Presented by The Little Apple Optimist Club&nbsp;

Wesley Johnson has won the boys division of Hoop Shoot hitting 6 out of 7 free throws. 

The finals of the boys competition in the 2025 Hoop Holler N’ Shoot free throw shooting contest were held during half time of Monday’s KSU men’s game. Participants won their way into the finals via shoot-offs conducted at Manhattan area elementary schools among 5th grade students. Over 550 students participated in the competition. 

The winners and the schools they represent are as follows:  1st  2nd  3rd  Wesley Johnson, Northview – hitting 6 out of 7, Avi Lundberg, Bluemont – hitting 5 out of 7, Henry Robke, Manhattan Catholic – hitting 3 out of 7. A shoot-off determined 3rd place. Prizes awarded to all finalists included a plaque and a K-State coaches autographed Hoop Holler N’Shoot t-shirt. 

This is the 27th Anniversary of Hoop Holler N’ Shoot. During that time over 16,000 5th graders have participated in the program. Hoop Holler N’ Shoot is a free throw contest for 5th graders in the Manhattan area schools. A boy and girl champion is determined at each school. The grade school champions move on to semi-finals and finals at Kansas State University basketball games. 

Participating sponsors are Manhattan Optimist Club, KS StateBank, McDonalds, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383, Manhattan Parks and Recreation, K-State Bands, Q-Country 103.5, and Power Hits 97.5.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765332898832.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Presented by The Little Apple Optimist Club&nbsp;Wesley Johnson has won the boys division of Hoop Shoot hitting 6 out of 7 free throws. The finals of the boys competition in the 2025 Hoop Holler N’ Shoot free throw shooting contest were held during half time of Monday’s KSU men’s game. Participants won their way into the finals via shoot-offs conducted at Manhattan area elementary schools among 5th grade students. Over 550 students participated in the competition. The winners and the schools they represent are as follows: 1st 2nd 3rd Wesley Johnson, Northview – hitting 6 out of 7, Avi Lundberg, Bluemont – hitting 5 out of 7, Henry Robke, Manhattan Catholic – hitting 3 out of 7. A shoot-off determined 3rd place. Prizes awarded to all finalists included a plaque and a K-State coaches autographed Hoop Holler N’Shoot t-shirt. This is the 27th Anniversary of Hoop Holler N’ Shoot. During that time over 16,000 5th graders have participated in the program. Hoop Holler N’ Shoot is a free throw contest for 5th graders in the Manhattan area schools. A boy and girl champion is determined at each school. The grade school champions move on to semi-finals and finals at Kansas State University basketball games. Participating sponsors are Manhattan Optimist Club, KS StateBank, McDonalds, Manhattan-Ogden USD 383, Manhattan Parks and Recreation, K-State Bands, Q-Country 103.5, and Power Hits 97.5.&nbsp;

 Boys Hoop Holler n' Shoot contest champion 

RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp; Law enforcement investigating a weekend homicide in Manhattan have made an arrest.&nbsp;

Just after 8p.m. Monday,&nbsp; Riley County Police in conjunction with Topeka Police and the KHP&nbsp; arrested 29-year-old Erick Sanches of Manhattan in the 300 Block of Kansas Avenue, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Sanchez is being held on a $1 million dollar bond on requested charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal threat.&nbsp;

Just before 12:30a.m. Saturday, police&nbsp; responded to the 800 block of Colorado for a reported welfare check of an injured man. Upon arrival, officers located 36-year-old Mark Rickenbaker, of Manhattan. During the investigation, officers discovered Rickenbaker had been involved in an altercation prior to their arrival. Rickenbaker, who was transported to Via Christi Hospital with serious injuries, later died, as a result of those injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765218730118.png" alt="Sanchez photo RCPD" />
 <figcaption>Sanchez photo RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp; Law enforcement investigating a weekend homicide in Manhattan have made an arrest.&nbsp;Just after 8p.m. Monday,&nbsp; Riley County Police in conjunction with Topeka Police and the KHP&nbsp; arrested 29-year-old Erick Sanches of Manhattan in the 300 Block of Kansas Avenue, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Sanchez is being held on a $1 million dollar bond on requested charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal threat.&nbsp;Just before 12:30a.m. Saturday, police&nbsp; responded to the 800 block of Colorado for a reported welfare check of an injured man. Upon arrival, officers located 36-year-old Mark Rickenbaker, of Manhattan. During the investigation, officers discovered Rickenbaker had been involved in an altercation prior to their arrival. Rickenbaker, who was transported to Via Christi Hospital with serious injuries, later died, as a result of those injuries.

Police capture suspect in weekend murder in Manhattan

TOPEKA– The Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation has announced that they are planning to host their 25th Kansas Mission of Mercy free dental clinic at the Kansas Army National Guard Armory in Manhattan, KS on January 30-31, 2026, with clinic doors opening at 5:30 a.m. both days. Local dentist Dr. Jill Ellner has volunteered to chair the 2026 event.

Support for this project comes entirely from donations and grants and uses no state or federal funding. Local coordinators are making contacts within the community to gain monetary and in-kind support for the project, as well as recruiting the hundreds of community volunteers necessary to make the Kansas Mission of Mercy possible. This project will cost nearly $170,000 but will leave behind nearly $1M of donated dental care in return.

There are no appointments or reservations, and patients will be seen on a first come, first served basis. Treatment options include cleanings, fillings, extractions, and dental hygiene education.

The clinic will include an estimated 100 dental chairs and it is expected that nearly 1,000 volunteers, consisting of dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, medical personnel, and community volunteers will donate their talents to treat patients. Volunteer registration will open on December 15 and can be done online at www.ksdentalfoundation.org

Since its inception in 2003, the Kansas Mission of Mercy has provided free care to 33,537 patients with a value of $23,874,945.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712249658417.jpg" alt="Image Pixaby" />
 <figcaption>Image Pixaby</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA– The Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation has announced that they are planning to host their 25th Kansas Mission of Mercy free dental clinic at the Kansas Army National Guard Armory in Manhattan, KS on January 30-31, 2026, with clinic doors opening at 5:30 a.m. both days. Local dentist Dr. Jill Ellner has volunteered to chair the 2026 event.Support for this project comes entirely from donations and grants and uses no state or federal funding. Local coordinators are making contacts within the community to gain monetary and in-kind support for the project, as well as recruiting the hundreds of community volunteers necessary to make the Kansas Mission of Mercy possible. This project will cost nearly $170,000 but will leave behind nearly $1M of donated dental care in return.There are no appointments or reservations, and patients will be seen on a first come, first served basis. Treatment options include cleanings, fillings, extractions, and dental hygiene education.The clinic will include an estimated 100 dental chairs and it is expected that nearly 1,000 volunteers, consisting of dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, medical personnel, and community volunteers will donate their talents to treat patients. Volunteer registration will open on December 15 and can be done online at www.ksdentalfoundation.orgSince its inception in 2003, the Kansas Mission of Mercy has provided free care to 33,537 patients with a value of $23,874,945.

Free dental clinic coming to Manhattan

USD 383 Board of Education member Curt Herrman has been elected as the Kansas Association of School Boards President-Elect.

USD 383 made the announcement via social media.

USD 383 Board of Education member Curt Herrman has been elected as the Kansas Association of School Boards President-Elect.USD 383 made the announcement via social media.

USD 383 Board of Education member will serve the KASB

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Monday in Manhattan.

Acording to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp; a 1999 Ford F-350 driven by Russell Thompson, 65, had struck a 2003 Chevrolet truck driven by James Posch, 64, at the intersection of 11th Street and Bertrand Street.&nbsp; The impact pushed into a 2013 Toyota RAV4, driven by Korie Kirkwood, 20.

EMS transported Posch to Via Christi for his injuries and issued a citation for failing to stop at a stop sign.

The RCPD released no additional details including where the drivers were from.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 11:30a.m. Monday in Manhattan.Acording to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp; a 1999 Ford F-350 driven by Russell Thompson, 65, had struck a 2003 Chevrolet truck driven by James Posch, 64, at the intersection of 11th Street and Bertrand Street.&nbsp; The impact pushed into a 2013 Toyota RAV4, driven by Korie Kirkwood, 20.EMS transported Posch to Via Christi for his injuries and issued a citation for failing to stop at a stop sign.The RCPD released no additional details including where the drivers were from.

Driver hospitalized, cited after 3-vehicle crash

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.

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765293220884.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 9

ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Monday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Peterbilt semi driven by George A. Crawford, 72, Elk City, Kansas, was southbound on Vincent Road at Old Highway 40.&nbsp; The driver did not see or hear the train's whistle. A Union Pacific Train with 41 cars struck the semi as it was crossing the tracks. EMS transported Crawford to Hays Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.

The train engineer Troy A. Young, 52, Abilene and conductor Tyler S.&nbsp;Gurnee, 33, Salina, were not injured. Crawford was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765226210299.jpeg" alt="A flipped semi-truck after a train collision at Vincent Road and Old Highway 40 east of Victoria. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>A flipped semi-truck after a train collision at Vincent Road and Old Highway 40 east of Victoria. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Monday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Peterbilt semi driven by George A. Crawford, 72, Elk City, Kansas, was southbound on Vincent Road at Old Highway 40.&nbsp; The driver did not see or hear the train's whistle. A Union Pacific Train with 41 cars struck the semi as it was crossing the tracks. EMS transported Crawford to Hays Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765226171900.jpeg" alt="The aftermath of a train colliding with a semi-truck at Vincent Road and Old Highway 40 east of Victoria. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The aftermath of a train colliding with a semi-truck at Vincent Road and Old Highway 40 east of Victoria. Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The train engineer Troy A. Young, 52, Abilene and conductor Tyler S.&nbsp;Gurnee, 33, Salina, were not injured. Crawford was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765226250114.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765226229934.jpeg" alt="Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Tony Guerrero/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

Abilene man working aboard train involved in crash with a semi

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Monday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Subaru Outback driven by&nbsp; Kyle Steven&nbsp;Olson, 42, Yorktown, Virginia, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the U.S. 77 exit. The SUV rear-ended a 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Neal Andrew&nbsp; Wheatley, 53, Chapman, who had&nbsp;&nbsp;slammed on the brakes due to a ladder in road.

EMS transported Wheatley to Stormont Vail in Junction City. Olson was not injured. Wheatley was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Monday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Subaru Outback driven by&nbsp; Kyle Steven&nbsp;Olson, 42, Yorktown, Virginia, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the U.S. 77 exit. The SUV rear-ended a 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan driven by Neal Andrew&nbsp; Wheatley, 53, Chapman, who had&nbsp;&nbsp;slammed on the brakes due to a ladder in road.EMS transported Wheatley to Stormont Vail in Junction City. Olson was not injured. Wheatley was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after I-70 rear-end crash

RILEY COUNTY —On Monday, the Riley County Police Department issued an attempt to located for 29-year-old Erick Sanchez-Chavez of Manhattan. 

We’d like to speak to him regarding the death of Mark Rickenbaker in the 800 block of Colorado St on December 6.

&nbsp;Just before 12:30a.m.&nbsp;December 6, police responded to the 800 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan, for a reported welfare check and located Rickenbaker who had serious injuries to his body. During the investigation, officers discovered that Rickenbaker had been involved in an altercation prior to their arrival.&nbsp; Rickenbaker was transported by ambulance to Via Christi Hospital and died as a result of his injuries. &nbsp;

Sanchez-Chavez is described as 5-foot 8,&nbsp; 180 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Do NOT approach or attempt to apprehend Sanchez-Chavez. 

If you have any information on his whereabouts, please contact the Riley County Police Department at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using the Crime Stoppers service allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765218730118.png" alt="Sanchez-Chavez" />
 <figcaption>Sanchez-Chavez</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —On Monday, the Riley County Police Department issued an attempt to located for 29-year-old Erick Sanchez-Chavez of Manhattan. We’d like to speak to him regarding the death of Mark Rickenbaker in the 800 block of Colorado St on December 6.&nbsp;Just before 12:30a.m.&nbsp;December 6, police responded to the 800 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan, for a reported welfare check and located Rickenbaker who had serious injuries to his body. During the investigation, officers discovered that Rickenbaker had been involved in an altercation prior to their arrival.&nbsp; Rickenbaker was transported by ambulance to Via Christi Hospital and died as a result of his injuries. &nbsp;Sanchez-Chavez is described as 5-foot 8,&nbsp; 180 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Do NOT approach or attempt to apprehend Sanchez-Chavez. If you have any information on his whereabouts, please contact the Riley County Police Department at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using the Crime Stoppers service allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD asks for help to locate suspect in man's murder

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Saturday in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2023 Nissan Pathfinder driven by Stevie Allen, 36 Bennington, struck a 2016 Jeep Renegade driven by Alani Lanning, 32, of La Cygne, near the intersection f of Tuttle Creek Boulevard and Griffith Driver in Manhattan.

EMS transported Lanning to Via Christi Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Allen was issued a citation for failure to yield the right of way.

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Saturday in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 2023 Nissan Pathfinder driven by Stevie Allen, 36 Bennington, struck a 2016 Jeep Renegade driven by Alani Lanning, 32, of La Cygne, near the intersection f of Tuttle Creek Boulevard and Griffith Driver in Manhattan.EMS transported Lanning to Via Christi Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Allen was issued a citation for failure to yield the right of way.

Kan. man hospitalized after 2-vehicle crash in Manhattan

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765208397664.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 8

DICKINSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Sunday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Honda Pilot driven by Sung H. Lee, 67, Mount Laurel, New Jersey, was eastbound on Interstate 70 seven miles west of Kansas 15 Highway.&nbsp; The SUV traveled into the north ditch just west of the Chapman exit. The vehicle continued down an embankment, through a KDOT fence and came to rest 100 yards off the highway in a field.

EMS transported the driver to the hospital in Abilene. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

DICKINSON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Sunday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Honda Pilot driven by Sung H. Lee, 67, Mount Laurel, New Jersey, was eastbound on Interstate 70 seven miles west of Kansas 15 Highway.&nbsp; The SUV traveled into the north ditch just west of the Chapman exit. The vehicle continued down an embankment, through a KDOT fence and came to rest 100 yards off the highway in a field.EMS transported the driver to the hospital in Abilene. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after SUV travels down embankment on I-70

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a homicide in Manhattan. Just before 12:30a.m.&nbsp;December 6, police responded to the 800 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan, for a reported welfare check of an injured man, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

First responders located a 36-year-old man, identified as Mark Rickenbaker of Manhattan who had serious injuries to his body. During the investigation, officers discovered that Rickenbaker had been involved in an altercation prior to their arrival.&nbsp; Rickenbaker was transported by ambulance to Via Christi Hospital and died as a result of his injuries. &nbsp;

This is an isolated incident, according to the RCPD. Police released no additional details.

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;Crime Stoppers. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a homicide in Manhattan. Just before 12:30a.m.&nbsp;December 6, police responded to the 800 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan, for a reported welfare check of an injured man, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.First responders located a 36-year-old man, identified as Mark Rickenbaker of Manhattan who had serious injuries to his body. During the investigation, officers discovered that Rickenbaker had been involved in an altercation prior to their arrival.&nbsp; Rickenbaker was transported by ambulance to Via Christi Hospital and died as a result of his injuries. &nbsp;This is an isolated incident, according to the RCPD. Police released no additional details.Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;Crime Stoppers. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD investigating homicide of 36-year-old

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765120296153.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765120231553.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 6, 7

The Manhattan Housing Authority (MHA) is partnering with a developer&nbsp;to build the Sunflower Flats, a 62-unit housing project for low- and moderate-income seniors, situated at the City’s parking lot on 5th and Pierre Streets. 

The City announced that the project has secured federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and bonds from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation. City Administration has crafted a Land Transfer and Development agreement, allowing the construction on the property, and ensuring the reconstruction of the alley and a remaining 50 parking spaces to be returned to the city for public use following the&nbsp;project's completion. Additionally, a $310,000 grant is proposed for solar panel installation&nbsp;to be funded by the City's Workforce Housing Sales Tax dollars.&nbsp;

City releaseThe Manhattan Housing Authority (MHA) is partnering with a developer&nbsp;to build the Sunflower Flats, a 62-unit housing project for low- and moderate-income seniors, situated at the City’s parking lot on 5th and Pierre Streets. The City announced that the project has secured federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and bonds from the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation. City Administration has crafted a Land Transfer and Development agreement, allowing the construction on the property, and ensuring the reconstruction of the alley and a remaining 50 parking spaces to be returned to the city for public use following the&nbsp;project's completion. Additionally, a $310,000 grant is proposed for solar panel installation&nbsp;to be funded by the City's Workforce Housing Sales Tax dollars.&nbsp;

Sunflower Flats will serve low to moderate income seniors

Collin Klein called it a "Dream Come True" as he was introduced to a cheering crowd as the new head football coach at Kansas State University on Friday.

Klein spoke in front of an audience at the Morgan Family Arena on the K-State campus. He praised the Kansas State football competitive spirit, touched on the physicality of the game., the need for resilience to adversity and steps necessary to excel. He was presented with a&nbsp; jersey bearing the number 7.

Klein pledged that K-State will be aggressive in moving the program forward, will play hard and with a schematic advantage.&nbsp; "I love challenges" and noted that&nbsp; he wants to take the program where it hasn't been before."

Collin Klein recruited many of the Wildcat players during an earlier stint as the offensive coordinator at Kansas State. He succeeds Chris Kleiman, who is retiring after seven years as the head coach.&nbsp;

Klein is the 36th head football coach in KSU history. He returns to Kansas State after two years as the offensive coordinator for Texas A&amp;M, and will continue to also serve in that capacity for the Aggies during the upcoming college football playoffs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764990688574.png" alt="Photo K-State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Photo K-State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Collin Klein called it a "Dream Come True" as he was introduced to a cheering crowd as the new head football coach at Kansas State University on Friday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Introducing the 36th head coach in program history, <a href="https://twitter.com/CK_KleinCollin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CK_KleinCollin</a> <a href="https://t.co/na02g1Oi6T">pic.twitter.com/na02g1Oi6T</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1997099888291545307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Klein spoke in front of an audience at the Morgan Family Arena on the K-State campus. He praised the Kansas State football competitive spirit, touched on the physicality of the game., the need for resilience to adversity and steps necessary to excel. He was presented with a&nbsp; jersey bearing the number 7.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Family first <a href="https://t.co/nqPrmp7bob">pic.twitter.com/nqPrmp7bob</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1997042597248839970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Klein pledged that K-State will be aggressive in moving the program forward, will play hard and with a schematic advantage.&nbsp; "I love challenges" and noted that&nbsp; he wants to take the program where it hasn't been before."Collin Klein recruited many of the Wildcat players during an earlier stint as the offensive coordinator at Kansas State. He succeeds Chris Kleiman, who is retiring after seven years as the head coach.&nbsp;Klein is the 36th head football coach in KSU history. He returns to Kansas State after two years as the offensive coordinator for Texas A&amp;M, and will continue to also serve in that capacity for the Aggies during the upcoming college football playoffs.

Collin Klein introduced as the new K-State head football coach

The Manhattan City Commission has approved the Community Support Funds Advisory Board's (CSFAB) recommendations for the 2026 funding allocations, focusing on enhancing social services and alcohol-related programs. In 2026, a&nbsp;total of $557,500 will be distributed across 18&nbsp;local social services&nbsp;agencies helping individuals and families across Manhattan. 

In addition,&nbsp;$550,000 will be distributed across 15 local&nbsp;agencies&nbsp;from&nbsp;the special alcohol fund&nbsp;(monies distributed by the State of Kansas from liquor by the drink taxes&nbsp;to be used for&nbsp;alcohol&nbsp;and drug abuse prevention, education, detoxification, and intervention). 

Annually, the advisory board accepts applications from local agencies, deliberates, and makes recommendations to the City Commission on the use and distribution of the two funds.

The Manhattan City Commission has approved the Community Support Funds Advisory Board's (CSFAB) recommendations for the 2026 funding allocations, focusing on enhancing social services and alcohol-related programs. In 2026, a&nbsp;total of $557,500 will be distributed across 18&nbsp;local social services&nbsp;agencies helping individuals and families across Manhattan. In addition,&nbsp;$550,000 will be distributed across 15 local&nbsp;agencies&nbsp;from&nbsp;the special alcohol fund&nbsp;(monies distributed by the State of Kansas from liquor by the drink taxes&nbsp;to be used for&nbsp;alcohol&nbsp;and drug abuse prevention, education, detoxification, and intervention). Annually, the advisory board accepts applications from local agencies, deliberates, and makes recommendations to the City Commission on the use and distribution of the two funds.

Funding allocation for community support funds

MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– One of the greatest players in school history will return to lead the Wildcats on the sidelines, as Collin Klein has been named the next head football coach at Kansas State, athletics director&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;announced Thursday.

A 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and member of K-State Football's Ring of Honor, Klein is now in his 12th year in coaching, nine of which have come at K-State.

Klein will be introduced to the public Friday in a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena. Doors open at 3 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+."We are excited to welcome one of our all-time greats back home to Manhattan," Taylor said.

"Collin is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a player still fuels him today as a coach, and he is determined to carry on the tremendous success this program has achieved.

As we know, college football has changed, and I am confident that Collin is ready to embrace this new model while maintaining the culture that we know as K-State Football.

Welcome home, Collin, Shalin, Beric, Rhett, Trek and Briar."

Klein, the 36th head football coach in school history, has agreed to a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million to lead his alma mater.

He served as K-State's offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M, a role that he will continue in during the Aggies' postseason run."My family and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to come home," Klein said.

"Thank you to President Linton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head Coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service, hard work, determination, and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward.

This is Family business, and we cannot wait to get to work!

"The first K-State alum to serve as head football coach since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975-77,&nbsp; Klein helped the Wildcats to 51 wins and five bowl appearances during his tenure as a full-time assistant coach.

He helped guide Kansas State to a 19-8 mark and a Big 12 Championship during his two-year run as offensive coordinator.His first full season as K-State offensive coordinator in 2022 was a success as he led an offense that ranked in the top 10 in school history in 11 categories, including ranking second in offensive yards (5,863) and plays (958), fourth in rushing yards (2,916) and fifth in yards per game (418.8).

The Wildcats finished the 2022 season with 421.6 total yards per game – their most since 2014 – while their 32.3 points per game were the most by the squad since 2017. K-State improved its production in Klein's second season at the offensive controls, as its 37.1 points per game ranked 10th nationally and sixth in school history, while it was the highest average by a K-State team since Klein's senior season of 2012 (38.9 points per game).

Kansas State produced 445.2 total yards per game in 2023 to rank second in school history.In Klein's offense, running back Deuce Vaughn became the second player in school history to twice earn Consensus All-America honors, while Cooper Beebe became the first offensive lineman in school history to earn Consensus All-America honors.

Prior to serving as K-State's offensive coordinator, Klein was the Wildcats' quarterbacks coach in 2017, 2019 and 2021, while he was a co-offensive coordinator in 2018.

He earned his first full-time coaching position tutoring the quarterbacks at Northern Iowa in 2016, which was just a year hiatus from Manhattan as he worked as an assistant director of recruiting and defensive quality control coach for the Wildcats in 2014 and an offensive graduate assistant in 2015.

The 2012 Johnny Unitas Award winner, Klein finished his K-State career ranking in the school's top 10 in 34 different game, season and career record categories. He was the first quarterback from a Power 5 school since 1998 to rush for at least 20 touchdowns and pass for 10 scores in consecutive seasons by doing so in 2011 and 2012.

Klein led the Wildcats to a combined 21-5 record as the starting quarterback in 2011 and 2012, which culminated with a No. 1 national ranking, Big 12 Championship and Fiesta Bowl berth in 2012.

Serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M the last two seasons, Klein has helped the Aggies to an 11-1 record this season and a possible berth into the College Football Playoff, which will be announced on Sunday.

This season, Texas A&amp;M holds an 11-1 record as the Aggies rank in the top 30 nationally in scoring offense (16th; 36.3 points per game), total offense (20th; 454.4 yards per game), rushing offense (26th; 192.7 yards per game), passing offense (32nd; 261.8 yards per game), tackles for loss allowed (1st; 2.83 per game), fourth down percentage (2nd; 75.0%), sacks allowed (11th; 1.00 per game), passing yards per completion (11th; 14.09), time of possession (15th; 32:24) and first downs (29th; 272).

Texas A&amp;M has hit the 400-yard mark in total offense 10 times in 12 games thus far in 2025.A 2025 Broyles Award Semifinalist, Klein has guided Aggie quarterback Marcel Reed to top-15 individual marks this season in passing yards per completion (7th; 14.03), points responsible for (13th; 186) and passing touchdowns (14th; 25).

In his first season at Texas A&amp;M in 2024, Klein helped guide the Aggies to a 5-0 start in SEC play, marking the program's best start in SEC action and its best conference start since 1998. Texas A&amp;M boasted the No. 2 rushing offense in the SEC, ranking 26th nationally (195.5 yards per game), and the offensive line ranked 10th in the country by allowing just 51.0 tackles for loss on the year.

Klein obtained his undergraduate degree from K-State in December 2011 in business financial services and controllership, while he received his master's degree in academic advising in December 2019. He is married to the former Shalin Spani, a former Wildcat women's basketball player. The couple has three sons, Beric, Rhett and Trek, and one daughter, Briar.

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Believe it, Coach <a href="https://t.co/MpF2E7zSOc">pic.twitter.com/MpF2E7zSOc</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1997000680867836339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Back like he never left <a href="https://t.co/cB2e91xezJ">pic.twitter.com/cB2e91xezJ</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1996990122017825082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A message from <a href="https://twitter.com/CK_KleinCollin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CK_KleinCollin</a> <a href="https://t.co/ef3FwC2pES">pic.twitter.com/ef3FwC2pES</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1996779764246630534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– One of the greatest players in school history will return to lead the Wildcats on the sidelines, as Collin Klein has been named the next head football coach at Kansas State, athletics director&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;announced Thursday.A 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and member of K-State Football's Ring of Honor, Klein is now in his 12th year in coaching, nine of which have come at K-State.Klein will be introduced to the public Friday in a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena. Doors open at 3 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+."We are excited to welcome one of our all-time greats back home to Manhattan," Taylor said."Collin is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a player still fuels him today as a coach, and he is determined to carry on the tremendous success this program has achieved.As we know, college football has changed, and I am confident that Collin is ready to embrace this new model while maintaining the culture that we know as K-State Football.Welcome home, Collin, Shalin, Beric, Rhett, Trek and Briar."Klein, the 36th head football coach in school history, has agreed to a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million to lead his alma mater.He served as K-State's offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M, a role that he will continue in during the Aggies' postseason run."My family and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to come home," Klein said."Thank you to President Linton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head Coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service, hard work, determination, and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward.This is Family business, and we cannot wait to get to work!"The first K-State alum to serve as head football coach since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975-77,&nbsp; Klein helped the Wildcats to 51 wins and five bowl appearances during his tenure as a full-time assistant coach.He helped guide Kansas State to a 19-8 mark and a Big 12 Championship during his two-year run as offensive coordinator.His first full season as K-State offensive coordinator in 2022 was a success as he led an offense that ranked in the top 10 in school history in 11 categories, including ranking second in offensive yards (5,863) and plays (958), fourth in rushing yards (2,916) and fifth in yards per game (418.8).The Wildcats finished the 2022 season with 421.6 total yards per game – their most since 2014 – while their 32.3 points per game were the most by the squad since 2017. K-State improved its production in Klein's second season at the offensive controls, as its 37.1 points per game ranked 10th nationally and sixth in school history, while it was the highest average by a K-State team since Klein's senior season of 2012 (38.9 points per game).Kansas State produced 445.2 total yards per game in 2023 to rank second in school history.In Klein's offense, running back Deuce Vaughn became the second player in school history to twice earn Consensus All-America honors, while Cooper Beebe became the first offensive lineman in school history to earn Consensus All-America honors.Prior to serving as K-State's offensive coordinator, Klein was the Wildcats' quarterbacks coach in 2017, 2019 and 2021, while he was a co-offensive coordinator in 2018.He earned his first full-time coaching position tutoring the quarterbacks at Northern Iowa in 2016, which was just a year hiatus from Manhattan as he worked as an assistant director of recruiting and defensive quality control coach for the Wildcats in 2014 and an offensive graduate assistant in 2015.The 2012 Johnny Unitas Award winner, Klein finished his K-State career ranking in the school's top 10 in 34 different game, season and career record categories. He was the first quarterback from a Power 5 school since 1998 to rush for at least 20 touchdowns and pass for 10 scores in consecutive seasons by doing so in 2011 and 2012.Klein led the Wildcats to a combined 21-5 record as the starting quarterback in 2011 and 2012, which culminated with a No. 1 national ranking, Big 12 Championship and Fiesta Bowl berth in 2012.Serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M the last two seasons, Klein has helped the Aggies to an 11-1 record this season and a possible berth into the College Football Playoff, which will be announced on Sunday.This season, Texas A&amp;M holds an 11-1 record as the Aggies rank in the top 30 nationally in scoring offense (16th; 36.3 points per game), total offense (20th; 454.4 yards per game), rushing offense (26th; 192.7 yards per game), passing offense (32nd; 261.8 yards per game), tackles for loss allowed (1st; 2.83 per game), fourth down percentage (2nd; 75.0%), sacks allowed (11th; 1.00 per game), passing yards per completion (11th; 14.09), time of possession (15th; 32:24) and first downs (29th; 272).Texas A&amp;M has hit the 400-yard mark in total offense 10 times in 12 games thus far in 2025.A 2025 Broyles Award Semifinalist, Klein has guided Aggie quarterback Marcel Reed to top-15 individual marks this season in passing yards per completion (7th; 14.03), points responsible for (13th; 186) and passing touchdowns (14th; 25).In his first season at Texas A&amp;M in 2024, Klein helped guide the Aggies to a 5-0 start in SEC play, marking the program's best start in SEC action and its best conference start since 1998. Texas A&amp;M boasted the No. 2 rushing offense in the SEC, ranking 26th nationally (195.5 yards per game), and the offensive line ranked 10th in the country by allowing just 51.0 tackles for loss on the year.Klein obtained his undergraduate degree from K-State in December 2011 in business financial services and controllership, while he received his master's degree in academic advising in December 2019. He is married to the former Shalin Spani, a former Wildcat women's basketball player. The couple has three sons, Beric, Rhett and Trek, and one daughter, Briar.

Back like he never left: Colin Klein and family arrive in Manhattan 

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University will see more than 1,500 candidates for graduation this fall at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">commencement ceremonies</a>&nbsp;set for Friday, Dec. 12, in Manhattan and Salina and Saturday, Dec. 13, in Manhattan.

Candidates from both the summer 2025 and fall 2025 semesters will be recognized.Ceremony information, including parking, accommodations and a livestream of the Manhattan campus ceremonies, will be available on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">K-State graduation website.</a>The university will award approximately 1,050 bachelor's degrees, 350 master's degrees and 100 doctorates this fall. Seventy students will be earning multiple degrees and majors.

The graduates-to-be also include more than 300 students who are earning their degrees through a K-State Online program.As part of an effort to deliver and maximize a unified, student-centered graduation experience, undergraduate ceremonies on the Manhattan campus have been strategically combined this fall in a pilot structure.By hosting graduates from multiple academic colleges in three combined ceremonies on Saturday, in addition to an Army ROTC commissioning ceremony, the university aims to amplify the best of its commencement traditions.

Schedule and speakers for Friday, Dec. 12 ceremonies

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University will see more than 1,500 candidates for graduation this fall at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">commencement ceremonies</a>&nbsp;set for Friday, Dec. 12, in Manhattan and Salina and Saturday, Dec. 13, in Manhattan. Candidates from both the summer 2025 and fall 2025 semesters will be recognized.Ceremony information, including parking, accommodations and a livestream of the Manhattan campus ceremonies, will be available on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/graduation/">K-State graduation website.</a>The university will award approximately 1,050 bachelor's degrees, 350 master's degrees and 100 doctorates this fall. Seventy students will be earning multiple degrees and majors. The graduates-to-be also include more than 300 students who are earning their degrees through a K-State Online program.As part of an effort to deliver and maximize a unified, student-centered graduation experience, undergraduate ceremonies on the Manhattan campus have been strategically combined this fall in a pilot structure.By hosting graduates from multiple academic colleges in three combined ceremonies on Saturday, in addition to an Army ROTC commissioning ceremony, the university aims to amplify the best of its commencement traditions.Schedule and speakers for Friday, Dec. 12 ceremonies<ul>
 <li>1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum: Graduate School. Regent John Dicus will represent the Kansas Board of Regents at the ceremony. J. Ernest Minton, professor of animal sciences and industry, will be the speaker.</li><li>7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina: K-State Salina. Lt. Col. Matthew Shelly, U.S. Air Force, will be the speaker.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Noon, Bramlage Coliseum: College of Agriculture and College of Business Administration. Mike Leikam, '87, the president and chief executive officer of Centralized Supply Chain Services, LLC, will be the speaker. Weston Schrader, bachelor's candidate in animal sciences and industry,&nbsp;Minneapolis, Kansas, and Max Roberts, bachelor's candidate in finance,&nbsp;Olathe, will be the student speakers.</li><li>3:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum: Carl R. Ice College of Engineering and College of Health and Human Sciences. The student speakers are Robert Holt, bachelor's candidate in mechanical engineering,&nbsp;Overland Park, and Cara Johnson, bachelor's candidate in communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;Lenexa.</li>
 </ul>

K-State's fall 2025 commencement ceremonies celebrate Wildcat excellence

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a violent robbery in Manhattan have identified the teen suspects.

Just before 5:30p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report of aggravated robbery in the 700 block of Allen Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 23-year-old man reported three unknown men battered him and stole a handgun.&nbsp;After additional investigation into the incident, officers identified the three male suspects.

Terrion Toliver, 18, of Manhattan was arrested on December 4, 2025, at approximately 11:56 p.m on a requested charge of Aggravated Robbery. He is being held on a bond of $150,000.

Isaiah Ellis, 16, of Manhattan was arrested on December 4, 2025, at approximately 10:18 p.m on a requested charge of Aggravated Robbery. He remains confined in the North Central Kansas Juvenile Detention Facility.

Noah McFadden, 17, of Manhattan was arrested on December 5, 2025, at approximately 12:48 a.m on a requested charge of Aggravated Robbery. He is being held in the North Central Kansas Juvenile Detention Facility.

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $150.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a violent robbery in Manhattan have identified the teen suspects.Just before 5:30p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report of aggravated robbery in the 700 block of Allen Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 23-year-old man reported three unknown men battered him and stole a handgun.&nbsp;After additional investigation into the incident, officers identified the three male suspects.Terrion Toliver, 18, of Manhattan was arrested on December 4, 2025, at approximately 11:56 p.m on a requested charge of Aggravated Robbery. He is being held on a bond of $150,000.Isaiah Ellis, 16, of Manhattan was arrested on December 4, 2025, at approximately 10:18 p.m on a requested charge of Aggravated Robbery. He remains confined in the North Central Kansas Juvenile Detention Facility.Noah McFadden, 17, of Manhattan was arrested on December 5, 2025, at approximately 12:48 a.m on a requested charge of Aggravated Robbery. He is being held in the North Central Kansas Juvenile Detention Facility.The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $150.

RCPD: 3 teens arrested for violent robbery, gun theft

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764947018807.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 5

A 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and member of K-State Football's Ring of Honor, Klein is now in his 12th year in coaching, nine of which have come at K-State. 

Klein will be introduced to the public Friday in a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena. Doors open at 3 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+."We are excited to welcome one of our all-time greats back home to Manhattan," Taylor said. 

"Collin is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a player still fuels him today as a coach, and he is determined to carry on the tremendous success this program has achieved. 

As we know, college football has changed, and I am confident that Collin is ready to embrace this new model while maintaining the culture that we know as K-State Football. 

Klein, the 36th head football coach in school history, has agreed to a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million to lead his alma mater. 

He served as K-State's offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M, a role that he will continue in during the Aggies' postseason run."My family and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to come home," Klein said. 

"Thank you to President Linton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head Coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service, hard work, determination, and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward.

"The first K-State alum to serve as head football coach since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975-77,&nbsp; Klein helped the Wildcats to 51 wins and five bowl appearances during his tenure as a full-time assistant coach. 

The Wildcats finished the 2022 season with 421.6 total yards per game – their most since 2014 – while their 32.3 points per game were the most by the squad since 2017. K-State improved its production in Klein's second season at the offensive controls, as its 37.1 points per game ranked 10th nationally and sixth in school history, while it was the highest average by a K-State team since Klein's senior season of 2012 (38.9 points per game). 

Prior to serving as K-State's offensive coordinator, Klein was the Wildcats' quarterbacks coach in 2017, 2019 and 2021, while he was a co-offensive coordinator in 2018. 

Serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M the last two seasons, Klein has helped the Aggies to an 11-1 record this season and a possible berth into the College Football Playoff, which will be announced on Sunday. 

This season, Texas A&amp;M holds an 11-1 record as the Aggies rank in the top 30 nationally in scoring offense (16th; 36.3 points per game), total offense (20th; 454.4 yards per game), rushing offense (26th; 192.7 yards per game), passing offense (32nd; 261.8 yards per game), tackles for loss allowed (1st; 2.83 per game), fourth down percentage (2nd; 75.0%), sacks allowed (11th; 1.00 per game), passing yards per completion (11th; 14.09), time of possession (15th; 32:24) and first downs (29th; 272). 

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Got our guy. <a href="https://t.co/noyv4A8z7B">pic.twitter.com/noyv4A8z7B</a>&mdash; K-State Football (@KStateFB) <a href="https://twitter.com/KStateFB/status/1996758932828967155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>MANHATTAN, Kan.&nbsp;– One of the greatest players in school history will return to lead the Wildcats on the sidelines, as Collin Klein has been named the next head football coach at Kansas State, athletics director&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;announced Thursday.A 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and member of K-State Football's Ring of Honor, Klein is now in his 12th year in coaching, nine of which have come at K-State. Klein will be introduced to the public Friday in a welcome event at Morgan Family Arena. Doors open at 3 p.m., with the ceremony beginning at 4 p.m. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+."We are excited to welcome one of our all-time greats back home to Manhattan," Taylor said. "Collin is a tremendous leader who cares deeply about his players. The grit, toughness and aggression he displayed as a player still fuels him today as a coach, and he is determined to carry on the tremendous success this program has achieved. As we know, college football has changed, and I am confident that Collin is ready to embrace this new model while maintaining the culture that we know as K-State Football. Welcome home, Collin, Shalin, Beric, Rhett, Trek and Briar."Klein, the 36th head football coach in school history, has agreed to a five-year contract with an average base salary of $4.3 million to lead his alma mater. He served as K-State's offensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M, a role that he will continue in during the Aggies' postseason run."My family and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to come home," Klein said. "Thank you to President Linton and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kstatesports.com/staff-directory/gene-taylor/1">Gene Taylor</a>&nbsp;for believing in us to lead the Cats into a new era. The position of Head Coach at Kansas State has a long legacy of service, hard work, determination, and competitive greatness that I am honored to carry forward. This is Family business, and we cannot wait to get to work!"The first K-State alum to serve as head football coach since Ellis Rainsberger from 1975-77,&nbsp; Klein helped the Wildcats to 51 wins and five bowl appearances during his tenure as a full-time assistant coach. He helped guide Kansas State to a 19-8 mark and a Big 12 Championship during his two-year run as offensive coordinator.His first full season as K-State offensive coordinator in 2022 was a success as he led an offense that ranked in the top 10 in school history in 11 categories, including ranking second in offensive yards (5,863) and plays (958), fourth in rushing yards (2,916) and fifth in yards per game (418.8).The Wildcats finished the 2022 season with 421.6 total yards per game – their most since 2014 – while their 32.3 points per game were the most by the squad since 2017. K-State improved its production in Klein's second season at the offensive controls, as its 37.1 points per game ranked 10th nationally and sixth in school history, while it was the highest average by a K-State team since Klein's senior season of 2012 (38.9 points per game). Kansas State produced 445.2 total yards per game in 2023 to rank second in school history.In Klein's offense, running back Deuce Vaughn became the second player in school history to twice earn Consensus All-America honors, while Cooper Beebe became the first offensive lineman in school history to earn Consensus All-America honors.Prior to serving as K-State's offensive coordinator, Klein was the Wildcats' quarterbacks coach in 2017, 2019 and 2021, while he was a co-offensive coordinator in 2018. He earned his first full-time coaching position tutoring the quarterbacks at Northern Iowa in 2016, which was just a year hiatus from Manhattan as he worked as an assistant director of recruiting and defensive quality control coach for the Wildcats in 2014 and an offensive graduate assistant in 2015.The 2012 Johnny Unitas Award winner, Klein finished his K-State career ranking in the school's top 10 in 34 different game, season and career record categories. He was the first quarterback from a Power 5 school since 1998 to rush for at least 20 touchdowns and pass for 10 scores in consecutive seasons by doing so in 2011 and 2012.Klein led the Wildcats to a combined 21-5 record as the starting quarterback in 2011 and 2012, which culminated with a No. 1 national ranking, Big 12 Championship and Fiesta Bowl berth in 2012.Serving as the offensive coordinator at Texas A&amp;M the last two seasons, Klein has helped the Aggies to an 11-1 record this season and a possible berth into the College Football Playoff, which will be announced on Sunday. This season, Texas A&amp;M holds an 11-1 record as the Aggies rank in the top 30 nationally in scoring offense (16th; 36.3 points per game), total offense (20th; 454.4 yards per game), rushing offense (26th; 192.7 yards per game), passing offense (32nd; 261.8 yards per game), tackles for loss allowed (1st; 2.83 per game), fourth down percentage (2nd; 75.0%), sacks allowed (11th; 1.00 per game), passing yards per completion (11th; 14.09), time of possession (15th; 32:24) and first downs (29th; 272). Texas A&amp;M has hit the 400-yard mark in total offense 10 times in 12 games thus far in 2025.A 2025 Broyles Award Semifinalist, Klein has guided Aggie quarterback Marcel Reed to top-15 individual marks this season in passing yards per completion (7th; 14.03), points responsible for (13th; 186) and passing touchdowns (14th; 25).In his first season at Texas A&amp;M in 2024, Klein helped guide the Aggies to a 5-0 start in SEC play, marking the program's best start in SEC action and its best conference start since 1998. Texas A&amp;M boasted the No. 2 rushing offense in the SEC, ranking 26th nationally (195.5 yards per game), and the offensive line ranked 10th in the country by allowing just 51.0 tackles for loss on the year.Klein obtained his undergraduate degree from K-State in December 2011 in business financial services and controllership, while he received his master's degree in academic advising in December 2019. He is married to the former Shalin Spani, a former Wildcat women's basketball player. The couple has three sons, Beric, Rhett and Trek, and one daughter, Briar.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

K-State confirms return of Colin Klein as head coach of the 'Cats

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a vehicle theft and have taken a Kansas teen into custody.

On December 2, 2025, at approximately 12:30 PM, a deputy with the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office located a Toyota Avalon in the area of East 1st Street and Bonebrake Street that had been reported stolen out of Nebraska. The vehicle was unoccupied at the time it was recovered. The vehicle was processed and evidence was collected. The vehicle was towed for safekeeping until it can be returned to the owner.

Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office continued the investigation and developed a suspect the following day. The investigation led to the arrest of 19-year-old&nbsp; Christopher Madison Bryant of Abilene on a requested charge of theft of the vehicle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764861665339.png" alt="Bryant-photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Bryant-photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a vehicle theft and have taken a Kansas teen into custody.On December 2, 2025, at approximately 12:30 PM, a deputy with the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office located a Toyota Avalon in the area of East 1st Street and Bonebrake Street that had been reported stolen out of Nebraska. The vehicle was unoccupied at the time it was recovered. The vehicle was processed and evidence was collected. The vehicle was towed for safekeeping until it can be returned to the owner.Investigators with the Sheriff’s Office continued the investigation and developed a suspect the following day. The investigation led to the arrest of 19-year-old&nbsp; Christopher Madison Bryant of Abilene on a requested charge of theft of the vehicle.

Kan. teen arrested after reported stolen car recovered

&nbsp; (Riley County, KS – December 4, 2025) &nbsp;The Riley County Board of County Commissioners voted Thursday to approve the consolidation of Riley County Fire District #1, Riley County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and Riley County Emergency Management into a single, unified department named Riley County Emergency Services. The decision follows a comprehensive review of the county’s emergency response structure and a formal proposal presented by Human Resources Director Elizabeth Ward, EMS Director David Adams, and Emergency Services Director/Fire Chief Russel Stukey.

Under the approved plan, the three divisions will operate within one department led by a Director of Emergency Services. The transition will begin in 2026 with EMS Director David Adams stepping into the role and leading the consolidated department. Current ES Director/Fire Chief Russel Stukey has announced his retirement plans for the fall of 2026 which will allow ample time to complete the transition smoothly.&nbsp;

&nbsp; “I am honored to take on this role,” Adams said. “Riley County has a long record of excellent emergency service, and our teams have worked well together for many years. My focus is to support that work and ensure we continue to deliver effective, reliable service to the community. I appreciate Chief Stukey’s guidance during this transition, and his experience will be valuable as we move forward.”Stukey added “Change can be difficult, but I believe with the quality staff we have in place, this reorganization process will increase the efficiency of services provided to the public far into the future.”

The new organizational structure is intended to improve coordination during routine operations and major incidents by integrating training, planning, and emergency preparedness across the three response disciplines. It also streamlines administrative functions such as budgeting and resource management. The Director role will be administration focused&nbsp;while the division/deputy-level positions will be operational and hands-on managers.&nbsp;

“Under the previous structure, Chief Stukey was sometimes called to respond to fires and manage on-scene operations, which required him to step out of the Director role to support frontline work,” said Ward. “Under the new structure, the Director can stay focused on leading the department, while our division chiefs handle on-scene operations.”

Although Emergency Services is moving to a consolidated management structure, each division will continue to operate from their current locations to maintain continuity of service and quick response times. Renovation of the old EMS Station #1 at Clafin and Charles Little Road will continue, with Emergency Management and RCFD#1 scheduled to occupy that space when it is completed in late spring 2026. Director Adams will maintain an offices in the new EMS Station #1 at 1115 Charles Little Road as well as the new EM/RCFD#1 headquarters building.&nbsp;The Emergency Services Director role will still be responsible for leading the Emergency Operations Center.&nbsp;

The new structure will reduce one department head position, which is expected to save the county approximately $120,000 each year. During 2026, savings will be lower as both directors will be involved in the transition for nine months.

Riley County&nbsp; (Riley County, KS – December 4, 2025) &nbsp;The Riley County Board of County Commissioners voted Thursday to approve the consolidation of Riley County Fire District #1, Riley County Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and Riley County Emergency Management into a single, unified department named Riley County Emergency Services. The decision follows a comprehensive review of the county’s emergency response structure and a formal proposal presented by Human Resources Director Elizabeth Ward, EMS Director David Adams, and Emergency Services Director/Fire Chief Russel Stukey.Under the approved plan, the three divisions will operate within one department led by a Director of Emergency Services. The transition will begin in 2026 with EMS Director David Adams stepping into the role and leading the consolidated department. Current ES Director/Fire Chief Russel Stukey has announced his retirement plans for the fall of 2026 which will allow ample time to complete the transition smoothly.&nbsp;&nbsp; “I am honored to take on this role,” Adams said. “Riley County has a long record of excellent emergency service, and our teams have worked well together for many years. My focus is to support that work and ensure we continue to deliver effective, reliable service to the community. I appreciate Chief Stukey’s guidance during this transition, and his experience will be valuable as we move forward.”Stukey added “Change can be difficult, but I believe with the quality staff we have in place, this reorganization process will increase the efficiency of services provided to the public far into the future.”The new organizational structure is intended to improve coordination during routine operations and major incidents by integrating training, planning, and emergency preparedness across the three response disciplines. It also streamlines administrative functions such as budgeting and resource management. The Director role will be administration focused&nbsp;while the division/deputy-level positions will be operational and hands-on managers.&nbsp;“Under the previous structure, Chief Stukey was sometimes called to respond to fires and manage on-scene operations, which required him to step out of the Director role to support frontline work,” said Ward. “Under the new structure, the Director can stay focused on leading the department, while our division chiefs handle on-scene operations.”Although Emergency Services is moving to a consolidated management structure, each division will continue to operate from their current locations to maintain continuity of service and quick response times. Renovation of the old EMS Station #1 at Clafin and Charles Little Road will continue, with Emergency Management and RCFD#1 scheduled to occupy that space when it is completed in late spring 2026. Director Adams will maintain an offices in the new EMS Station #1 at 1115 Charles Little Road as well as the new EM/RCFD#1 headquarters building.&nbsp;The Emergency Services Director role will still be responsible for leading the Emergency Operations Center.&nbsp;The new structure will reduce one department head position, which is expected to save the county approximately $120,000 each year. During 2026, savings will be lower as both directors will be involved in the transition for nine months.

Riley County Commissioners Approve Consolidation of Emergency Services

Celebrate the spirit of Christmas with Friends of the Milford Nature Center and the Knights of Columbus this Friday and Saturday night with the&nbsp; Isle of Lights! 

We invite you to drive through the Milford State Park and see our 2025 Isle of Lights this weekend&nbsp;December 5th and 6th from 5-8pm. Alongside the festive displays, you can meet Santa while enjoying hot cocoa and cookies from 6-8pm. Located at the Prairie View Campground at Milford State Park. 

Santa and refreshments are located at the Sprung Hut at the South Boat Ramp and will be available from 6-8pm. A Park Pass is required | $10+ suggested donation per vehicle | No registration is required | All ages are welcome.&nbsp;

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 </figure>Celebrate the spirit of Christmas with Friends of the Milford Nature Center and the Knights of Columbus this Friday and Saturday night with the&nbsp; Isle of Lights! We invite you to drive through the Milford State Park and see our 2025 Isle of Lights this weekend&nbsp;December 5th and 6th from 5-8pm. Alongside the festive displays, you can meet Santa while enjoying hot cocoa and cookies from 6-8pm. Located at the Prairie View Campground at Milford State Park. Santa and refreshments are located at the Sprung Hut at the South Boat Ramp and will be available from 6-8pm. A Park Pass is required | $10+ suggested donation per vehicle | No registration is required | All ages are welcome.&nbsp;