HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The crowd was raucous as usual for the debate at the Kansas State Fair on Saturday, but the candidates did little in the way of policy pronouncing. The closest thing to news to come out of the Saturday event was Gov. Laura Kelly's assertion that she would create a cabinet-level position for early childhood education and child care.

"I have every intention, as we go forward into my second term to elevate the issue of child care and early childhood education by creating a cabinet-level position to focus on those issues," Kelly said.

Schmidt, for his part, praised the legislature for passing child care tax credits and called Kelly's goal red tape.

"She went straight to where she often does, look how much money they've spent," Schmidt said. "They expanded grants. She's going to create a new Cabinet-level secretary, more bureaucracy. The impediment that I hear from child care providers is that there is too much red tape already."

Other than that one brief policy piece, there was a lot of dancing around the issues and waging proxy fights, Schmidt with President Biden and Kelly, though less so, with Sam Brownback.

The two did agree that the Kansas voters spoke in August on the issue of abortion and Gov. Kelly said she would support the retention of the six Kansas Supreme Court justices on the ballot in November.

Schmidt said he would not retain all of the judges, though he was not specific on which ones he believes should go, but he said that decision should also be left to the voters.

The two candidates agreed that special education in the state is not funded to the statutory level, but they both also said that Congress is supposed to be sending more money to Kansas than they are and that the unfunded mandate from that level is the main problem in that regard.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662846700435.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The crowd was raucous as usual for the debate at the Kansas State Fair on Saturday, but the candidates did little in the way of policy pronouncing. The closest thing to news to come out of the Saturday event was Gov. Laura Kelly's assertion that she would create a cabinet-level position for early childhood education and child care."I have every intention, as we go forward into my second term to elevate the issue of child care and early childhood education by creating a cabinet-level position to focus on those issues," Kelly said.Schmidt, for his part, praised the legislature for passing child care tax credits and called Kelly's goal red tape."She went straight to where she often does, look how much money they've spent," Schmidt said. "They expanded grants. She's going to create a new Cabinet-level secretary, more bureaucracy. The impediment that I hear from child care providers is that there is too much red tape already."Other than that one brief policy piece, there was a lot of dancing around the issues and waging proxy fights, Schmidt with President Biden and Kelly, though less so, with Sam Brownback.The two did agree that the Kansas voters spoke in August on the issue of abortion and Gov. Kelly said she would support the retention of the six Kansas Supreme Court justices on the ballot in November.Schmidt said he would not retain all of the judges, though he was not specific on which ones he believes should go, but he said that decision should also be left to the voters.The two candidates agreed that special education in the state is not funded to the statutory level, but they both also said that Congress is supposed to be sending more money to Kansas than they are and that the unfunded mandate from that level is the main problem in that regard.

Kansas governor candidates debate at the State Fair

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/09/johnson-county-sheriff-threatens-to-deploy-army-of-deputies-against-irs-agents/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Johnson County Sheriff 
Calvin Hayden said a federal law allowing the Internal Revenue Service 
to add 87,000 employees posed a threat to people in Kansas’ most 
populous county and could require deployment of deputies to repel tax 
investigators.

Hayden, who described the IRS as a “spooky, spooky entity,” generated
 applause from a group of about 30 people during a two-hour open meeting
 at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department headquarters with a promise 
to protect their homes as if they were castles.

The sheriff, who is leading a criminal investigation into alleged 
election fraud in the 2020 elections, said the IRS problem resulted from
 the Inflation Reduction Act approved by Congress and signed by 
President Joe Biden. The law earmarked $45 billion for enforcement 
activities over the next decade to help close the gap between what 
Americans owed in federal taxes and what they paid.

“That’s why it’s important for us to have an army that you can depend
 on,” said Hayden, referring to department’s 500 employees. “Because, I 
will tell you, they’re going to have to have every IRS agent in the 
United States come to Johnson County, Kansas, before they start doing 
the crap they’re doing. We’re going to be 500 strong, and we’ll do what 
we need to do.”

Hayden said he had authority to order the FBI to leave Johnson 
County, but he claimed to have less control over the IRS. He asserted 
IRS agents could enter homes of U.S. residents without a warrant.

The sheriff spoke to the group Aug. 30. Video of the gathering was posted to the online platform Rumble.

Hayden said he had welcomed the opportunity to order 100 deputies to 
cities in Johnson County as well as Kansas City, Missouri, and Lawrence 
in response to “mutual aid” requests related to street protests. He said
 he found the picketing so irritating it left him with “Formica under my
 fingernails.”

In Lawrence, the sheriff said he wanted “nothing more than go down 
Mass. Street and arrest them all.” He was prepared to make arrests in 
Prairie Village if protesters did so much as “break a pencil.”

Hayden said he wasn’t afraid his approach to law enforcement could 
make him target of a lawsuit by the American Civil Liberties Union.

He said future elections in Kansas would likely foster social unrest.
 That possibility, Hayden claimed, ought to compel the Johnson County 
Commission to approve funding to add dozens of deputies to the 
department’s payroll. He said he would file a lawsuit against the 
commission if members didn’t approve his budget request to hire a 
minimum of 20 deputies.

The sheriff offered a pre-emptive warning to protesters: “You’re not going to hurt one twig in Johnson County.”

Hayden said his investigation of possible election fraud remained 
open in Johnson County despite pressure from public officials to wrap up
 the inquiry. He said the work was essential because neither Secretary 
of State Scott Schwab nor Attorney General Derek Schmidt were committed 
to investigating election misconduct.

Schwab and Schmidt have repeatedly expressed confidence in security 
of Kansas elections and integrity of voting results. Schwab, the state’s
 chief elections officer, said counts from the Aug. 2 primary election 
demonstrated accuracy of the 105-county system. Both Republican elected 
officials have said they were willing to consider amendments to state 
law that promoted public confidence in Kansas elections.

“I think they’re afraid,” Hayden said. “So, my county, my crime. 
People are railing at me for even looking at it. I don’t care. It’s 
important.”

He said the criminal investigation forced Johnson County election 
officials to preserve voting records that otherwise might be destroyed. 
He told the group during the taped meeting that he couldn’t delve into 
“all the secret stuff we’ve been doing” to build a case, but confided he
 was struggling to establish probable cause to justify search warrants 
that might help him gain traction.

“We’ve got tons of reasonable suspicion. I mean, tons of it. But I’ve
 got to have probable cause for a search warrant, to swear that I know a
 crime has been committed,” the sheriff said. “You’ve got to have a bad 
guy. We have to have a bad guy.”

Hayden said the investigation was hampered by an inability to 
identify people who could move beyond conjecture or theory about how 
fraud was allegedly perpetrated in Johnson County. In addition, he said,
 building a case could be undermined if the corruption was traced to 
China because he couldn’t arrest operatives overseas.

The sheriff said he was convinced evidence would surface Johnson 
County was among about 60 counties nationwide that worked with 
“nefarious” companies or groups that conspired to undermine election 
security. He was most concerned about security of electronic voting 
machines.

“I’m not sure that they have gotten into our machines. I can’t prove it,” Hayden said.

He expressed gratitude to community volunteers who served as 
observers in recent elections in Johnson County. During the meeting, he 
was asked whether a poll worker could legally take photographs of 
suspicious election documents that might be useful to the sheriff’s 
fraud investigation.

“Be slippery about it,” the sheriff said, “if you do it.” He 
cautioned that county election officials would get “touchy, crazy if 
they see you doing it.”

Hayden said he assigned deputies to observe ballot drop boxes in 
Johnson County ahead of the August primary election and predicted the 
2023 Legislature would ban use of the ballot deposit boxes in Kansas.

He said state lawmakers could go as far as prohibiting use of voting 
machines, leaving the state to count paper ballots by hand. The sheriff 
complained about lack of the “chain of custody” of ballots moved from 
polling locations to county offices for counting. He also said penalties
 for violating state election laws were lame.

Hayden, who began his Kansas law enforcement career in 1981, said he 
supported a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution on ballots in 
November that would block counties from abandoning the practice of 
electing sheriffs.

“The politicians want to get rid of the sheriff’s position,” Hayden said, “because we’re in the way.”

If the amendment received a majority of those voting Nov. 8, it would
 alter the state Constitution to require election of county sheriffs in 
counties that hadn’t abolished the office before January 2022. Rejection
 of the amendment would enable counties to continue electing sheriffs or
 adopt an alternative model whereby the county’s chief law officer was 
appointed. Riley County is the lone county that appoints that officer.

Hayden objected to the idea raised last year by Johnson County 
Commissioner Janee Hanzlick and others who preferred appointment of the 
county’s sheriff. Hanzlick said she’d fielded complaints about Hayden’s 
extreme partisanship.

“We’ve got an answer for her, and that’s called the constitutional sheriff’s amendment in November. Just vote yes,” Hayden said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662834404561.png" alt="Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Hayden, shown here during a June speech about election fraud, said he was prepared to deploy deputies to thwart zealous IRS agents and was struggling to find probable cause to issue warrants that might help him build an election fraud case in the county. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Johnson County Sheriff Calvin Hayden, shown here during a June speech about election fraud, said he was prepared to deploy deputies to thwart zealous IRS agents and was struggling to find probable cause to issue warrants that might help him build an election fraud case in the county. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/09/johnson-county-sheriff-threatens-to-deploy-army-of-deputies-against-irs-agents/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Johnson County Sheriff 
Calvin Hayden said a federal law allowing the Internal Revenue Service 
to add 87,000 employees posed a threat to people in Kansas’ most 
populous county and could require deployment of deputies to repel tax 
investigators.Hayden, who described the IRS as a “spooky, spooky entity,” generated
 applause from a group of about 30 people during a two-hour open meeting
 at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department headquarters with a promise 
to protect their homes as if they were castles.The sheriff, who is leading a criminal investigation into alleged 
election fraud in the 2020 elections, said the IRS problem resulted from
 the Inflation Reduction Act approved by Congress and signed by 
President Joe Biden. The law earmarked $45 billion for enforcement 
activities over the next decade to help close the gap between what 
Americans owed in federal taxes and what they paid.“That’s why it’s important for us to have an army that you can depend
 on,” said Hayden, referring to department’s 500 employees. “Because, I 
will tell you, they’re going to have to have every IRS agent in the 
United States come to Johnson County, Kansas, before they start doing 
the crap they’re doing. We’re going to be 500 strong, and we’ll do what 
we need to do.”Hayden said he had authority to order the FBI to leave Johnson 
County, but he claimed to have less control over the IRS. He asserted 
IRS agents could enter homes of U.S. residents without a warrant.The sheriff spoke to the group Aug. 30. Video of the gathering was posted to the online platform Rumble.<h2>‘Arrest them all’</h2>Hayden said he had welcomed the opportunity to order 100 deputies to 
cities in Johnson County as well as Kansas City, Missouri, and Lawrence 
in response to “mutual aid” requests related to street protests. He said
 he found the picketing so irritating it left him with “Formica under my
 fingernails.”In Lawrence, the sheriff said he wanted “nothing more than go down 
Mass. Street and arrest them all.” He was prepared to make arrests in 
Prairie Village if protesters did so much as “break a pencil.”Hayden said he wasn’t afraid his approach to law enforcement could 
make him target of a lawsuit by the American Civil Liberties Union.He said future elections in Kansas would likely foster social unrest.
 That possibility, Hayden claimed, ought to compel the Johnson County 
Commission to approve funding to add dozens of deputies to the 
department’s payroll. He said he would file a lawsuit against the 
commission if members didn’t approve his budget request to hire a 
minimum of 20 deputies.The sheriff offered a pre-emptive warning to protesters: “You’re not going to hurt one twig in Johnson County.”<h2>Election fraud?</h2>Hayden said his investigation of possible election fraud remained 
open in Johnson County despite pressure from public officials to wrap up
 the inquiry. He said the work was essential because neither Secretary 
of State Scott Schwab nor Attorney General Derek Schmidt were committed 
to investigating election misconduct.Schwab and Schmidt have repeatedly expressed confidence in security 
of Kansas elections and integrity of voting results. Schwab, the state’s
 chief elections officer, said counts from the Aug. 2 primary election 
demonstrated accuracy of the 105-county system. Both Republican elected 
officials have said they were willing to consider amendments to state 
law that promoted public confidence in Kansas elections.“I think they’re afraid,” Hayden said. “So, my county, my crime. 
People are railing at me for even looking at it. I don’t care. It’s 
important.”He said the criminal investigation forced Johnson County election 
officials to preserve voting records that otherwise might be destroyed. 
He told the group during the taped meeting that he couldn’t delve into 
“all the secret stuff we’ve been doing” to build a case, but confided he
 was struggling to establish probable cause to justify search warrants 
that might help him gain traction.“We’ve got tons of reasonable suspicion. I mean, tons of it. But I’ve
 got to have probable cause for a search warrant, to swear that I know a
 crime has been committed,” the sheriff said. “You’ve got to have a bad 
guy. We have to have a bad guy.”Hayden said the investigation was hampered by an inability to 
identify people who could move beyond conjecture or theory about how 
fraud was allegedly perpetrated in Johnson County. In addition, he said,
 building a case could be undermined if the corruption was traced to 
China because he couldn’t arrest operatives overseas.<h2>‘I can’t prove it’</h2>The sheriff said he was convinced evidence would surface Johnson 
County was among about 60 counties nationwide that worked with 
“nefarious” companies or groups that conspired to undermine election 
security. He was most concerned about security of electronic voting 
machines.“I’m not sure that they have gotten into our machines. I can’t prove it,” Hayden said.He expressed gratitude to community volunteers who served as 
observers in recent elections in Johnson County. During the meeting, he 
was asked whether a poll worker could legally take photographs of 
suspicious election documents that might be useful to the sheriff’s 
fraud investigation.“Be slippery about it,” the sheriff said, “if you do it.” He 
cautioned that county election officials would get “touchy, crazy if 
they see you doing it.”Hayden said he assigned deputies to observe ballot drop boxes in 
Johnson County ahead of the August primary election and predicted the 
2023 Legislature would ban use of the ballot deposit boxes in Kansas.He said state lawmakers could go as far as prohibiting use of voting 
machines, leaving the state to count paper ballots by hand. The sheriff 
complained about lack of the “chain of custody” of ballots moved from 
polling locations to county offices for counting. He also said penalties
 for violating state election laws were lame.<h2>Constitutional amendment</h2>Hayden, who began his Kansas law enforcement career in 1981, said he 
supported a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution on ballots in 
November that would block counties from abandoning the practice of 
electing sheriffs.“The politicians want to get rid of the sheriff’s position,” Hayden said, “because we’re in the way.”If the amendment received a majority of those voting Nov. 8, it would
 alter the state Constitution to require election of county sheriffs in 
counties that hadn’t abolished the office before January 2022. Rejection
 of the amendment would enable counties to continue electing sheriffs or
 adopt an alternative model whereby the county’s chief law officer was 
appointed. Riley County is the lone county that appoints that officer.Hayden objected to the idea raised last year by Johnson County 
Commissioner Janee Hanzlick and others who preferred appointment of the 
county’s sheriff. Hanzlick said she’d fielded complaints about Hayden’s 
extreme partisanship.“We’ve got an answer for her, and that’s called the constitutional sheriff’s amendment in November. Just vote yes,” Hayden said.

Kan. sheriff threatens to deploy ‘army’ of deputies against IRS agents

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.&nbsp; (AP) — A Missouri judge on Friday tossed out a lawsuit that sought to knock a recreational marijuana proposal off the Nov. 8 ballot.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-marijuana-recreational-medical-missouri-d09e1ab128d572495edca73bb52bb241">The measure</a>&nbsp;would allow those ages 21 and older to buy and grow marijuana for personal consumption and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-marijuana-recreational-constitutions-missouri-65e4a10bb7d99fdf9fca2ea57e07d0c1">automatically erase records</a>&nbsp;of some past marijuana-related crimes.

Cole County Circuit Judge Cotton Walker ruled that the plaintiff, Joy Sweeney, did not prove she’s a Missouri resident, which would have been required for her lawsuit to continue.

Sweeney on Thursday testified remotely from her second home in Alexandria, Virginia, that she still owns property in Missouri and is registered to vote in Missouri. Walker said her testimony came too late because her lawyers had already finished submitting evidence in the case.

But Walker noted that he would have ruled against Sweeney's lawsuit even if she had proven her Missouri residency.

In Missouri, proponents of a constitutional amendment need to gather a certain number of signatures from registered voters to get initiatives on the ballot.

Sweeney claimed that the secretary of state’s office overstepped its bounds by re-checking voter signatures, which is typically done by local election officials to make sure signees are properly registered to vote.

Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft's office re-checked petition signatures for the recreational marijuana proposal last month after a lawyer for the pro-pot campaign raised concerns that some signatures from registered voters had been incorrectly tossed out as invalid, which the office confirmed after a review.

In his ruling, Walker wrote that Ashcroft's review of the signatures was legal and that he was right to confirm that the campaign gathered enough valid signatures for the measure to be put on the ballot.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.&nbsp; (AP) — A Missouri judge on Friday tossed out a lawsuit that sought to knock a recreational marijuana proposal off the Nov. 8 ballot.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-marijuana-recreational-medical-missouri-d09e1ab128d572495edca73bb52bb241">The measure</a>&nbsp;would allow those ages 21 and older to buy and grow marijuana for personal consumption and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-marijuana-recreational-constitutions-missouri-65e4a10bb7d99fdf9fca2ea57e07d0c1">automatically erase records</a>&nbsp;of some past marijuana-related crimes.Cole County Circuit Judge Cotton Walker ruled that the plaintiff, Joy Sweeney, did not prove she’s a Missouri resident, which would have been required for her lawsuit to continue.Sweeney on Thursday testified remotely from her second home in Alexandria, Virginia, that she still owns property in Missouri and is registered to vote in Missouri. Walker said her testimony came too late because her lawyers had already finished submitting evidence in the case.But Walker noted that he would have ruled against Sweeney's lawsuit even if she had proven her Missouri residency.In Missouri, proponents of a constitutional amendment need to gather a certain number of signatures from registered voters to get initiatives on the ballot.Sweeney claimed that the secretary of state’s office overstepped its bounds by re-checking voter signatures, which is typically done by local election officials to make sure signees are properly registered to vote.Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft's office re-checked petition signatures for the recreational marijuana proposal last month after a lawyer for the pro-pot campaign raised concerns that some signatures from registered voters had been incorrectly tossed out as invalid, which the office confirmed after a review.In his ruling, Walker wrote that Ashcroft's review of the signatures was legal and that he was right to confirm that the campaign gathered enough valid signatures for the measure to be put on the ballot.

Judge tosses suit against Missouri recreational pot measure

LONDON (AP) —Palace officials say the state funeral for Queen Elizabeth II will take place on Sept. 19 at Westminster Abbey in London after the public gets an opportunity to pay their last respects to the monarch.

Elizabeth, the nation’s longest-reigning sovereign, died Thursday at her summer retreat in the Scottish Highlands.

Details on the 96-year old queen’s funeral will be released later, but organizers on Saturday described the ceremony as a “a fitting farewell to one of the defining figures of our times.’’

Palace officials said there would be opportunities to see the late sovereign’s oak coffin as it journeys from Balmoral Castle in Scotland to Edinburgh and again in London, where her body will lie in state for four days starting Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662828587465.png" alt="The condolence book at the British Consulate General in Houston, Texas-photo courtesy&nbsp; office of British Consulate General" />
 <figcaption>The condolence book at the British Consulate General in Houston, Texas-photo courtesy&nbsp; office of British Consulate General</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) —Palace officials say the state funeral for Queen Elizabeth II will take place on Sept. 19 at Westminster Abbey in London after the public gets an opportunity to pay their last respects to the monarch.Elizabeth, the nation’s longest-reigning sovereign, died Thursday at her summer retreat in the Scottish Highlands.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The State Funeral of Her Majesty The Queen will take place at Westminster Abbey on Monday 19th September. Prior to the State Funeral, The Queen will Lie-in-State in Westminster Hall for four days, to allow the public to pay their respects.&mdash; The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1568631258657312770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Details on the 96-year old queen’s funeral will be released later, but organizers on Saturday described the ceremony as a “a fitting farewell to one of the defining figures of our times.’’Palace officials said there would be opportunities to see the late sovereign’s oak coffin as it journeys from Balmoral Castle in Scotland to Edinburgh and again in London, where her body will lie in state for four days starting Wednesday.

Palace sets date for Queen Elizabeth II's funeral 

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating after a juvenile suspect following a crash that temporarily locked down a high school.

Just after 8a.m. Sept. 8, police&nbsp;responded to a hit and run crash at the intersection of SW Western Avenue and SW Munson Avenue, according to Police Lt. Manuel Munoz.

 Citizens reported that four individuals were seen running northbound from the scene of the crash towards Topeka High School.

Topeka Police officers and other law enforcement agencies responded to the area. Four individuals were taken into custody at the scene. 

As a result of the investigation, officers transported one boy to the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on requested charges of Criminal Use of a Weapon/by a Minor, Possession of a Firearm on School Grounds and Child in Need of Care, according to Munoz.

This incident was an isolated event, and is not related to the school. The lockdown was a precaution and there were not injuries reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662757556098.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating after a juvenile suspect following a crash that temporarily locked down a high school.Just after 8a.m. Sept. 8, police&nbsp;responded to a hit and run crash at the intersection of SW Western Avenue and SW Munson Avenue, according to Police Lt. Manuel Munoz. Citizens reported that four individuals were seen running northbound from the scene of the crash towards Topeka High School.Topeka Police officers and other law enforcement agencies responded to the area. Four individuals were taken into custody at the scene. As a result of the investigation, officers transported one boy to the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on requested charges of Criminal Use of a Weapon/by a Minor, Possession of a Firearm on School Grounds and Child in Need of Care, according to Munoz.This incident was an isolated event, and is not related to the school. The lockdown was a precaution and there were not injuries reported.

Juvenile jailed after hit-and-run prompted lockdown at Kan. school

By KALIN KROHE Panhandle Post

ALLIANCE, Neb. -&nbsp; Ryan McElroy, 37, Salina,&nbsp; has pleaded guilty to a motor vehicle homicide DUI, Class 2 Felony in Box Butte County, Nebraska District Court.

McElroy will serve a minimum penalty of one-year imprisonment, with a maximum of 50 years. McElroy's charges of manslaughter (Class 2 Felony), DUI-third offense (Class W Misdemeanor), and reckless driving (Class 3 Misdemeanor) were dropped due to a plea agreement of pleading guilty to motor vehicle homicide.

On April 10, McElroy killed 22-year-old Blythe Boness of Alliance in a vehicle crash on Highway 2.

“At that time, the defendant, Ryan J. McElroy, was traveling eastbound on Highway 2 as driver and sole occupant of a red 2011 Chevrolet Camaro,” Deputy County Attorney Travis Rodak said. “At approximately mile marker 92.5 in Box Butte County, McElroy crossed the center line and began driving in the westbound lane of Highway 2. Boness made an evasive maneuver toward the north shoulder, and the defendant made an evasive maneuver to return to his lane, and struck Boness’ vehicle. Boness was killed as a result of the ensuing collision.”

McElroy was extracted from his vehicle by first responders and flown to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff for treatment. His blood alcohol content was .235 grams per 100 ml of blood.

McElroy was previously convicted of a DUI in Gage County on June 12, 2008. McElroy's sentencing is set for Nov. 7.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1580401534236.jpeg" alt="Ryan McElroy.&nbsp;Photo from January 2020 courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office " />
 <figcaption>Ryan McElroy.&nbsp;Photo from January 2020 courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office </figcaption>
 </figure>By KALIN KROHE Panhandle PostALLIANCE, Neb. -&nbsp; Ryan McElroy, 37, Salina,&nbsp; has pleaded guilty to a motor vehicle homicide DUI, Class 2 Felony in Box Butte County, Nebraska District Court.McElroy will serve a minimum penalty of one-year imprisonment, with a maximum of 50 years. McElroy's charges of manslaughter (Class 2 Felony), DUI-third offense (Class W Misdemeanor), and reckless driving (Class 3 Misdemeanor) were dropped due to a plea agreement of pleading guilty to motor vehicle homicide.On April 10, McElroy killed 22-year-old Blythe Boness of Alliance in a vehicle crash on Highway 2.“At that time, the defendant, Ryan J. McElroy, was traveling eastbound on Highway 2 as driver and sole occupant of a red 2011 Chevrolet Camaro,” Deputy County Attorney Travis Rodak said. “At approximately mile marker 92.5 in Box Butte County, McElroy crossed the center line and began driving in the westbound lane of Highway 2. Boness made an evasive maneuver toward the north shoulder, and the defendant made an evasive maneuver to return to his lane, and struck Boness’ vehicle. Boness was killed as a result of the ensuing collision.”McElroy was extracted from his vehicle by first responders and flown to Regional West Medical Center in Scottsbluff for treatment. His blood alcohol content was .235 grams per 100 ml of blood.McElroy was previously convicted of a DUI in Gage County on June 12, 2008. McElroy's sentencing is set for Nov. 7.&nbsp;

Kan. man pleads guilty in DUI crash that killed Nebraska woman

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are seeking to bring awareness to the case of Jaquilla Scales, who has been missing since 2001. 

This week marked 21 years since her disappearance, largely overshadowed by the news of the attacks on the twin towers on 9/11.

Jaquilla was four years old when she was last seen in her bed at approximately 12:30 a.m. on September 5, 2001. She was discovered missing at 3:00 a.m at her home in the 1600 block of N. Volutsia in Wichita.

Jaquilla was last seen wearing a knee-length floral nightshirt and tan barrettes in her hair. She had a scar on her upper right leg, a brown birthmark on her face, and her upper teeth were decayed at the time of her disappearance. She also went by the nickname “Granny Boo.”

For 21 years since her disappearance, the family and friends of Jaquilla and the Wichita community have not had answers as to why she disappeared.&nbsp; She would be 25 years old now.

Six days after she disappeared, the 9/11 attacks occurred. The Wichita Police Department has not forgotten Jaquilla, and investigators are still seeking answers in her case.

If you have information regarding the disappearance of Jaquilla Scales, police ask that you contact investigators at 316-268-4379 or email the Cold Case Unit at&nbsp; coldcase@wichita.gov. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you can send a tip to Crime Stoppers by calling 316-267-2111 or downloading the free P3 mobile app.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662566019085.png" alt="Age progress image of Scales from Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Age progress image of Scales from Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are seeking to bring awareness to the case of Jaquilla Scales, who has been missing since 2001. This week marked 21 years since her disappearance, largely overshadowed by the news of the attacks on the twin towers on 9/11.Jaquilla was four years old when she was last seen in her bed at approximately 12:30 a.m. on September 5, 2001. She was discovered missing at 3:00 a.m at her home in the 1600 block of N. Volutsia in Wichita.Jaquilla was last seen wearing a knee-length floral nightshirt and tan barrettes in her hair. She had a scar on her upper right leg, a brown birthmark on her face, and her upper teeth were decayed at the time of her disappearance. She also went by the nickname “Granny Boo.”For 21 years since her disappearance, the family and friends of Jaquilla and the Wichita community have not had answers as to why she disappeared.&nbsp; She would be 25 years old now.Six days after she disappeared, the 9/11 attacks occurred. The Wichita Police Department has not forgotten Jaquilla, and investigators are still seeking answers in her case.If you have information regarding the disappearance of Jaquilla Scales, police ask that you contact investigators at 316-268-4379 or email the Cold Case Unit at&nbsp; coldcase@wichita.gov. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you can send a tip to Crime Stoppers by calling 316-267-2111 or downloading the free P3 mobile app.

Police: Kansas girl disappeared 21-years ago this week

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Republican candidate for Kansas attorney general resigned Friday from the board of directors of a nonprofit group that has been accused of defrauding people who believed they were donating to help build a wall on the U.S. southern border.

Kris Kobach resigned from the board of directors and as general counsel of WeBuildTheWall, Inc., The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/Read%20more%20at:%20https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article265553211.html#storylink=cpy">reported</a>.

Kobach, a former Kansas secretary of state,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-biden-covid-health-kris-kobach-ac39bedfefa29f87cb14d402bf273280">has built a national reputation</a>&nbsp;by advocating tough immigration policies and questioning the integrity of elections. He was vice chairman of former President Donald Trump's commission on election fraud.

The company and Steve Bannon, a longtime Trump ally,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/steve-bannon-crime-new-york-manhattan-donald-trump-19b6d86b69eeba1c6457df5e2748e82b">were indicted Thursday</a>&nbsp;in New York on allegations of money laundering, conspiracy and fraud in connection with the fundraising campaign.

Kobach, who has not been accused of wrongdoing in the case, said he doesn’t believe he is in legal jeopardy.

On Wednesday evening, before the indictment was unsealed, Kobach said he was still with the organization to help it legally shut down. His campaign said he resigned from the board after The Star asked about his continuing involvement.

State Sen. J.R. Claeys, a Salina Republican and Kobach’s campaign spokesman, said Friday that a nonprofit corporation could be shut down even if a case was proceeding against it.

Bannon and the organization were accused of transferring hundreds of thousands of dollars to third-party entities and using them to funnel payments to two other people involved in the scheme.

The organization and Bannon have pleaded not guilty.

Bannon was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/steve-bannon-trump-pardons-broidy-66c82f25134735e742b2501c118723bb">pardoned</a>&nbsp;by Trump after he was indicted on similar federal charges but that does not affect state-level charges.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The Republican candidate for Kansas attorney general resigned Friday from the board of directors of a nonprofit group that has been accused of defrauding people who believed they were donating to help build a wall on the U.S. southern border.Kris Kobach resigned from the board of directors and as general counsel of WeBuildTheWall, Inc., The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/Read%20more%20at:%20https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article265553211.html#storylink=cpy">reported</a>.Kobach, a former Kansas secretary of state,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-biden-covid-health-kris-kobach-ac39bedfefa29f87cb14d402bf273280">has built a national reputation</a>&nbsp;by advocating tough immigration policies and questioning the integrity of elections. He was vice chairman of former President Donald Trump's commission on election fraud.The company and Steve Bannon, a longtime Trump ally,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/steve-bannon-crime-new-york-manhattan-donald-trump-19b6d86b69eeba1c6457df5e2748e82b">were indicted Thursday</a>&nbsp;in New York on allegations of money laundering, conspiracy and fraud in connection with the fundraising campaign.Kobach, who has not been accused of wrongdoing in the case, said he doesn’t believe he is in legal jeopardy.On Wednesday evening, before the indictment was unsealed, Kobach said he was still with the organization to help it legally shut down. His campaign said he resigned from the board after The Star asked about his continuing involvement.State Sen. J.R. Claeys, a Salina Republican and Kobach’s campaign spokesman, said Friday that a nonprofit corporation could be shut down even if a case was proceeding against it.Bannon and the organization were accused of transferring hundreds of thousands of dollars to third-party entities and using them to funnel payments to two other people involved in the scheme.The organization and Bannon have pleaded not guilty.Bannon was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/steve-bannon-trump-pardons-broidy-66c82f25134735e742b2501c118723bb">pardoned</a>&nbsp;by Trump after he was indicted on similar federal charges but that does not affect state-level charges.

Kansas AG candidate resigns from 'We Build the Wall' board

KINGMAN COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Friday in Kingman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Polaris ATV driven by Max Wewe, 19, Pretty Prairie, was eastbound on Southeast 20th Street just west of 120th Avenue.

 The vehicle collided with a bull that was in the roadway. Both Wewe and a passenger identified as Cade Fairchild, 21, Cheney, were ejected. The ATV&nbsp;came to rest in the south ditch on Southwest 20th.&nbsp;

Wewe was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Fairchild to St. Francis Hospital. They were not wearing helmets, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592389654778.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Friday in Kingman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Polaris ATV driven by Max Wewe, 19, Pretty Prairie, was eastbound on Southeast 20th Street just west of 120th Avenue. The vehicle collided with a bull that was in the roadway. Both Wewe and a passenger identified as Cade Fairchild, 21, Cheney, were ejected. The ATV&nbsp;came to rest in the south ditch on Southwest 20th.&nbsp;Wewe was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Fairchild to St. Francis Hospital. They were not wearing helmets, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after ATV struck a bull on the road

JACKSON COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating two Kansas woman on drug allegations.

Just after 8:30a.m. Sept. 6, a sheriff's deputy stopped a Chrysler Town and Country mini-van on 150th near U.S. Highway 75 for an alleged registration infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 The deputy discovered what was believed to be drug contraband which led to the arrest of the driver and passenger of the vehicle.

 The driver identified as Arasally Perez-Villa, 26, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a license. 

The passenger, Kristy Eve Little-Bull-Noble, 35, of Topeka, was arrested on on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662547756062.png" alt="Little-Bull-Noble-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Little-Bull-Noble-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating two Kansas woman on drug allegations.Just after 8:30a.m. Sept. 6, a sheriff's deputy stopped a Chrysler Town and Country mini-van on 150th near U.S. Highway 75 for an alleged registration infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The deputy discovered what was believed to be drug contraband which led to the arrest of the driver and passenger of the vehicle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662547663413.png" alt="Perez-Vila-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Perez-Vila-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> The driver identified as Arasally Perez-Villa, 26, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without a license. The passenger, Kristy Eve Little-Bull-Noble, 35, of Topeka, was arrested on on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.

Sheriff: 2 Kansas women accused of transporting meth

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III vowed in his first speech as monarch Friday to carry on Queen Elizabeth II's “lifelong service,” as Britain entered an uncertain new age under a new sovereign. Around the world, the queen's exceptional reign was commemorated, celebrated and debated.

Charles, who spent much of his 73 years preparing for the role of king, addressed a nation grieving the only British monarch most people alive today had ever known. He takes the throne in an era of unease for both his country and the monarchy itself.

He spoke of his “profound sorrow” over the death of his mother, calling her “an inspiration and example to me and to all my family.”

“That promise of lifelong service I renew to all today,” he said in the 9 1/2-minute address, recorded earlier in the day and delivered with a framed photo of the queen on a desk in front of him.

“As the queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I, too, now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation," he said.

The king's speech was broadcast on television and streamed at St. Paul’s Cathedral, where some 2,000 people attended a service of remembrance for the queen. They included Prime Minister Liz Truss and members of her government.

As the country began a 10-day mourning period, people around the globe gathered at British embassies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/queen-elizabeth-ii-russia-ukraine-putin-biden-united-nations-3308a9ada3312a6b7f294997231ebb23">pay homage to the queen</a>, who died Thursday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

In London and at military sites across the United Kingdom, cannons fired 96 shots in an elaborate, 16-minute salute marking each year of the queen’s life.

The widespread admiration for Elizabeth in Britain and across its former colonies was occasionally mixed with scorn for the institution and the imperial history she symbolized.

Charles, who became the monarch immediately upon his mother’s death, will be formally proclaimed king at a ceremony on Saturday. He is expected to tour the United Kingdom in the coming days.

The queen’s coffin will be brought to London, where she will lie in state before a funeral at Westminster Abbey, expected around Sept. 19.

On the king's first full day of duties, Charles left Balmoral and flew to London for a meeting with Truss, appointed by the queen just two days before her death.

He arrived at Buckingham Palace, the monarch's London home, for the first time as sovereign, emerging from the official state Bentley limousine alongside Camilla, the queen consort, to shouts from the crowd of “Well done, Charlie!” and the singing of the national anthem, now called “God Save the King.” One woman gave him a kiss on the cheek.

Under intense scrutiny and pressure to show he can be both caring and regal, Charles walked slowly past flowers heaped at the palace gates for his mother. The mood was both grieving and celebratory.

The seismic change of monarch comes at a time when many Britons are facing an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f4ea4c93b9d0b30063ed6018e7727959">energy crisis</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/storms-inflation-economy-prices-f4ea4c93b9d0b30063ed6018e7727959">soaring cost of living</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">war in Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and the fallout from Brexit.

In his speech, Charles looked to both the past — noting his mother's unwavering “dedication and devotion as sovereign” — and the future, seeking to strike a reassuring note of constancy.

He reflected on how the country had changed during the queen's reign into a society “of many cultures and many faiths" while “our values have remained, and must remain, constant.”

He spoke of his son Prince William, now heir to the throne and formally given the title that Charles long held, Prince of Wales.

“With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the center ground where vital help can be given,” Charles said, referring to the couple's work on homelessness, mental health and other issues.

And he struck a note of reconciliation after a raw family rift when he said, “I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas."

Prince Harry and wife Meghan have been in a tense relationship with the royal family since they stepped away from their official duties and left the country in 2020, citing what they said were the unbearable intrusions and racist attitudes of the British media toward the biracial American actress.

As the second Elizabethan Age came to a close, throngs of people arrived all day to grieve together and lay flowers outside the gates of Buckingham Palace and other royal residences.

Finance worker Giles Cudmore said the queen had “just been a constant through everything, everything good and bad.”

At Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, mourner April Hamilton stood with her young daughter, struggling to hold back tears.

“It’s just such a momentous change that is going to happen,” she said. “I’m trying to hold it together today.”

Many sporting and cultural events were canceled as a mark of respect, and some businesses — including Selfridges department store and the Legoland amusement park — shut their doors. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-russia-ukraine-united-kingdom-3b41a590eda012fa9da043a53324d00b">Bank of England</a>&nbsp;postponed its meeting by a week.

Elizabeth was Britain’s longest-reigning monarch and a symbol of constancy in a turbulent era that saw the decline of the British empire and upheaval in her family, including the messy divorce of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

The public’s affection for the queen had helped sustain support for the monarchy amid complaints in some quarters that it had outlived its usefulness. But Charles does not command that kind of popularity.

“Charles can never replace her, you know," said 31-year-old Londoner Mariam Sherwani.

Like many, she referred to Elizabeth as a grandmother figure. Others compared her to their mothers, or great-grandmothers.

But around the world, her passing revealed conflicting emotions about the nation and institutions she represented.

In India, once the “jewel in the crown” of the British empire, entrepreneur Dhiren Singh described his own personal sadness at her death, but added, “I do not think we have any place for kings and queens in today’s world."

For some, Elizabeth was a queen whose coronation glittered with shards of a stunning 3,106-carat diamond pulled from grim southern African mines, a monarch who inherited an empire they resented.

Across Africa, nations rejected British rule and chose independence in her first decade on the throne.

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III vowed in his first speech as monarch Friday to carry on Queen Elizabeth II's “lifelong service,” as Britain entered an uncertain new age under a new sovereign. Around the world, the queen's exceptional reign was commemorated, celebrated and debated.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/E_5REdx2Vtk?start=12" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Charles, who spent much of his 73 years preparing for the role of king, addressed a nation grieving the only British monarch most people alive today had ever known. He takes the throne in an era of unease for both his country and the monarchy itself.He spoke of his “profound sorrow” over the death of his mother, calling her “an inspiration and example to me and to all my family.”“That promise of lifelong service I renew to all today,” he said in the 9 1/2-minute address, recorded earlier in the day and delivered with a framed photo of the queen on a desk in front of him.“As the queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I, too, now solemnly pledge myself, throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation," he said.The king's speech was broadcast on television and streamed at St. Paul’s Cathedral, where some 2,000 people attended a service of remembrance for the queen. They included Prime Minister Liz Truss and members of her government.As the country began a 10-day mourning period, people around the globe gathered at British embassies to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/queen-elizabeth-ii-russia-ukraine-putin-biden-united-nations-3308a9ada3312a6b7f294997231ebb23">pay homage to the queen</a>, who died Thursday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.In London and at military sites across the United Kingdom, cannons fired 96 shots in an elaborate, 16-minute salute marking each year of the queen’s life.The widespread admiration for Elizabeth in Britain and across its former colonies was occasionally mixed with scorn for the institution and the imperial history she symbolized.Charles, who became the monarch immediately upon his mother’s death, will be formally proclaimed king at a ceremony on Saturday. He is expected to tour the United Kingdom in the coming days.The queen’s coffin will be brought to London, where she will lie in state before a funeral at Westminster Abbey, expected around Sept. 19.On the king's first full day of duties, Charles left Balmoral and flew to London for a meeting with Truss, appointed by the queen just two days before her death.He arrived at Buckingham Palace, the monarch's London home, for the first time as sovereign, emerging from the official state Bentley limousine alongside Camilla, the queen consort, to shouts from the crowd of “Well done, Charlie!” and the singing of the national anthem, now called “God Save the King.” One woman gave him a kiss on the cheek.Under intense scrutiny and pressure to show he can be both caring and regal, Charles walked slowly past flowers heaped at the palace gates for his mother. The mood was both grieving and celebratory.The seismic change of monarch comes at a time when many Britons are facing an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f4ea4c93b9d0b30063ed6018e7727959">energy crisis</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/storms-inflation-economy-prices-f4ea4c93b9d0b30063ed6018e7727959">soaring cost of living</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">war in Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and the fallout from Brexit.In his speech, Charles looked to both the past — noting his mother's unwavering “dedication and devotion as sovereign” — and the future, seeking to strike a reassuring note of constancy.He reflected on how the country had changed during the queen's reign into a society “of many cultures and many faiths" while “our values have remained, and must remain, constant.”He spoke of his son Prince William, now heir to the throne and formally given the title that Charles long held, Prince of Wales.“With Catherine beside him, our new Prince and Princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations, helping to bring the marginal to the center ground where vital help can be given,” Charles said, referring to the couple's work on homelessness, mental health and other issues.And he struck a note of reconciliation after a raw family rift when he said, “I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan as they continue to build their lives overseas."Prince Harry and wife Meghan have been in a tense relationship with the royal family since they stepped away from their official duties and left the country in 2020, citing what they said were the unbearable intrusions and racist attitudes of the British media toward the biracial American actress.As the second Elizabethan Age came to a close, throngs of people arrived all day to grieve together and lay flowers outside the gates of Buckingham Palace and other royal residences.Finance worker Giles Cudmore said the queen had “just been a constant through everything, everything good and bad.”At Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, mourner April Hamilton stood with her young daughter, struggling to hold back tears.“It’s just such a momentous change that is going to happen,” she said. “I’m trying to hold it together today.”Many sporting and cultural events were canceled as a mark of respect, and some businesses — including Selfridges department store and the Legoland amusement park — shut their doors. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-russia-ukraine-united-kingdom-3b41a590eda012fa9da043a53324d00b">Bank of England</a>&nbsp;postponed its meeting by a week.Elizabeth was Britain’s longest-reigning monarch and a symbol of constancy in a turbulent era that saw the decline of the British empire and upheaval in her family, including the messy divorce of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.The public’s affection for the queen had helped sustain support for the monarchy amid complaints in some quarters that it had outlived its usefulness. But Charles does not command that kind of popularity.“Charles can never replace her, you know," said 31-year-old Londoner Mariam Sherwani.Like many, she referred to Elizabeth as a grandmother figure. Others compared her to their mothers, or great-grandmothers.But around the world, her passing revealed conflicting emotions about the nation and institutions she represented.In Ireland, some soccer fans cheered.In India, once the “jewel in the crown” of the British empire, entrepreneur Dhiren Singh described his own personal sadness at her death, but added, “I do not think we have any place for kings and queens in today’s world."For some, Elizabeth was a queen whose coronation glittered with shards of a stunning 3,106-carat diamond pulled from grim southern African mines, a monarch who inherited an empire they resented.Across Africa, nations rejected British rule and chose independence in her first decade on the throne.

🎥King Charles III, in first address, vows `lifelong service'

HUTCHINSON — The fair is always about tradition and competition. One of the unusual and traditional competitions is the contest to see who can grow the largest pumpkin.&nbsp;

This year, the fair set a new record. Matt Jacobs of Stillwell, Kansas, broke the all-time record for the largest pumpkin, which came in at 1,280 pounds.

Other contests for the fair’s 10-day run include the youth pedal pull championships on Sunday, the best scarecrow contest, a biscuit bake off, best barbecue sauce contest, and a fresh salsa contest.

Those contests go along with the competitive exhibits that include food, photography, quilts, knitting and many other displays. The competitive displays are back in several buildings this year. The handiwork of Kansas residents is found at the Domestic Arts building, the Lake Talbott East and West buildings, the Pride of Kansas building and the Oz Gallery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662753990108.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By HUTCH POST HUTCHINSON — The fair is always about tradition and competition. One of the unusual and traditional competitions is the contest to see who can grow the largest pumpkin.&nbsp;This year, the fair set a new record. Matt Jacobs of Stillwell, Kansas, broke the all-time record for the largest pumpkin, which came in at 1,280 pounds.Other contests for the fair’s 10-day run include the youth pedal pull championships on Sunday, the best scarecrow contest, a biscuit bake off, best barbecue sauce contest, and a fresh salsa contest.Those contests go along with the competitive exhibits that include food, photography, quilts, knitting and many other displays. The competitive displays are back in several buildings this year. The handiwork of Kansas residents is found at the Domestic Arts building, the Lake Talbott East and West buildings, the Pride of Kansas building and the Oz Gallery.

New and unusual record set at Kansas State Fair

LINN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are working to ID a body found in rural Linn County.

Just before 6p.m. Thursday a citizen reported that a deceased body was found in a hay field in the area of 2400 and Iliff Road, Fontana, Kansas, according to Linn County Sheriff Kevin Friend.

The location is just south of the Linn, Miami County Kansas line near Middle Creek. 

Deputies responded and confirmed the report. Detectives were called to begin investigation of the findings. Deputies canvassed the area and discovered a 2000 Toyota passenger vehicle on the property in a wooded area.&nbsp; The vehicle and body were separated by some distance and not within site of one another. 

Items of personal property were found scattered about the property. The body was collected and sent for forensic review. 

Officials have not confirmed the identity of the body. 

Investigators returned to the area on Thursday in the daylight hours to search for any other items. Detectives were being assisted by the Drone Operations Unit to fully search the property as it is a large area, according to Friend.

 Linn County Detectives are working with the Ottawa Police Department on the investigation as they believe there may be a connection with a case from their jurisdiction.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662755516972.png" alt="Garrett Russell, 30, Lawrence was reported missing by his family on Aug. 24 and is last known to be driving a white 1998 Toyota with the Kansas license plate 619 RGX, photo Franklin County Sheriff." />
 <figcaption>Garrett Russell, 30, Lawrence was reported missing by his family on Aug. 24 and is last known to be driving a white 1998 Toyota with the Kansas license plate 619 RGX, photo Franklin County Sheriff.</figcaption>
 </figure>LINN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are working to ID a body found in rural Linn County.Just before 6p.m. Thursday a citizen reported that a deceased body was found in a hay field in the area of 2400 and Iliff Road, Fontana, Kansas, according to Linn County Sheriff Kevin Friend.The location is just south of the Linn, Miami County Kansas line near Middle Creek. Deputies responded and confirmed the report. Detectives were called to begin investigation of the findings. Deputies canvassed the area and discovered a 2000 Toyota passenger vehicle on the property in a wooded area.&nbsp; The vehicle and body were separated by some distance and not within site of one another. Items of personal property were found scattered about the property. The body was collected and sent for forensic review. Officials have not confirmed the identity of the body. Investigators returned to the area on Thursday in the daylight hours to search for any other items. Detectives were being assisted by the Drone Operations Unit to fully search the property as it is a large area, according to Friend. Linn County Detectives are working with the Ottawa Police Department on the investigation as they believe there may be a connection with a case from their jurisdiction.&nbsp;

Sheriff working to ID body found in rural Kansas hay field

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal Friday morning crash have identified the victim as 47-year-old&nbsp;Jeramie Santee of Wichita, according to Officer Chad Ditch&nbsp;

Just after 8a.m., police were dispatched to an injury accident on Pawnee just below the Interstate 135 overpass in Wichita. First responders located Santee unconscious and not breathing. They began providing life-saving measures. 

EMS pronounced Santee deceased on the scene, according to Ditch.

The investigation revealed that Santee was driving 2019 Chevy Silverado westbound on Pawnee and collided with a concrete pillar below Interstate 135. No other vehicles were involved, and no other injuries occurred. Speed is believed to be a factor in the crash, according to Ditch.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662752631751.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KAKE" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KAKE</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal Friday morning crash have identified the victim as 47-year-old&nbsp;Jeramie Santee of Wichita, according to Officer Chad Ditch&nbsp;Just after 8a.m., police were dispatched to an injury accident on Pawnee just below the Interstate 135 overpass in Wichita. First responders located Santee unconscious and not breathing. They began providing life-saving measures. EMS pronounced Santee deceased on the scene, according to Ditch.The investigation revealed that Santee was driving 2019 Chevy Silverado westbound on Pawnee and collided with a concrete pillar below Interstate 135. No other vehicles were involved, and no other injuries occurred. Speed is believed to be a factor in the crash, according to Ditch.

Police: Speed a factor in crash that killed Kansas man

I know, it may feel a little early to be talking about Christmas. But hear me out! While you might not be ready to hang the mistletoe, it’s never too early to save money for the holidays. In fact, the sooner you start saving up, the better (and less stressful) the season will be.

Too many people find themselves mid-November with nothing saved, so they turn to credit cards in a panic and end up paying for Christmas until April of the next year. Not good. That’s why I like to put aside a little money each month starting in January. But if you’re just now thinking about saving, don’t worry. There’s still plenty of time to save up some cash between now and the most magical time of year. You just need a plan.

Start by creating a holiday savings fund

Think of a holiday fund like a savings account that you set up for all your holiday needs. This is where you’ll stash the money you’re saving and watch it grow as the season (finally!) gets closer.

To set your fund goal, look at how much you spent on Christmas gifts last year. Where did you overspend? Do you need to increase or lower your budget? Then, think about what you’ve got on your plate this year. How much will you be able to spend on each person at Christmas? What about parties or gatherings? Then, compare your projection with last year’s number and set your goal!

Once you’ve figured out the total you want to spend, divide it by the number of months or weeks left until Christmas. Let’s say your budget is $900 and you’re just now getting started. That means you’ll need to save $300 a month over these next three months. Make sense?

Now, the easiest way to boost your holiday budget is to cut back on spending. Way too many people think it takes a ton of money to have memorable holiday fun. What that really means, though, is your bank account will be hurting when January rolls around. Go for a cheaper celebration that helps you keep more cash in your pocket.

Here are some of my favorite ways to get the most out of that holiday budget:

1.      Skip some of your traditions - Guess what? You don’t have to do Elf on the Shelf or an expensive Christmas card photo session. Save money by skipping out on traditions that you don’t truly have to do. Just look at your budget and be open and honest with your family as you decide what to cut and what to keep.

2.      Cut down on the cost of gifts - You can save serious cash on presents this year—without being a Grinch. Shop sales. Use coupons. Give out baked goods. Skip the random gift exchanges. And instead of buying presents for every extended family member, have each person draw a name and buy just one gift for the person they get.

3.      Turn overblown holiday feasts into a potluck - I love hosting family dinners and parties with friends, but I could easily blow half my holiday budget on one gathering. If you like to host, you can cook the main course and ask your guests to bring the sides. That way, you’re not stuck with the entire bill, and everyone feels good because they helped out.

I promise your holiday season will be much happier when you can check everything off while sticking to your budget—instead of spending first and worrying about the fallout later. And planning ahead, having a budget, and being mindful of your spending is how you make your money goals a reality this year. You’ll be amazed at how a few small, intentional changes can impact your holiday budget with tidings of great joy!

Rachel Cruze&nbsp;is a two-time #1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of&nbsp;The Rachel Cruze Show.&nbsp;She has appeared on Good Morning America, TODAY Show and Live! With Kelly &amp; Ryan, among others. Since 2010, Rachel has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches people to avoid debt, save money, budget and how to win with money at any stage in life. Follow Rachel on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/rachelcruze" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rachelcruze/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/rachelramseycruze" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/rachelcruze" target="_blank">YouTube</a>or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rachelcruze.com/" target="_blank">rachelcruze.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658620137029.png" alt="Rachel Cruze&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Rachel Cruze&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By RACHEL CRUZEI know, it may feel a little early to be talking about Christmas. But hear me out! While you might not be ready to hang the mistletoe, it’s never too early to save money for the holidays. In fact, the sooner you start saving up, the better (and less stressful) the season will be.Too many people find themselves mid-November with nothing saved, so they turn to credit cards in a panic and end up paying for Christmas until April of the next year. Not good. That’s why I like to put aside a little money each month starting in January. But if you’re just now thinking about saving, don’t worry. There’s still plenty of time to save up some cash between now and the most magical time of year. You just need a plan.Start by creating a holiday savings fundThink of a holiday fund like a savings account that you set up for all your holiday needs. This is where you’ll stash the money you’re saving and watch it grow as the season (finally!) gets closer.To set your fund goal, look at how much you spent on Christmas gifts last year. Where did you overspend? Do you need to increase or lower your budget? Then, think about what you’ve got on your plate this year. How much will you be able to spend on each person at Christmas? What about parties or gatherings? Then, compare your projection with last year’s number and set your goal!Once you’ve figured out the total you want to spend, divide it by the number of months or weeks left until Christmas. Let’s say your budget is $900 and you’re just now getting started. That means you’ll need to save $300 a month over these next three months. Make sense?Next, boost your holiday budgetNow, the easiest way to boost your holiday budget is to cut back on spending. Way too many people think it takes a ton of money to have memorable holiday fun. What that really means, though, is your bank account will be hurting when January rolls around. Go for a cheaper celebration that helps you keep more cash in your pocket.Here are some of my favorite ways to get the most out of that holiday budget:1. Skip some of your traditions - Guess what? You don’t have to do Elf on the Shelf or an expensive Christmas card photo session. Save money by skipping out on traditions that you don’t truly have to do. Just look at your budget and be open and honest with your family as you decide what to cut and what to keep.2. Cut down on the cost of gifts - You can save serious cash on presents this year—without being a Grinch. Shop sales. Use coupons. Give out baked goods. Skip the random gift exchanges. And instead of buying presents for every extended family member, have each person draw a name and buy just one gift for the person they get.3. Turn overblown holiday feasts into a potluck - I love hosting family dinners and parties with friends, but I could easily blow half my holiday budget on one gathering. If you like to host, you can cook the main course and ask your guests to bring the sides. That way, you’re not stuck with the entire bill, and everyone feels good because they helped out.I promise your holiday season will be much happier when you can check everything off while sticking to your budget—instead of spending first and worrying about the fallout later. And planning ahead, having a budget, and being mindful of your spending is how you make your money goals a reality this year. You’ll be amazed at how a few small, intentional changes can impact your holiday budget with tidings of great joy!Rachel Cruze&nbsp;is a two-time #1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of&nbsp;The Rachel Cruze Show.&nbsp;She has appeared on Good Morning America, TODAY Show and Live! With Kelly &amp; Ryan, among others. Since 2010, Rachel has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches people to avoid debt, save money, budget and how to win with money at any stage in life. Follow Rachel on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/rachelcruze" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rachelcruze/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/rachelramseycruze" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/rachelcruze" target="_blank">YouTube</a>or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rachelcruze.com/" target="_blank">rachelcruze.com</a>.

CRUZE: How to boost your holiday budget ... starting now!

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pro Bowl defensive end Frank Clark returned to practice with the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday and coach Andy Reid said he should be available when the defending AFC West champions open their season at Arizona.

Clark missed Thursday's practice with an illness. He also missed two days of work the previous week with an illness.

Reid said that everybody on the roster should be “good to go, unless there's a setback with Frank or something,” when the Chiefs visit the Cardinals on Sunday. Their only significant injury throughout training camp was to backup tight end Blake Bell, who is now on injured reserve following a hip procedure.

Reid also said he has not heard from the NFL about any potential disciplinary action for Clark, who pleaded no contest this week in Los Angeles to two counts of misdemeanor possession of an assault weapon from separate incidents last year.

Clark was sentenced to one year of probation and 40 hours of community service.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624317438496.png" alt="--Image LA County Sheriff's Department" />
 <figcaption>--Image LA County Sheriff's Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Pro Bowl defensive end Frank Clark returned to practice with the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday and coach Andy Reid said he should be available when the defending AFC West champions open their season at Arizona.Clark missed Thursday's practice with an illness. He also missed two days of work the previous week with an illness.Reid said that everybody on the roster should be “good to go, unless there's a setback with Frank or something,” when the Chiefs visit the Cardinals on Sunday. Their only significant injury throughout training camp was to backup tight end Blake Bell, who is now on injured reserve following a hip procedure.Reid also said he has not heard from the NFL about any potential disciplinary action for Clark, who pleaded no contest this week in Los Angeles to two counts of misdemeanor possession of an assault weapon from separate incidents last year.Clark was sentenced to one year of probation and 40 hours of community service.

 After plea to gun charges, Chiefs expect DE Clark to play opener

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) Major freight railroads, in a bid to apply pressure on unions and Congress, say a strike that could come after a key deadline passes next week would cost the economy more than $2 billion a day and disrupt deliveries of all kinds of goods and passenger traffic nationwide.

The Association of American Railroads trade group on Thursday issued a report estimating the dire consequences of a strike. Their report came a day after Labor Secretary Marty Walsh took part in talks in a bid to hammer out an agreement.

A strike or lockout won't be allowed until next Friday at the soonest under the federal law that governs railroad negotiations.

Five of the 12 unions involved that together represent some 115,000 workers have announced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-497a373594515a27e7435cdf97df7a41">tentative agreements</a>&nbsp;covering over 21,000 workers based on a set of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-strikes-a83dffef79d38e36dc25588b19bf54b4">recommendations</a>&nbsp;that a special panel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-transportation-strikes-ba718974eb14fcd615d606bfcdffb3d2">appointed by President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;made last month. But several key unions are holding out in the hope that the railroads will agree to go beyond those recommendations and address some of their concerns about working conditions.

The Presidential Emergency Board recommended a five-year deal, retroactive to 2020, that includes 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses. But it wants unions to take their concerns about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-5123fda3d039543700b23d939e0bdda2">attendance policies</a>, paid leave and expenses to arbitration or to negotiate separately with the railroads. Unions say their workloads have become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-aab7d3084a8d17d8d721d2cb750be323">unbearable</a>&nbsp;after railroads eliminated nearly one-third of their workforces over the past six years.

The railroad trade group said a strike would idle some 7,000 freight trains a day run by CSX, Union Pacific, BNSF, Norfolk Southern, Kansas City Southern and other railroads and disrupt passenger operations nationwide because Amtrak and half of all commuter rail systems rely at least partly on tracks owned by the freight railroads.

The AAR also said it would be impossible for trucks to pick up the slack if railroads shut down because roughly 467,000 additional trucks a day would be needed to handle all the freight railroads deliver, and there is already a shortage of trucks and drivers.

AAR CEO Ian Jefferies said the unions should accept the recommendations of the Presidential Emergency Board because they would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-norfolk-government-and-politics-eeedec386f2acba5d63181436ca03f3f">deliver the biggest raises</a>&nbsp;in nearly 50 years and they represent a compromise.

"Should negotiations fail and result in a work stoppage, Congress must act to implement the PEB recommendations,” Jefferies said.

A Labor Department spokesman confirmed that Walsh took part in the talks Wednesday. If this contract dispute does fall to Congress to resolve, lawmakers might be forced to make some difficult decisions in an election year.

A coalition of 31 large agricultural groups sent a letter to Congress Thursday urging lawmakers to be prepared to intervene and block a strike if the two sides can't reach an agreement before next Friday's deadline. They say they are already dealing with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-7824a3d4042a757755ea76f55e51f641">delayed deliveries</a>&nbsp;because railroads are shorthanded, and the problems would get much worse in a strike even if it were brief.

“Most freight railroads currently lack extra capacity to make up for down time," the agricultural groups said in their letter. “Thus, a sizable portion of freight backlogged due to a stoppage may never be made up leading to less production from rail-dependent businesses to the detriment of producers and consumers.”

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) Major freight railroads, in a bid to apply pressure on unions and Congress, say a strike that could come after a key deadline passes next week would cost the economy more than $2 billion a day and disrupt deliveries of all kinds of goods and passenger traffic nationwide.The Association of American Railroads trade group on Thursday issued a report estimating the dire consequences of a strike. Their report came a day after Labor Secretary Marty Walsh took part in talks in a bid to hammer out an agreement.A strike or lockout won't be allowed until next Friday at the soonest under the federal law that governs railroad negotiations.Five of the 12 unions involved that together represent some 115,000 workers have announced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-and-politics-497a373594515a27e7435cdf97df7a41">tentative agreements</a>&nbsp;covering over 21,000 workers based on a set of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-strikes-a83dffef79d38e36dc25588b19bf54b4">recommendations</a>&nbsp;that a special panel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-transportation-strikes-ba718974eb14fcd615d606bfcdffb3d2">appointed by President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;made last month. But several key unions are holding out in the hope that the railroads will agree to go beyond those recommendations and address some of their concerns about working conditions.The Presidential Emergency Board recommended a five-year deal, retroactive to 2020, that includes 24% raises and $5,000 in bonuses. But it wants unions to take their concerns about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lawsuits-5123fda3d039543700b23d939e0bdda2">attendance policies</a>, paid leave and expenses to arbitration or to negotiate separately with the railroads. Unions say their workloads have become&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-aab7d3084a8d17d8d721d2cb750be323">unbearable</a>&nbsp;after railroads eliminated nearly one-third of their workforces over the past six years.The railroad trade group said a strike would idle some 7,000 freight trains a day run by CSX, Union Pacific, BNSF, Norfolk Southern, Kansas City Southern and other railroads and disrupt passenger operations nationwide because Amtrak and half of all commuter rail systems rely at least partly on tracks owned by the freight railroads.The AAR also said it would be impossible for trucks to pick up the slack if railroads shut down because roughly 467,000 additional trucks a day would be needed to handle all the freight railroads deliver, and there is already a shortage of trucks and drivers.AAR CEO Ian Jefferies said the unions should accept the recommendations of the Presidential Emergency Board because they would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-norfolk-government-and-politics-eeedec386f2acba5d63181436ca03f3f">deliver the biggest raises</a>&nbsp;in nearly 50 years and they represent a compromise."Should negotiations fail and result in a work stoppage, Congress must act to implement the PEB recommendations,” Jefferies said.A Labor Department spokesman confirmed that Walsh took part in the talks Wednesday. If this contract dispute does fall to Congress to resolve, lawmakers might be forced to make some difficult decisions in an election year.A coalition of 31 large agricultural groups sent a letter to Congress Thursday urging lawmakers to be prepared to intervene and block a strike if the two sides can't reach an agreement before next Friday's deadline. They say they are already dealing with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-omaha-7824a3d4042a757755ea76f55e51f641">delayed deliveries</a>&nbsp;because railroads are shorthanded, and the problems would get much worse in a strike even if it were brief.“Most freight railroads currently lack extra capacity to make up for down time," the agricultural groups said in their letter. “Thus, a sizable portion of freight backlogged due to a stoppage may never be made up leading to less production from rail-dependent businesses to the detriment of producers and consumers.”Edward Jones analyst Jeff Windau said lawmakers' decisions would be put under a magnifying glass with the midterm elections looming, but they'll “definitely want to keep the economy moving smoothly” if they do have to settle the contract dispute. But Windau said he's optimistic the two sides will reach an agreement over the next week.Independent railroad analyst Anthony Hatch said the unions are trying to take advantage of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-lifestyle-health-business-prices-66e5f5612c0a56c18ac218425e2cd20a">current environment</a>&nbsp;with Democrats in control of the White House and Congress and a tight job market, but ultimately he doesn't think a strike will happen.“It makes sense for them to hold on until the last minute and try to get the best deal that they can. For the railroads, it makes perfect sense for them to say a disruption would be cataclysmic,” Hatch said.Even if a strike were to happen, Hatch predicted it would “last not weeks, not days, not hours but minutes” because Congress would intervene. And the long-term cost of these deals may have a bigger impact on the railroads than the short-term crisis of a strike.Ultimately, ongoing local negotiations on the railroads' proposals to reduce crew sizes from the current two down to one might prove more important to the industry than these wage deals because they will affect how competitive railroads can remain against trucking as autonomous trucks are developed, he said.That topic has been pushed out of the current national wage negotiations to talks at each individual railroad, although a proposed Federal Railroad Administration rule that would require two-person crews in most instances would make it difficult for railroads to cut crews. The unions have also vigorously opposed reducing crew size because of safety and job concerns.The heads of the two biggest rail unions — the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers — Transportation Division union that represents conductors, and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen union that represents engineers — said in a joint statement last week that Congress should remain on the sidelines because that would put more pressure on the railroads and help them reach an agreement workers will approve.