Stormont Vail Health welcomed the first baby in Geary County of 2025 on Jan. 5,&nbsp; at 6:41 p.m. Baby boy Marquez Garcia weighs 7 lbs. and 2 oz. and measures 19 inches long. Marquez was born to Holden Hopkins and Angelica Marquez Garcia.

Stormont Vail Health welcomed the first baby in Geary County of 2025 on Jan. 5,&nbsp; at 6:41 p.m. Baby boy Marquez Garcia weighs 7 lbs. and 2 oz. and measures 19 inches long. Marquez was born to Holden Hopkins and Angelica Marquez Garcia.

First Baby of 2025

i-70 westbound reopened at Carlson Road west of Topeka

The Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened all westbound lanes of I-70 at Carlson Road west of Topeka.

The area had previously been closed due to a crash involving a semitruck early Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

For the latest on road closures and conditions visit kandrive.gov or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed westbound I-70 at Carlson Road west of Topeka due to a crash involving a semi-truck early Wednesday morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Westbound traffic is being detoured at Carlson Road. Drivers can exit at Carlson Road and follow U.S. 24 to K-99 in Wamego. The closure and detour are expected to remain in place for several hours while crews work to clear the crash and treat the icy roadway.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736356096917.png" alt="Photo Wabaunsee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wabaunsee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE:i-70 westbound reopened at Carlson Road west of TopekaThe Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened all westbound lanes of I-70 at Carlson Road west of Topeka.The area had previously been closed due to a crash involving a semitruck early Wednesday morning.&nbsp;For the latest on road closures and conditions visit kandrive.gov or call 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.---The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed westbound I-70 at Carlson Road west of Topeka due to a crash involving a semi-truck early Wednesday morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;Westbound traffic is being detoured at Carlson Road. Drivers can exit at Carlson Road and follow U.S. 24 to K-99 in Wamego. The closure and detour are expected to remain in place for several hours while crews work to clear the crash and treat the icy roadway.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I-70 westbound closed at Carlson Road west of Topeka due to semi crash

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Tuesday in Riley County.

A vehicle driven by 32-year-old Roxanne Brown was traveling on Tuttle Creek Boulevard at mile marker 306, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. She lost control of the vehicle on the ice.

EMS transported her to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details including the type of vehicle, hometown of the driver and if she was wearing a seat belt.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10a.m. Tuesday in Riley County.A vehicle driven by 32-year-old Roxanne Brown was traveling on Tuttle Creek Boulevard at mile marker 306, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. She lost control of the vehicle on the ice.EMS transported her to Via Christi for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp; The RCPD released no additional details including the type of vehicle, hometown of the driver and if she was wearing a seat belt.

Woman hospitalized after Riley County crash on the ice

By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/01/03/kansas-lawmakers-could-consider-medical-marijuana-in-2025/">The Beacon</a>

Kansas lawmakers are likely going to act on medical marijuana in the 2025 session. Maybe.&nbsp;

Medical marijuana is becoming a perennial debate in Topeka, and it’s annually unclear how likely it is for a bill to pass.&nbsp;

“I have sat through, I don’t know, three interim committee meetings,” said Sen. Cindy Holscher, an Overland Park Democrat, at an interim committee on medical marijuana. “We keep rehashing this information. We keep hearing the same debunked theories over and over.”

That was in October. Holscher made a motion for the committee to support the passage of medical marijuana. The committee — made up of Senate and House members, Republicans and Democrats — rejected that motion.&nbsp;

“I just feel like we keep circling here by doing interim committees and never really moving forward on the issue,” Holscher said in October.&nbsp;

Instead, they made a motion to schedule another meeting in January to again debate medical marijuana.&nbsp;

That would imply that medical marijuana is of interest to lawmakers in 2025. But Kansas legislators have debated medical cannabis during the session or in a special committee in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. Yet weed is still illegal.&nbsp;

What has the Legislature already done?&nbsp;

The Kansas House first approved a medical marijuana plan in 2021. It was a&nbsp;<a href="https://klrd.gov/publications/medical-marijuana/#:~:text=Legislation%20that%20would%20legalize%20medical,out%20of%20the%20Kansas%20House.&amp;text=Medical%20Use.">historic vote</a>.&nbsp;

It was the first time the chamber ever gave medical marijuana a floor vote, and it passed 79-42. Republicans and Democrats had mostly come together on an issue to pass it and send the proposal to the Senate.&nbsp;

It’s the Senate where all the issues remain.&nbsp;

Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, wants a limited program to avoid the pitfalls other states have seen.&nbsp;

“I have consistently maintained that this is a serious topic,”<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/03/15/medical-weed-could-be-coming-to-kansas-why-has-it-failed-before/">&nbsp;Masterson previously told The Beacon</a>, “which requires due diligence to determine if a better model is possible that achieves the goal of delivering real medicine while avoiding the myriad problems those other states have experienced.”&nbsp;

Take Oklahoma, for example. The state passed its medical marijuana program through a ballot initiative. It was the public who approved the measure and brought medical weed to the state. That meant lawmakers have been passing laws to regulate the industry on the fly.&nbsp;

Some conservatives say Oklahoma has an industry so unregulated that it has essentially become a recreational weed program with a thriving black market. Masterson has no desire for Kansas to go down that path.&nbsp;

Lawmakers did have a medical marijuana proposal in 2024, but the program was so strict that it scared away longtime advocates.&nbsp;

Support doesn’t fall along partisan lines.&nbsp;

It mostly does, but a swatch of Republicans support a medical marijuana proposal. There is also a chunk of lawmakers unsure about the idea.&nbsp;

Last session, the medical marijuana bill was stalling out. So a group of senators tried to force a vote on the issue. They needed 24 out of 40 senators to bring the bill up for a vote.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20240426102652_311430/">They got 12</a>. Of the 12 senators, 10 were Democrats and two were Republicans. Both those Republicans didn’t run for reelection.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Conservatives generally oppose the bill. Republicans control the House and Senate, and Republican leadership could likely pass a medical cannabis bill whenever it desires. Yet the idea has stalled.&nbsp;

Law enforcement is also wary of medical marijuana.&nbsp;

“You drive by Blackwell, Oklahoma, and you get hit with that odor,” Kechi Chief of Police Braden Moore told lawmakers in October. “That’s a quality of life thing. … I don’t want that in my home state, too.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736267264686.png" alt="Kansas lawmakers might take another crack at legalizing medical marijuana. The state Senate has been the roadblock to passage for years. File photo/The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>Kansas lawmakers might take another crack at legalizing medical marijuana. The state Senate has been the roadblock to passage for years. File photo/The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/blaise-mesa/">BLAISE MESA</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/01/03/kansas-lawmakers-could-consider-medical-marijuana-in-2025/">The Beacon</a>Kansas lawmakers are likely going to act on medical marijuana in the 2025 session. Maybe.&nbsp;Medical marijuana is becoming a perennial debate in Topeka, and it’s annually unclear how likely it is for a bill to pass.&nbsp;“I have sat through, I don’t know, three interim committee meetings,” said Sen. Cindy Holscher, an Overland Park Democrat, at an interim committee on medical marijuana. “We keep rehashing this information. We keep hearing the same debunked theories over and over.”That was in October. Holscher made a motion for the committee to support the passage of medical marijuana. The committee — made up of Senate and House members, Republicans and Democrats — rejected that motion.&nbsp;“I just feel like we keep circling here by doing interim committees and never really moving forward on the issue,” Holscher said in October.&nbsp;Instead, they made a motion to schedule another meeting in January to again debate medical marijuana.&nbsp;That would imply that medical marijuana is of interest to lawmakers in 2025. But Kansas legislators have debated medical cannabis during the session or in a special committee in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. Yet weed is still illegal.&nbsp;<h2>What has the Legislature already done?&nbsp;</h2>The Kansas House first approved a medical marijuana plan in 2021. It was a&nbsp;<a href="https://klrd.gov/publications/medical-marijuana/#:~:text=Legislation%20that%20would%20legalize%20medical,out%20of%20the%20Kansas%20House.&amp;text=Medical%20Use.">historic vote</a>.&nbsp;It was the first time the chamber ever gave medical marijuana a floor vote, and it passed 79-42. Republicans and Democrats had mostly come together on an issue to pass it and send the proposal to the Senate.&nbsp;It’s the Senate where all the issues remain.&nbsp;Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican, wants a limited program to avoid the pitfalls other states have seen.&nbsp;“I have consistently maintained that this is a serious topic,”<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2024/03/15/medical-weed-could-be-coming-to-kansas-why-has-it-failed-before/">&nbsp;Masterson previously told The Beacon</a>, “which requires due diligence to determine if a better model is possible that achieves the goal of delivering real medicine while avoiding the myriad problems those other states have experienced.”&nbsp;Take Oklahoma, for example. The state passed its medical marijuana program through a ballot initiative. It was the public who approved the measure and brought medical weed to the state. That meant lawmakers have been passing laws to regulate the industry on the fly.&nbsp;Some conservatives say Oklahoma has an industry so unregulated that it has essentially become a recreational weed program with a thriving black market. Masterson has no desire for Kansas to go down that path.&nbsp;Lawmakers did have a medical marijuana proposal in 2024, but the program was so strict that it scared away longtime advocates.&nbsp;<h2>Who supports the proposal?&nbsp;</h2>Support doesn’t fall along partisan lines.&nbsp;It mostly does, but a swatch of Republicans support a medical marijuana proposal. There is also a chunk of lawmakers unsure about the idea.&nbsp;Last session, the medical marijuana bill was stalling out. So a group of senators tried to force a vote on the issue. They needed 24 out of 40 senators to bring the bill up for a vote.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2023_24/measures/vote_view/je_20240426102652_311430/">They got 12</a>. Of the 12 senators, 10 were Democrats and two were Republicans. Both those Republicans didn’t run for reelection.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Who opposes the proposal?&nbsp;</h2>Conservatives generally oppose the bill. Republicans control the House and Senate, and Republican leadership could likely pass a medical cannabis bill whenever it desires. Yet the idea has stalled.&nbsp;Law enforcement is also wary of medical marijuana.&nbsp;“You drive by Blackwell, Oklahoma, and you get hit with that odor,” Kechi Chief of Police Braden Moore told lawmakers in October. “That’s a quality of life thing. … I don’t want that in my home state, too.”

Kansas lawmakers consider medical weed again. Is the fifth time the charm?

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/frank-morris">FRANK MORRIS</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-06/mass-deportations-could-cripple-kansas-meat-economy-it-would-be-a-ghost-town">KCUR</a>

The price of beef is at all-time highs, but a major policy initiative of the incoming Trump Administration could drive them higher. In an industry that's already strapped for workers, mass deportations could put some ranchers and feedlots out of business.

Raising cattle is tough. Nearly every day, Kansas ranchers and feedlot operators have to wrestle with drought, disease or blizzards. But the biggest problem is labor — the industry is chronically short-handed. That is especially true in southwest Kansas.

“If the immigrants weren't there to help out, there wouldn't be an operation functional in any of those places,” said Micheal Feltman, an immigration attorney in Cimarron, Kansas, just west of Dodge City.

Feltman helps the feedlots and mega dairy farms near there find workers. He said people funneling into southwest Kansas, from at least 40 countries, are the lifeblood of the beef industry and the regional economy.

Close to half the people who process meat in the U.S. were born someplace else, and immigrants do much of the work feeding and tending animals. Most of these workers are here legally, but a significant percentage aren’t, and documented immigrants often support close family members living with them illegally.

That’s why President-elect Donald Trump’s promises of a sweeping crackdown on immigration, sealing the border, and deporting 11 million people have many people in the meat industry worried.

Mass deportations would trigger a cascade of hardships across the chronically short-staffed meat industry, Feltman said. Processing plants would slow down, causing meat shortages that economists worry would drive consumer prices to record highs. Farmers would find themselves with more livestock than they could sell or care for, and the value of their animals would plummet.

“If every immigrant … over the last 20 years disappeared immediately, it would be a ghost town,” Feltman said. “I don't know how the businesses would survive.”

For one recent Haitian immigrant, who said she was afraid to divulge her name because she fled hunger and horrific violence at home, the stakes seem like life and death. The woman and her 4-year-old daughter made their way to Garden City three months ago. They’re here on temporary humanitarian parole. That gives her two years to apply for asylum.

She’s still waiting to be granted a work permit, but said she’d be willing to do any kind of labor, including the dangerous, uncomfortable, smelly jobs at the Tyson packing plant on the outskirts of town. Through an interpreter, she said she’s following the letter of the law to stay in the U.S., and has an appointment for a screening that should clear the way for her work visa, and financial independence.

“It will bring me a lot of joy,” she said. “Because I have a kid to take care of, I have myself, and if I could invest in the country, it would bring me a lot of joy.”

Given Trump’s rhetoric during the election and since, she now fears she’ll be sent back to the violent chaos in Haiti instead of joining a workforce that badly needs her.

“It’s not safe. The gangs are killing people,” she said.

Despite hefty pay hikes for meat processing workers in recent years, the industry cannot hire people fast enough. In places like southwest Kansas, employers say there aren’t nearly enough native-born people willing to show up reliably and do the hard, dirty work necessary in the meat industry.

The complicated immigration system doesn’t allow in enough legal immigrants to make up the difference, so some companies turn to undocumented workers to get by.

University of Arkansas economist Jada Thompson said mass deportations would exacerbate the problem, sending shockwaves up and down the meat supply chain. For one thing, deporting meat-packing workers would slow down the plants, triggering shortages.

“I think we're going to see higher prices (for) the retail (customer),” said Thompson.

But farmers wouldn’t see any gains from soaring retail prices, she said, because there would be too many animals in the system for the meat processors to use, a glut building daily as more pigs and cows mature.

“I think you'll end up eventually seeing lower prices (for) farmers,” said Thompson, “because it will eventually be oversupply because, effectively, they just can't harvest that many animals.”

Thompson said the same thing happened a few years ago, but it wasn’t an immigration crackdown causing the labor shortage — it was the COVID pandemic.

“And what happened in that supply chain?” Thompson asked. “It backed it up. Prices went up. All of a sudden, you had people with pigs and cows that could not go to market because there was nowhere for them to be slaughtered.”

Those animals still had to be fed, and they still needed space to live in, but nobody wanted to buy them for meat, meaning farmers were spending extra money every day to keep more pigs and cows alive. Eventually, some farmers had to cut their losses, shoot their livestock and bury it. Everybody loses.

Kansas State University economist Glynn Tonsor said losses like those would spread broadly through southwest Kansas towns that depend on big feedlots, dairies and packing houses.

“They very often are one of the largest employers and local tax generators, so there's relevant implications for funding of schools, funding of libraries, funding of anything you want to talk about that's publicly funded in local areas,” said Tonsor.

It’s not clear yet how Trump administration deportations will work, if they happen at all, but Kansas Livestock Association CEO Matt Teagarden hopes they move slowly, and that they somehow shield the immigrant-dependent meat industry.

Teagarden said he believes border security should be tightened, but he’d like the system of granting work visas streamlined, not shackled. It’s either import people or import food.

“One of the alternatives is our food production goes overseas or moves outside the country,” said Teagarden. “If we don't have an adequate workforce, can't produce the food that we all want each day, each week, each month, that food production will go elsewhere.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736268185597.png" alt="Nearly half the people processing meat in the United States were born in another country, and the industry struggles consistently to find enough labor. U.S. Government Accountability Office/Wikipedia" />
 <figcaption>Nearly half the people processing meat in the United States were born in another country, and the industry struggles consistently to find enough labor. U.S. Government Accountability Office/Wikipedia</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/people/frank-morris">FRANK MORRIS</a> <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2025-01-06/mass-deportations-could-cripple-kansas-meat-economy-it-would-be-a-ghost-town">KCUR</a><h2>The price of beef is at all-time highs, but a major policy initiative of the incoming Trump Administration could drive them higher. In an industry that's already strapped for workers, mass deportations could put some ranchers and feedlots out of business.</h2>Raising cattle is tough. Nearly every day, Kansas ranchers and feedlot operators have to wrestle with drought, disease or blizzards. But the biggest problem is labor — the industry is chronically short-handed. That is especially true in southwest Kansas.“If the immigrants weren't there to help out, there wouldn't be an operation functional in any of those places,” said Micheal Feltman, an immigration attorney in Cimarron, Kansas, just west of Dodge City.Feltman helps the feedlots and mega dairy farms near there find workers. He said people funneling into southwest Kansas, from at least 40 countries, are the lifeblood of the beef industry and the regional economy.Close to half the people who process meat in the U.S. were born someplace else, and immigrants do much of the work feeding and tending animals. Most of these workers are here legally, but a significant percentage aren’t, and documented immigrants often support close family members living with them illegally.That’s why President-elect Donald Trump’s promises of a sweeping crackdown on immigration, sealing the border, and deporting 11 million people have many people in the meat industry worried.Mass deportations would trigger a cascade of hardships across the chronically short-staffed meat industry, Feltman said. Processing plants would slow down, causing meat shortages that economists worry would drive consumer prices to record highs. Farmers would find themselves with more livestock than they could sell or care for, and the value of their animals would plummet.“If every immigrant … over the last 20 years disappeared immediately, it would be a ghost town,” Feltman said. “I don't know how the businesses would survive.”<h2>The beef industry runs on imported labor</h2>For one recent Haitian immigrant, who said she was afraid to divulge her name because she fled hunger and horrific violence at home, the stakes seem like life and death. The woman and her 4-year-old daughter made their way to Garden City three months ago. They’re here on temporary humanitarian parole. That gives her two years to apply for asylum.She’s still waiting to be granted a work permit, but said she’d be willing to do any kind of labor, including the dangerous, uncomfortable, smelly jobs at the Tyson packing plant on the outskirts of town. Through an interpreter, she said she’s following the letter of the law to stay in the U.S., and has an appointment for a screening that should clear the way for her work visa, and financial independence.“It will bring me a lot of joy,” she said. “Because I have a kid to take care of, I have myself, and if I could invest in the country, it would bring me a lot of joy.”Given Trump’s rhetoric during the election and since, she now fears she’ll be sent back to the violent chaos in Haiti instead of joining a workforce that badly needs her.“It’s not safe. The gangs are killing people,” she said.Despite hefty pay hikes for meat processing workers in recent years, the industry cannot hire people fast enough. In places like southwest Kansas, employers say there aren’t nearly enough native-born people willing to show up reliably and do the hard, dirty work necessary in the meat industry.The complicated immigration system doesn’t allow in enough legal immigrants to make up the difference, so some companies turn to undocumented workers to get by.University of Arkansas economist Jada Thompson said mass deportations would exacerbate the problem, sending shockwaves up and down the meat supply chain. For one thing, deporting meat-packing workers would slow down the plants, triggering shortages.“I think we're going to see higher prices (for) the retail (customer),” said Thompson.But farmers wouldn’t see any gains from soaring retail prices, she said, because there would be too many animals in the system for the meat processors to use, a glut building daily as more pigs and cows mature.“I think you'll end up eventually seeing lower prices (for) farmers,” said Thompson, “because it will eventually be oversupply because, effectively, they just can't harvest that many animals.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736267973702.png" alt="Feedlots increasingly turn to immigrants, legal or otherwise, willing to do the hard, often uncomfortable work of caring for large animals. File photo/KCUR" />
 <figcaption>Feedlots increasingly turn to immigrants, legal or otherwise, willing to do the hard, often uncomfortable work of caring for large animals. File photo/KCUR</figcaption>
 </figure>Thompson said the same thing happened a few years ago, but it wasn’t an immigration crackdown causing the labor shortage — it was the COVID pandemic.“And what happened in that supply chain?” Thompson asked. “It backed it up. Prices went up. All of a sudden, you had people with pigs and cows that could not go to market because there was nowhere for them to be slaughtered.”Those animals still had to be fed, and they still needed space to live in, but nobody wanted to buy them for meat, meaning farmers were spending extra money every day to keep more pigs and cows alive. Eventually, some farmers had to cut their losses, shoot their livestock and bury it. Everybody loses.Kansas State University economist Glynn Tonsor said losses like those would spread broadly through southwest Kansas towns that depend on big feedlots, dairies and packing houses.“They very often are one of the largest employers and local tax generators, so there's relevant implications for funding of schools, funding of libraries, funding of anything you want to talk about that's publicly funded in local areas,” said Tonsor.It’s not clear yet how Trump administration deportations will work, if they happen at all, but Kansas Livestock Association CEO Matt Teagarden hopes they move slowly, and that they somehow shield the immigrant-dependent meat industry.Teagarden said he believes border security should be tightened, but he’d like the system of granting work visas streamlined, not shackled. It’s either import people or import food.“One of the alternatives is our food production goes overseas or moves outside the country,” said Teagarden. “If we don't have an adequate workforce, can't produce the food that we all want each day, each week, each month, that food production will go elsewhere.”

Mass deportations could endanger Kansas’ meat economy: ‘It would be a ghost town’

KSU said all&nbsp;K-State campuses will return to normal operations on Jan. 8. All intersession classes, online and in person,&nbsp;will be held online only on Jan. 8 and 10. Instructors will contact students with any special instructions.&nbsp;More information is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/update">k-state.edu/update</a>.

KSU said all&nbsp;K-State campuses will return to normal operations on Jan. 8. All intersession classes, online and in person,&nbsp;will be held online only on Jan. 8 and 10. Instructors will contact students with any special instructions.&nbsp;More information is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.k-state.edu/update">k-state.edu/update</a>.

K-State returns to normal operations on Wednesday

Konza Prairie Community Health Center clinics (Junction City &amp; Manhattan) will open for patient care on Wednesday, January 8 at Noon.

Please be patient, since they will be operating with a limited number of staff who are able to make it to the clinics. &nbsp;

Please be safe – give yourself extra time to arrive safely. If you cannot make it to your appointment,&nbsp;please contact your care team after the clinic opens&nbsp;or through the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mycw93.ecwcloud.com/portal12468/jsp/100mp/login_otp.jsp">patient portal</a>&nbsp;to reschedule your appointment.&nbsp;

If you had an in-person appointment scheduled for January 6, January 7, or January 8 before Noon:&nbsp; They are working to reschedule all affected patients in a timely manner.

Your care team will reach out to reschedule your appointment. &nbsp;

Konza Prairie Community Health Center clinics (Junction City &amp; Manhattan) will open for patient care on Wednesday, January 8 at Noon.Please be patient, since they will be operating with a limited number of staff who are able to make it to the clinics. &nbsp;Please be safe – give yourself extra time to arrive safely. If you cannot make it to your appointment,&nbsp;please contact your care team after the clinic opens&nbsp;or through the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mycw93.ecwcloud.com/portal12468/jsp/100mp/login_otp.jsp">patient portal</a>&nbsp;to reschedule your appointment.&nbsp;If you had an in-person appointment scheduled for January 6, January 7, or January 8 before Noon:&nbsp; They are working to reschedule all affected patients in a timely manner.Your care team will reach out to reschedule your appointment. &nbsp;

Konza Prairie Community Health Center Wednesday details

The Army said Fort Riley will operate with a 9 a.m. start time on Jan. 8. Military personnel and civilian employees can verify report times with supervisors.

Irwin Army Community Hospital will resume normal operations. Patients with scheduled appointments may reschedule as needed by calling 785-239-3627. Dental clinics will also resume normal operations.

Child Development Centers and the school-age center will open at 8 a.m. In addition to the Henry, Ogden, and Grant access control points, the 12th Steet and Parker gates will reopen.

The Army said Fort Riley will operate with a 9 a.m. start time on Jan. 8. Military personnel and civilian employees can verify report times with supervisors.Irwin Army Community Hospital will resume normal operations. Patients with scheduled appointments may reschedule as needed by calling 785-239-3627. Dental clinics will also resume normal operations.Child Development Centers and the school-age center will open at 8 a.m. In addition to the Henry, Ogden, and Grant access control points, the 12th Steet and Parker gates will reopen.

Fort Riley Adjusts Work Schedules for Wednesday

--Fort Riley will operate with a 9 a.m. start time on Jan. 8. Military personnel and civilian employees can verify report times with supervisors.

Irwin Army Community Hospital will resume normal operations.&nbsp; Dental clinics will also resume normal operations.

Child Development Centers and the school-age center will open at 8 a.m.

--Konza Prairie Community Health Center clinics (Junction City &amp; Manhattan) will open for patient care on Wednesday, January 8 at Noon.

--The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will be closed on Wednesday. All activities have been cancelled.

--Abilene USD 435 will be closed Wednesday

&nbsp;&nbsp;--Geary USD 475 schools will be closed.

-- St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Junction City is closed for Wednesday.

-- USD 383 Manhattan-Ogden Schools are closed on Wednesday

--Chapman USD 473 schools cancelled for Wednesday.

--USD 38 Blue Valley school cancelled for Wednesday

--Junction City Elks Lodge 1037 closed Wednesday

--American Legion Post 45 will be closed Wednesday

--Fort Riley will operate with a 9 a.m. start time on Jan. 8. Military personnel and civilian employees can verify report times with supervisors.Irwin Army Community Hospital will resume normal operations.&nbsp; Dental clinics will also resume normal operations.Child Development Centers and the school-age center will open at 8 a.m.--Konza Prairie Community Health Center clinics (Junction City &amp; Manhattan) will open for patient care on Wednesday, January 8 at Noon.--The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will be closed on Wednesday. All activities have been cancelled.--Abilene USD 435 will be closed Wednesday&nbsp;&nbsp;--Geary USD 475 schools will be closed.-- St. Francis Xavier Catholic School in Junction City is closed for Wednesday.-- USD 383 Manhattan-Ogden Schools are closed on Wednesday--Chapman USD 473 schools cancelled for Wednesday.--USD 417 Morris County closed--USD 87 Herington closed--USD 329 Wabaunsee schools closed.--USD 323 Rock Creek closed Wednesday--USD 38 Blue Valley school cancelled for Wednesday--USD 481 closed Wednesday--Flint Hills Christian School closed--Junction City Elks Lodge 1037 closed Wednesday--American Legion Post 45 will be closed Wednesday--Flint Hills aTa Bus closed

Postponements and cancellations for Wednesday Jan. 8

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Due to difficult road conditions and for the safety of our students and staff, Geary County Schools USD 475 will remain closed on Wednesday, Jan. 8. All athletic and after-school activities have been canceled.

Students and staff are scheduled to return to schools on Thursday, Jan. 9. USD 475 will continue to monitor the weather throughout the upcoming days and will notify parents of any school closings or changes.

JUNCTION CITY, Kan.&nbsp;–&nbsp;Due to difficult road conditions and for the safety of our students and staff, Geary County Schools USD 475 will remain closed on Wednesday, Jan. 8. All athletic and after-school activities have been canceled.Students and staff are scheduled to return to schools on Thursday, Jan. 9. USD 475 will continue to monitor the weather throughout the upcoming days and will notify parents of any school closings or changes.

USD 475 will be closed Wednesday

Junction City, Kansas — Out of an abundance of caution, Tuesday night’s scheduled City Commission meeting has been canceled. The agenda items originally planned for discussion will be rescheduled to the next regularly scheduled meeting on January 21.

The City of Junction City remains committed to the safety and well-being of the community, especially considering the recent snowstorm. They urge residents to refrain from traveling if possible. For those who must drive, please slow down, plan for additional time to reach your destination, and exercise caution to stay safe on the roads.

Junction City, Kansas — Out of an abundance of caution, Tuesday night’s scheduled City Commission meeting has been canceled. The agenda items originally planned for discussion will be rescheduled to the next regularly scheduled meeting on January 21.The City of Junction City remains committed to the safety and well-being of the community, especially considering the recent snowstorm. They urge residents to refrain from traveling if possible. For those who must drive, please slow down, plan for additional time to reach your destination, and exercise caution to stay safe on the roads.

Junction City Commission meeting is cancelled

Junction City Public Works crews have five snow plows running as they work to remove snow from the massive winter storm that hit the area. So far the focus has been on arterial and collector streets.

Public Works Director Ray Ibarra is hopeful crews can begin snow removal on residential streets Wednesday.

Ibarra also added city trash service cannot resume until the status of the transfer station is known. He urged residents to be patient.

Junction City Public Works crews have five snow plows running as they work to remove snow from the massive winter storm that hit the area. So far the focus has been on arterial and collector streets.Public Works Director Ray Ibarra is hopeful crews can begin snow removal on residential streets Wednesday.Ibarra also added city trash service cannot resume until the status of the transfer station is known. He urged residents to be patient.

Big challenge for snow removal crews

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating theft of large appliances in Riley County.

Just after 5:30p.m. officers filed a report of theft at the intersection of N. Scenic Drive and Miller Parkway, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 34-year-old man reported an unknown suspect took his trailer that was hauling a washer and dryer, among other items.

Total estimated loss associated with this report is $1,400. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/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 theft of large appliances in Riley County. Just after 5:30p.m. officers filed a report of theft at the intersection of N. Scenic Drive and Miller Parkway, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 34-year-old man reported an unknown suspect took his trailer that was hauling a washer and dryer, among other items. Total estimated loss associated with this report is $1,400. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/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: Suspect stole trailer transporting washer and dryer

-- The Junction City YMCA is closed again today.&nbsp; No before or after school programs or YMCA youth basketball practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;

--Geary County offices will be closed Tuesday. The County Commission meeting has been moved to 10 a.m. Thursday.

--&nbsp;Fort Riley and Irwin Army Community Hospital will continue to operate with minimal manning and limited services on Tuesday, Jan. 7.

The hospital will reschedule patient appointments. Emergency room and in-patient services will be available.

--&nbsp;The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will remain closed on Tuesday, January 7. All activities have been cancelled.

--All Konza Prairie Community Health Center clinics are closed Tuesday, January 7, due to continued road conditions from the recent winter storm. All appointments will be rescheduled.&nbsp;

--&nbsp;Due to the inclement weather, the Geary County Transfer Station, Geary County Landfill and HHW/Recycling Center will again be closed on Tuesday, January 7th.

-- USD 435 - Abilene Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday.&nbsp;

-- St. Francis Xavier School will be closed&nbsp; Tuesday, all activities are cancelled.

-- USD 475- Geary County Schools&nbsp; cancelled for Tuesday - all activities are cancelled.

-- USD 473 Chapman - cancelled for Tuesday

-- Cloud County Community College (Geary County and Concordia Campus)

-- USD 383 Manhattan-Ogden Schools - cancelled for Tuesday

-- Manhattan Catholic School - cancelled for Tuesday

--The Geary County Historical Society will be closed Tuesday January 7th.



-- The Junction City YMCA is closed again today.&nbsp; No before or after school programs or YMCA youth basketball practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;--Geary County offices will be closed Tuesday. The County Commission meeting has been moved to 10 a.m. Thursday.--&nbsp;Fort Riley and Irwin Army Community Hospital will continue to operate with minimal manning and limited services on Tuesday, Jan. 7.The hospital will reschedule patient appointments. Emergency room and in-patient services will be available.--&nbsp;The Dorothy Bramlage Public Library will remain closed on Tuesday, January 7. All activities have been cancelled.--All Konza Prairie Community Health Center clinics are closed Tuesday, January 7, due to continued road conditions from the recent winter storm. All appointments will be rescheduled.&nbsp;--&nbsp;Due to the inclement weather, the Geary County Transfer Station, Geary County Landfill and HHW/Recycling Center will again be closed on Tuesday, January 7th.-- USD 435 - Abilene Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday.&nbsp;-- St. Francis Xavier School will be closed&nbsp; Tuesday, all activities are cancelled.-- USD 475- Geary County Schools&nbsp; cancelled for Tuesday - all activities are cancelled.-- USD 473 Chapman - cancelled for Tuesday-- Cloud County Community College (Geary County and Concordia Campus)-- USD 383 Manhattan-Ogden Schools - cancelled for Tuesday-- Manhattan Catholic School - cancelled for Tuesday--USD 323 Rock Creek closed Tuesday--USD 378 Riley County closed Tuesday--USD 379 Clay County closed Tuesday--USD 384 Blue Valley closed Tuesday--USD 417 Morris County closed Tuesday--The Geary County Historical Society will be closed Tuesday January 7th.

Postponements and Cancellations for Tuesday, Jan. 7

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today announced his committee assignments for the 119th Congress. Sen. Moran will return to being Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC) in addition to new committee assignments as a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. Sen. Moran will serve on the following committees for the 119th Congress:

U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations. U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (Chairman)

“I am honored to lead the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and I remain committed to making certain veterans in Kansas and across the nation have a VA that is working for them and an opportunity to achieve success after their service,”&nbsp;said. Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I also look forward to advocating for Kansas producers on the Senate Committee on Agriculture and helping craft a long-term Farm Bill to provide much-needed certainty to farmers and ranchers. Each of these committees has important jurisdiction over issues and programs that impact Kansans and our nation, and I am committed to using my position on these committees to better the lives of Kansans and all Americans.”

As a member of the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry,&nbsp;Sen. Moran will have greater opportunity to draft a new, long-term Farm Bill that will help farmers and ranchers whose livelihoods are impacted by drought, tornadoes and factors outside of their control. Sen. Moran will also work to advocate for critical research on drought-resistant crops and conservation and encourage the development of the biofuels including sustainable aviation fuel.

Sen. Moran will continue his role on the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Appropriations&nbsp;where he has made it a priority to make certain Kansas military bases – Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth and McConnell Air Force Base – receive the support, resources and supplies needed to play a leading role in defending our country. In addition, Sen. Moran remains committed to providing law enforcement officers with the tools they need to perform their responsibilities of keeping our communities safe. This committee also allows the senator to continue bolstering medical research to save and improve lives and maintain our country’s role as a leader in medical innovation on the world’s stage. In this role, Sen. Moran will also continue advocating for support to NASA, promote STEM education and advance our nation’s goal of returning American astronauts to the Moon.

Sen. Moran will continue serving on the&nbsp;Senate Committee on&nbsp;Commerce, Science and Transportation&nbsp;allowing him to support aviation, aerospace and aviation manufacturing industries which are vital to Kansas. In addition, this committee oversees the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), providing critical reforms to the FAA. In Kansas, aviation and aviation-related activities support more than 90,000 jobs, making it a crucial industry for the state. The Commerce Committee plays an essential role in maintaining and advancing a thriving economy and provides Sen. Moran the opportunity to advocate for improvements to highways, rail, shipping, space, interstate commerce, consumer issues, economic development, technology and product safety. Through this committee, Sen. Moran will also continue to work to bridge the digital divide and increase rural connectivity through oversight of federal broadband deployment programs.

As a member of the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Indian Affairs,&nbsp;Sen. Moran will be in a position to help lead the effort to reform Haskell Indian Nations University in Kansas. Sen. Moran previously served on the committee and worked to improve conditions for the tribal college in Lawrence. Bureaucratic mismanagement and neglect by the Bureau of Indian Affairs led Sen. Moran to rejoin this committee to hold the bureau accountable and improve the lives of Native Americans across the country.

Sen. Moran will continue serving as a member of the&nbsp;Senate Select Committee on Intelligence&nbsp;and will have the opportunity to work on a number of sensitive and pressing issues facing our country’s national security, including continued threats from foreign powers, non-state actors and transnational threats. In his role on the Intelligence Committee, he will provide critical legislative oversight of U.S. intelligence activities and programs in order to make certain these functions conform to the Constitution and laws of our nation.

Sen. Moran has worked throughout his time in Congress to improve the quality of life for the nearly 250,000 veterans living in Kansas. He has served on both the House and Senate Committees on Veterans’ Affairs and served as both ranking member and chairman of the committee. He will return to lead the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs&nbsp;in the 119th Congress. In this role, he will build on previous legislative accomplishments including the&nbsp;SFC Heath Robinson PACT Act, delivering to toxic-exposed veterans their earned health care and benefits;&nbsp;the John Scott Hannon Act, bolstering veterans’ access to mental health and suicide prevention resources; and&nbsp;the VA MISSION Act, empowering veterans and providing them with the timely and quality care they deserve.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1727454496445.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedU.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today announced his committee assignments for the 119th Congress. Sen. Moran will return to being Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (SVAC) in addition to new committee assignments as a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry and the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. Sen. Moran will serve on the following committees for the 119th Congress:U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations. U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. U.S. Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs (Chairman)“I am honored to lead the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and I remain committed to making certain veterans in Kansas and across the nation have a VA that is working for them and an opportunity to achieve success after their service,”&nbsp;said. Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I also look forward to advocating for Kansas producers on the Senate Committee on Agriculture and helping craft a long-term Farm Bill to provide much-needed certainty to farmers and ranchers. Each of these committees has important jurisdiction over issues and programs that impact Kansans and our nation, and I am committed to using my position on these committees to better the lives of Kansans and all Americans.”As a member of the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry,&nbsp;Sen. Moran will have greater opportunity to draft a new, long-term Farm Bill that will help farmers and ranchers whose livelihoods are impacted by drought, tornadoes and factors outside of their control. Sen. Moran will also work to advocate for critical research on drought-resistant crops and conservation and encourage the development of the biofuels including sustainable aviation fuel.Sen. Moran will continue his role on the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Appropriations&nbsp;where he has made it a priority to make certain Kansas military bases – Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth and McConnell Air Force Base – receive the support, resources and supplies needed to play a leading role in defending our country. In addition, Sen. Moran remains committed to providing law enforcement officers with the tools they need to perform their responsibilities of keeping our communities safe. This committee also allows the senator to continue bolstering medical research to save and improve lives and maintain our country’s role as a leader in medical innovation on the world’s stage. In this role, Sen. Moran will also continue advocating for support to NASA, promote STEM education and advance our nation’s goal of returning American astronauts to the Moon.Sen. Moran will continue serving on the&nbsp;Senate Committee on&nbsp;Commerce, Science and Transportation&nbsp;allowing him to support aviation, aerospace and aviation manufacturing industries which are vital to Kansas. In addition, this committee oversees the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), providing critical reforms to the FAA. In Kansas, aviation and aviation-related activities support more than 90,000 jobs, making it a crucial industry for the state. The Commerce Committee plays an essential role in maintaining and advancing a thriving economy and provides Sen. Moran the opportunity to advocate for improvements to highways, rail, shipping, space, interstate commerce, consumer issues, economic development, technology and product safety. Through this committee, Sen. Moran will also continue to work to bridge the digital divide and increase rural connectivity through oversight of federal broadband deployment programs.As a member of the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Indian Affairs,&nbsp;Sen. Moran will be in a position to help lead the effort to reform Haskell Indian Nations University in Kansas. Sen. Moran previously served on the committee and worked to improve conditions for the tribal college in Lawrence. Bureaucratic mismanagement and neglect by the Bureau of Indian Affairs led Sen. Moran to rejoin this committee to hold the bureau accountable and improve the lives of Native Americans across the country.Sen. Moran will continue serving as a member of the&nbsp;Senate Select Committee on Intelligence&nbsp;and will have the opportunity to work on a number of sensitive and pressing issues facing our country’s national security, including continued threats from foreign powers, non-state actors and transnational threats. In his role on the Intelligence Committee, he will provide critical legislative oversight of U.S. intelligence activities and programs in order to make certain these functions conform to the Constitution and laws of our nation.Sen. Moran has worked throughout his time in Congress to improve the quality of life for the nearly 250,000 veterans living in Kansas. He has served on both the House and Senate Committees on Veterans’ Affairs and served as both ranking member and chairman of the committee. He will return to lead the&nbsp;Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs&nbsp;in the 119th Congress. In this role, he will build on previous legislative accomplishments including the&nbsp;SFC Heath Robinson PACT Act, delivering to toxic-exposed veterans their earned health care and benefits;&nbsp;the John Scott Hannon Act, bolstering veterans’ access to mental health and suicide prevention resources; and&nbsp;the VA MISSION Act, empowering veterans and providing them with the timely and quality care they deserve.

Sen. Moran committee assignments for the 119th Congress

The American Legion Boys State of Kansas is accepting applications for its 2025 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, June 1, through Saturday, June 7, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 33rd consecutive session at KSU and 87th overall.

Traditionally, Kansas Boys State has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high&nbsp;school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.

The American Legion Boys State of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving&nbsp;experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills&nbsp;civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

The cost to attend the Boys State of Kansas program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay&nbsp;the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2025 session should visit <a href="http://ksbstate.org">ksbstate.org</a> to apply.

The deadline to apply for the 2025 program is Wednesday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Friday, Jan. 31, will receive a $50 early-bird discount.

Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a three-hour course credit (Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110]) through Kansas State University, as well as earn merit badges to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed to receive a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.

Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit <a href="http://ksbstate.org/sponsor-a-delegate">ksbstate.org/sponsor-a-delegate</a>. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at <a href="mailto:info@ksbstate.org">info@ksbstate.org</a> or (785) 550-6492.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736259806016.jpeg" alt="Boys State of Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Boys State of Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>The American Legion Boys State of Kansas is accepting applications for its 2025 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, June 1, through Saturday, June 7, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 33rd consecutive session at KSU and 87th overall.Traditionally, Kansas Boys State has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high&nbsp;school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.The American Legion Boys State of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving&nbsp;experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills&nbsp;civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.The cost to attend the Boys State of Kansas program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay&nbsp;the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2025 session should visit <a href="http://ksbstate.org">ksbstate.org</a> to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2025 program is Wednesday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Friday, Jan. 31, will receive a $50 early-bird discount.Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a three-hour course credit (Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110]) through Kansas State University, as well as earn merit badges to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed to receive a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit <a href="http://ksbstate.org/sponsor-a-delegate">ksbstate.org/sponsor-a-delegate</a>. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at <a href="mailto:info@ksbstate.org">info@ksbstate.org</a> or (785) 550-6492.

Boys State applications open

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

TOPEKA — A long-distance collaboration between Kansas State University and Garden City Community College offers residents of southwest Kansas the opportunity to earn a four-year college degree without relocating.

The agreement would combine remote instruction with on-site laboratory experiences as students completed the initial 60 to 75 hours of course credits at the community college in Garden City before finishing a bachelor’s degree at the land-grant university based in Manhattan.

The memorandum of understanding signed last month would focus attention on students with an associate degree interested in undergraduate programs within K-State’s College of Agriculture, including animal science, agribusiness or crop science. GCCC and KSU could add program offerings based on regional industry needs.

“Southwest Kansas has been a four-year educational desert for far too long,” said Garden City Mayor Manuel Ortiz.

The percentage of the population in southwest Kansas with a four-year college degree is nearly half the statewide average. In the region, 17.9% of residents have earned a four-year degree compared to the state average of 33.9%.

GCCC President Ryan Ruda said the partnership would prove to be transformative in terms of higher education in southwest Kansas. GCCC’s expertise is in delivering certificates and associate degrees, while K-State’s forte is in four-year bachelor’s degrees and graduate school programs.

“By enabling bachelor’s degree completion right here in Garden City, we’re offering students a unique chance to advance their careers while staying rooted in their communities,” Ruda said.

KSU President Richard Linton said the land-grant mission of the university included the placement of educational opportunities within the reach of Kansans regardless of background or hometown. He said broadening options for a high-quality bachelor’s degree through the public college and university was a “powerful step in making higher education a reality for the hardworking people of southwest Kansas.”

Lona Duvall, president of the Finney County Economic Development Corporation, said the alliance would fill a critical educational gap and enhance economic development in the region. It should serve to build the skilled workforce in ways beneficial to local businesses and help in attracting new industry, Duvall said.

In the future, officials said, community surveys would be conducted to determine priorities in terms of expanding four-year degree offerings in southwest Kansas through GCCC and KSU. Likely options include education and health sciences, officials said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1735993261783.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University and Garden City Community College are launching a four-year degree initiative that doesn’t require southwest Kansas students to relocate after earning an associate degree. Signers of the agreement are, from left: KSU Provost Jesse Perez Mendez and President Richard Linton; and GCCC President Ryan Ruda and Vice President Marc Malone. Photo&nbsp; courtesy Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University and Garden City Community College are launching a four-year degree initiative that doesn’t require southwest Kansas students to relocate after earning an associate degree. Signers of the agreement are, from left: KSU Provost Jesse Perez Mendez and President Richard Linton; and GCCC President Ryan Ruda and Vice President Marc Malone. Photo&nbsp; courtesy Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A long-distance collaboration between Kansas State University and Garden City Community College offers residents of southwest Kansas the opportunity to earn a four-year college degree without relocating.The agreement would combine remote instruction with on-site laboratory experiences as students completed the initial 60 to 75 hours of course credits at the community college in Garden City before finishing a bachelor’s degree at the land-grant university based in Manhattan.The memorandum of understanding signed last month would focus attention on students with an associate degree interested in undergraduate programs within K-State’s College of Agriculture, including animal science, agribusiness or crop science. GCCC and KSU could add program offerings based on regional industry needs.“Southwest Kansas has been a four-year educational desert for far too long,” said Garden City Mayor Manuel Ortiz.The percentage of the population in southwest Kansas with a four-year college degree is nearly half the statewide average. In the region, 17.9% of residents have earned a four-year degree compared to the state average of 33.9%.GCCC President Ryan Ruda said the partnership would prove to be transformative in terms of higher education in southwest Kansas. GCCC’s expertise is in delivering certificates and associate degrees, while K-State’s forte is in four-year bachelor’s degrees and graduate school programs.“By enabling bachelor’s degree completion right here in Garden City, we’re offering students a unique chance to advance their careers while staying rooted in their communities,” Ruda said.KSU President Richard Linton said the land-grant mission of the university included the placement of educational opportunities within the reach of Kansans regardless of background or hometown. He said broadening options for a high-quality bachelor’s degree through the public college and university was a “powerful step in making higher education a reality for the hardworking people of southwest Kansas.”Lona Duvall, president of the Finney County Economic Development Corporation, said the alliance would fill a critical educational gap and enhance economic development in the region. It should serve to build the skilled workforce in ways beneficial to local businesses and help in attracting new industry, Duvall said.In the future, officials said, community surveys would be conducted to determine priorities in terms of expanding four-year degree offerings in southwest Kansas through GCCC and KSU. Likely options include education and health sciences, officials said.

Kansas State, Garden City CC striving to shrink bachelor’s degree ‘educational desert’

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has announced that Geary County offices will be closed due to weather on Tuesday, January 7th.

The County Commission meeting will be held on&nbsp;Thursday, January 9th.

Commission meeting agenda 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Thursday:

--Commission Review and Update / Discuss Old Trooper Dues

--Crystal Malchose, Human Resources Director - Weekly Report

--Tami Robison, Finance Director - Weekly Report

--Garry Berges, Rural Fire Chief/Emergency Management Director, Monthly Report

--Jeremie Myers, Interim Public Works Administrator, Bi-Weekly Report

--Krista Blaisdell, County Attorney, Executive Session-Non-Elected Personnel

--Jacqie Reisinger, Register of Deeds, Quarterly Report

--Rick Dykstra, CVB-Discuss Visitors Guide, Trade Show Bags, KONZA Partnership, Big Splash Partnership

Geary County Clerk Courtney Gilbert has announced that Geary County offices will be closed due to weather on Tuesday, January 7th.The County Commission meeting will be held on&nbsp;Thursday, January 9th.Commission meeting agenda 10 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Thursday:--Commission Review and Update / Discuss Old Trooper Dues--Crystal Malchose, Human Resources Director - Weekly Report--Tami Robison, Finance Director - Weekly Report--Garry Berges, Rural Fire Chief/Emergency Management Director, Monthly Report--Jeremie Myers, Interim Public Works Administrator, Bi-Weekly Report--Krista Blaisdell, County Attorney, Executive Session-Non-Elected Personnel--Jacqie Reisinger, Register of Deeds, Quarterly Report--Public Comment (5 minutes per person)--Rick Dykstra, CVB-Discuss Visitors Guide, Trade Show Bags, KONZA Partnership, Big Splash PartnershipAdjourn

Geary County offices will be closed Tuesday

Fort Riley and Irwin Army Community Hospital will continue to operate with minimal manning and limited services on Tuesday, Jan. 7.

Child Development Centers and manned Fitness Centers will remain closed. Henry, Ogden and Grant access control points are open. All other gates are closed. The main post exchange, shopettes and commissary will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More details and updates will be posted on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley">https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley</a>.&nbsp;

Soldiers and civilian employees can contact supervisors for more information.

Fort Riley and Irwin Army Community Hospital will continue to operate with minimal manning and limited services on Tuesday, Jan. 7.The hospital will reschedule patient appointments. Emergency room and in-patient services will be available.Child Development Centers and manned Fitness Centers will remain closed. Henry, Ogden and Grant access control points are open. All other gates are closed. The main post exchange, shopettes and commissary will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. More details and updates will be posted on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley">https://www.facebook.com/FortRiley</a>.&nbsp;Soldiers and civilian employees can contact supervisors for more information.

Winter storm continues to impact Fort Riley and Irwin Army Community Hospital

Junction City crews are focusing on arterial and collector streets in their snow removal efforts. Public Works Director Ray Ibarra noted snow plows are trying to make a wider cut. Residential streets will come after that work is finished.

Ibarra added that trash service will be delayed because the transfer station was closed Monday and will be again on Tuesday.

Junction City crews are focusing on arterial and collector streets in their snow removal efforts. Public Works Director Ray Ibarra noted snow plows are trying to make a wider cut. Residential streets will come after that work is finished.Ibarra added that trash service will be delayed because the transfer station was closed Monday and will be again on Tuesday.

Junction City public works crews continue snow removal efforts

The Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened westbound and eastbound I-70 to through traffic in both directions from Salina to the east Geary County line. This was the last section of I-70 that remained closed because of the blizzard conditions that impacted the state on Jan. 4 and 5.

Other state highways continue to reopen across the state of Kansas, including I-135, U.S. 81, U.S. 75, and highways in Reno, Butler and Harvey counties. However, motorists are advised to slow down, use caution and be prepared for changing road conditions as some highways remain icy and snow packed.

For the latest updates on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010101943d4e763f-ca142a82-1cab-4d7c-bbf9-05f7a5a2848f-000000/t8pjSX_y6eSSvTm5XrSusXN1w_CgmlwZirCp14sk_7Q=386">kandrive.gov</a>,&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Transportation has reopened westbound and eastbound I-70 to through traffic in both directions from Salina to the east Geary County line. This was the last section of I-70 that remained closed because of the blizzard conditions that impacted the state on Jan. 4 and 5.Other state highways continue to reopen across the state of Kansas, including I-135, U.S. 81, U.S. 75, and highways in Reno, Butler and Harvey counties. However, motorists are advised to slow down, use caution and be prepared for changing road conditions as some highways remain icy and snow packed.For the latest updates on road closures and conditions, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/010101943d4e763f-ca142a82-1cab-4d7c-bbf9-05f7a5a2848f-000000/t8pjSX_y6eSSvTm5XrSusXN1w_CgmlwZirCp14sk_7Q=386">kandrive.gov</a>,&nbsp;

I-70 reopened to traffic across Kansas

K-State campuses will remain under limited operations Tuesday and all classes will be cancelled including online.

Faculty and staff should contact their direct supervisor. Students should speak with the instructor.

K-State campuses will remain under limited operations Tuesday and all classes will be cancelled including online.Faculty and staff should contact their direct supervisor. Students should speak with the instructor.

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