There has been a blank petition filed to recall Jeff Underhill from office as a Junction City Commissioner.

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert said that the blank petition states the grounds for recall and is being provided to the County Attorney, Krista Blaisdell to determine if the grounds are valid and align with legal statute. The grounds alleged on the petition include misconduct while in office, revoking of insurance license due to fraud and deception.&nbsp;The County Attorney has five business days to make that determination.

&nbsp; If the grounds are deemed appropriate, the Recall Committee can then start to circulate the petition to gather signatures. The Recall Committee includes Stephen Capizzi, Samuel Arias and Tom Remily.

The committee needs 390 valid signatures of registered voters who reside within Junction City limits. They have 90 days to return the petition to the Election Office. That Office then has 30 days to validate the signatures.&nbsp;

If the petition is valid, a special election would be held with one question on the ballot. "Do you want to recall Jeff Underhill from the office of Junction City Commissioner" select yes or no.

Underhill was recently elected by his fellow commissioners to serve as the mayor of Junction City for the coming year. He has not yet&nbsp; commented on the recall petition development.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere has been a blank petition filed to recall Jeff Underhill from office as a Junction City Commissioner.Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert said that the blank petition states the grounds for recall and is being provided to the County Attorney, Krista Blaisdell to determine if the grounds are valid and align with legal statute. The grounds alleged on the petition include misconduct while in office, revoking of insurance license due to fraud and deception.&nbsp;The County Attorney has five business days to make that determination.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738342307378.jpeg" alt="Jeff Underhill ( City of Junction City )" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Underhill ( City of Junction City )</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; If the grounds are deemed appropriate, the Recall Committee can then start to circulate the petition to gather signatures. The Recall Committee includes Stephen Capizzi, Samuel Arias and Tom Remily.The committee needs 390 valid signatures of registered voters who reside within Junction City limits. They have 90 days to return the petition to the Election Office. That Office then has 30 days to validate the signatures.&nbsp;If the petition is valid, a special election would be held with one question on the ballot. "Do you want to recall Jeff Underhill from the office of Junction City Commissioner" select yes or no.Underhill was recently elected by his fellow commissioners to serve as the mayor of Junction City for the coming year. He has not yet&nbsp; commented on the recall petition development.

A recall petition has been filed in Junction City

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with an investigation at a CBD business in Manhattan.

On Thursday, the Riley County Police Department executed a search warrant at CBD American Shaman, in the 700 block of N. 11th Street in Manhattan, according to a media release. The warrant was issued as part of an ongoing investigation into the distribution of products containing THC levels exceeding the legal limit under the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act.

Just after 10a.m. police arrested Donald Ince, 46, of Manhattan, on requested charges that include of three counts of distribution of marijuana (less than 25 grams) and one count of failure to appear. His total bond was set at $15,060. He is no longer in custody.

Understanding the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act

In recent months, RCPD has encountered numerous cases where individuals were cited for possession of marijuana after purchasing what they believed to be legal CBD products from local businesses, including CBD American Shaman. Many of these individuals expressed confusion, as they believed the products they purchased were legal under Kansas law. To clarify, the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act (K.S.A. 2-3901) defines industrial hemp as any part of the cannabis plant containing a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of no more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis. Any product derived from industrial hemp must also adhere to this 0.3% THC limit. Products exceeding this threshold are classified as marijuana under Kansas law and are considered a controlled substance, making their distribution and possession illegal.

1. THC Limits Matter: Any product containing more than 0.3% THC is considered marijuana under Kansas law, regardless of where it is purchased.

2. Know the Source: Consumers should ensure that the CBD products they purchase are compliant with Kansas law and contain no more than 0.3% THC.

3. Business Responsibility: Businesses selling CBD or hemp products must verify that their products meet the legal THC threshold. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges and harm to consumers who may unknowingly purchase illegal substances. RCPD encourages all businesses to thoroughly review the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act and ensure compliance with state laws.

4. Certain Products Are Explicitly Prohibited: K.S.A. 2-3908 outlines six (6) hemp products that are explicitly prohibited from being manufactured, marketed, sold, or distributed in Kansas. These include cigarettes, cigars, smokeless materials, teas, and liquids or gases for vaporizing devices that contain industrial hemp. Additionally, any hemp product intended for human or animal consumption that contains ingredients prohibited under the Kansas Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or the Commercial Feeding Stuffs Act is unlawful. Businesses must ensure their products comply with these regulations to avoid legal consequences.

Additionally, under the same Kansas law, it is unlawful to market, sell, or distribute certain hemp products—including industrial hemp buds, ground hemp floral or leaf material, and hemp extracts with a delta-9 THC concentration exceeding 0.3%—to anyone not registered as a hemp processor under K.S.A. 2-3907 or licensed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture under a commercial plan (K.S.A. 2-3906) or research program (K.S.A. 2-3902). Transportation of these products between licensed hemp producers and processors is permitted without additional licensing, subject to state fire marshal regulations. Violations are punishable as a class A nonperson misdemeanor for a first offense and a severity level 9 nonperson felony for subsequent offenses. Exceptions allow for research by state educational institutions and the production, use, or sale of hemp products not prohibited by state or federal law. This provision supplements the Kansas Commercial Industrial Hemp Act (K.S.A. 2-3901 et seq.)

We urge consumers to be vigilant when purchasing CBD products and to seek out reputable sources that adhere to legal standards. For more information on the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act, please visit the Kansas Legislature’s website or contact the Riley County Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738339454153.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with an investigation at a CBD business in Manhattan.On Thursday, the Riley County Police Department executed a search warrant at CBD American Shaman, in the 700 block of N. 11th Street in Manhattan, according to a media release. The warrant was issued as part of an ongoing investigation into the distribution of products containing THC levels exceeding the legal limit under the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act.Just after 10a.m. police arrested Donald Ince, 46, of Manhattan, on requested charges that include of three counts of distribution of marijuana (less than 25 grams) and one count of failure to appear. His total bond was set at $15,060. He is no longer in custody.Understanding the Kansas Industrial Hemp ActIn recent months, RCPD has encountered numerous cases where individuals were cited for possession of marijuana after purchasing what they believed to be legal CBD products from local businesses, including CBD American Shaman. Many of these individuals expressed confusion, as they believed the products they purchased were legal under Kansas law. To clarify, the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act (K.S.A. 2-3901) defines industrial hemp as any part of the cannabis plant containing a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of no more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis. Any product derived from industrial hemp must also adhere to this 0.3% THC limit. Products exceeding this threshold are classified as marijuana under Kansas law and are considered a controlled substance, making their distribution and possession illegal.Key Points for Consumers and Businesses:1. THC Limits Matter: Any product containing more than 0.3% THC is considered marijuana under Kansas law, regardless of where it is purchased.2. Know the Source: Consumers should ensure that the CBD products they purchase are compliant with Kansas law and contain no more than 0.3% THC.3. Business Responsibility: Businesses selling CBD or hemp products must verify that their products meet the legal THC threshold. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges and harm to consumers who may unknowingly purchase illegal substances. RCPD encourages all businesses to thoroughly review the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act and ensure compliance with state laws.4. Certain Products Are Explicitly Prohibited: K.S.A. 2-3908 outlines six (6) hemp products that are explicitly prohibited from being manufactured, marketed, sold, or distributed in Kansas. These include cigarettes, cigars, smokeless materials, teas, and liquids or gases for vaporizing devices that contain industrial hemp. Additionally, any hemp product intended for human or animal consumption that contains ingredients prohibited under the Kansas Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or the Commercial Feeding Stuffs Act is unlawful. Businesses must ensure their products comply with these regulations to avoid legal consequences.Additionally, under the same Kansas law, it is unlawful to market, sell, or distribute certain hemp products—including industrial hemp buds, ground hemp floral or leaf material, and hemp extracts with a delta-9 THC concentration exceeding 0.3%—to anyone not registered as a hemp processor under K.S.A. 2-3907 or licensed by the Kansas Department of Agriculture under a commercial plan (K.S.A. 2-3906) or research program (K.S.A. 2-3902). Transportation of these products between licensed hemp producers and processors is permitted without additional licensing, subject to state fire marshal regulations. Violations are punishable as a class A nonperson misdemeanor for a first offense and a severity level 9 nonperson felony for subsequent offenses. Exceptions allow for research by state educational institutions and the production, use, or sale of hemp products not prohibited by state or federal law. This provision supplements the Kansas Commercial Industrial Hemp Act (K.S.A. 2-3901 et seq.)We urge consumers to be vigilant when purchasing CBD products and to seek out reputable sources that adhere to legal standards. For more information on the Kansas Industrial Hemp Act, please visit the Kansas Legislature’s website or contact the Riley County Police Department.

Police make arrest at CBD business in Manhattan

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/">College of Business Administration</a>&nbsp;recently awarded $8,400 in scholarship money to 20 students who competed in the 2024 Phillips 66 Business Ethics Case Competition.The competition was organized by the college's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/management/business-ethics/">Business Ethics Education Initiative</a>&nbsp;and sponsored by Phillips 66.

Students were challenged to examine a real-world ethical dilemma and were responsible for analyzing the situation, applying appropriate ethical and strategic management principles, and developing a viable set of practical recommendations. After faculty members in the management department evaluated the initial written analyses, five teams were selected to compete in the final round, where they presented their analyses and recommendations to a panel of judges.

Most creative presentation: Blake Schimmel, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Lawrence; Sam Wright, senior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Leawood; Josh Pell, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Olathe; and Amber Dixon, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita.

Best ethical analysis: Jordan Irby, senior in investment management,&nbsp;Junction City; Landyn Luttrell, senior in finance,&nbsp;Shawnee; Ryane Bieker, senior in entrepreneurship and innovation,&nbsp;Valley Center; and Mitchael Casement, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita.

Best strategic analysis — recommendations and implementation plan: Kara Stephan, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Lenexa; Shaina Krainbill, master's student in accounting,&nbsp;Topeka; Abby Colburn, senior in finance,&nbsp;Highlands Ranch, Colorado; and Izzy Pinske, master's student in accounting,&nbsp;Maple Plain, Minnesota.Honorable mentions:•

Team One — Cade Miller, senior in accounting,&nbsp;Hutchinson; Reese Althouse, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Leawood; Drew Pracht, senior in finance,&nbsp;Wichita; and Korinn Haertling, senior in operations and supply chain management,&nbsp;Saint Joseph, Missouri.•

Team Two — Chet Thornton, senior in accounting,&nbsp;Leawood; Peter Janssen, senior in finance,&nbsp;Shawnee; Selena Zapote, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita, and Kate Hermelink, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Parkville, Missouri.Learn more about experiential learning opportunities in business on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba-kstate.university-tour.com/welcome/experiential-learning">College of Business Administration website</a>.

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/">College of Business Administration</a>&nbsp;recently awarded $8,400 in scholarship money to 20 students who competed in the 2024 Phillips 66 Business Ethics Case Competition.The competition was organized by the college's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba.k-state.edu/academics/departments/management/business-ethics/">Business Ethics Education Initiative</a>&nbsp;and sponsored by Phillips 66.Students were challenged to examine a real-world ethical dilemma and were responsible for analyzing the situation, applying appropriate ethical and strategic management principles, and developing a viable set of practical recommendations. After faculty members in the management department evaluated the initial written analyses, five teams were selected to compete in the final round, where they presented their analyses and recommendations to a panel of judges.Most creative presentation: Blake Schimmel, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Lawrence; Sam Wright, senior in professional strategic selling,&nbsp;Leawood; Josh Pell, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Olathe; and Amber Dixon, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita.Best ethical analysis: Jordan Irby, senior in investment management,&nbsp;Junction City; Landyn Luttrell, senior in finance,&nbsp;Shawnee; Ryane Bieker, senior in entrepreneurship and innovation,&nbsp;Valley Center; and Mitchael Casement, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita.Best strategic analysis — recommendations and implementation plan: Kara Stephan, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Lenexa; Shaina Krainbill, master's student in accounting,&nbsp;Topeka; Abby Colburn, senior in finance,&nbsp;Highlands Ranch, Colorado; and Izzy Pinske, master's student in accounting,&nbsp;Maple Plain, Minnesota.Honorable mentions:• Team One — Cade Miller, senior in accounting,&nbsp;Hutchinson; Reese Althouse, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Leawood; Drew Pracht, senior in finance,&nbsp;Wichita; and Korinn Haertling, senior in operations and supply chain management,&nbsp;Saint Joseph, Missouri.•Team Two — Chet Thornton, senior in accounting,&nbsp;Leawood; Peter Janssen, senior in finance,&nbsp;Shawnee; Selena Zapote, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Wichita, and Kate Hermelink, senior in marketing,&nbsp;Parkville, Missouri.Learn more about experiential learning opportunities in business on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cba-kstate.university-tour.com/welcome/experiential-learning">College of Business Administration website</a>.

Phillips 66 Business Ethics Case Competition awards $8,400 

TOPEKA, Kan. - Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers interested in warehouse, transportation and wholesale trade occupations to take part in February’s Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 5.

“Kansas is a central hub for these essential occupations and companies in these industries are actively looking to fill vital roles,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “This month’s job fair is the perfect opportunity for professionals interested in pursuing new opportunities — and there are plenty of options to choose from across Kansas.”

The virtual job fair allows anyone searching for a position to fill out applications, chat live and interview with participating companies.

The virtual job fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may 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 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%2Fbb3a1da9-b5ff-493d-9c68-836269f65fcc%2Fkansasworks-warehouse,-transportation,-and-wholesale-trade-virtual-job-fair-february-5,-2025/1/01010194b3a7e64a-7357b5bb-c762-4068-80e8-88cde435bf56-000000/oQTtjXou9z-CD3Tiuzm6RLCaV8PaSIeQQlTmosKxzVw=390">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581613096219.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>State of Kansas&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. - Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers interested in warehouse, transportation and wholesale trade occupations to take part in February’s Job Fair, hosted by&nbsp;KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 5.“Kansas is a central hub for these essential occupations and companies in these industries are actively looking to fill vital roles,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “This month’s job fair is the perfect opportunity for professionals interested in pursuing new opportunities — and there are plenty of options to choose from across Kansas.”The virtual job fair allows anyone searching for a position to fill out applications, chat live and interview with participating companies.The virtual job fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may 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 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%2Fbb3a1da9-b5ff-493d-9c68-836269f65fcc%2Fkansasworks-warehouse,-transportation,-and-wholesale-trade-virtual-job-fair-february-5,-2025/1/01010194b3a7e64a-7357b5bb-c762-4068-80e8-88cde435bf56-000000/oQTtjXou9z-CD3Tiuzm6RLCaV8PaSIeQQlTmosKxzVw=390">here</a>.

Virtual job fair to highlight warehouse, transportation and wholesale trade careers 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/kavahn-mansouri">KAVAHN MANSOURI</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-28/home-prices-midwest-rents-kansas-city-housing-real-estate">KCUR</a>

As the cost to buy a home continues to rise in the Midwest, real estate experts say the regional rental market offers affordable housing options and biding your time before buying may be the smart move in 2025.

This could be the year of the renter as interest rates, rising housing prices and inflation continue to challenge prospective homeowners.

While homeowner hopefuls may have to wait for a house in their price range, renters in the Midwest live in a region with the lowest rent in the U.S., which may sustain as the market fluctuates. This line? The federal government considers 12 states as "<a href="https://www.bls.gov/regions/midwest/midwest.htm" target="_blank">the Midwest</a>."

Across the board, rental prices have ticked up, but according to Realtor.com, the Midwest still boasts the cheapest median rent at $1,450 a month. The median rent in the South is roughly $1,600 a month, while renters in the West pay roughly $1,950 and renters in the Northeast pay $2,450.

According to Realtor.com’s data, Kansas City had the highest rate of rent growth in Midwestern cities, at 3.1% in December. St. Louis saw a 1.3% increase in rent during the same period.

In December, at the state level, Nebraska saw the highest rate of growth in rent prices in the Midwest, at 10.8%, while Missouri saw rent growth of 6%.

Regardless of rates creeping up, however, the region is still relatively affordable.

“The Midwest is more affordable for renters than the other regions of the country, which probably doesn’t come as a huge surprise,” said Joel Berner, a senior economist with Realtor.com.

He added that the overall rate of rent increases in the region recently stalled and even fell by 1.4% in December.

“We’ve kind of reached a sort of a balance point where those prices have stopped increasing and they’ve stopped increasing at a place that’s lower than the national median,” Berner said.

Daryl Fairweather,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/news/author/darylfairweather/" target="_blank">chief economist at Redfin.com,</a>&nbsp;said the Midwest is the hottest housing market in the country.

“Everywhere else got really expensive during the pandemic, including the South, and now the Midwest is one of the only affordable regions left,” Fairweather said. “People are starting to realize that and buy homes there.”

According to a recent report from Redfin.com,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/blog/kansas-city-mo-neighborhoods/" target="_blank">Kansas City and St. Louis ranked in the top 15 U.S. metros with the highest increase in home prices&nbsp;</a>between December 2023 and December 2024.

Kansas City saw home prices rise by 9% from 2023-2024 while St. Louis saw home prices rise by 8.5% from 2023 to 2024. That’s compared to a 6.3% increase in the median home price nationwide.

That same report noted that, collectively, home values in the Midwest are rising at a rate higher than in any other region in the country.

Berner said renters might currently have the upper hand on prospective buyers due to the housing market in the Midwest. The general affordability of rent makes for a good environment to save for a house, he added.

“In a lot of places right now, renting is easier to do,” Berner said. “If you can find a place like an affordable Midwestern market to live for a couple years, save up some cash and have a larger down payment when you do want to buy a home, that’s going to be really effective in this high mortgage rate environment.”

Record low interest and mortgage rates during the pandemic, combined with affordable housing in the Midwest, created a housing “craze” in the region. Berner said the Midwest is rebounding from that era, which makes for difficult terrain for homebuyers.

“The Midwest is picking up because of how affordable it is, and so that’s kind of a double-edged sword,” he said. “It’s affordable, so people want to buy it — and that drives prices up — and then it’s not affordable again.

According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nar.realtor/" target="_blank">National Association of Realtors</a>, the median age of first-time home buyers increased nationally from 35 to 38 in 2024. Berner said that’s a troubling sign for young first-time homebuyers.

The main factor driving that jump in age, Berner said, is a mixture of high interest rates and difficulty financing their purchases.

“First-time home buyers who don’t have equity built up in a previous home to sell and then transfer into their new purchase are having to finance large portions of their home purchase,” Berner said.

Prospective buyers aren’t out of luck, however. According to Realtor.com data, housing inventory is trending toward pre-pandemic levels.

“That’s going to give buyers more options and more leverage to be able to go and make a purchase,” Berner said.

David Nall, a St. Louis realtor with&nbsp;<a href="https://garciaproperties.com/view-agents/agents/dave-nall" target="_blank">Garcia Properties</a>, said people who hope to buy a home should study the market and know what they’re looking for so they can strike when the right home becomes available.

“If something comes on that fits their criteria and it really excites them, it’s probably going to excite a lot of other buyers as well,” Nall said.

Nall said prospective buyers can take steps to make a competitive offer if they have the financing, including waiving contingencies on the sale, offering a larger deposit or being flexible on a closing date.

Renting while saving for that down payment could be helpful for some house hunters in the meantime.

“There are lots of nuances, in my opinion, to crafting a competitive offer,” he said. “It’s not just the price and it’s not just the closing date.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/midwest-newsroom" target="_blank">Midwest Newsroom</a>&nbsp;is an investigative and enterprise journalism collaboration that includes Iowa Public Radio, KCUR, Nebraska Public Media, St. Louis Public Radio and NPR.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738169785077.png" alt="A sign advertises apartments for rent at the corner of Leado Avenue and 30th Street on Jan. 24, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. Experts told The Midwest Newsroom that it might be wiser to rent than buy in 2025. Photo by&nbsp;Nicole Grundmeier/&nbsp;The Midwest Newsroom" />
 <figcaption>A sign advertises apartments for rent at the corner of Leado Avenue and 30th Street on Jan. 24, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. Experts told The Midwest Newsroom that it might be wiser to rent than buy in 2025. Photo by&nbsp;Nicole Grundmeier/&nbsp;The Midwest Newsroom</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/kavahn-mansouri">KAVAHN MANSOURI</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-28/home-prices-midwest-rents-kansas-city-housing-real-estate">KCUR</a><h2>As the cost to buy a home continues to rise in the Midwest, real estate experts say the regional rental market offers affordable housing options and biding your time before buying may be the smart move in 2025.</h2>This could be the year of the renter as interest rates, rising housing prices and inflation continue to challenge prospective homeowners.While homeowner hopefuls may have to wait for a house in their price range, renters in the Midwest live in a region with the lowest rent in the U.S., which may sustain as the market fluctuates. This line? The federal government considers 12 states as "<a href="https://www.bls.gov/regions/midwest/midwest.htm" target="_blank">the Midwest</a>."Across the board, rental prices have ticked up, but according to Realtor.com, the Midwest still boasts the cheapest median rent at $1,450 a month. The median rent in the South is roughly $1,600 a month, while renters in the West pay roughly $1,950 and renters in the Northeast pay $2,450.According to Realtor.com’s data, Kansas City had the highest rate of rent growth in Midwestern cities, at 3.1% in December. St. Louis saw a 1.3% increase in rent during the same period.In December, at the state level, Nebraska saw the highest rate of growth in rent prices in the Midwest, at 10.8%, while Missouri saw rent growth of 6%.Regardless of rates creeping up, however, the region is still relatively affordable.“The Midwest is more affordable for renters than the other regions of the country, which probably doesn’t come as a huge surprise,” said Joel Berner, a senior economist with Realtor.com.He added that the overall rate of rent increases in the region recently stalled and even fell by 1.4% in December.“We’ve kind of reached a sort of a balance point where those prices have stopped increasing and they’ve stopped increasing at a place that’s lower than the national median,” Berner said.<h2>Saving by renting</h2>Daryl Fairweather,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/news/author/darylfairweather/" target="_blank">chief economist at Redfin.com,</a>&nbsp;said the Midwest is the hottest housing market in the country.“Everywhere else got really expensive during the pandemic, including the South, and now the Midwest is one of the only affordable regions left,” Fairweather said. “People are starting to realize that and buy homes there.”According to a recent report from Redfin.com,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.redfin.com/blog/kansas-city-mo-neighborhoods/" target="_blank">Kansas City and St. Louis ranked in the top 15 U.S. metros with the highest increase in home prices&nbsp;</a>between December 2023 and December 2024.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738170067677.png" alt="A sign advertises a house for sale on Lenox Place in St. Louis on Jan. 27, 2025. Photo by Holly Edgell/The Midwest Newsroom" />
 <figcaption>A sign advertises a house for sale on Lenox Place in St. Louis on Jan. 27, 2025. Photo by Holly Edgell/The Midwest Newsroom</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City saw home prices rise by 9% from 2023-2024 while St. Louis saw home prices rise by 8.5% from 2023 to 2024. That’s compared to a 6.3% increase in the median home price nationwide.That same report noted that, collectively, home values in the Midwest are rising at a rate higher than in any other region in the country.Berner said renters might currently have the upper hand on prospective buyers due to the housing market in the Midwest. The general affordability of rent makes for a good environment to save for a house, he added.“In a lot of places right now, renting is easier to do,” Berner said. “If you can find a place like an affordable Midwestern market to live for a couple years, save up some cash and have a larger down payment when you do want to buy a home, that’s going to be really effective in this high mortgage rate environment.”Record low interest and mortgage rates during the pandemic, combined with affordable housing in the Midwest, created a housing “craze” in the region. Berner said the Midwest is rebounding from that era, which makes for difficult terrain for homebuyers.“The Midwest is picking up because of how affordable it is, and so that’s kind of a double-edged sword,” he said. “It’s affordable, so people want to buy it — and that drives prices up — and then it’s not affordable again.According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nar.realtor/" target="_blank">National Association of Realtors</a>, the median age of first-time home buyers increased nationally from 35 to 38 in 2024. Berner said that’s a troubling sign for young first-time homebuyers.The main factor driving that jump in age, Berner said, is a mixture of high interest rates and difficulty financing their purchases.“First-time home buyers who don’t have equity built up in a previous home to sell and then transfer into their new purchase are having to finance large portions of their home purchase,” Berner said.<h2>Rent now, buy later</h2>Prospective buyers aren’t out of luck, however. According to Realtor.com data, housing inventory is trending toward pre-pandemic levels.“That’s going to give buyers more options and more leverage to be able to go and make a purchase,” Berner said.David Nall, a St. Louis realtor with&nbsp;<a href="https://garciaproperties.com/view-agents/agents/dave-nall" target="_blank">Garcia Properties</a>, said people who hope to buy a home should study the market and know what they’re looking for so they can strike when the right home becomes available.“If something comes on that fits their criteria and it really excites them, it’s probably going to excite a lot of other buyers as well,” Nall said.Nall said prospective buyers can take steps to make a competitive offer if they have the financing, including waiving contingencies on the sale, offering a larger deposit or being flexible on a closing date.Renting while saving for that down payment could be helpful for some house hunters in the meantime.“There are lots of nuances, in my opinion, to crafting a competitive offer,” he said. “It’s not just the price and it’s not just the closing date.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/midwest-newsroom" target="_blank">Midwest Newsroom</a>&nbsp;is an investigative and enterprise journalism collaboration that includes Iowa Public Radio, KCUR, Nebraska Public Media, St. Louis Public Radio and NPR.

Hoping to buy a home in the Midwest? Renting might be better option for now

In a highly anticipated matchup between the top two teams in the Centennial League, the Washburn Rural Junior Blues beat Junction City 59-56 on Thursday night in Topeka. 

The Junior Blues jumped on the Blue Jays right from the tip, taking an early 17-7 lead midway through the first quarter. 

As the second quarter began, Junction City took the momentum and trailed 17-16. The Junior Blues responded with their own run and took a five-point lead into the half, at 27-22. 

The third quarter was similar to the first two. Both teams struggled to maintain possession of the basketball and to get into their offense. JC had many opportunities to tie the game or take the lead in the third quarter but never could grab it. At the end of the third quarter, Rural led by six, 41-35. 

The fourth quarter featured several swings in momentum, including a 52-44 lead for the Junior Blues with three minutes to go in the game. Junction City got a couple of stops on the defensive end and hit two big three-pointers to cut the lead to 52-50 with 1:17 left in the game. The Blue Jays played the foul game down the stretch and had a chance, but the full-court heave fell short and Washburn Rural beat JC 59-56. 

Junction City had three players in double-digits. Senior Jackson Austin had 15 points, and junior Lovell Autry and senior Larkin Turner both added 11. 

With the loss, the Blue Jays fall to 9-3 on the year and go to 2-1 in Centennial league play. 

Junction City now hosts the Derby Panthers on Monday in Blue Jay Event Center.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostIn a highly anticipated matchup between the top two teams in the Centennial League, the Washburn Rural Junior Blues beat Junction City 59-56 on Thursday night in Topeka. The Junior Blues jumped on the Blue Jays right from the tip, taking an early 17-7 lead midway through the first quarter. As the second quarter began, Junction City took the momentum and trailed 17-16. The Junior Blues responded with their own run and took a five-point lead into the half, at 27-22. The third quarter was similar to the first two. Both teams struggled to maintain possession of the basketball and to get into their offense. JC had many opportunities to tie the game or take the lead in the third quarter but never could grab it. At the end of the third quarter, Rural led by six, 41-35. The fourth quarter featured several swings in momentum, including a 52-44 lead for the Junior Blues with three minutes to go in the game. Junction City got a couple of stops on the defensive end and hit two big three-pointers to cut the lead to 52-50 with 1:17 left in the game. The Blue Jays played the foul game down the stretch and had a chance, but the full-court heave fell short and Washburn Rural beat JC 59-56. Junction City had three players in double-digits. Senior Jackson Austin had 15 points, and junior Lovell Autry and senior Larkin Turner both added 11. With the loss, the Blue Jays fall to 9-3 on the year and go to 2-1 in Centennial league play. Junction City now hosts the Derby Panthers on Monday in Blue Jay Event Center.

Blue Jays come up short at Washburn Rural, fall to 9-3 on season

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary County Schools USD 475 is proud to announce that Junction City High School students&nbsp;D’Marion Swift, Alana Gaytan, Isabelle Thomas, Oliver Lucas, Sophia Mitchell and Nadia Anthony were recently honored for their artwork in the&nbsp;2025 Eastern Kansas Scholastic Art Awards presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

More than 2,200 artworks were submitted across Eastern Kansas, with only 490 receiving honors. Overall, the Blue Jays earned one Gold Key honor, four Silver Key awards and had two honorable mention selections. Swift was not only awarded Gold Key for his drawing illustration title, The Light, but he also brought home Silver Key honors in painting. Other Silver Key honorees included&nbsp;Gaytan in editorial cartoon, Thomas in drawing illustration and Lucas in digital art. Finally, Mitchell and Anthony claimed honorable mention accolades in editorial cartoon and comic art, respectively.

All Gold and Silver Key art pieces&nbsp;will be on display and featured in the Mark Arts Youth Gallery&nbsp;and School of Creativity Gallery in Wichita from February 7 through March 29. The galleries are free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Students, families and community members are also invited to attend the 2025 Eastern Kansas Scholastic Opening Celebration to view the Art Awards Exhibition at Mark Arts in Wichita on Friday, Feb. 7, beginning at 4 p.m.

The Scholastic Art Awards is one of the oldest and most prestigious national art competitions for high school students across the nation. It is the largest and longest-running recognition program for young artists in the United States.&nbsp;The contest provides an opportunity for student artists to be recognized, exhibited, and awarded scholarships. It is considered a huge honor for students to receive recognition as each piece is reviewed by a panel of art professionals based on the originality, technical skill, and emergence of a personal vision in their work.

• D’Marion Swift: Drawing Illustration, The Light

•&nbsp;D’Marion Swift: Painting, Dissolve

• Alana Gaytan: Editorial Cartoon sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, #MMIW

•&nbsp;Isabelle Thomas: Drawing Illustration, Just One More

Oliver Lucas: Digital Art, Completely Giving Up

• Sophia Mitchell: Editorial Cartoon sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, Who am I

•&nbsp;Nadia Anthony: Comic Art, Growth

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738261160996.jpeg" alt="D’Marion Swift: Drawing Illustration, The Light" />
 <figcaption>D’Marion Swift: Drawing Illustration, The Light</figcaption>
 </figure>JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Geary County Schools USD 475 is proud to announce that Junction City High School students&nbsp;D’Marion Swift, Alana Gaytan, Isabelle Thomas, Oliver Lucas, Sophia Mitchell and Nadia Anthony were recently honored for their artwork in the&nbsp;2025 Eastern Kansas Scholastic Art Awards presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers.&nbsp;&nbsp;More than 2,200 artworks were submitted across Eastern Kansas, with only 490 receiving honors. Overall, the Blue Jays earned one Gold Key honor, four Silver Key awards and had two honorable mention selections. Swift was not only awarded Gold Key for his drawing illustration title, The Light, but he also brought home Silver Key honors in painting. Other Silver Key honorees included&nbsp;Gaytan in editorial cartoon, Thomas in drawing illustration and Lucas in digital art. Finally, Mitchell and Anthony claimed honorable mention accolades in editorial cartoon and comic art, respectively.All Gold and Silver Key art pieces&nbsp;will be on display and featured in the Mark Arts Youth Gallery&nbsp;and School of Creativity Gallery in Wichita from February 7 through March 29. The galleries are free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Students, families and community members are also invited to attend the 2025 Eastern Kansas Scholastic Opening Celebration to view the Art Awards Exhibition at Mark Arts in Wichita on Friday, Feb. 7, beginning at 4 p.m.The Scholastic Art Awards is one of the oldest and most prestigious national art competitions for high school students across the nation. It is the largest and longest-running recognition program for young artists in the United States.&nbsp;The contest provides an opportunity for student artists to be recognized, exhibited, and awarded scholarships. It is considered a huge honor for students to receive recognition as each piece is reviewed by a panel of art professionals based on the originality, technical skill, and emergence of a personal vision in their work.Gold Key Award• D’Marion Swift: Drawing Illustration, The LightSilver Key Award•&nbsp;D’Marion Swift: Painting, Dissolve• Alana Gaytan: Editorial Cartoon sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, #MMIW•&nbsp;Isabelle Thomas: Drawing Illustration, Just One MoreOliver Lucas: Digital Art, Completely Giving UpHonorable Mention• Sophia Mitchell: Editorial Cartoon sponsored by The Herb Block Foundation, Who am I•&nbsp;Nadia Anthony: Comic Art, Growth

Junction City High School Students Earn Honors in Art

Geary County 4-H Club Day will be held Saturday, February 8th&nbsp;at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City.&nbsp; Events will begin at 8:00am and are scheduled to be completed with an awards ceremony around 11:30am.&nbsp; 

4-H members will be presenting speeches, music numbers, drama programs, and parliamentary procedure demonstrations.&nbsp; Members will also be able to participate in photography and family and consumer sciences judging contests throughout the morning.

Everyone is welcome to attend this great event and show your support of the youth in Geary County 4-H.&nbsp; 

If you have questions, contact Kyler Langvardt at the Geary County K-State Research and Extension Office at 785-238-4161.

Geary County 4-H Club Day will be held Saturday, February 8th&nbsp;at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City.&nbsp; Events will begin at 8:00am and are scheduled to be completed with an awards ceremony around 11:30am.&nbsp; 4-H members will be presenting speeches, music numbers, drama programs, and parliamentary procedure demonstrations.&nbsp; Members will also be able to participate in photography and family and consumer sciences judging contests throughout the morning.Everyone is welcome to attend this great event and show your support of the youth in Geary County 4-H.&nbsp; If you have questions, contact Kyler Langvardt at the Geary County K-State Research and Extension Office at 785-238-4161.

Geary County 4-H Club Day is Saturday, February 8th

RILEY COUNTY —A Riley County man was hospitalized and later arrested after a Wednesday afternoon crash.

Just after 5p.m., Rontavius Banks, 28, Ogden, lost control of a vehicle&nbsp;due to unsafe speed for road conditions in the 700 block of Wildcat Creek Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;

EMS transported Banks to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Banks was later arrested for driving while suspended.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY —A Riley County man was hospitalized and later arrested after a Wednesday afternoon crash.Just after 5p.m., Rontavius Banks, 28, Ogden, lost control of a vehicle&nbsp;due to unsafe speed for road conditions in the 700 block of Wildcat Creek Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;EMS transported Banks to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Banks was later arrested for driving while suspended.&nbsp;

Riley County man arrested after crash

Homecoming week was full of activities for the St. Francis Xavier school students! 

They participated in dress up days, held a pep rally, hosted a guest speaker, voted on the royal court, and ended the festivities with a dance.

Congratulations to the 2025 Homecoming king and queen Lathan Ngiraidong and Danika Ellis!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738192528652.jpeg" alt="Homecoming court photo courtesy of St. Francis Xavier School marketing communications class.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pictured from left to right: Joshua Welter, Madison Deacon, Lathan Ngiraidong, Danika Ellis, Miguel Weber, Dana Davis, and Elija Le'A. Not pictured:" />
 <figcaption>Homecoming court photo courtesy of St. Francis Xavier School marketing communications class.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pictured from left to right: Joshua Welter, Madison Deacon, Lathan Ngiraidong, Danika Ellis, Miguel Weber, Dana Davis, and Elija Le'A. Not pictured:</figcaption>
 </figure>By Kristel JahnkeOffice of Recruitment and MarketingHomecoming week was full of activities for the St. Francis Xavier school students! They participated in dress up days, held a pep rally, hosted a guest speaker, voted on the royal court, and ended the festivities with a dance.Congratulations to the 2025 Homecoming king and queen Lathan Ngiraidong and Danika Ellis!

Saint Francis Xavier School celebrates Homecoming

&nbsp;Riley County police say Clayson Joyce, 22, of Manhattan was arrested on Tuesday at approximately 8:25 PM in the 400 block of N Main Street in Riley, Kansas.

The arrest is connected to a shooting that occurred on December 1, 2024, at approximately 5:47 a.m. in the 1800 block of Claflin Road. During the incident, three people sustained gunshot injuries.

Riley County Police Department’s (RCPD) License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras played a critical role in identifying Joyce’s vehicle, which was linked to the shooting. Officers located and apprehended Joyce without incident during the arrest.

Joyce was arrested on the probable cause offenses of twelve (12) counts of attempted murder in the 1st degree, two (2) counts of criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, criminal damage to property, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in city limits.

Total bond was set at&nbsp;$2,000,000. Joyce is currently confined at the Riley County Jail.

This is an ongoing investigation and police said that they will release additional information when it becomes available. Anyone with information can contact the RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

&nbsp;Riley County police say Clayson Joyce, 22, of Manhattan was arrested on Tuesday at approximately 8:25 PM in the 400 block of N Main Street in Riley, Kansas.The arrest is connected to a shooting that occurred on December 1, 2024, at approximately 5:47 a.m. in the 1800 block of Claflin Road. During the incident, three people sustained gunshot injuries.Riley County Police Department’s (RCPD) License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras played a critical role in identifying Joyce’s vehicle, which was linked to the shooting. Officers located and apprehended Joyce without incident during the arrest.Joyce was arrested on the probable cause offenses of twelve (12) counts of attempted murder in the 1st degree, two (2) counts of criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, criminal damage to property, and unlawful discharge of a firearm in city limits.Total bond was set at&nbsp;$2,000,000. Joyce is currently confined at the Riley County Jail.This is an ongoing investigation and police said that they will release additional information when it becomes available. Anyone with information can contact the RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.<figure>
 <img src="https://ads.empowerlocal.co/adserve/;MID=181918;type=e959fb862;placementID=1919173;setID=524574;channelID=0;CID=0;BID=520802051;TAID=0;place=0;rnd=4539464328;psrtype=api;referrer=https%3A%2F%2Flittleapplepost.com%2Fposts%2Fc4ad3d9b-304f-414e-a64a-b74b70e6594a;mt=1738191945784106;hc=04ca937619d7b614fa33c415442a3e41b8d3d1eb" alt="" />
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 <img src="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/undefined" alt="" />
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RCPD reports an arrest in connection with a shooting 

Joe and Sheila Markley are retiring as the Co-Directors of the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City.&nbsp;

The Opera House is having a farewell, retirement reception for the Markley's on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in the Walker Lobby.&nbsp;

Joe and Sheila Markley are retiring as the Co-Directors of the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738187386665.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Opera House is having a farewell, retirement reception for the Markley's on Thursday, Jan. 30, from 3:00-5:00 p.m. in the Walker Lobby.&nbsp;

C.L. Hoover Opera House to host retirement party for Joe and Sheila Markley

Manhattan, Kan. – January 29, 2025 – INTRUST Bank has welcomed Tony Parker as Market President for Manhattan and Junction City. Parker brings more than 17 years of banking experience, with an extensive background in commercial and agricultural lending.

“I have great confidence in Tony’s leadership and ability to connect with our customers and continue the great work that has been established in Manhattan and Junction City by our team,” said Kurt Fischer, Regional Market President.&nbsp;

A longtime Manhattan resident, Parker is familiar with the unique financial needs of the individuals, families, and businesses across the area and is passionate about creating long-term relationships and connections within the community.

“I’m energized by helping others,” Parker said. “I treasure the relationships that I’m able to build with customers and other associates. My goal is to ensure we’re doing everything we can to support our customers through both easy and challenging times.&nbsp;

Parker is a Kansas State University graduate. He is a member of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, serves as a trustee for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and is on the Council of Education for Manhattan Catholic Schools.&nbsp;

Manhattan, Kan. – January 29, 2025 – INTRUST Bank has welcomed Tony Parker as Market President for Manhattan and Junction City. Parker brings more than 17 years of banking experience, with an extensive background in commercial and agricultural lending.“I have great confidence in Tony’s leadership and ability to connect with our customers and continue the great work that has been established in Manhattan and Junction City by our team,” said Kurt Fischer, Regional Market President.&nbsp;A longtime Manhattan resident, Parker is familiar with the unique financial needs of the individuals, families, and businesses across the area and is passionate about creating long-term relationships and connections within the community.“I’m energized by helping others,” Parker said. “I treasure the relationships that I’m able to build with customers and other associates. My goal is to ensure we’re doing everything we can to support our customers through both easy and challenging times.&nbsp;Parker is a Kansas State University graduate. He is a member of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, serves as a trustee for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and is on the Council of Education for Manhattan Catholic Schools.&nbsp;

Parker Joins INTRUST Bank as Market President

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.

Christopher James, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 01/27

Allyssa Bailey, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Driving while suspended, Interference with LEO, Falsely report information intending to obstruct, Possession of depressant, Forgery, Making or altering a written instrument, Identity fraud, Replicate document with personal info with intent to deceive, Identity theft, Defraud to receive benefits &lt; $100,000, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 01/27

Shampaine Muldrow, Outside warrant, arrested 01/28

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/2025/1/1738182571585.jpeg" alt="Marco Rocha, Outside warrant (Two counts), arrested 01/27" />
 <figcaption>Marco Rocha, Outside warrant (Two counts), arrested 01/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182607314.jpeg" alt="Phillip White, Theft-all other, arrested 01/27" />
 <figcaption>Phillip White, Theft-all other, arrested 01/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182641235.jpeg" alt="Christina Murphy, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, Criminal threat, arrested 01/27" />
 <figcaption>Christina Murphy, Aggravated assault, Use of a deadly weapon, Criminal threat, arrested 01/27</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182686182.jpeg" alt="June Meredith, Falsely reporting a crime, Violation of a protective order, arrested 01/28" />
 <figcaption>June Meredith, Falsely reporting a crime, Violation of a protective order, arrested 01/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182896122.jpeg" alt="Miya Harlin, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 01/28" />
 <figcaption>Miya Harlin, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 01/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738182973375.jpeg" alt="Kasey Nations, Probation violation, arrested 01/28" />
 <figcaption>Kasey Nations, Probation violation, arrested 01/28</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738183008722.jpeg" alt="Marco Torres, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Identity theft, Misrepresent to cause economic or bodily harm &lt; $100,000, Criminal use of a financial card without consent of owner (less than $1,000), Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, arrested 01/28&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Marco Torres, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, Traffic contraband into correctional facility, Identity theft, Misrepresent to cause economic or bodily harm &lt; $100,000, Criminal use of a financial card without consent of owner (less than $1,000), Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, arrested 01/28&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738183176123.jpeg" alt="Bard Ditto, Outside warrant, Probation violation, arrested 01/28" />
 <figcaption>Bard Ditto, Outside warrant, Probation violation, arrested 01/28</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Christopher James, Cancelled/suspended/revoked drivers license, arrested 01/27Allyssa Bailey, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Driving while suspended, Interference with LEO, Falsely report information intending to obstruct, Possession of depressant, Forgery, Making or altering a written instrument, Identity fraud, Replicate document with personal info with intent to deceive, Identity theft, Defraud to receive benefits &lt; $100,000, Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 01/27Shampaine Muldrow, Outside warrant, arrested 01/28Recent 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 Jan. 28-29

Fresh off citizen vitriol for rising property taxes during their 2024 campaigns, a fortified Republican super-majority Kansas Legislature began loading their prized horses into the starting gate of this year’s Property Tax Derby.

Kansas GOP leaders eye this as the final jewel in the coveted Tax Cut Triple Crown – sales, income, and property. In previous sessions, they successfully bet on both Governor Kelly’s food tax horse (Axe The Tax) and their income tax horse (Trickle Down) sired from the Brownback stud farm.

Elected jockeys have three levers at their disposal to determine the pace of property taxes in the derby. The State totally controls the first lever (assessments) and oversees county appraisals for the second lever (property values) which are really at the mercy of market forces. The most powerful lever (mill levy) is nearly all in the grip of local government.

Property taxes fund 60%-100% of local government budgets, but less than 1% of state government. Property tax revenue is the lifeblood for local services such as schools, police, roads, parks, transit, libraries, etc. with some hemorrhaging. Conversely, they mean virtually nothing to the State budget.

With that in mind, let’s handicap three GOP entrants while Democrats snooze in the barn.

· “Cap The Tax” (SCR 1603) – Senate Taxation Farms first entry is a Constitutional Amendment capping taxable property values at 3% annually thus artificially controlling property value – not the free market. This well-intentioned concept has all sorts of unintended consequences. Said cap is lifted for home sales and improvements causing vastly different taxable values on the same block while discouraging mobility and investment for an even tighter housing market. Local budgets get squeezed by inflation over 3% but still could effectively make themselves whole by pulling their prodigious mill levy lever. Ultimately, voters must approve if it gets that far. Given the House killed a 4% cap last year, this horse may get stuck on the rail again.

· “Building Biscuit” (SB 35) - Senate Taxation Farms’ second entry would repeal the State’s paltry 1.5 mill levy that goes towards deferred maintenance of state buildings. This is the most local government-friendly entry because it does not jeopardize local revenue. Building maintenance would shift to the State’s general fund made up of income and sales tax. Without a dedicated mill levy, universities are rightfully nervous their proverbial can could be kicked down the road. Homeowners would save a whopping $22 annually on a $200K house. This horse has the best legs for a stretch run but little return for wagers.

· “School Levy Sugar” (HB 2011) – The entry from House Taxation Stables has a similar profile to Building Biscuit. Instead of building maintenance, 1.5 mills are wiped from the State’s 20 mills for local schools. Relief for homeowners is just as paltry. Ostensibly, local schools would be made whole through the State’s sales and income taxes. But it puts their can on the line instead of universities. Without Supreme Court oversight for a school funding case, this horse is drifting a little wide at the turn.

If these don’t excite everybody, look for late entries like last year’s prized thoroughbred – exempting residential value from the State’s 20 mill school levy, expanding the homestead exemption, OR the ultimate horse trade – Medicaid expansion.

To paraphrase the State’s highest-paid employee (Bill Self), don’t worry about the mules, keep loading the wagon and don’t crash local services.

Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Fresh off citizen vitriol for rising property taxes during their 2024 campaigns, a fortified Republican super-majority Kansas Legislature began loading their prized horses into the starting gate of this year’s Property Tax Derby.Kansas GOP leaders eye this as the final jewel in the coveted Tax Cut Triple Crown – sales, income, and property. In previous sessions, they successfully bet on both Governor Kelly’s food tax horse (Axe The Tax) and their income tax horse (Trickle Down) sired from the Brownback stud farm.Elected jockeys have three levers at their disposal to determine the pace of property taxes in the derby. The State totally controls the first lever (assessments) and oversees county appraisals for the second lever (property values) which are really at the mercy of market forces. The most powerful lever (mill levy) is nearly all in the grip of local government.Property taxes fund 60%-100% of local government budgets, but less than 1% of state government. Property tax revenue is the lifeblood for local services such as schools, police, roads, parks, transit, libraries, etc. with some hemorrhaging. Conversely, they mean virtually nothing to the State budget.With that in mind, let’s handicap three GOP entrants while Democrats snooze in the barn.· “Cap The Tax” (SCR 1603) – Senate Taxation Farms first entry is a Constitutional Amendment capping taxable property values at 3% annually thus artificially controlling property value – not the free market. This well-intentioned concept has all sorts of unintended consequences. Said cap is lifted for home sales and improvements causing vastly different taxable values on the same block while discouraging mobility and investment for an even tighter housing market. Local budgets get squeezed by inflation over 3% but still could effectively make themselves whole by pulling their prodigious mill levy lever. Ultimately, voters must approve if it gets that far. Given the House killed a 4% cap last year, this horse may get stuck on the rail again.· “Building Biscuit” (SB 35) - Senate Taxation Farms’ second entry would repeal the State’s paltry 1.5 mill levy that goes towards deferred maintenance of state buildings. This is the most local government-friendly entry because it does not jeopardize local revenue. Building maintenance would shift to the State’s general fund made up of income and sales tax. Without a dedicated mill levy, universities are rightfully nervous their proverbial can could be kicked down the road. Homeowners would save a whopping $22 annually on a $200K house. This horse has the best legs for a stretch run but little return for wagers.· “School Levy Sugar” (HB 2011) – The entry from House Taxation Stables has a similar profile to Building Biscuit. Instead of building maintenance, 1.5 mills are wiped from the State’s 20 mills for local schools. Relief for homeowners is just as paltry. Ostensibly, local schools would be made whole through the State’s sales and income taxes. But it puts their can on the line instead of universities. Without Supreme Court oversight for a school funding case, this horse is drifting a little wide at the turn.If these don’t excite everybody, look for late entries like last year’s prized thoroughbred – exempting residential value from the State’s 20 mill school levy, expanding the homestead exemption, OR the ultimate horse trade – Medicaid expansion.To paraphrase the State’s highest-paid employee (Bill Self), don’t worry about the mules, keep loading the wagon and don’t crash local services.---Bill Fiander is a lecturer at Washburn University specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government. He is the former planning and development director for the City of Topeka.

Handicapping the Kansas Property Tax Derby

The need for a major upgrade or new detention center was one focus of the Geary County Commission and the County Public Building Commission this week.

New Sheriff Nate Boeckman said, "I do believe this is definitely a huge priority moving forward. It is my belief that the jail needs a lot of work."

For some time officials have focused on the project. In April of 202 4 some possible options were mentioned for financing a project. They included general obligation bonds that might have to go to an election, G.O. bonds which could be retired by sales tax revenues, OR having the Public Building Commission handle the project. No decisions have been made on funding.

This week during discussion there was support for providing tours of the jail for the public which could show the need. The current jail has 189 beds but many of those cannot be used. The average daily census is between 90 and 100 inmates.

The need for a major upgrade or new detention center was one focus of the Geary County Commission and the County Public Building Commission this week.New Sheriff Nate Boeckman said, "I do believe this is definitely a huge priority moving forward. It is my belief that the jail needs a lot of work."For some time officials have focused on the project. In April of 202 4 some possible options were mentioned for financing a project. They included general obligation bonds that might have to go to an election, G.O. bonds which could be retired by sales tax revenues, OR having the Public Building Commission handle the project. No decisions have been made on funding.This week during discussion there was support for providing tours of the jail for the public which could show the need. The current jail has 189 beds but many of those cannot be used. The average daily census is between 90 and 100 inmates.

Jail receives attention of public offficials

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience.

This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." 

.Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Get ready for some unique family fun with The Aluminum Show, the next event in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">McCain Performance Series</a>, at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2. &nbsp;This showbrings the material, the music and the artists together on stage in a creation combining visual theater, dance and humor into a multisensory experience. This is the story of one man's journey to a parallel universe — a futuristic planet made entirely of aluminum. Aluminum pipes come to life before the audience's eyes, transforming into imaginary, mysterious and playful characters. The new show was written and directed by Lior Kalfo, the creator of the internationally successful productions "Vocal People," "Fantasy" and "Glow." .Tickets are available online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mccain.k-state.edu/">mccain.k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or at the ticket office in the McCain lobby from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays. Tickets are also available by phone at 785-532-6428 during the same hours. Tickets for youth 17 and younger are half price for this show. Discounted tickets to this show are also available for K-State faculty and staff, individuals 62 and older, and members of the military. Original IDs will be required to obtain discounts — third-party, photocopied or web-based IDs are not accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

See The Aluminum Show at McCain Auditorium

Nicholas Throckmorton was recognized Wednesday in Jim Clark's Chevrolet showroom as the JC Breakfast Optimist Club's Junction City High School Student of the Month.&nbsp; Nicholas is a senior at JCHS, who takes pictures of athletic events for the PowWow Yearbook. He has a social media page titled Dream, Laugh, Imagine (DLI). 

Nicholas plans to attend Butler County Community College or Kansas State University upon graduation from JCHS and will&nbsp; focus on sports media. Sabrina Reiswig nominated Nicholas then the Junior Optimist Club at JCHS selected Nicholas for the recognition based on the statements in The Optimist Creed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738167403842.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Morgan Nabus, JCHS Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club President; Nicholas and Ricardo Gutierrez, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Facilitator for the JCHS JOI Club.&nbsp;Nicholas received a $25.00 gift certificate from JC's BBQ &amp; Grill and a framed certificate from the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.&nbsp; &nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Morgan Nabus, JCHS Junior Optimist International (JOI) Club President; Nicholas and Ricardo Gutierrez, JC Breakfast Optimist Club Facilitator for the JCHS JOI Club.&nbsp;Nicholas received a $25.00 gift certificate from JC's BBQ &amp; Grill and a framed certificate from the JC Breakfast Optimist Club.&nbsp; &nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast ClubNicholas Throckmorton was recognized Wednesday in Jim Clark's Chevrolet showroom as the JC Breakfast Optimist Club's Junction City High School Student of the Month.&nbsp; Nicholas is a senior at JCHS, who takes pictures of athletic events for the PowWow Yearbook. He has a social media page titled Dream, Laugh, Imagine (DLI). Nicholas plans to attend Butler County Community College or Kansas State University upon graduation from JCHS and will&nbsp; focus on sports media. Sabrina Reiswig nominated Nicholas then the Junior Optimist Club at JCHS selected Nicholas for the recognition based on the statements in The Optimist Creed.&nbsp; &nbsp;

JC Breakfast Optimist Club JCHS Student of the Month

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;

SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.

“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”

Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;

If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.

Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:

Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.

In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738161277873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) announced this week that the 2025 application period for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks is now open.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks, previously called Summer EBT in Kansas, is a federal program administered by DCF that provides a one-time benefit of $120 per year for each eligible school-aged child to help offset the cost of groceries over the summer.“Children and teenagers need consistent access to healthy foods to grow and thrive, and summer is a time when many of them lose access to the healthy meals they receive at school,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“SUN&nbsp;Bucks can help fill the gap by providing families a small boost with helping to put nutritious food on their tables.”Many families will automatically get the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefit without needing to apply. Households with an eligible child who can be identified by DCF will receive a letter from DCF in January 2025 notifying them that their child is eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be added​&nbsp;to an existing household Kansas Benefits Card (also known as an EBT card) or loaded onto a Kansas Benefits Card and mailed to their home in April.&nbsp;If a household&nbsp;​did not receive a letter from DCF in January regarding&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks eligibility, and they believe their child is eligible, they will need to apply.&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks applications will be accepted from Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, through 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. Families will need to use their existing DCF self-service account or create an account to apply through the DCF online self-service portal,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcfapp.kees.ks.gov%2Fapspssp%2FsspNonMed.portal/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/YW-N8YJ1xna10z8YLKVpcAmM6Ua4e1IlVx5FQ5v22bM=389">dcfapp.kees.ks.gov</a>. Benefits will be issued beginning in April 2025.Eligibility:Children may be eligible for the program if:<ul>
 <li>The child attends a Kansas school offering the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and the household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>OR<ul>
 <li>The school-aged child (7-17 years old) lives in a household where someone has received Food Assistance (SNAP) or TANF Cash Assistance at any point since July 2024.</li>
 </ul>Children in the custody of the DCF Secretary and enrolled in a Kansas school are eligible for&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks. Relatives, non-related kin, and foster homes will need to submit a&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks application for children in their care after April 1, 2025, to ensure the benefit is issued to the correct address. For any applications submitted after April 1,&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks benefits will be issued once the child has been determined eligible.In 2024, the&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks program provided more than $15 million in benefits to 127,202 Kansas children. Learn more about&nbsp;SUN&nbsp;Bucks at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2Fservices%2Fees%2FPages%2FFood%2Fsunbucks.aspx/1/01010194a9b14b88-0dee3e5f-c7c2-452b-be19-c77943b2e703-000000/tpaexBdscF91YmpD1rhbTlMwYsvLei-jTMl0w77dQlo=389">SUNBucks.dcf.ks.gov</a>.

DCF: 2025 SUN Bucks Application Period Now Open

The Junction City Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest High School on Tuesday night in Overland Park 56-51.

The Huskies won the opening tip and scored the first basket of the game, but Junction City led by three, 15-12, at the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter featured the Huskies going on a run and the Blue Jays trailing by four, 30-26 at halftime.

The third quarter saw the Huskies get their largest lead of the game, nine, but late in the third quarter, the Blue Jays went on an 8-0 run to tie the game at 36, before Blue Valley Northwest took a four-point lead 43-39 into the fourth quarter.

After trailing for the whole second and third quarters, the Blue Jays went on another run in the fourth quarter and eventually took a 50-47 lead over the Huskies and held on to win 56-51.

Junction City had three players in double-digits on the night. Senior Jackson Austin had 16, Junior Lovell Autry also had 16, and senior Larkin Turner added 10 points.

For the second straight year, the Blue Jays knock off Blue Valley Northwest. With the win, Junction City goes to 9-2 on the season.

Next up for the Blue Jays is a Centennial league matchup on Thursday at Washburn Rural.

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest High School on Tuesday night in Overland Park 56-51.The Huskies won the opening tip and scored the first basket of the game, but Junction City led by three, 15-12, at the end of the first quarter.The second quarter featured the Huskies going on a run and the Blue Jays trailing by four, 30-26 at halftime.The third quarter saw the Huskies get their largest lead of the game, nine, but late in the third quarter, the Blue Jays went on an 8-0 run to tie the game at 36, before Blue Valley Northwest took a four-point lead 43-39 into the fourth quarter.After trailing for the whole second and third quarters, the Blue Jays went on another run in the fourth quarter and eventually took a 50-47 lead over the Huskies and held on to win 56-51.Junction City had three players in double-digits on the night. Senior Jackson Austin had 16, Junior Lovell Autry also had 16, and senior Larkin Turner added 10 points.For the second straight year, the Blue Jays knock off Blue Valley Northwest. With the win, Junction City goes to 9-2 on the season.Next up for the Blue Jays is a Centennial league matchup on Thursday at Washburn Rural.

Blue Jays beat Blue Valley Northwest, improve to 9-2

January 31 ( Friday ) is the deadline for nonprofit agencies and organizations to apply for United Way allocation funding in Junction City and Geary County.

United Way Executive Director Nichole Mader said recently that 12-15 volunteers are being sought. There will be four panels with each panel interviewing agencies and making recommendations on funding.

Agencies can go to the United Way web site to apply.

United way is also gearing up for the VITA ( Volunteer Income Tax Assistance ) program.

January 31 ( Friday ) is the deadline for nonprofit agencies and organizations to apply for United Way allocation funding in Junction City and Geary County.United Way Executive Director Nichole Mader said recently that 12-15 volunteers are being sought. There will be four panels with each panel interviewing agencies and making recommendations on funding.Agencies can go to the United Way web site to apply.United way is also gearing up for the VITA ( Volunteer Income Tax Assistance ) program.

Deadline for United Way allocation funding requests is nearing

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:

“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

WASHINGTON&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Jerry Moran – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – on Tuesday issued the following statement after receiving confirmation from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that there are no VA programs impacted by the federal funding pause:“After my inquiry today, VA has confirmed that no direct benefits or assistance provided through grant partners is impacted by OMB's pause on federal funding. Veterans and their families, as well as the organizations that serve them, will continue to have access to the benefits, services and resources provided through the Department of Veterans Affairs. I appreciate the VA quickly providing answers to my questions and continuing the important programs that serve our veterans and their families.”

Moran: VA will not be impacted by federal funding pause

The Junction City Blue Jay varsity basketball team was in Dodge City last week playing in the 82nd Tournament of Champions. While in Dodge City, the Blue Jays visited Beeson Elementary School and read to the students.&nbsp;

* Photos courtesy of Junction City Assistant basketball coach Allan McFarland.&nbsp;

Junction City placed fourth in the Dodge City TOC and is 8-2 on the season.&nbsp;

The Junction City Blue Jay varsity basketball team was in Dodge City last week playing in the 82nd Tournament of Champions. While in Dodge City, the Blue Jays visited Beeson Elementary School and read to the students.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093309326.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093330061.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738093340566.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>* Photos courtesy of Junction City Assistant basketball coach Allan McFarland.&nbsp;Junction City placed fourth in the Dodge City TOC and is 8-2 on the season.&nbsp;

Blue Jays visit schools while playing in Dodge City TOC

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reports that Deputies arrested Allyssa Bailey of Junction City, KS in the 300 Block of West 6th St, on a Geary County District Court Warrant for Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (felony), Identity Theft, Identity Fraud, Forgery, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (misdemeanor), Interference with Law Enforcement, Driving While License Suspended, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Display of License Plate.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department reports that Deputies arrested Allyssa Bailey of Junction City, KS in the 300 Block of West 6th St, on a Geary County District Court Warrant for Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (felony), Identity Theft, Identity Fraud, Forgery, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance (misdemeanor), Interference with Law Enforcement, Driving While License Suspended, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Display of License Plate.The arrest occurred Monday.