RILEY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Friday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford Taurus driven by&nbsp;Haleana J.&nbsp;Simmons, 19, Assaria, was westbound on U.S. 24 one half mile east of Blue River Hills Road.

The driver attempted to pass an eastbound 2016 Chevy Equinox driven by Rachel M.&nbsp;Harmison, 23,&nbsp;Leonardville in the eastbound lane.&nbsp; The car struck the SUV in the front drivers side.

After impact the SUV overturned and came to rest in the south ditch. The Ford then struck a westbound 1996 Peterbilt semi driven by&nbsp;Meyer, Brady Q.&nbsp;Meyer of Linn, Kansas.

EMS transported Simmons to Wesley Medical Center and Harmison to Via Christi in Manhattan. Myer was not injured. The KHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

RILEY COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Friday in Riley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Ford Taurus driven by&nbsp;Haleana J.&nbsp;Simmons, 19, Assaria, was westbound on U.S. 24 one half mile east of Blue River Hills Road.The driver attempted to pass an eastbound 2016 Chevy Equinox driven by Rachel M.&nbsp;Harmison, 23,&nbsp;Leonardville in the eastbound lane.&nbsp; The car struck the SUV in the front drivers side.After impact the SUV overturned and came to rest in the south ditch. The Ford then struck a westbound 1996 Peterbilt semi driven by&nbsp;Meyer, Brady Q.&nbsp;Meyer of Linn, Kansas.EMS transported Simmons to Wesley Medical Center and Harmison to Via Christi in Manhattan. Myer was not injured. The KHP had incomplete seat belt usage information.

2 hospitalized after 3-vehicle Riley County crash

There has been a blank petition filed to recall Jeff Underhill from office as a Junction City Commissioner.

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert said that the blank petition states the grounds for recall and is being provided to the County Attorney, Krista Blaisdell to determine if the grounds are valid and align with legal statute. The grounds alleged on the petition include misconduct while in office, revoking of insurance license due to fraud and deception.&nbsp;The County Attorney has five business days to make that determination.

&nbsp; If the grounds are deemed appropriate, the Recall Committee can then start to circulate the petition to gather signatures. The Recall Committee includes Stephen Capizzi, Samuel Arias and Tom Remily.

The committee needs 390 valid signatures of registered voters who reside within Junction City limits. They have 90 days to return the petition to the Election Office. That Office then has 30 days to validate the signatures.&nbsp;

If the petition is valid, a special election would be held with one question on the ballot. "Do you want to recall Jeff Underhill from the office of Junction City Commissioner" select yes or no.

Underhill was recently elected by his fellow commissioners to serve as the mayor of Junction City for the coming year. He has not yet commented on the recall petition development.

By Dewey TerrillLittle Apple PostThere has been a blank petition filed to recall Jeff Underhill from office as a Junction City Commissioner.Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert said that the blank petition states the grounds for recall and is being provided to the County Attorney, Krista Blaisdell to determine if the grounds are valid and align with legal statute. The grounds alleged on the petition include misconduct while in office, revoking of insurance license due to fraud and deception.&nbsp;The County Attorney has five business days to make that determination.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738342307378.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jeff Underhill ( City of Junction City )&nbsp; If the grounds are deemed appropriate, the Recall Committee can then start to circulate the petition to gather signatures. The Recall Committee includes Stephen Capizzi, Samuel Arias and Tom Remily.The committee needs 390 valid signatures of registered voters who reside within Junction City limits. They have 90 days to return the petition to the Election Office. That Office then has 30 days to validate the signatures.&nbsp;If the petition is valid, a special election would be held with one question on the ballot. "Do you want to recall Jeff Underhill from the office of Junction City Commissioner" select yes or no.Underhill was recently elected by his fellow commissioners to serve as the mayor of Junction City for the coming year. He has not yet commented on the recall petition development.

A recall peititon has been filed in Junction City

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with an investigation at a CBD business in Manhattan.

On Thursday, the Riley County Police Department executed a search warrant at CBD American Shaman, in the 700 block of N. 11th Street in Manhattan, according to a media release. The warrant was issued as part of an ongoing investigation into the distribution of products containing THC levels exceeding the legal limit under the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act.

Just after 10a.m. police arrested Donald Ince, 46, of Manhattan, on requested charges that include of three counts of distribution of marijuana (less than 25 grams) and one count of failure to appear. His total bond was set at $15,060. He is no longer in custody.

Understanding the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act

In recent months, RCPD has encountered numerous cases where individuals were cited for possession of marijuana after purchasing what they believed to be legal CBD products from local businesses, including CBD American Shaman. Many of these individuals expressed confusion, as they believed the products they purchased were legal under Kansas law. To clarify, the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act (K.S.A. 2-3901) defines industrial hemp as any part of the cannabis plant containing a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of no more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis. Any product derived from industrial hemp must also adhere to this 0.3% THC limit. Products exceeding this threshold are classified as marijuana under Kansas law and are considered a controlled substance, making their distribution and possession illegal.

1. THC Limits Matter: Any product containing more than 0.3% THC is considered marijuana under Kansas law, regardless of where it is purchased.

2. Know the Source: Consumers should ensure that the CBD products they purchase are compliant with Kansas law and contain no more than 0.3% THC.

3. Business Responsibility: Businesses selling CBD or hemp products must verify that their products meet the legal THC threshold. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges and harm to consumers who may unknowingly purchase illegal substances. RCPD encourages all businesses to thoroughly review the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act and ensure compliance with state laws.

4. Certain Products Are Explicitly Prohibited: K.S.A. 2-3908 outlines six (6) hemp products that are explicitly prohibited from being manufactured, marketed, sold, or distributed in Kansas. These include cigarettes, cigars, smokeless materials, teas, and liquids or gases for vaporizing devices that contain industrial hemp. Additionally, any hemp product intended for human or animal consumption that contains ingredients prohibited under the Kansas Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or the Commercial Feeding Stuffs Act is unlawful. Businesses must ensure their products comply with these regulations to avoid legal consequences.

Additionally, under the same Kansas law, it is unlawful to market, sell, or distribute certain hemp products—including industrial hemp buds, ground hemp floral or leaf material, and hemp extracts with a delta-9 THC concentration exceeding 0.3%—to anyone not registered as a hemp processor under K.S.A. 2-3907 or licensed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture under a commercial plan (K.S.A. 2-3906) or research program (K.S.A. 2-3902). Transportation of these products between licensed hemp producers and processors is permitted without additional licensing, subject to state fire marshal regulations. Violations are punishable as a class A nonperson misdemeanor for a first offense and a severity level 9 nonperson felony for subsequent offenses. Exceptions allow for research by state educational institutions and the production, use, or sale of hemp products not prohibited by state or federal law. This provision supplements the Kansas Commercial Industrial Hemp Act (K.S.A. 2-3901 et seq.)

We urge consumers to be vigilant when purchasing CBD products and to seek out reputable sources that adhere to legal standards. For more information on the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act, please visit the Kansas Legislature’s website or contact the Riley County Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738339454153.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with an investigation at a CBD business in Manhattan.On Thursday, the Riley County Police Department executed a search warrant at CBD American Shaman, in the 700 block of N. 11th Street in Manhattan, according to a media release. The warrant was issued as part of an ongoing investigation into the distribution of products containing THC levels exceeding the legal limit under the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act.Just after 10a.m. police arrested Donald Ince, 46, of Manhattan, on requested charges that include of three counts of distribution of marijuana (less than 25 grams) and one count of failure to appear. His total bond was set at $15,060. He is no longer in custody.Understanding the Kansas Industrial Hemp ActIn recent months, RCPD has encountered numerous cases where individuals were cited for possession of marijuana after purchasing what they believed to be legal CBD products from local businesses, including CBD American Shaman. Many of these individuals expressed confusion, as they believed the products they purchased were legal under Kansas law. To clarify, the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act (K.S.A. 2-3901) defines industrial hemp as any part of the cannabis plant containing a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of no more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis. Any product derived from industrial hemp must also adhere to this 0.3% THC limit. Products exceeding this threshold are classified as marijuana under Kansas law and are considered a controlled substance, making their distribution and possession illegal.Key Points for Consumers and Businesses:1. THC Limits Matter: Any product containing more than 0.3% THC is considered marijuana under Kansas law, regardless of where it is purchased.2. Know the Source: Consumers should ensure that the CBD products they purchase are compliant with Kansas law and contain no more than 0.3% THC.3. Business Responsibility: Businesses selling CBD or hemp products must verify that their products meet the legal THC threshold. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges and harm to consumers who may unknowingly purchase illegal substances. RCPD encourages all businesses to thoroughly review the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act and ensure compliance with state laws.4. Certain Products Are Explicitly Prohibited: K.S.A. 2-3908 outlines six (6) hemp products that are explicitly prohibited from being manufactured, marketed, sold, or distributed in Kansas. These include cigarettes, cigars, smokeless materials, teas, and liquids or gases for vaporizing devices that contain industrial hemp. Additionally, any hemp product intended for human or animal consumption that contains ingredients prohibited under the Kansas Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or the Commercial Feeding Stuffs Act is unlawful. Businesses must ensure their products comply with these regulations to avoid legal consequences.Additionally, under the same Kansas law, it is unlawful to market, sell, or distribute certain hemp products—including industrial hemp buds, ground hemp floral or leaf material, and hemp extracts with a delta-9 THC concentration exceeding 0.3%—to anyone not registered as a hemp processor under K.S.A. 2-3907 or licensed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture under a commercial plan (K.S.A. 2-3906) or research program (K.S.A. 2-3902). Transportation of these products between licensed hemp producers and processors is permitted without additional licensing, subject to state fire marshal regulations. Violations are punishable as a class A nonperson misdemeanor for a first offense and a severity level 9 nonperson felony for subsequent offenses. Exceptions allow for research by state educational institutions and the production, use, or sale of hemp products not prohibited by state or federal law. This provision supplements the Kansas Commercial Industrial Hemp Act (K.S.A. 2-3901 et seq.)We urge consumers to be vigilant when purchasing CBD products and to seek out reputable sources that adhere to legal standards. For more information on the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act, please visit the Kansas Legislature’s website or contact the Riley County Police Department.

Police make arrest at CBD business in Manhattan

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/">College of Business Administration</a>&nbsp;recently awarded $8,400 in scholarship money to 20 students who competed in the 2024 Phillips 66 Business Ethics Case Competition.The competition was organized by the college's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/management/business-ethics/">Business Ethics Education Initiative</a>&nbsp;and sponsored by Phillips 66.

Students were challenged to examine a real-world ethical dilemma and were responsible for analyzing the situation, applying appropriate ethical and strategic management principles, and developing a viable set of practical recommendations. After faculty members in the management department evaluated the initial written analyses, five teams were selected to compete in the final round, where they presented their analyses and recommendations to a panel of judges.

Most creative presentation: Blake Schimmel, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Lawrence; Sam Wright, senior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Leawood; Josh Pell, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Olathe; and Amber Dixon, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita.

Best ethical analysis: Jordan Irby, senior in investment management,&nbsp;Junction City; Landyn Luttrell, senior in finance,&nbsp;Shawnee; Ryane Bieker, senior in entrepreneurship and innovation,&nbsp;Valley Center; and Mitchael Casement, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita.

Best strategic analysis — recommendations and implementation plan: Kara Stephan, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Lenexa; Shaina Krainbill, master's student in accounting,&nbsp;Topeka; Abby Colburn, senior in finance,&nbsp;Highlands Ranch, Colorado; and Izzy Pinske, master's student in accounting,&nbsp;Maple Plain, Minnesota.Honorable mentions:•

Team One — Cade Miller, senior in accounting,&nbsp;Hutchinson; Reese Althouse, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Leawood; Drew Pracht, senior in finance,&nbsp;Wichita; and Korinn Haertling, senior in operations and supply chain management,&nbsp;Saint Joseph, Missouri.•

Team Two — Chet Thornton, senior in accounting,&nbsp;Leawood; Peter Janssen, senior in finance,&nbsp;Shawnee; Selena Zapote, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita, and Kate Hermelink, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Parkville, Missouri.Learn more about experiential learning opportunities in business on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba-kstate.university-tour.com/welcome/experiential-learning">College of Business Administration website</a>.

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/">College of Business Administration</a>&nbsp;recently awarded $8,400 in scholarship money to 20 students who competed in the 2024 Phillips 66 Business Ethics Case Competition.The competition was organized by the college's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/management/business-ethics/">Business Ethics Education Initiative</a>&nbsp;and sponsored by Phillips 66.Students were challenged to examine a real-world ethical dilemma and were responsible for analyzing the situation, applying appropriate ethical and strategic management principles, and developing a viable set of practical recommendations. After faculty members in the management department evaluated the initial written analyses, five teams were selected to compete in the final round, where they presented their analyses and recommendations to a panel of judges.Most creative presentation: Blake Schimmel, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Lawrence; Sam Wright, senior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Leawood; Josh Pell, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Olathe; and Amber Dixon, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita.Best ethical analysis: Jordan Irby, senior in investment management,&nbsp;Junction City; Landyn Luttrell, senior in finance,&nbsp;Shawnee; Ryane Bieker, senior in entrepreneurship and innovation,&nbsp;Valley Center; and Mitchael Casement, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita.Best strategic analysis — recommendations and implementation plan: Kara Stephan, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Lenexa; Shaina Krainbill, master's student in accounting,&nbsp;Topeka; Abby Colburn, senior in finance,&nbsp;Highlands Ranch, Colorado; and Izzy Pinske, master's student in accounting,&nbsp;Maple Plain, Minnesota.Honorable mentions:• Team One — Cade Miller, senior in accounting,&nbsp;Hutchinson; Reese Althouse, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Leawood; Drew Pracht, senior in finance,&nbsp;Wichita; and Korinn Haertling, senior in operations and supply chain management,&nbsp;Saint Joseph, Missouri.•Team Two — Chet Thornton, senior in accounting,&nbsp;Leawood; Peter Janssen, senior in finance,&nbsp;Shawnee; Selena Zapote, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita, and Kate Hermelink, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Parkville, Missouri.Learn more about experiential learning opportunities in business on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba-kstate.university-tour.com/welcome/experiential-learning">College of Business Administration website</a>.

Phillips 66 Business Ethics Case Competition awards $8,400 

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738336332569.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report January 31

TOPEKA, Kan. - Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers interested in warehouse, transportation and wholesale trade occupations to take part in February’s Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 5.

“Kansas is a central hub for these essential occupations and companies in these industries are actively looking to fill vital roles,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “This month’s job fair is the perfect opportunity for professionals interested in pursuing new opportunities — and there are plenty of options to choose from across Kansas.”

The virtual job fair allows anyone searching for a position to fill out applications, chat live and interview with participating companies.

The virtual job fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2Fbb3a1da9-b5ff-493d-9c68-836269f65fcc%2Fkansasworks-warehouse,-transportation,-and-wholesale-trade-virtual-job-fair-february-5,-2025/1/01010194b3a7e64a-7357b5bb-c762-4068-80e8-88cde435bf56-000000/oQTtjXou9z-CD3Tiuzm6RLCaV8PaSIeQQlTmosKxzVw=390">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581613096219.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>State of Kansas&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. - Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers interested in warehouse, transportation and wholesale trade occupations to take part in February’s Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 5.“Kansas is a central hub for these essential occupations and companies in these industries are actively looking to fill vital roles,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “This month’s job fair is the perfect opportunity for professionals interested in pursuing new opportunities — and there are plenty of options to choose from across Kansas.”The virtual job fair allows anyone searching for a position to fill out applications, chat live and interview with participating companies.The virtual job fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fapp.premiervirtual.com%2Fevents%2Fbb3a1da9-b5ff-493d-9c68-836269f65fcc%2Fkansasworks-warehouse,-transportation,-and-wholesale-trade-virtual-job-fair-february-5,-2025/1/01010194b3a7e64a-7357b5bb-c762-4068-80e8-88cde435bf56-000000/oQTtjXou9z-CD3Tiuzm6RLCaV8PaSIeQQlTmosKxzVw=390">here</a>.

Virtual job fair to highlight warehouse, transportation and wholesale trade careers 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/kavahn-mansouri">KAVAHN MANSOURI</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-28/home-prices-midwest-rents-kansas-city-housing-real-estate">KCUR</a>

As the cost to buy a home continues to rise in the Midwest, real estate experts say the regional rental market offers affordable housing options and biding your time before buying may be the smart move in 2025.

This could be the year of the renter as interest rates, rising housing prices and inflation continue to challenge prospective homeowners.

While homeowner hopefuls may have to wait for a house in their price range, renters in the Midwest live in a region with the lowest rent in the U.S., which may sustain as the market fluctuates. This line? The federal government considers 12 states as "<a href="https://www.bls.gov/regions/midwest/midwest.htm" target="_blank">the Midwest</a>."

Across the board, rental prices have ticked up, but according to Realtor.com, the Midwest still boasts the cheapest median rent at $1,450 a month. The median rent in the South is roughly $1,600 a month, while renters in the West pay roughly $1,950 and renters in the Northeast pay $2,450.

According to Realtor.com’s data, Kansas City had the highest rate of rent growth in Midwestern cities, at 3.1% in December. St. Louis saw a 1.3% increase in rent during the same period.

In December, at the state level, Nebraska saw the highest rate of growth in rent prices in the Midwest, at 10.8%, while Missouri saw rent growth of 6%.

Regardless of rates creeping up, however, the region is still relatively affordable.

“The Midwest is more affordable for renters than the other regions of the country, which probably doesn’t come as a huge surprise,” said Joel Berner, a senior economist with Realtor.com.

He added that the overall rate of rent increases in the region recently stalled and even fell by 1.4% in December.

“We’ve kind of reached a sort of a balance point where those prices have stopped increasing and they’ve stopped increasing at a place that’s lower than the national median,” Berner said.

Daryl Fairweather,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/news/author/darylfairweather/" target="_blank">chief economist at Redfin.com,</a>&nbsp;said the Midwest is the hottest housing market in the country.

“Everywhere else got really expensive during the pandemic, including the South, and now the Midwest is one of the only affordable regions left,” Fairweather said. “People are starting to realize that and buy homes there.”

According to a recent report from Redfin.com,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/blog/kansas-city-mo-neighborhoods/" target="_blank">Kansas City and St. Louis ranked in the top 15 U.S. metros with the highest increase in home prices&nbsp;</a>between December 2023 and December 2024.

Kansas City saw home prices rise by 9% from 2023-2024 while St. Louis saw home prices rise by 8.5% from 2023 to 2024. That’s compared to a 6.3% increase in the median home price nationwide.

That same report noted that, collectively, home values in the Midwest are rising at a rate higher than in any other region in the country.

Berner said renters might currently have the upper hand on prospective buyers due to the housing market in the Midwest. The general affordability of rent makes for a good environment to save for a house, he added.

“In a lot of places right now, renting is easier to do,” Berner said. “If you can find a place like an affordable Midwestern market to live for a couple years, save up some cash and have a larger down payment when you do want to buy a home, that’s going to be really effective in this high mortgage rate environment.”

Record low interest and mortgage rates during the pandemic, combined with affordable housing in the Midwest, created a housing “craze” in the region. Berner said the Midwest is rebounding from that era, which makes for difficult terrain for homebuyers.

“The Midwest is picking up because of how affordable it is, and so that’s kind of a double-edged sword,” he said. “It’s affordable, so people want to buy it — and that drives prices up — and then it’s not affordable again.

According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nar.realtor/" target="_blank">National Association of Realtors</a>, the median age of first-time home buyers increased nationally from 35 to 38 in 2024. Berner said that’s a troubling sign for young first-time homebuyers.

The main factor driving that jump in age, Berner said, is a mixture of high interest rates and difficulty financing their purchases.

“First-time home buyers who don’t have equity built up in a previous home to sell and then transfer into their new purchase are having to finance large portions of their home purchase,” Berner said.

Prospective buyers aren’t out of luck, however. According to Realtor.com data, housing inventory is trending toward pre-pandemic levels.

“That’s going to give buyers more options and more leverage to be able to go and make a purchase,” Berner said.

David Nall, a St. Louis realtor with&nbsp;<a href="https://garciaproperties.com/view-agents/agents/dave-nall" target="_blank">Garcia Properties</a>, said people who hope to buy a home should study the market and know what they’re looking for so they can strike when the right home becomes available.

“If something comes on that fits their criteria and it really excites them, it’s probably going to excite a lot of other buyers as well,” Nall said.

Nall said prospective buyers can take steps to make a competitive offer if they have the financing, including waiving contingencies on the sale, offering a larger deposit or being flexible on a closing date.

Renting while saving for that down payment could be helpful for some house hunters in the meantime.

“There are lots of nuances, in my opinion, to crafting a competitive offer,” he said. “It’s not just the price and it’s not just the closing date.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/midwest-newsroom" target="_blank">Midwest Newsroom</a>&nbsp;is an investigative and enterprise journalism collaboration that includes Iowa Public Radio, KCUR, Nebraska Public Media, St. Louis Public Radio and NPR.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738169785077.png" alt="A sign advertises apartments for rent at the corner of Leado Avenue and 30th Street on Jan. 24, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. Experts told The Midwest Newsroom that it might be wiser to rent than buy in 2025. Photo by&nbsp;Nicole Grundmeier/&nbsp;The Midwest Newsroom" />
 <figcaption>A sign advertises apartments for rent at the corner of Leado Avenue and 30th Street on Jan. 24, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. Experts told The Midwest Newsroom that it might be wiser to rent than buy in 2025. Photo by&nbsp;Nicole Grundmeier/&nbsp;The Midwest Newsroom</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/kavahn-mansouri">KAVAHN MANSOURI</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-28/home-prices-midwest-rents-kansas-city-housing-real-estate">KCUR</a><h2>As the cost to buy a home continues to rise in the Midwest, real estate experts say the regional rental market offers affordable housing options and biding your time before buying may be the smart move in 2025.</h2>This could be the year of the renter as interest rates, rising housing prices and inflation continue to challenge prospective homeowners.While homeowner hopefuls may have to wait for a house in their price range, renters in the Midwest live in a region with the lowest rent in the U.S., which may sustain as the market fluctuates. This line? The federal government considers 12 states as "<a href="https://www.bls.gov/regions/midwest/midwest.htm" target="_blank">the Midwest</a>."Across the board, rental prices have ticked up, but according to Realtor.com, the Midwest still boasts the cheapest median rent at $1,450 a month. The median rent in the South is roughly $1,600 a month, while renters in the West pay roughly $1,950 and renters in the Northeast pay $2,450.According to Realtor.com’s data, Kansas City had the highest rate of rent growth in Midwestern cities, at 3.1% in December. St. Louis saw a 1.3% increase in rent during the same period.In December, at the state level, Nebraska saw the highest rate of growth in rent prices in the Midwest, at 10.8%, while Missouri saw rent growth of 6%.Regardless of rates creeping up, however, the region is still relatively affordable.“The Midwest is more affordable for renters than the other regions of the country, which probably doesn’t come as a huge surprise,” said Joel Berner, a senior economist with Realtor.com.He added that the overall rate of rent increases in the region recently stalled and even fell by 1.4% in December.“We’ve kind of reached a sort of a balance point where those prices have stopped increasing and they’ve stopped increasing at a place that’s lower than the national median,” Berner said.<h2>Saving by renting</h2>Daryl Fairweather,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/news/author/darylfairweather/" target="_blank">chief economist at Redfin.com,</a>&nbsp;said the Midwest is the hottest housing market in the country.“Everywhere else got really expensive during the pandemic, including the South, and now the Midwest is one of the only affordable regions left,” Fairweather said. “People are starting to realize that and buy homes there.”According to a recent report from Redfin.com,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/blog/kansas-city-mo-neighborhoods/" target="_blank">Kansas City and St. Louis ranked in the top 15 U.S. metros with the highest increase in home prices&nbsp;</a>between December 2023 and December 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738170067677.png" alt="A sign advertises a house for sale on Lenox Place in St. Louis on Jan. 27, 2025. Photo by Holly Edgell/The Midwest Newsroom" />
 <figcaption>A sign advertises a house for sale on Lenox Place in St. Louis on Jan. 27, 2025. Photo by Holly Edgell/The Midwest Newsroom</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City saw home prices rise by 9% from 2023-2024 while St. Louis saw home prices rise by 8.5% from 2023 to 2024. That’s compared to a 6.3% increase in the median home price nationwide.That same report noted that, collectively, home values in the Midwest are rising at a rate higher than in any other region in the country.Berner said renters might currently have the upper hand on prospective buyers due to the housing market in the Midwest. The general affordability of rent makes for a good environment to save for a house, he added.“In a lot of places right now, renting is easier to do,” Berner said. “If you can find a place like an affordable Midwestern market to live for a couple years, save up some cash and have a larger down payment when you do want to buy a home, that’s going to be really effective in this high mortgage rate environment.”Record low interest and mortgage rates during the pandemic, combined with affordable housing in the Midwest, created a housing “craze” in the region. Berner said the Midwest is rebounding from that era, which makes for difficult terrain for homebuyers.“The Midwest is picking up because of how affordable it is, and so that’s kind of a double-edged sword,” he said. “It’s affordable, so people want to buy it — and that drives prices up — and then it’s not affordable again.According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nar.realtor/" target="_blank">National Association of Realtors</a>, the median age of first-time home buyers increased nationally from 35 to 38 in 2024. Berner said that’s a troubling sign for young first-time homebuyers.The main factor driving that jump in age, Berner said, is a mixture of high interest rates and difficulty financing their purchases.“First-time home buyers who don’t have equity built up in a previous home to sell and then transfer into their new purchase are having to finance large portions of their home purchase,” Berner said.<h2>Rent now, buy later</h2>Prospective buyers aren’t out of luck, however. According to Realtor.com data, housing inventory is trending toward pre-pandemic levels.“That’s going to give buyers more options and more leverage to be able to go and make a purchase,” Berner said.David Nall, a St. Louis realtor with&nbsp;<a href="https://garciaproperties.com/view-agents/agents/dave-nall" target="_blank">Garcia Properties</a>, said people who hope to buy a home should study the market and know what they’re looking for so they can strike when the right home becomes available.“If something comes on that fits their criteria and it really excites them, it’s probably going to excite a lot of other buyers as well,” Nall said.Nall said prospective buyers can take steps to make a competitive offer if they have the financing, including waiving contingencies on the sale, offering a larger deposit or being flexible on a closing date.Renting while saving for that down payment could be helpful for some house hunters in the meantime.“There are lots of nuances, in my opinion, to crafting a competitive offer,” he said. “It’s not just the price and it’s not just the closing date.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/midwest-newsroom" target="_blank">Midwest Newsroom</a>&nbsp;is an investigative and enterprise journalism collaboration that includes Iowa Public Radio, KCUR, Nebraska Public Media, St. Louis Public Radio and NPR.

Hoping to buy a home in the Midwest? Renting might be better option for now

RILEY COUNTY —A Riley County man was hospitalized and later arrested after a Wednesday afternoon crash.

Just after 5p.m., Rontavius Banks, 28, Ogden, lost control of a vehicle&nbsp;due to unsafe speed for road conditions in the 700 block of Wildcat Creek Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;

EMS transported Banks to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Banks was later arrested for driving while suspended.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY —A Riley County man was hospitalized and later arrested after a Wednesday afternoon crash.Just after 5p.m., Rontavius Banks, 28, Ogden, lost control of a vehicle&nbsp;due to unsafe speed for road conditions in the 700 block of Wildcat Creek Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;EMS transported Banks to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Banks was later arrested for driving while suspended.&nbsp;

Riley County man arrested after crash

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
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Riley County Arrest Report January 30

&nbsp;Riley County police say Clayson Joyce, 22, of Manhattan was arrested on Tuesday at approximately 8:25 PM in the 400 block of N Main Street in Riley, Kansas.

The arrest is connected to a shooting that occurred on December 1, 2024, at approximately 5:47 a.m. in the 1800 block of Claflin Road. During the incident, three people sustained gunshot injuries.

Riley County Police Department’s (RCPD) License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras played a critical role in identifying Joyce’s vehicle, which was linked to the shooting. Officers located and apprehended Joyce without incident during the arrest.

Joyce was arrested on the probable cause offenses of twelve (12) counts of attempted murder in the 1st degree, two (2) counts of criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, criminal damage to property, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in city limits.

Total bond was set at&nbsp;$2,000,000. Joyce is currently confined at the Riley County Jail.

This is an ongoing investigation and police said that they will release additional information when it becomes available. Anyone with information can contact the RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

&nbsp;Riley County police say Clayson Joyce, 22, of Manhattan was arrested on Tuesday at approximately 8:25 PM in the 400 block of N Main Street in Riley, Kansas.The arrest is connected to a shooting that occurred on December 1, 2024, at approximately 5:47 a.m. in the 1800 block of Claflin Road. During the incident, three people sustained gunshot injuries.Riley County Police Department’s (RCPD) License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras played a critical role in identifying Joyce’s vehicle, which was linked to the shooting. Officers located and apprehended Joyce without incident during the arrest.Joyce was arrested on the probable cause offenses of twelve (12) counts of attempted murder in the 1st degree, two (2) counts of criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, criminal damage to property, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in city limits.Total bond was set at&nbsp;$2,000,000. Joyce is currently confined at the Riley County Jail.This is an ongoing investigation and police said that they will release additional information when it becomes available. Anyone with information can contact the RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD reports an arrest in connection with a shooting 

Manhattan, Kan. – January 29, 2025 – INTRUST Bank has welcomed Tony Parker as Market President for Manhattan and Junction City. Parker brings more than 17 years of banking experience, with an extensive background in commercial and agricultural lending.

“I have great confidence in Tony’s leadership and ability to connect with our customers and continue the great work that has been established in Manhattan and Junction City by our team,” said Kurt Fischer, Regional Market President.&nbsp;

A longtime Manhattan resident, Parker is familiar with the unique financial needs of the individuals, families, and businesses across the area and is passionate about creating long-term relationships and connections within the community.

“I’m energized by helping others,” Parker said. “I treasure the relationships that I’m able to build with customers and other associates. My goal is to ensure we’re doing everything we can to support our customers through both easy and challenging times.&nbsp;

Parker is a Kansas State University graduate. He is a member of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, serves as a trustee for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and is on the Council of Education for Manhattan Catholic Schools.&nbsp;

Manhattan, Kan. – January 29, 2025 – INTRUST Bank has welcomed Tony Parker as Market President for Manhattan and Junction City. Parker brings more than 17 years of banking experience, with an extensive background in commercial and agricultural lending.“I have great confidence in Tony’s leadership and ability to connect with our customers and continue the great work that has been established in Manhattan and Junction City by our team,” said Kurt Fischer, Regional Market President.&nbsp;A longtime Manhattan resident, Parker is familiar with the unique financial needs of the individuals, families, and businesses across the area and is passionate about creating long-term relationships and connections within the community.“I’m energized by helping others,” Parker said. “I treasure the relationships that I’m able to build with customers and other associates. My goal is to ensure we’re doing everything we can to support our customers through both easy and challenging times.&nbsp;Parker is a Kansas State University graduate. He is a member of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, serves as a trustee for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and is on the Council of Education for Manhattan Catholic Schools.&nbsp;

Parker Joins INTRUST Bank as Market President

Fresh off citizen vitriol for rising property taxes during their 2024 campaigns, a fortified Republican super-majority Kansas Legislature began loading their prized horses into the starting gate of this year’s Property Tax Derby.

Kansas GOP leaders eye this as the final jewel in the coveted Tax Cut Triple Crown – sales, income, and property. In previous sessions, they successfully bet on both Governor Kelly’s food tax horse (Axe The Tax) and their income tax horse (Trickle Down) sired from the Brownback stud farm.

Elected jockeys have three levers at their disposal to determine the pace of property taxes in the derby. The State totally controls the first lever (assessments) and oversees county appraisals for the second lever (property values) which are really at the mercy of market forces. The most powerful lever (mill levy) is nearly all in the grip of local government.

Property taxes fund 60%-100% of local government budgets, but less than 1% of state government. Property tax revenue is the lifeblood for local services such as schools, police, roads, parks, transit, libraries, etc. with some hemorrhaging. Conversely, they mean virtually nothing to the State budget.

With that in mind, let’s handicap three GOP entrants while Democrats snooze in the barn.

· “Cap The Tax” (SCR 1603) – Senate Taxation Farms first entry is a Constitutional Amendment capping taxable property values at 3% annually thus artificially controlling property value – not the free market. This well-intentioned concept has all sorts of unintended consequences. Said cap is lifted for home sales and improvements causing vastly different taxable values on the same block while discouraging mobility and investment for an even tighter housing market. Local budgets get squeezed by inflation over 3% but still could effectively make themselves whole by pulling their prodigious mill levy lever. Ultimately, voters must approve if it gets that far. Given the House killed a 4% cap last year, this horse may get stuck on the rail again.

· “Building Biscuit” (SB 35) - Senate Taxation Farms’ second entry would repeal the State’s paltry 1.5 mill levy that goes towards deferred maintenance of state buildings. This is the most local government-friendly entry because it does not jeopardize local revenue. Building maintenance would shift to the State’s general fund made up of income and sales tax. Without a dedicated mill levy, universities are rightfully nervous their proverbial can could be kicked down the road. Homeowners would save a whopping $22 annually on a $200K house. This horse has the best legs for a stretch run but little return for wagers.

· “School Levy Sugar” (HB 2011) – The entry from House Taxation Stables has a similar profile to Building Biscuit. Instead of building maintenance, 1.5 mills are wiped from the State’s 20 mills for local schools. Relief for homeowners is just as paltry. Ostensibly, local schools would be made whole through the State’s sales and income taxes. But it puts their can on the line instead of universities. Without Supreme Court oversight for a school funding case, this horse is drifting a little wide at the turn.

If these don’t excite everybody, look for late entries like last year’s prized thoroughbred – exempting residential value from the State’s 20 mill school levy, expanding the homestead exemption, OR the ultimate horse trade – Medicaid expansion.

To paraphrase the State’s highest-paid employee (Bill Self), don’t worry about the mules, keep loading the wagon and don’t crash local services.

Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Fresh off citizen vitriol for rising property taxes during their 2024 campaigns, a fortified Republican super-majority Kansas Legislature began loading their prized horses into the starting gate of this year’s Property Tax Derby.Kansas GOP leaders eye this as the final jewel in the coveted Tax Cut Triple Crown – sales, income, and property. In previous sessions, they successfully bet on both Governor Kelly’s food tax horse (Axe The Tax) and their income tax horse (Trickle Down) sired from the Brownback stud farm.Elected jockeys have three levers at their disposal to determine the pace of property taxes in the derby. The State totally controls the first lever (assessments) and oversees county appraisals for the second lever (property values) which are really at the mercy of market forces. The most powerful lever (mill levy) is nearly all in the grip of local government.Property taxes fund 60%-100% of local government budgets, but less than 1% of state government. Property tax revenue is the lifeblood for local services such as schools, police, roads, parks, transit, libraries, etc. with some hemorrhaging. Conversely, they mean virtually nothing to the State budget.With that in mind, let’s handicap three GOP entrants while Democrats snooze in the barn.· “Cap The Tax” (SCR 1603) – Senate Taxation Farms first entry is a Constitutional Amendment capping taxable property values at 3% annually thus artificially controlling property value – not the free market. This well-intentioned concept has all sorts of unintended consequences. Said cap is lifted for home sales and improvements causing vastly different taxable values on the same block while discouraging mobility and investment for an even tighter housing market. Local budgets get squeezed by inflation over 3% but still could effectively make themselves whole by pulling their prodigious mill levy lever. Ultimately, voters must approve if it gets that far. Given the House killed a 4% cap last year, this horse may get stuck on the rail again.· “Building Biscuit” (SB 35) - Senate Taxation Farms’ second entry would repeal the State’s paltry 1.5 mill levy that goes towards deferred maintenance of state buildings. This is the most local government-friendly entry because it does not jeopardize local revenue. Building maintenance would shift to the State’s general fund made up of income and sales tax. Without a dedicated mill levy, universities are rightfully nervous their proverbial can could be kicked down the road. Homeowners would save a whopping $22 annually on a $200K house. This horse has the best legs for a stretch run but little return for wagers.· “School Levy Sugar” (HB 2011) – The entry from House Taxation Stables has a similar profile to Building Biscuit. Instead of building maintenance, 1.5 mills are wiped from the State’s 20 mills for local schools. Relief for homeowners is just as paltry. Ostensibly, local schools would be made whole through the State’s sales and income taxes. But it puts their can on the line instead of universities. Without Supreme Court oversight for a school funding case, this horse is drifting a little wide at the turn.If these don’t excite everybody, look for late entries like last year’s prized thoroughbred – exempting residential value from the State’s 20 mill school levy, expanding the homestead exemption, OR the ultimate horse trade – Medicaid expansion.To paraphrase the State’s highest-paid employee (Bill Self), don’t worry about the mules, keep loading the wagon and don’t crash local services.---Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Handicapping the Kansas Property Tax Derby

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience.

This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." 

.Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience. This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." .Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

See The Aluminum Show at McCain Auditorium

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>
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Riley County Arrest Report January 29

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;

SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.

“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”

Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;

If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.

Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:

Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.

In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738161277873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:<ul>
 <li>The child attends a Kansas school offering the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>OR<ul>
 <li>The school-aged child (7-17 years old) lives in a household where someone has received Food Assistance (SNAP) or TANF Cash Assistance at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

DCF: 2025 SUN Bucks Application Period Now Open

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:

“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

Moran: VA will not be impacted by federal funding pause

The way veterans sign in online to check on benefits, prescriptions, and appointments is changing this year.  

Communications Chief for the VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare system Brian Stephens says previously veterans were able to sign in through various websites, some less secure than others 

"All the VA is requiring veterans to go in and make accounts through either of the two options, and from there they're guaranteed a more secure connection to their information, either the login.gov option or the id.me option," Stephens tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. 

Stephens says to file, veterans must go online and fill out forms, and take a picture of the front and back of their photo ID.  

However, Stephens says with the photos of the ID is where some veterans run into a problem 

"What we're seeing is a lot of veterans are having problems, if you have a Kansas ID for example, there's a hologram that's designed to deter criminals from taking a picture and stealing your identity," Stephens explains. "Well, that same safety feature causes problems for veterans who are trying to verify their identity through this process." 

Stephens says this change is solely for security, and isn't impacting veterans receiving benefits 

"This is just access to electronic health records or communication methods or to check on their benefits or apply for benefits they would need this sign in, but it does not change their ability to receive those benefits," Stephens says. 

Stephens says if you run into a problem setting up your accounts you can go in person to the VA offices in Leavenworth.  You can also attend in person workshops around the region.  

The next closest workshop is on February 21st in Platte City.   

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738091933362.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE St. Joseph Post The way veterans sign in online to check on benefits, prescriptions, and appointments is changing this year. Communications Chief for the VA Eastern Kansas Healthcare system Brian Stephens says previously veterans were able to sign in through various websites, some less secure than others "All the VA is requiring veterans to go in and make accounts through either of the two options, and from there they're guaranteed a more secure connection to their information, either the login.gov option or the id.me option," Stephens tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. Stephens says to file, veterans must go online and fill out forms, and take a picture of the front and back of their photo ID. However, Stephens says with the photos of the ID is where some veterans run into a problem "What we're seeing is a lot of veterans are having problems, if you have a Kansas ID for example, there's a hologram that's designed to deter criminals from taking a picture and stealing your identity," Stephens explains. "Well, that same safety feature causes problems for veterans who are trying to verify their identity through this process." Stephens says this change is solely for security, and isn't impacting veterans receiving benefits "This is just access to electronic health records or communication methods or to check on their benefits or apply for benefits they would need this sign in, but it does not change their ability to receive those benefits," Stephens says. Stephens says if you run into a problem setting up your accounts you can go in person to the VA offices in Leavenworth. You can also attend in person workshops around the region. The next closest workshop is on February 21st in Platte City. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

VA advises about online changes for benefits

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Riley County Police Department is renewing its appeal for information regarding a potential witness in connection with an aggravated battery that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 31, 2018.

Just after 1p.m. that day, a 15-year-old girl was attacked and beaten in the head with an object resembling a bat or pipe.

During the initial investigation, Officer Deutsch interviewed a man near the intersection of the Linear Trail and Pecan Circle, in the vicinity of what was then a Schwan’s Food Service delivery center. The witness was described as taller, possibly in his late 50s or early 60s, and drove a silver passenger car. This individual reported seeing a white male wearing a white shirt and carrying a pipe. The suspect was also described as having visible tattoos, particularly around the neck area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the witness, the suspect was walking northeast on the Linear Trail toward S. Manhattan Avenue before turning around and walking southwest back toward Pecan Circle. This sighting occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to when Officer Deutsch arrived at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Authorities believe this witness may hold critical information that could aid in solving this case. Anyone with information about the incident, the suspect, or the potential witness is urged to come forward.

If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

MANHATTAN, KAN.&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Riley County Police Department is renewing its appeal for information regarding a potential witness in connection with an aggravated battery that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday, May 31, 2018.Just after 1p.m. that day, a 15-year-old girl was attacked and beaten in the head with an object resembling a bat or pipe.During the initial investigation, Officer Deutsch interviewed a man near the intersection of the Linear Trail and Pecan Circle, in the vicinity of what was then a Schwan’s Food Service delivery center. The witness was described as taller, possibly in his late 50s or early 60s, and drove a silver passenger car. This individual reported seeing a white male wearing a white shirt and carrying a pipe. The suspect was also described as having visible tattoos, particularly around the neck area.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the witness, the suspect was walking northeast on the Linear Trail toward S. Manhattan Avenue before turning around and walking southwest back toward Pecan Circle. This sighting occurred approximately 10 minutes prior to when Officer Deutsch arrived at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities believe this witness may hold critical information that could aid in solving this case. Anyone with information about the incident, the suspect, or the potential witness is urged to come forward.If you have any information, no matter how small it may seem, please contact the Riley County Police Department at 785-537-2112. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777 or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

RCPD: Search continues for witnesses in 2018 attack on 15-year-old

City crews Tuesday begin repairing the concrete steps on the south side of City Hall, leading to the Peace Memorial Auditorium entrance. This work is expected to continue through the remainder of this week.

During these repairs, the stairs will be inaccessible, and barricades have been placed at both the top and bottom for public safety.

However, the south entrance remains open and can be accessed via the ramp on the southeast side of the building (pictured below in comments).

City crews Tuesday begin repairing the concrete steps on the south side of City Hall, leading to the Peace Memorial Auditorium entrance. This work is expected to continue through the remainder of this week.During these repairs, the stairs will be inaccessible, and barricades have been placed at both the top and bottom for public safety.However, the south entrance remains open and can be accessed via the ramp on the southeast side of the building (pictured below in comments).

Repair project begins

MANHATTAN — An upcoming exhibition at Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://beach.k-state.edu/">Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art</a>&nbsp;will feature photography of the Nebraska National Forest by Midwesterner Dana Fritz.

"Field Guide to a Hybrid Landscape: Dana Fritz" will be open from Tuesday, Feb. 4, to Saturday, Aug. 2, in the Ruth Ann Wefald Gallery. Fritz, who was raised in&nbsp;Prairie Village&nbsp;and now resides in&nbsp;Lincoln, Nebraska, is the Hixson-Lied Professor of Art at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She is the museum's 2025 gift print artist, and limited-edition prints of her work will be available for purchase at the museum.

Fritz's photographs in this exhibition draw attention to the forces that shaped the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands' Bessey Ranger District in the Sandhills region. This hand-planted conifer forest was overlaid onto a semi-arid grassland in an ambitious late-19th-century experiment to create a timber industry and change the local climate.

MANHATTAN — An upcoming exhibition at Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://beach.k-state.edu/">Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art</a>&nbsp;will feature photography of the Nebraska National Forest by Midwesterner Dana Fritz. "Field Guide to a Hybrid Landscape: Dana Fritz" will be open from Tuesday, Feb. 4, to Saturday, Aug. 2, in the Ruth Ann Wefald Gallery. Fritz, who was raised in&nbsp;Prairie Village&nbsp;and now resides in&nbsp;Lincoln, Nebraska, is the Hixson-Lied Professor of Art at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. She is the museum's 2025 gift print artist, and limited-edition prints of her work will be available for purchase at the museum.Fritz's photographs in this exhibition draw attention to the forces that shaped the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands' Bessey Ranger District in the Sandhills region. This hand-planted conifer forest was overlaid onto a semi-arid grassland in an ambitious late-19th-century experiment to create a timber industry and change the local climate.

Midwestern photographer featured in upcoming Beach Museum of Art exhibition

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738077188589.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report January 28

<a href="mailto:jbklaudt@ksu.edu">By Jacob Klaudt</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Non-irrigated cropland prices in Kansas rose 3.8% last year, while pasture and hay ground increased by approximately 2.7%, according to information in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/land-leasing/land-buying-valuing/kansas-land-values-book-2024">2024 Kansas Agricultural Land Values and Trends publication</a>&nbsp;released earlier this year.

Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid said these figures point to land prices tapering off after many years of rapid growth, as much as 24% per year in some areas. With some regions of the state seeing decreases compared to 2023, Reid notes that land values may lower even more considering tightening margins and decreasing farm income.

“If we look at the state level, we are up just a little bit,” she said. “You will see in the book there are regions that have come down, but overall, I would say the market is starting to flatten and that land values are stabilizing, not continuing to increase at the rapid, unsustainable pace that they have in recent years.”

The cause of this stabilization: a lower profitability environment in the farm economy. Apart from cattle, producers are seeing lower commodity prices after a period of really high ones.

“Add that to relatively high input costs, and specifically, when you're looking at financing and interest rates, we're just at a point where the difference between income and expenses are super tight, creating difficulty for our farmers,” Reid said.

Regarding non-irrigated crop ground, Reid said there is drastic variation in land value between different areas. In southwest Kansas, for example, prices jumped 11-12%, likely influenced by the dairies and feedyards located in that area. Yet, the north-central region of Kansas experienced a drop.

“That was due to a large increase last year,” Reid said. “The north central region had the largest increase in land value in 2023, and then turn around in 2024 and have dropped off the most. I would say that's more of a balancing.”

On the other hand, eastern Kansas continues to grow in land value both for non-irrigated crop ground and pastureland, which can be attributed to such factors as urbanization, hunting pressure and the quality of ground compared to the rest of the state, Reid said.

“The northeast region had a 16% increase,” she said. “The average per acre value for non-irrigated ground is at $7,479 – the highest average value and most rapidly increasing in the state.”

Looking ahead, economic assistance will affect the land market in 2025, according to Reid. A continuing resolution passed through both sides of the U.S. legislature at the end of 2024 will afford producers $10 billion in direct payments, with additional payments possible in the name of disaster assistance in drought-impacted areas

“Those get based on planted acres that a farmer had in 2024, and farmers can look at anywhere from $30 to $40 an acre that is coming in the name of economic assistance,” Reid said. “Those will influence the land market and the cash rental rates in 2025. If we didn't have those support payments, I think we would see things coming down more than we probably will.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1561988751962.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:jbklaudt@ksu.edu">By Jacob Klaudt</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – Non-irrigated cropland prices in Kansas rose 3.8% last year, while pasture and hay ground increased by approximately 2.7%, according to information in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/land-leasing/land-buying-valuing/kansas-land-values-book-2024">2024 Kansas Agricultural Land Values and Trends publication</a>&nbsp;released earlier this year.Kansas State University farm economist Robin Reid said these figures point to land prices tapering off after many years of rapid growth, as much as 24% per year in some areas. With some regions of the state seeing decreases compared to 2023, Reid notes that land values may lower even more considering tightening margins and decreasing farm income.“If we look at the state level, we are up just a little bit,” she said. “You will see in the book there are regions that have come down, but overall, I would say the market is starting to flatten and that land values are stabilizing, not continuing to increase at the rapid, unsustainable pace that they have in recent years.”The cause of this stabilization: a lower profitability environment in the farm economy. Apart from cattle, producers are seeing lower commodity prices after a period of really high ones.“Add that to relatively high input costs, and specifically, when you're looking at financing and interest rates, we're just at a point where the difference between income and expenses are super tight, creating difficulty for our farmers,” Reid said.Regarding non-irrigated crop ground, Reid said there is drastic variation in land value between different areas. In southwest Kansas, for example, prices jumped 11-12%, likely influenced by the dairies and feedyards located in that area. Yet, the north-central region of Kansas experienced a drop.“That was due to a large increase last year,” Reid said. “The north central region had the largest increase in land value in 2023, and then turn around in 2024 and have dropped off the most. I would say that's more of a balancing.”On the other hand, eastern Kansas continues to grow in land value both for non-irrigated crop ground and pastureland, which can be attributed to such factors as urbanization, hunting pressure and the quality of ground compared to the rest of the state, Reid said.“The northeast region had a 16% increase,” she said. “The average per acre value for non-irrigated ground is at $7,479 – the highest average value and most rapidly increasing in the state.”Looking ahead, economic assistance will affect the land market in 2025, according to Reid. A continuing resolution passed through both sides of the U.S. legislature at the end of 2024 will afford producers $10 billion in direct payments, with additional payments possible in the name of disaster assistance in drought-impacted areas“Those get based on planted acres that a farmer had in 2024, and farmers can look at anywhere from $30 to $40 an acre that is coming in the name of economic assistance,” Reid said. “Those will influence the land market and the cash rental rates in 2025. If we didn't have those support payments, I think we would see things coming down more than we probably will.”

Land market starting to flatten, says K-State economist

The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) will host the second annual&nbsp;Manhattan Seed Swap event in conjunction with several community partners on Sunday, February 16&nbsp;from 1 to 4 p.m. in its atrium and second floor classroom. This come and go event is free and open to the public. Seeds will be available on a first come first serve basis.Seeds of all types are welcome and will be grouped by category. Tables will be setup in the classroom for vegetables, annual flowers, perennials, native plants, herbs, etc. Seeds can be commercially pre-packaged or harvested.Seed Swap Guidelines:

“Last year was our first event and we had a wonderful response with about 300 people showing up,” says event volunteer Kelly Yarbrough. “We’re looking forward to this becoming an annual tradition in Manhattan that grows over time.” Volunteers from Riley County Master Gardeners will&nbsp;be available to answer questions. In addition to seed tables, several organizations will have educational information and kid-friendly activities including Sunset Zoo, The Land Institute, Riley County Master Gardeners, the FHDC, and more.&nbsp; Guests can also register to win a gift basket of gardening related items.

The public is encouraged to harvest seeds at the end of the growing season for next year's annual Manhattan Seed Swap.



The Flint Hills Discovery Center (FHDC) will host the second annual&nbsp;Manhattan Seed Swap event in conjunction with several community partners on Sunday, February 16&nbsp;from 1 to 4 p.m. in its atrium and second floor classroom. This come and go event is free and open to the public. Seeds will be available on a first come first serve basis.Seeds of all types are welcome and will be grouped by category. Tables will be setup in the classroom for vegetables, annual flowers, perennials, native plants, herbs, etc. Seeds can be commercially pre-packaged or harvested.Seed Swap Guidelines:<ul>
 <li>Portion out seeds into "sample sizes" (1 teaspoon - 1 tablespoon depending on seed size) using envelopes or small baggies, if you can.</li><li>Label any non-commercially packaged seeds with the plant name, when to plant, when and where it was harvested (if applicable), and any other information needed for successful growing.</li><li>For bulk seed, label the bag so participants can package and label their individual bags.</li><li>Swappers are encouraged to bring their own containers, but a packaging and labeling station will be available.</li><li>Participants are encouraged to take only what they will use this year and take in proportion to what they contribute.</li><li>Everyone is welcome to attend, learn, and take a few samples, even without their own seeds to share.</li><li>Those who do not have seeds to contribute are encouraged to bring envelopes or small baggies to donate for seed&nbsp;packaging and storage.</li>
 </ul>“Last year was our first event and we had a wonderful response with about 300 people showing up,” says event volunteer Kelly Yarbrough. “We’re looking forward to this becoming an annual tradition in Manhattan that grows over time.” Volunteers from Riley County Master Gardeners will&nbsp;be available to answer questions. In addition to seed tables, several organizations will have educational information and kid-friendly activities including Sunset Zoo, The Land Institute, Riley County Master Gardeners, the FHDC, and more.&nbsp; Guests can also register to win a gift basket of gardening related items.The public is encouraged to harvest seeds at the end of the growing season for next year's annual Manhattan Seed Swap.

Manhattan Seed Swap is scheduled in February

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court has created an ad hoc group to advise the court on creating criminal mediation rules. The 12-member group is created by Supreme Court&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansascourts.org/l/ubH1rWJo7-g4kZkl2rKF5n7at8YX7y7RIxNYGsSEL4A">Administrative Order 2025-CM-011</a>&nbsp;signed by Chief Justice Marla Luckert.“In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in voluntary mediation as a method of resolving criminal cases outside of the traditional court process,” Luckert said. “In criminal cases, mediation could contribute to early case resolution, helping the criminal justice system operate more efficiently.

Statewide rules will help ensure standardized processes across jurisdictions and clarify when criminal mediation should or should not be used. ”What is criminal mediation? Criminal mediation is when an impartial third party meets with prosecutors, defendants, and defense attorneys to help resolve a pending criminal case before trial. The process is confidential and voluntary, and the third party is often a retired judge who has no decision-making authority in the case. Luckert said successful criminal mediation can give the person who has been charged an unbiased appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of their case. It can also make the law understandable, strengthening confidence in the judicial system. “Criminal mediators typically have real world experience with the criminal process, including applying complex sentencing guidelines,” Luckert said. “This knowledge makes them ideally suited to explaining the possible sentences to litigants.”

About the group The Ad Hoc Criminal Mediation Advisory Group will study best practices on criminal mediation and existing local rules in Kansas and in other states. The group will then help the Office of Judicial Administration draft statewide criminal mediation rules. The group is composed of district judges, district attorneys, defense attorneys, retired district judges, and a representative from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. The group will be supported by Amanda Jacobsen, director of dispute resolution with the Office of Judicial Administration. Group members are:

TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court has created an ad hoc group to advise the court on creating criminal mediation rules. The 12-member group is created by Supreme Court&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansascourts.org/l/ubH1rWJo7-g4kZkl2rKF5n7at8YX7y7RIxNYGsSEL4A">Administrative Order 2025-CM-011</a>&nbsp;signed by Chief Justice Marla Luckert.“In recent years, we’ve seen an uptick in voluntary mediation as a method of resolving criminal cases outside of the traditional court process,” Luckert said. “In criminal cases, mediation could contribute to early case resolution, helping the criminal justice system operate more efficiently. Statewide rules will help ensure standardized processes across jurisdictions and clarify when criminal mediation should or should not be used. ”What is criminal mediation? Criminal mediation is when an impartial third party meets with prosecutors, defendants, and defense attorneys to help resolve a pending criminal case before trial. The process is confidential and voluntary, and the third party is often a retired judge who has no decision-making authority in the case. Luckert said successful criminal mediation can give the person who has been charged an unbiased appraisal of the strengths and weaknesses of their case. It can also make the law understandable, strengthening confidence in the judicial system. “Criminal mediators typically have real world experience with the criminal process, including applying complex sentencing guidelines,” Luckert said. “This knowledge makes them ideally suited to explaining the possible sentences to litigants.”About the group The Ad Hoc Criminal Mediation Advisory Group will study best practices on criminal mediation and existing local rules in Kansas and in other states. The group will then help the Office of Judicial Administration draft statewide criminal mediation rules. The group is composed of district judges, district attorneys, defense attorneys, retired district judges, and a representative from the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. The group will be supported by Amanda Jacobsen, director of dispute resolution with the Office of Judicial Administration. Group members are:<ul>
 <li>Chief Judge Taylor Wine, 4th Judicial District</li><li>Chief Judge Jeffrey Goering, 18th Judicial District</li><li>District Judge Kendra Lewison, 21st Judicial District</li><li>Kevin Moriarty, retired district judge, 10th Judicial District</li><li>Mike Powers, retired district judge, 8th Judicial District</li><li>Tiffanie Askew, victim rights coordinator, Kansas Attorney General's Office</li><li>Marc Bennett, district attorney, Sedgwick County</li><li>Hatem Chahine, defense attorney, Douglas County</li><li>Michael Kagay, district attorney, Shawnee County</li><li>Charles Lindberg, defense attorney, Minneapolis</li><li>Michelle Neis, deputy public defender, 3rd Judicial District Public Defender Office</li><li>Kimberly Rodebaugh, senior assistant district attorney, Reno County</li>
 </ul>

Kan. Supreme Court creates ad hoc advisory group on criminal mediation

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two instances of gun violence in Manhattan.

Just after 11:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of criminal discharge of a firearm in the 1300 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Officers reported hearing a noise similar to that of a gunshot and upon investigation located evidence of a round being fired by an unknown subject in the parking garage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of an unlawful discharge of a firearm in the 400 block of S. Manhattan Avenue. 

&nbsp;A victim reported two bullet holes were located in the ceiling of an Air BNB. &nbsp;Anyone with information on these crimes 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 two instances of gun violence in Manhattan.Just after 11:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report of criminal discharge of a firearm in the 1300 block of Laramie Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Officers reported hearing a noise similar to that of a gunshot and upon investigation located evidence of a round being fired by an unknown subject in the parking garage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, officers filed a report of an unlawful discharge of a firearm in the 400 block of S. Manhattan Avenue. &nbsp;A victim reported two bullet holes were located in the ceiling of an Air BNB. &nbsp;Anyone with information on these crimes 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.