Social Security Administration&nbsp;

Social Security imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email, or call, do not respond.&nbsp;

We only send text messages in limited situations including:


If
you owe money to us, we will mail you a letter with payment options
and appeal rights. Social Security employees do contact the
public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency
calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit,
are already receiving payments and require an update to their record
or have requested a phone call from the agency. If there is a problem
with a person's Social Security number or record, Social Security
will typically mail a letter.

We
encourage you to report suspected Social Security imposter scams —
and other Social Security fraud — to the OIG’s website at
<a href="https://oig.ssa.gov/report/">oig.ssa.gov/report</a>.
You can find more information about scams at <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/scam">www.ssa.gov/scam</a>.
Please share this information with your friends, family, and
colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter
scams.

CLICK HERE TO GET DAILY UPDATES!&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697549458437.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Social Security Administration&nbsp;Social Security imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. If you receive a suspicious letter, text, email, or call, do not respond.&nbsp;We will never: <ul>
 <li>
	Text
	or email images of an employee’s official government
	identification.
</li><li>Suspend your Social Security Number&nbsp;</li><li>Threaten you with arrest or other legal action unless you immediately pay a fine or fee</li><li>Require payment by retail gift card, wire transfer, internet currency, or cash by mail&nbsp;</li><li>Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment</li><li>Mail or email "official" letters or reports containing your personal information&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>We only send text messages in limited situations including: <ul>
 <li>
	When
	you have subscribed to receive updates and notifications by text.
</li><li>As part of our enhanced security when accessing your personal my Social Security account.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>
If
you owe money to us, we will mail you a letter with payment options
and appeal rights. Social Security employees do contact the
public by telephone for business purposes. Ordinarily, the agency
calls people who have recently applied for a Social Security benefit,
are already receiving payments and require an update to their record
or have requested a phone call from the agency. If there is a problem
with a person's Social Security number or record, Social Security
will typically mail a letter.
We
encourage you to report suspected Social Security imposter scams —
and other Social Security fraud — to the OIG’s website at
<a href="https://oig.ssa.gov/report/">oig.ssa.gov/report</a>.
You can find more information about scams at <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/scam">www.ssa.gov/scam</a>.
Please share this information with your friends, family, and
colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter
scams.CLICK HERE TO GET DAILY UPDATES!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Social Security warns about scams, provides scam awareness information 

Measure modeled after federal legislation responding to Trump agenda item

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — State and federal lawmakers from Kansas convened Monday at the Celtic Fox pub to celebrate legislation to exempt tipped earnings of service and hospitality workers from income taxation.

The approach at the state level would be modeled after congressional bills promoted by President Donald Trump that ditch the federal income tax on tips received by restaurant workers, servers, valets as well as bellhops, bartenders or caddies.

Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and state Sen. Caryn Tyson joined U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, also a Republican, at the pub to talk about ending taxation of tips received in the form of cash, debits or credit cards.

“The intention is to take tax off tips in Kansas,” said Masterson, of Andover. “We love that idea from the federal government. Gratuity is gratitude, right? It’s not ordinary income to somebody.”

Tyson, the Parker chair of the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, said matching state law to federal reform made sense. She estimated the reduction in state tax revenue could range from $4 million to $10 million annually.

“It helps simplify the tax code,” she said. “We need to help those in need, and we did that last year with legislation that we passed, especially exempting state income tax from Social Security. I look forward to getting this passed.”

Marshall, an ally of Trump in Washington, D.C., said the federal tipped-income bill should be regarded as a vehicle for making Kansas affordable again. He said the federal measure — likely to pass Congress sometime between March and June — was part of Trump’s broader strategy to promote domestic prosperity and security.

“What he’s done from the security standpoint is very self-evident on his impetus to control the border and get the illegal criminal aliens out of this country,” the U.S. senator said. “We’re here today to talk about the prosperity part of this.”

He said the federal tipped income initiative was one piece of an effort to lend a hand to hard-working taxpayers.

Overall, he said, the congressional priority in 2025 would be renewal of federal tax cuts initiated during Trump’s first term. He also said Congress and the president should consider ending the federal income tax on Social Security income.

“And, how about no taxes on overtime?” Marshall said.

The nonprofit Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimated enactment of a federal exemption on tips would cost $150 billion to $250 billion over a 10-year period. The organization indicated the exemption could prompt employers and employees to reclassify ordinary income as tips to avoid paying federal income taxes.

A pending bill in the U.S. Senate would incluce a yearly $25,000 deduction cap as well as occupational limits to the exemption. The U.S. House version would limit the tipped-income exclusion from federal taxes to $20,000 annually.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738673045321.png" alt=" Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, and U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said during a Monday news conference in Topeka that tip income ought to be exempt from state and federal income tax collections. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover, and U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said during a Monday news conference in Topeka that tip income ought to be exempt from state and federal income tax collections. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Measure modeled after federal legislation responding to Trump agenda item</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — State and federal lawmakers from Kansas convened Monday at the Celtic Fox pub to celebrate legislation to exempt tipped earnings of service and hospitality workers from income taxation.The approach at the state level would be modeled after congressional bills promoted by President Donald Trump that ditch the federal income tax on tips received by restaurant workers, servers, valets as well as bellhops, bartenders or caddies.Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson and state Sen. Caryn Tyson joined U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, also a Republican, at the pub to talk about ending taxation of tips received in the form of cash, debits or credit cards.“The intention is to take tax off tips in Kansas,” said Masterson, of Andover. “We love that idea from the federal government. Gratuity is gratitude, right? It’s not ordinary income to somebody.”Tyson, the Parker chair of the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, said matching state law to federal reform made sense. She estimated the reduction in state tax revenue could range from $4 million to $10 million annually.“It helps simplify the tax code,” she said. “We need to help those in need, and we did that last year with legislation that we passed, especially exempting state income tax from Social Security. I look forward to getting this passed.”Marshall, an ally of Trump in Washington, D.C., said the federal tipped-income bill should be regarded as a vehicle for making Kansas affordable again. He said the federal measure — likely to pass Congress sometime between March and June — was part of Trump’s broader strategy to promote domestic prosperity and security.“What he’s done from the security standpoint is very self-evident on his impetus to control the border and get the illegal criminal aliens out of this country,” the U.S. senator said. “We’re here today to talk about the prosperity part of this.”He said the federal tipped income initiative was one piece of an effort to lend a hand to hard-working taxpayers.Overall, he said, the congressional priority in 2025 would be renewal of federal tax cuts initiated during Trump’s first term. He also said Congress and the president should consider ending the federal income tax on Social Security income.“And, how about no taxes on overtime?” Marshall said.The nonprofit Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimated enactment of a federal exemption on tips would cost $150 billion to $250 billion over a 10-year period. The organization indicated the exemption could prompt employers and employees to reclassify ordinary income as tips to avoid paying federal income taxes.A pending bill in the U.S. Senate would incluce a yearly $25,000 deduction cap as well as occupational limits to the exemption. The U.S. House version would limit the tipped-income exclusion from federal taxes to $20,000 annually.

Kansas GOP senators promoting bill to exempt tips from state income tax

Geary County Schools USD 475 and the Junction City Education Association have announced that Westwood Elementary kindergarten teacher Stephanie Sowell and Fort Riley Middle School sixth grade language arts teacher Mary McConnell have been named the district’s nominees for the Kansas Master Teacher Award.

Sowell was named the USD 475 Elementary Master Teacher Award nominee, while McConnell claimed the Secondary Master Teacher Award nomination. By being named USD 475’s Master Teacher Award winners, Sowell and McConnell both received a $500 check from Sunflower Bank of Junction City.

The award recipients were recognized during the USD 475 Board of Education meeting.

Geary County Schools USD 475 and the Junction City Education Association have announced that Westwood Elementary kindergarten teacher Stephanie Sowell and Fort Riley Middle School sixth grade language arts teacher Mary McConnell have been named the district’s nominees for the Kansas Master Teacher Award.Sowell was named the USD 475 Elementary Master Teacher Award nominee, while McConnell claimed the Secondary Master Teacher Award nomination. By being named USD 475’s Master Teacher Award winners, Sowell and McConnell both received a $500 check from Sunflower Bank of Junction City.The award recipients were recognized during the USD 475 Board of Education meeting.

Kansas Master Teacher Award nominees are recognized

DICKINSON COUNTY —Sheriff's deputies in central Kansas are investigating a woman on multiple drug allegations.

On January 31, deputies responded to a call of suspicious activity on W 1st Avenue in Hope, Kansas, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.&nbsp; 

Deputies made contact with woman at the residence and began investigating the suspicious activity. During the investigation, deputies developed probable cause that illegal drugs were present in the residence.

The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit was contacted to assist. Investigators applied for a search warrant which was granted and executed at the residence. While conducting the search, deputies located Methamphetamine, Marijuana, and Drug Paraphernalia.

As a result of the investigation, deputies arrested 48-year-old Beverly Lynette Hall and booked her into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738610022383.png" alt="Hall-photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Hall-photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Sheriff's deputies in central Kansas are investigating a woman on multiple drug allegations.On January 31, deputies responded to a call of suspicious activity on W 1st Avenue in Hope, Kansas, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.&nbsp; Deputies made contact with woman at the residence and began investigating the suspicious activity. During the investigation, deputies developed probable cause that illegal drugs were present in the residence.The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit was contacted to assist. Investigators applied for a search warrant which was granted and executed at the residence. While conducting the search, deputies located Methamphetamine, Marijuana, and Drug Paraphernalia.As a result of the investigation, deputies arrested 48-year-old Beverly Lynette Hall and booked her into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Search warrant led to drug bust at Kansas home

DICKINSON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 10a.m. Monday in Dickinson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Jeep Patriot driven by&nbsp; Brittany D.&nbsp; Lovelace, 32, Junction City, was westbound in the 1500 block of Old 40 Highway one mile east of Detroit, Kansas.

The Jeep crossed the center line, entered the south ditch, stuck the railroad tracks and rolled onto its roof

EMS transported Lovelace and a 1-year-old passenger to the hospital in Abilene. Lovelace and the child were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

DICKINSON COUNTY—Two people were injured in an accident just before 10a.m. Monday in Dickinson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Jeep Patriot driven by&nbsp; Brittany D.&nbsp; Lovelace, 32, Junction City, was westbound in the 1500 block of Old 40 Highway one mile east of Detroit, Kansas.The Jeep crossed the center line, entered the south ditch, stuck the railroad tracks and rolled onto its roofEMS transported Lovelace and a 1-year-old passenger to the hospital in Abilene. Lovelace and the child were both properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Junction City woman, 1-year-old hospitalized after Jeep overturns

Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau Marketing Specialist Rick Dykstra Provided information on a series of topics to the Geary County Commission on Monday.

--The commission granted a request by Dykstra for $1,500 for Geary County to participate in the Big Splash promotion and marketing effort involving the CVB's in Geary, Riley and Morris counties.&nbsp;

--The Geary County CVB will be represented at the state capitol on Feb. 12 for the Travel Industry Association of Kansas meeting with elected officials. Legislators will be updated on different projects.

--KDOT is working to install Konza Prairie signs Near I-70 and McDowell Creek Road.

--THE CVB does not plan to renew membership in the I-70 Association.&nbsp;

Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau Marketing Specialist Rick Dykstra Provided information on a series of topics to the Geary County Commission on Monday.--The commission granted a request by Dykstra for $1,500 for Geary County to participate in the Big Splash promotion and marketing effort involving the CVB's in Geary, Riley and Morris counties.&nbsp;--The Geary County CVB will be represented at the state capitol on Feb. 12 for the Travel Industry Association of Kansas meeting with elected officials. Legislators will be updated on different projects.--KDOT is working to install Konza Prairie signs Near I-70 and McDowell Creek Road.--THE CVB does not plan to renew membership in the I-70 Association.&nbsp;-

CVB News Notes

&nbsp;Junction City High School Finance Pathway students will help prepare your 2024 tax returns.

Overall, students and an on-site coordinator have been preparing tax returns for the Junction City community for 29 years.&nbsp; Visit room B225 at Junction City High School to get questions answered or schedule an appointment.

 For more information, please email Roxanne Whaley at roxannewhaley@usd475.org or call via phone at 785-717-4261.

&nbsp;Junction City High School Finance Pathway students will help prepare your 2024 tax returns.Overall, students and an on-site coordinator have been preparing tax returns for the Junction City community for 29 years.&nbsp; Visit room B225 at Junction City High School to get questions answered or schedule an appointment. For more information, please email Roxanne Whaley at roxannewhaley@usd475.org or call via phone at 785-717-4261.

Students will help on tax returns

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement in central Kansas captured a suspect wanted for murder in Kansas City.

On Sunday morning, February 2, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle in the ditch in the area of K-15 Highway and 2900 Avenue, north of Abilene, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff.

 A deputy responded to the motorist assist and made contact with a man later identified as 50-year-old Armando Navarro of Kansas City, Missouri.

 The vehicle was out of the roadway and Navarro advised he was waiting for a tow truck. The deputy then left the scene but told Navarro he would check on him later.

The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office was later notified that Navarro was a suspect in a triple homicide that occurred on February 2, in Kansas City, Missouri. Deputies returned to the area and confirmed the suspect was still with the vehicle.

Additional deputies arrived as well as troopers with the Kansas Highway Patrol. While awaiting the arrival of an armored vehicle from the Junction City Police department, deputies observed the subject leaving the area on 2900 and heading towards K-15 Highway. 

The Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit and another deputy contacted the subject at 2900 Avenue and K-15 Highway. A brief foot pursuit ensued and the K-9 was deployed.&nbsp; Navarro surrendered to the K-9 unit and was taken into custody by deputies.

Navarro is being held at the Dickinson County Detention Center awaiting extradition back to Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738602493023.png" alt="Navarro photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Navarro photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement in central Kansas captured a suspect wanted for murder in Kansas City.On Sunday morning, February 2, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle in the ditch in the area of K-15 Highway and 2900 Avenue, north of Abilene, according to a media release from the Dickinson County Sheriff. A deputy responded to the motorist assist and made contact with a man later identified as 50-year-old Armando Navarro of Kansas City, Missouri. The vehicle was out of the roadway and Navarro advised he was waiting for a tow truck. The deputy then left the scene but told Navarro he would check on him later.The Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office was later notified that Navarro was a suspect in a triple homicide that occurred on February 2, in Kansas City, Missouri. Deputies returned to the area and confirmed the suspect was still with the vehicle.Additional deputies arrived as well as troopers with the Kansas Highway Patrol. While awaiting the arrival of an armored vehicle from the Junction City Police department, deputies observed the subject leaving the area on 2900 and heading towards K-15 Highway. The Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit and another deputy contacted the subject at 2900 Avenue and K-15 Highway. A brief foot pursuit ensued and the K-9 was deployed.&nbsp; Navarro surrendered to the K-9 unit and was taken into custody by deputies.Navarro is being held at the Dickinson County Detention Center awaiting extradition back to Missouri.

Wanted triple-homicide suspect captured in central Kansas


On
Jan. 29  Kansas Senator
Mike Thompson (district 10) has filed Senate Concurrent Resolution
1607 (SCR1607) for Kansas to join the states calling for a convention
for proposing a congressional term limits amendment to the U.S.
Constitution. The effort is being spearheaded by the nonpartisan,
nonprofit, U.S. Term Limits (USTL).


SCR1607&nbsp;
has a groundswell of support in the Kansas legislature. Many state
lawmakers committed their support by signing a pledge to cosponsor
Senator Thompson's resolution.


"It's
time for Congress to be accountable to the people they represent, "
said Philip Blumel, USTL President. "Term limits will help
restore trust in our government and ensure that power is returned to
the hands of the citizens."


State
Chair for U.S. Term Limits, Sara Hart-Weir says, "I am thrilled
we are gaining momentum in Kansas to join the growing number of
states supporting term limits on Congress. This strong support will
help us pas&nbsp; &nbsp; this critical resolution."


&nbsp;When
SCR1607 passes both the house and senate chambers this session,
Kansas will join other states in the call to for a national
convention for the exclusive purpose of proposing term limits on the
U.S. Congress. Once 34 state legislatures pass similar resolutions
and approve the term limits amendment language, the measure must be
ratified by 38 states to become part of the U.S. Constitution.

You
can see a copy of SCR1607 at this <a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/scr1607_00_0000.pdf">link. 
</a>


SCR1607
has been referred to the Committee on Federal and State Affairs. 


<a target="_blank" href="https://email.em.audience.io/CSB/Public/Form.aspx?fid=1950312&amp;ac=grno">CLICK HERE TO GET DAILY UPDATES!</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738602106809.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Senator Mike Thompson" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Senator Mike Thompson</figcaption>
 </figure>
On
Jan. 29 Kansas Senator
Mike Thompson (district 10) has filed Senate Concurrent Resolution
1607 (SCR1607) for Kansas to join the states calling for a convention
for proposing a congressional term limits amendment to the U.S.
Constitution. The effort is being spearheaded by the nonpartisan,
nonprofit, U.S. Term Limits (USTL).
SCR1607&nbsp;
has a groundswell of support in the Kansas legislature. Many state
lawmakers committed their support by signing a pledge to cosponsor
Senator Thompson's resolution.
"It's
time for Congress to be accountable to the people they represent, "
said Philip Blumel, USTL President. "Term limits will help
restore trust in our government and ensure that power is returned to
the hands of the citizens."
State
Chair for U.S. Term Limits, Sara Hart-Weir says, "I am thrilled
we are gaining momentum in Kansas to join the growing number of
states supporting term limits on Congress. This strong support will
help us pas&nbsp; &nbsp; this critical resolution."
&nbsp;When
SCR1607 passes both the house and senate chambers this session,
Kansas will join other states in the call to for a national
convention for the exclusive purpose of proposing term limits on the
U.S. Congress. Once 34 state legislatures pass similar resolutions
and approve the term limits amendment language, the measure must be
ratified by 38 states to become part of the U.S. Constitution.
You
can see a copy of SCR1607 at this <a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/scr1607_00_0000.pdf">link. 
</a>
SCR1607
has been referred to the Committee on Federal and State Affairs. 
<a target="_blank" href="https://email.em.audience.io/CSB/Public/Form.aspx?fid=1950312&amp;ac=grno">CLICK HERE TO GET DAILY UPDATES!</a>

State Senator files resolution to propose congressional term limits 

The Junction City Commission meeting agenda Tuesday night includes acceptance of the resignation of Mayor Jeff Underhill. 

Underhill has confirmed that he does plan to resign. "I don't have a passion for this any more."

&nbsp;Underhill was elected to the mayor's post for the coming year by his fellow commissioners in January.&nbsp; A blank&nbsp; petition was filed last Friday calling for him to be recalled from office as a city commissioner but it had not yet been acted on. The city commission will be in session at 7 p.m. Tuesday at 701 North Jefferson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738601122897.jpeg" alt="Jeff Underhill" />
 <figcaption>Jeff Underhill</figcaption>
 </figure>The Junction City Commission meeting agenda Tuesday night includes acceptance of the resignation of Mayor Jeff Underhill. Underhill has confirmed that he does plan to resign. "I don't have a passion for this any more."&nbsp;Underhill was elected to the mayor's post for the coming year by his fellow commissioners in January.&nbsp; A blank&nbsp; petition was filed last Friday calling for him to be recalled from office as a city commissioner but it had not yet been acted on. The city commission will be in session at 7 p.m. Tuesday at 701 North Jefferson.

Junction City mayor plans to resign

Saint Francis Xavier School announced via social media that since they surpassed their food drive donation goal from last year, the final prize to all students and staff will be no school on Friday, February 28th. 

All 2,287 items will be delivered to the Junction City Food Pantry this week

Saint Francis Xavier School announced via social media that since they surpassed their food drive donation goal from last year, the final prize to all students and staff will be no school on Friday, February 28th. All 2,287 items will be delivered to the Junction City Food Pantry this week

Saint Francis Xavier School conducts successful food drive

Optimist International is an international service club organization with almost 3,000 clubs and over 80,000 members in more than 20 countries dedicated to “Bringing Out The Best In Kids.” February 6, 2025, has been designated by Optimist International as “Optimist Day.”

The JC Breakfast Optimist Club has quarterly fundraisers at JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill and receives donations from individuals, businesses and contributions made through Match Day in collaboration with the Greater Geary Community Foundation. The money raised by the local club goes directly to 16 different Geary County youth organizations. Three scholarships are also annually made available to graduating seniors to help them reach their academic or career goals. The local Optimists also have chartered two Junior Optimist International (JOI) Clubs with one each at Junction City High School and St. Xavier’s Catholic Schools. These two junior clubs are the only two actively involved JOI Clubs in Kansas.

All clubs in the international organization base their work on “The Optimist Creed” with 10 promises made in the creed. These statements help guide each member to improve themselves, their community and their club.

In these challenging times, it is important to not only be alert to what is going on in our communities, state, nation and world, but to also be willing to have a positive impact on one individual at a time. This can be done by simple acts of kindness, a smile, an encouraging word and or a donation of time, skill or money to help others in need.

Being an optimist every day and not just on February 6 makes a better world. The JC Breakfast Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at Jim Clark’s Chevrolet beginning at 6:30 AM. Anyone who shares the focus of the club is invited to attend and become an active member.

By Nita MillerJC Breakfast Optimist Club PresidentOptimist International is an international service club organization with almost 3,000 clubs and over 80,000 members in more than 20 countries dedicated to “Bringing Out The Best In Kids.” February 6, 2025, has been designated by Optimist International as “Optimist Day.”The JC Breakfast Optimist Club has quarterly fundraisers at JC’s BBQ &amp; Grill and receives donations from individuals, businesses and contributions made through Match Day in collaboration with the Greater Geary Community Foundation. The money raised by the local club goes directly to 16 different Geary County youth organizations. Three scholarships are also annually made available to graduating seniors to help them reach their academic or career goals. The local Optimists also have chartered two Junior Optimist International (JOI) Clubs with one each at Junction City High School and St. Xavier’s Catholic Schools. These two junior clubs are the only two actively involved JOI Clubs in Kansas.All clubs in the international organization base their work on “The Optimist Creed” with 10 promises made in the creed. These statements help guide each member to improve themselves, their community and their club.In these challenging times, it is important to not only be alert to what is going on in our communities, state, nation and world, but to also be willing to have a positive impact on one individual at a time. This can be done by simple acts of kindness, a smile, an encouraging word and or a donation of time, skill or money to help others in need.Being an optimist every day and not just on February 6 makes a better world. The JC Breakfast Optimist Club meets every Wednesday at Jim Clark’s Chevrolet beginning at 6:30 AM. Anyone who shares the focus of the club is invited to attend and become an active member.

Optimism Celebrated

<a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By Pat Melgares</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s recent ban on the use of a popular food dye will create a new challenge for home bakers aiming for a signature cherry red color in candy, cakes, icings and other food products.

Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee said there are foods that can substitute for FD&amp;C Red No. 3 – such as beets, cranberries, raspberries and more – “but these may also add flavors to food that may not be wanted."

She added that food manufacturers and researchers will look at how these new colors react with other ingredients or temperature changes.

The FDA announced on Jan. 15 that it is banning the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in any food product or drugs that are ingested. The government agency cited two studies indicating cancer in laboratory male rats that were exposed to high levels of the dye, due to a rat-specific hormonal mechanism.

To date, there are no scientific studies that have shown a connection between consuming FD&amp;C Red No. 3 and cancer in humans, but a provision within the U.S. Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (called the Delaney Clause) prohibits the use of food or color additives if they are proven to cause cancer in humans or animals.

The FDA will require manufacturers using FD&amp;C Red No. 3 to reformulate their products by Jan. 15, 2027 or Jan. 18, 2028, depending on the size of the business. Imported foods may not contain this ingredient.

If shopping for food colors, consumers can avoid products containing FD&amp;C Red No. 3 by reading the ingredient statement on the packaging, according to Blakeslee.

“Look for FD&amp;C Red No. 3, Red 3, or if the product is imported, it may be called erythrosine,” she said. “FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is a certified color additive and it must be specified in the ingredient statement if it is included in the product.”

Other examples of color substitutes for FD&amp;C Red No. 3 include red beet extract or paprika extract. Blakeslee said future decisions on food additives by the FDA will be based on the best science available. The agency shares information regarding recalls, outbreaks and more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food">on its website</a>.

More food safety tips are available online from K-State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/">Rapid Response Center for Food Science</a>. Blakeslee publishes a monthly newsletter, called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/newsletter/index.html">You Asked It!</a>, with timely tips for safe food in and out of the home.

More information is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices in Kansas</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736956961471.png" alt="FDA image" />
 <figcaption>FDA image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="mailto:melgares@ksu.edu" target="_blank">By Pat Melgares</a> K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s recent ban on the use of a popular food dye will create a new challenge for home bakers aiming for a signature cherry red color in candy, cakes, icings and other food products.Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee said there are foods that can substitute for FD&amp;C Red No. 3 – such as beets, cranberries, raspberries and more – “but these may also add flavors to food that may not be wanted."She added that food manufacturers and researchers will look at how these new colors react with other ingredients or temperature changes.The FDA announced on Jan. 15 that it is banning the use of FD&amp;C Red No. 3 in any food product or drugs that are ingested. The government agency cited two studies indicating cancer in laboratory male rats that were exposed to high levels of the dye, due to a rat-specific hormonal mechanism.To date, there are no scientific studies that have shown a connection between consuming FD&amp;C Red No. 3 and cancer in humans, but a provision within the U.S. Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (called the Delaney Clause) prohibits the use of food or color additives if they are proven to cause cancer in humans or animals.The FDA will require manufacturers using FD&amp;C Red No. 3 to reformulate their products by Jan. 15, 2027 or Jan. 18, 2028, depending on the size of the business. Imported foods may not contain this ingredient.If shopping for food colors, consumers can avoid products containing FD&amp;C Red No. 3 by reading the ingredient statement on the packaging, according to Blakeslee.“Look for FD&amp;C Red No. 3, Red 3, or if the product is imported, it may be called erythrosine,” she said. “FD&amp;C Red No. 3 is a certified color additive and it must be specified in the ingredient statement if it is included in the product.”Other examples of color substitutes for FD&amp;C Red No. 3 include red beet extract or paprika extract. Blakeslee said future decisions on food additives by the FDA will be based on the best science available. The agency shares information regarding recalls, outbreaks and more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/food">on its website</a>.More food safety tips are available online from K-State’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/">Rapid Response Center for Food Science</a>. Blakeslee publishes a monthly newsletter, called&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrc.k-state.edu/newsletter/index.html">You Asked It!</a>, with timely tips for safe food in and out of the home.More information is also available at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html">local extension offices in Kansas</a>.

Substitutes for recently banned cherry dye are limited, says KSU food scientist

Guidance from the Secretary of Defense: "Identity Months Dead at DoD"

Our unity and purpose are instrumental to meeting the Department's warfighting mission. Efforts to divide the force – to put one group ahead of another – erode camaraderie and threaten mission execution.

Going forward, DoD Components and Military Departments will not use official resources, to include man-hours, to host celebrations or events related to cultural awareness months, including National African American/Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Pride Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and National American Indian Heritage Month. Service members and civilians remain permitted to attend these events in an unofficial capacity outside of duty hours.

Installations, units, and offices are encouraged to celebrate the valor and success of military heroes of all races, genders, and backgrounds as we restore our warrior culture and ethos. We are proud of our warriors and their history, but we will focus on the character of their service instead of their immutable characteristics.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738441185526.png" alt="Sailors decorate for Pride Month aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham in the Atlantic Ocean, June 16, 2022.- Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Theoplis Stewart II" />
 <figcaption>Sailors decorate for Pride Month aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham in the Atlantic Ocean, June 16, 2022.- Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Theoplis Stewart II</figcaption>
 </figure>U.S. Department of DefenseGuidance from the Secretary of Defense: "Identity Months Dead at DoD"Our unity and purpose are instrumental to meeting the Department's warfighting mission. Efforts to divide the force – to put one group ahead of another – erode camaraderie and threaten mission execution.Going forward, DoD Components and Military Departments will not use official resources, to include man-hours, to host celebrations or events related to cultural awareness months, including National African American/Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Pride Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and National American Indian Heritage Month. Service members and civilians remain permitted to attend these events in an unofficial capacity outside of duty hours.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738441330356.png" alt="Air Force Airman 1st Class Ysabella Paris participates in a cardboard boat race during a Pride Month observance event at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., June 9, 2023. The base hosted several events throughout the month of June to celebrate and honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ service members. Photo by Air Force Airman 1st Class Katelynn Jackson" />
 <figcaption>Air Force Airman 1st Class Ysabella Paris participates in a cardboard boat race during a Pride Month observance event at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., June 9, 2023. The base hosted several events throughout the month of June to celebrate and honor the contributions of LGBTQ+ service members. Photo by Air Force Airman 1st Class Katelynn Jackson</figcaption>
 </figure>Installations, units, and offices are encouraged to celebrate the valor and success of military heroes of all races, genders, and backgrounds as we restore our warrior culture and ethos. We are proud of our warriors and their history, but we will focus on the character of their service instead of their immutable characteristics.

New Defense Secretary cancels all identity months in the U.S. military 

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Fetterman (D-PA), Katie Britt (R-AL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral&nbsp;Foreign Adversary Risk Management (FARM) Act.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/119th-FARM-Act732.pdf">Click here to read the bill</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/119th-FARM-Act732.pdf">The FARM Act&nbsp;</a>will permanently add the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investments in the United States (CFIUS), the governmental body that oversees the vetting process of foreign investment and acquisition of American companies, a move to prevent improper foreign interference and disruption to the U.S. agriculture industry.

“Food Security is National Security, it's high time that we start recognizing this before it is too late,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“The Secretary of Agriculture needs a seat at the table to help the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States vet foreign agricultural investments like land. This committee currently does not directly consider the needs of the agriculture industry, the FARM Act changes that.”

“Over the last decade, we’ve seen a surge of American farmland purchases from our foreign adversaries,”&nbsp;said Senator Tuberville.&nbsp;“These foreign investments are now reaching every piece of the very large puzzle that makes up our agriculture industry, from farming and processing to packaging and shipping. Food security is national security, and we cannot allow our adversaries to have a foot in the door to our critical supply chains. We must prioritize oversight of foreign investment in our food supply chains, especially from Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. This starts with giving the agriculture community a permanent seat at the table on CFIUS. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate Ag Committee, I will keep fighting to secure our ag supply chains so that our agriculture community can continue to put food on the table for American families.”

“Pennsylvania is home to about 50,000 farms and the farmers who power them already face enough challenges to stay competitive. They shouldn’t also have to compete with foreign adversaries buying up American farmland,”&nbsp;said Senator John Fetterman. “America’s farms are critical infrastructure, and CFIUS exists to protect our critical infrastructure from foreign threats. So, adding the Secretary of Agriculture is just plain common sense. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: foreign adversaries have no business owning American farmland. This bill makes that clear and I’m proud to partner with my colleague to get it done.”

Two previous AG secretaries under Democrat administrations have expressed support for making the Secretary of Agriculture a permanent member of CFIUS. U.S. Representative Ronny Jackson (R-TX-13) reintroduced the bipartisan, companion legislation in the House of Representatives.&nbsp;

“America’s agricultural industry is no exception to the increasing national security threats our country faces,”&nbsp;said Rep. Jackson.&nbsp;“Biden’s failed leadership allowed unchecked foreign influence, particularly from the Chinese Communist Party, to interfere with and attempt to control our food supply chain. Representing Texas’s top agricultural-producing district, I am committed to ensuring our nation’s food production remains free from foreign manipulation. This is why I am proud to reintroduce the FARM Act, putting America first and ensuring that our agricultural industry remains robust, secure, and free from foreign interference. Thank you to Senator Tuberville for leading companion legislation in the Senate, and we hope this bipartisan legislation, which is crucial to our food security, will move forward quickly to President Trump’s desk.”&nbsp;

Over the past few years, the United States has experienced a rapid increase in foreign investment in the agricultural sector, particularly from China. Growing foreign investment in agriculture and other essential industries, like health care and energy, threaten our country’s national security. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate AG Committee, Senator Tuberville has been sounding the alarm about foreign ownership of American farmland and other elements of our food supply chain.

According to USDA data from December 2023, foreign investors own approximately 45 million acres of U.S. agricultural land. This represents an increase of over 1.5 million acres in one calendar year. Foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land increased modestly from 2012 to 2017 at an average increase of 0.6 million acres per year. However, since 2017, this number skyrocketed to an annual average of 2.6 million acres annually. Additionally, between 2010 and 2021, entities or individuals from China increased their ownership of U.S. agricultural land more than twentyfold, from 13,720 acres to 383,935 acres. Alabama has the fourth-highest amount of foreign-owned agricultural land in the United States, with 2.2 million acres, most of which is forestland.

CFIUS is authorized to oversee and review foreign investment and ownership in domestic businesses as it relates to national security. Currently, the Committee does not directly consider the needs of the agriculture industry when reviewing foreign investment and ownership in domestic businesses.&nbsp;

Specifically, the&nbsp;FARM Act&nbsp;would:

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Senators Roger Marshall, Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Rick Scott (R-FL), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Fetterman (D-PA), Katie Britt (R-AL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Steve Daines (R-MT), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced the bipartisan, bicameral&nbsp;Foreign Adversary Risk Management (FARM) Act.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/119th-FARM-Act732.pdf">Click here to read the bill</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/119th-FARM-Act732.pdf">The FARM Act&nbsp;</a>will permanently add the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to the Committee on Foreign Investments in the United States (CFIUS), the governmental body that oversees the vetting process of foreign investment and acquisition of American companies, a move to prevent improper foreign interference and disruption to the U.S. agriculture industry.“Food Security is National Security, it's high time that we start recognizing this before it is too late,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“The Secretary of Agriculture needs a seat at the table to help the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States vet foreign agricultural investments like land. This committee currently does not directly consider the needs of the agriculture industry, the FARM Act changes that.”“Over the last decade, we’ve seen a surge of American farmland purchases from our foreign adversaries,”&nbsp;said Senator Tuberville.&nbsp;“These foreign investments are now reaching every piece of the very large puzzle that makes up our agriculture industry, from farming and processing to packaging and shipping. Food security is national security, and we cannot allow our adversaries to have a foot in the door to our critical supply chains. We must prioritize oversight of foreign investment in our food supply chains, especially from Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. This starts with giving the agriculture community a permanent seat at the table on CFIUS. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate Ag Committee, I will keep fighting to secure our ag supply chains so that our agriculture community can continue to put food on the table for American families.”“Pennsylvania is home to about 50,000 farms and the farmers who power them already face enough challenges to stay competitive. They shouldn’t also have to compete with foreign adversaries buying up American farmland,”&nbsp;said Senator John Fetterman. “America’s farms are critical infrastructure, and CFIUS exists to protect our critical infrastructure from foreign threats. So, adding the Secretary of Agriculture is just plain common sense. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: foreign adversaries have no business owning American farmland. This bill makes that clear and I’m proud to partner with my colleague to get it done.”Two previous AG secretaries under Democrat administrations have expressed support for making the Secretary of Agriculture a permanent member of CFIUS. U.S. Representative Ronny Jackson (R-TX-13) reintroduced the bipartisan, companion legislation in the House of Representatives.&nbsp;“America’s agricultural industry is no exception to the increasing national security threats our country faces,”&nbsp;said Rep. Jackson.&nbsp;“Biden’s failed leadership allowed unchecked foreign influence, particularly from the Chinese Communist Party, to interfere with and attempt to control our food supply chain. Representing Texas’s top agricultural-producing district, I am committed to ensuring our nation’s food production remains free from foreign manipulation. This is why I am proud to reintroduce the FARM Act, putting America first and ensuring that our agricultural industry remains robust, secure, and free from foreign interference. Thank you to Senator Tuberville for leading companion legislation in the Senate, and we hope this bipartisan legislation, which is crucial to our food security, will move forward quickly to President Trump’s desk.”&nbsp;BACKGROUND:Over the past few years, the United States has experienced a rapid increase in foreign investment in the agricultural sector, particularly from China. Growing foreign investment in agriculture and other essential industries, like health care and energy, threaten our country’s national security. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate AG Committee, Senator Tuberville has been sounding the alarm about foreign ownership of American farmland and other elements of our food supply chain.According to USDA data from December 2023, foreign investors own approximately 45 million acres of U.S. agricultural land. This represents an increase of over 1.5 million acres in one calendar year. Foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land increased modestly from 2012 to 2017 at an average increase of 0.6 million acres per year. However, since 2017, this number skyrocketed to an annual average of 2.6 million acres annually. Additionally, between 2010 and 2021, entities or individuals from China increased their ownership of U.S. agricultural land more than twentyfold, from 13,720 acres to 383,935 acres. Alabama has the fourth-highest amount of foreign-owned agricultural land in the United States, with 2.2 million acres, most of which is forestland.CFIUS is authorized to oversee and review foreign investment and ownership in domestic businesses as it relates to national security. Currently, the Committee does not directly consider the needs of the agriculture industry when reviewing foreign investment and ownership in domestic businesses.&nbsp;Specifically, the&nbsp;FARM Act&nbsp;would:<ul>
 <li>add the Secretary of Agriculture as a member to CFIUS;</li><li>protect the U.S. agriculture industry from foreign control through transactions, mergers, acquisitions, or agreements; designate agricultural supply chains as critical infrastructure and critical technologies,</li><li>and require a report to Congress on current and potential foreign investments in the U.S. agricultural industry from USDA and the Government Accountability Office (GAO)</li>
 </ul>

Kansas U.S. Senator and colleagues Introduce the FARM Act

The Junction City Girl's High School girls wrestling team placed 3rd out of 16 teams at their home tournament, scoring 153.5 points.

According to coach Carl Laughlin, placers were:

--4th place: Elizabeth Edgerton-Diaz and Catelin Owens

--3rd place: Catherine Dee and&nbsp; Ka'Ori Herring

--CHAMPIONS: Jaidyn Alvarado, Juliana (Bree) Villanueva and&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Shalina Hicks

The Junction City Girl's High School girls wrestling team placed 3rd out of 16 teams at their home tournament, scoring 153.5 points.According to coach Carl Laughlin, placers were:--4th place: Elizabeth Edgerton-Diaz and Catelin Owens--3rd place: Catherine Dee and&nbsp; Ka'Ori Herring--CHAMPIONS: Jaidyn Alvarado, Juliana (Bree) Villanueva and&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Shalina Hicks

Lady Jay wresting results

Junction City police responded to the 900 block of Kramer Court early Saturday afternoon . They reported that a 22 year old Junction City man, Carron D. Carter, was found suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to the Stormont Vail Flint Hills Campus where he was later pronounced dead. An autopsy is scheduled later this week.

According to Assistant Junction City Police Chief Cory Odell, authorities responded to the scene at 12:48 p.m. Police conducted an investigation and arrested Jonathan M. Lee, 27, Fort Riley on a requested charge of First Degree Murder. Lee was taken to the Geary County Detention Center where he is being held without bond.

This was an isolated incident and Odell confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The Junction City Police Department thanked the Geary County Sheriff’s Office (GESO), Fort Riley Police Department, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) for their assistance in this investigation.

This remains an active investigation, and no further details are available at this time. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department at 785-762-5912 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 785-762-8477 (TIPS).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738460887904.png" alt="Lee-photo Geary County" />
 <figcaption>Lee-photo Geary County</figcaption>
 </figure>Junction City police responded to the 900 block of Kramer Court early Saturday afternoon . They reported that a 22 year old Junction City man, Carron D. Carter, was found suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to the Stormont Vail Flint Hills Campus where he was later pronounced dead. An autopsy is scheduled later this week.According to Assistant Junction City Police Chief Cory Odell, authorities responded to the scene at 12:48 p.m. Police conducted an investigation and arrested Jonathan M. Lee, 27, Fort Riley on a requested charge of First Degree Murder. Lee was taken to the Geary County Detention Center where he is being held without bond.This was an isolated incident and Odell confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public.The Junction City Police Department thanked the Geary County Sheriff’s Office (GESO), Fort Riley Police Department, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) for their assistance in this investigation.This remains an active investigation, and no further details are available at this time. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department at 785-762-5912 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 785-762-8477 (TIPS).

Police confirm a shooting occurred in Junction City

You can give your vision for the future of the Grant Avenue corridor during a workshop Tuesday Feb. 4 at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library.

There will be a public open house to shape the future of the corridor. The meeting will be part of the Flint Hills MPO Connect 2025 Open House.

Those attending can drop in from 5-7 p.m.

You can give your vision for the future of the Grant Avenue corridor during a workshop Tuesday Feb. 4 at the Dorothy Bramlage Public Library.There will be a public open house to shape the future of the corridor. The meeting will be part of the Flint Hills MPO Connect 2025 Open House.Those attending can drop in from 5-7 p.m.

Grant Avenue Visioning Workshop is scheduled

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 9p.m. Friday in Pottawatomie County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a westbound train in the&nbsp;100 Block of North 1st Street in Saint Marys struck a pedestrian identified as&nbsp; 45-year-old Virginia Marie Enockson of St. Marys. She was standing on the tracks facing southbound at the time of the incident.

Enockson was pronounced dead at the scene and was later transported to&nbsp; Piper Funeral Home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 9p.m. Friday in Pottawatomie County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a westbound train in the&nbsp;100 Block of North 1st Street in Saint Marys struck a pedestrian identified as&nbsp; 45-year-old Virginia Marie Enockson of St. Marys. She was standing on the tracks facing southbound at the time of the incident.Enockson was pronounced dead at the scene and was later transported to&nbsp; Piper Funeral Home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas woman dies after struck by a train

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Independent pharmacies across Kansas will close on Wednesday, Feb.5, for a day of advocacy to raise awareness of what they call unfair business practices by pharmacy benefit managers.

Sloane Freeman, president of the Kansas Pharmacists Association, said the "Close for a Cause" event is meant to show customers what life would be like without independent pharmacies in Kansas.

Pharmacists and their employees will also gather in Topeka that day to lobby for legislation the association is introducing to level the playing field for independent pharmacies.

As of Wednesday, Jan. 26, 96 pharmacies in 55 counties have pledged to participate in "Close for a Cause."

Freeman is an owner of a group of pharmacies in Kansas, one of which is in Hill City.

The benefit pharmacy manager system arose in the 1990s to control insurance companies' costs.

However, since then, the benefit pharmacy managers have become part of vertical integration that also includes the ownership of insurance companies and pharmacies.

Three pharmacy benefit managers control about 85% of the market and rank in the top 20 companies in the U.S. They include Cigna, United Healthcare and CVS/Caremark.

"They are charging your insurance plan one cost, reimbursing the pharmacy another cost and then they're keeping everything in the middle," Freeman said.

Freeman said these companies require insured people to use the benefits manager's pharmacies or offer significant discounts as incentives.

Fred Schertz, pharmacist with Midwest Family Health of Russell, will be participating in lobbying efforts in Topeka on Feb. 5. Midwest Family Health will be closed Wednesday.

"[Mail-order pharmacies] not only drive revenue out of the state of Kansas and out of our local economy," he said, "but also it is a patient care thing. Patients are forced to fill out of state."

He said he sees patients who must fill prescriptions out of town or by mail.

"The patients that it really hurts are the ones who don't have the modes of transportation where they can make it to Hays every day to pick up medication,"&nbsp;Schertz said.

<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2020/20_0317.htm">Many scholarly articles have been written on the importance of community pharmacies in local health outcomes, including a&nbsp;July 23, 2020, article shared by the Centers for Disease Control that discusses the role of local pharmacies in dealing with COVID-19.</a>&nbsp;It also touched on chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease.

The pharmacy benefit managers reimburse their pharmacies at a much higher rate than independent pharmacies, Freeman said.

She said independent pharmacies might be reimbursed 1 cent for the drug and $1 for filling the prescription, but the National Community Pharmacy of Association estimates it costs about $13.85 per prescription for an independent pharmacy to fill a prescription and break even.

That includes overhead costs like the container, label, lights and employees, but that doesn't include the cost of the drug.

"When we're not being paid for the drug or any of our employees, we're operating in the red," Freeman said.

Ten Kansas pharmacies closed within the last year, and Freeman said more will close if reforms are not implemented soon.

Two pharmacies in Russell recently merged to stay open.

"In certain pharmacies, up to one in every three prescriptions, they're getting paid below cost,"&nbsp;Schertz said. "That's not taking into account overhead to run it."

There is an appeal system for reimbursements, but appeals are always denied, Freeman said.

"The [pharmacy benefits managers] don't have to play by any rules because there are no rules," Freeman said.

Freeman said the most important aspect of this debate is patient access to medications in a timely manner.

Independent pharmacies deliver to people who can't leave their homes. Pharmacists are available to answer questions in person and provide other special services, such as bubble packs.&nbsp;

Freeman said her pharmacies have even gone to people's homes to give flu shots.

"You won't find that in a mail-order pharmacy or in a chain pharmacy that is 60 to 75 miles away," she said.

Mail-order and chain pharmacies won't be able to handle the volume if more independent pharmacies close, Freeman said.

An independent pharmacy in Garden City closed, and the remaining pharmacies are swamped. Freeman said people are waiting up to five days to get prescriptions filled.

Mail service in rural Kansas is a barrier for patients who are being required to use mail-order pharmacies.&nbsp;Schertz said patients are seeing delays in receiving their medications.

"If something gets hung up half a state away with critical medications, it's not just a package from Amazon. It's lifesaving medication that can be held up," he said.

Climate control is also a concern. Temperature differences can harm medication efficacy, so pharmacies must maintain their medications at consistent temperatures.&nbsp;

Medication that comes through the mail may be sitting in a mail van or on a dock for hours to days in more than 100-degree temperatures or temperatures well below freezing, Freeman said.

The&nbsp;Kansas Pharmacists Association's bill would set a floor for the reimbursement rate to all pharamcies, Freeman said.

Paul Schiferl, pharmacist in Colby, said he did not think the bill would increase prices for consumers.

"We think that the pharmacies should be trued up," he said. ... "What we believe is that it will put everyone to the middle on a fair playing field."

He added, "You can't make a pharmacy run on a $2 dispensing fee."

The bill also encourages transparency. Employers and the state could see where their money goes for drug costs.

It would also reform the audit system. Freeman said the pharmacy benefit managers perform what she called "predatory audits" of independent pharmacies.

"It's common sense things," Freeman said. "We just want to level the playing field a little bit more instead of the three [pharmacy benefits managers] running us over and trying to close us."

Freeman said she and the other pharmacists did not want to close even for one day, but they need Kansans to understand the importance of this issue.

"Patients need to understand they may not have a pharmacy," she said. "Until people understand and feel the issue on themselves, they aren't going to fully understand what the impact could be.

"I can sit here and say until I'm blue in the face, 'If you don't have a pharmacy, you're not going to be able to get your medications.' But until you actually live in that world for a day, it's hard to comprehend."

Schiferl said he also did not want to close. He wants to serve his patients.

"We also want to have this visual representation. We believe our patients want us in their communities," he said, "and we're hoping that when they can see what this would be like if we were closed all of the time, they will want to support this and reach out to their legislators as well and [tell them] how important it is to have a community pharmacy in their town."

The pharmacies encourage their patients to contact local legislators to support the legislation. The independent pharmacies are also organizing letter-writing campaigns and will be taking letters written by patients to Topeka on Feb. 5

"Having the patient voice is what we really hope to have to help the legislators understand more," Freeman said.

Counties that will have pharmacies closed for "Closing for a Cause" on Feb.5 

Anderson Barber Chase Chautauqua ClayCoffey Decatur Dickinson Doniphan Edwards Elk Ellsworth Gove Graham Grant Gray Greenwood Harper Hodgeman Jewell Kingman Kiowa Lane Pawnee Lincoln Logan Marion Meade Mitchell Montgomery Morris Nemaha Ness Norton Osage Ottawa Pawnee Phillips Pottawatomie Rawlins Republic Rice Rooks Rush Russell Sheridan Smith Stafford Stanton Trego Washington Wichita Woodson

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738267698272.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostIndependent pharmacies across Kansas will close on Wednesday, Feb.5, for a day of advocacy to raise awareness of what they call unfair business practices by pharmacy benefit managers.Sloane Freeman, president of the Kansas Pharmacists Association, said the "Close for a Cause" event is meant to show customers what life would be like without independent pharmacies in Kansas.Pharmacists and their employees will also gather in Topeka that day to lobby for legislation the association is introducing to level the playing field for independent pharmacies.As of Wednesday, Jan. 26, 96 pharmacies in 55 counties have pledged to participate in "Close for a Cause."Freeman is an owner of a group of pharmacies in Kansas, one of which is in Hill City.The benefit pharmacy manager system arose in the 1990s to control insurance companies' costs.However, since then, the benefit pharmacy managers have become part of vertical integration that also includes the ownership of insurance companies and pharmacies.Three pharmacy benefit managers control about 85% of the market and rank in the top 20 companies in the U.S. They include Cigna, United Healthcare and CVS/Caremark."They are charging your insurance plan one cost, reimbursing the pharmacy another cost and then they're keeping everything in the middle," Freeman said.Freeman said these companies require insured people to use the benefits manager's pharmacies or offer significant discounts as incentives.Fred Schertz, pharmacist with Midwest Family Health of Russell, will be participating in lobbying efforts in Topeka on Feb. 5. Midwest Family Health will be closed Wednesday."[Mail-order pharmacies] not only drive revenue out of the state of Kansas and out of our local economy," he said, "but also it is a patient care thing. Patients are forced to fill out of state."He said he sees patients who must fill prescriptions out of town or by mail."The patients that it really hurts are the ones who don't have the modes of transportation where they can make it to Hays every day to pick up medication,"&nbsp;Schertz said.<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2020/20_0317.htm">Many scholarly articles have been written on the importance of community pharmacies in local health outcomes, including a&nbsp;July 23, 2020, article shared by the Centers for Disease Control that discusses the role of local pharmacies in dealing with COVID-19.</a>&nbsp;It also touched on chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease.The pharmacy benefit managers reimburse their pharmacies at a much higher rate than independent pharmacies, Freeman said.She said independent pharmacies might be reimbursed 1 cent for the drug and $1 for filling the prescription, but the National Community Pharmacy of Association estimates it costs about $13.85 per prescription for an independent pharmacy to fill a prescription and break even.That includes overhead costs like the container, label, lights and employees, but that doesn't include the cost of the drug."When we're not being paid for the drug or any of our employees, we're operating in the red," Freeman said.Ten Kansas pharmacies closed within the last year, and Freeman said more will close if reforms are not implemented soon.Two pharmacies in Russell recently merged to stay open."In certain pharmacies, up to one in every three prescriptions, they're getting paid below cost,"&nbsp;Schertz said. "That's not taking into account overhead to run it."There is an appeal system for reimbursements, but appeals are always denied, Freeman said."The [pharmacy benefits managers] don't have to play by any rules because there are no rules," Freeman said.Freeman said the most important aspect of this debate is patient access to medications in a timely manner.Independent pharmacies deliver to people who can't leave their homes. Pharmacists are available to answer questions in person and provide other special services, such as bubble packs.&nbsp;Freeman said her pharmacies have even gone to people's homes to give flu shots."You won't find that in a mail-order pharmacy or in a chain pharmacy that is 60 to 75 miles away," she said.Mail-order and chain pharmacies won't be able to handle the volume if more independent pharmacies close, Freeman said.An independent pharmacy in Garden City closed, and the remaining pharmacies are swamped. Freeman said people are waiting up to five days to get prescriptions filled.Mail service in rural Kansas is a barrier for patients who are being required to use mail-order pharmacies.&nbsp;Schertz said patients are seeing delays in receiving their medications."If something gets hung up half a state away with critical medications, it's not just a package from Amazon. It's lifesaving medication that can be held up," he said.Climate control is also a concern. Temperature differences can harm medication efficacy, so pharmacies must maintain their medications at consistent temperatures.&nbsp;Medication that comes through the mail may be sitting in a mail van or on a dock for hours to days in more than 100-degree temperatures or temperatures well below freezing, Freeman said.<h2>The bill</h2>The&nbsp;Kansas Pharmacists Association's bill would set a floor for the reimbursement rate to all pharamcies, Freeman said.Paul Schiferl, pharmacist in Colby, said he did not think the bill would increase prices for consumers."We think that the pharmacies should be trued up," he said. ... "What we believe is that it will put everyone to the middle on a fair playing field."He added, "You can't make a pharmacy run on a $2 dispensing fee."The bill also encourages transparency. Employers and the state could see where their money goes for drug costs.It would also reform the audit system. Freeman said the pharmacy benefit managers perform what she called "predatory audits" of independent pharmacies."It's common sense things," Freeman said. "We just want to level the playing field a little bit more instead of the three [pharmacy benefits managers] running us over and trying to close us."Freeman said she and the other pharmacists did not want to close even for one day, but they need Kansans to understand the importance of this issue."Patients need to understand they may not have a pharmacy," she said. "Until people understand and feel the issue on themselves, they aren't going to fully understand what the impact could be."I can sit here and say until I'm blue in the face, 'If you don't have a pharmacy, you're not going to be able to get your medications.' But until you actually live in that world for a day, it's hard to comprehend."Schiferl said he also did not want to close. He wants to serve his patients."We also want to have this visual representation. We believe our patients want us in their communities," he said, "and we're hoping that when they can see what this would be like if we were closed all of the time, they will want to support this and reach out to their legislators as well and [tell them] how important it is to have a community pharmacy in their town."The pharmacies encourage their patients to contact local legislators to support the legislation. The independent pharmacies are also organizing letter-writing campaigns and will be taking letters written by patients to Topeka on Feb. 5"Having the patient voice is what we really hope to have to help the legislators understand more," Freeman said.Counties that will have pharmacies closed for "Closing for a Cause" on Feb.5 Anderson Barber Chase Chautauqua ClayCoffey Decatur Dickinson Doniphan Edwards Elk Ellsworth Gove Graham Grant Gray Greenwood Harper Hodgeman Jewell Kingman Kiowa Lane Pawnee Lincoln Logan Marion Meade Mitchell Montgomery Morris Nemaha Ness Norton Osage Ottawa Pawnee Phillips Pottawatomie Rawlins Republic Rice Rooks Rush Russell Sheridan Smith Stafford Stanton Trego Washington Wichita Woodson

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