Lawrence, which had had a 266 percent increase in population since 1940, had been one of the state’s fastest-growing cities, said an Emporia State University study The study examined the growth of 17 smaller Kansas cities, ranging in population from 10,000 to 50,000, from 1940 to 1980. Of the 17 cities in the study, five lost population, five remained about the same and seven grew more than 34 percent. The study said Lawrence’s total population grew from 14,300 in 1940 t 52,738 in 1980 and the local employment growth was rated as “dramatic.”

American farmers said they faced “going broke” if more federal support was not provided. They pointed out that food prices were sure to soar with growing farm problems.

Local railroad activity continued to decline and the Amtrak station on East Seventh no longer had any personnel on duty. Passenger trains seemed most vulnerable to the cutbacks and there was fear that soon there would be no such service here.

Commonwealth Theatres Inc. planned to add five new motion picture screens in Lawrence, increasing the firm’s screen total to 12 by the end of the year. The Hillcrest 3 Cinema and Cinema Twin sites were to be affected, said Elden Harwood, Commonwealth district manager.