RILEY COUNTY —This is Flag Day.&nbsp;Flag Day commemorates June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress determined the composition of the nation's banner: "Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

On Friday morning , Scout Troop 74 assisted with the ceremonial raising of our nation's flag at Manhattan City Hall.

President Woodrow Wilson issued a 1916 proclamation of June 14 as Flag Day and in 1949, President Harry S. Truman signed the formal observance into law. And it falls during Flag Week, after another congressional dictum in 1966.

-The Associated Press contributed to this story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718379293262.png" alt="Courtesy photos" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photos</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —This is Flag Day.&nbsp;Flag Day commemorates June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress determined the composition of the nation's banner: "Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”On Friday morning , Scout Troop 74 assisted with the ceremonial raising of our nation's flag at Manhattan City Hall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718379324715.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718379189091.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>President Woodrow Wilson issued a 1916 proclamation of June 14 as Flag Day and in 1949, President Harry S. Truman signed the formal observance into law. And it falls during Flag Week, after another congressional dictum in 1966.-The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Flag Day ceremony at Manhattan City Hall

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

JAMES LEON WHITESELL, 75, Manhattan,&nbsp;Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st 1conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

DAMOND TIRIAL RUSSELL, 23, Manhattan, Failure to Appear; Bond $6,000

JIMMIE DALE DODSON III, 23, Topeka, Probation Violations; Bond$40,000

CAMERON FRANCIS FISHER, 32, Topeka, Failure to Appear; Bond $1,500

JOSHUA MATTHEW HEINZ, 44, Manhattan,&nbsp;Violate offender registration act; 1st conviction; non-person; Bond $7,000

JOSCELYN LEE HELM, 26, Wichita, Failure to Appear; Sedgwick Co. Sheriff

JOSHUA WILLIAM DIXON, 34, Manhattan, Failure to Appear; Pottawatomie Co. Sheriff

DAQUALIN JERMAINE WASHINGTON, 20, Wichita,&nbsp;Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; Shoplifting; Sedgwick Co. Sheriff

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;JAMES LEON WHITESELL, 75, Manhattan,&nbsp;Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st 1conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750DAMOND TIRIAL RUSSELL, 23, Manhattan, Failure to Appear; Bond $6,000JIMMIE DALE DODSON III, 23, Topeka, Probation Violations; Bond$40,000CAMERON FRANCIS FISHER, 32, Topeka, Failure to Appear; Bond $1,500JOSHUA MATTHEW HEINZ, 44, Manhattan,&nbsp;Violate offender registration act; 1st conviction; non-person; Bond $7,000JOSCELYN LEE HELM, 26, Wichita, Failure to Appear; Sedgwick Co. SheriffJOSHUA WILLIAM DIXON, 34, Manhattan, Failure to Appear; Pottawatomie Co. SheriffDAQUALIN JERMAINE WASHINGTON, 20, Wichita,&nbsp;Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; Shoplifting; Sedgwick Co. Sheriff

Riley County Arrest Report June 14

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged theft in Riley County.

Just before 11:30a.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of theft in the 800 block of Levee Drive according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 46-year-old woman reported her FedEx package was picked up by an unknown person. 

Total loss associated with this report is $2,545.52. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged theft in Riley County.Just before 11:30a.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of theft in the 800 block of Levee Drive according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 46-year-old woman reported her FedEx package was picked up by an unknown person. Total loss associated with this report is $2,545.52. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: $2,500 FedEx package is missing 

This is day 3 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Kansas wheat farmers are relieved to have a crop to harvest this year, remaining optimistic and pleasantly surprised with the good-yielding, good-quality crop, even as harvest progresses into areas where fields were impacted by an inconsistent mix of&nbsp;freeze damage, stripe rust pressure, rain and hail.&nbsp;

Harvest delivery is in full swing at Ardent Mills, which unloaded 150 trucks at its facility in Newton on Tuesday, June 11. Harvest is roughly 10 percent complete and Pam Bowles, assistant administrative manager, expects another week of peak harvest.&nbsp;

Farmers delivering wheat to the mill are reporting yields ranging from 40 bushels per acre up to 70 bushels per acre. At the mill, test weights are steady around 62 pounds per bushel and the protein average is 11.3 percent.&nbsp;

“Everyone seems to be in a good mood,” Bowles said. “We are planning for an above-average year this year.”&nbsp;

Troy Smith, who farms near Walton in Harvey County, is also pleasantly surprised with this year’s harvest, having started cutting his KS Zenda earlier this week — on track with normal pace. He attributes using cow manure as his primary fertilizer and heavy moisture over Thanksgiving weekend as keys to this year’s success.

“What made this year so good was the snow that came during the Iowa State/K-State football game, honestly!” he said.&nbsp;

His average yield is 67 bushels per acre with average test weight of 60.8 pounds per bushel and average protein at 13.13 percent.&nbsp;

Also in Harvey County, James Mosiman described this year’s harvest as a “night and day difference” compared to last year, speaking volumes about what good weather, sound farming practices and resilient varieties can produce when everything comes together.&nbsp;

The Mosiman family started harvesting on Thursday, June 6, about a week ahead of schedule. Beyond a delay from an inch of rain over last weekend, they have not encountered many challenges this year. He reported seeing small amounts of stripe rust, a common obstacle for many farmers this year.&nbsp;

Mosiman happily mentioned fields are yielding a promising 60 bushels per acre. Reflecting on the culmination of months of hard work, he summed this year’s harvest up by saying, “It’s just nice to cut a crop.”&nbsp;

In neighboring Reno County, Brandon Frederick is helping his grandfather VJ Blubaugh harvest wheat near Burrton. Storms the week before Memorial Day weekend blew over pivots on their irrigated wheat. On Thursday, June 13, they were cutting in a pocket where one side of the road got an inch of rain, but the other side had nothing more than sprinkle.&nbsp;

The operation grazes a lot of their wheat, which is in crop rotation with sudan. This year, they put out 105 head on the ground for 120 days, ending the grazing season with an average daily gain of 3.0 pounds.&nbsp;

Both grandfather and grandson are thrilled to harvest a crop this year, after having to swath the entirety of their wheat crop last year. Fields planted to WestBred varieties are yielding between 40 and 70 bushels per acre, with test weights of 61-62 pounds per bushel and proteins ranging from 12 to 12.3 percent.&nbsp;

“As much as I love having food for my cows, I love seeing a cash crop come up and go all the way to harvest,” Frederick said.&nbsp;

The harvest crew was hustling to repair combines and keep cutting ahead of forecasted thunderstorms in Barton County, according to Dean Stoskopf, who farms near Hoisington. His first two fields — both planted to PlainsGold Whistler — had yields of 45 and 50 bushels per acre. Moisture is between 11.5 and 14.5 percent with test weights ranging from 59.5 to 61.5 pounds per bushel and protein hitting 11.5 to 14 percent.&nbsp;

Yields are better than expected, but Stoskopf noted he is cutting some of his best fields first and expects yields to go down as harvest progresses. Within fields, he remarked that prolonged drought conditions and freeze damage caused a lot of inconsistency with stands, noting he feels like he’s cutting 60-bushel wheat or five-bushel wheat with nothing in between. Still, he feels optimistic after consecutive years of near-total crop failures and expects to be done cutting within two weeks — hopefully just in time to watch the grandkids show at the county fair the last week of June.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We have cut more wheat in the last day and a half than we did all last year,” Stoskopf said. “So far we’ve been pleasantly surprised with yields, but fields are highly variable.”&nbsp;

Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Monday, June 17.&nbsp;

The 2024 Harvest Reports are brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates, use&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO07kjlGoGgrPkY9E_vsEQSZA2WedMqeiROjRce43uOSYxe6ctiJJR056TbUNtKxFEXGYpqj_4lhojwKefXWXtCkFwo09EWy8oJ6d3GfD8Z-y0G_Dhz0FKVIrxNdRL-20_VE3wGKN2LhW-hF0qVm12sGdpPn8drZNoJZYwhZlCMF9HssctFDzDeQ=&amp;c=cpS_EyjBsxozsaHLS7AqeDeRHWHaxyRoiBJz7toylcuNfoIM3HEskg==&amp;ch=DFwW7YODvWuL847pSr-hDw-Ig8WMB6MULYLarKZl2x2ZjmGbID1Pxw==" target="_blank">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO8eKkJcDtXbeWV7K70IhlrBhrm00qFMPxhvgyZRIspN6dhgIOm2PytEEChVt9dYY_Zlb5DlctXkOoRJIV5k9Xn-F6LA5yUdNksij_u3qJtL6aQh358pEVf4=&amp;c=cpS_EyjBsxozsaHLS7AqeDeRHWHaxyRoiBJz7toylcuNfoIM3HEskg==&amp;ch=DFwW7YODvWuL847pSr-hDw-Ig8WMB6MULYLarKZl2x2ZjmGbID1Pxw==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO1F4z-H_3Jxy7sfSBhqxngqMkC7vjqtNc8HBZnWV5rSSB9Rpq4lRttT1QjaHzpLBja9fO3kVeCXjLnsnp7UGe0w-wgkxoTpcm5nhhUujXD5T&amp;c=cpS_EyjBsxozsaHLS7AqeDeRHWHaxyRoiBJz7toylcuNfoIM3HEskg==&amp;ch=DFwW7YODvWuL847pSr-hDw-Ig8WMB6MULYLarKZl2x2ZjmGbID1Pxw==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO_8-7QojyfWbTx1ntYZJf9yw5i9XZ6e37M0Rgif2vxFGJLISkHcP8JDhxn4yGeIVCpMqyJO1mqb2l468VqS7EcLy3UmNbH949q1D-MmCD0UJ&amp;c=cpS_EyjBsxozsaHLS7AqeDeRHWHaxyRoiBJz7toylcuNfoIM3HEskg==&amp;ch=DFwW7YODvWuL847pSr-hDw-Ig8WMB6MULYLarKZl2x2ZjmGbID1Pxw==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718319188642.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatThis is day 3 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Kansas wheat farmers are relieved to have a crop to harvest this year, remaining optimistic and pleasantly surprised with the good-yielding, good-quality crop, even as harvest progresses into areas where fields were impacted by an inconsistent mix of&nbsp;freeze damage, stripe rust pressure, rain and hail.&nbsp;Harvest delivery is in full swing at Ardent Mills, which unloaded 150 trucks at its facility in Newton on Tuesday, June 11. Harvest is roughly 10 percent complete and Pam Bowles, assistant administrative manager, expects another week of peak harvest.&nbsp;Farmers delivering wheat to the mill are reporting yields ranging from 40 bushels per acre up to 70 bushels per acre. At the mill, test weights are steady around 62 pounds per bushel and the protein average is 11.3 percent.&nbsp;“Everyone seems to be in a good mood,” Bowles said. “We are planning for an above-average year this year.”&nbsp;Troy Smith, who farms near Walton in Harvey County, is also pleasantly surprised with this year’s harvest, having started cutting his KS Zenda earlier this week — on track with normal pace. He attributes using cow manure as his primary fertilizer and heavy moisture over Thanksgiving weekend as keys to this year’s success.“What made this year so good was the snow that came during the Iowa State/K-State football game, honestly!” he said.&nbsp;His average yield is 67 bushels per acre with average test weight of 60.8 pounds per bushel and average protein at 13.13 percent.&nbsp;Also in Harvey County, James Mosiman described this year’s harvest as a “night and day difference” compared to last year, speaking volumes about what good weather, sound farming practices and resilient varieties can produce when everything comes together.&nbsp;The Mosiman family started harvesting on Thursday, June 6, about a week ahead of schedule. Beyond a delay from an inch of rain over last weekend, they have not encountered many challenges this year. He reported seeing small amounts of stripe rust, a common obstacle for many farmers this year.&nbsp;Mosiman happily mentioned fields are yielding a promising 60 bushels per acre. Reflecting on the culmination of months of hard work, he summed this year’s harvest up by saying, “It’s just nice to cut a crop.”&nbsp;In neighboring Reno County, Brandon Frederick is helping his grandfather VJ Blubaugh harvest wheat near Burrton. Storms the week before Memorial Day weekend blew over pivots on their irrigated wheat. On Thursday, June 13, they were cutting in a pocket where one side of the road got an inch of rain, but the other side had nothing more than sprinkle.&nbsp;The operation grazes a lot of their wheat, which is in crop rotation with sudan. This year, they put out 105 head on the ground for 120 days, ending the grazing season with an average daily gain of 3.0 pounds.&nbsp;Both grandfather and grandson are thrilled to harvest a crop this year, after having to swath the entirety of their wheat crop last year. Fields planted to WestBred varieties are yielding between 40 and 70 bushels per acre, with test weights of 61-62 pounds per bushel and proteins ranging from 12 to 12.3 percent.&nbsp;“As much as I love having food for my cows, I love seeing a cash crop come up and go all the way to harvest,” Frederick said.&nbsp;The harvest crew was hustling to repair combines and keep cutting ahead of forecasted thunderstorms in Barton County, according to Dean Stoskopf, who farms near Hoisington. His first two fields — both planted to PlainsGold Whistler — had yields of 45 and 50 bushels per acre. Moisture is between 11.5 and 14.5 percent with test weights ranging from 59.5 to 61.5 pounds per bushel and protein hitting 11.5 to 14 percent.&nbsp;Yields are better than expected, but Stoskopf noted he is cutting some of his best fields first and expects yields to go down as harvest progresses. Within fields, he remarked that prolonged drought conditions and freeze damage caused a lot of inconsistency with stands, noting he feels like he’s cutting 60-bushel wheat or five-bushel wheat with nothing in between. Still, he feels optimistic after consecutive years of near-total crop failures and expects to be done cutting within two weeks — hopefully just in time to watch the grandkids show at the county fair the last week of June.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We have cut more wheat in the last day and a half than we did all last year,” Stoskopf said. “So far we’ve been pleasantly surprised with yields, but fields are highly variable.”&nbsp;Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Monday, June 17.&nbsp;The 2024 Harvest Reports are brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates, use&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO07kjlGoGgrPkY9E_vsEQSZA2WedMqeiROjRce43uOSYxe6ctiJJR056TbUNtKxFEXGYpqj_4lhojwKefXWXtCkFwo09EWy8oJ6d3GfD8Z-y0G_Dhz0FKVIrxNdRL-20_VE3wGKN2LhW-hF0qVm12sGdpPn8drZNoJZYwhZlCMF9HssctFDzDeQ=&amp;c=cpS_EyjBsxozsaHLS7AqeDeRHWHaxyRoiBJz7toylcuNfoIM3HEskg==&amp;ch=DFwW7YODvWuL847pSr-hDw-Ig8WMB6MULYLarKZl2x2ZjmGbID1Pxw==" target="_blank">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO8eKkJcDtXbeWV7K70IhlrBhrm00qFMPxhvgyZRIspN6dhgIOm2PytEEChVt9dYY_Zlb5DlctXkOoRJIV5k9Xn-F6LA5yUdNksij_u3qJtL6aQh358pEVf4=&amp;c=cpS_EyjBsxozsaHLS7AqeDeRHWHaxyRoiBJz7toylcuNfoIM3HEskg==&amp;ch=DFwW7YODvWuL847pSr-hDw-Ig8WMB6MULYLarKZl2x2ZjmGbID1Pxw==" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO1F4z-H_3Jxy7sfSBhqxngqMkC7vjqtNc8HBZnWV5rSSB9Rpq4lRttT1QjaHzpLBja9fO3kVeCXjLnsnp7UGe0w-wgkxoTpcm5nhhUujXD5T&amp;c=cpS_EyjBsxozsaHLS7AqeDeRHWHaxyRoiBJz7toylcuNfoIM3HEskg==&amp;ch=DFwW7YODvWuL847pSr-hDw-Ig8WMB6MULYLarKZl2x2ZjmGbID1Pxw==" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001lywwgAgkRdmA6O117ohCpSjUBr_Z5NO1jQEsL-xCSB6xcg3K9_aPO_8-7QojyfWbTx1ntYZJf9yw5i9XZ6e37M0Rgif2vxFGJLISkHcP8JDhxn4yGeIVCpMqyJO1mqb2l468VqS7EcLy3UmNbH949q1D-MmCD0UJ&amp;c=cpS_EyjBsxozsaHLS7AqeDeRHWHaxyRoiBJz7toylcuNfoIM3HEskg==&amp;ch=DFwW7YODvWuL847pSr-hDw-Ig8WMB6MULYLarKZl2x2ZjmGbID1Pxw==" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Day 3, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Friday, June 14th, the City of Manhattan Public Works crews will close South Manhattan Avenue between Fair Lane and Pottawatomie Avenue for street maintenance.

The South Manhattan bridge over Wildcat Creek will remain open during this time.

The detour around the work area includes taking 10th Street south to Pottawatomie Avenue to bypass the closure.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718316120530.jpeg" alt="map courtesy of City of Manhattan" />
 <figcaption>map courtesy of City of Manhattan</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Friday, June 14th, the City of Manhattan Public Works crews will close South Manhattan Avenue between Fair Lane and Pottawatomie Avenue for street maintenance.The South Manhattan bridge over Wildcat Creek will remain open during this time.The detour around the work area includes taking 10th Street south to Pottawatomie Avenue to bypass the closure.

South Manhattan Avenue temporarily closed Friday afternoon

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

CHRISTOPHER OBRIAN JAMES, 40, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $100

GARY MICHAEL DAVIS, 38, Manhattan,&nbsp;Computer unlawful acts; False representation with damage &lt; $100,000; Theft of property lost or mislaid; Value $1,000 to $25,000; All Other Larceny; Making false information; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000; Bond $14,000

JOSHUA DAVID DIAZ, 23, Fort Riley, Theft of property/services; $1500 or less from 3 businesses in 72 hrs; Shoplifting; Bond $4,000

RYAN ANTOINE QUAVE, 30, Herington, Failure to appear; Bond $2,500

JONATHAN LEWIS LEMUEL VALENTINE, 43, Attempted aggravated kidnapping; Bond $50,000

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;CHRISTOPHER OBRIAN JAMES, 40, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $100GARY MICHAEL DAVIS, 38, Manhattan,&nbsp;Computer unlawful acts; False representation with damage &lt; $100,000; Theft of property lost or mislaid; Value $1,000 to $25,000; All Other Larceny; Making false information; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000; Bond $14,000JOSHUA DAVID DIAZ, 23, Fort Riley, Theft of property/services; $1500 or less from 3 businesses in 72 hrs; Shoplifting; Bond $4,000RYAN ANTOINE QUAVE, 30, Herington, Failure to appear; Bond $2,500JONATHAN LEWIS LEMUEL VALENTINE, 43, Attempted aggravated kidnapping; Bond $50,000

Riley County Arrest Report June 13

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an attempted child abduction and have made an arrest.

Just after 1pm. Wednesday, police responded to a reported attempted child abduction outside of So Long Saloon in the 1100 block of Moro Street in Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

When officers arrived on the scene the manager identified the suspect as Jonathan Valentine, 43, of Manhattan. 

Witnesses reported the subject aggressively claimed a child did not belong to the child's guardian and attempted to forcibly take the 7-month-old, causing a minor injury to the child.

Officers quickly detained the Valentine and arrested him on a requested charge of attempted aggravated kidnapping. He is being held on a $50,000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an attempted child abduction and have made an arrest.Just after 1pm. Wednesday, police responded to a reported attempted child abduction outside of So Long Saloon in the 1100 block of Moro Street in Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.When officers arrived on the scene the manager identified the suspect as Jonathan Valentine, 43, of Manhattan. Witnesses reported the subject aggressively claimed a child did not belong to the child's guardian and attempted to forcibly take the 7-month-old, causing a minor injury to the child.Officers quickly detained the Valentine and arrested him on a requested charge of attempted aggravated kidnapping. He is being held on a $50,000 bond.

RCPD: Baby injured, man jailed after attempted child abduction

From nutritionists with Pizza Hut to the chefs at Yale University to influential personal trainers, Ron Suppes shared his western Kansas farmer savvy to conversations across the grain industry value chain during his time as chairman of the Wheat Foods Council (WFC). In early June, he passed off the leadership baton — just ahead of harvest — during the organization’s annual meeting, but not before he helped facilitate a bit more education on how wheat is developed and grown.

“I really enjoy the ability to talk to different industries connected with wheat,” he said. “It’s not just about wheat farmers, but millers and bakers. You get a really good perspective of what’s going on out there in the industry and I’m able to spread the word about what’s involved with wheat breeding and farming.”

About 30 WFC members attended the summer meeting in Manhattan, Kansas, where the group explored the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, the Hal Ross Flour Mill and the IGP Institute, along with learning from some of the brightest minds in the global wheat industry about the latest in wheat breeding technologies and genetic studies.

“The meeting was great and well planned out,” Suppes said. “We showcased what we have in Manhattan, and it was very worthwhile. Even for the people who have been there before, every time you go through the north campus complex, you pick up and learn something else. The WFC does try to do that wherever they go — visiting flour mills or seeing new scientific techniques. It’s not all feel good; it’s also education.”

A long-time industry leader, Suppes assumed his role as WFC chairman in June 2023. The organization was established by wheat producers in 1972 to promote the entire category of wheat-based foods, including baked goods, cereal, crackers, pasta, sweet goods and tortillas. Since then, the organization has established itself as a leading source of science-based information on wheat and grain foods nutrition.

Membership is made up of millers, bakers, ingredient suppliers, equipment companies, state wheat commissions and wheat farmers like Suppes. Suppes and his wife Shirley, along with son Shayne, farm roughly 12,000 acres in west central Kansas. Wheat and sorghum make up their primary crops. Suppes has served as a Kansas wheat commissioner since 2003, serving as chairman in 2013-2014, and serves as chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation.

He has also traveled extensively overseas with U.S. Wheat Associates as a member of the USW Board of Directors, having served as chairman of the wheat industry’s export market development arm from 2007-2008.

The culmination of these experiences combined with his producer frame of mind helped focus his chairman’s agenda of building connections across the entire wheat value chain. That work entails not only connecting with leaders at major restaurant chains or chefs responsible for university food systems, but also committing to a shared mission — providing information and education about the production and nutritional value of wheat.

“The thing I still stress to industry is that we’re all in this together,” Suppes said, reiterating the need to stay involved and for the wheat industry, as a whole, to work together.&nbsp;

At the end of the organization’s time in Manhattan, Suppes turned over the gavel to the next year’s chairman — Kent Juliot with Ardent Mills. While he looks forward to a bit more time in his rocking chair — well, maybe after wheat harvest ends — he said he still plans on staying involved with the WFC as past chairman and with other government and industry committees.

“They’re going to keep me busy,” he said. “And when I’m not doing that, in my spare time, I’m going to try and grow some wheat, too.”

Learn more about the Wheat Foods Council at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uWRq6AFAA_QpTKTPoZagpdGlNuI0jv3ynuQ_aSpKC2_B24GJTZy-I0QWdZfUFcTInxaoBefB9l7YiQNjq3s-Hj7HNUGMXt6HxUC5Vs_R2moCCLv4qBrNTuGvEC5R05Fp-9zgcMY8NG71Tkse0jbREUWQp4o0FfBB&amp;c=aUdikJV9LvfZmiIpNspWTk2CB3V0r_cYTIrG1GZfMXn1vOMJQUYqlg==&amp;ch=vHIJ6USHdqKDBT6c1r-fgcBzzsaz525Ns13gHsHEbY1NrFMRQPwXPQ==" target="_blank">wheatfoods.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655426692793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>​JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatFrom nutritionists with Pizza Hut to the chefs at Yale University to influential personal trainers, Ron Suppes shared his western Kansas farmer savvy to conversations across the grain industry value chain during his time as chairman of the Wheat Foods Council (WFC). In early June, he passed off the leadership baton — just ahead of harvest — during the organization’s annual meeting, but not before he helped facilitate a bit more education on how wheat is developed and grown.“I really enjoy the ability to talk to different industries connected with wheat,” he said. “It’s not just about wheat farmers, but millers and bakers. You get a really good perspective of what’s going on out there in the industry and I’m able to spread the word about what’s involved with wheat breeding and farming.”About 30 WFC members attended the summer meeting in Manhattan, Kansas, where the group explored the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, the Hal Ross Flour Mill and the IGP Institute, along with learning from some of the brightest minds in the global wheat industry about the latest in wheat breeding technologies and genetic studies.“The meeting was great and well planned out,” Suppes said. “We showcased what we have in Manhattan, and it was very worthwhile. Even for the people who have been there before, every time you go through the north campus complex, you pick up and learn something else. The WFC does try to do that wherever they go — visiting flour mills or seeing new scientific techniques. It’s not all feel good; it’s also education.”A long-time industry leader, Suppes assumed his role as WFC chairman in June 2023. The organization was established by wheat producers in 1972 to promote the entire category of wheat-based foods, including baked goods, cereal, crackers, pasta, sweet goods and tortillas. Since then, the organization has established itself as a leading source of science-based information on wheat and grain foods nutrition.Membership is made up of millers, bakers, ingredient suppliers, equipment companies, state wheat commissions and wheat farmers like Suppes. Suppes and his wife Shirley, along with son Shayne, farm roughly 12,000 acres in west central Kansas. Wheat and sorghum make up their primary crops. Suppes has served as a Kansas wheat commissioner since 2003, serving as chairman in 2013-2014, and serves as chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation.He has also traveled extensively overseas with U.S. Wheat Associates as a member of the USW Board of Directors, having served as chairman of the wheat industry’s export market development arm from 2007-2008.The culmination of these experiences combined with his producer frame of mind helped focus his chairman’s agenda of building connections across the entire wheat value chain. That work entails not only connecting with leaders at major restaurant chains or chefs responsible for university food systems, but also committing to a shared mission — providing information and education about the production and nutritional value of wheat.“The thing I still stress to industry is that we’re all in this together,” Suppes said, reiterating the need to stay involved and for the wheat industry, as a whole, to work together.&nbsp;At the end of the organization’s time in Manhattan, Suppes turned over the gavel to the next year’s chairman — Kent Juliot with Ardent Mills. While he looks forward to a bit more time in his rocking chair — well, maybe after wheat harvest ends — he said he still plans on staying involved with the WFC as past chairman and with other government and industry committees.“They’re going to keep me busy,” he said. “And when I’m not doing that, in my spare time, I’m going to try and grow some wheat, too.”Learn more about the Wheat Foods Council at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001uWRq6AFAA_QpTKTPoZagpdGlNuI0jv3ynuQ_aSpKC2_B24GJTZy-I0QWdZfUFcTInxaoBefB9l7YiQNjq3s-Hj7HNUGMXt6HxUC5Vs_R2moCCLv4qBrNTuGvEC5R05Fp-9zgcMY8NG71Tkse0jbREUWQp4o0FfBB&amp;c=aUdikJV9LvfZmiIpNspWTk2CB3V0r_cYTIrG1GZfMXn1vOMJQUYqlg==&amp;ch=vHIJ6USHdqKDBT6c1r-fgcBzzsaz525Ns13gHsHEbY1NrFMRQPwXPQ==" target="_blank">wheatfoods.org</a>.

Wheat Scoop: Kansas Farmer Ron Suppes passes leadership baton

SHAWN MICHAEL GELUSHIA, 37, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Criminal deprivation of property; Bond $4,000

JOSE AMILCAR DIAZ MALDONADO, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Reckless driving; Transporting an open container; Operate a MV w/o a valid license;&nbsp;

ROBERT TAYLOR JORDAN GIBBONS, 34, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $10,000

ISAIAH PATRIC CHRISTOPHER MYERS, 30, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Jackson County Sheriff's Office on 6/11/2024

BRANDON JAMES NORRIS, 26, Topeka, Probation Violation; Bond $50,000

MITCHELL ALAN JONES II, 28, Junction City, Failure to appear x3; Bond $2,000

ZACHARIAH JAMES WOOSLEY, 29, Manhattan, Violate protection order; Condition of pre-trial orders; Criminal trespass; Defiance of restraining order; Bond $4,000

REYNALDO SANCHEZ BERMUDEZ, 35, Kansas City, MO, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Johnson County Sheriff's Office on 6/10/2024

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;SHAWN MICHAEL GELUSHIA, 37, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Criminal deprivation of property; Bond $4,000JOSE AMILCAR DIAZ MALDONADO, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Reckless driving; Transporting an open container; Operate a MV w/o a valid license;&nbsp;ROBERT TAYLOR JORDAN GIBBONS, 34, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $10,000ISAIAH PATRIC CHRISTOPHER MYERS, 30, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Jackson County Sheriff's Office on 6/11/2024BRANDON JAMES NORRIS, 26, Topeka, Probation Violation; Bond $50,000MITCHELL ALAN JONES II, 28, Junction City, Failure to appear x3; Bond $2,000ZACHARIAH JAMES WOOSLEY, 29, Manhattan, Violate protection order; Condition of pre-trial orders; Criminal trespass; Defiance of restraining order; Bond $4,000REYNALDO SANCHEZ BERMUDEZ, 35, Kansas City, MO, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Johnson County Sheriff's Office on 6/10/2024

Riley County Arrest Report June 12

RILEY COUNTY—A Kansas felon is back in jail after an arrest in Manhattan.

Just after 1p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 26-year-old Brandon Norris of Topeka in the 1000 block of South Seth Child Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Norris was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation. The original charge in this matter is for criminal threat. He remains in custody on a bond of $50,000, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Norris has previous convictions for theft and for falsely reporting a crime, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613410475366.png" alt="Norris from an arrest in 2021" />
 <figcaption>Norris from an arrest in 2021</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—A Kansas felon is back in jail after an arrest in Manhattan.Just after 1p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 26-year-old Brandon Norris of Topeka in the 1000 block of South Seth Child Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Norris was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation. The original charge in this matter is for criminal threat. He remains in custody on a bond of $50,000, according to the RCPD.&nbsp; Norris has previous convictions for theft and for falsely reporting a crime, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon accused of criminal threat, probation violation

This is day 2 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Rain is an ironic concern for this year’s wheat crop, but producers are asking Mother Nature to hold off just a bit so they can get a quickly ripening crop out of the field and into the bin before weed pressure sets in.&nbsp;

Harvest is a family affair near Garden Plain in Sedgwick County, where Martin Kerschen is harvesting alongside his son Justin — the sixth generation on the farm. Since starting harvest on Wednesday, June 5, they are seeing yields from 50 to 70 bushels per acre on fields planted to SY Monument. Proteins range from 12 to 13 percent. Rains from the weekend took a slight toll on test weights, but Martin Kerschen is extremely pleased with how this year’s crop is turning out — especially compared to last year.&nbsp;

“I enjoy years like this,” he said. “You try the best you can, and we’re happy with yields and how our wheat looks this year. There’s a big smile on my face.”

While still variable across some fields, the wheat crop is also looking much better in Dickinson County, where fourth-generation producer Bryant Olson farms near Gypsum with his father Gary, brother Trenton and uncle David. The family started cutting on Friday, June 7, in hopes of getting as much cut as possible ahead of last weekend’s storms.

While still good quality, test weights did fall after the rain — from 62 pounds per bushel to 60 pounds per bushel. Protein is ranging from 12 percent to above 13 percent. High quality is essential as 10 percent of the Olsons' wheat acres are grown for their certified seed operation.&nbsp;

The operation planted several varieties, including LCS Atomic AX, LSC Helix AX, KS Mako, KS Providence, KS Larry and Bob Dole. Two more weeks and harvest should be wrapped up for this family.&nbsp;

“Wheat harvest will be early enough that we won’t have to worry about weed pressure,” Olson said. “Hopefully it doesn’t rain too much before we get it all up, and we will be sitting a lot better than last year.”

Sumner County missed the recent rains and Tim Turek, who farms near South Haven, is praying rain stays out of the forecast so farmers do not have to worry dealing with pigweeds or crabgrass until harvest is over. Then, he welcomes the moisture to benefit his cattle and fall crops.&nbsp;

Turek started cutting at least a week earlier compared to a normal year and avoiding the rain delays meant he kept cutting over the weekend. He’s seeing field yields anywhere from 40 bushels per acre to above 70 bushels per acre. Test weights are hitting 62 pounds per bushel thus far, with proteins averaging between 10 and 12 percent. He has been especially pleased with the varieties AP Prolific, AP18 AX, AP24 AX and Bob Dole.&nbsp;

“There is no comparison to last year,” Turek said, “Honestly, I can’t believe the recovery we’ve had with the whirlwind weather this year. You have to attribute it to the progress of the genetics over the past several years because when I was a kid, wheat wouldn’t have survived what this wheat has been through.”

Turek hauls quite a bit of his wheat to the Scoular Grain elevator in Wellington, where grain merchandiser Doug Zeller is seeing both excellent yield and proteins across the board.&nbsp;

Zeller reported they started taking in wheat about two weeks ago and plans on receiving grain for at least 10 more days. Test weights are averaging 62 to 63 pounds per bushel and proteins are staying steady at 11 to 12.5 percent.&nbsp;

“This year is much better than expected on both spectrums,” he said. “With higher yields, we typically see lower protein and test weights. This year that isn’t the case.”&nbsp;

With heat indices estimated to reach 100 degrees by Thursday, harvest is likely to continue progressing quickly across the lower two-thirds of the state.

The 2024 Harvest Reports are brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates, use&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23wheatharvest24&amp;src=typed_query&amp;f=live" target="_blank">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansaswheat" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kswheat" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/KansasWheat" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718190536045.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatThis is day 2 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Rain is an ironic concern for this year’s wheat crop, but producers are asking Mother Nature to hold off just a bit so they can get a quickly ripening crop out of the field and into the bin before weed pressure sets in.&nbsp;Harvest is a family affair near Garden Plain in Sedgwick County, where Martin Kerschen is harvesting alongside his son Justin — the sixth generation on the farm. Since starting harvest on Wednesday, June 5, they are seeing yields from 50 to 70 bushels per acre on fields planted to SY Monument. Proteins range from 12 to 13 percent. Rains from the weekend took a slight toll on test weights, but Martin Kerschen is extremely pleased with how this year’s crop is turning out — especially compared to last year.&nbsp;“I enjoy years like this,” he said. “You try the best you can, and we’re happy with yields and how our wheat looks this year. There’s a big smile on my face.”While still variable across some fields, the wheat crop is also looking much better in Dickinson County, where fourth-generation producer Bryant Olson farms near Gypsum with his father Gary, brother Trenton and uncle David. The family started cutting on Friday, June 7, in hopes of getting as much cut as possible ahead of last weekend’s storms.While still good quality, test weights did fall after the rain — from 62 pounds per bushel to 60 pounds per bushel. Protein is ranging from 12 percent to above 13 percent. High quality is essential as 10 percent of the Olsons' wheat acres are grown for their certified seed operation.&nbsp;The operation planted several varieties, including LCS Atomic AX, LSC Helix AX, KS Mako, KS Providence, KS Larry and Bob Dole. Two more weeks and harvest should be wrapped up for this family.&nbsp;“Wheat harvest will be early enough that we won’t have to worry about weed pressure,” Olson said. “Hopefully it doesn’t rain too much before we get it all up, and we will be sitting a lot better than last year.”Sumner County missed the recent rains and Tim Turek, who farms near South Haven, is praying rain stays out of the forecast so farmers do not have to worry dealing with pigweeds or crabgrass until harvest is over. Then, he welcomes the moisture to benefit his cattle and fall crops.&nbsp;Turek started cutting at least a week earlier compared to a normal year and avoiding the rain delays meant he kept cutting over the weekend. He’s seeing field yields anywhere from 40 bushels per acre to above 70 bushels per acre. Test weights are hitting 62 pounds per bushel thus far, with proteins averaging between 10 and 12 percent. He has been especially pleased with the varieties AP Prolific, AP18 AX, AP24 AX and Bob Dole.&nbsp;“There is no comparison to last year,” Turek said, “Honestly, I can’t believe the recovery we’ve had with the whirlwind weather this year. You have to attribute it to the progress of the genetics over the past several years because when I was a kid, wheat wouldn’t have survived what this wheat has been through.”Turek hauls quite a bit of his wheat to the Scoular Grain elevator in Wellington, where grain merchandiser Doug Zeller is seeing both excellent yield and proteins across the board.&nbsp;Zeller reported they started taking in wheat about two weeks ago and plans on receiving grain for at least 10 more days. Test weights are averaging 62 to 63 pounds per bushel and proteins are staying steady at 11 to 12.5 percent.&nbsp;“This year is much better than expected on both spectrums,” he said. “With higher yields, we typically see lower protein and test weights. This year that isn’t the case.”&nbsp;With heat indices estimated to reach 100 degrees by Thursday, harvest is likely to continue progressing quickly across the lower two-thirds of the state.The 2024 Harvest Reports are brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates, use&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23wheatharvest24&amp;src=typed_query&amp;f=live" target="_blank">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansaswheat" target="_blank">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kswheat" target="_blank">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/KansasWheat" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.<a href="https://hutchpost.com/download" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to download the Hutch Post mobile app. <a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/5e73b532afae0f4d5f5d90ea" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Day 2, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

MANHATTAN - Flint Hills Breadbasket, executive director, Karla Hagemeister, spoke with Becky Goff about the newly announced new location for the Flint Hills Breadbasket, including all the considerations taken before making this monumental decision.

<div><iframe title="Flint Hills Breadbasket announces new location" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=8t49y-163b7a3-pb&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=150" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - Flint Hills Breadbasket, executive director, Karla Hagemeister, spoke with Becky Goff about the newly announced new location for the Flint Hills Breadbasket, including all the considerations taken before making this monumental decision.

🎙: Flint Hills Breadbasket Executive Director discusses new location

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary.

Just after 8a.m. Monday, officers filed a report of vehicle burglary in the 4100 block of Spook Rock Way, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 24-year-old man reported his wallet, a government Dell laptop and a trail camera were taken from his vehicle overnight.&nbsp;

Total estimated loss associated with this report is $2,500. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary.Just after 8a.m. Monday, officers filed a report of vehicle burglary in the 4100 block of Spook Rock Way, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 24-year-old man reported his wallet, a government Dell laptop and a trail camera were taken from his vehicle overnight.&nbsp;Total estimated loss associated with this report is $2,500. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Government computer taken in burglary

GEARY COUNTY —A load of french fries went up in flames Tuesday in Geary County.

Just after 1:30a.m. Geary County Fire responded to a semi trailer fully engulfed in flames on Interstate 70 just east of Milford Lake Road, according to Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges.

The truck was a refrigerated unit carrying approximately 30,000 pounds of french fries. There were no injuries reported.

The eastbound I-70 off ramp will be closed until about noon while cleanup continues. Berges estimates the total loss at $80,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718117052290.jpeg" alt="Photo&nbsp; by Garry Berges" />
 <figcaption>Photo&nbsp; by Garry Berges</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —A load of french fries went up in flames Tuesday in Geary County.Just after 1:30a.m. Geary County Fire responded to a semi trailer fully engulfed in flames on Interstate 70 just east of Milford Lake Road, according to Geary County Rural Fire Chief Garry Berges.The truck was a refrigerated unit carrying approximately 30,000 pounds of french fries. There were no injuries reported.The eastbound I-70 off ramp will be closed until about noon while cleanup continues. Berges estimates the total loss at $80,000.

30,000 pounds of french fries burn on Interstate 70

ZACHARIAH JAMES WOOLSEY, 29, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $4,000

RYAN ANTOINE QUAVE, 30, Herington, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 2nd conv; competent evidence of blood/breath .08 +; Maximum speed limits; Operate a MV w/o a valid license; Bond $2,000

SARAH ANN GUTIERREZ, 40, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Remains confined to the Riley County Jail

REBECA BARRIENTOS RUEDA, 39, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $5,000

MICHAELA TESS DENLINGER, 28, Junction City, Failure to appear; Bond $200

KAMYRA FAUST, 15, Junction City, Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; Shoplifting; Processed through North Central Kansas Juvenile Intake

JOSE GABRIEL HOLGUIN RUIZ, 26, Abilene, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Wyandotte County Sheriff on 6/1/2024

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;ZACHARIAH JAMES WOOLSEY, 29, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $4,000RYAN ANTOINE QUAVE, 30, Herington, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 2nd conv; competent evidence of blood/breath .08 +; Maximum speed limits; Operate a MV w/o a valid license; Bond $2,000SARAH ANN GUTIERREZ, 40, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Remains confined to the Riley County JailREBECA BARRIENTOS RUEDA, 39, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $5,000MICHAELA TESS DENLINGER, 28, Junction City, Failure to appear; Bond $200KAMYRA FAUST, 15, Junction City, Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; Shoplifting; Processed through North Central Kansas Juvenile IntakeJOSE GABRIEL HOLGUIN RUIZ, 26, Abilene, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Wyandotte County Sheriff on 6/1/2024

Riley County Arrest Report June 11

MACON COUNTY, Mo. —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Tuesday in Macon County Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford Focus driven by&nbsp; Geneva L. Perez-Nuez, 44, Fort Riley, was westbound on Highway 36 five miles east of Maconm.

The car struck a deer in the road. Macon County ambulance transported Perez-Nuez to Samaritan Hospital in Macon. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

MACON COUNTY, Mo. —One person was injured in an accident just after 1a.m. Tuesday in Macon County Missouri.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford Focus driven by&nbsp; Geneva L. Perez-Nuez, 44, Fort Riley, was westbound on Highway 36 five miles east of Maconm.The car struck a deer in the road. Macon County ambulance transported Perez-Nuez to Samaritan Hospital in Macon. She was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Fort Riley woman hospitalized after car struck a deer 

submitted by Flint Hills Discovery Center, written by Deanna Likes

MANHATTAN -&nbsp;The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) has hired Kristen Hoffman as the Volunteer Coordinator. In this position, Hoffman is responsible for the ongoing recruitment, training, and management of FHDC volunteers and the&nbsp;volunteer program.

"I am thrilled to welcome Kristen Hoffman to our team as our new Volunteer Coordinator", says Sally Dreher, Curator of Education. "Her passion for community engagement, volunteer experience, and vast knowledge of the Flint Hills will undoubtedly enhance our volunteer program’s impact, enabling us to better serve our community even more effectively."

Volunteer training incorporates information about&nbsp;the Discovery Center, including permanent and temporary exhibits, educational programs, and events;&nbsp;the Flint Hills ecological region; and local sites of interest like the Konza&nbsp;Prairie.&nbsp;Volunteers also have the benefit of meeting guests from the area and around the world.Volunteers assist in all aspects of the FHDC including&nbsp;serving as greeters, interpreters, tour guides, exhibit installers, animal care specialists, and gift shop assistants.&nbsp;Volunteers work during normal open hours as well as for special events and education programs throughout the year.

"I'm excited to step into this role with the Flint Hills Discovery Center as the Volunteer Coordinator," says Hoffman, "as it merges two passions of mine together - the love of the Flint Hills eco-region, and the ability to work with like-minded individuals who also share a passion for the education and preservation of our unique area."

Having grown up on the edge of the Flint Hills in Marion County, KS, and then moving around the country, Hoffman finds herself back home landing in Manhattan with her partner, their two cats, and dog. Previously, she has coordinated volunteers for childcare in disaster relief, supervised donations for refugees and asylees, and has also worked in a nursery with plants. Hoffman&nbsp;graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a minor in Peace Studies from Manchester University in Indiana.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717793085675.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>submitted by Flint Hills Discovery Center, written by Deanna LikesMANHATTAN -&nbsp;The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) has hired Kristen Hoffman as the Volunteer Coordinator. In this position, Hoffman is responsible for the ongoing recruitment, training, and management of FHDC volunteers and the&nbsp;volunteer program."I am thrilled to welcome Kristen Hoffman to our team as our new Volunteer Coordinator", says Sally Dreher, Curator of Education. "Her passion for community engagement, volunteer experience, and vast knowledge of the Flint Hills will undoubtedly enhance our volunteer program’s impact, enabling us to better serve our community even more effectively."Volunteer training incorporates information about&nbsp;the Discovery Center, including permanent and temporary exhibits, educational programs, and events;&nbsp;the Flint Hills ecological region; and local sites of interest like the Konza&nbsp;Prairie.&nbsp;Volunteers also have the benefit of meeting guests from the area and around the world.Volunteers assist in all aspects of the FHDC including&nbsp;serving as greeters, interpreters, tour guides, exhibit installers, animal care specialists, and gift shop assistants.&nbsp;Volunteers work during normal open hours as well as for special events and education programs throughout the year."I'm excited to step into this role with the Flint Hills Discovery Center as the Volunteer Coordinator," says Hoffman, "as it merges two passions of mine together - the love of the Flint Hills eco-region, and the ability to work with like-minded individuals who also share a passion for the education and preservation of our unique area."Having grown up on the edge of the Flint Hills in Marion County, KS, and then moving around the country, Hoffman finds herself back home landing in Manhattan with her partner, their two cats, and dog. Previously, she has coordinated volunteers for childcare in disaster relief, supervised donations for refugees and asylees, and has also worked in a nursery with plants. Hoffman&nbsp;graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a minor in Peace Studies from Manchester University in Indiana.

Volunteer Coordinator announced by Flint Hills Discovery Center

MANHATTAN - On Friday, June 28th, the southern section of <a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=bef918657c&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e">Linear Trail</a> will reopen to the public from the South Manhattan Avenue access point to the boat ramp at U.S. Highway 24.

After nearly two and a half years of reconstruction, the popular <a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=0f7c8110ae&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e">River Trails</a>, will also reopen along the west bank of the Kansas River.

Regular trail maintenance will continue throughout the trails by the City of Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department.

Work is still ongoing for the section north of U.S. 24 to Casement Road. The remainder of Linear Trail will reopen later in 2024.

“June is when we celebrate National Trails Day and this is a perfect time to reopen these popular trails to public use,” said Director of Parks and Recreation Aaron Stewart. “We would like to thank our terrific partners in the&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=ca2b38f578&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">Public Works Department</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=7569743078&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">Stormwater Division</a>, as well&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=ea22047c1e&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">ESI</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=41f32af8bc&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">U.S. Army Corps of Engineers</a>, for their tireless efforts to restore these trails to a new condition.”

City officials ask the public to be observant of updated rules and hours posted at the trailheads and online.

Trail users should be aware ESI, the contractor reconstructing the trails, will continue finishing off-trail work on the bank slopes of the levee.

“We commend ESI for their quality work on this important project to raise the levee and refurbish it for the next generation,” said Stormwater Compliance Engineer Bill Heatherman. “We know this project has been a burden on our citizens, and we are glad to near&nbsp;the end of this complex and essential project.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718044949225.jpeg" alt="photo courtesy ESI - Workers lay aggregate with machinery" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy ESI - Workers lay aggregate with machinery</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Friday, June 28th, the southern section of <a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=bef918657c&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e">Linear Trail</a> will reopen to the public from the South Manhattan Avenue access point to the boat ramp at U.S. Highway 24.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718045168969.jpeg" alt="photo courtesy ESI - Workers lay aggregate with machinery" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy ESI - Workers lay aggregate with machinery</figcaption>
 </figure>After nearly two and a half years of reconstruction, the popular <a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=0f7c8110ae&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e">River Trails</a>, will also reopen along the west bank of the Kansas River.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718045211240.jpeg" alt="photo courtesy ESI - Workers lay aggregate with machinery" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy ESI - Workers lay aggregate with machinery</figcaption>
 </figure>Regular trail maintenance will continue throughout the trails by the City of Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department.Work is still ongoing for the section north of U.S. 24 to Casement Road. The remainder of Linear Trail will reopen later in 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718045281064.jpeg" alt="photos courtesy City of Manhattan- Current views of Linear Trail" />
 <figcaption>photos courtesy City of Manhattan- Current views of Linear Trail</figcaption>
 </figure>“June is when we celebrate National Trails Day and this is a perfect time to reopen these popular trails to public use,” said Director of Parks and Recreation Aaron Stewart. “We would like to thank our terrific partners in the&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=ca2b38f578&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">Public Works Department</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=7569743078&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">Stormwater Division</a>, as well&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=ea22047c1e&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">ESI</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=41f32af8bc&amp;e=3f6ba80c0e" target="_blank">U.S. Army Corps of Engineers</a>, for their tireless efforts to restore these trails to a new condition.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718045300565.jpeg" alt="photos courtesy City of Manhattan- Current views of Linear Trail" />
 <figcaption>photos courtesy City of Manhattan- Current views of Linear Trail</figcaption>
 </figure>City officials ask the public to be observant of updated rules and hours posted at the trailheads and online.Trail users should be aware ESI, the contractor reconstructing the trails, will continue finishing off-trail work on the bank slopes of the levee.“We commend ESI for their quality work on this important project to raise the levee and refurbish it for the next generation,” said Stormwater Compliance Engineer Bill Heatherman. “We know this project has been a burden on our citizens, and we are glad to near&nbsp;the end of this complex and essential project.”

Manhattan River Trails to reopen June 28th as majority of levee work wraps up

Retired USD 475 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Corbin Witt, St. George,&nbsp; has become a member of the K-State Alumni Association Board of Directors. He will serve a four-year term running until June of 2028.

In a general election this spring, members of the Alumni Association approved a slate of five new members for the board of directors. These alumni also began their four-year terms at the board’s annual meeting and will continue to June 2028.

They are Rolando Blackman ’81,&nbsp;Dallas, Texas,&nbsp;vice president of corporate relations for the Dallas Mavericks; Meredith Reilly Sleichter ’95,&nbsp;Abilene, Kansas,&nbsp;executive director of the Eisenhower Foundation; Nicole Young Alexander ’05,&nbsp;Goddard, Kansas,&nbsp;founder and owner of Nicole Alexander Co.; Amber Weaver ’05,&nbsp;Dallas,&nbsp;vice president of talent acquisition for ADT; and Corbin Witt ’88, ’93, ’95,&nbsp;St. George, Kansas,&nbsp;retired superintendent of Geary County Public Schools.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostRetired USD 475 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Corbin Witt, St. George,&nbsp; has become a member of the K-State Alumni Association Board of Directors. He will serve a four-year term running until June of 2028.In a general election this spring, members of the Alumni Association approved a slate of five new members for the board of directors. These alumni also began their four-year terms at the board’s annual meeting and will continue to June 2028.They are Rolando Blackman ’81,&nbsp;Dallas, Texas,&nbsp;vice president of corporate relations for the Dallas Mavericks; Meredith Reilly Sleichter ’95,&nbsp;Abilene, Kansas,&nbsp;executive director of the Eisenhower Foundation; Nicole Young Alexander ’05,&nbsp;Goddard, Kansas,&nbsp;founder and owner of Nicole Alexander Co.; Amber Weaver ’05,&nbsp;Dallas,&nbsp;vice president of talent acquisition for ADT; and Corbin Witt ’88, ’93, ’95,&nbsp;St. George, Kansas,&nbsp;retired superintendent of Geary County Public Schools.

Former superintendent joins the K-State Alumni Association Board

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft from a retailer in Manhattan.

Just after noon Friday, officers filed a report of felony theft in the 100 block of South 5th Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Dillons&nbsp; reported approximately $3,000 has been taken from the registers over three month's time.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft from a retailer in Manhattan.Just after noon Friday, officers filed a report of felony theft in the 100 block of South 5th Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Dillons&nbsp; reported approximately $3,000 has been taken from the registers over three month's time.

RCPD investigating $3,000 theft from store cash registers

WILLIAM ALEXANDER WEBSTER, 42, Manhattan, Aggravated battery; Knowingly use physcial contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon; Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment; Assault; Bond $20,000

HARLEY LYNN ANN BEST, 23, Ogden, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $2,000

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;WILLIAM ALEXANDER WEBSTER, 42, Manhattan, Aggravated battery; Knowingly use physcial contact in angry/rude manner w/weapon; Disorderly conduct; Fighting words or noisy conduct to cause resentment; Assault; Bond $20,000HARLEY LYNN ANN BEST, 23, Ogden, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $2,000

Riley County Arrest Report June 10

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged financial crime.

Just after 9:30a.m. Friday, officers filed a report of forgery in the 700 block of Pecan Circle in Manhattan.

Thermal Comfort Air reported a known subject cashed a check written to a vendor. Total loss associated with this report is $15,247.90.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged financial crime.Just after 9:30a.m. Friday, officers filed a report of forgery in the 700 block of Pecan Circle in Manhattan.Thermal Comfort Air reported a known subject cashed a check written to a vendor. Total loss associated with this report is $15,247.90.&nbsp;

RCPD investigating alleged $15,000 forgery

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an alleged violent assault on Sunday in Manhattan.&nbsp;

Just after. 8p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of aggravated assault and aggravated battery in the 800 block of Dondee Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 61-year-old woman reported a man struck her with a metal patio chair. EMS transported her to Via Christi for treatment of&nbsp; non life-threatening injuries. 

Police arrested 42-year-old&nbsp; William Webster of Manhattan on requested charges of&nbsp;for aggravated battery. He was jailed on a $20,000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an alleged violent assault on Sunday in Manhattan.&nbsp;Just after. 8p.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of aggravated assault and aggravated battery in the 800 block of Dondee Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 61-year-old woman reported a man struck her with a metal patio chair. EMS transported her to Via Christi for treatment of&nbsp; non life-threatening injuries. Police arrested 42-year-old&nbsp; William Webster of Manhattan on requested charges of&nbsp;for aggravated battery. He was jailed on a $20,000 bond.

Woman hospitalized after man struck her with metal chair

submitted by Riley County, written by Vivienne Leyva

RILEY COUNTY -&nbsp;Riley County is pleased to announce the appointment of Bryant Parker as the new Deputy&nbsp;Counselor. With an extensive background in law, public service, and education, Parker is well-equipped to provide exceptional legal counsel to the Board of County Commissioners and County Department Heads.

Parker’s distinguished career includes serving in the United States Army Reserves from August 2003 to August 2009 and working in private practice with his twin brother from 2008 to 2024. Additionally, he has shared his expertise by teaching courses in State and Local Government Law and State and Local Economic Development at Wichita State University, and worked at several law firms throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area where he focused on real estate transactions, finance law, government law, and contract law practice.

His educational achievements are notable. Parker holds a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) with Dean’s Honors from Washburn University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Wichita State University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He has also earned multiple advanced degrees: a Master of Law (LL.M.) in Urban Affairs and a Master of Law (LL.M.) in Taxation from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, and a Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) in Land Use Regulation from the University of Kansas School of Law. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Finance (M.S.F.) at the Bloch School of Business, University of Missouri-Kansas City, with an anticipated completion date of May 2025.

“Residents and businesses want a local government that works with them to help them accomplish their goals in the right way. I think my experience in private practice and government law gives me an important and useful perspective that will benefit the people of Riley County,” said Parker.

In his new role, Parker will assist the Riley County Counselor, Clancy Holeman,&nbsp;in providing legal counsel, handling contractual agreements, benefit districts, human resource matters, and the annual filing of tax foreclosure cases. He will also represent Riley County in civil suits and actions, draw up contracts, and furnish written opinions on legal matters.

“I am honored to join Riley County and look forward to contributing to the positive environment in the Counselor’s Office,” Bryant said. “My goal is to empower our Department Heads and continue the legacy of excellence established by my predecessors, Clancy Holeman and Craig Cox.”

Parker’s dedication to public service is deeply rooted in his family heritage. His parents practiced local government law for 40 years, his twin brother works in the same field, and he is a fourth-generation public servant. His great-grandfather served on a local township board, and his grandfather on a school board.&nbsp;

Parker’s commitment to public service is more than a profession; it is a calling. “Being in service is not just a job; it is a noble mission,” he said.

Clancy Holeman, County Counselor and Bryant’s new supervisor expressed his enthusiasm for Bryant’s appointment. “We are excited to welcome Bryant to the Riley County team. His impressive resume and extensive relevant experience make him an excellent fit for the Deputy County Counselor position. Bryant's background in law, combined with his dedication to public service, will greatly benefit our organization and the community we serve,” Holeman said.

Riley County is known for its efficiently run government, where every member plays a crucial role in its success. Parker’s appointment underscores the County’s commitment to maintaining high standards of legal counsel and public service.For more information, please contact the Riley County Counselor’s Office at (785) 565-6844 or visit <a href="https://www.rileycountyks.gov/">www.rileycountyks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718028079557.jpeg" alt="Bryant Parker named Riley County Deputy County Counselor, photo courtesy of Riley County" />
 <figcaption>Bryant Parker named Riley County Deputy County Counselor, photo courtesy of Riley County</figcaption>
 </figure>submitted by Riley County, written by Vivienne LeyvaRILEY COUNTY -&nbsp;Riley County is pleased to announce the appointment of Bryant Parker as the new Deputy&nbsp;Counselor. With an extensive background in law, public service, and education, Parker is well-equipped to provide exceptional legal counsel to the Board of County Commissioners and County Department Heads.Parker’s distinguished career includes serving in the United States Army Reserves from August 2003 to August 2009 and working in private practice with his twin brother from 2008 to 2024. Additionally, he has shared his expertise by teaching courses in State and Local Government Law and State and Local Economic Development at Wichita State University, and worked at several law firms throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area where he focused on real estate transactions, finance law, government law, and contract law practice.His educational achievements are notable. Parker holds a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) with Dean’s Honors from Washburn University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Wichita State University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He has also earned multiple advanced degrees: a Master of Law (LL.M.) in Urban Affairs and a Master of Law (LL.M.) in Taxation from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law, and a Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) in Land Use Regulation from the University of Kansas School of Law. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Finance (M.S.F.) at the Bloch School of Business, University of Missouri-Kansas City, with an anticipated completion date of May 2025.“Residents and businesses want a local government that works with them to help them accomplish their goals in the right way. I think my experience in private practice and government law gives me an important and useful perspective that will benefit the people of Riley County,” said Parker.In his new role, Parker will assist the Riley County Counselor, Clancy Holeman,&nbsp;in providing legal counsel, handling contractual agreements, benefit districts, human resource matters, and the annual filing of tax foreclosure cases. He will also represent Riley County in civil suits and actions, draw up contracts, and furnish written opinions on legal matters.“I am honored to join Riley County and look forward to contributing to the positive environment in the Counselor’s Office,” Bryant said. “My goal is to empower our Department Heads and continue the legacy of excellence established by my predecessors, Clancy Holeman and Craig Cox.”Parker’s dedication to public service is deeply rooted in his family heritage. His parents practiced local government law for 40 years, his twin brother works in the same field, and he is a fourth-generation public servant. His great-grandfather served on a local township board, and his grandfather on a school board.&nbsp;Parker’s commitment to public service is more than a profession; it is a calling. “Being in service is not just a job; it is a noble mission,” he said.Clancy Holeman, County Counselor and Bryant’s new supervisor expressed his enthusiasm for Bryant’s appointment. “We are excited to welcome Bryant to the Riley County team. His impressive resume and extensive relevant experience make him an excellent fit for the Deputy County Counselor position. Bryant's background in law, combined with his dedication to public service, will greatly benefit our organization and the community we serve,” Holeman said.Riley County is known for its efficiently run government, where every member plays a crucial role in its success. Parker’s appointment underscores the County’s commitment to maintaining high standards of legal counsel and public service.For more information, please contact the Riley County Counselor’s Office at (785) 565-6844 or visit <a href="https://www.rileycountyks.gov/">www.rileycountyks.gov</a>.

New Deputy County Couselor appointed in Riley County

The overdue farm bill is finally making its way through Congress, after the House agriculture committee recently advanced a proposal. Food assistance is likely to be one of the biggest sticking points as the draft moves forward.

By ELIZABETH REMBERT <a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2024-06-07/snap-benefits-are-a-huge-part-of-the-farm-bill-and-a-big-point-of-contention-for-lawmakers?mc_cid=a5f0d9d772&amp;mc_eid=4e2c084f1d">KCUR</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717798696726.png" alt="This story is part of Harvest Public Media's ongoing coverage of the 2023 Farm Bill." />
 <figcaption>This story is part of Harvest Public Media's ongoing coverage of the 2023 Farm Bill.</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The overdue farm bill is finally making its way through Congress, after the House agriculture committee recently advanced a proposal. Food assistance is likely to be one of the biggest sticking points as the draft moves forward.</h2>By ELIZABETH REMBERT <a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2024-06-07/snap-benefits-are-a-huge-part-of-the-farm-bill-and-a-big-point-of-contention-for-lawmakers?mc_cid=a5f0d9d772&amp;mc_eid=4e2c084f1d">KCUR</a>The long-stalled farm bill took a step forward in the House of Representatives last month as a Republican-led proposal made it out of the agriculture committee.The clock is ticking as the extension of the 2018 Farm Bill, which expired eight months ago, ends in September.Yet food assistance will likely be a flashpoint in the discussions ahead.<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/food-nutrition-assistance/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/key-statistics-and-research/#:~:text=In%20FY%202022%2C%20SNAP%20served,%24230.88%20per%20participant%20per%20month." target="_blank">More than 41 million Americans</a>&nbsp;rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program monthly to put food on the table. The program takes a lot of funding –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/newsroom/minority-blog/reviewing-the-february-2024-baseline-for-usda-farm-and-nutrition-programs" target="_blank">about 80% of the farm bill’s massive budget goes to SNAP.</a><h2>House farm bill proposal</h2>The House draft suggests placing limits on how the Thrifty Food Plan is updated in the future. The Thrifty Food Plan is a basket of foods that represents a “nutritious, practical, cost-effective diet prepared at home” for a family of four,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/thriftyfoodplan" target="_blank">according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.</a>The money people receive through SNAP is calculated by how much that basket of food costs.Right now, the plan is updated&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/cnpp/usda-food-plans#:~:text=As%20stipulated%20in%20the%20Agriculture,reevaluation%20is%20anticipated%20in%202026." target="_blank">every five years</a>&nbsp;based on food prices, food composition data, consumer data and dietary standards. The new proposal suggests updating the cost of the plan only for inflation.According to&nbsp;<a href="https://thompson.house.gov/" target="_blank">House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson</a>&nbsp;– a Republican from Pennsylvania – the nonpartisan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbo.gov/" target="_blank">Congressional Budget Office</a>&nbsp;estimates the limit would cut SNAP by $30 billion over the next 10 years.“The cut would take away a day’s worth of benefits from the participants each month, then it would rise to two days of benefits each day,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://hayes.house.gov/" target="_blank">Democratic Rep. Jahana Hayes</a>&nbsp;from Connecticut during discussions. “You may think losing one or two days of food is not significant. But I do think it’s quite significant for a low-income family trying to make ends meet.”But&nbsp;<a href="https://alford.house.gov/" target="_blank">Republican Rep. Mark Alford</a>&nbsp;from Missouri said he’s focused on making the program more efficient, not slashing benefits.“Democrats feel like we’re trying to cut the program. And that’s not the case,” he said. “If we can move to a program that has more integrity, more health benefits, it is going to be greater for our nation and greater for our taxpayers.”Alford points to&nbsp;<a href="https://agriculture.house.gov/uploadedfiles/detailed_summary_final.pdf" target="_blank">parts of the bill</a>&nbsp;that would allow frozen and canned produce to be covered, create an accountability office and expand eligibility for the program.Other SNAP proposals in the House’s farm bill draft would:<ul>
 <li>Add frozen, fresh, canned and dried fruits and vegetables as SNAP-eligible products&nbsp;</li><li>Create an office of program integrity to focus on SNAP and address erroneous payments and other inefficiencies&nbsp;</li><li>Allow individuals with past drug offenses to receive SNAP</li><li>Direct the USDA to issue formal guidance on notifying eligible college students that they qualify for SNAP</li>
 </ul>“We don’t feel there are cuts to SNAP – we’re just tightening up some of the issues,” Alford said. “I don’t want anyone who is truly hungry, truly needy and can’t work to go to bed hungry at night.”Megan Hamann, a community organizer focused on food and nutrition access with&nbsp;<a href="https://neappleseed.org/who-we-are" target="_blank">Nebraska Appleseed</a>, said framing limits to the Thrifty Food Plan as anything but cuts to SNAP is a “pretty problematic characterization, because it would erode SNAP’s buying power over time.”“So while families wouldn’t see their benefits go down in an immediate sense, SNAP would be increasingly less efficient as time goes on,” she said. “What we would see is a decline in how well the program actually works in people’s lives.”Hamann said she hopes the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/rural_prosperity_and_food_security_section-by-section.pdf" target="_blank">Senate’s farm bill proposal</a>&nbsp;can find support, which would maintain the regular re-evaluation of SNAP benefits.The House’s draft has a long way to go before it makes it into law as the new farm bill; it will need final passage in the House and endorsement from the Senate.“Everyone knows that this bill would never become law. The Senate won’t accept it and the administration won’t accept it,” Rep. David Scott of Georgia, the ranking Democrat on the House’s Agriculture committee, said during discussions. “And while this bill is a giant misstep, it nevertheless begins our journey toward passing a farm bill.”This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media,</a>&nbsp;a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.&nbsp;