Police notes

Shooting into motel reported on State Avenue

A shooting into a motel room was reported at 6:42 p.m. Nov. 26 in the 4700 block of State Avenue, according to a social media post by the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department.

The victims were in a motel room having Thanksgiving dinner when they heard several gun shots outside and discovered their room had been struck several times, according to the report.

They spoke with officers but refused to give a statement or prosecute.

Robbery reported on Central Avenue

An aggravated robbery was reported at 12:15 a.m. Nov. 25 in the 2300 block of Central Avenue, according to a social media post by the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department.

The victim said an unknown male approached him, pointed a gun at him, took his property including his vehicle, and fled, according to the report. The victim was not injured.

Shooting reported in 700 block of Miami

A shooting into an occupied dwelling was reported at 7:35 p.m. Nov. 25 in the 700 block of Miami, according to a social media post by the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department.

Victims inside the residence heard several gunshots, and the sounds of the house being struck, according to the report. Officers discovered damage to the exterior and numerous shell casings in the roadway, according to the report.

Free entrance to state parks in Kansas on Black Friday

Swap the shopping centers for scenic views this Black Friday, as Kansas state parks will once again waive entrance fees as part of the nationwide #OptOutside initiative. All 28 of Kansas’ state parks are participating in an effort to get families and friends outdoors and enjoying nature.

On Friday, Nov. 27, state park visitors will have a chance to win a free night’s stay in a Kansas state park cabin of their choice. To enter, visitors must simply take a selfie within the park and share it on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with the tags #OptOutside and #MyKsStatePark.

OptOutside is the brainchild of outdoor retail giant REI, who in 2015 decided to close all 150-plus stores for a day and pay more than 13,000 employees to spend the day outside. It’s become a valued annual event for REI, state parks across America and the millions of people who’ve taken the day to grab some fresh air.

“In the middle of everything, we have watched as people all over the world, some for the first time, looked to time outdoors to reflect, restore and connect with one another,” said Eric Artz, REI president and CEO. “We are focusing on what matters most.”

Earlier this year, Gov. Laura Kelly encouraged Kansans to head to state parks for healthy recreation and relaxation – and many have. As a result, Kansas State Parks director Linda Lanterman said attendance has been exceptionally high.

“We’re really proud that people could turn to Kansas state parks for hiking, cycling, camping, fishing and safely relaxing with loved ones out-of-doors,” Lanterman said. “Hopefully, #OptOutside will be a continuation of all of that with thousands taking advantage of what we have to offer, and at no cost.”

For more information on Kansas state parks, visit www.ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks.