The KDOT I-70 Pavement Replacement Project has started back up, with temporary lane closures in the westbound lanes beginning March 3.

On Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 they planned to close the J-Hill Road Bridge for safety reasons. For the first few weeks that it is closed, all of the ramps to I-70 will still be open.

According to KDOT starting on March 17th Wildcat will begin transitioning traffic to the head-to-head configuration in the westbound (WB) lanes in order to begin the reconstruction of the eastbound (EB) lanes. Exit 298 (Chestnut EB On-ramp) and Exit 299 (J-Hill EB Off-ramp) will be closed. During this time there will be a traffic signal on K57 to replace the remaining concrete. In addition, the eastbound on/off ramps will be closed at Exit 300 (K57) and the westbound on-ramp at Marshall Field (Exit 301) will also be closed. The contractor will then have 50 calendar days to complete reconstruction at K57 and have these ramps reopened.

Once Exit 300 Ramps are opened, head-to-head traffic will be shifted west, so that Exit 301 can also be opened. The traffic signal on K57 will be removed. KDOT will then close the Exit 299 (J-Hill EB on-ramp). The contractor has 45 Calendar days to complete this work. Exit 298 (Chestnut EB on-ramp) and Exit 299 (J-Hill EB off-ramp) will remain closed.

After the on-ramp is opened at J-Hill, the EB off-ramp at 298 (Chestnut) will be closed for eastbound traffic looking to exit. The contractor has 50 days to complete this work along with some minor repairs on East Street.

Once this work is completed, the contractor will be able to reopen Exit 298 (Chestnut EB on-ramp) and (J-Hill EB off-ramp) as well.

Work will continue moving west to then include the ramps at Exit 296 (Washington) where the contractor will have 60 days to complete work at the Exit 296 EB off-ramp. Local traffic will come via 40B/Washington Street.

This work will be coordinated with the rest of the Roundabout replacement. Exit 296 EB on-ramp will be opened with the completion of the project. 

The KDOT I-70 Pavement Replacement Project has started back up, with temporary lane closures in the westbound lanes beginning March 3.On Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 they planned to close the J-Hill Road Bridge for safety reasons. For the first few weeks that it is closed, all of the ramps to I-70 will still be open.According to KDOT starting on March 17th Wildcat will begin transitioning traffic to the head-to-head configuration in the westbound (WB) lanes in order to begin the reconstruction of the eastbound (EB) lanes. Exit 298 (Chestnut EB On-ramp) and Exit 299 (J-Hill EB Off-ramp) will be closed. During this time there will be a traffic signal on K57 to replace the remaining concrete. In addition, the eastbound on/off ramps will be closed at Exit 300 (K57) and the westbound on-ramp at Marshall Field (Exit 301) will also be closed. The contractor will then have 50 calendar days to complete reconstruction at K57 and have these ramps reopened.Once Exit 300 Ramps are opened, head-to-head traffic will be shifted west, so that Exit 301 can also be opened. The traffic signal on K57 will be removed. KDOT will then close the Exit 299 (J-Hill EB on-ramp). The contractor has 45 Calendar days to complete this work. Exit 298 (Chestnut EB on-ramp) and Exit 299 (J-Hill EB off-ramp) will remain closed.After the on-ramp is opened at J-Hill, the EB off-ramp at 298 (Chestnut) will be closed for eastbound traffic looking to exit. The contractor has 50 days to complete this work along with some minor repairs on East Street.Once this work is completed, the contractor will be able to reopen Exit 298 (Chestnut EB on-ramp) and (J-Hill EB off-ramp) as well.Work will continue moving west to then include the ramps at Exit 296 (Washington) where the contractor will have 60 days to complete work at the Exit 296 EB off-ramp. Local traffic will come via 40B/Washington Street.This work will be coordinated with the rest of the Roundabout replacement. Exit 296 EB on-ramp will be opened with the completion of the project.

KDOT updates law enforcement and emergency officials on I-70 project 

Junction City Commisssioners have approved a $10,000 grant for the annual Juneteenth celebration in the city. This will be the 30th year for the Juneteenth celebration.

Juneteenth is a platform designed to foster unity. The celebration will have entertainment, educational offering and guest speakers. The money is intended to help with enertainment.

Junction City Commisssioners have approved a $10,000 grant for the annual Juneteenth celebration in the city. This will be the 30th year for the Juneteenth celebration.Juneteenth is a platform designed to foster unity. The celebration will have entertainment, educational offering and guest speakers. The money is intended to help with enertainment.

City will help fund the Juneteenth celebration

The Geary County Sheriff's Department said that on Tuesday at 1040 a.m.Deputies responded to I-70 Westbound Mile Marker 304 for a single vehicle accident. Orlando Prieto-Guerra of Junction City was traveling westbound on I-70 in his 2016 Hyundai Elantra, when he went off the roadway to the left and struck the guardrail. A passenger suffered minor injuries and was treated by EMS at the scene. The vehicle was removed by A Homestead Wrecker.

The Geary County Sheriff's Department said that on Tuesday at 1040 a.m.Deputies responded to I-70 Westbound Mile Marker 304 for a single vehicle accident. Orlando Prieto-Guerra of Junction City was traveling westbound on I-70 in his 2016 Hyundai Elantra, when he went off the roadway to the left and struck the guardrail. A passenger suffered minor injuries and was treated by EMS at the scene. The vehicle was removed by A Homestead Wrecker.

Authorities respond to accident

WASHINGTON —Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation are sharing their thoughts on President Trump's address to Congress.

Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann wrote on social media, "America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage.

 I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept. 

Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "In his first address to Congress in his second term, President Trump highlighted his America First policies that Americans overwhelmingly voted for in November and that congressional Republicans are working hard to advance," said Rep. Estes. 

"We are renewing the American Dream, and the president’s victories have been evident through record-low illegal border crossings, the reduction of governmental waste and fraud with the help of DOGE, and new investments in our country. I support President Trump’s efforts to restore America’s economy and make our nation secure and competitive once again, and I look forward to continuing to deliver on his bold agenda that will benefit all Kansans."

Kansas 2nd District Rep. Derek Schmidt wrote,&nbsp;“After four years of weakness, strength is back in the White House and President Trump is already delivering on his promise of a safe and prosperous nation for the American people. House Republicans are moving quickly and decisively to implement the President’s America First agenda by passing legislation to secure the border, restore energy independence, shrink the size of government, and curb the runaway federal spending that has fueled inflation. We’re slashing red tape, taking power back from unelected bureaucrats, and working hard every day to make the changes Kansans expect us to make.”

WASHINGTON —Members of the Kansas Congressional delegation are sharing their thoughts on President Trump's address to Congress.Kansas First District Congressman Tracey Mann wrote on social media, "America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">America is back! President Trump’s address laid out a clear vision for our country as we work to secure the border, reduce federal spending, cut taxes, and restore America’s role on the world stage. I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept.… <a href="https://t.co/bBWCxBsiH5">pic.twitter.com/bBWCxBsiH5</a>&mdash; Tracey Mann (@RepMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMann/status/1897152308666097785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> I am eager to work with him to make it happen. Promises made, promises kept. Thank you, President Trump!Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "In his first address to Congress in his second term, President Trump highlighted his America First policies that Americans overwhelmingly voted for in November and that congressional Republicans are working hard to advance," said Rep. Estes. "We are renewing the American Dream, and the president’s victories have been evident through record-low illegal border crossings, the reduction of governmental waste and fraud with the help of DOGE, and new investments in our country. I support President Trump’s efforts to restore America’s economy and make our nation secure and competitive once again, and I look forward to continuing to deliver on his bold agenda that will benefit all Kansans."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> has brought common sense back to the White House.&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1897114382225826239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">America is the strongest country in the world. After four years of weakness, we once again have a President who acts like it.&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1897125228536643778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kansas 2nd District Rep. Derek Schmidt wrote,&nbsp;“After four years of weakness, strength is back in the White House and President Trump is already delivering on his promise of a safe and prosperous nation for the American people. House Republicans are moving quickly and decisively to implement the President’s America First agenda by passing legislation to secure the border, restore energy independence, shrink the size of government, and curb the runaway federal spending that has fueled inflation. We’re slashing red tape, taking power back from unelected bureaucrats, and working hard every day to make the changes Kansans expect us to make.”

🎥Kansas First District Rep. on Trump's address to Congress

Tuesday night was the opening night of sub-state semifinal basketball, and the six-seed Junction City Blue Jays hosted the 11-seed Manhattan High Indians in Junction City. 

The Manhattan High Indians snagged an early 5-1 lead over the Blue Jays as both teams struggled on the offensive end in the first quarter. Junction City's shots began to fall, and JC led 10-9 after the first quarter. 

The second quarter featured more points and better offense from both sides, but the Blue Jays led by eight, 27-19, at halftime. 

In the second half, the Indians never could get within six points, as every time Manhattan scored, the Blue Jays had a response. To end the third quarter, Junction City senior Jackson Austin was fouled on a half-court heave. Austin made all three free throws, and JC led 41-29. 

In the fourth quarter, Junction City pulled away and led by as many as 17 points. The Blue Jays held on and won 59-45 to beat Manhattan for the third time this season. 

Junction City was led in scoring by senior Larkin Turner, who scored a career-high 28 points in his last home game. 

For Manhattan, the Indians were led in scoring by senior Landon Knopp with 11 points. 

The Indians end their season with a 6-15 record. For Junction City, the Blue Jays will play three-seed Washburn Rural in Topeka on Friday night. The winner of the sub-state final will advance to the 6A State tournament in Wichita.

By Anthony GorgesTuesday night was the opening night of sub-state semifinal basketball, and the six-seed Junction City Blue Jays hosted the 11-seed Manhattan High Indians in Junction City. The Manhattan High Indians snagged an early 5-1 lead over the Blue Jays as both teams struggled on the offensive end in the first quarter. Junction City's shots began to fall, and JC led 10-9 after the first quarter. The second quarter featured more points and better offense from both sides, but the Blue Jays led by eight, 27-19, at halftime. In the second half, the Indians never could get within six points, as every time Manhattan scored, the Blue Jays had a response. To end the third quarter, Junction City senior Jackson Austin was fouled on a half-court heave. Austin made all three free throws, and JC led 41-29. In the fourth quarter, Junction City pulled away and led by as many as 17 points. The Blue Jays held on and won 59-45 to beat Manhattan for the third time this season. Junction City was led in scoring by senior Larkin Turner, who scored a career-high 28 points in his last home game. For Manhattan, the Indians were led in scoring by senior Landon Knopp with 11 points. The Indians end their season with a 6-15 record. For Junction City, the Blue Jays will play three-seed Washburn Rural in Topeka on Friday night. The winner of the sub-state final will advance to the 6A State tournament in Wichita.

Junction City beats Manhattan, Blue Jays advance to Sub-State Finals

Just like January, February 2025 was cold and snowy. Both colder than normal and snowier than normal. It was a month of two different extremes however.The average daily high for February was 38.3, 6.3 degrees below normal. The average overnight low was 19.4, 3.0 degrees below normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 28.9, 4.6 degrees below normal. Not a record, but noticeably colder than the past three unusually warm Februaries. 

The highest temperature for the month was the afternoon high of 71 on February 25th. The lowest temperature for the month was the morning low just five days earlier, the 20th, when the thermometer dipped down to -8 degrees. We had seven mornings with lows below zero. We also had two days (18th and 19th) when the afternoon high never reached 10 degrees. The coldest February on record was in 1979 when the monthly mean temperature was 17.6. The warmest February was in 1954 with a monthly mean temperature was 46.3. The second warmest February was just last year, February 2024, when we had a monthly mean temperature of 45 degrees, over 15 degrees warmer than this year. 

There were multiple temperature records set or tied in February. The low of -3 on the 13th tied the record low for that date, first set in 1980. The low of -8 on the 20th broke the old record of -1 which was set in 1978. The low of -7 on the 21st also broke a record set in 1978, that record low was -2. Three days also set new record low, high temperatures. The high of 2 on the 18th broke the old record of 17 set in 1978. The high of 8 on the 19th broke the old record low high of 23 set in 2019, and the high of 13 on the 20th broke the record of 20 set in 1966.

Through the first three weeks of February cold weather prevailed. For those three weeks the average temperature was 23.1 degrees, which if it had continued for the entire month, would have made February the 5th coldest February on record. However, the last week of February showed a noticeable improvement with an average temperature of 46.1, essentially double that of the first three weeks. These unseasonably warmed temperatures pulled the month average up high enough to keep it out of the record books!

February brings us the end of meteorological winter. Astronomical spring doesn’t start until March 20th however. With January and February being well below normal there is a natural tendency to assume that the winter season was well below normal as well. Winter 2024-25 was below normal, but a much warmer than normal December kept it from being record setting. In fact the average winter temperature (1991 - 2020) is 31.9 degrees and the winter we just finished was 30.7 degrees. 

Winters are becoming warmer however. The warmest winter was the winter of 1991-92 with an average winter temperature of 37.9. However, three of the five warmest winters on record have been since 2005 and five of the seven warmest winters have been since 2005. The coldest winters go back to the cold spells we had in the late 1970s. The winter of 1978-79 is the coldest with a winter average temperature of 19.1. The winter immediately before that, 1977-78 was the second coldest winter with a seasonal average temperature of 20.9.

While we did receive above average snow for February, much of that arrived as very dry snow in cold conditions. Liquid precipitation for the month was 0.19 inches, well below the average of 1.10 inches. Thanks to a wetter than normal January though, year to date we are still above average with 1.99 inches, compared to the average of 1.83 inches for the first two months of the year. Milford Lake Corps of Engineers Office reported 7 inches of snow for the month, above the average for February of 4.7 inches. Season to date we have received 25.2 inches of snow, above our seasonal average of 18 inches.

March marks the start of meteorological spring on the 1st and astronomical spring on the 20th (the day when we have equal daylight and darkness.) Average daily high temperatures in March improve from 50 on the 1st to 62 on the 31st. Average morning lows start the month below freezing at 26 but by the end of the month have warmed to 39. The latest in the year that we’ve ever had below zero temperatures is March 15th (1975). Record high temperatures for the month generally range in the 80s. March is also a transition from our driest months of the year towards our wetter months. Average March precipitation is 2.00 inches. While many years March is snowless, the long term average March snowfall is 3.1 inches and some heavy, and very wet, snowfalls have occurred in March.

Chuck Otte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;cotte@ksu.edu

Chuck Otte&nbsp;County Extension Agent RetiredJust like January, February 2025 was cold and snowy. Both colder than normal and snowier than normal. It was a month of two different extremes however.The average daily high for February was 38.3, 6.3 degrees below normal. The average overnight low was 19.4, 3.0 degrees below normal. This gave us a monthly mean temperature of 28.9, 4.6 degrees below normal. Not a record, but noticeably colder than the past three unusually warm Februaries. The highest temperature for the month was the afternoon high of 71 on February 25th. The lowest temperature for the month was the morning low just five days earlier, the 20th, when the thermometer dipped down to -8 degrees. We had seven mornings with lows below zero. We also had two days (18th and 19th) when the afternoon high never reached 10 degrees. The coldest February on record was in 1979 when the monthly mean temperature was 17.6. The warmest February was in 1954 with a monthly mean temperature was 46.3. The second warmest February was just last year, February 2024, when we had a monthly mean temperature of 45 degrees, over 15 degrees warmer than this year. There were multiple temperature records set or tied in February. The low of -3 on the 13th tied the record low for that date, first set in 1980. The low of -8 on the 20th broke the old record of -1 which was set in 1978. The low of -7 on the 21st also broke a record set in 1978, that record low was -2. Three days also set new record low, high temperatures. The high of 2 on the 18th broke the old record of 17 set in 1978. The high of 8 on the 19th broke the old record low high of 23 set in 2019, and the high of 13 on the 20th broke the record of 20 set in 1966.Through the first three weeks of February cold weather prevailed. For those three weeks the average temperature was 23.1 degrees, which if it had continued for the entire month, would have made February the 5th coldest February on record. However, the last week of February showed a noticeable improvement with an average temperature of 46.1, essentially double that of the first three weeks. These unseasonably warmed temperatures pulled the month average up high enough to keep it out of the record books!February brings us the end of meteorological winter. Astronomical spring doesn’t start until March 20th however. With January and February being well below normal there is a natural tendency to assume that the winter season was well below normal as well. Winter 2024-25 was below normal, but a much warmer than normal December kept it from being record setting. In fact the average winter temperature (1991 - 2020) is 31.9 degrees and the winter we just finished was 30.7 degrees. Winters are becoming warmer however. The warmest winter was the winter of 1991-92 with an average winter temperature of 37.9. However, three of the five warmest winters on record have been since 2005 and five of the seven warmest winters have been since 2005. The coldest winters go back to the cold spells we had in the late 1970s. The winter of 1978-79 is the coldest with a winter average temperature of 19.1. The winter immediately before that, 1977-78 was the second coldest winter with a seasonal average temperature of 20.9.While we did receive above average snow for February, much of that arrived as very dry snow in cold conditions. Liquid precipitation for the month was 0.19 inches, well below the average of 1.10 inches. Thanks to a wetter than normal January though, year to date we are still above average with 1.99 inches, compared to the average of 1.83 inches for the first two months of the year. Milford Lake Corps of Engineers Office reported 7 inches of snow for the month, above the average for February of 4.7 inches. Season to date we have received 25.2 inches of snow, above our seasonal average of 18 inches.March marks the start of meteorological spring on the 1st and astronomical spring on the 20th (the day when we have equal daylight and darkness.) Average daily high temperatures in March improve from 50 on the 1st to 62 on the 31st. Average morning lows start the month below freezing at 26 but by the end of the month have warmed to 39. The latest in the year that we’ve ever had below zero temperatures is March 15th (1975). Record high temperatures for the month generally range in the 80s. March is also a transition from our driest months of the year towards our wetter months. Average March precipitation is 2.00 inches. While many years March is snowless, the long term average March snowfall is 3.1 inches and some heavy, and very wet, snowfalls have occurred in March.Chuck Otte&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;cotte@ksu.eduCounty Extension Agent, Retired

February 2025 Junction City Area Weather Summary

Executive Director Geary Community Healthcare Foundation

On March 4th, Tracy Geisler, Executive Director of the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation and the Board of Directors presented Shanea Bea, Director of Delivering Change, her staff and Board of Directors with a check for $47,348.00.00 which was raised during their annual&nbsp; "Puttin on the Glitz" event on December 14th at Rock Springs Ranch, Junction City. 

There was a $2,000.00 donation given before the event, therefore the total raised for Delivering Change from GCHF is&nbsp;$49,348.00. There were more than&nbsp; 60 sponsors and 47 auction items which assisted in raising these funds for Delivering Change; stated Tracy Geisler. It was a wonderful night of fun and giving for the community from for the community!

You can see photos from the event at www.gchc.org.

&nbsp;Delivering Change launched in 2012, when the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation raised an initial $100,000.00 for the initiative in Geary County. The program has leveraged local and state resources to serve 5,532 women in the Geary County community. It is a fact that there has been a 50% Decrease in infant mortality because of the services offered by Delivering Change.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741141340900.jpeg" alt="( Geary Community Healthcare Foundation )" />
 <figcaption>( Geary Community Healthcare Foundation )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Tracy Geisler&nbsp;Executive Director Geary Community Healthcare FoundationOn March 4th, Tracy Geisler, Executive Director of the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation and the Board of Directors presented Shanea Bea, Director of Delivering Change, her staff and Board of Directors with a check for $47,348.00.00 which was raised during their annual&nbsp; "Puttin on the Glitz" event on December 14th at Rock Springs Ranch, Junction City. There was a $2,000.00 donation given before the event, therefore the total raised for Delivering Change from GCHF is&nbsp;$49,348.00. There were more than&nbsp; 60 sponsors and 47 auction items which assisted in raising these funds for Delivering Change; stated Tracy Geisler. It was a wonderful night of fun and giving for the community from for the community! You can see photos from the event at www.gchc.org.&nbsp;Delivering Change launched in 2012, when the Geary Community Healthcare Foundation raised an initial $100,000.00 for the initiative in Geary County. The program has leveraged local and state resources to serve 5,532 women in the Geary County community. It is a fact that there has been a 50% Decrease in infant mortality because of the services offered by Delivering Change.&nbsp;

Healthcare Foundation supports Delivering Change

Tornado safety and impacts were the focus of a public training session at the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center Monday evening.

Meteorologist Chad Omit said Kansas annually ranks second in the nation in the number of tornadoes. The 30-year average is 80 with the count totaling 76 in 2024. The state has had 47 EF-2 tornadoes in the past 10 years.

Tornadoes can occur any time but the worst months are May and June. The National Weather Service emphasizes that bicycle helmets are important for protection in a tornado. If you live in a mobile home have a plan to leave and seek shelter elsewhere.

Tornadoes can often occur in organized supercells with low level precipitation.

Attendance at the meeting was estimated at approximately 70 people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741105699927.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Tornado safety and impacts were the focus of a public training session at the Geary County 4-H / Senior Center Monday evening.Meteorologist Chad Omit said Kansas annually ranks second in the nation in the number of tornadoes. The 30-year average is 80 with the count totaling 76 in 2024. The state has had 47 EF-2 tornadoes in the past 10 years.Tornadoes can occur any time but the worst months are May and June. The National Weather Service emphasizes that bicycle helmets are important for protection in a tornado. If you live in a mobile home have a plan to leave and seek shelter elsewhere.Tornadoes can often occur in organized supercells with low level precipitation.Attendance at the meeting was estimated at approximately 70 people.

Preparations begin for spring and summer severe weather

The National Weather Service is canceling the scheduled tornado drill on Wednesday for their service area due to expected impacts from the long duration high winds and wet snow overnight into Wednesday morning.&nbsp; &nbsp;

They expect much of northeast Kansas to endure a prolonged&nbsp;period of damaging wind gusts of 55 to 70 mph tonight.&nbsp; There will also be an area of heavy wet snow that will fall across parts of northeast Kansas which could exacerbate&nbsp;any impacts of the wind gusts on power lines, tree limbs, etc.

The National Weather Service is canceling the scheduled tornado drill on Wednesday for their service area due to expected impacts from the long duration high winds and wet snow overnight into Wednesday morning.&nbsp; &nbsp;They expect much of northeast Kansas to endure a prolonged&nbsp;period of damaging wind gusts of 55 to 70 mph tonight.&nbsp; There will also be an area of heavy wet snow that will fall across parts of northeast Kansas which could exacerbate&nbsp;any impacts of the wind gusts on power lines, tree limbs, etc.

NWS cancels statewide tornado drill

TREGO COUNTY —If you’re driving through Trego County Tuesday, you are going to encounter blowing dust, according to a social media report from KHP Trooper Tod Heilman. 

Slow down and turn your headlights on. Kansas law requires headlights if the visibility is less than 1,000 ft.&nbsp;

TREGO COUNTY —If you’re driving through Trego County Tuesday, you are going to encounter blowing dust, according to a social media report from KHP Trooper Tod Heilman. <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">If you’re driving through Trego County this morning, you’re going to encounter blowing dust. Slow down and turn your headlights on. KS law requires headlights if the visibility is less than 1,000 ft. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KSwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KSwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/N3jDCS1US8">pic.twitter.com/N3jDCS1US8</a>&mdash; Trooper Tod (@TrooperTodKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperTodKHP/status/1896951067822404016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Slow down and turn your headlights on. Kansas law requires headlights if the visibility is less than 1,000 ft.&nbsp;

KHP: Drivers encounter blowing dust in northwest Kansas

The 8-week healthy lifestyle challenge called Walk Kansas will be celebrating 25 years of existence from March 30 - May 24. You can register from now through April 7.

Yu can register a team of six or go solo this year. Register online at WalkKansas.org or by contacting your local K-State Research and Extension office.

This program is intended to inspire a healthier life by being more active, making better nutrition choices and learning positive ways to deal with stress.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThe 8-week healthy lifestyle challenge called Walk Kansas will be celebrating 25 years of existence from March 30 - May 24. You can register from now through April 7.Yu can register a team of six or go solo this year. Register online at WalkKansas.org or by contacting your local K-State Research and Extension office.This program is intended to inspire a healthier life by being more active, making better nutrition choices and learning positive ways to deal with stress.Anyone can participate.

Walk Kansas will celebrate 25 years

Geary USD 475 announced that they will host their State of Education Year-End Celebration in the Junction City High School auditorium on Thursday April 24, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Geary USD 475 announced that they will host their State of Education Year-End Celebration in the Junction City High School auditorium on Thursday April 24, beginning at 5:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741099248167.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>

USD 475 schedules State of Education Celebration

The National Weather Service said a highly impactful storm system is beginning to affect the entire forecast area Tuesday.

Potentially severe thunderstorms could occur this afternoon, very strong non-thunderstorm winds increase this evening as rain changes to snow.

● Blizzard or near-blizzard conditions are expected area-wide with the combination of strong winds and falling snow tonight/early Wednesday morning.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741098269495.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The National Weather Service said a highly impactful storm system is beginning to affect the entire forecast area Tuesday.Potentially severe thunderstorms could occur this afternoon, very strong non-thunderstorm winds increase this evening as rain changes to snow.● Blizzard or near-blizzard conditions are expected area-wide with the combination of strong winds and falling snow tonight/early Wednesday morning.

Storm system is expected to impact the region

There have been preliminary talks about a possible multi-use sports complex. It could include pickleball facilities plus baseball and softball diamonds and green space for potemtial soccer fields.

Gear County CVB Markeitng Specialisr Rick Dykstra reported to the county commission that he has talked with state park officials but there was not any interest. He noted the Corps of Engineers was contacted and while recreation may fit their model any complex would be a long and timely process and there is not any infrastructure nearby.

Dykstra plans to check with the city for discussion later this month.

There has not been any final action taken on this idea at this time.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostThere have been preliminary talks about a possible multi-use sports complex. It could include pickleball facilities plus baseball and softball diamonds and green space for potemtial soccer fields.Gear County CVB Markeitng Specialisr Rick Dykstra reported to the county commission that he has talked with state park officials but there was not any interest. He noted the Corps of Engineers was contacted and while recreation may fit their model any complex would be a long and timely process and there is not any infrastructure nearby.Dykstra plans to check with the city for discussion later this month.There has not been any final action taken on this idea at this time.

Potential sports complex idea begins to receive discussion

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has confirmed that Marvin T. Edison has filed for election to mayor in Grandview Plaza. He will join Rick Geike in that race. 

The filing deadline is at noon on June 2.

By Dewey TerrillJC PostGeary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has confirmed that Marvin T. Edison has filed for election to mayor in Grandview Plaza. He will join Rick Geike in that race. Geike filed for election earlier.The filing deadline is at noon on June 2.

Candidate filing in Grandview Plaza

The National Weather Service said a strong and impactful storm system is set to affect the area tonight into Wednesday.

● Multiple hazards are expected during this timeframe, including potentially severe thunderstorms, strong non-thunderstorm winds and accumulating snow.

● Blizzard or near-blizzard conditions could occur with the combination of strong winds and falling snow Tuesday night/early Wednesday morning

&nbsp; Geary County Emergency Management passed along information from the National Weather Service.

A strong system is set to impact the area Monday night through Wednesday. A round of thunderstorms is expected Monday night into early Tuesday. A few more storms could develop Tuesday afternoon. Hail and damaging winds are the main concerns.

 Winds then increase, with gusts to 50 and 60 mph Tuesday night and Wednesday. Rain changes to snow Tuesday evening and night. Blizzard conditions will be possible north of I-70 due to the strong winds. Snow ends by sunrise Wednesday with generally around one inch of accumulation.

UPDATE:The National Weather Service said a strong and impactful storm system is set to affect the area tonight into Wednesday.● Multiple hazards are expected during this timeframe, including potentially severe thunderstorms, strong non-thunderstorm winds and accumulating snow.● Blizzard or near-blizzard conditions could occur with the combination of strong winds and falling snow Tuesday night/early Wednesday morning----&nbsp; Geary County Emergency Management passed along information from the National Weather Service.A strong system is set to impact the area Monday night through Wednesday. A round of thunderstorms is expected Monday night into early Tuesday. A few more storms could develop Tuesday afternoon. Hail and damaging winds are the main concerns. Winds then increase, with gusts to 50 and 60 mph Tuesday night and Wednesday. Rain changes to snow Tuesday evening and night. Blizzard conditions will be possible north of I-70 due to the strong winds. Snow ends by sunrise Wednesday with generally around one inch of accumulation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741011425128.jpeg" alt="( National Weather Service )" />
 <figcaption>( National Weather Service )</figcaption>
 </figure>

Weather could get rough this week

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/USD475?__cft__[0]=AZVcRRrUR0BvSNH7n9BaEVwarm1aCQFeLBODssGUQKnjO17WjcgsKSDIzlb8znA_f3O87ouD9KmqvhZM2SL_NJRufmxBWvejNWI3EDa-CazPUW6lWQJl_bDr4k85CsSQHslHu62T_hiayIqaF8DH9qYD4dHBv-dCOMoMQaCxYtkXx6JiioWCssmVF5stfRT8K70&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Geary County Schools USD 475</a> was honored last week in Topeka as Lincoln Elementary school principal Daniel Dinkel, Junction City High School freshman Linden Pickler, and the Blue Jays cross country coaching staff were honored at the Kansas State Capital.

Pickler and the JCHS coaching staff were recognized for claiming the 2024 Kansas State High School Activities Association Class 6A Girls Cross Country Championship. Pickler is the first girl in school history to be crowned a state champion in cross country.

&nbsp;Dinkel received a special plaque, which highlighted Lincoln being named a 2024 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalblueribbonschools?__cft__[0]=AZVcRRrUR0BvSNH7n9BaEVwarm1aCQFeLBODssGUQKnjO17WjcgsKSDIzlb8znA_f3O87ouD9KmqvhZM2SL_NJRufmxBWvejNWI3EDa-CazPUW6lWQJl_bDr4k85CsSQHslHu62T_hiayIqaF8DH9qYD4dHBv-dCOMoMQaCxYtkXx6JiioWCssmVF5stfRT8K70&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">National Blue Ribbon Schools Program</a> by the U.S. Department of Education. In total, USD 475 has now received a total of 12 National Blue Ribbon School accolades in its history.

Finally, USD 475 closed out the day in Topeka in style as Dr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent of Schools, and Dinkel were able to meet with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741039113251.jpeg" alt="68th District Representative Nate Butler and 65th District Representative Shawn Chauncey host members of Geary County Schools USD 475 at the Capital in Topeka. (Photo courtesy of the USD 475 - Geary County Schools Facebook page).&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>68th District Representative Nate Butler and 65th District Representative Shawn Chauncey host members of Geary County Schools USD 475 at the Capital in Topeka. (Photo courtesy of the USD 475 - Geary County Schools Facebook page).&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/USD475?__cft__[0]=AZVcRRrUR0BvSNH7n9BaEVwarm1aCQFeLBODssGUQKnjO17WjcgsKSDIzlb8znA_f3O87ouD9KmqvhZM2SL_NJRufmxBWvejNWI3EDa-CazPUW6lWQJl_bDr4k85CsSQHslHu62T_hiayIqaF8DH9qYD4dHBv-dCOMoMQaCxYtkXx6JiioWCssmVF5stfRT8K70&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Geary County Schools USD 475</a> was honored last week in Topeka as Lincoln Elementary school principal Daniel Dinkel, Junction City High School freshman Linden Pickler, and the Blue Jays cross country coaching staff were honored at the Kansas State Capital. Pickler and the JCHS coaching staff were recognized for claiming the 2024 Kansas State High School Activities Association Class 6A Girls Cross Country Championship. Pickler is the first girl in school history to be crowned a state champion in cross country.&nbsp;Dinkel received a special plaque, which highlighted Lincoln being named a 2024 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/nationalblueribbonschools?__cft__[0]=AZVcRRrUR0BvSNH7n9BaEVwarm1aCQFeLBODssGUQKnjO17WjcgsKSDIzlb8znA_f3O87ouD9KmqvhZM2SL_NJRufmxBWvejNWI3EDa-CazPUW6lWQJl_bDr4k85CsSQHslHu62T_hiayIqaF8DH9qYD4dHBv-dCOMoMQaCxYtkXx6JiioWCssmVF5stfRT8K70&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">National Blue Ribbon Schools Program</a> by the U.S. Department of Education. In total, USD 475 has now received a total of 12 National Blue Ribbon School accolades in its history.Finally, USD 475 closed out the day in Topeka in style as Dr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent of Schools, and Dinkel were able to meet with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

State Representatives Butler and Chauncey honor members of USD 475 at Kansas Capital

Division of Communications and Marketing&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University has been identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/fda-organization/center-veterinary-medicine">Center for Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;as one of four&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-announces-animal-and-veterinary-innovation-centers-partnerships">Animal and Veterinary Innovation Centers</a>&nbsp;that will receive funding for work advancing regulatory science and further developing innovative products and approaches to better support animal health and veterinary interventions.While there are three areas of concentration for the innovation centers, K-State’s center was identified for its efforts to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2025/02/coetzee-bortoluzzi-receive-usda-nifa-grant-agricultural-animal-welfare.html">develop models that reliably and consistently evaluate the efficacy of analgesics</a>in food animals in support of new drug approvals. This work specifically supports pain relief in pigs, goats and cattle for painful diseases or surgical pain.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/apley/">Mike Apley</a>, professor of clinical pharmacology and interim head of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/">Department of Anatomy and Physiology</a>, is one of the principal investigators and project leaders at K-State. He is joined by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/faculty-staff/faculty/bortoluzzi/bortoluzzi.html">Eduarda Bortoluzzi</a>, assistant professor of animal welfare.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/faculty-staff/faculty/coetzee/">Hans Coetzee</a>, K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/research/about/profile/">interim vice president of research</a>, is a collaborator due to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2025-02/hans-coetzee-awarded-national-academy-prize-food-agriculture-science/">his expertise in animal welfare and pain reliefs studies</a>.Co-investigators include&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/amachawadi/">Raghavendra Amachawadi</a>, associate professor of food animal therapeutics, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/reppert/">Emily Reppert</a>, associate professor of large animal medicine.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;staff members Misty Bear and Mikaela Weeder were also instrumental in putting the grant together.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741012692712.jpeg" alt="Mike Apley and Eduarda Bortoluzzi, researchers in Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, are leading a new, FDA-sponsored Animal and Veterinary Innovation Center to develop approaches to better support animal health and veterinary interventions." />
 <figcaption>Mike Apley and Eduarda Bortoluzzi, researchers in Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, are leading a new, FDA-sponsored Animal and Veterinary Innovation Center to develop approaches to better support animal health and veterinary interventions.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Joe MontgomeryDivision of Communications and Marketing&nbsp;&nbsp;MANHATTAN — Kansas State University has been identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/fda-organization/center-veterinary-medicine">Center for Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;as one of four&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-announces-animal-and-veterinary-innovation-centers-partnerships">Animal and Veterinary Innovation Centers</a>&nbsp;that will receive funding for work advancing regulatory science and further developing innovative products and approaches to better support animal health and veterinary interventions.While there are three areas of concentration for the innovation centers, K-State’s center was identified for its efforts to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2025/02/coetzee-bortoluzzi-receive-usda-nifa-grant-agricultural-animal-welfare.html">develop models that reliably and consistently evaluate the efficacy of analgesics</a>in food animals in support of new drug approvals. This work specifically supports pain relief in pigs, goats and cattle for painful diseases or surgical pain.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/apley/">Mike Apley</a>, professor of clinical pharmacology and interim head of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/">Department of Anatomy and Physiology</a>, is one of the principal investigators and project leaders at K-State. He is joined by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/faculty-staff/faculty/bortoluzzi/bortoluzzi.html">Eduarda Bortoluzzi</a>, assistant professor of animal welfare.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/anatomy-physiology/faculty-staff/faculty/coetzee/">Hans Coetzee</a>, K-State's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/research/about/profile/">interim vice president of research</a>, is a collaborator due to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2025-02/hans-coetzee-awarded-national-academy-prize-food-agriculture-science/">his expertise in animal welfare and pain reliefs studies</a>.Co-investigators include&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/amachawadi/">Raghavendra Amachawadi</a>, associate professor of food animal therapeutics, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/academics/clinical-sciences/faculty-staff/faculty/reppert/">Emily Reppert</a>, associate professor of large animal medicine.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.vet.k-state.edu/">College of Veterinary Medicine</a>&nbsp;staff members Misty Bear and Mikaela Weeder were also instrumental in putting the grant together.

K-State selected to house Animal and Veterinary Innovation Center 

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged online scam.

Just before 5pm. Saturday, officers filed a theft by deception report in the 1100 block of Bakers Way, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. 

A 22-year-old woman reported she had money stolen in an internet scam. Total loss associated with this report is $1,200. &nbsp;

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://ks-rileycountypolice.civicplus.com/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged online scam.Just before 5pm. Saturday, officers filed a theft by deception report in the 1100 block of Bakers Way, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 22-year-old woman reported she had money stolen in an internet scam. Total loss associated with this report is $1,200. &nbsp;Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://ks-rileycountypolice.civicplus.com/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD: woman lost $1,200 in alleged online scam

The Junction City Blue Jays are the six seed in the Class 6A West bracket for sub state boys basketball. Junction City will host a familiar foe in the first round of postseason play.&nbsp;

The Blue Jays will host the 11 seed on Tuesday night, which just so happens to be their rival, the Manhattan High Indians.&nbsp;

Tipoff will be at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday night at Blue Jay Event Center.&nbsp;

The winner of this game will play either the three seed Washburn Rural, or the 14 seed, Wichita West on Friday night.&nbsp;

You can view the full 6A West bracket<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/6ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=1&amp;WeekID=6023"> here</a>.&nbsp;

By Anthony GorgesJC PostThe Junction City Blue Jays are the six seed in the Class 6A West bracket for sub state boys basketball. Junction City will host a familiar foe in the first round of postseason play.&nbsp;The Blue Jays will host the 11 seed on Tuesday night, which just so happens to be their rival, the Manhattan High Indians.&nbsp;Tipoff will be at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday night at Blue Jay Event Center.&nbsp;The winner of this game will play either the three seed Washburn Rural, or the 14 seed, Wichita West on Friday night.&nbsp;You can view the full 6A West bracket<a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Public/ScoreCenter/Brackets/Basketball/6ASub-State.cfm?Activity=2&amp;Class=1&amp;WeekID=6023"> here</a>.&nbsp;

Blue Jays will host Manhattan High in first round of Sub State Basketball

At the Kansas District Optimist Club's meeting held in Manhattan on March 1, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club was recognized by Optimist International as an Honor Club for the second time in three years.&nbsp; There are 3,000 Optimist clubs throughout the world and 36 clubs in Kansas.&nbsp; 

Junction City's Optimist Club was the only&nbsp;club in Kansas recognized for their work during the 2023-24 fiscal year.&nbsp; The local club is also the only club in Kansas to have two Junior Optimist International (JOI) clubs with one each at St. Xavier's Catholic Schools and Junction City High School.&nbsp;

Judy Morris, Kansas District Governor presented Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Ron Johnson, Treasurer (unable to attend) and Ferrell Miller, Secretary/Programs Chairperson with the Honor Club Citation "for having successfully guided the Club in its internal and community-serving&nbsp;activities, making a significant contribution to&nbsp; the annual, aggregate accomplishments&nbsp;of all Optimist clubs and having attained standards of administration established by Optimist International.

By Dr. Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast Optimist ClubAt the Kansas District Optimist Club's meeting held in Manhattan on March 1, the JC Breakfast Optimist Club was recognized by Optimist International as an Honor Club for the second time in three years.&nbsp; There are 3,000 Optimist clubs throughout the world and 36 clubs in Kansas.&nbsp; Junction City's Optimist Club was the only&nbsp;club in Kansas recognized for their work during the 2023-24 fiscal year.&nbsp; The local club is also the only club in Kansas to have two Junior Optimist International (JOI) clubs with one each at St. Xavier's Catholic Schools and Junction City High School.&nbsp;Judy Morris, Kansas District Governor presented Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Ron Johnson, Treasurer (unable to attend) and Ferrell Miller, Secretary/Programs Chairperson with the Honor Club Citation "for having successfully guided the Club in its internal and community-serving&nbsp;activities, making a significant contribution to&nbsp; the annual, aggregate accomplishments&nbsp;of all Optimist clubs and having attained standards of administration established by Optimist International.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741011970168.jpeg" alt=""Pictured left to right: Judy Morris, Kansas District Optimist Clubs Governor; Ricardo Gutierrez, member and co-facilitator of the JOI Clubs in Junction City; Mike Taylor, local club member; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Ferrell Miller, Secretary/Programs Chairperson; Morgan Nabus, JCHS JOI Club President; Bianca Neth, JCHS JOI Club member. Not pictured, but present was Amy Johnson.&nbsp; &nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>"Pictured left to right: Judy Morris, Kansas District Optimist Clubs Governor; Ricardo Gutierrez, member and co-facilitator of the JOI Clubs in Junction City; Mike Taylor, local club member; Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President; Ferrell Miller, Secretary/Programs Chairperson; Morgan Nabus, JCHS JOI Club President; Bianca Neth, JCHS JOI Club member. Not pictured, but present was Amy Johnson.&nbsp; &nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>

JC Breakfast Optimist Club Recognized By Optimist International

Fire danger is high on Monday so Geary and Riley County both have implemented outdoor burning bans.

Fire danger is high on Monday so Geary and Riley County both have implemented outdoor burning bans.

No burning on Monday

Although some days it may not seem like it, spring is on its way and with it the prospect of severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, and floods.

To remind Kansans to be prepared for such weather,&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;signed a proclamation on Feb. 28 designating March 3-7, 2025, as Severe Weather/Flood Preparedness Week in Kansas.

“Preparedness is key to staying safe during Kansas’ severe weather events,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said. “I urge all Kansans to ensure they are prepared in case severe weather hits comes their way and to remain vigilant during the coming months.”

Being prepared includes being aware of weather conditions and having a family emergency kit and emergency plan. The Kansas Division of Emergency Management advises everyone to prepare a home emergency kit with supplies to sustain every family member for a minimum of seven days. Kits should include nonperishable foods, a gallon of water per person per day, blankets, flashlights and batteries, a weather radio, extra clothing, necessary medications, and other survival items. Kits should also be prepared for household pets.

As part of the week’s activities, Kansans are urged to take part in the statewide tornado safety drill on Wednesday, March 5, at 10 a.m. The far eastern tier of counties (Doniphan, Atchison, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson, Miami, and Linn) will do their test at 11 a.m.

To avoid any confusion to the public, a live tornado warning will not be sent out on the NOAA Weather Radio. Instead, there will be a Routine Weekly Test message asking people to practice sheltering. County emergency management offices may also sound alert sirens at that time.

Information on emergency preparedness and building a home disaster kit can be found online at <a href="http://www.ready.gov">www.ready.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727295768279.png" alt="Kansas Division of Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Division of Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedAlthough some days it may not seem like it, spring is on its way and with it the prospect of severe weather, including thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, and floods.To remind Kansans to be prepared for such weather,&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;signed a proclamation on Feb. 28 designating March 3-7, 2025, as Severe Weather/Flood Preparedness Week in Kansas.“Preparedness is key to staying safe during Kansas’ severe weather events,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said. “I urge all Kansans to ensure they are prepared in case severe weather hits comes their way and to remain vigilant during the coming months.”Being prepared includes being aware of weather conditions and having a family emergency kit and emergency plan. The Kansas Division of Emergency Management advises everyone to prepare a home emergency kit with supplies to sustain every family member for a minimum of seven days. Kits should include nonperishable foods, a gallon of water per person per day, blankets, flashlights and batteries, a weather radio, extra clothing, necessary medications, and other survival items. Kits should also be prepared for household pets.As part of the week’s activities, Kansans are urged to take part in the statewide tornado safety drill on Wednesday, March 5, at 10 a.m. The far eastern tier of counties (Doniphan, Atchison, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson, Miami, and Linn) will do their test at 11 a.m.To avoid any confusion to the public, a live tornado warning will not be sent out on the NOAA Weather Radio. Instead, there will be a Routine Weekly Test message asking people to practice sheltering. County emergency management offices may also sound alert sirens at that time.Information on emergency preparedness and building a home disaster kit can be found online at <a href="http://www.ready.gov">www.ready.gov</a>.

Governor Kelly signs proclamation for Severe Weather/Flood Preparedness Week

By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/02/25/kansas-property-tax-where-do-tax-cuts-stand-so-far/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=Free%20stories%20from%20The%20Beacon&amp;utm_campaign=Republishing%20email%2022525">The Beacon</a>

Debbie Detmer has a lot of memories in her house. She’s lived there 40 years and raised three children in it.&nbsp;

Detmer is retired now and lives on a fixed income in Johnson County. She hasn’t done any work on her house, yet she pays more in property taxes each year. The bill is rising so much it’s becoming too much to manage.&nbsp;

Last year, she paid $100 more a month and this year she is paying $50 more a month in property taxes. That’s before her homeowner’s insurance goes up because a more expensive house means more expensive insurance.&nbsp;

Her property taxes are making her choose between paying for taxes or other essentials — compromising her retirement.&nbsp;

“You keep turning the heat down. You keep (it) hotter in the summer,” she said. “You just got to cut back.”&nbsp;

Lawmakers have multiple tax proposals&nbsp;

Kansas lawmakers are trying to ease the property tax burden, but&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/02/21/new-kansas-laws-lawmakers-advance-dozens-of-bills/">halfway through the session</a>&nbsp;it doesn’t look like there’s consensus on how to do so.&nbsp;

Constitutional amendments on property taxes have headlined the tax cut debate so far.

The Senate passed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1603/">3% cap on valuation increases</a>. Property taxes could increase more than 3% in a year, but the appraised value of a home would be capped at 3% unless it was renovated or qualifies for other exemptions.

The House has a similar proposal that would use a rolling average of a home’s value, likely a six-year rolling average.

Both ideas would need to be approved by voters.&nbsp;

The Senate’s proposal passed with more than a two-thirds majority. But the House hasn’t acted on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hcr5011/">valuation cap proposal</a>.&nbsp;

House Committee on Taxation chair Rep. Adam Smith, a Weskan Republican, said these constitutional amendments are gimmicks that don’t provide real relief. He isn’t alone. Some Senate Republicans voted against the 3% cap and almost every Senate Democrat opposed it.&nbsp;

Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said this is California tax policy that shouldn’t come to Kansas.&nbsp;

Senate Democrats have instead proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb217/">increasing property tax exemptions</a>&nbsp;from $75,000 to $125,000. Democrats will also get a hearing on a bill expanding “<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb215/">the property tax rebate program</a>&nbsp;for seniors and disabled veterans by excluding Social Security payments from the definition of household income and increasing the household income and appraised value thresholds for eligibility related to increased property tax homestead claims.”&nbsp;

Sen. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, has another idea. He tried to amend the 3% cap during an early February floor debate to tie tax increases with inflation. Property taxes could only rise with the rate of inflation. Taxing bodies could still raise taxes higher than inflation, but that would require voters to approve of the increase.&nbsp;Owens’ amendment failed.&nbsp;

“We certainly cannot predict the actions of the other chamber,” Owens said during the Senate debate. “It is generally assumed that (<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1603/">this constitutional amendment</a>) is not the final product. If this is not the final product, we want to go in with the strongest position possible on truly giving our taxpayers a tax break.”&nbsp;

Concern about a 3% cap is simple. Capping the appraised value doesn’t stop governing bodies from just raising property taxes anyway. Agricultural associations and business lobbyists also worry that capping residential valuations would then shift more tax burden to farms and businesses.&nbsp;

Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican, is the chair of the Senate Committee on Assessment and Taxation. She is leading the push to pass the constitutional amendment. She disagrees that her 3% cap does nothing. She’s looked back at decades of tax rates and has seen valuations jump. Had the cap been in place, those valuations would not have jumped as high and those homeowners would pay less in property taxes.&nbsp;

The property tax cap also would start based on 2022 home values. That would cap property tax increases before a recent surge in valuations.

Tyson said she’s seen someone’s property tax rise even though they did no work on their house. The price jumped because their neighbor renovated their home. The current system doesn’t work, she said.&nbsp;

“We are not inventing the wheel here,” Tyson said at a past debate. “We have looked to other states to see what to model after.”

For Detmer, the homeowner on a fixed income, property tax relief needs to come soon. She might have to move, and depending where she buys, that could mean moving farther away from her grandchildren.&nbsp;

Property taxes mean cutting back, Detmer said. But she’s annoyed that the county government doesn’t cut back as hard as she does.&nbsp;

“When I bought it, I had no intention of moving,” Detmer said. “I raised my family here. I have no intentions of going anywhere unless (taxes) force me out.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740674495312.jpeg" alt="Lawmakers may be hashing out how to provide tax relief, but there is bipartisan consensus on the need to address property taxes. Photo by Niko Schmidt / The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>Lawmakers may be hashing out how to provide tax relief, but there is bipartisan consensus on the need to address property taxes. Photo by Niko Schmidt / The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/02/25/kansas-property-tax-where-do-tax-cuts-stand-so-far/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=Free%20stories%20from%20The%20Beacon&amp;utm_campaign=Republishing%20email%2022525">The Beacon</a>Debbie Detmer has a lot of memories in her house. She’s lived there 40 years and raised three children in it.&nbsp;Detmer is retired now and lives on a fixed income in Johnson County. She hasn’t done any work on her house, yet she pays more in property taxes each year. The bill is rising so much it’s becoming too much to manage.&nbsp;Last year, she paid $100 more a month and this year she is paying $50 more a month in property taxes. That’s before her homeowner’s insurance goes up because a more expensive house means more expensive insurance.&nbsp;Her property taxes are making her choose between paying for taxes or other essentials — compromising her retirement.&nbsp;“You keep turning the heat down. You keep (it) hotter in the summer,” she said. “You just got to cut back.”&nbsp;<h2>Lawmakers have multiple tax proposals&nbsp;</h2>Kansas lawmakers are trying to ease the property tax burden, but&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/02/21/new-kansas-laws-lawmakers-advance-dozens-of-bills/">halfway through the session</a>&nbsp;it doesn’t look like there’s consensus on how to do so.&nbsp;Constitutional amendments on property taxes have headlined the tax cut debate so far.The Senate passed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1603/">3% cap on valuation increases</a>. Property taxes could increase more than 3% in a year, but the appraised value of a home would be capped at 3% unless it was renovated or qualifies for other exemptions.The House has a similar proposal that would use a rolling average of a home’s value, likely a six-year rolling average.Both ideas would need to be approved by voters.&nbsp;The Senate’s proposal passed with more than a two-thirds majority. But the House hasn’t acted on its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hcr5011/">valuation cap proposal</a>.&nbsp;House Committee on Taxation chair Rep. Adam Smith, a Weskan Republican, said these constitutional amendments are gimmicks that don’t provide real relief. He isn’t alone. Some Senate Republicans voted against the 3% cap and almost every Senate Democrat opposed it.&nbsp;Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, a Lenexa Democrat, said this is California tax policy that shouldn’t come to Kansas.&nbsp;Senate Democrats have instead proposed&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb217/">increasing property tax exemptions</a>&nbsp;from $75,000 to $125,000. Democrats will also get a hearing on a bill expanding “<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb215/">the property tax rebate program</a>&nbsp;for seniors and disabled veterans by excluding Social Security payments from the definition of household income and increasing the household income and appraised value thresholds for eligibility related to increased property tax homestead claims.”&nbsp;Sen. Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, has another idea. He tried to amend the 3% cap during an early February floor debate to tie tax increases with inflation. Property taxes could only rise with the rate of inflation. Taxing bodies could still raise taxes higher than inflation, but that would require voters to approve of the increase.&nbsp;Owens’ amendment failed.&nbsp;“We certainly cannot predict the actions of the other chamber,” Owens said during the Senate debate. “It is generally assumed that (<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/scr1603/">this constitutional amendment</a>) is not the final product. If this is not the final product, we want to go in with the strongest position possible on truly giving our taxpayers a tax break.”&nbsp;<h2>Debate over passed plans</h2>Concern about a 3% cap is simple. Capping the appraised value doesn’t stop governing bodies from just raising property taxes anyway. Agricultural associations and business lobbyists also worry that capping residential valuations would then shift more tax burden to farms and businesses.&nbsp;Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican, is the chair of the Senate Committee on Assessment and Taxation. She is leading the push to pass the constitutional amendment. She disagrees that her 3% cap does nothing. She’s looked back at decades of tax rates and has seen valuations jump. Had the cap been in place, those valuations would not have jumped as high and those homeowners would pay less in property taxes.&nbsp;The property tax cap also would start based on 2022 home values. That would cap property tax increases before a recent surge in valuations.Tyson said she’s seen someone’s property tax rise even though they did no work on their house. The price jumped because their neighbor renovated their home. The current system doesn’t work, she said.&nbsp;“We are not inventing the wheel here,” Tyson said at a past debate. “We have looked to other states to see what to model after.”For Detmer, the homeowner on a fixed income, property tax relief needs to come soon. She might have to move, and depending where she buys, that could mean moving farther away from her grandchildren.&nbsp;Property taxes mean cutting back, Detmer said. But she’s annoyed that the county government doesn’t cut back as hard as she does.&nbsp;“When I bought it, I had no intention of moving,” Detmer said. “I raised my family here. I have no intentions of going anywhere unless (taxes) force me out.”

Kansas lawmakers offer dueling ideas on property tax relief

The dynamic duo of Jaidyn Alvarado and Juliana (Bri) Villanueva claimed state championship honors on Saturday to lead <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZVKWkkpeqXkAMEBkUInNHVPWn-aarhit5GSOYWRJpwT-ur3ECDrFn0j455VXyNtL6aVnm9GQ1-Ww_PfQ76G7N6JnR-OZJik2UElJL-tIliw7AhHjr_uFcoXJh-oG-wjz5BVrL_NfpffXctHG2H-GizEiUqvyGTsynSkD85-jGajER3W6wrzIohw9RXD21L6eME&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School USD 475</a> at the 2025 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KSHSAA?__cft__[0]=AZVKWkkpeqXkAMEBkUInNHVPWn-aarhit5GSOYWRJpwT-ur3ECDrFn0j455VXyNtL6aVnm9GQ1-Ww_PfQ76G7N6JnR-OZJik2UElJL-tIliw7AhHjr_uFcoXJh-oG-wjz5BVrL_NfpffXctHG2H-GizEiUqvyGTsynSkD85-jGajER3W6wrzIohw9RXD21L6eME&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas State High School Activities Association</a> State Wrestling Championships in Overland Park.

In the finals, Alvarado won by tech fall over 2024 state champion Madalyn Riedinger of Gardner Edgerton inside The AdventHealth Sports Park. With her decisive win at 100 pounds, the senior closed out a dominating season, finishing the year 33-1 overall.

Villanueva captured her second state championship as a Blue Jay by winning by fall over Garden City’s Marina Loera. With her state championship performance at 115 pounds, the junior has now claimed two state championships and a runner-up showing at state during her storied career. For the year, Villanueva posted an impressive 32-1 overall record.

Other highlights on the day included Elaina Twitty claiming fifth place overall with a victory by fall over Manhattan’s Evelyn Thornburg at 125 pounds, while Shalina Hicks also made the podium at 190 pounds, closing out competition No. 5 overall. Elizabeth Edgerton-Diaz rounded out the JCHS notables, placing sixth at 130 pounds.

On the boy’s side, senior Josh Brookshire placed fifth overall, winning by fall over Dodge City’s Jayden Amaro. Brookshire went 36-9 on the year.

As a team, the Blue Jays wrapped up competition in 20th place in the final team standings with 26 points, while the Lady Jays finished No. 6 overall with 115 points.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1740968081050.jpeg" alt="Jaidyn Alvarado (left) and Bri Villanueva (right) hold up their brackets after winning a State Title on Saturday in Overland Park. (Photo courtesy of USD 475 - Geary County Schools Facebook Page).&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Jaidyn Alvarado (left) and Bri Villanueva (right) hold up their brackets after winning a State Title on Saturday in Overland Park. (Photo courtesy of USD 475 - Geary County Schools Facebook Page).&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 475 release&nbsp;--The dynamic duo of Jaidyn Alvarado and Juliana (Bri) Villanueva claimed state championship honors on Saturday to lead <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/JCHSUSD475?__cft__[0]=AZVKWkkpeqXkAMEBkUInNHVPWn-aarhit5GSOYWRJpwT-ur3ECDrFn0j455VXyNtL6aVnm9GQ1-Ww_PfQ76G7N6JnR-OZJik2UElJL-tIliw7AhHjr_uFcoXJh-oG-wjz5BVrL_NfpffXctHG2H-GizEiUqvyGTsynSkD85-jGajER3W6wrzIohw9RXD21L6eME&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Junction City High School USD 475</a> at the 2025 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/KSHSAA?__cft__[0]=AZVKWkkpeqXkAMEBkUInNHVPWn-aarhit5GSOYWRJpwT-ur3ECDrFn0j455VXyNtL6aVnm9GQ1-Ww_PfQ76G7N6JnR-OZJik2UElJL-tIliw7AhHjr_uFcoXJh-oG-wjz5BVrL_NfpffXctHG2H-GizEiUqvyGTsynSkD85-jGajER3W6wrzIohw9RXD21L6eME&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas State High School Activities Association</a> State Wrestling Championships in Overland Park.In the finals, Alvarado won by tech fall over 2024 state champion Madalyn Riedinger of Gardner Edgerton inside The AdventHealth Sports Park. With her decisive win at 100 pounds, the senior closed out a dominating season, finishing the year 33-1 overall.Villanueva captured her second state championship as a Blue Jay by winning by fall over Garden City’s Marina Loera. With her state championship performance at 115 pounds, the junior has now claimed two state championships and a runner-up showing at state during her storied career. For the year, Villanueva posted an impressive 32-1 overall record.Other highlights on the day included Elaina Twitty claiming fifth place overall with a victory by fall over Manhattan’s Evelyn Thornburg at 125 pounds, while Shalina Hicks also made the podium at 190 pounds, closing out competition No. 5 overall. Elizabeth Edgerton-Diaz rounded out the JCHS notables, placing sixth at 130 pounds.On the boy’s side, senior Josh Brookshire placed fifth overall, winning by fall over Dodge City’s Jayden Amaro. Brookshire went 36-9 on the year.As a team, the Blue Jays wrapped up competition in 20th place in the final team standings with 26 points, while the Lady Jays finished No. 6 overall with 115 points.