ABILENE —Employees of Memorial Health System (MHS) in Abilene wore blue jeans at work for another “Jeans Day” fundraiser on Fridays throughout the month of April. 

Employees make a donation, of at least $5, and are allowed to wear blue jeans at work.&nbsp;A total donation of $820 is being used to purchase diapers for the Community Baby Shower event.&nbsp;The event, organized by the Dickinson County Health Department, invites all Dickinson County women who are pregnant and new moms (up to three months postpartum) to attend. 

Information is available on community resources, plus, there are gifts, raffles, prizes, and more. The Community Baby Shower will be held on May 8th, at Sterl Hall, in Abilene with registration from 4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the event beginning at 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;

The monthly Jeans Day fundraiser is organized by the MHS Employer of Choice (EOC) committee. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746105349767.png" alt="Tanya Rader, MHS employee; Harold Courtois, MHS employee; Jenny Stuck, MHS employee; Haley Jones, EOC committee member; and Matilda Calvin, MHS employee." />
 <figcaption>Tanya Rader, MHS employee; Harold Courtois, MHS employee; Jenny Stuck, MHS employee; Haley Jones, EOC committee member; and Matilda Calvin, MHS employee.</figcaption>
 </figure>ABILENE —Employees of Memorial Health System (MHS) in Abilene wore blue jeans at work for another “Jeans Day” fundraiser on Fridays throughout the month of April. Employees make a donation, of at least $5, and are allowed to wear blue jeans at work.&nbsp;A total donation of $820 is being used to purchase diapers for the Community Baby Shower event.&nbsp;The event, organized by the Dickinson County Health Department, invites all Dickinson County women who are pregnant and new moms (up to three months postpartum) to attend. Information is available on community resources, plus, there are gifts, raffles, prizes, and more. The Community Baby Shower will be held on May 8th, at Sterl Hall, in Abilene with registration from 4:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the event beginning at 5:00 p.m.&nbsp;The monthly Jeans Day fundraiser is organized by the MHS Employer of Choice (EOC) committee.

MHS employees donate to purchase diapers for community baby shower event 

Valentina Morales was recognized on April 30 at the Hampton Inn as the JC Breakfast Optimist Club Student of the Month.  Valentina represents the tenets of the Optimist Creed at school and in her activities.  She is a junior at Junction City High School and is preparing to enter the Air Force or Army upon graduation next year. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746117182800.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Aerianna Cazee and LTC Richard Hodgson, with the JCHS JROTC Program; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Valentina Morales and Vivian Aguilar, Valentina's mother." />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Aerianna Cazee and LTC Richard Hodgson, with the JCHS JROTC Program; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Valentina Morales and Vivian Aguilar, Valentina's mother.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast Optimist ClubValentina Morales was recognized on April 30 at the Hampton Inn as the JC Breakfast Optimist Club Student of the Month. Valentina represents the tenets of the Optimist Creed at school and in her activities. She is a junior at Junction City High School and is preparing to enter the Air Force or Army upon graduation next year.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club names Student of the Month

The Geary County Register of Deed’s Office has announced the upcoming launch of Property Fraud Alert, a free notification service to help notify citizens against potential property fraud. This service will be available to all Geary County residents starting soon.

Property fraud, often referred to as "house stealing," is a growing issue nationwide. Fraudsters use stolen identities to file fake deeds or other legal documents, making it appear as though they own a property. This can result in devastating financial and legal consequences for property owners.

**Please note: At this time, the Geary County Register of Deeds office is not aware of fraudulent activity regarding real estate in Geary County. This service will not PREVENT fraud from happening, but our hope is that this proactive step in property protection will give the homeowners and taxpayers of Geary County peace of mind.

· Real-Time Notifications: Citizens will receive immediate alerts via email, phone, or text when any document is recorded in their name or associated with their property.

· Monitoring Made Simple: The service automatically tracks public records, ensuring property owners are informed of any changes related to their property.

· Proactive Fraud Prevention: By staying informed, property owners can act quickly to investigate suspicious filings and take necessary steps to protect their assets.

How to Enroll: Residents can sign up for Property Fraud Alert by visiting our website at PropertyFraudAlert.com/KSGeary or by contacting the Geary County Register of Deeds at 785-238-5531 for assistance. Enrollment takes only a few minutes, and all you need is your name and preferred contact information.

Register of Deeds releaseThe Geary County Register of Deed’s Office has announced the upcoming launch of Property Fraud Alert, a free notification service to help notify citizens against potential property fraud. This service will be available to all Geary County residents starting soon.Property fraud, often referred to as "house stealing," is a growing issue nationwide. Fraudsters use stolen identities to file fake deeds or other legal documents, making it appear as though they own a property. This can result in devastating financial and legal consequences for property owners.**Please note: At this time, the Geary County Register of Deeds office is not aware of fraudulent activity regarding real estate in Geary County. This service will not PREVENT fraud from happening, but our hope is that this proactive step in property protection will give the homeowners and taxpayers of Geary County peace of mind.Property Fraud Alert Offers:· Real-Time Notifications: Citizens will receive immediate alerts via email, phone, or text when any document is recorded in their name or associated with their property.· Monitoring Made Simple: The service automatically tracks public records, ensuring property owners are informed of any changes related to their property.· Proactive Fraud Prevention: By staying informed, property owners can act quickly to investigate suspicious filings and take necessary steps to protect their assets.How to Enroll: Residents can sign up for Property Fraud Alert by visiting our website at PropertyFraudAlert.com/KSGeary or by contacting the Geary County Register of Deeds at 785-238-5531 for assistance. Enrollment takes only a few minutes, and all you need is your name and preferred contact information.

Geary County Register of Deed’s Office to Launch Free Property Fraud Alert Service

The Chamber of Commerce, Mayor, Commissioners, Kiwanis South Club,&nbsp; I.C.A.R.E. and others, recently had their ribbon cutting at Coronado Park for the new upgraded playground equipment.

I.C.A.R.E.&nbsp; contributed to installing a "Cardio Stepper" Fitness Equipment for adults of all ages. While the kids are playing, adults young &amp; old can also exercise while being able to monitor their&nbsp;child. The organization will also assist with park accessories. (grill, water fountain, bike rack)&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Chamber of Commerce, Mayor, Commissioners, Kiwanis South Club,&nbsp; I.C.A.R.E. and others, recently had their ribbon cutting at Coronado Park for the new upgraded playground equipment.I.C.A.R.E.&nbsp; contributed to installing a "Cardio Stepper" Fitness Equipment for adults of all ages. While the kids are playing, adults young &amp; old can also exercise while being able to monitor their&nbsp;child. The organization will also assist with park accessories. (grill, water fountain, bike rack)&nbsp; &nbsp;

New upgraded playground equipment is installed at Coronado Park

The S.A.L. Breakfast benefiting the Junction City Special Olympics Team will be held Saturday from 7 - 10 a.m. at the American Legion Post #45, 201 East 4th Street, Junction City.

The menu includes biscuits &amp; gravy, scrambled eggs, hash browns, sausage, ham, coffee and juice.

Tickets are available at the door, American Legion Post #45 Lounge or from John Hagerty at 785-209-1996. Make checks payable to: Junction City Pacesetters.

This is open to the public. Dine-in, carry-out or pick-up. Delivery is available.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe S.A.L. Breakfast benefiting the Junction City Special Olympics Team will be held Saturday from 7 - 10 a.m. at the American Legion Post #45, 201 East 4th Street, Junction City.The menu includes biscuits &amp; gravy, scrambled eggs, hash browns, sausage, ham, coffee and juice.Tickets are available at the door, American Legion Post #45 Lounge or from John Hagerty at 785-209-1996. Make checks payable to: Junction City Pacesetters.This is open to the public. Dine-in, carry-out or pick-up. Delivery is available.

Breakfast will benefit Special Olympics Team

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.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

William Mitchell, Failure to appear, arrested 04/30

Darnell Manning, Possession of drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana; Interference with LEO, Falsely report a crime intending to obstruct; Unlawful shooting in the city, arrested 04/30

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/2025/5/1746115395156.jpeg" alt="Julishia Brewer, Failure to appear, arrested 04/30" />
 <figcaption>Julishia Brewer, Failure to appear, arrested 04/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746115415261.jpeg" alt="Janay Banks, Theft - From a motor vehicle; Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 04/30" />
 <figcaption>Janay Banks, Theft - From a motor vehicle; Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 04/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746115425533.jpeg" alt="Joanna Anderson, Probation violation, arrested 04/30" />
 <figcaption>Joanna Anderson, Probation violation, arrested 04/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746115435357.jpeg" alt="Nickolaus Jackson, Arrested by LEO, Probable cause of warrant in state or other jurisdiction, arrested 04/30" />
 <figcaption>Nickolaus Jackson, Arrested by LEO, Probable cause of warrant in state or other jurisdiction, arrested 04/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746115445206.jpeg" alt="Christopher Patcheak, Failure to appear, arrested 04/30" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Patcheak, Failure to appear, arrested 04/30</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.William Mitchell, Failure to appear, arrested 04/30Darnell Manning, Possession of drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana; Interference with LEO, Falsely report a crime intending to obstruct; Unlawful shooting in the city, arrested 04/30Recent 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 May 1

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

Let Communications Coordinator Matt Hoover know if you would like to have a booth at this year's carnival&nbsp;by registering below. Last year, we had over 3,000 attendees and almost 100 vendors and we are hoping to add to that. It will be like year's past where you can have games for kids to play and items to pass out. Please note that everything you pass out should be free and family friendly. &nbsp;We will provide a table and two chairs.&nbsp;

Register Today:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://forms.gle/ivxqfMwtmYsDtKaR6">https://forms.gle/ivxqfMwtmYsDtKaR6</a>

Please mark your calendars as Geary County Schools USD 475 will have its&nbsp;2025&nbsp;Back-To-School&nbsp;Carnival&nbsp;on&nbsp;Friday, Aug. 1,&nbsp;2025&nbsp;at Junction City High School. The carnival&nbsp;will run from 6 - 8 p.m. Let Communications Coordinator Matt Hoover know if you would like to have a booth at this year's carnival&nbsp;by registering below. Last year, we had over 3,000 attendees and almost 100 vendors and we are hoping to add to that. It will be like year's past where you can have games for kids to play and items to pass out. Please note that everything you pass out should be free and family friendly. &nbsp;We will provide a table and two chairs.&nbsp;Register Today:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://forms.gle/ivxqfMwtmYsDtKaR6">https://forms.gle/ivxqfMwtmYsDtKaR6</a>

Back to School Carnival will be held on Aug. 1

Kansas Department of Transportation officials shared information this weel on the plans for future replacement of the Taylor Road bridge over I-70 just southwest of Junction City. The project is now in the final design phase.

This open house in Junction City focused on the replacement of the bridge only and not on any possibility of a future interchange near that location. KDOT District 2 Public Information Officer Ashley Perez said that the bridge was initially constructed in 1959 and needs to be replaced. The new bridge will be planned according to updated design standards and local transportation needs. "The current bridge is very narrow." To accommodate&nbsp; the larger bridge some additional right-of-way may be needed from adjacent landowners.

"The project is not currently funded for construction. The earliest that we would see construction start is in the fall of 2027. Once it goes to a bid letting and is awarded to a contractor more information would be known on when it could begin and how the bridge would be taken down."

KDOT is not currently looking at the interchange but is "keeping everything open for future needs, " said Perez.

Supporters and opponents of the proposed interchange were in attendance during the open house.

Kansas Department of Transportation officials shared information this weel on the plans for future replacement of the Taylor Road bridge over I-70 just southwest of Junction City. The project is now in the final design phase.This open house in Junction City focused on the replacement of the bridge only and not on any possibility of a future interchange near that location. KDOT District 2 Public Information Officer Ashley Perez said that the bridge was initially constructed in 1959 and needs to be replaced. The new bridge will be planned according to updated design standards and local transportation needs. "The current bridge is very narrow." To accommodate&nbsp; the larger bridge some additional right-of-way may be needed from adjacent landowners."The project is not currently funded for construction. The earliest that we would see construction start is in the fall of 2027. Once it goes to a bid letting and is awarded to a contractor more information would be known on when it could begin and how the bridge would be taken down."KDOT is not currently looking at the interchange but is "keeping everything open for future needs, " said Perez.Supporters and opponents of the proposed interchange were in attendance during the open house.

Taylor Road bridge subject of a KDOT open house

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Fear that federal funding cuts will mean loved ones won’t receive nutritional food and safety checks through Meals on Wheels is driving an increase of calls to agencies across Kansas.

“It’s scary,” said Laurel Alkire, executive director of Senior Services Inc. of Wichita. “I’ve had a lot of families call me about their mom or dad. We’re trying to not overreact, but it’s very concerning.”

The fear is generated by potential federal funding cuts from multiple sources that could affect Meals on Wheels budgets nationwide, said Josh Protas, an advocate at the organization’s national office, Meals on Wheels America.&nbsp;

“I think there’s a lot of confusion and a lot of anxiety that we’re hearing from across our network that is in response to multiple threats that are happening all at once,” he said.

Programs facing federal cuts include those funded by Health and Human Services, which has faced “massive” cuts of budget and personnel, Protas said. A leaked budget document signaled intentions to cut and split apart some programs that serve older adults.&nbsp;

Also of concern is the ongoing budget reconciliation process, which among other things may include elimination of social services block grants and cuts to the Older Americans Act, he said.&nbsp;

“Social Services Block Grants are a critical source of funding for many Meals on Wheels programs to help fill in the gaps where there are shortfalls in other funding sources,” Protas said.&nbsp;

Proposed cuts to Medicaid also could harm Meals on Wheels budgets because those funds sometimes offer reimbursements, he said.&nbsp;

Isys Schmitt, director of nutrition at the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging, said her agency serves 18 counties at 28 sites in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;

“I do hear the concerns from participants,” she said. “I think it’s more they hear these things on the news, and they automatically think it’s going to affect our program very badly.”

Her agency receives about 25% of its funding from federal sources, 25% from the state, and the rest in contributions, Schmitt said.&nbsp;

Protas said Meals on Wheels programs are all funded through different mechanisms, so it’s difficult to tell how cuts might affect each program. Some get almost no federal funding, while others may receive 80% of funds from federal sources.

Julie Govert Walter, executive director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging Inc., is assessing potential cuts and trying to plan for how her agency might be affected, including the Meals on Wheels program it runs.&nbsp;

“We’re right now telling people don’t panic,” she said. “We don’t want our elder Kansans to stress out over the uncertainty. At the same time, we want lawmakers in Washington to understand that the Older Americans Act programs are making significant differences in the lives of older Kansans and their caregivers and their families.”

About half of Walter’s agency budget is derived from the Older Americans Act, with about 34% of the allocation and related in-kind match donations supporting the meals program in 18 northeast Kansas counties.

Alkire said that Wichita’s Senior Services has other programs besides Meals on Wheels, including a senior employment program and four senior centers for active seniors 55 and older.&nbsp;

“Meals on Wheels is our bread and butter,” she said. “We’ve got some reserves, but that wouldn’t last long.”

Walter said she believes the programs her organization runs are aligned with Trump administration policies because they’re frugal, cost-conscious and have significant volunteer support. In addition, Meals on Wheels helps seniors live independently, which often keeps them out of more costly nursing home facilities.&nbsp;

Protas said the national organization is walking the line of not scaring seniors about funding cuts but making sure people are reaching out to make their voices heard.

“Many of these things that we’re worried about, there haven’t been final decisions made yet,” he said. “So we’re using this time to advocate and to just tell the story about Meals on Wheels. We’re advising our Meals on Wheels member programs to do some contingency planning so that in the event that there are delays or disruptions in funding, they’re not caught off guard. We’re not doing that in a way that instills panic, but we recognize that the threats are serious.”

Walter said planning right now is tough because of political uncertainties, but even more so because she doesn’t have information from the feds that she needs. Usually by this time of year, she knows what her budget is for the upcoming year. She doesn’t have those numbers yet to plan for fiscal year 2026, which will start in October.&nbsp;

In mid-March, Congress funded the Older Americans Act and other programs through September 2025 with a continuing resolution. But no one knows what will happen next, Walter said. When she considers potential cuts of up to 30% of her agency’s funding, she’s not sure how to think about what actions to take.&nbsp;

Options could include cutting the number of days they serve meals from five to two or three, but that would involve potential workforce cuts, she said.&nbsp;

“It’s a puzzle,” she said. “We’re doing what we can to communicate with members of Congress about our situation, and I will say I think most members of the Kansas congressional delegation understand the importance of the OAA.”

Walter said one of the biggest challenges is communicating with people about the importance of Meals on Wheels and other programs for aging Kansans.&nbsp;

“We all know what it’s like to be a kid, to be an adolescent, to be a young adult, and to be in middle age,” she said. “But honestly, most people don’t get what it’s like to really deal with challenges and the anxieties of being older, 75 and 80 plus, until we’re there. It’s so dependent on health and community and social relationships.”

“The stress and uncertainty is real, and it has real effects on people’s minds and hearts and spirits,” Walter said. “It’s hard to quantify, but you know it’s real. Drama is not good for older people.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746017660216.png" alt="The Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging in Hays gets 25% of its budget from federal funding sources, which are facing possible cuts. (Cade Rothenberger for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging in Hays gets 25% of its budget from federal funding sources, which are facing possible cuts. (Cade Rothenberger for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Fear that federal funding cuts will mean loved ones won’t receive nutritional food and safety checks through Meals on Wheels is driving an increase of calls to agencies across Kansas.“It’s scary,” said Laurel Alkire, executive director of Senior Services Inc. of Wichita. “I’ve had a lot of families call me about their mom or dad. We’re trying to not overreact, but it’s very concerning.”The fear is generated by potential federal funding cuts from multiple sources that could affect Meals on Wheels budgets nationwide, said Josh Protas, an advocate at the organization’s national office, Meals on Wheels America.&nbsp;“I think there’s a lot of confusion and a lot of anxiety that we’re hearing from across our network that is in response to multiple threats that are happening all at once,” he said.Programs facing federal cuts include those funded by Health and Human Services, which has faced “massive” cuts of budget and personnel, Protas said. A leaked budget document signaled intentions to cut and split apart some programs that serve older adults.&nbsp;Also of concern is the ongoing budget reconciliation process, which among other things may include elimination of social services block grants and cuts to the Older Americans Act, he said.&nbsp;“Social Services Block Grants are a critical source of funding for many Meals on Wheels programs to help fill in the gaps where there are shortfalls in other funding sources,” Protas said.&nbsp;Proposed cuts to Medicaid also could harm Meals on Wheels budgets because those funds sometimes offer reimbursements, he said.&nbsp;Isys Schmitt, director of nutrition at the Northwest Kansas Area Agency on Aging, said her agency serves 18 counties at 28 sites in northwest Kansas.&nbsp;“I do hear the concerns from participants,” she said. “I think it’s more they hear these things on the news, and they automatically think it’s going to affect our program very badly.”Her agency receives about 25% of its funding from federal sources, 25% from the state, and the rest in contributions, Schmitt said.&nbsp;Protas said Meals on Wheels programs are all funded through different mechanisms, so it’s difficult to tell how cuts might affect each program. Some get almost no federal funding, while others may receive 80% of funds from federal sources.<h2>Staying calm, planning ahead</h2>Julie Govert Walter, executive director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging Inc., is assessing potential cuts and trying to plan for how her agency might be affected, including the Meals on Wheels program it runs.&nbsp;“We’re right now telling people don’t panic,” she said. “We don’t want our elder Kansans to stress out over the uncertainty. At the same time, we want lawmakers in Washington to understand that the Older Americans Act programs are making significant differences in the lives of older Kansans and their caregivers and their families.”About half of Walter’s agency budget is derived from the Older Americans Act, with about 34% of the allocation and related in-kind match donations supporting the meals program in 18 northeast Kansas counties.Alkire said that Wichita’s Senior Services has other programs besides Meals on Wheels, including a senior employment program and four senior centers for active seniors 55 and older.&nbsp;“Meals on Wheels is our bread and butter,” she said. “We’ve got some reserves, but that wouldn’t last long.”Walter said she believes the programs her organization runs are aligned with Trump administration policies because they’re frugal, cost-conscious and have significant volunteer support. In addition, Meals on Wheels helps seniors live independently, which often keeps them out of more costly nursing home facilities.&nbsp;Protas said the national organization is walking the line of not scaring seniors about funding cuts but making sure people are reaching out to make their voices heard.“Many of these things that we’re worried about, there haven’t been final decisions made yet,” he said. “So we’re using this time to advocate and to just tell the story about Meals on Wheels. We’re advising our Meals on Wheels member programs to do some contingency planning so that in the event that there are delays or disruptions in funding, they’re not caught off guard. We’re not doing that in a way that instills panic, but we recognize that the threats are serious.”<h2>No budget numbers</h2>Walter said planning right now is tough because of political uncertainties, but even more so because she doesn’t have information from the feds that she needs. Usually by this time of year, she knows what her budget is for the upcoming year. She doesn’t have those numbers yet to plan for fiscal year 2026, which will start in October.&nbsp;In mid-March, Congress funded the Older Americans Act and other programs through September 2025 with a continuing resolution. But no one knows what will happen next, Walter said. When she considers potential cuts of up to 30% of her agency’s funding, she’s not sure how to think about what actions to take.&nbsp;Options could include cutting the number of days they serve meals from five to two or three, but that would involve potential workforce cuts, she said.&nbsp;“It’s a puzzle,” she said. “We’re doing what we can to communicate with members of Congress about our situation, and I will say I think most members of the Kansas congressional delegation understand the importance of the OAA.”<h2>Little understanding of aging</h2>Walter said one of the biggest challenges is communicating with people about the importance of Meals on Wheels and other programs for aging Kansans.&nbsp;“We all know what it’s like to be a kid, to be an adolescent, to be a young adult, and to be in middle age,” she said. “But honestly, most people don’t get what it’s like to really deal with challenges and the anxieties of being older, 75 and 80 plus, until we’re there. It’s so dependent on health and community and social relationships.”“The stress and uncertainty is real, and it has real effects on people’s minds and hearts and spirits,” Walter said. “It’s hard to quantify, but you know it’s real. Drama is not good for older people.”

Kansas Meals on Wheels families, leaders fear potential federal funding cuts

Junction City family YMCA has announced that thanks to JC Play, R2B4 &amp; the JC Noon Kiwanis,&nbsp; kids that are playing in the YMCA soccer program have new goals to play on.  "Receiving funds to purchase quality goals is a blessing for our program.  We have purchased so many sets that get broken when people hang on them and it's frustrating to see that happening.  These new goals are more sturdy, heavy duty and are easier to move around," said YMCA Director Amber Stanley.

There are over 300 kids playing soccer this year.  Ideally two more sets of the goals just received from JC Play, R2B4 &amp; Kiwanis are needed. Getting them is a goal for the next soccer season."  If you want to watch Kindergarten thru 6th graders play, go to the YMCA fields any Monday, Tuesday or Thursday evening!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746050470769.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City family YMCA has announced that thanks to JC Play, R2B4 &amp; the JC Noon Kiwanis,&nbsp; kids that are playing in the YMCA soccer program have new goals to play on. "Receiving funds to purchase quality goals is a blessing for our program. We have purchased so many sets that get broken when people hang on them and it's frustrating to see that happening. These new goals are more sturdy, heavy duty and are easier to move around," said YMCA Director Amber Stanley.There are over 300 kids playing soccer this year. Ideally two more sets of the goals just received from JC Play, R2B4 &amp; Kiwanis are needed. Getting them is a goal for the next soccer season." If you want to watch Kindergarten thru 6th graders play, go to the YMCA fields any Monday, Tuesday or Thursday evening!

New goals for the YMCA

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Three Kansas juveniles are facing multiple allegations after a chase involving a reported stolen SUV.

Just before 5p.m. Monday, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a report that a vehicle was stolen from the Casey’s parking lot located at 8715 East Highway 24, Manhattan, Pottawatomie County, according to a media release.

 The vehicle was described as a 2011 black&nbsp; Hyundai Tucson.  At about the same time , the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a reckless vehicle on Highway 24 near Blue Run Road. It was also reported that an occupant of the reckless vehicle had pointed a firearm at another vehicle on the highway.

Deputies responded to the area and were able to locate the reckless vehicle. Deputies attempted to pull the vehicle over and they pursued the vehicle eastbound before it came to a stop off of the roadway, just east of Belvue. 

Law enforcement officers took into custody 3 juvenile males and are continuing to investigate the incident. The reckless vehicle was the vehicle reported stolen from Casey's earlier. 

All three boys were taken to a Juvenile Detention Facility and the face requested charges of&nbsp;of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, Fleeing and Eluding and Theft 

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Three Kansas juveniles are facing multiple allegations after a chase involving a reported stolen SUV.Just before 5p.m. Monday, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a report that a vehicle was stolen from the Casey’s parking lot located at 8715 East Highway 24, Manhattan, Pottawatomie County, according to a media release. The vehicle was described as a 2011 black&nbsp; Hyundai Tucson. At about the same time , the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch received a 911 call reporting a reckless vehicle on Highway 24 near Blue Run Road. It was also reported that an occupant of the reckless vehicle had pointed a firearm at another vehicle on the highway.Deputies responded to the area and were able to locate the reckless vehicle. Deputies attempted to pull the vehicle over and they pursued the vehicle eastbound before it came to a stop off of the roadway, just east of Belvue. Law enforcement officers took into custody 3 juvenile males and are continuing to investigate the incident. The reckless vehicle was the vehicle reported stolen from Casey's earlier. All three boys were taken to a Juvenile Detention Facility and the face requested charges of&nbsp;of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, Fleeing and Eluding and Theft

Sheriff: 3 Kansas boys in stolen SUV pointed gun at driver

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On Tuesday, police arrested 22-year-old Mason Dusseault of Junction City on a Riley County District Court warrant for indecent liberties with a child and aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to the RIley County Police Department activity report.

Dusseault met the requirement of a $50,000 bond and is no longer in custody.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.On Tuesday, police arrested 22-year-old Mason Dusseault of Junction City on a Riley County District Court warrant for indecent liberties with a child and aggravated indecent liberties with a child, according to the RIley County Police Department activity report.Dusseault met the requirement of a $50,000 bond and is no longer in custody.

Junction City man accused of child sex crimes

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a registered violent offender for new alleged crimes.

Just before 9:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 41-year-old Lamarques Channel of Topeka on requested charges of criminal sodomy and rape, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The arrest stems from the investigation of an incident that occurred on October 25, 2019. Channel is being held on a total bond of $150,000.

Channel has previous convictions for reckless involuntary manslaughter and drug crimes, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

He has been listed as a registered offender since 2015, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746031761825.png" alt="Channel photo KBI Offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Channel photo KBI Offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a registered violent offender for new alleged crimes.Just before 9:30p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 41-year-old Lamarques Channel of Topeka on requested charges of criminal sodomy and rape, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. The arrest stems from the investigation of an incident that occurred on October 25, 2019. Channel is being held on a total bond of $150,000.Channel has previous convictions for reckless involuntary manslaughter and drug crimes, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.He has been listed as a registered offender since 2015, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. registered offender accused of sex crimes

Ricky Smith, Probation violation, arrested 04/29

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/2025/4/1746031604786.jpeg" alt="Dontavia Scott, Failure to appear, arrested 04/29" />
 <figcaption>Dontavia Scott, Failure to appear, arrested 04/29</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Ricky Smith, Probation violation, arrested 04/29Recent 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 April 30

COTTONWOOD FALLS, KS. (April 30, 2025) --Symphony in the Flint Hills Inc has launched a public survey to gather input as the organization plans its future. For nearly two decades, Symphony in the Flint Hills Inc has worked to deepen appreciation for the Flint Hills tallgrass prairie through education, the arts, and stewardship. Now, the organization is seeking ideas and feedback to guide its next chapter.&nbsp;

The newly formed Vision Committee, made up of board members, longtime volunteers, and Kansas partners, is leading the effort to ensure the organization's future remains rooted in its mission: sustaining the region’s unique arts, culture, and landscape, and expanding education and awareness of the tallgrass prairie.&nbsp;

Lisa Hickok, board member and Chair of the Vision Committee, said, “We are incredibly proud of what Symphony in the Flint Hills has accomplished over the past twenty years. With the 2025 Signature Event featuring the Kansas City Symphony marking our final season, we are looking ahead to explore new ways our organization can continue to strengthen the Flint Hills and connect people to this extraordinary place. We hope everyone who cares about the prairie, its culture, and its future will share their ideas through this survey.”&nbsp;

The survey is open to anyone who has attended an event, supported the organization, visited the Flint Hills, or simply values the preservation of this unique landscape. Responses will help shape the organization’s programs, partnerships, and future initiatives.&nbsp;

COTTONWOOD FALLS, KS. (April 30, 2025) --Symphony in the Flint Hills Inc has launched a public survey to gather input as the organization plans its future. For nearly two decades, Symphony in the Flint Hills Inc has worked to deepen appreciation for the Flint Hills tallgrass prairie through education, the arts, and stewardship. Now, the organization is seeking ideas and feedback to guide its next chapter.&nbsp;The newly formed Vision Committee, made up of board members, longtime volunteers, and Kansas partners, is leading the effort to ensure the organization's future remains rooted in its mission: sustaining the region’s unique arts, culture, and landscape, and expanding education and awareness of the tallgrass prairie.&nbsp;Lisa Hickok, board member and Chair of the Vision Committee, said, “We are incredibly proud of what Symphony in the Flint Hills has accomplished over the past twenty years. With the 2025 Signature Event featuring the Kansas City Symphony marking our final season, we are looking ahead to explore new ways our organization can continue to strengthen the Flint Hills and connect people to this extraordinary place. We hope everyone who cares about the prairie, its culture, and its future will share their ideas through this survey.”&nbsp;The survey is open to anyone who has attended an event, supported the organization, visited the Flint Hills, or simply values the preservation of this unique landscape. Responses will help shape the organization’s programs, partnerships, and future initiatives.&nbsp;

Symphony in the Flint Hills Inc. Invites Public Input to Shape Its Future 

On April 30 the JC Breakfast Optimist Club met at the Hampton Inn in Junction City and made donations to the Girl Scouts and Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Each group receipt two hundred dollars to help them continue their work with youth.

Girl Scouts: Ellen Westerhaus represented the local Girl Scouts and told the Optimists that one of the goals of the Girl Scouts is to get young girls involved in activities in the community. Current Girl Scouts have recently helped with donating 150 pounds of food to the Food Pantry; sold Girl Scout cookies; helped serve at a community Easter dinner; had a float in the Christmas Parade; had a presence at the USD 475 Back To School Bash and created baby baskets for newborns at Irwin Army Hospital and Stormant Vail Hospital.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters: Michelle Sink has been with Big Brothers/Big Sisters for 5 years. This organization received two hundred dollars for their work in matching a younger youth with an 18 year or older. Some youth need a mentor or someone outside the family to spend time with them and be another adult in their lives who cares. “Bigs” (as they are called) are people who can have been vetted by the Big Brothers/Big Sisters staff. This process includes having a driver’s license, passing a background check, having watched a training video, completing a one-to-two-hour interview with the staff of the organization, made a home visit, met the family of the “Little”, the parent/guardian, and the“Little” and the “Big” are comfortable with each other.

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club has supported both the Girl Scouts and Big Brothers/ Big Sisters for many years. Anyone interested in learning more about both groups may now view today’s meeting on the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s Facebook page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746029431609.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right:&nbsp; Michelle Sink, Big Brothers/Big Sisters; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President and Ellen Westerhaus with the Girl Scouts" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right:&nbsp; Michelle Sink, Big Brothers/Big Sisters; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President and Ellen Westerhaus with the Girl Scouts</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell Miller&nbsp;JC Breakfast Opimist ClubOn April 30 the JC Breakfast Optimist Club met at the Hampton Inn in Junction City and made donations to the Girl Scouts and Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Each group receipt two hundred dollars to help them continue their work with youth.Girl Scouts: Ellen Westerhaus represented the local Girl Scouts and told the Optimists that one of the goals of the Girl Scouts is to get young girls involved in activities in the community. Current Girl Scouts have recently helped with donating 150 pounds of food to the Food Pantry; sold Girl Scout cookies; helped serve at a community Easter dinner; had a float in the Christmas Parade; had a presence at the USD 475 Back To School Bash and created baby baskets for newborns at Irwin Army Hospital and Stormant Vail Hospital.Big Brothers/Big Sisters: Michelle Sink has been with Big Brothers/Big Sisters for 5 years. This organization received two hundred dollars for their work in matching a younger youth with an 18 year or older. Some youth need a mentor or someone outside the family to spend time with them and be another adult in their lives who cares. “Bigs” (as they are called) are people who can have been vetted by the Big Brothers/Big Sisters staff. This process includes having a driver’s license, passing a background check, having watched a training video, completing a one-to-two-hour interview with the staff of the organization, made a home visit, met the family of the “Little”, the parent/guardian, and the“Little” and the “Big” are comfortable with each other.The JC Breakfast Optimist Club has supported both the Girl Scouts and Big Brothers/ Big Sisters for many years. Anyone interested in learning more about both groups may now view today’s meeting on the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s Facebook page.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club Makes Donations

Opening day for the Geary Community Farmer's Market will be Thursday at 9th &amp; Washington in Junction City. The market runs Thursdays 4-7 p.m. from the first week of May through the end of September.

SNAP - ebt accepted weekly and a variety of family friendly events along with local shopping from local produce to unique handcrafted items. Want to become a vendor - applications accepted online through the season

The Junction City Main Street Market will also be on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm at 9th &amp; Washington from May through September. SNAP - ebt will also be accepted.

Opening day for the Geary Community Farmer's Market will be Thursday at 9th &amp; Washington in Junction City. The market runs Thursdays 4-7 p.m. from the first week of May through the end of September.SNAP - ebt accepted weekly and a variety of family friendly events along with local shopping from local produce to unique handcrafted items. Want to become a vendor - applications accepted online through the seasonThe Junction City Main Street Market will also be on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm at 9th &amp; Washington from May through September. SNAP - ebt will also be accepted.

Farmers markets are set to begin

Sue Penn was celebrated for 50 years as part of the JC Pilot Club. Pilot Club President Nichole Mader presented Sue Penn with a certificate and&nbsp; flowers.&nbsp;

The Pilot Club of Junction City is a community-based volunteer organization focused on service, leadership, education, and friendship. They are part of Pilot International, a larger organization that promotes positive change in communities worldwide through charitable causes like education, volunteerism, and financial support. The Junction City club was founded in September 1961.

Mission: The Pilot Club of Junction City aims to provide a focus on service, leadership, education, and friendship within their community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746021731273.jpeg" alt="Pilot Club President Nichole Mader presenting Sue Penn with flowers.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pilot Club President Nichole Mader presenting Sue Penn with flowers.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Sue Penn was celebrated for 50 years as part of the JC Pilot Club. Pilot Club President Nichole Mader presented Sue Penn with a certificate and&nbsp; flowers.&nbsp;The Pilot Club of Junction City is a community-based volunteer organization focused on service, leadership, education, and friendship. They are part of Pilot International, a larger organization that promotes positive change in communities worldwide through charitable causes like education, volunteerism, and financial support. The Junction City club was founded in September 1961.Mission: The Pilot Club of Junction City aims to provide a focus on service, leadership, education, and friendship within their community.

Sue Penn celebrated 50 years as part of JC Pilot Club

Hutchinson, Kan. – Two outstanding Hutchinson Community College students were recognized as the 2025 Young Kansan Award winners at a ceremony on campus on April 29. The students will also be honored during the College’s commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 9.

Maggy Adolf (Moundridge) and Key’ahn Taylor (Junction City) were selected from a field of students nominated for the honor. The Young Kansan award recognizes two outstanding graduates each year at Hutchinson Community College and is chosen by a vote of the faculty and administration at the college.

The award is sponsored by RCB Bank. Each winner received a plaque and a cash honorarium in recognition of their achievements.

Maggy is a graduate of Moundridge High School and a proud alumna of the HutchCC Cosmetology program. Currently, she is working toward a degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship, driven by her ambition to one day open her own salon. Maggy holds the distinction of being a Leadership Scholar and also serves as a Student Ambassador for the Admissions Department. She is an active member of CrossPoint Challenge, contributes to the Dance Club as a board member, and supports fellow students through her role in the Student Success Center.

Key’ahn is a graduate of Junction City High School and is completing the HutchCC Fire Science program. In addition, he serves as a Resident Assistant in the Residence Halls and actively participates in several student organizations, including the Student Firefighter Association, Student Government, and Dance Club.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746016121005.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Hutchinson, Kan. – Two outstanding Hutchinson Community College students were recognized as the 2025 Young Kansan Award winners at a ceremony on campus on April 29. The students will also be honored during the College’s commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 9.Maggy Adolf (Moundridge) and Key’ahn Taylor (Junction City) were selected from a field of students nominated for the honor. The Young Kansan award recognizes two outstanding graduates each year at Hutchinson Community College and is chosen by a vote of the faculty and administration at the college.The award is sponsored by RCB Bank. Each winner received a plaque and a cash honorarium in recognition of their achievements.Maggy is a graduate of Moundridge High School and a proud alumna of the HutchCC Cosmetology program. Currently, she is working toward a degree in Business Management and Entrepreneurship, driven by her ambition to one day open her own salon. Maggy holds the distinction of being a Leadership Scholar and also serves as a Student Ambassador for the Admissions Department. She is an active member of CrossPoint Challenge, contributes to the Dance Club as a board member, and supports fellow students through her role in the Student Success Center.Key’ahn is a graduate of Junction City High School and is completing the HutchCC Fire Science program. In addition, he serves as a Resident Assistant in the Residence Halls and actively participates in several student organizations, including the Student Firefighter Association, Student Government, and Dance Club.

Student award winners are announced

According to Junction City Main Street community members, local leaders, and stakeholders recently gathered for a Design Workshop focused on the future of the Grant Avenue Corridor, one of Junction City's key redevelopment priorities.

The workshop provided attendees with the opportunity to learn about the project, review the results of a prior visioning workshop, and give input on the draft design concept for the corridor. Planning consultants helped guide the discussion and presented early design ideas shaped by public feedback.

The Grant Avenue Corridor has been identified as a high-priority redevelopment area in city planning documents and through the EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant program. This federal initiative supports community revitalization by funding environmental assessments, cleanup efforts, and redevelopment planning for impacted sites.

The project has been made possible through the support and leadership of the Flint Hills Regional Council, which continues to collaborate with Junction City Main Street, the City of Junction City and local stakeholders to reimagine the corridor.

The input gathered during the workshop will play a key role in refining the final design and guiding the next steps in the revitalization process.

For those who were unable to attend the design workshop or related events, the presentation materials and storyboards are available for viewing online. Please visit the following link to explore the concepts and provide additional feedback:

<a href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/08bae703d7bc40d78705db2778e7826f">https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/08bae703d7bc40d78705db2778e7826f</a>.

According to Junction City Main Street community members, local leaders, and stakeholders recently gathered for a Design Workshop focused on the future of the Grant Avenue Corridor, one of Junction City's key redevelopment priorities.The workshop provided attendees with the opportunity to learn about the project, review the results of a prior visioning workshop, and give input on the draft design concept for the corridor. Planning consultants helped guide the discussion and presented early design ideas shaped by public feedback.The Grant Avenue Corridor has been identified as a high-priority redevelopment area in city planning documents and through the EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant program. This federal initiative supports community revitalization by funding environmental assessments, cleanup efforts, and redevelopment planning for impacted sites.The project has been made possible through the support and leadership of the Flint Hills Regional Council, which continues to collaborate with Junction City Main Street, the City of Junction City and local stakeholders to reimagine the corridor.The input gathered during the workshop will play a key role in refining the final design and guiding the next steps in the revitalization process.For those who were unable to attend the design workshop or related events, the presentation materials and storyboards are available for viewing online. Please visit the following link to explore the concepts and provide additional feedback:<a href="https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/08bae703d7bc40d78705db2778e7826f">https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/08bae703d7bc40d78705db2778e7826f</a>.

Community Engaged in Shaping the Future of the Grant Avenue Corridor at Recent Design Workshop

Geary County Commissioners will meet in executive session at two p.m. Wednesday. The agenda published by the County reads Security Measures-Jail Proposal with Justice Planners.

Geary County Commissioners will meet in executive session at two p.m. Wednesday. The agenda published by the County reads Security Measures-Jail Proposal with Justice Planners.

County to meet in executive session

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary USD 475 announced that Junction City High School recently had three seniors qualify for the 2025 SkillsUSA&nbsp;National Competition. Claiming first-place accolades at the SkillsUSA Kansas Championships in Hutchinson were Makayla Smith&nbsp;and Trinity Rodriguez.&nbsp;

Smith advanced to nationals by earning gold in the Job Skills Open competition by demonstrating and presenting on her leather work belt making. Rodriguez heads to nationals after placing first overall and earning gold with her SkillsUSA t-shirt design.

Finally, senior Tristin Ortiz rounded out JCHS' national qualifiers by earning bronze in the Welding Sculpture competition with his bison sculpture. The SkillsUSA&nbsp;National Competition&nbsp;will take place on June 23-27 in Atlanta, Ga.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746014560724.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By Matt Hoover&nbsp;USD 475 Communications CoordinatorJUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary USD 475 announced that Junction City High School recently had three seniors qualify for the 2025 SkillsUSA&nbsp;National Competition. Claiming first-place accolades at the SkillsUSA Kansas Championships in Hutchinson were Makayla Smith&nbsp;and Trinity Rodriguez.&nbsp;Smith advanced to nationals by earning gold in the Job Skills Open competition by demonstrating and presenting on her leather work belt making. Rodriguez heads to nationals after placing first overall and earning gold with her SkillsUSA t-shirt design.Finally, senior Tristin Ortiz rounded out JCHS' national qualifiers by earning bronze in the Welding Sculpture competition with his bison sculpture. The SkillsUSA&nbsp;National Competition&nbsp;will take place on June 23-27 in Atlanta, Ga.

JCHS Qualifies Three for SkillsUSA Nationals  

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Assistant city manager Braxton Copley pleaded with Kansas House members to reject a proposal to end the state’s participation in a tax incentive program shown to be successful in promoting construction or rehabilitation of low-income housing.

Copley, representing the city of Topeka, stood at a microphone in February at the Capitol to address Rep. Sean Tarwater, chairman of the House commerce committee and the sole public proponent of a bill eliminating Kansas’ low-income housing tax credit, or LIHTC, on July 1. Copley wasn’t alone in opposition to the bill. Nearly 40 organizations and individuals offered testimony denouncing details and timing of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2119/" target="_blank">House Bill 2119</a>.

“Simply put, government cannot afford to construct and manage a sufficient amount of housing to meet the needs,” Copley said. “Developers are unable and unwilling to construct low-income housing because the low rents will not allow them to achieve a market rate of return. The LIHTC program leverages tax credits to induce private developers to construct affordable housing by providing them a market rate of return.”

In exchange for state and federal tax credits, the affordability of the incentivized housing units was assured for terms of 15 years or 30 years with covenants placed on the real estate.

Copley said undercutting the state’s approach to LIHTC would exacerbate homelessness in communities throughout Kansas.

Tarwater, a Republican from Stilwell, listened as a string of community activists, investors and bankers expanded on Copley’s thesis.

“I must say there are 39 opponents and I’m the only proponent, evidently,” Tarwater said. “This is not fair. You guys are going to need more people.”

Fast forward two months, and Tarwater pushed across the finish line on the final day of the 2025 legislative session the contents of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2289/" target="_blank">House Bill 2289</a>, which included a modified version of the much-maligned HB 2119. Instead of deleting LIHTC in July, the program would survive, on a shorter financial leash, until 2028.

“This is not exactly what we wanted when we set down this road,” Tarwater said. “We took a page out of Ronald Reagan’s book, and we’re going to take what we can get today and fight for the rest tomorrow.”

Tarwater objected to the ultimate cost of a program adding each year to tax credits that had to be honored by the state. Over a 10-year period, for example, the compounding effect of $25 million annual allocations of LIHTC tax credits could result in a state obligation of $250 million. The figure wouldn’t represent a direct expenditure by the state of Kansas, but would reflect the amount of future tax revenue foregone by the state as investors redeemed credits against their state tax liability.

Last week, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly signed the bundled bill rather than veto the measure and push the issue to the 2026 Legislature.

The new Kansas law set a maximum on the amount of state housing tax credits issued this year at $25 million. In the final three years of LIHTC, only $8.8 million in annual credits would be available from the state for investors in affordable housing.

The law discontinued the state’s LIHTC match for investors receiving the 4% federal low-income housing credit, but retained the state match for developments qualifying for a 9% federal low-income housing credit.

Sen. Stephen Owens, R-Hesston, led negotiations on LIHTC legislation for the Senate. He viewed the final bill as a compromise that resulted in a diminished incentive, but provided a window of opportunity to convince lawmakers it should continue.

“This came to us from the House as a complete elimination of the low-income housing tax program,” he said. “Recognizing that there’s also some value to this program, the Senate’s position was to go back in and reduce it by about 70%.”

The program is managed by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, a self-supporting, nonprofit public corporation tasked with helping Kansans gain access to safe, affordable housing.

Emily Sharp, of the state Housing Resource Corporation, said substantial reduction in annual tax credit awards and deletion of the 4% program would diminish the state’s ability to fill wide gaps in housing. There will be a bigger scramble for the remaining credits, she said.

The 2028 sunset to the LIHTC should be concerning to communities struggling to meet housing demand, she said.

She said a 2021 state housing survey was conducted in collaboration with the governor’s Office of Rural Prosperity. The first Kansas assessment of its kind in 30 years showed an acute shortage. It was estimated the state needed to add at least 3,800 units annually, but was falling far below that level.

The National Low-Income Housing Coalition estimated Kansas had a deficit of 50,000 affordable housing units.

“We need more houses,” Sharp said. “Nationwide we’re seeing a shortage of housing. Kansas is no exception.”

In 2022, the Legislature and governor responded with passage of the affordable housing tax credit act that put in place a d0llar-for-dollar match by the state to the federal low-income housing credit.

The objective was to expand the volume of tax credits available to investors. The credits could be sold to generate revenue for construction of housing. The lower debt assumed by developers meant tenants could be offered below-market rental rates.

The state’s rate of housing development through state or federal investment tripled after implementation of the Kansas reform law three years ago. In 2021, state and federal government resources were associated with construction of 1,028 homes in Kansas. In contrast, 6,500 Kansas homes were funded in 2023 and 2024.

Ryan Vincent, executive director of the state Housing Resources Corporation, said the elimination of the state’s tax credit for housing — currently scheduled for 2028 — would mean that Kansas lagged further behind other states dangling lucrative incentives to attract housing investment.

“Eliminating the KAHTC would send a negative message to current and potential investors, signaling that housing development is a risky prospect in our state,” Vincent said. “Potential partners will avoid investing in an uncertain environment.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746009953371.jpeg" alt="Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Republican from Stilwell, convinced the 2025 Legislature to reduce by two-thirds the amount of state income tax credits available to incentivize construction or rehabilitation of low-income housing statewide. Since 2022, Kansas has used the tax credit to make faster progress on addressing the state's housing shortage and advocates of the credit opposed the cutback touted by Tarwater. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Republican from Stilwell, convinced the 2025 Legislature to reduce by two-thirds the amount of state income tax credits available to incentivize construction or rehabilitation of low-income housing statewide. Since 2022, Kansas has used the tax credit to make faster progress on addressing the state's housing shortage and advocates of the credit opposed the cutback touted by Tarwater. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Assistant city manager Braxton Copley pleaded with Kansas House members to reject a proposal to end the state’s participation in a tax incentive program shown to be successful in promoting construction or rehabilitation of low-income housing.Copley, representing the city of Topeka, stood at a microphone in February at the Capitol to address Rep. Sean Tarwater, chairman of the House commerce committee and the sole public proponent of a bill eliminating Kansas’ low-income housing tax credit, or LIHTC, on July 1. Copley wasn’t alone in opposition to the bill. Nearly 40 organizations and individuals offered testimony denouncing details and timing of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2119/" target="_blank">House Bill 2119</a>.“Simply put, government cannot afford to construct and manage a sufficient amount of housing to meet the needs,” Copley said. “Developers are unable and unwilling to construct low-income housing because the low rents will not allow them to achieve a market rate of return. The LIHTC program leverages tax credits to induce private developers to construct affordable housing by providing them a market rate of return.”In exchange for state and federal tax credits, the affordability of the incentivized housing units was assured for terms of 15 years or 30 years with covenants placed on the real estate.Copley said undercutting the state’s approach to LIHTC would exacerbate homelessness in communities throughout Kansas.Tarwater, a Republican from Stilwell, listened as a string of community activists, investors and bankers expanded on Copley’s thesis.“I must say there are 39 opponents and I’m the only proponent, evidently,” Tarwater said. “This is not fair. You guys are going to need more people.”Fast forward two months, and Tarwater pushed across the finish line on the final day of the 2025 legislative session the contents of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2289/" target="_blank">House Bill 2289</a>, which included a modified version of the much-maligned HB 2119. Instead of deleting LIHTC in July, the program would survive, on a shorter financial leash, until 2028.“This is not exactly what we wanted when we set down this road,” Tarwater said. “We took a page out of Ronald Reagan’s book, and we’re going to take what we can get today and fight for the rest tomorrow.”Tarwater objected to the ultimate cost of a program adding each year to tax credits that had to be honored by the state. Over a 10-year period, for example, the compounding effect of $25 million annual allocations of LIHTC tax credits could result in a state obligation of $250 million. The figure wouldn’t represent a direct expenditure by the state of Kansas, but would reflect the amount of future tax revenue foregone by the state as investors redeemed credits against their state tax liability.Last week, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly signed the bundled bill rather than veto the measure and push the issue to the 2026 Legislature.<h2>Financial haircut</h2>The new Kansas law set a maximum on the amount of state housing tax credits issued this year at $25 million. In the final three years of LIHTC, only $8.8 million in annual credits would be available from the state for investors in affordable housing.The law discontinued the state’s LIHTC match for investors receiving the 4% federal low-income housing credit, but retained the state match for developments qualifying for a 9% federal low-income housing credit.Sen. Stephen Owens, R-Hesston, led negotiations on LIHTC legislation for the Senate. He viewed the final bill as a compromise that resulted in a diminished incentive, but provided a window of opportunity to convince lawmakers it should continue.“This came to us from the House as a complete elimination of the low-income housing tax program,” he said. “Recognizing that there’s also some value to this program, the Senate’s position was to go back in and reduce it by about 70%.”The program is managed by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, a self-supporting, nonprofit public corporation tasked with helping Kansans gain access to safe, affordable housing.Emily Sharp, of the state Housing Resource Corporation, said substantial reduction in annual tax credit awards and deletion of the 4% program would diminish the state’s ability to fill wide gaps in housing. There will be a bigger scramble for the remaining credits, she said.The 2028 sunset to the LIHTC should be concerning to communities struggling to meet housing demand, she said.She said a 2021 state housing survey was conducted in collaboration with the governor’s Office of Rural Prosperity. The first Kansas assessment of its kind in 30 years showed an acute shortage. It was estimated the state needed to add at least 3,800 units annually, but was falling far below that level.The National Low-Income Housing Coalition estimated Kansas had a deficit of 50,000 affordable housing units.“We need more houses,” Sharp said. “Nationwide we’re seeing a shortage of housing. Kansas is no exception.”<h2>Evolution of thought</h2>In 2022, the Legislature and governor responded with passage of the affordable housing tax credit act that put in place a d0llar-for-dollar match by the state to the federal low-income housing credit.The objective was to expand the volume of tax credits available to investors. The credits could be sold to generate revenue for construction of housing. The lower debt assumed by developers meant tenants could be offered below-market rental rates.The state’s rate of housing development through state or federal investment tripled after implementation of the Kansas reform law three years ago. In 2021, state and federal government resources were associated with construction of 1,028 homes in Kansas. In contrast, 6,500 Kansas homes were funded in 2023 and 2024.Ryan Vincent, executive director of the state Housing Resources Corporation, said the elimination of the state’s tax credit for housing — currently scheduled for 2028 — would mean that Kansas lagged further behind other states dangling lucrative incentives to attract housing investment.“Eliminating the KAHTC would send a negative message to current and potential investors, signaling that housing development is a risky prospect in our state,” Vincent said. “Potential partners will avoid investing in an uncertain environment.”

Kansas Legislature steps back from terminating popular affordable housing tax credit program

Alexis Thompson, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 04/28

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/2025/4/1745952902895.jpeg" alt="Lamont Kairson, Criminal threat; Domestic battery, arrested 04/28" />
 <figcaption>Lamont Kairson, Criminal threat; Domestic battery, arrested 04/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745952913606.jpeg" alt="Christian Dominguez, Failure to appear, arrested 04/28" />
 <figcaption>Christian Dominguez, Failure to appear, arrested 04/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745952925150.jpeg" alt="Leonard Caligiuri Jr., DUI-Liquor or drugs, arrested 04/29" />
 <figcaption>Leonard Caligiuri Jr., DUI-Liquor or drugs, arrested 04/29</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Alexis Thompson, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 04/28Recent 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 April 29

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced an upcoming job fair that will be held on a weekend for Kansans seeking new career opportunities. Jobseekers and employers from all industries are encouraged to take part in the Statewide Virtual Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, any time between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday, May 16-18.

“Over a three-day period, companies will be conducting interviews to fill a wide array of positions,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “There are many hard-working Kansans who simply don’t have time to scout out new career options during the week. The Commerce Department is determined to meet jobseekers where they are and provide a chance to explore hundreds of jobs currently available across the state.”

The Virtual Job Fair allows individuals to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

In the job fair portal, participants can find helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.

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

Registration is required to participate in all 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%2Fcd1129b6-1ef2-47dd-9c98-9e7ce9763aab%2Fkansasworks-virtual-job-fair-may-2025/1/0101019682b61a41-d3e2b2ee-636c-4c73-bdb0-6c55f828ef37-000000/cI-CGlytYsgcXBcfdqWTDTnQj1UXwgiubEfxECtdosc=402">here</a>.

Kansas Department of CommerceTOPEKA&nbsp;– Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced an upcoming job fair that will be held on a weekend for Kansans seeking new career opportunities. Jobseekers and employers from all industries are encouraged to take part in the Statewide Virtual Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, any time between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday, May 16-18.“Over a three-day period, companies will be conducting interviews to fill a wide array of positions,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “There are many hard-working Kansans who simply don’t have time to scout out new career options during the week. The Commerce Department is determined to meet jobseekers where they are and provide a chance to explore hundreds of jobs currently available across the state.”The Virtual Job Fair allows individuals to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.In the job fair portal, participants can find helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers might request to engage in a video interview.Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.Registration is required to participate in all 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%2Fcd1129b6-1ef2-47dd-9c98-9e7ce9763aab%2Fkansasworks-virtual-job-fair-may-2025/1/0101019682b61a41-d3e2b2ee-636c-4c73-bdb0-6c55f828ef37-000000/cI-CGlytYsgcXBcfdqWTDTnQj1UXwgiubEfxECtdosc=402">here</a>.

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