TOPEKA–Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt announced the Kansas Insurance Department recovered more than $16 million for
Kansans in 2023, the largest single-year recovery in Department history. This
new record goes beyond the previous
year’s recovery total of $7.6 million. The Department’s Consumer Assistance
Division has recovered over $35 million for Kansans since Commissioner Schmidt
first took office in 2019.

“The insurance claims
process can be complicated for many – if you are having
an issue, I want to hear from you,” said Schmidt.
“I am proud of the work the Consumer Assistance Division has done to ensure that Kansans are getting the full benefits
from their policies.”

Funds considered “recovered” are calculated when Department staff assists
individuals in need of support
during their insurance
claims process. If a dispute
arises between a policyholder and an insurance company, regardless of the type of insurance, the Kansas Insurance Department investigates the complaint.
Department staff work with the consumer and the company to ensure the
insurance policy is followed and benefits are paid
accordingly.

A county-by-county breakdown of the
recoveries can be found here: <a href="https://bit.ly/3SlWCB9">https://bit.ly/3SlWCB9.</a>

If you or someone you know is having trouble
with an insurance
claim, please contact the Kansas Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division
toll-free at 1-800- 432-2484, email <a href="mailto:KID.webcomplaints@ks.gov">KID.webcomplaints@ks.gov</a> or visit the Department online
at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/">insurance.kansas.gov</a> for any claims-related questions or concerns.

TOPEKA–Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt announced the Kansas Insurance Department recovered more than $16 million for
Kansans in 2023, the largest single-year recovery in Department history. This
new record goes beyond the previous
year’s recovery total of $7.6 million. The Department’s Consumer Assistance
Division has recovered over $35 million for Kansans since Commissioner Schmidt
first took office in 2019.“The insurance claims
process can be complicated for many – if you are having
an issue, I want to hear from you,” said Schmidt.
“I am proud of the work the Consumer Assistance Division has done to ensure that Kansans are getting the full benefits
from their policies.”Funds considered “recovered” are calculated when Department staff assists
individuals in need of support
during their insurance
claims process. If a dispute
arises between a policyholder and an insurance company, regardless of the type of insurance, the Kansas Insurance Department investigates the complaint.
Department staff work with the consumer and the company to ensure the
insurance policy is followed and benefits are paid
accordingly.A county-by-county breakdown of the
recoveries can be found here: <a href="https://bit.ly/3SlWCB9">https://bit.ly/3SlWCB9.</a>If you or someone you know is having trouble
with an insurance
claim, please contact the Kansas Insurance Department’s Consumer Assistance Division
toll-free at 1-800- 432-2484, email <a href="mailto:KID.webcomplaints@ks.gov">KID.webcomplaints@ks.gov</a> or visit the Department online
at <a href="https://insurance.kansas.gov/">insurance.kansas.gov</a> for any claims-related questions or concerns.

Insurance Department recovers over $16 million for Kansas policyholders

Kansas State University will undergo a mandatory password reset early on the morning of Tuesday, Jan. 23, according to a statement from the university.

This step is being taken out of an abundance of caution to protect our systems and your information.&nbsp;All students, faculty and staff will be required to change their passwords in order to regain access to centralized IT services, including systems like Webmail, Canvas, HRIS and more.

How you will know it’s time to reset your eID password:Starting Tuesday, Jan. 23, all students, faculty and staff will be required to change their eID password. At this time,&nbsp;your former password will no longer grant you access.

How the password reset process will work:Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/update/2024-it-password-reset/">password reset page</a>&nbsp;available on&nbsp;k-state.edu/update&nbsp;for detailed instructions on how to reset your eID password.

Where do I go if I have questions or need assistance?If you have any issues changing your password, please contact the IT Service Desk at 785-532-7722. You may also start an online chat with the IT Service Desk at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/it">k-state.edu/it</a>. The IT Service Desk is available to support you from 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Hours differ from Friday-Sunday and are posted on the IT website listed above.

Please note that we are working to assemble additional resources to support the potential service volume required by our IT Service Desk, and we anticipate being able to release contact information for those additional resources tomorrow morning.&nbsp;

What you can expect upon system reentry:When your password has been reset and you are back in the system, you will be able to access centrally managed IT services, which include services like Webmail, Canvas, HRIS and more.

Kansas State University will undergo a mandatory password reset early on the morning of Tuesday, Jan. 23, according to a statement from the university.This step is being taken out of an abundance of caution to protect our systems and your information.&nbsp;All students, faculty and staff will be required to change their passwords in order to regain access to centralized IT services, including systems like Webmail, Canvas, HRIS and more.How you will know it’s time to reset your eID password:Starting Tuesday, Jan. 23, all students, faculty and staff will be required to change their eID password. At this time,&nbsp;your former password will no longer grant you access.How the password reset process will work:Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/update/2024-it-password-reset/">password reset page</a>&nbsp;available on&nbsp;k-state.edu/update&nbsp;for detailed instructions on how to reset your eID password.<ul>
 <li>Faculty, staff and students whose cell phone numbers are in our alerts system will receive a text alert when it is time. Please note that you do not have to reset your password within a specific timeframe upon receipt, but you will have to do it before you are able to regain access to K-State systems.</li><li>If you do not receive a text alert but notice you are locked out of your email account when you attempt to access, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.k-state.edu/update">k-state.edu/update</a>&nbsp;for instructions, or see below.</li><li>Please do not attempt to reset your password prior to this mandatory reset. This process is purposeful, and your efforts to assist us in this are needed and greatly appreciated.</li>
 </ul>Where do I go if I have questions or need assistance?If you have any issues changing your password, please contact the IT Service Desk at 785-532-7722. You may also start an online chat with the IT Service Desk at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/it">k-state.edu/it</a>. The IT Service Desk is available to support you from 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Hours differ from Friday-Sunday and are posted on the IT website listed above.Please note that we are working to assemble additional resources to support the potential service volume required by our IT Service Desk, and we anticipate being able to release contact information for those additional resources tomorrow morning.&nbsp;What you can expect upon system reentry:When your password has been reset and you are back in the system, you will be able to access centrally managed IT services, which include services like Webmail, Canvas, HRIS and more.<ul>
 <li>Students:&nbsp;We do not anticipate you will experience any noticeable changes upon reentry to K-State systems.</li><li>Faculty/Staff: If you notice you are unable to access any systems you normally access, it is likely that those systems are not centrally managed and, therefore, have not been brought back online following the reset. Please report any outages you experience to your supervisor, and supervisors should report these instances to their dean or vice president.We do anticipate some system outages that may appear as new issues to users, but we assure you much work is already underway to re-route any processes derived utilizing these departmentally owned or distributed systems into centrally owned systems. This is a necessary step forward in our ongoing efforts, and we appreciate your patience while we work through this transition.</li>
 </ul>

K-State requires password resets for students, faculty

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;

ANGEL DE JESUS GUZMAN, 21, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

WILLIAM TYLER BENNER, 22, Junction City, Failure to appear; 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;ANGEL DE JESUS GUZMAN, 21, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750WILLIAM TYLER BENNER, 22, Junction City, Failure to appear; Bond $2,000

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 22

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an altercation involving a police office.

Just after 2:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for battery on a Law enforcement officer in the 500 block of Juliette Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;A 41-year-old RCPD police officer reported that 53-year-old Glen Bennett of Manhattan struck the officer with a closed fist.

   Bennett was arrested on requested charges of battery on an Law enforcement officer, interference with law enforcement and disorderly conduct. He was issued a $5,000 bond. He remains confined at the time of this report.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an altercation involving a police office.Just after 2:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report for battery on a Law enforcement officer in the 500 block of Juliette Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;A 41-year-old RCPD police officer reported that 53-year-old Glen Bennett of Manhattan struck the officer with a closed fist. Bennett was arrested on requested charges of battery on an Law enforcement officer, interference with law enforcement and disorderly conduct. He was issued a $5,000 bond. He remains confined at the time of this report.

Manhattan man allegedly punched RCPD officer

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Friday in&nbsp; &nbsp;Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2013 Dodge Ram driven by Joshua Lewy, 42, of Manhattan, a 2013 Chevy Cruze driven by Owen Mick, age 19, of Manhattan, and a 2016 Gray Honda Fit driven by Yolanda Broyles-Gonzalez, 74, of Manhattan were involved in a multi-vehicle collision at the intersection of 4th Street and Fort Riley Boulevard in Manhattan. 

EMS transported Broyles-Gonzalez to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Lewy was cited for following too closely, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Friday in&nbsp; &nbsp;Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2013 Dodge Ram driven by Joshua Lewy, 42, of Manhattan, a 2013 Chevy Cruze driven by Owen Mick, age 19, of Manhattan, and a 2016 Gray Honda Fit driven by Yolanda Broyles-Gonzalez, 74, of Manhattan were involved in a multi-vehicle collision at the intersection of 4th Street and Fort Riley Boulevard in Manhattan. EMS transported Broyles-Gonzalez to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Lewy was cited for following too closely, according to the RCPD.

Manhattan woman hospitalized after 3-vehicle crash

CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for January 22nd, 2024

USD 384 Blue Valley Randolph - TWO HOUR DELAY

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705932695354.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for January 22nd, 2024MONDAY, JANUARY 22nd:K-State - Olathe - TWO HOUR DELAYUSD 384 Blue Valley Randolph - TWO HOUR DELAYUSD 475 Geary County - TWO HOUR DELAY

CLOSINGS & DELAYS: Monday, January 22

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann admits the process to get to a new five-year Farm Bill has been slower than the melting of the snow in his district, but at least there are some signs of an eventual thaw, even if only in the forecast.

"Pretty good text is put together on the House side," Mann said. "It sounds like that it might come to the committee here in the next few weeks. On the Senate side, they are behind the House side, so there's quite a bit more work to do, but I'm cautiously optimistic that it's going to start moving here and we're going to get something done."

The current farm bill has been extended until September 30, 2024.

"First in is good," Also, on a conference committee, they have a House version and a Senate version. They come together in a conference committee. The conference committee rotates every farm bill on if it's the House's turn to chair it or the Senate's turn to chair it. It's the House's turn to chair the Farm Bill conference committee this year, which is a really, really big deal."

That means that Republican House Ag Committee chair&nbsp;Congressman Glenn "GT" Thompson from Pennsylvania will be in charge. Thompson visited Kansas in 2022.

"We've got to do the work," Mann said. "It's got to move in the House and Senate to get to that point and that's what we're working on right now."

The question is how fast can they get that work done before everyone in the House and 1/3 of the Senate all has to run for office again in the fall of 2024.

<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; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611836622184.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann admits the process to get to a new five-year Farm Bill has been slower than the melting of the snow in his district, but at least there are some signs of an eventual thaw, even if only in the forecast."Pretty good text is put together on the House side," Mann said. "It sounds like that it might come to the committee here in the next few weeks. On the Senate side, they are behind the House side, so there's quite a bit more work to do, but I'm cautiously optimistic that it's going to start moving here and we're going to get something done."The current farm bill has been extended until September 30, 2024."First in is good," Also, on a conference committee, they have a House version and a Senate version. They come together in a conference committee. The conference committee rotates every farm bill on if it's the House's turn to chair it or the Senate's turn to chair it. It's the House's turn to chair the Farm Bill conference committee this year, which is a really, really big deal."That means that Republican House Ag Committee chair&nbsp;Congressman Glenn "GT" Thompson from Pennsylvania will be in charge. Thompson visited Kansas in 2022."We've got to do the work," Mann said. "It's got to move in the House and Senate to get to that point and that's what we're working on right now."The question is how fast can they get that work done before everyone in the House and 1/3 of the Senate all has to run for office again in the fall of 2024.<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; &nbsp;

Mann sees minor movement on Farm Bill

MARISSA MICHELLE MONTIEL, 28, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alc; 2nd conv; incapable of safely driving; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship 2nd/5yrs; Bond $5,000

FRANCIS ADOMAKO FRIMPONG, 24, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship; 2nd/5yrs; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $5,000

JAMES RICHARD DAWSON JR, 35, Manhattan, Arrest by LEO; Warrant Arrest; Bond $5,000

GLENN WILBUR BENNETT, 53, Manhattan, Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Interference with LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $5,000

HUNTER GABRIEL MAGEE, 27, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Reckless driving; Failure to render aid; Failure to perform duty; Bond $3,250

ALEXANDER DAVID LEVY, 31, Junction City, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv.; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

BENJAMIN RILEY BRAGAN, 27, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alc; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving; Bond $750

MICHELLE DENISE ELDRIDGE, 42, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $1,000

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;MARISSA MICHELLE MONTIEL, 28, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alc; 2nd conv; incapable of safely driving; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship 2nd/5yrs; Bond $5,000FRANCIS ADOMAKO FRIMPONG, 24, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship; 2nd/5yrs; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $5,000JAMES RICHARD DAWSON JR, 35, Manhattan, Arrest by LEO; Warrant Arrest; Bond $5,000GLENN WILBUR BENNETT, 53, Manhattan, Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Interference with LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $5,000HUNTER GABRIEL MAGEE, 27, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Reckless driving; Failure to render aid; Failure to perform duty; Bond $3,250ALEXANDER DAVID LEVY, 31, Junction City, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv.; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750BENJAMIN RILEY BRAGAN, 27, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alc; 1st conv; incapable of safely driving; Bond $750MICHELLE DENISE ELDRIDGE, 42, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $1,000

Riley County Arrest Report Jan 21

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — On the first business day of the new year, Missouri Treasurer Vivek Malek began accepting applications for about $120 million of state-subsidized, low-interest loans to small businesses, farmers and affordable housing developers.

Within six hours, Malek had so many requests for the money that he had to&nbsp;<a href="https://treasurer.mo.gov/newsroom/news-and-events-item?pr=2d796735-a82e-4215-8b83-c1c159e7c95f">cut off applications</a>.

“The demand is huge, and it is real,” Malek said.

Missouri's situation, though extreme, is not entirely unique. From New York to Illinois to Montana, states have seen surging public interest in little-known programs that use state funds to spur private investment with bargain-priced loans. The programs have taken off after a series of key interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve made virtually all&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/treasury-yield-rates-wall-street-mortgage-aa78d3c3c50728ed62291a58695f3cd0?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">loans more expansive</a>, whether for farmers purchasing seed or businesses wanting to expand.

To&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-inflation-prices-interest-rates-cuts-815e42c425cff3e76e89b8f37aaa52f4?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">combat inflation</a>&nbsp;in consumer prices, the Fed raised its benchmark interest rate 11 times from March 2022 to last July, setting it at a two-decade high.

Under so-called linked-deposit programs, states deposit money in banks at below-market interest rates. Banks then leverage those funds to provide short-term, low-interest loans to particular borrowers, often in agriculture or small business. The programs can save thousands of dollars for borrowers by reducing their interest rates by an average 2-3 percentage points.

States typically cap the amount of money available for such discounted rates at either a flat dollar amount or a percentage of their total fund balances, because the programs result in less earnings for the state. Many states have built large surpluses from pandemic-era revenues, meaning they have more money available to deposit in banks.

Though most states don't currently offer such programs, some that shelved them when interest rates were low are now considering whether to revive them to aid financially-strapped businesses and residents.

“I can say in talks with other state treasurers that there is a definite increased interest in treasury money, whether that is through a linked-deposit program or a different vehicle," said Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs, who is president of the National Association of State Treasurers.

Illinois has nearly $950 million of deposits linked to low-interest loans for farmers, businesses and individuals. That's up substantially from past years. In 2015, Frerichs said, the state's agricultural investment program had just two low-interest loans. By 2022, that had grown to $51 million of loans. Last year, Illinois made $667 million of low-rate deposits for agricultural loans.

With rising demand, Frerichs recently raised the program’s overall cap from $1 billion to $1.5 billion.

Though smaller in scope, New York's program also has seen an explosion of applicants.

In 2022, New York had 42 applications for state deposits in financial institutions linked to $20 million in low-interest loans. Last year, that rose to 317 applications linked to more than $220 million of loans, said Rafael Salaberrios, a senior vice president who manages capital access programs at Empire State Development, New York's economic development agency.

“As the banks see the benefit, they are inundating us with applications — and that’s a good thing,” Salaberrios said. He added: "The linked deposit has allowed for the growth of small businesses to continue even during these high (interest) rate environments.”

Because of rising demand, Missouri's linked-deposit loan program neared its statutory cap of $800 million last May. After some existing loans expired, the treasurer's office was able to reopen applications at 10 a.m. on Jan. 2. By 4 p.m. that day, it had approached the cap again — receiving 142 applications totaling over $119 million — and closed the application window.

About half the applications came on behalf of customers of just two financial institutions — OakStar Bank and FCS Financial, a leading agricultural lender. FCS Financial had over 100 additional applications in line to submit when applications were cut off, said Brian Zimmerschied, vice president for its commercial crop lending team.

BTC Bank in rural Bethany, Missouri, had planned to turn in about dozen applications on behalf of its customers. But it missed out entirely because of the quick cutoff, bank CEO Doug Fish said.

Among those left disappointed was Jason Bernard, a farmer near Bethany who had hoped for a low-interest loan to help purchase this year's supply of seed, fertilizer and chemical spray.

With higher interest rates, "it’s a lot harder to make it, just because your payments,” Bernard said.

The Missouri treasurer's office is&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1803&amp;year=2024&amp;code=R">backing legislation</a>&nbsp;to raise the program's cap from $800 million to $1.2 billion, which would mark a 50% increase in capacity. The expansion could cost the state $12 million of potential earnings, though that could be partly offset by the economic activity generated from those loans, according to a legislative&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills241/fiscal/fispdf/3236H.01I.ORG.pdf">fiscal analysis</a>.

In Montana, lawmakers last year authorized a new program to address a shortage of affordable housing. The Montana Board of Investments launched a linked-deposit loan initiative in October that received $77 million of applications within two months, reaching a self-imposed cap and forcing it to close applications sooner than expected.

Republican state Rep. Mike Hopkins, who sponsored the housing incentive legislation, was thrilled with the response.

“We’re in a bit of a jam in the state of Montana" for affordable housing, Hopkins said, and “we were able to get money out the door as quickly as possible.”

Officials in Iowa, Kansas and Ohio also told the AP they had increased demand for programs that deposit state money in banks to provide low-interest loans. The number of such loan recipients in Kansas tripled from 2022 to 2023. In Ohio, the amount of money provided for those loans rose by two-thirds during that time, to more than $600 million.

Oklahoma's linked-deposit program has been dormant since 2010 amid low interest rates, but at least two banks recently contacted the treasurer's office about the possibility of restarting it, said Deputy Treasurer Jordan Harvey.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said he hadn't approved any linked deposits for low-interest loans since taking office in 2015 — until last year, when he approved his first two.

“There wasn’t much need because interest rates were cheap," Miller said.

"But now that the rates are up," Miller added, “it could be a viable program, and we could help some people.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705584027458.png" alt="Missouri Treasurer Vivek Malek stands near a poster promoting drought conditions and state aid programs on Jan. 4, 2024, at his Capitol office in Jefferson City, Mo. Agricultural entities are among several categories of businesses that can receive low-interest loans backed by deposits of state funds made by the treasurer's office. Participation in such programs has grown in various states. (AP Photo/David A. Lieb)" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Treasurer Vivek Malek stands near a poster promoting drought conditions and state aid programs on Jan. 4, 2024, at his Capitol office in Jefferson City, Mo. Agricultural entities are among several categories of businesses that can receive low-interest loans backed by deposits of state funds made by the treasurer's office. Participation in such programs has grown in various states. (AP Photo/David A. Lieb)</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — On the first business day of the new year, Missouri Treasurer Vivek Malek began accepting applications for about $120 million of state-subsidized, low-interest loans to small businesses, farmers and affordable housing developers.Within six hours, Malek had so many requests for the money that he had to&nbsp;<a href="https://treasurer.mo.gov/newsroom/news-and-events-item?pr=2d796735-a82e-4215-8b83-c1c159e7c95f">cut off applications</a>.“The demand is huge, and it is real,” Malek said.Missouri's situation, though extreme, is not entirely unique. From New York to Illinois to Montana, states have seen surging public interest in little-known programs that use state funds to spur private investment with bargain-priced loans. The programs have taken off after a series of key interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve made virtually all&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/treasury-yield-rates-wall-street-mortgage-aa78d3c3c50728ed62291a58695f3cd0?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">loans more expansive</a>, whether for farmers purchasing seed or businesses wanting to expand.To&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-inflation-prices-interest-rates-cuts-815e42c425cff3e76e89b8f37aaa52f4?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">combat inflation</a>&nbsp;in consumer prices, the Fed raised its benchmark interest rate 11 times from March 2022 to last July, setting it at a two-decade high.Under so-called linked-deposit programs, states deposit money in banks at below-market interest rates. Banks then leverage those funds to provide short-term, low-interest loans to particular borrowers, often in agriculture or small business. The programs can save thousands of dollars for borrowers by reducing their interest rates by an average 2-3 percentage points.States typically cap the amount of money available for such discounted rates at either a flat dollar amount or a percentage of their total fund balances, because the programs result in less earnings for the state. Many states have built large surpluses from pandemic-era revenues, meaning they have more money available to deposit in banks.Though most states don't currently offer such programs, some that shelved them when interest rates were low are now considering whether to revive them to aid financially-strapped businesses and residents.“I can say in talks with other state treasurers that there is a definite increased interest in treasury money, whether that is through a linked-deposit program or a different vehicle," said Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs, who is president of the National Association of State Treasurers.Illinois has nearly $950 million of deposits linked to low-interest loans for farmers, businesses and individuals. That's up substantially from past years. In 2015, Frerichs said, the state's agricultural investment program had just two low-interest loans. By 2022, that had grown to $51 million of loans. Last year, Illinois made $667 million of low-rate deposits for agricultural loans.With rising demand, Frerichs recently raised the program’s overall cap from $1 billion to $1.5 billion.Though smaller in scope, New York's program also has seen an explosion of applicants.In 2022, New York had 42 applications for state deposits in financial institutions linked to $20 million in low-interest loans. Last year, that rose to 317 applications linked to more than $220 million of loans, said Rafael Salaberrios, a senior vice president who manages capital access programs at Empire State Development, New York's economic development agency.“As the banks see the benefit, they are inundating us with applications — and that’s a good thing,” Salaberrios said. He added: "The linked deposit has allowed for the growth of small businesses to continue even during these high (interest) rate environments.”Because of rising demand, Missouri's linked-deposit loan program neared its statutory cap of $800 million last May. After some existing loans expired, the treasurer's office was able to reopen applications at 10 a.m. on Jan. 2. By 4 p.m. that day, it had approached the cap again — receiving 142 applications totaling over $119 million — and closed the application window.About half the applications came on behalf of customers of just two financial institutions — OakStar Bank and FCS Financial, a leading agricultural lender. FCS Financial had over 100 additional applications in line to submit when applications were cut off, said Brian Zimmerschied, vice president for its commercial crop lending team.BTC Bank in rural Bethany, Missouri, had planned to turn in about dozen applications on behalf of its customers. But it missed out entirely because of the quick cutoff, bank CEO Doug Fish said.Among those left disappointed was Jason Bernard, a farmer near Bethany who had hoped for a low-interest loan to help purchase this year's supply of seed, fertilizer and chemical spray.With higher interest rates, "it’s a lot harder to make it, just because your payments,” Bernard said.The Missouri treasurer's office is&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1803&amp;year=2024&amp;code=R">backing legislation</a>&nbsp;to raise the program's cap from $800 million to $1.2 billion, which would mark a 50% increase in capacity. The expansion could cost the state $12 million of potential earnings, though that could be partly offset by the economic activity generated from those loans, according to a legislative&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills241/fiscal/fispdf/3236H.01I.ORG.pdf">fiscal analysis</a>.In Montana, lawmakers last year authorized a new program to address a shortage of affordable housing. The Montana Board of Investments launched a linked-deposit loan initiative in October that received $77 million of applications within two months, reaching a self-imposed cap and forcing it to close applications sooner than expected.Republican state Rep. Mike Hopkins, who sponsored the housing incentive legislation, was thrilled with the response.“We’re in a bit of a jam in the state of Montana" for affordable housing, Hopkins said, and “we were able to get money out the door as quickly as possible.”Officials in Iowa, Kansas and Ohio also told the AP they had increased demand for programs that deposit state money in banks to provide low-interest loans. The number of such loan recipients in Kansas tripled from 2022 to 2023. In Ohio, the amount of money provided for those loans rose by two-thirds during that time, to more than $600 million.Oklahoma's linked-deposit program has been dormant since 2010 amid low interest rates, but at least two banks recently contacted the treasurer's office about the possibility of restarting it, said Deputy Treasurer Jordan Harvey.Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said he hadn't approved any linked deposits for low-interest loans since taking office in 2015 — until last year, when he approved his first two.“There wasn’t much need because interest rates were cheap," Miller said."But now that the rates are up," Miller added, “it could be a viable program, and we could help some people.”

States expand low-interest loan programs for farms, businesses and new housing

BRICE ALLEN LIFER, 40, Fort Riley, Failure to appear;

RICARDO ACOSTA CAQUIAS, 25, Fort Riley, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $750

LANCE MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ, 21, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

JORDAN DOMINIC ZIMMERMAN, 26, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $15,000

CALLI ANNE HUMIZ, 33, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $750

COLTON BRIAN MAGNUSON, 33, Manhattan, Traf contraband in corr/care fac; Distribute item in facility; Unlawful obtain prescription drug; Distrib prescrip made/alter/sign by other; Bond $9,000

JEFFREY EVAN JONES, 39, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $5,000

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;BRICE ALLEN LIFER, 40, Fort Riley, Failure to appear;RICARDO ACOSTA CAQUIAS, 25, Fort Riley, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $750LANCE MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ, 21, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750JORDAN DOMINIC ZIMMERMAN, 26, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $15,000CALLI ANNE HUMIZ, 33, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $750COLTON BRIAN MAGNUSON, 33, Manhattan, Traf contraband in corr/care fac; Distribute item in facility; Unlawful obtain prescription drug; Distrib prescrip made/alter/sign by other; Bond $9,000JEFFREY EVAN JONES, 39, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $5,000

Riley County Arrest Report Jan 20

TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.8% in December. This is a decrease from 2.9% in November and a decrease from 2.9% in December 2022.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 300 from November. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 700 over the month, while government increased by 400.

The unemployment rate in Riley County remained unchanged from 1.7 percent in November. The rate in Geary County is down from 4.2&nbsp; percent in October and 3.3 in November to 2.8 percent last month. The rate is also down or unchanged in counties across the region

Since December 2022 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 11,400. This change is due to an increase of 3,200 private sector jobs and an increase of 8,200 government jobs.

“Following three months of job gains, Kansas nonfarm job estimates were essentially unchanged in December,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen. “Although job growth slowed in December, the state continues to see improvement compared to estimates for 2022.”

Complete Kansas labor market information for December is available by clicking here.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705681636716.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. – Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services (LMIS) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 2.8% in December. This is a decrease from 2.9% in November and a decrease from 2.9% in December 2022.Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment decreased by 300 from November. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 700 over the month, while government increased by 400.The unemployment rate in Riley County remained unchanged from 1.7 percent in November. The rate in Geary County is down from 4.2&nbsp; percent in October and 3.3 in November to 2.8 percent last month. The rate is also down or unchanged in counties across the regionSince December 2022 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 11,400. This change is due to an increase of 3,200 private sector jobs and an increase of 8,200 government jobs.“Following three months of job gains, Kansas nonfarm job estimates were essentially unchanged in December,” said labor economist, Emilie Doerksen. “Although job growth slowed in December, the state continues to see improvement compared to estimates for 2022.”Complete Kansas labor market information for December is available by clicking here.

Jobless rate still strong in Riley County

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University&nbsp;director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WuGGgyH8FQI?si=d3J8je81N3PmbuvT" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Fort Hays State University&nbsp;director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson.

🎤Forward Ever: FHSU director of Strategic Affiliation Peter Laipson

Junction City police confirm their poultry pursuit has come to an end.

The elusive chicken that's been ruffling feathers around town has been safely apprehended!&nbsp; Animal control officer Becky Meneffe managed to catch this feathered friend without a single scratch on her.

Police said that they're thrilled to report that she's now pecking around happily in a loving home outside the city limits, where she can cluck to her heart's content.

As amusing as this little escapade was, it's important to remember that owning chickens within city limits is not allowed. Leave the chicken rearing to the more rural areas.

As to the chicken's name that determination has not been made.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705684352967.jpeg" alt="( Photo - JCPD )" />
 <figcaption>( Photo - JCPD )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostJunction City police confirm their poultry pursuit has come to an end.The elusive chicken that's been ruffling feathers around town has been safely apprehended!&nbsp; Animal control officer Becky Meneffe managed to catch this feathered friend without a single scratch on her.Police said that they're thrilled to report that she's now pecking around happily in a loving home outside the city limits, where she can cluck to her heart's content.As amusing as this little escapade was, it's important to remember that owning chickens within city limits is not allowed. Leave the chicken rearing to the more rural areas.As to the chicken's name that determination has not been made.

Chicken on the lam has been apprehended

JEREMIAH DESHAWN SOLIS, 21, Fort Riley, Driving under the influence of drusg/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

MELANIE SARITA GARNER, 54, Ogden, Violate protection order; Abuse order per KSA 63105,63106, 63107; Bond $2,000

CONRAD JOHN KABUS, 27, Topeka, Driving under the infl of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; competent evidence of blood/breath .08+; Bond $750

JAMES EDWARD DWYER, 38, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $1,120

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;JEREMIAH DESHAWN SOLIS, 21, Fort Riley, Driving under the influence of drusg/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750MELANIE SARITA GARNER, 54, Ogden, Violate protection order; Abuse order per KSA 63105,63106, 63107; Bond $2,000CONRAD JOHN KABUS, 27, Topeka, Driving under the infl of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; competent evidence of blood/breath .08+; Bond $750JAMES EDWARD DWYER, 38, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $1,120

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 19

Join Catie and Becky as they talk with Jacob Sanderson, a local artist who paints pets and has the goal of getting out and painting more people throughout the Manhattan community this year. He also discusses his experience dealing with various mental health situations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705670585858.png" alt="Jacob Sanderson with Becky and Catie" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Sanderson with Becky and Catie</figcaption>
 </figure>Join Catie and Becky as they talk with Jacob Sanderson, a local artist who paints pets and has the goal of getting out and painting more people throughout the Manhattan community this year. He also discusses his experience dealing with various mental health situations.<div><iframe title="Episode 11 - A Palette Full of Colors" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=8kf4c-15554e4-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2baf9e" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎙: Little Apple Bites: A Palette Full of Colors

CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for January 19th, 2024

Manhattan Area Agency on Aging - NO Friendship Meal deliveries, however, plan to be open normal operating hours with noon meal served in person.

USD 329 Wabaunsee County&nbsp;- TWO HOUR DELAY

*This list will be updated as information is released or submitted to Little Apple Post.

<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/218b3bab-a265-466c-8167-589f5a2b7e14">Closing and delay information can be submitted here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705669611247.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for January 19th, 2024FRIDAY, JANUARY 19:Manhattan Area Agency on Aging - NO Friendship Meal deliveries, however, plan to be open normal operating hours with noon meal served in person.USD 323 Rock Creek - TWO HOUR DELAYUSD 329 Wabaunsee County&nbsp;- TWO HOUR DELAYUSD 333 Concordia&nbsp;- TWO HOUR DELAYUSD 364 Marysville&nbsp;- TWO HOUR DELAYUSD 378 Riley County - TWO HOUR DELAYUSD 379 Clay County - TWO HOUR DELAYUSD 475 Geary County - TWO HOUR DELAY*This list will be updated as information is released or submitted to Little Apple Post.<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/218b3bab-a265-466c-8167-589f5a2b7e14">Closing and delay information can be submitted here</a>.

CLOSINGS/DELAYS: FRIDAY Jan. 19th

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Saturday, January 20th, the Flint Hills Discovery Center will open its latest temporary exhibit.

Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ is inspired by the works of Thomas Edison to engage kids in science, technology, engineering and math(STEM) to learn through hands-on experiences.

Kids can experiment with electricity, magnetism, optics, sound waves and air pressure and the laws of physics which shape the world around us.

There are six simple machines which are designed to make owrk easier, including levers, inclined planes, pulleys screws, wedges and wheel &amp; axle.

There will also be ways to learn basic coding using no-tech, low-tech and high tech use of technology as a tool.

There will be natural and human-made substances to learn more about the properties and investigate material science.

An air cannon, virtual reality portal, plasma ball and many other hands-on activities are included in the exhibit.

“The exhibit does an amazing job of showing kids just how a few creative individuals, like Thomas Edison, can completely change how we live our lives.” said Stephen Bridenstine, FHDC Assistant Director, “By making science learning a fun hands-on experience, Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab will inspire the next generation of innovators who will shape our very future.”

Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™&nbsp;is on exhibit January 20 through May 5.&nbsp;Thank you to our sponsors,&nbsp;the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation and Orazem and Scalora Engineering, P.A.,&nbsp;for helping bring this exhibit to Manhattan. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=35887a490c&amp;e=ae94a9aa01" target="_blank">www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/edison</a>.

*Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ Traveling Exhibit was created by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with Genius Brands International TM &amp; © 2023 Genius Brands International, Inc. All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705613154428.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Saturday, January 20th, the Flint Hills Discovery Center will open its latest temporary exhibit.Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ is inspired by the works of Thomas Edison to engage kids in science, technology, engineering and math(STEM) to learn through hands-on experiences.Kids can experiment with electricity, magnetism, optics, sound waves and air pressure and the laws of physics which shape the world around us.There are six simple machines which are designed to make owrk easier, including levers, inclined planes, pulleys screws, wedges and wheel &amp; axle.There will also be ways to learn basic coding using no-tech, low-tech and high tech use of technology as a tool.There will be natural and human-made substances to learn more about the properties and investigate material science.An air cannon, virtual reality portal, plasma ball and many other hands-on activities are included in the exhibit.“The exhibit does an amazing job of showing kids just how a few creative individuals, like Thomas Edison, can completely change how we live our lives.” said Stephen Bridenstine, FHDC Assistant Director, “By making science learning a fun hands-on experience, Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab will inspire the next generation of innovators who will shape our very future.”Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™&nbsp;is on exhibit January 20 through May 5.&nbsp;Thank you to our sponsors,&nbsp;the Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation and Orazem and Scalora Engineering, P.A.,&nbsp;for helping bring this exhibit to Manhattan. Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=35887a490c&amp;e=ae94a9aa01" target="_blank">www.flinthillsdiscovery.org/edison</a>.*Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab™ Traveling Exhibit was created by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with Genius Brands International TM &amp; © 2023 Genius Brands International, Inc. All rights reserved.

Thomas Edison's Secret Lab is coming to the Flint Hills Discovery Center

MOSE EDWARD ALLEN, 58, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $3,000

NATHAN CHRISTOPHER REEVES, 38, Manhattan, Traf contraband in corr/care fac; Unauthorized poss of item at facility; Bond $3,500

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;MOSE EDWARD ALLEN, 58, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $3,000NATHAN CHRISTOPHER REEVES, 38, Manhattan, Traf contraband in corr/care fac; Unauthorized poss of item at facility; Bond $3,500

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 18

RILEY COUNTY - The Riley County Police Department Director Brian Peete will host a series of Town Hall Meetings to discuss his Crime Reduction Plan.

Peete's Crime Reduction Plan is intended to strengthen safety across the community.

Town Hall Meetings will be held: -January 29th - Riley City Hall Commission meeting area -January 30th - Manhattan City Hall Peace Auditorium -January 31st - Ogden Community Center

The Town Hall meetings will start at 6:00 pm and are open to the public. These one-hour discussions are intended for public input on how to strengthen community safety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705526985156.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - The Riley County Police Department Director Brian Peete will host a series of Town Hall Meetings to discuss his Crime Reduction Plan.Peete's Crime Reduction Plan is intended to strengthen safety across the community.Town Hall Meetings will be held: -January 29th - Riley City Hall Commission meeting area -January 30th - Manhattan City Hall Peace Auditorium -January 31st - Ogden Community CenterThe Town Hall meetings will start at 6:00 pm and are open to the public. These one-hour discussions are intended for public input on how to strengthen community safety.

RCPD Director Peete to host Town Hall meetings to discuss Crime Reduction

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post&nbsp;

MANHATTAN - Students from Manhattan High School's Civic Engagement Club hosted a community conversation on Monday about food insecurity in Riley County.

Community leaders and students split into sub-groups to discuss ways to combat the food insecurity within the Manhattan community.&nbsp;

The discussion included how to ensure people have access to the food they need, improving access to nutritious food, and how to be good stewards of the food system.

Discussion of how to avoid food waste, find solutions to eliminate food deserts. Food deserts are areas where access to grocery stores is limited without having access to transportation.

"Hearing insight from all these different organizations allowed us to come up with a bunch of different action plans that we will try and implement within the community based off of these discussions. I would say that change is possible through collaboration. We have all the resources here in Riley County to combat food insecurity. We just need to make sure that everyone collaborates and extends those partnerships so that one day we can live in a county where food insecurity is a problem for a lot of our population." MHS Civic Engagement Club, co-president, Raisa Hossaim says.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705437071145.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post&nbsp;MANHATTAN - Students from Manhattan High School's Civic Engagement Club hosted a community conversation on Monday about food insecurity in Riley County.Community leaders and students split into sub-groups to discuss ways to combat the food insecurity within the Manhattan community.&nbsp;The discussion included how to ensure people have access to the food they need, improving access to nutritious food, and how to be good stewards of the food system.Discussion of how to avoid food waste, find solutions to eliminate food deserts. Food deserts are areas where access to grocery stores is limited without having access to transportation."Hearing insight from all these different organizations allowed us to come up with a bunch of different action plans that we will try and implement within the community based off of these discussions. I would say that change is possible through collaboration. We have all the resources here in Riley County to combat food insecurity. We just need to make sure that everyone collaborates and extends those partnerships so that one day we can live in a county where food insecurity is a problem for a lot of our population." MHS Civic Engagement Club, co-president, Raisa Hossaim says.<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/PzZMJYse-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Mhs Civic Engagement" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>

MHS 'Civic Engagement Club' hosts community conversation on food insecurity

TOPEKA, Kan. — According to a social media post from Kansas State Rep. Paul Waggoner, the Republican tax package is due on the floor this week at the statehouse. 

An advocate for small businesses in Topeka, Dan Murray with NFIB's Kansas chapter, talked to Hutch Post earlier this week about the importance of tax relief to small business owners.

"We know that property taxes are the most reviled of the taxes that we have," Murray said. "Certainly, we'd love to see some of that taken care of. The Governor, in her tax proposal, calls for what the state can do, in terms of property tax reform. We do collect 20 mills for school funding. The first $40,000 of that is exempt, so the first $40,000 of valuations for residential properties are exempt. Her proposal calls for up to the first $100,000 to be exempt. I think that's something we could embrace and look towards. Most small business owners file at the individual level."

Waggoner said the proposal includes

a 5.25% flat rate on all income.  The current proposal does address property tax relief (through raising to $80,000 from $40,000 the property value threshold) and ending the food sales tax on June 30th. This would be over $500 million in tax relief, as proposed.

<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/2021/8/1629113022641.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostTOPEKA, Kan. — According to a social media post from Kansas State Rep. Paul Waggoner, the Republican tax package is due on the floor this week at the statehouse. An advocate for small businesses in Topeka, Dan Murray with NFIB's Kansas chapter, talked to Hutch Post earlier this week about the importance of tax relief to small business owners."We know that property taxes are the most reviled of the taxes that we have," Murray said. "Certainly, we'd love to see some of that taken care of. The Governor, in her tax proposal, calls for what the state can do, in terms of property tax reform. We do collect 20 mills for school funding. The first $40,000 of that is exempt, so the first $40,000 of valuations for residential properties are exempt. Her proposal calls for up to the first $100,000 to be exempt. I think that's something we could embrace and look towards. Most small business owners file at the individual level."Waggoner said the proposal includes

a 5.25% flat rate on all income. The current proposal does address property tax relief (through raising to $80,000 from $40,000 the property value threshold) and ending the food sales tax on June 30th. This would be over $500 million in tax relief, as proposed.<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;

Republican tax package on floor this week

BILLY DON HILL, 69, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

MARIO RODRIQUEZ HILLIARD, 41, Oakland, TN, Driving while suspended; 2nd or subsquent conviction; Bond $1,500

ELI JOSEPH SMITH, 20, St. George, Probation Violation; Bond $5,000

FERNANDO JOSE GARCIA VELASQUEZ, 32, Failure to appear; Bond $1,000

CURTIS JAMES COLLEY, JR, 39, Grandview Plaza, Distribute marijuana; 25 - &lt;450 grams; Possession of para w/intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Distribute opiate/opium/narcotic/stimulant/heroin; Dosage 10 - &lt; 100 units; Possession of substance in KSA 65-4105(h); Bond $10,000

GRACE ELIZABETH DUTCH, 20, Manhattan, Aggravated battery; DUI causing great bodily harm/disfigurement; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $15,000

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;BILLY DON HILL, 69, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750MARIO RODRIQUEZ HILLIARD, 41, Oakland, TN, Driving while suspended; 2nd or subsquent conviction; Bond $1,500ELI JOSEPH SMITH, 20, St. George, Probation Violation; Bond $5,000FERNANDO JOSE GARCIA VELASQUEZ, 32, Failure to appear; Bond $1,000CURTIS JAMES COLLEY, JR, 39, Grandview Plaza, Distribute marijuana; 25 - &lt;450 grams; Possession of para w/intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Distribute opiate/opium/narcotic/stimulant/heroin; Dosage 10 - &lt; 100 units; Possession of substance in KSA 65-4105(h); Bond $10,000GRACE ELIZABETH DUTCH, 20, Manhattan, Aggravated battery; DUI causing great bodily harm/disfigurement; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $15,000

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 17

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

Just before 4p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 8200 block of South Port Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 72-year-old man reported an unknown suspect stole his wallet he had accidentally left behind on a counter. 

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $800. 

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a>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 Manhattan.Just before 4p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for theft in the 8200 block of South Port Drive in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 72-year-old man reported an unknown suspect stole his wallet he had accidentally left behind on a counter. The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $800. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a>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: Man lost $800 when his wallet was stolen

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after an arrest.

Just before noon Tuesday, police arrested 39-year-old Curtis Colley, Jr., of Grandview Plaza in the 1000 block of South Seth Child Road in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Colley was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for distribution of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate a controlled substance, distribution of opiate/opium/narcotic/stimulant/heroin, and possession. Colley remains jailed on a bond of $10,000.

He has previous convictions for criminal threat, aggravated burglary, aggravated intimidation of a witness, and for drugs and for arranging sale/purchase using communication facility, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705506527696.png" alt="Colley-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Colley-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after an arrest.Just before noon Tuesday, police arrested 39-year-old Curtis Colley, Jr., of Grandview Plaza in the 1000 block of South Seth Child Road in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Colley was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for distribution of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate a controlled substance, distribution of opiate/opium/narcotic/stimulant/heroin, and possession. Colley remains jailed on a bond of $10,000.He has previous convictions for criminal threat, aggravated burglary, aggravated intimidation of a witness, and for drugs and for arranging sale/purchase using communication facility, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

RCPD: Kansas felon accused of selling marijuana

MANHATTAN— K-State has been experiencing a disruption to certain network systems, including VPN, K-State Today emails, and videos on Canvas, or Mediasite, according to a statement from the university.

Upon detection, university IT took immediate steps to investigate the disruption, isolating the areas of concern. The university confirmed Tuesday evening that these disruptions are the result of a recent cybersecurity incident.

The impacted systems were taken offline and will remain offline for the immediate future as the investigation continues. This will also include select shared drives and printers, as well as university listservs.&nbsp;

"Our top priority is to address this issue promptly and efficiently, as we understand the importance of maintaining business and academic continuity during this time. We will keep you informed as the investigation continues to ensure your engagement with the university is uninterrupted."

"Please rest assured that we are dedicating significant resources to bring involved systems back online quickly and safely. Additionally, we have engaged third-party IT forensic experts to assist us in the ongoing investigation efforts."

"During this time, it is critical that we all remain diligent and follow&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/it/cybersecurity/cybersecurity-awareness/">cybersecurity best practices and trainings</a>. If you notice anything suspicious as you engage with university technology, students should reach out to the IT help desk. Faculty and staff should reach out to their departmental IT points of contact."&nbsp;

"University leaders are arranging meetings with departmental contacts around business processes and operations that may be impacted to ensure continuity. If you have any questions, please refer those to your Dean or Vice President."

"Interim Provost Mercer has issued guidance to academic deans to share with their department heads and faculty regarding academic continuity, including sharing alternative&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/tlc/teaching_resources/video_resources.html">video resources</a>&nbsp;given the disruption to Mediasite. "

The university will continue to communications at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/update">k-state.edu/update</a>. The university will not be able to share information that could compromise that investigation.&nbsp;

MANHATTAN— K-State has been experiencing a disruption to certain network systems, including VPN, K-State Today emails, and videos on Canvas, or Mediasite, according to a statement from the university.Upon detection, university IT took immediate steps to investigate the disruption, isolating the areas of concern. The university confirmed Tuesday evening that these disruptions are the result of a recent cybersecurity incident.The impacted systems were taken offline and will remain offline for the immediate future as the investigation continues. This will also include select shared drives and printers, as well as university listservs.&nbsp;"Our top priority is to address this issue promptly and efficiently, as we understand the importance of maintaining business and academic continuity during this time. We will keep you informed as the investigation continues to ensure your engagement with the university is uninterrupted.""Please rest assured that we are dedicating significant resources to bring involved systems back online quickly and safely. Additionally, we have engaged third-party IT forensic experts to assist us in the ongoing investigation efforts." "During this time, it is critical that we all remain diligent and follow&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/it/cybersecurity/cybersecurity-awareness/">cybersecurity best practices and trainings</a>. If you notice anything suspicious as you engage with university technology, students should reach out to the IT help desk. Faculty and staff should reach out to their departmental IT points of contact."&nbsp;"University leaders are arranging meetings with departmental contacts around business processes and operations that may be impacted to ensure continuity. If you have any questions, please refer those to your Dean or Vice President.""Interim Provost Mercer has issued guidance to academic deans to share with their department heads and faculty regarding academic continuity, including sharing alternative&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/tlc/teaching_resources/video_resources.html">video resources</a>&nbsp;given the disruption to Mediasite. "The university will continue to communications at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/update">k-state.edu/update</a>. The university will not be able to share information that could compromise that investigation.&nbsp;

Local