By&nbsp;K-State News and Communications Services

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/band/about/staff/associatedirector.html">Alex Wimmer</a>, assistant professor and associate director of bands at Kansas State University, has been appointed as the director of bands effective June 7, 2026.&nbsp;As director of bands, Wimmer will provide visionary leadership and management for K-State’s comprehensive band program, including directing the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/band/ensembles/marchingband/">Pride of Wildcat Land</a>&nbsp;—&nbsp;the Kansas State University Marching Band.&nbsp;“Dr. Wimmer’s leadership is defined by excellence, humility and a genuine investment in students’ growth as musicians and people,” said Bryan&nbsp;Pinkall, director of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/mtd/">School of Music, Theatre, and Dance</a>. “He understands the responsibility of stewarding our storied program while ensuring it continues to innovate and lead at the highest level.”&nbsp;

A native of Gretna, Nebraska, Wimmer has already devoted 13 years to the K-State band program as a graduate student, assistant director of bands and associate director of bands. He directs the Wind Symphony, Cat Band, Volleyball Band and&nbsp;assists&nbsp;with the Pride of Wildcat Land, along with Pub Crawl Bands. He instructs undergraduate and graduate courses in conducting, wind band arranging, and marching band techniques, and also serves as the faculty sponsor for Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma.  “I am incredibly humbled and grateful for the opportunity to continue the legacy that has meant so much to generations of K-Staters,” said Wimmer. “Dr. Frank Tracz’s mentorship over the past 13 years has helped me become the musician, teacher and human being I am today. The foundation he built over his 33-year career is why the K-State band program is still as strong and successful now."

Wimmer received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, a Master of Music degree&nbsp;in education&nbsp;with an emphasis in&nbsp;wind conducting&nbsp;and a Doctorate in Philosophy in&nbsp;curriculum and instruction&nbsp;from Kansas State University.

K-State’s band program is nationally recognized for excellence in both athletic and concert ensembles and has been led by Frank Tracz for the last 33 years. The acclaimed&nbsp;Pride of Wildcat Land&nbsp;Marching Band,&nbsp;comprising&nbsp;more than 425 members, received the prestigious Sudler Trophy in 2015. The Wind Ensemble, K-State’s premier concert band, has been invited to perform at the American Bandmasters Association&nbsp;Conference, two regional&nbsp;College Band Directors National Association&nbsp;conferences, and a National Association for Music Education&nbsp;Conference, as well as at Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, and on&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;national and international tours.&nbsp;

Wimmer to lead K-State band program

Board of Regents selects Matthew Baker, a Kansas native and K-State graduate

By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a>

TOPEKA — A 30-year higher education administrator at Northwest Missouri State University will return to Kansas for the opportunity to serve as president of Emporia State University.

Matthew Baker, who grew up in Kansas and earned a psychology degree at Kansas State University, has been vice president of student affairs at NMSU in Maryville, Missouri, for the past 14 years. Baker is expected to begin leadership duties at ESU in March. He holds a master’s degree from University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and a doctorate in educational leadership from University of Missouri in Columbia.

“It is the honor of my career to return to Kansas to serve as the university’s next president,” Baker said. “I will forever be grateful to Northwest for all it has done for me and my family. It is because of the experiences Northwest provided me that I am able to step into this role.”

Blake Benson, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, said Baker was a “proven leader with extensive experience developing and implementing initiatives designed to help students succeed in college and after graduation.” The Board of Regents unanimously voted to hire Baker.

Baker replaced Ken Hush, who became ESU president in 2021 and was an unusual appointee due to his lack of a graduate degree. Hush received an undergraduate degree from ESU and had a lengthy career in the private sector, including work with Koch Industries.

Benson, on behalf of the Board of Regents, said Hush “consistently exhibited an unwavering commitment to serving ESU’s students and has worked hard to improve affordability and student success.”

Hush invited controversy by deciding in 2022 to fire about 30 tenured or tenure-track faculty and to eliminate a cluster of academic programs, which exacerbated&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/10/02/emporia-state-university-continues-enrollment-slide-while-other-kansas-universities-post-gains/">the university’s enrollment decline</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/12/emporia-state-university-president-defends-cuts-firings-in-bid-to-recast-higher-education-culture/">Hush’s unilateral dismissal of</a>&nbsp;personnel prompted a wave of lawsuits, which have yet to be fully resolved.

During Hush’s time at ESU, the Kansas Legislature earmarked tens of millions of dollars in special funding to stabilize the university. In addition, an attorney employed by ESU led an effort to persuade the Legislature to retroactively undermine faculty tenure statewide.

Hush, who plans to retire this month from ESU, said he would donate $1.4 million, or the equivalent of his four years of salary at ESU, to the university. The money would be used over three years for student recruitment, scholarships and campus operations, officials said.

“This gift is in appreciation for the meaningful impact ESU has had on our community and on me, both as a student and in my role as president,” Hush said.

Baker has worked at the public, four-year Northwest Missouri State for more than 30 years. He began in 1993 as the university’s residence hall director. He was off campus from 1996 to 1998 while completing a master’s degree in higher education administration in Arkansas. He returned to Northwest Missouri State and moved through several administrative jobs before being named dean of students in 2008.

Baker said he would conduct a listening tour to better understand the needs of Emporia State. He said ESU would be marked, under his tenure, by “shared governance, enhance(d) communication.”

He said he would rely on data to chart ESU future, because benchmarks on student retention or recruitment would reveal “where our opportunities are, where our successes are, what we celebrate.”

Emporia State turns to Mo. higher education administrator to lead university

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating alleged child sex crimes in Riley County have made an arrest.

Just after 5p.m. December 12,&nbsp;Dakota Garner, 34, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for three counts aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

This arrest stems from a report filed on July 5, 2025. Garner is being held on a $300,000 bond. The RCPD released no additional details.

RCPD: Suspect arrested for alleged child sex crimes 

At 1:43 a.m. on Monday Geary County Fire was dispatched to the 7100 block of Old Milford Road for a detached garage fire. While enroute, they were advised that the fire had spread to an adjoining shed. It was threatening a residential structure along with another shed.

Geary County Fire responded with 3 engines, 1 tanker, and two staff vehicles.Assistance from Junction City Fire and Ft. Riley Fire was requested and received. The fire was brought under control in about 40 minutes.

&nbsp;There were no injuries.An investigator with the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s office has been asked to respond to assist the local investigator.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County rural firefighters respond to early morning blaze

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

Riley County Arrest Report December 14, 15

The City of Manhattan announced that the Museum of Art + Light has been nominated for USA TODAY’s 10Best New Museums! 

This recognition is a testament to the community — thank you for believing in a museum that elevates digital artistry, celebrates immersive creativity, and reimagines how we experience art in the 21st century.Now we need your help to bring this honor home!

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/10best?__cft__[0]=AZbv2_ROI2lpIkQZa_YNs9Aff0OtSjT0FqyI6mF8KcI8X_cg53koazCtSI70KfG4Hwk6hP8xPaqK6mJ_BqFvMqXvH306XKxBgE2LQllrb4STQuuEjQdPCq_hsyqumzEQrOlTyUq6hMXfhIZOtBaHmBXK1Fs1CmvabeLZpLe3vI5sQIZFeIInu8T0We-5Iwo6ihZcfGLOIpmmpQncj786d27tnLpFRZcIVhkHODBpL36kYw&amp;__tn__=-]K-y-R">USA TODAY 10Best</a>

You can vote once per day through December 22. Cast your vote here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2F10best.usatoday.com%2Fqr%2F55282%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZzZPN1lSU2lHUVpKS2c3MHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR68VXKCjmIWCPw2vHVxpBT1AGtTjyWDsTfCp02COILz8kibYKk7O1AVdDm4tg_aem_QvBXzq-5eJTCd_OLY5gkCg&amp;h=AT2T6XztrKjuA1QsBnJolT0r61pJYXazMsetrYKauVf5SbPu5mrLt0rZXlGSfYSpDaNsD1BNohvgafxPdF_Abm2Fgfn1WhrgdP8_IEZCH7LL9pp6v7cvCncLIlrwi43jdCrCTle9XNHQX3jLjNkS7aRwFS023LD0&amp;__tn__=-UK-y-R&amp;c[0]=AT3NJQFINgkalsmvNldzcp3PfR9dSoy2X5c1lFo-RwT7wCCIuMgB1gDn3DX_5Rph4i9GUJr7xW2wf3iqYw4qEdIoHCvrfKRb0m9HNh0piBjQ1GtunaIAVpUsY0e-Oix4rdNc0MpbFF9rfanEuF9FkeVkA38Qfzip8qvzCrICx5lgWkyrqBDXlDQEH8u_jq65_lxI6o7hi7bffmKFNBebrDSO4sMbyZRQNOpKdOaz_p_brkApTA" target="_blank">https://10best.usatoday.com/qr/55282/</a>

 Museum of Art + Light nominated for an award

&nbsp; Chapman, KS — Downtown Dance, Tumbling &amp; Aerial Arts along with the City of Chapman is proud to announced that they been awarded a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to support the creation of an expanded upper-level aerial arts and tumbling facility. This project will not only provide much-needed space for the studio’s rapidly growing programs, but will restore the second floor of the building—originally the historic Buhrer Opera House—to its intended purpose as a multifunctional community space.

The studio partnered with the Flint Hills Regional Council to prepare and submit the grant application. Their guidance and expertise were instrumental in securing this funding for Chapman’s downtown district.The renovated upper level will serve as a training facility for aerial arts and tumbling students, offering expanded class capacity, upgraded equipment, and enhanced safety features. 

Beyond supporting the studio’s continued growth, the restored opera hall will also function as a dual-use event space, opening the door for: Dance, tumbling, and aerial arts conventions,Community gatherings,Workshops and special events, Performances and visiting entertainment groups.

&nbsp; The lower level of the building already serves as a vibrant community hub. One side houses an active dance studio, while the other includes the welcoming lobby for Downtown Place Spa Suites &amp; Event Space, home to Massage by Sway, Downtown Nail Nook, and Downtown Tanning. The addition of the restored upper level will further enhance the building’s role as a cornerstone of local activity and small-business collaboration.

“We are incredibly grateful for this grant and excited to bring new life to such a historic part of Chapman,” said Victoria Woods, owner of Downtown Dance, Tumbling &amp; Aerial Arts. “This project will allow us to meet the needs of our growing student base while creating a space that our entire community can enjoy. It honors the building’s past while investing in Chapman’s future.”

Community Development Block Grant supports a Chapman project

MANHATTAN — The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">American Legion Boys State of Kansas</a>&nbsp;is accepting applications for its 2026 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, May 31, through Saturday, June 6, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 34th consecutive session at KSU and 88th overall.

Traditionally, Kansas&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.

The American Legion&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community,&nbsp;state&nbsp;and nation.&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the&nbsp;state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

The cost to attend the&nbsp;Boys State&nbsp;of Kansas&nbsp;program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2026 session should visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2026 program is Thursday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Saturday, Jan. 31, will receive a KBS sweatshirt or polo. Furthermore, delegates who are returning for a second year have the opportunity to attend the 2026 session for just $50 total, provided they get at least three people from their school (or another school) to attend.

Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/collegecredit/">three-hour course credit</a>&nbsp;(Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110-C]) through Kansas State University at a 72% discount, as well as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/scouts/">earn merit badges</a>&nbsp;to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/our-program/samsung-scholarship/">apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship</a>. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.

Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit&nbsp;<a href="mailto:ksbstate.org/sponsor">ksbstate.org/sponsor</a>. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@ksbstate.org">info@ksbstate.org</a>&nbsp;or (785) 550-6492.&nbsp; For complete information about the American Legion Boys State of Kansas program, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.

For information about the 2026 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held Sunday, May 31, through Friday, June 5, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

Applications open for 2026 Kansas Boys State in Manhattan

Riley County Arrest Report December 13

Fort Riley has announced that facial recognition lanes are coming to Fort Riley’s Ogden and Henry gates. Drivers of single occupant vehicles with registered biometrics in the Automated Installation Entry (AIE) system may use the facial recognition lanes. 

Those who have a CAC, Dependent ID, Retiree ID, AIE card or paper pass, Veteran Health ID Card, or registered REAL ID driver’s license may travel through the gate without stopping to show ID. 

 The expected date of initial operation is Friday, December 19, 2025. For more information visit the Fort Riley website.



Facial recognition lanes are coming to a pair of Fort Riley gates

&nbsp; Sunset Zoo staff found an early Christmas present the morning of Sunday, December 7 when they discovered Kivuli, the black-and-white colobus monkey, had given birth overnight. When Kivuli started showing signs of impending birth, zookeepers installed cameras and started “baby watch.” Footage revealed that Kivuli gave birth around 1:30 a.m.

Mother and baby are both doing well. Kivuli is proving to be a very attentive first-time mom, providing the level of care keepers expect to see at this stage. Bobby, the father, is also protective, demonstrating territorial behavior of his troop and their space. The other female in the troop, Azizi, is also helping with baby care and will hold the baby for Kivuli for short periods.Sunset Zoo Director Scott Shoemaker remarked, “We are very excited about the birth of this baby colobus monkey. Every birth is a significant achievement, and we are very proud to be able to add to the population of this charismatic primate.”

Interim Zoo Curator, Madison Brandon, added, "Kivuli is our shiest Colobus. With a lot of patience, her care team was able to build up her trust throughout her pregnancy. Kivuli now approaches keepers to accept food items, now toting baby along as well. Her favorite food items are mulberry leaves, avocado, potato, and primate biscuits."&nbsp;The Ballard Indoor Primate Viewing Gallery has been closed for the past week to give them time to bond in a quiet environment. The Gallery will reopen on Saturday, December&nbsp; 13, with limited hours of 2 – 5 pm to reduce potential noise and stress for the family as they adjust to public viewing with their new addition. 

The Zoo asks guests to be conscientious when visiting the colobus habitat by using quiet voices and calm behavior. Kivuli will continue to have access to her behind-the-scenes den throughout the day and may choose to remain out of public view. The family will not have access to their outside habitat until the baby is larger.

. Naming the newborn will wait until after the sex is determined and caretakers get a sense of its personality.Black-and-white colobus monkeys are native to the forests and woodlands of equatorial Africa. They are sometimes called “skunk monkeys” because of their distinctive coloration. Newborn colobus monkeys are born totally white and gradually develop the black and white coloration of their parents.&nbsp;

Colobus Monkeys at Sunset Zoo Welcome Baby! 

WICHITA, KAN. – An Arizona man was sentenced to 272 months in prison for his part in a drug trafficking ring that transported large amounts of fentanyl into Kansas, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Rafael Turner, 35, of Phoenix, Arizona, and formerly of Wichita, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.

Beginning on a date unknown and continuing through March 2023, Turner conspired with other people to distribute fentanyl.&nbsp;

“Turner was part of a criminal organization that injected both fentanyl and illegal drug proceeds into our communities,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Special Agent in Charge William Steenson, St. Louis Field Office. “We’re more committed than ever to using our financial expertise to help disrupt these drug trafficking organizations and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”

Forty-five other individuals were prosecuted as part of this overall investigation, which included individuals in Kansas. &nbsp;Across the country, individuals have been sentenced or are awaiting sentencing. Included among them are Clifton Ray Weatherspoon, 33, and Antonio Dawayne Knight, 27, both of Wichita, who were each convicted of one count of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute. Weatherspoon was sentenced to 300 months in prison. Knight was sentenced to 150 months in prison.&nbsp;

In February 2023, Weatherspoon and Knight traveled by plane from Wichita to Phoenix, Arizona, to purchase 300,000 fentanyl pills. They packed the pills into two suitcases, checked the luggage under their names, and flew back to Wichita. Pursuant to a federal search warrant, law enforcement officers seized one of the bags before it reached the baggage claim area. They x-rayed and searched the luggage and discovered 15 bags stuffed inside containing 150,000 fentanyl pills. Agents arrested Weatherspoon and Knight, who had by then retrieved the second suitcase from baggage claim. A search of that bag showed it also contained approximately 150,000 fentanyl pills.

“Over the past few years, the federal government has partnered with state and local governments as well as community groups to curtail the fentanyl crisis. The prosecution of this large drug conspiracy was part of that work. However, we are not done in these efforts. While we try to save lives by raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, criminals seek to undermine that hard work” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “Fentanyl dealers have little to no regard for human life and are willing to let children get ahold of this poison in efforts to turn a profit. We are grateful to law enforcement agents whose investigations keep this toxic substance off our streets.”

Man transported large amounts of fentanyl into Kansas.

&nbsp;SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in the death of a 4-year-old&nbsp; made his hit first appearance in court on Friday.

A Sedgwick County Judge charged 34-year-old Daniel Martin with&nbsp; first degree murder and child abuse in the death of Tiuri Blunt-Porrata, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just before 3:30p.m. Monday, police&nbsp; responded to a medical call regarding an unresponsive 4-year-old child in the 2600 block of South Topeka in Wichita, according to police department spokesman Andrew Ford. The child identified as Tirui Blunt-Porrata, according to an online fundraiser, was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and was pronounced deceased at 4:07 p.m.

Police booked Martin,&nbsp; into the Sedgwick County Jail where he remains on a $1 million bond, according to online jail records.

In the online fundraise, Nathaniel Porrata, " I’m Tiuri’s father. I recently moved to a new city to help restart my family’s life, hoping it would bring us a brighter future." 

"I had just landed a new job, and our finances were finally starting to recover. My soon to be ex-wife and our children were planning to join me at the beginning of 2026, and we were looking forward to being together again as a family."

"Tragically, on Monday, November 8th, 2025, my 4 year old son, Tiuri Blunt-Porrata, became the victim of a horrible crime and passed away. The investigation is still ongoing, so I am unable to share more details at this time."

"My world has been turned upside down. I am struggling to process the pain and shock of losing Tiuri so suddenly."<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-tiuri-bluntporratas-memory"> Click here to view</a> the fundraiser.

Kan. suspect in abuse death of 4-year-old faces a judge

NEW YORK (AP) —Anthony Geary, who rose to fame in the 1970s and ‘80s as half the daytime TV super couple Luke and Laura on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/general-hospital-60-years-soap-opera-120ba44b08ac517a56b94257b294a678">“General Hospital,”</a>&nbsp;has died. He was 78.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Anthony Geary, whose portrayal of Luke Spencer helped define General Hospital and daytime television,” ABC said in a statement confirming his death.

Geary died Sunday in Amsterdam of complications from a surgical procedure three days prior.

“The entire ‘General Hospital’ family is heartbroken over the news of Tony Geary’s passing,” Frank Valentini, executive producer of the ABC show, said in a statement Monday. “Tony was a brilliant actor and set the bar that we continue to strive for.”

In a career spanning more than 40 years, Geary earned eight Daytime Emmy awards as Luke Spencer after joining the soap in 1978. Luke’s pairing with Genie Francis’ Laura Webber Baldwin (as she was known at the time) propelled the two onto magazine covers and into the cultural mainstream.

The 1981 wedding of Luke and Laura was a pop culture phenom done in two parts, drawing guest appearances that included Elizabeth Taylor. A record 30 million viewers watched.

“He was a powerhouse as an actor. Shoulder to shoulder with the greats. No star burned brighter than Tony Geary. He was one of a kind. As an artist, he was filled with a passion for the truth, no matter how blunt, or even a little rude it might be, but always hilariously funny,” Francis said in a statement.

In addition to his role as Luke, Geary had numerous TV and stage credits, including stints on other soaps: “The Young and the Restless” and “Bright Promise.” Geary played Luke on and off until 2015, though he returned for a cameo in 2017.

He lived a quiet life with husband Claudio Gama in Amsterdam.

<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=interviews+with+Tony+Geary&amp;rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1053US1054&amp;oq=interviews+with+Tony+Geary&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIHCAEQIRigATIHCAIQIRigATIHCAMQIRigATIHCAQQIRigATIHCAUQIRiPAtIBCDM3OThqMGo3qAIIsAIB8QUmeU6L-Rg5lfEFJnlOi_kYOZU&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&amp;vld=cid:79c41a52,vid:3YNGiHX9_sc,st:0" target="_blank">In a 1993 interview</a>, Geary spoke of the many highs and lows of playing Luke.

“I felt like I had to be Luke 24 hours a day or people would be disappointed,” he said. “As far as I’m concerned, they are mythic creatures. They come from two sides of the universe together and have a mutual connection, which is basically lust and appreciation for individuality. They love the eccentricity in each other.”

Geary’s Luke began as a small-time hitman recruited to dismantle the relationship of Laura and her first husband, Scotty Baldwin. Their story arc turned darker when Luke sexually assaulted Laura. The assault led to a redemption trail for Luke, who evolved into a hero and even served as mayor of the show’s small town, Port Charles.

“He was not created to be a heroic character,” Geary&nbsp;<a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/anthony-geary-reflects-37-years-playing-dark-dangerous/story?id=32619755" target="_blank">told</a>&nbsp;ABC’s “Nightline” in 2015. “He was created to be an anti-hero, and I have treasured the anti-side of the hero and pushed it for a long time. ... He’s not a white hat or a black hat, he’s all shades of grey. And that has been the saving grace of playing him all these years.”

Geary was born to Mormon parents in Coalville, Utah. He was discovered while attending the University of Utah and performing on stage. He joined a touring company of “The Subject was Roses,” which brought him to Los Angeles.

Over the years, he appeared frequently in stage productions alongside his screen work.

Geary’s first appearance on TV was as Tom Whalom on an episode of “Room 222.” He went on to appear in “All in the Family,” “The Partridge Family,” “The Mod Squad,” “Marcus Welby, M.D.,” “The Streets of San Francisco” and “Barnaby Jones.”

'General Hospital' star Anthony Geary of Luke and Laura fame dies at 78

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;on Monday blamed Rob Reiner’s outspoken opposition to the president for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rob-reiner-dead-9a87be595a7da742394829afc6f1132e">actor-director’s killing</a>, delivering the unsubstantiated claim in a shocking post that seemed intent on decrying his opponents even in the face of a tragedy.

The statement, even for Trump, was a shocking comment that came as police were still investigating the deaths of the director and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, as an apparent homicide. The couple were found dead at their home Sunday in Los Angeles. Investigators believe they suffered stab wounds and the couple’s son Nick Reiner&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/rob-michele-reiner-dead-updates">was in police custody early Monday</a>.

Trump has a long track record of inflammatory remarks, but his comments in a social media post were a drastic departure from the role presidents typically play in offering a message of consolation or tribute after the death of a public figure. His message drew criticism even from conservatives and his supporters and laid bare Trump’s unwillingness to rise above political grievance in moments of crisis.

Trump, in a post on his social media network, said Reiner and his wife were killed “reportedly due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME.”

He said Reiner “was known to have driven people CRAZY by his raging obsession of President Donald J. Trump, with his obvious paranoia reaching new heights as the Trump Administration surpassed all goals and expectations of greatness.”

The president did not mention his personal connection to Reiner’s wife, who was a photographer. Peter Osnos, the original publisher of “The Art of the Deal,” confirmed Monday that Michele Singer took the cover image of Trump’s 1987 bestseller.

Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie, who has bucked much of his party’s lockstep agreement with the president, criticized Trump for the comment.

“Regardless of how you felt about Rob Reiner, this is inappropriate and disrespectful discourse about a man who was just brutally murdered,” Massie wrote in a post on X. “I guess my elected GOP colleagues, the VP, and White House staff will just ignore it because they’re afraid? I challenge anyone to defend it.”

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican whom Trump branded a “traitor” for disagreeing with him, responded to Trump’s message by saying, “This is a family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies.”

Republican Reps. Mike Lawler of New York and Stephanie Bice of Oklahoma, who are not known for pushing back on the White House, also criticized Trump’s message.

Reiner — a director of beloved films like “The Princess Bride” and “When Harry Met Sally” — was one of the most active Democrats in the film industry and regularly campaigned on behalf of liberal causes and hosted fundraisers. He was a vocal critic of Trump, calling him in a 2017 interview with Variety “mentally unfit” to be president and “the single-most unqualified human being to ever assume the presidency of the United States.”

The White House, which shared the president’s post, did not respond to a message about the criticism it was receiving and calls for Trump to take it down.

Speaking at the White House to reporters later Monday, Trump doubled down on his criticism of Reiner when he was asked if he stood by his post. Using the third person, Trump said Reiner “was a deranged person as far as Trump is concerned.”

“I was not a fan of Rob Reiner at all, in any way shape or form,” Trump said. “I thought he was very bad for our country.”

The unsympathetic message was the latest example of Trump’s unsparing prism through which he views those he perceives as enemies.

He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-revenge-bolton-military-deployments-aa2b977621bce563770b60dade581f79">made retribution against political enemies</a>&nbsp;a prime focus of his campaign for the White House last year. And he has in the past made light of violence when it’s befallen those on the other side of the political aisle.

When Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul Pelosi, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paul-pelosi-assaulted-156ece77186eb11b97260af3c5122f67">attacked by an intruder looking for the former House speaker</a>&nbsp;at the family’s San Francisco home in 2022 and beaten over the head with a hammer, Trump later mocked the attack.

That’s despite his comments after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;earlier this year. Trump said Kirk’s killing was “the tragic consequence of demonizing those with whom you disagree.”

His administration then sought consequences for people who were critical of Kirk or even celebrated his killing.

Jenna Ellis, who was one of Trump’s lawyers and worked on his efforts in 2020 to overturn the results of the presidential election, pointed out Trump’s double standard and called his post “NOT the appropriate response.”

“The Right uniformly condemned political and celebratory responses to Charlie Kirk’s death. This is a horrible example from Trump (and surprising considering the two attempts on his own life) and should be condemned by everyone with any decency,” Ellis said in a post on X.

When Trump spoke at Kirk’s memorial service, he used his remarks to underline how he views his adversaries.

“I hate my opponent,” the president said.

🎥Trump doubles down on criticizing Rob Reiner after his killing

FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a deadly shooting in Ford County have released the name of the victim as&nbsp;27-year-old Blane Enyeart, according to the Ford County Sheriff's office.

Just before 6p.m. Saturday, sheriff's deputies responded to a home north of Dodge City, according to a media release. First responders including Dodge City Police and Ford County EMS found Enyeart dead from a gunshot wound.

Investigators questioned those who were inside the home. The sheriff's office has not reported an arrest or additional details on what led to the shooting.

Sheriff releases name of victim in fatal SW Kansas killing

WASHINGTON (AP) — The two Iowa National Guard members&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-us-military-attack-palmyra-is-22f67e54c1a15fcc643de2672b83aacb">killed in a weekend attack</a>&nbsp;in Syria that the U.S. military blamed on the Islamic State group were identified Monday and remembered as dedicated soldiers.

The U.S. Army named them as Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to fly at half-staff in their honor, saying that, “We are grateful for their service and deeply mourn their loss.”

The Pentagon’s chief spokesman, Sean Parnell, has said a U.S. civilian working as an interpreter also was killed. Three other Guard members were wounded in the attack, the Iowa National Guard said Monday, with two of them in stable condition and the other in good condition.

The attack was a major test for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-sanctions-trump-treasury-state-2ed65c895905e2e7bc385098a6ab1301">rapprochement between the United States and Syria</a>&nbsp;since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-assad-sweida-daraa-homs-hts-qatar-7f65823bbf0a7bd331109e8dff419430">ouster of autocratic leader Bashar Assad</a>&nbsp;a year ago, coming as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-syria-troops-islamic-state-kurds-3354f71e88d278427994d209b2d16d9c">U.S. military is expanding its cooperation</a>&nbsp;with Syrian security forces. Hundreds of American troops are deployed in eastern Syria as part of a coalition fighting IS.

The shooting Saturday in the Syrian desert near the historic city of Palmyra also wounded members of the country’s security forces, and the gunman was killed. The assailant had joined Syria’s internal security forces as a base security guard two months ago and recently was reassigned amid suspicions that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-islamic-state-attack-security-forces-cc45fd7a00c06f8c1426ac589753f961">might be affiliated with IS</a>, a Syrian official said.

The man stormed a meeting between U.S. and Syrian security officials who were having lunch together and opened fire after clashing with Syrian guards, Interior Ministry spokesperson Nour al-Din al-Baba said Sunday.

Al-Baba acknowledged that it was “a major security breach” but said that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-anniversary-assad-fall-a22746c8b8351b02d77cb62a6260c87e">in the year since Assad’s fall</a>, “there have been many more successes than failures” by security forces.

The Army said Monday that the incident is under investigation. Military officials and President Donald Trump have&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/1999883271035822281" target="_blank">blamed the attack on an IS member</a>.

“Our hearts go out to their families, and we lift them up in prayer for strength and comfort during this time of grief,” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Monday on social media. “The United States of America will avenge these fallen Americans with overwhelming force.”

Trump said over the weekend that “there will be very serious retaliation” for the attack and that Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa was “devastated by what happened,” stressing that Syria was fighting alongside U.S. troops.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-syria-sharaa-first-visit-cf01c5d6c9af7e47ec0bae585634d845">Trump welcomed al-Sharaa</a>, who led the lightning insurgency that toppled Assad’s rule, to the White House for a historic meeting last month.

Iowa National Guard members remembered as heroes

Meanwhile, Torres-Tovar and Howard were remembered as dedicated soldiers and “cherished members” of the Iowa National Guard family, Stephen Osborn, adjutant general, said in a statement.

“Our focus now is providing unwavering support to their families through this unimaginable time and ensuring the legacy of these two heroes is never forgotten,” Osborn said.

Howard had wanted to be a soldier since he was a young boy, according to Jeffrey Bunn, Howard’s stepfather and chief of the Meskwaki Nation Police Department in Tama, Iowa, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) northeast of Des Moines.

Howard “loved what he was doing and would be the first in and last out,” Bunn wrote Saturday on the department’s Facebook page.

Howard also was a loving husband and an “amazing man of faith,” Bunn said, adding that Howard’s younger brother, a staff sergeant in the Iowa National Guard, would escort “Nate” back to Iowa.

Howard was inspired by his grandfather’s service and wanted to serve for 20 years, according to an April post on a Facebook page dedicated to sharing stories of the unit. He had served for over 11 years.

Three fellow members of the Iowa Guard who were deployed with Torres-Tovar reflected on his character in a joint statement to local TV broadcast station, WOI.

David Hernandez, Freddy Sarceño and Luis Corona described him as “very positive,” family oriented and always putting others first.

Associated Press writers Abby Sewell in Beirut and Hannah Fingerhut in Des Moines, Iowa, contributed to this report.

US Army names National Guard members killed in attack in Syria

RENO COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a fatal fire at a home in Hutchinson.

Just after 3:30a.m. Monday, crews responded small house fire at 56th Street and Old Kansas 61, according to a media release..  When crews arrived on scene, they found a small 700 square foot home that that was fully involved with roof collapse.  Crews performed a defensive attack calling the fire controlled at 4:15 am.

  During firefighting operations, it was determined that there was potential of an occupant still in the home.  After the fire was out and the removal of roof materials and debris, the occupant was found deceased.  

Investigation of the fire showed that the fire may have started at approximately 1a.m.&nbsp; A neighbors camera system showed a glow in the area at that time.  The fire went unnoticed for approx. 2 and one half hours before Hutchinson Fire was notified.  Due to the prolonged burn time and the destruction of the home and contents, the cause of the fire is ruled as undetermined.

1 dead after fire at small Kansas home

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A driver charged in a crash that killed two Kansas women is due back in court on Monday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Clowie Ann McLaughlin, 80, Augusta, is to appear in Judge Roger Woods courtroom for a preliminary hearing. She&nbsp;is charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence, severity level 4 person felonies, in the deaths of 42-year-old LaShea Bell and her daughter, 25-year-old A’Niah Bell.

The crash happened around 9:35 p.m.&nbsp; August 30, at the intersection of Central and Webb Road in Wichita

According to Wichita police, McLaughlin’s black Chevrolet truck collided with a white BMW carrying the Bells and a gray Jeep driven by a 41-year-old man. LaShea Bell was pronounced dead at the scene, while A’Niah Bell later died at a local hospital. The Jeep driver was treated at the scene and released.

Police said speed and alcohol are believed to have been factors in the collision. McLaughlin was taken to a hospital for treatment of her own injuries and was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail after being medically cleared. She bonded out of jail the following day after posting a $100,000 bond.

Preliminary hearing for driver in crash that killed 2 Kan. women

Country music star Trace Adkins will open the 2026 Kansas State Fair with a special Grandstand concert on Friday, Sept. 11, marking both the opening day of the fair and the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

Kansas State Fair Executive Director Bryan Schulz announced the concert on Monday morning, noting the significance of the date and Adkins’ long-standing support for veterans and first responders.

“Opening day of the Kansas State Fair is September 11, and with this being the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we wanted an artist who truly represents patriotism and respect for our military and first responders,” Schulz said. “Trace Adkins was the perfect fit.”

The concert is part of Adkins’ 30th Anniversary Tour, celebrating three decades since the release of his debut album Dreamin’ Out Loud. His career includes more than 40 charted singles, 14 studio albums, and multiple No. 1 hits, including “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing” and “Every Light in the House.”

Adkins will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. at the Kansas Star Casino Grandstand, reflecting a new naming sponsorship for the Grandstand in 2026.

Ticket pricing ranges from reserved Grandstand seating at $45 to $55, Party Pit tickets at $85, VIP Deck standing tickets at $110—which include two drinks and appetizers—and reserved VIP tables priced at $835 for six people, which include food, drinks, and early Grandstand entry.

Schulz encouraged fans to purchase tickets directly through the official Kansas State Fair website to avoid third-party resale issues.

In addition to the Adkins concert, Schulz said 2026 will be a milestone year for the Kansas State Fair, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States, the 35th anniversary of the Little Red Schoolhouse, and the 140th anniversary of 4-H. Fair officials are also hopeful that the Bison Arena will be available for part of the 2026 fair run.

More information and ticket details are available at kansasstatefair.org.

Trace Adkins to open 2026 Kansas State Fair 

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Rob Reiner’s son, Nick Reiner, was in police custody Monday after deaths of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/rob-reiner">director-actor</a>&nbsp;and his wife Michele, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press.

Online jail records show Nick Reiner, 32, was booked by Los Angeles police and remained in jail on Monday. It was not immediately clear what charges he would face. The online records showed a $4 million bail had been set.

The law enforcement official, who was briefed on the investigation, confirmed that he was being held, but could not publicly discuss the details and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Representatives for Reiner’s family did not immediately respond to a request for comment and it wasn’t immediately clear if Nick Reiner had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

Rob and Michele Weiner were found dead Sunday at their home in Los Angeles, and investigators believe they suffered stab wounds, the law enforcement official said.

The Los Angeles Fire Department said it responded to a medical aid request shortly after 3:30 p.m. and found a 78-year-old man and 68-year-old woman dead inside. Reiner turned 78 in March.

Detectives with the Robbery Homicide Division were investigating an “apparent homicide” at Reiner’s home, said Capt. Mike Bland with the Los Angeles Police Department.

Los Angeles authorities have not confirmed the identities of the people found dead at the residence in the upscale Brentwood neighborhood on the city’s west side that’s home to many celebrities.

Reiner was long one of the most prolific directors in Hollywood, and his work included some of the most memorable movies of the 1980s and ’90s, including “This is Spinal Tap,” “A Few Good Men,” “When Harry Met Sally” and “The Princess Bride.”

His role as Meathead in Norman Lear's 1970s TV classic “All in the Family,” alongside Carol O’Connor’s Archie Bunker, catapulted him to fame and won him two Emmy Awards.

The son of comedy legend Carl Reiner, Rob Reiner was married to photographer Michele Singer Reiner since 1989. The two met while he was directing “When Harry Met Sally” and had three children together: Nick, Jake and Romy.

Relatives of Lear, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/norman-lear-died-87300f0e49b54c05803ab315dfdf9933">legendary producer who died in 2023</a>, said they were bereft by the news.

“Norman often referred to Rob as a son, and their close relationship was extraordinary, to us and the world,” said a Lear family statement. “Norman would have wanted to remind us that Rob and Michele spent every breath trying to make this country a better place, and they pursued that through their art, their activism, their philanthropy, and their love for family and friends.”

Messages to Reiner's representatives were not immediately returned Sunday night.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called Reiner's death a devastating loss for the city.

“Rob Reiner’s contributions reverberate throughout American culture and society, and he has improved countless lives through his creative work and advocacy fighting for social and economic justice,” Bass said in a statement. “An acclaimed actor, director, producer, writer, and engaged political activist, he always used his gifts in service of others.”

Reiner was previously married to actor-director Penny Marshall from 1971 to 1981. He adopted her daughter, Tracy Reiner.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ab0308881d262c03587e24c656afc81e">Carl Reiner died in 2020</a>&nbsp;at age 98 and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/arts-and-entertainment-general-news-television-programs-9b816e06aab5410ab0578ee33fc39dc8">Marshall died in 2018</a>.

Killings are rare in the Brentwood neighborhood. The scene is about a mile from the home where O.J. Simpson’s wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman were killed in 1994.

LOS ANGELES (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/rob-reiner">Director-actor Rob Reiner</a>&nbsp;and his wife Michele were the two people found dead Sunday at a Los Angeles home owned by Reiner, according to a law enforcement official briefed on the investigation.

The official could not publicly discuss details of the investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Investigators believe they suffered stab wounds and a family member is being questioned by investigators, the official said.

The son of comedy legend Carl Reiner, Rob Reiner was married to photographer Michele Singer Reiner since 1989. The two met while he was directing “When Harry Met Sally” and have three children together.

Balsamo reported from Washington. Associated Press Entertainment Writer Andrew Dalton in Los Angeles contributed.

🎥Police: New details in the murder of Rob Reiner and wife in LA

Associate Athletics Director for Communications

<a>MANHATTAN, Kan.</a>&nbsp;–&nbsp;A seven-year coaching staff member who has tutored Wildcat defensive ends to 10 All-Big 12 honors,&nbsp;Buddy&nbsp;Wyatt&nbsp;will remain on staff to coach the Kansas State defensive line, head coach&nbsp;Collin Klein&nbsp;announced Monday.

Wyatt&nbsp;has coached at K-State since 2019 and guided players to All-Big 12 First Team honors on five occasions.

“I appreciate Collin placing his trust in me,”&nbsp;Wyatt&nbsp;said. “Kansas State has a strong tradition and culture, and I am excited to be a part of this staff. I look forward to helping our players and this program succeed.”

Wyatt&nbsp;worked alongside Klein in each of his first five seasons in Manhattan.

“Buddy&nbsp;has a tremendous track record of developing young men,” Klein said. “I have always admired how he built genuine relationships with players and staff. He is of the highest character, and I am very excited we he will be with us moving forward.”

Wyatt&nbsp;has guided K-State players to three Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year honors over his first seven seasons in Manhattan. In fact, when adding in his time coaching Adam Carriker at Nebraska to the honor in 2006,&nbsp;Wyatt&nbsp;has tutored the most Big 12 Defensive Linemen of the Year in league history.

The latest recipient of the award was Brendan Mott in 2024, who also earned All-Big 12 First Team honors. Mott ranked 26th nationally and was tops in the Big 12 in sacks (0.65 sacks per game), while he tied for fourth in the Big 12 in tackles for loss. He led a defensive unit that finished with a No. 25 national ranking in sacks at 2.69 per game, which was its best ranking since 2015. Of the 35 total sacks on the year, 23 came from&nbsp;Wyatt’s ends.

Wyatt&nbsp;tutored two players to All-Big 12 honors in 2023 with Khalid Duke earning second-team honors in addition to earning votes for the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year award, while Mott was an honorable mention pick.

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