RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged identity theft crimes.

Just before 6p.m. Jan. 16, police arrested 47-year-old Kahlil Kilian, 47, of Kansas City, Missouri, according to the Riley County Police De partment activity report.

He is being held on a $10,000 bond on requested charges that include three counts of forgery; making or altering a written instrument, three counts of identity theft, two counts of theft by deception, one count of attempted theft by deception and three counts of forgery; distributing or issuing written instrument. This arrest stems from an original report filed in March of 2023.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged identity theft crimes.Just before 6p.m. Jan. 16, police arrested 47-year-old Kahlil Kilian, 47, of Kansas City, Missouri, according to the Riley County Police De partment activity report.He is being held on a $10,000 bond on requested charges that include three counts of forgery; making or altering a written instrument, three counts of identity theft, two counts of theft by deception, one count of attempted theft by deception and three counts of forgery; distributing or issuing written instrument. This arrest stems from an original report filed in March of 2023.&nbsp;

RCPD: Missouri man jailed for ID theft crimes

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

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;No arrests reported January 19<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768921377322.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report January 19, 20

For the first time youth led the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Junction City. Keynote speaker Brewel Currie said that the dream that King spoke about was never meant to live in the past. "Youth are taking steps toward justice, unity and hope."

Currie noted that today must belong to our youth and speak up against injustice. "The dream is not history. It is destiny."

A large crowd attended the ceremony at the C.L. Hoover Hoover Opera House, which included music, remarks focusing on the need to vote and black entrepreneurship.

--Youth in Action Award to the Junction City High School's JROTC Blue Jay Battalion, 

--The Jackie l. Johnson Spirit Award to Freddie B. Hurt

--Coretta Scott King Courage Awards to Melanie Hoyle Laster and Alice Curry-Johnson.

This was the 41st year for a Martin Luther King Jr. ceremony in Junction City.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768869799728.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>For the first time youth led the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Junction City. Keynote speaker Brewel Currie said that the dream that King spoke about was never meant to live in the past. "Youth are taking steps toward justice, unity and hope."Currie noted that today must belong to our youth and speak up against injustice. "The dream is not history. It is destiny."A large crowd attended the ceremony at the C.L. Hoover Hoover Opera House, which included music, remarks focusing on the need to vote and black entrepreneurship.Prestigous awards were presented.--Youth in Action Award to the Junction City High School's JROTC Blue Jay Battalion, --The Jackie l. Johnson Spirit Award to Freddie B. Hurt--Coretta Scott King Courage Awards to Melanie Hoyle Laster and Alice Curry-Johnson.This was the 41st year for a Martin Luther King Jr. ceremony in Junction City.&nbsp;

Youth anchored the Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Junction City

By SUZANNE KING <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2026/01/08/why-30-rural-hospitals-in-kansas-and-12-in-missouri-are-at-risk/">The Beacon</a>

Kansas has more hospitals in immediate danger of closing than any other state, according to a recent analysis of the financial health of the country’s most remote hospitals.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://chqpr.org/">Center for Healthcare Quality &amp; Payment Reform</a>, a national policy organization, found that 68 rural Kansas hospitals are at risk of closing, including 30 at immediate risk. Its&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/downloads/Rural_Hospitals_at_Risk_of_Closing.pdf">analysis</a>&nbsp;also put Missouri among the 10 worst states for rural closings, with 29 rural hospitals at risk of closing, including a dozen at immediate risk.

Nationwide, the analysis found that 756 hospitals — one-third of all rural hospitals — could be in jeopardy, including 323 that are at&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/Solutions.html#the-need-for-rapid-action-to-prevent-closures-and-sustain-rural-healthcare">immediate risk</a>&nbsp;of closure. Hospitals that are losing money on patient services and don’t have enough reserves to offset those losses for more than six or seven years are considered to be at immediate risk.

Harold D. Miller, the Center for Healthcare Quality’s president and CEO, said the problem boils down to simple economics. Rural hospitals spend more than they bring in.

Because they are located in remote parts of the country, rural hospitals have fewer patients. But operating costs — like necessary staff and equipment — are the same as for hospitals in more populated areas.

At the same time, the cost of health care continues to climb, workforce shortages&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/12/24/traveling-nurses-kansas-hospitals/">make it more expensive to fill jobs</a>&nbsp;at rural facilities and much of the financial support that helped them through the COVID pandemic has gone away.

“Costs have gone up and payers haven’t kept up,” Miller said. “The hospital isn’t being paid based on actual cost. More likely it gets underpaid.”

A pessimistic assessment of the financial health of rural hospitals is not new. For years, experts have warned about pending closures. And across the country almost 200 rural hospitals have shut down since 2005, including 19 across&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/08/08/rural-hospitals-missouri-medicaid-cuts-at-risk-2025-closures/">Missouri</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwch.com/2026/01/07/derbys-rock-regional-hospital-eviction-process-cleared-proceed-judge-decides/">Kansas</a>.

The rural hospitals that have closed their doors since 2012,&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/Problems.html#the-magnitude-of-financial-losses-at-rural-hospitals">the Center for Healthcare Quality found</a>, had a median operating loss of 9%. Rural hospitals that stayed open had a median 5% profit margin.

Cindy Samuelson, spokeswoman for the Kansas Hospital Association, cautioned that the report’s dire predictions of 30 Kansas hospitals being on the brink of closing may be overblown. Many rural Kansas communities provide taxpayer support in the form of a city or county levy. Although that funding is not guaranteed, she said it is a good bet that it will continue.

“I really think you’re not going to see 30” hospitals close, Samuelson said. “Those people who live in those 30 areas are going to say, ‘We’ll pay the tax. Health care is important to us.’”&nbsp;

Kansas still has 100 rural hospitals — second only to Texas — while Missouri has 58. But many operate at a loss. And the challenges only seem to be growing.

Recent changes at the federal level are expected to dramatically increase the number of people without insurance&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/12/19/aca-expiring-tax-credits-health-insurance/">beginning this year</a>. That will likely add to the number of patients hospitals have to treat for free, and it is expected to ultimately lead to more expensive care since people who skip doctors’ appointments or medicine often end up sicker.

Hospitals also are watching what will happen at the state and federal levels to the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which helps many hospitals subsidize the cost of care across their operations. Some lawmakers would like to change the way the program works, which could leave hospitals with another big funding gap.

“It could impact essential services the hospitals provide,” Samuelson said.

While loss of the drug program or reduced government insurance coverage under Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act marketplace will likely mean problems for hospitals, Miller said many rural hospitals will face grim prospects even if none of those changes occurs. Already, he said, they are dealing with the reality that insurance plans aren’t paying them enough to cover their expenses.

Many people assume Medicare and Medicaid are the primary culprits for funding shortfalls, Miller said, but private insurance is actually a bigger factor for many small rural providers.

Private insurance is often the&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/Data4A.html">largest contributor</a>&nbsp;to rural hospital revenue — especially since private Medicare Advantage plans have become increasingly popular. But often hospitals are getting the smallest reimbursements from that sector.

Traditional Medicare plans are required to cover most of the cost of care for the patients they cover, but the same is not true of Medicare Advantage plans, which are sold through private insurance companies and work like any other private plan.

Rural hospitals may fall outside a Medicare Advantage plan’s network, or the plan will quibble about paying for certain procedures or services. That can leave patients without nearby care options and hospitals without funds to cover costs.

All of it contributes to rural hospitals’ funding gaps, Miller said.

“If those private insurers are paying half as much as it costs to deliver services in the hospital,” he said, “that hospital is not going to stay open.”

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kha-net.org/CriticalIssues/FinancialStability/FinanceResources/d175040.aspx?type=view">2024 study</a>&nbsp;from the Kansas Hospital Association found that private insurers, or commercial payers, in the state paid less than payers in neighboring states. That left Kansas hospitals with fewer private dollars to help cover the costs of care for uninsured or underinsured patients.&nbsp;

And because private plans were covering less, patients were left carrying more bad debt, the study found, because they couldn’t afford out-of-pocket costs. Or they were avoiding care when they needed it, which ultimately drives up cost.

The closure of any rural hospital puts people’s health at risk. Not only are patients left with long drives to hospitals in an emergency, they also lose affiliated physician practices, laboratories and imaging services, which often puts preventive care in jeopardy.

“The bottom line for patients if they lose their hospital is that there’s always going to be a larger barrier for them to go seek care,” said Tom Mueller, director of the Kansas Center for Rural Health at the University of Kansas Medical Center. “It’s important to point out that rural folks are happy to drive for the most part. … But, regardless, if you’re talking about a 20-minute drive versus a two-hour drive, you might not go get that thing checked out.”

As a result, chances at early detection are missed. Screenings are postponed or avoided. And people’s health suffers.

Hope for rural transformation funds

Kansas hospitals are waiting for details about the funds the state has been awarded through the new $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Fund, which is being dolled out to states across the country for the next five years.

Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/12/29/medicaid-missouri-rural-health-transformation-hr-1/">will receive</a>&nbsp;$216 million during the 2026 fiscal year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced, while Kansas will receive $222 million.&nbsp;

Samuelson said the details of exactly what was funded from the Kansas proposal will be announced in coming days. But she expects the programs funded will help hospitals. It won’t mean an immediate influx of money, but it will mean a chance for the state to invest in shoring up rural hospitals.&nbsp;

And the industry hopes the funds will bring structural changes, like addressing root causes of disease, which would make care less expensive. And investing in the rural health workforce.

“It’s going to be changes that will be impactful and hopefully long-lived with regards to transformative care in rural areas,” Samuelson said.

Lucretia Stargell, CEO of Goodland Regional Medical Center and Rawlins County Health Center in northwest Kansas, said she hopes the new transformation fund drives rural hospitals to be more collaborative.&nbsp;

In May, her hospital brought oncology care back to Goodland one day a week by sharing the cost with other rural hospitals. Now cancer patients can see a doctor close to home rather than driving to Hays or other faraway cities.

It’s an example of how rural hospitals can bring care to the patients, Stargell said, but also help patients navigate finding specialist care in other places when necessary.&nbsp;

“Our big audacious goal is to be a medical home for the region, she said. “We want to help coordinate your care. We want to get you to Hays or Salina or Kansas City, but we want you back. It’s a complex world to navigate, and that’s our duty as a hospital to be part of that.”

Hospitals haven’t gotten to the point of being on the brink of closure overnight, and getting back to health won’t be simple either, Stargell said. But taking deliberate steps to create long-term change seems like the best approach, she said.

“If there were a quick fix,” she said, “hospitals wouldn’t be closing.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768575830427.png" alt="A new study of rural hospitals finds that 30 hospitals in Kansas and 12 in Missouri are at risk of immediate closure. (Naomi O'Donnell/The Beacon)" />
 <figcaption>A new study of rural hospitals finds that 30 hospitals in Kansas and 12 in Missouri are at risk of immediate closure. (Naomi O'Donnell/The Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SUZANNE KING <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2026/01/08/why-30-rural-hospitals-in-kansas-and-12-in-missouri-are-at-risk/">The Beacon</a>Kansas has more hospitals in immediate danger of closing than any other state, according to a recent analysis of the financial health of the country’s most remote hospitals.The&nbsp;<a href="https://chqpr.org/">Center for Healthcare Quality &amp; Payment Reform</a>, a national policy organization, found that 68 rural Kansas hospitals are at risk of closing, including 30 at immediate risk. Its&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/downloads/Rural_Hospitals_at_Risk_of_Closing.pdf">analysis</a>&nbsp;also put Missouri among the 10 worst states for rural closings, with 29 rural hospitals at risk of closing, including a dozen at immediate risk.Nationwide, the analysis found that 756 hospitals — one-third of all rural hospitals — could be in jeopardy, including 323 that are at&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/Solutions.html#the-need-for-rapid-action-to-prevent-closures-and-sustain-rural-healthcare">immediate risk</a>&nbsp;of closure. Hospitals that are losing money on patient services and don’t have enough reserves to offset those losses for more than six or seven years are considered to be at immediate risk.Harold D. Miller, the Center for Healthcare Quality’s president and CEO, said the problem boils down to simple economics. Rural hospitals spend more than they bring in.Because they are located in remote parts of the country, rural hospitals have fewer patients. But operating costs — like necessary staff and equipment — are the same as for hospitals in more populated areas.At the same time, the cost of health care continues to climb, workforce shortages&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/12/24/traveling-nurses-kansas-hospitals/">make it more expensive to fill jobs</a>&nbsp;at rural facilities and much of the financial support that helped them through the COVID pandemic has gone away.“Costs have gone up and payers haven’t kept up,” Miller said. “The hospital isn’t being paid based on actual cost. More likely it gets underpaid.”Challenges keep growingA pessimistic assessment of the financial health of rural hospitals is not new. For years, experts have warned about pending closures. And across the country almost 200 rural hospitals have shut down since 2005, including 19 across&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/08/08/rural-hospitals-missouri-medicaid-cuts-at-risk-2025-closures/">Missouri</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwch.com/2026/01/07/derbys-rock-regional-hospital-eviction-process-cleared-proceed-judge-decides/">Kansas</a>.The rural hospitals that have closed their doors since 2012,&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/Problems.html#the-magnitude-of-financial-losses-at-rural-hospitals">the Center for Healthcare Quality found</a>, had a median operating loss of 9%. Rural hospitals that stayed open had a median 5% profit margin.Cindy Samuelson, spokeswoman for the Kansas Hospital Association, cautioned that the report’s dire predictions of 30 Kansas hospitals being on the brink of closing may be overblown. Many rural Kansas communities provide taxpayer support in the form of a city or county levy. Although that funding is not guaranteed, she said it is a good bet that it will continue.“I really think you’re not going to see 30” hospitals close, Samuelson said. “Those people who live in those 30 areas are going to say, ‘We’ll pay the tax. Health care is important to us.’”&nbsp;Kansas still has 100 rural hospitals — second only to Texas — while Missouri has 58. But many operate at a loss. And the challenges only seem to be growing.Recent changes at the federal level are expected to dramatically increase the number of people without insurance&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/12/19/aca-expiring-tax-credits-health-insurance/">beginning this year</a>. That will likely add to the number of patients hospitals have to treat for free, and it is expected to ultimately lead to more expensive care since people who skip doctors’ appointments or medicine often end up sicker.Hospitals also are watching what will happen at the state and federal levels to the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which helps many hospitals subsidize the cost of care across their operations. Some lawmakers would like to change the way the program works, which could leave hospitals with another big funding gap.“It could impact essential services the hospitals provide,” Samuelson said.Lagging reimbursement ratesWhile loss of the drug program or reduced government insurance coverage under Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act marketplace will likely mean problems for hospitals, Miller said many rural hospitals will face grim prospects even if none of those changes occurs. Already, he said, they are dealing with the reality that insurance plans aren’t paying them enough to cover their expenses.Many people assume Medicare and Medicaid are the primary culprits for funding shortfalls, Miller said, but private insurance is actually a bigger factor for many small rural providers.Private insurance is often the&nbsp;<a href="https://ruralhospitals.chqpr.org/Data4A.html">largest contributor</a>&nbsp;to rural hospital revenue — especially since private Medicare Advantage plans have become increasingly popular. But often hospitals are getting the smallest reimbursements from that sector.Traditional Medicare plans are required to cover most of the cost of care for the patients they cover, but the same is not true of Medicare Advantage plans, which are sold through private insurance companies and work like any other private plan.Rural hospitals may fall outside a Medicare Advantage plan’s network, or the plan will quibble about paying for certain procedures or services. That can leave patients without nearby care options and hospitals without funds to cover costs.All of it contributes to rural hospitals’ funding gaps, Miller said.“If those private insurers are paying half as much as it costs to deliver services in the hospital,” he said, “that hospital is not going to stay open.”A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kha-net.org/CriticalIssues/FinancialStability/FinanceResources/d175040.aspx?type=view">2024 study</a>&nbsp;from the Kansas Hospital Association found that private insurers, or commercial payers, in the state paid less than payers in neighboring states. That left Kansas hospitals with fewer private dollars to help cover the costs of care for uninsured or underinsured patients.&nbsp;And because private plans were covering less, patients were left carrying more bad debt, the study found, because they couldn’t afford out-of-pocket costs. Or they were avoiding care when they needed it, which ultimately drives up cost.The closure of any rural hospital puts people’s health at risk. Not only are patients left with long drives to hospitals in an emergency, they also lose affiliated physician practices, laboratories and imaging services, which often puts preventive care in jeopardy.“The bottom line for patients if they lose their hospital is that there’s always going to be a larger barrier for them to go seek care,” said Tom Mueller, director of the Kansas Center for Rural Health at the University of Kansas Medical Center. “It’s important to point out that rural folks are happy to drive for the most part. … But, regardless, if you’re talking about a 20-minute drive versus a two-hour drive, you might not go get that thing checked out.”As a result, chances at early detection are missed. Screenings are postponed or avoided. And people’s health suffers.Hope for rural transformation fundsKansas hospitals are waiting for details about the funds the state has been awarded through the new $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Fund, which is being dolled out to states across the country for the next five years.Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/12/29/medicaid-missouri-rural-health-transformation-hr-1/">will receive</a>&nbsp;$216 million during the 2026 fiscal year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced, while Kansas will receive $222 million.&nbsp;Samuelson said the details of exactly what was funded from the Kansas proposal will be announced in coming days. But she expects the programs funded will help hospitals. It won’t mean an immediate influx of money, but it will mean a chance for the state to invest in shoring up rural hospitals.&nbsp;And the industry hopes the funds will bring structural changes, like addressing root causes of disease, which would make care less expensive. And investing in the rural health workforce.“It’s going to be changes that will be impactful and hopefully long-lived with regards to transformative care in rural areas,” Samuelson said.Lucretia Stargell, CEO of Goodland Regional Medical Center and Rawlins County Health Center in northwest Kansas, said she hopes the new transformation fund drives rural hospitals to be more collaborative.&nbsp;In May, her hospital brought oncology care back to Goodland one day a week by sharing the cost with other rural hospitals. Now cancer patients can see a doctor close to home rather than driving to Hays or other faraway cities.It’s an example of how rural hospitals can bring care to the patients, Stargell said, but also help patients navigate finding specialist care in other places when necessary.&nbsp;“Our big audacious goal is to be a medical home for the region, she said. “We want to help coordinate your care. We want to get you to Hays or Salina or Kansas City, but we want you back. It’s a complex world to navigate, and that’s our duty as a hospital to be part of that.”Hospitals haven’t gotten to the point of being on the brink of closure overnight, and getting back to health won’t be simple either, Stargell said. But taking deliberate steps to create long-term change seems like the best approach, she said.“If there were a quick fix,” she said, “hospitals wouldn’t be closing.”

Why 30 hospitals in Kansas and 12 in Missouri are at risk of closure

On Saturday at approximately 4:15 p.m., officers with the Junction City Police Department were dispatched to the 300 block of West 4th Street in Junction City for a subject reported to be suffering from possible gunshot wounds.

Upon arrival, officers located John Day, a 66-year-old white man and Junction City resident, suffering from what was believed to be a gunshot wound. Day was transported to Stormont Vail Flint Hills Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

This incident remains an active investigation. The Junction City Police Department has identified and interviewed all individuals present during the incident. At this time, no arrests have been made.

There is no ongoing threat to the community related to this incident.

Upon completion of the investigation, the case will be presented to the Geary County Attorney's Office for review to determine whether any charges are appropriate.

Anyone with additional information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912 or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 762-8477.

Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no further information will be released at this time.&nbsp;

JCPDOn Saturday at approximately 4:15 p.m., officers with the Junction City Police Department were dispatched to the 300 block of West 4th Street in Junction City for a subject reported to be suffering from possible gunshot wounds.Upon arrival, officers located John Day, a 66-year-old white man and Junction City resident, suffering from what was believed to be a gunshot wound. Day was transported to Stormont Vail Flint Hills Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.This incident remains an active investigation. The Junction City Police Department has identified and interviewed all individuals present during the incident. At this time, no arrests have been made.There is no ongoing threat to the community related to this incident.Upon completion of the investigation, the case will be presented to the Geary County Attorney's Office for review to determine whether any charges are appropriate.Anyone with additional information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912 or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (785) 762-8477.Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no further information will be released at this time.&nbsp;

Police conduct a homicide investigation in Junction City

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768748564429.png" alt="" />
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 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768748674165.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report January 17, 18

A reminder that all USD 383 schools and offices are closed on Monday, January 19.&nbsp;

A reminder that all USD 383 schools and offices are closed on Monday, January 19.&nbsp;

USD 383 schools and offices will be closed Monday

K-State Research and Extension will host a series of regional Local Food Producer Workshops in February and March, offering farmers and small food businesses practical guidance on expanding their reach in local markets.

The annual workshops are held in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture &amp; Alternative Crops. They are designed to help producers learn more about selling through farmers markets, direct-to-consumer channels, and other local food market opportunities, while also providing a forum to connect with peers and share best practices.

According to organizers, the workshops focus on improving business success for local food producers by combining educational sessions with networking opportunities. Each workshop location will offer free scale certification and lunch. Select locations will also include training for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program; participants are encouraged to review the agenda for their chosen location to confirm available topics.

The workshops are organized through K-State Research and Extension, the statewide outreach arm of Kansas State University.

Additional details, including dates, locations, and agendas, are available online through K-State Research and Extension’s workshop page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768624904295.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension will host a series of regional Local Food Producer Workshops in February and March, offering farmers and small food businesses practical guidance on expanding their reach in local markets.The annual workshops are held in collaboration with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture &amp; Alternative Crops. They are designed to help producers learn more about selling through farmers markets, direct-to-consumer channels, and other local food market opportunities, while also providing a forum to connect with peers and share best practices.According to organizers, the workshops focus on improving business success for local food producers by combining educational sessions with networking opportunities. Each workshop location will offer free scale certification and lunch. Select locations will also include training for the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program; participants are encouraged to review the agenda for their chosen location to confirm available topics.The workshops are organized through K-State Research and Extension, the statewide outreach arm of Kansas State University.Additional details, including dates, locations, and agendas, are available online through K-State Research and Extension’s workshop page.

K-State Research and Extension to host local food producer workshops across Kansas

Manhattan City Hall and most other City offices will be closed Monday, January 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The City said that they will reopen for business at 8 a.m. Tuesday, January 20.

City Hall and other City offices will also be closed for the morning of Wednesday, January 21 for employee training. They will reopen at 1:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Manhattan City Hall and most other City offices will be closed Monday, January 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The City said that they will reopen for business at 8 a.m. Tuesday, January 20.City Hall and other City offices will also be closed for the morning of Wednesday, January 21 for employee training. They will reopen at 1:30 p.m.&nbsp;

City plans for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

RILEY COUNTY— An elementary school was briefly evacuated on Friday due a fire.

Just before noon Friday, crews responded to a small fire at Marlatt Elementary School,&nbsp;2715 Hobbs Drive in Manhattan, according to a social media report from the Manhattan Fire Department.. Before 1p.m. the fire was extinguished and students&nbsp; allowed back into the building. No injuries were reported.&nbsp; The fire department has not released details on what cause the fire ore additional information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768597195335.png" alt="Photo Manhattan Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Manhattan Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY— An elementary school was briefly evacuated on Friday due a fire.Just before noon Friday, crews responded to a small fire at Marlatt Elementary School,&nbsp;2715 Hobbs Drive in Manhattan, according to a social media report from the Manhattan Fire Department.. Before 1p.m. the fire was extinguished and students&nbsp; allowed back into the building. No injuries were reported.&nbsp; The fire department has not released details on what cause the fire ore additional information.

Manhattan elementary school evacuated due to fire

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Leslie Grant with Wichita State University's Community Education program to discuss their free lifelong learning program.

For more details go to the web site Wichita.edu/lifelonglearning&nbsp; &nbsp;Or call the office 316-978-3731

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YJ_Q6DXnnVo?si=xMZq0tYdFIG07hqC" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman talks to Leslie Grant with Wichita State University's Community Education program to discuss their free lifelong learning program.For more details go to the web site Wichita.edu/lifelonglearning&nbsp; &nbsp;Or call the office 316-978-3731

🎙 Forward Ever: Leslie Grant with WSU's Community Education Program

TOPEKA, Kan. – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this year’s first Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, January 22.

“The new year is all about new doors opening and new opportunities on the horizon,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “And what better way to kickstart your new year than exploring the wide array of fulfilling career opportunities available in Kansas.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide 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 they might be asked to engage in an 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%2F4fa13887-56f5-4f70-8a8e-15ad40a883d7%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-january-22,-2026/1/0101019b9e563bde-3582bec5-c4b5-4a92-b26a-425ebfb89d80-000000/AcS4yBb1tab0tbPVNUe0q3N2geF3QYIdyaodDh0okxU=439">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581613096219.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCETOPEKA, Kan. – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this year’s first Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, January 22.“The new year is all about new doors opening and new opportunities on the horizon,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “And what better way to kickstart your new year than exploring the wide array of fulfilling career opportunities available in Kansas.”The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.This month’s Virtual Statewide 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 they might be asked to engage in an 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%2F4fa13887-56f5-4f70-8a8e-15ad40a883d7%2Fkansasworks-virtual-statewide-job-fair-january-22,-2026/1/0101019b9e563bde-3582bec5-c4b5-4a92-b26a-425ebfb89d80-000000/AcS4yBb1tab0tbPVNUe0q3N2geF3QYIdyaodDh0okxU=439">here</a>.

State to hold first virtual job fair of the year

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just before 6p.m. Thursday, police arrested 21-year-old Jessica Urbina of Manhattan, in the 300 block of Twelfth Street in Ogden on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation. 

This arrest stems from original charges of possession of fentanyl, hydrocodone/drug paraphernalia. Urbina was issued a total bond of $15,000 and remains confined in the Riley County Jail at the time of this report.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just before 6p.m. Thursday, police arrested 21-year-old Jessica Urbina of Manhattan, in the 300 block of Twelfth Street in Ogden on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation. This arrest stems from original charges of possession of fentanyl, hydrocodone/drug paraphernalia. Urbina was issued a total bond of $15,000 and remains confined in the Riley County Jail at the time of this report.

Manhattan woman accused of fentanyl possession

LOGAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Friday in Logan County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Chevy Impala driven by Jaylen Z.&nbsp;Cruse, 23, Manhattan, was westbound on U.S. 40 just west of 330th Road. The car crossed the centerline and struck a 2024 Freightliner semi head-on.&nbsp; After impact the car came to rest in the south ditch after&nbsp;being pushed 75 feet by the semi.&nbsp; The semi came to rest in the north ditch.

EMS transported Cruse to Citizens Medical Center in Colby. The semi driver Mouanoutoua&nbsp;Van Pein, 34, Thornton, Colorado, was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

LOGAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Friday in Logan County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Chevy Impala driven by Jaylen Z.&nbsp;Cruse, 23, Manhattan, was westbound on U.S. 40 just west of 330th Road. The car crossed the centerline and struck a 2024 Freightliner semi head-on.&nbsp; After impact the car came to rest in the south ditch after&nbsp;being pushed 75 feet by the semi.&nbsp; The semi came to rest in the north ditch.EMS transported Cruse to Citizens Medical Center in Colby. The semi driver Mouanoutoua&nbsp;Van Pein, 34, Thornton, Colorado, was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Manhattan man hospitalized after head-on crash with a semi

For years the Junction City Brigade dominated the Mid Plains League with multiple championships. But in 2025 they moved to the much stronger Jayhawk League and still finished in second place. Brigade General Manager Cecil Aska said, "We were able to compete."

With six returning players the 2026 season looks promising. The new head coach is Nicholas ( Nick )&nbsp; George, who served as an assistant in 2025. He'll be joined by another returning assistant, Tyler Ross.The Brigade will field a team based on speed, which worked well last season.

A 36 game regular season schedule, which will include 20 home games, has been unveiled. The season will begin May 29 in Augusta, Kansas against the Kansas Cannons.The home opener will be against the Cannons on May 30.

This will be the 13th season for the Brigade.

During the annual Brigade banquet Thursday night a number of different topics were touched on.

--Rathert Field is 89 years old this year. For the 90th birthday in 2027 Aska wants to celebrate the history of the field.

--Jim Clark Chevrolet has been a sponsor of the Brigade for all 13 seasons.

--Raquel Cinco serves as the Host Family Coordinator for players.

--The team spends more than $3,100 per year on baseballs.

--Head Coach Nicholas George is a native of Canada and also coaches at Fort Hays State University.

--A&nbsp; total of 5,414 fans attended games at Rathert Field in 2025, an average of 250 per game.

--Four percent of Brigade fans travel from more than 40 miles away.

--One goal in 2026 is to get more businesses and oranizations to have their special nights at the ballpark. If you atend a game expect to find more variety of food available. Beer is a staple at Rathert Field.

-Cecil Aska wants to provide a family friendly carnival type atmosphere at the ballpark.

By Dewey Terrill Littla Apple PostFor years the Junction City Brigade dominated the Mid Plains League with multiple championships. But in 2025 they moved to the much stronger Jayhawk League and still finished in second place. Brigade General Manager Cecil Aska said, "We were able to compete."With six returning players the 2026 season looks promising. The new head coach is Nicholas ( Nick )&nbsp; George, who served as an assistant in 2025. He'll be joined by another returning assistant, Tyler Ross.The Brigade will field a team based on speed, which worked well last season.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768533959941.jpeg" alt="Nicholas George" />
 <figcaption>Nicholas George</figcaption>
 </figure>A 36 game regular season schedule, which will include 20 home games, has been unveiled. The season will begin May 29 in Augusta, Kansas against the Kansas Cannons.The home opener will be against the Cannons on May 30.This will be the 13th season for the Brigade.During the annual Brigade banquet Thursday night a number of different topics were touched on.--Rathert Field is 89 years old this year. For the 90th birthday in 2027 Aska wants to celebrate the history of the field.--Jim Clark Chevrolet has been a sponsor of the Brigade for all 13 seasons.--Raquel Cinco serves as the Host Family Coordinator for players.--The team spends more than $3,100 per year on baseballs.--Head Coach Nicholas George is a native of Canada and also coaches at Fort Hays State University.--A&nbsp; total of 5,414 fans attended games at Rathert Field in 2025, an average of 250 per game.--Four percent of Brigade fans travel from more than 40 miles away.--One goal in 2026 is to get more businesses and oranizations to have their special nights at the ballpark. If you atend a game expect to find more variety of food available. Beer is a staple at Rathert Field.-Cecil Aska wants to provide a family friendly carnival type atmosphere at the ballpark.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768571394179.jpeg" alt="Cecil Aska ( Left ) speaking at the Brigade Bamquet" />
 <figcaption>Cecil Aska ( Left ) speaking at the Brigade Bamquet</figcaption>
 </figure>

Brigade baseball continues to roll

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;<figure>
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Riley County Arrest Report January 16

MANHATTAN —&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1699275/full">Newly published research</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University has observed a notable difference in influenza vaccine responses between male and female mice with obesity. While the research has not yet been evaluated in humans, early results in animals suggest that males with obesity derive less protective benefit from the influenza vaccine than females with obesity.

"Obesity is increasing globally and is known to reduce the effectiveness of influenza and other vaccines," said Santosh Dhakal, assistant professor of infectious diseases in the College of Veterinary Medicine. "However, little is known about whether this reduction affects males and females in the same way."

Using a research model of obese and non-obese control animals, Dhakal's team investigated sex differences in influenza vaccine-induced immunity and protection. Males and females, with or without obesity, received two doses of an inactivated influenza vaccine at three weeks apart.The results showed that females, whether they had obesity or not, generated higher levels of protective antibodies and experienced milder disease following virus challenge.Dhakal said vaccinated males with obesity produced the weakest antibody responses. When exposed to the virus, they developed more severe disease and were unable to clear the virus from the lungs effectively.

By Joe MontgomeryDivision of Communications and MaketingMANHATTAN —&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1699275/full">Newly published research</a>&nbsp;at Kansas State University has observed a notable difference in influenza vaccine responses between male and female mice with obesity. While the research has not yet been evaluated in humans, early results in animals suggest that males with obesity derive less protective benefit from the influenza vaccine than females with obesity."Obesity is increasing globally and is known to reduce the effectiveness of influenza and other vaccines," said Santosh Dhakal, assistant professor of infectious diseases in the College of Veterinary Medicine. "However, little is known about whether this reduction affects males and females in the same way."Using a research model of obese and non-obese control animals, Dhakal's team investigated sex differences in influenza vaccine-induced immunity and protection. Males and females, with or without obesity, received two doses of an inactivated influenza vaccine at three weeks apart.The results showed that females, whether they had obesity or not, generated higher levels of protective antibodies and experienced milder disease following virus challenge.Dhakal said vaccinated males with obesity produced the weakest antibody responses. When exposed to the virus, they developed more severe disease and were unable to clear the virus from the lungs effectively.

 K-State research suggests obesity reduces influenza vaccine effectiveness in male animals

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– The Geary USD 475 Board of Education has approved the hiring of Latrina Boyles as Fort Riley Middle School Assistant Principal and Athletic Director.

Boyles brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her future role as she was the vice principal at Waialua High and Intermediate School in Waialua, Hawaii during the 2024-25 school year. At Waialua, Thompson oversaw both seventh and eighth grade students as the intermediate vice principal and was one of three administrators who also assisted with high school administrative duties. 

Prior to her stint with the Bulldogs, Boyles was an assistant principal at Hornedo Middle School in El Paso, Texas where she helped oversee over 400 sixth grade students, while also assisting with seventh and eighth grade. She began working in the El Paso Independent School District as an active learning leader and campus teaching coach from 2020 through 2022 at Hornedo Middle School

During her tenure, Boyles has taught both first and fifth grade classes at Eisenhower Elementary in Fort Leavenworth, Kan., and at Chinook Trail Elementary in Colorado Springs, Colo., respectively. While in Colorado Springs, Boyles was a two-time Certified Teacher of the Year nominee. She has also served as a student and guest teacher in Widfield and Fountain, Colo. 

Boyles began her teaching career in USD 475 as a teacher assistant and substitute teacher on Fort Riley during the 2006-07 school year.Boyles, who is currently a Fort Riley Brigade Senior Advisor as well as a Fort Riley Spouse Club member, graduated from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla., in 2000. She later received her master’s degree from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs in 2010, while also completing her principal administrator certification from the University of Texas at El Paso in 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768532227061.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;– The Geary USD 475 Board of Education has approved the hiring of Latrina Boyles as Fort Riley Middle School Assistant Principal and Athletic Director.Boyles brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her future role as she was the vice principal at Waialua High and Intermediate School in Waialua, Hawaii during the 2024-25 school year. At Waialua, Thompson oversaw both seventh and eighth grade students as the intermediate vice principal and was one of three administrators who also assisted with high school administrative duties. Prior to her stint with the Bulldogs, Boyles was an assistant principal at Hornedo Middle School in El Paso, Texas where she helped oversee over 400 sixth grade students, while also assisting with seventh and eighth grade. She began working in the El Paso Independent School District as an active learning leader and campus teaching coach from 2020 through 2022 at Hornedo Middle SchoolDuring her tenure, Boyles has taught both first and fifth grade classes at Eisenhower Elementary in Fort Leavenworth, Kan., and at Chinook Trail Elementary in Colorado Springs, Colo., respectively. While in Colorado Springs, Boyles was a two-time Certified Teacher of the Year nominee. She has also served as a student and guest teacher in Widfield and Fountain, Colo. Boyles began her teaching career in USD 475 as a teacher assistant and substitute teacher on Fort Riley during the 2006-07 school year.Boyles, who is currently a Fort Riley Brigade Senior Advisor as well as a Fort Riley Spouse Club member, graduated from Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, Okla., in 2000. She later received her master’s degree from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs in 2010, while also completing her principal administrator certification from the University of Texas at El Paso in 2020.

 USD 475 Announces New Hiring at Fort Riley Middle School

There will be a Regional Growth Summit on Jan. 23 at the K-State Alumni Center in Manhattan . It will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the Chambers of Commerce in Manhattan and Junction City. You can network with business and community leaders and collaborate on action strategies.

Friday, January 23, 2026 – Kansas State University Alumni Center 

&nbsp;--Networking Coffee Welcome --Tracy Duran, Regional Director of Nursing and Flint Hills Hospital Administrator Stormont Vail Health

--Presenting Sponsor Growth Strategy Update 

--Information on the Regional Growth Plan and compelling new trends that are emerging in the Manhattan area. We’ll dissect the latest trends in population, jobs, housing, and other data points, discussing their implications for our Growth Plan moving forward. 

--NBAF Update and 2026 Staffing Strategy 

--Local Housing Conditions, Moderated Q&amp;A Panel

--Yuma Street Cultural Center Update and&nbsp;Flint Hills Accelerator Update 

--Facilitated Group Conversation on What We Missed 

There will be a Regional Growth Summit on Jan. 23 at the K-State Alumni Center in Manhattan . It will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.The event is sponsored by the Chambers of Commerce in Manhattan and Junction City. You can network with business and community leaders and collaborate on action strategies.Friday, January 23, 2026 – Kansas State University Alumni Center &nbsp;--Networking Coffee Welcome --Tracy Duran, Regional Director of Nursing and Flint Hills Hospital Administrator Stormont Vail Health--Presenting Sponsor Growth Strategy Update --Information on the Regional Growth Plan and compelling new trends that are emerging in the Manhattan area. We’ll dissect the latest trends in population, jobs, housing, and other data points, discussing their implications for our Growth Plan moving forward. --NBAF Update and 2026 Staffing Strategy --Local Housing Conditions, Moderated Q&amp;A Panel--Congressional Staffers Panel--Fort Riley Update--Community updates--Yuma Street Cultural Center Update and&nbsp;Flint Hills Accelerator Update --Facilitated Group Conversation on What We Missed Register at the Chambers of Commrce.

Regional Growth Summit nears

&nbsp; ALERT: Traffic reduced to one lane on EB I-70 at mm 283, west of Chapman in Dickinson Co. Workers are removing concrete for replacement in the driving lane. They will be placing new concrete on Friday, conditions permitting.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp; ALERT: Traffic reduced to one lane on EB I-70 at mm 283, west of Chapman in Dickinson Co. Workers are removing concrete for replacement in the driving lane. They will be placing new concrete on Friday, conditions permitting.&nbsp; &nbsp;

KDOT traffic alert

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9a.m. Wednesday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp;a 2021 Kia Forte driven by Shadelta Harvey, 70, of Manhattan, had crossed the center line&nbsp;in the 2500 block of Casement Road.&nbsp; The KIA&nbsp;struck a 2024 Toyota Tundra driven by Ngan Nguyen, 35, of St. George. 

Harvey was transported to Via Christi for her injuries and issued a citation for inattentive driving.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 9a.m. Wednesday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report,&nbsp;a 2021 Kia Forte driven by Shadelta Harvey, 70, of Manhattan, had crossed the center line&nbsp;in the 2500 block of Casement Road.&nbsp; The KIA&nbsp;struck a 2024 Toyota Tundra driven by Ngan Nguyen, 35, of St. George. Harvey was transported to Via Christi for her injuries and issued a citation for inattentive driving.

Manhattan woman injured, cited after 2-vehicle crash

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768489969789.png" alt="" />
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Riley County Arrest Report January 15

&nbsp; Join retired Geary County Extension Agent and nature enthusiast Chuck Otte at Sunset Cemetery in Manhattan as he guides you in search of the birds of winter. &nbsp;

The cost is&nbsp;$10 for Flint Hills Discovery Center members, $15 for non-members&nbsp;and is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=2e2c345d01&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">scholarship eligible</a>.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=434b7898d0&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Pre-registration is required online</a>, by phone at 785-587-2726, or in person at the Discovery Center.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp; Join retired Geary County Extension Agent and nature enthusiast Chuck Otte at Sunset Cemetery in Manhattan as he guides you in search of the birds of winter. &nbsp;The cost is&nbsp;$10 for Flint Hills Discovery Center members, $15 for non-members&nbsp;and is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=2e2c345d01&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">scholarship eligible</a>.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cityofmhk.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=e92cc4cc1e09dc1dafa7ba9da&amp;id=434b7898d0&amp;e=8c33f27c6f">Pre-registration is required online</a>, by phone at 785-587-2726, or in person at the Discovery Center.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Walk & Talk: Snow Birds

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas sex offender on new allegations

Just after 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, a 59-year-old woman reported a suspect, unknown to the victim, was in her residence, according to the Riley County Police Department activity re port.

Just after 5:30p.m., police arrested Anthony Ellis, 29, of Lansing,&nbsp;near 12th Street and Poyntz Avenue.&nbsp; He is being held on a $50,000 bond on requested charges of aggravated burglary and criminal damage to property.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis has been registered as a sex offender since 2016 for a conviction of aggravated indecent liberties with a 14-year-old in Manhattan, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768406608419.png" alt="Ellis photo KBI Offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Ellis photo KBI Offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas sex offender on new allegationsJust after 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, a 59-year-old woman reported a suspect, unknown to the victim, was in her residence, according to the Riley County Police Department activity re port.Just after 5:30p.m., police arrested Anthony Ellis, 29, of Lansing,&nbsp;near 12th Street and Poyntz Avenue.&nbsp; He is being held on a $50,000 bond on requested charges of aggravated burglary and criminal damage to property.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ellis has been registered as a sex offender since 2016 for a conviction of aggravated indecent liberties with a 14-year-old in Manhattan, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

RCPD: Sex offender accused of burglary in Manhattan

The Grandview Plaza Police Department, in collaboration with the Geary County Sheriff’s Office and the Junction City Police Department, completed an investigation during the nighttime hours of January 13, 2026. 

As a result of this investigation, several counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl—commonly known as “Dirty Thirties”—along with methamphetamine, marijuana, THC wax, and drug paraphernalia were seized. Three arrests were made. 

This operation highlights the continued commitment of our agencies to work together to protect the community and combat the distribution of dangerous illegal substances.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768430864867.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Grandview Plaza Police Department, in collaboration with the Geary County Sheriff’s Office and the Junction City Police Department, completed an investigation during the nighttime hours of January 13, 2026. As a result of this investigation, several counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl—commonly known as “Dirty Thirties”—along with methamphetamine, marijuana, THC wax, and drug paraphernalia were seized. Three arrests were made. This operation highlights the continued commitment of our agencies to work together to protect the community and combat the distribution of dangerous illegal substances.The Grandview Plaza Police Department, in collaboration with the Geary County Sheriff’s Office and the Junction City Police Department, completed an investigation during the nighttime hours of January 13, 2026. As a result of this investigation, several counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl—commonly known as “Dirty Thirties”—along with methamphetamine, marijuana, THC wax, and drug paraphernalia were seized. Three arrests were made. This operation highlights the continued commitment of our agencies to work together to protect the community and combat the distribution of dangerous illegal substances.