SHERIDAN COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just after 4a.m. Sunday in Sheridan County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a=a 1994 Ford Ranger driven by Vernon J. Rietcheck, 79, Hoxie, was westbound on U.S. 24 eight miles east of Hoxie,

The driver attempted to make a left turn onto Kansas 188. 

The pickup missed the roadway to the west, traveled off the concrete culvert and came to rest facing south, high centered on the concrete culvert.&nbsp;

Rietcheck was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Brocks North Hill Chapel. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

SHERIDAN COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just after 4a.m. Sunday in Sheridan County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a=a 1994 Ford Ranger driven by Vernon J. Rietcheck, 79, Hoxie, was westbound on U.S. 24 eight miles east of Hoxie,The driver attempted to make a left turn onto Kansas 188. The pickup missed the roadway to the west, traveled off the concrete culvert and came to rest facing south, high centered on the concrete culvert.&nbsp;Rietcheck was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Brocks North Hill Chapel. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

NW Kansas man dies after pickup lands on concrete culvert

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Winter in our part of the Great Plains looks to be a bit warmer than normal with parts of the area also a bit drier than normal.

That's the word from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/">Climate Prediction Center</a>, which on Thursday issued its 2021 Winter Outlook. The outlook is for December through February.

For the second year in row, La Nina climate condition will be the force behind the forecast winter weather, the Climate Predicition Center noted.

All of Kansas has a 33-40 percent chance for above normal temperatures this winter, according to the winter outlook.

As for precipitation, much of Kansas, including our area, has an equal chance for either below-normal or above-normal precipitation. The southwest corner of the state is leaning toward a below-normal chance of precipitation, while a sliver of far southeast Kansas is leaning toward an above-normal chance for precipitation.

Drought is expected to develop across a wide swath of western and southern Kansas, while in far northwestern Kansas, drought conditions are expected to continue or worsen.

To read the&nbsp;Climate Predicition Center's U.S. Winter Outlook, <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/us-winter-outlook-drier-warmer-south-wetter-north-with-return-of-la-nina">click here</a>.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostWinter in our part of the Great Plains looks to be a bit warmer than normal with parts of the area also a bit drier than normal.That's the word from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/">Climate Prediction Center</a>, which on Thursday issued its 2021 Winter Outlook. The outlook is for December through February.For the second year in row, La Nina climate condition will be the force behind the forecast winter weather, the Climate Predicition Center noted.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cLrmyXVXum8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>All of Kansas has a 33-40 percent chance for above normal temperatures this winter, according to the winter outlook.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635087788898.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>As for precipitation, much of Kansas, including our area, has an equal chance for either below-normal or above-normal precipitation. The southwest corner of the state is leaning toward a below-normal chance of precipitation, while a sliver of far southeast Kansas is leaning toward an above-normal chance for precipitation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635087847142.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Drought is expected to develop across a wide swath of western and southern Kansas, while in far northwestern Kansas, drought conditions are expected to continue or worsen.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635087966920.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To read the&nbsp;Climate Predicition Center's U.S. Winter Outlook, <a href="https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/us-winter-outlook-drier-warmer-south-wetter-north-with-return-of-la-nina">click here</a>.

🎥Climate Prediction Center: Warmer, drier in our area this winter

By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — The Kansas 
Oil and Gas Hall of Fame and Museum will be inducting 11 industry 
leaders into its hall of fame at a dinner at the Great Bend Events 
Center on Saturday, Oct. 23. The money raised at the dinner will be used
 to support the Oil and Gas Museum on west 10th in Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;

John Francis, President of the Oil and Gas Museum Foundation, explained the importance of the event.&nbsp;

“In
 1989, our founder Danny Biggs had this dream of&nbsp;creating a hall of fame
 for pioneers of the industry to recognize their achievements and 
memorialize their accomplishments,”&nbsp;Francis&nbsp;said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All of the 
inductees have worked at least 20 years in the oil and gas industry and 
have shown a commitment to community service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Oil and Gas 
Museum was closed for renovations when the COVID-19 pandemic began. 
Warren Martin of Kansas Strong was responsible for renovating and 
updating the exhibit rooms. Francis says the museum will reopen for 
visitors in the spring of 2022. It houses&nbsp;displays&nbsp;that include 
information about the history of the oil and gas industry, the science 
of oil drilling and an interactive kiosk that informs visitors about 
consumer items that are produced with oil by-products.&nbsp;

The museum also contains an event room that can be rented for wedding receptions, Christmas parties and business meetings.&nbsp;

About&nbsp;350
 guests will be attending Saturday evening's dinner. They will be joined
 by U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall, Congressman Stacy Mann and Kansas 
Attorney General Derek Schmidt.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The eleven inductees&nbsp;are 
Cecil&nbsp;O’Brate, Pierce Musgrove, James Remsburg, Barbara Oringderff, Kirk
 Rundle, George E. Miller, Jr., John O. Farmer III, Kenneth 
Link,&nbsp;Gene&nbsp;Zaid, J.C. Musgrove and R.A. (Dick) Schremmer.&nbsp;

By KEN CARPENTER <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — The Kansas 
Oil and Gas Hall of Fame and Museum will be inducting 11 industry 
leaders into its hall of fame at a dinner at the Great Bend Events 
Center on Saturday, Oct. 23. The money raised at the dinner will be used
 to support the Oil and Gas Museum on west 10th in Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp;John Francis, President of the Oil and Gas Museum Foundation, explained the importance of the event.&nbsp;“In
 1989, our founder Danny Biggs had this dream of&nbsp;creating a hall of fame
 for pioneers of the industry to recognize their achievements and 
memorialize their accomplishments,”&nbsp;Francis&nbsp;said.&nbsp;&nbsp;All of the 
inductees have worked at least 20 years in the oil and gas industry and 
have shown a commitment to community service.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Oil and Gas 
Museum was closed for renovations when the COVID-19 pandemic began. 
Warren Martin of Kansas Strong was responsible for renovating and 
updating the exhibit rooms. Francis says the museum will reopen for 
visitors in the spring of 2022. It houses&nbsp;displays&nbsp;that include 
information about the history of the oil and gas industry, the science 
of oil drilling and an interactive kiosk that informs visitors about 
consumer items that are produced with oil by-products.&nbsp;The museum also contains an event room that can be rented for wedding receptions, Christmas parties and business meetings.&nbsp;About&nbsp;350
 guests will be attending Saturday evening's dinner. They will be joined
 by U.S. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall, Congressman Stacy Mann and Kansas 
Attorney General Derek Schmidt.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The eleven inductees&nbsp;are 
Cecil&nbsp;O’Brate, Pierce Musgrove, James Remsburg, Barbara Oringderff, Kirk
 Rundle, George E. Miller, Jr., John O. Farmer III, Kenneth 
Link,&nbsp;Gene&nbsp;Zaid, J.C. Musgrove and R.A. (Dick) Schremmer.&nbsp;

Kan. oil & gas industry leaders to be honored at Great Bend event

The debt ceiling debate in Washington seems distant from average Kansans, but it affects your finances more than you think.&nbsp;

The debt ceiling is the limit on the amount of money the federal government can borrow. Congress invented it in 1917 to simplify creating debt and issuing bonds. It has been raised through various means 78 times since 1960, per Treasury Departments records, typically with bipartisan support and more frequently under Republican presidents. &nbsp;

The debt ceiling itself doesn’t authorize new spending. Rather, it allows government to finance commitments it already made. Today, that still includes many expenditures on debt that Donald Trump authorized while president.&nbsp;

Politics being theater, the debt ceiling is suddenly controversial and partisan again. Many Republican politicians who consented to raising the debt ceiling under Trump are clutching their proverbial pearls at doing it now, raising the specter of financial default.&nbsp;

First, federal dollars directly impact Kansas pocketbooks.&nbsp;

Default could leave the government unable to pay its bills. That could mean stoppages or delays in Social Security checks, Child Tax Credit payments, farm subsidies, military pay, veterans’ benefits, and postal worker paychecks. Medicare and Medicaid would be threatened. &nbsp;

Second, uncertainty over the debt ceiling affects your retirement and other investments.&nbsp;

Kansans with retirement or investment accounts probably own government debt via Treasury bonds. Default would undermine the value of those typically safe investments, jeopardizing your financial security and net worth.&nbsp;

Even risking default hurts your investments short term. When debt ceiling political theatrics create financial uncertainty and make markets fall, that directly decreases your net worth. Kansans who checked a 401k or Roth IRA around October 1 might remember this pain.&nbsp;

Bluntly, the politics industry often lies and misleads about debt. Many politicians, paid spokespeople, and infotainment “news” personalities profit from selling you half-baked, victimhood-wallowing political narratives, hoping to rile you up for votes, donations, and ratings.&nbsp;

Debt sounds bad. It’s easy anger fodder for sexy and distracting lies like: China owns most American debt and can bankrupt us anytime, welfare and foreign aid drive the debt, or only one party creates debt.&nbsp;

In reality, Americans own over 70% of the national debt, per the Treasury. Foreign investors cannot simply demand payment. Social Security is the biggest government expenditure; that plus Medicare and defense are about half the federal budget in many years. &nbsp;

The last president to sign a balanced budget was Bill Clinton. And both parties happily deficit spend while pretending that they don’t.&nbsp;

Under Trump, the debt ceiling increased three times without controversy. Most recently, he suspended the debt ceiling in 2019. Both of our current Kansas U.S. Senators supported Trump on his debt extensions at least once. Trump’s presidency added $7.8 trillion to the national debt, bringing it to $28 trillion, per Federal Reserve data.&nbsp;

Basic economics: for the country, there are pros and cons to the debt ceiling and debt itself. But, for the financial bottom line for individual Kansans trying to survive economically and save for retirement, even the risk of debt default is a financial harm. Maybe many politicians don’t realize that. Or maybe they do but they hope you don’t. &nbsp;

Ideally, mature politicians could get America’s long term financial act together without jeopardizing our individual financial security today. Sadly, that seems too responsible a hope.&nbsp;

Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575644168170.png" alt="Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The debt ceiling debate in Washington seems distant from average Kansans, but it affects your finances more than you think.&nbsp;The debt ceiling is the limit on the amount of money the federal government can borrow. Congress invented it in 1917 to simplify creating debt and issuing bonds. It has been raised through various means 78 times since 1960, per Treasury Departments records, typically with bipartisan support and more frequently under Republican presidents. &nbsp;The debt ceiling itself doesn’t authorize new spending. Rather, it allows government to finance commitments it already made. Today, that still includes many expenditures on debt that Donald Trump authorized while president.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Politics being theater, the debt ceiling is suddenly controversial and partisan again. Many Republican politicians who consented to raising the debt ceiling under Trump are clutching their proverbial pearls at doing it now, raising the specter of financial default.&nbsp;How does this affect Kansans?&nbsp;First, federal dollars directly impact Kansas pocketbooks.&nbsp;Default could leave the government unable to pay its bills. That could mean stoppages or delays in Social Security checks, Child Tax Credit payments, farm subsidies, military pay, veterans’ benefits, and postal worker paychecks. Medicare and Medicaid would be threatened. &nbsp;Second, uncertainty over the debt ceiling affects your retirement and other investments.&nbsp;Kansans with retirement or investment accounts probably own government debt via Treasury bonds. Default would undermine the value of those typically safe investments, jeopardizing your financial security and net worth.&nbsp;Even risking default hurts your investments short term. When debt ceiling political theatrics create financial uncertainty and make markets fall, that directly decreases your net worth. Kansans who checked a 401k or Roth IRA around October 1 might remember this pain.&nbsp;Bluntly, the politics industry often lies and misleads about debt. Many politicians, paid spokespeople, and infotainment “news” personalities profit from selling you half-baked, victimhood-wallowing political narratives, hoping to rile you up for votes, donations, and ratings.&nbsp;Debt sounds bad. It’s easy anger fodder for sexy and distracting lies like: China owns most American debt and can bankrupt us anytime, welfare and foreign aid drive the debt, or only one party creates debt.&nbsp;In reality, Americans own over 70% of the national debt, per the Treasury. Foreign investors cannot simply demand payment. Social Security is the biggest government expenditure; that plus Medicare and defense are about half the federal budget in many years. &nbsp;The last president to sign a balanced budget was Bill Clinton. And both parties happily deficit spend while pretending that they don’t.&nbsp;Under Trump, the debt ceiling increased three times without controversy. Most recently, he suspended the debt ceiling in 2019. Both of our current Kansas U.S. Senators supported Trump on his debt extensions at least once. Trump’s presidency added $7.8 trillion to the national debt, bringing it to $28 trillion, per Federal Reserve data.&nbsp;Basic economics: for the country, there are pros and cons to the debt ceiling and debt itself. But, for the financial bottom line for individual Kansans trying to survive economically and save for retirement, even the risk of debt default is a financial harm. Maybe many politicians don’t realize that. Or maybe they do but they hope you don’t. &nbsp;Ideally, mature politicians could get America’s long term financial act together without jeopardizing our individual financial security today. Sadly, that seems too responsible a hope.&nbsp;Patrick R. Miller is an Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Kansas.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS: The debt ceiling and your financial bottom line

WICHITA —&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/">Kansas Leadership Center</a>&nbsp;has selected 37 new organizations across Kansas — two from Hays — and 50 returning organizations to serve as 2022 Leadership Transformation Grant partners, making this the largest group of LTG partners in the history of the program. The grants will help the partner organizations create a culture that embraces change, tackles problems and seizes opportunities.

“The Leadership Transformation Grants are our primary vehicle for transferring the gift of the grant from the Kansas Health Foundation (our core funder) to organizations across the state. We’re proud to see this program grow every year since we started offering these grants eight years ago to civically engaged organizations around the state,” said Ed O’Malley, president and CEO of the Kansas Leadership Center.

The new 2022 Leadership Transformation Grant partners from Hays are Jana’s Campaign Inc. and the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts.

Organizations who receive a Leadership Transformation Grant will establish a core team of three to six individuals to take on the responsibilities of the grant. Organizations chosen will have one year to participate in KLC’s dynamic program experiences and utilize KLC resources and consultation.

“The Leadership Transformation Grants allow participation in the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/the-klc-path/">KLC Path</a>, a three-step sequence which teaches that leadership is an activity—not a position—and that anyone within an organization can exercise leadership effectively. These programs offer a framework by which organizations can share a common language and skills to approach their challenges and empower employees to mobilize others to create progress in their organization and communities,” said Katy Weidner, KLC program manager.

KLC’s own&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/third-floor-research/">research center</a>&nbsp;indicates that leadership development at all levels of an organization leads to a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/third-floor-research/third-floor-research-report-non-profits/" target="_blank">more engaged workforce in the non-profit sector</a>, with employees more committed, more hopeful for the future, and more satisfied with their job. Among high-tech employees, it yields an&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/third-floor-research/third-floor-research-report-high-tech-industry/" target="_blank">adaptive mindset, collaborative problem-solving, and better listening and communication</a>. And ORS Impact, funded by a third party, interviewed over 50 of KLC’s past grantees to learn the effect of leadership training on an organization. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/organizational-impact-and-leadership-development-capacity/">research indicates a strong link</a>&nbsp;between increasing leadership behaviors among employees, positive change to culture and greater progress on key challenges facing the organization.

Applications for Leadership Transformation Grants are accepted between June and August each year.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/announcing-recipients-of-2022-leadership-transformation-grants/">See the complete list of 2022 partners</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634745908309.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseWICHITA —&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/">Kansas Leadership Center</a>&nbsp;has selected 37 new organizations across Kansas — two from Hays — and 50 returning organizations to serve as 2022 Leadership Transformation Grant partners, making this the largest group of LTG partners in the history of the program. The grants will help the partner organizations create a culture that embraces change, tackles problems and seizes opportunities.“The Leadership Transformation Grants are our primary vehicle for transferring the gift of the grant from the Kansas Health Foundation (our core funder) to organizations across the state. We’re proud to see this program grow every year since we started offering these grants eight years ago to civically engaged organizations around the state,” said Ed O’Malley, president and CEO of the Kansas Leadership Center.The new 2022 Leadership Transformation Grant partners from Hays are Jana’s Campaign Inc. and the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts.Organizations who receive a Leadership Transformation Grant will establish a core team of three to six individuals to take on the responsibilities of the grant. Organizations chosen will have one year to participate in KLC’s dynamic program experiences and utilize KLC resources and consultation.“The Leadership Transformation Grants allow participation in the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/the-klc-path/">KLC Path</a>, a three-step sequence which teaches that leadership is an activity—not a position—and that anyone within an organization can exercise leadership effectively. These programs offer a framework by which organizations can share a common language and skills to approach their challenges and empower employees to mobilize others to create progress in their organization and communities,” said Katy Weidner, KLC program manager.KLC’s own&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/third-floor-research/">research center</a>&nbsp;indicates that leadership development at all levels of an organization leads to a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/third-floor-research/third-floor-research-report-non-profits/" target="_blank">more engaged workforce in the non-profit sector</a>, with employees more committed, more hopeful for the future, and more satisfied with their job. Among high-tech employees, it yields an&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/third-floor-research/third-floor-research-report-high-tech-industry/" target="_blank">adaptive mindset, collaborative problem-solving, and better listening and communication</a>. And ORS Impact, funded by a third party, interviewed over 50 of KLC’s past grantees to learn the effect of leadership training on an organization. The&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/organizational-impact-and-leadership-development-capacity/">research indicates a strong link</a>&nbsp;between increasing leadership behaviors among employees, positive change to culture and greater progress on key challenges facing the organization.Applications for Leadership Transformation Grants are accepted between June and August each year.&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasleadershipcenter.org/announcing-recipients-of-2022-leadership-transformation-grants/">See the complete list of 2022 partners</a>.

Hays organizations receive leadership transformation grants

Three-day weather outlook

Job Title: Vice President of Marketing &amp; Communications

Mission: The Chamber facilitates collaboration among businesses and community partners by cultivating and enhancing development opportunities.

Description/Overall Responsibilities:

***Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to <a href="mailto:hayscc@hayschamber.com">hayscc@hayschamber.com</a> by November 1st.&nbsp; The intended start date for a successful applicant is Dec. 1, 2021.&nbsp; Candidates offered interviews will be required to submit examples of work.

***The Chamber in Hays, Kansas offers a flexible work schedule, single coverage health insurance, up to 3% IRA matching contribution, paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, a fun work environment, and endless opportunities to connect with business professionals throughout Ellis County!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634743366242.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Job Title: Vice President of Marketing &amp; Communications</h2>Mission: The Chamber facilitates collaboration among businesses and community partners by cultivating and enhancing development opportunities.Description/Overall Responsibilities:<ul>
 <li>The Vice President of Marketing and Communications answers directly to the President/CEO, and as such will carry out the functions and responsibilities as directed by the President/CEO.&nbsp; The President/CEO will have a wide scope of authority in assigning various tasks to the Vice President of Marketing and Communications.&nbsp; This is a full-time, on-site position.</li>
 </ul>Specific Duties/Responsibilities:<ul>
 <li>Writing and design for Chamber publications, including digital monthly newsletter, weekly email news blasts, event text notifications, advertisements, brochures, forms, and other materials as needed</li><li>Produce all Chamber social media platforms and content, including, but not limited to: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube</li><li>Attend as well as assist in organizing, photographing, video recording, and coordinating of details for ongoing activities, special events, programs, and projects</li><li>Maintain The Chamber’s website</li><li>Gather and distribute communication among membership, Ambassadors, and Hays Young Professionals</li><li>Write and design annual Community Guide through collaboration with partnering agencies</li><li>Proficient in: Microsoft Office, PowerPoint, Adobe Suite and willingness to learn other software as needed with appropriate training, including video editing software</li><li>Other duties as deemed necessary to accomplish The Chamber’s mission.</li>
 </ul>***Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to <a href="mailto:hayscc@hayschamber.com">hayscc@hayschamber.com</a> by November 1st.&nbsp; The intended start date for a successful applicant is Dec. 1, 2021.&nbsp; Candidates offered interviews will be required to submit examples of work.***The Chamber in Hays, Kansas offers a flexible work schedule, single coverage health insurance, up to 3% IRA matching contribution, paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, a fun work environment, and endless opportunities to connect with business professionals throughout Ellis County!

NW Kansas man dies after swerving to miss deer

CHEYENNE COUNTY —A Kansas teen died in an accident just after 1:30a.m. Saturday in Cheyenne County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1993 Ford Bronco driven by John Carlos Serrano, 17, Bird City, was westbound on U.S. 36 a quarter mile east of Bird City.

The SUV began to pass a semi to the left while the roadway curved. The vehicle continued straight left the roadway into the south ditch and collided with a concrete barrier.

EMS transported Serrano to St. Francis Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

CHEYENNE COUNTY —A Kansas teen died in an accident just after 1:30a.m. Saturday in Cheyenne County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1993 Ford Bronco driven by John Carlos Serrano, 17, Bird City, was westbound on U.S. 36 a quarter mile east of Bird City.The SUV began to pass a semi to the left while the roadway curved. The vehicle continued straight left the roadway into the south ditch and collided with a concrete barrier.EMS transported Serrano to St. Francis Hospital where he was pronounced dead. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas teen dies after SUV strikes concrete barrier

TOPEKA— District Judge Steve Johnson will sit with the Kansas Supreme Court to hear and help decide one case on the court’s October 29 docket that will take place by videoconference.

After hearing oral arguments, Johnson&nbsp;will join Supreme Court justices in their deliberations and decision drafting.

"The Supreme Court looks forward to Judge Johnson hearing a case with us. He will read the case materials, prepare for oral argument, and deliberate with the court on its decision," said Chief Justice Marla Luckert. "We thank Judge Johnson for helping us, especially because we know he already has a significant caseload in district court to handle."

Judge Johnson was appointed the chief judge of the 20th Judicial District in January 2021.

“As a district judge, it is an honor to be selected to sit with the Supreme Court,” Johnson said. “I sincerely appreciate the opportunity and will cherish the experience.”

Johnson grew up on a small farm in Gove County and graduated from Healy High School, Fort Hays State University, and Washburn University School of Law. He was in private practice in Great Bend from 1985 to 2012. Johnson took the position of district judge in 2013 in the 20th Judicial District and was appointed chief judge for the 20th in January of 2021.

Johnson will hear one case at 11 a.m. on the October 29 docket.

All cases on the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/_ZjZp5-JQzSBvcPzv18-zssNlx0aQ4sFwFNhwLNVM0U">October 25–29 docket</a><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/_ZjZp5-JQzSBvcPzv18-zr_VrKpwiqLexD-2YxFnx5E"></a>&nbsp;will be heard by videoconference and livestreamed on the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/_ZjZp5-JQzSBvcPzv18-znl6fsoS_8UA3K_q9vgM8uk">Supreme Court YouTube channel</a>.

Appeal No: 121,866: State of Kansas v. Luqman Yusuf Keys

Shawnee County: (Criminal) Keys shot a man once in the chest while purchasing marijuana. At his first trial, the jury acquitted Keys of burglary and hung on felony murder and robbery. A second jury convicted Keys of both felony murder and aggravated robbery. The court sentenced Keys to a hard-25 life sentence for felony murder and then consecutive and concurrent sentences for aggravated robbery and criminal possession of a firearm. The Supreme Court heard arguments on Keys’ case in May 2021. In August 2021, the Court ordered supplement briefing. The issues on review are whether: 1) a district court should determine whether a defendant is being charged with or is alleged to have committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony rendering self-defense unavailable to defendant pursuant to K.S.A. 2020 Supp. 21-5226(a); 2) if yes, what test should the district court employ to make that determination; 3) on appeal, what standard of review should the appellate court employ to review such determination; 4) if a court determines that a defendant is being charged with or is alleged to have committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony, but the defendant alleges the State’s evidence is insufficient for a jury to find beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant in fact committed or attempted to omit the forcible felony, is a self-defense instruction legally appropriate; and 5) if yes, what standard should a district court employ to determine if a self-defense instruction is factually appropriate?

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634847652319.jpeg" alt="Johnson" />
 <figcaption>Johnson</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Judicial AdministrationTOPEKA— District Judge Steve Johnson will sit with the Kansas Supreme Court to hear and help decide one case on the court’s October 29 docket that will take place by videoconference.After hearing oral arguments, Johnson&nbsp;will join Supreme Court justices in their deliberations and decision drafting."The Supreme Court looks forward to Judge Johnson hearing a case with us. He will read the case materials, prepare for oral argument, and deliberate with the court on its decision," said Chief Justice Marla Luckert. "We thank Judge Johnson for helping us, especially because we know he already has a significant caseload in district court to handle."Judge Johnson was appointed the chief judge of the 20th Judicial District in January 2021.“As a district judge, it is an honor to be selected to sit with the Supreme Court,” Johnson said. “I sincerely appreciate the opportunity and will cherish the experience.”Johnson grew up on a small farm in Gove County and graduated from Healy High School, Fort Hays State University, and Washburn University School of Law. He was in private practice in Great Bend from 1985 to 2012. Johnson took the position of district judge in 2013 in the 20th Judicial District and was appointed chief judge for the 20th in January of 2021.Johnson will hear one case at 11 a.m. on the October 29 docket.All cases on the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/_ZjZp5-JQzSBvcPzv18-zssNlx0aQ4sFwFNhwLNVM0U">October 25–29 docket</a><a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/_ZjZp5-JQzSBvcPzv18-zr_VrKpwiqLexD-2YxFnx5E"></a>&nbsp;will be heard by videoconference and livestreamed on the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansascourts.org/l/_ZjZp5-JQzSBvcPzv18-znl6fsoS_8UA3K_q9vgM8uk">Supreme Court YouTube channel</a>.Appeal No: 121,866: State of Kansas v. Luqman Yusuf KeysShawnee County: (Criminal) Keys shot a man once in the chest while purchasing marijuana. At his first trial, the jury acquitted Keys of burglary and hung on felony murder and robbery. A second jury convicted Keys of both felony murder and aggravated robbery. The court sentenced Keys to a hard-25 life sentence for felony murder and then consecutive and concurrent sentences for aggravated robbery and criminal possession of a firearm. The Supreme Court heard arguments on Keys’ case in May 2021. In August 2021, the Court ordered supplement briefing. The issues on review are whether: 1) a district court should determine whether a defendant is being charged with or is alleged to have committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony rendering self-defense unavailable to defendant pursuant to K.S.A. 2020 Supp. 21-5226(a); 2) if yes, what test should the district court employ to make that determination; 3) on appeal, what standard of review should the appellate court employ to review such determination; 4) if a court determines that a defendant is being charged with or is alleged to have committed or attempted to commit a forcible felony, but the defendant alleges the State’s evidence is insufficient for a jury to find beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant in fact committed or attempted to omit the forcible felony, is a self-defense instruction legally appropriate; and 5) if yes, what standard should a district court employ to determine if a self-defense instruction is factually appropriate?

Gove Co. native, FHSU alum to sit with Kan. Supreme Court

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

How long is your commute to work? Ten minutes? Twenty? Half an hour? I remember living in a city back east where it took more than an hour in stop-and-go traffic to get to work.&nbsp;

Today we’ll meet a young man whose commute lasts however long it takes for him to get to his computer in his house. He is part of the current wave of remote workers, and he is choosing to live in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Matthew James is this young remote worker. He is a native of Concordia who went on to study computer science at K-State. “I was always interested in technology,” Matthew said.&nbsp;

In the summer after his freshman year, someone at Matthew’s church told him about an opportunity to work remotely. The county economic development director at the time was the wife of Matt’s high school baseball coach, so Matt was comfortable talking to her.&nbsp;

“She told me about a program in northwest Kansas called Rural &amp; Remote,” Matthew said. She put Matthew in contact with Kade Wilcox and he got Matthew into the program.&nbsp;

Rural &amp; Remote is one of the projects initiated by the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center Inc., supported by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation in the northwest part of the state. The program is customized to fit each individual based on their experience and unique needs. It involves application, training, work experience and job placement support.&nbsp;

Matthew participated in the Rural &amp; Remote Coding Academy, which trains people for work as web developers or software engineers. Coding is essentially the process of creating the electronic operating instructions for modern digital devices.&nbsp;

“With the way technology and society are changing, coders are becoming a bigger need,” Matthew said. “And since Covid, remote work has picked up.”&nbsp;

Matthew put in a 500-hour apprenticeship that turned into a full-time coding job by the time he finished college. After graduating, he moved back to Concordia. In fall 2021, he married his high school sweetheart, who had graduated from K-State as well.&nbsp;

Today, Matthew is a web developer who is working remotely for a digital solutions company headquartered in Lubbock, Texas. “We create solutions for businesses looking to grow,” he said. The company offers custom software, search engine optimization, websites, help with digital marketing and more. As projects are identified, Matt can accomplish them remotely.&nbsp;

“I have a sprint – that’s what we call a week’s worth of work,” he said. “It’s all custom, everything from helping an agribusiness company market seed, to creating a database of residential apartments for a management company.”&nbsp;

What does Matthew value about remote work? “I can set my own hours,” he said. “I usually work 8 to 5, but if I need to take time off to go to a doctor or dentist appointment, I can do that and make up the hours later.”&nbsp;

“There’s a bunch of guys I play noon basketball with at Cloud County Community College, so I like to go do that,” he said. His new bride is student-teaching nearby.&nbsp;

Matthew is thankful for the remote work opportunity. “It got me back to my hometown,” he said. “My family and friends are here and my wife’s family is nearby. I’m glad to be able to work in my field and do it from home. And this can be done in other fields too.”&nbsp;

“This is a win-win situation for businesses and employees.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both are seeing benefits,” Matthew said. “People like having the flexibility and companies save a lot on expenses by not having to pay for buildings.”&nbsp;

It’s great to see that remote work has made it possible for this young man to return to his hometown, the rural community of Concordia, population 5,111 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

How long is your commute?&nbsp;&nbsp;For Matthew James, his commute to work consists of a keystroke on his computer. We commend him for making a difference with his online entrepreneurship and his commitment to his community. I hope his computer never runs into a traffic jam.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634737842017.png" alt="Matthew James" />
 <figcaption>Matthew James</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentHow long is your commute to work? Ten minutes? Twenty? Half an hour? I remember living in a city back east where it took more than an hour in stop-and-go traffic to get to work.&nbsp;Today we’ll meet a young man whose commute lasts however long it takes for him to get to his computer in his house. He is part of the current wave of remote workers, and he is choosing to live in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Matthew James is this young remote worker. He is a native of Concordia who went on to study computer science at K-State. “I was always interested in technology,” Matthew said.&nbsp;In the summer after his freshman year, someone at Matthew’s church told him about an opportunity to work remotely. The county economic development director at the time was the wife of Matt’s high school baseball coach, so Matt was comfortable talking to her.&nbsp;“She told me about a program in northwest Kansas called Rural &amp; Remote,” Matthew said. She put Matthew in contact with Kade Wilcox and he got Matthew into the program.&nbsp;Rural &amp; Remote is one of the projects initiated by the Northwest Kansas Economic Innovation Center Inc., supported by the Dane G. Hansen Foundation in the northwest part of the state. The program is customized to fit each individual based on their experience and unique needs. It involves application, training, work experience and job placement support.&nbsp;Matthew participated in the Rural &amp; Remote Coding Academy, which trains people for work as web developers or software engineers. Coding is essentially the process of creating the electronic operating instructions for modern digital devices.&nbsp;“With the way technology and society are changing, coders are becoming a bigger need,” Matthew said. “And since Covid, remote work has picked up.”&nbsp;Matthew put in a 500-hour apprenticeship that turned into a full-time coding job by the time he finished college. After graduating, he moved back to Concordia. In fall 2021, he married his high school sweetheart, who had graduated from K-State as well.&nbsp;Today, Matthew is a web developer who is working remotely for a digital solutions company headquartered in Lubbock, Texas. “We create solutions for businesses looking to grow,” he said. The company offers custom software, search engine optimization, websites, help with digital marketing and more. As projects are identified, Matt can accomplish them remotely.&nbsp;“I have a sprint – that’s what we call a week’s worth of work,” he said. “It’s all custom, everything from helping an agribusiness company market seed, to creating a database of residential apartments for a management company.”&nbsp;What does Matthew value about remote work? “I can set my own hours,” he said. “I usually work 8 to 5, but if I need to take time off to go to a doctor or dentist appointment, I can do that and make up the hours later.”&nbsp;“There’s a bunch of guys I play noon basketball with at Cloud County Community College, so I like to go do that,” he said. His new bride is student-teaching nearby.&nbsp;Matthew is thankful for the remote work opportunity. “It got me back to my hometown,” he said. “My family and friends are here and my wife’s family is nearby. I’m glad to be able to work in my field and do it from home. And this can be done in other fields too.”&nbsp;“This is a win-win situation for businesses and employees.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both are seeing benefits,” Matthew said. “People like having the flexibility and companies save a lot on expenses by not having to pay for buildings.”&nbsp;It’s great to see that remote work has made it possible for this young man to return to his hometown, the rural community of Concordia, population 5,111 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;How long is your commute?&nbsp;&nbsp;For Matthew James, his commute to work consists of a keystroke on his computer. We commend him for making a difference with his online entrepreneurship and his commitment to his community. I hope his computer never runs into a traffic jam.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Matthew James, remote worker 

The Hays High Indians travel to Wichita Friday night to take on the Northwest Grizzlies.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/hayshigh/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The Hays High Indians travel to Wichita Friday night to take on the Northwest Grizzlies.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/hayshigh/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.Kickoff set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/313254?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏈🎥 WATCH LIVE Hays High Indians @ Wichita Northwest

The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Lakin Broncs in a 2A district matchup Friday in Hays.

Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/?B=297341/hayshigh/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.

The TMP-Marian Monarchs host the Lakin Broncs in a 2A district matchup Friday in Hays.Click the player below or click&nbsp;<a href="https://team1sports.com/eaglecommunications/?B=297341/hayshigh/">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the game. You can also download the Team1Sports app for your phone or connected device, including smart TVs.Kickoff set for 7 p.m.<div><iframe src="https://vcloud.blueframetech.com/broadcast/embed/313257?autoplay=1" width="640" height="360" allow="fullscreen;" style="border:0;overflow:hidden;"></iframe></div>

🏈🎥 WATCH LIVE Thomas More Prep-Marian vs Lakin

Hays firefighters and other emergency personnel responded to a structure fire early Friday morning.

At approximately 3:24 a.m., the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to 324 W. Eighth.&nbsp;

Fire crews found a detached garage behind the home heavily involved with fire with the roof of the garage collapsed into the structure, according to a news release from Shane Preston, deputy fire chief.

It took the firefighters about 44 minutes to extinguish the fire with three handlines. Crews stayed on the scene&nbsp; extinguishing hot spots and left at 6:24 a.m.

Preston said an investigation was conducted to determine the cause and origin of the fire but due to the amount of damage and combustibles in the garage, fire investigators were unable to determine the exact cause. 

The fire is ruled undetermined at this time.&nbsp;

The Hays Fire Department investigator was assisted by Hays Police Department and the Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office. The Hays Fire Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays police all responded.&nbsp;

Preston reminds everyone to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to make sure they are functioning correctly. 

Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in the smoke alarm program.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634928306670.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays PostHays firefighters and other emergency personnel responded to a structure fire early Friday morning.At approximately 3:24 a.m., the Hays Fire Department was dispatched to 324 W. Eighth.&nbsp;Fire crews found a detached garage behind the home heavily involved with fire with the roof of the garage collapsed into the structure, according to a news release from Shane Preston, deputy fire chief.It took the firefighters about 44 minutes to extinguish the fire with three handlines. Crews stayed on the scene&nbsp; extinguishing hot spots and left at 6:24 a.m.Preston said an investigation was conducted to determine the cause and origin of the fire but due to the amount of damage and combustibles in the garage, fire investigators were unable to determine the exact cause. The fire is ruled undetermined at this time.&nbsp;The Hays Fire Department investigator was assisted by Hays Police Department and the Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office. The Hays Fire Department, Ellis County Fire Department Company 5, Ellis County EMS, and Hays police all responded.&nbsp;Preston reminds everyone to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to make sure they are functioning correctly. Please contact the Hays Fire Department if you are interested in the smoke alarm program.&nbsp;

Early morning fire destroys Hays garage; cause undetermined

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 12 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;

As of Friday morning, HaysMed reported 17 COVID-19 inpatients.

The KDHE reported Friday 52 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 63 percent.

Since reporting began, there have been 4,522 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 76 coronavirus-related deaths.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634923190823.png" alt="KDHE" />
 <figcaption>KDHE</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported 12 new COVID-19 cases in Ellis County had been identified since Wednesday.<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/97/Health">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;for information on how to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.&nbsp;As of Friday morning, HaysMed reported 17 COVID-19 inpatients.The KDHE reported Friday 52 percent of eligible Ellis County residents are fully vaccinated, noting the vaccination rate for the eligible Kansas population (12 and older) is approximately 63 percent.Since reporting began, there have been 4,522 cases of COVID-19 identified in Ellis County, including 76 coronavirus-related deaths.

KDHE: 12 new COVID cases in Ellis Co. since Wednesday

Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.9 percent in September. This was an increase from 3.8 percent in August and a decrease from 6.1 percent in September 2020.

“The September unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.9 percent,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “However Kansas employers continued adding jobs in September. The strongest growth this month was seen in trade, transportation and utilities which has already surpassed pre-pandemic employment levels in the state." 

Unemployment rates across northwest Kansas continue to fall, with the Ellis County jobless rate dropping from 2.6 percent in August to 2.1 percent in September. Only Russell, Sherman, Decatur, Graham, Rooks and Barton counties had unemployment rates 3 percent or higher in September.

Greeley County in western Kansas had the state's lowest unemployment rate at 1.6 percent. Logan County also had a September jobless rate below 2 percent.

Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 1,900 from August. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 1,100 from the previous month, while government increased by 800.

“September estimates indicate that total nonfarm jobs have increased for the fourth consecutive month in Kansas,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “Employers have added 16,800 jobs over the past four months, led by growth in trade, transportation and utilities as well as continued recovery in government, manufacturing, and leisure and hospitality jobs."

Since September 2020, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 32,200. This change is due to an increase of 28,000 private sector jobs and 4,200 government jobs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634916820554.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Preliminary estimates reported by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.9 percent in September. This was an increase from 3.8 percent in August and a decrease from 6.1 percent in September 2020.“The September unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.9 percent,” said Secretary Amber Shultz. “However Kansas employers continued adding jobs in September. The strongest growth this month was seen in trade, transportation and utilities which has already surpassed pre-pandemic employment levels in the state." Unemployment rates across northwest Kansas continue to fall, with the Ellis County jobless rate dropping from 2.6 percent in August to 2.1 percent in September. Only Russell, Sherman, Decatur, Graham, Rooks and Barton counties had unemployment rates 3 percent or higher in September.Greeley County in western Kansas had the state's lowest unemployment rate at 1.6 percent. Logan County also had a September jobless rate below 2 percent.Seasonally adjusted job estimates indicate total Kansas nonfarm jobs increased by 1,900 from August. Private sector jobs, a subset of total nonfarm jobs, increased by 1,100 from the previous month, while government increased by 800.“September estimates indicate that total nonfarm jobs have increased for the fourth consecutive month in Kansas,” said Labor Economist Emilie Doerksen. “Employers have added 16,800 jobs over the past four months, led by growth in trade, transportation and utilities as well as continued recovery in government, manufacturing, and leisure and hospitality jobs."Since September 2020, Kansas seasonally adjusted total nonfarm jobs have increased by 32,200. This change is due to an increase of 28,000 private sector jobs and 4,200 government jobs.

NW Kansas jobless rates remain extremely low in September

Susan Rebel of La Crosse won the 99.5
KZ Country Fall Into Better Sleep giveaway.

She received a $2,000 certificate
from Horizon Appliance, Electronics and Mattress to use on a mattress purchase.


There were six opportunities to register for the prize. For each registration,
contestants texted the day’s sleep word and their name to 99.5 KZ Country at
785-628-2995.

Rebel said she listens to 99.5 KZ Country while in the car.

Other contest sponsors were Taylor
Implement in Hoxie, KS and Yuma and Greeley, Colorado; V &amp; J Electric in
Ellsworth; and United Rentals in Hays.

Editor's note: 99.5 KZ Country is
owned and operated by Eagle Radio, which also owns and operates Hays Post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634916689477.jpeg" alt="Susan Rebel of La Crosse accepts a $2,000 certificate for a mattress purchase at Horizon Appliance, Electronics and Mattress from 99.5 KZ Country Program Director Theresa Trapp." />
 <figcaption>Susan Rebel of La Crosse accepts a $2,000 certificate for a mattress purchase at Horizon Appliance, Electronics and Mattress from 99.5 KZ Country Program Director Theresa Trapp.</figcaption>
 </figure>Susan Rebel of La Crosse won the 99.5
KZ Country Fall Into Better Sleep giveaway.She received a $2,000 certificate
from Horizon Appliance, Electronics and Mattress to use on a mattress purchase.
There were six opportunities to register for the prize. For each registration,
contestants texted the day’s sleep word and their name to 99.5 KZ Country at
785-628-2995.Rebel said she listens to 99.5 KZ Country while in the car.Other contest sponsors were Taylor
Implement in Hoxie, KS and Yuma and Greeley, Colorado; V &amp; J Electric in
Ellsworth; and United Rentals in Hays.Editor's note: 99.5 KZ Country is
owned and operated by Eagle Radio, which also owns and operates Hays Post.

99.5 KZ Country’s Fall Into Better Sleep Giveaway awarded $2,000 prize

Kansas Wheat joins wheat producers and farm advocates from across the state in expressing our condolences to the family of David Radenberg, who passed away on October&nbsp;9, 2021, ending his 21-year battle against a rare form of brain cancer.&nbsp;

“David was passionate about continuous innovations for Kansas wheat farmers through work at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center,” said Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. “His dedication&nbsp;to our mission will be missed, as will his joyful demeanor whenever he was in the office, especially when accompanied by his family.”&nbsp;

Radenberg was a lifelong wheat farmer in Claflin, where his family has farmed for more than 100 years. He served as a board member for the Barton County Farm Bureau Association and the Sterling Coop in addition to membership in the Masonic Lodge.&nbsp;

He represented central Kansas on the Kansas Wheat Commission from April 2011 to March 2020, including serving as chairman from August 2018 to May 2019. During his tenure as a commissioner, he supported wheat research and international marketing efforts, including attending the 31st annual Latin American Millers Conference&nbsp;in Lima, Peru, in 2013. At the time, he expressed how he enjoyed sharing with millers, bakers and merchandisers about the research investments Kansas farmers are making to provide a better quality product.&nbsp;

Radenberg was also a founding board member of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation. Established in 2011, the foundation helps fund scholarships for students conducting research.&nbsp;

Celebration of Life Service will be held October 23, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., at St. Paul's United Church of Christ located at 309 E Nassau, Holyrood, Kansas,&nbsp;with Reverend Debra Rains officiating.&nbsp;

Memorials are suggested to the&nbsp;<a href="https://fieldsforward.org/donate-today/" target="_blank">Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation</a>, 1990 Kimball Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502, or the Claflin Fire and EMS Services, PO Box 383, Claflin, KS 67525.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634850280920.png" alt="David Radenberg" />
 <figcaption>David Radenberg</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Wheat joins wheat producers and farm advocates from across the state in expressing our condolences to the family of David Radenberg, who passed away on October&nbsp;9, 2021, ending his 21-year battle against a rare form of brain cancer.&nbsp;“David was passionate about continuous innovations for Kansas wheat farmers through work at the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center,” said Justin Gilpin, Kansas Wheat CEO. “His dedication&nbsp;to our mission will be missed, as will his joyful demeanor whenever he was in the office, especially when accompanied by his family.”&nbsp;Radenberg was a lifelong wheat farmer in Claflin, where his family has farmed for more than 100 years. He served as a board member for the Barton County Farm Bureau Association and the Sterling Coop in addition to membership in the Masonic Lodge.&nbsp;He represented central Kansas on the Kansas Wheat Commission from April 2011 to March 2020, including serving as chairman from August 2018 to May 2019. During his tenure as a commissioner, he supported wheat research and international marketing efforts, including attending the 31st annual Latin American Millers Conference&nbsp;in Lima, Peru, in 2013. At the time, he expressed how he enjoyed sharing with millers, bakers and merchandisers about the research investments Kansas farmers are making to provide a better quality product.&nbsp;Radenberg was also a founding board member of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation. Established in 2011, the foundation helps fund scholarships for students conducting research.&nbsp;Celebration of Life Service will be held October 23, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., at St. Paul's United Church of Christ located at 309 E Nassau, Holyrood, Kansas,&nbsp;with Reverend Debra Rains officiating.&nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the&nbsp;<a href="https://fieldsforward.org/donate-today/" target="_blank">Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation</a>, 1990 Kimball Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502, or the Claflin Fire and EMS Services, PO Box 383, Claflin, KS 67525.

Kansas Wheat recognizes passing of Claflin farmer

Quinter Truck or Treat is Oct. 29

MANHATTAN — Researchers at Kansas State University are the first in the United States to look into methods of keeping a foreign tick-borne livestock disease at bay. The Center of Excellence for Vector-Borne Diseases recently received $250,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and an additional $75,000 from the state of Kansas' National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility&nbsp;Transition Funds&nbsp;to build upon past research into containing and controlling heartwater disease, which is caused by the tick-transmitted pathogen&nbsp;Ehrlichia ruminantium. Heartwater is deadly to cattle, sheep and goats. Roman Ganta, professor of diagnostic medicine and center director, and his team&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0817/10/4/451/htm" target="_blank">recently published results of the first heartwater risk assessment experiments</a>&nbsp;in sheep in the U.S. using several pathogen strains imported from sub-Saharan Africa. The new funding will extend collaborative research to further define pathogenesis and vector competence of ticks native to the U.S. While heartwater originally was identified as a sub-Saharan African disease, it has been established in several Caribbean islands, posing a potential threat to the U.S. cattle industry. "The possible introduction of heartwater from the Caribbean and through imported exotic foreign animals from Africa is a major concern to the US food animal industry," Ganta said. "The USDA-estimated cost of heartwater could be as high as $2.3 billion in losses to the U.S. economy." The disease is characterized by fever, labored breathing, coughing, neurological signs, hydrothorax, ascites and edema of the lungs. High mortality rates up to 90% can occur in livestock if introduced into a non-endemic area, such as to the mainland U.S. "Despite its enormous importance, effective means of diagnosing and controlling the disease are not available," Ganta said. "Currently, there are no approved diagnostic tests or vaccines for heartwater disease in the U.S. The far-reaching goals of our heartwater research are to develop rapid diagnostics and a vaccine." The project will be the first to have strategic collaborations with the USDA and NBAF. Among its goals are to establish future collaborations with researchers in the Caribbean and Africa. Developing better methods of controlling heartwater will be critical in improving food animal health and the economies in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Caribbean where the disease is widespread. The Center of Excellence for Vector Borne-Diseases is an interdisciplinary research center focused on pathogenesis, surveillance and prevention of tick-borne diseases and other vector-borne diseases of significant importance to animal and human health. The goals of the center are to prepare Kansas State University for building a strong program on vector-borne diseases, developing a network to build collaborative research involving scientists from the university with other academic institutions from the U.S. and abroad, training a new generation of scientists with expertise on vector-borne diseases, and developing additional resources.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634907197564.jpeg" alt="Roman Ganta and his team received a grant to help protect U.S. livestock from heartwater, a tick-borne disease. (KSU photo)" />
 <figcaption>Roman Ganta and his team received a grant to help protect U.S. livestock from heartwater, a tick-borne disease. (KSU photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>KSU News ServiceMANHATTAN — Researchers at Kansas State University are the first in the United States to look into methods of keeping a foreign tick-borne livestock disease at bay. The Center of Excellence for Vector-Borne Diseases recently received $250,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and an additional $75,000 from the state of Kansas' National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility&nbsp;Transition Funds&nbsp;to build upon past research into containing and controlling heartwater disease, which is caused by the tick-transmitted pathogen&nbsp;Ehrlichia ruminantium. Heartwater is deadly to cattle, sheep and goats. Roman Ganta, professor of diagnostic medicine and center director, and his team&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0817/10/4/451/htm" target="_blank">recently published results of the first heartwater risk assessment experiments</a>&nbsp;in sheep in the U.S. using several pathogen strains imported from sub-Saharan Africa. The new funding will extend collaborative research to further define pathogenesis and vector competence of ticks native to the U.S. While heartwater originally was identified as a sub-Saharan African disease, it has been established in several Caribbean islands, posing a potential threat to the U.S. cattle industry. "The possible introduction of heartwater from the Caribbean and through imported exotic foreign animals from Africa is a major concern to the US food animal industry," Ganta said. "The USDA-estimated cost of heartwater could be as high as $2.3 billion in losses to the U.S. economy." The disease is characterized by fever, labored breathing, coughing, neurological signs, hydrothorax, ascites and edema of the lungs. High mortality rates up to 90% can occur in livestock if introduced into a non-endemic area, such as to the mainland U.S. "Despite its enormous importance, effective means of diagnosing and controlling the disease are not available," Ganta said. "Currently, there are no approved diagnostic tests or vaccines for heartwater disease in the U.S. The far-reaching goals of our heartwater research are to develop rapid diagnostics and a vaccine." The project will be the first to have strategic collaborations with the USDA and NBAF. Among its goals are to establish future collaborations with researchers in the Caribbean and Africa. Developing better methods of controlling heartwater will be critical in improving food animal health and the economies in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Caribbean where the disease is widespread. The Center of Excellence for Vector Borne-Diseases is an interdisciplinary research center focused on pathogenesis, surveillance and prevention of tick-borne diseases and other vector-borne diseases of significant importance to animal and human health. The goals of the center are to prepare Kansas State University for building a strong program on vector-borne diseases, developing a network to build collaborative research involving scientists from the university with other academic institutions from the U.S. and abroad, training a new generation of scientists with expertise on vector-borne diseases, and developing additional resources.&nbsp;

KSU grant supports first U.S. research project into novel tick disease

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

As part of the improvements to 230th Ave. and 55th Street north of Interstate 70 Exit 57, construction of the Hays Travel Plaza and the Ellis County Northwest Corridor conflicts with a main line of the Trego County Rural Water District #2 (RWD#2).

The conflict would require the main to be relocated at a significant cost.

Instead, an agreement has been reached between the city of Hays and RWD#2 for Hays to acquire RWD territory, four existing rural water customers and water supply infrastructure.

"As part of the&nbsp;travel plaza development,&nbsp;city water mains have been extended to this area and can&nbsp;easily serve these customers," according to Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.

• BBJ LLC (otherwise known as Doonan Peterbilt) • Randy L. Davis and Mary E. Davis (private residence) • Celebration Community Church (2 meters) • Hays City Sportsman Club

"To meet the needs and continue orderly development in that area, it is necessary for the city to acquire the service area from the rural water district, and to facilitate the utility relocates necessary for the Northwest Corridor project it was necessary to abandon this section of rural water line that served the customers, and connect them to city water," Crispin said. 

That action happened October 14 as Trego County RWD #2 truncated its line north of the entrance to the sportsmen’s club.&nbsp;

"They wanted to get out of the way and we have our infrastructure in place (for water and sewer lines). For future development it's important that we don't have lines that are crossing."&nbsp;

The cost to switch services from the rural water district to the city of Hays will be paid by the travel plaza developer, Crispin told city commissioners during their work session Thursday night.

Adding the four new water customers will have a negligible affect on the city's water resources operations budget,&nbsp; according to Crispin.

"At their current usage, the monthly water bills for these properties will be similar. In fact, they may be slightly less than they're used to paying with the rural water district.

"The water will be used for domestic purposes only. They would follow our water conservation plans for the city. They will pay inside city limits rates for their water rate."&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Commissioner Ron Mellick and Mayor Sandy Jacobs asked about the integrity of the RWD pipeline and how the city would respond to a possible breach.

"They haven't had any problems with their infrastructure," Crispin said.&nbsp; "Due to future development I think it's temporary, the use of what they have there. In the future, we'll probably work to abandon that infrastructure.

"If there was a break, there would be no difference in what there is in a city street.&nbsp;

"It's obviously not the same type of line. We're not talking about an eight-inch city main but we do have the parts necessary (for repair)."

There are state statutes that deal with rural water district territory and&nbsp;cities taking over that territory. John Bird, city attorney, has drafted a resolution as well as legal&nbsp;agreements.&nbsp;

City commissioners will consider approving a resolution for the agreements at their meeting Oct. 29.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634865968588.jpeg" alt="Area of 230th Ave. and 55th Street in northwest Hays" />
 <figcaption>Area of 230th Ave. and 55th Street in northwest Hays</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostAs part of the improvements to 230th Ave. and 55th Street north of Interstate 70 Exit 57, construction of the Hays Travel Plaza and the Ellis County Northwest Corridor conflicts with a main line of the Trego County Rural Water District #2 (RWD#2).The conflict would require the main to be relocated at a significant cost.Instead, an agreement has been reached between the city of Hays and RWD#2 for Hays to acquire RWD territory, four existing rural water customers and water supply infrastructure."As part of the&nbsp;travel plaza development,&nbsp;city water mains have been extended to this area and can&nbsp;easily serve these customers," according to Jeff Crispin, director of water resources.The four water customers are:&nbsp;• BBJ LLC (otherwise known as Doonan Peterbilt) • Randy L. Davis and Mary E. Davis (private residence) • Celebration Community Church (2 meters) • Hays City Sportsman Club <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634866218325.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634876407369.jpeg" alt="The blue line is the recently installed Hays water main. The yellow line is the Trego Co. RWD #2 line that Hays will take over and maintain.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The blue line is the recently installed Hays water main. The yellow line is the Trego Co. RWD #2 line that Hays will take over and maintain.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>"To meet the needs and continue orderly development in that area, it is necessary for the city to acquire the service area from the rural water district, and to facilitate the utility relocates necessary for the Northwest Corridor project it was necessary to abandon this section of rural water line that served the customers, and connect them to city water," Crispin said. That action happened October 14 as Trego County RWD #2 truncated its line north of the entrance to the sportsmen’s club.&nbsp;"They wanted to get out of the way and we have our infrastructure in place (for water and sewer lines). For future development it's important that we don't have lines that are crossing."&nbsp;<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6bZ63E5yV44"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The cost to switch services from the rural water district to the city of Hays will be paid by the travel plaza developer, Crispin told city commissioners during their work session Thursday night.Adding the four new water customers will have a negligible affect on the city's water resources operations budget,&nbsp; according to Crispin."At their current usage, the monthly water bills for these properties will be similar. In fact, they may be slightly less than they're used to paying with the rural water district."The water will be used for domestic purposes only. They would follow our water conservation plans for the city. They will pay inside city limits rates for their water rate."&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Commissioner Ron Mellick and Mayor Sandy Jacobs asked about the integrity of the RWD pipeline and how the city would respond to a possible breach."They haven't had any problems with their infrastructure," Crispin said.&nbsp; "Due to future development I think it's temporary, the use of what they have there. In the future, we'll probably work to abandon that infrastructure."If there was a break, there would be no difference in what there is in a city street.&nbsp;"It's obviously not the same type of line. We're not talking about an eight-inch city main but we do have the parts necessary (for repair)."There are state statutes that deal with rural water district territory and&nbsp;cities taking over that territory. John Bird, city attorney, has drafted a resolution as well as legal&nbsp;agreements.&nbsp;City commissioners will consider approving a resolution for the agreements at their meeting Oct. 29.&nbsp;

🎥 City to add former Trego Co. RWD#2 customers in development north of I-70 

The deadline for any letters to Hays Post related to the upcoming general election is 5 p.m. Friday.

Send letters to <a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>.

The deadline for any letters to Hays Post related to the upcoming general election is 5 p.m. Friday.Send letters to <a href="mailto:admin@hayspost.com">admin@hayspost.com</a>.

Deadline for election-related letters is Friday

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly, on behalf of the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, today announced that more than $2 million will be awarded to Kansas criminal justice organizations as part of the 2022 grant awards for the Federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program.

Agencies in Ellis and Rawlins counties were among the recipients.&nbsp;

“These grant funds will provide our law enforcement and criminal justice agencies with the resources they need to keep Kansans safe,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I appreciate our partners at the U.S. Department of Justice for their support. My administration will continue leveraging every resource and seeking opportunities to make needed reforms in our criminal justice system and improve public safety for every person in our state.”

The KCJCC oversees the criminal justice federal funding made available to Kansas through the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance.&nbsp; The KCJCC membership is representative of the Governor, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Corrections, the Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the Director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The U.S. Department of Justice is committed to advancing work that promotes civil rights, increases access to justice, supports crime victims, protects the public from crime and evolving threats, and builds trust between law enforcement and the community.

The JAG funds are provided to criminal justice system partners to address crime and improve public safety. Specifically, the JAG awards are made to local, state, and nonprofit agencies to fund prevention activities; equipment and technology needs; and programs designed to reduce crime, decrease recidivism rates, and provide crime victim services.

A total of $2,396,959 was awarded to 25 agencies.

Office of the GovernorTOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly, on behalf of the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, today announced that more than $2 million will be awarded to Kansas criminal justice organizations as part of the 2022 grant awards for the Federal Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program.Agencies in Ellis and Rawlins counties were among the recipients.&nbsp;“These grant funds will provide our law enforcement and criminal justice agencies with the resources they need to keep Kansans safe,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“I appreciate our partners at the U.S. Department of Justice for their support. My administration will continue leveraging every resource and seeking opportunities to make needed reforms in our criminal justice system and improve public safety for every person in our state.”The KCJCC oversees the criminal justice federal funding made available to Kansas through the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance.&nbsp; The KCJCC membership is representative of the Governor, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Corrections, the Superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the Director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;&nbsp;The U.S. Department of Justice is committed to advancing work that promotes civil rights, increases access to justice, supports crime victims, protects the public from crime and evolving threats, and builds trust between law enforcement and the community.The JAG funds are provided to criminal justice system partners to address crime and improve public safety. Specifically, the JAG awards are made to local, state, and nonprofit agencies to fund prevention activities; equipment and technology needs; and programs designed to reduce crime, decrease recidivism rates, and provide crime victim services.A total of $2,396,959 was awarded to 25 agencies.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634829003457.png" alt="" />
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