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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

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

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

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.

Cassondra Weis, Failure to appear, arrested 03/14

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

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

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

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

Precious Parks, Domestic battery, arrested 03/15

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

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

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

Geary County Booking Photos March 15-17

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

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

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

Rain and Snow chances are possible on Wednesday

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

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

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

RCPD: Suspect jailed for alleged sex crimes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Retired School Personnel Elected officers for 2025 at recent meeting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Junction City Main Street to host Community Forum 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

St. X students honored for Academic Achievements prior to Spring Break 

Junction City Parks and Recreation, in coordination with the Junction City South Kiwanis and I.C.A.R.E., are excited to announce the beginning of the playground replacement at Coronado Park.&nbsp; The removal of the old equipment will begin Monday, March 17th.&nbsp; Coronado Park will be closed while Public Works does site preparation and installation of the new playground equipment.&nbsp; The installation of the new equipment is scheduled to begin Monday, March 24th and is expected to take approximately 2 weeks.&nbsp;

In addition to Coronado Park, four more playgrounds will have new equipment installed: North Park, South Park, Martin Luther King Jr. Park, and Bramlage Park. It is anticipated that the next playground to be installed will be North Park.&nbsp; For updates, please check the Junction City Parks and Recreation Facebook page.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City Parks and Rec Release--Junction City Parks and Recreation, in coordination with the Junction City South Kiwanis and I.C.A.R.E., are excited to announce the beginning of the playground replacement at Coronado Park.&nbsp; The removal of the old equipment will begin Monday, March 17th.&nbsp; Coronado Park will be closed while Public Works does site preparation and installation of the new playground equipment.&nbsp; The installation of the new equipment is scheduled to begin Monday, March 24th and is expected to take approximately 2 weeks.&nbsp;In addition to Coronado Park, four more playgrounds will have new equipment installed: North Park, South Park, Martin Luther King Jr. Park, and Bramlage Park. It is anticipated that the next playground to be installed will be North Park.&nbsp; For updates, please check the Junction City Parks and Recreation Facebook page.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City Parks and Rec announce parks will have new equipment installed

**
(Home games at Rathert Field are in Bold)

The
Brigade now play in the Jayhawk Collegiate League

May
30 (7:00 p.m.) - Wichita Wildcats

June
2 (7:00 p.m.) - Kingman Islanders

June
12 (7:00 p.m.) - Great Bend Bat Cats

June
14 (DH 5/7 p.m.) - Haysville Aviators

June
17 (7:00 p.m.) - Newton Rebels

June
20 (7:00 p.m.) - Hutchinson Monarchs

June 25 (7:00 p.m.) - Wichita Wildcats

June
28 (7:00 p.m.) - Kingman Islanders

July
5 (7:00 p.m.) - Kansas Cannons

July
7 (7:00 p.m.) - Great Bend Bat Cats

July
12 (7:00 p.m.) - Newton Rebels

July
15 (7:00 p.m.) - Hutchinson Monarchs


July 19 – Jayhawk Collegiate League All Star Game (In Hutchinson)


July 24-Aug. 2 – NBC World Series in Wichita

**
(Home games at Rathert Field are in Bold)The
Brigade now play in the Jayhawk Collegiate LeagueMay 29
- @ Kansas Curve 		May
30 (7:00 p.m.) - Wichita Wildcats
May 31 - @ Wichita Wildcats 
June
2 (7:00 p.m.) - Kingman Islanders
June 3 - @ Kingman Islanders 

June 5 - @ Derby Twins 
June
6 (7:00 p.m.) - Derby Twins
June 7 - @ Kansas Cannons 
June
8 (TBD) – Kansas Cannons
June 10 @ Great Bend Bat CatsJune
12 (7:00 p.m.) - Great Bend Bat CatsJune
13 (7:00 p.m.) - KC MonarchsJune
14 (DH 5/7 p.m.) - Haysville Aviators 
June
17 (7:00 p.m.) - Newton Rebels
June 18 – @ Hutchinson Monarchs 
June
20 (7:00 p.m.) - Hutchinson Monarchs 
June
21 (7:00 p.m.) - KC Knights
June 24 - @ Wichita Wildcats 

June 25 (7:00 p.m.) - Wichita Wildcats
June 27 - @ Kingman IslandersJune
28 (7:00 p.m.) - Kingman Islanders
June 29 - @ Derby TwinsJune
30 (7:00 p.m.) - Derby Twins
July 2 - @ Kansas CannonsJuly
5 (7:00 p.m.) - Kansas Cannons
July 6 - @ Great Bend Bat CatsJuly
7 (7:00 p.m.) - Great Bend Bat Cats
July 9 – (DH) @ Haysville AviatorsJuly
12 (7:00 p.m.) - Newton Rebels
July 14 - @ Hutchinson MonarchsJuly
15 (7:00 p.m.) - Hutchinson Monarchs
July 16 - @ Newton RebelsJuly
17 (7:00 p.m.) - KC MonarchsJuly
18 (7:00 p.m.) - KC Knights
July 19 – Jayhawk Collegiate League All Star Game (In Hutchinson)
July 24-Aug. 2 – NBC World Series in Wichita

Junction City Brigade 2025 Season Schedule

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–Nicholas Paradas, a music teacher at Grandview Elementary and Milford Elementary, is making a difference not only in USD 475, but also as a member of the prestigious Sonus Chamber Choir, a professional recording ensemble based out of Topeka.&nbsp;

As a part of the ensemble, Paradas, who is in his second-year teaching in USD 475 and is a 2019 Junction City High School graduate, will soon be known worldwide as he will have his music featured on an upcoming album, titled&nbsp;Sanctuary: Choral Music for Sacred Spaces. It will feature three world-premiere recordings, including music by Paradas. The album is anticipated to be commercially released worldwide in the spring of 2026.

"I have been writing classical music since I was 16 years old. While in high school, I premiered my very first choral composition at the 2019 Kansas Music Educators Association Conference where my music gained the attention of Grammy award winning choral lyricist, Tony Silvestri, who has since collaborated with me on a piece of choral literature called,&nbsp;Out of Time,&nbsp;in 2020. Today, my skills as a classical music composer are used to visually enhance my lessons in the classroom. I am very passionate about ensuring that my students are moving toward musical literacy and have a fine understanding of how music effects our culture and society,” said Paradas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

By Matt Hoover&nbsp;USD 475 Communications CoordinatorJUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–Nicholas Paradas, a music teacher at Grandview Elementary and Milford Elementary, is making a difference not only in USD 475, but also as a member of the prestigious Sonus Chamber Choir, a professional recording ensemble based out of Topeka.&nbsp;As a part of the ensemble, Paradas, who is in his second-year teaching in USD 475 and is a 2019 Junction City High School graduate, will soon be known worldwide as he will have his music featured on an upcoming album, titled&nbsp;Sanctuary: Choral Music for Sacred Spaces. It will feature three world-premiere recordings, including music by Paradas. The album is anticipated to be commercially released worldwide in the spring of 2026."I have been writing classical music since I was 16 years old. While in high school, I premiered my very first choral composition at the 2019 Kansas Music Educators Association Conference where my music gained the attention of Grammy award winning choral lyricist, Tony Silvestri, who has since collaborated with me on a piece of choral literature called,&nbsp;Out of Time,&nbsp;in 2020. Today, my skills as a classical music composer are used to visually enhance my lessons in the classroom. I am very passionate about ensuring that my students are moving toward musical literacy and have a fine understanding of how music effects our culture and society,” said Paradas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

USD 475 teacher Paradas to be Featured on Upcoming Album 

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-house-bill-mandates-study-of-public-higher-education-mergers-efficiencies/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A Kansas House committee is considering a bill that would create a 17-member blue-ribbon commission to study operations and priorities of public higher education institutions, including consolidation of state universities and community colleges or technical colleges.

The bill was introduced in early March by state Reps. Ken Rahjes, Agra, and Shannon Francis, Liberal, both Republicans who serve western Kansas districts. The legislation would enable House and Senate Republican leadership to appoint 11 members of the commission while Democrats in the Legislature would have two appointments. The governor, Kansas Board of Regents, Kansas Association of Community Colleges and Kansas Association of Technical Colleges would have one appointment each.

The legislation would charge the commission with exploring the higher education structure and financing issues in addition to potential consolidation among 32 public educational institutions in Kansas.

Blake Flanders, president and chief executive officer of the state Board of Regents, said board members nearly 20 years ago explored opportunities for merging universities and colleges but that work was halted by the Legislature.

“The board’s lesson has been that if we are to reimagine our delivery system, we must have your strong partnership and support on the front end,” Flanders told the House Appropriations Committee. “If you have interest in incentivizing mergers or affiliations of institutions, the board will need strong legislative collaboration.”

Flanders said many of the proposed commission study topics&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/fisc_note_hb2402_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">outlined in House Bill 2402</a>&nbsp;would align with the state Board of Regents’ strategic planning initiative known as Building a Future. It emphasized the role of public colleges and universities in advancing educational opportunities for families, enhancing prosperity in the state and supporting interests of business, he said.

He said the study commission could have a positive influence on accessibility and affordability of higher education as well as streamlining the process of degree completion for students.

“We support efforts to strengthen our higher education system in Kansas,” Flanders said.

The Board of Regents is a higher education governing board with direct oversight of six state universities and a coordination role with the 19 community colleges, six technical colleges and one municipal university. The 26 institutions outside of the state universities have independent boards of trustees.

Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Association of Community Colleges, said the organization supported formation of the blue-ribbon commission. She said House Republican leaders approached community colleges with the task force idea early in the 2025 legislative session.

She said the state’s community colleges had been working together for more than a year to identify operational efficiencies to reduce cost and promote student success.

“We look forward to sharing what we have learned, have implemented and believe could be beneficial to Kansas students,” Morgan said.

Under the bill, the commission would deliver to the Legislature a preliminary report in January 2026 and a final report in January 2027.

Those reports would explore goals and priorities of higher education, student accessibility and affordability issues, strengths and weaknesses of postsecondary educational institutions and strategies for enrollment and degree completion. In addition to governing structures and “consolidation of the state Board of Regents’ schools and community and technical colleges,” the reports would delve into “right-sizing and streamlining higher education with a student focus.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741966041138.jpeg" alt="The Kansas House's budget committee is exploring a bill that would create a blue-ribbon commission to engage in a two-year study of options for creating efficiencies in public higher education, including the potential of merging six state universities with 19 community colleges, six technical colleges and one municipal university. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas House's budget committee is exploring a bill that would create a blue-ribbon commission to engage in a two-year study of options for creating efficiencies in public higher education, including the potential of merging six state universities with 19 community colleges, six technical colleges and one municipal university. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-house-bill-mandates-study-of-public-higher-education-mergers-efficiencies/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A Kansas House committee is considering a bill that would create a 17-member blue-ribbon commission to study operations and priorities of public higher education institutions, including consolidation of state universities and community colleges or technical colleges.The bill was introduced in early March by state Reps. Ken Rahjes, Agra, and Shannon Francis, Liberal, both Republicans who serve western Kansas districts. The legislation would enable House and Senate Republican leadership to appoint 11 members of the commission while Democrats in the Legislature would have two appointments. The governor, Kansas Board of Regents, Kansas Association of Community Colleges and Kansas Association of Technical Colleges would have one appointment each.The legislation would charge the commission with exploring the higher education structure and financing issues in addition to potential consolidation among 32 public educational institutions in Kansas.Blake Flanders, president and chief executive officer of the state Board of Regents, said board members nearly 20 years ago explored opportunities for merging universities and colleges but that work was halted by the Legislature.“The board’s lesson has been that if we are to reimagine our delivery system, we must have your strong partnership and support on the front end,” Flanders told the House Appropriations Committee. “If you have interest in incentivizing mergers or affiliations of institutions, the board will need strong legislative collaboration.”Flanders said many of the proposed commission study topics&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/fisc_note_hb2402_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">outlined in House Bill 2402</a>&nbsp;would align with the state Board of Regents’ strategic planning initiative known as Building a Future. It emphasized the role of public colleges and universities in advancing educational opportunities for families, enhancing prosperity in the state and supporting interests of business, he said.He said the study commission could have a positive influence on accessibility and affordability of higher education as well as streamlining the process of degree completion for students.“We support efforts to strengthen our higher education system in Kansas,” Flanders said.The Board of Regents is a higher education governing board with direct oversight of six state universities and a coordination role with the 19 community colleges, six technical colleges and one municipal university. The 26 institutions outside of the state universities have independent boards of trustees.Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Association of Community Colleges, said the organization supported formation of the blue-ribbon commission. She said House Republican leaders approached community colleges with the task force idea early in the 2025 legislative session.She said the state’s community colleges had been working together for more than a year to identify operational efficiencies to reduce cost and promote student success.“We look forward to sharing what we have learned, have implemented and believe could be beneficial to Kansas students,” Morgan said.Under the bill, the commission would deliver to the Legislature a preliminary report in January 2026 and a final report in January 2027.Those reports would explore goals and priorities of higher education, student accessibility and affordability issues, strengths and weaknesses of postsecondary educational institutions and strategies for enrollment and degree completion. In addition to governing structures and “consolidation of the state Board of Regents’ schools and community and technical colleges,” the reports would delve into “right-sizing and streamlining higher education with a student focus.”

House bill mandates study of Kansas public higher education mergers, efficiencies

Hunter Nash, Ignition interlock device; Operate a car without a required device, arrested 03/13

Peter Bartolome, Failure to appear, arrested 03/13

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741963634756.jpeg" alt="Leana Biggs, Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement, arrested 03/13" />
 <figcaption>Leana Biggs, Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement, arrested 03/13</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741963644891.jpeg" alt="Demetre Spivey, Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking; Stalking; Intimate conduct causing fear to person/family; Burglary; Locked dwelling to commit felony, Theft, Domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, arrested 03/13" />
 <figcaption>Demetre Spivey, Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking; Stalking; Intimate conduct causing fear to person/family; Burglary; Locked dwelling to commit felony, Theft, Domestic violence or sexually motivated crime, arrested 03/13</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Hunter Nash, Ignition interlock device; Operate a car without a required device, arrested 03/13Peter Bartolome, Failure to appear, arrested 03/13Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos March 14

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating the theft of a vending machine in Manhattan.

Just before 9p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of criminal deprivation of property from the Blue Hills Shopping Center in the 2300 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 32-year-old woman reported a suspect took a large gray vending machine she owned that was in a breezeway at the shopping center. Total estimated loss associated with this report is $11,221. The RCPD had no additional details.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating the theft of a vending machine in Manhattan.Just before 9p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of criminal deprivation of property from the Blue Hills Shopping Center in the 2300 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd., according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 32-year-old woman reported a suspect took a large gray vending machine she owned that was in a breezeway at the shopping center. Total estimated loss associated with this report is $11,221. The RCPD had no additional details.

RCPD: Suspect took vending machine from shopping center

A RED FLAG WARNING IS IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM TO 8 PM&nbsp; FRIDAY FOR VERY GUSTY WINDS, LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY AND DRY FUELS FOR THE ENTIRE AREA...*

 WINDS...South 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 55 mph.* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 18 percent.

 IMPACTS...Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly.  Outdoor burning should be postponed until conditions improve.

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

Geary County Emergency Management--A RED FLAG WARNING IS IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM TO 8 PM&nbsp; FRIDAY FOR VERY GUSTY WINDS, LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY AND DRY FUELS FOR THE ENTIRE AREA...* TIMING...From 10 AM to 8 PM CDT Friday. WINDS...South 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 55 mph.* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 18 percent. IMPACTS...Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning should be postponed until conditions improve.PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Red Flag Warning in effect due to high winds and low humidity

After more than a decade of innovation labs that have helped feed the world and improve global food systems in partnership with the U.S. federal government, Kansas State University will suspend the operation of its two current Feed the Future Innovation Labs on April 12.

Due to the recent federal transition, the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service issued stop-work orders in late January on various grant funded projects, which included Feed the Future Innovation Labs and other international projects at several land-grant universities across the U.S. Under these and other federal orders, related grant-funded research at these universities was paused, including at K-State. 

In late February, many stop-work orders became grant terminations, pausing or suspending various research on crop resilience and other projects. At K-State, students, scholars, post-doctoral fellows and some faculty connected to these projects are transitioning to other projects, and nine positions will be eliminated on April 12.

<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/jul13/sorghum72513.html">Since K-State opened its first Feed the Future Innovation Lab in 2013</a>, the labs and their researchers have been key players in building on the university's 160-year tradition of innovative agriculture research and helping feed the world by improving global food systems and resiliency.

<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2022/07/agriculture-investment-in-international-research.html">In 2022, K-State researchers analyzed the economic impact of U.S. international agricultural research and development. </a>&nbsp;Every $1 invested in international research from 1978 to 2018 provided $8.52 in economic benefit back to the U.S.

"This work and these people are assets to the university, state and the agricultural industry," said Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon dean of the College of Agriculture.

Agricultural research not only supports U.S. crop production and sustainability but also helps improve food security by understanding social, political and environmental factors related to food production. In turn, Kansans benefit from lower food costs, increased yields, higher farm incomes and better nutrition.

The affected research programs have benefitted Kansas and beyond by: 

• Developing wheat and sorghum crop varieties for changing growing conditions, such as drought, and new consumer bases. 

• Protecting local and global food systems — both plant and animal — from pests and diseases.

• Advancing food safety with improved post-harvest food storage practices. 

K-State has proudly hosted many international innovative agricultural research projects, including Feed the Future Innovation Labs. University researchers continue to collaborate with the federal government to provide scientific solutions and outcomes that impact not only Kansas but also communities around the globe.

K-State News ServiceAfter more than a decade of innovation labs that have helped feed the world and improve global food systems in partnership with the U.S. federal government, Kansas State University will suspend the operation of its two current Feed the Future Innovation Labs on April 12.Due to the recent federal transition, the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service issued stop-work orders in late January on various grant funded projects, which included Feed the Future Innovation Labs and other international projects at several land-grant universities across the U.S. Under these and other federal orders, related grant-funded research at these universities was paused, including at K-State. In late February, many stop-work orders became grant terminations, pausing or suspending various research on crop resilience and other projects. At K-State, students, scholars, post-doctoral fellows and some faculty connected to these projects are transitioning to other projects, and nine positions will be eliminated on April 12.<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/jul13/sorghum72513.html">Since K-State opened its first Feed the Future Innovation Lab in 2013</a>, the labs and their researchers have been key players in building on the university's 160-year tradition of innovative agriculture research and helping feed the world by improving global food systems and resiliency.<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news/stories/2022/07/agriculture-investment-in-international-research.html">In 2022, K-State researchers analyzed the economic impact of U.S. international agricultural research and development. </a>&nbsp;Every $1 invested in international research from 1978 to 2018 provided $8.52 in economic benefit back to the U.S."This work and these people are assets to the university, state and the agricultural industry," said Ernie Minton, Eldon Gideon dean of the College of Agriculture.Agricultural research not only supports U.S. crop production and sustainability but also helps improve food security by understanding social, political and environmental factors related to food production. In turn, Kansans benefit from lower food costs, increased yields, higher farm incomes and better nutrition.The affected research programs have benefitted Kansas and beyond by: • Developing wheat and sorghum crop varieties for changing growing conditions, such as drought, and new consumer bases. • Protecting local and global food systems — both plant and animal — from pests and diseases.• Advancing food safety with improved post-harvest food storage practices. K-State has proudly hosted many international innovative agricultural research projects, including Feed the Future Innovation Labs. University researchers continue to collaborate with the federal government to provide scientific solutions and outcomes that impact not only Kansas but also communities around the globe.

K-State to halt Feed the Future Innovation Labs, other international grant projects 

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement in Dickinson County are alerting the public to counterfeit cash.&nbsp;

On social media, the Chapman Police Department told business owners to "please be aware that we have been made aware of an unknown person or persons, passing counterfeit $20 bills within the county."

&nbsp;"As we gain more information about this, we will be sure to pass it along. "

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634726760722.png" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement in Dickinson County are alerting the public to counterfeit cash.&nbsp;On social media, the Chapman Police Department told business owners to "please be aware that we have been made aware of an unknown person or persons, passing counterfeit $20 bills within the county."&nbsp;"As we gain more information about this, we will be sure to pass it along. "

Police issue alert of counterfeit cash 

This year's Freedom Fest JC celebration in downtown Junction City is scheduled Wednesday July 2 through Sunday July 6. Freedom Fest Co-Chair Bob Story said the Coors Kickoff Party begins at 6 p.m. in the Heritage Park area with two Salina area rock bands, Sunset Sinners and Paramount.

Thursday evening is Patriotic Night with performances by the 1st Infantry Division Band and America's Soldiers: A Tribute to Toby Keith. There will also be motorcycle jumpers on Washington Street near the Park, 406 FMX High and Air Tour.

Friday July 4 the day begins with the Coors Freedom un at 7:30 a.m. followed by the Freedom Parade at 10 a.m. The Veterans Ceremony will be at noon with the Foam Zone and Kids Show at multiple times during the afternoon.The 406 FMX High jumpers will perform at 5:30, a tribute to Beatle Mania 64 at 6:30 followed by Animals, the number one tribute band to Maroon 5. Fireworks are planned for 10 p.m. and at 10:30 another performance by 406 FMX High Air Tour. KC. Helicopters will also be giving rides from a Washington Street location on both Friday and Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718130609487.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>This year's Freedom Fest JC celebration in downtown Junction City is scheduled Wednesday July 2 through Sunday July 6. Freedom Fest Co-Chair Bob Story said the Coors Kickoff Party begins at 6 p.m. in the Heritage Park area with two Salina area rock bands, Sunset Sinners and Paramount.Thursday evening is Patriotic Night with performances by the 1st Infantry Division Band and America's Soldiers: A Tribute to Toby Keith. There will also be motorcycle jumpers on Washington Street near the Park, 406 FMX High and Air Tour.Friday July 4 the day begins with the Coors Freedom un at 7:30 a.m. followed by the Freedom Parade at 10 a.m. The Veterans Ceremony will be at noon with the Foam Zone and Kids Show at multiple times during the afternoon.The 406 FMX High jumpers will perform at 5:30, a tribute to Beatle Mania 64 at 6:30 followed by Animals, the number one tribute band to Maroon 5. Fireworks are planned for 10 p.m. and at 10:30 another performance by 406 FMX High Air Tour. KC. Helicopters will also be giving rides from a Washington Street location on both Friday and Saturday.The Saturday schedule includes Freedom on Wheels at 11 a.m. in the 800 and 900 blocks of North Washington plus a Car Show in the 600 and 700 blocks of North Washington at 10 a.m. Kids Zone, Foam Zone and motorcycle jumpers continue on Saturday. Cassette 88 Band will perform at 6 p.m. and beginning at 7:30 p.m. there will be Just What I Needed, a Tribute to the Cars and Bob Jovi, a Tribute to Bon Jovi.Sunday will be Worship Day with a community service from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m., followed by Foam Zone and Kid Show performances. Christian bands will perform at 5 and 6:30 p.m.All food vendors return from a year ago, interest is up from craft vendors and the Weee Entertainment Carnival will be in operation all five days. Concert stage and carnival setup will begin on Monday that week.

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