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 ALBERT ROBINSON, 33, St. Marys; DUI; 4th conv in 10 yrs; incapable of safe driving; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Driving while a habitual violator; 2nd conviction; Violation of restrictions on driver's license or permit; Bond $6,500

ANGEL DAVID PENALOZA ESPINDOLA, 23, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $4,000

JUSTIN KYLE LAKE, 34, Manhattan, Probation Violation x2

JONATHAN ZACHARIA MANZANO NUNEZ, 22, Manhattan, Failure to appear x2; 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;DENNIS ALBERT ROBINSON, 33, St. Marys; DUI; 4th conv in 10 yrs; incapable of safe driving; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Driving while a habitual violator; 2nd conviction; Violation of restrictions on driver's license or permit; Bond $6,500ANGEL DAVID PENALOZA ESPINDOLA, 23, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $4,000JUSTIN KYLE LAKE, 34, Manhattan, Probation Violation x2JONATHAN ZACHARIA MANZANO NUNEZ, 22, Manhattan, Failure to appear x2; Bond $2,000

Riley County Arrest Report Jan. 1

Julia Debes Kansas Wheat

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Wheat farmers, grain trade representatives and state and national wheat organization staff members got to walk a figurative mile in the shoes of their end-use customers this month during a flour milling short course at the IGP Institute at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

The IGP Institute organizes this course annually as a deep dive into milling and baking processes. This year’s course, conducted December 11-13, 2023, was designed to give wheat growers and industry personnel training in the basic principles of flour milling and a greater understanding of the relationship between wheat quality and flour performance. Eighteen participants representing seven states participated in this year’s course. They got a firsthand look at the ins and outs of what it takes to take wheat from the kernel to the loaf or other wheat food product.&nbsp;

Chris Tanner, vice president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and a farmer from Norton, Eric Sperber, CEO of Cornerstone Ag in Colby, who serves as an industry representative on the KAWG board, and Kansas Wheat Vice President of Communications Marsha Boswell participated in the short course. Farmers from Idaho, Oregon, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Montana, representatives from national wheat organizations, as well as wheat breeders from South Dakota also attended the course, providing each other with a unique viewpoint of the quality needs throughout the wheat and flour supply chain.

“From a grower’s perspective, wheat is wheat. I took it for granted,” Tanner said. “I thought you just ground it into flour and made bread. That was definitely oversimplified. Most people have a mindset that you run it through the mill once, but I didn’t know it went through so many breaks.”

In addition to classroom lectures, the course included hands-on practical training in K-State’s milling and baking laboratories. The group members learned about the milling differences in the six classes of wheat, principles of wheat cleaning and conditioning, an explanation of major milling equipment and the process of wheat and flour blending, as well as the impact of grade, wheat quality characteristics and mill performance on flour extraction. At the milling laboratory in Shellenberger Hall on the K-State campus, the participants divided into groups to mill all six classes of U.S. wheat.&nbsp;

“There’s an intricate process to get every last piece of flour extracted to get a decent margin,” Tanner said. “The flour miller’s margin is thin, like the farmer’s. The things we do on the farm impact the mill’s bottom line.&nbsp;

“There are people every step along the way that care about getting the best product to the consumer. Everyone along the industry chain is trying to bring the highest quality product to market,” he said.

At the Hal Ross Flour Mill, attendees walked through the machinations and process of an actual flour mill and learned about the various products a mill can produce.&nbsp;They milled both hard red winter and soft white wheat in the mill.

“Having been in the wheat trading business for 30 years, I found the course to be enlightening,” Sperber said. “The milling side of the course really resonated with me. It was helpful to see the dynamics of the milling process. Milling wheat into flour is much more complex than just grinding the seed. My anticipation was that you ran the wheat through the mill once and you had bran, germ and flour. I had no concept of the streams it went through to maximize the endosperm.”

In the baking lab, attendees also learned about the different flour and dough testing methods that end-use customers use to evaluate the quality and functionality of each load of wheat. They also participated in baking tests to see the variation in products like bread, cakes and cookies when using different classes of wheat.&nbsp;

“The classroom instruction on the baking and flour qualities was interesting,” said Sperber. “I didn’t know about the care of trying to not damage the starch from the baking side of it.”

Tanner agreed, saying, “When you buy a bag of flour, you think it’s flour. I learned about the different flours made from the classes of wheat. In the baking lab, I didn’t get the flour I needed to make a loaf of bread, so instead I made a brick.”

Ultimately, the short course pulls back the curtain on the technical aspects of how differences in wheat class and qualities impact the final product on a consumer’s plate. The farmers and staff who attended the course left with valuable knowledge of how to better meet the needs of their customers.&nbsp;

Learn more about the technical, research-based training offered by K-State through the IGP Institute at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kAHRaBZvRAcAWhSwKA447VYoZAHdzIKpWtQnIDEw6_z6moOhh7cS4pm_wfC4R1C3InkKMXZGz842n7yZnAhePgqPU9zUfCOZQbzinNPZn8M41kPCVIsMfH2_u_IxhRWN9g6522bZzd674vUzeoWDin9idkIsIuGU&amp;c=NDjRI2srZWb9w8UUk_Zc8e6FNQ4WJjVRCw8zSqEd4_RCc6MsBSPnRA==&amp;ch=kfLe6-nSVc3tdrJ3w5T5VTwG7rnothwijPaVC9OnGL64OL0sBa-4GQ==">grains.k-state.edu/igp/</a>.

Julia Debes Kansas WheatMANHATTAN, Kan. – Wheat farmers, grain trade representatives and state and national wheat organization staff members got to walk a figurative mile in the shoes of their end-use customers this month during a flour milling short course at the IGP Institute at Kansas State University.&nbsp;The IGP Institute organizes this course annually as a deep dive into milling and baking processes. This year’s course, conducted December 11-13, 2023, was designed to give wheat growers and industry personnel training in the basic principles of flour milling and a greater understanding of the relationship between wheat quality and flour performance. Eighteen participants representing seven states participated in this year’s course. They got a firsthand look at the ins and outs of what it takes to take wheat from the kernel to the loaf or other wheat food product.&nbsp;Chris Tanner, vice president of the Kansas Association of Wheat Growers and a farmer from Norton, Eric Sperber, CEO of Cornerstone Ag in Colby, who serves as an industry representative on the KAWG board, and Kansas Wheat Vice President of Communications Marsha Boswell participated in the short course. Farmers from Idaho, Oregon, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Montana, representatives from national wheat organizations, as well as wheat breeders from South Dakota also attended the course, providing each other with a unique viewpoint of the quality needs throughout the wheat and flour supply chain.“From a grower’s perspective, wheat is wheat. I took it for granted,” Tanner said. “I thought you just ground it into flour and made bread. That was definitely oversimplified. Most people have a mindset that you run it through the mill once, but I didn’t know it went through so many breaks.”In addition to classroom lectures, the course included hands-on practical training in K-State’s milling and baking laboratories. The group members learned about the milling differences in the six classes of wheat, principles of wheat cleaning and conditioning, an explanation of major milling equipment and the process of wheat and flour blending, as well as the impact of grade, wheat quality characteristics and mill performance on flour extraction. At the milling laboratory in Shellenberger Hall on the K-State campus, the participants divided into groups to mill all six classes of U.S. wheat.&nbsp;“There’s an intricate process to get every last piece of flour extracted to get a decent margin,” Tanner said. “The flour miller’s margin is thin, like the farmer’s. The things we do on the farm impact the mill’s bottom line.&nbsp;“There are people every step along the way that care about getting the best product to the consumer. Everyone along the industry chain is trying to bring the highest quality product to market,” he said.At the Hal Ross Flour Mill, attendees walked through the machinations and process of an actual flour mill and learned about the various products a mill can produce.&nbsp;They milled both hard red winter and soft white wheat in the mill.“Having been in the wheat trading business for 30 years, I found the course to be enlightening,” Sperber said. “The milling side of the course really resonated with me. It was helpful to see the dynamics of the milling process. Milling wheat into flour is much more complex than just grinding the seed. My anticipation was that you ran the wheat through the mill once and you had bran, germ and flour. I had no concept of the streams it went through to maximize the endosperm.”In the baking lab, attendees also learned about the different flour and dough testing methods that end-use customers use to evaluate the quality and functionality of each load of wheat. They also participated in baking tests to see the variation in products like bread, cakes and cookies when using different classes of wheat.&nbsp;“The classroom instruction on the baking and flour qualities was interesting,” said Sperber. “I didn’t know about the care of trying to not damage the starch from the baking side of it.”Tanner agreed, saying, “When you buy a bag of flour, you think it’s flour. I learned about the different flours made from the classes of wheat. In the baking lab, I didn’t get the flour I needed to make a loaf of bread, so instead I made a brick.”Ultimately, the short course pulls back the curtain on the technical aspects of how differences in wheat class and qualities impact the final product on a consumer’s plate. The farmers and staff who attended the course left with valuable knowledge of how to better meet the needs of their customers.&nbsp;Learn more about the technical, research-based training offered by K-State through the IGP Institute at&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001kAHRaBZvRAcAWhSwKA447VYoZAHdzIKpWtQnIDEw6_z6moOhh7cS4pm_wfC4R1C3InkKMXZGz842n7yZnAhePgqPU9zUfCOZQbzinNPZn8M41kPCVIsMfH2_u_IxhRWN9g6522bZzd674vUzeoWDin9idkIsIuGU&amp;c=NDjRI2srZWb9w8UUk_Zc8e6FNQ4WJjVRCw8zSqEd4_RCc6MsBSPnRA==&amp;ch=kfLe6-nSVc3tdrJ3w5T5VTwG7rnothwijPaVC9OnGL64OL0sBa-4GQ==">grains.k-state.edu/igp/</a>.

Wheat Scoop: Wheat leaders take a deep dive into milling and baking during K-State short course

MARC ANTHONY OLIVER, 18, Manhattan, Attempted murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated; Probation Violation x2; Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause grt body harm/disfigure/death; Criminal discharge of firearm; Recklessly at occupied building; Bond $1,000,000

PAUL DANIEL MARPLE, 47, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $4,000

TYLER RANDALL STAATZ, 18, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; 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;MARC ANTHONY OLIVER, 18, Manhattan, Attempted murder in the 1st degree; Intentional and premeditated; Probation Violation x2; Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause grt body harm/disfigure/death; Criminal discharge of firearm; Recklessly at occupied building; Bond $1,000,000PAUL DANIEL MARPLE, 47, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt;$1000; Bond $4,000TYLER RANDALL STAATZ, 18, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $2,000

Riley County Arrest Report Dec. 31

Riley County Police Department reported no arrests on the December 30, 2023 report.&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;Riley County Police Department reported no arrests on the December 30, 2023 report.&nbsp;

Riley County Arrest Report Dec. 30

The University of Kansas surveyed more than 200 workers in chain retail settings about their job satisfaction. “They've been treated, in a lot of cases, like a commodity instead of a health care worker,” one industry professional said.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/bek-shackelford">Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">Kansas News Service&nbsp;</a>

Pharmacy work is a tough job, according to Amanda Applegate with the Kansas Pharmacists Association. There are, of course, many prescriptions to fill. Filling those also means keeping in mind whether the prescribed medication is best for the patient, whether it is covered by their insurance and more.

And it gets more difficult when it’s inside a bustling retail store, like Walgreens or Target. That’s a recipe for a hectic job.

“If you are in a hospital environment, you don't necessarily have somebody walking by you and asking where the steaks on sale are or where the Tylenol is,” Applegate said. “There is an additional layer of distraction.”

Applegate said retail pharmacists and pharmacy technicians also struggle with performance quotas set by their employers.

A study by professors at the University of Kansas illustrates the differences between pharmacy work in retail and independent or hospital settings.

The study, recently published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.japha.org/article/S1544-3191(23)00363-1/fulltext" target="_blank">Journal of American Pharmacists Association</a>, surveyed 129 pharmacists and 111 pharmacy technicians at both retail and independent pharmacies in Kansas and Missouri.

Angela Gist-Mackey was the lead author of the paper. Her team began collecting data in 2019 and finished in 2020, just before the pandemic. Survey participants were categorized into three pharmacy settings: retail, independent and health care systems.

Going into the study, Gist-Mackey hypothesized that a person’s role in a pharmacy would determine their overall satisfaction.

“But surprisingly, that was not the case. Role didn't predict any of that,” Gist-Mackey said. “In fact, it was more of the context that people were working in.”

The survey showed that pharmacy workers in retail situations, though paid the same as their independent or hospital pharmacist counterparts, were far less satisfied with pay and benefits.

“Maybe it's because what I have to put up with in my chain pharmacy workplace doesn't seem worth the pay,” Gist-Mackey said.

Applegate agrees. She now serves as director of practice development for the Kansas Pharmacists Association, but she previously worked in the retail pharmacy field for more than a decade. Applegate said the workload at retail pharmacies can often be hard to handle, especially because a lot of retail pharmacies only staff one pharmacist at a time and don’t schedule enough technicians to help.

Concerns about working conditions, pay and staffing came to a head this fall, when workers at CVS and Walgreens stores across the nation walked out. At least a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/podcast/up-to-date/2023-09-29/kansas-city-cvs-pharmacists-just-walked-out-on-the-job-heres-why" target="_blank">dozen CVS locations</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas City metro, on both sides of the state line, shuttered temporarily while workers were on strike.

Applegate said work safety was one of the No. 1 priorities for striking workers. She said sometimes, retail pharmacists have up to 1,000 prescriptions to fill and not enough support to safely fill them. In addition, they often work long hours without breaks.

“It's oftentimes very hard to step away from that workflow to go to the bathroom, to get a bite to eat, to take a breath after something very difficult has happened,” she said. “That day-to-day environment is a pressure cooker in a lot of cases.”

Applegate said to her knowledge, Walgreens and CVS have made some changes to how stores are operated, but pharmacists are still spread thin.

Gist-Mackey said when she and her team presented their work to editors at the Journal of American Pharmacists editors, they received pushback on their findings.

“One of the reviewers … said, ‘You're taking a stab at retail pharmacies, specifically. I'm not sure that your data really supports this,’” Gist-Mackey said.

The editors dropped their complaints when the strikes began, Gist-Mackey said.

She imagines conditions have gotten worse for retail pharmacy workers post-pandemic, as they are essential health care workers.

During her time at a retail pharmacy, Applegate said her worst shift was on Christmas Eve.

“It's a time of a lot of anxiety; tensions are running high in a lot of cases anyways,” Applegate said. “So something very small may turn into a very big thing that leads to a patient harassing a pharmacist or a member of their staff.”

Applegate said overall, harassment of pharmacists and pharmacy workers is on the rise. During this holiday season, Applegate said she’s received more calls from pharmacy workers reporting harassment in the past two weeks than she has in the past year.

In Applegate’s opinion, a lot of the harassment is because the public does not see pharmacy workers as health care professionals.

“They've been treated, in a lot of cases, like a commodity instead of a health care worker,” she said.

Applegate said customers sometimes don’t understand that pharmacists cannot control things like medicine prices.

“I think the best thing is to be kind to everybody,” Applegate said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703784990382.png" alt="A CVS pharmacy at 9521 Mission Road in Overland Park, Kansas. This location, and about a dozen others in the Kansas City metro, closed temporarily this fall due to staff walkouts. Photo by Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>A CVS pharmacy at 9521 Mission Road in Overland Park, Kansas. This location, and about a dozen others in the Kansas City metro, closed temporarily this fall due to staff walkouts. Photo by Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The University of Kansas surveyed more than 200 workers in chain retail settings about their job satisfaction. “They've been treated, in a lot of cases, like a commodity instead of a health care worker,” one industry professional said.</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/bek-shackelford">Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/">Kansas News Service&nbsp;</a>Pharmacy work is a tough job, according to Amanda Applegate with the Kansas Pharmacists Association. There are, of course, many prescriptions to fill. Filling those also means keeping in mind whether the prescribed medication is best for the patient, whether it is covered by their insurance and more.And it gets more difficult when it’s inside a bustling retail store, like Walgreens or Target. That’s a recipe for a hectic job.“If you are in a hospital environment, you don't necessarily have somebody walking by you and asking where the steaks on sale are or where the Tylenol is,” Applegate said. “There is an additional layer of distraction.”Applegate said retail pharmacists and pharmacy technicians also struggle with performance quotas set by their employers.A study by professors at the University of Kansas illustrates the differences between pharmacy work in retail and independent or hospital settings.The study, recently published in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.japha.org/article/S1544-3191(23)00363-1/fulltext" target="_blank">Journal of American Pharmacists Association</a>, surveyed 129 pharmacists and 111 pharmacy technicians at both retail and independent pharmacies in Kansas and Missouri.Angela Gist-Mackey was the lead author of the paper. Her team began collecting data in 2019 and finished in 2020, just before the pandemic. Survey participants were categorized into three pharmacy settings: retail, independent and health care systems.Going into the study, Gist-Mackey hypothesized that a person’s role in a pharmacy would determine their overall satisfaction.“But surprisingly, that was not the case. Role didn't predict any of that,” Gist-Mackey said. “In fact, it was more of the context that people were working in.”The survey showed that pharmacy workers in retail situations, though paid the same as their independent or hospital pharmacist counterparts, were far less satisfied with pay and benefits.“Maybe it's because what I have to put up with in my chain pharmacy workplace doesn't seem worth the pay,” Gist-Mackey said.Applegate agrees. She now serves as director of practice development for the Kansas Pharmacists Association, but she previously worked in the retail pharmacy field for more than a decade. Applegate said the workload at retail pharmacies can often be hard to handle, especially because a lot of retail pharmacies only staff one pharmacist at a time and don’t schedule enough technicians to help.<h2>Retail workers on strike</h2>Concerns about working conditions, pay and staffing came to a head this fall, when workers at CVS and Walgreens stores across the nation walked out. At least a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/podcast/up-to-date/2023-09-29/kansas-city-cvs-pharmacists-just-walked-out-on-the-job-heres-why" target="_blank">dozen CVS locations</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas City metro, on both sides of the state line, shuttered temporarily while workers were on strike.Applegate said work safety was one of the No. 1 priorities for striking workers. She said sometimes, retail pharmacists have up to 1,000 prescriptions to fill and not enough support to safely fill them. In addition, they often work long hours without breaks.“It's oftentimes very hard to step away from that workflow to go to the bathroom, to get a bite to eat, to take a breath after something very difficult has happened,” she said. “That day-to-day environment is a pressure cooker in a lot of cases.”Applegate said to her knowledge, Walgreens and CVS have made some changes to how stores are operated, but pharmacists are still spread thin.Gist-Mackey said when she and her team presented their work to editors at the Journal of American Pharmacists editors, they received pushback on their findings.“One of the reviewers … said, ‘You're taking a stab at retail pharmacies, specifically. I'm not sure that your data really supports this,’” Gist-Mackey said.The editors dropped their complaints when the strikes began, Gist-Mackey said.She imagines conditions have gotten worse for retail pharmacy workers post-pandemic, as they are essential health care workers.<h2>Holidays pile on stress</h2>During her time at a retail pharmacy, Applegate said her worst shift was on Christmas Eve.“It's a time of a lot of anxiety; tensions are running high in a lot of cases anyways,” Applegate said. “So something very small may turn into a very big thing that leads to a patient harassing a pharmacist or a member of their staff.”Applegate said overall, harassment of pharmacists and pharmacy workers is on the rise. During this holiday season, Applegate said she’s received more calls from pharmacy workers reporting harassment in the past two weeks than she has in the past year.In Applegate’s opinion, a lot of the harassment is because the public does not see pharmacy workers as health care professionals.“They've been treated, in a lot of cases, like a commodity instead of a health care worker,” she said.Applegate said customers sometimes don’t understand that pharmacists cannot control things like medicine prices.“I think the best thing is to be kind to everybody,” Applegate said.

Retail pharmacy workers in Kansas, Missouri are unhappy with their pay and working conditions

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Thursday, December 28th, just after 4:00 pm, officers from the Riley County Police Department were called to the 900 block of Humboldt Street, near downtown Manhattan on the report of stolen property.

When officers arrived they found a 59-year-old male and 61-year-old female were victims of theft of property.

The victims reported an unknown suspect broke into their detached garage, taking a Polaris UTV, lawn mower, a generator, a tool box, and other miscellaneous tools.

Police estimate the loss at approximately $30,000 for this reported theft.

Anyone with information can contact <a href="https://rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. By using Crime Stoppers, information can be reported anonymously and you could qualify for a cash reward of up to $1,000 for providing information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703868345785.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Thursday, December 28th, just after 4:00 pm, officers from the Riley County Police Department were called to the 900 block of Humboldt Street, near downtown Manhattan on the report of stolen property.When officers arrived they found a 59-year-old male and 61-year-old female were victims of theft of property.The victims reported an unknown suspect broke into their detached garage, taking a Polaris UTV, lawn mower, a generator, a tool box, and other miscellaneous tools.Police estimate the loss at approximately $30,000 for this reported theft.Anyone with information can contact <a href="https://rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. By using Crime Stoppers, information can be reported anonymously and you could qualify for a cash reward of up to $1,000 for providing information.

Polaris UTV, lawn mower, generator and other tools stolen from MHK residence

ALEXANDER KALEO MEWSHAW, 30, Manhattan, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $500

CHRISTOPHER SIMS, 31, Manhattan, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $500

MANU BENADA REVADA, 40, Manhattan, Driving while suspended; 1st conviction; Bond $1,500

JAMES EDWARD DWYER, 38, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $750

DAVID LEE HUFFMAN, 42, Ogden, Identity theft; Defraud to receive benefits &lt;$100,000; Theft of property or services; Value $1,500 to $25,000; All Other Larceny; Forgery; Distributing or issuing written instrument; 1st conviction; Making false information x2; Theft by deception; Value $1,500 to $25,000; Forgery; Making or altering a written instrument; 1st conviction; Identity theft; Defraud to receive benefits &lt;$100,000; Giving worthless check; Value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $40,000

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;ALEXANDER KALEO MEWSHAW, 30, Manhattan, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $500CHRISTOPHER SIMS, 31, Manhattan, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Bond $500MANU BENADA REVADA, 40, Manhattan, Driving while suspended; 1st conviction; Bond $1,500JAMES EDWARD DWYER, 38, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $750DAVID LEE HUFFMAN, 42, Ogden, Identity theft; Defraud to receive benefits &lt;$100,000; Theft of property or services; Value $1,500 to $25,000; All Other Larceny; Forgery; Distributing or issuing written instrument; 1st conviction; Making false information x2; Theft by deception; Value $1,500 to $25,000; Forgery; Making or altering a written instrument; 1st conviction; Identity theft; Defraud to receive benefits &lt;$100,000; Giving worthless check; Value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $40,000

Riley County Arrest Report Dec. 29

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

Just after 10a.m. Thursday, police arrested 42-year-old David Huffman of Ogden, in the 200 block of North Walnut Street in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;Huffman was jailed on a Riley County District Court warrant for identity theft specifically to defraud or receive benefits, theft of property or services, forgery through distributing or issuing a written instrument, making false information, theft by deception, forgery via making or altering a written instrument, and giving a worthless check. Huffman was issued a total bond of $40,000.

Huffman has previous convictions for making a false writing, burglary and drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

He is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703864538910.png" alt="Huffman-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Huffman-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on multiple allegations after an arrest.Just after 10a.m. Thursday, police arrested 42-year-old David Huffman of Ogden, in the 200 block of North Walnut Street in Ogden, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;Huffman was jailed on a Riley County District Court warrant for identity theft specifically to defraud or receive benefits, theft of property or services, forgery through distributing or issuing a written instrument, making false information, theft by deception, forgery via making or altering a written instrument, and giving a worthless check. Huffman was issued a total bond of $40,000.Huffman has previous convictions for making a false writing, burglary and drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.He is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Kansas felon accused of new financial crimes

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Thursday in Riley County.

at the intersection of Commons Place and Southwind Road in Manhattan on December 28, 2023, around 7:04 PM. 

A 2017 Hyundai Veloster driven by Harold Hughes III, 25, of Manhattan was involved in a crash with a 2006 Hyundai Elantra driven by Elias Matteson of Manhattan&nbsp;at the intersection of Commons Place and Southwind Road in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

EMS transported a passenger of Matteson’s vehicle to Via Christi for treatment of minor injuries. Hughes III was cited for inattentive driving

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Thursday in Riley County.at the intersection of Commons Place and Southwind Road in Manhattan on December 28, 2023, around 7:04 PM. A 2017 Hyundai Veloster driven by Harold Hughes III, 25, of Manhattan was involved in a crash with a 2006 Hyundai Elantra driven by Elias Matteson of Manhattan&nbsp;at the intersection of Commons Place and Southwind Road in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.EMS transported a passenger of Matteson’s vehicle to Via Christi for treatment of minor injuries. Hughes III was cited for inattentive driving

One person injured after 2-vehicle crash in Manhattan

MANHATTAN - On Sunday, January 7th, 2024, the Flint Hills Bridal Show returns to the K-State Alumni Center from Noon to 3:00 pm.

The Flint Hills Bridal Show features one-of-a-kind experience for people planning their upcoming weddings.

“Our goal is to provide the best services to couples in the area and we are grateful to have been able to do that for the past 30 years,” said Scott Karnes, Owner of Complete Weddings + Events and sponsor of the Flint Hills Bridal Show.

“Over the years we have seen more and more couples plan their weddings digitally, however bridal shows seem to still be popular as they give you that face-to-face interaction with your potential vendors and it provides inspiration to help make some of those big decisions.” Said Tara Grubb, Wedding Coordinator for Complete Weddings + Events and Producer of the Flint Hills Bridal Show.

With more than 40 vendors attending the bridal showcase event, planning the big day gets a little easier with the variety of vendors on hand.

From photographers, venues, florists, DJs, to decoraters, caterers and sweet treats, and other ideas for the big day will be available throughout the event.

There will be prize drawings, including a 3-night stay at the El Dorado Royale resort in Mexico provided by CARE Travel as well as a glass of champagne available for the first 100 registered attendees.

More information about the Flint Hills Bridal show can be found at <a href="https://www.flinthillsbridalshow.com/">FlintHillsBridalShow.com</a>.

Couples can pre-register for the event through the website above.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703794193105.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Sunday, January 7th, 2024, the Flint Hills Bridal Show returns to the K-State Alumni Center from Noon to 3:00 pm.The Flint Hills Bridal Show features one-of-a-kind experience for people planning their upcoming weddings.“Our goal is to provide the best services to couples in the area and we are grateful to have been able to do that for the past 30 years,” said Scott Karnes, Owner of Complete Weddings + Events and sponsor of the Flint Hills Bridal Show.“Over the years we have seen more and more couples plan their weddings digitally, however bridal shows seem to still be popular as they give you that face-to-face interaction with your potential vendors and it provides inspiration to help make some of those big decisions.” Said Tara Grubb, Wedding Coordinator for Complete Weddings + Events and Producer of the Flint Hills Bridal Show.With more than 40 vendors attending the bridal showcase event, planning the big day gets a little easier with the variety of vendors on hand.From photographers, venues, florists, DJs, to decoraters, caterers and sweet treats, and other ideas for the big day will be available throughout the event.There will be prize drawings, including a 3-night stay at the El Dorado Royale resort in Mexico provided by CARE Travel as well as a glass of champagne available for the first 100 registered attendees.More information about the Flint Hills Bridal show can be found at <a href="https://www.flinthillsbridalshow.com/">FlintHillsBridalShow.com</a>.Couples can pre-register for the event through the website above.

30th annual Flint Hills Bridal Show returns to MHK in January

BARTON COUNTY —Six people were injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Wednesday in Barton County

A 2004 Toyota Prius driven by 32-year-old Matthew Burg of Claflin was southbound on Northeast 130 Avenue at Kansas 156, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

The driver failed to stop at the stop sign crossing K156.

 An easbound 2018 Ford F150 driven by 55-year-old Laura Trinkle of Manhattan struck the Prius. Upon impact, both vehicles traveled northeast before coming to rest in a field.

EMS transported Burg, as well as two juvenile occupants of the Prius, ages one and three, to the hospital in Great Bend. Burg and the one-year-old were later transferred to a Wichita-area hospital with serious injuries, according Bellendir.

Trinkle, as well as two passengers, ages 82 and 59, were transported to the hospital in Great Bend with non-life-threatening injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703781337843.jpeg" alt="photo Barton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>photo Barton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Six people were injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Wednesday in Barton CountyA 2004 Toyota Prius driven by 32-year-old Matthew Burg of Claflin was southbound on Northeast 130 Avenue at Kansas 156, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.The driver failed to stop at the stop sign crossing K156. An easbound 2018 Ford F150 driven by 55-year-old Laura Trinkle of Manhattan struck the Prius. Upon impact, both vehicles traveled northeast before coming to rest in a field.EMS transported Burg, as well as two juvenile occupants of the Prius, ages one and three, to the hospital in Great Bend. Burg and the one-year-old were later transferred to a Wichita-area hospital with serious injuries, according Bellendir.Trinkle, as well as two passengers, ages 82 and 59, were transported to the hospital in Great Bend with non-life-threatening injuries.

Manhattan woman among 6 injured in 2-vehicle crash

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities on Wednesday morning filed a report for property damage near the intersection of 3rd Street and Osage Place in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Werner Semi and the City of Manhattan reported a known suspect hit multiple street light posts.  The estimated total loss associate with this case is $7,500.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities on Wednesday morning filed a report for property damage near the intersection of 3rd Street and Osage Place in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Werner Semi and the City of Manhattan reported a known suspect hit multiple street light posts. The estimated total loss associate with this case is $7,500.

RCPD: Driver struck multiple street sign posts in Manhattan

ANDREA LYNN MCCANN, 38, Manhattan, Aggravated battery, Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement; Criminal damage to property; To injure or defraud value &lt;$1000; Bond $8,000

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;ANDREA LYNN MCCANN, 38, Manhattan, Aggravated battery, Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement; Criminal damage to property; To injure or defraud value &lt;$1000; Bond $8,000

Riley County Arrest Report Dec. 28

Release from Junction City Police Department

We have been alerted to a concerning scam in our community. Scammers are impersonating a detective from the Junction City Police Department (JCPD) to exploit individuals financially.

Initial Contact: Victims match with a profile on dating platforms. The profile soon asks to switch to text messaging.

False Claim: Victims receive a call from someone claiming to be a JCPD detective, alleging the individual they interacted with was a minor.

Demand for Money: The scammer then demands a significant sum of money to prevent criminal charges.

Important Reminder: JCPD Will Never Request Money Over the Phone: It's crucial to understand that no legitimate law enforcement officer, including anyone from JCPD, will ever call citizens to request money or offer a chance to pay to avoid criminal charges.

What Should You Do? End the Call: If you receive such a call, do not engage. Hang up immediately.

Report: Contact JCPD or your local law enforcement to report the incident.

Your safety and security are paramount. Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Together, we can combat these fraudulent schemes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703774740174.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Release from Junction City Police Department--We have been alerted to a concerning scam in our community. Scammers are impersonating a detective from the Junction City Police Department (JCPD) to exploit individuals financially.Key Points of the Scam:Initial Contact: Victims match with a profile on dating platforms. The profile soon asks to switch to text messaging.False Claim: Victims receive a call from someone claiming to be a JCPD detective, alleging the individual they interacted with was a minor.Demand for Money: The scammer then demands a significant sum of money to prevent criminal charges.Important Reminder: JCPD Will Never Request Money Over the Phone: It's crucial to understand that no legitimate law enforcement officer, including anyone from JCPD, will ever call citizens to request money or offer a chance to pay to avoid criminal charges.What Should You Do? End the Call: If you receive such a call, do not engage. Hang up immediately.Report: Contact JCPD or your local law enforcement to report the incident.Your safety and security are paramount. Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Together, we can combat these fraudulent schemes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City Police warn of ongoing local scam 

This week's episode of Running the Table features a fun conversation with Rick and Anthony Gorges! 

Anthony is the voice of the Junction City Blue Jays! 

We talk about the current state of the National Football League as well as how the Junction City Blue Jays basketball team is doing this year.

This week's episode of Running the Table features a fun conversation with Rick and Anthony Gorges! Anthony is the voice of the Junction City Blue Jays! We talk about the current state of the National Football League as well as how the Junction City Blue Jays basketball team is doing this year.<div><iframe title="Running the Table with Rick" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?from=embed&i=5nayp-152ebef-pb&share=1&download=1&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&rtl=0&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=7&size=150" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎙: Running the Table with Rick, featuring Anthony Gorges

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2024 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.

Beginning on Jan. 1, 2024, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:

These rates apply to electric and hybrid-electric automobiles as well as gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles.

The standard mileage rate for business use is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. The rate for medical and moving purposes is based on the variable costs.

It is important to note that under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, taxpayers cannot claim a miscellaneous itemized deduction for unreimbursed employee travel expenses. Taxpayers also cannot claim a deduction for moving expenses, unless they are members of the Armed Forces on active duty moving under orders to a permanent change of station. For more details see&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4dG9waWNzL3RjNDU1IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTIxNC44NzEyMzc5MSJ9.Z8bVfR4fqG3-haJ3BJtMbMtPqn39VAgnzWw0XLfXATU/s/1558083055/br/233053493293-l">Moving Expenses for Members of the Armed Forces</a>.

Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage rates.

Taxpayers can use the standard mileage rate but generally must opt to use it in the first year the car is available for business use. Then, in later years, they can choose either the standard mileage rate or actual expenses. Leased vehicles must use the standard mileage rate method for the entire lease period (including renewals) if the standard mileage rate is chosen.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1kcm9wL24tMjQtMDgucGRmIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTIxNC44NzEyMzc5MSJ9.Iz1-eerWfquzMoYoWRMSqj1ArN8NcmiZuP48PJjzEeo/s/1558083055/br/233053493293-l">Notice 2024-08</a>&nbsp;contains the optional 2024 standard mileage rates, as well as the maximum automobile cost used to calculate the allowance under a fixed and variable rate (FAVR) plan. In addition, the notice provides the maximum fair market value of employer-provided automobiles first made available to employees for personal use in calendar year 2024 for which employers may use the fleet-average valuation rule in or the vehicle cents-per-mile valuation rule.

Internal Revenue ServiceWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2024 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.Beginning on Jan. 1, 2024, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:<ul>
 <li>67 cents per mile driven for business use, up 1.5 cents from 2023.</li><li>21 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes for qualified active-duty members of the Armed Forces, a decrease of 1 cent from 2023.</li><li>14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations; the rate is set by statute and remains unchanged from 2023.</li>
 </ul>These rates apply to electric and hybrid-electric automobiles as well as gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles.The standard mileage rate for business use is based on an annual study of the fixed and variable costs of operating an automobile. The rate for medical and moving purposes is based on the variable costs.It is important to note that under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, taxpayers cannot claim a miscellaneous itemized deduction for unreimbursed employee travel expenses. Taxpayers also cannot claim a deduction for moving expenses, unless they are members of the Armed Forces on active duty moving under orders to a permanent change of station. For more details see&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvdGF4dG9waWNzL3RjNDU1IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTIxNC44NzEyMzc5MSJ9.Z8bVfR4fqG3-haJ3BJtMbMtPqn39VAgnzWw0XLfXATU/s/1558083055/br/233053493293-l">Moving Expenses for Members of the Armed Forces</a>.Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage rates.Taxpayers can use the standard mileage rate but generally must opt to use it in the first year the car is available for business use. Then, in later years, they can choose either the standard mileage rate or actual expenses. Leased vehicles must use the standard mileage rate method for the entire lease period (including renewals) if the standard mileage rate is chosen.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1kcm9wL24tMjQtMDgucGRmIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMTIxNC44NzEyMzc5MSJ9.Iz1-eerWfquzMoYoWRMSqj1ArN8NcmiZuP48PJjzEeo/s/1558083055/br/233053493293-l">Notice 2024-08</a>&nbsp;contains the optional 2024 standard mileage rates, as well as the maximum automobile cost used to calculate the allowance under a fixed and variable rate (FAVR) plan. In addition, the notice provides the maximum fair market value of employer-provided automobiles first made available to employees for personal use in calendar year 2024 for which employers may use the fleet-average valuation rule in or the vehicle cents-per-mile valuation rule.

IRS issues standard mileage rates for 2024; mileage rate increases to 67 cents a mile

SHAWNEE COUNTY– Celebrate the New Year with fun, fresh air, and scenic views by participating in a&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes">First Day Hike</a>&nbsp;at a&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks">Kansas State Park</a>. These self-led and guided hikes are organized annually by parks staff to encourage individuals and families to start the year on the right foot – by getting outside and connecting with nature.

This year, more than 1,000 hikes will be available in state parks around the country, including 33&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes">First Day Hike events</a>&nbsp;hosted by&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks">Kansas State Parks</a>. While the distance and rigor of the hikes will vary at each state park, all aim to create a fun experience for all. Savor the beauty of the natural, cultural, and historical resources our state parks offer, and be inspired to continue taking advantage of these local treasures throughout calendar year 2024.

“This will be our 13th&nbsp;year to offer First Day Hikes in Kansas’ state parks and we couldn’t be more excited,” said Linda Lanterman, Kansas State Parks director. “Each year, these events grow more and more popular because they’re a fun and healthy way to start the New Year, they’re a great cure for cabin fever, and they’re held in some of the prettiest parts of our state.”

Where to ParticipateFor a complete list of First Day Hike events in Kansas on January 1, 2024, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes">https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes</a>.

What To ExpectHikers can choose guided hikes that fit their comfort levels including walks along lakes, exploring trails, and options best for wildlife viewing. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. And, if hiking isn’t in your interest or ability, Kansas State Parks invite you to explore other fun offerings, from boating to fishing and horseback riding, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment from a park picnic table or bench.

What To BringKansas State Park staff recommend coming prepared for a First Day Hike with the following, if possible:

NOTE: LIMITED First Day Hike T-Shirts will be available for participants on a first-come, first-served basis. And, a vehicle permit may be required ($5.00 at the state park entrance).

First Day Hikes began more than three decades ago at the Blue Hills Reservation state park in Massachusetts in 1992. Since 2012, all 50 states have participated. America’s State Parks hopes to make 2024 a record-breaking year as the annual event approaches major milestones, including inching closer to 1 million miles hiked and 500,000 participants in the program’s history.

For information on First Day Hikes across the nation, visit stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes/. And don’t forget to share your January 1 hiking story on social media with #FirstDayHikes and #MyKSStatePark.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks">HERE</a>&nbsp;to find a Kansas State Park nearest you.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637704941535.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY– Celebrate the New Year with fun, fresh air, and scenic views by participating in a&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes">First Day Hike</a>&nbsp;at a&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks">Kansas State Park</a>. These self-led and guided hikes are organized annually by parks staff to encourage individuals and families to start the year on the right foot – by getting outside and connecting with nature.This year, more than 1,000 hikes will be available in state parks around the country, including 33&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes">First Day Hike events</a>&nbsp;hosted by&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks">Kansas State Parks</a>. While the distance and rigor of the hikes will vary at each state park, all aim to create a fun experience for all. Savor the beauty of the natural, cultural, and historical resources our state parks offer, and be inspired to continue taking advantage of these local treasures throughout calendar year 2024.“This will be our 13th&nbsp;year to offer First Day Hikes in Kansas’ state parks and we couldn’t be more excited,” said Linda Lanterman, Kansas State Parks director. “Each year, these events grow more and more popular because they’re a fun and healthy way to start the New Year, they’re a great cure for cabin fever, and they’re held in some of the prettiest parts of our state.”Where to ParticipateFor a complete list of First Day Hike events in Kansas on January 1, 2024, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes">https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Special-Events/First-Day-Hikes</a>.What To ExpectHikers can choose guided hikes that fit their comfort levels including walks along lakes, exploring trails, and options best for wildlife viewing. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. And, if hiking isn’t in your interest or ability, Kansas State Parks invite you to explore other fun offerings, from boating to fishing and horseback riding, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment from a park picnic table or bench.What To BringKansas State Park staff recommend coming prepared for a First Day Hike with the following, if possible:<ul>
 <li>Water</li><li>SnacksWeather appropriate clothing (hat, gloves, heavy coat)</li><li>Hiking shoes</li><li>Binoculars</li><li>Hiking stick</li><li>Camera</li>
 </ul>NOTE: LIMITED First Day Hike T-Shirts will be available for participants on a first-come, first-served basis. And, a vehicle permit may be required ($5.00 at the state park entrance).First Day Hikes began more than three decades ago at the Blue Hills Reservation state park in Massachusetts in 1992. Since 2012, all 50 states have participated. America’s State Parks hopes to make 2024 a record-breaking year as the annual event approaches major milestones, including inching closer to 1 million miles hiked and 500,000 participants in the program’s history.For information on First Day Hikes across the nation, visit stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes/. And don’t forget to share your January 1 hiking story on social media with #FirstDayHikes and #MyKSStatePark.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks">HERE</a>&nbsp;to find a Kansas State Park nearest you.

Kansas State Parks to offer New Year's Day hikes

MANHATTAN - Superpedestrian, the company that runs Link e-scooters, has pulled operations from the U.S. effective January 1, 2024.

Due to this change, Link/Superpedestrian E-scooters will no longer be available in Manhattan starting Sunday, December 31, 2023.

Nearly half a million rides have been taken on the e-scooters since they arrived in Manhattan in August of 2020.&nbsp;

The City of Manhattan thanked Evan Lochmiller and the operations team in a social media post annoucing the removal of the e-scooters from Manhattan.

K-State and the City of Manhattan will meet in 2024 to discuss other opportunities available for alternative transportation options.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703694135072.jpeg" alt="Link Scooters leaving MHK, US" />
 <figcaption>Link Scooters leaving MHK, US</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - Superpedestrian, the company that runs Link e-scooters, has pulled operations from the U.S. effective January 1, 2024.Due to this change, Link/Superpedestrian E-scooters will no longer be available in Manhattan starting Sunday, December 31, 2023.Nearly half a million rides have been taken on the e-scooters since they arrived in Manhattan in August of 2020.&nbsp;The City of Manhattan thanked Evan Lochmiller and the operations team in a social media post annoucing the removal of the e-scooters from Manhattan.K-State and the City of Manhattan will meet in 2024 to discuss other opportunities available for alternative transportation options.

Link E-scooters exiting MHK as Superpedestrian pulls out of U.S.

WES LELAND MARCH, 25, Leonardville, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 2nd conviction; blood/breath .08 &gt;; Reckless driving; Bond $3,000

JULIEN MABRY, 14, Kansas City, Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; Shoplifting; Processed through North Central Kansas Juvenile Intake

DARRELL EDWARDS JR, 14, Junction City, Theft or property or services; Value less than $1,500; Shoplifting;&nbsp;Processed through North Central Kansas Juvenile Intake

SERGIO ANTONIO ESTRADA MORENO, 34, Manhattan, Violate protection order; Abuse order per KSA 63105, 63106, 63107; Bond $2,000

KRYSHALA MICHELLE WEEKS, 33, Wamego, Failure to appear; Remains confined Riley County Jail

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;WES LELAND MARCH, 25, Leonardville, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 2nd conviction; blood/breath .08 &gt;; Reckless driving; Bond $3,000JULIEN MABRY, 14, Kansas City, Theft of property or services; Value less than $1,500; Shoplifting; Processed through North Central Kansas Juvenile IntakeDARRELL EDWARDS JR, 14, Junction City, Theft or property or services; Value less than $1,500; Shoplifting;&nbsp;Processed through North Central Kansas Juvenile IntakeSERGIO ANTONIO ESTRADA MORENO, 34, Manhattan, Violate protection order; Abuse order per KSA 63105, 63106, 63107; Bond $2,000KRYSHALA MICHELLE WEEKS, 33, Wamego, Failure to appear; Remains confined Riley County Jail

Riley County Arrest Report Dec. 27

RILEY COUNTY - On Tuesday, December 26th, the Riley County Police Department posted to social media asking for the public's help in identifying two people captured by surveillance cameras.

RCPD is investigating multiple cases of fraud in the Manhattan area.

RCPD says these two individuals are associated with a 2023 Dodge Durango with a MO license plate with tag #NK7T2W.&nbsp;

Information about their identities or location can be reported to RCPD by calling 785-537-2112 or contacting Crime Stoppers at 785-539-7777 or submit an anonymous tip online here:&nbsp;<a href="https://t.co/HmUMBtVGXZ" target="_blank">https://p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703621258996.png" alt="RCPD asks for public assistance to&nbsp; identify two individuals, pics from RCPD" />
 <figcaption>RCPD asks for public assistance to&nbsp; identify two individuals, pics from RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY - On Tuesday, December 26th, the Riley County Police Department posted to social media asking for the public's help in identifying two people captured by surveillance cameras.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703621364925.png" alt="Attempt to ID, pics from RCPD" />
 <figcaption>Attempt to ID, pics from RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>RCPD is investigating multiple cases of fraud in the Manhattan area.RCPD says these two individuals are associated with a 2023 Dodge Durango with a MO license plate with tag #NK7T2W.&nbsp;The Durango is a gray, rental vehicle.Information about their identities or location can be reported to RCPD by calling 785-537-2112 or contacting Crime Stoppers at 785-539-7777 or submit an anonymous tip online here:&nbsp;<a href="https://t.co/HmUMBtVGXZ" target="_blank">https://p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#</a>

📷: RCPD asks for public assistance in indentifying two individuals

Tips on how to dispose of and utilize Christmas trees at the end of the season

Christmas trees bring Christmas glee, but they can bring even more than that once the holiday season is past, says Kansas State University forester Charlie Barden.

“An old Christmas tree can be used to benefit birds, fish and the landscape by placing it in a corner of your deck, and spreading some birdseed nearby, or tying it to a deciduous tree or post near a bird feeder,” he said.

Christmas trees can give birds an escape from hawks or cats and keep them protected from the wind chill on cool nights. Or, Barden said, a tree can improve fish habitat and fishing by sinking it into a pond.

“The tree serves as little coral reef, in that the branches provide substrate for water plants to grow, and cover for minnows and other forms of small aquatic life,” Barden said.

Barden said sinking a tree is simple: Tie a cinder block with a short, stout rope to the base of the tree and drop it in -- with permission from the pond owner.

Christmas trees can also be allowed to dry and used as firewood. But, Barden cautions, “beware that most conifer species tend to spark and pop more than hardwoods, as resin pockets in the wood make tiny explosions.”

Another option, according to Barden: Many municipalities allow Christmas trees to be placed on the curb for pickup, then burned or ground for mulch.

Barden and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with more tips on maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.

Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Cynthia Domenghini at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cdom@ksu.edu">cdom@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703614234805.png" alt="A live Christmas tree can provide cover for small habitats after the holiday season is over. Image courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>A live Christmas tree can provide cover for small habitats after the holiday season is over. Image courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Tips on how to dispose of and utilize Christmas trees at the end of the season</h2>KSREChristmas trees bring Christmas glee, but they can bring even more than that once the holiday season is past, says Kansas State University forester Charlie Barden.“An old Christmas tree can be used to benefit birds, fish and the landscape by placing it in a corner of your deck, and spreading some birdseed nearby, or tying it to a deciduous tree or post near a bird feeder,” he said.Christmas trees can give birds an escape from hawks or cats and keep them protected from the wind chill on cool nights. Or, Barden said, a tree can improve fish habitat and fishing by sinking it into a pond.“The tree serves as little coral reef, in that the branches provide substrate for water plants to grow, and cover for minnows and other forms of small aquatic life,” Barden said.Barden said sinking a tree is simple: Tie a cinder block with a short, stout rope to the base of the tree and drop it in -- with permission from the pond owner.Christmas trees can also be allowed to dry and used as firewood. But, Barden cautions, “beware that most conifer species tend to spark and pop more than hardwoods, as resin pockets in the wood make tiny explosions.”Another option, according to Barden: Many municipalities allow Christmas trees to be placed on the curb for pickup, then burned or ground for mulch.Barden and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with more tips on maintaining home landscapes. The newsletter is&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/newsletters/index.html">available to view online</a>&nbsp;or can be delivered by email each week.Interested persons can also send their garden- and yard-related questions to Cynthia Domenghini at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cdom@ksu.edu">cdom@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

Once Christmas is over, what happens to the tree?

DICKINSON COUNTY —In May, the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office Drug Enforcement Unit began an investigation into the distribution of meth in Herrington, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

On December 22, the sheriff's office with the assistance of Herington Police executed a search warrant at a residence in the 200 Block of South 9th Street in Herington.&nbsp; Officers found 337 grams of meth and a small amount of marijuana and other THC products.

Deputies arrested 46-year-old Sabrina Beardslee of Herington on requested charges of&nbsp; possession with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, no drug tax stamp and aggravated child endangerment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703603119180.png" alt="Beardslee-photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Beardslee-photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —In May, the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office Drug Enforcement Unit began an investigation into the distribution of meth in Herrington, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.On December 22, the sheriff's office with the assistance of Herington Police executed a search warrant at a residence in the 200 Block of South 9th Street in Herington.&nbsp; Officers found 337 grams of meth and a small amount of marijuana and other THC products.Deputies arrested 46-year-old Sabrina Beardslee of Herington on requested charges of&nbsp; possession with intent to distribute meth, possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, no drug tax stamp and aggravated child endangerment.

Sheriff: Kan. woman with children was selling meth from her home

ALICIA ELIZABETH JANE STOTT, 43, 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;ALICIA ELIZABETH JANE STOTT, 43, Manhattan, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $1,000

Riley County Arrest Report Dec. 26

Riley County Police Department reported no arrests on the 12/25/2023.&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;Riley County Police Department reported no arrests on the 12/25/2023.&nbsp;

Riley County Arrest Report Dec. 25

RILEY COUNTY - On Monday, December 25, just after 7:15 am, the Riley County Police Department enacted the Emergency Accident Reporting Phase(EARP).

EARP has been enacted due to the high volume of accidents being reported due to the winter weather conditions in the area.&nbsp;

While EARP is in effect, motorists are asked to report crashes within 48 hours of occurrence, if the crash meets the following criteria: -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 is 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)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671661642035.jpeg" alt="RCPD EARP graphic from RCPD" />
 <figcaption>RCPD EARP graphic from RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY - On Monday, December 25, just after 7:15 am, the Riley County Police Department enacted the Emergency Accident Reporting Phase(EARP).EARP has been enacted due to the high volume of accidents being reported due to the winter weather conditions in the area.&nbsp;While EARP is in effect, motorists are asked to report crashes within 48 hours of occurrence, if the crash meets the following criteria: -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 is 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)To report a crash after EARP has been lifted, all parties need to go to the Riley County Police Department, located at 1001 S Seth Child Road. All parties need to be present when reporting the crash.If there are injuries, a hit-and-run, or DUI, then you should call police immediately to report the crash.

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