by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - Around 6:30 pm on December 13th, Riley County Police officers arrested 30-year-old Crystal Jaimez of Manhattan in connection with a two vehicle injury crash from Sunday.

Jaimez was arrested for two counts of aggravated battery in connection with a <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/45d4f84e-246f-404e-a265-eabe96021c56">crash near the intersection of Tuttle Creek Blvd. and Allen Rd.&nbsp;</a>

Jaimez failed to stop at a red light and struck a 2004 Honda Element driven by Jonas T. Staedtler, 17, Manhattan, who was turning onto Allen Road. After impact, the Honda came to rest on the East shoulder of the northbound lanes of U.S. 24 against a light pole.

&nbsp;Jaimez remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $75,000.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - Around 6:30 pm on December 13th, Riley County Police officers arrested 30-year-old Crystal Jaimez of Manhattan in connection with a two vehicle injury crash from Sunday.Jaimez was arrested for two counts of aggravated battery in connection with a <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/45d4f84e-246f-404e-a265-eabe96021c56">crash near the intersection of Tuttle Creek Blvd. and Allen Rd.&nbsp;</a>Jaimez failed to stop at a red light and struck a 2004 Honda Element driven by Jonas T. Staedtler, 17, Manhattan, who was turning onto Allen Road. After impact, the Honda came to rest on the East shoulder of the northbound lanes of U.S. 24 against a light pole.&nbsp;Jaimez remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $75,000.

UPDATE: Driver arrested in connection with Sunday evening crash in MHK

RILEY COUNTY- Effective December 13th, RCPD K9 Axel has retired after seven years serving the department.

In March 2015, the now 10-year-old, Axel began&nbsp;working alongside former RCPD Officer Andrew Toolin.

Officer Paul Terpstra became Axel’s handler in May 2020 and they worked side-by-side until Axel’s retirement.

“Axel has been an extremely driven and successful canine in his almost eight-year career with the RCPD,” said Terpstra. “He’s faithful and full of energy.”

According to RCPD,&nbsp;Axel is responsible for the seizure of more than 130 pounds of illegal drugs worth more than $75,000 and 30 illegal firearms or weapons, although these numbers are presumed to be much higher as Axel has assisted in many out-of-jurisdiction operations that have not been recorded.

Axel is the fourth K9 to retire from RCPD following Dino (2003 – 2014), Rocket (2003 – 2010), and Kato (2010 – 2017). Officer Terpstra will keep Axel during his retirement.

“I’m excited to give him a restful and comfortable home in his well-deserved retirement,” added Terpstra.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670969229770.jpeg" alt="Officer Paul Terpstra with K9 Axel, picture from RCPD" />
 <figcaption>Officer Paul Terpstra with K9 Axel, picture from RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY- Effective December 13th, RCPD K9 Axel has retired after seven years serving the department.In March 2015, the now 10-year-old, Axel began&nbsp;working alongside former RCPD Officer Andrew Toolin.Officer Paul Terpstra became Axel’s handler in May 2020 and they worked side-by-side until Axel’s retirement.“Axel has been an extremely driven and successful canine in his almost eight-year career with the RCPD,” said Terpstra. “He’s faithful and full of energy.”According to RCPD,&nbsp;Axel is responsible for the seizure of more than 130 pounds of illegal drugs worth more than $75,000 and 30 illegal firearms or weapons, although these numbers are presumed to be much higher as Axel has assisted in many out-of-jurisdiction operations that have not been recorded.Axel is the fourth K9 to retire from RCPD following Dino (2003 – 2014), Rocket (2003 – 2010), and Kato (2010 – 2017). Officer Terpstra will keep Axel during his retirement.“I’m excited to give him a restful and comfortable home in his well-deserved retirement,” added Terpstra.

RCPD K9 Axel retires after serving 7 years with the department

At a Special Law Board meeting held on December 12th, the Riley County Law Enforcement Agency(Law Board) officially entered into a contract for the 6th Director of the Riley County Police Department with Brian Peete.

Peete is coming to Manhattan from Montpelier, VT, where he has lead 27 full-time members as the Chief of Police for the Montpelier Police Department.

Following a unanimous vote by the Law Board, Chair, Linda Morse signed the contract for Peete's employment to begin on December 30, 2022.

Previously, the Law Board had announced Peete as their selection for the next RCPD Director at the October 31st Special Law Board Meeting.

“We [the Law Board] also want to have a more public welcome for the new Director sometime in January,” Law Board Chair Morse said during the December 12 meeting. “We have not yet developed a date or plan for that, details will be forthcoming.”

Peete will be sworn in as Director on December 30th, at 9:00 am at the <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/D93EsxondhVet8gF6">Riley County Courthouse</a>.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667332130251.jpeg" alt="Brian Peete, photo courtesy RCPD" />
 <figcaption>Brian Peete, photo courtesy RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>At a Special Law Board meeting held on December 12th, the Riley County Law Enforcement Agency(Law Board) officially entered into a contract for the 6th Director of the Riley County Police Department with Brian Peete.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3xq0PQYvqoA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Peete is coming to Manhattan from Montpelier, VT, where he has lead 27 full-time members as the Chief of Police for the Montpelier Police Department.Following a unanimous vote by the Law Board, Chair, Linda Morse signed the contract for Peete's employment to begin on December 30, 2022.Previously, the Law Board had announced Peete as their selection for the next RCPD Director at the October 31st Special Law Board Meeting.“We [the Law Board] also want to have a more public welcome for the new Director sometime in January,” Law Board Chair Morse said during the December 12 meeting. “We have not yet developed a date or plan for that, details will be forthcoming.”Peete will be sworn in as Director on December 30th, at 9:00 am at the <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/D93EsxondhVet8gF6">Riley County Courthouse</a>.

6th Director will join RCPD on Dec. 30th

WESTMORELAND&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz on Tuesday announced that $40.5 million will support 33 local and off-system bridge projects across the state. This announcement comes as part of two local bridge improvement programs reshaped to take advantage of new revenue streams generated by the federally approved Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

“My administration is committed to improving Kansas’ transportation system, including city- and county-owned bridges in need of overdue repairs,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These bridge programs demonstrate how, by fostering partnerships among all levels of government, we can build a robust, responsive infrastructure system that provides efficient and safe transportation routes and boosts state and local economies.”

The amount awarded by the Kansas Department of Transportation to cities and counties more than doubles and triples local bridge improvement funds available in these programs as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).

The announcement took place at the Pottawatomie County Law Enforcement Center in Westmoreland, just a few miles from one of the selected bridges.

The KDOT bridge improvement programs include approximately $137.5 million in BIL funds over the next five years.

The&nbsp;Off-System Bridge Program&nbsp;(OSB) has been expanded from $8 million in annual funding to $20.5 million. Twenty-two projects – with awarded funds ranging from $460,000 to $1.4 million – were selected for Federal Fiscal Year 2024. In total for this round, KDOT received 99 OSB applications requesting $83.8 million.

The&nbsp;Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program&nbsp;(KLBIP) has increased from $5 million annually to $20 million. For State Fiscal Year 2023, the 11 selected KLBIP projects will replace 10 deficient bridges and permanently remove seven deficient bridges from the local system. For this round of KLBIP selections, 114 applications were received with requests totaling more than $126 million.

“These local bridges are the lifeblood of many communities,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said.&nbsp;“Most ag loads start in a field, are placed in a truck, and have to cross a county bridge to get to a state highway or rail line.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to these Kansas communities for partnering with KDOT and securing local matching funds that keep critical bridges open to the public and moving commerce.”

Both the OSB and KLBIP have similar-yet-different bridge eligibility requirements targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.

There are approximately 19,300 bridges on Kansas’ local road systems. About 26% – or 5,000 – of those bridges are in poor condition or unable to meet today’s weight and vehicle requirements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950063249.png" alt="Photos by Becky Goff" />
 <figcaption>Photos by Becky Goff</figcaption>
 </figure>WESTMORELAND&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz on Tuesday announced that $40.5 million will support 33 local and off-system bridge projects across the state. This announcement comes as part of two local bridge improvement programs reshaped to take advantage of new revenue streams generated by the federally approved Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).“My administration is committed to improving Kansas’ transportation system, including city- and county-owned bridges in need of overdue repairs,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These bridge programs demonstrate how, by fostering partnerships among all levels of government, we can build a robust, responsive infrastructure system that provides efficient and safe transportation routes and boosts state and local economies.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950106330.png" alt="Photo by Becky Goff" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Goff</figcaption>
 </figure>The amount awarded by the Kansas Department of Transportation to cities and counties more than doubles and triples local bridge improvement funds available in these programs as part of the existing Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE).The announcement took place at the Pottawatomie County Law Enforcement Center in Westmoreland, just a few miles from one of the selected bridges.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWheresBeckyMHK%2Fvideos%2F921155945917960%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The KDOT bridge improvement programs include approximately $137.5 million in BIL funds over the next five years.The&nbsp;Off-System Bridge Program&nbsp;(OSB) has been expanded from $8 million in annual funding to $20.5 million. Twenty-two projects – with awarded funds ranging from $460,000 to $1.4 million – were selected for Federal Fiscal Year 2024. In total for this round, KDOT received 99 OSB applications requesting $83.8 million.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670950085913.png" alt="Photo by Becky Goff" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Becky Goff</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program&nbsp;(KLBIP) has increased from $5 million annually to $20 million. For State Fiscal Year 2023, the 11 selected KLBIP projects will replace 10 deficient bridges and permanently remove seven deficient bridges from the local system. For this round of KLBIP selections, 114 applications were received with requests totaling more than $126 million.“These local bridges are the lifeblood of many communities,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said.&nbsp;“Most ag loads start in a field, are placed in a truck, and have to cross a county bridge to get to a state highway or rail line.&nbsp;Congratulations&nbsp;to these Kansas communities for partnering with KDOT and securing local matching funds that keep critical bridges open to the public and moving commerce.”Both the OSB and KLBIP have similar-yet-different bridge eligibility requirements targeted for city and county bridges not on the state highway system and in need of replacement or repair. Funds for both programs are awarded through an application process and, in most cases, require a local contribution. KDOT uses selection criteria that include bridge condition, detour length, inability to carry legal loads, and past project history.There are approximately 19,300 bridges on Kansas’ local road systems. About 26% – or 5,000 – of those bridges are in poor condition or unable to meet today’s weight and vehicle requirements.

Gov. announces more than $40M for 33 bridge projects across Kansas

Congratulations to Jaden Warner of Salina, the Week 14 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!

Jaden, who scored 10 of 13 points, wins $100.

Although the season is underway, you still have time to win!

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up today</a>&nbsp;to make your picks for a chance to win great weekly prizes, including cash,&nbsp;gift cards, concert tickets, and Chiefs tickets.&nbsp;If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!

Don't miss out on the state's best pro football pick'em contest!&nbsp;

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Click here to register for Gridiron Glory</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662062091203.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Jaden Warner of Salina, the Week 14 winner in Salina Pain Clinic's Gridiron Glory contest!Jaden, who scored 10 of 13 points, wins $100.Although the season is underway, you still have time to win!<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Sign up today</a>&nbsp;to make your picks for a chance to win great weekly prizes, including cash,&nbsp;gift cards, concert tickets, and Chiefs tickets.&nbsp;If you pick well, you'll also be in the running for the local season prize of $1,000 and a national season prize of a trip to Hawaii!Don't miss out on the state's best pro football pick'em contest!&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/6457a6fe-ce1b-48df-a651-5d8582b478f7?contestid=3#registration/login">Click here to register for Gridiron Glory</a>

Gridiron Glory: Congratulations Jaden Warner!

By NATE KING Salina Post

Citizens of central Kansas, Kansas State University students, alumni, and community leaders discussed K-State Salina's role in K-State's overall strategic plan, high school education pathways to encourage students to pursue a college degree or post-secondary training, and the future of land grant schools during a community conversation on Dec. 5.

The morning visit to K-State Salina for the community forum is part of the <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/">university’s plans</a> to hear from Kansans all across the state for the 2022-2023 academic year. During their visit, K-State President Richard Linton, Provost Charles Taber, and dean of student life Thomas Lane joined a group of current K-State students collectively known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits/connected-cats/">Connected Cats. </a>

Linton said that the Connected Cats is a group of student leaders who have a diverse range of K-State experiences, a meaningful connection to engaged community work, and personal ties to Kansas' geographic regions. 

"So you probably have seen some of the billboards that say, 'Kansas State is the university for Kansas' well, we're for Kansas, but we're also for the nation and the world," Linton said. "We're trying to be able to make a very important statement that we are the only university that's in all 105 Kansas counties and communities and we want to let folks know that Kansas is always first." 

After Linton’s brief presentation and remarks, which included applause for the K-State football team winning the Big XII Championship game, K-State junior Ethan Brown, a graduate of Salina Central High School and one of the two current K-State Student Ambassadors; K-State sophomore Adelaide Easter; and K-State junior Yulissa Hernandez, a graduate of Salina South High School, discussed their college search experiences and why they selected K-State as their school of choice.  

"When I was in high school, I started looking at colleges my sophomore year," Brown said. "When I tell you, I looked everywhere in Kansas, I looked everywhere. I wanted everything. I wanted to have great people, I wanted to have great academia, I wanted great athletics. They had everything that I wanted. The main thing I wanted was accessibility. For me, that breaks down into three things affordability, campus access, and then just general academic accessibility."  

Easter spoke about the interdisciplinary connections she made at K-State. 

"I started as a freshman majoring in bakery science and food science. Through my involvement, and through self-discovery connections, I was able to be exposed to the global food system secondary major, which talks about food policy and how we can make the world a better place and make sure that people have access to food," Easter said. "Being in food security scholars and organizations like the alumni board, I've gotten connected to alumni that are just as passionate about food issues as I am." 

Hernandez, a student pilot at K-State Salina talked about how she switched her major from respiratory therapy, to aviation.&nbsp;

"When I was looking into coming to K State, I was a freshman in college at the time and I was working as a nurse assistant," Hernandez said. "I was doing my prerequisites for respiratory therapy - that same year, I met a pilot. He introduced me to aviation and at the time, I didn't know really any pilots. So it was all so new to me."

Hernandez said that her pilot friend took her on a discovery flight in a jet which made her decision easier to make.&nbsp;

"I was convinced I was just going to change my major completely, which was pretty scary at the time, because I thought I had it all figured out. But I thought a flying was just way more fun then respiratory therapies," Hernandez said.

The forum transitioned into a community conversation where community entrepreneurs, business leaders, regional high school educators, parents, and citizens were asked to discuss what they wanted to see from K-State. Topics discussed included increasing the presence of veterans affairs at the K-State Salina campus, eliminating roadblocks for transfer students, continuing to expand the local network of private industry partners, and meeting the current workforce demands.  

Following the forum, Salina Post sat down for an interview with Linton, where he discussed how students should always be the center of enrollment strategies. 

"When we started thinking about doing community visits, we reached out to other university presidents around the country and the message that came back is you have to take students and you have to take students from those communities," Linton said. "Parents and students aren't really there to listen to presidents and provosts because they can relate so much more to student stories."&nbsp;

Linton also spoke about the university's new initiative, Next-Gen K-State.

"We 're trying to develop a new strategy, a new strategic plan, for what we're calling the <a href="https://www.k-state.edu/strategic-planning/process/">Next-Gen Land Grant</a>," Linton said. "We haven't defined exactly what the next generation land grant university means yet, but we want to be the model land grant university that other land grants are looking to. When you take a look at one of those things that I know, will be an important part of the Next Gen Land Grant is better connectivity with communities around economic growth, and creation of jobs and support for every single community."

Ellsworth County Health Center: Because We Care Mental Health Summit  

Linton and the Connected Cats, traveled to Ellsworth County Medical Center, 1604 Aylward Avenue in Ellsworth, for a mental health summit hosted by K-State Extension. Midway Extension Director Jessica Kootz said that a group of individuals in the Ellsworth community started meeting virtually on a weekly basis to talk about COVID-19 updates and mental wellness. 

"This group of individuals, community stakeholders decided that we needed to focus a lot more on mental health. The COVID-19 update group became a 'Because We Care' group, and that has evolved within the last six months into a coalition that's centered around mental health," Kootz said.  

The summit featured a panel of experts including Rachel Clews, family and consumer science extension specialist in the Southwest Research Extension Center; Jennifer Kaufman, director of community support services for Central Kansas Mental Health; Derek Knopp, school-based clinical coordinator for Central Kansas Mental Health; Kerianne Ehrlich, Ellsworth County Health Department; and Jim Kirkbride, CEO at Ellsworth County Medical Center. 

"Most of our communities aren't just rural, they're considered frontier. It's that born and bred mentality that - you just pull yourself up by your bootstraps, you just push it down, and you keep going," said Clews. "When I worked with farmers, I tried to tell them that I'm a fourth generation farmer, my husband's a fourth generation Kansas farmer. I understand those issues. But I tell them, when your livestock is sick, you don't just say 'Oh, push it down, and you'll get over it.' I tell farmers, that they take better care of their machinery and their livestock than they do themselves. A lot of times they don't think to ask for help themselves because farmers are really great at helping others." 

Kootz said that in the last two months, Ellsworth had faced tragedies relating to mental health causing their group to push harder to be focused and intentional on making sure there is a comprehensive approach to addressing mental health in rural communities. 

Linton asked the panel if it could provide him with any statistics to help give context to the Kansas mental health crisis.  

"We have hired over 50 new staff at Central Kansas Mental Health, just within the past year," Kaufman said. "Trying to be able to provide services that range from front desk staff that are inundated with phone calls every day trying to get intake staff to be able to provide that initial service and if you're aware, there's a workforce shortage in most areas, and that includes social work, case managers, all lines." 

Clews added that according to the State of Mental Health in America 2023 Report, Kansas ranked last in the country, following the District of Columbia.  

"Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death for Kansas," Clews said. "Between the years 2000 and 2018, suicide rates in Kansas increased by 70 percent."  

Clews also added that suicide is the second leading cause of death for Kansans in the 15 to 34 age range.  

An obstacle that was highlighted during the summit was the lack of educational resources directing Kansans on where to turn when they needed mental health assistance.  

"As far as regional scale, the last few years, I think, especially since 2020, we've seen an increase in people who are seeking services for mental health, and we've seen is a big increase in anxiety and depression," said Knopp. "People are recognizing the need that when they are struggling there are resources available - if you know how to access them. One of the things that we [Central Kansas Mental Health] have done, we've done a lot of work in providing education on how to access mental health services, because unless you have a family member or direct connection with somebody who has accessed services before, you don't always know how to go about that."  

Linton recognized the need for more social work professionals and mentioned the recent partnership between K-State Salina and the University of Kansas. K-State Salina will offer a Master of Social Work that will be instructed at the K-State Salina campus. 

The cooperation between K-State Salina and KU will increase the availability of graduate-level social work education in rural areas of Kansas while meeting the gaps in coverage that human service agencies in rural areas of the state have been experiencing.  

"K-State Salina is committed to responding to the needs of our region by providing a trained workforce for our social service partners," said Deb Marseline, assistant dean for diversity and student success at K-State Salina, earlier this month. "Qualified, experienced social workers play an integral role in the success of any community by working with people to improve their circumstances in a variety of situations. This opportunity furthers our mission by training students to be leaders and make an impact on our state."  

Linton also stopped by Great Plains Manufacturing, 1525 E. North Street, Salina, to take part in a facilitated conversation about ways that education in the Salina region is partnering to meet the needs of industry. Dean and CEO of K-State Salina, Alysia Starkey spoke to the importance of these types of open conversations and how industry advisory boards are working to meet workforce demands.  

"How do you stay connected to the workforce needs in your region, it has to do with our industry advisory boards and making sure we're engaged with what the needs of the industry are," Starkey said. "So regardless of whatever field you're in - each of our programs, and each of our colleges and each of our degrees at the university has industry advisory boards that help correlate where it is that they're [the student] going in the future. Industry advisory boards are a key way that you all can get involved with helping to drive your workforce needs."  

Starkey also mentioned that K-State Salina has partnered with Salina USD 305 to provide an opportunity for high school students to earn industry-recognized credentials, receive college credit for general education requirements, and complete dual credits for an associate degree while in high school and graduate at the same time as their peers. The program is called the<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/admissions/apply/polycats-academy/"> PolyCats Academy.</a>

"Here we have a high school program that will allow a student to get an associate's degree while they're still in high school, graduate at the same time as high school with an associate's degree, which reduces the time of entry into the career field, and it also helps to reduce the overall cost and affordability for students as well," Starkey said.  

David Disberger, executive vice president for Great Plains Manufacturing, spoke at the discussion about the<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/scholars-programs/"> scholar's program</a> being offered by Great Plains manufacturing.

"The scholar's program is something that came out of discussions that Dean Starkey and I had to address our needs and also address the needs of Kansas State," Disberger said. "What we've done is we've taken your traditional manufacturing engineering technology type degree, where the college student would go to school for four years to get their bachelor science degree, instead, they'll go to college for three years, and have that same BS degree."

The Great Plains Scholars Program is for students who want to earn a bachelor's degree in one of K-State Salina’s engineering technology programs and acquire first-hand knowledge of specialized industry technology by working part-time at Great Plains Manufacturing. This provides high-level learning opportunities in advanced manufacturing, basic manufacturing, advanced robotics programming, and engineering design. 

"We're able to get those workforces beginning with us at a younger age. By the time they graduate, they have over 2,400 hours of experience, and to kick this whole program off this year, we agreed to start with three students to make sure we've worked out the kinks - which we have, and it's going very well," Disberger said. "We are very pleased with the results that we're seeing thus far, we intend to continue to grow this program up to where we have 12 new students entering this program every year. Hopefully, the 12 graduating come to work for us." 

Linn Exline, Salina USD 305 superintendent, spoke about how the work field is changing the way educators prepare students for their careers after high school.  

"Over 70 percent of the jobs that we're preparing students for today will require either a two-year degree a four-year degree or some kind of industry-recognized credential," Exline said. "To that end, USD 305 has really been working on Career Exploration and career planning with students. We start that process with a semester-long class at middle school. And during that class, students use an online platform where they explore their interests. They explore their aptitudes, they explore different careers, and they try to identify a career field of interest."  

Exline also shared the successes of the Building Bridges program at USD 305.  

"Building Bridges is an effort for us to bring industry leaders, public schools, faculty, staff, our students, and business together to talk about workforce needs and how we can work together to better meet those needs," Exline said. "We are encouraging our students to understand what jobs are available here in our community because many times our students think they need to go away to get the kinds of positions that they're being trained for." Exline said that USD 305 has worked to ensure that the Building Bridges program matches with local job demands and industry standards.

"As a result of these efforts, we are seeing increased jobs. We're seeing increased internships, and we're also seeing increased number of partnerships."

Linton's visit concluded with a stop at the Salina Public Library, 301 W. Elm Street, where he and Lane read a book to children. The book selected to be read was K-State: An Alphabet Journey Across Kansas, by Debbie Mercer and Loretta Larson.&nbsp;

K-State president visits central Kansas as part of community tour

RILEY COUNTY - Around 6:15 am on Friday, December 9th, officers with the Riley County Police Department responded to the report of a two vehicle collision near the intersection of Welsh and Calvary Roads.

Officers located a 2016 Dodge Journey driven by 41-year-old Jessie Web of Clay Center, which had been traveling eastbound on Welsh Road, behind a 2005 Chevrolet Suburban, driven by 58-year-old, Roy Harris of Homosassa, Florida.

According to RCPD, Webb did not see that Harris had signaled for a left turn, when Webb attempted to pass Harris as he made the left turn. This caused Webb to hit the rear of Harris' Suburban causing it to spin 180 degrees before coming to a rest in the north ditch facing Welsh Road.

Webb's Dodge Journey came to a rest parallel of Welsh Road on the south shoulder.

Harris and two passengers from his vehicle, including 45-year-old Nathan Graham from Etta, Mississippi and 50-year-old Eric Olsen from Port Orange, Florida were all transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of minor injuries.&nbsp;

Webb was issued a citation for passing with insufficient&nbsp; clearance.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY COUNTY - Around 6:15 am on Friday, December 9th, officers with the Riley County Police Department responded to the report of a two vehicle collision near the intersection of Welsh and Calvary Roads.<div><iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d367915.56833070633!2d-97.04673211928625!3d39.27426289696329!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x87bda52d08059293%3A0x79dc7488423830e1!2sCavalry%20Rd%20%26%20Welsh%20Rd%2C%20Bala%2C%20KS%2066531!5e1!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1670870710846!5m2!1sen!2sus" width="600" height="450" style="border:0;" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="no-referrer-when-downgrade"></iframe></div>Officers located a 2016 Dodge Journey driven by 41-year-old Jessie Web of Clay Center, which had been traveling eastbound on Welsh Road, behind a 2005 Chevrolet Suburban, driven by 58-year-old, Roy Harris of Homosassa, Florida.According to RCPD, Webb did not see that Harris had signaled for a left turn, when Webb attempted to pass Harris as he made the left turn. This caused Webb to hit the rear of Harris' Suburban causing it to spin 180 degrees before coming to a rest in the north ditch facing Welsh Road.Webb's Dodge Journey came to a rest parallel of Welsh Road on the south shoulder.Harris and two passengers from his vehicle, including 45-year-old Nathan Graham from Etta, Mississippi and 50-year-old Eric Olsen from Port Orange, Florida were all transported to Ascension Via Christi in Manhattan for treatment of minor injuries.&nbsp;Webb was issued a citation for passing with insufficient&nbsp; clearance.

Friday morning crash injures 3 in western Riley Co.

A bridge replacement project on Willard Road in Wabaunsee County is scheduled to begin Wednesday, weather permitting. The bridge spans Mill Creek and is located approximately one mile east of Maple Hill.

Willard Road will be closed at the worksite for the duration of the project, which is expected to be complete by July 2023. No marked detour will be provided so drivers will need to find alternate routes.

A.M. Cohron &amp; Sons Inc. of Atlantic, Iowa, is the $1.8 million project’s prime contractor. The Kansas Department of Transportation will oversee the project.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670860223111.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDOTA bridge replacement project on Willard Road in Wabaunsee County is scheduled to begin Wednesday, weather permitting. The bridge spans Mill Creek and is located approximately one mile east of Maple Hill.Willard Road will be closed at the worksite for the duration of the project, which is expected to be complete by July 2023. No marked detour will be provided so drivers will need to find alternate routes.A.M. Cohron &amp; Sons Inc. of Atlantic, Iowa, is the $1.8 million project’s prime contractor. The Kansas Department of Transportation will oversee the project.&nbsp;

Bridge replacement project to begin in Wabaunsee County

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Salina man on multiple charges after a weekend arrest.

Just after 9:30p.m.&nbsp; Dec. 9, police in Manhattan, arrested&nbsp; 28-year-old Aaron Noonan of Salina on two Riley County District Court warrants, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 The first warrant is for a probation violation stemming from his arrest for conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery connected to a November 9, 2019, incident in the 400 block of Fremont Street in Manhattan where a 33-year-old man was robbed at gunpoint. 

The second warrant is for failing to appear in court stemming from his arrest for possession with intent to distribute meth, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon connected to a September 18, 2022, incident where he was found in possession of drugs, paraphernalia, and a gun during a traffic stop in the 700 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan. 

&nbsp;Noonan remains confined in the Riley County Jail on a total bond of $180,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Salina man on multiple charges after a weekend arrest.Just after 9:30p.m.&nbsp; Dec. 9, police in Manhattan, arrested&nbsp; 28-year-old Aaron Noonan of Salina on two Riley County District Court warrants, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The first warrant is for a probation violation stemming from his arrest for conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery connected to a November 9, 2019, incident in the 400 block of Fremont Street in Manhattan where a 33-year-old man was robbed at gunpoint. The second warrant is for failing to appear in court stemming from his arrest for possession with intent to distribute meth, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon connected to a September 18, 2022, incident where he was found in possession of drugs, paraphernalia, and a gun during a traffic stop in the 700 block of Colorado Street in Manhattan. &nbsp;Noonan remains confined in the Riley County Jail on a total bond of $180,000.

Salina man jailed in Riley County after a warrant arrest

Conditions can change rapidly in the Sunflower State&nbsp;

By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – The calendar says the first day of winter is Dec. 21. Chip Redmond is not so sure you ought to get locked in on just that date.&nbsp;

“Winter conditions in Kansas can change rapidly,” said Redmond, a meteorologist and manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>, a network of weather monitoring stations that has its headquarters at Kansas State University.&nbsp;

In Kansas, he said, “we can have a cold front come through that drops temperatures 50 degrees (Fahrenheit) in just a couple hours. Or, we can go from clear skies to heavy snow very quickly.”&nbsp;

While Kansans can’t do anything about the weather, Redmond says they can prepare themselves to withstand brutal conditions – and keep themselves safe.&nbsp;

“The first thing that comes to my mind for winter weather safety is the cold, which brings different dangers – just as heat does in the summer,” Redmond said.&nbsp;

“Our bodies just aren’t prepared to take cold for long periods of time. The cold can quickly have negative effects, especially when we factor in wind chill.”&nbsp;

Redmond urges people to dress in layers and wear a stocking cap and mittens anytime they must face outdoor cold. He said frostbite or hypothermia happen very quickly.&nbsp;

“It can be less than even a few minutes, when you get cold and add wind,” Redmond said. “That’s why we look at things like closing schools once temperatures drop below zero or negative-10 with the wind chill. Those conditions produce a much higher risk, so we have to take more proactive steps and try to avoid outdoor activity as much as possible.”&nbsp;

Stocking caps help to keep heat from releasing through the head and “keeps the overall ambient temperature of your body warmer,” according to Redmond. Mittens are preferred over gloves because it maintains warmth by keeping the fingers closely together.&nbsp;

The State of Kansas regularly updates road conditions on the website,&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.org/" target="_blank">https://kandrive.org</a>. Redmond encourages those planning travel to check the forecast along the path they will drive, including road conditions.&nbsp;

Redmond also suggests keeping an emergency kit in a car in case the vehicle gets stalled while traveling. In addition to warm clothing, he suggests such items as:&nbsp;

“Some people have tire chains; that may be a bit extravagant,” Redmond said. “If you need tire chains in Kansas, you probably shouldn’t be out on the road to begin with. But sand is useful to help you get out of an area where you don’t have much traction.”&nbsp;

A car’s tires may need some extra air in the winter because they shrink when they get cold, Redmond said. “If you have underinflated tires,” he said, “you’re not going to optimize the grip of that rubber, so you’re going to slip and slide a lot more.”&nbsp;

It’s been a few years since Kansas has been hit by a widespread ice storm, but Redmond says current indications for a colder than normal winter increases the probability of damaging ice this year.&nbsp;

“Trees are probably the most likely to be damaged in an ice storm,” he said. “Be aware of weakened trees and that you’re going to lose branches. It takes about one-quarter inch of ice to see really big impacts.”&nbsp;

Roads don’t normally accumulate one-quarter inch of ice, “so it’s not as big of a problem for travelers,” Redmond said. “But anything that is standing and tall – such as power lines and trees and gutters – are at risk of falling.”&nbsp;

Redmond also urges homeowners to use caution when removing snow from driveways and sidewalks.&nbsp;

“It’s very demanding physically,” he said. “One of the leading causes of winter heart attacks is shoveling snow because of the stress of pushing that snow -- especially when it is heavy and wet, formed with temperatures near freezing or when it becomes packed.”&nbsp;

For those who own a snowblower, Redmond recommends making sure it has been serviced before first use, “and don’t wait until the last minute” to do so.&nbsp;

More information on Kansas weather conditions, including up-to-date forecasts, is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet.</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Conditions can change rapidly in the Sunflower State&nbsp;</h2>By PAT MELGARES K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – The calendar says the first day of winter is Dec. 21. Chip Redmond is not so sure you ought to get locked in on just that date.&nbsp;“Winter conditions in Kansas can change rapidly,” said Redmond, a meteorologist and manager of the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>, a network of weather monitoring stations that has its headquarters at Kansas State University.&nbsp;In Kansas, he said, “we can have a cold front come through that drops temperatures 50 degrees (Fahrenheit) in just a couple hours. Or, we can go from clear skies to heavy snow very quickly.”&nbsp;While Kansans can’t do anything about the weather, Redmond says they can prepare themselves to withstand brutal conditions – and keep themselves safe.&nbsp;Cold temperatures&nbsp;“The first thing that comes to my mind for winter weather safety is the cold, which brings different dangers – just as heat does in the summer,” Redmond said.&nbsp;“Our bodies just aren’t prepared to take cold for long periods of time. The cold can quickly have negative effects, especially when we factor in wind chill.”&nbsp;Redmond urges people to dress in layers and wear a stocking cap and mittens anytime they must face outdoor cold. He said frostbite or hypothermia happen very quickly.&nbsp;“It can be less than even a few minutes, when you get cold and add wind,” Redmond said. “That’s why we look at things like closing schools once temperatures drop below zero or negative-10 with the wind chill. Those conditions produce a much higher risk, so we have to take more proactive steps and try to avoid outdoor activity as much as possible.”&nbsp;Stocking caps help to keep heat from releasing through the head and “keeps the overall ambient temperature of your body warmer,” according to Redmond. Mittens are preferred over gloves because it maintains warmth by keeping the fingers closely together.&nbsp;Travel safety&nbsp;The State of Kansas regularly updates road conditions on the website,&nbsp;<a href="https://kandrive.org/" target="_blank">https://kandrive.org</a>. Redmond encourages those planning travel to check the forecast along the path they will drive, including road conditions.&nbsp;Redmond also suggests keeping an emergency kit in a car in case the vehicle gets stalled while traveling. In addition to warm clothing, he suggests such items as:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Snow brush and ice scraper.&nbsp;</li><li>Jumper cables or jumpstarter.&nbsp;</li><li>Blankets.&nbsp;</li><li>Cell phone charger.&nbsp;</li><li>Snack foods.&nbsp;</li><li>Water, or other liquid such as electrolyte drinks.&nbsp;</li><li>Flashlight.&nbsp;</li><li>Sand in a small container.&nbsp;</li><li>Chains or other items to help in pulling a vehicle out of a ditch.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>“Some people have tire chains; that may be a bit extravagant,” Redmond said. “If you need tire chains in Kansas, you probably shouldn’t be out on the road to begin with. But sand is useful to help you get out of an area where you don’t have much traction.”&nbsp;A car’s tires may need some extra air in the winter because they shrink when they get cold, Redmond said. “If you have underinflated tires,” he said, “you’re not going to optimize the grip of that rubber, so you’re going to slip and slide a lot more.”&nbsp;Safety at home&nbsp;It’s been a few years since Kansas has been hit by a widespread ice storm, but Redmond says current indications for a colder than normal winter increases the probability of damaging ice this year.&nbsp;“Trees are probably the most likely to be damaged in an ice storm,” he said. “Be aware of weakened trees and that you’re going to lose branches. It takes about one-quarter inch of ice to see really big impacts.”&nbsp;Roads don’t normally accumulate one-quarter inch of ice, “so it’s not as big of a problem for travelers,” Redmond said. “But anything that is standing and tall – such as power lines and trees and gutters – are at risk of falling.”&nbsp;Redmond also urges homeowners to use caution when removing snow from driveways and sidewalks.&nbsp;“It’s very demanding physically,” he said. “One of the leading causes of winter heart attacks is shoveling snow because of the stress of pushing that snow -- especially when it is heavy and wet, formed with temperatures near freezing or when it becomes packed.”&nbsp;For those who own a snowblower, Redmond recommends making sure it has been serviced before first use, “and don’t wait until the last minute” to do so.&nbsp;More information on Kansas weather conditions, including up-to-date forecasts, is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet.</a>&nbsp;

Official urges Kansans to prepare for winter conditions, travel 

RILEY COUNTY—Two drivers from Manhattan were involved in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Sunday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Nissan Maxima driven by Crystal M. Jaimez, 30, Manhattan, was northbound on U.S. 24 at Allen Road.

The driver failed to stop at a red light and struck a 2004 Honda Element driven by Jonas T. Staedtler, 17, Manhattan, who was turning onto Allen Road. After impact, the Honda came to rest on the East shoulder of the northbound lanes of U.S. 24 against a light pole.

Jaimez and Staedtler were not injured. Two juveniles were also present in the vehicle at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The KHP released no additional details on possible injuries.

RILEY COUNTY—Two drivers from Manhattan were involved in an accident just before 9:30p.m. Sunday in Riley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Nissan Maxima driven by Crystal M. Jaimez, 30, Manhattan, was northbound on U.S. 24 at Allen Road.The driver failed to stop at a red light and struck a 2004 Honda Element driven by Jonas T. Staedtler, 17, Manhattan, who was turning onto Allen Road. After impact, the Honda came to rest on the East shoulder of the northbound lanes of U.S. 24 against a light pole.Jaimez and Staedtler were not injured. Two juveniles were also present in the vehicle at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The KHP released no additional details on possible injuries.

KHP: 2 drivers from Manhattan involved in U.S. 24 crash

MANHATTAN -UPDATE: Riley County Police Department officers filed a report for attempted aggravated assault, criminal discharge of a firearm and criminal damage to property in the 2300 block of Candlewood Drive following an incident occurring around 2:30pm on Sunday, December 11th.

A 29-year-old woman, a 30-year-old man and the Cambridge Square Apartments were all listed as victims after a 25-year-old man reportedly shot a gun, hitting an apartment building following an argument between the individuals.

No injuries were reported.&nbsp;The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $500.

Riley County Police Department responded to the report of shots fired on Sunday afternoon outside Cambridge Apartments on Candlewood Drive.

Just before 3:30 pm on Sunday, December 11, 2022, officers arrived on scene and found an argument led to someone shooting a gun.

Riley County Police Department Crime Scene Investigators remained on scene Sunday evening completing the investigation.

More details will be added to this story as they become available.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670809463967.jpeg" alt="RCPD CSI investigate shots fired in MHK" />
 <figcaption>RCPD CSI investigate shots fired in MHK</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN -UPDATE: Riley County Police Department officers filed a report for attempted aggravated assault, criminal discharge of a firearm and criminal damage to property in the 2300 block of Candlewood Drive following an incident occurring around 2:30pm on Sunday, December 11th.A 29-year-old woman, a 30-year-old man and the Cambridge Square Apartments were all listed as victims after a 25-year-old man reportedly shot a gun, hitting an apartment building following an argument between the individuals.No injuries were reported.&nbsp;The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $500.Riley County Police Department responded to the report of shots fired on Sunday afternoon outside Cambridge Apartments on Candlewood Drive.Just before 3:30 pm on Sunday, December 11, 2022, officers arrived on scene and found an argument led to someone shooting a gun.No injuries have been reported.Riley County Police Department Crime Scene Investigators remained on scene Sunday evening completing the investigation.More details will be added to this story as they become available.

UPDATE: Argument led to gun being fired, no injuries reported

GEARY COUNTY—A Junction City man was injured in an accident just after noon Sunday during a pursuit by law enforcement in Geary County.

The Kansas HIghway Patrol reported a 2008 Toyota Avalon driven by&nbsp; Brad W. Briand, 43, Junction City, was eastbound on Kansas 244 fleeing law enforcement. 

The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The car crossed the centerline, struck a guard rail, rolled into the north ditch and caught fire.

EMS transported Briand to the Geary County Hospital and he was later booked into the Geary County jail on requested charges of&nbsp;Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of marijuana; Driving under the influence of drug or combination of drugs; 1st conv; Obstruction or impeding of lawful activities; Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving and maximum speed limits, according to online jail records.

He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670844754707.png" alt="Briand photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Briand photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—A Junction City man was injured in an accident just after noon Sunday during a pursuit by law enforcement in Geary County.The Kansas HIghway Patrol reported a 2008 Toyota Avalon driven by&nbsp; Brad W. Briand, 43, Junction City, was eastbound on Kansas 244 fleeing law enforcement. The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The car crossed the centerline, struck a guard rail, rolled into the north ditch and caught fire.EMS transported Briand to the Geary County Hospital and he was later booked into the Geary County jail on requested charges of&nbsp;Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of marijuana; Driving under the influence of drug or combination of drugs; 1st conv; Obstruction or impeding of lawful activities; Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving and maximum speed limits, according to online jail records.He was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City man jailed after crash, fire during chase

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30a.m. Sunday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Honda Accord driven by 24-year-old Hunter L. Dodge of Wamego, was northbound on K99 at a high rate of speed.

The car left the roadway, struck a speed limit sign, traveled into a field and came back up to the shoulder to a stop.

EMS transported Dodge to Via Christi in Manhattan. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30a.m. Sunday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Honda Accord driven by 24-year-old Hunter L. Dodge of Wamego, was northbound on K99 at a high rate of speed.The car left the roadway, struck a speed limit sign, traveled into a field and came back up to the shoulder to a stop.EMS transported Dodge to Via Christi in Manhattan. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Man from Wamego hospitalized after car strikes speed limit sign

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Scammers have increased calls, texts, emails and in-person tactics to defraud customers. Evergy launched an enhanced online collection scam reporting form to help stop scams. The form allows customers to conveniently report scam attempts at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9rPvTHCm3wyzvpm38NOWyHj2xAnH0Qz3fDCdBfcjxHALpH3h_q9-2BOu3gadU-2Bbu4RWvf0H6U437-2F8uugqNeSpasZz36yq043KSm9JefuO67V40Oy7PUFQt0Jygiex80fq-2B3wenWUn4u8p5vVrL2GxwJ-2Fh2WiwwGJnbgL-2Bbn9eb15pjLixZYzAShpe8x6P-2FXJoOrBUAwVUq-2FT5lNz-2BuUDcG68fb8mXMPjR0tJktD0L-2F7TEOxp9FQGVkNF4C8mF3gjXU1o-2FWcbsiHiLXDPKNHTC7dlX-2F7tP0VGUfZ4F3aIEA12cdbhHsRF2XwjDa-2FRKsJQGZ3nVSWYom5NECDLAPjPYeUo0-2B-2FiaY65aXhu-2FSkPW1ABP4Y-2FYPyinm9xKi84KMLCMdFPBePtAfO7AmqtK8FdSvS1CARkE-3D" target="_blank">www.evergy.com/reportscam</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Customers will need to provide their account number or primary phone number to complete the form. The form also requires the scammers’ callback number, not the number that appears on their caller ID. Evergy can then work with phone carriers to shut down the fake callback number.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670611065687.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Scammers have increased calls, texts, emails and in-person tactics to defraud customers. Evergy launched an enhanced online collection scam reporting form to help stop scams. The form allows customers to conveniently report scam attempts at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9rPvTHCm3wyzvpm38NOWyHj2xAnH0Qz3fDCdBfcjxHALpH3h_q9-2BOu3gadU-2Bbu4RWvf0H6U437-2F8uugqNeSpasZz36yq043KSm9JefuO67V40Oy7PUFQt0Jygiex80fq-2B3wenWUn4u8p5vVrL2GxwJ-2Fh2WiwwGJnbgL-2Bbn9eb15pjLixZYzAShpe8x6P-2FXJoOrBUAwVUq-2FT5lNz-2BuUDcG68fb8mXMPjR0tJktD0L-2F7TEOxp9FQGVkNF4C8mF3gjXU1o-2FWcbsiHiLXDPKNHTC7dlX-2F7tP0VGUfZ4F3aIEA12cdbhHsRF2XwjDa-2FRKsJQGZ3nVSWYom5NECDLAPjPYeUo0-2B-2FiaY65aXhu-2FSkPW1ABP4Y-2FYPyinm9xKi84KMLCMdFPBePtAfO7AmqtK8FdSvS1CARkE-3D" target="_blank">www.evergy.com/reportscam</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Customers will need to provide their account number or primary phone number to complete the form. The form also requires the scammers’ callback number, not the number that appears on their caller ID. Evergy can then work with phone carriers to shut down the fake callback number.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Evergy launches online collection scam reporting tool

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kidney donor and Hays Middle School assistant principal Shauna Zweifel.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oruRTdNgg2U" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times host Gary Shorman speaks with Kidney donor and Hays Middle School assistant principal Shauna Zweifel.

🎤 Forward Ever: Kidney donor, Hays assistant principal Shauna Zweifel

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

Around 5:00pm on Thursday, December 8th, the Riley County Police Department was called to investigate a report of vandalism at the Sedalia Community Church on N. 52nd Street.

It was reported that an unknown suspect entered the annex building and spray painted the walls and other property inside the building.

The estimated total loss associated with this is $6,000.&nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostAround 5:00pm on Thursday, December 8th, the Riley County Police Department was called to investigate a report of vandalism at the Sedalia Community Church on N. 52nd Street.It was reported that an unknown suspect entered the annex building and spray painted the walls and other property inside the building.The estimated total loss associated with this is $6,000.&nbsp;Anyone with information can contact RCPD or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#">Manhattan Riley County Crime Stoppers</a>. Using the Crime Stoppers service can allow you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RCPD: Sedalia Community Church annex building vandalized in Riley Co.

MANHATTAN - Senior students from the College of Health and Human Sciences are being recognized for their contributions impacting the well-being of the community or individuals within the community.&nbsp;

The eleven 2022 Fall Outstanding Senior Award winners were nominated by faculty and staff within their respective programs.

The following students are receiving awards:

Allie Houston, personal financial planning,&nbsp;Americus, is the recipient of a leadership award.

Hannah Musil, human development and family science,&nbsp;Blue Rapids, is the recipient of an engagement award.

Grant Ginther, integrative physiology,&nbsp;Hays, is the recipient of an engagement award.

Averie Brown, kinesiology,&nbsp;Hutchinson, is the recipient of a research/creative inquiry award.

Adalynne Haresnape, kinesiology,&nbsp;Lebanon, is the recipient of a leadership award.

Sophie Hewitt, human development and family science,&nbsp;Lenexa, is the recipient of a leadership award.

Dalton Engle, personal financial planning,&nbsp;Manhattan, is the recipient of an engagement award.

Kari Ellet, communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;McPherson, is the recipient of a leadership award.

Ruth McCaleb, personal financial planning,&nbsp;Sterling, is the recipient of a research/creative inquiry award.

Ashlyn Zachgo, kinesiology,&nbsp;Wamego, is the recipient of an engagement award.

Brittyn Hipp, integrative physiology,&nbsp;Wichita, is the recipient of a leadership award.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sophie Hewitt will be presenting the student commencement speech at the college's commencement ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 10 in Bramlage Coliseum.

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - Senior students from the College of Health and Human Sciences are being recognized for their contributions impacting the well-being of the community or individuals within the community.&nbsp;The eleven 2022 Fall Outstanding Senior Award winners were nominated by faculty and staff within their respective programs.The following students are receiving awards:Allie Houston, personal financial planning,&nbsp;Americus, is the recipient of a leadership award.Hannah Musil, human development and family science,&nbsp;Blue Rapids, is the recipient of an engagement award.Grant Ginther, integrative physiology,&nbsp;Hays, is the recipient of an engagement award.Averie Brown, kinesiology,&nbsp;Hutchinson, is the recipient of a research/creative inquiry award.Adalynne Haresnape, kinesiology,&nbsp;Lebanon, is the recipient of a leadership award.Sophie Hewitt, human development and family science,&nbsp;Lenexa, is the recipient of a leadership award.Dalton Engle, personal financial planning,&nbsp;Manhattan, is the recipient of an engagement award.Kari Ellet, communication sciences and disorders,&nbsp;McPherson, is the recipient of a leadership award.Ruth McCaleb, personal financial planning,&nbsp;Sterling, is the recipient of a research/creative inquiry award.Ashlyn Zachgo, kinesiology,&nbsp;Wamego, is the recipient of an engagement award.Brittyn Hipp, integrative physiology,&nbsp;Wichita, is the recipient of a leadership award.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sophie Hewitt will be presenting the student commencement speech at the college's commencement ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 10 in Bramlage Coliseum.

K-State: College of Health & Human Sciences announces Outstanding Senior Award winnwe

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

On Wednesday, the Junction City Police Department’s Drug Task Force with assistance from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s Special Operations Division, served a search warrant in the 600 block of West 4th Street, according to a media release.&nbsp; As a result of this warrant, over 2,500 counterfeit prescription pills believed to be fentanyl and over 13 grams of Crack Cocaine were seized.

Police arrested&nbsp;Justin A. West 35, and Juan J. Castro 49, both of Junction City on requested charges of&nbsp;charges of possession with the intent to distribute as well as no drug tax stamp.

The pills that were seized were counterfeit Oxycodone M30 tablets. These pills are known on the street as “Dirty 30s” and according to the DEA, over 60% of these counterfeit pills contain a lethal amount of Fentanyl.

JCPD reminds everyone to only consume medications that were prescribed by your doctor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670555360645.png" alt="West-photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>West-photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.On Wednesday, the Junction City Police Department’s Drug Task Force with assistance from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s Special Operations Division, served a search warrant in the 600 block of West 4th Street, according to a media release.&nbsp; As a result of this warrant, over 2,500 counterfeit prescription pills believed to be fentanyl and over 13 grams of Crack Cocaine were seized.Police arrested&nbsp;Justin A. West 35, and Juan J. Castro 49, both of Junction City on requested charges of&nbsp;charges of possession with the intent to distribute as well as no drug tax stamp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670555293170.png" alt="Castro-photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Castro-photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The pills that were seized were counterfeit Oxycodone M30 tablets. These pills are known on the street as “Dirty 30s” and according to the DEA, over 60% of these counterfeit pills contain a lethal amount of Fentanyl.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581438940073.png" alt="Counterfeit Oxycodone" />
 <figcaption>Counterfeit Oxycodone</figcaption>
 </figure>JCPD reminds everyone to only consume medications that were prescribed by your doctor.