in the Americas region. "Our thought process is that we can start to work together across these 33 countries in the Americas region to develop a set of consistent methods and tools that everyone can use to estimate the economic impacts of animal health,"&nbsp;Pendell said.&nbsp;"Then&nbsp;we can take that knowledge that we generate and disseminate that information back to the decision-makers, whether that be animal health officials, producers or anybody throughout the supply chain, so they can make better management decisions." The Collaborating Center for the Economics of Animal Health-Americas centers its operations at K-State's Manhattan campus, though there are no physical buildings representing the group. It will involve partners at the University of Sao Paulo,&nbsp;University of Brasilia,&nbsp;Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico and Washington State University. The center will focus its effort on animal health related to terrestrial livestock&nbsp;—&nbsp;animals that live primarily on land&nbsp;—&nbsp;and aquaculture. "As an economist, I will focus my work in that area, but this&nbsp;center is much more than economics,"&nbsp;Pendell said.&nbsp;"It will take multiple disciplines, such as veterinarians, economists, epidemiologists, engineers and more, to make this a success." Pendell said he anticipates the&nbsp;center's work will build upon recent global efforts such as the Global Burden of Animal Diseases,&nbsp;or&nbsp;GBADs,&nbsp;and Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases,&nbsp;a joint effort of WOAH and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. "The GBADs team has been working together for the past five years or so,&nbsp;during which time we've been developing methods on how we estimate the burden of animal health,"&nbsp;Pendell said. Pendell said knowing the burden of animal diseases across the world will not only assist governments and animal health officials invest appropriately in combatting those diseases but will help everyone across the livestock and meat supply chain. "My hope is that we can provide decision-makers with the information such that they will be better able to optimally allocate their limited resources,"&nbsp;he said. Pendell said his vision for the CCEAH-Americas is rooted in&nbsp;K-State's&nbsp;land-grant mission. "As an agricultural economist at a land-grant university, my job is to provide unbiased research to our stakeholders, such that they can make a better-informed decisions," he said. "We want business management decisions to be based on more than just a gut feeling. My vision for this center incorporates the land-grant philosophy and gets the research into the hands of the stakeholders, both here at home and around the world."&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643991102978.jpeg" alt="Photo by Unsplash" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Unsplash</figcaption>
 </figure>By PAT MELGARES K-State News Service MANHATTAN —&nbsp;A Kansas State University agricultural economist has been selected to lead a five-year project to develop decision-making tools and improve communication on the economic impacts of animal disease, ultimately improving the health of those animals. Dustin Pendell, a professor in K-State's&nbsp;department of&nbsp;agricultural&nbsp;economics, was named head of the&nbsp;Americas region of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-offer/expertise-network/collaborating-centres/" target="_blank">Collaborating Center for the Economics of Animal Health</a>. The project is supported by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.woah.org/en/home/" target="_blank">World Organisation for Animal Health</a>, or WOAH,&nbsp;which has headquarters in Paris, France. WOAH&nbsp;—&nbsp;similar in purpose to that of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.who.int/" target="_blank">World Health Organization</a>, which preserves and promotes human health&nbsp;—&nbsp;approved the creation of the center during its 90th General Assembly in late May. WOAH has 183 member countries, 33 of which are in the Americas region. "Our thought process is that we can start to work together across these 33 countries in the Americas region to develop a set of consistent methods and tools that everyone can use to estimate the economic impacts of animal health,"&nbsp;Pendell said.&nbsp;"Then&nbsp;we can take that knowledge that we generate and disseminate that information back to the decision-makers, whether that be animal health officials, producers or anybody throughout the supply chain, so they can make better management decisions." The Collaborating Center for the Economics of Animal Health-Americas centers its operations at K-State's Manhattan campus, though there are no physical buildings representing the group. It will involve partners at the University of Sao Paulo,&nbsp;University of Brasilia,&nbsp;Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico and Washington State University. The center will focus its effort on animal health related to terrestrial livestock&nbsp;—&nbsp;animals that live primarily on land&nbsp;—&nbsp;and aquaculture. "As an economist, I will focus my work in that area, but this&nbsp;center is much more than economics,"&nbsp;Pendell said.&nbsp;"It will take multiple disciplines, such as veterinarians, economists, epidemiologists, engineers and more, to make this a success." Pendell said he anticipates the&nbsp;center's work will build upon recent global efforts such as the Global Burden of Animal Diseases,&nbsp;or&nbsp;GBADs,&nbsp;and Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases,&nbsp;a joint effort of WOAH and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. "The GBADs team has been working together for the past five years or so,&nbsp;during which time we've been developing methods on how we estimate the burden of animal health,"&nbsp;Pendell said. Pendell said knowing the burden of animal diseases across the world will not only assist governments and animal health officials invest appropriately in combatting those diseases but will help everyone across the livestock and meat supply chain. "My hope is that we can provide decision-makers with the information such that they will be better able to optimally allocate their limited resources,"&nbsp;he said. Pendell said his vision for the CCEAH-Americas is rooted in&nbsp;K-State's&nbsp;land-grant mission. "As an agricultural economist at a land-grant university, my job is to provide unbiased research to our stakeholders, such that they can make a better-informed decisions," he said. "We want business management decisions to be based on more than just a gut feeling. My vision for this center incorporates the land-grant philosophy and gets the research into the hands of the stakeholders, both here at home and around the world."&nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State chosen to lead global animal health effort

Members of the public can learn Wednesday night about about how the Milford Lake water level and flood level are managed. The Corps of Engineers will host a meeting from 5-7:30&nbsp; p.m. Wednesday at the Geary County 4-H Senior Center, 1025 South Spring Valley Rd. in Junction City.

Bill Whitworth, Project Operations Manager for the Corps at Milford Lake said this meeting is the beginning of the public input process to update the water management plan, something done every few years. "This meeting is useful to go to on a couple of reasons. Just to learn about how lakes are managed and also if you have opinions on what you'd like to see done differently in terms of water management."

Whitworth observed that the Corps lakes are managed as a system to get a desired effect downstream.

A similar meeting is planned at Tuttle Creek Lake on Thursday from 5-7:30&nbsp; p.m. at the Manhattan Fire Department, 2000 Dennison Ave.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590240323222.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Members of the public can learn Wednesday night about about how the Milford Lake water level and flood level are managed. The Corps of Engineers will host a meeting from 5-7:30&nbsp; p.m. Wednesday at the Geary County 4-H Senior Center, 1025 South Spring Valley Rd. in Junction City.Bill Whitworth, Project Operations Manager for the Corps at Milford Lake said this meeting is the beginning of the public input process to update the water management plan, something done every few years. "This meeting is useful to go to on a couple of reasons. Just to learn about how lakes are managed and also if you have opinions on what you'd like to see done differently in terms of water management."Whitworth observed that the Corps lakes are managed as a system to get a desired effect downstream.A similar meeting is planned at Tuttle Creek Lake on Thursday from 5-7:30&nbsp; p.m. at the Manhattan Fire Department, 2000 Dennison Ave.

Public can learn about Milford Lake water control

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– Reps. Jake LaTurner (R-KS) and Yadira Caraveo, M.D. (D-CO) introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDux8Q-D5Gd5wjqYJZiAqEtUjNQ7rR7XWe20_7I-eCVYL9VohtkhgJDmjU8TxNN-hhOSX7CkKNDVfGdW8C9TSoNxSqftcfEuv6dUjuQ_Dm8NlkJGhj9CadLSqpJ1-47loSIjIwVZnwnOb3F4KuaIYWUWkfJUr5CgIxmzv3ix6Y12JRG4lmBE_kRDnpKnnzo0aBxeyVBsXfpfkWm-N0ARx-0RyVSO36JIG_kOrHEDgkGN5lX4Crw68IIaQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">a bipartisan bill</a>&nbsp;Thursday that will help&nbsp;family farmers and ranchers fight drought.

The&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping their agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program at the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) within the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDu2szG0UzImqjFvrM69sG4_Hkqwr3kU_jHVH0LGFOMMcJK4DXRClBK1iaeUFscStvYHuI10M8GRyWn9X2YBFrMZ0t3jbaiv5dgxlDbdk685ht5drpxVvKW0gYXUeufblsAs3U96Za5F8zNUaA_mctIGHWjSRzbKdYo1UPdIADE6LmQrP1Gi8GQSQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">Agricultural Conservation Easements Program.</a>

"Declining groundwater supply is a growing concern for our rural communities. As farmers and ranchers across Kansas continue to face historic drought, it's more important than ever that we work to conserve our state's water supply for generations to come," said LaTurner.

"I'm proud to partner with Rep. Caraveo to introduce the Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act to provide agriculture producers with the resources they need to help reduce groundwater use, conserve our natural resources, and keep their land in production."

“We in the West understand just how precious a resource our water is. That’s especially true in many rural communities, which rely on groundwater as their primary source of drinking water, and as irrigation supply for farmers and ranchers,” said&nbsp; Caraveo.

America’s groundwater resources are a primary source of drinking water for rural communities and a vital irrigation water supply for many family farms and ranches across the country. However, these resources are in decline — a trend that could seriously affect communities, water users, ecosystem health and local economies.

The&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;would:&nbsp;

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.)&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDu0kKB4lTDaUo5BD8fuZ93PoVBqu0uVnjVmqBWYucyVRS9zh8cAbvROD5E_KHl6tAuYz0SHAv281zpFK6ndOwUC_itRIC5KsJYbDrh6jn5n3sWyFB7rhCxNTXpmJR6sART3oKEFZfsgN6fdL5UgvUaoKcxctG9TG4TIlLfq0AEkT8V68-BWEuOD8NyHHRhayH6&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;in the Senate&nbsp;earlier this month.

Full text of the bill is available&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDux8Q-D5Gd5wjqYJZiAqEtUjNQ7rR7XWe20_7I-eCVYL9VohtkhgJDmjU8TxNN-hhOSX7CkKNDVfGdW8C9TSoNxSqftcfEuv6dUjuQ_Dm8NlkJGhj9CadLSqpJ1-47loSIjIwVZnwnOb3F4KuaIYWUWkfJUr5CgIxmzv3ix6Y12JRG4lmBE_kRDnpKnnzo0aBxeyVBsXfpfkWm-N0ARx-0RyVSO36JIG_kOrHEDgkGN5lX4Crw68IIaQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684858055085.jpeg" alt="U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, R-KS, 2nd District" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, R-KS, 2nd District</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Rep. LaTurnerWASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– Reps. Jake LaTurner (R-KS) and Yadira Caraveo, M.D. (D-CO) introduced&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDux8Q-D5Gd5wjqYJZiAqEtUjNQ7rR7XWe20_7I-eCVYL9VohtkhgJDmjU8TxNN-hhOSX7CkKNDVfGdW8C9TSoNxSqftcfEuv6dUjuQ_Dm8NlkJGhj9CadLSqpJ1-47loSIjIwVZnwnOb3F4KuaIYWUWkfJUr5CgIxmzv3ix6Y12JRG4lmBE_kRDnpKnnzo0aBxeyVBsXfpfkWm-N0ARx-0RyVSO36JIG_kOrHEDgkGN5lX4Crw68IIaQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">a bipartisan bill</a>&nbsp;Thursday that will help&nbsp;family farmers and ranchers fight drought. The&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping their agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program at the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) within the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDu2szG0UzImqjFvrM69sG4_Hkqwr3kU_jHVH0LGFOMMcJK4DXRClBK1iaeUFscStvYHuI10M8GRyWn9X2YBFrMZ0t3jbaiv5dgxlDbdk685ht5drpxVvKW0gYXUeufblsAs3U96Za5F8zNUaA_mctIGHWjSRzbKdYo1UPdIADE6LmQrP1Gi8GQSQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">Agricultural Conservation Easements Program.</a> "Declining groundwater supply is a growing concern for our rural communities. As farmers and ranchers across Kansas continue to face historic drought, it's more important than ever that we work to conserve our state's water supply for generations to come," said LaTurner."I'm proud to partner with Rep. Caraveo to introduce the Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act to provide agriculture producers with the resources they need to help reduce groundwater use, conserve our natural resources, and keep their land in production."“We in the West understand just how precious a resource our water is. That’s especially true in many rural communities, which rely on groundwater as their primary source of drinking water, and as irrigation supply for farmers and ranchers,” said&nbsp; Caraveo.America’s groundwater resources are a primary source of drinking water for rural communities and a vital irrigation water supply for many family farms and ranches across the country. However, these resources are in decline — a trend that could seriously affect communities, water users, ecosystem health and local economies.The&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;would:&nbsp; <ol>
 <li>Create a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals;</li><li>Allow NRCS to reimburse transaction costs up to 5 percent of the federal share and requires an advance payment for limited resource producers to cover these costs;</li><li>Guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce their water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing each year;</li><li>Ensure that farmers are fairly compensated using a payment based on the market value for the water right instead of a per acre payment; and</li><li>Clarify that easement funds shall not be counted towards a farm’s adjusted gross income and that producers with an adjusted gross income of more than $900,000 are eligible for a waiver from the Secretary to participate in groundwater conservation easements.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.)&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDu0kKB4lTDaUo5BD8fuZ93PoVBqu0uVnjVmqBWYucyVRS9zh8cAbvROD5E_KHl6tAuYz0SHAv281zpFK6ndOwUC_itRIC5KsJYbDrh6jn5n3sWyFB7rhCxNTXpmJR6sART3oKEFZfsgN6fdL5UgvUaoKcxctG9TG4TIlLfq0AEkT8V68-BWEuOD8NyHHRhayH6&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act&nbsp;in the Senate&nbsp;earlier this month. Full text of the bill is available&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0011SLYJ9ABCDxg6BUiHGPGP5cUkkqtOpXgma-kZ1I6BHEwQV_bf6uo6G-x0ArqBXDux8Q-D5Gd5wjqYJZiAqEtUjNQ7rR7XWe20_7I-eCVYL9VohtkhgJDmjU8TxNN-hhOSX7CkKNDVfGdW8C9TSoNxSqftcfEuv6dUjuQ_Dm8NlkJGhj9CadLSqpJ1-47loSIjIwVZnwnOb3F4KuaIYWUWkfJUr5CgIxmzv3ix6Y12JRG4lmBE_kRDnpKnnzo0aBxeyVBsXfpfkWm-N0ARx-0RyVSO36JIG_kOrHEDgkGN5lX4Crw68IIaQ==&amp;c=RHt9dJ_vS3tQrOnLdVYe01c-BmyxTkj9cD0Jpw3Ro7kCQqbfjNQwAQ==&amp;ch=nB6GgIT9vtqVeaP3EPqk7tlbixGyKGH5C61DfKxl_RZhbtRxlh2K2g==" target="_blank">HERE</a>.

Rep. LaTurner intros bill to help farmers, ranchers combat drought

Bonds have been posted. Photos are not available.

Katherine Rines, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/29

Damon Owens, DUI-liquor / drugs, Improper turn, Arrested 7/29

Clarence Spencer, Unlawful damage to property, Arrested 7/30

Dawnehai Vue Inthavong, Improper driving on laned roadway, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; misdemeanor, Arrested 7/30

Kayleen Crenshaw, Unlawful damage to property, Domestic battery, Arrested 7 /30

Rein Moffith, Maximum speed limits, Use / possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Arrested 7/30

Andrew Simonds, Failure to appear. Arrested 7/31

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690816324505.jpeg" alt="Trevor Berry, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/28" />
 <figcaption>Trevor Berry, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690816378076.jpeg" alt="Brittanie Salamon, Parole violation, Arrested 7/28" />
 <figcaption>Brittanie Salamon, Parole violation, Arrested 7/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690816439679.jpeg" alt="Christopher Barnes, Racing on highways, Possession of stolen propery, Failure to yield at stop or yield sign, Driving while license cancelled / suspended/revoked, Maximum speed limits, Fleeing or attempting to elude a LEO, Interference with LEO; felony, Driving without headlights when needed, Arrested 7/29" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Barnes, Racing on highways, Possession of stolen propery, Failure to yield at stop or yield sign, Driving while license cancelled / suspended/revoked, Maximum speed limits, Fleeing or attempting to elude a LEO, Interference with LEO; felony, Driving without headlights when needed, Arrested 7/29</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690816823294.jpeg" alt="Jamal Crawford, Criminal restraint, Aggravated battery, Arrested 7/30" />
 <figcaption>Jamal Crawford, Criminal restraint, Aggravated battery, Arrested 7/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690816905956.jpeg" alt="Jarah Driggs, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/30" />
 <figcaption>Jarah Driggs, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690816957088.jpeg" alt="Dylan McSherley, Use / possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Arrested 7/30" />
 <figcaption>Dylan McSherley, Use / possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Arrested 7/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690817065742.jpeg" alt="Shawn Adair, Criminal trespass; misdemeanor,&nbsp; Arrested 7/30" />
 <figcaption>Shawn Adair, Criminal trespass; misdemeanor,&nbsp; Arrested 7/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690817171868.jpeg" alt="Mercedes Inlay, Criminal trespass, Use / possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Arrested 7/30" />
 <figcaption>Mercedes Inlay, Criminal trespass, Use / possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of controlled substance, Arrested 7/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690817265106.jpeg" alt="Zacarias Salas-Boyd, Criminal trespass, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31" />
 <figcaption>Zacarias Salas-Boyd, Criminal trespass, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/31</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are not available.Katherine Rines, Failure to appear, Arrested 7/29Damon Owens, DUI-liquor / drugs, Improper turn, Arrested 7/29Clarence Spencer, Unlawful damage to property, Arrested 7/30Dawnehai Vue Inthavong, Improper driving on laned roadway, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; misdemeanor, Arrested 7/30Kayleen Crenshaw, Unlawful damage to property, Domestic battery, Arrested 7 /30David Hernandez, Domestic battery,&nbsp;Rein Moffith, Maximum speed limits, Use / possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Arrested 7/30Andrew Simonds, Failure to appear. Arrested 7/31Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos July 31

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in Manhattan.

Just before 2p.m. Saturday, Lee Mill Village reported 3 unknown male suspects entered the community pool in the 900 block of Oakbrook Place, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The suspects clogged toilets, broke metal fencing and filled the pool with toilet paper. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $676. 

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to property in Manhattan.Just before 2p.m. Saturday, Lee Mill Village reported 3 unknown male suspects entered the community pool in the 900 block of Oakbrook Place, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The suspects clogged toilets, broke metal fencing and filled the pool with toilet paper. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $676. 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: Suspects damaged pool area at Lee Mill Village

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher This week I will embark on one of the greatest adventures I will probably ever have in my life. I will be traveling with Kansas Farm Bureau’s Casten Fellows to Uganda and Tanzania. To say I am excited would be an understatement. To also say that I am a bit apprehensive and even more nervous would also be correct. All I know for sure is this will change my perspective on the world. Personally, I like to look for challenges or experiences that will help me grow and will stretch my view of the world. This trip should certainly do that. All I know is my own little corner of Kansas. I have been lucky enough to experience other parts of the state and the United States, and that has helped me as a person. My view of the world has changed from those experiences. I can only imagine how it will change from what will happen over the next two weeks. I hope to pick up some ideas that will help me when I get back. I am also hopeful this trip will allow me to appreciate the blessings I have been given and, I am sure, take for granted. I also hope this trip will give me greater insight about how important the work we do on our farms and ranches is. I hope I come home with a greater appreciation for the good work we do in Kansas Farm Bureau and in agriculture in general. I am sure most, if not all, of you feel like I do, and it is our responsibility to produce as much food and fiber as we can for a world that is in desperate need of it. I am proud of what we do, and I am proud and humbled to represent that to other nations. I also realize I do not understand other parts of the world like I should, and I hope to gain insight through the next two weeks. This is another example of some of the opportunities I have had through Kansas Farm Bureau and an example of experiences any of you who are members could have, too. My understanding of agriculture in Kansas and the United States has grown exponentially because of these experiences and soon my global understanding will be greater also. I am telling you about this to encourage each of you to take advantage of the opportunities and expand your understanding of agriculture. Am I nervous about the unknown of this trip? You bet I am. Am I a little worried about home and what might happen while I am gone? Without a doubt. Those are just part of the experience. The hardest part of any Farm Bureau trip is when the mailbox is still in the rearview mirror. I promise to write more about the trip in this space, but I hope this will inspire at least a few of you to take advantage of opportunities available to stretch your understanding of agriculture. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher This week I will embark on one of the greatest adventures I will probably ever have in my life. I will be traveling with Kansas Farm Bureau’s Casten Fellows to Uganda and Tanzania. To say I am excited would be an understatement. To also say that I am a bit apprehensive and even more nervous would also be correct. All I know for sure is this will change my perspective on the world. Personally, I like to look for challenges or experiences that will help me grow and will stretch my view of the world. This trip should certainly do that. All I know is my own little corner of Kansas. I have been lucky enough to experience other parts of the state and the United States, and that has helped me as a person. My view of the world has changed from those experiences. I can only imagine how it will change from what will happen over the next two weeks. I hope to pick up some ideas that will help me when I get back. I am also hopeful this trip will allow me to appreciate the blessings I have been given and, I am sure, take for granted. I also hope this trip will give me greater insight about how important the work we do on our farms and ranches is. I hope I come home with a greater appreciation for the good work we do in Kansas Farm Bureau and in agriculture in general. I am sure most, if not all, of you feel like I do, and it is our responsibility to produce as much food and fiber as we can for a world that is in desperate need of it. I am proud of what we do, and I am proud and humbled to represent that to other nations. I also realize I do not understand other parts of the world like I should, and I hope to gain insight through the next two weeks. This is another example of some of the opportunities I have had through Kansas Farm Bureau and an example of experiences any of you who are members could have, too. My understanding of agriculture in Kansas and the United States has grown exponentially because of these experiences and soon my global understanding will be greater also. I am telling you about this to encourage each of you to take advantage of the opportunities and expand your understanding of agriculture. Am I nervous about the unknown of this trip? You bet I am. Am I a little worried about home and what might happen while I am gone? Without a doubt. Those are just part of the experience. The hardest part of any Farm Bureau trip is when the mailbox is still in the rearview mirror. I promise to write more about the trip in this space, but I hope this will inspire at least a few of you to take advantage of opportunities available to stretch your understanding of agriculture. "Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Agriculture around the world

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an DUI accident in Manhattan.

Just after 6p.m. Saturday, police responded to a collision in the 300 block of Fort Riley Boulevard in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;A person involved reported a female suspect later identified as&nbsp; 28-year-old&nbsp; Brittany Holt of Salina crashed into a vehicle occupied by children. 

Police arrested Holt on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated endangering a child, driving under the influence, and driving while suspended. Holt was issued a total bond of $8,000 and is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an DUI accident in Manhattan.Just after 6p.m. Saturday, police responded to a collision in the 300 block of Fort Riley Boulevard in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;A person involved reported a female suspect later identified as&nbsp; 28-year-old&nbsp; Brittany Holt of Salina crashed into a vehicle occupied by children. Police arrested Holt on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated endangering a child, driving under the influence, and driving while suspended. Holt was issued a total bond of $8,000 and is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Kan. woman crashed into a vehicle occupied by children

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11p.m. Sunday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle driven by Paisley E.&nbsp;Lovesee, 20, Larned, was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Maple Hill.&nbsp; 

The car traveled off the road to the left entered the center median and rolled.&nbsp;

EMS transported Lovesee to Stormont Vail in Topeka. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11p.m. Sunday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle driven by Paisley E.&nbsp;Lovesee, 20, Larned, was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Maple Hill.&nbsp; The car traveled off the road to the left entered the center median and rolled.&nbsp;EMS transported Lovesee to Stormont Vail in Topeka. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after rollover accident

Local officials gathered Friday to formally cut the ribbon on a new security building at the west entrance of the Geary County Courthouse.

The west entrance has become the primary entrance to the courthouse in recent years for security reasons.

Court Administrator Nikki Davenport said, "The purpose of the building is to provide safety and security for not only our staff and judges but for the community and citizens that utilize our services and come to the courthouse."

Davenport noted that the building provides greater security. "When you have the ability space people out, people aren't crammed. It kind of lessens even a security threat. It kind of lessens even a security threat when people know that there is a security checkpoint when they have to enter our buildings." Davenport also pointed out it provides peace of mind for people utilizing the court services and come to the courthouse.

The project was funded by a combination of federal COVID ARPA money and county public commission funds. County Commissioner Keith Ascher confirmed the cost was in the approximate $700,000 range.

Ascher noted the entrance was needed due to a combination of a couple things. "This west entrance was failing and it needed repair. COVID really was the driving force."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690666563433.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Local officials gathered Friday to formally cut the ribbon on a new security building at the west entrance of the Geary County Courthouse.The west entrance has become the primary entrance to the courthouse in recent years for security reasons.Court Administrator Nikki Davenport said, "The purpose of the building is to provide safety and security for not only our staff and judges but for the community and citizens that utilize our services and come to the courthouse."Davenport noted that the building provides greater security. "When you have the ability space people out, people aren't crammed. It kind of lessens even a security threat. It kind of lessens even a security threat when people know that there is a security checkpoint when they have to enter our buildings." Davenport also pointed out it provides peace of mind for people utilizing the court services and come to the courthouse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690667645056.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The project was funded by a combination of federal COVID ARPA money and county public commission funds. County Commissioner Keith Ascher confirmed the cost was in the approximate $700,000 range.Ascher noted the entrance was needed due to a combination of a couple things. "This west entrance was failing and it needed repair. COVID really was the driving force."

New Geary County Courthouse security building will be in use

On Saturday at approximately 0735 hours, Junction City Police Officers were dispatched to the railroad crossing of Ash Street regarding an incident involving a Union Pacific train. As a result, access to the East side of Junction City was limited. 

Police said that the train blocked the railroad crossings at Ash Street and East Chestnut Street. Residents were get to the east side of town by taking I-70, or East 8th Street.&nbsp;

On Saturday at approximately 0735 hours, Junction City Police Officers were dispatched to the railroad crossing of Ash Street regarding an incident involving a Union Pacific train. As a result, access to the East side of Junction City was limited. Police said that the train blocked the railroad crossings at Ash Street and East Chestnut Street. Residents were get to the east side of town by taking I-70, or East 8th Street.&nbsp;The train tracks were later cleared.d.

Accident temporarily blocks intersection

&nbsp;The beauty of Kansas agriculture has been celebrated throughout the state’s ag industry, and we encourage photographers to capture that beauty and share it with others through the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s annual photo contest. KDA began accepting photos on July 19, and will continue accepting entries through the end of August.

This year’s KDA Photo Contest categories were selected to promote different aspects of Kansas agriculture:&nbsp;Farm Fresh,&nbsp;Technology in Agriculture,&nbsp;Kansas Critters, and&nbsp;Kansas Life. These categories allow you to showcase Kansas agriculture in many ways — the various products of our labor that feed our local communities, the scientific and technological advancements that increase efficiency and value, the many animals that play a role in agriculture, and the overall beauty of Kansas agriculture and what it means to live in this scenic state. And for the third year, a video category will welcome drone footage, harvest videos, or other short clips of under 30 seconds that showcase Kansas agriculture. As always, there is a separate Youth division, for young photographers under age 19. Prizes will be awarded to the top two winners in each of the six categories.

KDA serves to advocate for agriculture, the state’s largest industry and economic driver. Photos which best capture the categories will be used throughout the year as we tell the story of Kansas agriculture. After submission, KDA is granted permission to use any photograph for publications, social media, websites, displays, etc. without payment or other consideration from the photographer.

Photo entries should be sent in .jpg format to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDA.PhotoContest@ks.gov">KDA.PhotoContest@ks.gov</a>. Videos should be sent in .mp4 or .mov format. Entries must include a title and brief description, where and when the photo/video was taken, the photographer’s full name and age, entry category hometown and email address.

Guidelines for the KDA Photo Contest, including deadlines, categories and prizes, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9QaG90b0NvbnRlc3Q_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDcxOS43OTg5OTM5MSJ9.BG2uW4FNdeQKQ5FZHRt77QK8nqmImax5IyWmQnYCMZw/s/1377891820/br/222898049658-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/PhotoContest</a>. Voting to select finalists will begin on KDA’s social media sites in late August. For more information, contact Heather Lansdowne, KDA director of communications, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov">Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or 785-564-6706.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689796207807.jpeg" alt="kda Photo Contest open now. Photo Courtesy KDA" />
 <figcaption>kda Photo Contest open now. Photo Courtesy KDA</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Department of Agriculture&nbsp;The beauty of Kansas agriculture has been celebrated throughout the state’s ag industry, and we encourage photographers to capture that beauty and share it with others through the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s annual photo contest. KDA began accepting photos on July 19, and will continue accepting entries through the end of August.This year’s KDA Photo Contest categories were selected to promote different aspects of Kansas agriculture:&nbsp;Farm Fresh,&nbsp;Technology in Agriculture,&nbsp;Kansas Critters, and&nbsp;Kansas Life. These categories allow you to showcase Kansas agriculture in many ways — the various products of our labor that feed our local communities, the scientific and technological advancements that increase efficiency and value, the many animals that play a role in agriculture, and the overall beauty of Kansas agriculture and what it means to live in this scenic state. And for the third year, a video category will welcome drone footage, harvest videos, or other short clips of under 30 seconds that showcase Kansas agriculture. As always, there is a separate Youth division, for young photographers under age 19. Prizes will be awarded to the top two winners in each of the six categories.KDA serves to advocate for agriculture, the state’s largest industry and economic driver. Photos which best capture the categories will be used throughout the year as we tell the story of Kansas agriculture. After submission, KDA is granted permission to use any photograph for publications, social media, websites, displays, etc. without payment or other consideration from the photographer.Photo entries should be sent in .jpg format to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDA.PhotoContest@ks.gov">KDA.PhotoContest@ks.gov</a>. Videos should be sent in .mp4 or .mov format. Entries must include a title and brief description, where and when the photo/video was taken, the photographer’s full name and age, entry category hometown and email address.Guidelines for the KDA Photo Contest, including deadlines, categories and prizes, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmFncmljdWx0dXJlLmtzLmdvdi9QaG90b0NvbnRlc3Q_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDcxOS43OTg5OTM5MSJ9.BG2uW4FNdeQKQ5FZHRt77QK8nqmImax5IyWmQnYCMZw/s/1377891820/br/222898049658-l" target="_blank">agriculture.ks.gov/PhotoContest</a>. Voting to select finalists will begin on KDA’s social media sites in late August. For more information, contact Heather Lansdowne, KDA director of communications, at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov">Heather.Lansdowne@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or 785-564-6706.

KDA Photo Contest Now Accepting Entries

MANHATTAN — Join agriculture leaders from across the state at the eighth annual Kansas Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth on Thursday, August 17, at the Manhattan Conference Center at the Hilton Garden Inn, 410 S. 3rd&nbsp;St. in Manhattan.

The 2023 Ag Growth Summit will be held as an in-person event, with an emphasis on opportunities for discussion and networking. 

This year’s event will take a different format than in past years, with a focus on broad topics that affect the whole agriculture community, rather than small sessions separated by individual ag sectors. All farmers, ranchers, agribusiness owners and industry professionals are welcome at the Ag Growth Summit — if you’re committed to working for agricultural growth in Kansas, please join us in this effort.

Workforce and water have been identified as two major areas of focus that have a significant impact on the potential for growth in Kansas agriculture, so guest speakers and small group discussions during the day will be directed toward those two topics.

Attendees are also invited to participate in a social event on the evening of August 16, also at the Manhattan Conference Center.

There is no cost to attend any of the Ag Growth Summit meetings or events, but it is important that attendees register so KDA can provide adequate materials for attendees and have accurate meal counts. 

Registration has begun for the Summit at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuYWdyaWN1bHR1cmUua3MuZ292L1N1bW1pdD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNjIzLjc4NjkwMjMxIn0.9oOkXm_uCZQMTZYz1OZ-9YLjvgHYIxYCGoUuzps3_So/s/1377890594/br/207480417788-l" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/Summit</a>, along with a link to reserve a room at the Hilton Garden Inn.

If you have questions about the 2023 Kansas Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth, please contact Auburn Wassberg at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Auburn.B.Wassberg@ks.gov" target="_blank">Auburn.B.Wassberg@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or 785-564-6799.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687536170275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KS Dept. of AgricultureMANHATTAN — Join agriculture leaders from across the state at the eighth annual Kansas Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth on Thursday, August 17, at the Manhattan Conference Center at the Hilton Garden Inn, 410 S. 3rd&nbsp;St. in Manhattan.The 2023 Ag Growth Summit will be held as an in-person event, with an emphasis on opportunities for discussion and networking. This year’s event will take a different format than in past years, with a focus on broad topics that affect the whole agriculture community, rather than small sessions separated by individual ag sectors. All farmers, ranchers, agribusiness owners and industry professionals are welcome at the Ag Growth Summit — if you’re committed to working for agricultural growth in Kansas, please join us in this effort.Workforce and water have been identified as two major areas of focus that have a significant impact on the potential for growth in Kansas agriculture, so guest speakers and small group discussions during the day will be directed toward those two topics.Attendees are also invited to participate in a social event on the evening of August 16, also at the Manhattan Conference Center.There is no cost to attend any of the Ag Growth Summit meetings or events, but it is important that attendees register so KDA can provide adequate materials for attendees and have accurate meal counts. Registration has begun for the Summit at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cuYWdyaWN1bHR1cmUua3MuZ292L1N1bW1pdD91dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9zb3VyY2U9Z292ZGVsaXZlcnkiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNjIzLjc4NjkwMjMxIn0.9oOkXm_uCZQMTZYz1OZ-9YLjvgHYIxYCGoUuzps3_So/s/1377890594/br/207480417788-l" target="_blank">www.agriculture.ks.gov/Summit</a>, along with a link to reserve a room at the Hilton Garden Inn.If you have questions about the 2023 Kansas Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth, please contact Auburn Wassberg at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Auburn.B.Wassberg@ks.gov" target="_blank">Auburn.B.Wassberg@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or 785-564-6799.Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay.

Summit on Kansas agricultural growth set for Aug. 17 in Manhattan 

There were 71 sales during the Geary County Free Fair livestock and project auction. That included 40 head of livestock and 31 project items.&nbsp;

Total premiums paid were calculated at $54, 675 including $42,800 for the livestock and $11,875 for project items.

Floor price, Market value and Premiums paid to 4-H members.

1. Tava Gustafson Grand Champion Hereford&nbsp; Floor bid $185, Market value, $2,671.40 Premium $ 1,900, Buyer -&nbsp; Central National Bank

2. Kaycee Brown Grand Champion&nbsp; $180, $270.00, $ 1,450 Smokey Valley Ag Services

3. Clara Gfeller&nbsp; Grand Champion&nbsp; $105, $248.85, $ 1,200 Central National Bank

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690542558151.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>( Photos courtesy of Gnger Kopfer )There were 71 sales during the Geary County Free Fair livestock and project auction. That included 40 head of livestock and 31 project items.&nbsp;Total premiums paid were calculated at $54, 675 including $42,800 for the livestock and $11,875 for project items.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690542589993.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Floor price, Market value and Premiums paid to 4-H members.Champion Market Beef1. Tava Gustafson Grand Champion Hereford&nbsp; Floor bid $185, Market value, $2,671.40 Premium $ 1,900, Buyer -&nbsp; Central National BankChampion Market Lamb2. Kaycee Brown Grand Champion&nbsp; $180, $270.00, $ 1,450 Smokey Valley Ag ServicesChampion Market Hog3. Clara Gfeller&nbsp; Grand Champion&nbsp; $105, $248.85, $ 1,200 Central National BankChampion Projects4. Lyon Creek Grand Champion $ 475 Terry &amp; Mary Fleming5. Lyon Creek Grand Champion $ 400 Intrust BankMarket Beef t6. Tyler Proietti BreedChampion&nbsp; $185, $2,608.50, $ 850 Heldstab Construction Co7. Grant Slough , Breed Champion Market Heifer 1302 $185 $2,408.70 $ 700 Astra Bank of Chapman8. Cade Snider&nbsp; Breed Champion Angus $185, $2,728.75, $1,100 Harris Crop Insurance9. Cody Brown&nbsp; Breed Champion,&nbsp; $185, $2,495.65, $ 1,500 Clay Center Livestock Sales, JB Pearl Sales &amp; Service, Lyons Angus Ranch, JC Livestock Sales10. Kourtney Dibben t Res Breed Champ Angus&nbsp; $185 $2,601.10 $ 1,000 Geary Grain Inc.11. Adrian Williams&nbsp; Res Breed Champ&nbsp; 1583 $185 $2,928.55 $ 900 Agri Trails Co-op Association12. Paige Roeser Res Breed Champ Cross 427 $185 $2,639.95 $ 1,100 Rawhide Portable Corrals13. Lane Svoboda*&nbsp; Creek&nbsp; Class Champion Cross $185 $2,553.00 $ 1,200 Bruna Implement14. Reece Langvardt&nbsp; Blue Line Res Class Champ Cross 185 $2,258.85 $ 1,125 R&amp;R Cattle Co, Justin Reynolds15. Brittney Dibben&nbsp; Res Breed Champ&nbsp; $185 $2,501.20 $ 800 Central National Bank16. Caden Goodyear&nbsp; Res Class Champ&nbsp; $185 $2,610.35 $ 850 Smoky Valley Seeds - Pioneer17. Mikayla Dibben*&nbsp; Blue Angus 1374 $185 $2,541.90 $ 1,050 Elaine and Ron Dean18. Blake Proietti&nbsp; Blue Hereford 1417 $185 $2,621.45 $ 825 Intrust Bank19. Weston Langvardt&nbsp; 1363 $185 $2,521.55 $ 1,200 Valor Automotive20. Grant Roeser Blue Cross 1289 $185 $2,384.65 $ 1,000 Flint Hills Ag Service - Channel Seeds21. Ethan Goodyear&nbsp; Blue Cross 1412 $185 $2,612.20 $ 1,000 Jim Clark Auto CenterProjectsName Club Ribbon Project Premium Bidder22. Humboldt Purple $ 450 Ronnie Thomas Memorial23. Humboldt Blue $ 475 Elaine and Ron Dean24. Clarks Creek Purple $ 325 Craig Dibben25. Humboldt Purple $ 150 John &amp; Susan Moyer26. Humboldt Purple $ 325 Trish Giordano27. Lyon Creek Red $ 175 Florence Whitebread28. Humboldt Purple $ 350 Carlyon &amp; Sons29. Lyon Creek Blue $ 625 Roy GarrettBerry cakeDonnigan MuellerGrace MuellerMatt Zlotow2023 Geary County Free Fair 4-H Livestock &amp; Project Sale30. Humboldt Purple $ 400 Jim Clark Auto Center31. Lyon Creek Res Grand Champ $ 275 Terry &amp; Mary FlemingMarket Lamb Ear Sale Floor Bid MarketName Tag# Club Ribbon Breed Weight $/cwt Value Premium Bidder32. Charlie Strauss&nbsp; Breed Champ 148 $180 $266.40 $ 750 Jim Clark Auto Center33. Josie Strauss&nbsp; Res Breed Champ&nbsp; 162 $180 $291.60 $ 1,000 Harris Crop Insurance34. Emmy Gfeller Res Breed Champ Cross$180 $244.80 $ 1,400 Harris Crop InsuranceProjectsName Club Ribbon Project Premium Bidder35. Clarks Creek Blue $ 275 Keith &amp; Anita Ascher36. Humboldt Blue $ 475 Elaine and Ron Dean37. Humboldt Purple $ 375 GG Booth38. Humboldt Blue $ 275 Intrust Bank39. Humboldt Purple $ 375 Glessner Dirt Contracting40. Brookside Blue $ 225 Mary Muckey41. Humboldt Purple $ 200 John &amp; Debra Tillinghast42. Lyon Creek Blue $ 225 Ron Johnson43. Humboldt Purple $ 325 Craig Dibben44. Humboldt Blue $ 350 GG BoothMarket Hogs Ear Sale Floor Bid MarketName Tag# Club Ribbon Breed Weight $/cwt Value Premium Bidder45. Kacey Butler&nbsp; Res Grand Champ&nbsp; &nbsp;$105 $299.25 $ 1,000 Harris Farms46. Archer Anderes&nbsp; Blue Line Breed Champ$105 $241.50 $ 1,300 Town &amp; Country Veterinary Hospital47. Gracen Gfeller Res Breed Champ 85 $105 $299.25 $ 1,100Astra Bank of Chapman48. Newt Miller&nbsp; Res Breed Champ&nbsp; 297 $105 $311.85 $ 1,000Astra Bank of Chapman49. Hanna Miller&nbsp; Res Breed Champ 234 $105 $245.70 $ 1,325Agri Trails Co-op Association50. Nora Kvacik&nbsp; Res Breed Champ $105 $273.00 $ 925 Holm Automotive51. Nolan Langvardt Res Class Champ&nbsp; $105 $271.95 $ 1,275 R&amp;R Cattle Co52. Braden Blockcolsky&nbsp; Res Class Champ $105 $299.25 $ 950 Farm Bureau - Matt Machin53. Ray Boller&nbsp; Blue Berkshire $105 $313.95 $ 900 Holm Automotive54. Jacob Roeser $105 $310.80 $ 1,050 Central National Bank55. Morgan Nabus&nbsp; $105 $279.30 $ 1,000 REMAX Signature Properties56. Case Proietti&nbsp; $105 $305.55 $ 1,075 REMAX Signature Properties57. Elaina Schmidt&nbsp; $105 $237.30 $ 1,000 Splash-N-Dash58. Logan Nabus* $105 $288.75 $ 1,125 Heldstab Construction59. Lily Kvacik&nbsp; $105 $265.65 $ 975 Valor Automotive60. Brock Nabus&nbsp; $105 $269.85 $&nbsp; Hometown Insurance Agency61. Loagan Holm*&nbsp; $105 $290.85 $&nbsp;Abilene Termite &amp; Pest Control62. Gracie Erichsen $105 $292.95 $ 1,000 Smokey Valley Ag Services63. Humboldt Res Grand Champ $ 600 Jeff Childs Family64. Humboldt Res Grand Champ $ 425 PrairieLand Partners65. Clarks Creek Purple $ 400 Ronnie Thomas Memorial66. Humboldt Blue $ 525 Jim Clark Automotive67. Humboldt Res Class Champ $ 525 Heldstab Construction68. Brookside Res Grand Champ $ 475 Agri Trails Co-op Association69. Humboldt Blue $ 425 Cross Triangle Cattle Co.70. Humboldt Blue $ 500 Town &amp; Country Veterinary Hospital71. Humboldt Purple $ 475 Intrust Bank&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Macie MutoMacie MutoBo RyanTravis LeasurePhoto of green tomatoesPeach pieBreakfast cookiesPhoto - pasture with post &amp; wireUltimate chocolate chip cookiesDavid McIlwain* Apple pieMacy GoodyearAustin SohnreyColden BlockcolskyMallory KingGrady Oentrich