<a href="https://www.paulsfh.com/obituaries/obituary-listings?obId=28622467">https://www.paulsfh.com/obituaries/obituary-listings?obId=28622467</a>

James Lee “Jim” Soderlund, 66, passed away on Aug. 4, 2023 in Oberlin, KS. He was born on Oct. 8, 1956 to Alfred LeRoy and Elaine Marie (Rippe) Soderlund in Oberlin, KS.

Jim graduated from Beaver City High School in 1975. 

After high school he moved back to Oberlin and started working. He did construction, lineman work for the city of Oberlin, sanitation engineer, and maintenance. 

Jim married Penny Fisher on Sept. 4, 1982 in Oberlin, KS.&nbsp; After retiring in 2018, he enjoyed feeding the neighborhood cats.

Jim loved to hunt, fish, and was assistant chief of the Oberlin Fire Department for many years. He also enjoyed watching western TV shows such as Gunsmoke and Bonanza. But most of all he loved to spend time with his kids and grandkids.

Jim is survived by daughters Jessica Soderlund of Beloit, KS, Jamie (Jordan) Macfee of Beloit, KS, and Jean Soderlund of Emporia, KS; brothers Kenny Soderlund of Beaver City, NE, Gene Soderlund of Horton, KS, Rick Soderlund of Abilene, KS, and Tracy Soderlund of Danbury, NE; sister Lori Dreiling of Hays, KS; grandchildren Taedan Macfee, Brynlee Macfee, Bailey Macfee. 

He was preceded by his parents, wife Penny Soderlund, and infant brother Trevor Soderlund.

Funeral services will be held on Tues. Aug. 8, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Pauls Funeral Home, Oberlin, KS. Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 on Tues. Burial will be in Oberlin Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Pauls Funeral Home or a Charity of your choice. 

Condolences can be left at www.paulsfh.com.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://tree.tributestore.com/?oId=28622467&amp;tag=&amp;tn=FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.878610863.1682958623:GS1.1.1690839420.44.1.1690840247.60.0.0&amp;mtph=1">Tree Store.</a>

<h2>James Lee 'Jim' Soderlund</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691331782347.png" alt="James Lee 'Jim' Soderlund" />
 <figcaption>James Lee 'Jim' Soderlund</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.paulsfh.com/obituaries/obituary-listings?obId=28622467">https://www.paulsfh.com/obituaries/obituary-listings?obId=28622467</a>October 8, 1956 - August 4, 2023James Lee “Jim” Soderlund, 66, passed away on Aug. 4, 2023 in Oberlin, KS. He was born on Oct. 8, 1956 to Alfred LeRoy and Elaine Marie (Rippe) Soderlund in Oberlin, KS.Jim graduated from Beaver City High School in 1975. After high school he moved back to Oberlin and started working. He did construction, lineman work for the city of Oberlin, sanitation engineer, and maintenance. Jim married Penny Fisher on Sept. 4, 1982 in Oberlin, KS.&nbsp; After retiring in 2018, he enjoyed feeding the neighborhood cats.Jim loved to hunt, fish, and was assistant chief of the Oberlin Fire Department for many years. He also enjoyed watching western TV shows such as Gunsmoke and Bonanza. But most of all he loved to spend time with his kids and grandkids.Jim is survived by daughters Jessica Soderlund of Beloit, KS, Jamie (Jordan) Macfee of Beloit, KS, and Jean Soderlund of Emporia, KS; brothers Kenny Soderlund of Beaver City, NE, Gene Soderlund of Horton, KS, Rick Soderlund of Abilene, KS, and Tracy Soderlund of Danbury, NE; sister Lori Dreiling of Hays, KS; grandchildren Taedan Macfee, Brynlee Macfee, Bailey Macfee. He was preceded by his parents, wife Penny Soderlund, and infant brother Trevor Soderlund.Funeral services will be held on Tues. Aug. 8, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Pauls Funeral Home, Oberlin, KS. Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 on Tues. Burial will be in Oberlin Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Pauls Funeral Home or a Charity of your choice. Condolences can be left at www.paulsfh.com.To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of James, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://tree.tributestore.com/?oId=28622467&amp;tag=&amp;tn=FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.2.878610863.1682958623:GS1.1.1690839420.44.1.1690840247.60.0.0&amp;mtph=1">Tree Store.</a>

James Lee 'Jim' Soderlund 

KANSAS CITY —A judge sentenced a Kansas City-area man to 24 years in prison after he was convicted by a jury of sexual assaults involving a child, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Jeremy S. Callihan, 36, Raytown, was sentenced to 20 years for a conviction of Statutory Sodomy in the 1st Degree and four years for a conviction of Sexual Misconduct with a Child under 15. The judge set those sentences to run consecutively for a total of 24 years.

A Jackson County jury convicted Callihan in March, following a trial. The jury recommended a sentence of 24 years.

According to court records, in October 2019 Raytown Police were alerted to allegations of the Callihan having sexual contact with a child in a Raytown residence. Detectives investigated and observed a forensic interview of the victim at the Child Protection Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691070534496.png" alt="Callihan-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Callihan-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A judge sentenced a Kansas City-area man to 24 years in prison after he was convicted by a jury of sexual assaults involving a child, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Jeremy S. Callihan, 36, Raytown, was sentenced to 20 years for a conviction of Statutory Sodomy in the 1st Degree and four years for a conviction of Sexual Misconduct with a Child under 15. The judge set those sentences to run consecutively for a total of 24 years.A Jackson County jury convicted Callihan in March, following a trial. The jury recommended a sentence of 24 years.According to court records, in October 2019 Raytown Police were alerted to allegations of the Callihan having sexual contact with a child in a Raytown residence. Detectives investigated and observed a forensic interview of the victim at the Child Protection Center.

KC-area man sentenced for sexual assault involving a child

TOPEKA -&nbsp; The Kansas Manufacturing Council, an affiliated program of the Kansas Chamber, is looking for the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3f6i-8VDr2Xu8GH4og4HvYXe_9aYlHJaR_wsxtGMifqjdFTzUkqFNJvlp3gVMGAcpYY2qfKmTOGLRUj01Yv_u0cRJebGN87STg==&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>.

Presented by&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3agS4I45P7Q_1NYmp1Krly2vvHs0XBVyLq5m_yCK--qaWxEMwLklkQTTlYft-1dyZ7UdZNwhGQH7MOe7mEAMI1D5BWwhPtL-kQ==&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">FORVIS</a>, the Kansas Manufacturing Council, launched this competition in 2020 to promote and elevate Kansas manufacturers and to highlight products developed and produced in Kansas and distributed across the U.S. and internationally.

“The Kansas Manufacturing Council’s annual contest showcases Kansas’s wide variety of manufacturers that keep our state’s economy strong and our communities growing. It’s with great pride that KMC supports manufacturing technology and integration to embrace the future,” said Brandie McPherson, the council's executive director.

Any product that is made in Kansas qualifies for the competition. 

There are two categories in this year's competition: People's Choice and Coolest Innovation. 

The People’s Choice contest begins with product nominations and the popular vote round. The top 16 vote-getters will move on to a bracket-style tournament where they will compete in head-to-head match-ups. The ones that receive the most votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the People’s Choice - Coolest Thing Made in Kansas.

The Coolest Innovation contest highlights the many ways Kansas manufacturers research and develop new products and work to improve products to address crucial challenges.

A panel of expert judges will review and score questionnaires completed by the companies regarding their nominated products. The top four scoring products will be invited to present in-person to the expert panel on October 23 at the&nbsp;Coolest Celebration Reception. The judges will choose the winning product&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNa9AwPm1v7oVofpQVabCpSG0QPPjYXjlCMTojgLlpSbSpMk2cKvJbprJQuf4DbbOWL-S_yDwIfQ9j9drz9cvL5tkrROh27uqkCPx1veugGzd7R4dg5tTtTYiXp2KG3r-hRf6KSzB6hWiX_anjDbFJw7RUG4TztDxXwIdvr3ec73_4=&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">based on a criteria&nbsp;</a>that includes its impact on the challenge it solves as well as the business, its employees, and customers.

Winners for both categories will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3Yn05dZhlCIZQ33ze_EQWEyvSHxCYxcN8PjUG_zh2TiSaPWz6E87e1JiYZfGKRTZXA2WwZYvBCeIFDRHQk4Sb9QTgwyE7054W59WpXDtXx1winnMvUkLozFFvyVHKfCX2Qwmej84YbLG-g2dcNLwyJhuKxT2nCJxX3eq3LTPmC7A&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday, October 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita.

<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNaHhDcdC1ivY_jpu23pj9vTjIAR5VOihW0ZvEARkv245oEiYcx2vqFPeQmJUbJ2eQMszI5qQdYW_BsUgqPVZ_aWnT4M6-eg824NR5aSmOCYrYeK83ZWUG2LxKLSxLqc1MFFi5Z0TxlElkRw3cdOgt0W5sT9hxY23WT&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">Click here</a>to nominate your favorite Kansas-made product. Nominations for the 2023 contest close on August 30 at midnight CT.

2023 Competition Details Nomination Rules

Voting Rules for People's Choice contest

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690920883205.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseTOPEKA -&nbsp; The Kansas Manufacturing Council, an affiliated program of the Kansas Chamber, is looking for the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3f6i-8VDr2Xu8GH4og4HvYXe_9aYlHJaR_wsxtGMifqjdFTzUkqFNJvlp3gVMGAcpYY2qfKmTOGLRUj01Yv_u0cRJebGN87STg==&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">2023 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>.Presented by&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3agS4I45P7Q_1NYmp1Krly2vvHs0XBVyLq5m_yCK--qaWxEMwLklkQTTlYft-1dyZ7UdZNwhGQH7MOe7mEAMI1D5BWwhPtL-kQ==&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">FORVIS</a>, the Kansas Manufacturing Council, launched this competition in 2020 to promote and elevate Kansas manufacturers and to highlight products developed and produced in Kansas and distributed across the U.S. and internationally.“The Kansas Manufacturing Council’s annual contest showcases Kansas’s wide variety of manufacturers that keep our state’s economy strong and our communities growing. It’s with great pride that KMC supports manufacturing technology and integration to embrace the future,” said Brandie McPherson, the council's executive director.Any product that is made in Kansas qualifies for the competition. There are two categories in this year's competition: People's Choice and Coolest Innovation. The People’s Choice contest begins with product nominations and the popular vote round. The top 16 vote-getters will move on to a bracket-style tournament where they will compete in head-to-head match-ups. The ones that receive the most votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the People’s Choice - Coolest Thing Made in Kansas. The Coolest Innovation contest highlights the many ways Kansas manufacturers research and develop new products and work to improve products to address crucial challenges.A panel of expert judges will review and score questionnaires completed by the companies regarding their nominated products. The top four scoring products will be invited to present in-person to the expert panel on October 23 at the&nbsp;Coolest Celebration Reception. The judges will choose the winning product&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNa9AwPm1v7oVofpQVabCpSG0QPPjYXjlCMTojgLlpSbSpMk2cKvJbprJQuf4DbbOWL-S_yDwIfQ9j9drz9cvL5tkrROh27uqkCPx1veugGzd7R4dg5tTtTYiXp2KG3r-hRf6KSzB6hWiX_anjDbFJw7RUG4TztDxXwIdvr3ec73_4=&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">based on a criteria&nbsp;</a>that includes its impact on the challenge it solves as well as the business, its employees, and customers.Winners for both categories will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3Yn05dZhlCIZQ33ze_EQWEyvSHxCYxcN8PjUG_zh2TiSaPWz6E87e1JiYZfGKRTZXA2WwZYvBCeIFDRHQk4Sb9QTgwyE7054W59WpXDtXx1winnMvUkLozFFvyVHKfCX2Qwmej84YbLG-g2dcNLwyJhuKxT2nCJxX3eq3LTPmC7A&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday, October 24 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Wichita.<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012KmUbOBPZBTUfVI17ejhZwtJ2rFikYug-TZwX7pVxliksPqQGDtL3ZJXf5ONtHNaHhDcdC1ivY_jpu23pj9vTjIAR5VOihW0ZvEARkv245oEiYcx2vqFPeQmJUbJ2eQMszI5qQdYW_BsUgqPVZ_aWnT4M6-eg824NR5aSmOCYrYeK83ZWUG2LxKLSxLqc1MFFi5Z0TxlElkRw3cdOgt0W5sT9hxY23WT&amp;c=3zYpJ5Zg0AAwKVaIho0Xc-8vbTUmwKJ1CAKmhH7jeIRtIMvIEoFf6g==&amp;ch=v-6K6FOPnRerLL2bW2xQ0xIOldDYe9GGH4AbfD27gEfGGiOwWtFHyw==" target="_blank">Click here</a>to nominate your favorite Kansas-made product. Nominations for the 2023 contest close on August 30 at midnight CT.2023 Competition Details Nomination Rules <ol>
 <li>Everyone is encouraged to nominate their favorite products. There is no limit to the number of product nominations per person.</li><li>Products nominated can be from any sector of the state’s manufacturing industry.</li><li>The company does not have to be headquartered in Kansas but the product must be manufactured in a Kansas-based facility.</li><li>The product must be made using a manufacturing process.</li><li>The Kansas Manufacturing Council will review each nomination to ensure these requirements are met. If for any reason the nomination does not meet these requirements, the nominator will be notified.</li><li>Companies may only have one product featured in the top four, so only one product nomination per company is encouraged.</li><li>Winning companies are prohibited from participating in the contest for one year, while each winning product is indefinitely prohibited from being nominated again.</li><li>Companies with products nominated will be notified by the Kansas Manufacturing Council.</li><li>Products can be nominated for both categories but may only be in one of the category's finals.</li>
 </ol>Voting Rules for People's Choice contest <ol>
 <li>Voting is open to the public. A voter may vote once per day.</li><li>The number of votes received will be reset at the beginning of each round.</li><li>The 16 nominated products who receive the most votes during the popular vote round will advance to the bracket-style tournament.</li><li>The products receiving the highest number of votes in their head-to-head match-ups during each voting period will advance to the next round.</li><li>&nbsp;The final round of final four (4) will be decided by popular vote.</li>
 </ol>

Nominations open for 'Coolest Thing Made In Kansas' to highlight manufacturers  

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Saudi Arabia said Thursday it will extend its unilateral production cut of 1 million barrels of oil a day through the end of September in its effort to boost flagging energy prices, a move that could push U.S. gas prices higher.

The Saudi reduction, which began in July, comes as the other OPEC+ producers have agreed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/saudi-oil-production-cut-6d34316ce6820c749d2a6cd66a9fffea">extend earlier production cuts</a>&nbsp;through next year.

The national average for U.S. gas prices stood at about $3.82 a gallon on Tuesday — about 30 cents higher than a month ago, according to motor club AAA. While today’s prices at the pump remain far lower than they were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/why-are-gas-prices-rising-541819ca1aa4d3dc0a0206271f9f8589">last year</a>, when energy costs soared worldwide in the months following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gas-prices-rising-heat-wave-production-cuts-4cecfbe2ee68eccab7224f163fc676db">experts say such a jump is unusual</a>.

This year's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/heat-wave-extremes-climate-change-f652668232cc2ec7400f7e65cfb75cb9">record-breaking summer heat</a>&nbsp;has also had an impact, driving up demand for air conditioning and forcing refineries to operate at reduced capacity.

The kingdom announced the extension in a statement on the state-run Saudi Press Agency, quoting an anonymous official in the Energy Ministry. The official added that the cut “can be extended or deepened” if the need arises.

“This additional voluntary cut comes to reinforce the precautionary efforts made by OPEC+ countries with the aim of supporting the stability and balance of oil markets,” the official said.

The move was widely expected by analysts.

Benchmark Brent crude traded Thursday at over $80 a barrel.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/saudi-oil-production-cut-6d34316ce6820c749d2a6cd66a9fffea">A series of production cuts over the past year</a>&nbsp;has failed to substantially boost prices amid weakened demand from China and tighter monetary policy aimed at combatting inflation. Brent has largely hovered between $75 and $85 a barrel since last October.

The Saudis are particularly keen to boost oil prices in order to fund Vision 2030, an ambitious plan to overhaul the kingdom's economy, reduce its dependence on oil and create jobs for a young population. The plans include several massive infrastructure projects, including the construction of a futuristic $500 billion city called Neom.

Higher prices would also help Russian President Vladimir Putin fund his war on Ukraine, as Western countries have used a price cap to try to cut into Moscow's revenues.

Western sanctions mean&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/putin-health-covid-prices-european-union-65de1c4934227208bfa68bb7d4c47716">Moscow is forced to sell its oil at a discount</a>&nbsp;to countries like China and India. Its estimated export revenue fell by $1.4 billion to $13.3 billion in May, down 36% from a year ago, the International Energy Agency said in a report in June.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Saudi Arabia said Thursday it will extend its unilateral production cut of 1 million barrels of oil a day through the end of September in its effort to boost flagging energy prices, a move that could push U.S. gas prices higher.The Saudi reduction, which began in July, comes as the other OPEC+ producers have agreed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/saudi-oil-production-cut-6d34316ce6820c749d2a6cd66a9fffea">extend earlier production cuts</a>&nbsp;through next year.The national average for U.S. gas prices stood at about $3.82 a gallon on Tuesday — about 30 cents higher than a month ago, according to motor club AAA. While today’s prices at the pump remain far lower than they were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/why-are-gas-prices-rising-541819ca1aa4d3dc0a0206271f9f8589">last year</a>, when energy costs soared worldwide in the months following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gas-prices-rising-heat-wave-production-cuts-4cecfbe2ee68eccab7224f163fc676db">experts say such a jump is unusual</a>.This year's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/heat-wave-extremes-climate-change-f652668232cc2ec7400f7e65cfb75cb9">record-breaking summer heat</a>&nbsp;has also had an impact, driving up demand for air conditioning and forcing refineries to operate at reduced capacity.The kingdom announced the extension in a statement on the state-run Saudi Press Agency, quoting an anonymous official in the Energy Ministry. The official added that the cut “can be extended or deepened” if the need arises.“This additional voluntary cut comes to reinforce the precautionary efforts made by OPEC+ countries with the aim of supporting the stability and balance of oil markets,” the official said.The move was widely expected by analysts.Benchmark Brent crude traded Thursday at over $80 a barrel.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/saudi-oil-production-cut-6d34316ce6820c749d2a6cd66a9fffea">A series of production cuts over the past year</a>&nbsp;has failed to substantially boost prices amid weakened demand from China and tighter monetary policy aimed at combatting inflation. Brent has largely hovered between $75 and $85 a barrel since last October.The Saudis are particularly keen to boost oil prices in order to fund Vision 2030, an ambitious plan to overhaul the kingdom's economy, reduce its dependence on oil and create jobs for a young population. The plans include several massive infrastructure projects, including the construction of a futuristic $500 billion city called Neom.Higher prices would also help Russian President Vladimir Putin fund his war on Ukraine, as Western countries have used a price cap to try to cut into Moscow's revenues.Western sanctions mean&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/putin-health-covid-prices-european-union-65de1c4934227208bfa68bb7d4c47716">Moscow is forced to sell its oil at a discount</a>&nbsp;to countries like China and India. Its estimated export revenue fell by $1.4 billion to $13.3 billion in May, down 36% from a year ago, the International Energy Agency said in a report in June.

Expect jump in U.S. gas price as Saudis extends oil production cuts

<a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/james-underwood?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/james-underwood?fh_id=10931</a>

James C. “JC” Underwood, moved to heaven Aug. 2, 2023, at age 80. He was born July 5, 1943, to Spencer E. and Harriett C. (Hawk) Underwood in Atchison, KS. 

He understood working for a wage at an early age and bought his first car at age 12. 

He became a United States Navy Reserve during his high school years. After graduating from Wyandotte High School, Kansas City, KS, in 1961, he enlisted in the United States Navy. 

He married Doris Jo Rush on October 3, 1966, in Severance, KS. The couple made their first home in Kansas City, KS.&nbsp;

JC completed his United States Navy service in 1966 and worked a short stint at TWA while reenlisting in the military, this time the&nbsp; United States Air Force. Following his military service, he worked for Ford Motor Company in Kansas City and started his own country living in rural Cameron, MO. He bought his uncle’s sale barn in the late 1970s and this is where his passion for leather began. By 1981, he opened his own tack shop, J.J. Western, and began leather making, his newfound love. He repaired boots and saddles and began manufacturing his own tack inventory.&nbsp;

His desire to serve people extended throughout life. He was a volunteer fireman, worked on specials forces for the police department and became an EMT. He kept current on his EMT training with ambulances in Wichita, KS, and volunteered EMT services in Kiowa County, KS. He loved to study law and used his knowledge to help others. He volunteered at the Central Kansas Dream Center to help keep the pantry stocked and organized. He was a member of Faith Community Church in Great Bend.&nbsp;

After 40 years, JC retired as a saddle maker in 2021, and moved from Mullinville, KS to Great Bend, KS, where he was closer to his family. He enjoyed fishing and telling stories.&nbsp;

He was proud of his family and leaves behind, his wife, Doris; one daughter, Heidi Jo (Keith) Burton of Great Bend, KS; one son, Joseph E. “Joe” (Laura) Underwood of Vanleer, TN; seven grandchildren, Valerie Morrell (Matt Seidel) of Pratt, KS, Lucas (Janine) Burton of Ellinwood, KS, Jeffrey C. “JC” (Jonna) Bosch and Corbin J. (Rachel Wiehl) Burton all of Heizer, KS, Kara A. (Brenner) Gentry of Dickson, TN, and Katelyn Jo Underwood and Sara J. Underwood both of Vanleer, TN; five great-grandchildren, Makayla, Lilly and Kaydalyn Burton, Arley Morrell, Colson James Bosch and Blake Bosch; a sister, Ann E. Perkins of Modesto, CA; a brother, Perry H. (Josie) Underwood of Prairie Village, KS; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Ruby Jane Eppes from Yellville, AR.

Visitation will be held from noon to 8:00 p.m., Friday, Aug. 4, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Family and friends will also gather at the funeral home prior to the graveside service, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday. &nbsp;Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Great Bend, with Pastor Jordan Basye presiding. Military rites will be conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard American Legion Riders Post 180. 

Memorials have been designated to the Central Kansas Dream Center, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;James C. "JC" Underwood, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/james-underwood/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>James C. 'JC' Underwood</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691080696257.jpeg" alt="James C. 'JC' Underwood" />
 <figcaption>James C. 'JC' Underwood</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/james-underwood?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/james-underwood?fh_id=10931</a>July 5, 1943 - August 2, 2023James C. “JC” Underwood, moved to heaven Aug. 2, 2023, at age 80. He was born July 5, 1943, to Spencer E. and Harriett C. (Hawk) Underwood in Atchison, KS. He understood working for a wage at an early age and bought his first car at age 12. He became a United States Navy Reserve during his high school years. After graduating from Wyandotte High School, Kansas City, KS, in 1961, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He married Doris Jo Rush on October 3, 1966, in Severance, KS. The couple made their first home in Kansas City, KS.&nbsp;JC completed his United States Navy service in 1966 and worked a short stint at TWA while reenlisting in the military, this time the&nbsp; United States Air Force. Following his military service, he worked for Ford Motor Company in Kansas City and started his own country living in rural Cameron, MO. He bought his uncle’s sale barn in the late 1970s and this is where his passion for leather began. By 1981, he opened his own tack shop, J.J. Western, and began leather making, his newfound love. He repaired boots and saddles and began manufacturing his own tack inventory.&nbsp;His desire to serve people extended throughout life. He was a volunteer fireman, worked on specials forces for the police department and became an EMT. He kept current on his EMT training with ambulances in Wichita, KS, and volunteered EMT services in Kiowa County, KS. He loved to study law and used his knowledge to help others. He volunteered at the Central Kansas Dream Center to help keep the pantry stocked and organized. He was a member of Faith Community Church in Great Bend.&nbsp;After 40 years, JC retired as a saddle maker in 2021, and moved from Mullinville, KS to Great Bend, KS, where he was closer to his family. He enjoyed fishing and telling stories.&nbsp;He was proud of his family and leaves behind, his wife, Doris; one daughter, Heidi Jo (Keith) Burton of Great Bend, KS; one son, Joseph E. “Joe” (Laura) Underwood of Vanleer, TN; seven grandchildren, Valerie Morrell (Matt Seidel) of Pratt, KS, Lucas (Janine) Burton of Ellinwood, KS, Jeffrey C. “JC” (Jonna) Bosch and Corbin J. (Rachel Wiehl) Burton all of Heizer, KS, Kara A. (Brenner) Gentry of Dickson, TN, and Katelyn Jo Underwood and Sara J. Underwood both of Vanleer, TN; five great-grandchildren, Makayla, Lilly and Kaydalyn Burton, Arley Morrell, Colson James Bosch and Blake Bosch; a sister, Ann E. Perkins of Modesto, CA; a brother, Perry H. (Josie) Underwood of Prairie Village, KS; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Ruby Jane Eppes from Yellville, AR.Visitation will be held from noon to 8:00 p.m., Friday, Aug. 4, 2023, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Family and friends will also gather at the funeral home prior to the graveside service, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday. &nbsp;Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Great Bend, with Pastor Jordan Basye presiding. Military rites will be conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard American Legion Riders Post 180. Memorials have been designated to the Central Kansas Dream Center, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.&nbsp;To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;James C. "JC" Underwood, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/james-underwood/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

James C. 'JC' Underwood

<a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel?fh_id=10931</a>

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Denton Ralph “Rip” Schlegel, 78, passed away on July 31, 2023, at Azria Health, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on June 20, 1945, at Hoisington, Kansas, to Ralph &amp; Carrie (Gustin) Schlegel. 

On October 27, 1973, he married Linda Monroe at Hoisington, Kansas. &nbsp;She died November 28, 2010.

Mr. Schlegel was a lifetime resident of Barton County. 

He was a 1963 graduate of Otis High School. During his time in high school, he earned the nickname “Rip” for how he would rip the nets from basketball goals and make three-point shots before they were a common shot made. 

Denton worked as a machinist at Great Bend Industries for over 30 years. 

When he wasn’t mowing yards or being directed in life by Linda and Glen, he enjoyed polka dances and loved going to Las Vegas.

Survivors include sister-in-law, Jeannette (Ken) Clark of Shawnee; nieces and nephews; and many friends.&nbsp;

Denton is preceded in death by his wife; brother and sister-in-law, Curtis and Wanda Schlegel; his parents; and his parents-in-law, Glen and Rosemary Monroe.

Friends may sign the book noon to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 10, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home with Ron Bailey presiding. Inurnment will follow at Hoisington Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Kans for Kids or the First United Methodist Church of Hoisington, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Denton Ralph Schlegel, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Denton Ralph Schlegel</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690988651868.png" alt="Denton Ralph Schlegel" />
 <figcaption>Denton Ralph Schlegel</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel?fh_id=10931</a>June 20, 1945 - July 31, 2023<a href="https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/91024" target="_blank">View Funeral Webcast</a>Denton Ralph “Rip” Schlegel, 78, passed away on July 31, 2023, at Azria Health, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on June 20, 1945, at Hoisington, Kansas, to Ralph &amp; Carrie (Gustin) Schlegel. On October 27, 1973, he married Linda Monroe at Hoisington, Kansas. &nbsp;She died November 28, 2010.Mr. Schlegel was a lifetime resident of Barton County. He was a 1963 graduate of Otis High School. During his time in high school, he earned the nickname “Rip” for how he would rip the nets from basketball goals and make three-point shots before they were a common shot made. Denton worked as a machinist at Great Bend Industries for over 30 years. When he wasn’t mowing yards or being directed in life by Linda and Glen, he enjoyed polka dances and loved going to Las Vegas.Survivors include sister-in-law, Jeannette (Ken) Clark of Shawnee; nieces and nephews; and many friends.&nbsp;Denton is preceded in death by his wife; brother and sister-in-law, Curtis and Wanda Schlegel; his parents; and his parents-in-law, Glen and Rosemary Monroe.Friends may sign the book noon to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home.&nbsp;Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 10, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home with Ron Bailey presiding. Inurnment will follow at Hoisington Cemetery.Memorials may be made to Kans for Kids or the First United Methodist Church of Hoisington, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Denton Ralph Schlegel, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Denton Ralph Schlegel

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —The 2023 Primary Election may not have garnered much interest across much of Kansas, but an important matter was decided in Central Kansas as voters in USD 112-Central Plains voted overwhelmingly against disorganizing the school district.

<a href="http://ellsworthcounty.org/residents/elections/index.php'">According to the Ellsworth County Clerk,</a> there were 1179 no votes and&nbsp; 587 yes votes.

The USD 112 school district will stay the same, keeping the tax rate and schools intact.&nbsp;The district covers portions of five counties, including the  communities of Wilson, Holyrood, Bushton, Claflin, Dorrance, Lorraine, Beaver and Odin.

In January, the school board voted to close Wilson Jr. Sr. High School.

Last October, the Wilson High School Future Committee was formed in an effort to keep Wilson High School open. On May 9, the official petition to disorganize the district was filed in Ellsworth County after the USD 112 Board of Education declined a request to keep Wilson High School open for another year.

The results are unofficial until an Aug. 7 canvass.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686337406551.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostELLSWORTH COUNTY —The 2023 Primary Election may not have garnered much interest across much of Kansas, but an important matter was decided in Central Kansas as voters in USD 112-Central Plains voted overwhelmingly against disorganizing the school district.<a href="http://ellsworthcounty.org/residents/elections/index.php'">According to the Ellsworth County Clerk,</a> there were 1179 no votes and&nbsp; 587 yes votes.The USD 112 school district will stay the same, keeping the tax rate and schools intact.&nbsp;The district covers portions of five counties, including the communities of Wilson, Holyrood, Bushton, Claflin, Dorrance, Lorraine, Beaver and Odin.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690942109506.png" alt="File photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>File photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>In January, the school board voted to close Wilson Jr. Sr. High School.Last October, the Wilson High School Future Committee was formed in an effort to keep Wilson High School open. On May 9, the official petition to disorganize the district was filed in Ellsworth County after the USD 112 Board of Education declined a request to keep Wilson High School open for another year.The results are unofficial until an Aug. 7 canvass.

'No' vote prevails: USD 112 Central Plains to remain intact

<a href="https://www.moweryfs.com/obituaries/Arthur-Wagner-4/#!/TributeWall">https://www.moweryfs.com/obituaries/Arthur-Wagner-4/#!/TributeWall</a>

Arthur “Art” Francis Wagner was born on October 17, 1948, in Hays, Kansas, to Arthur A. Wagner and Hedwig (Werth) Wagner. He passed from this life on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, in Owasso, Oklahoma, at the age of 74 years. 

Art was reared and educated in Victoria, Kansas, and graduated with the Victoria High School Class of 1966. He furthered his education at Fort Hays Kansas State College in Hays and graduated in 1970 with a bachelor of science degree in business. 

Art married Joyce (Rohr) Wagner on August 30, 1969, in Vincent, Kansas. 

He spent most of his working life as a corporate tax specialist with Cities Service, later known as Occidental Petroleum, before his retirement after 40-plus years. 

Art was a longtime faithful member of St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso, Oklahoma, where he was active with the Men’s Club. In his spare time, he enjoyed a variety of pastimes such as hunting, fishing, bowling, reading, and watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball games, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.&nbsp;

Survivors include his loving wife of over 53 years,&nbsp;Joyce Wagner;&nbsp;three sons,&nbsp;Todd Wagner and wife Vicki,&nbsp;Bryan Wagner and wife Belinda,&nbsp;Jason Wagner and wife Christine;&nbsp;seven grandchildren,&nbsp;Ethan Wagner, Camdyn Wagner, Mason Mathis, Maddie Mathis, Maizy Wagner, Sydney Wagner, and Ryan Mathis;&nbsp;three siblings,&nbsp;Ron Wagner, Jeanette Pfannenstiel, and Gary Wagner

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Hedwig, two brothers, Arthur Anthony, Jr., and Gene, and his sister, Nellie.

A rosary with be held 7:00 p.m. Sunday, August 6,2023 at St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso. A funeral mass will be held 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023, at St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso with Father Matt LaChance officiating. Final resting place will be at St. Therese Cemetery Columbarium in Collinsville. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Catholic Charities Development Office, P.O. Box 580460 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74158.&nbsp;

Arrangements and&nbsp;services were entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service of Owasso at www.moweryfs.com.

<h2>Arthur 'Art' Francis Wagner</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690907365449.png" alt="Arthur 'Art' Francis Wagner" />
 <figcaption>Arthur 'Art' Francis Wagner</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.moweryfs.com/obituaries/Arthur-Wagner-4/#!/TributeWall">https://www.moweryfs.com/obituaries/Arthur-Wagner-4/#!/TributeWall</a>October 17, 1948 - July 25, 2023Arthur “Art” Francis Wagner was born on October 17, 1948, in Hays, Kansas, to Arthur A. Wagner and Hedwig (Werth) Wagner. He passed from this life on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, in Owasso, Oklahoma, at the age of 74 years. Art was reared and educated in Victoria, Kansas, and graduated with the Victoria High School Class of 1966. He furthered his education at Fort Hays Kansas State College in Hays and graduated in 1970 with a bachelor of science degree in business. Art married Joyce (Rohr) Wagner on August 30, 1969, in Vincent, Kansas. He spent most of his working life as a corporate tax specialist with Cities Service, later known as Occidental Petroleum, before his retirement after 40-plus years. Art was a longtime faithful member of St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso, Oklahoma, where he was active with the Men’s Club. In his spare time, he enjoyed a variety of pastimes such as hunting, fishing, bowling, reading, and watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball games, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.&nbsp;Survivors include his loving wife of over 53 years,&nbsp;Joyce Wagner;&nbsp;three sons,&nbsp;Todd Wagner and wife Vicki,&nbsp;Bryan Wagner and wife Belinda,&nbsp;Jason Wagner and wife Christine;&nbsp;seven grandchildren,&nbsp;Ethan Wagner, Camdyn Wagner, Mason Mathis, Maddie Mathis, Maizy Wagner, Sydney Wagner, and Ryan Mathis;&nbsp;three siblings,&nbsp;Ron Wagner, Jeanette Pfannenstiel, and Gary WagnerHe was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Hedwig, two brothers, Arthur Anthony, Jr., and Gene, and his sister, Nellie.A rosary with be held 7:00 p.m. Sunday, August 6,2023 at St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso. A funeral mass will be held 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023, at St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso with Father Matt LaChance officiating. Final resting place will be at St. Therese Cemetery Columbarium in Collinsville. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Catholic Charities Development Office, P.O. Box 580460 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74158.&nbsp;Arrangements and&nbsp;services were entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service of Owasso at www.moweryfs.com.

Arthur 'Art' Francis Wagner

GRANT COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities investigating a double-fatal crash that occurred in southwest Kansas in 2019 captured a man accused of fleeing the accident scene, according to the United State's Marshals Service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On July 28 , the Kansas Fugitive Apprehension Task Force and the Southeast Region Fugitive Task Force arrested 46-year-old Paulo I. Garcia in Douglas County, Georgia.&nbsp;Garcia was wanted out of Grant County Kansas, for "leaving the scene of an accident which involved great bodily injury/death, and felony theft."

In October of  2019, the Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just before 12:30 p.m. on that Saturday, a 2007 Kenworth truck was westbound on Grant County Road 10 three miles north of U.S. 160.

The driver, later identified as Garcia, failed to yield right of way to a 2012 Chevy Silverado that was southbound on County Road X and driven by Kevin Jay Coyle, 57, Turpin, Oklahoma. The Kenworth entered the uncontrolled intersection&nbsp;directly into the path of the Silverado.

Coyle and his father 81-year-old Gerald Lee Coyle also of Turpin, Oklahoma, who was a passenger, were pronounced dead at the scene.

While a witness to the crash was working to assist the victims, the driver of the Kenworth truck drove away in the witness’s pickup, according to KHP Trooper Michael Racy. Authorities located the stolen pickup in a Haskell County, Kansas field.&nbsp;

Garcia was also wanted for a federal supervised release violation in Wichita.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is being held without bond, according to online jail records.

“I am proud of the dedicated work of our Fugitive Task Force, and I hope this arrest will help the victim’s family get some sense of closure,” said Ronald Miller, US Marshal for the District of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690834733508.png" alt="Garcia-photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Garcia-photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>GRANT COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities investigating a double-fatal crash that occurred in southwest Kansas in 2019 captured a man accused of fleeing the accident scene, according to the United State's Marshals Service.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On 10/26/2019 KHP troopers worked a fatal in Grant County on U160 between East Rd 10-12. One of the drivers involved stole another vehicle and fled the scene. If you know who this person is or where he might be please contact TECHTRP Michael Racy at (620) 276-3201. <a href="https://t.co/d6CaBG3H7N">pic.twitter.com/d6CaBG3H7N</a>&mdash; Trooper Racy (@TrooperMikeKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperMikeKHP/status/1189580318732406787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On July 28 , the Kansas Fugitive Apprehension Task Force and the Southeast Region Fugitive Task Force arrested 46-year-old Paulo I. Garcia in Douglas County, Georgia.&nbsp;Garcia was wanted out of Grant County Kansas, for "leaving the scene of an accident which involved great bodily injury/death, and felony theft."In October of 2019, the Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just before 12:30 p.m. on that Saturday, a 2007 Kenworth truck was westbound on Grant County Road 10 three miles north of U.S. 160.The driver, later identified as Garcia, failed to yield right of way to a 2012 Chevy Silverado that was southbound on County Road X and driven by Kevin Jay Coyle, 57, Turpin, Oklahoma. The Kenworth entered the uncontrolled intersection&nbsp;directly into the path of the Silverado.Coyle and his father 81-year-old Gerald Lee Coyle also of Turpin, Oklahoma, who was a passenger, were pronounced dead at the scene.While a witness to the crash was working to assist the victims, the driver of the Kenworth truck drove away in the witness’s pickup, according to KHP Trooper Michael Racy. Authorities located the stolen pickup in a Haskell County, Kansas field.&nbsp;Garcia was also wanted for a federal supervised release violation in Wichita.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is being held without bond, according to online jail records.“I am proud of the dedicated work of our Fugitive Task Force, and I hope this arrest will help the victim’s family get some sense of closure,” said Ronald Miller, US Marshal for the District of Kansas.

Driver captured 4-years after he fled fatal SW Kansas crash 

KANSAS CITY —A Jackson County judge sentenced a Kansas City woman to 20 years in prison after she was convicted for severely beating two children while the children were in her care in a Kansas City home, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

In March, a Jackson County jury convicted 41-year-old&nbsp; Nancy Russell of four Class B felonies of Domestic Assault 1st Degree and four counts of Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;

According to court records, in October 2017, police in Kansas City were alerted by Arkansas police of possible child abuse. A family member had come forward to say that one of the children had been abused at a home in Kansas City in the area of 53rd and Hardesty.

 The child was reportedly walking with a limp and had gashes on the head. Forensic interviews in Arkansas disclosed the defendant struck the child with a cord and metal pipe.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678322605798.png" alt="Russell-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Russell-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Jackson County judge sentenced a Kansas City woman to 20 years in prison after she was convicted for severely beating two children while the children were in her care in a Kansas City home, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.In March, a Jackson County jury convicted 41-year-old&nbsp; Nancy Russell of four Class B felonies of Domestic Assault 1st Degree and four counts of Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;According to court records, in October 2017, police in Kansas City were alerted by Arkansas police of possible child abuse. A family member had come forward to say that one of the children had been abused at a home in Kansas City in the area of 53rd and Hardesty. The child was reportedly walking with a limp and had gashes on the head. Forensic interviews in Arkansas disclosed the defendant struck the child with a cord and metal pipe.&nbsp;

Kansas City woman sentenced for beating child with a metal pipe 

<a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith?fh_id=10931</a>

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Morgan D. “Smitty” Smith, 92, passed away on July 27, 2023, surrounded by his family at Credo Senior Living, Hoisington, Kansas. He was born on January 2, 1931, in Lawton, Oklahoma, the son of John P. and Pauline (Swann) Smith.&nbsp;

On June 2, 1956, he married Norma L. Whitsel at First Christian Church in Great Bend, Kansas. &nbsp;She died October 20, 2021.

Mr. Smith was a resident of Hoisington for 60 years, coming from Lawton, Oklahoma, and Great Bend. 

He was the owner and operator of Smith Acid Company. 

Morgan was a member of the First Christian Church of Great Bend and V.F.W. He enjoyed hunting, painting portraits and landscapes, tinkering with watches and guns, and gardening. His family was left with his many examples and lessons of the importance of a strong work ethic and a giving, charitable nature.&nbsp;

Survivors include five children, Michael D. (Debbie) Smith of Hoisington, Randall D. Smith of Fort Worth, Texas, Sabrina (Oscar) Mariño of Lawrence, Sonya (Wayde) Brozek of Wamego, and Kevin (Jennifer) Smith of Lee's Summit, Missouri; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren, with one on the way.&nbsp;

He is preceded in death by his wife, Norma; his parents; and siblings, Gloria Guyselman, Marie Yarmuk, and Paul Smith.

Visitation will be from noon to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 1, 2023, with family to greet friends 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, with Pastor Don Fisher presiding.

Memorials may be made to Kans for Kids or Hoisington Church of the Nazarene, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. 146, Hoisington, KS, 67544.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Morgan D. Smith, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Morgan D. Smith</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690579438675.png" alt="Morgan D. Smith" />
 <figcaption>Morgan D. Smith</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith?fh_id=10931</a><a href="https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/90981" target="_blank">View Funeral Webcast</a>January 2, 1931 - July 27, 2023Morgan D. “Smitty” Smith, 92, passed away on July 27, 2023, surrounded by his family at Credo Senior Living, Hoisington, Kansas. He was born on January 2, 1931, in Lawton, Oklahoma, the son of John P. and Pauline (Swann) Smith.&nbsp;On June 2, 1956, he married Norma L. Whitsel at First Christian Church in Great Bend, Kansas. &nbsp;She died October 20, 2021.Mr. Smith was a resident of Hoisington for 60 years, coming from Lawton, Oklahoma, and Great Bend. He was the owner and operator of Smith Acid Company. Morgan was a member of the First Christian Church of Great Bend and V.F.W. He enjoyed hunting, painting portraits and landscapes, tinkering with watches and guns, and gardening. His family was left with his many examples and lessons of the importance of a strong work ethic and a giving, charitable nature.&nbsp;Survivors include five children, Michael D. (Debbie) Smith of Hoisington, Randall D. Smith of Fort Worth, Texas, Sabrina (Oscar) Mariño of Lawrence, Sonya (Wayde) Brozek of Wamego, and Kevin (Jennifer) Smith of Lee's Summit, Missouri; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren, with one on the way.&nbsp;He is preceded in death by his wife, Norma; his parents; and siblings, Gloria Guyselman, Marie Yarmuk, and Paul Smith.Visitation will be from noon to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 1, 2023, with family to greet friends 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, with Pastor Don Fisher presiding.Memorials may be made to Kans for Kids or Hoisington Church of the Nazarene, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. 146, Hoisington, KS, 67544.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Morgan D. Smith, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Morgan D. Smith

<a href="https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers">https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers</a>

Billy George Akin-Summers, age 59, of Garfield, Kansas passed away on Saturday evening, July 29, 2023 at his home after a long battle with COPD and congestive heart failure. &nbsp;Billy was born on October 31, 1963 to Elvis McFarland and Loretta Yocham in Vian, Oklahoma. &nbsp;His mother later married Elmer Akin, who adopted Billy. &nbsp;

Billy belonged to a large family of 12 sisters and 8 brothers: &nbsp;Marylou, John, and James (and Leslie) of Arkansas; Gladys, Edna (and Jim), Tracy, Doug (and Lori), and Les of Kansas; Betty (and Dan), Bea (and Neev), Ethel, Lisa (and John), Don, and Jesse (and Kim) of Oklahoma. 

Billy made a living by hanging drywall, roofing, and did some truck driving. He was known to be a jokester and often made up names to make you laugh.

Billy married Sandra Hill in 1992. &nbsp;In July of 1992 they welcomed a daughter, Sandeana. As years passed, they later divorced.

In 2008, Billy and Susan started dating and later married on May 12, 2018 at Ottawa, Kansas. This marriage was blessed with four boys: &nbsp;Shawn, David, Jason, and Zackhary; and three brothers-in-law, Rick, Steve (and Dena), and Chris (and Clarissa).

Billy has 18 beautiful grandchildren: &nbsp;Cameron, Jordyn, Jolynn, Astrid, Jazzmine, Gavin, Jayden, Dayton, Dakota, Alexa, Kayleen, Jordan, Zayden, James, Jame-Lynn, Kayson, William and Asuna. Plus, there are many nieces and nephews. Billy was a big family man and loved them all. Billy also had three good friends he could count on in Loren, Jody, and Shelly.

Billy had a passion for writing songs, singing, and playing the guitar. He loved entertaining not only his family with his talent but would also go to the nursing homes and share his love for music with the elderly. &nbsp;Billy also enjoyed fishing and was a die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan. &nbsp;One of his fondest memories is watching the Chiefs game with Sue, Zack, and Dakota and seeing who would cuss and scream the loudest.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents and siblings (Ruby, Billie June, Barbara, Wendy, Edward, William, and Roy); son Zackhary and grandchildren Astrid and Jame-Lynn.

Cremation has been chosen. &nbsp;A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date to be announced. &nbsp;

The family requests that Memorial Contributions be directed to the Billy G. Akin-Summers Funeral Expense Fund with Charter Funerals of Great Bend, Kansas in charge. &nbsp;

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Billy George Akin-Summers, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Billy George Akin-Summers, Garfield</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690838758774.jpeg" alt="Billy George Akin-Summers" />
 <figcaption>Billy George Akin-Summers</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers">https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers</a>Billy George Akin-Summers, age 59, of Garfield, Kansas passed away on Saturday evening, July 29, 2023 at his home after a long battle with COPD and congestive heart failure. &nbsp;Billy was born on October 31, 1963 to Elvis McFarland and Loretta Yocham in Vian, Oklahoma. &nbsp;His mother later married Elmer Akin, who adopted Billy. &nbsp;Billy belonged to a large family of 12 sisters and 8 brothers: &nbsp;Marylou, John, and James (and Leslie) of Arkansas; Gladys, Edna (and Jim), Tracy, Doug (and Lori), and Les of Kansas; Betty (and Dan), Bea (and Neev), Ethel, Lisa (and John), Don, and Jesse (and Kim) of Oklahoma. Billy made a living by hanging drywall, roofing, and did some truck driving. He was known to be a jokester and often made up names to make you laugh.Billy married Sandra Hill in 1992. &nbsp;In July of 1992 they welcomed a daughter, Sandeana. As years passed, they later divorced.In 2008, Billy and Susan started dating and later married on May 12, 2018 at Ottawa, Kansas. This marriage was blessed with four boys: &nbsp;Shawn, David, Jason, and Zackhary; and three brothers-in-law, Rick, Steve (and Dena), and Chris (and Clarissa).Billy has 18 beautiful grandchildren: &nbsp;Cameron, Jordyn, Jolynn, Astrid, Jazzmine, Gavin, Jayden, Dayton, Dakota, Alexa, Kayleen, Jordan, Zayden, James, Jame-Lynn, Kayson, William and Asuna. Plus, there are many nieces and nephews. Billy was a big family man and loved them all. Billy also had three good friends he could count on in Loren, Jody, and Shelly.Billy had a passion for writing songs, singing, and playing the guitar. He loved entertaining not only his family with his talent but would also go to the nursing homes and share his love for music with the elderly. &nbsp;Billy also enjoyed fishing and was a die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan. &nbsp;One of his fondest memories is watching the Chiefs game with Sue, Zack, and Dakota and seeing who would cuss and scream the loudest.Billy was preceded in death by his parents and siblings (Ruby, Billie June, Barbara, Wendy, Edward, William, and Roy); son Zackhary and grandchildren Astrid and Jame-Lynn.Cremation has been chosen. &nbsp;A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date to be announced. &nbsp;The family requests that Memorial Contributions be directed to the Billy G. Akin-Summers Funeral Expense Fund with Charter Funerals of Great Bend, Kansas in charge. &nbsp;To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Billy George Akin-Summers, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Billy George Akin-Summers

PRATT&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is conducting a five-year review of the lists of Kansas species that are endangered, threatened or Species In Need of Conservation (SINC). 

Endangered is the most imperiled category of the three, and species on the SINC list are deemed to require conservation measures to prevent them from becoming threatened or endangered. 

A five-year review is required by the Kansas Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1975. 

Any individual or group can petition KDWP to propose an addition, deletion, or modification to the current lists by providing pertinent scientific information required within the petition form.

KDWP relies on the Threatened and Endangered Species Task Committee to assist with the review process. The task committee, including Elmer Finck at Fort Hays State University, consists of seven members representing various disciplines, and include staff from state and federal agencies and state universities.

To determine if a full review is warranted, the task committee examines updated scientific information and research for any species petitioned for a listing change. Species experts are consulted and all available data is evaluated during the full review. 

These recommendations, and any amendments to them, are published in the Kansas Register for public comment for at least 90 days. After a full review is completed, the task committee makes recommendations to the KDWP Secretary and any changes to the lists must be approved by the KDWP Commission following a public hearing.

At the last five-year review completed in 2019, the Arkansas darter was removed from the threatened list and added to the SINC list. The Wabash pigtoe mussel was removed from the SINC list, and the cylindrical papershell mussel was added to the endangered list.

The state endangered list currently includes 11 invertebrates, five fish, two amphibians, two birds and two mammals. The state threatened list includes six invertebrates, 10 fish, six amphibians, three reptiles, one turtle, two birds and one mammal. The state SINC list includes 82 species.

A recent survey conducted by Responsive Management – an internationally recognized research firm specializing in natural resource and outdoor recreation issues – found that conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife remains important among Kansans. Some interesting findings included:

Petitions must be received by October 5, 2023 to be considered for the current five-year review. 

Petition forms can be downloaded at: <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife/2023-Five-Year-Review">https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife/2023-Five-Year-Review</a> and submitted electronically to kdwpt.ess@ks.gov or mailed to KDWP, Attn: Ecological Services, 512 SE 25th Ave., Pratt, KS 67124-8174.

For more information, including a list of the current threatened and endangered species in Kansas, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife">ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689021162807.jpeg" alt="The Cylindrical Papershell is a&nbsp;relatively short-lived (10 years) freshwater mussel that was formerly documented in most rivers of northern Kansas. Currently, it is found in limited reaches of the Smoky Hill and Saline Rivers.&nbsp; Courtesy Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>The Cylindrical Papershell is a&nbsp;relatively short-lived (10 years) freshwater mussel that was formerly documented in most rivers of northern Kansas. Currently, it is found in limited reaches of the Smoky Hill and Saline Rivers.&nbsp; Courtesy Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is conducting a five-year review of the lists of Kansas species that are endangered, threatened or Species In Need of Conservation (SINC). Endangered is the most imperiled category of the three, and species on the SINC list are deemed to require conservation measures to prevent them from becoming threatened or endangered. A five-year review is required by the Kansas Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1975. Any individual or group can petition KDWP to propose an addition, deletion, or modification to the current lists by providing pertinent scientific information required within the petition form. KDWP relies on the Threatened and Endangered Species Task Committee to assist with the review process. The task committee, including Elmer Finck at Fort Hays State University, consists of seven members representing various disciplines, and include staff from state and federal agencies and state universities. To determine if a full review is warranted, the task committee examines updated scientific information and research for any species petitioned for a listing change. Species experts are consulted and all available data is evaluated during the full review. These recommendations, and any amendments to them, are published in the Kansas Register for public comment for at least 90 days. After a full review is completed, the task committee makes recommendations to the KDWP Secretary and any changes to the lists must be approved by the KDWP Commission following a public hearing.At the last five-year review completed in 2019, the Arkansas darter was removed from the threatened list and added to the SINC list. The Wabash pigtoe mussel was removed from the SINC list, and the cylindrical papershell mussel was added to the endangered list.The state endangered list currently includes 11 invertebrates, five fish, two amphibians, two birds and two mammals. The state threatened list includes six invertebrates, 10 fish, six amphibians, three reptiles, one turtle, two birds and one mammal. The state SINC list includes 82 species.A recent survey conducted by Responsive Management – an internationally recognized research firm specializing in natural resource and outdoor recreation issues – found that conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife remains important among Kansans. Some interesting findings included:<ul>
 <li>A majority of Kansas residents (94 percent) agreed that the KDWP should continue to identify and protect habitat critical to threatened and endangered species.</li><li>A majority (84 percent) of residents agree with the statement, “Wildlife that is threatened and endangered in Kansas yet abundant in other states should still be protected in Kansas.”</li>
 </ul>Petitions must be received by October 5, 2023 to be considered for the current five-year review. Petition forms can be downloaded at: <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife/2023-Five-Year-Review">https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife/2023-Five-Year-Review</a> and submitted electronically to kdwpt.ess@ks.gov or mailed to KDWP, Attn: Ecological Services, 512 SE 25th Ave., Pratt, KS 67124-8174.For more information, including a list of the current threatened and endangered species in Kansas, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife">ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife</a>.

Public can submit to Kan. species in need of conservation lists

<a href="https://www.olliffboeve.com/obituary/joan-mccall?fh_id=12336">https://www.olliffboeve.com/obituary/joan-mccall?fh_id=12336</a>

October 29, 1929&nbsp; -&nbsp; July 26, 2023

Phillipsburg resident, Joan McCall, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at the Phillips County Retirement Center, Phillipsburg, at the age of 93.

She was born October 29, 1929 in Lincoln, KS, the daughter of Alfred and Gertrude (Brumbaugh) Thompson.

Joan was united in marriage to Donald McCall on October 25, 1953 in Paradise, KS. &nbsp;He preceded her in death in 2013.

Survivors include a son, Kent, of Phillipsburg; two daughters, Cynthia McCall of Overland Park, KS and Linnette McCall of Kansas City, MO; grandson, Major Nicholas J. Cline and wife Kelly of Oceanside, CA; a great-granddaughter, Everly Joan Cline; and two sisters, Vivian Martinez of Wichita, KS and Sue Heitschmidt and husband Rodney of Granbury, TX.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 29, 2023 in the United Presbyterian Church, Phillipsburg. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Olliff-Boeve-Memorial-Chapel/100055272974764/">The services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The burial will take place at 2:00 p.m. Saturday in the Mt. Hermon Cemetery, Paradise, KS.

Mrs. McCall will lie in state from noon until 9 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the United Presbyterian Church.

<h2>Joan L. McCall, Phillipsburg</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690557696135.jpeg" alt="Joan L. McCall" />
 <figcaption>Joan L. McCall</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.olliffboeve.com/obituary/joan-mccall?fh_id=12336">https://www.olliffboeve.com/obituary/joan-mccall?fh_id=12336</a>October 29, 1929&nbsp; -&nbsp; July 26, 2023Phillipsburg resident, Joan McCall, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at the Phillips County Retirement Center, Phillipsburg, at the age of 93.She was born October 29, 1929 in Lincoln, KS, the daughter of Alfred and Gertrude (Brumbaugh) Thompson.Joan was united in marriage to Donald McCall on October 25, 1953 in Paradise, KS. &nbsp;He preceded her in death in 2013.Survivors include a son, Kent, of Phillipsburg; two daughters, Cynthia McCall of Overland Park, KS and Linnette McCall of Kansas City, MO; grandson, Major Nicholas J. Cline and wife Kelly of Oceanside, CA; a great-granddaughter, Everly Joan Cline; and two sisters, Vivian Martinez of Wichita, KS and Sue Heitschmidt and husband Rodney of Granbury, TX.Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 29, 2023 in the United Presbyterian Church, Phillipsburg. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Olliff-Boeve-Memorial-Chapel/100055272974764/">The services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The burial will take place at 2:00 p.m. Saturday in the Mt. Hermon Cemetery, Paradise, KS.Mrs. McCall will lie in state from noon until 9 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg.Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the United Presbyterian Church.

Joan L. McCall

PRATT&nbsp;– Exclusive access to land not normally open to hunting and above average success rates.&nbsp; Sound like an expensive hunting lease? Well, it’s not. 

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ Special Hunts program provides hundreds of such hunts each fall and winter, and what’s even better? There’s no charge – all you have to do is apply and be selected.

KDWP’s Special Hunts program offers hunting opportunities with limited access to public and private lands, including select refuge areas, for deer, upland game, waterfowl, doves, turkey and furbearers.

Applications must be made online here,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.Kil5HYv5kK_8M4-qnZlKbZFrNdeslitp7LTJF0bNdqg/s/1303161001/br/222439233164-l" target="_blank">https://programs.ksoutdoors.com/2023-Fall-Winter-Hunts</a>, and a random drawing will determine who is selected.

This fall and winter, KDWP is offering more than 350 individual “Special Hunt” opportunities.

The application period opened July 8, 2023, with the application draw dates as follows:

Resident or nonresident hunters may apply, though some hunts are restricted to residents only. When applying online, hunters will select hunts by species, date and category, which include “Open,” “Youth,” or “Mentored” hunts. 

All applicants are eligible to apply for Open Hunts, regardless of age or hunting experience. Youth Hunts require parties to include at least one hunter age 18 or younger, accompanied by an adult age 21 or older (who may not hunt). And Mentored Hunts are open to both youth and novice hunters supervised by a mentor age 21 or older (who may also hunt).

E-mail notifications are sent to both "successful" and "unsuccessful" applicants within two business weeks of the drawing. Successful applicants will also be emailed their hunt permit, as well as area maps and other pertinent information. Hunters are responsible for purchasing necessary licenses and permits required by law.

For more information on KDWP’s Special Hunts Program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUh1bnRzLUluZm9ybWF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDcxMC43OTQ1ODYwMSJ9.3DLZegaoSziEO8p2V1RexwOT4nCg7Km21brLcFdDr-s/s/1303161001/br/222439233164-l" target="_blank">https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689103843455.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– Exclusive access to land not normally open to hunting and above average success rates.&nbsp; Sound like an expensive hunting lease? Well, it’s not. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ Special Hunts program provides hundreds of such hunts each fall and winter, and what’s even better? There’s no charge – all you have to do is apply and be selected.KDWP’s Special Hunts program offers hunting opportunities with limited access to public and private lands, including select refuge areas, for deer, upland game, waterfowl, doves, turkey and furbearers.Applications must be made online here,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.Kil5HYv5kK_8M4-qnZlKbZFrNdeslitp7LTJF0bNdqg/s/1303161001/br/222439233164-l" target="_blank">https://programs.ksoutdoors.com/2023-Fall-Winter-Hunts</a>, and a random drawing will determine who is selected.This fall and winter, KDWP is offering more than 350 individual “Special Hunt” opportunities.The application period opened July 8, 2023, with the application draw dates as follows:<ul>
 <li>First Draw Hunts (hunts occurring in September and October) –&nbsp;Aug. 7, 2023</li><li>Second Draw Hunts (hunts occurring in November and December) –&nbsp;Sept. 25, 2023</li><li>Third Draw Hunts (hunts occurring in January and February) –&nbsp;Dec. 11, 2023</li>
 </ul>Resident or nonresident hunters may apply, though some hunts are restricted to residents only. When applying online, hunters will select hunts by species, date and category, which include “Open,” “Youth,” or “Mentored” hunts. All applicants are eligible to apply for Open Hunts, regardless of age or hunting experience. Youth Hunts require parties to include at least one hunter age 18 or younger, accompanied by an adult age 21 or older (who may not hunt). And Mentored Hunts are open to both youth and novice hunters supervised by a mentor age 21 or older (who may also hunt).E-mail notifications are sent to both "successful" and "unsuccessful" applicants within two business weeks of the drawing. Successful applicants will also be emailed their hunt permit, as well as area maps and other pertinent information. Hunters are responsible for purchasing necessary licenses and permits required by law.For more information on KDWP’s Special Hunts Program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUh1bnRzLUluZm9ybWF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDcxMC43OTQ1ODYwMSJ9.3DLZegaoSziEO8p2V1RexwOT4nCg7Km21brLcFdDr-s/s/1303161001/br/222439233164-l" target="_blank">https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information</a>.

KDWP to offer special hunting access to exclusive land

By ARNIE STAPLETON AP Sports Writer

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Colorado is leaving the Pac-12 to return to the conference the Buffaloes jilted a dozen years ago, and the Big 12 celebrated the reunion with a two-word statement released through Commissioner Brett Yomark:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference/status/1684677566001557504?s=20">“They’re back.”</a>

“The landscape of collegiate sports is ever-evolving, and the University of Colorado Boulder has determined the Big 12 is the best future fit for our athletic teams,” CU President Todd Saliman said after the board of regents voted 9-0 in a special remote meeting Thursday to approve the conference switch in 2024.

Colorado becomes the third school to leave the Pac-12 in the last year; UCLA and USC are joining the Big Ten next year, leaving the Pac-12, at least for the moment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pac12-big12-kliavkoff-yormark-conference-realignment-c78bcca0b15dc48f58ec8b0980628d43">with only nine member schools for the 2024-25 season.</a>

Colorado is expected to take in $31.7 million in annual television revenue over the course of the Big 12's new deal, but Chancellor Philip DiStefano and athletic director Rick George insisted that money wasn't the only factor in CU becoming the first Power Five school to return to the conference it had left.

“A decision this big has to do with a lot more than just money,” George said, emphasising that the Buffaloes will get greater exposure playing in earlier time slots and by returning from road games at a more reasonable hour.

“CU Boulder is a national university, and by spanning three time zones, the Big 12 is very much a national conference,” added DiStefano. “The national exposure that joining the Big 12 provides will shine a spotlight not only on our incredible student-athletes, but also on our groundbreaking research that really changes the world.”

While some of the regents expressed disappointment about leaving the Pac-12, they said the shifting sports landscape left CU no option but to rejoin the conference where they were a founding member before heading West in 2011.

One lure for the Buffaloes bolting the Big 12 in the first place was the school's large West Coast alumni base, a factor mitigated by the impending departures of the Trojans and Bruins.

“The Pac-12 is a great conference with vital institutions and it was a privilege to be a member for the last 12 years,” DiStefano said. “While it’s difficult to leave, we’re excited about what the future holds for CU Boulder as we start our next era in the Big 12.”

Pac-12 presidents and chancellors, athletic directors and Commissioner George Kliavkoff were scheduled to convene Thursday to discuss the next moves for the conference, two people with knowledge of the meeting told AP on condition of anonymity because the conference is not making its internal moves public.

Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark has spoken for months&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-football-yormark-open-for-business-b8b0f3a27b8dc95791e3704a5610a421">about his desire to expand the conference</a>&nbsp;and add schools in the Mountain and Pacific time zones. A person familiar with the Big 12’s expansion aspirations, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AP the school and league&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-pac12-big-12-conference-realignment-yormark-kliavkoff-09b3d9604505b23e311564fac677971d">had been in contact for more than a month</a>&nbsp;about a potential departure from the Pac-12.

There could be more defections from the Pac-12, which has seemed vulnerable to more poaching after losing USC and UCLA and with negotiations for a new media rights contract dragging on. Current deals with ESPN and Fox expire after this school year just about the same time the three schools leave.

The Big 12 last year came to an agreement with ESPN and Fox on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-entertainment-sports-7a6ff1cb356d89377609c47d99505bc3">six-year extension worth more than $2 billion that runs through 2030-31</a>.

The Buffaloes’ football team has had only one winning record over a full season since joining the Pac-12, and went 1-11 last year, leading to the hiring of former NFL star Deion Sanders.

“I will tell you, there’s tremendous benefits for being in the Big 12 for the direction that Coach Prime is going as it relates to recruiting, being able to play in Orlando, against UCF, where he’s recruited very heavily,” George said. “The state of Texas has always been a priority for us and now (we're) playing four teams in that area. And then just up north, Oklahoma State.”

Chris Yuhl, a Los Angeles attorney and 1983 CU graduate who attends home and road football games, said he disagrees with the move from a fan standpoint but understands why it happened.

“It’s like Rick George and Phil DiStefano are at a craps table and have a hot hand, getting Deion and doing what they did here,” Yuhl said. “We went from nobody wanting CU last October to being the first girl everyone wants to dance with in the Big 12 right now.”

By ARNIE STAPLETON AP Sports WriterBOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Colorado is leaving the Pac-12 to return to the conference the Buffaloes jilted a dozen years ago, and the Big 12 celebrated the reunion with a two-word statement released through Commissioner Brett Yomark:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference/status/1684677566001557504?s=20">“They’re back.”</a>“The landscape of collegiate sports is ever-evolving, and the University of Colorado Boulder has determined the Big 12 is the best future fit for our athletic teams,” CU President Todd Saliman said after the board of regents voted 9-0 in a special remote meeting Thursday to approve the conference switch in 2024.Colorado becomes the third school to leave the Pac-12 in the last year; UCLA and USC are joining the Big Ten next year, leaving the Pac-12, at least for the moment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pac12-big12-kliavkoff-yormark-conference-realignment-c78bcca0b15dc48f58ec8b0980628d43">with only nine member schools for the 2024-25 season.</a>Colorado is expected to take in $31.7 million in annual television revenue over the course of the Big 12's new deal, but Chancellor Philip DiStefano and athletic director Rick George insisted that money wasn't the only factor in CU becoming the first Power Five school to return to the conference it had left.“A decision this big has to do with a lot more than just money,” George said, emphasising that the Buffaloes will get greater exposure playing in earlier time slots and by returning from road games at a more reasonable hour.“CU Boulder is a national university, and by spanning three time zones, the Big 12 is very much a national conference,” added DiStefano. “The national exposure that joining the Big 12 provides will shine a spotlight not only on our incredible student-athletes, but also on our groundbreaking research that really changes the world.”While some of the regents expressed disappointment about leaving the Pac-12, they said the shifting sports landscape left CU no option but to rejoin the conference where they were a founding member before heading West in 2011.One lure for the Buffaloes bolting the Big 12 in the first place was the school's large West Coast alumni base, a factor mitigated by the impending departures of the Trojans and Bruins.“The Pac-12 is a great conference with vital institutions and it was a privilege to be a member for the last 12 years,” DiStefano said. “While it’s difficult to leave, we’re excited about what the future holds for CU Boulder as we start our next era in the Big 12.”Pac-12 presidents and chancellors, athletic directors and Commissioner George Kliavkoff were scheduled to convene Thursday to discuss the next moves for the conference, two people with knowledge of the meeting told AP on condition of anonymity because the conference is not making its internal moves public.Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark has spoken for months&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-football-yormark-open-for-business-b8b0f3a27b8dc95791e3704a5610a421">about his desire to expand the conference</a>&nbsp;and add schools in the Mountain and Pacific time zones. A person familiar with the Big 12’s expansion aspirations, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AP the school and league&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-pac12-big-12-conference-realignment-yormark-kliavkoff-09b3d9604505b23e311564fac677971d">had been in contact for more than a month</a>&nbsp;about a potential departure from the Pac-12.There could be more defections from the Pac-12, which has seemed vulnerable to more poaching after losing USC and UCLA and with negotiations for a new media rights contract dragging on. Current deals with ESPN and Fox expire after this school year just about the same time the three schools leave.The Big 12 last year came to an agreement with ESPN and Fox on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-entertainment-sports-7a6ff1cb356d89377609c47d99505bc3">six-year extension worth more than $2 billion that runs through 2030-31</a>.The Buffaloes’ football team has had only one winning record over a full season since joining the Pac-12, and went 1-11 last year, leading to the hiring of former NFL star Deion Sanders.“I will tell you, there’s tremendous benefits for being in the Big 12 for the direction that Coach Prime is going as it relates to recruiting, being able to play in Orlando, against UCF, where he’s recruited very heavily,” George said. “The state of Texas has always been a priority for us and now (we're) playing four teams in that area. And then just up north, Oklahoma State.”Chris Yuhl, a Los Angeles attorney and 1983 CU graduate who attends home and road football games, said he disagrees with the move from a fan standpoint but understands why it happened.“It’s like Rick George and Phil DiStefano are at a craps table and have a hot hand, getting Deion and doing what they did here,” Yuhl said. “We went from nobody wanting CU last October to being the first girl everyone wants to dance with in the Big 12 right now.”The Big 12 has 14 members this year, but Texas and Oklahoma are leaving for the Southeastern Conference next year. A second person familiar with the Big 12’s discussions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-pac12-big-12-conference-realignment-yormark-kliavkoff-09b3d9604505b23e311564fac677971d">told AP the conference would ideally like to expand to 16 schools</a>&nbsp;with Arizona, Arizona State, Utah and Colorado all coming over from the Pac-12 to create a Western wing of the league.Although the Big 12 landscape is different this time around with the additions of BYU, Central Florida, Houston and Cincinnati, the Buffaloes have several rivalries to renew."Iowa State is thrilled to welcome the University of Colorado back into the Big 12 Conference," Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard said. “The Cyclones and Buffaloes enjoyed a spirited rivalry for more than 60 years in the Big 7, Big 8 and early years of the Big 12, so we are excited to resume competing with them next year.”George said he will seek a seventh home game to replace what were non-conference games at Houston in 2025 and Kansas State in 2028.