Fort Hays State University’s Department of Criminal Justice was recently awarded an additional $1.5 million to expand operations of the Central Region De-escalation Training Center. This marks the department's second major federal grant award over the past year. In October 2021, the program was awarded an initial $1.25 million grant.&nbsp;

FHSU hosts one of several regional training centers within a national network under the direction of the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC). The de-escalation training model used by center instructors expands the law enforcement officers’ ability to interact with the people they serve and defuse potential situations that otherwise may escalate into the use of force.&nbsp;

The most recent grant funding source comes from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) under the Byrne Discretionary Community Project Grants program. This program supports projects that improve the functioning of the criminal justice system.&nbsp;

The Department of Criminal Justice plans to use this new funding to:

“We would like to thank Senator Jerry Moran for his continued support of Fort Hays State University’s regional training center,” said Dr. Tamara Lynn, chair of the Department of Criminal Justice and director of the Regional De-escalation Training Center.&nbsp;

“The efforts of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran and his staff have been invaluable in securing the essential funding that drove the rapid expansion of the regional de-escalation training center at Fort Hays State University. Without Senator Moran’s support, we would not be able to train law enforcement officers in advanced de-escalation to improve encounters with citizens while also advancing community policing initiatives,”.&nbsp;

For more information about the Regional De-escalation Training Center at FHSU, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/criminaljustice/regional-training-center">https://www.fhsu.edu/criminaljustice/regional-training-center</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660073187285.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University CommunicationsFort Hays State University’s Department of Criminal Justice was recently awarded an additional $1.5 million to expand operations of the Central Region De-escalation Training Center. This marks the department's second major federal grant award over the past year. In October 2021, the program was awarded an initial $1.25 million grant.&nbsp;FHSU hosts one of several regional training centers within a national network under the direction of the National De-escalation Training Center (NDTC). The de-escalation training model used by center instructors expands the law enforcement officers’ ability to interact with the people they serve and defuse potential situations that otherwise may escalate into the use of force.&nbsp;The most recent grant funding source comes from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) under the Byrne Discretionary Community Project Grants program. This program supports projects that improve the functioning of the criminal justice system.&nbsp;The Department of Criminal Justice plans to use this new funding to:<ul>
 <li>Expand the number of law enforcement officers trained in de-escalation, both via online and in-person coursework</li><li>Grow the program’s research capabilities to advance de-escalation as an evidence-based practice</li><li>Host a research and training conference to disseminate lessons learned and best practices</li><li>Support the national network of de-escalation training centers with targeted investments that will drive long-term viability</li><li>Launch a comprehensive advertising campaign to increase the visibility of the center and increase the number of agency training partners</li><li>Establish a prominent location on campus for the center’s offices and training spaces</li>
 </ul>“We would like to thank Senator Jerry Moran for his continued support of Fort Hays State University’s regional training center,” said Dr. Tamara Lynn, chair of the Department of Criminal Justice and director of the Regional De-escalation Training Center.&nbsp;“The efforts of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran and his staff have been invaluable in securing the essential funding that drove the rapid expansion of the regional de-escalation training center at Fort Hays State University. Without Senator Moran’s support, we would not be able to train law enforcement officers in advanced de-escalation to improve encounters with citizens while also advancing community policing initiatives,”.&nbsp;For more information about the Regional De-escalation Training Center at FHSU, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/criminaljustice/regional-training-center">https://www.fhsu.edu/criminaljustice/regional-training-center</a>

Federal grant drives FHSU de-escalation training center expansion

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Tony Gonsolin took a no-hit try into the seventh inning and the Los Angeles Dodgers won their 11th straight game, beating the Kansas City Royals 8-3 Friday night.

Gonsolin (14-1) tied Atlanta’s Kyle Wright for the NL wins lead. The Dodgers, with the best record in the majors, broke open the game on Trayce Thompson’s three-run homer in the eighth.

“Tony was good,” manager Dave Roberts said. “I think it helped that this was a very aggressive ballclub. They were aggressive in the zone."

“I thought in the sixth or seventh inning he hit a wall. The slider started to get up there and he couldn’t get the split to have the depth. I felt he had enough," he said.

Gonsolin did not allow a baserunner until issuing a one-out walk to Kyle Isbel in the sixth, when the game was still scoreless. He didn’t give up a hit until Vinnie Pasquantino’s one-out single in the seventh.

Overall, Gonsolin permitted two hits in 6 2/3 innings.

“It was pretty solid,” Gonsolin said. “I felt like I was throwing a lot of strikes early with everything, which was nice to see. They were swinging a lot, so I kept the pitch count down. I got some soft contact and the guys made some good plays.”

Josh Staumont (3-2) lost in relief, allowing five runs on four hits and a walk, without recording an out.

Royals starter Daniel Lynch gave up just two hits in five scoreless innings. A high pitch count was his undoing as he threw 105 and walked four.

Lynch escaped a bases-loaded, no-out jam in the fifth when he got Trea Turner to foul out, struck out Freddie Freeman and retired Will Smith on a flyball.

The Dodgers scored five times in the seventh after loading the bases with no outs on singles by pinch-hitter Gavin Lux and Thompson and a walk to Mookie Betts. Turner hit a two-run single, Freeman followed with an RBI double, and a wild pitch and Justin Turner’s sacrifice fly made it 5-0.

“I just felt with those guys there was no panic. Two innings later to have that same situation with those hitters, that’s an easy bet to take. Trea came through and opened up the floodgates," he said.

Trea Turner was relieved to have made amends.

“It felt good,” he said. “The first one was a little frustrating because I felt like I had a pretty good at-bat (in the fifth). I just kept fouling pitches off, but I couldn’t move one forward."

“It was nice to come through a couple of innings later and get the job done," he said.

Michael A. Taylor doubled home a run in the Kansas City seventh. Salvador Perez added a two-run homer in the eighth.

Dodgers C Austin Barnes was placed on the family emergency list. ... C Tony Wolters was selected from Triple-A Oklahoma City. ... INF Rylan Bannon was designated for assignment.

Dodgers 3B Max Muncy and DH Justin Turner switched prior to Friday’s game, because Muncy was hit in the right hand by a one-hopper that resulted in an infield single and came out of Wednesday’s game. Muncy still hit seventh in the lineup but didn’t play in the field. … LHP Clayton Kershaw, who has been on the 10-day injured list since Aug. 5 with lower back pain, played catch Thursday in Los Angeles and will continue to play catch each day in Kansas City. He got an epidural soon after the injury, and he said Friday that his back is feeling better. He said he doesn’t have a set time to return, but “we’ll definitely have enough time before October.”

The teams continue the three-game series Saturday evening. The Dodgers will start LHP Andrew Heaney (1-0, 0.64 ERA), while the Royals will hand the ball to RHP Brad Keller (6-12, 4.45 ERA).

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Tony Gonsolin took a no-hit try into the seventh inning and the Los Angeles Dodgers won their 11th straight game, beating the Kansas City Royals 8-3 Friday night.Gonsolin (14-1) tied Atlanta’s Kyle Wright for the NL wins lead. The Dodgers, with the best record in the majors, broke open the game on Trayce Thompson’s three-run homer in the eighth.“Tony was good,” manager Dave Roberts said. “I think it helped that this was a very aggressive ballclub. They were aggressive in the zone."“I thought in the sixth or seventh inning he hit a wall. The slider started to get up there and he couldn’t get the split to have the depth. I felt he had enough," he said.Gonsolin did not allow a baserunner until issuing a one-out walk to Kyle Isbel in the sixth, when the game was still scoreless. He didn’t give up a hit until Vinnie Pasquantino’s one-out single in the seventh.Overall, Gonsolin permitted two hits in 6 2/3 innings.“It was pretty solid,” Gonsolin said. “I felt like I was throwing a lot of strikes early with everything, which was nice to see. They were swinging a lot, so I kept the pitch count down. I got some soft contact and the guys made some good plays.”Josh Staumont (3-2) lost in relief, allowing five runs on four hits and a walk, without recording an out.Royals starter Daniel Lynch gave up just two hits in five scoreless innings. A high pitch count was his undoing as he threw 105 and walked four.Lynch escaped a bases-loaded, no-out jam in the fifth when he got Trea Turner to foul out, struck out Freddie Freeman and retired Will Smith on a flyball.The Dodgers scored five times in the seventh after loading the bases with no outs on singles by pinch-hitter Gavin Lux and Thompson and a walk to Mookie Betts. Turner hit a two-run single, Freeman followed with an RBI double, and a wild pitch and Justin Turner’s sacrifice fly made it 5-0.“I just felt with those guys there was no panic. Two innings later to have that same situation with those hitters, that’s an easy bet to take. Trea came through and opened up the floodgates," he said.Trea Turner was relieved to have made amends.“It felt good,” he said. “The first one was a little frustrating because I felt like I had a pretty good at-bat (in the fifth). I just kept fouling pitches off, but I couldn’t move one forward."“It was nice to come through a couple of innings later and get the job done," he said.Michael A. Taylor doubled home a run in the Kansas City seventh. Salvador Perez added a two-run homer in the eighth.TRANSACTIONSDodgers C Austin Barnes was placed on the family emergency list. ... C Tony Wolters was selected from Triple-A Oklahoma City. ... INF Rylan Bannon was designated for assignment.TRAINER’S ROOMDodgers 3B Max Muncy and DH Justin Turner switched prior to Friday’s game, because Muncy was hit in the right hand by a one-hopper that resulted in an infield single and came out of Wednesday’s game. Muncy still hit seventh in the lineup but didn’t play in the field. … LHP Clayton Kershaw, who has been on the 10-day injured list since Aug. 5 with lower back pain, played catch Thursday in Los Angeles and will continue to play catch each day in Kansas City. He got an epidural soon after the injury, and he said Friday that his back is feeling better. He said he doesn’t have a set time to return, but “we’ll definitely have enough time before October.”UP NEXTThe teams continue the three-game series Saturday evening. The Dodgers will start LHP Andrew Heaney (1-0, 0.64 ERA), while the Royals will hand the ball to RHP Brad Keller (6-12, 4.45 ERA).

⚾ Gonsolin, Dodgers win 11th in a row, break away from Royals

Jesse Dwain West, age 29, passed away on Thursday, August 11, 2022, 
in Leoti, Kansas. He was born on August 30, 1992, in Tribune, Kansas. A 
loving husband and father, he lived nearly his entire life in the 
community and was known as a jokester and life of the party. He served 
in the National Guard for over 10 years and was employed by Seaboard in 
Leoti, Kansas.

On October 23, 2016, Jesse married Paige Summers in Leoti, Kansas. She survives.

Survivors include his wife, his children, Michael, Lucas, and Reign 
West of Leoti, Kansas, his mother, Sarah Pitzer, his grandparents Doris 
&amp; Gene Langdon, his “mom” Kim Billinger, one brother Daniel &amp; 
Alannah West of Leoti, Kansas, two sisters, Amber Snell of Leoti, 
Kansas, Hollie Snell of Watkins Falls, New York, one brother/nephew 
Bently Guilfoyle of Leoti, Kansas, his father and mother-in-law, Richard
 &amp; Patty Summers of Colby, Kansas, sister-in-law Amanda &amp; Jeff 
Hollenhors of Colby, Kansas, sister-in-law Stephanie &amp; Blake Steiert
 of Welford, South Carolina and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his uncle, Frank Langdon, and cousins Greg Martinez III, Curtis Anderson, and Daune Snyder.

A memorial service will be held at Christ Covenant Presbyterian 
Church in Leoti, Kansas on Friday, August 19, 2022, at 10:00 A.M. with 
pastor Stephen Morefield presiding.

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be given to the Jesse West Memorial 
fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 161, Leoti, KS 
67861.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660325517366.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jesse Dwain West, age 29, passed away on Thursday, August 11, 2022, 
in Leoti, Kansas. He was born on August 30, 1992, in Tribune, Kansas. A 
loving husband and father, he lived nearly his entire life in the 
community and was known as a jokester and life of the party. He served 
in the National Guard for over 10 years and was employed by Seaboard in 
Leoti, Kansas.On October 23, 2016, Jesse married Paige Summers in Leoti, Kansas. She survives.Survivors include his wife, his children, Michael, Lucas, and Reign 
West of Leoti, Kansas, his mother, Sarah Pitzer, his grandparents Doris 
&amp; Gene Langdon, his “mom” Kim Billinger, one brother Daniel &amp; 
Alannah West of Leoti, Kansas, two sisters, Amber Snell of Leoti, 
Kansas, Hollie Snell of Watkins Falls, New York, one brother/nephew 
Bently Guilfoyle of Leoti, Kansas, his father and mother-in-law, Richard
 &amp; Patty Summers of Colby, Kansas, sister-in-law Amanda &amp; Jeff 
Hollenhors of Colby, Kansas, sister-in-law Stephanie &amp; Blake Steiert
 of Welford, South Carolina and many extended family members.He was preceded in death by his uncle, Frank Langdon, and cousins Greg Martinez III, Curtis Anderson, and Daune Snyder.A memorial service will be held at Christ Covenant Presbyterian 
Church in Leoti, Kansas on Friday, August 19, 2022, at 10:00 A.M. with 
pastor Stephen Morefield presiding.Interment will be at a later date.Memorials in lieu of flowers may be given to the Jesse West Memorial 
fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home, PO Box 161, Leoti, KS 
67861.

Jesse Dwain West

By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/08/12/kansas-foster-care-provider-suing-former-leaders-for-alleged-financial-misconduct/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The former CEO, chief 
counsel and IT director for Saint Francis Ministries used their 
positions to enrich themselves and their friends as the charity neared 
financial insolvency, according to allegations made in state and federal
 lawsuits.

The Salina-based foster care provider in court documents accused the 
trinity of overbilling for IT and legal services and misusing company 
funds to support a lavish lifestyle. <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/08/11/fbi-seizing-bank-deposits-in-alleged-10-million-fraud-of-kansas-foster-care-provider-saint-francis-ministries/">Federal authorities identified $10.73 million in fraudulent billing</a> for IT services and moved to seize bank accounts.

Meanwhile, the former CEO filed a counterclaim against Saint Francis 
officials for alleged defamation based on quotes and documented evidence
 reported by Kansas Reflector.

The legal fallout raises questions about the level of care the 
organization provides to foster children, as well as renewed interest in
 examining whether taxpayer funds should be repaid to state agencies in 
Kansas and Nebraska.

Teresa Woody, litigation director for Kansas Appleseed, said it was 
appalling that millions of dollars meant to provide foster care went out
 the door and were not accounted for. Kansas Appleseed <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/20/judge-orders-kansas-to-pay-nearly-2-3-million-in-legal-fees-and-expenses-in-child-welfare-lawsuit/">settled a lawsuit last year</a> to require improvements in the foster care system, which is administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families.

“I think DCF should look at all this and take a very hard look at 
whether they’re an appropriate entity to be trying to help foster 
children in Kansas,” Woody said.

Saint Francis Ministries quietly filed a civil lawsuit in January in 
Saline County District Court against its former CEO, Robert “Father 
Bobby” Smith, IT director William Whymark, chief counsel David Schaffer,
 and the law firm where Schaffer worked in Chicago. The lawsuit 
identifies Schaffer as Smith’s friend and Whymark’s brother. Saint 
Francis is seeking repayment for legal malpractice and breach of 
fiduciary duties.

The former Saint Francis leadership resigned in November 2020 after a
 newly hired financial officer alerted the board to alleged financial 
misconduct.

They worked together to place their own financial interests above the
 nonprofit, failed to disclose conflicts of interest, misappropriated 
resources, overbilled for services, and concealed material facts, Saint 
Francis claimed in an amended complaint filed Aug. 5.

Accusations made in state and federal court documents are consistent with an internal investigation, <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/20/kansas-foster-care-leader-charged-469k-to-credit-cards-hid-financial-losses/">first reported by Kansas Reflector in December 2020</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/23/audit-of-kansas-foster-care-provider-scrutinizes-financial-controls-it-costs-ceo-travel-ppp-loan/">an audit released by DCF</a> in December 2021.

Smith, an Episcopal priest, began working as CEO for Saint Francis in
 July 2014. Smith hired Schaffer as chief counsel in October 2014. 
Schaffer, according to the lawsuit filed in Saline County, urged Saint 
Francis to hire his brother to provide IT services, even though Schaffer
 knew Whymark wasn’t qualified for the job.

Smith charged $442,276.17 to Saint Francis credit cards between 2017 
and 2020, mostly funding “lavish meals, entertainment, travel and gifts 
for him and his family,” the lawsuit said. He also spent $57,125.42 in 
Saint Francis funds to pay for travel, “the majority of which had no 
legitimate business purpose or was grossly excessive.”

The lawsuit reveals previously undisclosed allegations against Schaffer.

The attorney billed Saint Francis for more than $1 million in legal 
fees between June 2015 and June 2019 through his law firm. He billed 
Saint Francis for an additional $500,000 between February 2018 and 
October 2020 that was paid to him personally. There were at least eight 
months in which Schaffer billed Saint Francis both through his law firm 
and as an individual.

According to the lawsuit, the legal fees were “grossly excessive for 
the services they allegedly performed, but Schaffer knew the invoices 
would be approved and paid by his friend.” The state audit last year 
said Smith approved expenses within minutes of receiving them.

Schaffer allegedly outsourced hundreds of thousands of dollars in 
legal work to friends and lawyers at other firms that should have been 
performed by him.

Schaffer allegedly billed Saint Francis for legal fees on matters 
unrelated to his job as general counsel. When Schaffer gave a deposition
 in May 2019 in a case brought against his former law firm by its former
 landlord, he directed his attorneys to bill Saint Francis for $6,000. 
Schaffer then approved the payment in his capacity as general counsel 
for Saint Francis.

Schaffer allegedly billed Saint Francis nearly $4,000 for moving and 
storage expenses for office furniture in his Chicago law practice.

Between June 2019 and October 2020, Schaffer allegedly charged about 
$60,000 on a Saint Francis company credit card. Many of the charges, 
Saint Francis said in its lawsuit, served no legitimate business 
purpose.

Saint Francis employed Schaffer’s brother, Whymark, as its chief 
information officer and paid Whymark’s company, WMK Research, more than 
$11 million between January 2018 and February 2021.

“WMK’s services were grossly deficient and overpriced,” Saint Francis said in its lawsuit.

Saint Francis paid WMK more than $6 million to build a software 
system that failed to function. Whymark outsourced most of the work 
without telling Saint Francis, according to federal and state court 
documents, while inflating the cost of actual services. When the IT 
system crashed in the fall of 2019, Whymark wiped the hard drives on the
 crashed server, claiming it was necessary to reuse the server. At the 
time, Saint Francis was in the middle of a financial audit.

“The crash halted the audit for months and delayed the discovery of 
defendants’ self-dealing,” Saint Francis said in its lawsuit.

Saint Francis estimated it overpaid in excess of $7 million to WMK, 
and the cost to repair WMK’s work was estimated at $3.2 million.

Federal authorities, in a court filing Aug. 1, moved to seize more 
than $700,000 in cash held in three bank accounts controlled by Whymark.
 The action was based on an FBI investigation that found probable cause 
to believe Whymark, of Mount Kisco, New York, ripped off Saint Francis 
for $10.73 million.

An interim financial officer warned Smith and Schaffer in January 
2020 that Saint Francis was in dire financial condition and could be 
completely out of cash by March 2020.

The Saint Francis lawsuit said Smith and Schaffer never disclosed the financial condition to their board of directors.

The organization avoided financial collapse because it received the 
maximum $10 million loan through the federal Paycheck Protection 
Program. A state auditor later discovered the organization wasn’t 
eligible for the loan, although it was forgiven anyway by the Small 
Business Administration.

The lawsuit said Smith and Schaffer were advised to reserve funds 
from the PPP loan to gain liquidity. Instead, Schaffer allegedly said 
the obligations to his brother’s company would be taken care of first.

The organization’s financial hardships were complicated by winning <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/01/25/kansas-foster-care-provider-asks-nebraska-for-immediate-funding-boost-to-maintain-services/">a severely underbid contract</a> in 2019 to provide foster care services in the Omaha, Nebraska, area. The state of Nebraska <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/14/kansas-foster-care-provider-agrees-to-leave-nebraska-after-months-of-scrutiny/">severed ties with Saint Francis</a> earlier this year because of extensive performance problems.

Nebraska Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh, who <a target="_blank" href="https://www.noiseomaha.com/news-now/2021/3/24/investigative-committee-approved-to-review-foster-care-management-group-and-involved-nebraska-state-government-departmentsnbspnbspnbsp?rq=cavanaugh">spearheaded an investigation</a> into her state’s dealings with Saint Francis, said the revelations in court filings were upsetting.

“I think you can draw a correlation between defrauding the 
organization and the outcomes that are coming out,” Cavanaugh said. “I 
mean, any organization is only as good as its weakest link, as people 
say, and if you have this toxic, corrupt mentality at the very top of 
the organization, then you’re not going to be a high-performing, 
high-quality organization. It doesn’t matter how many wonderful people 
you hire underneath that person. That’s where you’re starting from. 
That’s the cornerstone of the organization, and that toxicity and that 
lack of integrity in the work that you’re doing will trickle down.”

Cavanaugh said Saint Francis was short staffed in Nebraska and had a 
high turnover rate. Employees didn’t receive adequate training. As a 
result, children ended up in the system longer than they should have, 
and there were concerns about the accuracy of caseworker reports.

Cavanaugh also said it was time to “revisit the conversation” about 
whether Nebraska should recoup money the state invested in Saint 
Francis.

“We clearly were defrauded, and I think the children of Nebraska 
deserve us to advocate on their behalf,” Cavanaugh said. “By not going 
after the money, not going after the people that ultimately hurt these 
children, I think it’s us just continuing to fail these children.”

In March of this year, Smith filed a counterclaim for defamation by 
current Saint Francis leadership for “numerous false and defamatory 
statements” made about Smith and his wife in reports published by Kansas
 Reflector.

Smith said his former employer “knowingly and/or recklessly provided”
 an internal investigation report to Kansas Reflector, which published 
articles based on “unsubstantiated, false and defamatory statements” 
made within the investigation report.

“Smith has been suffered economic, reputational damages, personal 
humiliation, mental anguish, and loss of consortium damages,” the 
counterclaim said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660312960289.png" alt="The Salina-based Saint Francis Ministries, which provides foster care services, sued its former leadership in January for alleged legal malpractice and breach of fiduciary duties. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The Salina-based Saint Francis Ministries, which provides foster care services, sued its former leadership in January for alleged legal malpractice and breach of fiduciary duties. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SHERMAN SMITH <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/08/12/kansas-foster-care-provider-suing-former-leaders-for-alleged-financial-misconduct/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The former CEO, chief 
counsel and IT director for Saint Francis Ministries used their 
positions to enrich themselves and their friends as the charity neared 
financial insolvency, according to allegations made in state and federal
 lawsuits.The Salina-based foster care provider in court documents accused the 
trinity of overbilling for IT and legal services and misusing company 
funds to support a lavish lifestyle. <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/08/11/fbi-seizing-bank-deposits-in-alleged-10-million-fraud-of-kansas-foster-care-provider-saint-francis-ministries/">Federal authorities identified $10.73 million in fraudulent billing</a> for IT services and moved to seize bank accounts.Meanwhile, the former CEO filed a counterclaim against Saint Francis 
officials for alleged defamation based on quotes and documented evidence
 reported by Kansas Reflector.The legal fallout raises questions about the level of care the 
organization provides to foster children, as well as renewed interest in
 examining whether taxpayer funds should be repaid to state agencies in 
Kansas and Nebraska.Teresa Woody, litigation director for Kansas Appleseed, said it was 
appalling that millions of dollars meant to provide foster care went out
 the door and were not accounted for. Kansas Appleseed <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/08/20/judge-orders-kansas-to-pay-nearly-2-3-million-in-legal-fees-and-expenses-in-child-welfare-lawsuit/">settled a lawsuit last year</a> to require improvements in the foster care system, which is administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families.“I think DCF should look at all this and take a very hard look at 
whether they’re an appropriate entity to be trying to help foster 
children in Kansas,” Woody said.Saint Francis Ministries quietly filed a civil lawsuit in January in 
Saline County District Court against its former CEO, Robert “Father 
Bobby” Smith, IT director William Whymark, chief counsel David Schaffer,
 and the law firm where Schaffer worked in Chicago. The lawsuit 
identifies Schaffer as Smith’s friend and Whymark’s brother. Saint 
Francis is seeking repayment for legal malpractice and breach of 
fiduciary duties.<h2>The accusations</h2>The former Saint Francis leadership resigned in November 2020 after a
 newly hired financial officer alerted the board to alleged financial 
misconduct.They worked together to place their own financial interests above the
 nonprofit, failed to disclose conflicts of interest, misappropriated 
resources, overbilled for services, and concealed material facts, Saint 
Francis claimed in an amended complaint filed Aug. 5.Accusations made in state and federal court documents are consistent with an internal investigation, <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/20/kansas-foster-care-leader-charged-469k-to-credit-cards-hid-financial-losses/">first reported by Kansas Reflector in December 2020</a>, and <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/23/audit-of-kansas-foster-care-provider-scrutinizes-financial-controls-it-costs-ceo-travel-ppp-loan/">an audit released by DCF</a> in December 2021.Smith, an Episcopal priest, began working as CEO for Saint Francis in
 July 2014. Smith hired Schaffer as chief counsel in October 2014. 
Schaffer, according to the lawsuit filed in Saline County, urged Saint 
Francis to hire his brother to provide IT services, even though Schaffer
 knew Whymark wasn’t qualified for the job.Smith charged $442,276.17 to Saint Francis credit cards between 2017 
and 2020, mostly funding “lavish meals, entertainment, travel and gifts 
for him and his family,” the lawsuit said. He also spent $57,125.42 in 
Saint Francis funds to pay for travel, “the majority of which had no 
legitimate business purpose or was grossly excessive.”The lawsuit reveals previously undisclosed allegations against Schaffer.The attorney billed Saint Francis for more than $1 million in legal 
fees between June 2015 and June 2019 through his law firm. He billed 
Saint Francis for an additional $500,000 between February 2018 and 
October 2020 that was paid to him personally. There were at least eight 
months in which Schaffer billed Saint Francis both through his law firm 
and as an individual.According to the lawsuit, the legal fees were “grossly excessive for 
the services they allegedly performed, but Schaffer knew the invoices 
would be approved and paid by his friend.” The state audit last year 
said Smith approved expenses within minutes of receiving them.Schaffer allegedly outsourced hundreds of thousands of dollars in 
legal work to friends and lawyers at other firms that should have been 
performed by him.Schaffer allegedly billed Saint Francis for legal fees on matters 
unrelated to his job as general counsel. When Schaffer gave a deposition
 in May 2019 in a case brought against his former law firm by its former
 landlord, he directed his attorneys to bill Saint Francis for $6,000. 
Schaffer then approved the payment in his capacity as general counsel 
for Saint Francis.Schaffer allegedly billed Saint Francis nearly $4,000 for moving and 
storage expenses for office furniture in his Chicago law practice.Between June 2019 and October 2020, Schaffer allegedly charged about 
$60,000 on a Saint Francis company credit card. Many of the charges, 
Saint Francis said in its lawsuit, served no legitimate business 
purpose.<h2>IT problems</h2>Saint Francis employed Schaffer’s brother, Whymark, as its chief 
information officer and paid Whymark’s company, WMK Research, more than 
$11 million between January 2018 and February 2021.“WMK’s services were grossly deficient and overpriced,” Saint Francis said in its lawsuit.Saint Francis paid WMK more than $6 million to build a software 
system that failed to function. Whymark outsourced most of the work 
without telling Saint Francis, according to federal and state court 
documents, while inflating the cost of actual services. When the IT 
system crashed in the fall of 2019, Whymark wiped the hard drives on the
 crashed server, claiming it was necessary to reuse the server. At the 
time, Saint Francis was in the middle of a financial audit.“The crash halted the audit for months and delayed the discovery of 
defendants’ self-dealing,” Saint Francis said in its lawsuit.Saint Francis estimated it overpaid in excess of $7 million to WMK, 
and the cost to repair WMK’s work was estimated at $3.2 million.Federal authorities, in a court filing Aug. 1, moved to seize more 
than $700,000 in cash held in three bank accounts controlled by Whymark.
 The action was based on an FBI investigation that found probable cause 
to believe Whymark, of Mount Kisco, New York, ripped off Saint Francis 
for $10.73 million.<h2>Financial ruin</h2>An interim financial officer warned Smith and Schaffer in January 
2020 that Saint Francis was in dire financial condition and could be 
completely out of cash by March 2020.The Saint Francis lawsuit said Smith and Schaffer never disclosed the financial condition to their board of directors.The organization avoided financial collapse because it received the 
maximum $10 million loan through the federal Paycheck Protection 
Program. A state auditor later discovered the organization wasn’t 
eligible for the loan, although it was forgiven anyway by the Small 
Business Administration.The lawsuit said Smith and Schaffer were advised to reserve funds 
from the PPP loan to gain liquidity. Instead, Schaffer allegedly said 
the obligations to his brother’s company would be taken care of first.The organization’s financial hardships were complicated by winning <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/01/25/kansas-foster-care-provider-asks-nebraska-for-immediate-funding-boost-to-maintain-services/">a severely underbid contract</a> in 2019 to provide foster care services in the Omaha, Nebraska, area. The state of Nebraska <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/12/14/kansas-foster-care-provider-agrees-to-leave-nebraska-after-months-of-scrutiny/">severed ties with Saint Francis</a> earlier this year because of extensive performance problems.<h2>Nebraska impact</h2>Nebraska Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh, who <a target="_blank" href="https://www.noiseomaha.com/news-now/2021/3/24/investigative-committee-approved-to-review-foster-care-management-group-and-involved-nebraska-state-government-departmentsnbspnbspnbsp?rq=cavanaugh">spearheaded an investigation</a> into her state’s dealings with Saint Francis, said the revelations in court filings were upsetting.“I think you can draw a correlation between defrauding the 
organization and the outcomes that are coming out,” Cavanaugh said. “I 
mean, any organization is only as good as its weakest link, as people 
say, and if you have this toxic, corrupt mentality at the very top of 
the organization, then you’re not going to be a high-performing, 
high-quality organization. It doesn’t matter how many wonderful people 
you hire underneath that person. That’s where you’re starting from. 
That’s the cornerstone of the organization, and that toxicity and that 
lack of integrity in the work that you’re doing will trickle down.”Cavanaugh said Saint Francis was short staffed in Nebraska and had a 
high turnover rate. Employees didn’t receive adequate training. As a 
result, children ended up in the system longer than they should have, 
and there were concerns about the accuracy of caseworker reports.Cavanaugh also said it was time to “revisit the conversation” about 
whether Nebraska should recoup money the state invested in Saint 
Francis.“We clearly were defrauded, and I think the children of Nebraska 
deserve us to advocate on their behalf,” Cavanaugh said. “By not going 
after the money, not going after the people that ultimately hurt these 
children, I think it’s us just continuing to fail these children.”<h2>Counterclaim</h2>In March of this year, Smith filed a counterclaim for defamation by 
current Saint Francis leadership for “numerous false and defamatory 
statements” made about Smith and his wife in reports published by Kansas
 Reflector.Smith said his former employer “knowingly and/or recklessly provided”
 an internal investigation report to Kansas Reflector, which published 
articles based on “unsubstantiated, false and defamatory statements” 
made within the investigation report.“Smith has been suffered economic, reputational damages, personal 
humiliation, mental anguish, and loss of consortium damages,” the 
counterclaim said.

Saint Francis Ministries suit alleges financial mismanagement

Carol Jean Heller, 90, of Salina, Kan., passed away on Wednesday, 
August 10, 2022. She was born on October 2, 1931, in Norton County, 
Kan., to Curtis and Elizabeth (Lathrop) Kelly.

Carol graduated nursing school in 1952 from St. Luke’s Hospital, 
Kansas City. On November 8, 1953, she and Donald Max Heller were united 
in marriage in Norton.

Carol is survived by her daughters, Marlene Edwards (Dennis), 
Sundance, Wyo., Marilyn Rose (Paul), Palmetto, Fla., and Martha Smith, 
Salina; four grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Don.

A private service and burial will be held at Gypsum Hill Cemetery, Salina.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Carol Heller Trust, 
for a nursing scholarship, care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N 8th St., Salina, 
KS 67401.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660311176306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carol Jean Heller, 90, of Salina, Kan., passed away on Wednesday, 
August 10, 2022. She was born on October 2, 1931, in Norton County, 
Kan., to Curtis and Elizabeth (Lathrop) Kelly.Carol graduated nursing school in 1952 from St. Luke’s Hospital, 
Kansas City. On November 8, 1953, she and Donald Max Heller were united 
in marriage in Norton.Carol is survived by her daughters, Marlene Edwards (Dennis), 
Sundance, Wyo., Marilyn Rose (Paul), Palmetto, Fla., and Martha Smith, 
Salina; four grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.She is preceded in death by her parents, and husband, Don.A private service and burial will be held at Gypsum Hill Cemetery, Salina.In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Carol Heller Trust, 
for a nursing scholarship, care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 N 8th St., Salina, 
KS 67401.

Carol Jean Heller

By KAREN CAMPBELL <a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-arts-culture-history/2022-08-11/hpprs-david-condos-wins-national-murrow-award-for-his-coverage-of-western-kansas">Kansas News Service</a>

David Condos, a reporter for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas 
News Service, has won a National Edward R. Murrow Award — one of the 
most prestigious prizes in broadcast journalism — for his coverage of 
western Kansas, its ongoing problems with water, its history of racism 
and how meatpacking transformed the region. 

Condos won the award 
for Excellence in Writing and was selected as the national winner from 
among this year's regional Murrow award recipients across the country.

Condos is a reporter based in Hays for High Plains Public Radio and 
the Kansas News Service, which is a statewide collaboration of public 
radio newsrooms. This is the first-ever national Murrow award for HPPR 
in the station’s 42-year history. 

The Radio Television Digital 
News Association (RTDNA) recognized his work for three stories written 
and reported in western Kansas: 

<a href="https://www.hppr.org/people/david-condos" target="_blank">See all of David Condos' reporting</a>.

“A national organization recognized what’s obvious to people in 
Kansas, that David is a talented and serious journalist,” said Scott 
Canon, the managing editor of the Kansas News Service. “His work has 
brought important stories to a statewide and national audience. David’s 
ability to report complicated stories in easily digestible ways is a 
rare thing.”


The award was given based on “excellence in writing that conveys the 
feeling and significance of events to the listener or viewer.” The 
Murrow Awards are among the most prestigious in news, recognizing the 
importance and impact of journalism as a service to the community.


Condos took home<a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-arts-culture-history/2022-06-01/david-condos-hpprs-kansas-news-service-reporter-honored-at-2022-edward-r-murrow-awards" target="_blank"> three regional Edward R. Murrow Awards earlier this year.</a>

Additionally, he received two national awards from the Public Media 
Journalists Association (PMJA): First place in Enterprise reporting for 
his series on racism in Kansas, “Race in the Free State,” and second 
place in Photojournalism for his <a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2021-12-11/russell-kansas-bids-farewell-to-its-most-favorite-son-bob-dole" target="_blank">photo of Elizabeth Dole</a> at the funeral of former U.S. Sen. Bob Dole.

Condos will be recognized alongside all of the national Murrow award winners at the RTDNA’s gala in New York City in October. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660312247035.png" alt="Condos" />
 <figcaption>Condos</figcaption>
 </figure>By KAREN CAMPBELL <a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-arts-culture-history/2022-08-11/hpprs-david-condos-wins-national-murrow-award-for-his-coverage-of-western-kansas">Kansas News Service</a>David Condos, a reporter for High Plains Public Radio and the Kansas 
News Service, has won a National Edward R. Murrow Award — one of the 
most prestigious prizes in broadcast journalism — for his coverage of 
western Kansas, its ongoing problems with water, its history of racism 
and how meatpacking transformed the region. Condos won the award 
for Excellence in Writing and was selected as the national winner from 
among this year's regional Murrow award recipients across the country.Condos is a reporter based in Hays for High Plains Public Radio and 
the Kansas News Service, which is a statewide collaboration of public 
radio newsrooms. This is the first-ever national Murrow award for HPPR 
in the station’s 42-year history. The Radio Television Digital 
News Association (RTDNA) recognized his work for three stories written 
and reported in western Kansas: <ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2021-03-02/what-the-history-of-noose-road-tells-us-about-kansas-race-and-the-lynchings-of-black-men" target="_blank">What The History Of 'Noose Road' Tells Us About Kansas, Race And The Lynchings Of Black Men</a></li><li><a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2021-05-05/farmers-trying-to-save-the-ogallala-aquifer-face-tension-from-peers-but-their-profits-are-improving" target="_blank">Farmers Trying To Save The Ogallala Aquifer Face Tension From Peers, But Their Profits Are Improving</a></li><li><a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2021-10-25/how-a-meatpacking-plant-changed-one-kansas-town-40-years-ago-and-left-a-colorado-community-behind" target="_blank">How a meatpacking plant changed one Kansas town 40 years ago and left a Colorado community behind</a> </li>
 </ul><a href="https://www.hppr.org/people/david-condos" target="_blank">See all of David Condos' reporting</a>. 
“A national organization recognized what’s obvious to people in 
Kansas, that David is a talented and serious journalist,” said Scott 
Canon, the managing editor of the Kansas News Service. “His work has 
brought important stories to a statewide and national audience. David’s 
ability to report complicated stories in easily digestible ways is a 
rare thing.”
The award was given based on “excellence in writing that conveys the 
feeling and significance of events to the listener or viewer.” The 
Murrow Awards are among the most prestigious in news, recognizing the 
importance and impact of journalism as a service to the community.
Condos took home<a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-arts-culture-history/2022-06-01/david-condos-hpprs-kansas-news-service-reporter-honored-at-2022-edward-r-murrow-awards" target="_blank"> three regional Edward R. Murrow Awards earlier this year.</a> Additionally, he received two national awards from the Public Media 
Journalists Association (PMJA): First place in Enterprise reporting for 
his series on racism in Kansas, “Race in the Free State,” and second 
place in Photojournalism for his <a href="https://www.hppr.org/hppr-news/2021-12-11/russell-kansas-bids-farewell-to-its-most-favorite-son-bob-dole" target="_blank">photo of Elizabeth Dole</a> at the funeral of former U.S. Sen. Bob Dole.
Condos will be recognized alongside all of the national Murrow award winners at the RTDNA’s gala in New York City in October. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660312331200.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Condos wins National Murrow Award for coverage of western Kansas

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal jury convicted a Kansas veteran of wire fraud and theft of government funds in charges related to a scheme to defraud the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) out of disability benefits.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Bruce Hay, 53, of Greeley, a U.S. Army veteran and former Osawatomie resident, fraudulently misrepresented and exaggerated the extent of symptoms related to a purported conversion disorder diagnosis to receive VA disability benefits to which he was not entitled. Specifically, 

Hay claimed he had constant jerking movements, tremors, head-bobs, could walk only with the use of a walker, and could not engage in basic activities of daily living, such as bathing, toileting, dressing, and eating. During VA examinations, he faked and exaggerated physical symptoms—displaying a significant limp, muscle spasms, head bobs, and jerking movements. Immediately before and after these examinations, he used a walker that he didn’t normally use outside of VA facilities. 

The VA found that Hay was 100% disabled based on those fraudulent misrepresentations.

Information collected through surveillance, video footage, photographs, testimony from community members, and other evidence showed Hay’s claims of mobility limitations as false. He, without assistance, engaged in residential construction, threw hay bales on the back of moving trucks, hunted deer, drove regularly, and hauled more than a million pounds of scrap metal.

As a result of his misrepresentations, Hay fraudulently received more than $450,000 in VA benefits. A jury found Hay guilty of six counts of wire fraud and 10 counts of theft of government funds.

Sentencing is scheduled for October 27, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Julie A. Robinson. Hay faces a maximum of penalty of 20 years in federal prison. 

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal jury convicted a Kansas veteran of wire fraud and theft of government funds in charges related to a scheme to defraud the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) out of disability benefits.According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Bruce Hay, 53, of Greeley, a U.S. Army veteran and former Osawatomie resident, fraudulently misrepresented and exaggerated the extent of symptoms related to a purported conversion disorder diagnosis to receive VA disability benefits to which he was not entitled. Specifically, Hay claimed he had constant jerking movements, tremors, head-bobs, could walk only with the use of a walker, and could not engage in basic activities of daily living, such as bathing, toileting, dressing, and eating. During VA examinations, he faked and exaggerated physical symptoms—displaying a significant limp, muscle spasms, head bobs, and jerking movements. Immediately before and after these examinations, he used a walker that he didn’t normally use outside of VA facilities. The VA found that Hay was 100% disabled based on those fraudulent misrepresentations.Information collected through surveillance, video footage, photographs, testimony from community members, and other evidence showed Hay’s claims of mobility limitations as false. He, without assistance, engaged in residential construction, threw hay bales on the back of moving trucks, hunted deer, drove regularly, and hauled more than a million pounds of scrap metal.As a result of his misrepresentations, Hay fraudulently received more than $450,000 in VA benefits. A jury found Hay guilty of six counts of wire fraud and 10 counts of theft of government funds.Sentencing is scheduled for October 27, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Julie A. Robinson. Hay faces a maximum of penalty of 20 years in federal prison.

Jury: Kan. veteran faked illness, received $450K in disability benefits

WASHINGTON — As the new school year begins, the Internal Revenue 
Service reminds teachers and other educators that they'll be able to 
deduct up to $300 of out-of-pocket classroom expenses for 2022 when they
 file their federal income tax return next year.

This is the first time the annual limit has increased since the 
special educator expense deduction was enacted in 2002. For tax years 
2002 through 2021, the limit was $250 per year. The limit will rise in 
$50 increments in future years based on inflation adjustments.

For 2022, an eligible educator can deduct up to $300 of qualifying 
expenses. If they're married and file a joint return with another 
eligible educator, the limit rises to $600. But in this situation, not 
more than $300 for each spouse.

Educators can claim this deduction, even if they take the standard 
deduction. Eligible educators include anyone who is a kindergarten 
through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal or aide in a 
school for at least 900 hours during the school year. Both public and 
private school educators qualify.

Educators can deduct the unreimbursed cost of:

Qualified expenses don't include the cost of home schooling or 
for nonathletic supplies for courses in health or physical education. As
 with all deductions and credits, the IRS reminds educators to keep good
 records, including receipts, cancelled checks and other documentation.

Reminder for 2021 tax returns being filed now: Deduction limit is $250

For those who received a tax filing extension or still need to file a
 2021 tax return, the IRS reminds any educator still working on their 
2021 return that the deduction limit is $250. If they are married and 
file a joint return with another eligible educator, the limit rises to 
$500. But in this situation, not more than $250 for each spouse.

File electronically when ready. Tax-filing software uses a 
question-and-answer format that makes doing taxes easier. Whether a 
return is self-prepared or prepared with the assistance of a tax 
professional or trained community volunteer, the IRS urges everyone to 
file electronically and choose direct deposit for refunds. For details, 
visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">Electronic Filing Options for Individuals</a>.

In addition, the IRS urges anyone who owes taxes to choose the speed 
and convenience of paying electronically, such as with IRS Direct Pay, a
 free service available only on IRS.gov. For information about this and 
other payment options, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">Pay Online</a>.

Taxpayers who requested more time to file an accurate return have 
until October 17, 2022. Those who have what they need to file, however, 
should file as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing their 
return. Taxpayers are urged to file electronically when they are ready 
and avoid the last-minute rush to file at the deadline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — As the new school year begins, the Internal Revenue 
Service reminds teachers and other educators that they'll be able to 
deduct up to $300 of out-of-pocket classroom expenses for 2022 when they
 file their federal income tax return next year.This is the first time the annual limit has increased since the 
special educator expense deduction was enacted in 2002. For tax years 
2002 through 2021, the limit was $250 per year. The limit will rise in 
$50 increments in future years based on inflation adjustments.For 2022, an eligible educator can deduct up to $300 of qualifying 
expenses. If they're married and file a joint return with another 
eligible educator, the limit rises to $600. But in this situation, not 
more than $300 for each spouse.<h2>Who qualifies?</h2>Educators can claim this deduction, even if they take the standard 
deduction. Eligible educators include anyone who is a kindergarten 
through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal or aide in a 
school for at least 900 hours during the school year. Both public and 
private school educators qualify.<h2>What's deductible?</h2>Educators can deduct the unreimbursed cost of:<ul>
 <li>Books, supplies and other materials used in the classroom.</li><li>Equipment, including computer equipment, software and services.</li><li>COVID-19 protective items to stop the spread of the disease in the 
classroom. This includes face masks, disinfectant for use against 
COVID-19, hand soap, hand sanitizer, disposable gloves, tape, paint or 
chalk to guide social distancing, physical barriers, such as clear 
plexiglass, air purifiers and other items recommended by the Centers for
 Disease Control and Prevention.</li><li>Professional development courses related to the curriculum they 
teach or the students they teach. But the IRS cautions that, for these 
expenses, it may be more beneficial to claim another educational tax 
benefit, especially the lifetime learning credit. For details, see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-970">Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education</a>, particularly Chapter 3.</li>
 </ul>Qualified expenses don't include the cost of home schooling or 
for nonathletic supplies for courses in health or physical education. As
 with all deductions and credits, the IRS reminds educators to keep good
 records, including receipts, cancelled checks and other documentation.<h2>Reminder for 2021 tax returns being filed now: Deduction limit is $250</h2>For those who received a tax filing extension or still need to file a
 2021 tax return, the IRS reminds any educator still working on their 
2021 return that the deduction limit is $250. If they are married and 
file a joint return with another eligible educator, the limit rises to 
$500. But in this situation, not more than $250 for each spouse.File electronically when ready. Tax-filing software uses a 
question-and-answer format that makes doing taxes easier. Whether a 
return is self-prepared or prepared with the assistance of a tax 
professional or trained community volunteer, the IRS urges everyone to 
file electronically and choose direct deposit for refunds. For details, 
visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">Electronic Filing Options for Individuals</a>.In addition, the IRS urges anyone who owes taxes to choose the speed 
and convenience of paying electronically, such as with IRS Direct Pay, a
 free service available only on IRS.gov. For information about this and 
other payment options, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">Pay Online</a>.Taxpayers who requested more time to file an accurate return have 
until October 17, 2022. Those who have what they need to file, however, 
should file as soon as possible to avoid delays in processing their 
return. Taxpayers are urged to file electronically when they are ready 
and avoid the last-minute rush to file at the deadline.

IRS: Teachers can deduct up to $300 from out-of-pocket expenses

Jerry Lee Winter was born January 5, 1935, in rural Kit Carson County, Colorado, just southwest of Kanorado, Kansas, to Wayne and Sylvia (Armitage) Winter.&nbsp;Jerry lived his entire life in the Kanorado area&nbsp;where&nbsp;he attended school and graduated with the class of 1953.

On July 14, 1953, he married Melba Coons. &nbsp;They lived on a farm southeast of Kanorado and eventually moved their house to a half mile south of Kanorado where they raised their three sons. &nbsp;Jerry and Melba milked cows for a few years, farmed and Jerry&nbsp;began aerial spraying with his father. &nbsp;He&nbsp;continued to run Winter Flying Service after his father retired and&nbsp;was an aerial spray pilot for&nbsp;over 45&nbsp;years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jerry enjoyed building things&nbsp;and&nbsp;incorporated that with his passion&nbsp;of aviation when he built a&nbsp;snowplane&nbsp;utilizing an aircraft engine.&nbsp;He&nbsp;later&nbsp;built a&nbsp;flat bottom&nbsp;boat,once again using an aircraft engine.&nbsp;

While in&nbsp;high school&nbsp;he participated in football, basketball and baseball&nbsp;and later played town team&nbsp;basketball and summer softball. &nbsp;He spoke often of these experiences. &nbsp;Jerry and Melba were proud supporters of their children and grandchildren and spent many hours and miles following their&nbsp;activities.

He was proceeded in death by&nbsp;wife Melba (Coons) Winter&nbsp;in October&nbsp;of 2021,&nbsp;his parents A. Wayne&nbsp;Winter and Sylvia&nbsp;(Armitage)&nbsp;Reynolds, brother Don&nbsp;(Joyce)&nbsp;Winter. &nbsp;He is survived by sons Gary (Deb) Winter of Kanorado; Larry (Janet) Winter of Fairbury, NE; Terry Winter of Parker, CO. &nbsp;Six grandchildren: &nbsp;Sean (Shawndra) of Colorado Springs, CO; Blake (Molly) of Wheat Ridge, CO; Jonathan (Emily) of Fairbury, NE;&nbsp;Aubrea&nbsp;(Beto) of Goodland, KS; Lane (Britney) of&nbsp;Castle Rock, CO; Shane (Carly) of Fairbury, NE. &nbsp;Twelve great-grandchildren also survive.&nbsp;

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 12, 2022 at 10 AM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland. &nbsp;Burial will follow in the Goodland Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 11, 2022, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be designated to the Kanorado Senior Citizen’s Center and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

Online condolences for the family may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.

Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660144886588.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jerry Lee Winter was born January 5, 1935, in rural Kit Carson County, Colorado, just southwest of Kanorado, Kansas, to Wayne and Sylvia (Armitage) Winter.&nbsp;Jerry lived his entire life in the Kanorado area&nbsp;where&nbsp;he attended school and graduated with the class of 1953.On July 14, 1953, he married Melba Coons. &nbsp;They lived on a farm southeast of Kanorado and eventually moved their house to a half mile south of Kanorado where they raised their three sons. &nbsp;Jerry and Melba milked cows for a few years, farmed and Jerry&nbsp;began aerial spraying with his father. &nbsp;He&nbsp;continued to run Winter Flying Service after his father retired and&nbsp;was an aerial spray pilot for&nbsp;over 45&nbsp;years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jerry enjoyed building things&nbsp;and&nbsp;incorporated that with his passion&nbsp;of aviation when he built a&nbsp;snowplane&nbsp;utilizing an aircraft engine.&nbsp;He&nbsp;later&nbsp;built a&nbsp;flat bottom&nbsp;boat,once again using an aircraft engine.&nbsp;While in&nbsp;high school&nbsp;he participated in football, basketball and baseball&nbsp;and later played town team&nbsp;basketball and summer softball. &nbsp;He spoke often of these experiences. &nbsp;Jerry and Melba were proud supporters of their children and grandchildren and spent many hours and miles following their&nbsp;activities.He was proceeded in death by&nbsp;wife Melba (Coons) Winter&nbsp;in October&nbsp;of 2021,&nbsp;his parents A. Wayne&nbsp;Winter and Sylvia&nbsp;(Armitage)&nbsp;Reynolds, brother Don&nbsp;(Joyce)&nbsp;Winter. &nbsp;He is survived by sons Gary (Deb) Winter of Kanorado; Larry (Janet) Winter of Fairbury, NE; Terry Winter of Parker, CO. &nbsp;Six grandchildren: &nbsp;Sean (Shawndra) of Colorado Springs, CO; Blake (Molly) of Wheat Ridge, CO; Jonathan (Emily) of Fairbury, NE;&nbsp;Aubrea&nbsp;(Beto) of Goodland, KS; Lane (Britney) of&nbsp;Castle Rock, CO; Shane (Carly) of Fairbury, NE. &nbsp;Twelve great-grandchildren also survive.&nbsp;Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 12, 2022 at 10 AM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland. &nbsp;Burial will follow in the Goodland Cemetery.Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 11, 2022, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home.Memorial contributions may be designated to the Kanorado Senior Citizen’s Center and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.Online condolences for the family may be left at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.Services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.

Jerry Lee Winter 

Elmer D. Svaty left this life surrounded by family Aug 7th, 2022, which 
was his and Karlene’s 66th Wedding Anniversary. Elmer was born October 
25, 1934, on the farm in Ellsworth County, Kansas. The son of Victor and
 Ruby (Belt) Svaty. Elmer spent his early years on the farm south of 
Sylvan Grove, the family later moved to Lucas where Elmer lived the 
remainder of his life. Elmer graduated from Lucas High School in 1952. 
 He married Karlene Sheets in 1956 and the couple was blessed with 5 
children, Tina, Jim, Jean Ann, Lynette and Tom. 
 Elmer enlisted in the army in 1955, and was stationed at Fort Bliss 
El Paso Texas, and Mainz Germany. He was honored to participate in the 
Honor Flight to Washington DC in 2018. After his military service, Elmer
 returned to Lucas where he worked for his father at Quality Oil Co and 
became the owner/operator of that business in the early '70s.
 In 1959 Elmer joined his father-in-Law working at Lucas Motor 
Company. He became the owner/operator in 1966, selling cars to many 
people across the country. Most of Elmer’s customers became lifelong 
friends. During his years as a Ford Dealer, Elmer served on the Ford 
Dealers Advertising Fund (FDAF) Board of Directors and achieved many 
awards and accolades. 
 Elmer loved his community and took pride in serving Lucas and the 
greater area. He was a member of the Lucas Lyons Club, Chamber of 
Commerce, the Bank Board, Director of the Library Board, Official Board 
of the United Methodist Church and City Council. Elmer held the record 
for many years for being the youngest mayor in Kansas at age 21. He 
also was a member of Masonic Lodge, Order of the Eastern Star, Russell 
Shrine Club, Shriners Clown Unit and served on the USD 407 School Board 
for 15 years. He was the Republican Committeeman for Fairview Township, 
Lucas Sunflower group and the Mr. &amp; Mrs. Club.
 Elmer was a car enthusiast. His pride and joy was his ’66 Red 
Mustang Convertible. He loved driving it in parades and escorting the 
queens for Homecoming and the Czech Festival for many years. 
 He was preceded in death by his Parents Victor and Ruby Svaty, 
In-laws Bill and Kris Sheets, Sisters Doris Cooper and Dodie Smith, 
Brothers-in-laws John Sheets and Dean Cooper, Granddaughter Julie Gier, 
Son-in-law Rodney Dick.
 Elmer is survived by his Wife Karlene of the home. Children: Tina 
(Paul) Simpson, Hays, KS; Jim Svaty, Lucas, KS; Jean Ann (Kevin) Thayer,
 Excelsior, MN; Lynette Dick, Manhattan, KS; Tom (Felicia) Svaty, 
Lenexa, KS; Brother-in- law JR Smith, Litchfield Park, AZ; Cousin Denny 
Black (who was raised as a younger sibling), Monrovia, CA.
 Grandchildren: Jessie (Kalen) Deines, Ellsworth, KS; Paula (JinChen)
 Li, Liberty, MO; Eric Simpson, Missoula MT; Kylie (Greg) Sander, 
Victoria, KS; Clint Thayer, Excelsior, MN; Sam (Ashley) Thayer, 
Excelsior, MN; Olivia Turner, Los Angeles, CA; Elizabeth Turner, 
Louisville, KY; Aubrey Turner, Olathe, KS; Sterling (Ally) Turner, 
Olathe, KS; Naomi Turner, Los Angeles, CA; Asher Svaty, Lenexa, KS.
 Elmer was blessed to have welcomed 15 great grandchildren into his 
family: Reagan and Keelie Deines, Forrest and Estelle Li, Freyja 
Simpson, Everett and Vincent Sander, Penny Thayer, Danielle Humble and 
Noah Turner, Charlie Turner, and Honorary Great Grandchildren, Eleanor 
and Ezra Hysong, Cannon and Jasper Apon. 
 Nieces: Bev Brown, Karen Pistora, Sherri Saunder, all of Salina, KS;
 Lanayah McBurney, Fairfax Virginia; Nephew Morgan Smith, Litchfield 
Park Arizona.&nbsp;

Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Elmer-Dean-Svaty?obId=25549654#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660140096450.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Elmer D. Svaty left this life surrounded by family Aug 7th, 2022, which 
was his and Karlene’s 66th Wedding Anniversary. Elmer was born October 
25, 1934, on the farm in Ellsworth County, Kansas. The son of Victor and
 Ruby (Belt) Svaty. Elmer spent his early years on the farm south of 
Sylvan Grove, the family later moved to Lucas where Elmer lived the 
remainder of his life. Elmer graduated from Lucas High School in 1952. 
 He married Karlene Sheets in 1956 and the couple was blessed with 5 
children, Tina, Jim, Jean Ann, Lynette and Tom. 
 Elmer enlisted in the army in 1955, and was stationed at Fort Bliss 
El Paso Texas, and Mainz Germany. He was honored to participate in the 
Honor Flight to Washington DC in 2018. After his military service, Elmer
 returned to Lucas where he worked for his father at Quality Oil Co and 
became the owner/operator of that business in the early '70s.
 In 1959 Elmer joined his father-in-Law working at Lucas Motor 
Company. He became the owner/operator in 1966, selling cars to many 
people across the country. Most of Elmer’s customers became lifelong 
friends. During his years as a Ford Dealer, Elmer served on the Ford 
Dealers Advertising Fund (FDAF) Board of Directors and achieved many 
awards and accolades. 
 Elmer loved his community and took pride in serving Lucas and the 
greater area. He was a member of the Lucas Lyons Club, Chamber of 
Commerce, the Bank Board, Director of the Library Board, Official Board 
of the United Methodist Church and City Council. Elmer held the record 
for many years for being the youngest mayor in Kansas at age 21. He 
also was a member of Masonic Lodge, Order of the Eastern Star, Russell 
Shrine Club, Shriners Clown Unit and served on the USD 407 School Board 
for 15 years. He was the Republican Committeeman for Fairview Township, 
Lucas Sunflower group and the Mr. &amp; Mrs. Club.
 Elmer was a car enthusiast. His pride and joy was his ’66 Red 
Mustang Convertible. He loved driving it in parades and escorting the 
queens for Homecoming and the Czech Festival for many years. 
 He was preceded in death by his Parents Victor and Ruby Svaty, 
In-laws Bill and Kris Sheets, Sisters Doris Cooper and Dodie Smith, 
Brothers-in-laws John Sheets and Dean Cooper, Granddaughter Julie Gier, 
Son-in-law Rodney Dick.
 Elmer is survived by his Wife Karlene of the home. Children: Tina 
(Paul) Simpson, Hays, KS; Jim Svaty, Lucas, KS; Jean Ann (Kevin) Thayer,
 Excelsior, MN; Lynette Dick, Manhattan, KS; Tom (Felicia) Svaty, 
Lenexa, KS; Brother-in- law JR Smith, Litchfield Park, AZ; Cousin Denny 
Black (who was raised as a younger sibling), Monrovia, CA.
 Grandchildren: Jessie (Kalen) Deines, Ellsworth, KS; Paula (JinChen)
 Li, Liberty, MO; Eric Simpson, Missoula MT; Kylie (Greg) Sander, 
Victoria, KS; Clint Thayer, Excelsior, MN; Sam (Ashley) Thayer, 
Excelsior, MN; Olivia Turner, Los Angeles, CA; Elizabeth Turner, 
Louisville, KY; Aubrey Turner, Olathe, KS; Sterling (Ally) Turner, 
Olathe, KS; Naomi Turner, Los Angeles, CA; Asher Svaty, Lenexa, KS.
 Elmer was blessed to have welcomed 15 great grandchildren into his 
family: Reagan and Keelie Deines, Forrest and Estelle Li, Freyja 
Simpson, Everett and Vincent Sander, Penny Thayer, Danielle Humble and 
Noah Turner, Charlie Turner, and Honorary Great Grandchildren, Eleanor 
and Ezra Hysong, Cannon and Jasper Apon. 
 Nieces: Bev Brown, Karen Pistora, Sherri Saunder, all of Salina, KS;
 Lanayah McBurney, Fairfax Virginia; Nephew Morgan Smith, Litchfield 
Park Arizona.&nbsp;Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Elmer-Dean-Svaty?obId=25549654#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Elmer D. Svaty

By TOMMY REZAC <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>

Monday was one of the more lowkey training camp practices the Kansas City Chiefs have had so far.

With
 overcast conditions, temperatures in the low 70s and a 
smaller-than-normal crowd, the Chiefs practiced for a swift 75 minutes 
Monday, working out in half-pads and completing a 10-10-10 practice.

A
 10-10-10 means 10 offensive plays, 10 defensive plays and 10 minutes of
 special teams play. That process was repeated twice during Monday's 
workout.

With the starting offense going against the second-team defense, and 
the starting defense going against the third-team offense, there's not a
 lot to ream from practices like these.

One thing is clear, 
however. With eleven practices down, more difficult roster decisions are
 coming, as the Chiefs try and find the right combination for their 
53-man roster this season.

One area where that could be especially
 difficult is wide receiver. Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez 
Valdes-Scantling, Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore seem perfectly safe. But
 those behind them, guys like Josh Gordon, Daurice Fountain, Justin 
Watson, Corey Coleman, Cornell Powell, Omar Bayless.

All capable 
receivers, but not adequate room for all of them. Be that as it may, 
coach Andy Reid has liked the competition at that spot.

"It's 
good," he said. "(General manager Brett Veach) has brought in great 
people. He's brought in good players that are going to compete. 
Somewhere, we're going to have to let good players go, but it's a 
tribute to Brett and the job he's done."

One receiver who could be
 on the outside looking in is Gordon, which is probably not expected for
 someone who was drafted 10 years ago and is entering his sixth season 
in the NFL.

After a bit of a slow start to training camp, Reid has noticed a greater sense of urgency from Gordon.

"He's
 had really good days the last few days," Reid noted. "I appreciate his 
effort and he's kind of the senior citizen of that group. He's the older
 receiver in that mix and has had success in this league."

Gordon 
has mostly worked with the second-team offense this camp, but he's had a
 handful of reps with Patrick Mahomes and the first-teamers, especially 
in the last few days.

After Monday's practice, Gordon was asked how confident he is in making the 53-man roster.

"I
 just want to go out and get the opportunities I get and give it 110%," 
Gordon said. "Let the cards fall where they may and see what happens, 
but I don't have an answer for that to be honest. I don't. I wasn't a 
starter last year, so I'm fighting for a spot like everybody else."

Gordon
 was signed by the Chiefs last September and elevated to the active 
roster in October. He played in 12 games last season, making just five 
receptions for 32 yards, but he scored his first touchdown since 2019 on
 a one-yard reception in the Las Vegas game in December.

Gordon 
has faced six total suspensions related to the NFL's substance abuse 
policies. The Chiefs are the fourth NFL team he's played for. Gordon led
 the NFL in receiving yards in 2013 and was named a first-team All-Pro.

The
 Chiefs bring back their entire starting offensive line from last season
 after making major changes in that group following the Super Bowl loss 
to Tampa Bay.

On the defensive front, Kansas City is revamped. The
 Chiefs had just 31 sacks in 2021, which ranked 29th in the league. 
Seventh-year pro and defensive tackle Chris Jones feels confident about 
his group’s progression since the end of last season.

"I think we 
left a lot of opportunities last year and in our last game of the season
 on the field," Jones remarked. "We were able to make a few changes in 
the defensive line room with a lot of familiar faces back. This year, I 
think it's about being gritty. Stopping the run, stopping the pass and 
doing whatever we can to help this defense out."

The Chiefs signed
 defensive ends Carlos Dunlap and Matt Dickerson during camp to provide 
depth. Rookie and first-round pick George Karlaftis also adds an 
additional pass rusher to the defensive line.

Frank Clark and Mike
 Danna also add experience at defensive end, while Derrick Nnadi is a 
fifth-year pro at defensive tackle. Tackles Tershawn Wharton and Khalen 
Saunders have also gotten solid reps on the interior of the line.

Starting center Creed Humphrey has taken notice of the solid competition up front.

"It's
 been very competitive these last couple of weeks," he said. "We've had 
some really humid, hot days. Everybody has been pretty moist out there. 
Just getting after it though and competing every play. So, it's been 
really good. You kind of see the mental toughness we have in the group 
and what the defensive line has in their group."

As
 many have probably seen by now, former Chiefs coach and longtime NFL 
head man Dick Vermeil was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in
 Canton, Ohio this past Saturday.

He and Andy Reid have quite a 
bit in common. Namely, they have both coached the Eagles and Chiefs. 
Vermeil coached the Eagles from 1976-1982, the Rams from '97-'99 and 
then the Chiefs from 2001-2005.

Reid says Vermeil talked to him 
extensively, once Reid took over the Eagles in 1999 and again in 2013 
when he got the Chiefs job.

Reid says he and Vermeil talk a lot 
more often than that, about once a week. Reid made the trip down to 
Canton with his wife, Tammy, to honor a longtime friend and mentor.

"He
 talked to me about the atmosphere (in Kansas City) and...he coached me 
up on it," Reid said. "That's priceless. I mean, that's priceless. And 
he checks in all of the time."

Receiver
 Daurice Fountain didn't work Monday due to a groin strain. Still no 
Jody Forston, as he's "making progress" with a strained quad injury. 
Corner Rashad Fenton (shoulder) and offensive lineman Lucas Niang (knee)
 remain on the injured list. Defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth (knee 
bruise) is also still out.

The Chiefs 
signed defensive end Matt Dickerson Monday and released Shilique Calhoun
 to make room on the 90-man roster. On Saturday, the Chiefs signed 
receiver Devin Gray and released corner Deandre Baker.

Gray was getting his first reps in with the team Monday. Dickerson was seen Monday morning as well, wearing jersey No. 96.

The
 Chiefs have camp again on Tuesday and will rest Wednesday. They'll work
 Thursday and then travel Friday, heading to Chicago for their first 
preseason game against the Bears Saturday.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659985586175.jpeg" alt="Patrick Mahomes (15) and Creed Humphrey (52). Stock photo." />
 <figcaption>Patrick Mahomes (15) and Creed Humphrey (52). Stock photo.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZAC <a href="https://stjosephpost.com">St. Joseph Post</a>Monday was one of the more lowkey training camp practices the Kansas City Chiefs have had so far.With
 overcast conditions, temperatures in the low 70s and a 
smaller-than-normal crowd, the Chiefs practiced for a swift 75 minutes 
Monday, working out in half-pads and completing a 10-10-10 practice.A
 10-10-10 means 10 offensive plays, 10 defensive plays and 10 minutes of
 special teams play. That process was repeated twice during Monday's 
workout.<div><div itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/VideoObject"><meta itemprop="uploadDate" content="Sun Aug 07 2022 14:05:40 GMT-0500 (Central Daylight Time)"/><meta itemprop="name" content="Chiefs Highlights 8-7"/><meta itemprop="duration" content="P0Y0M0DT0H0M42S" /><meta itemprop="thumbnailUrl" content="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/thumbs/vV8xk3D1-720.jpg"/><meta itemprop="contentUrl" content="https://content.jwplatform.com/videos/vV8xk3D1-25NauLGk.m4a"/><div style="position:relative; overflow:hidden; padding-bottom:56.25%"><iframe src="https://cdn.jwplayer.com/players/vV8xk3D1-KcBmu4K3.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" title="Chiefs Highlights 8-7" style="position:absolute;" allowfullscreen></iframe></div></div></div>Video from Aug. 7With the starting offense going against the second-team defense, and 
the starting defense going against the third-team offense, there's not a
 lot to ream from practices like these.One thing is clear, 
however. With eleven practices down, more difficult roster decisions are
 coming, as the Chiefs try and find the right combination for their 
53-man roster this season.One area where that could be especially
 difficult is wide receiver. Juju Smith-Schuster, Marquez 
Valdes-Scantling, Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore seem perfectly safe. But
 those behind them, guys like Josh Gordon, Daurice Fountain, Justin 
Watson, Corey Coleman, Cornell Powell, Omar Bayless.All capable 
receivers, but not adequate room for all of them. Be that as it may, 
coach Andy Reid has liked the competition at that spot."It's 
good," he said. "(General manager Brett Veach) has brought in great 
people. He's brought in good players that are going to compete. 
Somewhere, we're going to have to let good players go, but it's a 
tribute to Brett and the job he's done."One receiver who could be
 on the outside looking in is Gordon, which is probably not expected for
 someone who was drafted 10 years ago and is entering his sixth season 
in the NFL.After a bit of a slow start to training camp, Reid has noticed a greater sense of urgency from Gordon."He's
 had really good days the last few days," Reid noted. "I appreciate his 
effort and he's kind of the senior citizen of that group. He's the older
 receiver in that mix and has had success in this league."Gordon 
has mostly worked with the second-team offense this camp, but he's had a
 handful of reps with Patrick Mahomes and the first-teamers, especially 
in the last few days.After Monday's practice, Gordon was asked how confident he is in making the 53-man roster."I
 just want to go out and get the opportunities I get and give it 110%," 
Gordon said. "Let the cards fall where they may and see what happens, 
but I don't have an answer for that to be honest. I don't. I wasn't a 
starter last year, so I'm fighting for a spot like everybody else."Gordon
 was signed by the Chiefs last September and elevated to the active 
roster in October. He played in 12 games last season, making just five 
receptions for 32 yards, but he scored his first touchdown since 2019 on
 a one-yard reception in the Las Vegas game in December.Gordon 
has faced six total suspensions related to the NFL's substance abuse 
policies. The Chiefs are the fourth NFL team he's played for. Gordon led
 the NFL in receiving yards in 2013 and was named a first-team All-Pro.<h2>Revamped defensive line</h2>The
 Chiefs bring back their entire starting offensive line from last season
 after making major changes in that group following the Super Bowl loss 
to Tampa Bay.On the defensive front, Kansas City is revamped. The
 Chiefs had just 31 sacks in 2021, which ranked 29th in the league. 
Seventh-year pro and defensive tackle Chris Jones feels confident about 
his group’s progression since the end of last season."I think we 
left a lot of opportunities last year and in our last game of the season
 on the field," Jones remarked. "We were able to make a few changes in 
the defensive line room with a lot of familiar faces back. This year, I 
think it's about being gritty. Stopping the run, stopping the pass and 
doing whatever we can to help this defense out."The Chiefs signed
 defensive ends Carlos Dunlap and Matt Dickerson during camp to provide 
depth. Rookie and first-round pick George Karlaftis also adds an 
additional pass rusher to the defensive line.Frank Clark and Mike
 Danna also add experience at defensive end, while Derrick Nnadi is a 
fifth-year pro at defensive tackle. Tackles Tershawn Wharton and Khalen 
Saunders have also gotten solid reps on the interior of the line.Starting center Creed Humphrey has taken notice of the solid competition up front."It's
 been very competitive these last couple of weeks," he said. "We've had 
some really humid, hot days. Everybody has been pretty moist out there. 
Just getting after it though and competing every play. So, it's been 
really good. You kind of see the mental toughness we have in the group 
and what the defensive line has in their group."<h2>Dick Vermeil</h2>As
 many have probably seen by now, former Chiefs coach and longtime NFL 
head man Dick Vermeil was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in
 Canton, Ohio this past Saturday.He and Andy Reid have quite a 
bit in common. Namely, they have both coached the Eagles and Chiefs. 
Vermeil coached the Eagles from 1976-1982, the Rams from '97-'99 and 
then the Chiefs from 2001-2005.Reid says Vermeil talked to him 
extensively, once Reid took over the Eagles in 1999 and again in 2013 
when he got the Chiefs job.Reid says he and Vermeil talk a lot 
more often than that, about once a week. Reid made the trip down to 
Canton with his wife, Tammy, to honor a longtime friend and mentor."He
 talked to me about the atmosphere (in Kansas City) and...he coached me 
up on it," Reid said. "That's priceless. I mean, that's priceless. And 
he checks in all of the time."<h2>Injury report</h2>Receiver
 Daurice Fountain didn't work Monday due to a groin strain. Still no 
Jody Forston, as he's "making progress" with a strained quad injury. 
Corner Rashad Fenton (shoulder) and offensive lineman Lucas Niang (knee)
 remain on the injured list. Defensive tackle Taylor Stallworth (knee 
bruise) is also still out.<h2>Roster moves</h2>The Chiefs 
signed defensive end Matt Dickerson Monday and released Shilique Calhoun
 to make room on the 90-man roster. On Saturday, the Chiefs signed 
receiver Devin Gray and released corner Deandre Baker.Gray was getting his first reps in with the team Monday. Dickerson was seen Monday morning as well, wearing jersey No. 96.The
 Chiefs have camp again on Tuesday and will rest Wednesday. They'll work
 Thursday and then travel Friday, heading to Chicago for their first 
preseason game against the Bears Saturday.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

🎥 Chiefs have lighter practice Monday; Gordon hopes to make roster

GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of&nbsp;Enfinnity Hayes Lawson, 22, Fort Riley, at Milford State Park in October of 2021 have made a second arrest.

The Geary County Sheriff's Office with the assistance of Fort Riley's Criminal Investigations Division, Kansas Bureau of Investigations, Kansas Highway Patrol, along with other agencies, were able to obtain a warrant for an arrest of 20-year-old Jonathan Kendrick Franklin, of Fort Riley on Sunday.

In July authorities arrested Enfinnity Hayes Lawson's husband, Cameron Lawson for her murder.

Enfinnity Hayes Lawsonn was the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred Oct. 3, 2021&nbsp; at the Milford State Park Group Shelter. At the time authorities were told that the victim was approached by a man described as 6-foot-1 or taller dressed in all black who approached the victim and her husband and attempted to rob the couple at gun point. There was a gun shot and she fell to the ground. Her husband drove her Geary Community Hospital where she died of her injuries.

In January, the United State's Army offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the murder.

Franklin is being held on requested charges of First Degree Murder, and Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Murder on a $1,000,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659970013635.jpeg" alt="Jonathan Kendrick Franklin-photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Jonathan Kendrick Franklin-photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the murder of&nbsp;Enfinnity Hayes Lawson, 22, Fort Riley, at Milford State Park in October of 2021 have made a second arrest.The Geary County Sheriff's Office with the assistance of Fort Riley's Criminal Investigations Division, Kansas Bureau of Investigations, Kansas Highway Patrol, along with other agencies, were able to obtain a warrant for an arrest of 20-year-old Jonathan Kendrick Franklin, of Fort Riley on Sunday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658192008297.png" alt="Lawson-photo Geary Co." />
 <figcaption>Lawson-photo Geary Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>In July authorities arrested Enfinnity Hayes Lawson's husband, Cameron Lawson for her murder.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637156736481.png" alt="Enfinnity Hayes-Lawson -photo Geary Co. Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Enfinnity Hayes-Lawson -photo Geary Co. Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Enfinnity Hayes Lawsonn was the victim in a fatal shooting that occurred Oct. 3, 2021&nbsp; at the Milford State Park Group Shelter. At the time authorities were told that the victim was approached by a man described as 6-foot-1 or taller dressed in all black who approached the victim and her husband and attempted to rob the couple at gun point. There was a gun shot and she fell to the ground. Her husband drove her Geary Community Hospital where she died of her injuries.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGearyCountySheriffsDepartment%2Fposts%2F237576788555786&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="497" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>In January, the United State's Army offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the murder.Franklin is being held on requested charges of First Degree Murder, and Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Murder on a $1,000,000 bond.

Sheriff: 2nd suspect accused in murder of woman at Kansas lake

Joyce Ann Misiag, 72, Aiken, South 
Carolina, loving wife and mother of four, died Wednesday, August 3, 2022,&nbsp; at Select Specialty Hospital in Augusta, Georgia.

She was born June 4, 1950, in McCook, Neb., the daughter of Francis and Wilburma (Shields) Winkler.&nbsp; She 
graduated from Oberlin High School and went on to receive her nursing 
degree from Washburn University.&nbsp; Joyce was a practicing pediatric, home
 health, and hospice nurse for 40 years.&nbsp; On October 28, 2000, she 
married Thomas Misiag of Aiken.

Survivors include her husband Tom of 
Aiken, SC, four children: Jessica Johnson and husband Brandon of Hays, 
Kristopher Marintzer and wife Anna Beth of De Soto, Cody Marintzer and 
wife Karen of Hays, and Shiloh Martinez and husband Adrian of Sartell, 
MN, 15 grandchildren whom she adored: Tucker, Jersey, and Cooper 
Johnson, Mason, Miles, and Meryn Marintzer, Caleb, Mattias, Joshua, 
Catherine, Benjamin, Cecilia, and Augustin Marintzer, Isabel and 
Sebastian Martinez, and a nephew whom she thought of as her own: Joshua 
Waddell and wife Tina of Hays.

She was preceded in death by her parents, twin sister: Janet Sue Waddell, and a granddaughter: Tess Rose Johnson.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on
 Saturday, August 13, 2022, at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; 
Visitation will be from 9:00 am until service time.&nbsp; Burial will follow 
in Fort Hays Memorial Gardens.&nbsp; 

Memorials are suggested to Shriners 
Hospitals for Children or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.&nbsp; 
Condolences and memories of Joyce may be shared with her family at <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">www.haysmemorial.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659975398504.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joyce Ann Misiag, 72, Aiken, South 
Carolina, loving wife and mother of four, died Wednesday, August 3, 2022,&nbsp; at Select Specialty Hospital in Augusta, Georgia.She was born June 4, 1950, in McCook, Neb., the daughter of Francis and Wilburma (Shields) Winkler.&nbsp; She 
graduated from Oberlin High School and went on to receive her nursing 
degree from Washburn University.&nbsp; Joyce was a practicing pediatric, home
 health, and hospice nurse for 40 years.&nbsp; On October 28, 2000, she 
married Thomas Misiag of Aiken.Survivors include her husband Tom of 
Aiken, SC, four children: Jessica Johnson and husband Brandon of Hays, 
Kristopher Marintzer and wife Anna Beth of De Soto, Cody Marintzer and 
wife Karen of Hays, and Shiloh Martinez and husband Adrian of Sartell, 
MN, 15 grandchildren whom she adored: Tucker, Jersey, and Cooper 
Johnson, Mason, Miles, and Meryn Marintzer, Caleb, Mattias, Joshua, 
Catherine, Benjamin, Cecilia, and Augustin Marintzer, Isabel and 
Sebastian Martinez, and a nephew whom she thought of as her own: Joshua 
Waddell and wife Tina of Hays.She was preceded in death by her parents, twin sister: Janet Sue Waddell, and a granddaughter: Tess Rose Johnson.Funeral services will be at 10:00 am on
 Saturday, August 13, 2022, at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; 
Visitation will be from 9:00 am until service time.&nbsp; Burial will follow 
in Fort Hays Memorial Gardens.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to Shriners 
Hospitals for Children or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.&nbsp; 
Condolences and memories of Joyce may be shared with her family at <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">www.haysmemorial.com</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joyce Ann Misiag

Jerry Lee Winter was born January 5, 1935, in rural Kit Carson County,&nbsp; Colorado, just southwest of Kanorado, Kansas, to Wayne and Sylvia 
(Armitage) Winter. &nbsp;Jerry lived his entire life in the Kanorado area 
where he attended school and graduated with the class of 1953.

On July 14, 1953, he married Melba Coons.&nbsp; They lived on a farm 
southeast of Kanorado and eventually moved their house to a half mile 
south of Kanorado where they raised their three sons.&nbsp; Jerry and Melba 
milked cows for a few years, farmed and Jerry began aerial spraying with
 his father.&nbsp; He continued to run Winter Flying Service after his father
 retired and was an aerial spray pilot for over 45 years.&nbsp; Jerry enjoyed
 building things and incorporated that with his passion of aviation when
 he built a snowplane utilizing an aircraft engine. He later built a 
flat bottom boat, once again using an aircraft engine. &nbsp;

While in high school, he participated in football, basketball and 
baseball and later played town team basketball and summer softball.&nbsp; He 
spoke often of these experiences. Jerry and Melba were proud supporters
 of their children and grandchildren and spent many hours and miles 
following their activities.

He was proceeded in death by wife Melba (Coons) Winter in October of 
2021, his parents A. Wayne Winter and Sylvia (Armitage) Reynolds, 
brother Don (Joyce) Winter.&nbsp; 

He is survived by sons Gary (Deb) Winter of
 Kanorado; Larry (Janet) Winter of Fairbury, NE; Terry Winter of Parker,
 CO.&nbsp; Six grandchildren:&nbsp; Sean (Shawndra) of Colorado Springs, CO; Blake
 (Molly) of Wheat Ridge, CO; Jonathan (Emily) of Fairbury, NE; Aubrea 
(Beto) of Goodland, KS; Lane (Britney) of Castle Rock, CO; Shane (Carly)
 of Fairbury, NE.&nbsp; Twelve great-grandchildren also survive.

Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Jerry-Winter">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659963910637.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jerry Lee Winter was born January 5, 1935, in rural Kit Carson County,&nbsp; Colorado, just southwest of Kanorado, Kansas, to Wayne and Sylvia 
(Armitage) Winter. &nbsp;Jerry lived his entire life in the Kanorado area 
where he attended school and graduated with the class of 1953.On July 14, 1953, he married Melba Coons.&nbsp; They lived on a farm 
southeast of Kanorado and eventually moved their house to a half mile 
south of Kanorado where they raised their three sons.&nbsp; Jerry and Melba 
milked cows for a few years, farmed and Jerry began aerial spraying with
 his father.&nbsp; He continued to run Winter Flying Service after his father
 retired and was an aerial spray pilot for over 45 years.&nbsp; Jerry enjoyed
 building things and incorporated that with his passion of aviation when
 he built a snowplane utilizing an aircraft engine. He later built a 
flat bottom boat, once again using an aircraft engine. &nbsp;While in high school, he participated in football, basketball and 
baseball and later played town team basketball and summer softball.&nbsp; He 
spoke often of these experiences. Jerry and Melba were proud supporters
 of their children and grandchildren and spent many hours and miles 
following their activities.He was proceeded in death by wife Melba (Coons) Winter in October of 
2021, his parents A. Wayne Winter and Sylvia (Armitage) Reynolds, 
brother Don (Joyce) Winter.&nbsp; He is survived by sons Gary (Deb) Winter of
 Kanorado; Larry (Janet) Winter of Fairbury, NE; Terry Winter of Parker,
 CO.&nbsp; Six grandchildren:&nbsp; Sean (Shawndra) of Colorado Springs, CO; Blake
 (Molly) of Wheat Ridge, CO; Jonathan (Emily) of Fairbury, NE; Aubrea 
(Beto) of Goodland, KS; Lane (Britney) of Castle Rock, CO; Shane (Carly)
 of Fairbury, NE.&nbsp; Twelve great-grandchildren also survive.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Jerry-Winter">HERE</a> for service details.

Jerry Lee Winter

Charla Rose (Bechard) Moos passed away peacefully on August 5, 2022, at 
her home. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and 
friend. She was the first born to Adeline (Kepka) and Armond Bechard Sr.
 on October 11, 1952. After graduating high school, Charla married the 
love of her life, Dennis Moos at the Immaculate Conception Church in 
Grinnell, KS. Together they had three children: Kimberly, John, and 
Jennifer. 
Charla loved spending time with her family along with cheering on her 
KSU Wildcats. Her five brothers and sister did eventually get her to 
cheer for the Jayhawks during KU Volleyball games, which she loved to 
watch. 
During her battle with Polycystic Kidney Disease, she was able to 
receive two lifesaving kidney transplants which allowed her to make many
 more precious memories with her family. 
Charla was a member of the Altar Society, VFW Auxiliary, and served many
 years as a 4-H Leader. Her hobbies included making crafts and the many 
rosaries she made for others over the years. Charla is especially 
remembered for her kolaches she would make for friends, neighbors and 
the Grinnell Warriors activity and athletic teams. 
Those proceeding her in death are her parents, Adeline and Armond 
Bechard Sr., her brother Don Bechard and her six precious grandbabies. 
Charla will be greatly missed by her husband, Dennis of Grinnell; 
daughters, Kimberly (Steve) Crooker, of Alexandria, VA and Jennifer 
(Jason) Burrows, of Hugoton, KS; son John, of Lawrence, KS; four 
grandchildren, Jayden, Joshua and Jaycee Burrows and Jude Crooker; her 
siblings, Harold (Susan) Bechard, of Salina, sister-in-law Jan Bechard, 
of Gardner, Richard (Pam) Bechard, of Overland Park, Raymond (Pam) 
Bechard, of Lawrence, Armond Jr. (Cindy) Bechard, of Leawood and Mary 
Beth (Jay) Nelson, of Tonganoxie, along with many nieces and nephews. 
Visitation is from 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, 
August 10, 2022, at the Immaculate Conception Parish Hall, Grinnell, KS.
 The Funeral Mass is at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 11, 2022, at the 
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Grinnell, with burial in the 
church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Immaculate Conception 
Church or the Quinter Ambulance Service and sent in care of Baalmann 
Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67748. For information or condolences 
visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659885542841.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Charla Rose (Bechard) Moos passed away peacefully on August 5, 2022, at 
her home. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and 
friend. She was the first born to Adeline (Kepka) and Armond Bechard Sr.
 on October 11, 1952. After graduating high school, Charla married the 
love of her life, Dennis Moos at the Immaculate Conception Church in 
Grinnell, KS. Together they had three children: Kimberly, John, and 
Jennifer. 
Charla loved spending time with her family along with cheering on her 
KSU Wildcats. Her five brothers and sister did eventually get her to 
cheer for the Jayhawks during KU Volleyball games, which she loved to 
watch. 
During her battle with Polycystic Kidney Disease, she was able to 
receive two lifesaving kidney transplants which allowed her to make many
 more precious memories with her family. 
Charla was a member of the Altar Society, VFW Auxiliary, and served many
 years as a 4-H Leader. Her hobbies included making crafts and the many 
rosaries she made for others over the years. Charla is especially 
remembered for her kolaches she would make for friends, neighbors and 
the Grinnell Warriors activity and athletic teams. 
Those proceeding her in death are her parents, Adeline and Armond 
Bechard Sr., her brother Don Bechard and her six precious grandbabies. 
Charla will be greatly missed by her husband, Dennis of Grinnell; 
daughters, Kimberly (Steve) Crooker, of Alexandria, VA and Jennifer 
(Jason) Burrows, of Hugoton, KS; son John, of Lawrence, KS; four 
grandchildren, Jayden, Joshua and Jaycee Burrows and Jude Crooker; her 
siblings, Harold (Susan) Bechard, of Salina, sister-in-law Jan Bechard, 
of Gardner, Richard (Pam) Bechard, of Overland Park, Raymond (Pam) 
Bechard, of Lawrence, Armond Jr. (Cindy) Bechard, of Leawood and Mary 
Beth (Jay) Nelson, of Tonganoxie, along with many nieces and nephews. 
Visitation is from 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, 
August 10, 2022, at the Immaculate Conception Parish Hall, Grinnell, KS.
 The Funeral Mass is at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 11, 2022, at the 
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Grinnell, with burial in the 
church cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Immaculate Conception 
Church or the Quinter Ambulance Service and sent in care of Baalmann 
Mortuary, PO Box 204, Oakley, KS 67748. For information or condolences 
visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;