By NATHAN KING Salina Post

SALINA —Authorities are investigating a weekend fire in Salina. Just before 10p.m. on Saturday, firefighters responded to reports of a fire near Downtown Auto Service located at 119 S. Eighth Street, according to the Salina Fire Department.

Eyewitness to the fire, Tyler Sartain —&nbsp;a congregant of the Heartland Worship Center located across the street from Downtown Auto Service —&nbsp;noticed the fire as he left the church after preparing for service the following morning. Congregant Mario Aviles was also with him.&nbsp;

"I saw a glow coming from the front doors of the church, but at first I thought it could've been a cop going by with his lights on," Sartain said. "But it kept getting brighter."&nbsp;

When Sartain looked outside, he saw the tire pile engulfed in flames. As soon as Sartain discovered the fire, he and Aviles went into the church and called 911. Sartain and Aviles took fire extinguishers from the church to try and extinguish the blaze.&nbsp;

"By the time we got there, it was too hot and too big for the extinguishers to do anything," Sartain said.&nbsp;

Salina firefighters made it to the scene and were able to put out the fire. There were no injuries as a result of the fire, but Downtown Auto Service sustained damaged.&nbsp;According to SFD Battalion Chief Kirk Stover, the cause of the fire is under investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664821584691.jpeg" alt="Photo Courtesy: Tyler Sartain" />
 <figcaption>Photo Courtesy: Tyler Sartain</figcaption>
 </figure>By NATHAN KING Salina PostSALINA —Authorities are investigating a weekend fire in Salina. Just before 10p.m. on Saturday, firefighters responded to reports of a fire near Downtown Auto Service located at 119 S. Eighth Street, according to the Salina Fire Department. Eyewitness to the fire, Tyler Sartain —&nbsp;a congregant of the Heartland Worship Center located across the street from Downtown Auto Service —&nbsp;noticed the fire as he left the church after preparing for service the following morning. Congregant Mario Aviles was also with him.&nbsp; "I saw a glow coming from the front doors of the church, but at first I thought it could've been a cop going by with his lights on," Sartain said. "But it kept getting brighter."&nbsp; When Sartain looked outside, he saw the tire pile engulfed in flames. As soon as Sartain discovered the fire, he and Aviles went into the church and called 911. Sartain and Aviles took fire extinguishers from the church to try and extinguish the blaze.&nbsp; "By the time we got there, it was too hot and too big for the extinguishers to do anything," Sartain said.&nbsp; Salina firefighters made it to the scene and were able to put out the fire. There were no injuries as a result of the fire, but Downtown Auto Service sustained damaged.&nbsp;According to SFD Battalion Chief Kirk Stover, the cause of the fire is under investigation.&nbsp;

Salina Auto Service tire fire under investigation

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident have made an arrest and identified the victim as Karoti Byamungu Bertin, according to&nbsp;according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Shortly after 1 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1900 block of East Lincoln in Wichita for a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, according to Rebolledo.

On arrival, officers found Sedgwick County EMS personnel providing lifesaving measures to a Bertin. EMS then&nbsp; transported him to a local hospital where he underwent surgery and later died

The investigation revealed the Bertin was crossing Lincoln Street when he was struck by an eastbound black pickup truck. The driver of the pickup truck left the scene after witnesses started to gather. 

Police later arrested&nbsp;58-year-old Kenneth Locke of Wichita on requested charges of Failure to stop at an accident that resulted in death, expired tags and no. proof of insurance, according to online jail records. Neither alcohol nor speed appeared to be involved in the accident.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident.

Shortly after 01:10 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1900 block of East Lincoln in Wichita for a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

On arrival, officers found Sedgwick County EMS personnel providing lifesaving measures to a male victim. EMS then&nbsp; transported the man to a local hospital where he underwent surgery and later died, according to&nbsp;Rebolledo

The investigation revealed the male was crossing Lincoln Street when he was struck by an eastbound black pickup truck. The driver of the pickup truck left the scene after witnesses started to gather.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664821355767.png" alt="Locke-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Locke-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident have made an arrest and identified the victim as Karoti Byamungu Bertin, according to&nbsp;according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Shortly after 1 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1900 block of East Lincoln in Wichita for a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, according to Rebolledo.On arrival, officers found Sedgwick County EMS personnel providing lifesaving measures to a Bertin. EMS then&nbsp; transported him to a local hospital where he underwent surgery and later diedThe investigation revealed the Bertin was crossing Lincoln Street when he was struck by an eastbound black pickup truck. The driver of the pickup truck left the scene after witnesses started to gather. Police later arrested&nbsp;58-year-old Kenneth Locke of Wichita on requested charges of Failure to stop at an accident that resulted in death, expired tags and no. proof of insurance, according to online jail records. Neither alcohol nor speed appeared to be involved in the accident.-------------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident.Shortly after 01:10 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1900 block of East Lincoln in Wichita for a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.On arrival, officers found Sedgwick County EMS personnel providing lifesaving measures to a male victim. EMS then&nbsp; transported the man to a local hospital where he underwent surgery and later died, according to&nbsp;RebolledoThe investigation revealed the male was crossing Lincoln Street when he was struck by an eastbound black pickup truck. The driver of the pickup truck left the scene after witnesses started to gather.

Police ID victim, make arrest in fatal Kansas hit-and-run

My wife and I are in our late-twenties, and we have a full emergency fund saved up. Our only debt is our home. We have talked about having a child sometime next year, but I am on the road three weeks a month for my job. I don’t want to be gone so much once we have a child, and I am thinking about opening my own business, so I can eliminate the travel and control my hours better. Do you have any thoughts on this situation?

An entrepreneur is the person I know who can go from sheer terror to sheer exhilaration and back every few hours. You’ve got to have a strong mind and a strong heart to be successful, plus there’s a good chance your idea won’t last long&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/career-advice/should-i-quit-my-job-quiz">if you don’t love what you’re doing</a>. Remember, too, you’re basically on straight commission as an entrepreneur, and there probably wouldn’t be a regular paycheck you could count on for a while.

Okay, that was a quick dose of reality. Now, if time and money weren’t considerations, what would you rather do—stay at your current job or run your own business?

My advice to anyone, entrepreneur or not, is to make sure your work falls in line with the passions, skills and talents you were born with. You don’t need to work in the construction business if you don’t like being outdoors and working with your hands, just like you don’t want to be stuck in a call center if you hate talking on the phone and being cooped up inside all day.

Everyone wants to be successful in their job, enjoy what they do and make lots of money. But personal happiness is just as important. If you wake up excited about what you’re facing every day, chances are you’ll be successful&nbsp;and&nbsp;happy. If you wake up dreading the day and your job, I can almost guarantee you won’t be successful&nbsp;or&nbsp;happy.

You’ve got a lot more thinking and research to do, Mike. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/career-advice/career-clarity-guide">change jobs</a>&nbsp;or be an entrepreneur. Being able to spend more time with your family is a noble and worthwhile thing, too. But I’m not hearing a lot of direction in what you’re saying right now. Maybe work with a career coach, and spend some time tossing ideas around with your wife. I know you both want great things for your child, but you’re not going to make the best possible decisions for yourself—and your family—without a lot more planning and thoughtful discussion.

<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/">Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</a>is an eight-time national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648177011035.png" alt="Dave Ramsey&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear Dave,My wife and I are in our late-twenties, and we have a full emergency fund saved up. Our only debt is our home. We have talked about having a child sometime next year, but I am on the road three weeks a month for my job. I don’t want to be gone so much once we have a child, and I am thinking about opening my own business, so I can eliminate the travel and control my hours better. Do you have any thoughts on this situation?MikeDear Mike,An entrepreneur is the person I know who can go from sheer terror to sheer exhilaration and back every few hours. You’ve got to have a strong mind and a strong heart to be successful, plus there’s a good chance your idea won’t last long&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/career-advice/should-i-quit-my-job-quiz">if you don’t love what you’re doing</a>. Remember, too, you’re basically on straight commission as an entrepreneur, and there probably wouldn’t be a regular paycheck you could count on for a while.Okay, that was a quick dose of reality. Now, if time and money weren’t considerations, what would you rather do—stay at your current job or run your own business?My advice to anyone, entrepreneur or not, is to make sure your work falls in line with the passions, skills and talents you were born with. You don’t need to work in the construction business if you don’t like being outdoors and working with your hands, just like you don’t want to be stuck in a call center if you hate talking on the phone and being cooped up inside all day.Everyone wants to be successful in their job, enjoy what they do and make lots of money. But personal happiness is just as important. If you wake up excited about what you’re facing every day, chances are you’ll be successful&nbsp;and&nbsp;happy. If you wake up dreading the day and your job, I can almost guarantee you won’t be successful&nbsp;or&nbsp;happy.You’ve got a lot more thinking and research to do, Mike. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/career-advice/career-clarity-guide">change jobs</a>&nbsp;or be an entrepreneur. Being able to spend more time with your family is a noble and worthwhile thing, too. But I’m not hearing a lot of direction in what you’re saying right now. Maybe work with a career coach, and spend some time tossing ideas around with your wife. I know you both want great things for your child, but you’re not going to make the best possible decisions for yourself—and your family—without a lot more planning and thoughtful discussion.<a href="https://www.ramseysolutions.com/">Dave Ramsey&nbsp;</a>is an eight-time national best-selling author, personal finance expert, and host of The Ramsey Show, heard by more than 18 million listeners each week. He&nbsp;has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, Today Show, Fox News, CNN, Fox Business, and many more. Since 1992, Dave has helped people regain control of their money, build wealth and enhance their lives. He also serves as CEO for Ramsey Solutions.

DAVE SAYS: Lots of discussion and planning

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Monday, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas’ September total tax receipts were $961.0 million. Those collections are $96.2 million, or 11.1%, more than the estimate, and reflect a $84.5 million, or 9.6%, growth from last September.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMDMuNjQ1OTI3MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjIvMTAvMDNfU2VwdGVtYmVyX1JldmVudWVfRlkyMDIzXzEwLTAzLTIwMjJfRmluYWwucGRmIn0.bnpK9-i5fbdelIbgLSOZrCRn_CSWZwrNy2iC3C0fk5o/s/1303160919/br/145137285385-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to view the September 2022 tax receipts spreadsheet.&nbsp;

“Thanks to our laser-sharp focus on creating quality jobs and attracting business to Kansas, we have now seen 26 months of revenue surpluses,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“That has enabled us to provide tax credits for teachers and cut taxes for seniors, veterans, homeowners, and businesses – all while paying off debts and fully funding our schools. &nbsp;These revenue estimates show we are making Kansas the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Individual income tax collections were up $31.3 million, or 7.6%, for the month with $441.3 million collected. That is $34.5 million, or 8.5%, more than the same month in 2021. September corporate income tax receipts, which are comprised primarily of estimated tax payments, have continued to trend upward. Corporate income tax collections were $49.2 million, or 40.6%, more than the estimate with $170.2 million collected. That is a growth of $24.9 million, or 17.1%, from the same month last year.&nbsp;

“The higher-than-expected corporate estimated payments suggests that corporations again anticipate favorable profit margins in 2022,”&nbsp;Revenue Secretary Mark Burghart said.&nbsp;

Combined retail sales tax and compensating use collections were $309.6 million, 8.3%, or&nbsp;&nbsp;$23.7 million, more than last September.&nbsp;

TOPEKA&nbsp;– On Monday, Governor Laura Kelly announced Kansas’ September total tax receipts were $961.0 million. Those collections are $96.2 million, or 11.1%, more than the estimate, and reflect a $84.5 million, or 9.6%, growth from last September.&nbsp;&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMjEwMDMuNjQ1OTI3MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2dvdmVybm9yLmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzIwMjIvMTAvMDNfU2VwdGVtYmVyX1JldmVudWVfRlkyMDIzXzEwLTAzLTIwMjJfRmluYWwucGRmIn0.bnpK9-i5fbdelIbgLSOZrCRn_CSWZwrNy2iC3C0fk5o/s/1303160919/br/145137285385-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to view the September 2022 tax receipts spreadsheet.&nbsp;“Thanks to our laser-sharp focus on creating quality jobs and attracting business to Kansas, we have now seen 26 months of revenue surpluses,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“That has enabled us to provide tax credits for teachers and cut taxes for seniors, veterans, homeowners, and businesses – all while paying off debts and fully funding our schools. &nbsp;These revenue estimates show we are making Kansas the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Individual income tax collections were up $31.3 million, or 7.6%, for the month with $441.3 million collected. That is $34.5 million, or 8.5%, more than the same month in 2021. September corporate income tax receipts, which are comprised primarily of estimated tax payments, have continued to trend upward. Corporate income tax collections were $49.2 million, or 40.6%, more than the estimate with $170.2 million collected. That is a growth of $24.9 million, or 17.1%, from the same month last year.&nbsp;“The higher-than-expected corporate estimated payments suggests that corporations again anticipate favorable profit margins in 2022,”&nbsp;Revenue Secretary Mark Burghart said.&nbsp;Combined retail sales tax and compensating use collections were $309.6 million, 8.3%, or&nbsp;&nbsp;$23.7 million, more than last September.&nbsp;

Kan. September tax collections $96.2M more than the estimate

FINNEY COUNTY—Authorities are working to determine the cause of weekend house fire in Garden City.

Just before 10a.m. Saturday, fire crews were dispatched to reports of a house fire in the 900 block of 9th Street in Garden City, according to a media release.

When they arrived, crews found a single-story residence with heavy smoke coming from the structure. Crews made entry into east side of the home for fire attack. The fire was deemed under control at approximately 11:10 a.m.

One firefighter was treated and released for smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported. 

The Kansas State Fire Marshal’s office was notified of the fire and has been requested to assist with the investigation. No damage estimates for the structure are known at this time. 

FINNEY COUNTY—Authorities are working to determine the cause of weekend house fire in Garden City.Just before 10a.m. Saturday, fire crews were dispatched to reports of a house fire in the 900 block of 9th Street in Garden City, according to a media release.When they arrived, crews found a single-story residence with heavy smoke coming from the structure. Crews made entry into east side of the home for fire attack. The fire was deemed under control at approximately 11:10 a.m.One firefighter was treated and released for smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported. The Kansas State Fire Marshal’s office was notified of the fire and has been requested to assist with the investigation. No damage estimates for the structure are known at this time.

Firefighter treated for smoke inhalation after SW Kan. house fire

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. regulators have unveiled their plan to allow foreign baby formula manufacturers to stay on the market long term, an effort to diversify the nation’s tightly concentrated industry and prevent future shortages.

The Food and Drug Administration said recent entrants to the U.S. market will have until October 2025 to make sure their formulas comply with federal standards for nutrition, labeling and manufacturing. The agency noted that some companies should be able to meet those requirements sooner.

The U.S. has been forced to turn to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-health-government-and-politics-53857b4ba1006a8bf85caad251517f4c">foreign manufacturers</a>&nbsp;to boost formula supplies since February, when FDA inspectors temporarily shuttered the nation’s largest domestic formula factory due to bacterial contamination.

In May, the FDA eased federal import regulations and President Joe Biden authorized the airlift of millions of pounds of powdered formula from overseas. Together those actions have brought the equivalent of 300 million bottles of formula into the country, according to the FDA.

“Manufacturers from around the world have demonstrated their commitment to helping bolster U.S. supply and, in turn, we are committed to continuing these flexibilities for their products to safely remain on the market,” FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said in a statement.

The policy allowing importation was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-united-states-government-and-politics-38745bd583dc0861dbe66a3ca7f828b4">set to expire in November</a>, but the FDA said it would be extended to January, after which companies can ask to stay on the market longer.

For decades, the U.S. formula industry has been dominated by a handful of companies with domestic production facilities, excluding similar products from Europe, Australia and Latin America. The U.S. system evolved to prioritize&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-science-health-government-and-politics-a99273eaded440aeeb3942ab61b77d88">safety and low pricing</a>, favoring a few large players.

Foreign formula companies seeking to remain in the U.S. must meet specific thresholds for 30 nutrients and undergo manufacturing inspections by FDA staff, among other steps.

Earlier this month the FDA formally acknowledged&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-covid-government-and-politics-cacda684b7a62cbc9dee97b6aa181a3a">several shortcomings</a>&nbsp;in its response to the shortage, including outdated information technology systems and inadequate training among its food facility inspectors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653255522967.png" alt="The U.S. has been forced to turn to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-health-government-and-politics-53857b4ba1006a8bf85caad251517f4c">foreign manufacturers</a>&nbsp;to boost formula supplies since February-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>The U.S. has been forced to turn to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-health-government-and-politics-53857b4ba1006a8bf85caad251517f4c">foreign manufacturers</a>&nbsp;to boost formula supplies since February-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. regulators have unveiled their plan to allow foreign baby formula manufacturers to stay on the market long term, an effort to diversify the nation’s tightly concentrated industry and prevent future shortages.The Food and Drug Administration said recent entrants to the U.S. market will have until October 2025 to make sure their formulas comply with federal standards for nutrition, labeling and manufacturing. The agency noted that some companies should be able to meet those requirements sooner.The U.S. has been forced to turn to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-health-government-and-politics-53857b4ba1006a8bf85caad251517f4c">foreign manufacturers</a>&nbsp;to boost formula supplies since February, when FDA inspectors temporarily shuttered the nation’s largest domestic formula factory due to bacterial contamination.In May, the FDA eased federal import regulations and President Joe Biden authorized the airlift of millions of pounds of powdered formula from overseas. Together those actions have brought the equivalent of 300 million bottles of formula into the country, according to the FDA.“Manufacturers from around the world have demonstrated their commitment to helping bolster U.S. supply and, in turn, we are committed to continuing these flexibilities for their products to safely remain on the market,” FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said in a statement.The policy allowing importation was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-united-states-government-and-politics-38745bd583dc0861dbe66a3ca7f828b4">set to expire in November</a>, but the FDA said it would be extended to January, after which companies can ask to stay on the market longer.For decades, the U.S. formula industry has been dominated by a handful of companies with domestic production facilities, excluding similar products from Europe, Australia and Latin America. The U.S. system evolved to prioritize&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-science-health-government-and-politics-a99273eaded440aeeb3942ab61b77d88">safety and low pricing</a>, favoring a few large players.Foreign formula companies seeking to remain in the U.S. must meet specific thresholds for 30 nutrients and undergo manufacturing inspections by FDA staff, among other steps.Earlier this month the FDA formally acknowledged&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/science-health-covid-government-and-politics-cacda684b7a62cbc9dee97b6aa181a3a">several shortcomings</a>&nbsp;in its response to the shortage, including outdated information technology systems and inadequate training among its food facility inspectors.___

US outlines plan for long-term baby formula imports

REPUBLIC COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a stabbing and searching for two suspects identified as 35-year-old Tyler Johnson and Nathaniel Shelton.

Just after 7 p.m. Sunday, deputies received a 911 call with reports of a stabbing in the 100 block of Freedom St. in Courtland.

Deputies and EMS respond to the scene. They found one victim who was transported to an area hospital.

&nbsp;Anyone with information about the crime should call the Sheriff’s Office at 785-527-5658.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664815810200.png" alt="Johnson has five previous drug convictions, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Johnson has five previous drug convictions, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>REPUBLIC COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a stabbing and searching for two suspects identified as 35-year-old Tyler Johnson and Nathaniel Shelton.Just after 7 p.m. Sunday, deputies received a 911 call with reports of a stabbing in the 100 block of Freedom St. in Courtland.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664816007685.png" alt="Shelton has previous convictions for drugs, DUI, flee or attempt to elude law enforcement and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Shelton has previous convictions for drugs, DUI, flee or attempt to elude law enforcement and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies and EMS respond to the scene. They found one victim who was transported to an area hospital.&nbsp;Anyone with information about the crime should call the Sheriff’s Office at 785-527-5658.

Sheriff: 2 Kan. felons wanted in connection with stabbing

By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte Post

HALSEY, Neb.-Campers and visitors to the Halsey National Forest and residents in the village of Halsey have been evacuated after a wildfire broke out Sunday afternoon.

Officials said the fire started in the Bessey Ranger District and began spreading rapidly.&nbsp; The fire, which has been named the Bovee Fire, was likely human-caused, according to officials.

As of Sunday evening, the fire was estimated to be about 15,000 acres and was still burning and moving rapidly.

Multiple air tankers have been dispatched to the area. The South Dakota Wildland Fire District and the Black Hills National Forest Fire Department sent personnel and equipment to assist. The fire forced the closure of Highway 2 between Thedford and Dunning in west central Nebraska.

This is a developing story. Check the Post for updates.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZK7cCc5RbYo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>By SCOTT CARLSON North Platte PostHALSEY, Neb.-Campers and visitors to the Halsey National Forest and residents in the village of Halsey have been evacuated after a wildfire broke out Sunday afternoon.Officials said the fire started in the Bessey Ranger District and began spreading rapidly.&nbsp; The fire, which has been named the Bovee Fire, was likely human-caused, according to officials.As of Sunday evening, the fire was estimated to be about 15,000 acres and was still burning and moving rapidly.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664791544562.png" alt="A wildfire, likely human-caused, broke out in the Bessey Ranger District at Halsey National Forest on Sunday afternoon. (Photo: Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands)" />
 <figcaption>A wildfire, likely human-caused, broke out in the Bessey Ranger District at Halsey National Forest on Sunday afternoon. (Photo: Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands)</figcaption>
 </figure>Multiple air tankers have been dispatched to the area. The South Dakota Wildland Fire District and the Black Hills National Forest Fire Department sent personnel and equipment to assist. The fire forced the closure of Highway 2 between Thedford and Dunning in west central Nebraska.This is a developing story. Check the Post for updates.

Wildfire destroys 4-H camp, forces Nebraska town to evacuate

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-abortion-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-health-0c7e7f12f32f30fe97d2b9417a24cf69">The Supreme Court is beginning its new term</a>, welcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-health-government-and-politics-95a7d5f6996c25258d9f0d3017ca7405">the public back to the courtroom</a>&nbsp;and hearing arguments for the first time since issuing a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">landmark ruling</a>&nbsp;stripping away women’s constitutional protections for abortion.

Monday's session also is the first time new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ketanji-brown-jackson-biden-us-supreme-court-race-and-ethnicity-merrick-garland-3fb126a5a457958a2a6a1d0d4e8b00ce">Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson</a>, the court's first Black female justice, will participate in arguments. And the public is back for the first time since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/664c5973c9d1cabea58fc33a1d50035a">court closed in March 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic</a>.

The court’s overturning of the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade abortion decision is still reverberating in legal fights over state abortion bans and other restrictions. But a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-f356a16bcac950beb1d822f71dd0c422">new stack of high-profile cases</a>&nbsp;awaits the justices. Several cases the court has agreed to hear involve race or elections or both, and the court has also agreed to hear a dispute that returns the issue of free speech and LGBTQ rights to the court.

Also hanging over the justices is some unfinished business from last term: the leak of a draft of the abortion decision seven weeks before it was formally announced. Chief Justice John Roberts ordered an investigation, but the court has yet to provide an update.

Jackson, for her part, has been waiting for months to fully begin her new role&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ketanji-brown-jackson-supreme-court-confirmation-f39263cdbb0c59c8a20a48edf9b6786e">since being confirmed in April.</a>&nbsp;She was sworn in when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ketanji-brown-jackson-swearing-in-5a5115f58e163789dfda5a8af0b14221">Justice Stephen Breyer retired in June</a>, at the end of a term where the court dominated 6-3 by conservatives also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-guns-decision-58d01ef8bd48e816d5f8761ffa84e3e8">expanded gun rights</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-epa-ruling-2e893673819a1b6c6aa272a5e814f0b0">reined in the government’s ability to fight climate change</a>&nbsp;and blocked a Biden administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-vaccine-mandate-eb5899ae1fe5b62b6f4d51f54a3cd375">effort to get workers at large companies vaccinated against COVID-19</a>. Breyer, a liberal, was on the losing side of those cases, and Jackson is also expected to be in dissent in many of the court's most prominent cases.

Since she was sworn in, however, the court has largely been on a summer break. The justices met privately last week to consider a long list of appeals that piled up over the summer. On Friday, the justices took the bench for a brief ceremony in which Roberts wished Jackson a “long and happy career in our common calling,” the traditional welcome for a new justice.

But Jackson also joins the court at a time of declining public support for the court.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-government-and-politics-only-on-ap-8adc9a08c9e8001c8ef0455906542a60">Polls following the court's abortion decision</a>&nbsp;have shown a sharp drop in the court’s approval rating and in people’s confidence in the court as an institution. A poll over the summer found 43% of Americans saying they have hardly any confidence in the court, up from 27% earlier in the year.

On Monday, the court is considering an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-environment-lakes-pollution-water-pollution-31034c1d9df1a63cc0841b29ac7a3fe1">important water rights case</a>&nbsp;that could limit federal regulation under the nation’s main water pollution law, the Clean Water Act.

Other significant cases include a controversial Republican-led appeal that could dramatically&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-us-supreme-court-north-carolina-election-2020-state-courts-712d5aa719884bab9652d3c132ee56c6">change the way elections for Congress and the presidency are conducted by handing more power to state legislatures</a>. There's also the case of a Colorado website designer who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-lifestyle-religion-couples-a5edfc7184a85dde5775994b8bd86a7c">says her religious beliefs prevent her working with same-sex couples on their weddings</a>. Next month, the justices will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-admissions-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-religion-affirmative-action-5fd79b529db78daee370de22ae17909f">hear a challenge to the consideration of race in college admissions</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664809475130.png" alt="Photo Credit: Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States" />
 <figcaption>Photo Credit: Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-abortion-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-health-0c7e7f12f32f30fe97d2b9417a24cf69">The Supreme Court is beginning its new term</a>, welcoming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-health-government-and-politics-95a7d5f6996c25258d9f0d3017ca7405">the public back to the courtroom</a>&nbsp;and hearing arguments for the first time since issuing a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">landmark ruling</a>&nbsp;stripping away women’s constitutional protections for abortion.Monday's session also is the first time new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ketanji-brown-jackson-biden-us-supreme-court-race-and-ethnicity-merrick-garland-3fb126a5a457958a2a6a1d0d4e8b00ce">Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson</a>, the court's first Black female justice, will participate in arguments. And the public is back for the first time since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/664c5973c9d1cabea58fc33a1d50035a">court closed in March 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic</a>.The court’s overturning of the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade abortion decision is still reverberating in legal fights over state abortion bans and other restrictions. But a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-f356a16bcac950beb1d822f71dd0c422">new stack of high-profile cases</a>&nbsp;awaits the justices. Several cases the court has agreed to hear involve race or elections or both, and the court has also agreed to hear a dispute that returns the issue of free speech and LGBTQ rights to the court.Also hanging over the justices is some unfinished business from last term: the leak of a draft of the abortion decision seven weeks before it was formally announced. Chief Justice John Roberts ordered an investigation, but the court has yet to provide an update.Jackson, for her part, has been waiting for months to fully begin her new role&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ketanji-brown-jackson-supreme-court-confirmation-f39263cdbb0c59c8a20a48edf9b6786e">since being confirmed in April.</a>&nbsp;She was sworn in when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ketanji-brown-jackson-swearing-in-5a5115f58e163789dfda5a8af0b14221">Justice Stephen Breyer retired in June</a>, at the end of a term where the court dominated 6-3 by conservatives also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-guns-decision-58d01ef8bd48e816d5f8761ffa84e3e8">expanded gun rights</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-epa-ruling-2e893673819a1b6c6aa272a5e814f0b0">reined in the government’s ability to fight climate change</a>&nbsp;and blocked a Biden administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-vaccine-mandate-eb5899ae1fe5b62b6f4d51f54a3cd375">effort to get workers at large companies vaccinated against COVID-19</a>. Breyer, a liberal, was on the losing side of those cases, and Jackson is also expected to be in dissent in many of the court's most prominent cases.Since she was sworn in, however, the court has largely been on a summer break. The justices met privately last week to consider a long list of appeals that piled up over the summer. On Friday, the justices took the bench for a brief ceremony in which Roberts wished Jackson a “long and happy career in our common calling,” the traditional welcome for a new justice.But Jackson also joins the court at a time of declining public support for the court.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-government-and-politics-only-on-ap-8adc9a08c9e8001c8ef0455906542a60">Polls following the court's abortion decision</a>&nbsp;have shown a sharp drop in the court’s approval rating and in people’s confidence in the court as an institution. A poll over the summer found 43% of Americans saying they have hardly any confidence in the court, up from 27% earlier in the year.On Monday, the court is considering an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-environment-lakes-pollution-water-pollution-31034c1d9df1a63cc0841b29ac7a3fe1">important water rights case</a>&nbsp;that could limit federal regulation under the nation’s main water pollution law, the Clean Water Act.Other significant cases include a controversial Republican-led appeal that could dramatically&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-us-supreme-court-north-carolina-election-2020-state-courts-712d5aa719884bab9652d3c132ee56c6">change the way elections for Congress and the presidency are conducted by handing more power to state legislatures</a>. There's also the case of a Colorado website designer who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-lifestyle-religion-couples-a5edfc7184a85dde5775994b8bd86a7c">says her religious beliefs prevent her working with same-sex couples on their weddings</a>. Next month, the justices will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-admissions-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-religion-affirmative-action-5fd79b529db78daee370de22ae17909f">hear a challenge to the consideration of race in college admissions</a>.___

Supreme Court welcomes the public again, and a new justice

MANHATTAN — Kansas Farm Bureau has pledged the largest donation in the organization's history: $5 million over five years to support the Kansas State University College of Agriculture's innovation centers for grain, food, animal and agronomy research, according to a media release from the company.

The two new innovation centers will focus on the development and diversification of Kansas and the world's food and agricultural economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This investment will fund new facilities, renovations of current buildings and improvements in the technology and equipment necessary for interdisciplinary, cutting-edge research and continue to enhance the college's exceptional student experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We've known for a long time the facilities at the country's first land-grant institution needed updating," said Rich Felts, president of Kansas Farm Bureau. "We're excited to come alongside President Linton to make an investment in our industry, our state and future students to ensure K-State remains in its position as a global leader in agriculture.&nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Kansas Farm Bureau has pledged the largest donation in the organization's history: $5 million over five years to support the Kansas State University College of Agriculture's innovation centers for grain, food, animal and agronomy research, according to a media release from the company.The two new innovation centers will focus on the development and diversification of Kansas and the world's food and agricultural economy.&nbsp;&nbsp;This investment will fund new facilities, renovations of current buildings and improvements in the technology and equipment necessary for interdisciplinary, cutting-edge research and continue to enhance the college's exceptional student experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We've known for a long time the facilities at the country's first land-grant institution needed updating," said Rich Felts, president of Kansas Farm Bureau. "We're excited to come alongside President Linton to make an investment in our industry, our state and future students to ensure K-State remains in its position as a global leader in agriculture.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau pledges $5 million to K-State

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting.

Just after 5:30p.m. Sunday, police were called to a residence in the 1700 block of E 21st&nbsp;Terrace in Lawrence in reference to a report of criminal damage, according to Lt. Myrone Grady.

While officers were on scene conducting this investigation, they were confronted by an armed subject. Officers discharged their firearms.

Personnel from Lawrence Douglas County Fire and Medical were summoned to the scene and the subject was ultimately pronounced deceased. 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is in charge of the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664791885534.png" alt="The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is in charge of the investigation" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is in charge of the investigation</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting.Just after 5:30p.m. Sunday, police were called to a residence in the 1700 block of E 21st&nbsp;Terrace in Lawrence in reference to a report of criminal damage, according to Lt. Myrone Grady.While officers were on scene conducting this investigation, they were confronted by an armed subject. Officers discharged their firearms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664792170304.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Personnel from Lawrence Douglas County Fire and Medical were summoned to the scene and the subject was ultimately pronounced deceased. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is in charge of the investigation.

1 dead after Kansas officer-involved shooting

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has signed into law a bill that finances the federal government through mid-December and provides another infusion of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-politics-mississippi-jackson-water-treatment-f27e853e708d62ae070e2ac2d91e2388">military and economic aid to Ukraine</a>&nbsp;after lawmakers acted to avert a partial government shutdown set to begin after midnight Friday.

The bill passed the House by a vote of 230-201. Republicans overwhelmingly opposed the measure. Some wanted to extend government funding into January when, based on the results of the midterm elections, it’s possible they’ll have more leverage over setting federal spending for the full fiscal year. Others argued the measure needed to do more to address border security.

Democrats said passing the bill was important to helping Ukraine as well as victims of recent natural disasters in the U.S.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-ian-impact-path-d4db93bcac5af1134e31a3b7f2f694f0">including Hurricane Ian</a>, as it provides a Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster fund with a year’s worth of money up front rather than for two-and-a-half months.

“Turn on the news. Look&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricanes-florida-fort-myers-climate-and-environment-hurricane-ian-d88814414fc15b1b91158026fd4eb9a6">what’s happening in Florida</a>&nbsp;right now. Look at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/floods-storms-hurricanes-bermuda-puerto-rico-e4066589502b4b2a0a441308216c7ed4">what happened to Puerto Rico</a>. Look at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/floods-storms-weather-patterns-typhoons-438fe387b3e5c8047bf052fb13756d8b">what’s happening in Alaska</a>. I mean, people need help,” said Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass. “And look at what’s happening in Ukraine. Do we support helping preserve democracy in Ukraine or not? That’s what’s at stake here.”

But Republicans complained the bill brought to the floor was not subject to bipartisan negotiations in the House and didn’t reflect their priorities.

“We know we have a crisis on the southern border. You can turn on the television every night. You can look at the fentanyl pouring into the country, You can see the tragedy of human trafficking. Is there anything in this bill that asks us to do anything different, anything new?” said Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla. “No, you just ask, ’please allow us to continue the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-border-patrols-us-customs-and-protection-7664c5c25eae908a961e0d3da5c5fcfa">current state of affairs on the southern border</a>.′ That is a travesty.”

In the end, support for the bill was unanimous among Democratic lawmakers. Only 10 Republican lawmakers joined them in voting yes.

Former President Donald Trump responded to the bill’s passage with a racist message on his social media platform attacking Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and his Asian American wife, who also served in Trump’s administration as a Cabinet secretary. Trump ominously wrote that McConnell has a “death wish.”

The bill finances the federal government through Dec. 16 and buys lawmakers more time to agree on legislation setting spending levels for the 2023 fiscal year. The bill generally keeps spending at current levels, though it does provide more than $12.3 billion in Ukraine-related aid. The money will go to provide training, equipment and logistics support for the Ukraine military, help Ukraine’s government provide basic services to its citizens and replenish U.S. weapons systems and munitions.

“This contribution ensures we continue upholding our moral responsibility to support the people of Ukraine in the face of a vicious invasion that continues to demand decisive action by us,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the Democratic chair of the House Appropriations Committee.

Disaster assistance was also attached to the stopgap bill, including $2.5 billion to help&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-politics-fires-santa-fe-forests-d02a0a5f63f0f03b75450afc6048aa57">New Mexico communities recover from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire</a>, the largest wildfire in the state’s history; $2 billion for a block grant program that aids the economic recovery of communities impacted by recent disasters; and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/floods-mississippi-tate-reeves-jackson-climate-and-environment-3cc65dd4bdc83e8c48a7aeee8b76bd8d">$20 million for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements previously authorized for Jackson, Mississippi</a>.

“We cannot leave communities behind that are still picking up the pieces from disastrous floods, wildfires and hurricane, and even basic water system failures,” said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla.

The bill would provide an additional $1 billion for a program that helps low-income households heat their homes. And it would transfer $3 billion from a Pentagon aid program to the State Department for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-russia-ukraine-united-states-immigration-477d06070766db3800efd03528c845ec">continued Afghan resettlement operations.</a>

Lawmakers also included a reauthorization of the Food and Drug Administration’s user fee agreements for five years, which ensures the agency can continue critical product safety reviews and won’t need to issue pink slips for thousands of employees working on drug and medical device applications.

One thing missing from the bill is the billions of dollars in additional funding that Biden sought to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-covid-health-government-and-politics-d595f46db6a300b31a8ae8e11d3da3f8">aid the response to COVID-19 and monkeypox</a>. Republicans criticized the health spending as unnecessary. The White House said the money would have been used to accelerate the research and development of vaccines and therapeutics, prepare for future COVID variants and support the global response.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has signed into law a bill that finances the federal government through mid-December and provides another infusion of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-politics-mississippi-jackson-water-treatment-f27e853e708d62ae070e2ac2d91e2388">military and economic aid to Ukraine</a>&nbsp;after lawmakers acted to avert a partial government shutdown set to begin after midnight Friday.The bill passed the House by a vote of 230-201. Republicans overwhelmingly opposed the measure. Some wanted to extend government funding into January when, based on the results of the midterm elections, it’s possible they’ll have more leverage over setting federal spending for the full fiscal year. Others argued the measure needed to do more to address border security.Democrats said passing the bill was important to helping Ukraine as well as victims of recent natural disasters in the U.S.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricane-ian-impact-path-d4db93bcac5af1134e31a3b7f2f694f0">including Hurricane Ian</a>, as it provides a Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster fund with a year’s worth of money up front rather than for two-and-a-half months.“Turn on the news. Look&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hurricanes-florida-fort-myers-climate-and-environment-hurricane-ian-d88814414fc15b1b91158026fd4eb9a6">what’s happening in Florida</a>&nbsp;right now. Look at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/floods-storms-hurricanes-bermuda-puerto-rico-e4066589502b4b2a0a441308216c7ed4">what happened to Puerto Rico</a>. Look at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/floods-storms-weather-patterns-typhoons-438fe387b3e5c8047bf052fb13756d8b">what’s happening in Alaska</a>. I mean, people need help,” said Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass. “And look at what’s happening in Ukraine. Do we support helping preserve democracy in Ukraine or not? That’s what’s at stake here.”But Republicans complained the bill brought to the floor was not subject to bipartisan negotiations in the House and didn’t reflect their priorities.“We know we have a crisis on the southern border. You can turn on the television every night. You can look at the fentanyl pouring into the country, You can see the tragedy of human trafficking. Is there anything in this bill that asks us to do anything different, anything new?” said Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla. “No, you just ask, ’please allow us to continue the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-border-patrols-us-customs-and-protection-7664c5c25eae908a961e0d3da5c5fcfa">current state of affairs on the southern border</a>.′ That is a travesty.”In the end, support for the bill was unanimous among Democratic lawmakers. Only 10 Republican lawmakers joined them in voting yes.Former President Donald Trump responded to the bill’s passage with a racist message on his social media platform attacking Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and his Asian American wife, who also served in Trump’s administration as a Cabinet secretary. Trump ominously wrote that McConnell has a “death wish.”The bill finances the federal government through Dec. 16 and buys lawmakers more time to agree on legislation setting spending levels for the 2023 fiscal year. The bill generally keeps spending at current levels, though it does provide more than $12.3 billion in Ukraine-related aid. The money will go to provide training, equipment and logistics support for the Ukraine military, help Ukraine’s government provide basic services to its citizens and replenish U.S. weapons systems and munitions.“This contribution ensures we continue upholding our moral responsibility to support the people of Ukraine in the face of a vicious invasion that continues to demand decisive action by us,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the Democratic chair of the House Appropriations Committee.Disaster assistance was also attached to the stopgap bill, including $2.5 billion to help&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wildfires-politics-fires-santa-fe-forests-d02a0a5f63f0f03b75450afc6048aa57">New Mexico communities recover from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire</a>, the largest wildfire in the state’s history; $2 billion for a block grant program that aids the economic recovery of communities impacted by recent disasters; and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/floods-mississippi-tate-reeves-jackson-climate-and-environment-3cc65dd4bdc83e8c48a7aeee8b76bd8d">$20 million for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements previously authorized for Jackson, Mississippi</a>.“We cannot leave communities behind that are still picking up the pieces from disastrous floods, wildfires and hurricane, and even basic water system failures,” said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla.The bill would provide an additional $1 billion for a program that helps low-income households heat their homes. And it would transfer $3 billion from a Pentagon aid program to the State Department for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-russia-ukraine-united-states-immigration-477d06070766db3800efd03528c845ec">continued Afghan resettlement operations.</a>Lawmakers also included a reauthorization of the Food and Drug Administration’s user fee agreements for five years, which ensures the agency can continue critical product safety reviews and won’t need to issue pink slips for thousands of employees working on drug and medical device applications.One thing missing from the bill is the billions of dollars in additional funding that Biden sought to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-covid-health-government-and-politics-d595f46db6a300b31a8ae8e11d3da3f8">aid the response to COVID-19 and monkeypox</a>. Republicans criticized the health spending as unnecessary. The White House said the money would have been used to accelerate the research and development of vaccines and therapeutics, prepare for future COVID variants and support the global response.

Biden signs bill to avert shutdown, send $12B more to Ukraine

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide in Junction City have made an arrest.

Just before 2 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of North Washington for a report of shots fired, according to a media release.&nbsp;Upon arrival officers located&nbsp;38-year-old Justin J. Rose of Junction City suffering from a gunshot wound. EMS transported him to the Geary Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Following an extensive investigation, police identified 34-year-old Joshua Stugis as the primary suspect. Just before 8a.m. Sunday, the Missouri State Highway Patrol located and initiated a traffic stop on Sturgis for alleged driving while intoxicated in St. Charles County Missouri, according patrol.&nbsp;

Junction City Police Department Detectives then traveled and placed&nbsp; Sturgis under arrested on requested charges of 2nd Degree Murder and 2 Counts of Aggravated Assault

Sturgis is currently being held in Saint Charles County Missouri on a $1,000,000 bond pending extradition.&nbsp;

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Junction City.

Just before 2 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of North Washington for a report of shots fired, according to a media release.

Upon arrival officers located one male subject suffering from a gunshot wound. This individual was transported to the Geary Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

 The victim has been identified as 38-year-old Justin J. Rose of Junction City. 

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912 or submit a tip through the crime stoppers hotline (785) 762-8477. Information submitted that helps lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward through Crime Stoppers. No further information is available at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664793296546.png" alt="Sturgis-photo St. Charles Co." />
 <figcaption>Sturgis-photo St. Charles Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide in Junction City have made an arrest.Just before 2 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of North Washington for a report of shots fired, according to a media release.&nbsp;Upon arrival officers located&nbsp;38-year-old Justin J. Rose of Junction City suffering from a gunshot wound. EMS transported him to the Geary Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.Following an extensive investigation, police identified 34-year-old Joshua Stugis as the primary suspect. Just before 8a.m. Sunday, the Missouri State Highway Patrol located and initiated a traffic stop on Sturgis for alleged driving while intoxicated in St. Charles County Missouri, according patrol.&nbsp;Junction City Police Department Detectives then traveled and placed&nbsp; Sturgis under arrested on requested charges of 2nd Degree Murder and 2 Counts of Aggravated AssaultSturgis is currently being held in Saint Charles County Missouri on a $1,000,000 bond pending extradition.&nbsp;--------GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Junction City.Just before 2 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of North Washington for a report of shots fired, according to a media release.Upon arrival officers located one male subject suffering from a gunshot wound. This individual was transported to the Geary Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The victim has been identified as 38-year-old Justin J. Rose of Junction City. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912 or submit a tip through the crime stoppers hotline (785) 762-8477. Information submitted that helps lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward through Crime Stoppers. No further information is available at this time.

Kansas murder suspect captured after DWI arrest in Missouri

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal hit-and-run accident.Shortly after 01:10 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1900 block of East Lincoln in Wichita for a collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.On arrival, officers found Sedgwick County EMS personnel providing lifesaving measures to a male victim. EMS then&nbsp; transported the man to a local hospital where he underwent surgery and later died, according to&nbsp;RebolledoThe investigation revealed the male was crossing Lincoln Street when he was struck by an eastbound black pickup truck. The driver of the pickup truck left the scene after witnesses started to gather.

Police ask for help to locate vehicle in fatal Kan. hit-and-run

UPDATE: The Silver Alert has been canceled. Ruth Knapp has been located safely

COFFEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities have issued a Silver Alert for 68-year-old&nbsp; Ruth Knapp, according to the Burlington Kansas Police Department.

She was reported missing from Burlington Sunday afternoon. 

Knapp is described as 5-foot-3 inches tall, 160 pounds with blonde hair and blue eyes. She is bipolar and has depression and dementia. She is believed to be on foot. She left her vehicle, wallet and phone behind.

Police had no clothing description.&nbsp; &nbsp;Please call the Sheriff's dispatch - 620-364-2123 if you see her.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664762545023.png" alt="Knapp-photo Burlington Police" />
 <figcaption>Knapp-photo Burlington Police</figcaption>
 </figure>UPDATE: The Silver Alert has been canceled. Ruth Knapp has been located safely--------COFFEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities have issued a Silver Alert for 68-year-old&nbsp; Ruth Knapp, according to the Burlington Kansas Police Department.She was reported missing from Burlington Sunday afternoon. Knapp is described as 5-foot-3 inches tall, 160 pounds with blonde hair and blue eyes. She is bipolar and has depression and dementia. She is believed to be on foot. She left her vehicle, wallet and phone behind.Police had no clothing description.&nbsp; &nbsp;Please call the Sheriff's dispatch - 620-364-2123 if you see her.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled for missing Kansas woman

KANSAS CITY—A&nbsp; Kansas City man has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of John L. Greer on Aug. 19, 2022, in the 3500 block of Wayne Avenue, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Nathaniel Carter, 21, faces Murder in the 2nd Degree, or in the alternative, Assault in the 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.

According to court records, Kansas City police responded on Aug. 19, 2022, to a home in the 3500 block of Wayne Avenue in Kansas City on a reported shooting.

Officers found the<a href="https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/25688501/john-greer"> victim, John L. Greer,</a> deceased on the floor of the house.

According to the prosecutor's office Carter was with a friend when the friend began to fight with Greer.&nbsp; Carter fired a shot into the Greer's back. As the victim ran away, the friend 21-year-old Davon Canady grabbed the gun from&nbsp; Carter and fired a second shot at the victim, hitting him a second time in the back. Carter and Canady then left the residence.

&nbsp;Canady was charged in this homicide earlier in September.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664480165153.png" alt="Carter photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Carter photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—A&nbsp; Kansas City man has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of John L. Greer on Aug. 19, 2022, in the 3500 block of Wayne Avenue, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Nathaniel Carter, 21, faces Murder in the 2nd Degree, or in the alternative, Assault in the 2nd Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.According to court records, Kansas City police responded on Aug. 19, 2022, to a home in the 3500 block of Wayne Avenue in Kansas City on a reported shooting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664480790178.png" alt="Canady-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Canady-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure> Officers found the<a href="https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/25688501/john-greer"> victim, John L. Greer,</a> deceased on the floor of the house. According to the prosecutor's office Carter was with a friend when the friend began to fight with Greer.&nbsp; Carter fired a shot into the Greer's back. As the victim ran away, the friend 21-year-old Davon Canady grabbed the gun from&nbsp; Carter and fired a second shot at the victim, hitting him a second time in the back. Carter and Canady then left the residence.&nbsp;Canady was charged in this homicide earlier in September.

2 Kansas City suspects took turns shooting 23-year-old victim

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a hit-and-run accident and after asking the public for help to locate a pickup and driver have made an arrest.

On Sunday afternoon, police arrested&nbsp;Orie N. Holt, 35, Nortonville, on requested charges of failure to stop at an accident that resulted in great bodily harm, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Just after 6:40p.m. Saturday police responded to an injury accident at 14th and U.S.59 involving a pedestrian and a pick-up truck that had left the scene, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Richard Burge, 42, Atchison, was walking southbound across U.S.59 when he was struck by westbound pickup truck.

The truck continued westbound on U.S.59 without stopping. Burge sustained serious injuries. EMS transported him to Amberwell Hospital and subsequently he was air-lifted to a Kansas City hospital.&nbsp;

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run accident and asking the public for help to locate a pickup and driver.

Police are searching for a black Ford pick-up truck in connection with the accident, according to Wilson.&nbsp; The police department released a security camera image of the vehicle early Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664719548847.png" alt="Police were searching for this black Ford pick-up truck that struck a pedestrian at 14th and U.S.59 at 6:40PM on October 1, and left the scene without stopping." />
 <figcaption>Police were searching for this black Ford pick-up truck that struck a pedestrian at 14th and U.S.59 at 6:40PM on October 1, and left the scene without stopping.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a hit-and-run accident and after asking the public for help to locate a pickup and driver have made an arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664751791068.png" alt="Holt-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Holt-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On Sunday afternoon, police arrested&nbsp;Orie N. Holt, 35, Nortonville, on requested charges of failure to stop at an accident that resulted in great bodily harm, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Just after 6:40p.m. Saturday police responded to an injury accident at 14th and U.S.59 involving a pedestrian and a pick-up truck that had left the scene, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Richard Burge, 42, Atchison, was walking southbound across U.S.59 when he was struck by westbound pickup truck.The truck continued westbound on U.S.59 without stopping. Burge sustained serious injuries. EMS transported him to Amberwell Hospital and subsequently he was air-lifted to a Kansas City hospital.&nbsp;--------------ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run accident and asking the public for help to locate a pickup and driver.Just after 6:40p.m. Saturday police responded to an injury accident at 14th and U.S.59 involving a pedestrian and a pick-up truck that had left the scene, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Richard Burge, 42, Atchison, was walking southbound across U.S.59 when he was struck by westbound pickup truck.The truck continued westbound on U.S.59 without stopping. Burge sustained serious injuries. EMS transported him to Amberwell Hospital and subsequently he was air-lifted to a Kansas City hospital.&nbsp;Police are searching for a black Ford pick-up truck in connection with the accident, according to Wilson.&nbsp; The police department released a security camera image of the vehicle early Sunday.

Kan. man jailed after hit-and-run that critically injured man

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a burglary.

Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, police were conducting an area check at 605 SW Fairlawn Road, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

 While conducting this check, officers heard the sounds of a reciprocating saw being operated inside of the building.

Officers followed this sound and located a man inside of the building. 

As a result of the investigation, it was determined that the man identified as 34-year-old Ryan Lemon of Topeka had burglarized the building.

Officers arrested Lemon on requested charges of Burglary, Theft and Criminal Damage to property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664467052526.png" alt="Lemon" />
 <figcaption>Lemon</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a burglary.Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, police were conducting an area check at 605 SW Fairlawn Road, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley. While conducting this check, officers heard the sounds of a reciprocating saw being operated inside of the building.Officers followed this sound and located a man inside of the building. As a result of the investigation, it was determined that the man identified as 34-year-old Ryan Lemon of Topeka had burglarized the building.Officers arrested Lemon on requested charges of Burglary, Theft and Criminal Damage to property.

Police: Kan. man caught using a saw during business burglary

By JARED STRONG <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/usda-hopes-to-boost-fertilizer-production-as-soon-as-next-year/">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will invest $500 million to 
increase domestic fertilizer production, doubling its previous 
commitment, the agency announced.

The federal dollars would boost long-term projects and ready-to-go proposals that might have an effect as early as next year.

Some of the first projects to get funding from the Fertilizer 
Production Expansion Program are likely to include fertilizer plants 
that are already under construction and could be completed more quickly 
with an infusion of cash, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said
 Tuesday.

“There are facilities that have been underway, are in construction, 
where opportunities may be accelerated to be able to deal with more 
product in 2023 or 2024,” he told reporters.

Vilsack mentioned an unspecified Michigan facility that might be a 
candidate for the funding. The Michigan Potash &amp; Salt Company was 
expected to start construction this year on a $1.1 billion facility to 
process potash that is mined in the state, and one of the company’s 
executives&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://brownfieldagnews.com/news/michigan-potash-plans-to-break-ground-in-coming-months-on-a-billion-dollar-processing-plant/">has said</a>&nbsp;the new federal funding would help the long-awaited project advance.

Potash — a potassium compound — is one of the most widely used 
fertilizers in agriculture. The United States is not a major global 
producer of it, according to USDA data. Canada, Russia and Belarus have 
accounted for about two-thirds of global production.

Michigan Potash has said its facility will have the capacity to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/michigan-potash-stands-to-replace-russian-potash-fertilizer-imports-301497352.html">fully supplant</a>&nbsp;Russian imports of the fertilizer, but full production isn’t expected for three years.

The company did not immediately respond to a request to comment for this article.

The federal funding for fertilizer production is a result of costs that spiked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2021/11/08/high-cost-short-supply-of-fertilizer-to-alter-2022-planting/">in late 2021</a>&nbsp;and
 early 2022. Those prices have subsided somewhat but are still about 
double what they were at the start of 2021, according to a Green 
Markets’&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://fertilizerpricing.com/priceindex/">fertilizer price index</a>.

The price increases were driven by a number of factors, including 
shortages of natural gas used to make nitrogen fertilizers, limited 
fertilizer stockpiles and production disruptions caused by an August 
2021 hurricane that struck Louisiana. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine 
exacerbated the problem.

So in March, the USDA announced a new grant program to increase 
domestic production with an eye toward supporting new, independent 
operations. The Biden administration has sought to reduce consolidation 
in agriculture-related industries.

The USDA is expected to start soliciting grant applications soon for 
awards ranging from $1 million to $100 million, Vilsack said.

A first group of applications due within 45 days will be geared 
toward projects that might increase fertilizer supplies in 2023 and 
2024. A second round of applications due within 90 days will be for 
longer-term projects.

The grants will be paid through the Commodity Credit Corporation, 
which has traditionally funded loans and payments to farmers and 
conservations programs of the farm bill. Earlier this month, the USDA 
announced CCC money would be used to support a more than&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/09/14/usda-more-than-triples-funding-for-climate-smart-agriculture/">$3 billion “climate smart” program</a>. At the time, Vilsack said the CCC has sufficient funds to support the new programs and fulfill its farm bill obligations.

The fertilizer grant program is part of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/08/18/biden-administration-plays-long-game-for-agriculture-and-trade/">a longer-term strategy</a>&nbsp;to reduce prices and the country’s reliance on foreign products. The Biden administration has resisted calls&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/07/29/ag-groups-want-tariff-lifted-on-moroccan-fertilizer/">to cut tariffs</a>&nbsp;on
 certain fertilizers to help alleviate the recent high costs, saying the
 short-term benefits do not outweigh long-term trade goals.

Vilsack said increased domestic fertilizer production combined with 
better techniques to avoid the excessive use of fertilizers will help 
stabilize supplies and farmers’ costs.

“We’re excited about this,” he said of the new grant program. “We 
think it’s going to help reduce the cost, increase the supply, maybe 
generate opportunities for farmer-owned cooperatives as well.”

The USDA is set to hold two online seminars to explain the&nbsp; Fertilizer Production Expansion Program&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dTRONOeRRVu2aTEvGjwx6A">on Oct. 4</a>&nbsp;and how to apply&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dUsGJWFZQtGuh_BWcC7EZQ">on Oct. 6</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664372269646.png" alt="U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said $500 million of new federal grants will support domestic fertilizer production. (Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch)." />
 <figcaption>U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said $500 million of new federal grants will support domestic fertilizer production. (Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch).</figcaption>
 </figure>By JARED STRONG <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/usda-hopes-to-boost-fertilizer-production-as-soon-as-next-year/">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>The U.S. Department of Agriculture will invest $500 million to 
increase domestic fertilizer production, doubling its previous 
commitment, the agency announced.The federal dollars would boost long-term projects and ready-to-go proposals that might have an effect as early as next year.Some of the first projects to get funding from the Fertilizer 
Production Expansion Program are likely to include fertilizer plants 
that are already under construction and could be completed more quickly 
with an infusion of cash, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said
 Tuesday.“There are facilities that have been underway, are in construction, 
where opportunities may be accelerated to be able to deal with more 
product in 2023 or 2024,” he told reporters.Vilsack mentioned an unspecified Michigan facility that might be a 
candidate for the funding. The Michigan Potash &amp; Salt Company was 
expected to start construction this year on a $1.1 billion facility to 
process potash that is mined in the state, and one of the company’s 
executives&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://brownfieldagnews.com/news/michigan-potash-plans-to-break-ground-in-coming-months-on-a-billion-dollar-processing-plant/">has said</a>&nbsp;the new federal funding would help the long-awaited project advance.Potash — a potassium compound — is one of the most widely used 
fertilizers in agriculture. The United States is not a major global 
producer of it, according to USDA data. Canada, Russia and Belarus have 
accounted for about two-thirds of global production.Michigan Potash has said its facility will have the capacity to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/michigan-potash-stands-to-replace-russian-potash-fertilizer-imports-301497352.html">fully supplant</a>&nbsp;Russian imports of the fertilizer, but full production isn’t expected for three years.The company did not immediately respond to a request to comment for this article.The federal funding for fertilizer production is a result of costs that spiked&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2021/11/08/high-cost-short-supply-of-fertilizer-to-alter-2022-planting/">in late 2021</a>&nbsp;and
 early 2022. Those prices have subsided somewhat but are still about 
double what they were at the start of 2021, according to a Green 
Markets’&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://fertilizerpricing.com/priceindex/">fertilizer price index</a>.The price increases were driven by a number of factors, including 
shortages of natural gas used to make nitrogen fertilizers, limited 
fertilizer stockpiles and production disruptions caused by an August 
2021 hurricane that struck Louisiana. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine 
exacerbated the problem.So in March, the USDA announced a new grant program to increase 
domestic production with an eye toward supporting new, independent 
operations. The Biden administration has sought to reduce consolidation 
in agriculture-related industries.The USDA is expected to start soliciting grant applications soon for 
awards ranging from $1 million to $100 million, Vilsack said.A first group of applications due within 45 days will be geared 
toward projects that might increase fertilizer supplies in 2023 and 
2024. A second round of applications due within 90 days will be for 
longer-term projects.The grants will be paid through the Commodity Credit Corporation, 
which has traditionally funded loans and payments to farmers and 
conservations programs of the farm bill. Earlier this month, the USDA 
announced CCC money would be used to support a more than&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/09/14/usda-more-than-triples-funding-for-climate-smart-agriculture/">$3 billion “climate smart” program</a>. At the time, Vilsack said the CCC has sufficient funds to support the new programs and fulfill its farm bill obligations.The fertilizer grant program is part of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/08/18/biden-administration-plays-long-game-for-agriculture-and-trade/">a longer-term strategy</a>&nbsp;to reduce prices and the country’s reliance on foreign products. The Biden administration has resisted calls&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2022/07/29/ag-groups-want-tariff-lifted-on-moroccan-fertilizer/">to cut tariffs</a>&nbsp;on
 certain fertilizers to help alleviate the recent high costs, saying the
 short-term benefits do not outweigh long-term trade goals.Vilsack said increased domestic fertilizer production combined with 
better techniques to avoid the excessive use of fertilizers will help 
stabilize supplies and farmers’ costs.“We’re excited about this,” he said of the new grant program. “We 
think it’s going to help reduce the cost, increase the supply, maybe 
generate opportunities for farmer-owned cooperatives as well.”The USDA is set to hold two online seminars to explain the&nbsp; Fertilizer Production Expansion Program&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dTRONOeRRVu2aTEvGjwx6A">on Oct. 4</a>&nbsp;and how to apply&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_dUsGJWFZQtGuh_BWcC7EZQ">on Oct. 6</a>.

USDA hopes to boost fertilizer production as soon as next year

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Junction City.Just before 2 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 900 block of North Washington for a report of shots fired, according to a media release.Upon arrival officers located one male subject suffering from a gunshot wound. This individual was transported to the Geary Community Hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The victim has been identified as 38-year-old Justin J. Rose of Junction City. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department at (785) 762-5912 or submit a tip through the crime stoppers hotline (785) 762-8477. Information submitted that helps lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward through Crime Stoppers. No further information is available at this time.

Police ID fatal shooting victim in Junction City

By MILI MANSARAY <a href="https://thebeacon.media/stories/2022/09/28/kansas-city-uber-drivers/">Kansas City Beacon</a>

April Shabazz began driving for Uber full time this summer. The job 
wasn’t new for her. Rideshare driving had been her side gig for three 
years, along with work as a tax preparer.

Shabazz, a member of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/StandUpKc">Stand Up KC</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.moworkers.org/">Missouri Workers Center</a>,
 likes Uber’s flexible schedule. It enables her to work around some 
health issues and frequent medical visits.&nbsp; She still has grievances 
with the company, however.

“Honestly, I’m not gonna say that I really feel valued as a driver,” she said.

Shabazz is not alone in that sentiment. Coming out of the disruptions caused by the pandemic, and following a summer of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thebeacon.media/stories/2022/07/01/kc-gas-prices/">heightened gas prices</a>,
 many rideshare drivers say they do not feel valued by their companies. 
They say large commission cuts, few resources&nbsp; and a lack of corporate 
transparency make their jobs harder, especially in a place like Kansas 
City, where competition for customers can be cutthroat.

While rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft do not share localized data on their numbers of drivers,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://therideshareguy.com/how-many-uber-drivers-are-there/">The RideShare Guy</a>&nbsp;(RSG),
 a blog about the rideshare gig economy, estimates that approximately 
1.5 million drivers represent Uber and Lyft in the United States.

Overall, 16% of Americans have earned money at one time or another via an online gig platform, according to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2021/12/08/the-state-of-gig-work-in-2021/pi_2021-12-08_gig-work_0-01/">Pew Research Center</a>. Fifty-eight percent of gig employees rely on their gig jobs to meet basic needs.

RSG estimates that about 1% of the working adult population of the 
U.S. is involved in some sort of gig job, according to Sergio Avedian, 
senior contributor at the blog.

While Uber alone has added 640,000 drivers to its Uber and Uber Eats 
platforms since January 2021, it has not been able to retain most of its
 drivers and has to continually replenish its driver base. About half of
 Uber’s drivers quit after just one year, according to the RideShare Guy
 platform.

“Unfortunately, from the first day, Uber and Lyft had this attitude 
of churn and burn,” Avedian said. “We don’t care if we lose a million 
drivers this year, because there’s another million waiting&nbsp; to join the 
platforms.”

Drivers make less while the apps charge more

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.uber.com/gh/en/drive/basics/tracking-your-earnings/">Uber</a>&nbsp;claims
 that it charges its drivers a 25% fee on all fares. But after 
accounting for other additional fees deducted from the fare, such as 
booking, safe ride and marketplace fees, the percentage taken from 
drivers is much higher.

“Since 2019, the fares that Uber and Lyft are charging passengers 
have gone up anywhere between 60 and 70 percent throughout the country, 
depending on the city,” said Avedian.

“They are charging a lot more and they are paying a lot less.”

The company no longer produces a receipt showing the breakdown of 
what the trip cost, what fees are deducted and what the driver will 
receive.&nbsp; Instead it shows an aggregate total of trips and driver 
earnings over a given period. The amount that Uber has taken off the 
individual fare is not available, although the company has said it is 
working on a plan that would give drivers more information up front.

“Less transparency is definitely happening,” Avedian said.

Drivers are also not compensated for gas, and while the price of gas has fallen from its summer peak, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thebeacon.media/stories/2022/09/20/kansas-city-minimum-wage/">higher cost of living</a>&nbsp;post-pandemic continues makes it difficult for drivers to break even with these fees.

Erica Downey, who lives in Wyandotte County, drives for the food 
delivery platform DoorDash, which does break down fees for drivers but 
does not compensate them for fuel costs until they reach five years’ 
seniority. Drivers for the app receive a base pay depending on the 
distance, estimated time of delivery and other factors. The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://help.doordash.com/dashers/s/article/How-is-Dasher-pay-calculated?language=en_US">minimum</a>&nbsp;payment is $2.

“That’s not even the price of one whole gallon of gas,” Downey said. 
Over the summer, she experienced days where the amount she made from 
driving was the same amount she had to spend on gas.

“It doesn’t seem like it’s a fair wage,” she said. “It’s not just the
 gas prices here. It’s the way that DoorDash pays you as well.”

Downey started declining orders under $5, which has decreased her 
acceptance rate, resulting in her receiving fewer orders as she is now 
one of the last drivers to be notified of nearby orders.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664572372886.png" alt="Rideshare drivers in Kansas City’s gig market want more protections from companies" />
 <figcaption>Rideshare drivers in Kansas City’s gig market want more protections from companies</figcaption>
 </figure>By MILI MANSARAY <a href="https://thebeacon.media/stories/2022/09/28/kansas-city-uber-drivers/">Kansas City Beacon</a>April Shabazz began driving for Uber full time this summer. The job 
wasn’t new for her. Rideshare driving had been her side gig for three 
years, along with work as a tax preparer.Shabazz, a member of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/StandUpKc">Stand Up KC</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.moworkers.org/">Missouri Workers Center</a>,
 likes Uber’s flexible schedule. It enables her to work around some 
health issues and frequent medical visits.&nbsp; She still has grievances 
with the company, however.“Honestly, I’m not gonna say that I really feel valued as a driver,” she said.Shabazz is not alone in that sentiment. Coming out of the disruptions caused by the pandemic, and following a summer of&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thebeacon.media/stories/2022/07/01/kc-gas-prices/">heightened gas prices</a>,
 many rideshare drivers say they do not feel valued by their companies. 
They say large commission cuts, few resources&nbsp; and a lack of corporate 
transparency make their jobs harder, especially in a place like Kansas 
City, where competition for customers can be cutthroat.While rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft do not share localized data on their numbers of drivers,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://therideshareguy.com/how-many-uber-drivers-are-there/">The RideShare Guy</a>&nbsp;(RSG),
 a blog about the rideshare gig economy, estimates that approximately 
1.5 million drivers represent Uber and Lyft in the United States.Overall, 16% of Americans have earned money at one time or another via an online gig platform, according to the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2021/12/08/the-state-of-gig-work-in-2021/pi_2021-12-08_gig-work_0-01/">Pew Research Center</a>. Fifty-eight percent of gig employees rely on their gig jobs to meet basic needs.RSG estimates that about 1% of the working adult population of the 
U.S. is involved in some sort of gig job, according to Sergio Avedian, 
senior contributor at the blog.While Uber alone has added 640,000 drivers to its Uber and Uber Eats 
platforms since January 2021, it has not been able to retain most of its
 drivers and has to continually replenish its driver base. About half of
 Uber’s drivers quit after just one year, according to the RideShare Guy
 platform.“Unfortunately, from the first day, Uber and Lyft had this attitude 
of churn and burn,” Avedian said. “We don’t care if we lose a million 
drivers this year, because there’s another million waiting&nbsp; to join the 
platforms.”<h2>Drivers make less while the apps charge more</h2><a target="_blank" href="https://www.uber.com/gh/en/drive/basics/tracking-your-earnings/">Uber</a>&nbsp;claims
 that it charges its drivers a 25% fee on all fares. But after 
accounting for other additional fees deducted from the fare, such as 
booking, safe ride and marketplace fees, the percentage taken from 
drivers is much higher.“Since 2019, the fares that Uber and Lyft are charging passengers 
have gone up anywhere between 60 and 70 percent throughout the country, 
depending on the city,” said Avedian.“They are charging a lot more and they are paying a lot less.”The company no longer produces a receipt showing the breakdown of 
what the trip cost, what fees are deducted and what the driver will 
receive.&nbsp; Instead it shows an aggregate total of trips and driver 
earnings over a given period. The amount that Uber has taken off the 
individual fare is not available, although the company has said it is 
working on a plan that would give drivers more information up front.“Less transparency is definitely happening,” Avedian said.Drivers are also not compensated for gas, and while the price of gas has fallen from its summer peak, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thebeacon.media/stories/2022/09/20/kansas-city-minimum-wage/">higher cost of living</a>&nbsp;post-pandemic continues makes it difficult for drivers to break even with these fees.Erica Downey, who lives in Wyandotte County, drives for the food 
delivery platform DoorDash, which does break down fees for drivers but 
does not compensate them for fuel costs until they reach five years’ 
seniority. Drivers for the app receive a base pay depending on the 
distance, estimated time of delivery and other factors. The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://help.doordash.com/dashers/s/article/How-is-Dasher-pay-calculated?language=en_US">minimum</a>&nbsp;payment is $2.“That’s not even the price of one whole gallon of gas,” Downey said. 
Over the summer, she experienced days where the amount she made from 
driving was the same amount she had to spend on gas.“It doesn’t seem like it’s a fair wage,” she said. “It’s not just the
 gas prices here. It’s the way that DoorDash pays you as well.”Downey started declining orders under $5, which has decreased her 
acceptance rate, resulting in her receiving fewer orders as she is now 
one of the last drivers to be notified of nearby orders.“Since 2019, the fares that Uber and Lyft are charging passengers 
have gone up anywhere between 60 and 70 percent throughout the country, 
depending on the city,” said Avedian.“They are charging a lot more and they are paying a lot less.”The company no longer produces a receipt showing the breakdown of 
what the trip cost, what fees are deducted and what the driver will 
receive.&nbsp; Instead it shows an aggregate total of trips and driver 
earnings over a given period. The amount that Uber has taken off the 
individual fare is not available, although the company has said it is 
working on a plan that would give drivers more information up front.“Less transparency is definitely happening,” Avedian said.Drivers are also not compensated for gas, and while the price of gas has fallen from its summer peak, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thebeacon.media/stories/2022/09/20/kansas-city-minimum-wage/">higher cost of living</a>&nbsp;post-pandemic continues makes it difficult for drivers to break even with these fees.Erica Downey, who lives in Wyandotte County, drives for the food 
delivery platform DoorDash, which does break down fees for drivers but 
does not compensate them for fuel costs until they reach five years’ 
seniority. Drivers for the app receive a base pay depending on the 
distance, estimated time of delivery and other factors. The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://help.doordash.com/dashers/s/article/How-is-Dasher-pay-calculated?language=en_US">minimum</a>&nbsp;payment is $2.“That’s not even the price of one whole gallon of gas,” Downey said. 
Over the summer, she experienced days where the amount she made from 
driving was the same amount she had to spend on gas.“It doesn’t seem like it’s a fair wage,” she said. “It’s not just the
 gas prices here. It’s the way that DoorDash pays you as well.”Downey started declining orders under $5, which has decreased her 
acceptance rate, resulting in her receiving fewer orders as she is now 
one of the last drivers to be notified of nearby orders.