HARVEY COUNTY—A 34-year-old Kansas man is going to prison for child sex crimes.&nbsp;

On Monday, the Honorable Jason Lane sentenced&nbsp;Mark A. Shields of Newton to the maximum sentence of 108 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections, according to a media release from the Harvey County Attorney's office.

In January,&nbsp;Shields pled guilty to Kidnapping, Aggravated Indecent Solicitation of a Child and Aggravated Battery. The crimes occurred between October 1, 2023 and July 15, 2024. The victim in this case was 10 years old at the time of the crimes. 

Shields is also subject to lifetime post-release supervision and lifetime registration as a sexual offender. This case was prosecuted with the assistance of the Newton Police Department and Heart to Heart Child Advocacy Center. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1738012406611.png" alt="Shields photo Harvey County" />
 <figcaption>Shields photo Harvey County</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY—A 34-year-old Kansas man is going to prison for child sex crimes.&nbsp;On Monday, the Honorable Jason Lane sentenced&nbsp;Mark A. Shields of Newton to the maximum sentence of 108 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections, according to a media release from the Harvey County Attorney's office.In January,&nbsp;Shields pled guilty to Kidnapping, Aggravated Indecent Solicitation of a Child and Aggravated Battery. The crimes occurred between October 1, 2023 and July 15, 2024. The victim in this case was 10 years old at the time of the crimes. Shields is also subject to lifetime post-release supervision and lifetime registration as a sexual offender. This case was prosecuted with the assistance of the Newton Police Department and Heart to Heart Child Advocacy Center.

Prison: Kansas man admitted to sex crimes involving 10-year-old

Hutch CC will be hosting its annual Carrer Connections job fair on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The college started this event several years ago, and when they did, they wanted to make sure the event was free to attend. &nbsp;&nbsp;

This career fair isn’t just for the HutchCC students, it's for the public as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC Director of Marketing Denny Stoeckline said that “Historically, we have in the neighborhood of 200 employers. They’re looking for full part-time internships. You know maybe you’re retired, and you want to get back into doing a bit of something.” &nbsp;

The career fair will be held in the Sports Arena from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743445646258.png" alt="HutchCC Career Connections Job Fair " />
 <figcaption>HutchCC Career Connections Job Fair </figcaption>
 </figure>Hutch CC will be hosting its annual Carrer Connections job fair on Thursday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The college started this event several years ago, and when they did, they wanted to make sure the event was free to attend. &nbsp;&nbsp;This career fair isn’t just for the HutchCC students, it's for the public as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;HutchCC Director of Marketing Denny Stoeckline said that “Historically, we have in the neighborhood of 200 employers. They’re looking for full part-time internships. You know maybe you’re retired, and you want to get back into doing a bit of something.” &nbsp;The career fair will be held in the Sports Arena from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;

HutchCC to host annual career fair

Work will resume soon on asphalt crack repair projects in Rice County that was paused last season due to weather concerns.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Transportation project will be on U.S. 56 in Rice County, from the Lyons east city limits to the Rice/McPherson County line. The length is 13 miles.&nbsp;

The work is expected to begin around April 3 starting in Rice County, to be completed around April 11 weather permitting.&nbsp;

During the work, traffic will be guided by a pilot car and flaggers, and motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and expect up to a 15-minute delay.&nbsp;

KDOT urges motorists to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones.&nbsp;

For current road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.gov/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1. For updates on construction projects in south central Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/projects/south-central-kansas-projects" target="_blank">https://www.ksdot.gov/projects/south-central-kansas-projects</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743444697452.jpeg" alt="Rice County crack repair work zone - Kansas Department of Transportation " />
 <figcaption>Rice County crack repair work zone - Kansas Department of Transportation </figcaption>
 </figure>Work will resume soon on asphalt crack repair projects in Rice County that was paused last season due to weather concerns.&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Transportation project will be on U.S. 56 in Rice County, from the Lyons east city limits to the Rice/McPherson County line. The length is 13 miles.&nbsp;The work is expected to begin around April 3 starting in Rice County, to be completed around April 11 weather permitting.&nbsp;During the work, traffic will be guided by a pilot car and flaggers, and motorists should be prepared to slow down and stop and expect up to a 15-minute delay.&nbsp;KDOT urges motorists to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones.&nbsp;For current road conditions, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kandrive.gov/" target="_blank">www.kandrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1. For updates on construction projects in south central Kansas, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksdot.gov/projects/south-central-kansas-projects" target="_blank">https://www.ksdot.gov/projects/south-central-kansas-projects</a>.&nbsp;

KDOT to resume crack repair along U.S. 56 in Rice County 

Tyler&nbsp;Merritt, actor, comedian, musician, and content creator will present the second Dillon Lecture of the 2025 Series on Tuesday, April 1 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. 

Merritt is the founder of The&nbsp;Tyler&nbsp;Merritt Project and author of the memoir,&nbsp;I Take My Coffee Black: Reflections on Tupac, Musical Theater, Faith, and Being Black in America.&nbsp;As a 6’2” dreadlocked black man living in the South, Merritt is well aware of stereotypes and their potentially dangerous consequences.

In response, Merritt has devoted his creativity to bringing his ethos of “Love. Learn. Create.” to life through his words and videos as part of The Tyler Merritt Project. 

In his lectures, Merritt infuses his core beliefs of unity, empathy, compassion and inclusion with humor, making his message relatable and accessible to wider-ranging audiences. 

Tickets to the lecture are available now at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>&nbsp;and will also be available beginning at 9:45 am on the day of the lecture at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743444248857.jpeg" alt="Tyler Merrit - April 1" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Merrit - April 1</figcaption>
 </figure>Tyler&nbsp;Merritt, actor, comedian, musician, and content creator will present the second Dillon Lecture of the 2025 Series on Tuesday, April 1 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hutchinson Sports Arena. Merritt is the founder of The&nbsp;Tyler&nbsp;Merritt Project and author of the memoir,&nbsp;I Take My Coffee Black: Reflections on Tupac, Musical Theater, Faith, and Being Black in America.&nbsp;As a 6’2” dreadlocked black man living in the South, Merritt is well aware of stereotypes and their potentially dangerous consequences. In response, Merritt has devoted his creativity to bringing his ethos of “Love. Learn. Create.” to life through his words and videos as part of The Tyler Merritt Project. In his lectures, Merritt infuses his core beliefs of unity, empathy, compassion and inclusion with humor, making his message relatable and accessible to wider-ranging audiences. Tickets to the lecture are available now at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.hutchcc.edu/dls">www.hutchcc.edu/dls</a>&nbsp;and will also be available beginning at 9:45 am on the day of the lecture at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tyler Merritt to speak at Dillon Lecture on Tuesday 

Rocky has the bluest eyes we’ve ever seen! He must be part Siamese! 

He’s a big boy-full of energy-just wants some attention! He’d make a great BFF for some energetic kids! 

Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kingmancountyhumanesociety.org/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3Hin9j5CXp9U60THv4dk8BWzIVj2oV6C7JznRqKMfQhcccufqHipzr248_aem_k3-q9QOth_HP4F8EWH4akw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kingmancountyhumanesociety.org</a>&nbsp;to fill out an adoption application Or call 316-542-1812 for more info!&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743388727429.jpeg" alt="Rocky - Kingman County Humane Society " />
 <figcaption>Rocky - Kingman County Humane Society </figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY&nbsp;Meet Rocky.&nbsp;Have you ever seen such a handsome boy?Rocky has the bluest eyes we’ve ever seen! He must be part Siamese! <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743388812554.jpeg" alt="Rocky - Kingman County Humane Society " />
 <figcaption>Rocky - Kingman County Humane Society </figcaption>
 </figure>He’s a big boy-full of energy-just wants some attention! He’d make a great BFF for some energetic kids! Visit&nbsp;<a href="http://kingmancountyhumanesociety.org/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3Hin9j5CXp9U60THv4dk8BWzIVj2oV6C7JznRqKMfQhcccufqHipzr248_aem_k3-q9QOth_HP4F8EWH4akw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kingmancountyhumanesociety.org</a>&nbsp;to fill out an adoption application Or call 316-542-1812 for more info!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Adopt a Furry Friend: Rocky 

The National Agriculture Statistics Service will resume cattle reports starting with in July.&nbsp; 

The USDA will also restart the County Estimates for Crops and Livestock.

&nbsp; These reports were discontinued last year, but under President Trump, they will be issued again.&nbsp; 

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association is very happy about this news.&nbsp; 

They call it a big win for cattle producers and the entire industry, because the information is important for making marketing decisions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

John's Ag Minute is in the player below.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738938711482.jpeg" alt="John Jenkinson" />
 <figcaption>John Jenkinson</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Agriculture Statistics Service will resume cattle reports starting with in July.&nbsp; The USDA will also restart the County Estimates for Crops and Livestock.&nbsp; These reports were discontinued last year, but under President Trump, they will be issued again.&nbsp; The National Cattlemen's Beef Association is very happy about this news.&nbsp; They call it a big win for cattle producers and the entire industry, because the information is important for making marketing decisions.&nbsp;&nbsp;John's Ag Minute is in the player below.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Ag Minute March 31" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=shaac-1868396-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

Ag Minute: Cattle and crops estimates to resume in July 

The City of Hutchinson will be conducting fire hydrant inspections and flow testing throughout town over the next several weeks. These are routine maintenance procedures.&nbsp;

During this time, residents may notice water running down their street or experience temporary discoloration in their tap water. &nbsp;

If you notice discoloration, simply run your tap water for 2 to 3 minutes to clear it up. The discoloration occurs as a result of the testing process, the City’s water system is working properly and will continue to deliver clean, safe water.&nbsp;

Additionally, if you see water coming up from the ground in any area, please contact City of Hutchinson Utilities Department immediately at 620-694-1900 so they can address the issue.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681061800627.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Hutchinson will be conducting fire hydrant inspections and flow testing throughout town over the next several weeks. These are routine maintenance procedures.&nbsp;During this time, residents may notice water running down their street or experience temporary discoloration in their tap water. &nbsp;If you notice discoloration, simply run your tap water for 2 to 3 minutes to clear it up. The discoloration occurs as a result of the testing process, the City’s water system is working properly and will continue to deliver clean, safe water.&nbsp;Additionally, if you see water coming up from the ground in any area, please contact City of Hutchinson Utilities Department immediately at 620-694-1900 so they can address the issue.&nbsp;

City to conduct fire hydrant inspections and flow testing 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743427061313.jpeg" alt="Dillon Lecture Series " />
 <figcaption>Dillon Lecture Series </figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Denny Stoecklein, Hutchinson Community College" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=49xgc-1868ba7-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview: Denny Stoecklein, Hutchinson Community College 

UPDATE: The hearing scheduled on March 31 was continued for the second time. According to court records, Barrioz's next court date is set for April 14.

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A woman accused of driving a stolen vehicle that was involved in a crash that killed a Hutchinson woman is due back in court Monday afternoon.

Katelyn Elizabeth Barrioz, 24, Wichita, is schedule for a preliminary hearing before Judge Seth Rundle, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In November she was charged with First-Degree Felony Murder, Second-Degree Murder – Reckless, Felony Flee and Elude, Aggravated Burglary, Auto Theft and Criminal Damage to Property, according to Wichita Police spokesman Andrew Ford.

On October 27, police located an occupied stolen vehicle at the Riverwalk Apartments, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. Officers monitored the vehicle using unmarked cars, and air support was requested from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

&nbsp;The vehicle stopped at Walmart, 29th and Rock Road in Wichita. Officers deployed spike strips to prevent the vehicle from leaving, successfully deflating two tires.

Despite this, the suspect later identified as Barrioz, fled the Walmart parking lot, striking a police vehicle.

Officers did not pursue the vehicle, but KHP air support continued to track it from above. The vehicle proceeded to a business on North Webb Road, where two individuals exited the vehicle and fled on foot.

One individual was apprehended, while&nbsp; Barrioz stole the van from the business and fled south on Webb, then west on 29th Street, according to Gupilan.

KHP Air maintained surveillance of the stolen vehicle, which, at 29th and Wilderness, collided with a&nbsp; Chevy Cobalt.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the stolen 2024 Ford Transit Van driven by Barrioz, 24, Wichita, was westbound in the eastbound lanes in the&nbsp;8700 block of E 29th St N in Wichita traveling in the inside lane.

The van struck an eastbound 2010 Chevy Cobalt driven by Mandy Lynn&nbsp;Buckwalter, 43, Hutchinson, head-on.

Buckwalter was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Barrioz to Wesley Medical Center for treatment. She was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on Tuesday evening, according to online jail records. Police presented their case to the district attorney on Thursday.

Barrioz remains jailed on a bond of $1.2 million.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730458850794.png" alt="The red dot from a laser pointer used by Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan shows Barrioz driving the wihite van just before the fatal head-on crash" />
 <figcaption>The red dot from a laser pointer used by Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan shows Barrioz driving the wihite van just before the fatal head-on crash</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: The hearing scheduled on March 31 was continued for the second time. According to court records, Barrioz's next court date is set for April 14.SEDGWICK COUNTY — A woman accused of driving a stolen vehicle that was involved in a crash that killed a Hutchinson woman is due back in court Monday afternoon.Katelyn Elizabeth Barrioz, 24, Wichita, is schedule for a preliminary hearing before Judge Seth Rundle, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In November she was charged with First-Degree Felony Murder, Second-Degree Murder – Reckless, Felony Flee and Elude, Aggravated Burglary, Auto Theft and Criminal Damage to Property, according to Wichita Police spokesman Andrew Ford.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730284905956.png" alt="Barrioz-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Barrioz-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On October 27, police located an occupied stolen vehicle at the Riverwalk Apartments, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. Officers monitored the vehicle using unmarked cars, and air support was requested from the Kansas Highway Patrol.&nbsp;The vehicle stopped at Walmart, 29th and Rock Road in Wichita. Officers deployed spike strips to prevent the vehicle from leaving, successfully deflating two tires.Despite this, the suspect later identified as Barrioz, fled the Walmart parking lot, striking a police vehicle.Officers did not pursue the vehicle, but KHP air support continued to track it from above. The vehicle proceeded to a business on North Webb Road, where two individuals exited the vehicle and fled on foot.One individual was apprehended, while&nbsp; Barrioz stole the van from the business and fled south on Webb, then west on 29th Street, according to Gupilan.KHP Air maintained surveillance of the stolen vehicle, which, at 29th and Wilderness, collided with a&nbsp; Chevy Cobalt.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the stolen 2024 Ford Transit Van driven by Barrioz, 24, Wichita, was westbound in the eastbound lanes in the&nbsp;8700 block of E 29th St N in Wichita traveling in the inside lane.The van struck an eastbound 2010 Chevy Cobalt driven by Mandy Lynn&nbsp;Buckwalter, 43, Hutchinson, head-on.Buckwalter was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Barrioz to Wesley Medical Center for treatment. She was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on Tuesday evening, according to online jail records. Police presented their case to the district attorney on Thursday.Barrioz remains jailed on a bond of $1.2 million.&nbsp;

Plea hearing delayed for stolen vehicle crash that killed Hutchinson woman

CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI K-State Research and Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Seed tape is a method of preparing seeds for planting that reduces the amount of time spent bending over the ground. Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini said seed tape makes it easier to handle small seeds and get proper spacing.

To make a seed tape, cut a paper towel into strips two inches wide by 12 inches long. Create a paste by mixing ½ cup flour with water. Use a ruler and pencil to mark dots on the paper towel at the proper spacing for the type of seed being planted. The seed packet should contain recommended plant spacing guidelines.

“Put one seed on each dot on the paper towel, then put a small drop of the flour paste on top of each seed,” Domenghini said. “Allow the paste to dry before moving the seed tape.”

At the appropriate time, each seed tape can be planted at the proper depth in the garden. Domenghini said the seeds will germinate through the paste.

“Over time, the paper towel will break down into the garden. Toilet tissue and tissue paper are other options for making seed tape,” Domenghini said.

This activity is perfect for getting children involved, she added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743385101463.png" alt="K-State Research and Extension " />
 <figcaption>K-State Research and Extension </figcaption>
 </figure>CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI K-State Research and Extension news serviceMANHATTAN, Kan. — Seed tape is a method of preparing seeds for planting that reduces the amount of time spent bending over the ground. Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini said seed tape makes it easier to handle small seeds and get proper spacing.To make a seed tape, cut a paper towel into strips two inches wide by 12 inches long. Create a paste by mixing ½ cup flour with water. Use a ruler and pencil to mark dots on the paper towel at the proper spacing for the type of seed being planted. The seed packet should contain recommended plant spacing guidelines.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743385246701.jpeg" alt="Gardening Seed Tape (Courtesy K-State Research and Extension)" />
 <figcaption>Gardening Seed Tape (Courtesy K-State Research and Extension)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Put one seed on each dot on the paper towel, then put a small drop of the flour paste on top of each seed,” Domenghini said. “Allow the paste to dry before moving the seed tape.”At the appropriate time, each seed tape can be planted at the proper depth in the garden. Domenghini said the seeds will germinate through the paste.“Over time, the paper towel will break down into the garden. Toilet tissue and tissue paper are other options for making seed tape,” Domenghini said.This activity is perfect for getting children involved, she added.

Prepare seeds with seed tape

The cuts could lead to nearly 30,000 jobs lost across Missouri and Kansas health care systems and food suppliers, a new study found.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/meg-cunningham/">MEG CUNNINGHAM</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/03/25/missouri-kansas-medicaid-snap-cuts-2025/">The Beacon</a>

As Congress looks to cut billions of dollars in federal spending over the next decade, states are anxiously awaiting how current proposed cuts to Medicaid and other programs may impact their own budgets and benefits their residents receive.&nbsp;

The Republican-controlled Congress is asking committees to slash their budgets over the next decade by $1.5 trillion and pay for a $4.5 trillion extension of tax cuts endorsed by President Donald Trump in 2017. Those tax cuts largely benefit corporations and wealthy Americans.&nbsp;

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said in an analysis that to cut the amount of spending the Trump administration is requesting,&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/03/03/medicaid-cuts-missouri-mo-healthnet/">cuts to Medicaid</a>&nbsp;and Medicare are inevitable.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/house-budget-resolution-republicans/">Under the plan</a>&nbsp;proposed by the House of Representatives, Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for people whose income and resources are very limited, could be subject to $880 billion in cuts over the next 10 years.&nbsp;

And the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food benefits to low-income families, would see about $230 billion in cuts over the same period.&nbsp;

The plan could result in a $95 billion loss in federal funding for states in 2026 alone, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2025/mar/how-cuts-medicaid-snap-could-trigger-job-loss-state-revenue">new report from the Commonwealth Fund</a>. And as the details are ironed out, the report shows that Missouri and Kansas have plenty on the line when it comes to their federal funding and potential economic slowdown in their states.&nbsp;

Missouri could see a $2 billion reduction in federal funding across Medicaid and SNAP over the next decade, according to the report. 

Kansas, which has not expanded Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act and receives less federal money as a result, stands to lose $485 million in federal funds over the same period.&nbsp;

Researchers at the Commonwealth Fund, a group that studies health care access, also found that the downstream economic effects of potential cuts could mean more than a $2.4 billion hit in Missouri’s gross domestic product in 2026 alone. 

In Kansas, the cuts could amount to $556 million in economic losses through ripple effects such as cuts to jobs in hospitals, pharmacies, grocery stores, agriculture and more.&nbsp;

“If a nurse in a hospital loses her job because of a cutback, then that means she can’t afford to do things like pay her rent or pay her grocery bills,” said Leighton Ku, one of the study’s lead researchers and the director of the Center for Health Policy Research at George Washington University. “So there are repercussions that ripple through the rest of the economy.”&nbsp;

What’s at stake with cuts in Missouri and Kansas

The study found that if $880 billion in federal Medicaid funding were to go away, each state would see an 11.8% reduction in federal spending.&nbsp;

For SNAP, states could see a 20.6% reduction in federal SNAP dollars.&nbsp;

In Missouri, direct health care jobs are estimated to see the biggest losses, with an estimated 11,300 jobs cut as a result of the change in spending. Combined with other potential job loss as a result of Medicaid cuts, nearly 22,000 would be lost.&nbsp;

“The way us economists think about it,” said Timothy McBride, a health economist at Washington University in St. Louis, “is that spending on one side is matched by income on another. So if the federal government cuts $880 billion, that’s $880 billion in revenue to hospitals, doctors and drug companies or managed care companies.”&nbsp;

Another 2,400 Missouri jobs are estimated to be lost as a result of spending changes to the SNAP program.&nbsp;

The report estimates that between cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in Missouri, the end result could mean a $2.4 billion decrease in the state’s GDP and a $175 million reduction in state and local tax revenue.&nbsp;

It’s a different picture in Kansas, where state lawmakers haven’t expanded Medicaid and fewer people are part of the program. The analysis estimates that the state could lose about $485 million in federal funds across cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.&nbsp;

Kansas could lose about 2,700 in direct health care jobs and another 2,900 food industry or other jobs.&nbsp;

“I think of both Kansas and Missouri as being agriculture food production states,” Ku said. “The people who produce food, who process food, who grow food, they’re going to suffer cutbacks to (SNAP).”&nbsp;

Food pantries are seeing threats to their federal funding from multiple directions. But because the federal government pays all of the cost for SNAP and states only match the costs for administering the program, they are worried about what it means for their ability to provide food for those most in need.&nbsp;

“For every one meal that a food bank provides, SNAP provides nine,” said Karen Siebert, the public policy and advocacy adviser at Harvesters in Kansas City. “If these costs were shifted to the states, there’s no way our state budgets on either side of the state line could absorb that.”&nbsp;

“We’re concerned that folks are going to be turning to our charitable food pantries, which do not have resources to absorb those kinds of cuts,” she said.&nbsp;

Impacts may be outsized in rural communities, where more people rely on Medicaid, SNAP &nbsp;

In both Kansas and Missouri, rural counties tend to have a higher reliance on Medicaid or SNAP than other areas of the state.&nbsp;

That means rural areas could feel the pinch from the proposed cuts more than others.&nbsp;

“In the U.S., Medicaid coverage is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, across the whole U.S.,” McBride said. “That does mean the geographic impact will probably be somewhat higher in rural areas versus urban.”&nbsp;

McBride pointed to the financial margins of hospitals, which he said are lower than what most people would expect. In rural communities, margins for hospitals are often zero or negative. If Medicaid dollars were to be reduced, that could put rural hospitals in an even more difficult place, he said.&nbsp;

And for rural grocery stores that participate in SNAP, a reduction in SNAP recipients or spending could paint a bleak picture.&nbsp;

“A lot of grocery stores have really, really high purchasing minimums to even keep going and get a distributor willing to drive their truck to their area to deliver the food,” Siebert said.&nbsp;

“There are so many people who have SNAP benefits in these communities, and if the local grocery store cannot accept those, they may go to other communities where they can use their SNAP dollars,” she said. “And then, they’re going to use their other money there, too, and it takes all of that money out of the community.”&nbsp;

It’s still unclear what components of the House or Senate budget plans may move forward, making it difficult for recipients of the federal funds to plan.&nbsp;

“Depending on how these cuts are made, more people might become uninsured, more people might lose access to health care, more people might become hungry,” Ku said. “In general, if the state has a more sustained loss, and there’s unemployment, this is not going to help the state economies. This is going to hurt the state economies.”&nbsp;

<h2>The cuts could lead to nearly 30,000 jobs lost across Missouri and Kansas health care systems and food suppliers, a new study found.</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743087106525.png" alt="A report found a negative economic impact in Missouri and Kansas if federal spending for Medicaid and SNAP programs were reduced.&nbsp;Photo by Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon" />
 <figcaption>A report found a negative economic impact in Missouri and Kansas if federal spending for Medicaid and SNAP programs were reduced.&nbsp;Photo by Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/author/meg-cunningham/">MEG CUNNINGHAM</a> <a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/03/25/missouri-kansas-medicaid-snap-cuts-2025/">The Beacon</a>As Congress looks to cut billions of dollars in federal spending over the next decade, states are anxiously awaiting how current proposed cuts to Medicaid and other programs may impact their own budgets and benefits their residents receive.&nbsp;The Republican-controlled Congress is asking committees to slash their budgets over the next decade by $1.5 trillion and pay for a $4.5 trillion extension of tax cuts endorsed by President Donald Trump in 2017. Those tax cuts largely benefit corporations and wealthy Americans.&nbsp;The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office said in an analysis that to cut the amount of spending the Trump administration is requesting,&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/03/03/medicaid-cuts-missouri-mo-healthnet/">cuts to Medicaid</a>&nbsp;and Medicare are inevitable.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/house-budget-resolution-republicans/">Under the plan</a>&nbsp;proposed by the House of Representatives, Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for people whose income and resources are very limited, could be subject to $880 billion in cuts over the next 10 years.&nbsp;And the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food benefits to low-income families, would see about $230 billion in cuts over the same period.&nbsp;The plan could result in a $95 billion loss in federal funding for states in 2026 alone, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2025/mar/how-cuts-medicaid-snap-could-trigger-job-loss-state-revenue">new report from the Commonwealth Fund</a>. And as the details are ironed out, the report shows that Missouri and Kansas have plenty on the line when it comes to their federal funding and potential economic slowdown in their states.&nbsp;Missouri could see a $2 billion reduction in federal funding across Medicaid and SNAP over the next decade, according to the report. Kansas, which has not expanded Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act and receives less federal money as a result, stands to lose $485 million in federal funds over the same period.&nbsp;Researchers at the Commonwealth Fund, a group that studies health care access, also found that the downstream economic effects of potential cuts could mean more than a $2.4 billion hit in Missouri’s gross domestic product in 2026 alone. In Kansas, the cuts could amount to $556 million in economic losses through ripple effects such as cuts to jobs in hospitals, pharmacies, grocery stores, agriculture and more.&nbsp;“If a nurse in a hospital loses her job because of a cutback, then that means she can’t afford to do things like pay her rent or pay her grocery bills,” said Leighton Ku, one of the study’s lead researchers and the director of the Center for Health Policy Research at George Washington University. “So there are repercussions that ripple through the rest of the economy.”&nbsp;<h2>What’s at stake with cuts in Missouri and Kansas</h2>The study found that if $880 billion in federal Medicaid funding were to go away, each state would see an 11.8% reduction in federal spending.&nbsp;For SNAP, states could see a 20.6% reduction in federal SNAP dollars.&nbsp;In Missouri, direct health care jobs are estimated to see the biggest losses, with an estimated 11,300 jobs cut as a result of the change in spending. Combined with other potential job loss as a result of Medicaid cuts, nearly 22,000 would be lost.&nbsp;“The way us economists think about it,” said Timothy McBride, a health economist at Washington University in St. Louis, “is that spending on one side is matched by income on another. So if the federal government cuts $880 billion, that’s $880 billion in revenue to hospitals, doctors and drug companies or managed care companies.”&nbsp;Another 2,400 Missouri jobs are estimated to be lost as a result of spending changes to the SNAP program.&nbsp;The report estimates that between cuts to Medicaid and SNAP in Missouri, the end result could mean a $2.4 billion decrease in the state’s GDP and a $175 million reduction in state and local tax revenue.&nbsp;It’s a different picture in Kansas, where state lawmakers haven’t expanded Medicaid and fewer people are part of the program. The analysis estimates that the state could lose about $485 million in federal funds across cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.&nbsp;Kansas could lose about 2,700 in direct health care jobs and another 2,900 food industry or other jobs.&nbsp;“I think of both Kansas and Missouri as being agriculture food production states,” Ku said. “The people who produce food, who process food, who grow food, they’re going to suffer cutbacks to (SNAP).”&nbsp;Food pantries are seeing threats to their federal funding from multiple directions. But because the federal government pays all of the cost for SNAP and states only match the costs for administering the program, they are worried about what it means for their ability to provide food for those most in need.&nbsp;“For every one meal that a food bank provides, SNAP provides nine,” said Karen Siebert, the public policy and advocacy adviser at Harvesters in Kansas City. “If these costs were shifted to the states, there’s no way our state budgets on either side of the state line could absorb that.”&nbsp;“We’re concerned that folks are going to be turning to our charitable food pantries, which do not have resources to absorb those kinds of cuts,” she said.&nbsp;<h2>Impacts may be outsized in rural communities, where more people rely on Medicaid, SNAP &nbsp;</h2>In both Kansas and Missouri, rural counties tend to have a higher reliance on Medicaid or SNAP than other areas of the state.&nbsp;That means rural areas could feel the pinch from the proposed cuts more than others.&nbsp;“In the U.S., Medicaid coverage is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, across the whole U.S.,” McBride said. “That does mean the geographic impact will probably be somewhat higher in rural areas versus urban.”&nbsp;McBride pointed to the financial margins of hospitals, which he said are lower than what most people would expect. In rural communities, margins for hospitals are often zero or negative. If Medicaid dollars were to be reduced, that could put rural hospitals in an even more difficult place, he said.&nbsp;And for rural grocery stores that participate in SNAP, a reduction in SNAP recipients or spending could paint a bleak picture.&nbsp;“A lot of grocery stores have really, really high purchasing minimums to even keep going and get a distributor willing to drive their truck to their area to deliver the food,” Siebert said.&nbsp;“There are so many people who have SNAP benefits in these communities, and if the local grocery store cannot accept those, they may go to other communities where they can use their SNAP dollars,” she said. “And then, they’re going to use their other money there, too, and it takes all of that money out of the community.”&nbsp;It’s still unclear what components of the House or Senate budget plans may move forward, making it difficult for recipients of the federal funds to plan.&nbsp;“Depending on how these cuts are made, more people might become uninsured, more people might lose access to health care, more people might become hungry,” Ku said. “In general, if the state has a more sustained loss, and there’s unemployment, this is not going to help the state economies. This is going to hurt the state economies.”&nbsp;

Billions at stake in Kansas, Missouri if proposed Medicaid, SNAP cuts move forward

The Hutchinson Art Center on Saturday announced they have named Emily Kohls their new Executive Director.

Kohls worked as the Media Manager at the Art Center for a little over three years. 

She is a longtime resident of Hutchinson and is an artist and art historian. She holds a Master of Liberal Studies in Art History and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art, both from Fort Hays State University.

Kohl has worked as a substitute teacher for Buhler High School in Buhler, KS. Before her time as the Media Manager, she was an intern for the Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery in Lindsborg, KS and DoArt at the Kansas State Fair, and volunteered for the Hutchinson Art Center and Hutchinson Communities That Care. She is also currently a member of the Public Art and Design Council in Hutchinson.

She replaces John Eberly who resigned in February. He had been the executive director of the Art Center since July 2023. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591379933396.png" alt="Hutchinson Art Center" />
 <figcaption>Hutchinson Art Center</figcaption>
 </figure>The Hutchinson Art Center on Saturday announced they have named Emily Kohls their new Executive Director.Kohls worked as the Media Manager at the Art Center for a little over three years. She is a longtime resident of Hutchinson and is an artist and art historian. She holds a Master of Liberal Studies in Art History and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art, both from Fort Hays State University.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743301149080.jpeg" alt="Emily Kohls - Hutchinson Art Center" />
 <figcaption>Emily Kohls - Hutchinson Art Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Kohl has worked as a substitute teacher for Buhler High School in Buhler, KS. Before her time as the Media Manager, she was an intern for the Birger Sandzén Memorial Art Gallery in Lindsborg, KS and DoArt at the Kansas State Fair, and volunteered for the Hutchinson Art Center and Hutchinson Communities That Care. She is also currently a member of the Public Art and Design Council in Hutchinson.She replaces John Eberly who resigned in February. He had been the executive director of the Art Center since July 2023.

Kohls named new Executive Director at Hutchinson Art Center

A Hutchinson letter carrier is being hailed as a hero after
she helped rescue a woman who fell in her apartment.&nbsp; 

Letter Carrier Misty Hernandez was on her route on Thursday
when she heard the faint cries of a resident in one of the apartments at the
Sentney Lofts at Second Ave and Popular Street.&nbsp;
She explains that it was like any normal day. 

“Well, I mean, it's sort of just like any other day, normal,
average day. And then I get to the apartment building, go in, I go to the
mailboxes, and on, opening and closing them, and they're kind of noisy. They're
metal doors so and that's when I heard her say, is anybody there? Well, I
thought maybe she was talking on the phone, so I kind of played, you know, just
let it go and I'm continuing delivering” said Hernandez. 

Hernandez said that she went to the woman’s door and I asked
if she was okay.&nbsp; 

Hernandez added, “she said, No, I need help. Can you call
911, and I said, Can I come in? And she said, Yes. So luckily, Her door was
unlocked, so I went in, and I went around the corner, and she was laying on the
floor, and she told me that she fell, and she's been laying there for three
days because she didn't have anybody to help her.”

Hernandez said that she didn’t move her, but she gave her
some water and placed a pillow under her head to make her comfortable and
called 911. She asked her why she didn’t holler. 

I asked her about stories of other delivery drivers finding
injured people, “Yeah, any, anybody that's out and about, DoorDash drivers,
UPS, FedEx, everybody you know. You just never know” Hernandez added. 

Hernandez said, “I had started to wonder, because she still
had three packages in her box that and she's, she's right by the mailboxes. So
I was like starting to wonder, but that was the day that I heard her yelling.”

Hernandez said that at the end of the day she is just proud
to be delivering for America every day.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743298777973.png" alt="Hutch Post Office ( Google Map Image&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hutch Post Office ( Google Map Image&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>A Hutchinson letter carrier is being hailed as a hero after
she helped rescue a woman who fell in her apartment.&nbsp; Letter Carrier Misty Hernandez was on her route on Thursday
when she heard the faint cries of a resident in one of the apartments at the
Sentney Lofts at Second Ave and Popular Street.&nbsp;
She explains that it was like any normal day. <div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmrshernandez3%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0aqpkHPwkFtJFq78SWTpf1v4AkhrpDGhD5aV8Wsou2FLsj4NKCiqNKK6HAdnhU8Gil&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="304" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>“Well, I mean, it's sort of just like any other day, normal,
average day. And then I get to the apartment building, go in, I go to the
mailboxes, and on, opening and closing them, and they're kind of noisy. They're
metal doors so and that's when I heard her say, is anybody there? Well, I
thought maybe she was talking on the phone, so I kind of played, you know, just
let it go and I'm continuing delivering” said Hernandez. Hernandez said that she went to the woman’s door and I asked
if she was okay.&nbsp; Hernandez added, “she said, No, I need help. Can you call
911, and I said, Can I come in? And she said, Yes. So luckily, Her door was
unlocked, so I went in, and I went around the corner, and she was laying on the
floor, and she told me that she fell, and she's been laying there for three
days because she didn't have anybody to help her.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743298709294.png" alt="Sentney Lofts (Google Map image) " />
 <figcaption>Sentney Lofts (Google Map image) </figcaption>
 </figure>Hernandez said that she didn’t move her, but she gave her
some water and placed a pillow under her head to make her comfortable and
called 911. She asked her why she didn’t holler. I asked her about stories of other delivery drivers finding
injured people, “Yeah, any, anybody that's out and about, DoorDash drivers,
UPS, FedEx, everybody you know. You just never know” Hernandez added. Hernandez said, “I had started to wonder, because she still
had three packages in her box that and she's, she's right by the mailboxes. So
I was like starting to wonder, but that was the day that I heard her yelling.”Hernandez said that at the end of the day she is just proud
to be delivering for America every day.&nbsp;

Letter Carrier helps rescue injured woman 

Governor Laura Kelly signed on Friday Senate Bill 166, the Fostering Competitive Career Opportunities Act.

“There are a multitude of factors that go into employment consideration, and a postsecondary degree should not always be the deciding factor,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While this principal has already been implemented for agencies under my jurisdiction, I am pleased to sign this bill to codify this practice.”

Senate Bill 166 ensures that applicants for state jobs can’t be denied solely due to their lack of a postsecondary degree. The provisions of the bill would not apply to any positions for which a postsecondary degree is justifiably necessary. Currently, less than 15% of state employees work in jobs that require a postsecondary degree.

"As Chairman of the Commerce Committee for the past seven years, I’ve heard time and again from businesses and workers alike that experience in the field often outweighs classroom learning, and I know firsthand that I learned far more through work than I ever did earning my MBA,” said Representative for House District 27 Sean Tarwater. “This bill sends a clear message: Kansas values hard work and experience. Countless Kansans chose to build their careers rather than take on debt for a degree, and it’s time we recognize and reward their skills.”

This bill codifies current practice for executive branch agencies, continuing to allow flexibility in determining requirements for applicants for each job posting. Rather than being strictly limited to a postsecondary degree requirement, employers could consider prior direct experience, certifications, courses or specialized training, among other requirements.

“With this commonsense approach, Kansas is no longer tied to outdated requirements to demonstrate work readiness,” said Senator for District 25 Mary Ware. “For decades we’ve experienced ‘degree inflation’ which demands a post-secondary degree whether it’s truly necessary, but now previous work and life experience will be as important as a college degree for thousands of positions in our state’s workforce.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718361342208.png" alt=" Gov. Laura Kelly (file photo)" />
 <figcaption> Gov. Laura Kelly (file photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>Governor Laura Kelly signed on Friday Senate Bill 166, the Fostering Competitive Career Opportunities Act.“There are a multitude of factors that go into employment consideration, and a postsecondary degree should not always be the deciding factor,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While this principal has already been implemented for agencies under my jurisdiction, I am pleased to sign this bill to codify this practice.”Senate Bill 166 ensures that applicants for state jobs can’t be denied solely due to their lack of a postsecondary degree. The provisions of the bill would not apply to any positions for which a postsecondary degree is justifiably necessary. Currently, less than 15% of state employees work in jobs that require a postsecondary degree."As Chairman of the Commerce Committee for the past seven years, I’ve heard time and again from businesses and workers alike that experience in the field often outweighs classroom learning, and I know firsthand that I learned far more through work than I ever did earning my MBA,” said Representative for House District 27 Sean Tarwater. “This bill sends a clear message: Kansas values hard work and experience. Countless Kansans chose to build their careers rather than take on debt for a degree, and it’s time we recognize and reward their skills.”This bill codifies current practice for executive branch agencies, continuing to allow flexibility in determining requirements for applicants for each job posting. Rather than being strictly limited to a postsecondary degree requirement, employers could consider prior direct experience, certifications, courses or specialized training, among other requirements.“With this commonsense approach, Kansas is no longer tied to outdated requirements to demonstrate work readiness,” said Senator for District 25 Mary Ware. “For decades we’ve experienced ‘degree inflation’ which demands a post-secondary degree whether it’s truly necessary, but now previous work and life experience will be as important as a college degree for thousands of positions in our state’s workforce.”

Governor Kelly signs bipartisan bill eliminating barriers to state employment

The March Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month is Nicky Schafer, a kindergarten teacher at Union Valley Elementary School.

Schafer originally planned to become a physical therapist, but a car accident in high school changed those plans. She doesn’t consider it a setback but rather a teaching tool.

She believes her disability shows students that appearances don’t define a person—it’s what’s inside that matters. She hopes to teach them that challenges can be overcome to achieve success.

Schafer was nominated by Meghan Price, who said three of her children have been in Schafer’s classroom.

“She is an amazing, loving, creative and wonderful teacher,” Price wrote. “Our children, and many others, have been incredibly fortunate to learn and grow under her care and guidance. Whether it’s the marriage of Q and U, Zero the Hero, or gingerbread man and leprechaun escapades, she manages to make learning fun. The way these children emerge from her classroom ready to take on the world and learn all that they can amazes me. Thank you for all you do!”

Schafer has been a kindergarten teacher for 13 years, spending five years at Fort Riley and the last eight at Union Valley.

She says the biggest reward is watching her students enter the classroom at the beginning of the year and leave as readers, mathematicians and scientists. Her advice to future educators is to have passion, as the rewards outweigh the challenges and the impact of teaching touches every student, every day.

Congratulations to Nicky Schafer, the Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743195914831.jpeg" alt="Pictured: Ashley Weve of Eagle Media, Donnie Glaspie, GM of Allen Samuels, Nicky Schafer, and&nbsp;Cris Schul of Allen Samuels CDJR." />
 <figcaption>Pictured: Ashley Weve of Eagle Media, Donnie Glaspie, GM of Allen Samuels, Nicky Schafer, and&nbsp;Cris Schul of Allen Samuels CDJR.</figcaption>
 </figure>The March Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month is Nicky Schafer, a kindergarten teacher at Union Valley Elementary School.Schafer originally planned to become a physical therapist, but a car accident in high school changed those plans. She doesn’t consider it a setback but rather a teaching tool.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743195966054.jpeg" alt="Nicky Schafer, Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month." />
 <figcaption>Nicky Schafer, Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month.</figcaption>
 </figure>She believes her disability shows students that appearances don’t define a person—it’s what’s inside that matters. She hopes to teach them that challenges can be overcome to achieve success.Schafer was nominated by Meghan Price, who said three of her children have been in Schafer’s classroom.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743195986132.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>“She is an amazing, loving, creative and wonderful teacher,” Price wrote. “Our children, and many others, have been incredibly fortunate to learn and grow under her care and guidance. Whether it’s the marriage of Q and U, Zero the Hero, or gingerbread man and leprechaun escapades, she manages to make learning fun. The way these children emerge from her classroom ready to take on the world and learn all that they can amazes me. Thank you for all you do!”Schafer has been a kindergarten teacher for 13 years, spending five years at Fort Riley and the last eight at Union Valley.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743196014565.jpeg" alt="Donnie Glaspie, GM of Allen Samuels CDJR, and Cris Schul of Allen Samuels CDJR." />
 <figcaption>Donnie Glaspie, GM of Allen Samuels CDJR, and Cris Schul of Allen Samuels CDJR.</figcaption>
 </figure>She says the biggest reward is watching her students enter the classroom at the beginning of the year and leave as readers, mathematicians and scientists. Her advice to future educators is to have passion, as the rewards outweigh the challenges and the impact of teaching touches every student, every day.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743196108427.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Congratulations to Nicky Schafer, the Allen Samuels CDJR Teacher of the Month.

Nicky Schafer is Teacher of the Month

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Friday in Wabaunsee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Kenworth semi driven by Cory L.&nbsp;Halling, 45, St. John, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of&nbsp;Snokomo Road.&nbsp; A large rock struck the windshield of the truck.

EMS transported&nbsp;Halling to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of a serious injury. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580399705885.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WABAUNSEE COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 11p.m. Friday in Wabaunsee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Kenworth semi driven by Cory L.&nbsp;Halling, 45, St. John, was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of&nbsp;Snokomo Road.&nbsp; A large rock struck the windshield of the truck.EMS transported&nbsp;Halling to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of a serious injury. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details.

Kan. man injured after large rock strikes windshield of semi

The RCAT station will be closed on Monday afternoon March 31.&nbsp;&nbsp;

They are closing to that the staff can attend the funeral service for an active team member / bus driver that recently and suddenly passed away.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The RCAT transfer station and all transit modes will be closed in the afternoon between 1 p.m to 5 p.m.

The Reno County Department of Aging office will be closed from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Monday, but the phones will be answered during that time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743220223916.jpeg" alt="RCAT Busses" />
 <figcaption>RCAT Busses</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY GOVERNMENT&nbsp;The RCAT station will be closed on Monday afternoon March 31.&nbsp;&nbsp;They are closing to that the staff can attend the funeral service for an active team member / bus driver that recently and suddenly passed away.&nbsp;&nbsp;The RCAT transfer station and all transit modes will be closed in the afternoon between 1 p.m to 5 p.m.The Reno County Department of Aging office will be closed from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Monday, but the phones will be answered during that time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

RCAT services to be closed on Monday afternoon 

K-State Research and Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan. — If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure your new landscape has its best chance of success.

Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini shares the following 10 rules for planting trees:

To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. For example, there are a number of crabapple varieties that are resistant to apple scab and rust diseases. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room. Your local extension office and garden center can make tree recommendations for your region.

Keep the tree well watered and in a shady location until planting.

When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.

Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.

If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.

Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.

The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.

Remove all containers from the root ball.

Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.

Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.

Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened - no clods or clumps. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.

Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.

Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.

Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.

Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.

Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/horticulture-resource-center/horticulture-newsletter/">weekly Horticulture Newsletter</a>&nbsp;with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens.

Interested persons can subscribe to the newsletter, as well as send their garden and yard-related questions to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hortsupport@ksu.edu">hortsupport@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations/">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743220686637.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension news serviceMANHATTAN, Kan. — If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure your new landscape has its best chance of success.Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini shares the following 10 rules for planting trees:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743220625781.png" alt="Trees in a row.png" />
 <figcaption>Trees in a row.png</figcaption>
 </figure>Select the right tree for the site.To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. For example, there are a number of crabapple varieties that are resistant to apple scab and rust diseases. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room. Your local extension office and garden center can make tree recommendations for your region.Keep the tree well watered and in a shady location until planting.When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.<h2>Dig a proper hole.</h2>Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.<h2>Remove all containers from the root ball.</h2>Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.<h2>Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.</h2>Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened - no clods or clumps. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.<h2>Minimize pruning after planting.</h2>Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.<h2>Water the tree thoroughly.</h2>Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.<h2>Mulch around the tree.</h2>Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.<h2>Stake only when necessary.</h2>Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a&nbsp;<a href="https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/horticulture-resource-center/horticulture-newsletter/">weekly Horticulture Newsletter</a>&nbsp;with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens.Interested persons can subscribe to the newsletter, as well as send their garden and yard-related questions to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hortsupport@ksu.edu">hortsupport@ksu.edu</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations/">local K-State Research and Extension office</a>.

Ten rules for planting trees this spring

UPDATE:&nbsp; Caring Hands Humane Society says that Grill Master has been adopted, but they have more Furry Friends to adopt.&nbsp;

Grill Master reporting for duty!  This 7-year-old, 50 lb heeler may be a little seasoned, but he’s always ready for a good play session, a back scratch, or some sunshine. 

Friendly, gentle, and still up for some fun – he’s the best companion for any BBQ!

Submit an application for Grill Master: <a href="https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/">https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/</a>

Caring Hands Humane Society is located in Newton. &nbsp;

Their address is 1400 Southeast 3rd Street. &nbsp;They are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. but are closed for lunch from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. You can reach their adoption staff at 316-283-0839.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743173595887.jpeg" alt="Grill Master - Caring Hands Humane Society" />
 <figcaption>Grill Master - Caring Hands Humane Society</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE:&nbsp; Caring Hands Humane Society says that Grill Master has been adopted, but they have more Furry Friends to adopt.&nbsp;Meet Grill Master!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743173742349.jpeg" alt="Grill Master - Caring Hands Humane Society" />
 <figcaption>Grill Master - Caring Hands Humane Society</figcaption>
 </figure>Grill Master reporting for duty! This 7-year-old, 50 lb heeler may be a little seasoned, but he’s always ready for a good play session, a back scratch, or some sunshine. Friendly, gentle, and still up for some fun – he’s the best companion for any BBQ!<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743173775373.jpeg" alt="Grill Master - Caring Hands Humane Society" />
 <figcaption>Grill Master - Caring Hands Humane Society</figcaption>
 </figure>Submit an application for Grill Master: <a href="https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/">https://caringhandshs.org/adopt-original/adoption-profile/</a>Caring Hands Humane Society is located in Newton. &nbsp;Their address is 1400 Southeast 3rd Street. &nbsp;They are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. but are closed for lunch from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. You can reach their adoption staff at 316-283-0839.&nbsp;

Adopt a Furry Friend: Grill Master - ADOPTED

🎧 BW Morning Show Interview:  Throwback Thursday... Steve Conard and Steve Harmon 

Let's follow-up on that cattle on feed report that was out after the markets closed on Friday. 

 Overall, the consensus is that the on-feed report was bullish for the market.  Part of the reason was that the American beef cattle herd was down two percent from last year in the report. 

 Placements were a whopping eighteen percent under last year, and marketings were nine percent below last year.  This is what is causing historically high prices on the futures board, well north of $200 dollars on the nearby contract, as well as unusually high cash prices at the sale barns.&nbsp;

Listen to John's Ag Minute in the player below:&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738938711482.jpeg" alt="John Jenkinson" />
 <figcaption>John Jenkinson</figcaption>
 </figure>Let's follow-up on that cattle on feed report that was out after the markets closed on Friday. Overall, the consensus is that the on-feed report was bullish for the market. Part of the reason was that the American beef cattle herd was down two percent from last year in the report. Placements were a whopping eighteen percent under last year, and marketings were nine percent below last year. This is what is causing historically high prices on the futures board, well north of $200 dollars on the nearby contract, as well as unusually high cash prices at the sale barns.&nbsp;Listen to John's Ag Minute in the player below:&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Ag Minute March 28, 2025" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=hnhst-1864fa5-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=60a0c8&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=ff6d00" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

AG Minute:  Cattle and beef prices

The Reno County Appraiser's Office is hosting town hall in Nickerson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It will be at the Nickerson Community Building on April 3 at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp; Residents of Arlington, The Highlands and Nickerson have been invited but Reno County residents are invited to attend.&nbsp;&nbsp;

County Appraiser Michael Plank will talk about the overall appraisal process and conduct a question-and-answer session.&nbsp;

Questions to an individual property can be answered in the Appraiser's Office.&nbsp; The Appraiser's Office is located in the Reno County Annex at 125 West First in Hutchinson during business hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1743166716772.jpeg" alt="Reno County Appraiser Town Hall April 3, 2025" />
 <figcaption>Reno County Appraiser Town Hall April 3, 2025</figcaption>
 </figure>The Reno County Appraiser's Office is hosting town hall in Nickerson.&nbsp;&nbsp;It will be at the Nickerson Community Building on April 3 at 6:30 p.m.&nbsp; Residents of Arlington, The Highlands and Nickerson have been invited but Reno County residents are invited to attend.&nbsp;&nbsp;County Appraiser Michael Plank will talk about the overall appraisal process and conduct a question-and-answer session.&nbsp;Questions to an individual property can be answered in the Appraiser's Office.&nbsp; The Appraiser's Office is located in the Reno County Annex at 125 West First in Hutchinson during business hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reminder that the Appraiser's office is Monday, March 31. In order to request an meeting you can call in or drop off your form in person before 5 p.m. Any mail postmarked by March 31 will be accepted as well.&nbsp;

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