USD 475 announced on Monday, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD475?__cft__[0]=AZXiY0yL4r1XP9G8antZWi3yy7c_1xeP5DaW_RtICQYW1AdHL5rKLcZTOuMHWWiHqey5t_TCzjF8SZMApyFVqi4PBpQNuEiX6caOT_lW-FOvO9GHFO9chV8mlRUyF4VH19rWr-RTeGdrh8EwrHTcF5opusqF0p8B7tDnLyFlRoxm-FBWd8WjVeEkV_4WzMmkxdE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Geary USD 475</a> Board of Education and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JunctionCityEA?__cft__[0]=AZXiY0yL4r1XP9G8antZWi3yy7c_1xeP5DaW_RtICQYW1AdHL5rKLcZTOuMHWWiHqey5t_TCzjF8SZMApyFVqi4PBpQNuEiX6caOT_lW-FOvO9GHFO9chV8mlRUyF4VH19rWr-RTeGdrh8EwrHTcF5opusqF0p8B7tDnLyFlRoxm-FBWd8WjVeEkV_4WzMmkxdE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City Education Association</a> exchanged notice letters at<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCMSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZXiY0yL4r1XP9G8antZWi3yy7c_1xeP5DaW_RtICQYW1AdHL5rKLcZTOuMHWWiHqey5t_TCzjF8SZMApyFVqi4PBpQNuEiX6caOT_lW-FOvO9GHFO9chV8mlRUyF4VH19rWr-RTeGdrh8EwrHTcF5opusqF0p8B7tDnLyFlRoxm-FBWd8WjVeEkV_4WzMmkxdE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R"> Junction City Middle School</a>&nbsp;so that the two organizations can begin working on teacher contract negotiations for the 2025-26 school year.

USD 475 announced on Monday, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD475?__cft__[0]=AZXiY0yL4r1XP9G8antZWi3yy7c_1xeP5DaW_RtICQYW1AdHL5rKLcZTOuMHWWiHqey5t_TCzjF8SZMApyFVqi4PBpQNuEiX6caOT_lW-FOvO9GHFO9chV8mlRUyF4VH19rWr-RTeGdrh8EwrHTcF5opusqF0p8B7tDnLyFlRoxm-FBWd8WjVeEkV_4WzMmkxdE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Geary USD 475</a> Board of Education and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JunctionCityEA?__cft__[0]=AZXiY0yL4r1XP9G8antZWi3yy7c_1xeP5DaW_RtICQYW1AdHL5rKLcZTOuMHWWiHqey5t_TCzjF8SZMApyFVqi4PBpQNuEiX6caOT_lW-FOvO9GHFO9chV8mlRUyF4VH19rWr-RTeGdrh8EwrHTcF5opusqF0p8B7tDnLyFlRoxm-FBWd8WjVeEkV_4WzMmkxdE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City Education Association</a> exchanged notice letters at<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JCMSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZXiY0yL4r1XP9G8antZWi3yy7c_1xeP5DaW_RtICQYW1AdHL5rKLcZTOuMHWWiHqey5t_TCzjF8SZMApyFVqi4PBpQNuEiX6caOT_lW-FOvO9GHFO9chV8mlRUyF4VH19rWr-RTeGdrh8EwrHTcF5opusqF0p8B7tDnLyFlRoxm-FBWd8WjVeEkV_4WzMmkxdE&amp;__tn__=-]K-R"> Junction City Middle School</a>&nbsp;so that the two organizations can begin working on teacher contract negotiations for the 2025-26 school year.

Teacher contract negotiations are due to begin

There are not any plans right now to open the Trooper Gate entrance to Fort Riley. That was one recent message from Maj. Gen. Monte Rone to a Military Affairs Breakfast audience in Junction City.

With troop deployments ahead there is a lack of manpower to put at the gate, which is located just north of Junction City. There are also safety concerns associated with the nearby bridge.

With the Trooper Gate entrance closed trafffic is rerouted to the Grant Ave. entrance to Fort Riley.&nbsp;

There are not any plans right now to open the Trooper Gate entrance to Fort Riley. That was one recent message from Maj. Gen. Monte Rone to a Military Affairs Breakfast audience in Junction City.With troop deployments ahead there is a lack of manpower to put at the gate, which is located just north of Junction City. There are also safety concerns associated with the nearby bridge.With the Trooper Gate entrance closed trafffic is rerouted to the Grant Ave. entrance to Fort Riley.&nbsp;

Expect Trooper Gate to remain closed

<a>On Monday, April 7, the Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin bridge repair work on K-82 over Cane Creek, located 1.0 mile east of K-15 in Clay County.</a>

<a>During construction, dependent on where the contractor is actively working, one side of Osage Road will be temporarily closed while traffic on K-82 is reduced to one 12-foot lane in each direction with the shoulders closed.</a>

<a>On Monday, April 7, the Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin bridge repair work on K-82 over Cane Creek, located 1.0 mile east of K-15 in Clay County.</a><a>During construction, dependent on where the contractor is actively working, one side of Osage Road will be temporarily closed while traffic on K-82 is reduced to one 12-foot lane in each direction with the shoulders closed.</a>

K-82 bridge repair to begin April 7 in Clay County

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – The Junction City High School&nbsp;HOSA Chapter had a banner week at the State Leadership Conference in Manhattan as the Blue Jays had six individuals qualify for nationals.&nbsp;

Earning first place honors in their respective divisions and advancing to HOSA's International Leadership Conference, which will take place on June 18-21 in Nashville, Tenn., were Alena Franquiz in Clinical Specialty and Migyelle Ganuelas in Healthy Living, as well as Victoria Kim and Aniela Adjei in Mental Health Promotion. Other top four finishers included Jasmine Palmer and Oliver Lucas who brought home third place accolades in Healthy Living and Home Health Aide, respectively.

JCHS saw seven other individuals or teams place in the top 10 in their respective events, including Ashlynn Brown (Medical Assisting), Oliver Lucas (Medical Terminology), Brooke Barnes (Career Development), Adjei (Research Poster) and Giovanna Morales Vitello (Health Career Photography).&nbsp;

Finally, the teams of Tyree Sprivey and Kacey Clarke, as well as Destiny Harborth and Brooke Barnes, each posted top 10 showings in Emergency Medical Technician to round out the Blue Jays top marks for the week.&nbsp;

Overall, Junction City High School had 30 students attend the leadership conference, which took place on the campus of Kansas State University. During the week, students not only took part in informational sessions, but were also able to sharpen their skills through different skill training sessions.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743446923393.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By Matt HooverUSD 475 Communications CoordinatorJUNCTION CITY, Kan. – The Junction City High School&nbsp;HOSA Chapter had a banner week at the State Leadership Conference in Manhattan as the Blue Jays had six individuals qualify for nationals.&nbsp;Earning first place honors in their respective divisions and advancing to HOSA's International Leadership Conference, which will take place on June 18-21 in Nashville, Tenn., were Alena Franquiz in Clinical Specialty and Migyelle Ganuelas in Healthy Living, as well as Victoria Kim and Aniela Adjei in Mental Health Promotion. Other top four finishers included Jasmine Palmer and Oliver Lucas who brought home third place accolades in Healthy Living and Home Health Aide, respectively.JCHS saw seven other individuals or teams place in the top 10 in their respective events, including Ashlynn Brown (Medical Assisting), Oliver Lucas (Medical Terminology), Brooke Barnes (Career Development), Adjei (Research Poster) and Giovanna Morales Vitello (Health Career Photography).&nbsp;Finally, the teams of Tyree Sprivey and Kacey Clarke, as well as Destiny Harborth and Brooke Barnes, each posted top 10 showings in Emergency Medical Technician to round out the Blue Jays top marks for the week.&nbsp;Overall, Junction City High School had 30 students attend the leadership conference, which took place on the campus of Kansas State University. During the week, students not only took part in informational sessions, but were also able to sharpen their skills through different skill training sessions.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Junction City High School HOSA Shines at State Conference

Live Well Geary County and Junction City Main Street have announced the upcoming farmers market season set to take place downtown the first Thursday and Saturday in May.&nbsp;

Visitors can find a diverse selection of produce, baked goods, honey, jams, handmade crafts and more! SNAP-ebt participants can visit both markets to participate in the various nutrition incentive programs available, making healthy food accessible. In addition to shopping there will be family friendly activities throughout the season. Find the market on social media for the most recent updates.&nbsp;

Geary Community Farmers Market - every Thursday, 4 - 7pm, May through September, 9th &amp; Washington

Main Street Market - every Saturday, 9am - 1pm, May through September, 9th &amp; Washington

By Kale KippMarket ManagerLive Well Geary County and Junction City Main Street have announced the upcoming farmers market season set to take place downtown the first Thursday and Saturday in May.&nbsp;Visitors can find a diverse selection of produce, baked goods, honey, jams, handmade crafts and more! SNAP-ebt participants can visit both markets to participate in the various nutrition incentive programs available, making healthy food accessible. In addition to shopping there will be family friendly activities throughout the season. Find the market on social media for the most recent updates.&nbsp;Geary Community Farmers Market - every Thursday, 4 - 7pm, May through September, 9th &amp; WashingtonMain Street Market - every Saturday, 9am - 1pm, May through September, 9th &amp; Washington

Farmers Market season is almost upon us - Fresh - Local - and Community Focused! 

Geary County Emergency Management provided information from the National Weather Service. Severe storms and strong winds are possible Tuesday. Storms are most likely during the evening and overnight hours.

Geary County Emergency Management provided information from the National Weather Service. Severe storms and strong winds are possible Tuesday. Storms are most likely during the evening and overnight hours.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743435644941.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

Severe weather is possible Tuesday

The cuts could lead to nearly 30,000 jobs lost across Missouri and Kansas health care systems and food suppliers, a new study found.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/meg-cunningham/">MEG CUNNINGHAM</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/03/25/missouri-kansas-medicaid-snap-cuts-2025/">The Beacon</a>

As Congress looks to cut billions of dollars in federal spending over the next decade, states are anxiously awaiting how current proposed cuts to Medicaid and other programs may impact their own budgets and benefits their residents receive.&nbsp;

The Republican-controlled Congress is asking committees to slash their budgets over the next decade by $1.5 trillion and pay for a $4.5 trillion extension of tax cuts endorsed by President Donald Trump in 2017. Those tax cuts largely benefit corporations and wealthy Americans.&nbsp;

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said in an analysis that to cut the amount of spending the Trump administration is requesting,&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/03/03/medicaid-cuts-missouri-mo-healthnet/">cuts to Medicaid</a>&nbsp;and Medicare are inevitable.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/house-budget-resolution-republicans/">Under the plan</a>&nbsp;proposed by the House of Representatives, Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for people whose income and resources are very limited, could be subject to $880 billion in cuts over the next 10 years.&nbsp;

And the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food benefits to low-income families, would see about $230 billion in cuts over the same period.&nbsp;

The plan could result in a $95 billion loss in federal funding for states in 2026 alone, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2025/mar/how-cuts-medicaid-snap-could-trigger-job-loss-state-revenue">new report from the Commonwealth Fund</a>. And as the details are ironed out, the report shows that Missouri and Kansas have plenty on the line when it comes to their federal funding and potential economic slowdown in their states.&nbsp;

Missouri could see a $2 billion reduction in federal funding across Medicaid and SNAP over the next decade, according to the report. 

Kansas, which has not expanded Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act and receives less federal money as a result, stands to lose $485 million in federal funds over the same period.&nbsp;

Researchers at the Commonwealth Fund, a group that studies health care access, also found that the downstream economic effects of potential cuts could mean more than a $2.4 billion hit in Missouri’s gross domestic product in 2026 alone. 

In Kansas, the cuts could amount to $556 million in economic losses through ripple effects such as cuts to jobs in hospitals, pharmacies, grocery stores, agriculture and more.&nbsp;

“If a nurse in a hospital loses her job because of a cutback, then that means she can’t afford to do things like pay her rent or pay her grocery bills,” said Leighton Ku, one of the study’s lead researchers and the director of the Center for Health Policy Research at George Washington University. “So there are repercussions that ripple through the rest of the economy.”&nbsp;

What’s at stake with cuts in Missouri and Kansas

The study found that if $880 billion in federal Medicaid funding were to go away, each state would see an 11.8% reduction in federal spending.&nbsp;

For SNAP, states could see a 20.6% reduction in federal SNAP dollars.&nbsp;

In Missouri, direct health care jobs are estimated to see the biggest losses, with an estimated 11,300 jobs cut as a result of the change in spending. Combined with other potential job loss as a result of Medicaid cuts, nearly 22,000 would be lost.&nbsp;

“The way us economists think about it,” said Timothy McBride, a health economist at Washington University in St. Louis, “is that spending on one side is matched by income on another. So if the federal government cuts $880 billion, that’s $880 billion in revenue to hospitals, doctors and drug companies or managed care companies.”&nbsp;

Another 2,400 Missouri jobs are estimated to be lost as a result of spending changes to the SNAP program.&nbsp;

The report estimates that between cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in Missouri, the end result could mean a $2.4 billion decrease in the state’s GDP and a $175 million reduction in state and local tax revenue.&nbsp;

It’s a different picture in Kansas, where state lawmakers haven’t expanded Medicaid and fewer people are part of the program. The analysis estimates that the state could lose about $485 million in federal funds across cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.&nbsp;

Kansas could lose about 2,700 in direct health care jobs and another 2,900 food industry or other jobs.&nbsp;

“I think of both Kansas and Missouri as being agriculture food production states,” Ku said. “The people who produce food, who process food, who grow food, they’re going to suffer cutbacks to (SNAP).”&nbsp;

Food pantries are seeing threats to their federal funding from multiple directions. But because the federal government pays all of the cost for SNAP and states only match the costs for administering the program, they are worried about what it means for their ability to provide food for those most in need.&nbsp;

“For every one meal that a food bank provides, SNAP provides nine,” said Karen Siebert, the public policy and advocacy adviser at Harvesters in Kansas City. “If these costs were shifted to the states, there’s no way our state budgets on either side of the state line could absorb that.”&nbsp;

“We’re concerned that folks are going to be turning to our charitable food pantries, which do not have resources to absorb those kinds of cuts,” she said.&nbsp;

Impacts may be outsized in rural communities, where more people rely on Medicaid, SNAP &nbsp;

In both Kansas and Missouri, rural counties tend to have a higher reliance on Medicaid or SNAP than other areas of the state.&nbsp;

That means rural areas could feel the pinch from the proposed cuts more than others.&nbsp;

“In the U.S., Medicaid coverage is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, across the whole U.S.,” McBride said. “That does mean the geographic impact will probably be somewhat higher in rural areas versus urban.”&nbsp;

McBride pointed to the financial margins of hospitals, which he said are lower than what most people would expect. In rural communities, margins for hospitals are often zero or negative. If Medicaid dollars were to be reduced, that could put rural hospitals in an even more difficult place, he said.&nbsp;

And for rural grocery stores that participate in SNAP, a reduction in SNAP recipients or spending could paint a bleak picture.&nbsp;

“A lot of grocery stores have really, really high purchasing minimums to even keep going and get a distributor willing to drive their truck to their area to deliver the food,” Siebert said.&nbsp;

“There are so many people who have SNAP benefits in these communities, and if the local grocery store cannot accept those, they may go to other communities where they can use their SNAP dollars,” she said. “And then, they’re going to use their other money there, too, and it takes all of that money out of the community.”&nbsp;

It’s still unclear what components of the House or Senate budget plans may move forward, making it difficult for recipients of the federal funds to plan.&nbsp;

“Depending on how these cuts are made, more people might become uninsured, more people might lose access to health care, more people might become hungry,” Ku said. “In general, if the state has a more sustained loss, and there’s unemployment, this is not going to help the state economies. This is going to hurt the state economies.”&nbsp;

<h2>The cuts could lead to nearly 30,000 jobs lost across Missouri and Kansas health care systems and food suppliers, a new study found.</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743087106525.png" alt="A report found a negative economic impact in Missouri and Kansas if federal spending for Medicaid and SNAP programs were reduced.&nbsp;Photo by Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>A report found a negative economic impact in Missouri and Kansas if federal spending for Medicaid and SNAP programs were reduced.&nbsp;Photo by Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/meg-cunningham/">MEG CUNNINGHAM</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/03/25/missouri-kansas-medicaid-snap-cuts-2025/">The Beacon</a>As Congress looks to cut billions of dollars in federal spending over the next decade, states are anxiously awaiting how current proposed cuts to Medicaid and other programs may impact their own budgets and benefits their residents receive.&nbsp;The Republican-controlled Congress is asking committees to slash their budgets over the next decade by $1.5 trillion and pay for a $4.5 trillion extension of tax cuts endorsed by President Donald Trump in 2017. Those tax cuts largely benefit corporations and wealthy Americans.&nbsp;The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said in an analysis that to cut the amount of spending the Trump administration is requesting,&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/03/03/medicaid-cuts-missouri-mo-healthnet/">cuts to Medicaid</a>&nbsp;and Medicare are inevitable.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/house-budget-resolution-republicans/">Under the plan</a>&nbsp;proposed by the House of Representatives, Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for people whose income and resources are very limited, could be subject to $880 billion in cuts over the next 10 years.&nbsp;And the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food benefits to low-income families, would see about $230 billion in cuts over the same period.&nbsp;The plan could result in a $95 billion loss in federal funding for states in 2026 alone, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2025/mar/how-cuts-medicaid-snap-could-trigger-job-loss-state-revenue">new report from the Commonwealth Fund</a>. And as the details are ironed out, the report shows that Missouri and Kansas have plenty on the line when it comes to their federal funding and potential economic slowdown in their states.&nbsp;Missouri could see a $2 billion reduction in federal funding across Medicaid and SNAP over the next decade, according to the report. Kansas, which has not expanded Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act and receives less federal money as a result, stands to lose $485 million in federal funds over the same period.&nbsp;Researchers at the Commonwealth Fund, a group that studies health care access, also found that the downstream economic effects of potential cuts could mean more than a $2.4 billion hit in Missouri’s gross domestic product in 2026 alone. In Kansas, the cuts could amount to $556 million in economic losses through ripple effects such as cuts to jobs in hospitals, pharmacies, grocery stores, agriculture and more.&nbsp;“If a nurse in a hospital loses her job because of a cutback, then that means she can’t afford to do things like pay her rent or pay her grocery bills,” said Leighton Ku, one of the study’s lead researchers and the director of the Center for Health Policy Research at George Washington University. “So there are repercussions that ripple through the rest of the economy.”&nbsp;<h2>What’s at stake with cuts in Missouri and Kansas</h2>The study found that if $880 billion in federal Medicaid funding were to go away, each state would see an 11.8% reduction in federal spending.&nbsp;For SNAP, states could see a 20.6% reduction in federal SNAP dollars.&nbsp;In Missouri, direct health care jobs are estimated to see the biggest losses, with an estimated 11,300 jobs cut as a result of the change in spending. Combined with other potential job loss as a result of Medicaid cuts, nearly 22,000 would be lost.&nbsp;“The way us economists think about it,” said Timothy McBride, a health economist at Washington University in St. Louis, “is that spending on one side is matched by income on another. So if the federal government cuts $880 billion, that’s $880 billion in revenue to hospitals, doctors and drug companies or managed care companies.”&nbsp;Another 2,400 Missouri jobs are estimated to be lost as a result of spending changes to the SNAP program.&nbsp;The report estimates that between cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in Missouri, the end result could mean a $2.4 billion decrease in the state’s GDP and a $175 million reduction in state and local tax revenue.&nbsp;It’s a different picture in Kansas, where state lawmakers haven’t expanded Medicaid and fewer people are part of the program. The analysis estimates that the state could lose about $485 million in federal funds across cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.&nbsp;Kansas could lose about 2,700 in direct health care jobs and another 2,900 food industry or other jobs.&nbsp;“I think of both Kansas and Missouri as being agriculture food production states,” Ku said. “The people who produce food, who process food, who grow food, they’re going to suffer cutbacks to (SNAP).”&nbsp;Food pantries are seeing threats to their federal funding from multiple directions. But because the federal government pays all of the cost for SNAP and states only match the costs for administering the program, they are worried about what it means for their ability to provide food for those most in need.&nbsp;“For every one meal that a food bank provides, SNAP provides nine,” said Karen Siebert, the public policy and advocacy adviser at Harvesters in Kansas City. “If these costs were shifted to the states, there’s no way our state budgets on either side of the state line could absorb that.”&nbsp;“We’re concerned that folks are going to be turning to our charitable food pantries, which do not have resources to absorb those kinds of cuts,” she said.&nbsp;<h2>Impacts may be outsized in rural communities, where more people rely on Medicaid, SNAP &nbsp;</h2>In both Kansas and Missouri, rural counties tend to have a higher reliance on Medicaid or SNAP than other areas of the state.&nbsp;That means rural areas could feel the pinch from the proposed cuts more than others.&nbsp;“In the U.S., Medicaid coverage is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, across the whole U.S.,” McBride said. “That does mean the geographic impact will probably be somewhat higher in rural areas versus urban.”&nbsp;McBride pointed to the financial margins of hospitals, which he said are lower than what most people would expect. In rural communities, margins for hospitals are often zero or negative. If Medicaid dollars were to be reduced, that could put rural hospitals in an even more difficult place, he said.&nbsp;And for rural grocery stores that participate in SNAP, a reduction in SNAP recipients or spending could paint a bleak picture.&nbsp;“A lot of grocery stores have really, really high purchasing minimums to even keep going and get a distributor willing to drive their truck to their area to deliver the food,” Siebert said.&nbsp;“There are so many people who have SNAP benefits in these communities, and if the local grocery store cannot accept those, they may go to other communities where they can use their SNAP dollars,” she said. “And then, they’re going to use their other money there, too, and it takes all of that money out of the community.”&nbsp;It’s still unclear what components of the House or Senate budget plans may move forward, making it difficult for recipients of the federal funds to plan.&nbsp;“Depending on how these cuts are made, more people might become uninsured, more people might lose access to health care, more people might become hungry,” Ku said. “In general, if the state has a more sustained loss, and there’s unemployment, this is not going to help the state economies. This is going to hurt the state economies.”&nbsp;

Billions at stake in Kansas, Missouri if proposed Medicaid, SNAP cuts move forward

Governor Laura Kelly signed on Friday Senate Bill 166, the Fostering Competitive Career Opportunities Act.

“There are a multitude of factors that go into employment consideration, and a postsecondary degree should not always be the deciding factor,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While this principal has already been implemented for agencies under my jurisdiction, I am pleased to sign this bill to codify this practice.”

Senate Bill 166 ensures that applicants for state jobs can’t be denied solely due to their lack of a postsecondary degree. The provisions of the bill would not apply to any positions for which a postsecondary degree is justifiably necessary. Currently, less than 15% of state employees work in jobs that require a postsecondary degree.

"As Chairman of the Commerce Committee for the past seven years, I’ve heard time and again from businesses and workers alike that experience in the field often outweighs classroom learning, and I know firsthand that I learned far more through work than I ever did earning my MBA,” said Representative for House District 27 Sean Tarwater. “This bill sends a clear message: Kansas values hard work and experience. Countless Kansans chose to build their careers rather than take on debt for a degree, and it’s time we recognize and reward their skills.”

This bill codifies current practice for executive branch agencies, continuing to allow flexibility in determining requirements for applicants for each job posting. Rather than being strictly limited to a postsecondary degree requirement, employers could consider prior direct experience, certifications, courses or specialized training, among other requirements.

“With this commonsense approach, Kansas is no longer tied to outdated requirements to demonstrate work readiness,” said Senator for District 25 Mary Ware. “For decades we’ve experienced ‘degree inflation’ which demands a post-secondary degree whether it’s truly necessary, but now previous work and life experience will be as important as a college degree for thousands of positions in our state’s workforce.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718361342208.png" alt=" Gov. Laura Kelly (file photo)" />
 <figcaption> Gov. Laura Kelly (file photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly signed on Friday Senate Bill 166, the Fostering Competitive Career Opportunities Act.“There are a multitude of factors that go into employment consideration, and a postsecondary degree should not always be the deciding factor,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While this principal has already been implemented for agencies under my jurisdiction, I am pleased to sign this bill to codify this practice.”Senate Bill 166 ensures that applicants for state jobs can’t be denied solely due to their lack of a postsecondary degree. The provisions of the bill would not apply to any positions for which a postsecondary degree is justifiably necessary. Currently, less than 15% of state employees work in jobs that require a postsecondary degree."As Chairman of the Commerce Committee for the past seven years, I’ve heard time and again from businesses and workers alike that experience in the field often outweighs classroom learning, and I know firsthand that I learned far more through work than I ever did earning my MBA,” said Representative for House District 27 Sean Tarwater. “This bill sends a clear message: Kansas values hard work and experience. Countless Kansans chose to build their careers rather than take on debt for a degree, and it’s time we recognize and reward their skills.”This bill codifies current practice for executive branch agencies, continuing to allow flexibility in determining requirements for applicants for each job posting. Rather than being strictly limited to a postsecondary degree requirement, employers could consider prior direct experience, certifications, courses or specialized training, among other requirements.“With this commonsense approach, Kansas is no longer tied to outdated requirements to demonstrate work readiness,” said Senator for District 25 Mary Ware. “For decades we’ve experienced ‘degree inflation’ which demands a post-secondary degree whether it’s truly necessary, but now previous work and life experience will be as important as a college degree for thousands of positions in our state’s workforce.”

Governor Kelly signs bipartisan bill eliminating barriers to state employment

Current and prospective new families at Saint Xavier School can learn about the school on Monday evening. There will be an open house including a dinner of barbecued smoked meats from 5-7 p.m. for a $10 donation.

School Principal Shawn Augustine said that there will be projects and presentations by students. "So they're going to be presenting and having different things on display in their classroom and the hallway. We'll have some music and some things with art."

There will also be a meeting about 6 p.m.for prospective new families in the school library to hold a Q &amp; A for questions. There will also be enrollment packets available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691506336953.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Current and prospective new families at Saint Xavier School can learn about the school on Monday evening. There will be an open house including a dinner of barbecued smoked meats from 5-7 p.m. for a $10 donation.School Principal Shawn Augustine said that there will be projects and presentations by students. "So they're going to be presenting and having different things on display in their classroom and the hallway. We'll have some music and some things with art."There will also be a meeting about 6 p.m.for prospective new families in the school library to hold a Q &amp; A for questions. There will also be enrollment packets available.

Saint Xavier School Open House will be Monday evening

KDOT reports that McDowell Creek bridge over I-70 in Geary County is open to traffic following a bridge replacement project.

Geary County Emergency Management provided the information.

The new bridge opens up a key route for traffic from I-70 in Geary County into Manhattan.

KDOT reports that McDowell Creek bridge over I-70 in Geary County is open to traffic following a bridge replacement project.Geary County Emergency Management provided the information.The new bridge opens up a key route for traffic from I-70 in Geary County into Manhattan.

McDowell Creek bridge opens for motorists

GEARY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Saturday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Ford F150 driven by&nbsp; Justin P. Clark, 21, Spring Hill, was westbound on Interstate 70 one mile west of Kansas 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The pickup rear-ended a 2026 Subaru Forester driven by Thomas A. Little, 43, Idaho Fall, Idaho, who was&nbsp;stopped in traffic in the outside lane due to bottleneck caused by road construction.&nbsp; After impact, both vehicles spun out and came to rest in north ditch.

EMS transported Little to Stomont Vail in Topeka. EMS transported Clark and a passenger Rayce L.&nbsp;Livingston, 22, Olathe, to&nbsp;Stormont Vail - Flint Hills Campus. The KHP did not report seat belt usage details.

Geary County Emergency Management reports that I-70 from Exit 303 westbound was shut down due to a major accident at Exit 301 westbound.&nbsp;Both lanes of traffic have now reopened.

According to Emergency Management Director Garry Berges one person was lifelighted to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka.&nbsp; He also noted that units from Geary County Rural Fire, Junction City Fire, Fort Riley Fire and the Grandview Plaza Fire Department respond to fight the blaze caused by gasoline that spilled on the roadway.

There were two vehicles involved in the accident including a truck and a passenger SUV. The call on the accident came in about 3:40 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743286933933.jpeg" alt="( Geary County Emergency Management )" />
 <figcaption>( Geary County Emergency Management )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey Terrill JC PostGEARY COUNTY —Three people were injured in an accident just after 3:30p.m. Saturday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Ford F150 driven by&nbsp; Justin P. Clark, 21, Spring Hill, was westbound on Interstate 70 one mile west of Kansas 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;The pickup rear-ended a 2026 Subaru Forester driven by Thomas A. Little, 43, Idaho Fall, Idaho, who was&nbsp;stopped in traffic in the outside lane due to bottleneck caused by road construction.&nbsp; After impact, both vehicles spun out and came to rest in north ditch.EMS transported Little to Stomont Vail in Topeka. EMS transported Clark and a passenger Rayce L.&nbsp;Livingston, 22, Olathe, to&nbsp;Stormont Vail - Flint Hills Campus. The KHP did not report seat belt usage details.-----------By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Emergency Management reports that I-70 from Exit 303 westbound was shut down due to a major accident at Exit 301 westbound.&nbsp;Both lanes of traffic have now reopened.According to Emergency Management Director Garry Berges one person was lifelighted to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka.&nbsp; He also noted that units from Geary County Rural Fire, Junction City Fire, Fort Riley Fire and the Grandview Plaza Fire Department respond to fight the blaze caused by gasoline that spilled on the roadway.There were two vehicles involved in the accident including a truck and a passenger SUV. The call on the accident came in about 3:40 p.m.

3 hospitalized after I-70 construction zone crash

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/bek-shackelford">BEK SHACKELFORD-NWANGANGA and ROSE CONLON</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-25/kansas-lawmakers-want-to-loosen-vaccine-requirements-amid-a-measles-outbreak-in-the-state">Kansas News Service</a>

At least 23 Kansans have tested positive for measles. Health officials urge full vaccination against the disease.

An outbreak of measles in southwest Kansas continues to grow.&nbsp;<a href="https://kshealthdata.kdhe.ks.gov/t/KDHE/views/InfectiousDiseaseCaseDashboard/DiseaseCharts?%3Aembed=y&amp;%3AisGuestRedirectFromVizportal=y" target="_blank">State health data shows</a>&nbsp;23 people in six counties have tested positive for measles since the start of this year. Data released on Wednesday showed the number of cases and counties affected by the spread have doubled.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1483" target="_blank">reported a measles case in Stevens County March 13</a>, stating it was the first measles case in Kansas since 2018. But the state’s measles dashboard also shows two cases, one in January and one in February. A state health department spokesperson said those cases were “retrospectively identified” and part of the current outbreak. The eight other cases were recorded this month.

Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said during a health conference in Wichita that state officials are closely monitoring the outbreak and are ensuring infected people are isolated. She also urged Kansans to get vaccinated.

“They are safe and effective,” Kelly said. “I have two kids. They were both vaccinated. They are alive and well.”

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html" target="_blank">The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classify a measles outbreak</a>&nbsp;as three or more cases linked to each other. This makes Kansas one of the most recent states with a measles outbreak.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/measles-outbreak-2025" target="_blank">Texas has the largest outbreak</a>, with more than 300 cases of the measles. Health experts say the disease can lead to serious complications, hospitalization or death.

The CDC has confirmed one death amid the outbreak in Texas. In New Mexico, health officials are investigating the cause of death for a person who tested positive for measles.

The ongoing spread of the illness in Kansas comes as state lawmakers in Topeka are considering a bill that includes loosening vaccine requirements in child care regulations.

The bill is aimed at reducing specific fees and training requirements for early child care facilities. But a provision expands religious exemptions for vaccines that are required for child care programs. The Kansas House recently approved the bill with bipartisan support.

Kansas vaccine advocates argue the requirement changes could reduce vaccine rates amid a growing public health issue.

“The more unvaccinated children you have in a setting, the more likely it is that measles or whatever will go through the population,” said Rabbi Moti Rieber, executive director for Kansas Interfaith Action.

Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious infection caused by a virus. It spreads through the air.

Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection and prevention at the University of Kansas Health System, said the illness can linger in the air for up to two hours. He said he expects to see the number of cases in Kansas rise because of how easy measles spreads.

“With the decrease in overall vaccine rates, I think we have to expect there to be more cases,” he said, “Just because the less people vaccinated means more people that are susceptible to the disease.”

Hawkinson said measles can potentially cause severe health problems, like pneumonia. In rare cases, it can lead to brain damage and deafness. He said one in five people who contract measles are hospitalized and it can be deadly.

“This can be a very devastating disease,” Hawinkson said. “It is unfortunate because we know we have the best proactive safety measure, and that is the vaccine.”

State health officials say nine of the 10 Kansans who tested positive for measles were unvaccinated, and one was under vaccinated.

Hawkinson said measles symptoms typically start like a common cold. An infected person may have a fever, sore throat, runny nose and mild cough. About two to three days later, the person may develop white&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/measles/symptoms-causes/syc-20374857" target="_blank">spots in their mouth, known as Koplik spots</a>. About three to five days later, the person will develop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/photos.html" target="_blank">a red, splotchy rash</a>, which Hawksinson said usually starts on a person’s head and face and then spreads downward.

<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/measles-keeping-family-safe.html" target="_blank">Experts say if you suspect you or your child has measles</a>, it’s best for them to stay home away from other people. Hawkinson said it’s also important to call ahead before bringing someone with a possible infection to the doctor, emergency room or urgent care.

“It is really best to call ahead so that they can take those preparations into account, so that they can protect other people in those areas,” he said.

The state health department website has more information about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1501/Measles-Rubeola#:~:text=Providers%20%26%20LHD%20Resources%20Table%20Section,not%20wait%20for%20test%20results." target="_blank">measles and what to watch for.</a>

Hawkinson encourages full vaccination against measles as the best way to avoid contracting the illness.

“We have a vaccine that has been used for five to six decades,” Hawkinson said. “It has a great history of safety. It has a great history of effectiveness at preventing disease and especially the complications of disease.”

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fvpd%2Fmmr%2Fpublic%2Findex.html" target="_blank">There are two types of vaccines for measles</a>: MMR and MMRV. Children need two doses of either vaccine to be fully protected against measles. The first dose should be administered when a child is between 12 and 15 months old and the second should be when a child is between four and six years old. However, the MMVR second dose can be administered as early as 3 months after the first dose.

Hawkinson said now is a good time to check you and your family’s vaccination status. He said unvaccinated children and adults or people who didn’t receive both doses of the vaccine should consider getting them now.

For the public to be safe from the measles, about 95% of the community needs to be vaccinated against the disease,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html#:~:text=Why%20is%20there%20more%20measles,returning%20to%20the%20United%20States." target="_blank">the CDC says</a>. About 90% of Kansans are vaccinated for measles.

In recent years, state lawmakers have challenged vaccine requirements in the state.

The Kansas House recently approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2294/?link_id=1&amp;can_id=ddf8202ea341214def057893c988d994&amp;source=email-action-alert-tell-your-house-member-to-protect-the-kansas-supreme-court&amp;email_referrer=email_2662630&amp;email_subject=action-alert-on-childhood-immunizations&amp;&amp;" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing or eliminating fees and training requirements for child care facilities. That bill includes a provision that adds moral and ethical opposition to the definition of religious exemptions for vaccines that children are required to get before attending child care programs.

Rieber said the change is reckless. He said most major religions approve of vaccines.

“In anti-vax sentiment, sometimes it’s called 'religious' but actually, it is more about people’s fears,” Rieber said. “There’s not really a religious basis for it.”

Rieber said changing the definition of religious exemption for vaccine requirements at childcare facilities could also open the door to changes for K-12 public schools, which require several other vaccines for children.

Rieber said he supports expanding access to affordable child care in Kansas, but the amendment could harm vaccinated and unvaccinated kids.

“The biggest issue is the potential for this to be a precedent that would then take away the ability of the school or the facility to actually protect their children by not allowing unvaccinated children to be in the setting,” he said.

Lawmakers on the House floor did not discuss the details of the bill or the reasons to include the vaccine exemption changes before voting to approve it. The bill is now in the Senate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743085628490.png" alt="A rash caused by the measles on a child's face. Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention" />
 <figcaption>A rash caused by the measles on a child's face. Photo by Tatiana Lanzieri/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/bek-shackelford">BEK SHACKELFORD-NWANGANGA and ROSE CONLON</a> <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2025-03-25/kansas-lawmakers-want-to-loosen-vaccine-requirements-amid-a-measles-outbreak-in-the-state">Kansas News Service</a><h2>At least 23 Kansans have tested positive for measles. Health officials urge full vaccination against the disease.</h2>An outbreak of measles in southwest Kansas continues to grow.&nbsp;<a href="https://kshealthdata.kdhe.ks.gov/t/KDHE/views/InfectiousDiseaseCaseDashboard/DiseaseCharts?%3Aembed=y&amp;%3AisGuestRedirectFromVizportal=y" target="_blank">State health data shows</a>&nbsp;23 people in six counties have tested positive for measles since the start of this year. Data released on Wednesday showed the number of cases and counties affected by the spread have doubled.The Kansas Department of Health and Environment first&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1483" target="_blank">reported a measles case in Stevens County March 13</a>, stating it was the first measles case in Kansas since 2018. But the state’s measles dashboard also shows two cases, one in January and one in February. A state health department spokesperson said those cases were “retrospectively identified” and part of the current outbreak. The eight other cases were recorded this month.Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said during a health conference in Wichita that state officials are closely monitoring the outbreak and are ensuring infected people are isolated. She also urged Kansans to get vaccinated.“They are safe and effective,” Kelly said. “I have two kids. They were both vaccinated. They are alive and well.”<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html" target="_blank">The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classify a measles outbreak</a>&nbsp;as three or more cases linked to each other. This makes Kansas one of the most recent states with a measles outbreak.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/measles-outbreak-2025" target="_blank">Texas has the largest outbreak</a>, with more than 300 cases of the measles. Health experts say the disease can lead to serious complications, hospitalization or death.The CDC has confirmed one death amid the outbreak in Texas. In New Mexico, health officials are investigating the cause of death for a person who tested positive for measles.The ongoing spread of the illness in Kansas comes as state lawmakers in Topeka are considering a bill that includes loosening vaccine requirements in child care regulations.The bill is aimed at reducing specific fees and training requirements for early child care facilities. But a provision expands religious exemptions for vaccines that are required for child care programs. The Kansas House recently approved the bill with bipartisan support.Kansas vaccine advocates argue the requirement changes could reduce vaccine rates amid a growing public health issue.“The more unvaccinated children you have in a setting, the more likely it is that measles or whatever will go through the population,” said Rabbi Moti Rieber, executive director for Kansas Interfaith Action.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743085804155.png" alt="A photo of measles, mumps and rubella vaccines.&nbsp;Photo by Celia Llopis Jepsen/Kansas News Service.png" />
 <figcaption>A photo of measles, mumps and rubella vaccines.&nbsp;Photo by Celia Llopis Jepsen/Kansas News Service.png</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>What is measles?&nbsp;</h2>Measles, also known as rubeola, is a highly contagious infection caused by a virus. It spreads through the air.Dr. Dana Hawkinson, medical director of infection and prevention at the University of Kansas Health System, said the illness can linger in the air for up to two hours. He said he expects to see the number of cases in Kansas rise because of how easy measles spreads.“With the decrease in overall vaccine rates, I think we have to expect there to be more cases,” he said, “Just because the less people vaccinated means more people that are susceptible to the disease.”Hawkinson said measles can potentially cause severe health problems, like pneumonia. In rare cases, it can lead to brain damage and deafness. He said one in five people who contract measles are hospitalized and it can be deadly.“This can be a very devastating disease,” Hawinkson said. “It is unfortunate because we know we have the best proactive safety measure, and that is the vaccine.”State health officials say nine of the 10 Kansans who tested positive for measles were unvaccinated, and one was under vaccinated.<h2>Symptoms</h2>Hawkinson said measles symptoms typically start like a common cold. An infected person may have a fever, sore throat, runny nose and mild cough. About two to three days later, the person may develop white&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/measles/symptoms-causes/syc-20374857" target="_blank">spots in their mouth, known as Koplik spots</a>. About three to five days later, the person will develop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/photos.html" target="_blank">a red, splotchy rash</a>, which Hawksinson said usually starts on a person’s head and face and then spreads downward.<a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/measles-keeping-family-safe.html" target="_blank">Experts say if you suspect you or your child has measles</a>, it’s best for them to stay home away from other people. Hawkinson said it’s also important to call ahead before bringing someone with a possible infection to the doctor, emergency room or urgent care.“It is really best to call ahead so that they can take those preparations into account, so that they can protect other people in those areas,” he said.The state health department website has more information about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/1501/Measles-Rubeola#:~:text=Providers%20%26%20LHD%20Resources%20Table%20Section,not%20wait%20for%20test%20results." target="_blank">measles and what to watch for.</a><h2>Measles prevention</h2>Hawkinson encourages full vaccination against measles as the best way to avoid contracting the illness.“We have a vaccine that has been used for five to six decades,” Hawkinson said. “It has a great history of safety. It has a great history of effectiveness at preventing disease and especially the complications of disease.”<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/index.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fvpd%2Fmmr%2Fpublic%2Findex.html" target="_blank">There are two types of vaccines for measles</a>: MMR and MMRV. Children need two doses of either vaccine to be fully protected against measles. The first dose should be administered when a child is between 12 and 15 months old and the second should be when a child is between four and six years old. However, the MMVR second dose can be administered as early as 3 months after the first dose.Hawkinson said now is a good time to check you and your family’s vaccination status. He said unvaccinated children and adults or people who didn’t receive both doses of the vaccine should consider getting them now.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743086270322.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Vaccine rates and recent legislation</h2>For the public to be safe from the measles, about 95% of the community needs to be vaccinated against the disease,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html#:~:text=Why%20is%20there%20more%20measles,returning%20to%20the%20United%20States." target="_blank">the CDC says</a>. About 90% of Kansans are vaccinated for measles.In recent years, state lawmakers have challenged vaccine requirements in the state.The Kansas House recently approved a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2294/?link_id=1&amp;can_id=ddf8202ea341214def057893c988d994&amp;source=email-action-alert-tell-your-house-member-to-protect-the-kansas-supreme-court&amp;email_referrer=email_2662630&amp;email_subject=action-alert-on-childhood-immunizations&amp;&amp;" target="_blank">bill</a>&nbsp;aimed at reducing or eliminating fees and training requirements for child care facilities. That bill includes a provision that adds moral and ethical opposition to the definition of religious exemptions for vaccines that children are required to get before attending child care programs.Rieber said the change is reckless. He said most major religions approve of vaccines.“In anti-vax sentiment, sometimes it’s called 'religious' but actually, it is more about people’s fears,” Rieber said. “There’s not really a religious basis for it.”Rieber said changing the definition of religious exemption for vaccine requirements at childcare facilities could also open the door to changes for K-12 public schools, which require several other vaccines for children.Rieber said he supports expanding access to affordable child care in Kansas, but the amendment could harm vaccinated and unvaccinated kids.“The biggest issue is the potential for this to be a precedent that would then take away the ability of the school or the facility to actually protect their children by not allowing unvaccinated children to be in the setting,” he said.Lawmakers on the House floor did not discuss the details of the bill or the reasons to include the vaccine exemption changes before voting to approve it. The bill is now in the Senate.

Kansas lawmakers want to loosen vaccine requirements amid measles outbreak in the state

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information (LMI) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in February. This is unchanged from 3.8% in January and an increase from 3.2% in February 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas decreased to 67.2% in February, according to a media release from the KDOL.

The unemployment rate in Riley County is up slightly from 3.2 percent in January to 3.6 percent in February.&nbsp; The rate in Geary County is up from 4.7 to 4.8 percent.&nbsp; The rate is also up from 3.7 to 3.9 percent in Dickinson County.&nbsp;Wabaunsee County saw the jobless rate fall from 4.5 in January to 4.2 percent.&nbsp;

Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,100 from January. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 500 over the month, while government increased by 1,600. The largest job gains in the private sector were in construction (+700 jobs) and professional and business services (+500 jobs). The largest decrease was in trade, transportation and utilities (-800 jobs).

Since February 2024 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 3,800. This change is due to a decrease of 100 private sector jobs and an increase of 3,900 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743170617129.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information (LMI) division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.8% in February. This is unchanged from 3.8% in January and an increase from 3.2% in February 2024. The labor force participation rate for Kansas decreased to 67.2% in February, according to a media release from the KDOL.The unemployment rate in Riley County is up slightly from 3.2 percent in January to 3.6 percent in February.&nbsp; The rate in Geary County is up from 4.7 to 4.8 percent.&nbsp; The rate is also up from 3.7 to 3.9 percent in Dickinson County.&nbsp;Wabaunsee County saw the jobless rate fall from 4.5 in January to 4.2 percent.&nbsp;Seasonally adjusted job estimates for Kansas indicate total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 1,100 from January. Total nonfarm includes private sector and government employers. Private sector jobs decreased by 500 over the month, while government increased by 1,600. The largest job gains in the private sector were in construction (+700 jobs) and professional and business services (+500 jobs). The largest decrease was in trade, transportation and utilities (-800 jobs).Since February 2024 Kansas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 3,800. This change is due to a decrease of 100 private sector jobs and an increase of 3,900 government jobs.

Jobless rate up slightly in Geary County

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Friday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Kenworth semi driven by Cory L.&nbsp;Halling, 45, St. John, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of&nbsp;Snokomo Road.&nbsp; A large rock struck the windshield of the truck.

EMS transported&nbsp;Halling to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of a serious injury. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details.

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Friday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Kenworth semi driven by Cory L.&nbsp;Halling, 45, St. John, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of&nbsp;Snokomo Road.&nbsp; A large rock struck the windshield of the truck.EMS transported&nbsp;Halling to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of a serious injury. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details.

Kan. man injured after large rock strikes windshield of semi

K-State Research and Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan. — If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure your new landscape has its best chance of success.

Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini shares the following 10 rules for planting trees:

To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. For example, there are a number of crabapple varieties that are resistant to apple scab and rust diseases. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room. Your local extension office and garden center can make tree recommendations for your region.

Keep the tree well watered and in a shady location until planting.

When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.

Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.

If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.

Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.

The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.

Remove all containers from the root ball.

Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.

Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.

Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened - no clods or clumps. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.

Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.

Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.

Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.

Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.

Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/horticulture-resource-center/horticulture-newsletter/">weekly Horticulture Newsletter</a>&nbsp;with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens.

Interested persons can subscribe to the newsletter, as well as send their garden and yard-related questions to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hortsupport@ksu.edu">hortsupport@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations/">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743220686637.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension news serviceMANHATTAN, Kan. — If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure your new landscape has its best chance of success.Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini shares the following 10 rules for planting trees:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743220625781.png" alt="Trees in a row.png" />
 <figcaption>Trees in a row.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Select the right tree for the site.To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. For example, there are a number of crabapple varieties that are resistant to apple scab and rust diseases. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room. Your local extension office and garden center can make tree recommendations for your region.Keep the tree well watered and in a shady location until planting.When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.<h2>Dig a proper hole.</h2>Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.<h2>Remove all containers from the root ball.</h2>Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.<h2>Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.</h2>Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened - no clods or clumps. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.<h2>Minimize pruning after planting.</h2>Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.<h2>Water the tree thoroughly.</h2>Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.<h2>Mulch around the tree.</h2>Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.<h2>Stake only when necessary.</h2>Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/horticulture-resource-center/horticulture-newsletter/">weekly Horticulture Newsletter</a>&nbsp;with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens.Interested persons can subscribe to the newsletter, as well as send their garden and yard-related questions to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hortsupport@ksu.edu">hortsupport@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations/">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

Ten rules for planting trees this spring

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has announced that Arthur Potter has filed for election to a seat on the Grandview Plaza City Council. He is an incumbent candidate. Two seats on the council are up for election.

Separately from the council seats, Rick Geike and Marvin T. Edison have both filed for election to mayor in Grandview Plaza.

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has announced that Arthur Potter has filed for election to a seat on the Grandview Plaza City Council. He is an incumbent candidate. Two seats on the council are up for election.Separately from the council seats, Rick Geike and Marvin T. Edison have both filed for election to mayor in Grandview Plaza.The filing deadline is noon on June 2.

Election filing is confirmed

On Saturday, April 5, Junction City High School will host its annual Cars and Careers Showcase from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

The event will be at the High School in the Event Center Parking Lot at 1100 Blue Jay Way. Registration for the car show is 8:00-11:00 a.m that morning. Registration can be paid ahead of time online for $16 or in person at the gate for $20. You can register online by visiting their website <a href="https://jchs.usd475.org/departments/career-technical-education/car-show">here.</a> All proceeds will support the Junction City High School Career and Technical student organizations.

Several Awards for the event will be presented at 2:30 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743193924856.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, April 5, Junction City High School will host its annual Cars and Careers Showcase from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event will be at the High School in the Event Center Parking Lot at 1100 Blue Jay Way. Registration for the car show is 8:00-11:00 a.m that morning. Registration can be paid ahead of time online for $16 or in person at the gate for $20. You can register online by visiting their website <a href="https://jchs.usd475.org/departments/career-technical-education/car-show">here.</a> All proceeds will support the Junction City High School Career and Technical student organizations. Several Awards for the event will be presented at 2:30 p.m.

JCHS to host Cars and Careers Show on Saturday, April 5th

The Geary County Senior Center announced they will be hosting a Community Health Fair on Wednesday, April 2. The Health Fair will be from 1:00-3:00 p.m., at the Senior Center located at 1025 S. Spring Valley Rd in Junction City.&nbsp;

The event is free and open to the public. The health fair will feature free health screenings, several different local health vendors, and door prizes.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743180300670.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Geary County Senior Center announced they will be hosting a Community Health Fair on Wednesday, April 2. The Health Fair will be from 1:00-3:00 p.m., at the Senior Center located at 1025 S. Spring Valley Rd in Junction City.&nbsp;The event is free and open to the public. The health fair will feature free health screenings, several different local health vendors, and door prizes.&nbsp;

Geary County Senior Center will host Community Health Fair on April 2nd 

U-STOP &amp; Quality Play for All Fuel a Brighter Future for Junction City Children

Junction City, KS&nbsp;– This spring, your weekly fuel-up can help build something truly meaningful.&nbsp;U-STOP Convenience Stores&nbsp;in Junction City are partnering with local nonprofit&nbsp;“Quality Play for All”&nbsp;to bring&nbsp;inclusive, safe, and fun play spaces&nbsp;to parks across the community.

Through the&nbsp;"U-STOP KICKS IT BACK TO THE COMMUNITY"&nbsp;initiative, U-STOP will&nbsp;donate 2¢ for every gallon of gas sold on Tuesdays during April and May&nbsp;to support inclusive play development in Junction City parks. The more you pump, the more you give back!

Every gallon fuels more than your tank—it fuels joy, access, and community connection for local families.

Beginning&nbsp;Tuesday, April 1st, and continuing&nbsp;every Tuesday through May, residents are invited to&nbsp;fill up at any of the five U-STOP locations&nbsp;in Junction City to help support this impactful cause:

This partnership is part of U-STOP’s long-standing tradition of giving back.

“With one stop and fill-up at U-STOP, you can make an unstoppable difference,” said&nbsp;Angie&nbsp;Greenwood&nbsp;for Quality Play for All. “Together, we’re building more than playgrounds—we’re building a stronger, more inclusive Junction City.”

Angie Greenwood and Kendall Schoenrock - Quality Play for All&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.playjc.org/parks">www.playjc.org/parks</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743179488245.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Quality Play For All News Release--U-STOP &amp; Quality Play for All Fuel a Brighter Future for Junction City ChildrenJunction City, KS&nbsp;– This spring, your weekly fuel-up can help build something truly meaningful.&nbsp;U-STOP Convenience Stores&nbsp;in Junction City are partnering with local nonprofit&nbsp;“Quality Play for All”&nbsp;to bring&nbsp;inclusive, safe, and fun play spaces&nbsp;to parks across the community.Through the&nbsp;"U-STOP KICKS IT BACK TO THE COMMUNITY"&nbsp;initiative, U-STOP will&nbsp;donate 2¢ for every gallon of gas sold on Tuesdays during April and May&nbsp;to support inclusive play development in Junction City parks. The more you pump, the more you give back!Every gallon fuels more than your tank—it fuels joy, access, and community connection for local families.Beginning&nbsp;Tuesday, April 1st, and continuing&nbsp;every Tuesday through May, residents are invited to&nbsp;fill up at any of the five U-STOP locations&nbsp;in Junction City to help support this impactful cause:<ul>
 <li>340 West 6th Street</li><li>740 West 6th Street</li><li>1808 North Washington</li><li>1121 South Washington</li><li>821 West Chestnut at I-70 Exit</li>
 </ul>This partnership is part of U-STOP’s long-standing tradition of giving back.“With one stop and fill-up at U-STOP, you can make an unstoppable difference,” said&nbsp;Angie&nbsp;Greenwood&nbsp;for Quality Play for All. “Together, we’re building more than playgrounds—we’re building a stronger, more inclusive Junction City.”Angie Greenwood and Kendall Schoenrock - Quality Play for All&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.playjc.org/parks">www.playjc.org/parks</a>

Quality Play for All announces partnership with U-STOP Convenience Stores 

The National Weather Service said severe storms are possible Saturday afternoon and evening in the region. Large hail and damaging wind gusts will be the main hazards, with a low potential for a tornado.

The National Weather Service said severe storms are possible Saturday afternoon and evening in the region. Large hail and damaging wind gusts will be the main hazards, with a low potential for a tornado.

Storms are possible on Saturday

Thursday, April 10 Geary USD 475 announced that they will be hosting a Special Education Parent and Guardian Night at Junction City Middle School. The session, which will run from 5:15 p.m. through 6:30 p.m., will explore basic premises of Special Education in Kansas and the support systems already available to all students.

Thursday, April 10 Geary USD 475 announced that they will be hosting a Special Education Parent and Guardian Night at Junction City Middle School. The session, which will run from 5:15 p.m. through 6:30 p.m., will explore basic premises of Special Education in Kansas and the support systems already available to all students.

Special Education Parent and Guardian Night

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.

Keaton Segebart, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 03/27

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/2025/3/1743169762232.jpeg" alt="Korina Lafitte, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 03/27" />
 <figcaption>Korina Lafitte, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 03/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743169775864.jpeg" alt="Timothy Avery, Outside warrant, arrested 03/27" />
 <figcaption>Timothy Avery, Outside warrant, arrested 03/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743169785736.jpeg" alt="Makayla Richard, Interference with Law Enforcement; Prohibiting drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana; Failure to appear, arrested 03/28" />
 <figcaption>Makayla Richard, Interference with Law Enforcement; Prohibiting drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana; Failure to appear, arrested 03/28</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Keaton Segebart, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 03/27Recent 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 28

At the Hampton Inn on March 26, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club members had guests Judy Sanner and Renee Schmedemann share their stories about growing up in a German culture. Even though the two had not met prior to the meeting there were many common experiences they told.

Both of their mothers were born and reared in Germany. Each married a U.S. Army soldiers. Celebrations of American holidays were “big deals” in both households. German was spoken in each of their homes.

However, Judy admitted to being “stubborn and did not want to be different from her English-speaking friends. When mom spoke to me in German, I would not answer back in German.” Her ability to speak German in sentences is limited.

Renee stated that she learned the language and continues to speak it with her brother, other family members and friends. Since both of their mothers came from different parts of Germany, each had a different dialect.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743120520371.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Renee Schmedemann;&nbsp;Nita&nbsp;Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President and Judy Sanner" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Renee Schmedemann;&nbsp;Nita&nbsp;Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President and Judy Sanner</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast Optimists ClubAt the Hampton Inn on March 26, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club members had guests Judy Sanner and Renee Schmedemann share their stories about growing up in a German culture. Even though the two had not met prior to the meeting there were many common experiences they told.Both of their mothers were born and reared in Germany. Each married a U.S. Army soldiers. Celebrations of American holidays were “big deals” in both households. German was spoken in each of their homes.However, Judy admitted to being “stubborn and did not want to be different from her English-speaking friends. When mom spoke to me in German, I would not answer back in German.” Her ability to speak German in sentences is limited.Renee stated that she learned the language and continues to speak it with her brother, other family members and friends. Since both of their mothers came from different parts of Germany, each had a different dialect.Judy shared that this is true with students in her English Learners classes at Junction City High School “who speak Spanish, but students from different countries and/or locations within a country have a different dialect and, in some cases, cannot understand each other.”Renee worked as an OMS Assistant at Fort Riley and recently retired from her work. She said “Some of my Spanish speaking co-workers wanted to learn German words and we exchanged. I would teach them a German word and they would teach me the Spanish equivalent.”Renee told club members that she still prepares German meals she was taught by her mother. Some of the dishes include kartoffelknodel, which are potato balls or dumplings; streusel kuchen, a coffee cake; jager sauce, which is the sauce to pour onto schnitzel for example; schnitzel is made with veal or pork tenderloin; spatzle or egg noodles and rouladen made with thinly sliced beef. She said that her husband, “Marty, is the baker in the family. He bakes the brotchen, which are like Kaiser rolls, to go with some of our meals.”Both agreed that the diversity of cultures in Junction City is what attracted their parents to live here. “This is a welcoming community” and both are glad they chose to live here.