The Community Information Exchange at Fort Riley is the place to find out about upcoming events, opportunities, and resources available on and off Fort Riley. It will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday at Riley's Community Center, 446 Seitz Dr., Fort Riley.

There will be an additional Q&amp;A session with an opportunity to raise community concerns with Fort Riley leaders. The Army said this&nbsp; exchange is geared toward CFRRs, Command teams, and SFRG leadership, however, anyone is welcome to attend

The Community Information Exchange at Fort Riley is the place to find out about upcoming events, opportunities, and resources available on and off Fort Riley. It will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday at Riley's Community Center, 446 Seitz Dr., Fort Riley.There will be an additional Q&amp;A session with an opportunity to raise community concerns with Fort Riley leaders. The Army said this&nbsp; exchange is geared toward CFRRs, Command teams, and SFRG leadership, however, anyone is welcome to attend

Fort Riley Community Information Exchange

The Kansas Department has awarded bids for two Riley County projects.

One includes K‑82, from the U.S. 77/K‑82 north junction north to the U.S. 24/K‑82 junction, milling and overlay, 4.0 miles. Shilling Construction Co. Inc.of&nbsp; Manhattan received the bid totaling $1,417,916.43.

&nbsp;Juliette Avenue, from Pierre Street to Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, surfacing, 0.1 mile. Bayer Construction Co. Inc. Manhattan received the bid totaling $1,210,882.95.

The Kansas Department has awarded bids for two Riley County projects.One includes K‑82, from the U.S. 77/K‑82 north junction north to the U.S. 24/K‑82 junction, milling and overlay, 4.0 miles. Shilling Construction Co. Inc.of&nbsp; Manhattan received the bid totaling $1,417,916.43.&nbsp;Juliette Avenue, from Pierre Street to Poyntz Avenue in Manhattan, surfacing, 0.1 mile. Bayer Construction Co. Inc. Manhattan received the bid totaling $1,210,882.95.

KDOT announces November bids

Manhattan, Kan. — Dec. 10, 2024 — For the fourth year in a row, Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan has been named as a 2025 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News &amp; World Report.

Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan received the High Performing designation based on its strong performance in key areas such as low rates of severe unexpected newborn complications, implementation of birthing-friendly practices, and commitment to transparency on racial and ethnic disparities, among other quality measures.

Additionally, U.S. News recognized Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan as a Maternity Care Access Hospital, for its essential role in serving underserved communities at risk of becoming maternity care deserts. Only 118 hospitals – representing just 14% of all evaluated hospitals – earned this distinction for their critical contributions to maternity care access.

“Receiving this recognition by U.S. News for four consecutive years reflects the unwavering dedication of our maternal care teams at the Birth and Women's Center to provide exceptional care with compassion and expertise,” said Bob Copple, hospital president.&nbsp;

Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan has also achieved a 4-star rating in the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services Hospital Quality Star Ratings and was one of 350 hospitals nationwide to receive a 5-star rating for cleanliness. The hospital received an "A" Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group and was selected as one of America's Best-in-State Hospitals 2025 by Newsweek and Statista.

Manhattan, Kan. — Dec. 10, 2024 — For the fourth year in a row, Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan has been named as a 2025 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News &amp; World Report.Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan received the High Performing designation based on its strong performance in key areas such as low rates of severe unexpected newborn complications, implementation of birthing-friendly practices, and commitment to transparency on racial and ethnic disparities, among other quality measures.Additionally, U.S. News recognized Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan as a Maternity Care Access Hospital, for its essential role in serving underserved communities at risk of becoming maternity care deserts. Only 118 hospitals – representing just 14% of all evaluated hospitals – earned this distinction for their critical contributions to maternity care access.“Receiving this recognition by U.S. News for four consecutive years reflects the unwavering dedication of our maternal care teams at the Birth and Women's Center to provide exceptional care with compassion and expertise,” said Bob Copple, hospital president.&nbsp;Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan has also achieved a 4-star rating in the Centers for Medicare &amp; Medicaid Services Hospital Quality Star Ratings and was one of 350 hospitals nationwide to receive a 5-star rating for cleanliness. The hospital received an "A" Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group and was selected as one of America's Best-in-State Hospitals 2025 by Newsweek and Statista.

Via Christi Manhattan recognized among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals for Maternity Care in 2025

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a series of vehicle thefts.

According the Riley County Police Department activity report, officers filed ten&nbsp; reports of motor vehicle theft in the last 24-hours.

"It cannot be emphasized enough to secure your property, lock your vehicles, and park in well-lit places. Please do not leave valuables in your vehicles.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a series of vehicle thefts.According the Riley County Police Department activity report, officers filed ten&nbsp; reports of motor vehicle theft in the last 24-hours."It cannot be emphasized enough to secure your property, lock your vehicles, and park in well-lit places. Please do not leave valuables in your vehicles.

RCPD: 10 reported motor vehicle thefts in past 24-hours

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/2024/12/1733843182139.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 10

The VA is launching a new outreach campaign to encourage all eligible Veterans to enroll in VA health care – including approximately 13,900 unenrolled Kansas Veterans who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan. This campaign will include text messages and emails directly to Veterans, public service announcements, paid advertising, and events.

<a>VA is launching this campaign after reports of concerns from Veterans about health issues – including mental health challenges and thoughts of suicide – potentially related to repeated blasts and head trauma (low-level artillery blasts, IEDs, missile launches, heavy fire, and more).</a>&nbsp;Since the first reporting about these concerns, VA researchers have been urgently studying this matter to learn more about the potential health impacts of blast exposure on Veterans.&nbsp;

Veterans enrolled in VA can access specialty screenings and services to address any health issues related to blast exposure.&nbsp;Importantly, Veterans who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and other specific locations are eligible for VA health care based on their deployments — they do not need to have any health conditions specifically associated with their service in order to be eligible for care.

While we continue to urgently conduct research into the impacts of blast exposure, VA and the entire Biden-Harris Administration encourage these Veterans – and all eligible Veterans – to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/">apply for VA care today</a>. Veterans who use VA health care have better health outcomes than non-enrolled Veterans, VA hospitals are&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-health-care-outperforms-non-va-care-in-two-independent-nationwide-quality-and-patient-satisfaction-reviews/">dramatically outperforming non-VA hospitals,</a>&nbsp;and VA health care is often&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/copay-rates/">more affordable</a>&nbsp;than non-VA health care for Veterans. Additionally, 92% of&nbsp;Veteran patients currently report trusting VA outpatient health care – an all-time high.&nbsp;

“We take Veteran concerns about repeated blast exposure very seriously, and we are studying this matter urgently to learn more about potential health impacts,” said&nbsp;VA Secretary Denis McDonough.&nbsp;“While we do that, we don’t want Veterans to wait – they should enroll in VA health care today to get full access to primary care, mental health care, regular screenings, specialty care, and more. That’s what this outreach effort is all about: getting Veterans in our care, because Veterans who come to VA are proven to do better.”

“VA aims to be the best, most accessible, and most affordable health system in America for Veterans, and we are constantly looking for ways to improve that care as science and research tells us about new concerns,” said&nbsp;VA&nbsp;Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal, M.D.&nbsp;“The more Veterans who enroll, the more we can learn about the impact of blast exposure – and the better care we can ultimately provide those who served.”

Earlier this year, VA made&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/veteran-toxins-hazards-serving-eligible-va/">all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards (and meet basic requirements) eligible to enroll directly in VA health care</a>&nbsp;– years earlier than called for by the PACT Act. This included all Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11. Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States are also eligible to enroll. Additionally, Veterans who do not meet any of the above criteria can often still access VA health care by receiving VA disability benefits or based on income.

This new outreach effort is a part of the largest outreach campaign in VA history, which began when President Biden signed the PACT Act into law in 2022 and continues to this day. As a result of this campaign, more than 835,000 Veterans have enrolled in VA health care (a 37% increase over the previous period); more than 900,000 Veterans have upgraded their priority groups, making them eligible for health care with fewer copays (an all-time record); and more than 4.4 million Veterans and survivors have applied for disability compensation benefits (another all-time record). 

The campaign has been focused on bringing new Veterans to VA by sending millions of texts and emails, hosting thousands of events nationwide, launching new paid advertising campaigns, working with influencers and companies, and more.

Eligible Veterans can enroll today by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply-for-health-care-form-10-10ez/introduction">our website</a>&nbsp;or calling 877-222-8387.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606165889596.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe VA is launching a new outreach campaign to encourage all eligible Veterans to enroll in VA health care – including approximately 13,900 unenrolled Kansas Veterans who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan. This campaign will include text messages and emails directly to Veterans, public service announcements, paid advertising, and events.<a>VA is launching this campaign after reports of concerns from Veterans about health issues – including mental health challenges and thoughts of suicide – potentially related to repeated blasts and head trauma (low-level artillery blasts, IEDs, missile launches, heavy fire, and more).</a>&nbsp;Since the first reporting about these concerns, VA researchers have been urgently studying this matter to learn more about the potential health impacts of blast exposure on Veterans.&nbsp;Veterans enrolled in VA can access specialty screenings and services to address any health issues related to blast exposure.&nbsp;Importantly, Veterans who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and other specific locations are eligible for VA health care based on their deployments — they do not need to have any health conditions specifically associated with their service in order to be eligible for care.While we continue to urgently conduct research into the impacts of blast exposure, VA and the entire Biden-Harris Administration encourage these Veterans – and all eligible Veterans – to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/">apply for VA care today</a>. Veterans who use VA health care have better health outcomes than non-enrolled Veterans, VA hospitals are&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-health-care-outperforms-non-va-care-in-two-independent-nationwide-quality-and-patient-satisfaction-reviews/">dramatically outperforming non-VA hospitals,</a>&nbsp;and VA health care is often&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/copay-rates/">more affordable</a>&nbsp;than non-VA health care for Veterans. Additionally, 92% of&nbsp;Veteran patients currently report trusting VA outpatient health care – an all-time high.&nbsp;“We take Veteran concerns about repeated blast exposure very seriously, and we are studying this matter urgently to learn more about potential health impacts,” said&nbsp;VA Secretary Denis McDonough.&nbsp;“While we do that, we don’t want Veterans to wait – they should enroll in VA health care today to get full access to primary care, mental health care, regular screenings, specialty care, and more. That’s what this outreach effort is all about: getting Veterans in our care, because Veterans who come to VA are proven to do better.”“VA aims to be the best, most accessible, and most affordable health system in America for Veterans, and we are constantly looking for ways to improve that care as science and research tells us about new concerns,” said&nbsp;VA&nbsp;Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal, M.D.&nbsp;“The more Veterans who enroll, the more we can learn about the impact of blast exposure – and the better care we can ultimately provide those who served.”Earlier this year, VA made&nbsp;<a href="https://news.va.gov/press-room/veteran-toxins-hazards-serving-eligible-va/">all Veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards (and meet basic requirements) eligible to enroll directly in VA health care</a>&nbsp;– years earlier than called for by the PACT Act. This included all Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11. Veterans who never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards while training or on active duty in the United States are also eligible to enroll. Additionally, Veterans who do not meet any of the above criteria can often still access VA health care by receiving VA disability benefits or based on income.This new outreach effort is a part of the largest outreach campaign in VA history, which began when President Biden signed the PACT Act into law in 2022 and continues to this day. As a result of this campaign, more than 835,000 Veterans have enrolled in VA health care (a 37% increase over the previous period); more than 900,000 Veterans have upgraded their priority groups, making them eligible for health care with fewer copays (an all-time record); and more than 4.4 million Veterans and survivors have applied for disability compensation benefits (another all-time record). The campaign has been focused on bringing new Veterans to VA by sending millions of texts and emails, hosting thousands of events nationwide, launching new paid advertising campaigns, working with influencers and companies, and more.Eligible Veterans can enroll today by visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply-for-health-care-form-10-10ez/introduction">our website</a>&nbsp;or calling 877-222-8387.

VA launches new outreach campaign to enroll Kansas Veterans in health care

The City of Manhattan said starting Monday (December 9), Northern Pipeline will close the left/straight lane exiting Anneberg Park to repair a gas valve in the grassy area of the exit. This work is expected to last for no more than 60 days. 

Motorosts should follow all signage and watch out for workers if entering the park from Anderson Avenue and also when leaving.

The City of Manhattan said starting Monday (December 9), Northern Pipeline will close the left/straight lane exiting Anneberg Park to repair a gas valve in the grassy area of the exit. This work is expected to last for no more than 60 days. Motorosts should follow all signage and watch out for workers if entering the park from Anderson Avenue and also when leaving.

Work will repair gas valve near Anneberg Park exit

&nbsp; MANHATTAN — Kansas State University will see more than 1,200 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. 13, in Manhattan and Salina and Saturday, Dec. 14, in Manhattan.

Candidates from both the summer 2024 and fall 2024 semesters will be recognized. Ceremony information, including parking, accommodations and a live webcast 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>&nbsp;Approximately 880 bachelor's degrees, 250 master's degrees and 80 doctorates will be awarded this fall. More than 50 students will be earning multiple degrees. The graduates-to-be also include nearly 280 students who are earning their degrees through a K-State Online program.

The following is the schedule and speakers for ceremonies on Dec. 13:• Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Regent Neelima Parasker will represent the Kansas Board of Regents at the ceremony. Garry Myers, director of the Australian Institute for Microbiology &amp; Infection at the University of Technology Sydney, will be the speaker.• 

Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., Forum Hall in the K-State Student Union. The commissioning officer and speaker will be Lt. Col. Brian Witthoeft, commander of Detachment 270.• 

K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina. Retired Col. William Clark, president and CEO of Saint Francis Ministries, will be the speaker. Clark served in the United States Army for 30 years and has led Saint Francis Ministries since November 2020.The following is the schedule and speakers for ceremonies on Dec. 14:

• College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. The speaker will be Sheila Ellis-Glasper, principal and co-founder of SEG Media Collective. In addition to leading the award-winning agency, Ellis-Glasper has earned accolades including the 2021 Minority Business Advocate of the Year and the 2024 Stacey Hall Humanitarian Award.• 

Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., Forum Hall in the K-State Student Union. The guest speaker and commissioning officer will be Col. Travis Habhab, First Infantry Division Chief of Staff.• 

College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Connie Redic, principal of Curtis Middle School, USD 259 Wichita Public Schools, will be the speaker. Redic was named the Kansas Assistant Principal of the Year in 2021, and she earned a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from K-State.• 

College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Julie Bryant, retired manager of accounting operations for Phillips 66, will be the speaker. Bryant is a member of K-State College of Business Administration advisory councils for business and accounting.•

 College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Cassie Jones, professor and teaching coordinator in K-State's animal sciences and industry department, will be the speaker. In addition to managing the largest undergraduate major on campus, she is also an accomplished researcher with more than 100 peer-reviewed articles.•

 College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Paul Ewing, CEO of Prosperity Advisors, will be the speaker. Ewing has worked in the financial services industry for more than 40 years, and in addition to leading Prosperity Advisors, he also founded and serves as CEO of the Prosperity Network of Advisors.• 

Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Karen Clegg, retired vice president and general manager of Honeywell International Defense and Space, will be the speaker. Clegg was responsible for domestic and international sales, marketing and customer interface, and program management and financial reporting for all aftermarket products.

&nbsp; MANHATTAN — Kansas State University will see more than 1,200 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. 13, in Manhattan and Salina and Saturday, Dec. 14, in Manhattan. Candidates from both the summer 2024 and fall 2024 semesters will be recognized. Ceremony information, including parking, accommodations and a live webcast 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>&nbsp;Approximately 880 bachelor's degrees, 250 master's degrees and 80 doctorates will be awarded this fall. More than 50 students will be earning multiple degrees. The graduates-to-be also include nearly 280 students who are earning their degrees through a K-State Online program.The following is the schedule and speakers for ceremonies on Dec. 13:• Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Regent Neelima Parasker will represent the Kansas Board of Regents at the ceremony. Garry Myers, director of the Australian Institute for Microbiology &amp; Infection at the University of Technology Sydney, will be the speaker.• Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., Forum Hall in the K-State Student Union. The commissioning officer and speaker will be Lt. Col. Brian Witthoeft, commander of Detachment 270.• K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina. Retired Col. William Clark, president and CEO of Saint Francis Ministries, will be the speaker. Clark served in the United States Army for 30 years and has led Saint Francis Ministries since November 2020.The following is the schedule and speakers for ceremonies on Dec. 14:• College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. The speaker will be Sheila Ellis-Glasper, principal and co-founder of SEG Media Collective. In addition to leading the award-winning agency, Ellis-Glasper has earned accolades including the 2021 Minority Business Advocate of the Year and the 2024 Stacey Hall Humanitarian Award.• Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., Forum Hall in the K-State Student Union. The guest speaker and commissioning officer will be Col. Travis Habhab, First Infantry Division Chief of Staff.• College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Connie Redic, principal of Curtis Middle School, USD 259 Wichita Public Schools, will be the speaker. Redic was named the Kansas Assistant Principal of the Year in 2021, and she earned a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from K-State.• College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Julie Bryant, retired manager of accounting operations for Phillips 66, will be the speaker. Bryant is a member of K-State College of Business Administration advisory councils for business and accounting.• College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Cassie Jones, professor and teaching coordinator in K-State's animal sciences and industry department, will be the speaker. In addition to managing the largest undergraduate major on campus, she is also an accomplished researcher with more than 100 peer-reviewed articles.• College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Paul Ewing, CEO of Prosperity Advisors, will be the speaker. Ewing has worked in the financial services industry for more than 40 years, and in addition to leading Prosperity Advisors, he also founded and serves as CEO of the Prosperity Network of Advisors.• Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Karen Clegg, retired vice president and general manager of Honeywell International Defense and Space, will be the speaker. Clegg was responsible for domestic and international sales, marketing and customer interface, and program management and financial reporting for all aftermarket products.

 K-State commencement ceremonies to recognize summer, fall 2024 degree candidates

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged aggravated assault involving a firearm.

Just after 5p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of aggravated assault in the 100 block of Fort Riley Boulevard, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 30-year-old woman reported a 20-year-old man brandished a rifle at her who was trying to merge onto the highway.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged aggravated assault involving a firearm.Just after 5p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of aggravated assault in the 100 block of Fort Riley Boulevard, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 30-year-old woman reported a 20-year-old man brandished a rifle at her who was trying to merge onto the highway.&nbsp;The RCPD released no additional details.

RCPD: Suspect brandished rifle at driver on Fort Riley Blvd.

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/2024/12/1733756817710.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733756914339.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 8, 9

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann believes the long term farm bill is going to get delayed again.

"That's what it's looking like," Mann said. "I'll tell you, I could not be more disappointed or frustrated. I've been to the floor of the House over 30 times urging other members of Congress to get serious about getting a five year Farm Bill done to lock in certainty for our producers. It looks like this is being made to punt yet again. Very frustrating. Not what I want."

The continuing resolution on discretionary spending needs to be dealt with in the next couple of weeks, but the farm bill will not be a part of that work.

"President Trump and his team are involved in the conversation because they're going to be impacted by however long this gets pushed into next year," Mann said. "It looks like the consensus or their desire is end of March, but we will see, those conversations are ongoing. Then really, you know, the question becomes, what is the plan for President Trump's first 100 days? What order does he want to tackle the many, many things to do to get this country back on track? How does government funding fit into that? All those things we'll take into consideration."

With Republican control of both houses and the presidency in January, there should be a change in emphasis next year.

"The election had consequences," Mann said. "The American people loud and clear, they said they want Donald Trump to be the President of the United States, and they are tired of business as usual in Washington. We need to get the train back on the track, so to speak. Republicans flipped the Senate. So 100 senators, that's a 53-47 vote margin in the House. Similar margins we've had, but with three folks from the House that have joined the administration, we'll have a one vote margin, looks like the first 100 days or so of the Congress."

It is important though, that both Ag committees will have Republicans with the gavel as a long term farm bill is worked out.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732122267723.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Office of Rep. Tracey Mann" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Office of Rep. Tracey Mann</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann believes the long term farm bill is going to get delayed again."That's what it's looking like," Mann said. "I'll tell you, I could not be more disappointed or frustrated. I've been to the floor of the House over 30 times urging other members of Congress to get serious about getting a five year Farm Bill done to lock in certainty for our producers. It looks like this is being made to punt yet again. Very frustrating. Not what I want."The continuing resolution on discretionary spending needs to be dealt with in the next couple of weeks, but the farm bill will not be a part of that work."President Trump and his team are involved in the conversation because they're going to be impacted by however long this gets pushed into next year," Mann said. "It looks like the consensus or their desire is end of March, but we will see, those conversations are ongoing. Then really, you know, the question becomes, what is the plan for President Trump's first 100 days? What order does he want to tackle the many, many things to do to get this country back on track? How does government funding fit into that? All those things we'll take into consideration."With Republican control of both houses and the presidency in January, there should be a change in emphasis next year."The election had consequences," Mann said. "The American people loud and clear, they said they want Donald Trump to be the President of the United States, and they are tired of business as usual in Washington. We need to get the train back on the track, so to speak. Republicans flipped the Senate. So 100 senators, that's a 53-47 vote margin in the House. Similar margins we've had, but with three folks from the House that have joined the administration, we'll have a one vote margin, looks like the first 100 days or so of the Congress."It is important though, that both Ag committees will have Republicans with the gavel as a long term farm bill is worked out.

Mann says farm bill will wait for new Congress

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/2024/12/1733584914809.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Riley County Arrest Report December 6</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733584893513.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 7

Manhattan, Kan. — Dec. 6, 2024 — A partnership led by Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, the Manhattan Community Health Foundation and local healthcare providers has opened the Dispensary of Hope. This is an initiative to improve public health by providing free medication to low-income, uninsured individuals.

A ribbon-cutting and blessing of the facility will be held on Monday, Dec. 9, at 1:30 p.m. at 222 North 6th Street, Manhattan, Kan. The event is open to the public.

"We are grateful for the support of the Manhattan Community Health Foundation and local healthcare providers for their generous support in bringing this valuable resource to our community," said Bob Copple, president of Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. "This pharmacy will make a real difference in the lives of many people in our community who struggle to afford their medications."

The Dispensary of Hope provides access to a wide range of no-cost medications to uninsured individuals who make less than three times the federal poverty level. All patients who meet eligibility requirements and have a valid prescription are welcome to use the pharmacy without the need for a referral.

Rick Hernandez, director of the Manhattan Free Clinic, said, "The Dispensary of Hope has already proven to be an asset for our patients here at the Manhattan Free Clinic. We look forward to our partnership with them and watching our community benet from their amazing service and the significant cost savings they provide."

Danielle Hallgren, CEO of Konza Prairie Community Health Center, said, "This partnership recognizes the need for integrated healthcare services in our community. No one organization can meet that need entirely."

Manhattan, Kan. — Dec. 6, 2024 — A partnership led by Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, the Manhattan Community Health Foundation and local healthcare providers has opened the Dispensary of Hope. This is an initiative to improve public health by providing free medication to low-income, uninsured individuals.A ribbon-cutting and blessing of the facility will be held on Monday, Dec. 9, at 1:30 p.m. at 222 North 6th Street, Manhattan, Kan. The event is open to the public."We are grateful for the support of the Manhattan Community Health Foundation and local healthcare providers for their generous support in bringing this valuable resource to our community," said Bob Copple, president of Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. "This pharmacy will make a real difference in the lives of many people in our community who struggle to afford their medications."The Dispensary of Hope provides access to a wide range of no-cost medications to uninsured individuals who make less than three times the federal poverty level. All patients who meet eligibility requirements and have a valid prescription are welcome to use the pharmacy without the need for a referral.Rick Hernandez, director of the Manhattan Free Clinic, said, "The Dispensary of Hope has already proven to be an asset for our patients here at the Manhattan Free Clinic. We look forward to our partnership with them and watching our community benet from their amazing service and the significant cost savings they provide."Danielle Hallgren, CEO of Konza Prairie Community Health Center, said, "This partnership recognizes the need for integrated healthcare services in our community. No one organization can meet that need entirely."

Local Healthcare Partnership Opens Dispensary of Hope in Manhattan

&nbsp;Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills WILL host its annual 5K event with an extra special 10-Year Birthday Celebration on Sunday, December 8 at the K-State Office Park. This event is more than a race—it's a celebration of empowerment, inspiration, and community, showcasing the strength and determination of girls in the community.

Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based, positive youth development program for girls in 3rd to 8th grade. The 10-week program combines fun running games with dynamic discussions to teach life skills, foster confidence, build friendships, and inspire community service. The season culminates in a celebratory 5K event where participants and their supporters come together to honor their achievements and amplify each other’s Star Power.

This year’s event is open to the public, with all proceeds benefiting Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills. The route will take participants on a down-and-back course from Denison to Marlatt Avenue. Last season’s 5K brought together over 500 participants, including program participants, families, friends, and community members.

The registration cost will be $30 for adults, $15 for children 14 and under. It will include Include an event shirt and a custom 10-Year Birthday Medal.

&nbsp;Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills WILL host its annual 5K event with an extra special 10-Year Birthday Celebration on Sunday, December 8 at the K-State Office Park. This event is more than a race—it's a celebration of empowerment, inspiration, and community, showcasing the strength and determination of girls in the community.Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based, positive youth development program for girls in 3rd to 8th grade. The 10-week program combines fun running games with dynamic discussions to teach life skills, foster confidence, build friendships, and inspire community service. The season culminates in a celebratory 5K event where participants and their supporters come together to honor their achievements and amplify each other’s Star Power.This year’s event is open to the public, with all proceeds benefiting Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills. The route will take participants on a down-and-back course from Denison to Marlatt Avenue. Last season’s 5K brought together over 500 participants, including program participants, families, friends, and community members.The registration cost will be $30 for adults, $15 for children 14 and under. It will include Include an event shirt and a custom 10-Year Birthday Medal.

Girls on the Run of the Flint Hills Celebrates 10-Year Birthday 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Deshaun Durham walked out of the Hutchinson Correctional Facility on Friday morning with a big smile on his face. The 24-year-old from Manhattan was granted clemency by Gov. Laura Kelly after serving over 2.5 years behind bars.

"It's a surreal moment," Durham said. "It kind of feels like an out-of-body experience, feels like a dream, sometimes I've got to pinch myself to make sure its real."

Durham was sentenced in June of 2021 to 92 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 2.4 pounds of cannabis. The courts will typically give probation for people with no criminal history, which is why it was rare that Durham was sentenced to nearly eight years in prison.

"He should not have been sent to prison for 2.4 pounds of marijuana for nine years," Barry Grissom, Durham's attorney, said. "When you think about it, it's a waste of taxpayer dollars. The amount of money that we spend in investigation, interdiction, arrest, prosecution and incarceration is money that could be better spent by law enforcement keeping us safe in our homes, as opposed to running a prohibition."

Durham expressed extreme gratitude to Donte West with the Last Prisoner Project, as well as Grissom, as both played integral parts in helping get his sentence reduced.

"It's good to have faith in people out there, working on you and making sure the right things happen," Durham said. "It's just nice knowing you can sleep better at night, knowing you've got people in place that are really devoted and motivated to getting you home."

Although Durham is grateful to be granted clemency, he was surprised that it happened.

"I was surprised, because it's something a lot of people do in the prison system and very few get it," Durham said. "When I got the news I got it, it was hard not to tear up a little bit, because it's just something that's so rare."

&nbsp;Durham was 20 at the time of the crime and says he has learned a lot from being incarcerated.

"I learned my lesson and now we're here, just ready to look forward and open a new chapter in my life," Durham said. "It's kind of taught me that prison isn't a place that I belong and it's not a place that anyone who gets caught with marijuana, something that is legal in a majority of the United States, deserves to be at. There is definitely some real tough characters in prison, and this place can change you for the worse."&nbsp;

Durham's mother, Brandi Davis, was also there to witness her son walking off the property after being released.

"When he called me from sentencing two and a half years ago and told me he got eight years, I was floored," Davis said. "I never imagined that he would get eight years, I thought he was joking. He asked me how he was going to do eight years in prison, I promised him two and a half years ago that I would do everything in my power to get him home. Luckily, I had people like Last Prisoner Project and Donte and Barry that absolutely supported him in every way and fought like hell to get him home. There really are no words. Deshaun hasn't been home for two and a half years. When I was decorating the house for Christmas, I thought about how Deshaun was going to be in all of our celebrations and he's going to be in the pictures this year."&nbsp;

The final night in the cell of the prison for Durham was one he was looking forward to.

"It was definitely hard to sleep, but it was kind of easy knowing it was going to be my last night sleeping in a prison bunk," Durham said. "I actually woke up about 3:30 in the morning and started getting ready and everything, making sure it wasn't a dream still, because it all feels so surreal."

Durham walked out of the prison with a Kansas City Chiefs sweatshirt on, hoping to get to the Sunday Night Football game against the Chargers in two days.

"That was definitely one of my first ideas, I'm trying to go to the game," Durham said with a smile on his face. "I watch every game, I don't tend to miss a game often, so I'm hoping to make it to the game on Sunday."

&nbsp;Gov. Kelly overturned the Prison Review Board's rejection of Durham's clemency application on Nov. 6.

"We were very very fortunate that we have an amazing governor for our state," Grissom said. "Governor Kelly exercised an immense amount of courage and wisdom to reduce this young man's sentence in light of what he said, is going on around the country, when you compare that to what's happening in Missouri, Colorado, Oklahoma, he should not have been sent to prison for 2.4 pounds of marijuana for nine years."

Durham is looking forward to turning his life around outside of the prison walls.

"I'm definitely interested in trying to help other people that are in prison for crimes like mine," Durham. "So no one else ends up like I did, without the support from everybody else around me, I would have had to have done my full eight-year sentence."

Durham hopes to attend welding school and start a family in the near future.

The Last Prisoner Project is a 501(c)(3) non profit that was founded in 2019 and works towards helping incarcerated cannabis offenders.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733500940631.jpeg" alt="(L to R) Donte West (Exoneree), Brandi Davis (Deshaun Durham's mother), Deshaun Durham, Barry Grissom (attorney) all exit the Hutchinson Correctional Facility following the release of Durham, who was granted clemency by Gov. Laura Kelly. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)" />
 <figcaption>(L to R) Donte West (Exoneree), Brandi Davis (Deshaun Durham's mother), Deshaun Durham, Barry Grissom (attorney) all exit the Hutchinson Correctional Facility following the release of Durham, who was granted clemency by Gov. Laura Kelly. (Hutch Post Photo/Sean Boston)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Deshaun Durham walked out of the Hutchinson Correctional Facility on Friday morning with a big smile on his face. The 24-year-old from Manhattan was granted clemency by Gov. Laura Kelly after serving over 2.5 years behind bars."It's a surreal moment," Durham said. "It kind of feels like an out-of-body experience, feels like a dream, sometimes I've got to pinch myself to make sure its real."Durham was sentenced in June of 2021 to 92 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 2.4 pounds of cannabis. The courts will typically give probation for people with no criminal history, which is why it was rare that Durham was sentenced to nearly eight years in prison."He should not have been sent to prison for 2.4 pounds of marijuana for nine years," Barry Grissom, Durham's attorney, said. "When you think about it, it's a waste of taxpayer dollars. The amount of money that we spend in investigation, interdiction, arrest, prosecution and incarceration is money that could be better spent by law enforcement keeping us safe in our homes, as opposed to running a prohibition."Durham expressed extreme gratitude to Donte West with the Last Prisoner Project, as well as Grissom, as both played integral parts in helping get his sentence reduced."It's good to have faith in people out there, working on you and making sure the right things happen," Durham said. "It's just nice knowing you can sleep better at night, knowing you've got people in place that are really devoted and motivated to getting you home."Although Durham is grateful to be granted clemency, he was surprised that it happened."I was surprised, because it's something a lot of people do in the prison system and very few get it," Durham said. "When I got the news I got it, it was hard not to tear up a little bit, because it's just something that's so rare."&nbsp;Durham was 20 at the time of the crime and says he has learned a lot from being incarcerated."I learned my lesson and now we're here, just ready to look forward and open a new chapter in my life," Durham said. "It's kind of taught me that prison isn't a place that I belong and it's not a place that anyone who gets caught with marijuana, something that is legal in a majority of the United States, deserves to be at. There is definitely some real tough characters in prison, and this place can change you for the worse."&nbsp;Durham's mother, Brandi Davis, was also there to witness her son walking off the property after being released."When he called me from sentencing two and a half years ago and told me he got eight years, I was floored," Davis said. "I never imagined that he would get eight years, I thought he was joking. He asked me how he was going to do eight years in prison, I promised him two and a half years ago that I would do everything in my power to get him home. Luckily, I had people like Last Prisoner Project and Donte and Barry that absolutely supported him in every way and fought like hell to get him home. There really are no words. Deshaun hasn't been home for two and a half years. When I was decorating the house for Christmas, I thought about how Deshaun was going to be in all of our celebrations and he's going to be in the pictures this year."&nbsp;The final night in the cell of the prison for Durham was one he was looking forward to."It was definitely hard to sleep, but it was kind of easy knowing it was going to be my last night sleeping in a prison bunk," Durham said. "I actually woke up about 3:30 in the morning and started getting ready and everything, making sure it wasn't a dream still, because it all feels so surreal."Durham walked out of the prison with a Kansas City Chiefs sweatshirt on, hoping to get to the Sunday Night Football game against the Chargers in two days."That was definitely one of my first ideas, I'm trying to go to the game," Durham said with a smile on his face. "I watch every game, I don't tend to miss a game often, so I'm hoping to make it to the game on Sunday."&nbsp;Gov. Kelly overturned the Prison Review Board's rejection of Durham's clemency application on Nov. 6."We were very very fortunate that we have an amazing governor for our state," Grissom said. "Governor Kelly exercised an immense amount of courage and wisdom to reduce this young man's sentence in light of what he said, is going on around the country, when you compare that to what's happening in Missouri, Colorado, Oklahoma, he should not have been sent to prison for 2.4 pounds of marijuana for nine years."Durham is looking forward to turning his life around outside of the prison walls."I'm definitely interested in trying to help other people that are in prison for crimes like mine," Durham. "So no one else ends up like I did, without the support from everybody else around me, I would have had to have done my full eight-year sentence."Durham hopes to attend welding school and start a family in the near future.The Last Prisoner Project is a 501(c)(3) non profit that was founded in 2019 and works towards helping incarcerated cannabis offenders.&nbsp;

Manhattan man free from prison following action by Governor

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a burglary in Manhattan. Just after 11:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of burglary and criminal destruction of property in the 700 block of Moro Street, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 54-year-old woman and 41-year old woman and Evergy reported the women's apartment had been broken into. Cash was taken and there was damage to the door jam and Evergy property. 

Total loss associated with this report exceeds $1,000.

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a burglary in Manhattan. Just after 11:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of burglary and criminal destruction of property in the 700 block of Moro Street, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 54-year-old woman and 41-year old woman and Evergy reported the women's apartment had been broken into. Cash was taken and there was damage to the door jam and Evergy property. Total loss associated with this report exceeds $1,000. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD investigating burglary at women's apartment

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/2024/12/1733497638482.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report December 6

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Fee Insurance Group is excited to announce the opening of its fifth location in Kansas, expanding into the Manhattan area. The new office, located at 555 Poyntz Ave, Suite 185, will enhance the company's ability to provide personalized and experienced insurance solutions to families, businesses, and communities across the region. To celebrate this expansion, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Tuesday, December 10th at 3:30 p.m.

President Bob Fee expressed his enthusiasm about the expansion: “Opening our Manhattan office is a testament to our commitment to Kansas communities. We’re excited to expand our reach and continue providing the high level of service that our clients expect from us, guided by our core values of integrity, excellence, leadership, and relationships.”

CEO Allen Fee added, “We are thrilled to grow across the state with our new office in Manhattan. Our already strong relationship with several key businesses in the area, most notably Steel and Pipe Supply, makes this expansion even more meaningful. We’re eager to bring our client-focused approach and passion for service to this vibrant community.”

Leading the growth in Manhattan is Lee Modesitt, who brings his strong leadership and a commitment to delivering an elevated client experience. As a longstanding Manhattan resident, Lee is excited to bring Fee’s 140-year legacy of excellence and relationships to the local community.

The Manhattan office marks a key step in Fee Insurance Group’s continued growth, as the company remains committed to remaining privately owned and perpetuating to another generation focused on its clients and communities.

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.feeinsurancegroup.com/" target="_blank">www.feeinsurancegroup.com</a>&nbsp;or contact the Manhattan office at 785- 340-3500.

Fee Insurance GroupMANHATTAN, Kan. — Fee Insurance Group is excited to announce the opening of its fifth location in Kansas, expanding into the Manhattan area. The new office, located at 555 Poyntz Ave, Suite 185, will enhance the company's ability to provide personalized and experienced insurance solutions to families, businesses, and communities across the region. To celebrate this expansion, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held on Tuesday, December 10th at 3:30 p.m.President Bob Fee expressed his enthusiasm about the expansion: “Opening our Manhattan office is a testament to our commitment to Kansas communities. We’re excited to expand our reach and continue providing the high level of service that our clients expect from us, guided by our core values of integrity, excellence, leadership, and relationships.”CEO Allen Fee added, “We are thrilled to grow across the state with our new office in Manhattan. Our already strong relationship with several key businesses in the area, most notably Steel and Pipe Supply, makes this expansion even more meaningful. We’re eager to bring our client-focused approach and passion for service to this vibrant community.”Leading the growth in Manhattan is Lee Modesitt, who brings his strong leadership and a commitment to delivering an elevated client experience. As a longstanding Manhattan resident, Lee is excited to bring Fee’s 140-year legacy of excellence and relationships to the local community.The Manhattan office marks a key step in Fee Insurance Group’s continued growth, as the company remains committed to remaining privately owned and perpetuating to another generation focused on its clients and communities.For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.feeinsurancegroup.com/" target="_blank">www.feeinsurancegroup.com</a>&nbsp;or contact the Manhattan office at 785- 340-3500.

Fee Insurance Group plans Manhattan ribbon cutting

All railroad crossing arms are back up and working.

The Northeast Kansas Regional Notification System says the railroad crossing intersection is closed at Highway 99 and Lincoln Ave in Wamego. The intersection will be closed until further notice. Alternate routes are Ash Street and Balderson Blvd.

UPDATE:All railroad crossing arms are back up and working.---Lincoln street in Wamego is now open.----The Northeast Kansas Regional Notification System says the railroad crossing intersection is closed at Highway 99 and Lincoln Ave in Wamego. The intersection will be closed until further notice. Alternate routes are Ash Street and Balderson Blvd.I

Railroad crossing notice

Each day on his drive to K-State’s football stadium, Coach Bill Snyder remembered driving past the agricultural research plots. That stadium now bears his name - as does a new wheat variety developed by K-State’s wheat breeding program. For the 2024 year-end giving season, everyone can be a part of launching the KS Bill Snyder variety and supporting wheat research as part of the Legendary Greats giving campaign by the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation (KWCRF).&nbsp;

“The people here are very special, and what you do is meaningful,” Snyder said during a KWCRF event last spring. “When I came here in 1989, I learned that Kansas State people are truly special. They asked, ‘What can we do for you?’ That’s the Kansas State farmer way.”

The KWCRF supports wheat research above and beyond the dollars contributed by Kansas farmers through the checkoff by providing a mechanism for donors to give meaningfully to the future of wheat production. The foundation attracts a wide range of donors, from individuals with deep family ties to wheat production to global supporters. Established in 2012, the foundation has grown to more than $6 million in assets, highlighting the critical need for public-private partnerships in wheat research. Gifts to the KWCRF are used exclusively for wheat research and are tax-deductible.

“The goal in the end is to increase the profitability of Kansas wheat farmers,” said Tammy McClellan, KWCRF manager of donor relations. “And probably that's one of the reasons I love this work the most because I'm married to a Kansas wheat farmer, and I am a Kansas wheat farmer.”

“My father-in-law was on the Kansas Wheat Commission when they made their first vote to start putting funding into research. So, it's a nice family tradition to be involved in research.”&nbsp;

This giving season, the KWCRF is accepting gifts to the Legendary Greats – KS Bill Snyder &amp; Kansas Wheat Campaign. Donors will be helping promote wheat research during the 2025 fall football season as the variety KS Bill Snyder is introduced to the public. Donors to the campaign will be recognized with other donors in a display inside the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, located directly across from the Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium.&nbsp;

KS Bill Snyder — the wheat variety — was the result of the long-running breeding program at the K-State Agricultural Research Center at Hays, led by Dr. Guorong Zhang, K-State wheat breeder, and his team. KS Bill Snyder is a medium-maturity and medium-short height variety that was the top-performing variety in the Southern Regional Performance Nursery in 2022. KS Bill Snyder has a solid disease package with good-to-intermediate resistance of stripe, leaf and stem rust, along with moderate resistance to Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (Wsm2 gene) and intermediate resistance to Triticum mosaic virus. It is also resistant to soilborne mosaic virus, allowing it to move into central Kansas, where it has shown decent yield potential. KS Bill Snyder, along with its very high yield potential, also has good drought tolerance, high tillering capacity, excellent straw strength and good quality.

Releasing a new variety like KS Bill Snyder is the result of years of work, requiring maintaining research greenhouses, keeping research equipment top-notch and supporting the teamwork between wheat breeders, professors and their research teams. This long, complicated work makes each release a true celebration, which is one reason why individual donors like Stephen Graham and his wife Sherry choose to donate to the KWCRF.&nbsp;

“You got to remember that this doesn't happen overnight; it takes many years of work and investment to make new varieties happen,” said Graham, who is a former assistant to the Dean of Agriculture for the College of Agriculture at Kansas State University and administrator for the Kansas Wheat Commission in 1981 through 1995. “But at the same time, it’s fun to watch it evolve, watch us learn how our wheat is used. It’s a long game, but you help support this work that benefits our state so much.”&nbsp;

Donors can contribute in various ways, including cash donations, grain or stock gifts, legacy gifts through estate planning, and Required Minimum Distributions from retirement accounts. This flexibility allows everyone to participate, regardless of financial circumstances. Donors can even specify what specific research areas their contributions will support, ensuring every dollar is used effectively and in line with donor goals.&nbsp;

“I appreciate walking in every morning, coming to work and seeing the variety and diversity of those donors,” said Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations. “It shows you the passion for Kansas wheat and wheat research from different segments of the industry.”&nbsp;

Just as Coach Snyder transformed the Wildcats’ football program, the variety in his name embodies the relentless, disciplined pursuit of excellence by researchers and producers. By supporting the KWCRF, you too can contribute to supporting the future of Kansas wheat farming for generations to come.&nbsp;

Learn more about the Legendary Greats campaign or how to give to the KWCRF at fieldsforward.org or listen to a full conversation with McClellan and Graham in the most recent episode of the “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast at wheatsonyourmind.com.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655426692793.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas WheatEach day on his drive to K-State’s football stadium, Coach Bill Snyder remembered driving past the agricultural research plots. That stadium now bears his name - as does a new wheat variety developed by K-State’s wheat breeding program. For the 2024 year-end giving season, everyone can be a part of launching the KS Bill Snyder variety and supporting wheat research as part of the Legendary Greats giving campaign by the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation (KWCRF).&nbsp;“The people here are very special, and what you do is meaningful,” Snyder said during a KWCRF event last spring. “When I came here in 1989, I learned that Kansas State people are truly special. They asked, ‘What can we do for you?’ That’s the Kansas State farmer way.”The KWCRF supports wheat research above and beyond the dollars contributed by Kansas farmers through the checkoff by providing a mechanism for donors to give meaningfully to the future of wheat production. The foundation attracts a wide range of donors, from individuals with deep family ties to wheat production to global supporters. Established in 2012, the foundation has grown to more than $6 million in assets, highlighting the critical need for public-private partnerships in wheat research. Gifts to the KWCRF are used exclusively for wheat research and are tax-deductible.“The goal in the end is to increase the profitability of Kansas wheat farmers,” said Tammy McClellan, KWCRF manager of donor relations. “And probably that's one of the reasons I love this work the most because I'm married to a Kansas wheat farmer, and I am a Kansas wheat farmer.”“My father-in-law was on the Kansas Wheat Commission when they made their first vote to start putting funding into research. So, it's a nice family tradition to be involved in research.”&nbsp;This giving season, the KWCRF is accepting gifts to the Legendary Greats – KS Bill Snyder &amp; Kansas Wheat Campaign. Donors will be helping promote wheat research during the 2025 fall football season as the variety KS Bill Snyder is introduced to the public. Donors to the campaign will be recognized with other donors in a display inside the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, located directly across from the Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium.&nbsp;KS Bill Snyder — the wheat variety — was the result of the long-running breeding program at the K-State Agricultural Research Center at Hays, led by Dr. Guorong Zhang, K-State wheat breeder, and his team. KS Bill Snyder is a medium-maturity and medium-short height variety that was the top-performing variety in the Southern Regional Performance Nursery in 2022. KS Bill Snyder has a solid disease package with good-to-intermediate resistance of stripe, leaf and stem rust, along with moderate resistance to Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (Wsm2 gene) and intermediate resistance to Triticum mosaic virus. It is also resistant to soilborne mosaic virus, allowing it to move into central Kansas, where it has shown decent yield potential. KS Bill Snyder, along with its very high yield potential, also has good drought tolerance, high tillering capacity, excellent straw strength and good quality.Releasing a new variety like KS Bill Snyder is the result of years of work, requiring maintaining research greenhouses, keeping research equipment top-notch and supporting the teamwork between wheat breeders, professors and their research teams. This long, complicated work makes each release a true celebration, which is one reason why individual donors like Stephen Graham and his wife Sherry choose to donate to the KWCRF.&nbsp;“You got to remember that this doesn't happen overnight; it takes many years of work and investment to make new varieties happen,” said Graham, who is a former assistant to the Dean of Agriculture for the College of Agriculture at Kansas State University and administrator for the Kansas Wheat Commission in 1981 through 1995. “But at the same time, it’s fun to watch it evolve, watch us learn how our wheat is used. It’s a long game, but you help support this work that benefits our state so much.”&nbsp;Donors can contribute in various ways, including cash donations, grain or stock gifts, legacy gifts through estate planning, and Required Minimum Distributions from retirement accounts. This flexibility allows everyone to participate, regardless of financial circumstances. Donors can even specify what specific research areas their contributions will support, ensuring every dollar is used effectively and in line with donor goals.&nbsp;“I appreciate walking in every morning, coming to work and seeing the variety and diversity of those donors,” said Aaron Harries, Kansas Wheat vice president of research and operations. “It shows you the passion for Kansas wheat and wheat research from different segments of the industry.”&nbsp;Just as Coach Snyder transformed the Wildcats’ football program, the variety in his name embodies the relentless, disciplined pursuit of excellence by researchers and producers. By supporting the KWCRF, you too can contribute to supporting the future of Kansas wheat farming for generations to come.&nbsp;Learn more about the Legendary Greats campaign or how to give to the KWCRF at fieldsforward.org or listen to a full conversation with McClellan and Graham in the most recent episode of the “Wheat’s on Your Mind” podcast at wheatsonyourmind.com.&nbsp;

Wheat Scoop: Join the Legendary Greats Campaign by giving to the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation

The Fort Riley Army Substance Abuse Program hosted their annual 3D Awareness Month Operation Santa Claus Sober Ruck March on Wednesday. 

The Army said despite the cold temps and early morning start time, over 600 soldiers, family members and civilians rucked through one of three courses which included 1.5, 3.2 and 8 mile options. Hundreds of toys were collected and delivered Thursday at Operation Santa Claus headquarters.&nbsp;

The Fort Riley Army Substance Abuse Program hosted their annual 3D Awareness Month Operation Santa Claus Sober Ruck March on Wednesday. The Army said despite the cold temps and early morning start time, over 600 soldiers, family members and civilians rucked through one of three courses which included 1.5, 3.2 and 8 mile options. Hundreds of toys were collected and delivered Thursday at Operation Santa Claus headquarters.&nbsp;

Toys are collected for Operation Santa Claus

Creekside at Fall Color Farms near Riley has received a $25,000 Kansas Attraction Development grant from Kansas Tourism for a new building.

Creekside at Fall Color Farms supplies more than 12,000 trees each year and is developing a new branch of agritourism. Beginning in the fall of 2026 the farm will have a completed orchard where different varieties of apples will be available for U-Pick. Kids activities will also be offered during the fall ranging from a barrel train to a tire mountain. Tree fields will be available for customers to walk through. The farm will pair with local schools to offer educational field trips.

There will be a new 40 x 70 building which will serve as a fresh produce market from mud-June until October. There will be a sales floor, kitchen and service-bar. They will be able to offer wood-fired pizzas on select weekends from Spring until Fall as well as craft-beer and cocktails for of-age customers. Thee will also be non-alcoholic slushes and ciders.

By Dewey TerrillLittle Apple PostCreekside at Fall Color Farms near Riley has received a $25,000 Kansas Attraction Development grant from Kansas Tourism for a new building.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733436558432.jpeg" alt="Bridgette Jobe Kansas Director of Tourism, Marcia Rozell Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, Greg McKinley&nbsp; Riley County&nbsp; Commission, Rose Howe, Scott Howe, Miah Howe Fall Color Farms, Darci Pottroff Mayor City of Riley." />
 <figcaption>Bridgette Jobe Kansas Director of Tourism, Marcia Rozell Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, Greg McKinley&nbsp; Riley County&nbsp; Commission, Rose Howe, Scott Howe, Miah Howe Fall Color Farms, Darci Pottroff Mayor City of Riley.</figcaption>
 </figure>Creekside at Fall Color Farms supplies more than 12,000 trees each year and is developing a new branch of agritourism. Beginning in the fall of 2026 the farm will have a completed orchard where different varieties of apples will be available for U-Pick. Kids activities will also be offered during the fall ranging from a barrel train to a tire mountain. Tree fields will be available for customers to walk through. The farm will pair with local schools to offer educational field trips.There will be a new 40 x 70 building which will serve as a fresh produce market from mud-June until October. There will be a sales floor, kitchen and service-bar. They will be able to offer wood-fired pizzas on select weekends from Spring until Fall as well as craft-beer and cocktails for of-age customers. Thee will also be non-alcoholic slushes and ciders.&nbsp;

State awards grant to Creekside at Fall Color Farms

Konza Prairie Community Health Center in Manhattan is located in the former Ray's Apple Market building on 6th Street. That followed a move from the Riley County Health Department.

According to CEO Dani Hallgren 30% of the Konza workforce is in Manhattan and the move allowed them to move from 2,500 square feet to just under 10,000 square feet of space. They doubled medical and dental providers and in January will add behavioral health services.

The move has allowed more space to be freed up at the Konza facility in Junction City since some patients have been traveling from Manhattan to Junction City.

Konza Prairie Community Health Center in Manhattan is located in the former Ray's Apple Market building on 6th Street. That followed a move from the Riley County Health Department.According to CEO Dani Hallgren 30% of the Konza workforce is in Manhattan and the move allowed them to move from 2,500 square feet to just under 10,000 square feet of space. They doubled medical and dental providers and in January will add behavioral health services.The move has allowed more space to be freed up at the Konza facility in Junction City since some patients have been traveling from Manhattan to Junction City.

Konza Prairie Community Health Center operates a Manhattan facility

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged fraud in Riley County.

On Wednesday, police&nbsp;filed a report of fraud/theft by deception in the 300 block of Riley Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Casey's General Store reported an unknown man and woman used a "cash card" to obtain merchandise and lottery tickets but the card was fraudulent. 

Total loss associated with this report is $2,100. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged fraud in Riley County.On Wednesday, police&nbsp;filed a report of fraud/theft by deception in the 300 block of Riley Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Casey's General Store reported an unknown man and woman used a "cash card" to obtain merchandise and lottery tickets but the card was fraudulent. Total loss associated with this report is $2,100. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: Suspects used fraudulent cash card to buy lottery tickets

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/2024/12/1733412057893.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>