Junction City Animal Shelter Director Vanessa Gray spoke to students at Spring Valley Elementary School last week. Gray noted that she highlighted&nbsp;animal safety, what they all do at the animal shelter, and all the fun animals they get to see.&nbsp;

While at Spring Valley Elementary, Gray was presented with a $560 donation to the animal shelter. The money was raised in school during the month of February.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742325233192.jpeg" alt="Vanessa Gray the Director of the Junction City Animal Shelter answers questions from students at Spring Valley Elementary School. (Photo courtesy of the Junction City Animal Shelter Facebook Page)." />
 <figcaption>Vanessa Gray the Director of the Junction City Animal Shelter answers questions from students at Spring Valley Elementary School. (Photo courtesy of the Junction City Animal Shelter Facebook Page).</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City Animal Shelter Director Vanessa Gray spoke to students at Spring Valley Elementary School last week. Gray noted that she highlighted&nbsp;animal safety, what they all do at the animal shelter, and all the fun animals they get to see.&nbsp;While at Spring Valley Elementary, Gray was presented with a $560 donation to the animal shelter. The money was raised in school during the month of February.

Junction City Animal Shelter receives donation from Spring Valley Elementary 

MANHATTAN, KS – Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of live country music as Rock The Plains 2025 makes its highly anticipated debut at Tuttle Creek State Park in Manhattan, Kansas.

 The festival is set for Friday, August 8, and Saturday, August 9, and will feature an all-star lineup of Red Dirt, Texas Country, and independent country artists.

The full lineup has officially been revealed, with country music heavyweights headlining each night. Friday, August 8, will be led by the Randy Rogers Band, with additional performances from Aaron Watson, Braxton Keith, Kaitlin Butts, Curtis Grimes, Jenna Paulette, Clay Aery, and DJ DU.

Saturday, August 9, will keep the energy high with Casey Donahew headlining the night, alongside performances from Josh Abbott Band, Pat Green, Logan Mize, Adam Hood, Kat Hasty, Clay Aery, and DJ DU.

Tuttle Creek State Park provides the perfect backdrop for an immersive festival experience, complete with on-site camping, allowing fans to enjoy two days of incredible music, scenic views, and great vibes.

Tickets for Rock The Plains 2025 are on-sale now at <a href="https://www.rocktheplains.com/">www.rocktheplains.com</a>. Early ticket purchases are encouraged, as this event is expected to sell out as capacity is being capped!

For more information, including ticket details, camping reservations, and festival updates, visit <a href="https://www.rocktheplains.com/">www.rocktheplains.com</a> and follow Rock The Plains on social media.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742332870380.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rock the PlainsMANHATTAN, KS – Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of live country music as Rock The Plains 2025 makes its highly anticipated debut at Tuttle Creek State Park in Manhattan, Kansas. The festival is set for Friday, August 8, and Saturday, August 9, and will feature an all-star lineup of Red Dirt, Texas Country, and independent country artists.The full lineup has officially been revealed, with country music heavyweights headlining each night. Friday, August 8, will be led by the Randy Rogers Band, with additional performances from Aaron Watson, Braxton Keith, Kaitlin Butts, Curtis Grimes, Jenna Paulette, Clay Aery, and DJ DU.Saturday, August 9, will keep the energy high with Casey Donahew headlining the night, alongside performances from Josh Abbott Band, Pat Green, Logan Mize, Adam Hood, Kat Hasty, Clay Aery, and DJ DU.Tuttle Creek State Park provides the perfect backdrop for an immersive festival experience, complete with on-site camping, allowing fans to enjoy two days of incredible music, scenic views, and great vibes.Tickets for Rock The Plains 2025 are on-sale now at <a href="https://www.rocktheplains.com/">www.rocktheplains.com</a>. Early ticket purchases are encouraged, as this event is expected to sell out as capacity is being capped!For more information, including ticket details, camping reservations, and festival updates, visit <a href="https://www.rocktheplains.com/">www.rocktheplains.com</a> and follow Rock The Plains on social media.

Lineup announced for new country music event in Manhattan

Veteran Connection is back at the library! Military veterans and their family are invited to meet with Karl, Veterans Employment Representative on Friday, Marcy 28th from 10 am-noon. No appointment necessary! 

Learn about employment opportunities, ask questions about educational benefits, and much more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742330583785.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Dorothy Bramlage Public Library--Veteran Connection is back at the library! Military veterans and their family are invited to meet with Karl, Veterans Employment Representative on Friday, Marcy 28th from 10 am-noon. No appointment necessary! Learn about employment opportunities, ask questions about educational benefits, and much more.

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library to host Veteran Connection Event 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Roughly 50,000 to 60,000 civilian jobs will be cut in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-department-of-defense">the Defense Department</a>, but fewer than 21,000 workers who took a voluntary resignation plan are leaving in the coming months, a senior defense official told reporters Tuesday.

To reach the goal of a 5% to 8% cut in a civilian workforce of more than 900,000, the official said, the Pentagon aims to slash about 6,000 positions a month by simply not replacing workers who routinely leave.

A key concern is that service members may then be tapped to fill those civilian jobs left empty by the hiring freeze. But the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide personnel details, said Defense Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pete-hegseth">Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;wants to ensure the cuts don't hurt military readiness.

The cuts are part of the broader effort by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-donald-trump-doge-b21b74f56f30012a6450a629e7232a1a">billionaire Trump adviser Elon Musk</a>&nbsp;'s Department of Government Efficiency Service to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dams-fired-workers-electric-flood-control-irrigation-1369398af058b661d40ef6b68216c775">slash the federal workforce</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-voice-of-america-cuts-3faf72e620dbc5f42e5508a2b9d8c8da">dismantle U.S. agencies</a>.

Acknowledging that “some” military veterans will be among the civilians let go, the official would not estimate how many but agreed it could be thousands.

The department is using three ways to accomplish the workforce cuts: voluntary resignations, firing probationary workers and cutting jobs as employees routinely leave. The official said the military services and Pentagon officials are going over the personnel on a case-by-case basis to ensure cuts don't affect critical national security jobs.

Officials would not say how many Defense Department civilians requested the voluntary resignation plan — also known as the “Fork in the Road” offer — but said more requested it than the number who eventually were approved.

The defense official said the “vast majority” were allowed but that in some cases, people were denied for national security reasons or to make sure that too many people in one office didn't all leave.

He added that Hegseth also has given the secretaries of the military branches and Defense Department personnel leaders the authority to grant exemptions to the hiring freeze.

An average of 70,000 civilians are hired each year, which amounts to about 6,000 a month, he said. Because the services have a good deal of latitude in determining which jobs should not be subject to the freeze, it's not clear what portion of those 70,000 would actually be eliminated.

Plans to cut probationary workers, which the Pentagon said targeted about 5,400 of the roughly 54,000 in the department, are already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mass-firings-federal-workers-trump-administration-7cc7320f469cc65529367aaea2fd9dcb">on hold due to court challenges</a>. Federal judges ordered the administration to rehire thousands, if not tens of thousands, of probationary workers that had been let go, finding legal problems with the way the mass terminations were carried out.

The official added that Hegseth is confident the staffing cuts can be done without negatively affecting military readiness. The Pentagon chief last month in Germany noted that he was planning to welcome DOGE to the Pentagon, adding that "there are waste, redundancies and headcounts in headquarters that need to be addressed.”

Across the government, about 75,000 federal workers are being let go through “deferred resignation program” buyouts. And at least 24,000 probationary employees were initially let go in the now-paused&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-elon-musk-federal-workers-layoffs-d295d4bb2cdd5023c27d9cb03754e81b">mass firings</a>&nbsp;across multiple agencies since Trump took office, according to lawsuits challenging the firings. The government has not confirmed that number.

The personnel reductions come as top Democrats on the House Judiciary and House Oversight committees have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doge-trump-musk-house-democrats-foia-6d0d66b73e002ef7e9d6a69c585266c1">filed a lengthy Freedom of Information Act request</a>&nbsp;questioning whether&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doge-government-trump-executive-order-1a2fb7235b9d6f178c764cf6c78d3317">the Trump administration’s DOGE Service</a>&nbsp;is operating “outside the bounds of federal law,” The Associated Press has learned.

In addition, President Donald Trump has ordered a large-scale reduction in force to cut jobs and reduce the overall size of the government. Defense officials could not provide any details on what that would do at the Pentagon or what proposed cuts are being discussed.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Roughly 50,000 to 60,000 civilian jobs will be cut in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-department-of-defense">the Defense Department</a>, but fewer than 21,000 workers who took a voluntary resignation plan are leaving in the coming months, a senior defense official told reporters Tuesday.To reach the goal of a 5% to 8% cut in a civilian workforce of more than 900,000, the official said, the Pentagon aims to slash about 6,000 positions a month by simply not replacing workers who routinely leave.A key concern is that service members may then be tapped to fill those civilian jobs left empty by the hiring freeze. But the official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to provide personnel details, said Defense Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/pete-hegseth">Pete Hegseth</a>&nbsp;wants to ensure the cuts don't hurt military readiness.The cuts are part of the broader effort by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-donald-trump-doge-b21b74f56f30012a6450a629e7232a1a">billionaire Trump adviser Elon Musk</a>&nbsp;'s Department of Government Efficiency Service to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dams-fired-workers-electric-flood-control-irrigation-1369398af058b661d40ef6b68216c775">slash the federal workforce</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-voice-of-america-cuts-3faf72e620dbc5f42e5508a2b9d8c8da">dismantle U.S. agencies</a>.Acknowledging that “some” military veterans will be among the civilians let go, the official would not estimate how many but agreed it could be thousands.The department is using three ways to accomplish the workforce cuts: voluntary resignations, firing probationary workers and cutting jobs as employees routinely leave. The official said the military services and Pentagon officials are going over the personnel on a case-by-case basis to ensure cuts don't affect critical national security jobs.Officials would not say how many Defense Department civilians requested the voluntary resignation plan — also known as the “Fork in the Road” offer — but said more requested it than the number who eventually were approved.The defense official said the “vast majority” were allowed but that in some cases, people were denied for national security reasons or to make sure that too many people in one office didn't all leave.He added that Hegseth also has given the secretaries of the military branches and Defense Department personnel leaders the authority to grant exemptions to the hiring freeze.An average of 70,000 civilians are hired each year, which amounts to about 6,000 a month, he said. Because the services have a good deal of latitude in determining which jobs should not be subject to the freeze, it's not clear what portion of those 70,000 would actually be eliminated.Plans to cut probationary workers, which the Pentagon said targeted about 5,400 of the roughly 54,000 in the department, are already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mass-firings-federal-workers-trump-administration-7cc7320f469cc65529367aaea2fd9dcb">on hold due to court challenges</a>. Federal judges ordered the administration to rehire thousands, if not tens of thousands, of probationary workers that had been let go, finding legal problems with the way the mass terminations were carried out.The official added that Hegseth is confident the staffing cuts can be done without negatively affecting military readiness. The Pentagon chief last month in Germany noted that he was planning to welcome DOGE to the Pentagon, adding that "there are waste, redundancies and headcounts in headquarters that need to be addressed.”Across the government, about 75,000 federal workers are being let go through “deferred resignation program” buyouts. And at least 24,000 probationary employees were initially let go in the now-paused&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-elon-musk-federal-workers-layoffs-d295d4bb2cdd5023c27d9cb03754e81b">mass firings</a>&nbsp;across multiple agencies since Trump took office, according to lawsuits challenging the firings. The government has not confirmed that number.The personnel reductions come as top Democrats on the House Judiciary and House Oversight committees have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doge-trump-musk-house-democrats-foia-6d0d66b73e002ef7e9d6a69c585266c1">filed a lengthy Freedom of Information Act request</a>&nbsp;questioning whether&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/doge-government-trump-executive-order-1a2fb7235b9d6f178c764cf6c78d3317">the Trump administration’s DOGE Service</a>&nbsp;is operating “outside the bounds of federal law,” The Associated Press has learned.In addition, President Donald Trump has ordered a large-scale reduction in force to cut jobs and reduce the overall size of the government. Defense officials could not provide any details on what that would do at the Pentagon or what proposed cuts are being discussed.___

Pentagon cutting up to 60,000 civilian jobs; a third took voluntary resignations

A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY&nbsp; IS IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM TO 4 PM&nbsp; WEDNESDAY...

WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations up to or around one inch. Winds gusting as high as 60 mph.

WHERE...Dickinson, Geary, Morris, Brown, and Pottawatomie Counties.

IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions and low visibility within falling snow. The hazardous conditions could impact the Wednesday morning commute. Strong winds could cause tree damage.

Slow down and use caution while traveling.

&nbsp;A strong storm system continues to affect parts of Kansas over the next 24 to 48 hours with gusty winds and a large swing in temperatures. 

 Rain and snow will be possible on Wednesday as well.&nbsp;

A high wind warning also is in effect for Wednesday from 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Northwest winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph   expected.

-- UPDATEA WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY&nbsp; IS IN EFFECT FROM 7 AM TO 4 PM&nbsp; WEDNESDAY...WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations up to or around one inch. Winds gusting as high as 60 mph.WHERE...Dickinson, Geary, Morris, Brown, and Pottawatomie Counties.WHEN...From 7 AM to 4 PM CDT Wednesday.IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions and low visibility within falling snow. The hazardous conditions could impact the Wednesday morning commute. Strong winds could cause tree damage.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...Slow down and use caution while traveling.--&nbsp;A strong storm system continues to affect parts of Kansas over the next 24 to 48 hours with gusty winds and a large swing in temperatures. Rain and snow will be possible on Wednesday as well.&nbsp;A high wind warning also is in effect for Wednesday from 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.Northwest winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected.

Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for Wednesday - Snow possible

WASHINGTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 9a.m. Tuesday in Washington County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 International semi driven by Thad E&nbsp;Boman, 56, Hubbell, Nebraska, was eastbound on 27th Avenue and traveled partially into the north ditch. The driver attempted&nbsp; to bring the vehicle back onto the roadway. The semi rolled and came to rest partially in the roadway and in the north ditch.

EMS transported&nbsp;Boman to the Hanover Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WASHINGTON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 9a.m. Tuesday in Washington County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 International semi driven by Thad E&nbsp;Boman, 56, Hubbell, Nebraska, was eastbound on 27th Avenue and traveled partially into the north ditch. The driver attempted&nbsp; to bring the vehicle back onto the roadway. The semi rolled and came to rest partially in the roadway and in the north ditch.EMS transported&nbsp;Boman to the Hanover Hospital. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after semi rolls

The Junction City Police Department announced they will participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26.

JCPD said to bring unused or expired prescriptions to Dillon’s Food Store, at 618 W 6th St. in Junction City from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The Junction City Police Department announced they will participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26.JCPD said to bring unused or expired prescriptions to Dillon’s Food Store, at 618 W 6th St. in Junction City from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

JCPD will participate in National Drug Take Back day

Mark your calendars as Geary County Schools USD 475 will have its&nbsp;2025&nbsp;Back-To-School Carnival&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday, Aug. 1,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;at Junction City High School. The&nbsp;carnival&nbsp;will run from 6 - 8 p.m.&nbsp;

 Last year, the Back-To-School Carnival had over 3,000 attendees and almost 100 vendors.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742309267937.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mark your calendars as Geary County Schools USD 475 will have its&nbsp;2025&nbsp;Back-To-School Carnival&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday, Aug. 1,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;at Junction City High School. The&nbsp;carnival&nbsp;will run from 6 - 8 p.m.&nbsp; Last year, the Back-To-School Carnival had over 3,000 attendees and almost 100 vendors.&nbsp;

USD 475 to host 2025 Back to School Carnival on August 1st

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742305080581.jpeg" alt="Shawna Bethel, Failure to appear, arrested 03/18" />
 <figcaption>Shawna Bethel, Failure to appear, arrested 03/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742305090827.jpeg" alt="Bryan Graham, Domestic battery, arrested 03/18" />
 <figcaption>Bryan Graham, Domestic battery, arrested 03/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742305099843.jpeg" alt="Gabriel Biggs Jr., Failure to appear; Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 03/18" />
 <figcaption>Gabriel Biggs Jr., Failure to appear; Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 03/18</figcaption>
 </figure>Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos March 18

&nbsp;Emergency Management announced there is extreme fire danger today, causing another Red Flag Warning. The warning is in effect from 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.&nbsp;

Dry air and gusty are expected to cause the dangerous fire weather.&nbsp;

Winds from the the S/SW at 15-25 mph, gusting up to 45 mph.

&nbsp;Emergency Management announced there is extreme fire danger today, causing another Red Flag Warning. The warning is in effect from 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.&nbsp;Dry air and gusty are expected to cause the dangerous fire weather.&nbsp;Winds from the the S/SW at 15-25 mph, gusting up to 45 mph.No outdoor burning is allowed

Red Flag Warning in Effect, No outdoor burning

The Geary County Food Pantry is excited to announce they will be applying for the Kansas Community Service Tax Credit Program by the end of April. If awarded, this program would allow individuals and businesses to make donations to the food pantry while receiving a state tax credit equal to 50% of their contribution. The Geary County Food pantry is now accepting pledges from donors interested in pledging their support and potentially benefiting from the tax credits. These pledges will show community support for the food pantry’s expansion building project and increase the likelihood that the tax credits are awarded.

The food pantry is currently fundraising for its ongoing building campaign and for the purchase of vital equipment to improve the efficiency and accessibility of its services. In addition to completing construction of the new building, planned upgrades include a walk-in cooler and freezer, reach-in coolers and freezers, a pallet jack, and other essential items. These improvements will help the pantry better serve the 1,500 individuals and families who rely on the various food programs.

Geary County is currently experiencing the highest level of food scarcity in Kansas, with 15.7% of the population and 29.2% of the children facing food insecurity. The food pantry’s mission is to provide vital resources to those in need, and these donations will help the organization continue to make a meaningful impact in the community.

The deadline to make a pledge for donation is April 15, 2025. In July, the pantry will be notified if they have been awarded the requested tax credits. All donations made through this program will directly benefit the food pantry’s capital improvements and operational upgrades.

“We are so grateful for the ongoing support from our community,” said Julia Loper, President of the Board of Directors. “This opportunity through the Kansas Community Service Tax Credit Program allows donors to make an even greater impact, while also receiving a significant tax benefit. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

Interested donors are encouraged to reach out to the Geary County Food Pantry to make their pledge and learn more about the tax credit program. For more information or to make a pledge, please contact Debbie Johns, Director at (785) 762-8830 or email gcfp2020@outlook.com.

The Geary County Food Pantry is excited to announce they will be applying for the Kansas Community Service Tax Credit Program by the end of April. If awarded, this program would allow individuals and businesses to make donations to the food pantry while receiving a state tax credit equal to 50% of their contribution. The Geary County Food pantry is now accepting pledges from donors interested in pledging their support and potentially benefiting from the tax credits. These pledges will show community support for the food pantry’s expansion building project and increase the likelihood that the tax credits are awarded.The food pantry is currently fundraising for its ongoing building campaign and for the purchase of vital equipment to improve the efficiency and accessibility of its services. In addition to completing construction of the new building, planned upgrades include a walk-in cooler and freezer, reach-in coolers and freezers, a pallet jack, and other essential items. These improvements will help the pantry better serve the 1,500 individuals and families who rely on the various food programs.Geary County is currently experiencing the highest level of food scarcity in Kansas, with 15.7% of the population and 29.2% of the children facing food insecurity. The food pantry’s mission is to provide vital resources to those in need, and these donations will help the organization continue to make a meaningful impact in the community.Pledge Deadline: April 15, 2025The deadline to make a pledge for donation is April 15, 2025. In July, the pantry will be notified if they have been awarded the requested tax credits. All donations made through this program will directly benefit the food pantry’s capital improvements and operational upgrades.“We are so grateful for the ongoing support from our community,” said Julia Loper, President of the Board of Directors. “This opportunity through the Kansas Community Service Tax Credit Program allows donors to make an even greater impact, while also receiving a significant tax benefit. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”How to Pledge:Interested donors are encouraged to reach out to the Geary County Food Pantry to make their pledge and learn more about the tax credit program. For more information or to make a pledge, please contact Debbie Johns, Director at (785) 762-8830 or email gcfp2020@outlook.com.

Food Pantry Seeks Support Through Kansas Community Service Tax Credit Program

Tickets are on sale now at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library for the library foundation’s 4th Annual Trivia Night.&nbsp;&nbsp;Scheduled for Saturday, April 12 at 6:00 p.m. this event will be held at Spin City, 915 South Washington Street.

Tickets are $45 each or four for $170 when purchased in advance at the library or online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.jclib.org/">www.jclib.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tickets will also be available at the door for $50 each.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ticket price includes admission to the event, supper provided by Billy Sims BBQ, soda and water.&nbsp;&nbsp;One free drink ticket for those 21 and older is also included and a cash bar will be available.&nbsp;&nbsp;Participants must be 16 or older to attend.&nbsp;

Dave Lewis will host the contest which will feature general knowledge trivia.&nbsp;&nbsp;People can either play as individuals or in teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;Each team, including a team of one, will need at least one, fully charged, internet-ready device to play.

All proceeds from the event will go to the foundation and the project to expand/remodel the current library.&nbsp;&nbsp;A 50/50 drawing will also be held along with a gift basket silent auction, and a bead challenge.

For questions and additional information, please contact Susan Moyer at 785-238-4311 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:susanm@jclib.org">susanm@jclib.org</a>.

Current event sponsors include the Friends of the Library, Kaw Valley Engineering, Geary County Schools Foundation, Jim Clark Chevrolet, Nicole Printz of Edward Jones, Central National Bank, Coldwell Banker, Exchange Bank, Geary Grain, John &amp; Susan Moyer, Johnson &amp; Mass-Hinitt, RC Kennels, Robert Witt Agency, Rothwell Landscaping, Sir Speedy, Varney and Associates.&nbsp;

Tickets are on sale now at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library for the library foundation’s 4th Annual Trivia Night.&nbsp;&nbsp;Scheduled for Saturday, April 12 at 6:00 p.m. this event will be held at Spin City, 915 South Washington Street.Tickets are $45 each or four for $170 when purchased in advance at the library or online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.jclib.org/">www.jclib.org</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tickets will also be available at the door for $50 each.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ticket price includes admission to the event, supper provided by Billy Sims BBQ, soda and water.&nbsp;&nbsp;One free drink ticket for those 21 and older is also included and a cash bar will be available.&nbsp;&nbsp;Participants must be 16 or older to attend.&nbsp;Dave Lewis will host the contest which will feature general knowledge trivia.&nbsp;&nbsp;People can either play as individuals or in teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;Each team, including a team of one, will need at least one, fully charged, internet-ready device to play.All proceeds from the event will go to the foundation and the project to expand/remodel the current library.&nbsp;&nbsp;A 50/50 drawing will also be held along with a gift basket silent auction, and a bead challenge.For questions and additional information, please contact Susan Moyer at 785-238-4311 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:susanm@jclib.org">susanm@jclib.org</a>.Current event sponsors include the Friends of the Library, Kaw Valley Engineering, Geary County Schools Foundation, Jim Clark Chevrolet, Nicole Printz of Edward Jones, Central National Bank, Coldwell Banker, Exchange Bank, Geary Grain, John &amp; Susan Moyer, Johnson &amp; Mass-Hinitt, RC Kennels, Robert Witt Agency, Rothwell Landscaping, Sir Speedy, Varney and Associates.&nbsp;

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will host Trivia Night at Spin City on April 12

GEARY COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol has identified the woman trapped in her car overnight after a crash that occurred just after 11:30p.m. Sunday on Interstate 70 in Geary County.

According to the Patrol, a 2023 Ford Edge driven by Rhonda L. Moore, 65, Wise, Virginia, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of Humboldt Creek Road.

The SUV traveled off the road into the north ditch and rolled onto on its top.&nbsp; A passing motorist finally saw the SUV just before 8a.m. Monday and called for help. EMS transported Moore to Stormont Vail for treatment of serious injuries. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a single-vehicle crash that critically injured a woman in Geary County.

Early Monday, a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper responded to the serious rollover crash on Interstate 70, where the driver had been trapped in her wrecked vehicle overnight—injured, alone, and waiting for help, according to a social media report from the patrol.

The KHP is working to determine exactly when the crash occurred.&nbsp; First responders were notified just after 8a.m. Monday.

"Geary County first responders were first on the scene, quickly working to assess the situation, provide medical care, and begin the initial response."

"As daylight broke, the wreckage finally became visible to a passing motorist, who made the call that set everything into motion. With EMS, fire crews, and KHP working together, Life Star was called in to airlift the woman to a hospital."

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742224877114.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—The Kansas Highway Patrol has identified the woman trapped in her car overnight after a crash that occurred just after 11:30p.m. Sunday on Interstate 70 in Geary County.According to the Patrol, a 2023 Ford Edge driven by Rhonda L. Moore, 65, Wise, Virginia, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of Humboldt Creek Road.The SUV traveled off the road into the north ditch and rolled onto on its top.&nbsp; A passing motorist finally saw the SUV just before 8a.m. Monday and called for help. EMS transported Moore to Stormont Vail for treatment of serious injuries. She was properly restrained, according to the KHP.--------GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a single-vehicle crash that critically injured a woman in Geary County.Early Monday, a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper responded to the serious rollover crash on Interstate 70, where the driver had been trapped in her wrecked vehicle overnight—injured, alone, and waiting for help, according to a social media report from the patrol.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742224855150.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>The KHP is working to determine exactly when the crash occurred.&nbsp; First responders were notified just after 8a.m. Monday."Geary County first responders were first on the scene, quickly working to assess the situation, provide medical care, and begin the initial response.""As daylight broke, the wreckage finally became visible to a passing motorist, who made the call that set everything into motion. With EMS, fire crews, and KHP working together, Life Star was called in to airlift the woman to a hospital."Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

KHP IDs woman trapped in SUV overnight after crash on I-70

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Cassondra Weis, Failure to appear, arrested 03/14

Noah St. George, Purchase, Consumption or possession of alcoholic liquor beverage by a minor; DUI - Liquor or Drugs, arrested 03/15

Ollie Brown Jr., Outside warrant, arrested 03/15

Joseph Ward, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 03/15

Samuel Barnhardt III, Failure to appear, arrested 03/15

Precious Parks, Domestic battery, arrested 03/15

Latonia Verser, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 03/16

Nathan Ratliff, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 03/16

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742238306356.jpeg" alt="Ricky Smith, Failure to appear, arrested 03/14" />
 <figcaption>Ricky Smith, Failure to appear, arrested 03/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742238335060.jpeg" alt="Corvareon Lane, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 03/14" />
 <figcaption>Corvareon Lane, Possession of controlled substance, arrested 03/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742238371270.jpeg" alt="Juan Velasquez, Aggravated assault, arrested 03/14" />
 <figcaption>Juan Velasquez, Aggravated assault, arrested 03/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742238404015.jpeg" alt="Charles Skinner Jr., Possession of firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Possession of stolen property, Theft of property/services, Firearm with value less than $25,000, arrested 03/15" />
 <figcaption>Charles Skinner Jr., Possession of firearm while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Possession of stolen property, Theft of property/services, Firearm with value less than $25,000, arrested 03/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742238514127.jpeg" alt="Tiffany Ryals, Outside warrant (Two counts), Interference with LEO, arrested 03/15" />
 <figcaption>Tiffany Ryals, Outside warrant (Two counts), Interference with LEO, arrested 03/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742238558114.jpeg" alt="Vanessa Nixon, Driving while suspended (2nd or subsequent conviction), arrested 03/15" />
 <figcaption>Vanessa Nixon, Driving while suspended (2nd or subsequent conviction), arrested 03/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742238605796.jpeg" alt="Jessie Harris Jr., Possession of stolen property, Firearm less than $25,000; Endangerment, Recklessly expose to danger of great bodily harm or death; Possession of firearm while under influence of alcohol or drugs; Criminal damage to property; Battery on LEO, Bodily harm to county or city officer on duty (felony case); Interference with LEO, Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case; Aggravated assault use of a deadly weapon, arrested 03/16" />
 <figcaption>Jessie Harris Jr., Possession of stolen property, Firearm less than $25,000; Endangerment, Recklessly expose to danger of great bodily harm or death; Possession of firearm while under influence of alcohol or drugs; Criminal damage to property; Battery on LEO, Bodily harm to county or city officer on duty (felony case); Interference with LEO, Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case; Aggravated assault use of a deadly weapon, arrested 03/16</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742238615910.jpeg" alt="Roseanna Bullard, Disorderly conduct; Battery; Assault, arrested 03/16" />
 <figcaption>Roseanna Bullard, Disorderly conduct; Battery; Assault, arrested 03/16</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Cassondra Weis, Failure to appear, arrested 03/14Noah St. George, Purchase, Consumption or possession of alcoholic liquor beverage by a minor; DUI - Liquor or Drugs, arrested 03/15Ollie Brown Jr., Outside warrant, arrested 03/15Joseph Ward, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 03/15Samuel Barnhardt III, Failure to appear, arrested 03/15Precious Parks, Domestic battery, arrested 03/15Latonia Verser, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 03/16Nathan Ratliff, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 03/16Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos March 15-17

The National Weather Service in Topeka said an upper level storm system and strong cold front will bring a chance for accumulating snow and rain mixing with snow on Wednesday.&nbsp; 

A winter storm watch is in effect for portions of north central KS on Wednesday.

The National Weather Service in Topeka said an upper level storm system and strong cold front will bring a chance for accumulating snow and rain mixing with snow on Wednesday.&nbsp; A winter storm watch is in effect for portions of north central KS on Wednesday.

Rain and Snow chances are possible on Wednesday

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for allege violent sex crimes. According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, officer arrested 30-year-old Ricky Dunklin of St George on a warrant on requested charges of&nbsp; Rape, Aggravated Criminal Sodomy, Aggravated Kidnapping and Aggravated Domestic Battery. 

Dunklin was also arrested on a Failure to Appear Warrant. The original charge was Aggravated Domestic Battery.&nbsp; Dunklin remains jailed, according to the RCPD.

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for allege violent sex crimes. According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, officer arrested 30-year-old Ricky Dunklin of St George on a warrant on requested charges of&nbsp; Rape, Aggravated Criminal Sodomy, Aggravated Kidnapping and Aggravated Domestic Battery. Dunklin was also arrested on a Failure to Appear Warrant. The original charge was Aggravated Domestic Battery.&nbsp; Dunklin remains jailed, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Suspect jailed for alleged sex crimes

No burning today (3/17/25)&nbsp; and looks to continue for the rest of the week.  

Red Flag Warning along with extreme Fire Danger and Fire Weather Watch

For the Red Flag Warning, from noon today to 8 PM CDT  this evening. 

For the Fire Weather Watch, from Tuesday morning  through Tuesday evening.

 WINDS...South 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 15 percent.

 IMPACTS...Any fire that develops will catch and spread  quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

No burning today (3/17/25)&nbsp; and looks to continue for the rest of the week. Red Flag Warning along with extreme Fire Danger and Fire Weather WatchFor the Red Flag Warning, from noon today to 8 PM CDT this evening. For the Fire Weather Watch, from Tuesday morning through Tuesday evening. WINDS...South 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 15 percent. TEMPERATURES...Up to 84. IMPACTS...Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Red Flag Warning in Effect Today, with Fire Weather Watch for Tuesday

On March 14, the Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel (JCARSP) met at the Zion United Church of Christ. The noon meal was catered by Cracker Barrel and coordinated by Margaret Kilpatrick. Linda Bongers and Pat Foster hosted.

Officers for 2025-26 were elected. President will be Sierra Jackson; Vice President, Dr. Beth Hudson; Secretary, Nita Miller; Treasurer, Sheila Ritchie and Past President, Dr. Ferrell Miller.

Following the meal Mamie Eisenhower, portrayed by Virleen Carlson, talked about her growing up years and her adult life as the wife of General and later President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The next meeting of the JCARSP will be May 9 at 5:30 PM.

On March 14, the Junction City Association of Retired School Personnel (JCARSP) met at the Zion United Church of Christ. The noon meal was catered by Cracker Barrel and coordinated by Margaret Kilpatrick. Linda Bongers and Pat Foster hosted.Officers for 2025-26 were elected. President will be Sierra Jackson; Vice President, Dr. Beth Hudson; Secretary, Nita Miller; Treasurer, Sheila Ritchie and Past President, Dr. Ferrell Miller.Following the meal Mamie Eisenhower, portrayed by Virleen Carlson, talked about her growing up years and her adult life as the wife of General and later President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower.The next meeting of the JCARSP will be May 9 at 5:30 PM.

Retired School Personnel Elected officers for 2025 at recent meeting

Starting on Monday, March 17, Wildcat Construction will begin transitioning traffic on I-70 in Junction City/Geary County to the head-to-head configuration in the westbound (WB) lanes to start the reconstruction of the eastbound (EB) lanes.

Exit 298 (Chestnut EB On-ramp) and Exit 299 (J-Hill EB Off-ramp) will be closed.

Keep your eyes on the road.  No distractions.  Pay attention to your surroundings.  Follow construction signs.

Starting on Monday, March 17, Wildcat Construction will begin transitioning traffic on I-70 in Junction City/Geary County to the head-to-head configuration in the westbound (WB) lanes to start the reconstruction of the eastbound (EB) lanes.Exit 298 (Chestnut EB On-ramp) and Exit 299 (J-Hill EB Off-ramp) will be closed.Keep your eyes on the road. No distractions. Pay attention to your surroundings. Follow construction signs.

I-70 Construction continues - Head-to-head Traffic Begins Monday in Junction City

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

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Nutrition, says Priscilla Brenes, is not just the food we eat.

Brenes, a K-State Research and Extension specialist in the Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health, adds that eating healthfully also includes&nbsp;who&nbsp;you’re eating it with.

“When we eat with somebody else, that’s a connection,” Brenes said. “We might prepare food for somebody else. There’s a connection there, too.”

March is National Nutrition Month, sponsored annually by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This year’s theme is ‘Food Connects Us.’

“Think about this: If you’re eating in front of the television, what type of connection are you making there?” Brenes said. “By contrast, if I’m eating with family or friends, you may be talking about what you did during the day, or talking about your goals. Maybe you’re talking about things that you want to accomplish.”

“Connecting with other people can help you be more mindful about the foods that you’re eating and how much you’re eating.”

Brenes said that even preparing meals, particularly when children are involved, builds connections around food that become family memories.

“Family meals are a great way to share with your children, or to teach them how to set the table, or the ingredients in the food that they are putting on the table,” she said. “There’s a family connection that starts forming there and those memories can bring good emotions when we are grown up.”

She adds: “I remember eating with my parents every Sunday after going to church or going to an event and having a conversation about what we learned. And you know, after that, the kids were in charge of cleaning the table. We learned to wash the dishes and how to share the work with our siblings.”

This month, Brenes encourages families to plan activities that capitalize on the ways that food connects people.

“Try to eat more meals together with your family,” she said. “If you like to cook…maybe one person in your family can pick one recipe per week, and you can all try that recipe. Or if you’re at school – maybe as the teacher – you can ask students to bring their favorite fruit or vegetable to class and talk about it.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Information publishes guidelines to help Americans eat a variety of foods in proper proportions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.myplate.gov/">The campaign is called MyPlate</a>, which focuses on having one-half of the dinner plate being fruits and vegetables; one-fourth grains (preferably whole grains); and one-fourth protein.

More information about healthy eating also is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/fndh">K-State Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741970318903.png" alt="K-State Research and Extension " />
 <figcaption>K-State Research and Extension </figcaption>
 </figure>PAT MELGARES &nbsp;K-State Research and Extension news service&nbsp;&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – Nutrition, says Priscilla Brenes, is not just the food we eat.Brenes, a K-State Research and Extension specialist in the Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health, adds that eating healthfully also includes&nbsp;who&nbsp;you’re eating it with.“When we eat with somebody else, that’s a connection,” Brenes said. “We might prepare food for somebody else. There’s a connection there, too.”March is National Nutrition Month, sponsored annually by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This year’s theme is ‘Food Connects Us.’“Think about this: If you’re eating in front of the television, what type of connection are you making there?” Brenes said. “By contrast, if I’m eating with family or friends, you may be talking about what you did during the day, or talking about your goals. Maybe you’re talking about things that you want to accomplish.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1742089552247.png" alt="Family baking - KSU Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>Family baking - KSU Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>“Connecting with other people can help you be more mindful about the foods that you’re eating and how much you’re eating.”Brenes said that even preparing meals, particularly when children are involved, builds connections around food that become family memories.“Family meals are a great way to share with your children, or to teach them how to set the table, or the ingredients in the food that they are putting on the table,” she said. “There’s a family connection that starts forming there and those memories can bring good emotions when we are grown up.”She adds: “I remember eating with my parents every Sunday after going to church or going to an event and having a conversation about what we learned. And you know, after that, the kids were in charge of cleaning the table. We learned to wash the dishes and how to share the work with our siblings.”This month, Brenes encourages families to plan activities that capitalize on the ways that food connects people.“Try to eat more meals together with your family,” she said. “If you like to cook…maybe one person in your family can pick one recipe per week, and you can all try that recipe. Or if you’re at school – maybe as the teacher – you can ask students to bring their favorite fruit or vegetable to class and talk about it.”The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Information publishes guidelines to help Americans eat a variety of foods in proper proportions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.myplate.gov/">The campaign is called MyPlate</a>, which focuses on having one-half of the dinner plate being fruits and vegetables; one-fourth grains (preferably whole grains); and one-fourth protein.More information about healthy eating also is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.k-state.edu/fndh">K-State Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health</a>.

Food Connects Us: K-State nutrition expert touts value of eating with others

Junction City Main Street is hosting a Community Forum for Junction City and Geary County on Monday, March 31, at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. The forum is free and will begin at 5:30 p.m.

In a social media post, Main Street noted the Community Forum 2025 will be an evening of inspiration, laughter, and uncovering your business's unique strengths.&nbsp;

The keynote speaker is David Rendall, an author and speaker. He is known for his energetic personality, bold outfits, and his love for the color Pink. Rendall will speak on his Pink Goldfish theory and reveal how standing out and embracing things that are different can make your business stronger.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741968064366.jpeg" alt="Community Forum 2025 Flyer - Junction City Main Street" />
 <figcaption>Community Forum 2025 Flyer - Junction City Main Street</figcaption>
 </figure>By Anthony Gorges&nbsp;JC PostJunction City Main Street is hosting a Community Forum for Junction City and Geary County on Monday, March 31, at the C.L. Hoover Opera House. The forum is free and will begin at 5:30 p.m.In a social media post, Main Street noted the Community Forum 2025 will be an evening of inspiration, laughter, and uncovering your business's unique strengths.&nbsp;The keynote speaker is David Rendall, an author and speaker. He is known for his energetic personality, bold outfits, and his love for the color Pink. Rendall will speak on his Pink Goldfish theory and reveal how standing out and embracing things that are different can make your business stronger.

Junction City Main Street to host Community Forum 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansaspublicradio.org/people/daniel-caudill">DANIEL CAUDILL</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-11/could-kansas-eliminate-taxes-on-tips-it-might-depend-on-congress">Kansas News Service</a>

A bill in Kansas would eliminate state income taxes on tips for workers like food servers. But the idea’s fate in the state likely hinges on whether Congress acts.

WICHITA — It’s a busy Friday afternoon at The Monarch bar and restaurant in downtown Wichita, and food server Kelly Bonnell is right at home.

As she grabs a customer’s sandwich and fries from the kitchen, she greets people that come and go — all the while smiling and full of energy.

“I'm not sitting in a cubicle working on a computer. I'm impacting other people, and I'm having fun,” Bonnell said. “I genuinely enjoy it.”

Bonnell’s been serving for 10 years, first in Missouri and later in Wichita. She works at two restaurants in town and said she makes enough in tips to get her through school at Wichita State University.

But her first year in Kansas, Bonnell was hit by a tax surprise. Since the minimum wage for tipped workers in Kansas is lower than in Missouri, the taxes automatically taken out of her hourly wages at a previous job didn’t cover what she owed.

“And it was hard,” she said. “I did not have the expectation of needing this massive amount of money to pay that back.”

Bonnell is now setting aside part of her tips to cover taxes, but a bill in Kansas would potentially eliminate the need for that altogether. The bill would exempt up to $25,000 in a worker’s annual tips from state income tax.

The same idea has been floated by President Donald Trump’s administration at the federal level, but its fate in Congress is uncertain. That could ultimately decide whether the state does away with income taxes on tips, too.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson has said it’s a commonsense measure that won’t affect the state’s bottom line.

“If the federal government takes tax off tips, how crazy would it be for (them) to have to then maintain their tips and then pay Kansas tax on those?" Masterson said.

Republican Sen. Caryn Tyson chairs the Senate’s tax committee. She introduced the bill to cut taxes on tips.

“I support Kansans — hard-working Kansans keeping more of their own money,” she said. “The more they can keep in their pockets, the better off the state is.”

If federal lawmakers do move, Kansas lawmakers seem open to following their lead. But there are some people in Topeka who believe cutting taxes on tips is not enough.

Nathan Kessler is a tax policy adviser with Kansas Action for Children. He said the tax cut would only benefit a small portion of workers.

“If the goal is to put more money in the pockets of tipped workers there are much better ways to do that,” he said. “The most efficient would be to raise the minimum wage for those workers in Kansas.”

According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the average person waiting tables makes about $34,000&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/2024%20Edition%20Statewide.xlsx" target="_blank">per year</a>. That means they often have limited tax liability in the first place.

It's also sort of an open secret that many workers don’t report their tips when it comes to taxable income, or only report some of the money. But others, like Kelly at the Monarch, are compelled to report tips as proof of income for getting an apartment or a loan.

Kansas Democrats did introduce a bill that would raise the state minimum wage to $15 an hour. It would also raise the base rate for tipped workers from about $2 an hour to $7.50.

At this time, it doesn’t appear Republican leaders are going to let it advance. They argue many local restaurants could not afford a higher minimum wage.

But Democratic House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard said Republican leaders are playing political games by not considering an increase.

“The only people who are losing by them refusing to make this increase are Kansans,” he said.

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall initially predicted Congress could pass a tax exemption on tips by June.

That could potentially delay action at the state level, as Kansas lawmakers are set to wrap up their session in April.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741965217520.png" alt="Kelly Bonnell, a server at The Monarch in downtown Wichita, grabs two plates of food to bring out to customers. She said the job helps her pay her way through college. Photo by Daniel Caudill/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Kelly Bonnell, a server at The Monarch in downtown Wichita, grabs two plates of food to bring out to customers. She said the job helps her pay her way through college. Photo by Daniel Caudill/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansaspublicradio.org/people/daniel-caudill">DANIEL CAUDILL</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-11/could-kansas-eliminate-taxes-on-tips-it-might-depend-on-congress">Kansas News Service</a><h2>A bill in Kansas would eliminate state income taxes on tips for workers like food servers. But the idea’s fate in the state likely hinges on whether Congress acts.</h2>WICHITA — It’s a busy Friday afternoon at The Monarch bar and restaurant in downtown Wichita, and food server Kelly Bonnell is right at home.As she grabs a customer’s sandwich and fries from the kitchen, she greets people that come and go — all the while smiling and full of energy.“I'm not sitting in a cubicle working on a computer. I'm impacting other people, and I'm having fun,” Bonnell said. “I genuinely enjoy it.”Bonnell’s been serving for 10 years, first in Missouri and later in Wichita. She works at two restaurants in town and said she makes enough in tips to get her through school at Wichita State University.But her first year in Kansas, Bonnell was hit by a tax surprise. Since the minimum wage for tipped workers in Kansas is lower than in Missouri, the taxes automatically taken out of her hourly wages at a previous job didn’t cover what she owed.<figure>
 <img src="https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/31f8a48/2147483647/strip/true/crop/2976x1984+0+0/resize/880x587!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F82%2Fb8%2F9ccafd1946d4a68bb7c2592604f7%2Fthe-monarch.JPG" alt="Patrons dine at The Monarch in downtown Wichita. It's one of the many restaurants in which Bonnell has worked as a server. Photo by Daniel Caudill/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Patrons dine at The Monarch in downtown Wichita. It's one of the many restaurants in which Bonnell has worked as a server. Photo by Daniel Caudill/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>“And it was hard,” she said. “I did not have the expectation of needing this massive amount of money to pay that back.”Bonnell is now setting aside part of her tips to cover taxes, but a bill in Kansas would potentially eliminate the need for that altogether. The bill would exempt up to $25,000 in a worker’s annual tips from state income tax.The same idea has been floated by President Donald Trump’s administration at the federal level, but its fate in Congress is uncertain. That could ultimately decide whether the state does away with income taxes on tips, too.Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson has said it’s a commonsense measure that won’t affect the state’s bottom line.“If the federal government takes tax off tips, how crazy would it be for (them) to have to then maintain their tips and then pay Kansas tax on those?" Masterson said.Republican Sen. Caryn Tyson chairs the Senate’s tax committee. She introduced the bill to cut taxes on tips.“I support Kansans — hard-working Kansans keeping more of their own money,” she said. “The more they can keep in their pockets, the better off the state is.”If federal lawmakers do move, Kansas lawmakers seem open to following their lead. But there are some people in Topeka who believe cutting taxes on tips is not enough.Nathan Kessler is a tax policy adviser with Kansas Action for Children. He said the tax cut would only benefit a small portion of workers.“If the goal is to put more money in the pockets of tipped workers there are much better ways to do that,” he said. “The most efficient would be to raise the minimum wage for those workers in Kansas.”According to the Kansas Department of Labor, the average person waiting tables makes about $34,000&nbsp;<a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/2024%20Edition%20Statewide.xlsx" target="_blank">per year</a>. That means they often have limited tax liability in the first place.It's also sort of an open secret that many workers don’t report their tips when it comes to taxable income, or only report some of the money. But others, like Kelly at the Monarch, are compelled to report tips as proof of income for getting an apartment or a loan.Kansas Democrats did introduce a bill that would raise the state minimum wage to $15 an hour. It would also raise the base rate for tipped workers from about $2 an hour to $7.50.At this time, it doesn’t appear Republican leaders are going to let it advance. They argue many local restaurants could not afford a higher minimum wage.But Democratic House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard said Republican leaders are playing political games by not considering an increase.“The only people who are losing by them refusing to make this increase are Kansans,” he said.U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall initially predicted Congress could pass a tax exemption on tips by June.That could potentially delay action at the state level, as Kansas lawmakers are set to wrap up their session in April.

Could Kansas eliminate taxes on tips? It might depend on Congress

March 17-21 is spring break for students and staff in USD 475 Geary County Schools, and it is also spring break for students and staff at St. Xavier in Junction City. 

To keep students entertained and active, the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library in Junction City will host events throughout the week. Registration to the events is required, but all free. To register, call the library at (785) 238-4311. You can also register at the Library.&nbsp;

For more information on the events, go to the library's <a href="https://jclib.org/">website here.&nbsp;</a>

10:00 a.m. - Butterfly in the Sky - Kids can prepare caterpillars for transition to butterflies

3:00 p.m. - Thinking money for kids - Teaches children about money using games/activities/real-life scenarios

10:00 a.m. - Musical story time for preschoolers

10:00 a.m. - Visit from the Milford Nature Center

3:00 p.m. - Creative arts session with Junction City Arts Council

3:00 p.m. - Visit from the Flint Hills Discovery Center

4:00 p.m. - Family game night with board games, card games, and other family-fun activities.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostMarch 17-21 is spring break for students and staff in USD 475 Geary County Schools, and it is also spring break for students and staff at St. Xavier in Junction City. To keep students entertained and active, the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library in Junction City will host events throughout the week. Registration to the events is required, but all free. To register, call the library at (785) 238-4311. You can also register at the Library.&nbsp;For more information on the events, go to the library's <a href="https://jclib.org/">website here.&nbsp;</a>Monday10:00 a.m. - Butterfly in the Sky - Kids can prepare caterpillars for transition to butterflies3:00 p.m. - Thinking money for kids - Teaches children about money using games/activities/real-life scenariosTuesday10:00 a.m. - Musical story time for preschoolersWednesday10:00 a.m. - Visit from the Milford Nature Center3:00 p.m. - Thinking money for kids - Teaches children about money using games/activities/real-life scenariosThursday3:00 p.m. - Creative arts session with Junction City Arts CouncilFriday3:00 p.m. - Visit from the Flint Hills Discovery Center4:00 p.m. - Family game night with board games, card games, and other family-fun activities.&nbsp;

Dorothy Bramlage Public Library to host several events for kids over Spring Break 

The Geary County Commission meeting will start at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 17, instead of their usual 10:00 a.m. start time.&nbsp;

According to the meeting agenda, two commissioners and the county counselor will be gone, but commissioner Trish Giordano will join via phone.&nbsp;

The meeting agenda will feature a Public Works bi-weekly report - Bid opening for 2025 Noxious weed chemicals. There will also be an opportunity for public comments as well.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Geary County Commission meeting will start at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 17, instead of their usual 10:00 a.m. start time.&nbsp;According to the meeting agenda, two commissioners and the county counselor will be gone, but commissioner Trish Giordano will join via phone.&nbsp;The meeting agenda will feature a Public Works bi-weekly report - Bid opening for 2025 Noxious weed chemicals. There will also be an opportunity for public comments as well.&nbsp;

County Commission will meet at 11:00 a.m. on Monday

St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Junction City recognized students for being a "star student" or for academic achievements that earned them a spot on this quarter's honor Roll.&nbsp;

St. Xavier students and staff will now be on Spring Break March 17-21. They will return to the classroom on Monday, March 24.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741982527614.jpeg" alt="Students from St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Junction City honored for Academic Success (Photo Courtesy of St. Francis Xavier Catholic School Facebook Page)." />
 <figcaption>Students from St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Junction City honored for Academic Success (Photo Courtesy of St. Francis Xavier Catholic School Facebook Page).</figcaption>
 </figure>St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Junction City recognized students for being a "star student" or for academic achievements that earned them a spot on this quarter's honor Roll.&nbsp;St. Xavier students and staff will now be on Spring Break March 17-21. They will return to the classroom on Monday, March 24.&nbsp;

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