Reno County lawmakers fielded questions Saturday&nbsp;during a legislative forum hosted by the&nbsp;Hutchinsn/Reno County Chamber of Commerce at the Stringer Fine Arts&nbsp;Center&nbsp;on&nbsp;everything from property tax relief and school cell phone policies to prison construction and campaign-style advocacy by public agencies, offering a preview of the issues likely to dominate the final stretch of the 2026 legislative session.&nbsp;

Senator Michael Murphy,&nbsp;Representatives Kyler Sweely,&nbsp;Paul&nbsp;Waggoner&nbsp;and&nbsp;Kevin Schwertfeger&nbsp;were in&nbsp;attendance,&nbsp;Rep. Joe&nbsp;Seiwert was&nbsp;invited,&nbsp;but&nbsp;did not attend due to recovering from a battle with&nbsp;an&nbsp;illness. The&nbsp;panelists said they are still sorting through competing proposals to curb rising property taxes, including bills that would cap valuation growth, require votes for bigger&nbsp;increases&nbsp;and provide incentives for local governments that limit revenue hikes. They also discussed a more sweeping idea from Sen. Mike Murphy to&nbsp;eliminate&nbsp;property taxes altogether and replace them with a capped retail surcharge.&nbsp;

“We’re trying to deal with that,”&nbsp;Rep. Kyler Sweely&nbsp;said of property taxes, describing it as a difficult balancing act as legislators&nbsp;face&nbsp;pressure to restrain state spending while meeting demands for schools,&nbsp;infrastructure&nbsp;and public services.&nbsp;

Energy siting bill draws limited comment&nbsp;

Audience questions opened with House Bill 2728, which would require the Kansas Corporation Commission to&nbsp;establish&nbsp;uniform&nbsp;sitting&nbsp;and&nbsp;permitting&nbsp;standards for certain energy facilities and would limit some local government actions related to permitting.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;lawmakers said they had not reviewed the measure closely because it&nbsp;remains&nbsp;in committee and is outside their assignments. One said the proposal is the type of bill he would expect to track more closely once it clears&nbsp;the committee&nbsp;and reaches the full House.&nbsp;

Sales tax authority, property tax caps debated&nbsp;

A longer discussion centered on House Bill 2712 and House Bill 2745, both tied to broader debates about how Kansas should finance local government and schools.&nbsp;

HB 2712 would expand authority for countywide retailer sales taxes, allow certain dedicated apportionments of special-purpose tax revenues and limit special-purpose city and county sales taxes to 10 years, according to a summary read at the forum.&nbsp;

Rep.Waggoner&nbsp;said current Kansas law creates a disincentive for counties to rely on sales tax, noting that once a county exceeds 1% on its sales tax rate it must seek legislative approval to go higher — a step he characterized as outdated and one that can encourage reliance on property taxes instead.&nbsp;

“Frankly, all that does is incentivize counties to raise their property tax rather than go to the sales tax,” he said, adding that requiring the Legislature’s approval can push counties toward what he called the “easy way” to raise revenue.&nbsp;

Lawmakers also addressed HB 2745, which was described at the forum as having multiple parts and drawing a contentious response in committee.&nbsp;Waggoner&nbsp;said the bill “went over like a lead balloon” in a hearing, despite the credibility of its sponsor, House Taxation Committee&nbsp;Chairman&nbsp;Adam Smith.&nbsp;

Another lawmaker contrasted what he described as differing House and Senate approaches to property tax relief — including a valuation-cap concept and a revenue-neutral framework aimed at limiting local tax growth to a range tied to inflation and encouraging compliance through incentive funding.&nbsp;

Underlying both approaches, multiple panelists said, is the same core tension: restraining government spending while responding to local demands.&nbsp;

Murphy pitches “Property Tax Freedom” plan&nbsp;

Murphy, discussing Senate Bill 488 — which he said would need a constitutional amendment to remove property taxes from Kansas’ constitution — argued property taxes have become unsustainable for some homeowners, particularly those on fixed incomes whose home values rise faster than their ability to pay.&nbsp;

Murphy compared property taxes to “the Titanic,” saying the system has “struck the iceberg” and lawmakers can only “rearrange the deck chairs” unless they embrace a bigger change.&nbsp;

Murphy said SB 488 would replace property taxes with a small surcharge on purchases, capped per transaction. Under his outline, the surcharge would be 7.6% up to $20, topping out at $1.60. A $25 item would add $1.60, he said, while a much more expensive purchase — such as a vehicle — would also add $1.60 because of the cap.&nbsp;

Murphy said the proposal would exempt certain essentials such as utilities and groceries and would broaden the base so “everybody pays,” arguing that existing exemptions can shift costs onto remaining taxpayers. He said the approach could capture money from out-of-state travelers and would make Kansas more attractive economically if property taxes were eliminated.&nbsp;

“What do you think is going to happen if we don’t have property tax?” Murphy said, predicting it would spur investment and help housing affordability by removing a recurring cost borne by homeowners and embedded in rents.&nbsp;

Other lawmakers were more cautious.&nbsp;Waggoner&nbsp;credited Murphy for “thinking out of the box” but said the core issue&nbsp;remains&nbsp;spending: shifting from property tax to a consumption-based system would not automatically limit what government spends.&nbsp;

Rep. Sweely&nbsp;raised concerns about border communities, where shoppers might cross into nearby states if they feel a consumption tax is too high —&nbsp;a dynamic&nbsp;lawmakers said they would need to study if the proposal advances.&nbsp;

Prison construction in Hutchinson resurfaces&nbsp;

The forum also revisited ongoing concerns over the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, where lawmakers and corrections officials have cited aging infrastructure and design issues.&nbsp;

Representative Sweely,&nbsp;whose district includes the prison, said Gov. Laura Kelly previously included funding for a new Hutchinson prison in a past budget proposal but does not include it in her current&nbsp;budget. The lawmaker estimated replacement costs in the hundreds of&nbsp;millions,&nbsp;and said legislators would need to consider bonding or other financing mechanisms.&nbsp;

Sweely&nbsp;called the existing prison “pretty rough,” describing conditions as deteriorated and arguing that a new facility could strengthen local employment and help Hutchinson&nbsp;retain&nbsp;workers who now commute from outside the county.&nbsp;

Panelists emphasized that the Legislature — not the governor —&nbsp;ultimately appropriates&nbsp;funding. Several said Kansas has shifted toward a more Legislature-driven budget process, with legislative committees developing recommendations in advance, making the governor’s budget proposal less determinative than it once was.&nbsp;

On the question of where a new prison would be built, one lawmaker said state-owned land near the current site appears the&nbsp;most likely option&nbsp;because it would reduce acquisition costs, though he said community input would be considered.&nbsp;

KPERS changes seen as unlikely&nbsp;

Asked about proposals to eliminate KPERS 3 and move workers to KPERS 2, lawmakers said the change faces steep costs and would be difficult to pass.&nbsp;

Waggoner&nbsp;said legislation is introduced&nbsp;nearly every&nbsp;year but “has a very, very minimal chance to ever pass,” citing estimates of hundreds of millions of dollars in upfront state funding&nbsp;required&nbsp;to make the shift.&nbsp;

Cell phones in schools, special education funding&nbsp;

On cell phone policies in schools, lawmakers said Gov. Kelly has urged legislators to send her a bill restricting student cell phone use, and some predicted a measure could advance soon. Panelists discussed balancing statewide standards with local control and noted research suggesting student mental health and classroom outcomes can improve after districts adopt restrictions, though the adjustment can take time.&nbsp;

Special education funding sparked a broader debate. Lawmakers acknowledged that Kansas does not currently meet a commonly cited benchmark of covering 92% of excess special education costs, but multiple panelists said the issue is complicated by how spending is counted and the constraints of state budgeting.&nbsp;

One lawmaker said any increase creates “maintenance of effort” obligations, meaning new funding levels become an ongoing commitment rather than a one-time appropriation. Another pointed to rising per-student spending overall while warning that academic outcomes have not risen proportionately.&nbsp;

Conservation fund and “heirs&nbsp;property” act&nbsp;

Lawmakers also discussed House Bill 2063, which would&nbsp;establish&nbsp;a statewide conservation fund aimed at supporting working lands, outdoor&nbsp;recreation&nbsp;and wildlife. One panelist said an original request for $60 million was reduced in discussion to a smaller amount and could potentially be paired with federal matching funds if enacted.&nbsp;

Another lawmaker voiced support for directing resources to rural communities and conservation needs but raised concerns about how outside groups might influence the program’s&nbsp;administration;&nbsp;arguing conservation districts should play&nbsp;a central role.&nbsp;

A separate question focused on the Uniform Partition of Heirs Property Act, legislation intended to help prevent forced sales that can break up family farms when heirs disagree about property. One sponsor said the effort has struggled to advance, noting opposition from some interests and the challenge of securing hearings amid packed committee schedules.&nbsp;

Veto override expected on bathroom bill&nbsp;

The panelists also said they expect to override Kelly’s veto of a bill restricting transgender individuals’ access to bathrooms and changing rooms in government-owned buildings. Lawmakers said the bill passed with a veto-proof majority and described the measure as rooted in biological distinctions and privacy concerns.&nbsp;

Public advocacy by government at issue&nbsp;

Rep. Paul Waggoner also highlighted House Bill 2451, which would prohibit governments from using public assets to advocate for or against proposed ballot questions. Waggoner said the bill was prompted in part by controversies he described in Hutchinson tied to public messaging during a recent school bond campaign.&nbsp;

Waggoner said Kansas law already bars the use of public funds to support candidates but is less explicit on ballot measures, leaving what he called a gap between permissible public education efforts and advocacy.&nbsp;

He said the proposal is intended to clarify that line and create consistent rules statewide.&nbsp;

The next forum, hosted by the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce,&nbsp;is scheduled for March 14.&nbsp;

Legislators discuss prison, property tax at forum

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — As Central Christian School prepares for another busy spring, Superintendent Dr. John Walker is lacing up his running shoes for a unique challenge.

Walker plans to attempt a 100-mile run in late March to raise money for tuition assistance for Central Christian families. His goal is to complete the distance in 28 hours or less while raising more than $20,000 for students who need financial support.

“I’m going to attempt to run 100 miles at the end of March to raise money for our tuition assistance,” Walker said. “That goes directly toward supporting students who need financial assistance to attend our school.”

Walker completed the same challenge in 2024, helping raise nearly $20,000. This year, he hopes to exceed that total.

“The Lord allowed us to raise about $20,000, which is amazing,” Walker said. “So I’m attempting this again and hopefully we’ll be able to raise even more to support our students.”

The fundraiser is part of a larger season of community engagement at Central Christian. On March 13, the school will host its annual Glow Run fundraiser for kindergarten through fifth grade students. Participants collect pledges and run laps in the gym under black lights and neon decor, with proceeds benefiting the school’s Parent Teacher Fellowship.

In April, the school will host the Sun Run, a community-wide event scheduled for the Saturday after Good Friday. The event includes a one-hour run or walk around the campus loop, followed by pancakes and fellowship.

“It’s open to the entire community,” Walker said. “Folks are welcome to come and run and walk and fellowship together.”

Walker said the events reflect a broader commitment to strengthening in-person community connections.

“It seems like a lot of communities nowadays are becoming more isolated,” he said. “It’s been fun for me to see our school community retake community back together and pursue opportunities to be together.”

Central Christian is also preparing to open admissions for the upcoming school year. Families interested in enrolling can visit the school’s website or contact the admissions office directly.

“We’re always open to finding mission-fit families who are excited about Christian education,” Walker said. “Feel free to contact the school. We’d be happy to help in any way that we can.”

CCS launches spring fundraisers, 100-mile run effort

The threat of dangerous wildfire conditions is increasing across much of Kansas, with the National Weather Service now issuing both fire weather watches and a Red Flag Warning ahead of strong winds and extremely low humidity expected Tuesday.

The National Weather Service office in Wichita said a Fire Weather Watch remains in effect from Tuesday afternoon through early Tuesday evening for areas along and west of Interstate 135 in central Kansas. Counties included are Russell, Lincoln, Barton, Ellsworth, Saline, Rice, McPherson, Reno, Kingman and Harper.

Forecasters said southwest winds of 25 to 30 mph, with gusts near 40 mph, combined with relative humidity as low as 19 percent, could allow any fires that start to spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.

Farther west, conditions are expected to be more severe. The National Weather Service office in Dodge City upgraded portions of southwest Kansas to a Red Flag Warning, which will be in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday. The warning covers a large area, including Trego, Ellis, Scott, Lane, Ness, Rush, Hamilton, Kearny, Finney, Hodgeman, Pawnee, Stafford, Stanton, Grant, Haskell, Gray, Ford, Edwards, Kiowa, Pratt, Morton, Stevens, Seward, Meade, Clark, Comanche and Barber counties.

In those areas, southwest winds are forecast at 25 to 45 mph, with gusts of 50 mph or higher. Relative humidity could fall as low as 10 percent, creating extreme fire behavior potential.

A Fire Weather Watch means critical fire weather conditions are possible, while a Red Flag Warning indicates those conditions are expected or imminent. Officials warned that the combination of strong winds, low humidity and warm temperatures could allow fires to ignite easily and spread quickly.

Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and activities that could spark fires, and fire crews and emergency officials are advised to remain on heightened alert as conditions develop Tuesday.

Fire Weather Watch issued

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Cosmosphere will host a special public presentation, Artemis Moon Missions: Returning to Stay, featuring Alicia Cianciolo, Human Landing Systems Engineering Team Lead for NASA’s Artemis III mission.

Cianciolo leads engineering efforts focused on safely returning humans to the lunar surface. She works closely with NASA teams and commercial partners to develop, test and integrate the systems that will enable astronauts to land on the Moon and support future missions. With a strong background in aerospace engineering and human spaceflight programs, Cianciolo plays a critical role in advancing NASA’s goal of establishing a sustainable, long-term human presence on and around the Moon.

Artemis III is a landmark mission in NASA’s Artemis program, aimed at returning humans to the Moon for the first time in more than 50 years. The mission will demonstrate new human landing systems, advance scientific discovery on the lunar surface and lay the groundwork for sustained exploration as a stepping stone toward future missions to Mars.

During the presentation, Cianciolo will provide an inside look at the Artemis Moon missions and share her personal experiences working on the project that will send humans back to land on the Moon, with a long-term vision of sustained lunar exploration.

The free event is open to the public and will take place Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 5:30 p.m. at the Cosmosphere.

RSVPs can be made online at <a href="https://cosmo.org/upcoming-events">https://cosmo.org/upcoming-events</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

NASA Artemis leader to speak at Cosmosphere

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Comedian Gabriel Iglesias is returning to the Kansas State Fair with a new show this fall.

Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz announced Monday on the BW Morning Show that Iglesias, known to fans as “Fluffy,” will perform Sept. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the Kansas Star Casino Grandstand.

“We are 207 days out from the Kansas State Fair, and we are excited to announce today that we will be having Gabriel ‘Fluffy’ Iglesias at the Kansas State Fair this year,” Schulz said. “That’ll be Thursday the 17th for his show. So we are really excited about that.”

Iglesias previously appeared at the fair about four years ago, drawing what Schulz called “phenomenal” attendance numbers.

“Comedy has been a big hit out at the Kansas State Fair,” Schulz said. “We thought it would be a great time to bring him back.”

Schulz said the upcoming performance will feature fresh material.

“This is a new show, so if you’ve seen his shows in the past, he does change up a lot of stuff,” Schulz said. “And we’ve heard that it’s even going to be bigger and better than it has been in the past.”

The booking came together quickly, he said, with routing playing a key role. “It didn’t take but maybe two weeks from offer to commitment,” Schulz said.

One of the most successful touring comedians in the world, Iglesias ranks among the highest-grossing stand-up acts of all time. He has generated more than 2.4 billion YouTube views and has more than 34 million followers across social media platforms. According to Billboard, he was the third highest-grossing comedian of 2024.

His reach extends beyond live performance. Iglesias has been named to The Hollywood Reporter’s Top 40 Comedy Players list alongside Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock and Lorne Michaels and has appeared on the cover of Variety’s comedy issue.

He is also among a select group of comedians to headline and sell out venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York, Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles and the Sydney Opera House in Australia. His Netflix specials include “I’m Sorry For What I Said When I Was Hungry,” “One Show Fits All” and “Stadium Fluffy,” the latter filmed before 55,000 fans at Dodger Stadium, making him the first comedian to perform at and sell out the largest Major League Baseball stadium in the United States.

Tickets feature all-in pricing and include fair gate admission valid for the day of the show. Reserved grandstand seats are $45 and $60. Track Party Pit seating on the floor is $75. A standing VIP Deck package is $110 and includes early entry, two drink tickets and complimentary appetizers. VIP tables for six are $825 and include drinks, appetizers and a private table. Some exclusions apply.

Tickets go on sale to the general public Friday, with a presale available Thursday for fans who sign up for email alerts through the fair’s website. Tickets and additional information are available at <a href="http://kansasstatefair.gov">kansasstatefair.gov</a> or by calling 620-669-3618.

The 2026 Kansas State Fair runs Sept. 11-20 in Hutchinson.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Fluffy Is Back: Gabriel Iglesias returns to Kansas State Fair

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————

Reyjon	Edward-Powers	Redenbaugh		2/15/2026 5:37&nbsp;AM	DUI; 1st conv; blood or breath .08 or higher,					Leave the scene of an accident; Property Damage &lt; $1000,					Possess, Consume, Purchase Alcoholic Liquor/CMB by &lt;18 YOA; 1st Conviction

Matthew	Guy	Currie		2/15/2026 10:18&nbsp;AM	Reckless Driving,					Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv,					Fleeing or attempting to elude a LEO; Unknown felony,					Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for felony case

Lucas	Walter	Redman		2/15/2026 12:10&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear

Brian	Erich	Jaquet		2/15/2026 3:18&nbsp;PM	Failure to Appear,					Probation Violation

Collin	Ray	Teter		2/15/2026 6:37&nbsp;PM	Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; misd; unknown conv

Scott	Andrew	Cooley		2/15/2026 7:54&nbsp;PM	DUI; 2nd conv; incapable of safely driving,					Ignition Interlock Device; Operate MV without device during restriction

Daily Bookings

U.S. Sen.&nbsp;Roger Marshall&nbsp;told a Reno County audience Saturday that the nation is safer and economically stronger than it was a year ago, while acknowledging ongoing cost pressures that continue to burden younger Americans.&nbsp;

Marshall delivered opening remarks at the first Reno County Legislative Forum of 2026, hosted by the Reno County Chamber of&nbsp;Commerce&nbsp;and presented by AT&amp;T and Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Chamber President and CEO Deborah Teufel welcomed attendees and introduced Marshall as a special guest before state lawmakers took part in the forum.&nbsp;

Marshall said he is in the&nbsp;early stages&nbsp;of a 50-county tour across Kansas and stopped in Inman earlier in the day. He pointed to record military recruitment, declining fentanyl&nbsp;poisonings,&nbsp;and what he described as historically low murder rates as signs of improved national security.&nbsp;

“Our families are safer than they were a year and a half ago,” Marshall said, crediting stronger enforcement at the border and renewed confidence in the U.S. military.&nbsp;

Turning to the economy, Marshall said wages have risen faster than inflation in recent months and that job growth is increasingly concentrated in full-time and manufacturing positions rather than government employment. He said inflation has stabilized below 2.5 percent, though he acknowledged that cumulative price increases over the past several years continue to strain household budgets.&nbsp;

Marshall described what he called a “two-lane economy,” with older Americans often better positioned due to paid-off homes and retirement savings, while younger adults struggle with housing costs, student loan&nbsp;debt&nbsp;and high interest rates.&nbsp;

“My focus is helping the people in the slow lane,” Marshall said, referring to younger families and workers facing higher costs for housing,&nbsp;childcare&nbsp;and groceries.&nbsp;

Marshall said lowering health care costs is a top priority, highlighting efforts to expand price transparency for medical services and reduce the influence of pharmacy benefit managers. He also pointed to recent initiatives aimed at lowering prescription drug&nbsp;prices by&nbsp;bypassing intermediaries.&nbsp;

On agriculture, Marshall said recent trade developments could significantly&nbsp;benefit&nbsp;Kansas producers. He cited expanded soybean purchases by China, a new trade agreement with India and federal tax credits aimed at promoting sustainable aviation fuel and biofuels made from corn and soybeans.&nbsp;

Marshall said those policies would help farmers by encouraging value-added production and rewarding regenerative agriculture practices such as reduced tillage and fertilizer use.&nbsp;

“Kansas agriculture makes money when we sell value-added products,” he said.&nbsp;

Marshall touts economy, military strength

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

<a href="https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/550D13AF2DEF9723836028F8FFDCA8CF/jobs/165712">CLICK HERE TO APPLY TODAY!</a>

Resident Care Unit Coordinator (LPN) – Assisted Living

The Wesley | Hutchinson, KS
 Day Shift | Full Time
 Salary Range: $28–$41 per hour

The Wesley is seeking a Resident Care Unit Coordinator (LPN or RN) to serve Collier Assisted Living and Hester Living Center.

The Care Coordinator is a licensed nurse responsible for carrying out resident care plans and assisting the Assisted Living Administrator in the overall operations of Collier Assisted Living and Hester Living Center.

This role ensures residents’ physical and mental well-being are maintained at the highest practicable level while upholding state and federal regulations and The Wesley’s standards of care.

Reports To: Assisted Living Administrator
FLSA Status: Non-exempt, hourly

The Wesley is a 50-acre retirement community located in northwest Hutchinson, Kansas. Services include:

We are currently hiring for multiple positions.

Join our team today and make a difference in the lives of our residents.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/550D13AF2DEF9723836028F8FFDCA8CF/career-page">CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL JOB OPENINGS AT THE WESLEY!</a>

K-State's Global Center for Grain and Food Innovation to be renamed

By many measures, one could argue the Kelly-Toland years have been the biggest economic boon the state has ever seen.

Pick any measure…$30 billion of private sector investment (most per capita in nation), almost 80,000 new or retained jobs that pay 7.7% more than the average private sector wage in Kansas, highest ever Kansas exports, four consecutive Golden Shovel awards, a recent $3 billion budget surplus, or the coup de grace…securing the biggest economic win in state history luring the Chiefs from Missouri.

Just don’t pick population growth. At least on its face. Last month, Census population estimates were released for 2025 showing Kansas, while achieving a modicum of growth since 2020 (1.3%), lagged all neighboring states (Missouri, Colorado, Oklahoma, Iowa, and Nebraska) who averaged 2.8%, or more than double the rate of Kansas. The US growth rate was 3.0%.

It’s hard to beat population growth as the gold standard metric for economic success in localities. It’s easy to see why when a community’s fortunes are tethered to it.

For example, in growing communities, if it costs each taxpayer $100 to provide “good” schools in their community, having more people (i.e., income) effectively allows the government to either lower everyone’s taxes to maintain the same level of service or keep spending levels at $100 for “better” schools. Either choice makes the community more competitive.

Conversely, communities with declining populations are death spirals. Fewer taxpayers paying $100 for “good” schools forces a decision point on local government – increase taxes to maintain “good” schools or keep them flat for “okay” schools. Either choice is a losing proposition and just induces more middle class wage-earners to vote with their feet leaving behind a cost of operation fewer people can afford in their wake.

So, while adding jobs and private sector investment are significant precursors to growing population, why is Kansas’ population gains underachieving?

Of the seven biggest developments that opened under Kelly-Toland, four dot growing urbanizing counties between 2020-2024 – NBAF/Riley (0.8%), NBAF/Pottawatomie (6.0%), Panasonic/Johnson (3.7%), Integra/Sedgwick (2.3%), and Urban Outfitters/Wyandotte (0.1%). Wyandotte springboards to 2.2% since 2022. The remaining three developments dot shrinking rural to semi-rural counties - Hilmar Cheese/Ford (-0.6%), Schwan’s

Pizza/Saline (-1.6%), and Amber Wave/Phillips (-5.0%). Localized population growth is happening, but when 75% of the 105 counties have not grown since 2020, statewide gains fight an uphill battle.

Another trend affecting state population is the nation’s own growth. Population math made simple: take births, minus deaths, factor arriving and departing migrants. This formula ensured US population growth was unstoppable over its 250-year history. And in turn helped states grow.

By 2030, US deaths will likely outnumber births. Without natural growth, only net migration remains. And under current immigration policies, net international migration has plummeted so much that the US population could shrink for the first-time in its history next year. Kansas’s own international migration in 2024-25 cratered to 7,440 from the previous year’s 13,829 due to the chilling effect on new migrants rather than deportations.

In conclusion, the Kelly-Toland wins have shown some silver linings even in the face of these obstacles. Last year, Kansas domestic net migration increased by 4,000 people from the previous year, virtually all 39,000+ people added to Kansas since 2020 occurred since 2022, and many big STAR Bond projects focus on out-of-state visitors – a proxy for temporary population growth.

Good signs that the massive economic wins under Kelly-Toland stand to bear population fruit.

Bill Fiander teaches university-level courses in Kansas covering state/local government, public administration, and city planning.

Insight Kansas: Are Kansas' economic wins also translating to population wins

NEW YORK (AP) —<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/barack-obama">Former U.S. President Barack Obama</a>&nbsp;said he did not see evidence that aliens “have made contact with us,” after sending social media abuzz by saying aliens were real on a podcast over the weekend.

During a lightning round of questions with podcast host Brian Tyler Cohen, Obama was asked, “Are aliens real?”

“They’re real,” he answered, continuing: “But I haven’t seen them. And, they’re not being kept in Area 51.”

On Sunday, the former president released a statement on Instagram, appearing to clarify what he meant by his comments that have since gone viral.

“I was trying to stick with the spirit of the speed round, but since it’s gotten attention let me clarify. Statistically, the universe is so vast that the odds are good there’s life out there. But the distances between solar systems are so great that the chances we’ve been visited by aliens is low, and I saw no evidence during my presidency that extraterrestrials have made contact with us. Really!”

Secrecy around Area 51, a top-secret Cold War test site in the Nevada desert, has long fueled conspiracy theories among UFO enthusiasts.

In 2013, the CIA acknowledged the existence of the site, but not UFO crashes, black-eyed extraterrestrials or staged moon landings.

Declassified documents referred to the 8,000-square-mile (20,700-square-kilometer) installation by name after decades of U.S. government officials refusing to acknowledge it.

The base has been a testing ground for a host of top-secret aircraft, including the U-2 in the 1950s and later the B-2 stealth bomber.

Obama clarifies alien comments after telling podcast ‘they’re real’

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Robert Duvall, the Oscar-winning actor of matchless versatility and dedication whose classic roles included the intrepid consigliere of the first two “Godfather” movies and the over-the-hill country music singer in “Tender Mercies,” has died at age 95.

Duvall died “peacefully” at his home Sunday in Middleburg, Virginia, according to an announcement from his publicist and from a statement posted on his Facebook page by his wife, Luciana Duvall.

“To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, a director, a storyteller. To me, he was simply everything,” Luciana Duvall wrote. “His passion for his craft was matched only by his deep love for characters, a great meal, and holding court. For each of his many roles, Bob gave everything to his characters and to the truth of the human spirit they represented.”

The bald, wiry Duvall didn’t have leading man looks, but few “character actors” enjoyed such a long, rewarding and unpredictable career, in leading and supporting roles, from an itinerant preacher to Josef Stalin. Beginning with his 1962 film debut as Boo Radley, the reclusive neighbor in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Duvall created a gallery of unforgettable portrayals. They earned him seven Academy Award nominations and the best actor prize for “Tender Mercies,” which came out in 1983. He also won four Golden Globes, including one for playing the philosophical cattle-drive boss in the 1989 miniseries “Lonesome Dove,” a role he often cited as his favorite.

He had been acting for some 20 years when “The Godfather,” released in 1972, established him as one of the most in-demand performers of Hollywood. He had made a previous film, “The Rain People,” with Francis Coppola, and the director chose him to play Tom Hagen in the mafia epic that featured Al Pacino and Marlon Brando among others. Duvall was a master of subtlety as an Irishman among Italians, rarely at the center of a scene, but often listening and advising in the background, an irreplaceable thread through the saga of the Corleone crime family.

“Stars and Italians alike depend on his efficiency, his tidying up around their grand gestures, his being the perfect shortstop on a team of personality sluggers,” wrote the critic David Thomson. “Was there ever a role better designed for its actor than that of Tom Hagen in both parts of ‘The Godfather?’”

In another Coppola film, “Apocalypse Now,” Duvall was wildly out front, the embodiment of deranged masculinity as Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore, who with equal vigor enjoyed surfing and bombing raids on the Viet Cong. Duvall required few takes for one of the most famous passages in movie history, barked out on the battlefield by a bare-chested, cavalry-hatted Kilgore: “I love the smell of napalm in the morning. You know, one time we had a hill bombed, for 12 hours. When it was all over, I walked up. We didn’t find one of ‘em, not one stinkin’ dink body.

“The smell, you know that gasoline smell, the whole hill. Smelled like — victory.”

Coppola once commented about Duvall: “Actors click into character at different times — the first week, third week. Bobby’s hot after one or two takes.”

He was Oscar-nominated as supporting actor for “The Godfather” and “Apocalypse Now,” but a dispute over money led him to turn down the third Godfather epic, a loss deeply felt by critics, fans and “Godfather” colleagues. Duvall would complain publicly about being offered less than his co-stars.

Fellow actors marveled at Duvall’s studious research and planning, and his coiled energy. Michael Caine, who co-starred with him in the 2003 “Secondhand Lions,” once told The Associated Press: “Before a big scene, Bobby just sits there, absolutely quiet; you know when not to talk to him.” Anyone who disturbed him would suffer the well-known Duvall temper, famously on display during the filming of the John Wayne Western “True Grit,” when Duvall seethed at director Henry Hathaway’s advice to “tense up” before a scene.

Duvall was awarded an Oscar in 1984 for his leading role as the troubled singer and songwriter Mac Sledge in “Tender Mercies,” a prize he accepted while clad in a cowboy tuxedo with Western tie. In 1998, he was nominated for best actor in “The Apostle,” a drama about a wayward Southern evangelist which he wrote, directed, starred in, produced and largely financed. With customary thoroughness, he visited dozens of country churches and spent 12 years writing the script and trying to get it made.

Among other notable roles: the outlaw gang leader who gets ambushed by John Wayne in “True Grit"; Jesse James in “The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid"; the pious and beleaguered Frank Burns in “M-A-S-H"; the TV hatchet man in “Network"; Dr. Watson in “The Seven-Per-Cent Solution"; and the sadistic father in “The Great Santini.”

“When I was doing ‘Colors’ in 1988 with Sean Penn, someone asked me how I do it all these years, keep it fresh. Well, if you don’t overwork, have some hobbies, you can do it and stay hungry even if you’re not really hungry,” Duvall told The Associated Press in 1990.

In his mid-80s, he received a supporting Oscar nomination as the title character of the 2014 release “The Judge,” in which he is accused of causing a death in a hit-and-run accident. More recent films included “Widows” and “12 Mighty Orphans.”

Robert Selden Duvall grew up in the Navy towns of Annapolis and the San Diego area, where he was born in 1931. He spent time in other cities as his father, who rose to be an admiral, was assigned to various duties.

The boy’s experience helped in his adult profession as he learned the nuances of regional speech and observed the psyche of military men, which he would portray in several films.

Duvall reportedly used his Navy officer father as the basis for his portrayal of the explosive militarist in “The Great Santini,” based on the Pat Conroy novel. He commented in 2003: “My dad was a gentleman but a seether, a stern, blustery guy, and away a lot of the time.” Bobby took after his mother, an amateur actress, in playing a guitar and performing. He was a wrestler like his father and enjoyed besting kids older than himself.

He lacked the concentration for schoolwork and nearly flunked out of Principia College in Elsah, Illinois. His despairing parents decided he needed something to keep him in college so he wouldn’t be drafted for the Korean War. “They recommended acting as an expedient thing to get through,” he recalled. “I’m glad they did.” He flourished in drama classes.

“Way back when I was in college,” Duvall told the AP in 1990, “there was a wonderful man named Frank Parker, who had been a dancer in World War I. We did a full-length mime play and I played a Harlequin clown. I really liked that.

“Then, I played an older guy in ‘All My Sons,’ and at one point I had this emotional moment, where this emotion was pouring out. Parker said at that moment he didn’t think acting can be carried any further than that. And this guy was a very critical guy. So I thought, at that moment at least, this is what I wanted to do.”

After two years in the Army, he used the G.I. Bill to finance his studies at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York, hanging out with such other young hopefuls as Robert Morse, Gene Hackman and Dustin Hoffman. After a one-night performance in “A View From the Bridge,” Duvall began getting offers for work in TV series, among them “The Naked City” and “The Defenders.”

Between his high-paying jobs in major productions, Duvall devoted himself to directing personal projects: a documentary about a prairie family, “We’re Not the Jet Set”; a film about gypsies, “Angelo, My Love”; and “Assassination Tango,” in which he also starred.

Duvall had been a tango dancer since seeing the musical “Tango Argentina” in the 1980s and visited in Argentina dozens of times to study the dance and the culture. The result was the 2003 release about a hit man with a passion for tango.

His co-star was Luciana Pedraza, 42 years his junior, whom he married in 2005. Duvall’s three previous marriages — to Barbara Benjamin, Gail Youngs and Sharon Brophy — ended in divorce.

Former Associated Press Hollywood correspondent Bob Thomas, who died in 2014, was the primary writer of this obituary

Robert Duvall, Oscar winner and star of The Godfather dead at 95

Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation&nbsp;on Sunday, Feb. 15 at 11:48&nbsp;a.m.&nbsp;due&nbsp;to&nbsp;an&nbsp;extended period of dangerous fire weather and the potential for extreme fire spread from Tuesday through Thursday, according to a media release from the Adjutant General’s&nbsp;Department. This declaration&nbsp;allows&nbsp;resources to be&nbsp;used to&nbsp;provide state&nbsp;assistance.&nbsp;

“With high winds and dry conditions, there is a high risk for wildland fires over the next few days,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly&nbsp;said. “I urge&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;residents to avoid activities that could spark fires, remain alert to changing conditions, and follow local emergency guidance.”&nbsp;

Dangerous fire weather is expected Tuesday through Thursday, with Northwest and Southwest Kansas seeing Red Flag conditions driven by strong 30–40 mph winds with gusts to 65 mph, humidity as low as 10&nbsp;percent, rapidly drying grass fuels, blowing dust, and shifting winds that could cause rapid fire growth and extreme and erratic fire behavior.&nbsp; A Fire Watch is in effect for most of North Central, Northeast, and East Central Kansas on Tuesday.&nbsp;Officials emphasize that dry grass and other fuels can dry out in as little as one hour under these conditions, significantly increasing the risk of&nbsp;rapid&nbsp;fire&nbsp;ignition and spread.&nbsp;

“Across Kansas,&nbsp;we’re&nbsp;beginning to see the seasonal shift into more typical fire weather patterns,”&nbsp;Bill Waln, Kansas Forest Service Fire Management Officer&nbsp;said.&nbsp;“We strongly urge the public to avoid activities that could spark a fire and to report any smoke or fire&nbsp;immediately. Early reporting is critical to keeping fires small and protecting lives and property.”&nbsp;

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management will staff the State Emergency Operations Center&nbsp;starting&nbsp;tomorrow&nbsp;with Emergency Support Function partners&nbsp;from the Office of the State Fire Marshal,&nbsp;Kansas Forest Service,&nbsp;and other state agencies&nbsp;to coordinate&nbsp;state&nbsp;efforts&nbsp;and pre‑staging resources to support local&nbsp;counties and local responders if requested.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kan. gov. issues state of disaster emergency for wildland fires 

LABETTE COUNTY – The Labette County Sheriff’s Office reported to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that 80-year-old Richard Bulkley was located in Sedalia, Missouri, and is now safe.

LABETTE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Labette County Sheriff's Office requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Parsons man, according to a media release.

The whereabouts of 80-year-old Richard Bulkley, of Parsons, are unknown and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.

Bulkley is likely driving a Black 2011 Ford F-150 bearing Kansas veteran tag 1526. He was last believed to be heading north around Highway 169 and K-47, near Thayer, on the evening of Feb. 15.

Bulkley is a white male who is around 5 foot 6 inches tall and weighs approximately 175 pounds. He has white hair, brown eyes, and was last seen wearing gray and white flannel pajama pants, and a blue fleece jacket. Bulkley has dementia.

If you see Richard Bulkley, or his vehicle, call 911 immediately. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the Labette County Sheriff's Office at 620-795-2565.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled, missing Kansas man found safe

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacobrichey/">Jacob Richey</a>

A Cole County judge ruled Friday that Gov. Mike Kehoe had the constitutional authority to call the special session that resulted in the passage of a new gerrymandered congressional map for Missouri.

During the special session, legislators redrew the map to favor Republicans. The Missouri NAACP filed the lawsuit against state officials including Kehoe in September in an attempt to stop the special session from happening, but the court did not take up the case in time to stop legislators from meeting for the session.

The lawsuit alleged that while the Missouri Constitution allows the governor to call special sessions for extraordinary occasions, Kehoe’s reasoning to call the most recent session did not qualify as an extraordinary occasion.

Judge Christopher Limbaugh disagreed, stating in the ruling issued Friday that the governor has the constitutional discretion to decide what qualifies as an extraordinary occasion.

Article 4, Section 9 of the Missouri Constitution, which describes the powers of the governor, states that on extraordinary occasions, the governor may convene the General Assembly by proclamation and state matters for the legislature to take action on.

Kehoe called Missouri lawmakers to a special session on Aug. 29, 2025, directing them to focus the session on redistricting the state and changing the initiative petition process.

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