By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/lisa-mascaro">LISA MASCARO</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is calling on the Senate to scrap the filibuster, so that the Republican majority can bypass Democrats and reopen the federal government.

“THE CHOICE IS CLEAR — INITIATE THE ‘NUCLEAR OPTION,’ GET RID OF THE FILIBUSTER,” Trump posted Thursday night on his social media site, Truth Social.

The filibuster is a long-standing tactic in the Senate to delay or block votes on legislation by keeping the debate running. It requires 60 votes in a full Senate to overcome a filibuster, giving Democrats a check on the 53-seat Republican majority that led to the start of the Oct. 1 shutdown when the new fiscal year began.

Trump's call to terminate the filibuster could alter the ways the Senate and congressional dealmaking operate, with the president saying in his post that he gave a “great deal” of thought to the choice on his flight back from Asia on Thursday.

Trump spent the past week with foreign leaders in Malaysia, Japan and South Korea, finishing his tour by meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

The president declared the trip a success because of a trade truce with China and foreign investment planned for American industries, but he said one question kept coming up during his time there about why did “powerful Republicans allow” the Democrats to shut down parts of the government.

His call to end the filibuster came at a moment when certain senators and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">House Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;believed it was time for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">government shutdown</a>&nbsp;to come to an end. It's unclear if lawmakers will follow Trump's lead, rather than finding ways to negotiate with Democrats.

From coast to coast,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/troop-pay-shutdown-military-congress-trump-961b81b2990ac1bd03041e5586028764">fallout</a>&nbsp;from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/telehealth-virtual-medicare-government-shutdown-congress-37a4aaa97ed4ed2e81330eda0d8eb908">dysfunction of a shuttered federal government</a>&nbsp;is hitting home: Alaskans are stockpiling moose, caribou and fish for winter, even before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-food-aid-ruling-shutdown-trump-09f9807264385f0beab61a68dcbbdd66">SNAP food aid is scheduled to shut off</a>. Mainers are filling up their home-heating oil tanks, but waiting on the federal subsidies that are nowhere in sight.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flight-delays-shutdown-air-traffic-controllers-9e1c68b03060c6a694e193d272632fef">Flights are being delayed</a>&nbsp;with holiday travel around the corner. Workers are going without paychecks. And Americans are getting a first glimpse of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poll-shutdown-health-care-insurance-costs-trump-f0282a0f5bedf3f01172ed3fa0ba4fd2">skyrocketing health care insurance costs</a>&nbsp;that are at the center of the stalemate on Capitol Hill.

“People are stressing,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, as food options in her state grow scarce.

“We are well past time to have this behind us.”

While quiet talks are underway, particularly among bipartisan senators, the shutdown is not expected to end before Saturday's deadline when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-snap-states-help-a5ab631a93a6d8087a4448117f026fb7">Americans' deep food insecurity</a>&nbsp;— one in eight people depend on the government to have enough to eat — could become starkly apparent if federal SNAP funds run dry.

The White House has moved money around to ensure the military is paid, but refuses to tap funds for food aid. In fact, Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-republican-trump-tax-bill-f65be44e1050431a601320197322551b">“big, beautiful bill”</a>&nbsp;signed into law this summer, delivered the most substantial cut ever to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/food-stamps-snap-states-trump-2c604216d26a9edf84fe502136be6d6f">Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a>, known as SNAP, projected to result in some 2.4 million people off the program.

At the same time, many Americans who purchase their own health insurance through the federal and state marketplaces, with open enrollment also beginning Saturday, are experiencing sticker shock as premium prices jump.

“We are holding food over the heads of poor people so that we can take away their health care,” said Rev. Ryan Stoess, during a prayer with religious leaders at the U.S. Capitol.

“God help us,” he said, “when the cruelty is the point.”

The House remains closed down under Johnson for the past month. Senators are preparing to depart Thursday for the long weekend. Trump returns late Thursday after a whirlwind tour of Asia.

That means the shutdown, in its 30th day, appears all but certain to stretch into another week, putting it on track to become the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/30769167ab7a4ef9adf880d020b775dd">longest in history</a>, surpassing the 35-day lapse that ended in 2019, during Trump’s first term over his demands to build the U.S.-Mexico border wall.

The next inflection point comes after Tuesday’s off-year elections — the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zohran-mamdani-nyc-mayor-cuomo-1fb8cd6abb16249a2bd83ccf10c5bbf5">New York City mayor’s race</a>, as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democrats-spanberger-sherrill-virginia-new-jersey-trump-5869ac164d05f00f4ca07d7919e3960b">elections in Virginia and New Jersey</a>&nbsp;that will determine those states’ governors. Many expect that once those winners and losers are declared, and the Democrats and Republicans assess their political standing with the voters, they might be ready to hunker down for a deal.

“I hope that it frees people up to move forward with opening the government,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D.

The Republicans, who have majority control of Congress, find themselves in an unusual position, defending the furloughed federal workers and shuttered programs they have long sought to cut — including most recently with nearly $1 trillion in reductions in Trump’s big tax breaks and spending bill.

Medicaid, the health care program, and SNAP food aid, suffered sizable blows this summer, in part by imposing new work requirements. For SNAP recipients, many of whom were already required to work, the new requirements extend to older Americans up to age 64 and parents of older school-age children.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Republicans now “have the nerve” to suggest it’s a political strategy to withhold food aid.

“We are trying to lift up the quality of life for the American people,” Jeffries of New York said about his party.

“The American people understand that there’s a Republican health care crisis,” he said. “The American people understand Republicans enacted the largest cut to nutritional assistance in American history when they cut $186 billion from their one, big, ugly bill.”

During the summer debate over Trump’s big bill, Johnson and other Republicans railed against what they characterized as lazy Americans, riding what the House speaker calls the “gravy train” of government benefits.

The speaker spoke about able-bodied young men playing video games while receiving Medicaid health care benefits and insisted the new work requirements for the aid programs would weed out what they called “waste, fraud and abuse.”

“What we’re talking about, again, is able-bodied workers, many of whom are refusing to work because they’re gaming the system,” Johnson said in spring on CBS’ “Face the Nation.”

“And when we make them work, it’ll be better for everybody, a win-win-win for all,” he said.

What remains out of reach, for now, is any relief from the new health care prices,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">posted this week</a>, that are expected to put insurance out of reach for many Americans when federal subsidies that help offset those costs are set to expire at the end of the year.

Democrats have been holding out for negotiations with Trump and the Republicans to keep those subsidies in place. Republicans say they can address the issue later, once the government reopens.

Associated Press writer Matt Brown contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761872954814.png" alt="Nevada Democrat Senator Jacky Rosen speaking on the Senate floor Thursday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Nevada Democrat Senator Jacky Rosen speaking on the Senate floor Thursday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/lisa-mascaro">LISA MASCARO</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is calling on the Senate to scrap the filibuster, so that the Republican majority can bypass Democrats and reopen the federal government.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/Ik2EkLWbkA">pic.twitter.com/Ik2EkLWbkA</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1984087997453889872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“THE CHOICE IS CLEAR — INITIATE THE ‘NUCLEAR OPTION,’ GET RID OF THE FILIBUSTER,” Trump posted Thursday night on his social media site, Truth Social.The filibuster is a long-standing tactic in the Senate to delay or block votes on legislation by keeping the debate running. It requires 60 votes in a full Senate to overcome a filibuster, giving Democrats a check on the 53-seat Republican majority that led to the start of the Oct. 1 shutdown when the new fiscal year began.Trump's call to terminate the filibuster could alter the ways the Senate and congressional dealmaking operate, with the president saying in his post that he gave a “great deal” of thought to the choice on his flight back from Asia on Thursday.Trump spent the past week with foreign leaders in Malaysia, Japan and South Korea, finishing his tour by meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.The president declared the trip a success because of a trade truce with China and foreign investment planned for American industries, but he said one question kept coming up during his time there about why did “powerful Republicans allow” the Democrats to shut down parts of the government.His call to end the filibuster came at a moment when certain senators and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">House Speaker Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;believed it was time for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">government shutdown</a>&nbsp;to come to an end. It's unclear if lawmakers will follow Trump's lead, rather than finding ways to negotiate with Democrats.From coast to coast,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/troop-pay-shutdown-military-congress-trump-961b81b2990ac1bd03041e5586028764">fallout</a>&nbsp;from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/telehealth-virtual-medicare-government-shutdown-congress-37a4aaa97ed4ed2e81330eda0d8eb908">dysfunction of a shuttered federal government</a>&nbsp;is hitting home: Alaskans are stockpiling moose, caribou and fish for winter, even before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-food-aid-ruling-shutdown-trump-09f9807264385f0beab61a68dcbbdd66">SNAP food aid is scheduled to shut off</a>. Mainers are filling up their home-heating oil tanks, but waiting on the federal subsidies that are nowhere in sight.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/flight-delays-shutdown-air-traffic-controllers-9e1c68b03060c6a694e193d272632fef">Flights are being delayed</a>&nbsp;with holiday travel around the corner. Workers are going without paychecks. And Americans are getting a first glimpse of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/poll-shutdown-health-care-insurance-costs-trump-f0282a0f5bedf3f01172ed3fa0ba4fd2">skyrocketing health care insurance costs</a>&nbsp;that are at the center of the stalemate on Capitol Hill.“People are stressing,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, as food options in her state grow scarce.“We are well past time to have this behind us.”While quiet talks are underway, particularly among bipartisan senators, the shutdown is not expected to end before Saturday's deadline when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-snap-states-help-a5ab631a93a6d8087a4448117f026fb7">Americans' deep food insecurity</a>&nbsp;— one in eight people depend on the government to have enough to eat — could become starkly apparent if federal SNAP funds run dry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761873555745.png" alt="Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran during a hearing in the Senate VA Committee on Thursday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran during a hearing in the Senate VA Committee on Thursday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Money for military, but not food aid</h2>The White House has moved money around to ensure the military is paid, but refuses to tap funds for food aid. In fact, Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-is-republican-trump-tax-bill-f65be44e1050431a601320197322551b">“big, beautiful bill”</a>&nbsp;signed into law this summer, delivered the most substantial cut ever to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/food-stamps-snap-states-trump-2c604216d26a9edf84fe502136be6d6f">Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program</a>, known as SNAP, projected to result in some 2.4 million people off the program.At the same time, many Americans who purchase their own health insurance through the federal and state marketplaces, with open enrollment also beginning Saturday, are experiencing sticker shock as premium prices jump.“We are holding food over the heads of poor people so that we can take away their health care,” said Rev. Ryan Stoess, during a prayer with religious leaders at the U.S. Capitol.“God help us,” he said, “when the cruelty is the point.”<h2>Deadlines shift to next week</h2>The House remains closed down under Johnson for the past month. Senators are preparing to depart Thursday for the long weekend. Trump returns late Thursday after a whirlwind tour of Asia.That means the shutdown, in its 30th day, appears all but certain to stretch into another week, putting it on track to become the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/30769167ab7a4ef9adf880d020b775dd">longest in history</a>, surpassing the 35-day lapse that ended in 2019, during Trump’s first term over his demands to build the U.S.-Mexico border wall.The next inflection point comes after Tuesday’s off-year elections — the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zohran-mamdani-nyc-mayor-cuomo-1fb8cd6abb16249a2bd83ccf10c5bbf5">New York City mayor’s race</a>, as well as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democrats-spanberger-sherrill-virginia-new-jersey-trump-5869ac164d05f00f4ca07d7919e3960b">elections in Virginia and New Jersey</a>&nbsp;that will determine those states’ governors. Many expect that once those winners and losers are declared, and the Democrats and Republicans assess their political standing with the voters, they might be ready to hunker down for a deal.“I hope that it frees people up to move forward with opening the government,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D.<h2>GOP cut SNAP in Trump’s big bill</h2>The Republicans, who have majority control of Congress, find themselves in an unusual position, defending the furloughed federal workers and shuttered programs they have long sought to cut — including most recently with nearly $1 trillion in reductions in Trump’s big tax breaks and spending bill.Medicaid, the health care program, and SNAP food aid, suffered sizable blows this summer, in part by imposing new work requirements. For SNAP recipients, many of whom were already required to work, the new requirements extend to older Americans up to age 64 and parents of older school-age children.House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Republicans now “have the nerve” to suggest it’s a political strategy to withhold food aid.“We are trying to lift up the quality of life for the American people,” Jeffries of New York said about his party.“The American people understand that there’s a Republican health care crisis,” he said. “The American people understand Republicans enacted the largest cut to nutritional assistance in American history when they cut $186 billion from their one, big, ugly bill.”During the summer debate over Trump’s big bill, Johnson and other Republicans railed against what they characterized as lazy Americans, riding what the House speaker calls the “gravy train” of government benefits.The speaker spoke about able-bodied young men playing video games while receiving Medicaid health care benefits and insisted the new work requirements for the aid programs would weed out what they called “waste, fraud and abuse.”“What we’re talking about, again, is able-bodied workers, many of whom are refusing to work because they’re gaming the system,” Johnson said in spring on CBS’ “Face the Nation.”“And when we make them work, it’ll be better for everybody, a win-win-win for all,” he said.What remains out of reach, for now, is any relief from the new health care prices,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">posted this week</a>, that are expected to put insurance out of reach for many Americans when federal subsidies that help offset those costs are set to expire at the end of the year.Democrats have been holding out for negotiations with Trump and the Republicans to keep those subsidies in place. Republicans say they can address the issue later, once the government reopens.__Associated Press writer Matt Brown contributed to this report.

Spiraling effects of the shutdown leave lawmakers grasping for ways to end it

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Friday, October 31 KKQY: Plainville at&nbsp;Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, 6:00pm &nbsp;

Saturday, November 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Missouri, 12:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB Oklahoma State, 1:30pm

Sunday, November 2
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB at Buffalo Bills, 2:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Friday, October 31 KKQY: Plainville at&nbsp;Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, 6:00pm &nbsp; Saturday, November 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Missouri, 12:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB Oklahoma State, 1:30pmSunday, November 2
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB at Buffalo Bills, 2:00pm

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

President Trump arrived home from his trip to Asia in time to join FIrst Lady Melania Trump and hand out candy to children during a Halloween event at the White House on Thursday evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761872548675.png" alt="image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>President Trump arrived home from his trip to Asia in time to join FIrst Lady Melania Trump and hand out candy to children during a Halloween event at the White House on Thursday evening.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Halloween at the White House 2025 🍁🍂🎃 <a href="https://t.co/8ouTBcLuVk">pic.twitter.com/8ouTBcLuVk</a>&mdash; Office of the First Lady (@FirstLadyOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/FirstLadyOffice/status/1984258805233025096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump and the First Lady Participate in Halloween at The White House <a href="https://t.co/AnezkesE8L">https://t.co/AnezkesE8L</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1984014953540362675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> host Halloween trick-or-treating at the White House 🎃 <a href="https://t.co/7S1CFTtSt3">pic.twitter.com/7S1CFTtSt3</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1984015930272485702?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump, former McDonald&#39;s worker himself, greets new Drive-Thru employees at the White House <a href="https://t.co/99KwxiH7wM">pic.twitter.com/99KwxiH7wM</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1984024039850197436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> strikes again! 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/mjzufQiAut">https://t.co/mjzufQiAut</a> <a href="https://t.co/98J3vfTMfg">pic.twitter.com/98J3vfTMfg</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1984026442494279730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PressSec</a> brings her son trick-or-treating at the White House with <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> 🧡🖤💛 <a href="https://t.co/tzW4PL3Syt">pic.twitter.com/tzW4PL3Syt</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1984017034141950458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> hugs trick-or-treaters at the White House ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/QdY8EsicA4">pic.twitter.com/QdY8EsicA4</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1984022682506293310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Kids&#39; Halloween costumes at White House with President Trump and First Lady <a href="https://t.co/qOToLC5x5z">pic.twitter.com/qOToLC5x5z</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1984063387467387053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥President, First Lady host trick-or-treaters at the White House

KANSAS CITY —A man already serving time in the Kansas Department of corrections is facing new charges in connection with two fatal fentanyl overdoses that took place in 2023.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2750/Esparza-Redacted-Complaint-1">Angel B. Esparza</a>, 32,&nbsp;faces one count of 2nd Degree Felony Murder, one count of 1st Degree Involuntary Manslaughter, and one count of Delivery of a Controlled Substance, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2749/Esparza-Redacted-Probable-Cause-2">According to court records</a>, two coworkers died from fentanyl overdoses in October 2023—one in their Lee’s Summit residence and another in their Belton residence.&nbsp;

The Jackson County Drug Task Force has led the investigation of the deaths over the past couple years, leading to the identification of Esparza.

Detectives found paraphernalia at the first victim’s home which tested positive for fentanyl. &nbsp;They also found messages between the victims indicating the use of fentanyl.

In 2024, detectives found Facebook messages and Cash App records indicating the defendant sold fentanyl to the second victim the night before the first victim’s death. Additional Facebook messages revealed the defendant had sold drugs, including fentanyl, to other individuals as well.&nbsp;

The defendant is currently serving a prison sentence in the Kansas Department of Corrections for an unrelated conviction. Esparza has seven previous convictions in Kansas. His bond has been set at $250,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761594937474.png" alt="Esparza photo Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Esparza photo Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A man already serving time in the Kansas Department of corrections is facing new charges in connection with two fatal fentanyl overdoses that took place in 2023.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2750/Esparza-Redacted-Complaint-1">Angel B. Esparza</a>, 32,&nbsp;faces one count of 2nd Degree Felony Murder, one count of 1st Degree Involuntary Manslaughter, and one count of Delivery of a Controlled Substance, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2749/Esparza-Redacted-Probable-Cause-2">According to court records</a>, two coworkers died from fentanyl overdoses in October 2023—one in their Lee’s Summit residence and another in their Belton residence.&nbsp;The Jackson County Drug Task Force has led the investigation of the deaths over the past couple years, leading to the identification of Esparza.Detectives found paraphernalia at the first victim’s home which tested positive for fentanyl. &nbsp;They also found messages between the victims indicating the use of fentanyl.In 2024, detectives found Facebook messages and Cash App records indicating the defendant sold fentanyl to the second victim the night before the first victim’s death. Additional Facebook messages revealed the defendant had sold drugs, including fentanyl, to other individuals as well.&nbsp;The defendant is currently serving a prison sentence in the Kansas Department of Corrections for an unrelated conviction. Esparza has seven previous convictions in Kansas. His bond has been set at $250,000.

Man in Kansas prison accused of fentanyl deaths in 2023

TOPEKA —Canyon Anthony Amarys, 28, of Alamogordo, New Mexico, was arrested on October 28 in connection with his indictment for the attempted violation of the Export Control Reform Act, according to the United State's Attorney's office.&nbsp; &nbsp;Amarys was scheduled to make his initial appearance Thursday in federal court in the District of Kansas.

According to the indictment, in February 2025, at an in-person meeting between Amarys and someone he believed to be a Russian intelligence agent, Amarys signed a one-page agreement in order to confirm his covert relationship with a Russian intelligence service.&nbsp; In addition, as part of that relationship, Amarys agreed to photograph a military installation on Fort Riley, Kansas, and to procure a helicopter radio for use by the Russian military.

In March 2025, after purchasing the helicopter radio, Amarys traveled to Kansas in order to retrieve the radio and export it to a purported recipient in Romania.&nbsp; In doing so, Amarys communicated with a person he believed to be a Russian intelligence agent, and confirmed his understanding that the radio would in fact be illegally diverted to Russia.

Pursuant to a court-authorized search, investigators recovered the radio that Amarys had sought to illegally export to Russia.&nbsp; Under U.S. export laws and regulations, the export of this controlled item without a license from the U.S. Department of Commerce was unlawful.&nbsp; Amarys understood that his shipment of the radio abroad was illegal, and told the person he believed to be a Russian intelligence agent that he had researched export regulations in anticipation of their meeting in February 2025.&nbsp;

The FBI Kansas City field office is investigating the case, with valuable assistance from the U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command, the Kansas National Guard, the Department of Commerce – Bureau of Industry and Security, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Rask of the District of Kansas and Trial Attorney David Ryan of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761854610305.png" alt="Amarys photo Wyandotte County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Amarys photo Wyandotte County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Canyon Anthony Amarys, 28, of Alamogordo, New Mexico, was arrested on October 28 in connection with his indictment for the attempted violation of the Export Control Reform Act, according to the United State's Attorney's office.&nbsp; &nbsp;Amarys was scheduled to make his initial appearance Thursday in federal court in the District of Kansas.According to the indictment, in February 2025, at an in-person meeting between Amarys and someone he believed to be a Russian intelligence agent, Amarys signed a one-page agreement in order to confirm his covert relationship with a Russian intelligence service.&nbsp; In addition, as part of that relationship, Amarys agreed to photograph a military installation on Fort Riley, Kansas, and to procure a helicopter radio for use by the Russian military.In March 2025, after purchasing the helicopter radio, Amarys traveled to Kansas in order to retrieve the radio and export it to a purported recipient in Romania.&nbsp; In doing so, Amarys communicated with a person he believed to be a Russian intelligence agent, and confirmed his understanding that the radio would in fact be illegally diverted to Russia.Pursuant to a court-authorized search, investigators recovered the radio that Amarys had sought to illegally export to Russia.&nbsp; Under U.S. export laws and regulations, the export of this controlled item without a license from the U.S. Department of Commerce was unlawful.&nbsp; Amarys understood that his shipment of the radio abroad was illegal, and told the person he believed to be a Russian intelligence agent that he had researched export regulations in anticipation of their meeting in February 2025.&nbsp;The FBI Kansas City field office is investigating the case, with valuable assistance from the U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command, the Kansas National Guard, the Department of Commerce – Bureau of Industry and Security, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Rask of the District of Kansas and Trial Attorney David Ryan of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

National guardsman agreed to take photos at Fort Riley for 'Russian agent'

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Kelvin Burgett, 28, Prescott Valley, Arizona was sentenced Thursday in Sedgwick County District Court for the 2022 vehicular crash that resulted in the death of Sedgwick County Sheriff's Deputy Sidnee Carter.

Judge William Woolley sentenced Burgett to 3 and one half year or&nbsp; 42 months in prison after previously pleading no contest to one count of Involuntary Manslaughter while driving under the influence of THC.

In October of 2022, a&nbsp;2016 Dodge Charger driven by Sedgwick County Sheriff's Deputy Sidnee Carter, 22, Bel Aire, was southbound on 135th Street at 29th Street north one mile west of Northwest Wichita and Maize responding to a disturbance, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.

A westbound 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Burgett failed to stop at a stop sign and struck the drivers side of the Dodge Charger, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Deputy Carter was pronounced deceased at the scene. EMS transported Burgett to a local hospital.

Deputy Carter had only worked in the field alone for a week, according to Sheriff Easter. She began field training in the summer of 2022 and completed that training Oct. 1.&nbsp;

Deputy Carter had served the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office for one and a half years in the Sedgwick County Detention Facility before transferring to the Law Enforcement Bureau in February 2022. She graduated the Law Enforcement Academy on July 21, 2022.&nbsp;

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Woolley also ordered Burgett to serve 36 months of post-release supervision.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680091672733.png" alt="Burgett-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Burgett-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Kelvin Burgett, 28, Prescott Valley, Arizona was sentenced Thursday in Sedgwick County District Court for the 2022 vehicular crash that resulted in the death of Sedgwick County Sheriff's Deputy Sidnee Carter.Judge William Woolley sentenced Burgett to 3 and one half year or&nbsp; 42 months in prison after previously pleading no contest to one count of Involuntary Manslaughter while driving under the influence of THC.In October of 2022, a&nbsp;2016 Dodge Charger driven by Sedgwick County Sheriff's Deputy Sidnee Carter, 22, Bel Aire, was southbound on 135th Street at 29th Street north one mile west of Northwest Wichita and Maize responding to a disturbance, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.A westbound 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Burgett failed to stop at a stop sign and struck the drivers side of the Dodge Charger, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.Deputy Carter was pronounced deceased at the scene. EMS transported Burgett to a local hospital.Deputy Carter had only worked in the field alone for a week, according to Sheriff Easter. She began field training in the summer of 2022 and completed that training Oct. 1.&nbsp;Deputy Carter had served the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office for one and a half years in the Sedgwick County Detention Facility before transferring to the Law Enforcement Bureau in February 2022. She graduated the Law Enforcement Academy on July 21, 2022.&nbsp;During the sentencing hearing, Judge Woolley also ordered Burgett to serve 36 months of post-release supervision.

Prison for man in DUI crash that killed Kansas Deputy

Laverna I. Ernst, 100, Payson, Arizona, died
October 13, 2025.

She was born on January 19, 1925, to Clinton and
Dorothy (Winteroth) Bistline in Detroit, Kansas, in Dickinson County.&nbsp; She
attended grade school at Detroit and graduated from High School at Chapman,
Kansas.&nbsp; She went to McPherson College for a Teaching Certificate and
taught school for one year.&nbsp; She then did clerical work on the U.S. Air
Base at Kearney, Nebraska.

Laverna married Walter Ernst on May 27, 1945, in
Detroit, Kansas.&nbsp; They spent all their married life in Enterprise,
Kansas.&nbsp; She worked at the J. B. Ehrsam &amp; Sons Manufacturing business
in the Blue Print Department in Enterprise and later at Abilene, Kansas, until
her retirement.

She was a member of the Detroit Evangelical
United Brethren Church and then the United Methodist Church in
Enterprise.&nbsp; She served in the church as a Sunday School teacher, the
Organist and the Choir Director for over 62 years.&nbsp; She was involved with
the Kansas Historical Society and the Kansas Anthropological Society.&nbsp; She
also spent many years as a narrator on Excursion Train outings of the Abilene
and Smoky Valley Kansas Heritage Railroad as it went between Abilene and
Enterprise, Kansas.

In 2016, Laverna moved to Payson, Arizona, to be
closer to her daughter, living first in the Majestic Rim Retirement Apartments
and later at Avista until the time of her death.

Survivors include two sisters, Carolyn Beetch of
Carlton, Kansas, and Lois Hines (Ron) of Claremont, California; three
sisters-in-law, Gloria Bistline, Marlene Bistline, and Joyce Bistline; three
children, Dennis Ernst (Connie) of Hays, Kansas, Phyllis Lynch (Durward) of
Payson, Arizona, and Richard Ernst (Judith) of Greenbelt, Maryland;
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends and
acquaintances.&nbsp;

She was predeceased by her husband, Walter;
three brothers, Stanley Bistline, John Bistline, and Robert Bistline; one
brother-in-law, Willard Beetch, and one grandson, Brian Ernst,

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. at the
Enterprise Community Church on November 22, 2025, with Pastor Arnie Boyd
officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Detroit Cemetery at a later time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the
Detroit Methodist Church Scholarship Fund or a charity of the donor’s choice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761859754756.jpeg" alt="Laverna I. Ernst" />
 <figcaption>Laverna I. Ernst</figcaption>
 </figure>Laverna I. Ernst, 100, Payson, Arizona, died
October 13, 2025.She was born on January 19, 1925, to Clinton and
Dorothy (Winteroth) Bistline in Detroit, Kansas, in Dickinson County.&nbsp; She
attended grade school at Detroit and graduated from High School at Chapman,
Kansas.&nbsp; She went to McPherson College for a Teaching Certificate and
taught school for one year.&nbsp; She then did clerical work on the U.S. Air
Base at Kearney, Nebraska.Laverna married Walter Ernst on May 27, 1945, in
Detroit, Kansas.&nbsp; They spent all their married life in Enterprise,
Kansas.&nbsp; She worked at the J. B. Ehrsam &amp; Sons Manufacturing business
in the Blue Print Department in Enterprise and later at Abilene, Kansas, until
her retirement.She was a member of the Detroit Evangelical
United Brethren Church and then the United Methodist Church in
Enterprise.&nbsp; She served in the church as a Sunday School teacher, the
Organist and the Choir Director for over 62 years.&nbsp; She was involved with
the Kansas Historical Society and the Kansas Anthropological Society.&nbsp; She
also spent many years as a narrator on Excursion Train outings of the Abilene
and Smoky Valley Kansas Heritage Railroad as it went between Abilene and
Enterprise, Kansas.In 2016, Laverna moved to Payson, Arizona, to be
closer to her daughter, living first in the Majestic Rim Retirement Apartments
and later at Avista until the time of her death.Survivors include two sisters, Carolyn Beetch of
Carlton, Kansas, and Lois Hines (Ron) of Claremont, California; three
sisters-in-law, Gloria Bistline, Marlene Bistline, and Joyce Bistline; three
children, Dennis Ernst (Connie) of Hays, Kansas, Phyllis Lynch (Durward) of
Payson, Arizona, and Richard Ernst (Judith) of Greenbelt, Maryland;
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many friends and
acquaintances.&nbsp;She was predeceased by her husband, Walter;
three brothers, Stanley Bistline, John Bistline, and Robert Bistline; one
brother-in-law, Willard Beetch, and one grandson, Brian Ernst,Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. at the
Enterprise Community Church on November 22, 2025, with Pastor Arnie Boyd
officiating.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Detroit Cemetery at a later time.Memorial contributions may be made to the
Detroit Methodist Church Scholarship Fund or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Laverna I. Ernst

Dale Raymond Diederich, age 88, passed
away peacefully, in his sleep on October 12, 2025, at Good&nbsp;Samaritan
Society in Olathe, Kansas.&nbsp;

Dale was born on June 17, 1937. He was
preceded in death by his parents Julius and Mae (Weaver) Diederich, a brother
Jerry (Gabby)&nbsp;Diederich, sisters Marlene (Molly) Diederich-Brin, and Janet
(Diederich)-Laevenstein, a niece, Jeannie (Laevenstein)-Hamrick, sister Leona
(Butch) (Diederich)-Clark.

Dale married Betty
(Wasinger)-Diederich on November 29, 1958 in Hays, Kansas. He was a member of
St. Joseph Catholic Church. Betty has preceded him in death.

From the union were born two children,
a daughter Donna (Diederich) Rowley (John) and a son David Diederich (Chris).

Dale is survived by a brother Dennis
(Denny) Diederich (Sandy), and sister, Darla (Diederich) Zerr (Albert). Also,
two brothers-in-law Carrol Brin and Jerry Clark, sister-in-law Dorothy
Diederich-Kistler (Don), his daughter Donna (Diederich) Rowley (John) and son
David Diederich (Chris).

Dale is also survived by 6
grandchildren; Jennifer (Rowley)-Bright (Sean), Jesse Rowley (Danielle), Amy
(Rowley)-Shelton (Michael), Alexsis (Diederich)-Buls (Adam), Hannah
(Diederich)-Shakelford (Adam), and Sierra Diederich.

Dale has 12 great grandchildren; Riley
and John Bright, Shea and Sophie Rowley, Abigail and Kenny Shelton, Kaylen and
Kyler Hyde, Milo, Cohen, and Benji Buls and Harper Shakelford.

Dale is also survived by one
brother-in-law William (Bill) Wasinger (Marie), and Mary Lou (Wasinger)-Logan
(Duane) have preceded him in death.

Dale graduated from Selden Rural High
School, Selden, KS and from Kansas City Trade School as an auto mechanic.&nbsp;
He was employed by O’Laughlin Motors, Herb Lungren Chevrolet, Clay Chevrolet
with Paul McDonald and later, by Hays Pathology Laboratories.

Dale also farmed and loved harvest
season, and custom-cutting wheat with his brother-in-law Carrol Brin, in the
Damar area.

Dale enjoyed weekends at area lakes
with family and friends camping, boating, fishing skiing, and hunting during
Fall season. He especially enjoyed traveling with his family on many vacations.

His funeral Mass will be held at
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Selden, Kansas at 10:30AM on October 30, 2025
with Father Mathew officiating. Burial will be in the Selden Cemetery with a
luncheon afterwards. Memorial contributions can be made out to Sacred Heart
Catholic Church or to TMP-Marian High School in Hays, KS. Condolences can be
left at <a href="http://www.plumergobber.com">www.plumergobber.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761851791039.jpeg" alt="Dale Raymond Diederich" />
 <figcaption>Dale Raymond Diederich</figcaption>
 </figure>Dale Raymond Diederich, age 88, passed
away peacefully, in his sleep on October 12, 2025, at Good&nbsp;Samaritan
Society in Olathe, Kansas.&nbsp;Dale was born on June 17, 1937. He was
preceded in death by his parents Julius and Mae (Weaver) Diederich, a brother
Jerry (Gabby)&nbsp;Diederich, sisters Marlene (Molly) Diederich-Brin, and Janet
(Diederich)-Laevenstein, a niece, Jeannie (Laevenstein)-Hamrick, sister Leona
(Butch) (Diederich)-Clark.Dale married Betty
(Wasinger)-Diederich on November 29, 1958 in Hays, Kansas. He was a member of
St. Joseph Catholic Church. Betty has preceded him in death.From the union were born two children,
a daughter Donna (Diederich) Rowley (John) and a son David Diederich (Chris).Dale is survived by a brother Dennis
(Denny) Diederich (Sandy), and sister, Darla (Diederich) Zerr (Albert). Also,
two brothers-in-law Carrol Brin and Jerry Clark, sister-in-law Dorothy
Diederich-Kistler (Don), his daughter Donna (Diederich) Rowley (John) and son
David Diederich (Chris).Dale is also survived by 6
grandchildren; Jennifer (Rowley)-Bright (Sean), Jesse Rowley (Danielle), Amy
(Rowley)-Shelton (Michael), Alexsis (Diederich)-Buls (Adam), Hannah
(Diederich)-Shakelford (Adam), and Sierra Diederich.Dale has 12 great grandchildren; Riley
and John Bright, Shea and Sophie Rowley, Abigail and Kenny Shelton, Kaylen and
Kyler Hyde, Milo, Cohen, and Benji Buls and Harper Shakelford.Dale is also survived by one
brother-in-law William (Bill) Wasinger (Marie), and Mary Lou (Wasinger)-Logan
(Duane) have preceded him in death.Dale had 13 nieces and 12 nephews.Dale graduated from Selden Rural High
School, Selden, KS and from Kansas City Trade School as an auto mechanic.&nbsp;
He was employed by O’Laughlin Motors, Herb Lungren Chevrolet, Clay Chevrolet
with Paul McDonald and later, by Hays Pathology Laboratories.Dale also farmed and loved harvest
season, and custom-cutting wheat with his brother-in-law Carrol Brin, in the
Damar area.Dale enjoyed weekends at area lakes
with family and friends camping, boating, fishing skiing, and hunting during
Fall season. He especially enjoyed traveling with his family on many vacations.His funeral Mass will be held at
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Selden, Kansas at 10:30AM on October 30, 2025
with Father Mathew officiating. Burial will be in the Selden Cemetery with a
luncheon afterwards. Memorial contributions can be made out to Sacred Heart
Catholic Church or to TMP-Marian High School in Hays, KS. Condolences can be
left at <a href="http://www.plumergobber.com">www.plumergobber.com</a>.

Dale Raymond Diederich

Daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov. 2, and the American Red Cross encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as they&nbsp;turn their clocks back to make sure the devices are working.

“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half as you only have about two minutes to safely get out,” said Jane Blocher, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Greater Kansas. “Every second counts when there’s a home fire and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place. When daylight saving time ends this weekend, test your smoke alarms to help prevent a tragedy in your home.”

This year, local Red Cross volunteers responded to help over 500 people in Greater Kansas affected by 150 home fires, which account for most of the about 65,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to annually across the country.

SMOKE ALARMS&nbsp;When turning your clocks back this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy01uwyAQxfHTwA6Lj2FgFiyyyTUiDOMExa5TsGr19lWibn_v_WvSniEXyckENNEZi1E-EluKAdgCksvgWZvqiZwHjORCqLIlJO2QvPcFEW8GLPKiPXhycRagR6v8bN9qy23lPhTWuMwVAoGK6-vrOb0HuabHcbyEuwh7FfZ6nufUuZa-jzHt_S7sdWmd5ca1ZdV55TxYtZo-cPsH4S4mQLBG9vTIv-O1j0OA5nxf-XOcyr7JcXTm7R3XOersi1PMpBUQZjXTgsrPBawl0nrR8ifZvwAAAP__F2xV-w">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family, or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.

IF YOU NEED HELP&nbsp;If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsyzuu6yAUheHRQIfF-1FQpMk0og1sYhQc-4LviTL7o0Sn_db6S-QGNWSKUTgrvBLSerpGHaAIUBoVcuuAO2Or4U5gwpR9qrRFG7iywRiTrbU3oaXFyo02QflENJ-t4KP9Yxu0jmMyW3xNRbugme_H87F8Btrjep7HJOpC5JXI6-v1WgaWPPY5l33cibzW9izsvf8frO8ZOssrHCeOZT23TjcsDdjAjjCRtRK_cPsDoi7CaScFHXGF9zz2eRLNEe4dv8cl7xud50DcPnFJnoPJiiEGznSwwFKolpmUtZQhcF45_YnyNwAA__8chmDt">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES&nbsp;Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners,&nbsp;has saved at least&nbsp;2,284&nbsp;lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy0uO6yAQheHVwAyLVxXUgEEm1t1FhKGcoNjXabA66t23EvX0O-evSQP7XCQnE9BEZyxGeU-oIazksiuwkIm5Og7oNcOKgSmDbAlJOyQAKIh4Nd4irxo8kIuL8Hq0yo_2pfbcNu5DYY3rUn0gr-L2_P-Y3oPc0v08n8JdhJ2FnV-v19S5ln6MMR39Juz879h5bp2H3Lm2rDpvnAerVtMHrn8g3MUEH6yRPd3zz3ge4xRec75t_DlO5djlODvz_o7rEnWG4hQzaeUJs1poRQVL8dYSab1q-Z3sbwAAAP__vqlYtw">redcross.org/homefires</a>.&nbsp;

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS PARTNER&nbsp;State Farm®&nbsp;is the National Sound the Alarm Sponsor. Their funding helps our efforts to build safer, stronger, better-educated communities. For decades, State Farm has teamed up with the Red Cross in support of home safety, disaster preparedness and relief efforts. State Farm is committed to helping individuals and families manage everyday risks like home fires by sponsoring Sound the Alarm.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy8tuwyAQheGngR0Wl2HMLFhkk9eIuIwTFLtOwarVt68Sdfud89eoPUMqkqOZ0QRnLAb5iESccwnJ-GCqReJQasrsZwcZTM6yRSTtkLz3BRFvBizyoj14ciEL0KNVfrZvtaW2ch8Ka1hyhZlAhfX19Zzeg1zj4zhewl2EvQp7Pc9z6lxL38eY9n6XG9eWVOeV02DVavzA7R-Eu5gZZmtkj4_0O177OARoTveVP8ep7JscR2fe3nHNQSdfnGImrYAwqUwLKp8LWEuk9aLlT7R_AQAA__84iFVK">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy7Fy6yAQheGngQ7NAssCBYUbv4YHwcrmWrpyQIknefqMPWm_c_6awDHmIjlpTzpYbSjIWwIC69zMOhiwuFR0uWhvPPjijdVetkQRLEXnXCGii0ZDvIBDF22YBcJole_tQ225rdyHohqWuaKPqML6-H-fXoNc0-04HsKehDkLc34-n1PnWvo-xrT3qzDn0j9_VN__ZblxbVl1XjkPVq2mN1z-QNiT9uiNlj3d8vd47OMQCJyvK7-PU9k3OY7OvL3iOgfIrljFHEFhpKzmuJByc0FjYgRYQH4l8xsAAP__88tX8Q">cruzrojaamericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761847523188.jpg" alt="Courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDaylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov. 2, and the American Red Cross encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as they&nbsp;turn their clocks back to make sure the devices are working.“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half as you only have about two minutes to safely get out,” said Jane Blocher, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Greater Kansas. “Every second counts when there’s a home fire and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place. When daylight saving time ends this weekend, test your smoke alarms to help prevent a tragedy in your home.”This year, local Red Cross volunteers responded to help over 500 people in Greater Kansas affected by 150 home fires, which account for most of the about 65,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to annually across the country.SMOKE ALARMS&nbsp;When turning your clocks back this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed.&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy01uwyAQxfHTwA6Lj2FgFiyyyTUiDOMExa5TsGr19lWibn_v_WvSniEXyckENNEZi1E-EluKAdgCksvgWZvqiZwHjORCqLIlJO2QvPcFEW8GLPKiPXhycRagR6v8bN9qy23lPhTWuMwVAoGK6-vrOb0HuabHcbyEuwh7FfZ6nufUuZa-jzHt_S7sdWmd5ca1ZdV55TxYtZo-cPsH4S4mQLBG9vTIv-O1j0OA5nxf-XOcyr7JcXTm7R3XOersi1PMpBUQZjXTgsrPBawl0nrR8ifZvwAAAP__F2xV-w">redcross.org/fire</a>&nbsp;for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family, or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.<ul>
 <li>Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.</li><li>Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time. Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.</li><li>Practice your two-minute home fire escape plan. Make sure everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to escape a burning home before it’s too late.</li><li>Include at least two ways to get out of every room and select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone can meet.</li>
 </ul>IF YOU NEED HELP&nbsp;If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Contact your&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsyzuu6yAUheHRQIfF-1FQpMk0og1sYhQc-4LviTL7o0Sn_db6S-QGNWSKUTgrvBLSerpGHaAIUBoVcuuAO2Or4U5gwpR9qrRFG7iywRiTrbU3oaXFyo02QflENJ-t4KP9Yxu0jmMyW3xNRbugme_H87F8Btrjep7HJOpC5JXI6-v1WgaWPPY5l33cibzW9izsvf8frO8ZOssrHCeOZT23TjcsDdjAjjCRtRK_cPsDoi7CaScFHXGF9zz2eRLNEe4dv8cl7xud50DcPnFJnoPJiiEGznSwwFKolpmUtZQhcF45_YnyNwAA__8chmDt">local Red Cross</a>&nbsp;for help.HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES LIVES&nbsp;Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners,&nbsp;has saved at least&nbsp;2,284&nbsp;lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy0uO6yAQheHVwAyLVxXUgEEm1t1FhKGcoNjXabA66t23EvX0O-evSQP7XCQnE9BEZyxGeU-oIazksiuwkIm5Og7oNcOKgSmDbAlJOyQAKIh4Nd4irxo8kIuL8Hq0yo_2pfbcNu5DYY3rUn0gr-L2_P-Y3oPc0v08n8JdhJ2FnV-v19S5ln6MMR39Juz879h5bp2H3Lm2rDpvnAerVtMHrn8g3MUEH6yRPd3zz3ge4xRec75t_DlO5djlODvz_o7rEnWG4hQzaeUJs1poRQVL8dYSab1q-Z3sbwAAAP__vqlYtw">redcross.org/homefires</a>.&nbsp;THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS PARTNER&nbsp;State Farm®&nbsp;is the National Sound the Alarm Sponsor. Their funding helps our efforts to build safer, stronger, better-educated communities. For decades, State Farm has teamed up with the Red Cross in support of home safety, disaster preparedness and relief efforts. State Farm is committed to helping individuals and families manage everyday risks like home fires by sponsoring Sound the Alarm.About the American Red Cross:The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy8tuwyAQheGngR0Wl2HMLFhkk9eIuIwTFLtOwarVt68Sdfud89eoPUMqkqOZ0QRnLAb5iESccwnJ-GCqReJQasrsZwcZTM6yRSTtkLz3BRFvBizyoj14ciEL0KNVfrZvtaW2ch8Ka1hyhZlAhfX19Zzeg1zj4zhewl2EvQp7Pc9z6lxL38eY9n6XG9eWVOeV02DVavzA7R-Eu5gZZmtkj4_0O177OARoTveVP8ep7JscR2fe3nHNQSdfnGImrYAwqUwLKp8LWEuk9aLlT7R_AQAA__84iFVK">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://cisionone-email.us.redcross.org/c/eJwsy7Fy6yAQheGngQ7NAssCBYUbv4YHwcrmWrpyQIknefqMPWm_c_6awDHmIjlpTzpYbSjIWwIC69zMOhiwuFR0uWhvPPjijdVetkQRLEXnXCGii0ZDvIBDF22YBcJole_tQ225rdyHohqWuaKPqML6-H-fXoNc0-04HsKehDkLc34-n1PnWvo-xrT3qzDn0j9_VN__ZblxbVl1XjkPVq2mN1z-QNiT9uiNlj3d8vd47OMQCJyvK7-PU9k3OY7OvL3iOgfIrljFHEFhpKzmuJByc0FjYgRYQH4l8xsAAP__88tX8Q">cruzrojaamericana.org</a>, or follow us on social media.&nbsp;

Red Cross asks you to test smoke alarms as clocks turn back this weekend

WASHINGTON (AP) —With federal SNAP food assistance&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-benefits-government-shutdown-democrats-0cb0858eca47c90e2379f823d360083b">set to run dry</a>&nbsp;this weekend amid the protracted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">U.S. government shutdown</a>, Louisiana, New Mexico and Vermont became the latest states Wednesday to announce help for low-income households that rely on the funds to eat.

They join states from New York to Nevada in scrambling to find ways to get food to people who are increasingly anxious and will otherwise go hungry without their normal monthly payments from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

In Louisiana, where nearly one in five residents receive SNAP benefits, lawmakers authorized $150 million in state funding Wednesday to help avoid Saturday's expected interruption. Republican Gov. Jeff Landry backed a bipartisan measure to allow most of the state’s nearly 800,000 SNAP recipients to receive their full monthly benefit amount.

“Our priorities are specific, we’re going to protect the most vulnerable population in Louisiana — which is our kids, disabled and elderly,” Landry said.

But officials said that while program details are still incomplete, the effort will likely exclude “able bodied” adults who aren’t caring for children or don’t share a household with elderly or disabled members — about 53,000 recipients.

Elsewhere, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced Wednesday that her state will provide $30 million in emergency food assistance to residents through EBT cards, backfilling SNAP benefits temporarily. The Democrat leads a state where 21% of the population relies on SNAP — the highest rate in the nation. Officials said the benefit would cover about 30% of what residents usually see at the start of the month.

New Mexico held a two-day special legislative session at the outset of the shutdown to shore up food banks and pantries with $8 million in new funding, along with $17.5 million in SNAP-related costs to offset cuts under President Donald Trump’s spending and tax cut bill.

The emergency funding is expected to last about 10 days, while Democratic state House Speaker Javier Martínez said the Legislature is positioned to approve more if necessary because “children going without basic food staples is an emergency.”

Lujan Grisham said state officials are aware that 10 days isn't enough but they are prepared to deal with the issue for as long as they can.

“We're not going to let food insecurity creep into this state," she said.

In Vermont, Republican Gov. Phil Scott and Democratic legislative leaders approved using $6.3 million in state funds to cover 15 days of SNAP benefits and provide $250,000 to food banks. The Legislature had previously put $50 million aside for such emergencies.

So far, state responses have been mixed. Some, like Rhode Island, say they will funnel reserve federal welfare funds directly onto the debit cards issued to people who buy groceries with SNAP. States including Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, West Virginia plan to boost funds to food pantries to help cover for low-income families needing food. Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Republican Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo are both seeking to direct $30 million in state funds to cover food assistance.

Other states such as Alabama, Texas, Kansas and Florida have not acted.

In Nebraska, the state Department of Health and Human Services issued a statement Tuesday announcing it would pause SNAP benefits the next day. It said it is “actively coordinating with food banks, nonprofit partners, and community organizations,” and listed area food banks for those seeking help.

Leaving people to fend for themselves will mean the most vulnerable — like children and the elderly — will go hungry, said Tashara Leak, a registered dietitian and nutritional researcher and professor at Cornell University. She also serves on New York State Council on Hunger and Food Policy that routinely meets with New York's governor.

“The panic is already starting,” Leak said, adding families with limited resources are "already rationing food in preparation to not receive benefits on Nov. 1.”

States can't do what the federal government can

Despite the best efforts of states, local governments and food charities, it won't be enough to cover what the federal government does under SNAP. Even states with fat budget surpluses couldn't cover the SNAP tab much beyond November. That tab nationwide totaled about $100 billion in 2024.

“There’s no way for the states to be able to fill in the gap for the month of November, especially with such short notice,” Leak said.

Democrats have called on the Trump administration to release contingency funding to ensure uninterrupted SNAP payments, but it has declined to do so.

Recently, a group of Democratic state officials filed suit, asking a judge to require the Trump administration to keep funding SNAP benefits. They say that the government is required to use one contingency fund, which has around $5 billion, for that purpose and that another larger reserve fund of about $23 billion is also available. A hearing is set for Thursday in federal court in Boston.

Delays in benefits are nearly certain for most beneficiaries whose debit cards are replenished early in the month — even in states that are planning to pay for benefits or if a judge orders the federal government to load the cards immediately.

The legal filing asserted that in California, for instance, there will be a one-day delay in benefits available for every day after Oct. 23 that the process of putting money on cards hasn’t begun. That means that if a judge orders the program to continue on Thursday, the first cards would likely not be ready until around Nov. 10.

Christopher Bosso, a Northeastern University professor of public policy and political science who has published a book about SNAP, said even a delay would be deeply felt. Beneficiaries often stock up on groceries at the start of the month, and stores often hold sales then that encourage shoppers to do so.

“We’re about to find out how much this program matters, in ways that people hadn’t realized,” Bosso said.

AP writers Sara Cline in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Morgan Lee in Santa Fe, New Mexico; Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Holly Ramer in Concord, New Hampshire, contributed to this report.

WASHINGTON (AP) —With federal SNAP food assistance&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/snap-benefits-government-shutdown-democrats-0cb0858eca47c90e2379f823d360083b">set to run dry</a>&nbsp;this weekend amid the protracted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/government-shutdown">U.S. government shutdown</a>, Louisiana, New Mexico and Vermont became the latest states Wednesday to announce help for low-income households that rely on the funds to eat.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpeakerJohnson</a>: &quot;There is no such legal avenue to give SNAP funding now. It doesn&#39;t exist…The president has lamented this, he has informed USDA and everybody, do as best you can, but the money doesn&#39;t exist to do it.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/pbuyfAQBz7">pic.twitter.com/pbuyfAQBz7</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1983907891485528507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>They join states from New York to Nevada in scrambling to find ways to get food to people who are increasingly anxious and will otherwise go hungry without their normal monthly payments from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If there are any Democrats out there who care about the damage this shutdown is doing, then I have a bill at the desk: A clean, nonpartisan CR to fund WIC, SNAP, troop pay, air traffic controller pay, farm programs, housing assistance, national defense, and more. <a href="https://t.co/kpLazyBqPX">pic.twitter.com/kpLazyBqPX</a>&mdash; Leader John Thune (@LeaderJohnThune) <a href="https://twitter.com/LeaderJohnThune/status/1983922057675977215?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><h2>Several states take action Wednesday</h2>In Louisiana, where nearly one in five residents receive SNAP benefits, lawmakers authorized $150 million in state funding Wednesday to help avoid Saturday's expected interruption. Republican Gov. Jeff Landry backed a bipartisan measure to allow most of the state’s nearly 800,000 SNAP recipients to receive their full monthly benefit amount.“Our priorities are specific, we’re going to protect the most vulnerable population in Louisiana — which is our kids, disabled and elderly,” Landry said.But officials said that while program details are still incomplete, the effort will likely exclude “able bodied” adults who aren’t caring for children or don’t share a household with elderly or disabled members — about 53,000 recipients.Elsewhere, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced Wednesday that her state will provide $30 million in emergency food assistance to residents through EBT cards, backfilling SNAP benefits temporarily. The Democrat leads a state where 21% of the population relies on SNAP — the highest rate in the nation. Officials said the benefit would cover about 30% of what residents usually see at the start of the month.New Mexico held a two-day special legislative session at the outset of the shutdown to shore up food banks and pantries with $8 million in new funding, along with $17.5 million in SNAP-related costs to offset cuts under President Donald Trump’s spending and tax cut bill.The emergency funding is expected to last about 10 days, while Democratic state House Speaker Javier Martínez said the Legislature is positioned to approve more if necessary because “children going without basic food staples is an emergency.”Lujan Grisham said state officials are aware that 10 days isn't enough but they are prepared to deal with the issue for as long as they can.“We're not going to let food insecurity creep into this state," she said.In Vermont, Republican Gov. Phil Scott and Democratic legislative leaders approved using $6.3 million in state funds to cover 15 days of SNAP benefits and provide $250,000 to food banks. The Legislature had previously put $50 million aside for such emergencies.<h2>Different strokes for different states</h2>So far, state responses have been mixed. Some, like Rhode Island, say they will funnel reserve federal welfare funds directly onto the debit cards issued to people who buy groceries with SNAP. States including Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, West Virginia plan to boost funds to food pantries to help cover for low-income families needing food. Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Republican Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo are both seeking to direct $30 million in state funds to cover food assistance.Other states such as Alabama, Texas, Kansas and Florida have not acted.In Nebraska, the state Department of Health and Human Services issued a statement Tuesday announcing it would pause SNAP benefits the next day. It said it is “actively coordinating with food banks, nonprofit partners, and community organizations,” and listed area food banks for those seeking help.Leaving people to fend for themselves will mean the most vulnerable — like children and the elderly — will go hungry, said Tashara Leak, a registered dietitian and nutritional researcher and professor at Cornell University. She also serves on New York State Council on Hunger and Food Policy that routinely meets with New York's governor.“The panic is already starting,” Leak said, adding families with limited resources are "already rationing food in preparation to not receive benefits on Nov. 1.”<h2>States can't do what the federal government can</h2>Despite the best efforts of states, local governments and food charities, it won't be enough to cover what the federal government does under SNAP. Even states with fat budget surpluses couldn't cover the SNAP tab much beyond November. That tab nationwide totaled about $100 billion in 2024.“There’s no way for the states to be able to fill in the gap for the month of November, especially with such short notice,” Leak said.Democrats have called on the Trump administration to release contingency funding to ensure uninterrupted SNAP payments, but it has declined to do so.Recently, a group of Democratic state officials filed suit, asking a judge to require the Trump administration to keep funding SNAP benefits. They say that the government is required to use one contingency fund, which has around $5 billion, for that purpose and that another larger reserve fund of about $23 billion is also available. A hearing is set for Thursday in federal court in Boston.Delays in benefits are nearly certain for most beneficiaries whose debit cards are replenished early in the month — even in states that are planning to pay for benefits or if a judge orders the federal government to load the cards immediately.The legal filing asserted that in California, for instance, there will be a one-day delay in benefits available for every day after Oct. 23 that the process of putting money on cards hasn’t begun. That means that if a judge orders the program to continue on Thursday, the first cards would likely not be ready until around Nov. 10.Christopher Bosso, a Northeastern University professor of public policy and political science who has published a book about SNAP, said even a delay would be deeply felt. Beneficiaries often stock up on groceries at the start of the month, and stores often hold sales then that encourage shoppers to do so.“We’re about to find out how much this program matters, in ways that people hadn’t realized,” Bosso said.___AP writers Sara Cline in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Morgan Lee in Santa Fe, New Mexico; Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Holly Ramer in Concord, New Hampshire, contributed to this report.

🎥House Speaker: Legal avenue to give SNAP funding now does not exist

With
full hearts and fond memories, we share the passing of Lonnie Borgmann, age 80,
on October 26, 2025, in Green Valley, Arizona. Lonnie lived a joyful,
adventurous life filled with love, laughter, and purpose—a life that touched
many and will be remembered warmly by all who knew him.

Born
on January 3, 1945, in the farming town of Goodland, Kansas, Lonnie grew up
surrounded by the values of hard work and community. He embraced farm life
early, joining 4-H and FFA, and proudly raised livestock to show at the county
fair.

Lonnie
was a natural leader and athlete, popular among his classmates and known for
his talent in wrestling and swimming, where he set several local records. After
graduating in 1963, he pursued his passion for agriculture at Fort Hays State
University, earning a degree in Agricultural Business and helping launch the
university’s Rodeo Club. It was there he met a local girl named Lenny Obholz.

After
college was a busy time for Lonnie. First, he made a big move, marrying that
girl from Hays, Lenny, on June 10, 1967. Then, he borrowed money from his
parents to buy land and began his career in farming. Lonnie and Lenny welcomed
their first child, Wendy, the following year. Jason was born five years later.
Lonnie's commitment to his family was unwavering.&nbsp;&nbsp;He enjoyed
coaching his daughter’s softball teams, and playing guitar and woodworking with
his son.&nbsp;

In
1984, Lonnie’s adventurous spirit led the family to Flagstaff, Arizona, where
he transitioned into a successful career in real estate, both as a broker and
investor. Summers were spent boating on Lake Powell, and winters brought the
cherished tradition of cutting down the family Christmas tree.

Once
the kids were grown, Lonnie and Lenny moved to Lake Powell, embracing life on
the water. Lonnie famously refused to wear a watch, telling everyone he was on 'Lake Time.'

Later,
they returned to Hays and took on the ambitious project of renovating a
10,000-square-foot home. Lonnie had a soft spot for the original velvet,
gold-foil wallpaper—though Lenny had other plans!

Eventually,
they settled in Green Valley, Arizona, where Lonnie continued helping families
find their dream homes through real estate. His greatest joy, however, was
spending time with his family. He was a loving husband, proud father, and
adoring grandfather to Matthew, Alexander, Maggie, and Jake.

Lonnie’s
warmth, humor, and boundless energy made him the life of every
gathering—especially his legendary Halloween parties. His infectious smile and
positive outlook left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Lonnie
is preceded in death by his beloved parents. He is survived by his wife, Lenny;
daughter Wendy (Flavio) Galban of Mesa, AZ; son Jason (Jennifer) Borgmann of
Escondido, CA; sister Carol (Walter) Jaworski; brothers Terry (Judy) Borgmann
and John (Sharon) Borgmann; and grandchildren Matthew, Alexander, Maggie, and
Jake.

As
we celebrate Lonnie’s life, we remember his love for family, his generous
spirit, and the joy he brought to our lives. His legacy lives on in the stories
we share and the memories we hold dear.

We
invite you to attend Lonnie’s Celebration of Life Nov 15th from 3-5
at the Sunset Ramada in Esperanza Estates, 763 Calle Del Ensalmo Green Valley,
AZ 85614. Condolences can be sent to Lenny Borgmann at 921 W Circulo Napa,
Green Valley AZ 85614

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761838306985.jpeg" alt="Lonnie Borgmann" />
 <figcaption>Lonnie Borgmann</figcaption>
 </figure>With
full hearts and fond memories, we share the passing of Lonnie Borgmann, age 80,
on October 26, 2025, in Green Valley, Arizona. Lonnie lived a joyful,
adventurous life filled with love, laughter, and purpose—a life that touched
many and will be remembered warmly by all who knew him.Born
on January 3, 1945, in the farming town of Goodland, Kansas, Lonnie grew up
surrounded by the values of hard work and community. He embraced farm life
early, joining 4-H and FFA, and proudly raised livestock to show at the county
fair.Lonnie
was a natural leader and athlete, popular among his classmates and known for
his talent in wrestling and swimming, where he set several local records. After
graduating in 1963, he pursued his passion for agriculture at Fort Hays State
University, earning a degree in Agricultural Business and helping launch the
university’s Rodeo Club. It was there he met a local girl named Lenny Obholz.After
college was a busy time for Lonnie. First, he made a big move, marrying that
girl from Hays, Lenny, on June 10, 1967. Then, he borrowed money from his
parents to buy land and began his career in farming. Lonnie and Lenny welcomed
their first child, Wendy, the following year. Jason was born five years later.
Lonnie's commitment to his family was unwavering.&nbsp;&nbsp;He enjoyed
coaching his daughter’s softball teams, and playing guitar and woodworking with
his son.&nbsp;In
1984, Lonnie’s adventurous spirit led the family to Flagstaff, Arizona, where
he transitioned into a successful career in real estate, both as a broker and
investor. Summers were spent boating on Lake Powell, and winters brought the
cherished tradition of cutting down the family Christmas tree.Once
the kids were grown, Lonnie and Lenny moved to Lake Powell, embracing life on
the water. Lonnie famously refused to wear a watch, telling everyone he was on 'Lake Time.'Later,
they returned to Hays and took on the ambitious project of renovating a
10,000-square-foot home. Lonnie had a soft spot for the original velvet,
gold-foil wallpaper—though Lenny had other plans!Eventually,
they settled in Green Valley, Arizona, where Lonnie continued helping families
find their dream homes through real estate. His greatest joy, however, was
spending time with his family. He was a loving husband, proud father, and
adoring grandfather to Matthew, Alexander, Maggie, and Jake.Lonnie’s
warmth, humor, and boundless energy made him the life of every
gathering—especially his legendary Halloween parties. His infectious smile and
positive outlook left a lasting impression on everyone he met.Lonnie
is preceded in death by his beloved parents. He is survived by his wife, Lenny;
daughter Wendy (Flavio) Galban of Mesa, AZ; son Jason (Jennifer) Borgmann of
Escondido, CA; sister Carol (Walter) Jaworski; brothers Terry (Judy) Borgmann
and John (Sharon) Borgmann; and grandchildren Matthew, Alexander, Maggie, and
Jake.As
we celebrate Lonnie’s life, we remember his love for family, his generous
spirit, and the joy he brought to our lives. His legacy lives on in the stories
we share and the memories we hold dear.We
invite you to attend Lonnie’s Celebration of Life Nov 15th from 3-5
at the Sunset Ramada in Esperanza Estates, 763 Calle Del Ensalmo Green Valley,
AZ 85614. Condolences can be sent to Lenny Borgmann at 921 W Circulo Napa,
Green Valley AZ 85614

Lonnie Borgmann

KANSAS CITY—Authorities investigating the death of an inmate in Jackson County, Missouri have released his name.&nbsp;

On October 21, the Sheriff’s Office was notified that 44-year-old Billy Joe Hercules, who had been transported to a local hospital on October 19, had died, according to a statement from Sheriff Daryl Forte'. Hercules is from Independence, Missouri.

Preliminary findings continue to indicate that no physical interaction occurred between Hercules and corrections officers prior to his death.

The cause and manner of death remain under investigation by the Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office, which has not yet issued its official report. Hercules was being held for the Johnson County Kansas sheriff's office, according to online jail records. Authorities releas

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761782026243.png" alt="Hercules photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Hercules photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Authorities investigating the death of an inmate in Jackson County, Missouri have released his name.&nbsp;On October 21, the Sheriff’s Office was notified that 44-year-old Billy Joe Hercules, who had been transported to a local hospital on October 19, had died, according to a statement from Sheriff Daryl Forte'. Hercules is from Independence, Missouri.Preliminary findings continue to indicate that no physical interaction occurred between Hercules and corrections officers prior to his death.The cause and manner of death remain under investigation by the Jackson County Medical Examiner’s Office, which has not yet issued its official report. Hercules was being held for the Johnson County Kansas sheriff's office, according to online jail records. Authorities releas

Sheriff: Investigation on cause of death of inmate continues 

Thursday, October 30 KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Goddard Eisenhower, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Valley Heights, 6:30pm

Friday, October 31 KKQY: Plainville at&nbsp;Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, 6:00pm &nbsp; Saturday, November 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Missouri, 12:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB Oklahoma State, 1:30pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Thursday, October 30 KFIX: Hays High FB vs. Goddard Eisenhower, 6:30pm KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Valley Heights, 6:30pmFriday, October 31 KKQY: Plainville at&nbsp;Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, 6:00pm &nbsp; Saturday, November 1
 KJLS: Fort Hays State FB vs. Central Missouri, 12:00pm
 KAYS: Kansas FB Oklahoma State, 1:30pmSunday, November 2
 KFIX: Kansas City
Chiefs FB at Buffalo Bills, 2:00pm

During his meeting with President Trump, China's President Xi agreed to buy 25 million metric tons of soybeans annually for next 3 years, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent

&nbsp;Bessent added that as part of the deal President Trump struck with Xi, China will start by purchasing 12 million metric tons of soybeans from the U.S. between now and January.

“So you know, our great soybean farmers, who the Chinese used as political pawns, that’s off the table, and they should prosper in the years to come,” Bessent said in an interview on Fox Business Network’s “Mornings with Maria.”

ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE (AP) — President Donald Trump described his face-to-face with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday as a roaring success, saying he would cut tariffs on China, while Beijing had agreed to allow the export of rare earth elements and start buying American soybeans.

The president told reporters aboard Air Force One that the U.S. would lower tariffs implemented earlier this year as punishment on China for its selling of chemicals used to make fentanyl from 20% to 10%. That brings the total combined tariff rate on China down from 57% to 47%

“I guess on the scale from 0 to 10, with ten being the best, I would say the meeting was a 12,” Trump said. “I think it was a 12.”

Trump said that he would go to China in April and Xi would come to the U.S. “some time after that.” The president said they also discussed the export of more advanced computer chips to China, saying that Nvidia would be in talks with Chinese officials.

Trump said he could sign a trade deal with China “pretty soon.”

Xi said Washington and Beijing would work to finalize their agreements to provide “peace of mind” to both countries and the rest of the world, according to a report on the meeting distributed by state media.

“Both sides should take the long-term perspective into account, focusing on the benefits of cooperation rather than falling into a vicious cycle of mutual retaliation,” he said.

Despite Trump’s optimism after a 100-minute meeting with Xi in South Korea, there continues to be the potential for major tensions between the world’s two largest economies. Both nations are seeking dominant places in manufacturing, developing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, and shaping world affairs like Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Trump’s aggressive use of tariffs since returning to the White House for a second term, combined with China’s retaliatory limits on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-trump-tariff-sanction-export-controls-3224a28221243f0569f065a18dd645e2" rel="nofollow">exports of rare earth elements</a>, gave the meeting newfound urgency. There is a mutual recognition that neither side wants to risk blowing up the world economy in ways that could jeopardize their own country’s fortunes.

When the two were seated at the start of the meeting, Xi read prepared remarks that stressed a willingness to work together despite differences.

“Given our different national conditions, we do not always see eye to eye with each other,” he said through a translator. “It is normal for the two leading economies of the world to have frictions now and then.”

There was a slight difference in translation as China’s Xinhua News Agency reported Xi as telling Trump that having some differences is inevitable.

The leaders met in Busan, South Korea, a port city about 76 kilometers (47 miles) south from Gyeongju, the main venue for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-korea-trump-xi-apec-tariffs-gyeongju-2f757a6ea64284fb6bf792aba8b214fb" rel="nofollow">Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation</a>&nbsp;summit.

In the days leading up to the meeting, U.S. officials signaled that Trump did not intend to make good on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-china-cc47e258cfc6336dfddcc20fa67a3642" rel="nofollow">recent threat</a>&nbsp;to impose an additional 100% import tax on Chinese goods, and China showed signs it was willing to relax its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-earths-exports-trump-dad99d532f858f04d750d0b8c50e5ed6" rel="nofollow">export controls on rare earths</a>&nbsp;and also buy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/soybeans-trade-tariff-china-united-states-export-025792707c4e4e91d975f8558edae1d8" rel="nofollow">soybeans from America</a>.

Officials from both countries met earlier this week in Kuala Lumpur to lay the groundwork for their leaders. Afterward, China’s top trade negotiator Li Chenggang said they had reached a “preliminary consensus,” a statement affirmed by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent who said there was “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-china-tariffs-rare-earths-soybeans-exports-efa3b57ce5cd94ee5bfcad1988d9fccd" rel="nofollow">a very successful framework</a>.”

Shortly before the meeting on Thursday, Trump posted on Truth Social that the meeting would be the “G2,” a recognition of America and China’s status as the world’s biggest economies. The Group of Seven and Group of 20 are other forums of industrialized nations.

But while those summits often happen at luxury spaces, this meeting took place in humbler surroundings: Trump and Xi met in a small gray building with a blue roof on a military base adjacent to Busan’s international airport.

The anticipated detente has given investors and businesses caught between the two nations a sense of relief. The U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-nikkei-trump-china-7d7150df20283db5a295abc64d225a63" rel="nofollow">stock market</a>&nbsp;has climbed on the hopes of a trade framework coming out of the meeting.

Pressure points remain for both US and China

Trump has outward confidence that the grounds for a deal are in place, but previous negotiations with China this year in Geneva, Switzerland and London had a start-stop quality to them. The initial promise of progress has repeatedly given way to both countries seeking a better position against the other.

“The proposed deal on the table fits the pattern we’ve seen all year: short-term stabilization dressed up as strategic progress,” said Craig Singleton, senior director of the China program at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. “Both sides are managing volatility, calibrating just enough cooperation to avert crisis while the deeper rivalry endures.”

The U.S. and China have each shown they believe they have levers to pressure the other, and the past year has demonstrated that tentative steps forward can be short-lived.

For Trump,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-united-states-trump-xi-timeline-tariffs-adc2c2c00f13d8dcd4ecc92251b11533" rel="nofollow">that pressure comes from tariffs</a>.

China had faced new tariffs this year totaling 30%, of which 20% were tied to its role in fentanyl production. But the tariff rates have been volatile. In April, he announced plans to jack the rate on Chinese goods to 145%, only to abandon those plans as markets recoiled.

Then, on Oct. 10, Trump threatened a 100% import tax because of China’s rare earth restrictions. That figure, including past tariffs, would now be 47% “effective immediately,” Trump told reporters on Thursday.

Xi has his own chokehold on the world economy because China is the top producer and processor of the rare earth minerals needed to make fighter jets, robots, electric vehicles and other high-tech products.

China had tightened export restrictions on Oct. 9, repeating a cycle in which each nation jockeys for an edge only to back down after more trade talks.

What might also matter is what happens directly after their talks. Trump plans to return to Washington, while Xi plans to stay on in South Korea to meet with regional leaders during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, which officially begins on Friday.

“Xi sees an opportunity to position China as a reliable partner and bolster bilateral and multilateral relations with countries frustrated by the U.S. administration’s tariff policy,” said Jay Truesdale, a former State Department official who is CEO of TD International, a risk and intelligence advisory firm.

Ken Moritsugu in Beijing and Seung Min Kim and Michelle Price in Washington contributed to this report. Boak reported from Tokyo and Megerian reported from Busan, South Korea.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761790245424.png" alt="Image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>Image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>During his meeting with President Trump, China's President Xi agreed to buy 25 million metric tons of soybeans annually for next 3 years, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent&nbsp;Bessent added that as part of the deal President Trump struck with Xi, China will start by purchasing 12 million metric tons of soybeans from the U.S. between now and January.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump on trade truce with China. <a href="https://t.co/MN2IMj0OWD">pic.twitter.com/MN2IMj0OWD</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1983892551850737782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“So you know, our great soybean farmers, who the Chinese used as political pawns, that’s off the table, and they should prosper in the years to come,” Bessent said in an interview on Fox Business Network’s “Mornings with Maria.”------------------ABOARD AIR FORCE ONE (AP) — President Donald Trump described his face-to-face with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Thursday as a roaring success, saying he would cut tariffs on China, while Beijing had agreed to allow the export of rare earth elements and start buying American soybeans.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">LETS GOOO!!! Soybeans! Sorghum! 🇺🇸🚜 BIG news out of President Trump’s historic meeting with President Xi! More details coming soon. THANK YOU, MR. PRESIDENT!!! <a href="https://t.co/5hHpKbX70F">pic.twitter.com/5hHpKbX70F</a>&mdash; Secretary Brooke Rollins (@SecRollins) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins/status/1983836244263235996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">LETS GOOO!!! Soybeans! Sorghum! 🇺🇸🚜 BIG news out of President Trump’s historic meeting with President Xi! More details coming soon. THANK YOU, MR. PRESIDENT!!! <a href="https://t.co/5hHpKbX70F">pic.twitter.com/5hHpKbX70F</a>&mdash; Secretary Brooke Rollins (@SecRollins) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRollins/status/1983836244263235996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> has arrived for his big meeting with President Xi in South Korea <a href="https://t.co/eIeCaGwjBz">pic.twitter.com/eIeCaGwjBz</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1983711359172034608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The president told reporters aboard Air Force One that the U.S. would lower tariffs implemented earlier this year as punishment on China for its selling of chemicals used to make fentanyl from 20% to 10%. That brings the total combined tariff rate on China down from 57% to 47%<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Xi’s motorcade arrives <a href="https://t.co/AFnI2qI9zE">pic.twitter.com/AFnI2qI9zE</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983715683444613541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;We&#39;re going to have a very successful meeting, I have no doubt.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> greets Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea. <a href="https://t.co/Wdr5HgzNhx">pic.twitter.com/Wdr5HgzNhx</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1983718490759688266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump and President Xi shake hands <a href="https://t.co/rGCGFDbWK5">pic.twitter.com/rGCGFDbWK5</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1983752956521365684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> shakes hands with China&#39;s President Xi after their historic meeting in South Korea. <a href="https://t.co/O3DOxWIJ7d">pic.twitter.com/O3DOxWIJ7d</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1983745894693601644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping for the first time since 2019: &quot;It&#39;s a great honor... I think we&#39;re going to have a fantastic relationship for a long period of time — and it&#39;s an honor to have you with us.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ueW2gvMcCy">pic.twitter.com/ueW2gvMcCy</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1983720399910367276?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“I guess on the scale from 0 to 10, with ten being the best, I would say the meeting was a 12,” Trump said. “I think it was a 12.”Trump said that he would go to China in April and Xi would come to the U.S. “some time after that.” The president said they also discussed the export of more advanced computer chips to China, saying that Nvidia would be in talks with Chinese officials.Trump said he could sign a trade deal with China “pretty soon.”Xi said Washington and Beijing would work to finalize their agreements to provide “peace of mind” to both countries and the rest of the world, according to a report on the meeting distributed by state media.“Both sides should take the long-term perspective into account, focusing on the benefits of cooperation rather than falling into a vicious cycle of mutual retaliation,” he said.<h2>Sources of tension remain</h2>Despite Trump’s optimism after a 100-minute meeting with Xi in South Korea, there continues to be the potential for major tensions between the world’s two largest economies. Both nations are seeking dominant places in manufacturing, developing emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, and shaping world affairs like Russia’s war in Ukraine.Trump’s aggressive use of tariffs since returning to the White House for a second term, combined with China’s retaliatory limits on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-trump-tariff-sanction-export-controls-3224a28221243f0569f065a18dd645e2" rel="nofollow">exports of rare earth elements</a>, gave the meeting newfound urgency. There is a mutual recognition that neither side wants to risk blowing up the world economy in ways that could jeopardize their own country’s fortunes.When the two were seated at the start of the meeting, Xi read prepared remarks that stressed a willingness to work together despite differences.“Given our different national conditions, we do not always see eye to eye with each other,” he said through a translator. “It is normal for the two leading economies of the world to have frictions now and then.”There was a slight difference in translation as China’s Xinhua News Agency reported Xi as telling Trump that having some differences is inevitable.<h2>Finding ways to lower the temperature</h2>The leaders met in Busan, South Korea, a port city about 76 kilometers (47 miles) south from Gyeongju, the main venue for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/south-korea-trump-xi-apec-tariffs-gyeongju-2f757a6ea64284fb6bf792aba8b214fb" rel="nofollow">Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation</a>&nbsp;summit.In the days leading up to the meeting, U.S. officials signaled that Trump did not intend to make good on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-xi-china-cc47e258cfc6336dfddcc20fa67a3642" rel="nofollow">recent threat</a>&nbsp;to impose an additional 100% import tax on Chinese goods, and China showed signs it was willing to relax its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-earths-exports-trump-dad99d532f858f04d750d0b8c50e5ed6" rel="nofollow">export controls on rare earths</a>&nbsp;and also buy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/soybeans-trade-tariff-china-united-states-export-025792707c4e4e91d975f8558edae1d8" rel="nofollow">soybeans from America</a>.Officials from both countries met earlier this week in Kuala Lumpur to lay the groundwork for their leaders. Afterward, China’s top trade negotiator Li Chenggang said they had reached a “preliminary consensus,” a statement affirmed by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent who said there was “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-china-tariffs-rare-earths-soybeans-exports-efa3b57ce5cd94ee5bfcad1988d9fccd" rel="nofollow">a very successful framework</a>.”Shortly before the meeting on Thursday, Trump posted on Truth Social that the meeting would be the “G2,” a recognition of America and China’s status as the world’s biggest economies. The Group of Seven and Group of 20 are other forums of industrialized nations.But while those summits often happen at luxury spaces, this meeting took place in humbler surroundings: Trump and Xi met in a small gray building with a blue roof on a military base adjacent to Busan’s international airport.The anticipated detente has given investors and businesses caught between the two nations a sense of relief. The U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-nikkei-trump-china-7d7150df20283db5a295abc64d225a63" rel="nofollow">stock market</a>&nbsp;has climbed on the hopes of a trade framework coming out of the meeting.<h2>Pressure points remain for both US and China</h2>Trump has outward confidence that the grounds for a deal are in place, but previous negotiations with China this year in Geneva, Switzerland and London had a start-stop quality to them. The initial promise of progress has repeatedly given way to both countries seeking a better position against the other.“The proposed deal on the table fits the pattern we’ve seen all year: short-term stabilization dressed up as strategic progress,” said Craig Singleton, senior director of the China program at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. “Both sides are managing volatility, calibrating just enough cooperation to avert crisis while the deeper rivalry endures.”The U.S. and China have each shown they believe they have levers to pressure the other, and the past year has demonstrated that tentative steps forward can be short-lived.For Trump,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-united-states-trump-xi-timeline-tariffs-adc2c2c00f13d8dcd4ecc92251b11533" rel="nofollow">that pressure comes from tariffs</a>.China had faced new tariffs this year totaling 30%, of which 20% were tied to its role in fentanyl production. But the tariff rates have been volatile. In April, he announced plans to jack the rate on Chinese goods to 145%, only to abandon those plans as markets recoiled.Then, on Oct. 10, Trump threatened a 100% import tax because of China’s rare earth restrictions. That figure, including past tariffs, would now be 47% “effective immediately,” Trump told reporters on Thursday.Xi has his own chokehold on the world economy because China is the top producer and processor of the rare earth minerals needed to make fighter jets, robots, electric vehicles and other high-tech products.China had tightened export restrictions on Oct. 9, repeating a cycle in which each nation jockeys for an edge only to back down after more trade talks.What might also matter is what happens directly after their talks. Trump plans to return to Washington, while Xi plans to stay on in South Korea to meet with regional leaders during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, which officially begins on Friday.“Xi sees an opportunity to position China as a reliable partner and bolster bilateral and multilateral relations with countries frustrated by the U.S. administration’s tariff policy,” said Jay Truesdale, a former State Department official who is CEO of TD International, a risk and intelligence advisory firm.___Ken Moritsugu in Beijing and Seung Min Kim and Michelle Price in Washington contributed to this report. Boak reported from Tokyo and Megerian reported from Busan, South Korea.

🎥President Trump: Good news for farmers after meeting with President Xi

WICHITA, KAN, – A Kansas businessman who pleaded guilty to various charges related to defrauding clients of his accounting firm by falsely claiming money he had stolen was being used to pay business expenses will be sentenced later this month. The United State's Attorney's office originally scheduled the sentencing for October 30. It is now scheduled for November 13.

In August, Quintin Flanagin, 45, of Colby pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of false statements, and one count of money laundering.

Flanagin, a certified public accountant (CPA), used his status as a signatory on the accounts of his clients’ business, Diamond M. Farms, to make unauthorized transactions between December 2021 and August 2022. He wrote multiple checks and initiated wire transfers totaling approximately $409,710 to Middle Finger Ranch under the guise of being payments for farm operations.

Middle Finger Ranch is a fictitious business name that Flanagin connected to his personal bank account. Flanagin actually used the illegally obtained funds to pay for the construction on his new home.

&nbsp;A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714043354777.png" alt="Flanagin-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Flanagin-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN, – A Kansas businessman who pleaded guilty to various charges related to defrauding clients of his accounting firm by falsely claiming money he had stolen was being used to pay business expenses will be sentenced later this month. The United State's Attorney's office originally scheduled the sentencing for October 30. It is now scheduled for November 13.In August, Quintin Flanagin, 45, of Colby pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud, one count of bank fraud, one count of false statements, and one count of money laundering.Flanagin, a certified public accountant (CPA), used his status as a signatory on the accounts of his clients’ business, Diamond M. Farms, to make unauthorized transactions between December 2021 and August 2022. He wrote multiple checks and initiated wire transfers totaling approximately $409,710 to Middle Finger Ranch under the guise of being payments for farm operations.Middle Finger Ranch is a fictitious business name that Flanagin connected to his personal bank account. Flanagin actually used the illegally obtained funds to pay for the construction on his new home.&nbsp;A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Sentencing delayed for NW Kan. CPA, creator of ‘Middle Finger Ranch,’ fraud scheme

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A driver involved in a&nbsp;&nbsp;fatal crash that killed a Kansas Sheriff's Deputy expected to learn his fate Thursday.

Kelvin Burgett, 28, Prescott Valley, Arizona is scheduled for a sentencing hearing in Judge William Wooley's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1680091672733.png" alt="Burgett photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Burgett photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Kelvin Burgett, 28, Prescott Valley, Arizona was sentenced Thursday in Sedgwick County District Court for the 2022 vehicular crash that resulted in the death of Sedgwick County Sheriff's Deputy Sidnee Carter.Judge William Woolley sentenced Burgett to 3 and one half year or&nbsp; 42 months in prison after previously pleading no contest to one count of Involuntary Manslaughter while driving under the influence of THC.In October of 2022, a&nbsp;2016 Dodge Charger driven by Sedgwick County Sheriff's Deputy Sidnee Carter, 22, Bel Aire, was southbound on 135th Street at 29th Street north one mile west of Northwest Wichita and Maize responding to a disturbance, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.A westbound 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Burgett failed to stop at a stop sign and struck the drivers side of the Dodge Charger, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.Deputy Carter was pronounced deceased at the scene. EMS transported Burgett to a local hospital.Deputy Carter had only worked in the field alone for a week, according to Sheriff Easter. She began field training in the summer of 2022 and completed that training Oct. 1.&nbsp;Deputy Carter had served the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office for one and a half years in the Sedgwick County Detention Facility before transferring to the Law Enforcement Bureau in February 2022. She graduated the Law Enforcement Academy on July 21, 2022.&nbsp;During the sentencing hearing, Judge Woolley also ordered Burgett to serve 36 months of post-release supervision.-------------------------SEDGWICK COUNTY —A driver involved in a&nbsp;&nbsp;fatal crash that killed a Kansas Sheriff's Deputy expected to learn his fate Thursday.Kelvin Burgett, 28, Prescott Valley, Arizona is scheduled for a sentencing hearing in Judge William Wooley's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In July Burgett pleaded no contest to involuntary manslaughter, according to the district attorneys office.He was originally charged with involuntary manslaughter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and&nbsp; driving while suspended, according to the Sedgwick County arrest report.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665249753989.png" alt="Deputy Sidnee Carter" />
 <figcaption>Deputy Sidnee Carter</figcaption>
 </figure>In October of 2022, a&nbsp;2016 Dodge Charger driven by Sedgwick County Sheriff's Deputy Sidnee Carter, 22, Bel Aire, was southbound on 135th Street at 29th Street north one mile west of Northwest Wichita and Maize responding to a disturbance, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.A westbound 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Burgett failed to stop at a stop sign and struck the drivers side of the Dodge Charger, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.Deputy Carter was pronounced deceased at the scene. EMS transported Burgett to a local hospital.Deputy Carter had only worked in the field alone for a week, according to Sheriff Easter. She began field training in the summer of 2022 and completed that training Oct. 1.&nbsp;Deputy Carter had served the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office for one and a half years in the Sedgwick County Detention Facility before transferring to the Law Enforcement Bureau in February 2022. She graduated the Law Enforcement Academy on July 21, 2022.&nbsp;