by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

RILEY COUNTY - At 12:45pm on Monday, January 15th, 2024, the Riley County Police Department entered the Emergency Accident Reporting Phase(EARP).

More information about EARP can be found in this social media post by RCPD:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705347708932.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - At 12:45pm on Monday, January 15th, 2024, the Riley County Police Department entered the Emergency Accident Reporting Phase(EARP).More information about EARP can be found in this social media post by RCPD:<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Riley County Police Department has activated the Emergency Accident Reporting Phase or EARP. When EARP is in effect, motorists do not need to report crashes immediately as long as they meet all of the criteria in the image linked. <a href="https://t.co/OIsJmSGu3E">pic.twitter.com/OIsJmSGu3E</a>&mdash; RCPD (@RileyCountyPD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RileyCountyPD/status/1746966791761391702?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

RCPD enters Emergency Accident Reporting Phase(EARP) 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704473185375.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfAFNZG6JFHwv1__L4XHnCYzTmxLDDTlanDEYNhtOoXJGTPhw/viewform?embedded=true" width="640" height="990" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0">Loading…</iframe></div>

Submit school, business & organization closing/delay information here

RILEY COUNTY - The Riley County Transfer Station will close at 2:00 pm on Monday, January 15th and will remain closed through Tuesday, January 16th due to the extreme cold.

The Transfer Station plans to reopen on Wednesday, January 17th, if weather allows.

Public Works Assistant Director and Assistant County Engineer, Evan McMillan, has been contacting trash haulers to notify them of the closure.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705341102479.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - The Riley County Transfer Station will close at 2:00 pm on Monday, January 15th and will remain closed through Tuesday, January 16th due to the extreme cold.The Transfer Station plans to reopen on Wednesday, January 17th, if weather allows.Public Works Assistant Director and Assistant County Engineer, Evan McMillan, has been contacting trash haulers to notify them of the closure.

Riley County Transfer Station closing due to extreme cold

CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for January 15th, 2024

B &amp; L Trash Service - NO ROUTES due to frigid temps, credit will be given to customers on those routes

Combative Sports Center - Monday evening and Tuesday morning classes - CANCELLED

Finn's Neighborhood Pub - CLOSING at 7:00pm

Geary County Transfer Station CLOSED Monday afternoon and Tuesday

Healthy Together Senior Community Meal - NO MEALS due to weather

Howie's Trash Service Routes - DELAYS due to Transfer Station closures&nbsp;

Junction City 1st United Methodist- Hope Al-Anon - NO MEETING

Manhattan Brewing Company - CLOSED for annual deep clean and maintenance

Manhattan Senior Center - CLOSED - MLK Jr. Day Observance

Riley County Transfer Station - CLOSING at 2:00 pm MONDAY and ALL DAY TUESDAY due to extreme cold.

USD 378 Riley County Girls Basketball practice CANCELLED

*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/2024/1/1705337242143.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for January 15th, 2024MONDAY, JANUARY 15:B &amp; L Trash Service - NO ROUTES due to frigid temps, credit will be given to customers on those routesCombative Sports Center - Monday evening and Tuesday morning classes - CANCELLEDCouncil Grove Public Library - CLOSEDFinn's Neighborhood Pub - CLOSING at 7:00pmGeary County Transfer Station CLOSED Monday afternoon and TuesdayHealthy Together Senior Community Meal - NO MEALS due to weatherHowie's Trash Service Routes - DELAYS due to Transfer Station closures&nbsp;Junction City 1st United Methodist- Hope Al-Anon - NO MEETINGManhattan Brewing Company - CLOSED for annual deep clean and maintenanceManhattan Senior Center - CLOSED - MLK Jr. Day ObservanceRiley County Transfer Station - CLOSING at 2:00 pm MONDAY and ALL DAY TUESDAY due to extreme cold.Sunset Zoo - CLOSEDUSD 378 Riley County Girls Basketball practice CANCELLED*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/CANCELLATIONS - Monday, Jan. 15th

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;

ELIJAH TEE MCLEROY, 22, Junction City, Failure to appear

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;ELIJAH TEE MCLEROY, 22, Junction City, Failure to appear

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 15

NATHAN AKEEM WILKINSON, 38, Junction City, Rape; Sexual intercourse without consent and use of force; Bond $250,000

JUAN FELIPE RUBIO-MORALES, 32, Manhattan, Criminal discharge of firearm; Public road/public right of way/railroad; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Criminal use of weapons; Illegal alien possess firearm; Bond $5,000

RICARDO VASQUEZ ALVARADO, 23, Manhattan, Criminal discharfe of firearm; Public road/public right of way/railroad; Unlawful discharage of firearm in city limits; Criminal use of weapons; Illegal alien possess firearm; 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;NATHAN AKEEM WILKINSON, 38, Junction City, Rape; Sexual intercourse without consent and use of force; Bond $250,000JUAN FELIPE RUBIO-MORALES, 32, Manhattan, Criminal discharge of firearm; Public road/public right of way/railroad; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Criminal use of weapons; Illegal alien possess firearm; Bond $5,000RICARDO VASQUEZ ALVARADO, 23, Manhattan, Criminal discharfe of firearm; Public road/public right of way/railroad; Unlawful discharage of firearm in city limits; Criminal use of weapons; Illegal alien possess firearm; Bond $5,000

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 14

JOSE RODOLFO VALASQUEZ DIMAS, 36, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv. blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

MANUEL I GOMEZ II, 31, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $2,000

VANESSA LASHAWN THOMAS, 47, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Probation Violation x2; Bond $6,000

JOHN ERIC HURLEY, 37, Junction City, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Kansas Highway Patrol in Clay County on 1/6/2024

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;JOSE RODOLFO VALASQUEZ DIMAS, 36, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv. blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750MANUEL I GOMEZ II, 31, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $2,000VANESSA LASHAWN THOMAS, 47, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Probation Violation x2; Bond $6,000JOHN ERIC HURLEY, 37, Junction City, Failure to appear; Arrested and released on bond by Kansas Highway Patrol in Clay County on 1/6/2024

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 13

CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for January 13th and 14th, 2024

Bargin Bin MHK - CLOSED Bountiful Bins(Riley) - CLOSED Downtown Farmers Market of Manhattan - CLOSED Eclectic Charm, LLC - CLOSED Manhattan Public Library - Read with Dogs event - CANCELLED Midwest Dream Car Collection - CLOSED Riley County Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Collection at Howie's - CANCELLED Sunset Zoo - CLOSED until Tuesday Varsity Truck - CLOSED Vintage Round Up - CLOSED

Bargin Bin MHK - CLOSED Episcopal Church of the Covenant(314 North Adams, Junction City) - NO SUNDAY SERVICES Highland Baptist Church - NO SUNDAY SERVICES Junction City 1st United Methodist Church - NO SUNDAY SERVICES Zion UCC(1811 McFarland, Junction City) - NO SUNDAY SERVICES

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705080581192.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for January 13th and 14th, 2024SATURDAY, JANUARY 13th:Bargin Bin MHK - CLOSED Bountiful Bins(Riley) - CLOSED Downtown Farmers Market of Manhattan - CLOSED Eclectic Charm, LLC - CLOSED Manhattan Public Library - Read with Dogs event - CANCELLED Midwest Dream Car Collection - CLOSED Riley County Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Collection at Howie's - CANCELLED Sunset Zoo - CLOSED until Tuesday Varsity Truck - CLOSED Vintage Round Up - CLOSEDSUNDAY, JANUARY 14th:Bargin Bin MHK - CLOSED Episcopal Church of the Covenant(314 North Adams, Junction City) - NO SUNDAY SERVICES Highland Baptist Church - NO SUNDAY SERVICES Junction City 1st United Methodist Church - NO SUNDAY SERVICES Zion UCC(1811 McFarland, Junction City) - NO SUNDAY SERVICES*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>.

WEEKEND CLOSINGS: Jan. 13th & 14th, 2024

BENJAMIN IRA JAMES LEWIS, 41, Manhattan, Probation Violation, Bond $1,000

ISAIAH PATRIC CHRISTOPHER MYERS, 29, Topeka, Failure to appear x2; Arrested and released on bond by Shawnee County Sheriff's Office on 12/31/2023

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;BENJAMIN IRA JAMES LEWIS, 41, Manhattan, Probation Violation, Bond $1,000ISAIAH PATRIC CHRISTOPHER MYERS, 29, Topeka, Failure to appear x2; Arrested and released on bond by Shawnee County Sheriff's Office on 12/31/2023

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 12

CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for Friday, January 12th*

Brown's Shoe Fit Manhattan - CLOSING EARLY at 1:00 pm City of Manhattan Ice Rink - CLOSED City of Manhattan Rec Centers - Anthony &amp; Eisenhower - CLOSING at 7:00 pm; Douglass Activity Center - CLOSING at 6:00 pm Cloud County CC - Concordia and Geary County campuses - CLOSED Common Table Meal - CANCELLED Fraternal Order of Eagles 2468(Manhattan) - BINGO CANCELLED Geary County Offices - CLOSING at 2:00 pm Geary County Senior Center - CLOSED Live Well Geary County - NO MEALS ON MONDAY, will resume January 22nd Pacheco Beef Shop - CLOSED Pearce-Keller Post No. 17- The American Legion - Game Night - CANCELLED, club still open St. George City Hall - CLOSING at 3:00 pm Sunset Zoo - CLOSED until Tuesday USD 108 Washington County- CLOSED USD 224 Clifton-Clyde - CLOSED USD 333 Concordia - CLOSED USD 378 Riley County - CLOSED due to blowing snow, redrifting and low visibility. RCCC also closed. USD 379 Clay County - CLOSED USD 384 Blue Valley-Randolph - CLOSED USD 417 Morris County - CLOSED USD 473 Chapman - CLOSED USD 475 Geary County - CLOSING at 1:30pm. ALL ATHLETIC and AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES CANCELLED USD 481 Rural Vista - CLOSED USD 487 Herington. - CLOSED Varsity Truck - CLOSED

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705009306770.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for Friday, January 12th*Brown's Shoe Fit Manhattan - CLOSING EARLY at 1:00 pm City of Manhattan Ice Rink - CLOSED City of Manhattan Rec Centers - Anthony &amp; Eisenhower - CLOSING at 7:00 pm; Douglass Activity Center - CLOSING at 6:00 pm Cloud County CC - Concordia and Geary County campuses - CLOSED Common Table Meal - CANCELLED Fraternal Order of Eagles 2468(Manhattan) - BINGO CANCELLED Geary County Offices - CLOSING at 2:00 pm Geary County Senior Center - CLOSED Live Well Geary County - NO MEALS ON MONDAY, will resume January 22nd Pacheco Beef Shop - CLOSED Pearce-Keller Post No. 17- The American Legion - Game Night - CANCELLED, club still open St. George City Hall - CLOSING at 3:00 pm Sunset Zoo - CLOSED until Tuesday USD 108 Washington County- CLOSED USD 224 Clifton-Clyde - CLOSED USD 333 Concordia - CLOSED USD 378 Riley County - CLOSED due to blowing snow, redrifting and low visibility. RCCC also closed. USD 379 Clay County - CLOSED USD 384 Blue Valley-Randolph - CLOSED USD 417 Morris County - CLOSED USD 473 Chapman - CLOSED USD 475 Geary County - CLOSING at 1:30pm. ALL ATHLETIC and AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES CANCELLED USD 481 Rural Vista - CLOSED USD 487 Herington. - CLOSED Varsity Truck - CLOSED*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>.

UPDATE: Closings/Delays for Friday, Jan 12th

Stay indoors when possible and heat your home safely

&nbsp;A winter storm will blow through the region starting late Thursday, bringing freezing temperatures and subzero wind chills that will persist for several days.

The American Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma&nbsp;urges families to take several steps to deal with the cold and heat their homes safely. As with any potential emergency:

“The safest place to be during a winter storm is indoors, and we encourage people to check on loved ones and neighbors to make sure they are staying warm, especially if older adults and babies are involved,” said Shelly Webb, Regional Disaster Officer for the Red Cross Kansas and Oklahoma Region.

PLAN TO STAY WARM&nbsp;Stay warm indoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, and bring your pets inside. Follow these tips to stay safe if you need to go outside:

HEAT YOUR HOME SAFELY&nbsp;Overall, home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year — and home fire responses are 30% higher during cold months than warmer times of year.

“Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in this country,” Webb said. “But, there are steps people can take to avoid having this happen to them.&nbsp;Help keep your family safe by providing at least three feet of space around all heating equipment, testing your smoke alarms monthly and practicing your two-minute home fire escape plan.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

HOW TO SAFELY HEAT YOUR HOME&nbsp;According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires. Follow these tips on how to safely heat your home:

PREVENT HOME FIRE TRAGEDIES&nbsp;To help protect your family year-round, test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan until everyone can escape in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to get out of a burning home before it’s too late.

IF YOU NEED HELP&nbsp;If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeLS8IJC-2BB99tiXP4W4kr5K676kcpn73o7zE9XvMKCf0BQ-3D-3DToXd_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BldppdMx-2FuaAGxc2uC3R9HastYXNz9-2FjgvgycW25VF4Kl1En72fk1b4s0B4ov9tQrOjUcrpI1GuxRo2buJc91wPSPqP5fGa-2BDG7Wj31NzIUB3CJ7MtSXHNzpYVntJTyII8crnyGCNtGdeHbCOXOzPhQ-3D">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BZ4-2Fiwq42Ttnjp-2FND3x4KZR1wV_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BlIwbnGhZzHLvz9eDZjyYz4PGyV5zxGS9mDXdCWroCGFUzpIWazGN8-2F8mnqB-2BspmO25U0FSroF2LYfF5PoMTE4eAu0Opv096mwZqIy-2FE3ZH5odgmdjsZGAC9gwcyqvmkmlTNCCq00rmLMeT6dyGT5ko-3D">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including an&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeILn3iXR3b-2F1ZMW-2FbpT1vi6fxFkZqILiRyVUc-2BdHMc-2B9MoBaBPnnpHle-2FLYeRRJhX5t9mB2tij-2FSVR3mo1Asnbkpo0TZuPnCn8WMbDRBYoOw7OlwfrwyjuqCgJdFFMvvms-3DIwZu_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BnrN8Joot3f8EMvStjrKftsC7IiURoNgvX9yPed1h-2Fjv6w6E29A8vD5ucugLEeNZp-2FgwWTgdSrCOhzCgtaAbzOR22Pb8VedsuABbqzxnYxeBhG307W4vd3E4l4Muz1e-2FYcr-2BdJyNW9MMN97Q3qobM00-3D">escape plan</a>&nbsp;to practice with your family. Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies.&nbsp;Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector.&nbsp;Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BnhGpJFvOLzDF2abERlvDHXV5IgDLutGVK3Bc-2BUmXa0Q-3D-3DwcqO_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BvpRVLJmeTP230F5yAZ4KyR96pfgoGjDI36natdIz-2FW9FIKG0lmL9KrASAUhcnGwYa-2B-2BMswGMHu23TcASl4QUooCZLhXb-2FjhUHmAYgrU-2FUeF0BZb7-2FS1okll-2FhxjBR4SoX-2F70xeYebkbgZpoDQXpTso-3D">redcross.org/apps.</a>

American Red Cross<h2>Stay indoors when possible and heat your home safely</h2>&nbsp;A winter storm will blow through the region starting late Thursday, bringing freezing temperatures and subzero wind chills that will persist for several days.The American Red Cross serving Kansas and Oklahoma&nbsp;urges families to take several steps to deal with the cold and heat their homes safely. As with any potential emergency:<ol>
 <li>Get a kit.&nbsp;Gather food, water and medicine for every member of your household, including pets. Stores may be closed, and it may be unsafe to travel.</li><li>Make a plan.&nbsp;Know where you will go if your power is out or if your home becomes too cold.</li><li>Stay informed.&nbsp;Sign up for free emergency alerts, follow local weather and news, and download the free&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR8cGFRKXyJbM1vK9CAowRNVLNqO_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2Bpf-2BDmN3FLbPCRBIT93Mv8a78OutLEIkAY5mzzEYoN3HhGUy470qMLAKNTglJdssVuG83C8Y-2FAmSBeY6HV2yjf-2Byr9benaoreCTeMgR-2B1jWx-2FgyTUzDRt7vHYoJ44FvVaGr6eEPp6jfDMga8LAJ0Xj8-3D">Red Cross Emergency app</a>.</li>
 </ol>“The safest place to be during a winter storm is indoors, and we encourage people to check on loved ones and neighbors to make sure they are staying warm, especially if older adults and babies are involved,” said Shelly Webb, Regional Disaster Officer for the Red Cross Kansas and Oklahoma Region.PLAN TO STAY WARM&nbsp;Stay warm indoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, and bring your pets inside. Follow these tips to stay safe if you need to go outside:<ul>
 <li>Dress properly. Keep your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes covered in warm, dry clothing. These areas are the first to be at risk of frostbite. Wear layers of loose clothing, a coat, hat, mittens or gloves, and water-resistant boots. Use a scarf to cover your face and mouth.</li><li>Drink plenty of warm fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.</li><li>Avoid travel if you can.</li><li>Use ice-melting products to keep your walkways safe.</li><li>Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. If you or someone you are with is shaking uncontrollably, getting extremely tired, turning very pale or getting numb fingers, toes, ears or nose — get out of the cold immediately.</li>
 </ul>HEAT YOUR HOME SAFELY&nbsp;Overall, home fires account for most of the 60,000-plus disasters that the Red Cross responds to each year — and home fire responses are 30% higher during cold months than warmer times of year.“Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in this country,” Webb said. “But, there are steps people can take to avoid having this happen to them.&nbsp;Help keep your family safe by providing at least three feet of space around all heating equipment, testing your smoke alarms monthly and practicing your two-minute home fire escape plan.”&nbsp;&nbsp;HOW TO SAFELY HEAT YOUR HOME&nbsp;According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are most often responsible for home heating fires. Follow these tips on how to safely heat your home:<ul>
 <li>If you must use a space heater, never leave it unattended. Place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface, such as a ceramic tile floor. Don’t place it on rugs and carpets, or near bedding and drapes.</li><li>Plug space heater power cords directly into outlets&nbsp;— never into an extension cord. Turn the space heater off every time you leave the room or go to sleep.&nbsp;</li><li>Keep children, pets and anything that can burn at least three feet&nbsp;away from heating equipment.&nbsp;</li><li>Never use a cooking range&nbsp;or oven&nbsp;to heat your home.</li><li>Never leave a fire burning in the fireplace unattended. Make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home. Use a glass or metal fire screen to keep embers in the fireplace.</li><li>Have furnaces, chimneys, fireplaces, wood and coal stoves inspected annually&nbsp;by a professional and cleaned if necessary.</li>
 </ul>PREVENT HOME FIRE TRAGEDIES&nbsp;To help protect your family year-round, test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your home fire escape plan until everyone can escape in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to get out of a burning home before it’s too late.IF YOU NEED HELP&nbsp;If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeLS8IJC-2BB99tiXP4W4kr5K676kcpn73o7zE9XvMKCf0BQ-3D-3DToXd_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BldppdMx-2FuaAGxc2uC3R9HastYXNz9-2FjgvgycW25VF4Kl1En72fk1b4s0B4ov9tQrOjUcrpI1GuxRo2buJc91wPSPqP5fGa-2BDG7Wj31NzIUB3CJ7MtSXHNzpYVntJTyII8crnyGCNtGdeHbCOXOzPhQ-3D">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BZ4-2Fiwq42Ttnjp-2FND3x4KZR1wV_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BlIwbnGhZzHLvz9eDZjyYz4PGyV5zxGS9mDXdCWroCGFUzpIWazGN8-2F8mnqB-2BspmO25U0FSroF2LYfF5PoMTE4eAu0Opv096mwZqIy-2FE3ZH5odgmdjsZGAC9gwcyqvmkmlTNCCq00rmLMeT6dyGT5ko-3D">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including an&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUbSEB1yYF5kXzlN-2FZgqLHeILn3iXR3b-2F1ZMW-2FbpT1vi6fxFkZqILiRyVUc-2BdHMc-2B9MoBaBPnnpHle-2FLYeRRJhX5t9mB2tij-2FSVR3mo1Asnbkpo0TZuPnCn8WMbDRBYoOw7OlwfrwyjuqCgJdFFMvvms-3DIwZu_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BnrN8Joot3f8EMvStjrKftsC7IiURoNgvX9yPed1h-2Fjv6w6E29A8vD5ucugLEeNZp-2FgwWTgdSrCOhzCgtaAbzOR22Pb8VedsuABbqzxnYxeBhG307W4vd3E4l4Muz1e-2FYcr-2BdJyNW9MMN97Q3qobM00-3D">escape plan</a>&nbsp;to practice with your family. Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies.&nbsp;Choose whether you want to view the content in English or Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector.&nbsp;Find these and all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR-2BnhGpJFvOLzDF2abERlvDHXV5IgDLutGVK3Bc-2BUmXa0Q-3D-3DwcqO_Q14NuxFof-2FlSOp3J3UZ6h3JsMwrH0FQP9CbYhwp0E-2Fi6k9-2FY7KIUQQIAJ9nTnr7S67jx-2FpLkk7LCz-2FvWQPef3JNh7xNUiSr7CmOagB6uAucmJuQjfa0fWiBID0IOylyNM2f-2FSzCoLfCvUDLYsiQlrczwZnHwz0LjuBOKQV5SiTaMHb6JD3l9iwo6yLpWSLJjWi2sI5bDFPl-2FEISG6Pj4-2BvpRVLJmeTP230F5yAZ4KyR96pfgoGjDI36natdIz-2FW9FIKG0lmL9KrASAUhcnGwYa-2B-2BMswGMHu23TcASl4QUooCZLhXb-2FjhUHmAYgrU-2FUeF0BZb7-2FS1okll-2FhxjBR4SoX-2F70xeYebkbgZpoDQXpTso-3D">redcross.org/apps.</a>

Bitter cold coming ─ Red Cross has tips to stay safe

RILEY COUNTY - Starting Friday, January 12 through at least Tuesday, January 16th, the National Weather Service has forecasted extreme cold temperatures for Riley County and the surrounding areas.

Additional snow accumulation, along with strong winds are expected. The wind chill could be as low 30 degrees below zero, creating hazardous conditions for both people and animals.

"Have at least one good means of communication, cell phone, if not two or three, have plenty of blankets and some food in your vehicle, a full tank of gas and plenty of cold weather gear, gloves, hats, coats and proper footwear to in case you do have trouble, that you can stay warm for an extended amount of time." Russel Stukey, Riley County Emergency Management Director says.

Staying safe during the extreme cold is one of major concerns, including advance preparations to hopefully prevent pipes from freezing during the frigid temperatures.

"If you have some pipes that you know are prone to freeze, you know, let them drip, don't have them shut off all the way. Find out where those the air is infiltrating into the home or the building and seal up those holes, whether it's with, you know, spray expanding foam or bales of hay or plastic or whatever means you need to do to keep that wind from infiltrating into the structure and then be extra cautious when using generators or alternate heat sources, especially ones that are gas burning because they can cause fumes and carbon monoxide. And that's obviously very dangerous. If you're using a generator, you want to make sure it's outside of the house, away from any air intakes and avoid that motor exhaust from getting into the house and causing problems and be extra cautious of those alternate heating devices, whether they're gas or electric operated because they're not in the in your house normally." Stukey says.

If there becomes a large-scale emergency, such as a widespread power or natural gas outage, Riley County Emergency Management officials will coordinate with area agencies to open a group shelter, if needed, at that time.

There are multiple day time warming shelters located in Manhattan, <a href="https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/22758/RILEY-COUNTY-LOCATIONS-FOR-HEAT-COLD-RELIEF">information about those can be found here.</a>

There are two overnight warming shelters available in Manhattan. One is the Manhattan Emergency Shelter, which does have an occupancy limit, as well, as eligibility requirements.

The other overnight warming shelter is the Center of Hope Ministry at Vineyard Community Church, which is located at 2400 Casement Road. This shelter is open all winter when temperatures overnight are below 36 degrees. Shelter is available here from 7:00 pm to 7:00 am.

<div><div style="position:relative;overflow:hidden;padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/HlIEARLZ-60zMcgvZ.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Frozen Riley County" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - Starting Friday, January 12 through at least Tuesday, January 16th, the National Weather Service has forecasted extreme cold temperatures for Riley County and the surrounding areas.Additional snow accumulation, along with strong winds are expected. The wind chill could be as low 30 degrees below zero, creating hazardous conditions for both people and animals."Have at least one good means of communication, cell phone, if not two or three, have plenty of blankets and some food in your vehicle, a full tank of gas and plenty of cold weather gear, gloves, hats, coats and proper footwear to in case you do have trouble, that you can stay warm for an extended amount of time." Russel Stukey, Riley County Emergency Management Director says.Staying safe during the extreme cold is one of major concerns, including advance preparations to hopefully prevent pipes from freezing during the frigid temperatures."If you have some pipes that you know are prone to freeze, you know, let them drip, don't have them shut off all the way. Find out where those the air is infiltrating into the home or the building and seal up those holes, whether it's with, you know, spray expanding foam or bales of hay or plastic or whatever means you need to do to keep that wind from infiltrating into the structure and then be extra cautious when using generators or alternate heat sources, especially ones that are gas burning because they can cause fumes and carbon monoxide. And that's obviously very dangerous. If you're using a generator, you want to make sure it's outside of the house, away from any air intakes and avoid that motor exhaust from getting into the house and causing problems and be extra cautious of those alternate heating devices, whether they're gas or electric operated because they're not in the in your house normally." Stukey says.If there becomes a large-scale emergency, such as a widespread power or natural gas outage, Riley County Emergency Management officials will coordinate with area agencies to open a group shelter, if needed, at that time.There are multiple day time warming shelters located in Manhattan, <a href="https://www.rileycountyks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/22758/RILEY-COUNTY-LOCATIONS-FOR-HEAT-COLD-RELIEF">information about those can be found here.</a>There are two overnight warming shelters available in Manhattan. One is the Manhattan Emergency Shelter, which does have an occupancy limit, as well, as eligibility requirements.The other overnight warming shelter is the Center of Hope Ministry at Vineyard Community Church, which is located at 2400 Casement Road. This shelter is open all winter when temperatures overnight are below 36 degrees. Shelter is available here from 7:00 pm to 7:00 am.

🎥: Riley Co. EM advises residents to prepare for frigid temps, more snow

DENNIS JOSEPH SUNNEBERG, 63, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 2nd conviction; blood/breath .08&gt;; Bond $1,500

MICHAEL WALTER JONES, 54, Manhattan, Failure to appear;&nbsp;

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;DENNIS JOSEPH SUNNEBERG, 63, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 2nd conviction; blood/breath .08&gt;; Bond $1,500<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668098012964.jpeg" alt="Michael Walter Jones., pictures from KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Michael Walter Jones., pictures from KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>MICHAEL WALTER JONES, 54, Manhattan, Failure to appear;&nbsp;

📷: Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 11

By WILL BAUER <a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-12-22/u-s-trade-deficit-agriculture-exports-imports-record-high">Harvest Public Media&nbsp;</a>

The United States has imported $20 billion more in agricultural products than it exported — putting the sector on pace to run a record deficit. A look at what’s behind the numbers.

For the third time in five years, agricultural trade in the United States will be at a deficit — when a country imports more than it exports.

As of November, the U.S. imported $20 billion more in agricultural products than it exported in 2023, which would set a record for biggest deficit in a calendar year in nearly a century if the trend continues through the last month of the year.

For some farmers, this year’s big deficit is a sign that trade has taken a hit and other countries may be out trading the U.S. However, some economists argue there are logical explanations behind what has created such an eye-popping deficit — including rising imports, a strong American dollar and basic supply and demand.

“Trade deficits aren’t something we should be inherently worried about,” said Bill Ridley, a professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, who studies international trade.

Over the last five years,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/foreign-agricultural-trade-of-the-united-states-fatus/u-s-agricultural-trade-data-update/" target="_blank">agricultural exports</a>&nbsp;have climbed from $141 billion in 2019 to nearly $196 billion in 2022, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In both 2020 and 2021, agricultural trade was at a surplus, or the opposite of a deficit, where exports exceed imports.

In the 2023 calendar year, the U.S. has reported exporting $143 billion and importing $163 billion. At this time last year, the country had exported about $18 billion more.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/foreign-agricultural-trade-of-the-united-states-fatus/u-s-agricultural-trade-data-update/" target="_blank">Data for the remainder of the year</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to be published Jan. 11.

“The U.S. is very much still the breadbasket to the world,” said Doug McKalip, chief agricultural negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative, the government agency responsible for promoting trade. “We're growing things and successfully exporting them around the globe. So there's certainly a lot more to it than what might meet the eye initially.”

To the farmers who grow some of the most profitable exports — soybeans, corn and wheat — the deficit is concerning and something many watch closely.

Chris Otten, a fourth generation grower who owns roughly 1,400 acres in southwest Illinois, said farmers would like to see the deficit turn into a surplus.

“That’d be ideal for us,” Otten said. “I don’t know if that’ll ever happen, but that is ideal for us to get back to where we’re exporting as much as we possibly can.”

During a year like this, when export totals have also dropped, farmers are naturally prepared to weather the current economic conditions, Otten said. However, the politics of trade are frustrating to him.

Examples include when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/08/06/china-agriculture-us-economy.html" target="_blank">China pulled out of buying</a>&nbsp;U.S. agricultural products in 2019 or how&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-us-gm-corn-trade-dispute-5b3127bff468f48592d1bbe80e1b1fac" target="_blank">Mexico announced this year it intends to ban genetically modified corn</a>. The political nature of those disputes cost farmers, he said.

“I contend our food source shouldn't be a political game,” Otten said.

In his eyes, one remedy would be striking trade deals with other countries around the world to establish more avenues to sell American products.

For Otten and other farmers, checking a small box — called the commodity checkoff program — is a good place to start. Those provide small funds to certain commodity groups that could help advocate for expanded trade opportunities.

To Ridley, the Illinois professor, analyzing all agricultural trade markets in one lump can be misleading. While all share similarities, looking at individual commodities paints a more accurate picture, he said.

For example, exports of soybeans, the most profitable commodity, have been robust this year, Ridley said. Through October, Americans exported $21.38 billion worth of soybeans this year. In 2022, a record year, that figure stood at $23.81 billion during the same time frame.

Corn exports also remain high. This year, $11.1 billion worth of corn has been sold and shipped abroad, according to USDA data. At the same time last year, the U.S. exported $16.5 billion.

Economists have a variety of answers as to why agricultural imports will far outpace exports in 2023. Simply put, Ridley said, it boils down to one thing: more imports.

“It seems to be purely and almost entirely a story about imports rising,” Ridley said. “And, of course, the more you import, holding your exports mostly constant, that's going to shrink your trade surplus or create a trade deficit.”

Through November, the U.S. had imported $163 billion worth of agricultural products. That figure stood at $166 billion at the same time in 2022.

The strength of the American dollar also plays a factor with the deficit, said Tanner Ehmke, an economist with CoBank, one of the biggest lenders to rural America.

"A strong dollar makes our exports non-competitive overseas, and it makes imports more competitive,” Ehmke said. “Our stronger dollar gives us more purchasing power. Therefore, we can afford to bring in more imports.”

Also, Americans are now using some products domestically that they used to export, Ehmke said. Namely,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/en/market-insights/latest-news/agriculture/101223-us-shifts-to-net-soybean-oil-importer-on-biofuel-boom-foreign-agricultural-service#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20FAS%2C%20increased,out%20of%20global%20export%20market." target="_blank">renewable diesel demand</a>&nbsp;has grown so much that the U.S. is keeping vast amounts of soybean oil home. To compensate for this, Americans are now importing more canola oil, largely from Canada, to fill that demand.

As the U.S. exports trickled downward,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/us-corn-soy-exporters-continue-battling-huge-brazilian-supplies-2023-10-06/" target="_blank">Brazil</a>&nbsp;continues to have record years. They’re becoming especially competitive with American farmers when it comes to corn, soybeans, cotton and rice, Ehmke said.

Russia is yet another country that’s had a record crop in 2023. Pair that with the value of their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dallasfed.org/research/economics/2023/1010" target="_blank">currency collapsing</a>, the agriculture exports from Russia are ample and cheap, Ehmke said.

“There's a lot of events that are coalescing here,” Ehmke said.

Not only are economic dynamics changing abroad, they are also changing domestically, said Tait Berg, a southern Minnesota farmer who also works at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.

“The U.S. consumer, we want a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, and we can’t grow that year round here,” Berg said.

Through October, the U.S. imported $79 billion worth of fruits and vegetables. At the same time in 2022, that figure stood at nearly $76 billion.

In Berg’s eyes, this is the global market meeting its demand. The market responded similarly in 2020 when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marketplace.org/2020/04/15/flour-yeast-sales-rise-people-bake-bread-quarantine/" target="_blank">demand for flour grew like crazy</a>. Many people baked more while they worked from home.

“Hopefully, we're growing global trade, and that's kind of part of the deal,” Berg said. “That's what we want.”

Economists expect that agriculture trade may eventually swing in the other direction and could be in surplus again. If and exactly when are harder questions to answer.

During the next fiscal year, USDA forecasters anticipate the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/pub-details/?pubid=108031" target="_blank">deficit could widen</a>. Exports are projected to total $169.5 billion. Imports will tally $200 billion — leaving the deficit standing around $30.5 billion.

For farmers, they say they will wait to see what happens. As always, they’ll need to be financially prepared for whatever weather they get or whatever the markets dictate.

“These forecasts and projections always change,” Berg said. “And that’s just something that we’re all a part of as producers. We need to keep our ducks in a row.”

<a href="https://www.stlpr.org/will-bauer" target="_blank">Will Bauer</a>&nbsp;is St. Louis Public Radio's Metro East reporter. This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/174d4ae/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x1000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fbc%2F5c%2F663ac7304703990f28ae32e5cda2%2F12222023-tr-harvestagexports-7.png" alt="Jason Imel, a deck hand with Cargill, Inc., blows excess soybeans off the top of a river barge and closes the barge’s loading lids on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at Cargill, Inc.’s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. For the third time in five years, the U.S. will import more agricultural products than it exports. However, this year’s deficit is tracking to be around $20 billion, far more than last year’s $2 billion deficit.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>Jason Imel, a deck hand with Cargill, Inc., blows excess soybeans off the top of a river barge and closes the barge’s loading lids on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at Cargill, Inc.’s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. For the third time in five years, the U.S. will import more agricultural products than it exports. However, this year’s deficit is tracking to be around $20 billion, far more than last year’s $2 billion deficit.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure> By WILL BAUER <a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-12-22/u-s-trade-deficit-agriculture-exports-imports-record-high">Harvest Public Media&nbsp;</a><h2>The United States has imported $20 billion more in agricultural products than it exported — putting the sector on pace to run a record deficit. A look at what’s behind the numbers.</h2>For the third time in five years, agricultural trade in the United States will be at a deficit — when a country imports more than it exports.As of November, the U.S. imported $20 billion more in agricultural products than it exported in 2023, which would set a record for biggest deficit in a calendar year in nearly a century if the trend continues through the last month of the year.For some farmers, this year’s big deficit is a sign that trade has taken a hit and other countries may be out trading the U.S. However, some economists argue there are logical explanations behind what has created such an eye-popping deficit — including rising imports, a strong American dollar and basic supply and demand.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9941387/2147483647/strip/true/crop/3000x2000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fe4%2F0c%2F18a64ece4859bac70abff5f8de71%2F12222023-tr-harvestagexports-2.JPG" alt="A river barge is loaded with soybeans on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at Cargill, Inc.'s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. While major commodity crop exports such as corn and soybeans remain high, U.S. imports far outpaced exports in 2023.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A river barge is loaded with soybeans on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, at Cargill, Inc.'s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. While major commodity crop exports such as corn and soybeans remain high, U.S. imports far outpaced exports in 2023.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>“Trade deficits aren’t something we should be inherently worried about,” said Bill Ridley, a professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, who studies international trade.Over the last five years,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/foreign-agricultural-trade-of-the-united-states-fatus/u-s-agricultural-trade-data-update/" target="_blank">agricultural exports</a>&nbsp;have climbed from $141 billion in 2019 to nearly $196 billion in 2022, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In both 2020 and 2021, agricultural trade was at a surplus, or the opposite of a deficit, where exports exceed imports.In the 2023 calendar year, the U.S. has reported exporting $143 billion and importing $163 billion. At this time last year, the country had exported about $18 billion more.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/foreign-agricultural-trade-of-the-united-states-fatus/u-s-agricultural-trade-data-update/" target="_blank">Data for the remainder of the year</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to be published Jan. 11.“The U.S. is very much still the breadbasket to the world,” said Doug McKalip, chief agricultural negotiator for the U.S. Trade Representative, the government agency responsible for promoting trade. “We're growing things and successfully exporting them around the globe. So there's certainly a lot more to it than what might meet the eye initially.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704846572125.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To the farmers who grow some of the most profitable exports — soybeans, corn and wheat — the deficit is concerning and something many watch closely.Chris Otten, a fourth generation grower who owns roughly 1,400 acres in southwest Illinois, said farmers would like to see the deficit turn into a surplus.“That’d be ideal for us,” Otten said. “I don’t know if that’ll ever happen, but that is ideal for us to get back to where we’re exporting as much as we possibly can.”During a year like this, when export totals have also dropped, farmers are naturally prepared to weather the current economic conditions, Otten said. However, the politics of trade are frustrating to him.Examples include when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/08/06/china-agriculture-us-economy.html" target="_blank">China pulled out of buying</a>&nbsp;U.S. agricultural products in 2019 or how&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-us-gm-corn-trade-dispute-5b3127bff468f48592d1bbe80e1b1fac" target="_blank">Mexico announced this year it intends to ban genetically modified corn</a>. The political nature of those disputes cost farmers, he said.“I contend our food source shouldn't be a political game,” Otten said.In his eyes, one remedy would be striking trade deals with other countries around the world to establish more avenues to sell American products.For Otten and other farmers, checking a small box — called the commodity checkoff program — is a good place to start. Those provide small funds to certain commodity groups that could help advocate for expanded trade opportunities.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/ee8fae9/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x1000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fec%2F0b%2F414dd9554f5bb498bd80377634c7%2F12182023-tr-harvestagexports-14.JPG" alt="&nbsp;Chris Otten checks the moisture levels of his corn crop, stored in bins while they wait to be sold, on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, at his farm outside St. Libory, Illinois. Otten said he's concerned about the ag trade deficit and hopes the Biden administration is focused on finding new trade partners.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/Lance Lillibridge" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Chris Otten checks the moisture levels of his corn crop, stored in bins while they wait to be sold, on Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, at his farm outside St. Libory, Illinois. Otten said he's concerned about the ag trade deficit and hopes the Biden administration is focused on finding new trade partners.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/Lance Lillibridge</figcaption>
 </figure>To Ridley, the Illinois professor, analyzing all agricultural trade markets in one lump can be misleading. While all share similarities, looking at individual commodities paints a more accurate picture, he said.For example, exports of soybeans, the most profitable commodity, have been robust this year, Ridley said. Through October, Americans exported $21.38 billion worth of soybeans this year. In 2022, a record year, that figure stood at $23.81 billion during the same time frame.Corn exports also remain high. This year, $11.1 billion worth of corn has been sold and shipped abroad, according to USDA data. At the same time last year, the U.S. exported $16.5 billion.The causes of the deficitEconomists have a variety of answers as to why agricultural imports will far outpace exports in 2023. Simply put, Ridley said, it boils down to one thing: more imports.“It seems to be purely and almost entirely a story about imports rising,” Ridley said. “And, of course, the more you import, holding your exports mostly constant, that's going to shrink your trade surplus or create a trade deficit.”Through November, the U.S. had imported $163 billion worth of agricultural products. That figure stood at $166 billion at the same time in 2022.The strength of the American dollar also plays a factor with the deficit, said Tanner Ehmke, an economist with CoBank, one of the biggest lenders to rural America.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4d06e6b/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x1000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Ff3%2Fc4%2F15b2b9954a06a9d31cbc33531ae0%2F12222023-tr-harvestagexports-1.JPG" alt="&nbsp;Corn is dropped out of a transport truck and into a collection pit on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023 at Cargill, Inc.’s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. The U.S. exported $11.1 billion worth of corn through November, according to USDA data, compared with $16.5 billion at the same point in 2022.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Corn is dropped out of a transport truck and into a collection pit on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023 at Cargill, Inc.’s facility in East St. Louis, Illinois. The U.S. exported $11.1 billion worth of corn through November, according to USDA data, compared with $16.5 billion at the same point in 2022.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure>"A strong dollar makes our exports non-competitive overseas, and it makes imports more competitive,” Ehmke said. “Our stronger dollar gives us more purchasing power. Therefore, we can afford to bring in more imports.”Also, Americans are now using some products domestically that they used to export, Ehmke said. Namely,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/en/market-insights/latest-news/agriculture/101223-us-shifts-to-net-soybean-oil-importer-on-biofuel-boom-foreign-agricultural-service#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20FAS%2C%20increased,out%20of%20global%20export%20market." target="_blank">renewable diesel demand</a>&nbsp;has grown so much that the U.S. is keeping vast amounts of soybean oil home. To compensate for this, Americans are now importing more canola oil, largely from Canada, to fill that demand.As the U.S. exports trickled downward,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/us-corn-soy-exporters-continue-battling-huge-brazilian-supplies-2023-10-06/" target="_blank">Brazil</a>&nbsp;continues to have record years. They’re becoming especially competitive with American farmers when it comes to corn, soybeans, cotton and rice, Ehmke said.Russia is yet another country that’s had a record crop in 2023. Pair that with the value of their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dallasfed.org/research/economics/2023/1010" target="_blank">currency collapsing</a>, the agriculture exports from Russia are ample and cheap, Ehmke said.“There's a lot of events that are coalescing here,” Ehmke said.Not only are economic dynamics changing abroad, they are also changing domestically, said Tait Berg, a southern Minnesota farmer who also works at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.“The U.S. consumer, we want a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, and we can’t grow that year round here,” Berg said.Through October, the U.S. imported $79 billion worth of fruits and vegetables. At the same time in 2022, that figure stood at nearly $76 billion.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/9c73ab7/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1500x1000+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F35%2Ff9%2F88b7c94c410fab69af86a46b32c5%2F12182023-tr-harvestagexports-3.JPG" alt="Chris Otten holds some of his harvested corn crop at his farm outside St. Libory, Illinois.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio" />
 <figcaption>Chris Otten holds some of his harvested corn crop at his farm outside St. Libory, Illinois.&nbsp;Tristen Rouse/St. Louis Public Radio</figcaption>
 </figure>In Berg’s eyes, this is the global market meeting its demand. The market responded similarly in 2020 when&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marketplace.org/2020/04/15/flour-yeast-sales-rise-people-bake-bread-quarantine/" target="_blank">demand for flour grew like crazy</a>. Many people baked more while they worked from home.“Hopefully, we're growing global trade, and that's kind of part of the deal,” Berg said. “That's what we want.”Economists expect that agriculture trade may eventually swing in the other direction and could be in surplus again. If and exactly when are harder questions to answer.During the next fiscal year, USDA forecasters anticipate the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/pub-details/?pubid=108031" target="_blank">deficit could widen</a>. Exports are projected to total $169.5 billion. Imports will tally $200 billion — leaving the deficit standing around $30.5 billion.For farmers, they say they will wait to see what happens. As always, they’ll need to be financially prepared for whatever weather they get or whatever the markets dictate.“These forecasts and projections always change,” Berg said. “And that’s just something that we’re all a part of as producers. We need to keep our ducks in a row.”<a href="https://www.stlpr.org/will-bauer" target="_blank">Will Bauer</a>&nbsp;is St. Louis Public Radio's Metro East reporter. This story was produced in partnership with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/harvestpublicmedia" target="_blank">Harvest Public Media</a>, a collaboration of public media newsrooms in the Midwest. It reports on food systems, agriculture and rural issues.

U.S. agricultural trade deficit could reach record highs for 2023. Is there cause for concern?

ZACHARY TAYLOR WHITE EAGLE, 17, Manhattan, Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm;&nbsp;

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;ZACHARY TAYLOR WHITE EAGLE, 17, Manhattan, Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm;&nbsp;

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 10

WAMEGO - Just before 4:30 am, on Tuesday, January 9th, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Dispatch was contacted by a Wamego resident who reported he neighbor's home appeared to be on fire and the residents were home.

Dispatch paged Fire, EMS and Law Enforcement personnel to the home, located in the 100 block of Chestnut Street.

Louisville Fire Department Chief, Travis Ten Eyck, who lives nearby, responded directly to the residence from his home and found smoke and fire coming from the residence when he arrived on scene.

Shortly after arriving Chief Ten Eyck learned there were two occupants at the residence, one had made his way safely outside, however, a 66-year-old male was unable to leave his bedroom.

Chief Ten Eyck made the decision to enter the residence, without any protective gear, to attempt to locate the resident and assist them with exiting the house.

Initially the resident resisted assistance in leaving the residence, but lost consciousness, at which time, Chief Ten Eyck carried him to a window, where Wamego Police Officer, Maxie Joye assisted him in getting the resident out of the house, and then assisted Chief Ten Eyck out of the structure.

Wamego Fire Department personnel arrived on scene shortly after the rescue, and extinguished the fire.

According to Wamego Fire Chief Phil Stultz, the fire was contained to the kitchen and hallway, however, smoke damaged 80% of the residence.&nbsp;Chief Stultz continued, “Firefighters did a great job of entering and putting out the fire.”

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.

Agencies responding to the fire include:&nbsp;Wamego Fire Department, Louisville Fire Department, Saint George Fire Department, Blue Township Fire Department, Pottawatomie County EMS, Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office, and Wamego Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704851757172.png" alt="picture courtesy Wamego Fire Chief Stultz" />
 <figcaption>picture courtesy Wamego Fire Chief Stultz</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostWAMEGO - Just before 4:30 am, on Tuesday, January 9th, Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Dispatch was contacted by a Wamego resident who reported he neighbor's home appeared to be on fire and the residents were home.Dispatch paged Fire, EMS and Law Enforcement personnel to the home, located in the 100 block of Chestnut Street.Louisville Fire Department Chief, Travis Ten Eyck, who lives nearby, responded directly to the residence from his home and found smoke and fire coming from the residence when he arrived on scene.Shortly after arriving Chief Ten Eyck learned there were two occupants at the residence, one had made his way safely outside, however, a 66-year-old male was unable to leave his bedroom.Chief Ten Eyck made the decision to enter the residence, without any protective gear, to attempt to locate the resident and assist them with exiting the house.Initially the resident resisted assistance in leaving the residence, but lost consciousness, at which time, Chief Ten Eyck carried him to a window, where Wamego Police Officer, Maxie Joye assisted him in getting the resident out of the house, and then assisted Chief Ten Eyck out of the structure.Wamego Fire Department personnel arrived on scene shortly after the rescue, and extinguished the fire.According to Wamego Fire Chief Phil Stultz, the fire was contained to the kitchen and hallway, however, smoke damaged 80% of the residence.&nbsp;Chief Stultz continued, “Firefighters did a great job of entering and putting out the fire.”The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.Agencies responding to the fire include:&nbsp;Wamego Fire Department, Louisville Fire Department, Saint George Fire Department, Blue Township Fire Department, Pottawatomie County EMS, Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office, and Wamego Police Department.

Louisville, Kan. Fire Chief helps rescue resident from housefire

CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for Wednesday, January 10th*

Boys &amp; Girls Club of Manhattan - Both Manhattan &amp; Wamego sites CLOSED Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas - All Outreach Services CANCELLED, questions call 785-825-0208 Chick-fil-A - DELAYED OPENING at 10:30 am Fort Riley - 2 HOUR DELAY Manhattan Area Technical College - 9:00 AM START TIME Manhattan Public Library - DELAYED OPENING at 11:00 am Manhattan Senior Center - CLOSED Sunset Zoo - CLOSED until Tuesday, January 16th USD 320 Wamego - CLOSED USD 323 Rock Creek - CLOSED USD 378 Riley County - CLOSED due to gravel road conditions and drifting snow USD 383 Manhattan Ogden - CLOSED USD 384 Randolph - CLOSED due to gravel road conditions USD 473 Chapman - 2 HOUR DELAY USD 475 Geary County - 2 HOUR DELAY

*This list will be updated throughout the day as more information is released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704848344368.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for Wednesday, January 10th*Boys &amp; Girls Club of Manhattan - Both Manhattan &amp; Wamego sites CLOSED Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas - All Outreach Services CANCELLED, questions call 785-825-0208 Chick-fil-A - DELAYED OPENING at 10:30 am Fort Riley - 2 HOUR DELAY Manhattan Area Technical College - 9:00 AM START TIME Manhattan Public Library - DELAYED OPENING at 11:00 am Manhattan Senior Center - CLOSED Sunset Zoo - CLOSED until Tuesday, January 16th USD 320 Wamego - CLOSED USD 323 Rock Creek - CLOSED USD 378 Riley County - CLOSED due to gravel road conditions and drifting snow USD 383 Manhattan Ogden - CLOSED USD 384 Randolph - CLOSED due to gravel road conditions USD 473 Chapman - 2 HOUR DELAY USD 475 Geary County - 2 HOUR DELAY*This list will be updated throughout the day as more information is released.<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/218b3bab-a265-466c-8167-589f5a2b7e14">Closing and delay information can be submitted here</a>.

UPDATE: Closings/Delays for Wednesday, Jan. 10

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post/JC Post

MANHATTAN - Applications can now be submitted for those wishing to attend the 2024 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas(ALBSK).

The 2024 session will be held from Sunday, June 2nd through Saturday, June 8th at Kansas State University in Manhattan.

In the past, Boys State of Kansas has been open to individuals who have completed their junior year of high school just prior to the event.&nbsp;

This year the ALBSK will allow applications from individuals completing their sophomore year of high school this spring as well.

The ALBSK program provides an interactive, problem-solving experience in which teamwork and leadership skills are used to help develop self-identity and promote mutual respect among peers.

Participants will learn more about civic responsibility including obigations to the individual's community, state and nation.

Boys State is a 'learn by doing' political experience with opportunities to learn more about elections, political parties and government at multiple levels.

The cost to attend the Boys State of Kansas program is $375, however, sponsorship opportunities may reduce the amount the delegate and their family are required to pay.

To apply for the 2024 session, visit <a href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.

For information about the 2024 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held on Sunday, June 2, through Friday, June 8, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit <a href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704830721864.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post/JC PostMANHATTAN - Applications can now be submitted for those wishing to attend the 2024 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas(ALBSK).The 2024 session will be held from Sunday, June 2nd through Saturday, June 8th at Kansas State University in Manhattan.In the past, Boys State of Kansas has been open to individuals who have completed their junior year of high school just prior to the event.&nbsp;This year the ALBSK will allow applications from individuals completing their sophomore year of high school this spring as well.The ALBSK program provides an interactive, problem-solving experience in which teamwork and leadership skills are used to help develop self-identity and promote mutual respect among peers.Participants will learn more about civic responsibility including obigations to the individual's community, state and nation.Boys State is a 'learn by doing' political experience with opportunities to learn more about elections, political parties and government at multiple levels.The cost to attend the Boys State of Kansas program is $375, however, sponsorship opportunities may reduce the amount the delegate and their family are required to pay.To apply for the 2024 session, visit <a href="https://ksbstate.org/">ksbstate.org</a>.For information about the 2024 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held on Sunday, June 2, through Friday, June 8, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit <a href="https://www.ksgirlsstate.org/">ksgirlsstate.org</a>.

American Legion Boys State of Kansas accepting applications for 2024 event

POTTAWATOMIE CO. - The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office is asking for assistance from the public in identifying the individual pictured above.

This person is the suspect in a case of criminal use of a financial card.

Video footage shows the individual using the card in multiple counties.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Kidd at the Sheriff’s Office reference case 2023-06360 at 785-457-3353, or leave a tip on our Crime-Stoppers link at <a href="https://ptsheriff.com/programs-resources/crime-stoppers/">www.ptsheriff.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704829374402.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostPOTTAWATOMIE CO. - The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office is asking for assistance from the public in identifying the individual pictured above.This person is the suspect in a case of criminal use of a financial card.Video footage shows the individual using the card in multiple counties.Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Kidd at the Sheriff’s Office reference case 2023-06360 at 785-457-3353, or leave a tip on our Crime-Stoppers link at <a href="https://ptsheriff.com/programs-resources/crime-stoppers/">www.ptsheriff.com</a>.

Pott. Co. Sheriff's Office asking for assistance identifying individual

RILEY COUNTY - The Riley County EMS has posted a reminder to community members to take breaks while shoveling snow.

Riley County EMS says you should call 911 if you experience any symptoms of a heart attack, including feeling tightness or pain in your chest, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath.

RCEMS recommends taking breaks to avoid oversexertion, which can lead to a heart attack.

It is also recommended while clearing sidewalks also clear snow from around fire hydrants to make access easier for firefighters if a fire were to occur nearby.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - The Riley County EMS has posted a reminder to community members to take breaks while shoveling snow.Riley County EMS says you should call 911 if you experience any symptoms of a heart attack, including feeling tightness or pain in your chest, dizziness, nausea, or shortness of breath.RCEMS recommends taking breaks to avoid oversexertion, which can lead to a heart attack.It is also recommended while clearing sidewalks also clear snow from around fire hydrants to make access easier for firefighters if a fire were to occur nearby.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FRileyCountyEms%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0x25V3WkuFpKachssWxUxa8ELZ1DvcvqXBBazK5SVCWNZosiZWBGz6EgsQW6PyGT4l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="668" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Riley Co. EMS: Suggests taking breaks while shoveling snow

RILEY COUNTY - The Riley County District Court is closed for Tuesday, January 9th.

All Zoom hearings previously scheduled will still proceed.

For those who had in-person hearings schedules, the Riley County District Court recommends you contact your attorney for your next court date or for any questions you may have regarding your court case.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - The Riley County District Court is closed for Tuesday, January 9th.All Zoom hearings previously scheduled will still proceed.For those who had in-person hearings schedules, the Riley County District Court recommends you contact your attorney for your next court date or for any questions you may have regarding your court case.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704817700172.png" alt="Riley County District Court Closed" />
 <figcaption>Riley County District Court Closed</figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley Co. District Court closed, Zoom hearings will proceed

JOSUE BERNARDO MACIAS VASQUEZ, 32, Topeka, Driving while suspended; 1st conviction; Duty of driver to report accident with an unattended vehicle/property; 1st conv; Bond $2,000

ZELAYHA VINCENT, 23, Fort Riley,&nbsp;Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; All Other Larceny; Identity theft; Defraud to receive benefits &lt;$100,000; Identity theft; Defraud to receive benefits &lt;$100,000; Computer unlawful acts; False representation with damage &lt; $100,000; Criminal use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000; Criminal use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000; Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; All Other Larceny; Mistreat dependent adult/elder person; Deception, false pretense, duress, coercion &lt;$1500; Mistreat dependent adult/elder person; Deception, false pretense, duress, coercion &lt;$1500; Criminal use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000; Criminal deprivation of property; Attempted crim use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000; Failure to appear; Bond $11,500

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;JOSUE BERNARDO MACIAS VASQUEZ, 32, Topeka, Driving while suspended; 1st conviction; Duty of driver to report accident with an unattended vehicle/property; 1st conv; Bond $2,000ZELAYHA VINCENT, 23, Fort Riley,&nbsp;Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; All Other Larceny; Identity theft; Defraud to receive benefits &lt;$100,000; Identity theft; Defraud to receive benefits &lt;$100,000; Computer unlawful acts; False representation with damage &lt; $100,000; Criminal use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000; Criminal use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000; Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; All Other Larceny; Mistreat dependent adult/elder person; Deception, false pretense, duress, coercion &lt;$1500; Mistreat dependent adult/elder person; Deception, false pretense, duress, coercion &lt;$1500; Criminal use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000; Criminal deprivation of property; Attempted crim use of a financial card; W/o consent of owner less than $1,000; Failure to appear; Bond $11,500

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 9

MANHATTAN - Be Able Community Center is open and offering space for those who need a place to warm up on Tuesday, January 9th.

According to a post on social media, Be Able will have coats, coffee, winter clothing, and hot showers available.

They will also provide their signature smiles for all who walk through the door.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704811499678.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - Be Able Community Center is open and offering space for those who need a place to warm up on Tuesday, January 9th.According to a post on social media, Be Able will have coats, coffee, winter clothing, and hot showers available.They will also provide their signature smiles for all who walk through the door.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fbeablecommunity%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0FxrLeAHG3vf764QLNA2Yjm2ABJSaKHRjYxYaDwiRTdZ7G9C7da5SwXg6F5ETpxYUl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="610" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Warming center available at Be Able in Manhattan

RILEY COUNTY - Around 10:00 pm on Monday, the Riley County Police Department went into the Emergency Accident Reporting Phase(EARP).

The EARP was put in effect due to the increased number of weather-related crashes being reported.

With the US National Weather Service in Topeka issuing a Winter Storm Warning in effect until noon on Tuesday, January 9th, EARP will remain in effect through the morning.

Here's what you need to do, if you are in a crash, while EARP is in effect:&nbsp;

Crashes must be reported within 48 hours of occurrence. To report a crash after the EARP period is lifted, you need to come to the Riley County Police Department located at 1001 S Seth Child Road in Manhattan.

All parties involved will need to be present when reporting the crash.

* No injuries to any parties involved * No hit-and-run * No driving under the influence (DUI) or suspected alcohol/drug-related crimes * Insurance and contact information are exchanged between responsible parties * Property damage is over $1,000 (If it is under $1,000, you do not need to report it to the police)If there are injuries, a hit-and-run, or DUI, then you should call the police immediately to report the crash.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - Around 10:00 pm on Monday, the Riley County Police Department went into the Emergency Accident Reporting Phase(EARP).The EARP was put in effect due to the increased number of weather-related crashes being reported.With the US National Weather Service in Topeka issuing a Winter Storm Warning in effect until noon on Tuesday, January 9th, EARP will remain in effect through the morning.Here's what you need to do, if you are in a crash, while EARP is in effect:&nbsp;Crashes must be reported within 48 hours of occurrence. To report a crash after the EARP period is lifted, you need to come to the Riley County Police Department located at 1001 S Seth Child Road in Manhattan.All parties involved will need to be present when reporting the crash.* No injuries to any parties involved * No hit-and-run * No driving under the influence (DUI) or suspected alcohol/drug-related crimes * Insurance and contact information are exchanged between responsible parties * Property damage is over $1,000 (If it is under $1,000, you do not need to report it to the police)If there are injuries, a hit-and-run, or DUI, then you should call the police immediately to report the crash.

RCPD: Emergency Accident Reporting Phase is currently in effect

CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for Tuesday, January 9th*

Baskin Robbins in Manhattan - CLOSED Blue River Traders - CLOSED B&amp;L Trash Service - NO SERVICE ROUTES will be collected Bountiful Bins in Riley - CLOSED Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas - Manhattan - CLOSED Child Safety Seat Checks at MFD - CANCELLED City of Manhattan buildings-CLOSED City of Manhattan-City Commission Work Session - CANCELLED City of Manhattan - Municipal Court - CLOSED City of Manhattan Parks and Rec activities - CANCELLED Clay County Offices - CLOSED Combative Sports Center - NO MORNING CLASSES Early Edition - CLOSED Finn's Neighborhood Pub - CLOSED Flight Crew Coffee - CLOSED Flint Hills aTa Bus - DELAYED START - 9:00 am Flint Hills Breadbasket - CLOSED Flint Hills Discovery Center - CLOSED Flint Hills Volunteer Center - CLOSED Fort Riley - LIMITED SERVICES ONLY Green Christian School - CLOSED Kansas State University - CLOSED except essential personnel Konza Prairie Community Health Center - CLOSED Laundry Love MHK - Postponed to Tues, Jan. 16th Manhattan Area Techinical College - CLOSED Manhattan Senior Center - CLOSED Manhattan Public Library - CLOSED Mrs. Powell's Cinnamon Rolls - DELAYED OPENING - will open at 10:00 am(depending on road conditions) Riley County District Court - CLOSED, Zoom hearings will be held Riley County Offices - CLOSED Sunset Zoo. - CLOSED The Chef Cafe - CLOSED TheraPie - CLOSED, reopens Wednesday at 11:00 am Toto's Tacoz - CLOSED USD 323 Rock Creek Schools - CLOSED USD 329 Wabaunsee Schools - CLOSED USD 378 Riley County Schools and RCCC - CLOSED -&nbsp; no after school activities or events Smokin' Wille's BBQ - CLOSED USD 379 Clay County Schools - CLOSED USD 383 Manhattan Ogden - CLOSED - all before and after school activities/athletics cancelled USD 384 Blue Valley - CLOSED USD 473 Chapman - CLOSED - no after school activities or events USD 475 Geary County - CLOSED - no after school activities or events USD 498 Valley Heights - CLOSED Vista Drive In - CLOSED

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704741489325.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CLOSINGS and DELAYS reported for Tuesday, January 9th*TUESDAY, JANUARY 9th:Baskin Robbins in Manhattan - CLOSED Blue River Traders - CLOSED B&amp;L Trash Service - NO SERVICE ROUTES will be collected Bountiful Bins in Riley - CLOSED Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas - Manhattan - CLOSED Child Safety Seat Checks at MFD - CANCELLED City of Manhattan buildings-CLOSED City of Manhattan-City Commission Work Session - CANCELLED City of Manhattan - Municipal Court - CLOSED City of Manhattan Parks and Rec activities - CANCELLED Clay County Offices - CLOSED Combative Sports Center - NO MORNING CLASSES Early Edition - CLOSED Finn's Neighborhood Pub - CLOSED Flight Crew Coffee - CLOSED Flint Hills aTa Bus - DELAYED START - 9:00 am Flint Hills Breadbasket - CLOSED Flint Hills Discovery Center - CLOSED Flint Hills Volunteer Center - CLOSED Fort Riley - LIMITED SERVICES ONLY Green Christian School - CLOSED Kansas State University - CLOSED except essential personnel Konza Prairie Community Health Center - CLOSED Laundry Love MHK - Postponed to Tues, Jan. 16th Manhattan Area Techinical College - CLOSED Manhattan Senior Center - CLOSED Manhattan Public Library - CLOSED Mrs. Powell's Cinnamon Rolls - DELAYED OPENING - will open at 10:00 am(depending on road conditions) Riley County District Court - CLOSED, Zoom hearings will be held Riley County Offices - CLOSED Sunset Zoo. - CLOSED The Chef Cafe - CLOSED TheraPie - CLOSED, reopens Wednesday at 11:00 am Toto's Tacoz - CLOSED USD 323 Rock Creek Schools - CLOSED USD 329 Wabaunsee Schools - CLOSED USD 378 Riley County Schools and RCCC - CLOSED -&nbsp; no after school activities or events Smokin' Wille's BBQ - CLOSED USD 379 Clay County Schools - CLOSED USD 383 Manhattan Ogden - CLOSED - all before and after school activities/athletics cancelled USD 384 Blue Valley - CLOSED USD 473 Chapman - CLOSED - no after school activities or events USD 475 Geary County - CLOSED - no after school activities or events USD 498 Valley Heights - CLOSED Vista Drive In - CLOSED*This list will be updated throughout the day as more information is released.<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/218b3bab-a265-466c-8167-589f5a2b7e14">Closing and delay information can be submitted here</a>.

Local