TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;1,906&nbsp; new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday October 12, to Wednesday October 19, for a total of 884,969 cases.&nbsp; &nbsp;The state reported 2,866 new cases during the first week of October.

On Wednesday, th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported</a>&nbsp;11 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on October 12 for a total of 9,601.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

Kansas is providing fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”

The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;1,906&nbsp; new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday October 12, to Wednesday October 19, for a total of 884,969 cases.&nbsp; &nbsp;The state reported 2,866 new cases during the first week of October.On Wednesday, th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported</a>&nbsp;11 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on October 12 for a total of 9,601.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666200505822.png" alt="Wednesday October 19, 2022 -KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday October 19, 2022 -KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.Kansas is providing fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

KDHE: COVID case numbers down over the past week

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a a suspect after a high-speed chase on Interstate 70.

Just after 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, an officer with the Salina Police Department observed a 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche with an expired license plate leaving the parking lot of Flying J Travel Center, 2250 N. Ohio Street, and heading north on N. Ohio Street, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.

The officer attempted to stop the pickup as it was turning eastbound onto Interstate 70, but the pickup took off and a pursuit ensued. Speeds reached up to 100 mph, according to Forrester.

The officer terminated the pursuit at the Dickinson County line, but Dickinson County Sheriff's deputies were later able to stop the pickup and take the driver, identified as Tyrone Fenton, 43, of Salina, into custody on requested charges of Possession of marijuana, Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of stimulant, Driving while a habitual violator; 3rd or subsequent conviction, Driving while suspended; 3rd or subsequent conviction, Yield emergency vehicle; Fail; Unknown circumstances, and Vehicles; Operate vehicle without registration or w/expired tag.

Requested charges in Saline County include Felony flee and elude, Speeding, Driving while suspended and a Vehicle registration violation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666194787727.jpeg" alt="Fenton -photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Fenton -photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostDICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a a suspect after a high-speed chase on Interstate 70.Just after 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, an officer with the Salina Police Department observed a 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche with an expired license plate leaving the parking lot of Flying J Travel Center, 2250 N. Ohio Street, and heading north on N. Ohio Street, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.The officer attempted to stop the pickup as it was turning eastbound onto Interstate 70, but the pickup took off and a pursuit ensued. Speeds reached up to 100 mph, according to Forrester.The officer terminated the pursuit at the Dickinson County line, but Dickinson County Sheriff's deputies were later able to stop the pickup and take the driver, identified as Tyrone Fenton, 43, of Salina, into custody on requested charges of Possession of marijuana, Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of stimulant, Driving while a habitual violator; 3rd or subsequent conviction, Driving while suspended; 3rd or subsequent conviction, Yield emergency vehicle; Fail; Unknown circumstances, and Vehicles; Operate vehicle without registration or w/expired tag.Requested charges in Saline County include Felony flee and elude, Speeding, Driving while suspended and a Vehicle registration violation.

Police: Kansas man jailed after 100mph chase on I-70

HUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Republican candidate for governor, Derek Schmidt said there are no surprises in what he's learning matters to Kansans on the campaign trail.

"The number one thing on the minds of the vast majority of Kansans is the affordability of daily life," Schmidt said. "You've got this out of control inflation, driven by big government spending out of Washington. You've got the rising costs of everything from gasoline, to now they are predicting, home heating costs going into the winter. I hear from more people than ever before this concern that just the daily cost of living is less affordable."

One of those daily costs of living is groceries. Schmidt deferred to the legislature when it comes to setting tax policy, but said he would be okay with speeding up the reduction in the food sales tax if that's what they want to do when they get back in January.

"The legislature decided on a phase out," Schmidt said. "I think that's good, that we're moving in the right direction, finally. If they want to do it faster, that's certainly fine with me, as well. I think that relief would be welcome."

Schmidt would also like to make sure government spending gets a little better in check overall come January.

"You have to start slowing that rate of growth," Schmidt said. "That's just an overall discussion. It's not a matter of cutting or reducing at this point. We're trying to avoid that down the road by making sure that this accelerating rate of expenditure is a flatter curve. In other words, you can't keep spending 35% more over four years, especially when your state's not growing, your population, your economy aren't growing, they're relatively flat, without eventually those chickens coming home to roost. We have to start slowing down that growth rate."

Schmidt also wants the legislature to look at removing taxes on retirement income and on updating the homestead exemption to create more opportunities for seniors to stay in the homes they own outright.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. —&nbsp;Republican candidate for governor, Derek Schmidt said there are no surprises in what he's learning matters to Kansans on the campaign trail."The number one thing on the minds of the vast majority of Kansans is the affordability of daily life," Schmidt said. "You've got this out of control inflation, driven by big government spending out of Washington. You've got the rising costs of everything from gasoline, to now they are predicting, home heating costs going into the winter. I hear from more people than ever before this concern that just the daily cost of living is less affordable."One of those daily costs of living is groceries. Schmidt deferred to the legislature when it comes to setting tax policy, but said he would be okay with speeding up the reduction in the food sales tax if that's what they want to do when they get back in January."The legislature decided on a phase out," Schmidt said. "I think that's good, that we're moving in the right direction, finally. If they want to do it faster, that's certainly fine with me, as well. I think that relief would be welcome."Schmidt would also like to make sure government spending gets a little better in check overall come January."You have to start slowing that rate of growth," Schmidt said. "That's just an overall discussion. It's not a matter of cutting or reducing at this point. We're trying to avoid that down the road by making sure that this accelerating rate of expenditure is a flatter curve. In other words, you can't keep spending 35% more over four years, especially when your state's not growing, your population, your economy aren't growing, they're relatively flat, without eventually those chickens coming home to roost. We have to start slowing down that growth rate."Schmidt also wants the legislature to look at removing taxes on retirement income and on updating the homestead exemption to create more opportunities for seniors to stay in the homes they own outright.

Schmidt: Affordability of daily life is Kansans top issue

Anchorage, Alaska —The Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Region detected, tracked, positively identified and intercepted two Russian Tu-95 Bear-H bombers entering and operating within the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) on Monday, according to a media release from the command.

Two U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter aircraft intercepted the Russian aircraft which remained in international airspace and did not enter American or Canadian sovereign airspace.

The recent Russian activity in the North American ADIZ is not seen as a threat nor is the activity seen as provocative, according to the release.

In September, a U.S. Coast Guard ship on routine patrol in the Bering Sea came across a guided missile cruiser from China, 86 miles north of Alaska’s Kiska Island.&nbsp;The patrol boat later discovered there were two other Chinese naval ships and four Russian naval vessels, including a destroyer, all in single formation, according to a report from the Associated Press.

 NORAD tracks and positively identifies foreign military aircraft that enter the ADIZ. NORAD routinely monitors foreign aircraft movements and as necessary, escorts them from the ADIZ.

NORAD employs a layered defense network of satellites, ground-based radars, airborne radar and fighter aircraft to track and identify aircraft and inform appropriate actions.&nbsp;

The Coast Guard has not released additional details on the September incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666187064189.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anchorage, Alaska —The Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Region detected, tracked, positively identified and intercepted two Russian Tu-95 Bear-H bombers entering and operating within the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) on Monday, according to a media release from the command.Two U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter aircraft intercepted the Russian aircraft which remained in international airspace and did not enter American or Canadian sovereign airspace.The recent Russian activity in the North American ADIZ is not seen as a threat nor is the activity seen as provocative, according to the release.In September, a U.S. Coast Guard ship on routine patrol in the Bering Sea came across a guided missile cruiser from China, 86 miles north of Alaska’s Kiska Island.&nbsp;The patrol boat later discovered there were two other Chinese naval ships and four Russian naval vessels, including a destroyer, all in single formation, according to a report from the Associated Press. NORAD tracks and positively identifies foreign military aircraft that enter the ADIZ. NORAD routinely monitors foreign aircraft movements and as necessary, escorts them from the ADIZ.NORAD employs a layered defense network of satellites, ground-based radars, airborne radar and fighter aircraft to track and identify aircraft and inform appropriate actions.&nbsp;The Coast Guard has not released additional details on the September incident.

US intercepts two Russian bombers off Alaskan coast

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged arson fire and have a suspect in custody.

Just before 7p.m. Monday, fire crews responded to the report of a house fire at 710 SW Polk Street in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Alan Stahl.

 Upon arrival, fire crews found heavy smoke and fire coming from a two-story home. Due to the advanced fire conditions, fire crews began a defensive fire attack in an attempt to keep the fire contained to a single home. The fire did cause damage three other buildings before firefighters could bring it under control.

Neighbors reported there were possible people in the residence. Additionally, neighbors reported a person running from the building. 

Officers from the Topeka Police Department were able to locate the individual who was seen running from the house. A Topeka Fire Investigator arrived with Officers and began to question the individual. 

The suspect identified as 27-year-old Nathaniel Stanton told investigators that all occupants of the house were able to escape before the fire department’s arrival.

The Topeka Fire Department Investigation Unit and investigators from the Office of the Kansas State Fire Marshall responded to the scene to perform an origin and cause scene investigation.

That investigation indicates the cause of the fire as incendiary, intentionally set. Police arrested Stanton and booked into jail on requested charges that include 3 counts of Arson and 1 count of Criminal Trespass. The home was vacant and had sustained damage from 2 previous fires. The estimated dollar loss – $14,670, all associated with structural loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666108992714.png" alt="Stanton-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Stanton-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged arson fire and have a suspect in custody.Just before 7p.m. Monday, fire crews responded to the report of a house fire at 710 SW Polk Street in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Alan Stahl. Upon arrival, fire crews found heavy smoke and fire coming from a two-story home. Due to the advanced fire conditions, fire crews began a defensive fire attack in an attempt to keep the fire contained to a single home. The fire did cause damage three other buildings before firefighters could bring it under control.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666109517154.png" alt="Crews on the scene of the fire -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Crews on the scene of the fire -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Neighbors reported there were possible people in the residence. Additionally, neighbors reported a person running from the building. Officers from the Topeka Police Department were able to locate the individual who was seen running from the house. A Topeka Fire Investigator arrived with Officers and began to question the individual. The suspect identified as 27-year-old Nathaniel Stanton told investigators that all occupants of the house were able to escape before the fire department’s arrival.The Topeka Fire Department Investigation Unit and investigators from the Office of the Kansas State Fire Marshall responded to the scene to perform an origin and cause scene investigation.That investigation indicates the cause of the fire as incendiary, intentionally set. Police arrested Stanton and booked into jail on requested charges that include 3 counts of Arson and 1 count of Criminal Trespass. The home was vacant and had sustained damage from 2 previous fires. The estimated dollar loss – $14,670, all associated with structural loss.

Man accused of setting fire that damaged Kan. home, 3 other buildings

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The federal government announced Tuesday a program that will provide $1.3 billion in debt relief for about 36,000 farmers who have fallen behind on loan payments or face foreclosure.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the farm loan relief program funded from $3.1 billion set aside in the Inflation Reduction Act allocated toward assisting distressed borrowers of direct or guaranteed loans administered by USDA. The law was passed by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden in August.

The USDA provides loans to about 115,000 farmers and livestock producers who cannot obtain commercial credit. Those who have missed payments, are in foreclosure or are heading toward default will get help from the USDA. Financial difficulties for farmers may be caused by a variety of issues including drought and transportation bottlenecks.

“Through no fault of their own, our nation’s farmers and ranchers have faced incredibly tough circumstances over the last few years,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The funding included in today’s announcement helps keep our farmers farming and provides a fresh start for producers in challenging positions.”

About 11,000 farm borrowers delinquent on direct or guaranteed loan payments for 60 days or longer are receiving automatic electronic payments to get them current on their loans. Each farmer with a direct loan received about $52,000 and those with guaranteed loans received about $172,000. The total cost for this group is nearly $600 million. Farmers who received this help will get a letter informing them that their payments have been made and they will remain current until their next annual payment is due in 2023, Vilsack said.

Another $200 million has been used to immediately help 2,100 farm borrowers after their loans had been foreclosed but who still owed money and had their tax refunds and other resources taken by the U.S. Treasury. The money will be used to pay the money these farmers owe to give them a fresh start, Vilsack said. The USDA said farmers in this category received an average of $101,000.

Another $571 million will be used help several additional groups including:

—7,000 farmers who during the COVID pandemic delayed loan payments to the end of their loans. This will cost $66 million.

—1,600 farmers that face bankruptcy or foreclosure will get help on a case-by-case basis with individual meetings to assess their problem and find solutions at a cost of $330 million.

—14,000 financially distressed farm borrowers facing cash flow problems who ask for help to avoid missing a loan payment will receive additional assistance. Vilsack said these issues could be brought on by drought or by low levels on the Mississippi River that is slowing barge traffic causing grain transportation issues. Up to $175 million will be available for this program.

The money announced Tuesday is the first round of payments designed to help insure the farmers stay in business or re-enter farming.

The remainder of the $3.1 billion will be used to help relax unnecessary loan restrictions and provide further assistance to be announced later, the USDA said.

Farmers assisted by the program have been found by the USDA to be distressed borrowers hard hit by pandemic-induced market disruptions exacerbated by more frequent, more intense, climate-driven natural disasters, the USDA said.

President Joe Biden and his administration continue to endure criticism for enacting a program to forgive some college loans but some of the Republican politicians who have criticized that program did not respond to questions about whether they support the farm loan help.

The USDA also provided $31 billion to help nearly a million farmers offset lower sales, prices and other losses due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2021 and 2022, the U.S. Government Accountability Office has said.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5qYVbVE9ul0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — The federal government announced Tuesday a program that will provide $1.3 billion in debt relief for about 36,000 farmers who have fallen behind on loan payments or face foreclosure.The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the farm loan relief program funded from $3.1 billion set aside in the Inflation Reduction Act allocated toward assisting distressed borrowers of direct or guaranteed loans administered by USDA. The law was passed by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden in August.The USDA provides loans to about 115,000 farmers and livestock producers who cannot obtain commercial credit. Those who have missed payments, are in foreclosure or are heading toward default will get help from the USDA. Financial difficulties for farmers may be caused by a variety of issues including drought and transportation bottlenecks.“Through no fault of their own, our nation’s farmers and ranchers have faced incredibly tough circumstances over the last few years,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The funding included in today’s announcement helps keep our farmers farming and provides a fresh start for producers in challenging positions.”About 11,000 farm borrowers delinquent on direct or guaranteed loan payments for 60 days or longer are receiving automatic electronic payments to get them current on their loans. Each farmer with a direct loan received about $52,000 and those with guaranteed loans received about $172,000. The total cost for this group is nearly $600 million. Farmers who received this help will get a letter informing them that their payments have been made and they will remain current until their next annual payment is due in 2023, Vilsack said.Another $200 million has been used to immediately help 2,100 farm borrowers after their loans had been foreclosed but who still owed money and had their tax refunds and other resources taken by the U.S. Treasury. The money will be used to pay the money these farmers owe to give them a fresh start, Vilsack said. The USDA said farmers in this category received an average of $101,000.Another $571 million will be used help several additional groups including:—7,000 farmers who during the COVID pandemic delayed loan payments to the end of their loans. This will cost $66 million.—1,600 farmers that face bankruptcy or foreclosure will get help on a case-by-case basis with individual meetings to assess their problem and find solutions at a cost of $330 million.—14,000 financially distressed farm borrowers facing cash flow problems who ask for help to avoid missing a loan payment will receive additional assistance. Vilsack said these issues could be brought on by drought or by low levels on the Mississippi River that is slowing barge traffic causing grain transportation issues. Up to $175 million will be available for this program.The money announced Tuesday is the first round of payments designed to help insure the farmers stay in business or re-enter farming.The remainder of the $3.1 billion will be used to help relax unnecessary loan restrictions and provide further assistance to be announced later, the USDA said.Farmers assisted by the program have been found by the USDA to be distressed borrowers hard hit by pandemic-induced market disruptions exacerbated by more frequent, more intense, climate-driven natural disasters, the USDA said.President Joe Biden and his administration continue to endure criticism for enacting a program to forgive some college loans but some of the Republican politicians who have criticized that program did not respond to questions about whether they support the farm loan help.The USDA also provided $31 billion to help nearly a million farmers offset lower sales, prices and other losses due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2021 and 2022, the U.S. Government Accountability Office has said.

USDA announces $1 billion debt relief for farmers

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The general election is November 8.&nbsp; U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Labor Secretary Martin Walsh are scheduled for campaign duty in Kansas Wednesday. 

The two Biden cabinet secretaries&nbsp; will make appearances with Democrat candidates.

&nbsp;Walsh is scheduled to appear with Kansas 3rd District Democratic Representative Sharice Davids in Edgerton for a supply chain-focused event, according to a statement from his office. Davids is in a tight race with GOP challenger Amanda Adkins.

Buttigieg will address a rally for candidates in Kansas City, Kansas.&nbsp;

In January, Secretary Buttigieg made a stop in Kansas City, Kansas to promote  President Biden's  bipartisan $1 trillion  infrastructure bill and the associated investment in the region.

On Friday, former Vice President Mike Pence will appear with Derek Schmidt at<a href="https://bbqwichita.com/">&nbsp;B&amp;C Barbecue</a>&nbsp;in Wichita,&nbsp;according to Schmidt’s campaign. Schmidt is in a tight race for governor against incumbent Laura Kelly.

Fellow Republicans, Sen. Jerry Moran and Reps. Ron Estes, Tracey Mann and Jake LaTurner, will also attend the campaign event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1572741847069.png" alt="Secretary Pete Buttigieg courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Secretary Pete Buttigieg courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The general election is November 8.&nbsp; U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Labor Secretary Martin Walsh are scheduled for campaign duty in Kansas Wednesday. The two Biden cabinet secretaries&nbsp; will make appearances with Democrat candidates.&nbsp;Walsh is scheduled to appear with Kansas 3rd District Democratic Representative Sharice Davids in Edgerton for a supply chain-focused event, according to a statement from his office. Davids is in a tight race with GOP challenger Amanda Adkins.Buttigieg will address a rally for candidates in Kansas City, Kansas.&nbsp;In January, Secretary Buttigieg made a stop in Kansas City, Kansas to promote President Biden's bipartisan $1 trillion infrastructure bill and the associated investment in the region.On Friday, former Vice President Mike Pence will appear with Derek Schmidt at<a href="https://bbqwichita.com/">&nbsp;B&amp;C Barbecue</a>&nbsp;in Wichita,&nbsp;according to Schmidt’s campaign. Schmidt is in a tight race for governor against incumbent Laura Kelly.Fellow Republicans, Sen. Jerry Moran and Reps. Ron Estes, Tracey Mann and Jake LaTurner, will also attend the campaign event.

Biden cabinet secretaries will campaign in Kansas 

PAWNEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 7p.m. Tuesday in Pawnee County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Toyota passenger car driven by Barbara N.&nbsp;Westeman, 60, Syracuse, was northbound on U.S. 183 eleven miles south of Rush Center.

The Toyota was passing a 2000 International semi driven by Nathaniel J. Dunlay, 40, Torrington, Wyoming, in a No Passing Zone. 

A southbound, non-contact vehicle, traveled into the west ditch to avoid a head-on collision with Toyota. 

Dunlay lost control of the semi as the vehicle traveled partially onto the east shoulder. He overcorrected, the semi crossed the roadway, entered the west ditch and came to rest on its top, facing southwest.

Dunlay was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Beckwith Mortuary. Westeman was not injured. Dunlay was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

PAWNEE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 7p.m. Tuesday in Pawnee County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2010 Toyota passenger car driven by Barbara N.&nbsp;Westeman, 60, Syracuse, was northbound on U.S. 183 eleven miles south of Rush Center.The Toyota was passing a 2000 International semi driven by Nathaniel J. Dunlay, 40, Torrington, Wyoming, in a No Passing Zone. A southbound, non-contact vehicle, traveled into the west ditch to avoid a head-on collision with Toyota. Dunlay lost control of the semi as the vehicle traveled partially onto the east shoulder. He overcorrected, the semi crossed the roadway, entered the west ditch and came to rest on its top, facing southwest.Dunlay was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Beckwith Mortuary. Westeman was not injured. Dunlay was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

1 dead after semi swerves to avoid Kan. driver in no passing zone

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Missouri Supreme Court on Tuesday set a February execution date for a suburban St. Louis man who was convicted of killing his girlfriend and her three young children nearly 18 years ago.

Leonard Taylor, 58, is scheduled to be executed on Feb. 7 at the state prison in Bonne Terre. He was convicted in 2008 in the shooting deaths of Angela Rowe, 28, and her three children, Alexis, 10; AcQreya, 6; and Tyrese Conley, 5. Their bodies were found in their home in Jennings on Dec. 3, 2004.

In May 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Taylor’s case, leading to the setting of an execution date.

Taylor's execution would come about a month after another convicted killer is scheduled to die in Missouri. Scott McLaughlin, who was convicted of raping and killing an ex-girlfriend 19 years ago, is scheduled for execution on Jan. 3.

Another convicted killer, Kevin Johnson, faces the death penalty on Nov. 29 for killing Kirkwood Police Sgt. Bill McEntee in suburban St. Louis in 2005.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666131833787.png" alt="Taylor-photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Taylor-photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Missouri Supreme Court on Tuesday set a February execution date for a suburban St. Louis man who was convicted of killing his girlfriend and her three young children nearly 18 years ago.Leonard Taylor, 58, is scheduled to be executed on Feb. 7 at the state prison in Bonne Terre. He was convicted in 2008 in the shooting deaths of Angela Rowe, 28, and her three children, Alexis, 10; AcQreya, 6; and Tyrese Conley, 5. Their bodies were found in their home in Jennings on Dec. 3, 2004.In May 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Taylor’s case, leading to the setting of an execution date.Taylor's execution would come about a month after another convicted killer is scheduled to die in Missouri. Scott McLaughlin, who was convicted of raping and killing an ex-girlfriend 19 years ago, is scheduled for execution on Jan. 3.Another convicted killer, Kevin Johnson, faces the death penalty on Nov. 29 for killing Kirkwood Police Sgt. Bill McEntee in suburban St. Louis in 2005.

Execution date set for man who killed girlfriend, 3 kids

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded employers to
 file the next quarterly payroll tax return by the approaching October 
31, 2022, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/employment-tax-due-dates">due date</a>, and urged them to do so electronically.

While paper filing is available, the IRS strongly encourages 
e-filing. E-filing is the most secure, accurate method to file returns 
and saves taxpayers' time.

E-filing is easy with auto-populating forms and schedules with a 
step-by-step process that performs calculations for the employer.

The IRS acknowledges receipt of e-filed returns within 24 hours, 
giving taxpayers reassurance that their return was not misplaced or lost
 in the mail. E-file users also receive missing information alerts.

Two options to electronically file payroll tax returns

Employers can choose to self-file by purchasing IRS-approved <a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/94x-mef-providers">software</a>
 that meets their specific needs. There may be a fee to electronically 
file returns through the software, and the software will require a 
signature to e-file the returns.

Depending on the software they choose, taxpayers will have one or both of the following options:

The second option for employers is to hire a tax professional to
 prepare and file their employment tax returns. Taxpayers can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/authorized-irs-e-file-provider-locator-service-for-tax-professionals">Authorized IRS e-file Provider Locator Service</a>&nbsp;to find a tax professional who can file on behalf of the business.

For more information on electronic filing of payroll tax returns, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/e-file-employment-tax-forms">E-file Employment Tax Forms</a>&nbsp;page.

Employers can find information on the most recent tax relief provisions for taxpayers affected by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations">disaster</a> situations on IRS.gov. See&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/faqs-for-disaster-victims">FAQs for Disaster Victims&nbsp;</a>for information about the definition of an affected taxpayer.

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation">IRS News from Around the Nation</a>&nbsp;provides IRS news specific to local areas, primarily disaster relief or tax provisions that affect certain states.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded employers to
 file the next quarterly payroll tax return by the approaching October 
31, 2022, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/employment-tax-due-dates">due date</a>, and urged them to do so electronically.While paper filing is available, the IRS strongly encourages 
e-filing. E-filing is the most secure, accurate method to file returns 
and saves taxpayers' time.E-filing is easy with auto-populating forms and schedules with a 
step-by-step process that performs calculations for the employer.The IRS acknowledges receipt of e-filed returns within 24 hours, 
giving taxpayers reassurance that their return was not misplaced or lost
 in the mail. E-file users also receive missing information alerts.<h2>Two options to electronically file payroll tax returns</h2>Employers can choose to self-file by purchasing IRS-approved <a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/94x-mef-providers">software</a>
 that meets their specific needs. There may be a fee to electronically 
file returns through the software, and the software will require a 
signature to e-file the returns.Depending on the software they choose, taxpayers will have one or both of the following options:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/use-an-on-line-signature-pin-to-e-file-employment-tax-forms">Apply for an online signature PIN</a></li><li>Scan and attach <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8453-emp">Form 8453-EMP, Employment Tax Declaration for an IRS e-file Return</a>, for the required signature.</li>
 </ul>The second option for employers is to hire a tax professional to
 prepare and file their employment tax returns. Taxpayers can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/authorized-irs-e-file-provider-locator-service-for-tax-professionals">Authorized IRS e-file Provider Locator Service</a>&nbsp;to find a tax professional who can file on behalf of the business.For more information on electronic filing of payroll tax returns, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/e-file-employment-tax-forms">E-file Employment Tax Forms</a>&nbsp;page.<h2>Tax relief in disaster situations</h2>Employers can find information on the most recent tax relief provisions for taxpayers affected by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations">disaster</a> situations on IRS.gov. See&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/faqs-for-disaster-victims">FAQs for Disaster Victims&nbsp;</a>for information about the definition of an affected taxpayer.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/around-the-nation">IRS News from Around the Nation</a>&nbsp;provides IRS news specific to local areas, primarily disaster relief or tax provisions that affect certain states.

Employers urged to electronically file payroll tax returns by Oct. 31

KANSAS CITY —A&nbsp; Kansas City man has been charged in the fatal stabbing with a sword of his brother found on the family's front porch, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Aaron K. Winn, 38, faces Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action charges.

According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched to the 6200 block of Tracy on a reported stabbing. Officers found the victim, Karl Winn, on the front porch. He had a sword through his chest. 

The defendant told police detectives initially that his brother had committed suicide. Then Winn stated that he had an argument with his brother over an oven. He showed officers a Facebook video in which he threatened to kill his brother.

Winn is being held on a $750,000 bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666057719069.png" alt="Winn-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Winn-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A&nbsp; Kansas City man has been charged in the fatal stabbing with a sword of his brother found on the family's front porch, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Aaron K. Winn, 38, faces Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action charges.According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched to the 6200 block of Tracy on a reported stabbing. Officers found the victim, Karl Winn, on the front porch. He had a sword through his chest. The defendant told police detectives initially that his brother had committed suicide. Then Winn stated that he had an argument with his brother over an oven. He showed officers a Facebook video in which he threatened to kill his brother.Winn is being held on a $750,000 bond.&nbsp;

Kansas City man accused of killing his brother with a sword  

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 10a.m. Oct. 16, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a 2001 Ford van west of Mayetta for an alleged registration violation, according to sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp;

 A Jackson County Sheriff K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics inside the vehicle. 

The deputy arrested the driver, Nicole Eileen Jacobs, 49, of Lawrence, on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, interference with law enforcement, two counts of endangering a child and no insurance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666045672115.png" alt="Jacobs-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Jacobs-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple charges after a traffic stop.Just after 10a.m. Oct. 16, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a 2001 Ford van west of Mayetta for an alleged registration violation, according to sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp; A Jackson County Sheriff K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics inside the vehicle. The deputy arrested the driver, Nicole Eileen Jacobs, 49, of Lawrence, on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, interference with law enforcement, two counts of endangering a child and no insurance.

Sheriff: Kansas woman was transporting drugs with kids in van

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden will announce the release of 15 million barrels of oil from the U.S. strategic reserve Wednesday as part of a response to recent production cuts announced by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/opec">OPEC+ nations</a>, and he will say more oil sales are possible this winter, as his administration rushes to be seen as pulling out all the stops ahead of next month’s midterm elections.

Biden will deliver remarks Wednesday to announce the drawdown from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-prices-ae5200310e3d3c0390d9e1cbb3c5a964">strategic reserve</a>, senior administration officials said Tuesday on the condition of anonymity to outline Biden's plans. It completes the release of 180 million barrels over six months authorized by Biden in March. That has sent the strategic reserve to its lowest level since 1984 in what the president called a “bridge” until domestic production could be increased. The reserve now contains roughly 400 million barrels of oil.

Biden will also open the door to additional releases this winter in an effort to bring prices down, but administration officials would not detail how much the president would be willing to tap and the conditions under which he would do so.

Biden will also say that the U.S. government will restock the strategic reserve when oil prices are at or lower than $67 to $72 a barrel, an offer that administration officials argue will increase domestic production by guaranteeing a baseline level of demand even if prices fall. Yet the president is also expected to renew his criticism of the profits reaped by oil companies — repeating a bet made this summer that public condemnation would matter more to these companies than shareholders’ focus on returns.

It marks the continuation of an about-face by Biden, who has tried to move the U.S. past fossil fuels to identify additional sources of energy to satisfy U.S. and global supply as a result of disruptions from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and production cuts announced by the Saudi Arabia-led oil cartel.

The prospective loss of 2 million barrels a day — 2% of global supply — has had the White House saying Saudi Arabia sided with Russian President Vladimir Putin and pledging there will be consequences for supply cuts that could prop up energy prices. The 15 million-barrel release would not cover even one full day's use of oil in the U.S., according to the Energy Information Administration.

The administration could make a decision on future releases a month from now, as it requires a month and a half for the strategic reserve to notify would-be buyers.

Biden had pledged to speak about his plans to reduce gasoline prices this week. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to say what policies Biden will discuss, telling reporters at Tuesday's briefing, “I will let the president speak for himself."

Jared Bernstein, a member of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, said a past release of oil from the U.S. strategic reserve contributed to a decline in prices at the pump this summer. That decline ended last month as prices began to rise again, though they've eased somewhat in the past week.

Bernstein suggested to Fox News Sunday that the reserve is large enough that the White House could tap it again.

“There are still 400 million barrels of oil in the strategic reserve — it is more than half full,” Bernstein said, adding that Biden had not yet made a final decision on releasing more barrels.

Biden still faces political headwinds because of gas prices. AAA reports that gas is averaging $3.87 a gallon, up from a month ago when falling prices at the pump suggested that the president and his fellow Democrats were faring better in surveys.

An analysis Monday by ClearView Energy Partners, an independent energy research firm based in Washington, suggested that two states that could decide control of the evenly split Senate — Nevada and Pennsylvania — are sensitive to energy prices. The analysis noted that gas prices over the past month rose above the national average in 18 states, which are home to 29 potentially “at risk” House seats.

Even if voters want cheaper gasoline, expected gains in supply are not materializing because of a weaker global economy. The U.S. government last week revised downward its forecasts, saying that domestic firms would produce 270,000 fewer barrels a day in 2023 than was forecast in September. Global production would be 600,000 barrels a day lower than forecast in September.

The hard math for Biden is that oil production has yet to return to its pre-pandemic level of roughly 13 million barrels a day. It's about a million barrels a day shy of that level. The oil industry would like the administration to open up more federal lands for drilling, approve pipeline construction and reverse its recent changes to raise corporate taxes. The administration counters that the oil industry is sitting on thousands of unused federal leases and says new permits would take years to produce oil with no impact on current gas prices. Environmental groups, meanwhile, have asked Biden to keep a campaign promise to block new drilling on federal lands.

Biden has resisted the policies favored by U.S. oil producers. Instead, he's sought to reduce prices by releasing oil from the U.S. reserve, shaming oil companies for their profits and calling on greater production from countries in OPEC+ that have different geopolitical interests, said Frank Macchiarola, senior vice president of policy, economics and regulatory affairs at the American Petroleum Institute.

“If they continue to offer the same old so-called solutions, they’ll continue to get the same old results,” Macchiarola said.

Because fossil fuels lead to carbon emissions, Biden has sought to move away from them entirely with a commitment to zero emissions by 2050. When discussing that commitment nearly a year ago after the G-20 leading rich and developing nations met in Rome, the president said he still wanted to also lower gas prices because at “$3.35 a gallon, it has profound impact on working-class families just to get back and forth to work."

Since Biden spoke of the pain of gas at $3.35 a gallon and his hopes to reduce costs, the price has risen another 15.5%.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden will announce the release of 15 million barrels of oil from the U.S. strategic reserve Wednesday as part of a response to recent production cuts announced by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/opec">OPEC+ nations</a>, and he will say more oil sales are possible this winter, as his administration rushes to be seen as pulling out all the stops ahead of next month’s midterm elections.Biden will deliver remarks Wednesday to announce the drawdown from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-business-prices-ae5200310e3d3c0390d9e1cbb3c5a964">strategic reserve</a>, senior administration officials said Tuesday on the condition of anonymity to outline Biden's plans. It completes the release of 180 million barrels over six months authorized by Biden in March. That has sent the strategic reserve to its lowest level since 1984 in what the president called a “bridge” until domestic production could be increased. The reserve now contains roughly 400 million barrels of oil.Biden will also open the door to additional releases this winter in an effort to bring prices down, but administration officials would not detail how much the president would be willing to tap and the conditions under which he would do so.Biden will also say that the U.S. government will restock the strategic reserve when oil prices are at or lower than $67 to $72 a barrel, an offer that administration officials argue will increase domestic production by guaranteeing a baseline level of demand even if prices fall. Yet the president is also expected to renew his criticism of the profits reaped by oil companies — repeating a bet made this summer that public condemnation would matter more to these companies than shareholders’ focus on returns.It marks the continuation of an about-face by Biden, who has tried to move the U.S. past fossil fuels to identify additional sources of energy to satisfy U.S. and global supply as a result of disruptions from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and production cuts announced by the Saudi Arabia-led oil cartel.The prospective loss of 2 million barrels a day — 2% of global supply — has had the White House saying Saudi Arabia sided with Russian President Vladimir Putin and pledging there will be consequences for supply cuts that could prop up energy prices. The 15 million-barrel release would not cover even one full day's use of oil in the U.S., according to the Energy Information Administration.The administration could make a decision on future releases a month from now, as it requires a month and a half for the strategic reserve to notify would-be buyers.Biden had pledged to speak about his plans to reduce gasoline prices this week. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre declined to say what policies Biden will discuss, telling reporters at Tuesday's briefing, “I will let the president speak for himself."Jared Bernstein, a member of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, said a past release of oil from the U.S. strategic reserve contributed to a decline in prices at the pump this summer. That decline ended last month as prices began to rise again, though they've eased somewhat in the past week.Bernstein suggested to Fox News Sunday that the reserve is large enough that the White House could tap it again.“There are still 400 million barrels of oil in the strategic reserve — it is more than half full,” Bernstein said, adding that Biden had not yet made a final decision on releasing more barrels.Biden still faces political headwinds because of gas prices. AAA reports that gas is averaging $3.87 a gallon, up from a month ago when falling prices at the pump suggested that the president and his fellow Democrats were faring better in surveys.An analysis Monday by ClearView Energy Partners, an independent energy research firm based in Washington, suggested that two states that could decide control of the evenly split Senate — Nevada and Pennsylvania — are sensitive to energy prices. The analysis noted that gas prices over the past month rose above the national average in 18 states, which are home to 29 potentially “at risk” House seats.Even if voters want cheaper gasoline, expected gains in supply are not materializing because of a weaker global economy. The U.S. government last week revised downward its forecasts, saying that domestic firms would produce 270,000 fewer barrels a day in 2023 than was forecast in September. Global production would be 600,000 barrels a day lower than forecast in September.The hard math for Biden is that oil production has yet to return to its pre-pandemic level of roughly 13 million barrels a day. It's about a million barrels a day shy of that level. The oil industry would like the administration to open up more federal lands for drilling, approve pipeline construction and reverse its recent changes to raise corporate taxes. The administration counters that the oil industry is sitting on thousands of unused federal leases and says new permits would take years to produce oil with no impact on current gas prices. Environmental groups, meanwhile, have asked Biden to keep a campaign promise to block new drilling on federal lands.Biden has resisted the policies favored by U.S. oil producers. Instead, he's sought to reduce prices by releasing oil from the U.S. reserve, shaming oil companies for their profits and calling on greater production from countries in OPEC+ that have different geopolitical interests, said Frank Macchiarola, senior vice president of policy, economics and regulatory affairs at the American Petroleum Institute.“If they continue to offer the same old so-called solutions, they’ll continue to get the same old results,” Macchiarola said.Because fossil fuels lead to carbon emissions, Biden has sought to move away from them entirely with a commitment to zero emissions by 2050. When discussing that commitment nearly a year ago after the G-20 leading rich and developing nations met in Rome, the president said he still wanted to also lower gas prices because at “$3.35 a gallon, it has profound impact on working-class families just to get back and forth to work."Since Biden spoke of the pain of gas at $3.35 a gallon and his hopes to reduce costs, the price has risen another 15.5%.

Biden to release 15M barrels from oil reserve, more possible

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Following a search that started last spring, the City of Wichita announced Tuesday the appointment of Joseph Sullivan to serve as the next chief of police, according to a media release from the city.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wichita.gov/WPDChiefSearch/Documents/Joe%20Sullivan%20Bio.pdf">Click here to read </a>Sullivan's biography

Sullivan has more than 25 years of law enforcement and management experience. As Deputy Commissioner of Patrol Operations in the Philadelphia Police Department, he oversaw a force of 4,698 sworn officers and civilian personnel and was responsible for the majority of the department’s $750 million annual budget.

Sullivan works currently in business development at Lawmen Supply Company and as President of Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation in Philadelphia.

“Joe Sullivan has a proven ability to successfully lead and manage a world-class police department. I have every confidence that he is the right person at the right time to take on the challenging task of ensuring Wichita residents have trust in the integrity and transparency of our police department,” said City Manager Robert Layton. “His experience in patrol leadership will help us as we work to enhance patrol operations. He joins us at a crucial time for the Wichita Police Department and will help guide us through a period of change. I look forward to welcoming him to Wichita.”

Chief Sullivan is tasked with enhancing the recruitment, training and mentoring of staff and focusing on data-driven policing. He also plans on strengthening community policing and increasing citizen engagement with the department.

Sullivan’s salary will be $210,000 annually and he begins in early December. He will manage a $108 million budget and supervise more than 900 employees in the state’s largest police department.

The search process, led by Public Sector Search &amp; Consulting, vetted 19 candidates for the position, including both internal and external candidates. The City would like to thank the public for robust input in the search process as well as the guidance of the Search Review Committee.

The Wichita Police Chief position has been open since March of 2022 following the departure of former Wichita Police Chief Gordon Ramsay. Lem Moore and Troy Livingston served as Interim Police Chiefs since that time. Interim Chief Livingston will continue to serve until December and help assist with transition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666126743380.png" alt="Joseph Sullivan works currently in business development at Lawmen Supply Company and as President of Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation in Philadelphia." />
 <figcaption>Joseph Sullivan works currently in business development at Lawmen Supply Company and as President of Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation in Philadelphia.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Following a search that started last spring, the City of Wichita announced Tuesday the appointment of Joseph Sullivan to serve as the next chief of police, according to a media release from the city.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wichita.gov/WPDChiefSearch/Documents/Joe%20Sullivan%20Bio.pdf">Click here to read </a>Sullivan's biographySullivan has more than 25 years of law enforcement and management experience. As Deputy Commissioner of Patrol Operations in the Philadelphia Police Department, he oversaw a force of 4,698 sworn officers and civilian personnel and was responsible for the majority of the department’s $750 million annual budget. Sullivan works currently in business development at Lawmen Supply Company and as President of Families Behind the Badge Children’s Foundation in Philadelphia. “Joe Sullivan has a proven ability to successfully lead and manage a world-class police department. I have every confidence that he is the right person at the right time to take on the challenging task of ensuring Wichita residents have trust in the integrity and transparency of our police department,” said City Manager Robert Layton. “His experience in patrol leadership will help us as we work to enhance patrol operations. He joins us at a crucial time for the Wichita Police Department and will help guide us through a period of change. I look forward to welcoming him to Wichita.” Chief Sullivan is tasked with enhancing the recruitment, training and mentoring of staff and focusing on data-driven policing. He also plans on strengthening community policing and increasing citizen engagement with the department. Sullivan’s salary will be $210,000 annually and he begins in early December. He will manage a $108 million budget and supervise more than 900 employees in the state’s largest police department. The search process, led by Public Sector Search &amp; Consulting, vetted 19 candidates for the position, including both internal and external candidates. The City would like to thank the public for robust input in the search process as well as the guidance of the Search Review Committee. The Wichita Police Chief position has been open since March of 2022 following the departure of former Wichita Police Chief Gordon Ramsay. Lem Moore and Troy Livingston served as Interim Police Chiefs since that time. Interim Chief Livingston will continue to serve until December and help assist with transition.

Veteran of Philadelphia police department will lead Wichita police

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 430 officials investigated a reported bomb threat Tuesday morning, according to a statement from school district superintendent Jason Cline and Horton Police Chief Jon Boller.

Just after 8a.m. Tuesday, the school district issued an evacuation procedure after police alerted the school of a reported bomb threat in the city of Horton.

As a precaution, the school district along with local law enforcement activated and implemented the school district's emergency protocols included in the crisis plan.

Local and county law enforcement conducted a search of the Horton Elementary School, 300 East 16th Street and Horton High School, 1120 East First Avenue. After the search, law enforcement and school district officials issued an all clear and returned the schools to normal operation. All staff and students were accounted for, according to Cline.

Police released no additional details and have not reported an arrest.

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 430 officials investigated a reported bomb threat Tuesday morning, according to a statement from school district superintendent Jason Cline and Horton Police Chief Jon Boller.Just after 8a.m. Tuesday, the school district issued an evacuation procedure after police alerted the school of a reported bomb threat in the city of Horton.As a precaution, the school district along with local law enforcement activated and implemented the school district's emergency protocols included in the crisis plan.Local and county law enforcement conducted a search of the Horton Elementary School, 300 East 16th Street and Horton High School, 1120 East First Avenue. After the search, law enforcement and school district officials issued an all clear and returned the schools to normal operation. All staff and students were accounted for, according to Cline.Police released no additional details and have not reported an arrest.

Kan. school district issued evacuation order due to bomb threat

FAIRWAY, Kan. (AP) — The grounds of a former Native American boarding school in Kansas will be searched to determined if any Indigenous children were buried there, state officials said.

The Kansas Historical Society, which owns the site in Fairway, is contracting with the University of Kansas Center for Research to conduct a ground-penetrating radar survey of the 12 acres to search for unmarked graves, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;reported.

The current Shawnee Indian Mission historical site was one of hundreds of schools run by the government and religious groups in the 1800s and 1900s. Thousands of Native American children were forcibly taken from their homes and placed in such schools, with a goal of assimilating them into white American culture and Christianity.

The U.S. Interior Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-native-americans-cultures-congress-1052724fc31b28f7addae7f5b2e50830">announced last year</a>&nbsp;that it was investigating the nation's treatment of Native American children at the boarding schools. A federal report&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-education-native-americans-cbd724ae4e423c788089ef98cec4315a">released in May</a>&nbsp;identified more than 500 student deaths at the institutions, but officials said that figure was expected to grow into the thousands as research continues.

Leaders of the Shawnee Tribe and other tribes had requested a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-kansas-e2dde80fbaa48c6cfd5aa2f5e5660034">search of the Fairway site</a>. But tribal officials said in a statement that they were not consulted about the Historical Society's project proposal before it was announced.

“We have requested formal consultation to address serious concerns about the motives of this project, potential deficiencies in the process that may render incomplete findings, and what plans may be for utilizing any results from the project,” the tribe said.

Patrick Zollner, executive director of the historical society, responded that the Shawnee Tribe was the “first to know” about the project proposal. He said the society also contacted other tribes, including the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, Kaw Nation, Osage Nation and others.

Shawnee Tribe leaders said they are concerned in part because it is unclear whether any children were buried on the mission’s current site, which is much smaller than the original property of nearly 2,000 acres. They also are concerned that the project is moving too quickly before the tribe’s concerns can be addressed, spokeswoman Maggie Boyett said.

Zollner and Erinn Barcomb-Peterson, a spokeswoman with the University of Kansas, emphasized that consultation with the tribes is ongoing and that work will not proceed until that process is completed.

A proposed contract for the ground study states that the historical society and the university will coordinate with tribes and other entities requesting consultation on the project. Under the contract, field work could be completed next April, with a report submitted next summer.

The Shawnee Indian Methodist Manual Labor School was started at its present site in 1939 by Thomas Johnson, a Methodist minister for whom Johnson County was later named. At one point, it had 16 buildings and nearly 200 students a year who ranged in age from 5 to 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666031347785.png" alt="Leaders of the Shawnee Tribe and other tribes had requested a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-kansas-e2dde80fbaa48c6cfd5aa2f5e5660034">search of the Fairway site</a>. But tribal officials said in a statement that they were not consulted about the Historical Society's project proposal before it was announced.-Google image" />
 <figcaption>Leaders of the Shawnee Tribe and other tribes had requested a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-kansas-e2dde80fbaa48c6cfd5aa2f5e5660034">search of the Fairway site</a>. But tribal officials said in a statement that they were not consulted about the Historical Society's project proposal before it was announced.-Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>FAIRWAY, Kan. (AP) — The grounds of a former Native American boarding school in Kansas will be searched to determined if any Indigenous children were buried there, state officials said.The Kansas Historical Society, which owns the site in Fairway, is contracting with the University of Kansas Center for Research to conduct a ground-penetrating radar survey of the 12 acres to search for unmarked graves, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;reported.The current Shawnee Indian Mission historical site was one of hundreds of schools run by the government and religious groups in the 1800s and 1900s. Thousands of Native American children were forcibly taken from their homes and placed in such schools, with a goal of assimilating them into white American culture and Christianity.The U.S. Interior Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-native-americans-cultures-congress-1052724fc31b28f7addae7f5b2e50830">announced last year</a>&nbsp;that it was investigating the nation's treatment of Native American children at the boarding schools. A federal report&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-education-native-americans-cbd724ae4e423c788089ef98cec4315a">released in May</a>&nbsp;identified more than 500 student deaths at the institutions, but officials said that figure was expected to grow into the thousands as research continues.Leaders of the Shawnee Tribe and other tribes had requested a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-kansas-e2dde80fbaa48c6cfd5aa2f5e5660034">search of the Fairway site</a>. But tribal officials said in a statement that they were not consulted about the Historical Society's project proposal before it was announced.“We have requested formal consultation to address serious concerns about the motives of this project, potential deficiencies in the process that may render incomplete findings, and what plans may be for utilizing any results from the project,” the tribe said.Patrick Zollner, executive director of the historical society, responded that the Shawnee Tribe was the “first to know” about the project proposal. He said the society also contacted other tribes, including the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, Kaw Nation, Osage Nation and others.Shawnee Tribe leaders said they are concerned in part because it is unclear whether any children were buried on the mission’s current site, which is much smaller than the original property of nearly 2,000 acres. They also are concerned that the project is moving too quickly before the tribe’s concerns can be addressed, spokeswoman Maggie Boyett said.Zollner and Erinn Barcomb-Peterson, a spokeswoman with the University of Kansas, emphasized that consultation with the tribes is ongoing and that work will not proceed until that process is completed.A proposed contract for the ground study states that the historical society and the university will coordinate with tribes and other entities requesting consultation on the project. Under the contract, field work could be completed next April, with a report submitted next summer.The Shawnee Indian Methodist Manual Labor School was started at its present site in 1939 by Thomas Johnson, a Methodist minister for whom Johnson County was later named. At one point, it had 16 buildings and nearly 200 students a year who ranged in age from 5 to 23.

Kansas to search grounds of former Native American school

WASHINGTON (AP) — The news that 70 million people will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/social-security-cola-increase-8778d4aa9da4102edc79762ea622196f">see an 8.7% boost in their Social Security checks</a>&nbsp;next year came just weeks before Election Day, but it is unlikely to give Democrats the edge they are desperately seeking at the polls.

In fact, the promise of bigger payments could call even more attention to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-business-prices-consumer-aed3121e4d5e3ec37cf1591995f13ce0">surging prices</a>&nbsp;that have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-economy-consumer-spending-prices-87798a21acc765400c98ff8b07fae96a">inflicting pain on households</a>&nbsp;— and the reason behind Thursday's announcement of the the program's largest&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ssa.gov/cola/">cost-of-living increase</a>&nbsp;in four decades.

“It’s going to bring more money to people’s pockets, but it primes people to think about high inflation,” said Marty Cohen, a James Madison University political science professor.

“This is being done because inflation is bad, and that’s the reason for the large adjustment. It’s not an issue that Democrats want on the front burner for voters.”

Voters have ranked the economy as a higher priority than Social Security,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2022/02/16/publics-top-priority-for-2022-strengthening-the-nations-economy/">with 71% of U.S. adults telling Pew Research Center in January that strengthening the economy was a top priority</a>&nbsp;for the president and Congress versus 57% saying the same about ensuring the Social Security system is financially sound.

The 8.7% boost in benefits brought a one-word response from 76-year-old retiree and genealogy hobbyist Paul Phelps: “Ouch.”

In Phelps’ mind, the increase is so large because inflation is so bad.

Rising costs will not have any bearing on how he votes in the Nov. 8 election. Neither will the boost he will see in his monthly checks beginning next year.

“No, it’s a good example of the government running as the government should,” said Phelps, of Alexandria, Virginia.

Mary Browning, a 69-year-old Social Security recipient in Minneapolis, said she credits Democrats and the Biden administration entirely for the revved up checks she will get starting in January. But that did not change how the self-described “die-hard progressive” she plans to vote.

“I don’t think that people understand how difficult it is to get these changes through. And Biden is getting them through,” Browning said.

Yet Biden and his administration played no role in the calculation of the cost-of-living adjustment. It is arrived at by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/social-security-cola-increase-what-to-know-a36405a429b647e32e8fe6ac51f9e6e6">formula based on inflation.</a>

The White House messaging on Social Security highlights how older people will save hundreds of dollars next year thanks to the 8.7% Social Security increase, a roughly $5 monthly decrease in Medicare premiums and a new law -- which Republicans unanimously opposed -- that that will cut some prescription drug prices for Medicare recipients.

“Seniors are gonna get ahead of inflation next year,” President Joe Biden said Thursday. “For the first time in 10 years, their Social Security checks will go up while their Medicare premiums go down.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-biden-health-economy-only-on-ap-65540cfa0f493ca94afd1fefd69df33e">A new poll</a>&nbsp;by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that only 36% of people in the United States approve of Biden's handling of the economy. But they are not putting all the blame for inflation on him, with 55% saying higher than usual prices are mostly because of factors outside Biden’s control and 44% saying that’s happening mostly because of Biden’s policies.

Republicans have been quick to point out other ways costs are up for older people, highlighting private retirement plan losses over the last year, high gas prices and rising costs at the grocery store.

“Seniors are having to delay their retirement, retirees on fixed incomes are struggling, retirement funds are plummeting and Biden and Democrats have only themselves to blame,” said Republican National Committee spokeswoman Emma Vaughn.

Some Democratic candidates have put Social Security at the center of campaign ads attacking their opponents. In some cases, the ads have made misleading suggestions about Republican plans for Social Security, echoing recent claims from Biden that Social Security will be “on the chopping block” under a Republican-controlled Senate.

Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., proposed plan earlier this year that would require Congress to come up with a proposal to adequately fund Social Security and Medicare or consider phasing them out.

That idea has won little public support from Republican lawmakers. It will “not be part of our agenda,” said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.

To Jaime Harrison, the Democratic National Committee chair, Republicans “want to cut Social Security and they’re openly plotting to raise prescription drug prices on millions of seniors.”

Nowhere has Social Security become more of a campaign issue than the Senate race in Wisconsin, where Democrat Mandela Barnes, the lieutenant governor, is challenging Republican incumbent Ron Johnson.

Johnson, one of a few politicians who expressed support for Scott’s plan, has repeatedly criticized Social Security over the years, calling it a “Ponzi scheme.” He has proposed moving Social Security from mandatory spending into the discretionary fund, which would mean the money spent on the program would not be automatic and require Congress to approve the funds every year.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-wisconsin-campaigns-congress-9642479425ea1b0039817333d6faac28">During their debate</a>&nbsp;Thursday, Johnson defended his comments on Social Security.

“I never said I wanted to cut or put Social Security on the chopping block,” Johnson said.

“He’s coming for your retirement,” he said.

It is unlikely that with such meager support to overhaul Social Security that anything will be done in the coming years, said Cohen, the James Madison political scientist. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2019/03/21/retirement-social-security-and-long-term-care/">program is also extremely popular, with 74% of U.S. adults saying in 2019</a>&nbsp;that the program’s benefits should not be reduced in any way.

“Saying is one thing, and getting things done is another,” Cohen said. “It’s a program that’s broadly popular, for the reason that it benefits people. It’s somewhat untouchable.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — The news that 70 million people will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/social-security-cola-increase-8778d4aa9da4102edc79762ea622196f">see an 8.7% boost in their Social Security checks</a>&nbsp;next year came just weeks before Election Day, but it is unlikely to give Democrats the edge they are desperately seeking at the polls.In fact, the promise of bigger payments could call even more attention to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-business-prices-consumer-aed3121e4d5e3ec37cf1591995f13ce0">surging prices</a>&nbsp;that have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-economy-consumer-spending-prices-87798a21acc765400c98ff8b07fae96a">inflicting pain on households</a>&nbsp;— and the reason behind Thursday's announcement of the the program's largest&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ssa.gov/cola/">cost-of-living increase</a>&nbsp;in four decades.“It’s going to bring more money to people’s pockets, but it primes people to think about high inflation,” said Marty Cohen, a James Madison University political science professor.“This is being done because inflation is bad, and that’s the reason for the large adjustment. It’s not an issue that Democrats want on the front burner for voters.”Voters have ranked the economy as a higher priority than Social Security,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2022/02/16/publics-top-priority-for-2022-strengthening-the-nations-economy/">with 71% of U.S. adults telling Pew Research Center in January that strengthening the economy was a top priority</a>&nbsp;for the president and Congress versus 57% saying the same about ensuring the Social Security system is financially sound.The 8.7% boost in benefits brought a one-word response from 76-year-old retiree and genealogy hobbyist Paul Phelps: “Ouch.”In Phelps’ mind, the increase is so large because inflation is so bad.Rising costs will not have any bearing on how he votes in the Nov. 8 election. Neither will the boost he will see in his monthly checks beginning next year.“No, it’s a good example of the government running as the government should,” said Phelps, of Alexandria, Virginia.Mary Browning, a 69-year-old Social Security recipient in Minneapolis, said she credits Democrats and the Biden administration entirely for the revved up checks she will get starting in January. But that did not change how the self-described “die-hard progressive” she plans to vote.“I don’t think that people understand how difficult it is to get these changes through. And Biden is getting them through,” Browning said.Yet Biden and his administration played no role in the calculation of the cost-of-living adjustment. It is arrived at by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/social-security-cola-increase-what-to-know-a36405a429b647e32e8fe6ac51f9e6e6">formula based on inflation.</a>The White House messaging on Social Security highlights how older people will save hundreds of dollars next year thanks to the 8.7% Social Security increase, a roughly $5 monthly decrease in Medicare premiums and a new law -- which Republicans unanimously opposed -- that that will cut some prescription drug prices for Medicare recipients.“Seniors are gonna get ahead of inflation next year,” President Joe Biden said Thursday. “For the first time in 10 years, their Social Security checks will go up while their Medicare premiums go down.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-biden-health-economy-only-on-ap-65540cfa0f493ca94afd1fefd69df33e">A new poll</a>&nbsp;by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that only 36% of people in the United States approve of Biden's handling of the economy. But they are not putting all the blame for inflation on him, with 55% saying higher than usual prices are mostly because of factors outside Biden’s control and 44% saying that’s happening mostly because of Biden’s policies.Republicans have been quick to point out other ways costs are up for older people, highlighting private retirement plan losses over the last year, high gas prices and rising costs at the grocery store.“Seniors are having to delay their retirement, retirees on fixed incomes are struggling, retirement funds are plummeting and Biden and Democrats have only themselves to blame,” said Republican National Committee spokeswoman Emma Vaughn.Some Democratic candidates have put Social Security at the center of campaign ads attacking their opponents. In some cases, the ads have made misleading suggestions about Republican plans for Social Security, echoing recent claims from Biden that Social Security will be “on the chopping block” under a Republican-controlled Senate.Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., proposed plan earlier this year that would require Congress to come up with a proposal to adequately fund Social Security and Medicare or consider phasing them out.That idea has won little public support from Republican lawmakers. It will “not be part of our agenda,” said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.To Jaime Harrison, the Democratic National Committee chair, Republicans “want to cut Social Security and they’re openly plotting to raise prescription drug prices on millions of seniors.”Nowhere has Social Security become more of a campaign issue than the Senate race in Wisconsin, where Democrat Mandela Barnes, the lieutenant governor, is challenging Republican incumbent Ron Johnson.Johnson, one of a few politicians who expressed support for Scott’s plan, has repeatedly criticized Social Security over the years, calling it a “Ponzi scheme.” He has proposed moving Social Security from mandatory spending into the discretionary fund, which would mean the money spent on the program would not be automatic and require Congress to approve the funds every year.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-wisconsin-campaigns-congress-9642479425ea1b0039817333d6faac28">During their debate</a>&nbsp;Thursday, Johnson defended his comments on Social Security.“I never said I wanted to cut or put Social Security on the chopping block,” Johnson said.Barnes pushed back.“He’s coming for your retirement,” he said.It is unlikely that with such meager support to overhaul Social Security that anything will be done in the coming years, said Cohen, the James Madison political scientist. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2019/03/21/retirement-social-security-and-long-term-care/">program is also extremely popular, with 74% of U.S. adults saying in 2019</a>&nbsp;that the program’s benefits should not be reduced in any way.“Saying is one thing, and getting things done is another,” Cohen said. “It’s a program that’s broadly popular, for the reason that it benefits people. It’s somewhat untouchable.”___

Social Security boost seen as unlikely to help Dems at polls

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/10/17/severe-drought-triggers-assistance-in-nearly-all-of-kansas-half-of-missouri/">States Newsroom</a>

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Almost all of Kansas and nearly half of Missouri are in <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/06/09/southwest-kansas-water-crisis-through-eyes-of-a-liberal-farmer-this-drought-is-real/">severe enough drought</a>
 to activate a federal program meant to help ranchers who have lost 
grazing acres for their herds, triggering millions of dollars in 
assistance.

Eighty-five of Kansas’ 105 counties have been eligible for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/disaster-assistance-program/livestock-forage/index">livestock forage program</a>,
 which offers cash assistance to ranchers in severe, extreme or 
exceptional drought. In Missouri, 47 counties are eligible as of last 
week.&nbsp;

Kansas and Missouri —&nbsp;along with most of the U.S. —&nbsp;are <a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap.aspx">plagued with a stubborn drought</a> the state’s two governors have declared to be an emergency. Most of southern Kansas is in extreme or exceptional drought.&nbsp;

“Every day you go out and within five
 minutes, your ears, your nose and your mouth are full of dust,” said 
Dennis McKinney, state executive director for the Kansas Farm Service 
Agency and a rancher. “It just gets very discouraging.”&nbsp;

Kansas has been in drought for 
months. The livestock forage program has been activated in some counties
 for nearly a year, and all 105 counties are on a drought watch, warning
 or emergency under an <a target="_blank" href="https://kwo.ks.gov/news-events/press-releases/2022/10/06/governor-declares-drought-emergency-warnings-and-watches-for-kansas-counties#:~:text=Governor%20Laura%20Kelly%20has%20approved,watch%2C%20warning%20or%20emergency%20status.">executive order signed by Gov. Laura Kelly</a>.&nbsp;

Over the summer, dry conditions spurred Missouri <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/07/21/gov-mike-parson-issues-drought-alert-for-almost-half-of-missouri-counties/">Gov. Mike Parson to declare a drought alert</a>
 in 53 Missouri counties south of the Missouri River. Within a matter of
 weeks this summer, 40 counties had become eligible for the USDA 
program. Another handful joined them earlier this month.&nbsp;

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/10/17/severe-drought-triggers-assistance-in-nearly-all-of-kansas-half-of-missouri/">States Newsroom</a>KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Almost all of Kansas and nearly half of Missouri are in <a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/06/09/southwest-kansas-water-crisis-through-eyes-of-a-liberal-farmer-this-drought-is-real/">severe enough drought</a>
 to activate a federal program meant to help ranchers who have lost 
grazing acres for their herds, triggering millions of dollars in 
assistance.Eighty-five of Kansas’ 105 counties have been eligible for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/disaster-assistance-program/livestock-forage/index">livestock forage program</a>,
 which offers cash assistance to ranchers in severe, extreme or 
exceptional drought. In Missouri, 47 counties are eligible as of last 
week.&nbsp;Kansas and Missouri —&nbsp;along with most of the U.S. —&nbsp;are <a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap.aspx">plagued with a stubborn drought</a> the state’s two governors have declared to be an emergency. Most of southern Kansas is in extreme or exceptional drought.&nbsp;“Every day you go out and within five
 minutes, your ears, your nose and your mouth are full of dust,” said 
Dennis McKinney, state executive director for the Kansas Farm Service 
Agency and a rancher. “It just gets very discouraging.”&nbsp;Kansas has been in drought for 
months. The livestock forage program has been activated in some counties
 for nearly a year, and all 105 counties are on a drought watch, warning
 or emergency under an <a target="_blank" href="https://kwo.ks.gov/news-events/press-releases/2022/10/06/governor-declares-drought-emergency-warnings-and-watches-for-kansas-counties#:~:text=Governor%20Laura%20Kelly%20has%20approved,watch%2C%20warning%20or%20emergency%20status.">executive order signed by Gov. Laura Kelly</a>.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Counties eligible for livestock assistance" aria-label="Map" id="datawrapper-chart-YluRb" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/YluRb/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="452"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(e){if(void 0!==e.data["datawrapper-height"]){var t=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var a in e.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<t.length;r++){if(t[r].contentWindow===e.source)t[r].style.height=e.data["datawrapper-height"][a]+"px"}}}))}();</script></div>Over the summer, dry conditions spurred Missouri <a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/07/21/gov-mike-parson-issues-drought-alert-for-almost-half-of-missouri-counties/">Gov. Mike Parson to declare a drought alert</a>
 in 53 Missouri counties south of the Missouri River. Within a matter of
 weeks this summer, 40 counties had become eligible for the USDA 
program. Another handful joined them earlier this month.&nbsp;In Kansas, McKinney said, the service
 ended its fiscal year last month having processed more than 7,700 
applications for relief, totaling more than $45 million.&nbsp;The cash assistance helps ranchers whose grasses have dried up to purchase hay to feed their cows or lease grazing areas.The year before, McKinney said, only 
the northwest corner of the state was in serious drought. In a normal 
year, his office processes less than 1,000 claims for under $1 million.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Counties eligible for livestock assistance" aria-label="Map" id="datawrapper-chart-mxbzY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/mxbzY/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="661"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(e){if(void 0!==e.data["datawrapper-height"]){var t=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var a in e.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<t.length;r++){if(t[r].contentWindow===e.source)t[r].style.height=e.data["datawrapper-height"][a]+"px"}}}))}();</script></div>The current drought is not yet as bad
 as a record 2012 drought that killed a million cattle in Kansas, Texas 
and Oklahoma, but if things don’t change, it will be, McKinney said.&nbsp;He didn’t have figures on how many 
cattle have died as the result of the drought, but McKinney said there 
have been far more sent to slaughter because ranchers were out of grass 
and didn’t want to pay the high prices for feed.&nbsp;“Some ranchers are determined to 
maintain the core level of their herd and feed through this drought,” 
McKinney said, “because they know replacing it, rebuilding it with the 
right genetics later is very expensive.”&nbsp;McKinney said ranchers are 
experiencing severe stress, and his agency is asking county offices to 
post information about community mental health centers and to prepare to
 distribute information on the new 9-8-8 suicide and crisis hotline.&nbsp;“If you’re struggling, you’re not alone,” he said, “and it doesn’t mean that you’re a bad producer.”&nbsp;Cover image courtesy Pixabay