By DAVID VERGUN U.S. Department of Defense

The Defense Department issued a new policy to provide 12 weeks of paid, non-chargeable parental leave to service members who have a child through birth, adoption or a long-term foster care placement of at least 24 months.

These 12 weeks of parental leave, which became effective Dec. 27, come in addition to authorized convalescent leave for service members who give birth.

"This initiative supports the well-being and work-life balance of our military families," according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3338023/dod-announces-six-new-measures-to-enhance-well-being-of-military-force-and-thei/">DOD press release on March 22</a>.&nbsp;

Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Ramón Colón-López said DOD is taking action based on feedback from service members. &nbsp;

"As we receive feedback from our force, we continue to take immediate
 actions to answer their needs as they stand poised to answer their 
nation's call. This is one of many initiatives the department will 
continue to address, and it will not be the last. Our people deserve the
 best care to ensure they and their families are resilient in the 
conduct of our mission," he said.&nbsp;

According to DOD guidance, active-duty service members and Reserve 
members on active duty for more than 12 consecutive months are covered 
by the new policy.

Convalescent leave may be authorized for recovery of the birth parent
 if such leave is specifically recommended, in writing, by the health 
care provider of the birth parent to address a diagnosed medical 
condition and is approved by the birth parent's unit commander. The 
length of the convalescent leave is no longer prescribed in the parental
 leave policy and will be determined on an individual basis, according 
to the guidance.

Birth parents may take 12 weeks of parental leave after they complete the period of convalescent leave, the guidance states.

Parental leave —&nbsp;not convalescent leave —&nbsp;may be taken in multiple, 
nonconsecutive increments of at least one week, subject to command 
approval and mission requirements. Previously, parental leave was to be 
taken in a single, continuous increment.&nbsp;

Parental leave must be used within one year of a qualifying event or 
by the date of separation from active duty, whichever occurs first. The 
new policy creates occasions for exceptions to this limitation, such as 
when attending in-residence professional military education for a 
consecutive period of 90 or more days, performing temporary duty of 90 
or more consecutive days, etc. Unused parental leave is forfeited after 
one year unless an exception is authorized or upon separation from 
active duty, according to the guidance.

Service members who were on maternity convalescent leave or caregiver
 leave prior to Dec. 27, 2022, and who had unused maternity convalescent
 leave or caregiver leave remaining, are transitioned to leave under the
 new policy without any loss of benefit and receive the expanded 
benefit, the guidance states.

Birth parents in a maternity convalescent leave status continue in 
that status, if applicable, until the birth parent completes the 
approved period of maternity convalescent leave, and then are eligible 
for 12 weeks of parental leave. Service members on primary or secondary 
caregiver leave will have that leave extended to provide them with a 
total of 12 weeks of parental leave, the guidance states.&nbsp;

The transition from maternity convalescent leave and/or caregiver 
leave to the expanded parental leave is intended to occur without 
interruption. The guidance provided some examples:&nbsp;

A birth parent who receives six weeks of "maternity convalescent 
leave" will also receive 12 weeks of non-chargeable parental leave 
following birth, for a total of 18 weeks of non-chargeable leave.&nbsp;

A father on three weeks of secondary caregiver leave as of Dec. 27, 2022, will receive a total of 12 weeks of parental leave.&nbsp;

As of Feb. 1, 2023, all military services have published, detailed 
guidance on the required forms, approval authorities and the process to 
request leave under the new program. 

The following is an example of a soldier who plans to take parental leave.&nbsp;

On Aug. 3, Tara Redmond gave birth to George Henry Redmond in Prince Frederick, Maryland.&nbsp;

Husband and father Army Staff Sgt. Kent Redmond works in the Pentagon
 as a mass communications specialist. He said he was happy to hear about
 the policy change and has not yet used his parental leave.&nbsp;

The couple plans to use the parental leave well before Aug. 3, when 
it expires, he said, adding that the new policy provides flexibility for
 his family and for his work because it can be used in more than one 
segment of time.&nbsp;

Over the years, there were small, incremental changes to parental 
leave, he said. When their first child, Lucille Jane, 4, was born, only 
10 days of parental leave were authorized. A year later when John Terry 
was born, 14 days of parental leave were authorized.

Redmond, who has 16 years of service, said female soldiers he's known
 often chose to leave the Army to be with their newborns. He said he 
thinks this new policy will aid in retention, as well as recruitment.&nbsp;

Taking care of people is always good for increasing readiness of the force, he added.

By DAVID VERGUN U.S. Department of DefenseThe Defense Department issued a new policy to provide 12 weeks of paid, non-chargeable parental leave to service members who have a child through birth, adoption or a long-term foster care placement of at least 24 months.These 12 weeks of parental leave, which became effective Dec. 27, come in addition to authorized convalescent leave for service members who give birth."This initiative supports the well-being and work-life balance of our military families," according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3338023/dod-announces-six-new-measures-to-enhance-well-being-of-military-force-and-thei/">DOD press release on March 22</a>.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680543541400.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman Ramón Colón-López said DOD is taking action based on feedback from service members. &nbsp;"As we receive feedback from our force, we continue to take immediate
 actions to answer their needs as they stand poised to answer their 
nation's call. This is one of many initiatives the department will 
continue to address, and it will not be the last. Our people deserve the
 best care to ensure they and their families are resilient in the 
conduct of our mission," he said.&nbsp;According to DOD guidance, active-duty service members and Reserve 
members on active duty for more than 12 consecutive months are covered 
by the new policy.Convalescent leave may be authorized for recovery of the birth parent
 if such leave is specifically recommended, in writing, by the health 
care provider of the birth parent to address a diagnosed medical 
condition and is approved by the birth parent's unit commander. The 
length of the convalescent leave is no longer prescribed in the parental
 leave policy and will be determined on an individual basis, according 
to the guidance.Birth parents may take 12 weeks of parental leave after they complete the period of convalescent leave, the guidance states.Parental leave —&nbsp;not convalescent leave —&nbsp;may be taken in multiple, 
nonconsecutive increments of at least one week, subject to command 
approval and mission requirements. Previously, parental leave was to be 
taken in a single, continuous increment.&nbsp;Parental leave must be used within one year of a qualifying event or 
by the date of separation from active duty, whichever occurs first. The 
new policy creates occasions for exceptions to this limitation, such as 
when attending in-residence professional military education for a 
consecutive period of 90 or more days, performing temporary duty of 90 
or more consecutive days, etc. Unused parental leave is forfeited after 
one year unless an exception is authorized or upon separation from 
active duty, according to the guidance.Service members who were on maternity convalescent leave or caregiver
 leave prior to Dec. 27, 2022, and who had unused maternity convalescent
 leave or caregiver leave remaining, are transitioned to leave under the
 new policy without any loss of benefit and receive the expanded 
benefit, the guidance states.Birth parents in a maternity convalescent leave status continue in 
that status, if applicable, until the birth parent completes the 
approved period of maternity convalescent leave, and then are eligible 
for 12 weeks of parental leave. Service members on primary or secondary 
caregiver leave will have that leave extended to provide them with a 
total of 12 weeks of parental leave, the guidance states.&nbsp;The transition from maternity convalescent leave and/or caregiver 
leave to the expanded parental leave is intended to occur without 
interruption. The guidance provided some examples:&nbsp;A birth parent who receives six weeks of "maternity convalescent 
leave" will also receive 12 weeks of non-chargeable parental leave 
following birth, for a total of 18 weeks of non-chargeable leave.&nbsp;A father on three weeks of secondary caregiver leave as of Dec. 27, 2022, will receive a total of 12 weeks of parental leave.&nbsp;As of Feb. 1, 2023, all military services have published, detailed 
guidance on the required forms, approval authorities and the process to 
request leave under the new program. The following is an example of a soldier who plans to take parental leave.&nbsp;On Aug. 3, Tara Redmond gave birth to George Henry Redmond in Prince Frederick, Maryland.&nbsp;Husband and father Army Staff Sgt. Kent Redmond works in the Pentagon
 as a mass communications specialist. He said he was happy to hear about
 the policy change and has not yet used his parental leave.&nbsp;The couple plans to use the parental leave well before Aug. 3, when 
it expires, he said, adding that the new policy provides flexibility for
 his family and for his work because it can be used in more than one 
segment of time.&nbsp;Over the years, there were small, incremental changes to parental 
leave, he said. When their first child, Lucille Jane, 4, was born, only 
10 days of parental leave were authorized. A year later when John Terry 
was born, 14 days of parental leave were authorized.Redmond, who has 16 years of service, said female soldiers he's known
 often chose to leave the Army to be with their newborns. He said he 
thinks this new policy will aid in retention, as well as recruitment.&nbsp;Taking care of people is always good for increasing readiness of the force, he added.

DoD explainer: Service members get extended parental leave

MANHATTAN — An internationally recognized architect and accomplished educator and administrator will become the next dean of Kansas State University's<a href="https://apdesign.k-state.edu/">College of Architecture, Planning &amp; Design</a>. Michael McClure, associate dean of the College of the Arts and distinguished professor of architecture and design at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, has been appointed to the post by K-State Provost Charles Taber following a national search. He will begin his new duties on July 1. "Michael McClure is well prepared to lead APDesign into the future," said Taber. "He is a visionary leader with apassion for education and a deep understanding of the design and planning professions.&nbsp;He is equipped to lead and continue to advance the college while ensuring we are preparing students for industry." As dean, McClure will be responsible for providing leadership and direction of the college's teaching, strategic planning, recruitment, alumni and partner outreach as well as fundraising efforts. He will oversee a nationally recognized program with more than 800 full-time students and nearly 90 faculty and staff members engaged in the college's nine degree programs. "I am honored to join the faculty and provide leadership for the College of Architecture, Planning &amp; Design at Kansas State University," said McClure. "The college's momentum is extraordinary, and I look forward to working with the students, faculty and staff to leverage that success toward a more vibrant future.&nbsp;Our professions have the privilege of working with society to develop strategies that make the world deeply meaningful and useful. The college is engaged with the university's next-generation land-grant initiative and will continue to work toward vital, inclusive and socially involved design professions." McClure served as interim dean in the College of Arts from January 2021-2023 at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he began as a faculty member in 2001. In addition to being named a distinguished professor, McClure's teaching honors include the Research Excellence Award and Advising Award. He has also held teaching positions at Louisiana State University, Tulane University and Pratt Institute. McClure is a founding partner of Emery McClure Architecture in Lafayette and has received numerous professional awards and recognitions, including the&nbsp;prestigious Gorham P. Stevens Rome Prize for Architecture in 2008. Before founding his private firm, McClure worked for Robert A. M. Stern Architects, Karen Bausman and Associates and Richard Gluckman Architects. McClure earned his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis and a Master’s of Architecture from Columbia University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680527602353.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State NewsMANHATTAN — An internationally recognized architect and accomplished educator and administrator will become the next dean of Kansas State University's<a href="https://apdesign.k-state.edu/">College of Architecture, Planning &amp; Design</a>. Michael McClure, associate dean of the College of the Arts and distinguished professor of architecture and design at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, has been appointed to the post by K-State Provost Charles Taber following a national search. He will begin his new duties on July 1. "Michael McClure is well prepared to lead APDesign into the future," said Taber. "He is a visionary leader with apassion for education and a deep understanding of the design and planning professions.&nbsp;He is equipped to lead and continue to advance the college while ensuring we are preparing students for industry." As dean, McClure will be responsible for providing leadership and direction of the college's teaching, strategic planning, recruitment, alumni and partner outreach as well as fundraising efforts. He will oversee a nationally recognized program with more than 800 full-time students and nearly 90 faculty and staff members engaged in the college's nine degree programs. "I am honored to join the faculty and provide leadership for the College of Architecture, Planning &amp; Design at Kansas State University," said McClure. "The college's momentum is extraordinary, and I look forward to working with the students, faculty and staff to leverage that success toward a more vibrant future.&nbsp;Our professions have the privilege of working with society to develop strategies that make the world deeply meaningful and useful. The college is engaged with the university's next-generation land-grant initiative and will continue to work toward vital, inclusive and socially involved design professions." McClure served as interim dean in the College of Arts from January 2021-2023 at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he began as a faculty member in 2001. In addition to being named a distinguished professor, McClure's teaching honors include the Research Excellence Award and Advising Award. He has also held teaching positions at Louisiana State University, Tulane University and Pratt Institute. McClure is a founding partner of Emery McClure Architecture in Lafayette and has received numerous professional awards and recognitions, including the&nbsp;prestigious Gorham P. Stevens Rome Prize for Architecture in 2008. Before founding his private firm, McClure worked for Robert A. M. Stern Architects, Karen Bausman and Associates and Richard Gluckman Architects. McClure earned his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis and a Master’s of Architecture from Columbia University.

McClure named dean of K-State College of Architecture, Planning & Design 

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher I don’t know about you, but spring is here and I am ready for it. After a cold winter, there is nothing better than the sun on your face&nbsp;that first warm spring day. That same sunshine brings new growth, and we can see our pastures greening up. At first, the blades of grass barely poke through the ground, but soon with a little bit of sunshine and (hopefully) some water the grass grows at an amazing rate. The growth is incredible and what I find more fascinating is it happens year after year. Fall and winter comes and the top growth dies off only to come back as new growth the next year. Why? The secret is in the roots, the grassroots. Just like the prairie, Kansas Farm Bureau relies on grassroots to make our organization strong and resilient. They are the source of everything that happens even though they may not always be very visible. Our grassroots are what anchor us in the ground and give the organization a strong footing. Our grassroots run deep; they have been growing for over a century. Without our counties anchoring and supporting, the rest of the organization would not exist. Our deep roots and wide network are also what make us survive. When things are tough, we cover enough ground to help us to receive what we need to keep going. Just like grassroots bring in water and nutrients, our counties supply the organization with new ideas, hard work and volunteers. In turn, the leaves provide the plant with energy. The Kansas Farm Bureau provides advocacy, support and education back to the counties. Those grassroots are what makes Farm Bureau such a great organization. It is the fact that each county has its own, autonomous association, then each state is its own entity and the American Farm Bureau Federation exists not because of the states but the counties in each state. Just like the grass plant, nothing else would exist without the county level organizations. All policy and decisions ultimately are made at the county level. Every leader started out as a member in their home county. Every policy in our state and national policy book started out as an idea at the county level and worked its way through the system. The most effective education, advocacy and community service all happen at the county level. That is why we can represent farmers and ranchers of all types of no matter how big or small their farms or ranches are. The depth and breadth of our roots is what makes us different from every other agricultural organization and we should be very proud of that. Yes, everyone sees the green grass growing above ground but that green grass exists because of its roots, and I don’t know about you but I am awfully proud of my grassroots. "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;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher I don’t know about you, but spring is here and I am ready for it. After a cold winter, there is nothing better than the sun on your face&nbsp;that first warm spring day. That same sunshine brings new growth, and we can see our pastures greening up. At first, the blades of grass barely poke through the ground, but soon with a little bit of sunshine and (hopefully) some water the grass grows at an amazing rate. The growth is incredible and what I find more fascinating is it happens year after year. Fall and winter comes and the top growth dies off only to come back as new growth the next year. Why? The secret is in the roots, the grassroots. Just like the prairie, Kansas Farm Bureau relies on grassroots to make our organization strong and resilient. They are the source of everything that happens even though they may not always be very visible. Our grassroots are what anchor us in the ground and give the organization a strong footing. Our grassroots run deep; they have been growing for over a century. Without our counties anchoring and supporting, the rest of the organization would not exist. Our deep roots and wide network are also what make us survive. When things are tough, we cover enough ground to help us to receive what we need to keep going. Just like grassroots bring in water and nutrients, our counties supply the organization with new ideas, hard work and volunteers. In turn, the leaves provide the plant with energy. The Kansas Farm Bureau provides advocacy, support and education back to the counties. Those grassroots are what makes Farm Bureau such a great organization. It is the fact that each county has its own, autonomous association, then each state is its own entity and the American Farm Bureau Federation exists not because of the states but the counties in each state. Just like the grass plant, nothing else would exist without the county level organizations. All policy and decisions ultimately are made at the county level. Every leader started out as a member in their home county. Every policy in our state and national policy book started out as an idea at the county level and worked its way through the system. The most effective education, advocacy and community service all happen at the county level. That is why we can represent farmers and ranchers of all types of no matter how big or small their farms or ranches are. The depth and breadth of our roots is what makes us different from every other agricultural organization and we should be very proud of that. Yes, everyone sees the green grass growing above ground but that green grass exists because of its roots, and I don’t know about you but I am awfully proud of my grassroots. "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;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: From the ground up

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30p.m. Tuesday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Dodge Durango driven by&nbsp; Rasheen D. Rolf, 32, Lawrence, was westbound in the eastbound lane of of Interstate 70 one mile east of Ranch Road.

The vehicle crossed over the median, traveled back into the westbound lane and then into the north ditch.&nbsp;

EMS transported Rolf to Stormont Vail. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30p.m. Tuesday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Dodge Durango driven by&nbsp; Rasheen D. Rolf, 32, Lawrence, was westbound in the eastbound lane of of Interstate 70 one mile east of Ranch Road.The vehicle crossed over the median, traveled back into the westbound lane and then into the north ditch.&nbsp;EMS transported Rolf to Stormont Vail. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman hospitalized after I-70 accident

SHAWNEE&nbsp;– Topeka resident, Bobby Parkhurst, was fishing at Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No. 2 when the catch-of-a-lifetime came into contact with his lure. Little did Parkhurst know that what loomed beneath the surface, ready to strike, would break a Kansas state record set the very same month, nearly 60 years prior.

The enormous white crappie caught by Parkhurst on March 5 was taken with rod and reel and a minnow as bait. After inspection and measurement by John Reinke, assistant director of Fisheries for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the lunker catch was put on a certified scale where it was recorded as weighing 4.07 pounds – the equivalent of six cans of soup.

“As fisheries biologists, we get the chance to see a lot of big fish but this one is certainly for the books,” Reinke said. “This crappie measured in at 18 inches long and 14 inches in girth, so it truly deserves a spot on the state record list.”

The previous Kansas state record for white crappie was set in 1964 by Frank Miller of Eureka when he reeled in a 4.02-pound crappie that measured 17.5 inches long. Miller used a rod and reel and minnow, too.

Trophy catches such as these end up as a Kansas State Record if:

The 30-day waiting period for Parkhurst’s catch ends today, April 4, making his white crappie the biggest catch for the species in Kansas history. For now, that is.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TdGF0ZS1SZWNvcmQtRmlzaCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ2MTY3MjEifQ.e0aXJf3hIKJ4CaT1GT4Wrc9MGu49ObheQ9nrtijbaCw/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l">HERE</a>&nbsp;to see a complete list of current Kansas state record fish.

Caught a big fish but not quite a state record? Apply for a “Master Angler Award” and be recognized for your catch if it exceeds the measurements listed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9NYXN0ZXItQW5nbGVyLUF3YXJkLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNDA0Ljc0NjE2NzIxIn0.44_B1ujxPINqTCYep9mmPV9nJOgJlmj2wlfGSBoNFB8/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l">HERE</a>.

For more on fishing in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ2MTY3MjEifQ.rRaqcQ7E-ZOuk7LXJJAGDW3be9v3dlxyv87lEKGIYUs/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/Fishing</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680644840706.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPSHAWNEE&nbsp;– Topeka resident, Bobby Parkhurst, was fishing at Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No. 2 when the catch-of-a-lifetime came into contact with his lure. Little did Parkhurst know that what loomed beneath the surface, ready to strike, would break a Kansas state record set the very same month, nearly 60 years prior.The enormous white crappie caught by Parkhurst on March 5 was taken with rod and reel and a minnow as bait. After inspection and measurement by John Reinke, assistant director of Fisheries for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the lunker catch was put on a certified scale where it was recorded as weighing 4.07 pounds – the equivalent of six cans of soup.“As fisheries biologists, we get the chance to see a lot of big fish but this one is certainly for the books,” Reinke said. “This crappie measured in at 18 inches long and 14 inches in girth, so it truly deserves a spot on the state record list.”The previous Kansas state record for white crappie was set in 1964 by Frank Miller of Eureka when he reeled in a 4.02-pound crappie that measured 17.5 inches long. Miller used a rod and reel and minnow, too.Trophy catches such as these end up as a Kansas State Record if:<ul>
 <li>The fish is caught by a licensed angler using legal means</li><li>The fish is identified by a Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks district fisheries biologist or regional fisheries supervisor</li><li>The fish is weighed on a certified scale prior to being frozen</li><li>The fish is photographed, in color, and a state record application is filled out</li><li>The mandatory 30-day waiting period has passed.</li>
 </ul>The 30-day waiting period for Parkhurst’s catch ends today, April 4, making his white crappie the biggest catch for the species in Kansas history. For now, that is.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TdGF0ZS1SZWNvcmQtRmlzaCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ2MTY3MjEifQ.e0aXJf3hIKJ4CaT1GT4Wrc9MGu49ObheQ9nrtijbaCw/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l">HERE</a>&nbsp;to see a complete list of current Kansas state record fish.Caught a big fish but not quite a state record? Apply for a “Master Angler Award” and be recognized for your catch if it exceeds the measurements listed&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUZpc2hpbmctUHJvZ3JhbXMtZm9yLVlvdS9NYXN0ZXItQW5nbGVyLUF3YXJkLVByb2dyYW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwNDA0Ljc0NjE2NzIxIn0.44_B1ujxPINqTCYep9mmPV9nJOgJlmj2wlfGSBoNFB8/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l">HERE</a>.For more on fishing in Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vRmlzaGluZyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ2MTY3MjEifQ.rRaqcQ7E-ZOuk7LXJJAGDW3be9v3dlxyv87lEKGIYUs/s/1372079104/br/157390108588-l" target="_blank">ksoutdoors.com/Fishing</a>.

Topeka angler sets new Kansas record for crappie

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

CLAY COUNTY - USD 379 Clay County Schools Superintendent, Brett Nelson posted a message to the community on the district's Facebook page, stating a member of the school board received an email stating they had "planted bombs on the inside and also requested bitcoins.”

Nelson said officials at KDHE were aware of the message which had been sent to not only Clay County schools, but other schools, hospitals and businesses nationwide.

Local law enforcement will be present at all schools within USD 379 district, following a thorough inspection of the buildings, checking for open doors/window, or anything unusual.

RILEY COUNTY - USD 378 Riley County Schools Superintendent Cliff Williams also released a statement to parents saying the Riley County Police Department and SRO Officer Sheldon confirmed USD 378 school district had not been directly threatened.

According to Williams, RCPD has been at both schools out of an abundance of caution.

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostCLAY COUNTY - USD 379 Clay County Schools Superintendent, Brett Nelson posted a message to the community on the district's Facebook page, stating a member of the school board received an email stating they had "planted bombs on the inside and also requested bitcoins.”Nelson said officials at KDHE were aware of the message which had been sent to not only Clay County schools, but other schools, hospitals and businesses nationwide.Local law enforcement will be present at all schools within USD 379 district, following a thorough inspection of the buildings, checking for open doors/window, or anything unusual.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FUSD379%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02PAy4KpUuRyEKAeFquievUzRwAmXpLVNQw287vgcUj13ioocREtkH9AtmpJxPTbGNl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="310" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>RILEY COUNTY - USD 378 Riley County Schools Superintendent Cliff Williams also released a statement to parents saying the Riley County Police Department and SRO Officer Sheldon confirmed USD 378 school district had not been directly threatened.According to Williams, RCPD has been at both schools out of an abundance of caution.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680635900492.jpeg" alt="submitted screenshot" />
 <figcaption>submitted screenshot</figcaption>
 </figure>

Schools in NE Kansas, across nation receive bomb threats

UPDATED 4:50 p.m. Tuesday. The road is now reopen to traffic, officials reported.

WESTMORELAND — Officials have closed roads in northern Pottawatomie County due to an out-of-control grass fire Tuesday afternoon.

Southbound traffic on Highway 99 and Main Street and northbound traffic on Highway 99 and Hartwich Road in Westmoreland are impassable, officials reported.

Check the Post for more as details become available.

Little Apple PostUPDATED 4:50 p.m. Tuesday. The road is now reopen to traffic, officials reported.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680725428210.jpeg" alt="Highway 99 was closed due to smoke from wildfire" />
 <figcaption>Highway 99 was closed due to smoke from wildfire</figcaption>
 </figure>-------WESTMORELAND — Officials have closed roads in northern Pottawatomie County due to an out-of-control grass fire Tuesday afternoon.Southbound traffic on Highway 99 and Main Street and northbound traffic on Highway 99 and Hartwich Road in Westmoreland are impassable, officials reported.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680725566791.jpeg" alt="Fire trucks on Hartwich Road" />
 <figcaption>Fire trucks on Hartwich Road</figcaption>
 </figure>Check the Post for more as details become available.

UPDATE: Pottawatomie Co. road reopen after grass fire

By BECKY GOFF JC&nbsp; Post

MANHATTAN - Riley County Police announced that an 11-year-old missing on Tuesday has been located.

UPDATED&nbsp;3:50 p.m. Tuesday

By BECKY GOFF JC&nbsp; PostMANHATTAN - Riley County Police announced that an 11-year-old missing on Tuesday has been located.UPDATED&nbsp;3:50 p.m. Tuesday

UPDATED: Missing 11-year-old has been located

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.&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/2023/4/1680614953302.jpeg" alt="Philip Governor Locklear, Battery; Criminal damage to property; misdemeanor; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Arrested 4/4" />
 <figcaption>Philip Governor Locklear, Battery; Criminal damage to property; misdemeanor; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Arrested 4/4</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680615067230.jpeg" alt="Zackary Ryan McMurray, Failure to appear; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 4/4" />
 <figcaption>Zackary Ryan McMurray, Failure to appear; Possession of marijuana; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 4/4</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680615142287.jpeg" alt="Kelly Johnston Simmons, Failure to appear; Arrested 4/3" />
 <figcaption>Kelly Johnston Simmons, Failure to appear; Arrested 4/3</figcaption>
 </figure>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;

Geary County Booking Photos April 4

A red flag warning will remain in effect through 11 p.m. Tuesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka warned.

With the temperature expected to spike to the mid-80s, low humidity and dry conditions, wildfires are a threat across the region.&nbsp;

Winds are expected to be sustained from the south at 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph expected.

There is a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms between 9 p.m. and midnight Tuesday as a cold front moves into the region.

The mercury will take a drastic plunge, only reaching a high in the low- to mid-50s Wednesday, the NWS predicted. North winds will blow 15 to 20 mph Wednesday, gusting to 30 mph.

The next slight chance of precipitation in the long-term forecast is Sunday night.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680615558361.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A red flag warning will remain in effect through 11 p.m. Tuesday, the National Weather Service in Topeka warned.With the temperature expected to spike to the mid-80s, low humidity and dry conditions, wildfires are a threat across the region.&nbsp;Winds are expected to be sustained from the south at 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph expected.There is a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms between 9 p.m. and midnight Tuesday as a cold front moves into the region.The mercury will take a drastic plunge, only reaching a high in the low- to mid-50s Wednesday, the NWS predicted. North winds will blow 15 to 20 mph Wednesday, gusting to 30 mph.The next slight chance of precipitation in the long-term forecast is Sunday night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Dangerous fire weather conditions this morning through late evening for much of the area. Wind gusts to 50 mph while min. humidity values down to 10 percent. No outdoor burning and report any wildfires to local authorities immediately! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/hTSFwYLb9Z">pic.twitter.com/hTSFwYLb9Z</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1643198016273227778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Extreme fire danger Tuesday with a high in the mid-80s

The Junction City Commission will consider an ordinance that could encourage upper-story living in the downtown.

City staff is recommending the commission approve an ordinance establishing a Rural Housing Incentive District policy. RHIDs are designed as a way for communities under 60,000 population to capture incremental growth in tax collection to help developers recoup some expense in housing projects.

The request for the policy was made by Junction City Main Street to help spark development of upper-floor residential space above downtown businesses.

The commission will also consider a pair of special use permits. The first would allow a church at 823 St. Washington, which is zoned in a commercial service restricted district. The second would allow a tattoo studio at 703 N. Washington, which is zoned in a central commercial district.&nbsp;

City staff is recommending both requests be approved.

The meeting is scheduled at 7 p.m. Tuesday. Click <a href="http://junctioncityks.civicclerk.com/Web/Player.aspx?id=281&amp;key=-1&amp;mod=-1&amp;mk=-1&amp;nov=0">HERE</a> for the complete agenda.

JC PostThe Junction City Commission will consider an ordinance that could encourage upper-story living in the downtown.City staff is recommending the commission approve an ordinance establishing a Rural Housing Incentive District policy. RHIDs are designed as a way for communities under 60,000 population to capture incremental growth in tax collection to help developers recoup some expense in housing projects.The request for the policy was made by Junction City Main Street to help spark development of upper-floor residential space above downtown businesses.The commission will also consider a pair of special use permits. The first would allow a church at 823 St. Washington, which is zoned in a commercial service restricted district. The second would allow a tattoo studio at 703 N. Washington, which is zoned in a central commercial district.&nbsp;City staff is recommending both requests be approved.The meeting is scheduled at 7 p.m. Tuesday. Click <a href="http://junctioncityks.civicclerk.com/Web/Player.aspx?id=281&amp;key=-1&amp;mod=-1&amp;mk=-1&amp;nov=0">HERE</a> for the complete agenda.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591501983643.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

RHID policy, special use permits on Junction City Commission agenda

Louis Copt has a passion for art and Kansas landscapes

By SHERIDAN WIMMER <a href="https://kansaslivingmagazine.com/articles/2023/03/23/kansas-artist-showcases-love-of-prescribed-burning-in-the-flint-hills">Kansas Living</a>

“You have arrived at your destination,” Google maps told me as I 
started up the driveway. I questioned Google, but when I saw a painting 
of a barn on the side of a shed, I knew I had indeed been led to the 
correct home north of Lawrence.

Stepping inside the home of Louis and Phyllis Copt takes you on a 
journey of photos, paintings, sculptures and even a wood-fired oven 
perfect for pizzas. There’s no lack of interest as your eyes wander 
through the home – and no shortage of laughter from the married couple 
of 52 years.

One image displayed is of the couple from their wedding day. Another 
is from their honeymoon where they hitchhiked through Europe.

“This is a bag of raisins,” Phyllis says as she points to the photo. 
“I didn’t know what a kilo was at the time, so I ordered that, and here 
we were with our two-pound bag of raisins.”

“Those raisins probably saved our lives,” Louis jokes.

Many of the paintings and sculptures throughout the house are ones Louis
 created himself. The painter has established a collection of artworks 
that showcase his love of Kansas.

Louis was born and raised in Emporia. But his time spent with his 
French-Swiss grandparents on a farm near Osage City fixed fond memories 
of milking cows and chasing chickens.

“My grandparents never had anything mechanized on their farm,” Louis 
says. “They worked everything by horse and wagon. They were strong. You 
have to be tough and smart to make a living on the land. That work ethic
 is how I think of what I do now as an artist – you have to work at it 
every day.”

Not only was his work ethic influenced by his grandparents, his love 
of Kansas and its landscape, too, was shaped by the childhood he enjoyed
 on their farm.

“Running around on the farm instilled a love for Kansas and its 
landscapes,” Louis says. “Specifically, I remember the barn being the 
nucleus of the farm. That’s where the cattle were, the horses, the hay. 
That’s where my inspiration for my barn collection comes from.”

His love of Kansas landscapes is evident in his other collection – 
ones that showcase the springtime prescribed burns on their land to 
rejuvenate growth and protect against wildfires.

Prescribed burns have been used in the Flint Hills for thousands of 
years. Native Americans used fire, which they called “the red buffalo”. 
The fires cause the grass to green up quickly which attracts the bison.

“It’s a renewal,” Louis says. “Burning is a positive thing. It is a 
practice that keeps the Flint Hills the Flint Hills. It is also an 
important stage in range management.”

Louis works directly with farmers and ranchers he’s become friends 
with over the years. The respect Louis has for farmers is evident in his
 work.

“Farmers are the salt of the Earth,” he says. “They’re stewards of 
the land and love what they do, and it’s their passion. There’s a shared
 connection between the ranchers I work with and the work I do because 
there’s a mutual respect and love for the land.”

Since prescribed burning in the Flint Hills requires specific weather
 conditions, (wind direction and speed are critical to a safe and 
successful burn) Louis and his contacts have a two-way system of getting
 in touch with each other when a controlled burn is planned.

“I’ll go out and photograph every spring to get inspiration photos of
 the controlled burns,” Louis says. “There’s a window of about one to 
two hours where the light is perfect. If it’s in the middle of the day, 
there isn’t a lot of drama. If you get the images too late, all you can 
see are the flames.”

From those photos, which Louis has collected binders through the years, Louis paints what he calls a preservation of the past.

“I see my work as preserving a bit of Kansas for future generations,”
 he says. “You look at paintings of Paris from the 1800s and it’s this 
little slice of history that’s been captured. That’s how I want my 
paintings to reflect Kansas – a look back on what Kansas looked like.”

Louis sees his journey of becoming the artist he is now as a renewal 
of its own. Early in his career, he was a journalist at the Emporia 
Gazette. When the Copts’ son, Nathan, was 2 years old, they moved to 
Germany for approximately a year.

When they came back to the United States in 1976, they settled in 
Lawrence – and after a few homes, they eventually designed and built the
 home they’re in now – complete with a studio and that impressive pizza 
oven.

Louis worked at Maupintour – a travel agency out of Lawrence – where 
he did advertising and marketing until 1984, when he decided to quit 
with support from his wife.

“Phyllis was the one who said to me, ‘If you’re going to be an 
artist, you need to do it full-time,’” Louis says. “That’s when I quit 
my corporate job and moved to New York City to attend the Art Students 
League for a summer.”

He took a risk by quitting his corporate life and hasn’t looked back.

“It’s about finding your passion,” he says. “Being an artist was really what I wanted to be and needed to be.”

The land that now has the barn painted on the side of its shed had 
once seen fire itself. Before the Copts built the house that’s now their
 home, the previous home was destroyed in a fire. From the ashes, the 
Copts built a home where fire is present, but in a way that gives back 
instead of takes through Louis’ paintings. As for the pizza oven, Louis 
likes a nice pepperoni pizza with black olives and green peppers.

Learn more about Louis Copt and his paintings at <a href="http://www.louiscopt.com" target="_blank">www.louiscopt.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680277460112.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas Living" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas Living</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Louis Copt has a passion for art and Kansas landscapes</h2>By SHERIDAN WIMMER <a href="https://kansaslivingmagazine.com/articles/2023/03/23/kansas-artist-showcases-love-of-prescribed-burning-in-the-flint-hills">Kansas Living</a>“You have arrived at your destination,” Google maps told me as I 
started up the driveway. I questioned Google, but when I saw a painting 
of a barn on the side of a shed, I knew I had indeed been led to the 
correct home north of Lawrence.Stepping inside the home of Louis and Phyllis Copt takes you on a 
journey of photos, paintings, sculptures and even a wood-fired oven 
perfect for pizzas. There’s no lack of interest as your eyes wander 
through the home – and no shortage of laughter from the married couple 
of 52 years.One image displayed is of the couple from their wedding day. Another 
is from their honeymoon where they hitchhiked through Europe.“This is a bag of raisins,” Phyllis says as she points to the photo. 
“I didn’t know what a kilo was at the time, so I ordered that, and here 
we were with our two-pound bag of raisins.”“Those raisins probably saved our lives,” Louis jokes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680277559204.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine</figcaption>
 </figure>Many of the paintings and sculptures throughout the house are ones Louis
 created himself. The painter has established a collection of artworks 
that showcase his love of Kansas.<h2>Developing the Kansas work ethic</h2>Louis was born and raised in Emporia. But his time spent with his 
French-Swiss grandparents on a farm near Osage City fixed fond memories 
of milking cows and chasing chickens.“My grandparents never had anything mechanized on their farm,” Louis 
says. “They worked everything by horse and wagon. They were strong. You 
have to be tough and smart to make a living on the land. That work ethic
 is how I think of what I do now as an artist – you have to work at it 
every day.”Not only was his work ethic influenced by his grandparents, his love 
of Kansas and its landscape, too, was shaped by the childhood he enjoyed
 on their farm.“Running around on the farm instilled a love for Kansas and its 
landscapes,” Louis says. “Specifically, I remember the barn being the 
nucleus of the farm. That’s where the cattle were, the horses, the hay. 
That’s where my inspiration for my barn collection comes from.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680277592520.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Collecting pasture burns</h2>His love of Kansas landscapes is evident in his other collection – 
ones that showcase the springtime prescribed burns on their land to 
rejuvenate growth and protect against wildfires.Prescribed burns have been used in the Flint Hills for thousands of 
years. Native Americans used fire, which they called “the red buffalo”. 
The fires cause the grass to green up quickly which attracts the bison.“It’s a renewal,” Louis says. “Burning is a positive thing. It is a 
practice that keeps the Flint Hills the Flint Hills. It is also an 
important stage in range management.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680277627816.png" alt="Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Kansas Living Magazine</figcaption>
 </figure>Louis works directly with farmers and ranchers he’s become friends 
with over the years. The respect Louis has for farmers is evident in his
 work.“Farmers are the salt of the Earth,” he says. “They’re stewards of 
the land and love what they do, and it’s their passion. There’s a shared
 connection between the ranchers I work with and the work I do because 
there’s a mutual respect and love for the land.”Since prescribed burning in the Flint Hills requires specific weather
 conditions, (wind direction and speed are critical to a safe and 
successful burn) Louis and his contacts have a two-way system of getting
 in touch with each other when a controlled burn is planned.“I’ll go out and photograph every spring to get inspiration photos of
 the controlled burns,” Louis says. “There’s a window of about one to 
two hours where the light is perfect. If it’s in the middle of the day, 
there isn’t a lot of drama. If you get the images too late, all you can 
see are the flames.”From those photos, which Louis has collected binders through the years, Louis paints what he calls a preservation of the past.“I see my work as preserving a bit of Kansas for future generations,”
 he says. “You look at paintings of Paris from the 1800s and it’s this 
little slice of history that’s been captured. That’s how I want my 
paintings to reflect Kansas – a look back on what Kansas looked like.”<h2>Giving way to renewal</h2>Louis sees his journey of becoming the artist he is now as a renewal 
of its own. Early in his career, he was a journalist at the Emporia 
Gazette. When the Copts’ son, Nathan, was 2 years old, they moved to 
Germany for approximately a year.When they came back to the United States in 1976, they settled in 
Lawrence – and after a few homes, they eventually designed and built the
 home they’re in now – complete with a studio and that impressive pizza 
oven.Louis worked at Maupintour – a travel agency out of Lawrence – where 
he did advertising and marketing until 1984, when he decided to quit 
with support from his wife.“Phyllis was the one who said to me, ‘If you’re going to be an 
artist, you need to do it full-time,’” Louis says. “That’s when I quit 
my corporate job and moved to New York City to attend the Art Students 
League for a summer.”He took a risk by quitting his corporate life and hasn’t looked back.“It’s about finding your passion,” he says. “Being an artist was really what I wanted to be and needed to be.”The land that now has the barn painted on the side of its shed had 
once seen fire itself. Before the Copts built the house that’s now their
 home, the previous home was destroyed in a fire. From the ashes, the 
Copts built a home where fire is present, but in a way that gives back 
instead of takes through Louis’ paintings. As for the pizza oven, Louis 
likes a nice pepperoni pizza with black olives and green peppers.Learn more about Louis Copt and his paintings at <a href="http://www.louiscopt.com" target="_blank">www.louiscopt.com</a>.

Kansas artist showcases love of prescribed burning in the Flint Hills

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;Four Kansas Farm Credit Associations and CoBank recently combined to give $1 million to support the Kansas State University College of Agriculture's innovation centers for grain, food, animal and agronomy research.&nbsp; This investment will fund new facilities,&nbsp;renovations of current buildings&nbsp;and&nbsp;improvements in the technology and equipment necessary for interdisciplinary,&nbsp;<a>cutting-edge</a>&nbsp;research, all of which will&nbsp;continue to enhance the college's exceptional student experience.&nbsp; "An investment in Kansas State University's innovation centers is an investment in the future of U.S. agriculture,"said Bob Campbell, senior vice president of Frontier Farm Credit, speaking on behalf of Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and CoBank.&nbsp;"The university is focused on solving some of today's biggest challenges in agriculture. The projects funded through our donation will enhance the university's leadership in global food systems and bio-security innovations and directly benefit producers and agri-businesses. We are proud to partner with Kansas State University in a shared mission of supporting agriculture and rural communities for today and tomorrow." Contributors to this investment are Farm Credit of Western Kansas,&nbsp;Colby; High Plains Farm Credit,&nbsp;Larned; Frontier Farm Credit,&nbsp;Manhattan;&nbsp;and&nbsp;CoBank&nbsp;and American AgCredit,&nbsp;both in&nbsp;Wichita. This investment supports the university's interdisciplinary research initiative, which brings together the brightest minds from across the K-State campus to collaborate and work with agricultural leaders from the state and region. "Our vision for our new infrastructure project is to create state-of-the-art space to bring many of our departments together for interdisciplinary research,"&nbsp;said Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;"The opportunities and challenges we face in agriculture are complex in nature and increasing in number globally. We need to bring the best minds to the table with different skills and knowledge to collaborate, integrate and develop innovative solutions that prepare the next-generation workforce to keep agriculture moving forward."

K-State NewsMANHATTAN —&nbsp;Four Kansas Farm Credit Associations and CoBank recently combined to give $1 million to support the Kansas State University College of Agriculture's innovation centers for grain, food, animal and agronomy research.&nbsp; This investment will fund new facilities,&nbsp;renovations of current buildings&nbsp;and&nbsp;improvements in the technology and equipment necessary for interdisciplinary,&nbsp;<a>cutting-edge</a>&nbsp;research, all of which will&nbsp;continue to enhance the college's exceptional student experience.&nbsp; "An investment in Kansas State University's innovation centers is an investment in the future of U.S. agriculture,"said Bob Campbell, senior vice president of Frontier Farm Credit, speaking on behalf of Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and CoBank.&nbsp;"The university is focused on solving some of today's biggest challenges in agriculture. The projects funded through our donation will enhance the university's leadership in global food systems and bio-security innovations and directly benefit producers and agri-businesses. We are proud to partner with Kansas State University in a shared mission of supporting agriculture and rural communities for today and tomorrow." Contributors to this investment are Farm Credit of Western Kansas,&nbsp;Colby; High Plains Farm Credit,&nbsp;Larned; Frontier Farm Credit,&nbsp;Manhattan;&nbsp;and&nbsp;CoBank&nbsp;and American AgCredit,&nbsp;both in&nbsp;Wichita. This investment supports the university's interdisciplinary research initiative, which brings together the brightest minds from across the K-State campus to collaborate and work with agricultural leaders from the state and region. "Our vision for our new infrastructure project is to create state-of-the-art space to bring many of our departments together for interdisciplinary research,"&nbsp;said Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;"The opportunities and challenges we face in agriculture are complex in nature and increasing in number globally. We need to bring the best minds to the table with different skills and knowledge to collaborate, integrate and develop innovative solutions that prepare the next-generation workforce to keep agriculture moving forward."

Farm Credit Associations, CoBank invest $1M in K-State ag innovation centers

TOPEKA –&nbsp;Today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recognizes Fred the Preparedness Dog’s retirement and honors him with the title of emeritus effective June 30.

In 2013, “Fred, a German shepherd, had just joined our family. It all started when he jumped into the bathtub,” said Michael McNulty, emergency management director and handler. “My wife eagerly captured all his adorable dog moments with her camera. So, when Fred hopped into the tub to shelter during a weather warning, she quickly snapped a photo and sent it to me. I posted Fred’s photo on social media at work and added a caption: ‘Fred knows where to go in case of severe weather. You should too.’”

Fred became the first dog to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on preparedness in the country. During his decade of state service, Fred participated in close to 300 events, traveling more than 47 thousand miles and having tens of thousands of interactions with children and families.

“Fred has been an asset to public health across Kansas, going above and beyond to spread the word about the importance of being prepared for all types of emergencies,”&nbsp;said KDHE Secretary&nbsp;Janet Stanek.&nbsp;“Fred has also lended comfort and support to the team at KDHE with regular visits to our offices.”

Fred’s actions also garnered national attention for many of his activities. He presented at three national conferences, was featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2Jsb2dzLmNkYy5nb3YvcHVibGljaGVhbHRobWF0dGVycy8yMDE2LzA5L2ZyZWQtdGhlLXByZXBhcmVkbmVzcy1kb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.9zCDPmQDjr_JScVq71nAjFfURrhJgJkEjabswroxoNc/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">CDC</a>&nbsp;and Federal Emergency Management Agency publications and was later named the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association Professional Pet of the Year.

At the age of 11, Fred is excited to enjoy his golden years with his best friend, Michael, and the rest of his family. Although he will not be taking event requests, Fred will still enjoy the occasional community event, and his paws will continue to be active on social media. Follow Fred on his social media&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vRnJlZFRoZVByZXBhcmVkbmVzc0RvZ0tkaGU_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.LJozd4xbv-fYz4alAREUMTdqa087jniPyi347osmKE4/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3R3aXR0ZXIuY29tL2ZyZWRwcmVwZG9nP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.uKIfRxB11DBeCRFVzpIP6BqsTrbumvuqr1MQo_gD40g/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Twitter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL2ZyZWR0aGVwcmVwYXJlZG5lc3Nkb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.y85AXfMYlv-u-xqJCsfimhAOjS7FbKbrJAsbDxLs0EM/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Instagram</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680617600468.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDHETOPEKA –&nbsp;Today, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recognizes Fred the Preparedness Dog’s retirement and honors him with the title of emeritus effective June 30.In 2013, “Fred, a German shepherd, had just joined our family. It all started when he jumped into the bathtub,” said Michael McNulty, emergency management director and handler. “My wife eagerly captured all his adorable dog moments with her camera. So, when Fred hopped into the tub to shelter during a weather warning, she quickly snapped a photo and sent it to me. I posted Fred’s photo on social media at work and added a caption: ‘Fred knows where to go in case of severe weather. You should too.’”Fred became the first dog to work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on preparedness in the country. During his decade of state service, Fred participated in close to 300 events, traveling more than 47 thousand miles and having tens of thousands of interactions with children and families.“Fred has been an asset to public health across Kansas, going above and beyond to spread the word about the importance of being prepared for all types of emergencies,”&nbsp;said KDHE Secretary&nbsp;Janet Stanek.&nbsp;“Fred has also lended comfort and support to the team at KDHE with regular visits to our offices.”Fred’s actions also garnered national attention for many of his activities. He presented at three national conferences, was featured in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2Jsb2dzLmNkYy5nb3YvcHVibGljaGVhbHRobWF0dGVycy8yMDE2LzA5L2ZyZWQtdGhlLXByZXBhcmVkbmVzcy1kb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.9zCDPmQDjr_JScVq71nAjFfURrhJgJkEjabswroxoNc/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">CDC</a>&nbsp;and Federal Emergency Management Agency publications and was later named the Kansas Veterinary Medical Association Professional Pet of the Year.At the age of 11, Fred is excited to enjoy his golden years with his best friend, Michael, and the rest of his family. Although he will not be taking event requests, Fred will still enjoy the occasional community event, and his paws will continue to be active on social media. Follow Fred on his social media&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5mYWNlYm9vay5jb20vRnJlZFRoZVByZXBhcmVkbmVzc0RvZ0tkaGU_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5In0.LJozd4xbv-fYz4alAREUMTdqa087jniPyi347osmKE4/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3R3aXR0ZXIuY29tL2ZyZWRwcmVwZG9nP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.uKIfRxB11DBeCRFVzpIP6BqsTrbumvuqr1MQo_gD40g/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Twitter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA0MDQuNzQ1NzY2MDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pbnN0YWdyYW0uY29tL2ZyZWR0aGVwcmVwYXJlZG5lc3Nkb2cvP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.y85AXfMYlv-u-xqJCsfimhAOjS7FbKbrJAsbDxLs0EM/s/1305913623/br/157364323297-l">Instagram</a>.

Fred the Preparedness Dog retires after 10 years of services

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before 3:30p.m. March 31 in Pottawatomie County

According to the sheriff's office, a motorcycle driven by Abbott Mumaw, 17, of Louisville, Kansas, was west bound on Gerard Road, rural Belvue. The driver&nbsp; lost control and crashed. 

 Abbott was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, according to the sheriff.

The Pottawatomie County EMS, Belvue Fire Department, Pottawatomie County Consolidated Fire and the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office responded to the accident.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before 3:30p.m. March 31 in Pottawatomie CountyAccording to the sheriff's office, a motorcycle driven by Abbott Mumaw, 17, of Louisville, Kansas, was west bound on Gerard Road, rural Belvue. The driver&nbsp; lost control and crashed. Abbott was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. He was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, according to the sheriff.The Pottawatomie County EMS, Belvue Fire Department, Pottawatomie County Consolidated Fire and the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office responded to the accident.

Sheriff IDs Kansas teen who died in motorcycle crash

JUNCTION CITY - To celebrate National Healthcare Decisions Day, Johnson Funeral Home is hosting a seminar to help people plan for their end of life journey.&nbsp;

Thursday, April 13th, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00p.m., Johnson Funeral Home, along with Accord Hospice and Palliative Care and Intrust Bank will assist people to come up with the best End-of-Life Journey.

by BECKY GOFF JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680551448441.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY - To celebrate National Healthcare Decisions Day, Johnson Funeral Home is hosting a seminar to help people plan for their end of life journey.&nbsp;Thursday, April 13th, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00p.m., Johnson Funeral Home, along with Accord Hospice and Palliative Care and Intrust Bank will assist people to come up with the best End-of-Life Journey.

'End-of-Life' Journey planning to be held April 13

GEARY COUNTY - The Geary County Fire Department is hosting a dedication and Open House for Station 2 located at <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/oyYBPMg5DsJ9h28Q7">7049 E Lyons Creek Rd</a>.

The public is invited to the dedication and open house on April 17th from 5:30 to 6:30 pm.

Station #2 is one of two fire stations built using ARPA(American Rescue Plan Act) funds. The new stations will help Geary County Rural Fire continue to assist the residents of Geary County.

by BECKY GOFF JC Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680547775934.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY - The Geary County Fire Department is hosting a dedication and Open House for Station 2 located at <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/oyYBPMg5DsJ9h28Q7">7049 E Lyons Creek Rd</a>.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2884.3042227318642!2d-96.85613558481548!3d38.9585872795612!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bc4f5dd54a180b%3A0xba2bb51f7392e2ee!2s7049%20E%20Lyons%20Creek%20Rd%2C%20Junction%20City%2C%20KS%2066441!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1680549566361!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>The public is invited to the dedication and open house on April 17th from 5:30 to 6:30 pm.Station #2 is one of two fire stations built using ARPA(American Rescue Plan Act) funds. The new stations will help Geary County Rural Fire continue to assist the residents of Geary County.

Dedication, Open House scheduled for Geary Co. Rural Fire Station #2

DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a 17-year-old girl that occurred at a home on North Kuney Street in Abilene.

The investigation began January 16, according to a media release from police. An autopsy determined the girl died from fentanyl intoxication.

On Monday, police arrested 18-year-old Daisy L. Skilling on an outstanding warrant from Dickinson County District Court charging her with&nbsp;distribution of a controlled substance causing death, use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana, according to online jail records. She is being held on $150,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680547193087.png" alt="Skilling-photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Skilling-photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a 17-year-old girl that occurred at a home on North Kuney Street in Abilene.The investigation began January 16, according to a media release from police. An autopsy determined the girl died from fentanyl intoxication.On Monday, police arrested 18-year-old Daisy L. Skilling on an outstanding warrant from Dickinson County District Court charging her with&nbsp;distribution of a controlled substance causing death, use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana, according to online jail records. She is being held on $150,000 bond.

Kansas woman accused in fentanyl death of 17-year-old

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged incident that injured an officer.

Just before 2a.m. Sunday, officers observed a fight in progress at Tate's Bar in the 1100 Block of Moro Street in Aggieville between 33-year-old Keith Saniatan of Fort Sill, Oklahoma and staff who were attempting to remove him, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

As officers attempted to place him in custody, Saniatan actively resisted and smashed one officer's hand against a metal door frame with his shoulder. Saniatan was arrest and issued a total bond of $5,000 and is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details on the officer's injury.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged incident that injured an officer.Just before 2a.m. Sunday, officers observed a fight in progress at Tate's Bar in the 1100 Block of Moro Street in Aggieville between 33-year-old Keith Saniatan of Fort Sill, Oklahoma and staff who were attempting to remove him, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.As officers attempted to place him in custody, Saniatan actively resisted and smashed one officer's hand against a metal door frame with his shoulder. Saniatan was arrest and issued a total bond of $5,000 and is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details on the officer's injury.

Man accused of altercation with RCPD officer in Aggieville

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Manhattan man on multiple charges after an arrest following a pursuit.

Just after 11p.m. Friday, officers attempted to make a traffic stop on a car driven by 22-year-old Tyreek Toliver near the intersection of Walters Drive and Tuttle Creek Blvd. in Manhattan, according to the RCPD activity report.

Toliver continued to drive northbound on Tuttle Creek Blvd. and turned into a trailer park in the 3000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd. where he exited the car and began to run east through a residential area. 

He was later located and arrested within the trailer park on requested charges of fleeing by engaging in reckless driving, interference with LEO and operating a motor vehicle without a valid license.

Toliver was issued a total bond of $8,000 and is no longer confined at the time of this report.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Manhattan man on multiple charges after an arrest following a pursuit.Just after 11p.m. Friday, officers attempted to make a traffic stop on a car driven by 22-year-old Tyreek Toliver near the intersection of Walters Drive and Tuttle Creek Blvd. in Manhattan, according to the RCPD activity report.Toliver continued to drive northbound on Tuttle Creek Blvd. and turned into a trailer park in the 3000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd. where he exited the car and began to run east through a residential area. He was later located and arrested within the trailer park on requested charges of fleeing by engaging in reckless driving, interference with LEO and operating a motor vehicle without a valid license.Toliver was issued a total bond of $8,000 and is no longer confined at the time of this report.

RCPD: 22-year-old arrested after chase in Manhattan

Massive ranch is for sale for $16.7 million

By CINDIY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — It’s a $16.7 million ranch story sure to stir some nostalgic memories in the Sandhills of Nebraska.

But even if you’re not from the area, a property called Dumbbell has got to pique curiosity.

The Dumbbell Ranch, which spans a 
whopping 15,500 acres, mostly in Cherry County, is attracting attention 
as it now is up for sale&nbsp; — poised to separate from the family that has 
owned it for more than a century.&nbsp;

The rationale behind that break may 
sound familiar: The younger generation has more pressing interests than 
to oversee the Hyannis area operation.&nbsp;

“They don’t want to ranch, and I’m 
really grateful they were honest with me,” Anne Anderson Bennett said of
 her daughters Margaret and Leatha, who are in their 20s.

Bennett’s only sibling, Gordon 
Anderson, is a “computer guru” who loves his life in Colorado. Their 
parents have passed. At 57, Bennett, divorced for 17 years, is preparing
 to get married again.

“It just really was the right time,” she said of selling.

A less common occurrence, says 
Valentine area broker Mark Johnson of Hall and Hall, is a place like the
 Dumbbell hitting the market.

Johnson, whose business is selling 
ranches, said the property stands out for various reasons, including a 
precious natural resource, water. It sits atop the Ogallala Aquifer, 
which creates shallow lakes and sub-irrigated meadows that he said are 
known to be the headwaters for the Middle Loup River.

“This one has a deeper stamp,” 
Johnson said, noting the ranch’s storied past, its artesian wells, 27 
windmills, eight solar wells, rangeland and watering sites for 
livestock.

He called the Dumbbell — historically
 a 900-head cow/calf operation that’s in the nation’s “top cow county”— 
one of the founding ranches of the Nebraska Sandhills.

Anne’s great-grandfather Gustaf Anderson, an orphaned Swedish immigrant, acquired the area in 1913.

As the history goes, pieced together 
from family and various other sources, the Dumbbell headquarters was 
established in 1887 by Dr. A.J. Plumer, who had hoped the railroad would
 be built through the valley.

He and his wife, Anna, a nurse, constructed a “white mansion” structure to serve as a maternity hospital.&nbsp;

Lore has it that Plumer accidentally 
slammed a hammer on his thumb while building the hospital, exclaiming 
“Only a dumbbell would do that.”

Plumer expanded a cattle operation 
before moving and selling the ranch in 1906. In 1913, Gustaf Anderson 
became sole owner of a property that would grow to about 52,000 acres.

Anderson would make the trip from Red
 Oak, Iowa, to the Dumbbell Ranch at least a dozen times a year by train
 or vehicle —&nbsp; a trip that each generation of Andersons has made over 
the decades.

Three children of Gustaf and his 
wife, Janie, later split the ranch into sections and called them 
Pitchfork, 3 Circles and Dumbbell.&nbsp;

Son Gordon got the Dumbbell and eventually passed it to son Gerald, who then left it to Anne and her brother.

Anne said she has worked the past 
three decades with her dad on the business, traveling as often as she 
could to the ranch. “We love it so much, we’ve been able to make it 
work.”

She lauded the lineup of managers who
 over the generations lived at the site, maintained the operation and 
became engaged in the community.&nbsp;

“They are the ones that live there and have boots on the ground,” she said.

Her dad died in 2016; her mom passed in 2021.

The ranch has received local suitors, as well as interest and visitors from other states, since Johnson<a target="_blank" href="https://hallhall.com/property-for-sale/nebraska/dumbbell-ranch/a095d00002U10JQ/"> started marketing</a> it about a week ago, he said.

Anne said her family is proud to have
 diversified the operation, which includes the Flying A Cattle Company, 
without forsaking the native rangeland. The family feels blessed, she 
said, to “be a small part of the unique Sandhills ecosystem and 
community.”

“It’s dear to our hearts,” said Anne. “We love the Sandhills. Our family loves ranching. It’s time to move on.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554659570.png" alt="The Dumbbell Ranch spans about 15,500 acres, mostly in Nebraska’s Cherry County, known as the nation’s “top cow county.” It is for sale, which means it will have owners outside the Anderson family for first time in over a century. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>The Dumbbell Ranch spans about 15,500 acres, mostly in Nebraska’s Cherry County, known as the nation’s “top cow county.” It is for sale, which means it will have owners outside the Anderson family for first time in over a century. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Massive ranch is for sale for $16.7 million</h2>By CINDIY GONZALEZ <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/04/03/dumbbell-in-nebraska-sandhills-gains-spotlight-with-sheer-size-storied-past/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — It’s a $16.7 million ranch story sure to stir some nostalgic memories in the Sandhills of Nebraska.But even if you’re not from the area, a property called Dumbbell has got to pique curiosity.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554762652.jpeg" alt="Native range and meadows used by livestock and wildlife habitat cover the ranch. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>Native range and meadows used by livestock and wildlife habitat cover the ranch. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure>The Dumbbell Ranch, which spans a 
whopping 15,500 acres, mostly in Cherry County, is attracting attention 
as it now is up for sale&nbsp; — poised to separate from the family that has 
owned it for more than a century.&nbsp;The rationale behind that break may 
sound familiar: The younger generation has more pressing interests than 
to oversee the Hyannis area operation.&nbsp;“They don’t want to ranch, and I’m 
really grateful they were honest with me,” Anne Anderson Bennett said of
 her daughters Margaret and Leatha, who are in their 20s.Bennett’s only sibling, Gordon 
Anderson, is a “computer guru” who loves his life in Colorado. Their 
parents have passed. At 57, Bennett, divorced for 17 years, is preparing
 to get married again.“It just really was the right time,” she said of selling.A less common occurrence, says 
Valentine area broker Mark Johnson of Hall and Hall, is a place like the
 Dumbbell hitting the market.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554815794.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Johnson, whose business is selling 
ranches, said the property stands out for various reasons, including a 
precious natural resource, water. It sits atop the Ogallala Aquifer, 
which creates shallow lakes and sub-irrigated meadows that he said are 
known to be the headwaters for the Middle Loup River.“This one has a deeper stamp,” 
Johnson said, noting the ranch’s storied past, its artesian wells, 27 
windmills, eight solar wells, rangeland and watering sites for 
livestock.He called the Dumbbell — historically
 a 900-head cow/calf operation that’s in the nation’s “top cow county”— 
one of the founding ranches of the Nebraska Sandhills.Anne’s great-grandfather Gustaf Anderson, an orphaned Swedish immigrant, acquired the area in 1913.As the history goes, pieced together 
from family and various other sources, the Dumbbell headquarters was 
established in 1887 by Dr. A.J. Plumer, who had hoped the railroad would
 be built through the valley.He and his wife, Anna, a nurse, constructed a “white mansion” structure to serve as a maternity hospital.&nbsp;Lore has it that Plumer accidentally 
slammed a hammer on his thumb while building the hospital, exclaiming 
“Only a dumbbell would do that.”Hence, the Dumbbell name.Plumer expanded a cattle operation 
before moving and selling the ranch in 1906. In 1913, Gustaf Anderson 
became sole owner of a property that would grow to about 52,000 acres.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554852926.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anderson would make the trip from Red
 Oak, Iowa, to the Dumbbell Ranch at least a dozen times a year by train
 or vehicle —&nbsp; a trip that each generation of Andersons has made over 
the decades.Three children of Gustaf and his 
wife, Janie, later split the ranch into sections and called them 
Pitchfork, 3 Circles and Dumbbell.&nbsp;Son Gordon got the Dumbbell and eventually passed it to son Gerald, who then left it to Anne and her brother.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554880289.jpeg" alt="(Courtesy of Hall and Hall, Anderson family)" />
 <figcaption>(Courtesy of Hall and Hall, Anderson family)</figcaption>
 </figure>Anne said she has worked the past 
three decades with her dad on the business, traveling as often as she 
could to the ranch. “We love it so much, we’ve been able to make it 
work.”She lauded the lineup of managers who
 over the generations lived at the site, maintained the operation and 
became engaged in the community.&nbsp;“They are the ones that live there and have boots on the ground,” she said.Her dad died in 2016; her mom passed in 2021.The ranch has received local suitors, as well as interest and visitors from other states, since Johnson<a target="_blank" href="https://hallhall.com/property-for-sale/nebraska/dumbbell-ranch/a095d00002U10JQ/"> started marketing</a> it about a week ago, he said.Anne said her family is proud to have
 diversified the operation, which includes the Flying A Cattle Company, 
without forsaking the native rangeland. The family feels blessed, she 
said, to “be a small part of the unique Sandhills ecosystem and 
community.”“It’s dear to our hearts,” said Anne. “We love the Sandhills. Our family loves ranching. It’s time to move on.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680554917938.png" alt="The Dumbbell Ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)" />
 <figcaption>The Dumbbell Ranch in the Sandhills of Nebraska. (Courtesy of Hall and Hall)</figcaption>
 </figure>

‘Dumbbell’ in Nebraska Sandhills gains spotlight with sheer size, storied past

A fire weather watch remind in effect for the Flint Hills into Tuesday night, the National Weather Service in Topeka warned.

Winds are expected to remain from the north through Monday nigh, sustained at 10 to 15 mph and gusting to 25 mph. The winds will shift from the south by Tuesday afternoon, increasing to 20 to 25 mph and gusting up to 40 mph.&nbsp;

A burn ban in is effect for Riley and Geary counties.

A projected Tuesday high in the mid-80s, couple with low humidity and continued dry conditions, will drastically increase the chance of wildfires.

There is a 20 percent chance of rain in the early morning hours Wednesday, followed by a significant cooldown. The high Wednesday is only expected to reach the low-50s, with an overnight low in the mid- to upper-20s.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680528493698.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A fire weather watch remind in effect for the Flint Hills into Tuesday night, the National Weather Service in Topeka warned.Winds are expected to remain from the north through Monday nigh, sustained at 10 to 15 mph and gusting to 25 mph. The winds will shift from the south by Tuesday afternoon, increasing to 20 to 25 mph and gusting up to 40 mph.&nbsp;A burn ban in is effect for Riley and Geary counties.A projected Tuesday high in the mid-80s, couple with low humidity and continued dry conditions, will drastically increase the chance of wildfires.There is a 20 percent chance of rain in the early morning hours Wednesday, followed by a significant cooldown. The high Wednesday is only expected to reach the low-50s, with an overnight low in the mid- to upper-20s.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fire Weather Watch remains in effect on Tuesday through 11 PM CDT. Expect southerly winds gusting to 50 mph as they shift to the west during the evening. This combined with low RH results in critical fire weather conditions where fires can spread rapidly. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/4bvJnc0zlZ">pic.twitter.com/4bvJnc0zlZ</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1642855508712525825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>

Fire weather watch in warm, windy Flint Hills

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/2023/4/1680528645658.jpeg" alt="Robert Gerard Enriquez, Probation Violation, arrested 4/2" />
 <figcaption>Robert Gerard Enriquez, Probation Violation, arrested 4/2</figcaption>
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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680528709167.jpeg" alt="Amanda S McMillon, Probation Violation, Outside warrant x2; arrested 4/2" />
 <figcaption>Amanda S McMillon, Probation Violation, Outside warrant x2; arrested 4/2</figcaption>
 </figure>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;