SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal December shooting in Wichita and have made an arrest in Oklahoma.

Just before before 3 a.m. on Sunday Dec. 2, police responded to a shooting call at the 511 club, 511 North West Street in Wichita, according to Captain Brent Allred.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located 19-year-old Sonya Brown with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; She was transported to an area hospital where she died.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between the shooting suspect 25-year-old Terranace Johnson and a male patron inside the business when Johnson fired multiple shots, which struck Brown police believe was an unintended and uninvolved victim.&nbsp; 

Through the investigation, investigators learned of Johnson’s involvement in the incident.&nbsp; He was located and arrested on Wednesday in Warr Acres, Oklahoma.&nbsp; On Tuesday, Johnson was extradited to Wichita and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of first-degree murder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578484036814.png" alt="Terrance Johnson photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Terrance Johnson photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal December shooting in Wichita and have made an arrest in Oklahoma.Just before before 3 a.m. on Sunday Dec. 2, police responded to a shooting call at the 511 club, 511 North West Street in Wichita, according to Captain Brent Allred.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located 19-year-old Sonya Brown with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; She was transported to an area hospital where she died.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578484261076.png" alt="Sonya Brown photo courtesy Biglow Funeral Home" />
 <figcaption>Sonya Brown photo courtesy Biglow Funeral Home</figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between the shooting suspect 25-year-old Terranace Johnson and a male patron inside the business when Johnson fired multiple shots, which struck Brown police believe was an unintended and uninvolved victim.&nbsp; Through the investigation, investigators learned of Johnson’s involvement in the incident.&nbsp; He was located and arrested on Wednesday in Warr Acres, Oklahoma.&nbsp; On Tuesday, Johnson was extradited to Wichita and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of first-degree murder.

Suspect in fatal Kansas nightclub shooting arrested in Oklahoma

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting incident and have made an arrest.&nbsp;

Just after 7:30p.m. Monday, police were sent to the area of SW 8th and SW Fillmore in Topeka after several reports of multiple gunshots, according to spokesperson Gretchen Koenen.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a man with a non-life threatening injury initially believed to a gunshot wound. EMS transported the man to a local hospital for treatment.&nbsp;

Investigators&nbsp; located a vehicle that had been struck by gunfire at SW 6th and SW Fillmore. The vehicle also contained a significant amount of illegal drugs and the injured party refused to cooperate with the police investigation.

This incident centered on an attempted sale of illegal drugs that resulted in a robbery attempt which culminated in the listed related shooting incident.

The injured man identified as 19-year-old Amari L. Wilkerson of Topeka, was released from a local hospital, arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested criminal charges of Obstruction of Justice and Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578419561094.png" alt="Wilkerson photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Wilkerson photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting incident and have made an arrest.&nbsp;Just after 7:30p.m. Monday, police were sent to the area of SW 8th and SW Fillmore in Topeka after several reports of multiple gunshots, according to spokesperson Gretchen Koenen.Upon arrival, officers discovered a man with a non-life threatening injury initially believed to a gunshot wound. EMS transported the man to a local hospital for treatment.&nbsp;Investigators&nbsp; located a vehicle that had been struck by gunfire at SW 6th and SW Fillmore. The vehicle also contained a significant amount of illegal drugs and the injured party refused to cooperate with the police investigation.This incident centered on an attempted sale of illegal drugs that resulted in a robbery attempt which culminated in the listed related shooting incident.The injured man identified as 19-year-old Amari L. Wilkerson of Topeka, was released from a local hospital, arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested criminal charges of Obstruction of Justice and Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute.

Kansas robbery suspect released from hospital, taken to jail

Virginita Linenberger, age 90, of Hays, Kansas died Saturday, January 4, 2020, a the Kenwoodview Health and Rehabilitation Center, Salina, Kansas.

She was born September 24, 1929, at Victoria, Kansas, to Bonavent and Gertrude (Beck) - Brungardt Linenberger.

She grew up and attended school in Victoria.&nbsp; She worked at Travenol&nbsp; Labs in Hays for 12 years.&nbsp; She was a member of The Basilica of St. Fidelis and Secular Franciscan Order both of Victoria.&nbsp; She lived in Victoria until moving to Hays in 1993, then moved to the Care Center in 2019. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Survivors include, one brother, John Linenberger and wife Marlene, Manhattan, KS, one sister, Bonita Schulte and husband, Gary, Salina, KS; two sisters-in-law, Carol Linenberger and Norma Linenberger, both of Salina, KS; and many nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents; seven brothers, Edwin, Gilbert, Dennis, Verlin, Thomas, Leo, and Patrick Linenberger; two sisters, Henrietta Giebler and Doris Younger-Pfeifer; and one infant brother, Clarence Linenberger.

Services are 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 9, 2020, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.

A vigil service will be at 6:30 P.M. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.

Visitation will be from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. Wednesday, at Clines-Keithley Mortuary of Hays and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Thursday, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas. &nbsp;

The family suggests memorials to The Basilica of St. Fidelis.

Services are entrusted to Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 E.22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp; Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a> &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578343847320.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Virginita Linenberger, age 90, of Hays, Kansas died Saturday, January 4, 2020, a the Kenwoodview Health and Rehabilitation Center, Salina, Kansas.She was born September 24, 1929, at Victoria, Kansas, to Bonavent and Gertrude (Beck) - Brungardt Linenberger.She grew up and attended school in Victoria.&nbsp; She worked at Travenol&nbsp; Labs in Hays for 12 years.&nbsp; She was a member of The Basilica of St. Fidelis and Secular Franciscan Order both of Victoria.&nbsp; She lived in Victoria until moving to Hays in 1993, then moved to the Care Center in 2019. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Survivors include, one brother, John Linenberger and wife Marlene, Manhattan, KS, one sister, Bonita Schulte and husband, Gary, Salina, KS; two sisters-in-law, Carol Linenberger and Norma Linenberger, both of Salina, KS; and many nephews and nieces.She was preceded in death by her parents; seven brothers, Edwin, Gilbert, Dennis, Verlin, Thomas, Leo, and Patrick Linenberger; two sisters, Henrietta Giebler and Doris Younger-Pfeifer; and one infant brother, Clarence Linenberger.Services are 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 9, 2020, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.A vigil service will be at 6:30 P.M. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays.Visitation will be from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. Wednesday, at Clines-Keithley Mortuary of Hays and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Thursday, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas. &nbsp;The family suggests memorials to The Basilica of St. Fidelis.Services are entrusted to Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 E.22nd Street, Hays, Kansas 67601.&nbsp; Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a> &nbsp;

Virginita Linenberger

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects caught driving a stolen car.

Just after 8a.m. Friday, a Shawnee County Sheriff's deputy attempted to make a traffic stop on a Chevy Malibu for failing to signal a lane change in the 200 Block of NW Jay Street, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.

The vehicle stopped in a driveway and the passenger later identified as Justin R. Shumway, 37, Topeka, fled the vehicle on foot.&nbsp; While running, deputies observed Shumway throwing a 9mm handgun that was later recovered, according to Anderson.

Deputies arrested him on NW Studer while he was attempted to escape in another vehicle.

Deputies booked him on requested charges of criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, a federal warrant for a parole violation for a previous charge of felon in possession of a weapon.

The Chevy was stolen in Wichita, according to Anderson. Deputies arrested the driver identified as Tina M. Funk, 26, Topeka, on requested charges that include possession of stolen property, driving without a license, misdemeanor obstruction,&nbsp; an out of county warrant and additional traffic violations, according to Anderson.

Shumway has three previous convictions for forgery and for burglary, theft, aggravated battery and battery of a corrections officer, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578154038424.png" alt="Shumway photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Shumway photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects caught driving a stolen car.Just after 8a.m. Friday, a Shawnee County Sheriff's deputy attempted to make a traffic stop on a Chevy Malibu for failing to signal a lane change in the 200 Block of NW Jay Street, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.The vehicle stopped in a driveway and the passenger later identified as Justin R. Shumway, 37, Topeka, fled the vehicle on foot.&nbsp; While running, deputies observed Shumway throwing a 9mm handgun that was later recovered, according to Anderson.Deputies arrested him on NW Studer while he was attempted to escape in another vehicle.Deputies booked him on requested charges of criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, a federal warrant for a parole violation for a previous charge of felon in possession of a weapon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578154007242.png" alt="Funk photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Funk photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>The Chevy was stolen in Wichita, according to Anderson. Deputies arrested the driver identified as Tina M. Funk, 26, Topeka, on requested charges that include possession of stolen property, driving without a license, misdemeanor obstruction,&nbsp; an out of county warrant and additional traffic violations, according to Anderson.Shumway has three previous convictions for forgery and for burglary, theft, aggravated battery and battery of a corrections officer, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Sheriff: Kan. felon tossed handgun after running from stolen car

COWLEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for an alleged burglary of Christmas gifts.

On December 18, officers took a report of a vehicle burglary that had occurred in the 300 block of North A Street in Arkansas City, according to a media release. The victims reported the theft of toys they were concealing from their children in the trunk of their car, in anticipation of Christmas. The total loss was estimated at $160.

The stolen items were purchased locally, so an officer contacted the store where they were purchased and made employees aware of the theft, in the event the items were returned for money.

On Dec. 27, police learned that two items matching the description of the stolen goods had been returned to the store for a refund. The officer was able to quickly identify a suspect, based on surveillance video from the store. The suspect, later identified as Shannon L. Clark, 40, Arkansas City was located and interviewed. A second suspect, later identified as Kadan Ray Armstrong 18, also was contacted and interviewed. 

Following the interviews, police took both suspects&nbsp; into custody without incident.&nbsp;Kadan Ray Armstrong, 18, was booked on suspicion of felony burglary and misdemeanor theft.&nbsp; He remains in custody.

&nbsp;Clark was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor theft. She posted bond and is no longer in custody.This case will be forwarded to the Cowley County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578068848817.png" alt="Armstrong photo Cowley Co." />
 <figcaption>Armstrong photo Cowley Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for an alleged burglary of Christmas gifts.On December 18, officers took a report of a vehicle burglary that had occurred in the 300 block of North A Street in Arkansas City, according to a media release. The victims reported the theft of toys they were concealing from their children in the trunk of their car, in anticipation of Christmas. The total loss was estimated at $160.The stolen items were purchased locally, so an officer contacted the store where they were purchased and made employees aware of the theft, in the event the items were returned for money.On Dec. 27, police learned that two items matching the description of the stolen goods had been returned to the store for a refund. The officer was able to quickly identify a suspect, based on surveillance video from the store. The suspect, later identified as Shannon L. Clark, 40, Arkansas City was located and interviewed. A second suspect, later identified as Kadan Ray Armstrong 18, also was contacted and interviewed. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578068787500.png" alt="Clark photo Cowley Co." />
 <figcaption>Clark photo Cowley Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Following the interviews, police took both suspects&nbsp; into custody without incident.&nbsp;Kadan Ray Armstrong, 18, was booked on suspicion of felony burglary and misdemeanor theft.&nbsp; He remains in custody.&nbsp;Clark was arrested on suspicion of misdemeanor theft. She posted bond and is no longer in custody.This case will be forwarded to the Cowley County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

Police: Grinch stole Kansas kid's Christmas toys from parent's car

James “Jimmy” D. Reiter, age 69, of Concordia, KS, died Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Cloud County Health Center, Concordia, KS.&nbsp; He was born on May 2, 1950 in Sioux Falls, SD to William (Bill) &amp; Joyce E. (Thompson) Reiter.&nbsp;

It was Jimmy’s wishes to be cremated and a memorial service will be held 10:30 am, Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia.&nbsp; Friends may sign the register book from 8 am to 5 pm on Tuesday, January 7, 2020.&nbsp; The family suggests memorials to Cloud County Health Center Foundation in care of the funeral home.&nbsp; For online condolences, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chaputbuoy.com/">www.chaputbuoy.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578093889437.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>James “Jimmy” D. Reiter, age 69, of Concordia, KS, died Friday, January 3, 2020 at the Cloud County Health Center, Concordia, KS.&nbsp; He was born on May 2, 1950 in Sioux Falls, SD to William (Bill) &amp; Joyce E. (Thompson) Reiter.&nbsp;It was Jimmy’s wishes to be cremated and a memorial service will be held 10:30 am, Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at Chaput-Buoy Funeral Home, Concordia.&nbsp; Friends may sign the register book from 8 am to 5 pm on Tuesday, January 7, 2020.&nbsp; The family suggests memorials to Cloud County Health Center Foundation in care of the funeral home.&nbsp; For online condolences, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.chaputbuoy.com/">www.chaputbuoy.com</a>.

James “Jimmy” D. Reiter

SHAWNEE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and have two suspects in custody.

Just after 8a.m. Tuesday, police responded to the area of the 2900 block of SW 31st Court in Topeka reference an aggravated robbery that had just occurred, according to Lt. Kelvin Johnson.

&nbsp;The victim, who was unharmed, was approached by the suspect who was armed with a knife during the robbery. The suspect was described as a white male approximately six feet tall and skinny wearing a black hoodie and was last seen east bound on foot. A neighborhood search was completed but police did not find the suspect.

Just after 7:30a.m. Wednesday officers on patrol located a vehicle that detectives had issued an attempt to locate in connection with the robbery The red Pontiac G6 was parked in front of 1910 SE Illinois. Officers knocked on the door and could see and hear people inside. The subjects refused to come out, but eventually two individuals came out about one hour later. The officers at the scene were given consent to clear the house. Officers at the scene were unable to clear the attic and saw signs that indicated someone had recently been up there. The home was secured and detectives applied for and were granted a search warrant for the residence. After several hours of attempting to make contact with anyone inside the residence, the warrant was executed. No other individuals were located inside.

Detectives developed information that the persons of interest in the robbery case were at another location. Police arrested&nbsp; 26-year-old Jordan J. Harper and 32-year-old John C. Riley II and booked them into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Burglary and Theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578002744837.png" alt="Police on the scene of the standoff Wednesday photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the standoff Wednesday photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating an armed robbery and have two suspects in custody.Just after 8a.m. Tuesday, police responded to the area of the 2900 block of SW 31st Court in Topeka reference an aggravated robbery that had just occurred, according to Lt. Kelvin Johnson.&nbsp;The victim, who was unharmed, was approached by the suspect who was armed with a knife during the robbery. The suspect was described as a white male approximately six feet tall and skinny wearing a black hoodie and was last seen east bound on foot. A neighborhood search was completed but police did not find the suspect.Just after 7:30a.m. Wednesday officers on patrol located a vehicle that detectives had issued an attempt to locate in connection with the robbery The red Pontiac G6 was parked in front of 1910 SE Illinois. Officers knocked on the door and could see and hear people inside. The subjects refused to come out, but eventually two individuals came out about one hour later. The officers at the scene were given consent to clear the house. Officers at the scene were unable to clear the attic and saw signs that indicated someone had recently been up there. The home was secured and detectives applied for and were granted a search warrant for the residence. After several hours of attempting to make contact with anyone inside the residence, the warrant was executed. No other individuals were located inside.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578002938496.png" alt="Riley had previous convictions for robbery, a fourth DUI, identity theft and was reported as an absconder, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Riley had previous convictions for robbery, a fourth DUI, identity theft and was reported as an absconder, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>Detectives developed information that the persons of interest in the robbery case were at another location. Police arrested&nbsp; 26-year-old Jordan J. Harper and 32-year-old John C. Riley II and booked them into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Burglary and Theft.

Wanted Kan. felon captured after New Year's Day standoff

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A paroled killer and a woman whom he had lived with arrested in the death of the man's girlfriend made their first appearances in court Tuesday, 

According to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office,&nbsp;Ahmad Bey, 39, was charged with first-degree murder and criminal possession of a firearem by a felon. Vanessa  Waner, 34, was charged charged with interference with law enforcement in connection with the death of 41-year-old Melinda Sprague.Wa

Just after 2p.m. on Christmas Eve, a co-worker of&nbsp; Sprague contacted police about her not showing up for work, according to Wichita Police Captain Brett Allred. Police made a missing person report.

During the investigation, police located Sprague's missing 2017 Ford Focus behind a business in the 1500 Block of East Harry in Wichita, according to Allred.&nbsp; They also located her body inside the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police developed information that led to the arrest of 39-year-old Ahmad Bey on a requested charge of first-degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant and 34-year-old Vanessa&nbsp; Waner on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Allred.

Police investigators learned that Sprague and Bey were in a dating relationship, according to Allred.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bey and Waner lived together.

Police found Bey at a residence in Neodesha, Kansas and brought him back to Wichita. Both suspects were booked into the Sedgwick County jail early Friday, according to online jail records. He was released from prison in July after a conviction for second-degree murder in 1999, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577465236625.png" alt="Bey photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Bey photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A paroled killer and a woman whom he had lived with arrested in the death of the man's girlfriend made their first appearances in court Tuesday, According to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office,&nbsp;Ahmad Bey, 39, was charged with first-degree murder and criminal possession of a firearem by a felon. Vanessa Waner, 34, was charged charged with interference with law enforcement in connection with the death of 41-year-old Melinda Sprague.Wa<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577465562356.png" alt="Waner" />
 <figcaption>Waner</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 2p.m. on Christmas Eve, a co-worker of&nbsp; Sprague contacted police about her not showing up for work, according to Wichita Police Captain Brett Allred. Police made a missing person report.During the investigation, police located Sprague's missing 2017 Ford Focus behind a business in the 1500 Block of East Harry in Wichita, according to Allred.&nbsp; They also located her body inside the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.Police developed information that led to the arrest of 39-year-old Ahmad Bey on a requested charge of first-degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant and 34-year-old Vanessa&nbsp; Waner on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Allred.Police investigators learned that Sprague and Bey were in a dating relationship, according to Allred.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bey and Waner lived together.Police found Bey at a residence in Neodesha, Kansas and brought him back to Wichita. Both suspects were booked into the Sedgwick County jail early Friday, according to online jail records. He was released from prison in July after a conviction for second-degree murder in 1999, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas man charged with killing girlfriend on Christmas Eve

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

Almost 15 years ago, I gave what would be one of the most important speeches of my career at the National FFA Convention. I agonized over creating the right message in hopes of making a lasting impact.

Years later, I watched another FFA member give the exact same speech. It had different stories, but the main points and overall message were the same. I was shocked because there was no way that this FFA member heard my speech. Their own life experiences must have led them to the same thoughts I had more than a decade prior.

Maybe it is a function of human nature or the product of a constant struggle to achieve the things we yearn for like success, love or the American Dream; ideas and lessons are rarely completely original or unique. Humans throughout history seem to live the same stories and plots repeatedly.

A few weeks ago, in my preoccupation with the too-short span between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I received invitations to multiple Roaring Twenties themed New Year’s Eve parties. What an original idea (at least to me, to celebrate a time that history books hailed as a time of whimsy, spectacle and entertainment.

Since then, this idea that history repeats itself and has been on my mind. What will the 2020s have in common with the 1920s, and, more importantly, what can be learned from a decade that earned the moniker “roaring?”

This curiosity led me to a brief internet refresher because the attributes filling my mind were all the “Great Gatsby.” My search revealed interesting facts and similarities to modern life in this gap between World War I and the Great Depression.

Like today, there was a presidential election. Warren Harding’s successful campaign used the slogan “Return to Normalcy,” painting a nostalgic picture of life before WW I, which ended a year earlier. Harding called for politics that were, “not the dramatic, but the dispassionate” and for people to remember that “human ills are not curable by legislation … excess of government offer(s) no substitute for quality of citizenship.” President Harding was popular until scandals came to light after his death in 1923.

The title roaring came from all of the excitement of the time. The economy was growing. New products like automobiles, moving pictures and radio brought “modernity” to the masses. Social change was prevalent with women winning the right to vote in many states and national debates taking place about prohibition, immigration, political corruption and industrialization. It was the age of Gatsby with jazz, art deco, flappers and speakeasys. The decade has a larger than life zeitgeist.

The Roaring Twenties had a definitive and halting end. All that prosperity and liveliness faded with the crash of the stock marketing in October of 1929 and a new era of hardship and scarcity in the Great Depression.

Parallels exist between the two times. Politicians are human, and humans are fallible. Some people still yearn for normalcy, while others desire social and political change. Technology and the economy have points of great growth, but that will not last forever.

My takeaway is simple. Spirit not circumstance can define people. Times will be both better and worse in my future. Be thankful for your current blessings and live life gregariously and fully at all times.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2019 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancherAlmost 15 years ago, I gave what would be one of the most important speeches of my career at the National FFA Convention. I agonized over creating the right message in hopes of making a lasting impact.Years later, I watched another FFA member give the exact same speech. It had different stories, but the main points and overall message were the same. I was shocked because there was no way that this FFA member heard my speech. Their own life experiences must have led them to the same thoughts I had more than a decade prior.Maybe it is a function of human nature or the product of a constant struggle to achieve the things we yearn for like success, love or the American Dream; ideas and lessons are rarely completely original or unique. Humans throughout history seem to live the same stories and plots repeatedly.A few weeks ago, in my preoccupation with the too-short span between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I received invitations to multiple Roaring Twenties themed New Year’s Eve parties. What an original idea (at least to me, to celebrate a time that history books hailed as a time of whimsy, spectacle and entertainment.Since then, this idea that history repeats itself and has been on my mind. What will the 2020s have in common with the 1920s, and, more importantly, what can be learned from a decade that earned the moniker “roaring?”This curiosity led me to a brief internet refresher because the attributes filling my mind were all the “Great Gatsby.” My search revealed interesting facts and similarities to modern life in this gap between World War I and the Great Depression.Like today, there was a presidential election. Warren Harding’s successful campaign used the slogan “Return to Normalcy,” painting a nostalgic picture of life before WW I, which ended a year earlier. Harding called for politics that were, “not the dramatic, but the dispassionate” and for people to remember that “human ills are not curable by legislation … excess of government offer(s) no substitute for quality of citizenship.” President Harding was popular until scandals came to light after his death in 1923.The title roaring came from all of the excitement of the time. The economy was growing. New products like automobiles, moving pictures and radio brought “modernity” to the masses. Social change was prevalent with women winning the right to vote in many states and national debates taking place about prohibition, immigration, political corruption and industrialization. It was the age of Gatsby with jazz, art deco, flappers and speakeasys. The decade has a larger than life zeitgeist.The Roaring Twenties had a definitive and halting end. All that prosperity and liveliness faded with the crash of the stock marketing in October of 1929 and a new era of hardship and scarcity in the Great Depression.Parallels exist between the two times. Politicians are human, and humans are fallible. Some people still yearn for normalcy, while others desire social and political change. Technology and the economy have points of great growth, but that will not last forever.My takeaway is simple. Spirit not circumstance can define people. Times will be both better and worse in my future. Be thankful for your current blessings and live life gregariously and fully at all times."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2019 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Roaring into the 20s

TOPEKA, Kan. — Republicans in two Midwestern states where GOP-controlled legislatures have gun-rights majorities are proposing measures aimed at preventing the U.S. government or other states from taking guns away from residents whom the courts deem a danger to themselves.

Neither Oklahoma nor Kansas has “red flag” laws through which relatives or police can obtain a court order to remove firearms from someone's possession. However, the proposals in those states also would prevent local city and county governments from enacting such laws. They would even go so far as to make it a felony for someone to help enforce such an order.

Sponsors said they were inspired by prospects that Congress might enact such a law or offer federal grants to entice states into putting them on the books.

Supporters of red flag laws say they reduce suicides and gun violence and lessen the risk of mass shootings. Gun-rights supporters contend they violate not only the right to own firearms but other constitutional guarantees, such as the right to due legal process, to confront an accuser, and against unreasonable searches and seizures of property.

“There's numerous violations of the Bill of Rights taking place by these red flags laws," Tulsa-area Republican state Sen. Nathan Dahm, who is sponsoring Oklahoma's measure.

Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have some sort of red flag law, with most enacting them starting in 2018, according groups favoring them and other gun-control measures. Interest in Congress appeared to grow after mass shootings in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/78ac82903ccf46b58964f7d34bd35ead">Dayton, Ohio,&nbsp;</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3fd473325d17429784e91a3c8c7b3909">El Paso, Texas.</a>

TOPEKA, Kan. — Republicans in two Midwestern states where GOP-controlled legislatures have gun-rights majorities are proposing measures aimed at preventing the U.S. government or other states from taking guns away from residents whom the courts deem a danger to themselves.Neither Oklahoma nor Kansas has “red flag” laws through which relatives or police can obtain a court order to remove firearms from someone's possession. However, the proposals in those states also would prevent local city and county governments from enacting such laws. They would even go so far as to make it a felony for someone to help enforce such an order.Sponsors said they were inspired by prospects that Congress might enact such a law or offer federal grants to entice states into putting them on the books.Supporters of red flag laws say they reduce suicides and gun violence and lessen the risk of mass shootings. Gun-rights supporters contend they violate not only the right to own firearms but other constitutional guarantees, such as the right to due legal process, to confront an accuser, and against unreasonable searches and seizures of property.“There's numerous violations of the Bill of Rights taking place by these red flags laws," Tulsa-area Republican state Sen. Nathan Dahm, who is sponsoring Oklahoma's measure.Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have some sort of red flag law, with most enacting them starting in 2018, according groups favoring them and other gun-control measures. Interest in Congress appeared to grow after mass shootings in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/78ac82903ccf46b58964f7d34bd35ead">Dayton, Ohio,&nbsp;</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/3fd473325d17429784e91a3c8c7b3909">El Paso, Texas.</a>

GOP lawmakers in Kansas seek anti-red flag laws on guns

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Longtime Salina radio personality Randy Picking is calling it a career.

Picking, current program director for KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM, will bring to an end a nearly 44-year career in radio when he signs off for the final time today.

A self-described jack of all trades and master of none, Picking has worked as an announcer, operations manager, program director, account representative, reporter, and news director. Stations he has worked at include KSAL, KYEZ, KABI, KSAJ, KFRM/KNNN, KILS, KQNS, KINA, and KSKG.

Picking said he was bitten by the radio bug early in life.

"At the age of seven, I developed an interest in radio. In fact, I bought off of the back of a comic book a mini AM transmitter and would place the transmitter next to my record player in my bedroom, announce a record, go outside in the yard at home listen to the record and when it was about to end, come back in a play another record," Picking told Salina Post. 

Years later, Picking made the jump to a radio career after his father got him an interview at KSAL in the summer of 1975, he said. He began doing color and keeping stats at high school and college games in 1976.

"I finally got paid as a part-time automation tape changer at KYEZ in 1977," Picking said. "My first full-time job was in 1980 as the evening announcer at KSAL."

While he held many positions over the years, Picking said the favorite part of his career was being able to share his passion for the weather.

"Regardless of the time of the year, I was able to relay weather information to the listeners and hoped it helped them make decisions on postponing a trip, getting their children inside before a storm or heading down to the basement," he said.

Picking's career also afforded him the opportunity to meet some famous people.

"Thanks to covering events at the Eisenhower Library and Museum I had the chance to meet President Ronald Reagan, and President George H.W. Bush. Met former British Prime Minister John Major at the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce banquet in January of 2000. Also met Miss USA 1991, Kelli McCarty, from Liberal," Picking said. "Also had the chance to meet many wonderful people all across central Kansas."

Additionally, Picking's career involved him in adventures that will be talked about for years to come.

"Well there was the time in 1990 that I wound up as the last car in Vice President Dan Quayle's motorcade coming back to Salina from Abilene," Picking said. 

Picking was mistaken as a Secret Service agent and waved through with the rest of the motorcade.

Then there was the hot air balloon ride on his 21st birthday during a balloon meet. Picking also flew in an aerobatic bi-plane as part of promoting an air show in Salina in the early 1990s.

"My pilot found out it was my birthday and decided to get into a dog fight with another aerobatic plane over eastern Saline County. To go straight up to three thousand feet, and then fall back to Earth is something I'm glad I had the chance to do, but never again," he said.

As is typical for Picking, he used humor to deflect what could have been an embarrassing situation for many people.

"Gave a severe weather safety talk to an elementary school with Bruce Steinbrock. When I asked for questions, a boy sitting up close said 'did you know your fly is open?'  I pitched him a quarter and said 'I would have given you a dollar if you had told me at the beginning of the talk,'" Picking said.

While the memories will linger on, Picking said there are aspects of his career that he will miss.

"I'm going to miss the wonderful listeners I have had to opportunity to meet along with many great and wonderful co-workers. I have been very fortunate to have worked with or for 10 members of the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. One hall of famer I want to give a great deal of thanks to and I could never, ever pay him back for how he boosted my career, is Jerry Hinrikus. He believed in me and taught me to believe in myself. We both feel that 'Good enough is not good enough,'" Picking said.

Through the years, though, Picking's family has been his biggest source of support.

"My grandma who would sit and listen for me to do a weather forecast when I first started, my dad who drove me to Kansas City to take my F.C.C. test for my broadcast license, my wife, Vivian, who has put up with all the weird hours and workdays, and the many mood swings, and my sons, Daniel and Jason. Being called 'dad' is the best job title I have ever had."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577756153219.jpeg" alt="Randy Picking records the afternoon news in the KINA studio Monday .&nbsp;Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Randy Picking records the afternoon news in the KINA studio Monday .&nbsp;Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostLongtime Salina radio personality Randy Picking is calling it a career.Picking, current program director for KINA (910 AM and 107.5 FM, will bring to an end a nearly 44-year career in radio when he signs off for the final time today.A self-described jack of all trades and master of none, Picking has worked as an announcer, operations manager, program director, account representative, reporter, and news director. Stations he has worked at include KSAL, KYEZ, KABI, KSAJ, KFRM/KNNN, KILS, KQNS, KINA, and KSKG.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577757046459.jpeg" alt="Picking shakes hands with former President Ronald Reagan. Photo courtesy Randy Picking" />
 <figcaption>Picking shakes hands with former President Ronald Reagan. Photo courtesy Randy Picking</figcaption>
 </figure>Picking said he was bitten by the radio bug early in life."At the age of seven, I developed an interest in radio. In fact, I bought off of the back of a comic book a mini AM transmitter and would place the transmitter next to my record player in my bedroom, announce a record, go outside in the yard at home listen to the record and when it was about to end, come back in a play another record," Picking told Salina Post. Years later, Picking made the jump to a radio career after his father got him an interview at KSAL in the summer of 1975, he said. He began doing color and keeping stats at high school and college games in 1976."I finally got paid as a part-time automation tape changer at KYEZ in 1977," Picking said. "My first full-time job was in 1980 as the evening announcer at KSAL."While he held many positions over the years, Picking said the favorite part of his career was being able to share his passion for the weather."Regardless of the time of the year, I was able to relay weather information to the listeners and hoped it helped them make decisions on postponing a trip, getting their children inside before a storm or heading down to the basement," he said.Picking's career also afforded him the opportunity to meet some famous people."Thanks to covering events at the Eisenhower Library and Museum I had the chance to meet President Ronald Reagan, and President George H.W. Bush. Met former British Prime Minister John Major at the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce banquet in January of 2000. Also met Miss USA 1991, Kelli McCarty, from Liberal," Picking said. "Also had the chance to meet many wonderful people all across central Kansas."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577757233718.jpeg" alt="Picking visits with former&nbsp; British Prime Minister John Major. Photo courtesy Randy Picking" />
 <figcaption>Picking visits with former&nbsp; British Prime Minister John Major. Photo courtesy Randy Picking</figcaption>
 </figure>Additionally, Picking's career involved him in adventures that will be talked about for years to come."Well there was the time in 1990 that I wound up as the last car in Vice President Dan Quayle's motorcade coming back to Salina from Abilene," Picking said. Picking was mistaken as a Secret Service agent and waved through with the rest of the motorcade.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577757794650.jpeg" alt="Picking in front of Ad Astra before it was placed on top of the state capitol. Photo courtesy Randy Picking" />
 <figcaption>Picking in front of Ad Astra before it was placed on top of the state capitol. Photo courtesy Randy Picking</figcaption>
 </figure>Then there was the hot air balloon ride on his 21st birthday during a balloon meet. Picking also flew in an aerobatic bi-plane as part of promoting an air show in Salina in the early 1990s."My pilot found out it was my birthday and decided to get into a dog fight with another aerobatic plane over eastern Saline County. To go straight up to three thousand feet, and then fall back to Earth is something I'm glad I had the chance to do, but never again," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577757441858.jpeg" alt="Another of Picking's adventures was playing donkey basketball at Ell-Saline in 1978.&nbsp; (We think the donkey won this one!) Photo courtesy Randy Picking" />
 <figcaption>Another of Picking's adventures was playing donkey basketball at Ell-Saline in 1978.&nbsp; (We think the donkey won this one!) Photo courtesy Randy Picking</figcaption>
 </figure>As is typical for Picking, he used humor to deflect what could have been an embarrassing situation for many people."Gave a severe weather safety talk to an elementary school with Bruce Steinbrock. When I asked for questions, a boy sitting up close said 'did you know your fly is open?' I pitched him a quarter and said 'I would have given you a dollar if you had told me at the beginning of the talk,'" Picking said.While the memories will linger on, Picking said there are aspects of his career that he will miss."I'm going to miss the wonderful listeners I have had to opportunity to meet along with many great and wonderful co-workers. I have been very fortunate to have worked with or for 10 members of the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. One hall of famer I want to give a great deal of thanks to and I could never, ever pay him back for how he boosted my career, is Jerry Hinrikus. He believed in me and taught me to believe in myself. We both feel that 'Good enough is not good enough,'" Picking said.Through the years, though, Picking's family has been his biggest source of support."My grandma who would sit and listen for me to do a weather forecast when I first started, my dad who drove me to Kansas City to take my F.C.C. test for my broadcast license, my wife, Vivian, who has put up with all the weird hours and workdays, and the many mood swings, and my sons, Daniel and Jason. Being called 'dad' is the best job title I have ever had."

Randy Picking signing off for final time today



Donna M. Zey of Abilene passed away peacefully Sunday, December 29, 2019 at the Memorial Hospital in Abilene. She was born November 30, 1928 in Newton, the daughter of Robert Victor “Vic” and Katherine (Burnett) Johnston.

She graduated from Abilene High School in 1946 and on September 30, 1947 Donna married her high school sweetheart Joseph L. Zey in Abilene. Together they owned and operated Zey’s Market from 1948 until her retirement in 1992.

Donna was a member of the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church and the Daughters of Isabella. She is survived by her loving husband Joe of the home, sons John and his wife Joyce of Topeka, Robert and his wife Vicki of Abilene, Rick and his wife Donna of Salina, Steve and his wife Kris of Papillion, Nebraska, daughter-in-law Mary Zey of Abilene, fifteen grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son David, great grandson Jacob Delimont, brother Jerry Johnston and her parents.

A parish rosary for Donna will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, January 1, 2020 with Mass of Christian Burial following at 10:30 AM Wednesday at the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church with Father Don Zimmerman as Celebrant. Friends may sign the register book at the funeral home from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday and from 9:00AM – service time Wednesday at the church. Her final resting place will be in the Mt. St. Joseph Cemetery near Abilene.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church or to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW 3rd, Abilene, Kansas 67410.



<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577756755478.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Donna M. Zey of Abilene passed away peacefully Sunday, December 29, 2019 at the Memorial Hospital in Abilene. She was born November 30, 1928 in Newton, the daughter of Robert Victor “Vic” and Katherine (Burnett) Johnston.She graduated from Abilene High School in 1946 and on September 30, 1947 Donna married her high school sweetheart Joseph L. Zey in Abilene. Together they owned and operated Zey’s Market from 1948 until her retirement in 1992.Donna was a member of the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church and the Daughters of Isabella. She is survived by her loving husband Joe of the home, sons John and his wife Joyce of Topeka, Robert and his wife Vicki of Abilene, Rick and his wife Donna of Salina, Steve and his wife Kris of Papillion, Nebraska, daughter-in-law Mary Zey of Abilene, fifteen grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son David, great grandson Jacob Delimont, brother Jerry Johnston and her parents.A parish rosary for Donna will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, January 1, 2020 with Mass of Christian Burial following at 10:30 AM Wednesday at the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church with Father Don Zimmerman as Celebrant. Friends may sign the register book at the funeral home from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday and from 9:00AM – service time Wednesday at the church. Her final resting place will be in the Mt. St. Joseph Cemetery near Abilene.Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church or to Hospice of Dickinson County and may be mailed to Martin-Becker-Carlson Funeral Home, 414 NW 3rd, Abilene, Kansas 67410.

Donna M. Zey

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas detention deputy is recovering after he was assaulted in the Sedgwick County Jail Friday by an inmate with 16 previous convictions in Kansas.

At approximately 10:20 a.m., the detention deputy was escorting an inmate back to a housing unit, according to a statement from the sheriff's department.

 Upon entering the housing unit the inmate, 33-year-old&nbsp;Dylan Hornecker, demanded the housing deputy’s keys and attempted to enter the area of the deputy workstation. 

The inmate was non-compliant and became combative. Detention deputies attempted to gain control of the inmate and Hornecker assaulted the deputies.

The altercation resulted in potentially serious injuries to one of deputies. The deputy was transported to the hospital for treatment and has since been discharged to recover at home. He is a 20-year-old male and has been on the job about six months.

Hornecker had been booked into the jail December 21&nbsp; on a felony State Parole Violation. He is now facing charges for one count of Aggravated Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer.

His previous convictions include ten for burglary, three for theft and for aggravated assault and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

The new case will be presented to the District Attorney for review.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577713909631.png" alt="Hornecker photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hornecker photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas detention deputy is recovering after he was assaulted in the Sedgwick County Jail Friday by an inmate with 16 previous convictions in Kansas.At approximately 10:20 a.m., the detention deputy was escorting an inmate back to a housing unit, according to a statement from the sheriff's department. Upon entering the housing unit the inmate, 33-year-old&nbsp;Dylan Hornecker, demanded the housing deputy’s keys and attempted to enter the area of the deputy workstation. The inmate was non-compliant and became combative. Detention deputies attempted to gain control of the inmate and Hornecker assaulted the deputies.The altercation resulted in potentially serious injuries to one of deputies. The deputy was transported to the hospital for treatment and has since been discharged to recover at home. He is a 20-year-old male and has been on the job about six months.Hornecker had been booked into the jail December 21&nbsp; on a felony State Parole Violation. He is now facing charges for one count of Aggravated Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer.His previous convictions include ten for burglary, three for theft and for aggravated assault and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.The new case will be presented to the District Attorney for review.

Kansas detention deputy recovering after assault by inmate

September 23, 1970~December 25, 2019(age 49)

Tony’s life began on September 23, 1970, the son of Albert Lee and Virginia Kay (Amick) Steele in Junction City, Kansas. He graduated from Thayer High Class of 1989, where he was a running back, a quarterback in football and also played soccer. He was a construction carpenter, handyman, an avid fisherman, hunter and had a gardener’s green thumb.

His loving family includes his children, Kory Steele of Orlando, Florida, Tray Steele, Trevin (Alexandria) Steele all of Chanute, Kansas; parents, Albert and Kay Steele of Marion; siblings, Alan Steele, Kevin (Tina) Steele all of Marion, Rod Steele of Willard, Missouri; one granddaughter, Everleigh Ella Rae Steele and several nieces and nephews.

The family has requested a private family service. Tony passed away, Wednesday, December 25, 2019, having reached the age of 49 years old.

A memorial has been established with Marion County Food Bank in care of Yazel-Megli-Zeiner Funeral Home, P.O. Box 96, Marion, Kansas 66861. Please sign his online guest book and leave a memory of Tony at www.ymzfh.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577575192972.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Tony Steele</h2>September 23, 1970~December 25, 2019(age 49)Tony’s life began on September 23, 1970, the son of Albert Lee and Virginia Kay (Amick) Steele in Junction City, Kansas. He graduated from Thayer High Class of 1989, where he was a running back, a quarterback in football and also played soccer. He was a construction carpenter, handyman, an avid fisherman, hunter and had a gardener’s green thumb.His loving family includes his children, Kory Steele of Orlando, Florida, Tray Steele, Trevin (Alexandria) Steele all of Chanute, Kansas; parents, Albert and Kay Steele of Marion; siblings, Alan Steele, Kevin (Tina) Steele all of Marion, Rod Steele of Willard, Missouri; one granddaughter, Everleigh Ella Rae Steele and several nieces and nephews.The family has requested a private family service. Tony passed away, Wednesday, December 25, 2019, having reached the age of 49 years old.A memorial has been established with Marion County Food Bank in care of Yazel-Megli-Zeiner Funeral Home, P.O. Box 96, Marion, Kansas 66861. Please sign his online guest book and leave a memory of Tony at www.ymzfh.com.

Tony Steele

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of missing Kansas woman and have two suspects in custody.

Just after 2p.m. on Christmas Eve, a co-worker of 41-year -old Melinda Sprague contacted police about her not showing up for work, according to Wichita Police Captain Brett Allred. Police made a missing person report.

 Police will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. They are waiting for results of an autopsy to learn Sprague's cause of death, according to Allred.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577465236625.png" alt="Bey photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Bey photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of missing Kansas woman and have two suspects in custody.Just after 2p.m. on Christmas Eve, a co-worker of 41-year -old Melinda Sprague contacted police about her not showing up for work, according to Wichita Police Captain Brett Allred. Police made a missing person report.During the investigation, police located Sprague's missing 2017 Ford Focus behind a business in the 1500 Block of East Harry in Wichita, according to Allred.&nbsp; They also located her body inside the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene.Police developed information that led to the arrest of 39-year-old Ahmad Bey on a requested charge of first-degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant and 34-year-old Vanessa&nbsp; Waner on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Allred.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577465562356.png" alt="Waner photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Waner photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Police investigators learned that Sprague and Bey were in a dating relationship, according to Allred.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bey and Waner lived together.Police found Bey at a residence in Neodesha, Kansas and brought him back to Wichita. Both suspects were booked into the Sedgwick County jail early Friday, according to online jail records. He was released from prison in July after a conviction for second-degree murder in 1999, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. Police will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. They are waiting for results of an autopsy to learn Sprague's cause of death, according to Allred.

Police: 2 in custody for death of missing Kansas woman

Kathy J. Zach, daughter of Ralph R. Gunn and Virginia L. (Lewellyn) Gunn was born September 11, 1959 at Oxnard, California and passed away on December 24, 2019 at Topeka, Kansas at the age of 60 years, 3 months and 13 days.

Kathy was a registered nurse and worked at the Republic County Health Department in Belleville, KS for many years.&nbsp;&nbsp; She was united in marriage to Gregory H. Zach on October 15, 1977 and to this union two daughters were born, Amanda and Kaitlyn.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Virginia Gunn.

She is survived by her husband, Gregory H. Zach of Belleville, KS, two daughters, Amanda (Nick) Jones of Topeka, KS, Kaitlyn (Josh) Shockley of Corpus Christi, TX, three grandchildren, Kyndal, Hailey, Gage, two brothers, David (Ellen) Gunn of Fresno, CA, Bryan (Rosalie) Gunn of Fresno, CA, other relatives and many friends.

Memorial service will be held 10:30 AM, Saturday, January 4, 2020, Bachelor-Surber Memorial Chapel, Belleville, KS, conducted by Rev. Henry Baxa.

Inurnment will be in St. George’s Catholic Cemetery, Rural Munden, KS.

Memorials may be given to Kathy J. Zach Memorial Fund.

Friends may call to sign the register book on Friday, January 3, 2019 from 1 PM to 8 PM at Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home, Belleville, KS where the family will greet friends from 5 PM to 7 PM.

Online condolences and information at www.bachelor-surber.com

Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

Kathy J. Zach, daughter of Ralph R. Gunn and Virginia L. (Lewellyn) Gunn was born September 11, 1959 at Oxnard, California and passed away on December 24, 2019 at Topeka, Kansas at the age of 60 years, 3 months and 13 days.Kathy was a registered nurse and worked at the Republic County Health Department in Belleville, KS for many years.&nbsp;&nbsp; She was united in marriage to Gregory H. Zach on October 15, 1977 and to this union two daughters were born, Amanda and Kaitlyn.She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Virginia Gunn.She is survived by her husband, Gregory H. Zach of Belleville, KS, two daughters, Amanda (Nick) Jones of Topeka, KS, Kaitlyn (Josh) Shockley of Corpus Christi, TX, three grandchildren, Kyndal, Hailey, Gage, two brothers, David (Ellen) Gunn of Fresno, CA, Bryan (Rosalie) Gunn of Fresno, CA, other relatives and many friends.Cremation was chosen.Memorial service will be held 10:30 AM, Saturday, January 4, 2020, Bachelor-Surber Memorial Chapel, Belleville, KS, conducted by Rev. Henry Baxa.Inurnment will be in St. George’s Catholic Cemetery, Rural Munden, KS.Memorials may be given to Kathy J. Zach Memorial Fund.Friends may call to sign the register book on Friday, January 3, 2019 from 1 PM to 8 PM at Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home, Belleville, KS where the family will greet friends from 5 PM to 7 PM.Online condolences and information at www.bachelor-surber.comBachelor-Surber Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

Kathy J. Zach

By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm Bureau

While I’m still on the south side of 40, I recently took one of my final steps toward the mile marker of middle age. Yes, my midsection is a little flabbier and my hair is a little grayer – what’s left of it anyway. But the biggest wound to my pride happened over the summer in a used bookstore.

I was pleased to find one of Lee Child’s “Jack Reacher” novels until I made my way to the checkout. The young man behind the counter spied the title and said, “My grandpa loves these books.” His tone didn’t imply his grandfather and I shared years of wisdom and refined taste.

As sad as it is to admit, I probably have more in common with the grandfather than I do with the young man in his early 20s at best. This is especially true when it comes to safety.

With the encouragement of an older brother and access to the great outdoors, my childhood was full of risk taking. We’d also splash through creeks and scramble over the banks. There were trees to climb, crawdads to trap and other creepy, crawly critters to catch.

While not quite feral children, we were largely oblivious to the risks posed in running wild through the countryside. We received explicit and repeated safety lessons for guns, fireworks and, eventually, our first four-wheeler. Now is the time of year when ATVs and UTVs might show up under a Christmas tree or you see something at a farm show that would fit right into your operation.

I couldn’t have been much older than 7 when I took my first ride. I’m pretty sure I grumbled at having to put on a helmet. I know I bristled at having to stay in the yard when there were acres of space to zoom through. But those early restrictions gave way as I got older.

When I outgrew the helmet, it wasn’t replaced. There was no intermediate four-wheeler. I went from a child-sized one to the adult version in a few years’ time. I clearly remember seeing a sticker on one ATV cautioning against operators younger than 16 – I was probably 11 or 12.

I’m sure all sorts of reasoning was involved in allowing me to operate the larger machine. I had proven myself responsible by not maiming myself on the smaller one. I was using it to work cattle, not recreation.

In many ways this reasoning was correct. It wasn’t until I was older, with the full arrogance of my youth on display, that I had my first accident. Zipping across a pasture on the four-wheeler, the front two tires sank into a washed-out cattle path sending me over the handlebars. Luckily I escaped with just a few bumps and bruised pride.

Looking back though, it reinforces just how quickly accidents happen. They’re unintentional, and usually avoidable. I had driven through that pasture countless times and had developed a false sense of confidence. That often happens when something seems routine.

We have to stop and remind ourselves that nothing in agriculture is routine. Over the past decade, Serita Blankenship, Kansas Farm Bureau’s safety and ag education manager, has recorded 14 fatalities on ATVs, UTVs and dirt bikes for people engaged in agricultural activities. That number doesn’t include recreational riders, and injuries are vastly underreported.

The chances of a fatal accident are remote but very real. “It’s a lottery you don’t want to win,” Blankenship says.

Rollovers are the most common cause of crashes on ATVs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That’s also the theme connecting the youngest and oldest victims in Kansas since 2010.

A 10-year-old girl was riding on an ATV when it slipped at the edge of a pond, rolled and pinned her underwater. The oldest fatality, an 86-year-old man, was helping burn pasture when his ATV rolled off a dam. He succumbed to his injuries days later.

Life is full of risks, and while there’s no way to neutralize every danger, there are lots of ways to mitigate the probability of injury or death while using ATVs and UTVs on your operation. Helmets, eye-protection, long pants and boots help ensure safe operating, in addition to added protection in case of an accident. Use caution when navigating hazards such as trees, rocks, ruts and washouts. Terrain and weather can change quickly. Also, vehicles can only carry one person per seat.

While I’ve already admitted that I haven’t always followed these precautions, one of the few perks of getting older is telling people to do as I say, not as I do.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574694508756.jpeg" alt="Greg Doering. Photo courtesy KFB" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering. Photo courtesy KFB</figcaption>
 </figure>By GREG DOERING Kansas Farm BureauWhile I’m still on the south side of 40, I recently took one of my final steps toward the mile marker of middle age. Yes, my midsection is a little flabbier and my hair is a little grayer – what’s left of it anyway. But the biggest wound to my pride happened over the summer in a used bookstore.I was pleased to find one of Lee Child’s “Jack Reacher” novels until I made my way to the checkout. The young man behind the counter spied the title and said, “My grandpa loves these books.” His tone didn’t imply his grandfather and I shared years of wisdom and refined taste.As sad as it is to admit, I probably have more in common with the grandfather than I do with the young man in his early 20s at best. This is especially true when it comes to safety.With the encouragement of an older brother and access to the great outdoors, my childhood was full of risk taking. We’d also splash through creeks and scramble over the banks. There were trees to climb, crawdads to trap and other creepy, crawly critters to catch.While not quite feral children, we were largely oblivious to the risks posed in running wild through the countryside. We received explicit and repeated safety lessons for guns, fireworks and, eventually, our first four-wheeler. Now is the time of year when ATVs and UTVs might show up under a Christmas tree or you see something at a farm show that would fit right into your operation.I couldn’t have been much older than 7 when I took my first ride. I’m pretty sure I grumbled at having to put on a helmet. I know I bristled at having to stay in the yard when there were acres of space to zoom through. But those early restrictions gave way as I got older.When I outgrew the helmet, it wasn’t replaced. There was no intermediate four-wheeler. I went from a child-sized one to the adult version in a few years’ time. I clearly remember seeing a sticker on one ATV cautioning against operators younger than 16 – I was probably 11 or 12.I’m sure all sorts of reasoning was involved in allowing me to operate the larger machine. I had proven myself responsible by not maiming myself on the smaller one. I was using it to work cattle, not recreation.In many ways this reasoning was correct. It wasn’t until I was older, with the full arrogance of my youth on display, that I had my first accident. Zipping across a pasture on the four-wheeler, the front two tires sank into a washed-out cattle path sending me over the handlebars. Luckily I escaped with just a few bumps and bruised pride.Looking back though, it reinforces just how quickly accidents happen. They’re unintentional, and usually avoidable. I had driven through that pasture countless times and had developed a false sense of confidence. That often happens when something seems routine.We have to stop and remind ourselves that nothing in agriculture is routine. Over the past decade, Serita Blankenship, Kansas Farm Bureau’s safety and ag education manager, has recorded 14 fatalities on ATVs, UTVs and dirt bikes for people engaged in agricultural activities. That number doesn’t include recreational riders, and injuries are vastly underreported.The chances of a fatal accident are remote but very real. “It’s a lottery you don’t want to win,” Blankenship says.Rollovers are the most common cause of crashes on ATVs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). That’s also the theme connecting the youngest and oldest victims in Kansas since 2010.A 10-year-old girl was riding on an ATV when it slipped at the edge of a pond, rolled and pinned her underwater. The oldest fatality, an 86-year-old man, was helping burn pasture when his ATV rolled off a dam. He succumbed to his injuries days later.Life is full of risks, and while there’s no way to neutralize every danger, there are lots of ways to mitigate the probability of injury or death while using ATVs and UTVs on your operation. Helmets, eye-protection, long pants and boots help ensure safe operating, in addition to added protection in case of an accident. Use caution when navigating hazards such as trees, rocks, ruts and washouts. Terrain and weather can change quickly. Also, vehicles can only carry one person per seat.While I’ve already admitted that I haven’t always followed these precautions, one of the few perks of getting older is telling people to do as I say, not as I do."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;Copyright © 2019 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

Insight: Safe journeys

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged DUI involving an off-duty Kansas police officer.

On Christmas Eve, deputies with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a traffic accident in the 3000 block of SW Randolph in Topeka at the request of Topeka Police department personnel, according to Lt. Manuel Munoz.

As a result of their investigation, off duty Topeka Police officer Jeremy P. Gallegos, 24, was placed under arrest for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. Gallegos was subsequently booked into Shawnee County Department of Corrections for the listed charge.

Gallegos has been placed on administrative leave pending the District Attorney’s Office review of all reports. The Topeka Police department will conduct its internal administrative review of the incident as well, according to Munoz.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577300955138.png" alt="Gallegos photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Gallegos photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged DUI involving an off-duty Kansas police officer.On Christmas Eve, deputies with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a traffic accident in the 3000 block of SW Randolph in Topeka at the request of Topeka Police department personnel, according to Lt. Manuel Munoz.As a result of their investigation, off duty Topeka Police officer Jeremy P. Gallegos, 24, was placed under arrest for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. Gallegos was subsequently booked into Shawnee County Department of Corrections for the listed charge.Gallegos has been placed on administrative leave pending the District Attorney’s Office review of all reports. The Topeka Police department will conduct its internal administrative review of the incident as well, according to Munoz.

Off-duty Kan. police officer arrested after alleged DUI crash

Today is Tuesday, Dec. 24, the 358th day of 2019. There are seven days left in the year. This is Christmas Eve.

On Dec. 24, 1968, the Apollo 8 astronauts, orbiting the moon, read passages from the Old Testament Book of Genesis during a Christmas Eve telecast.

In 1809, legendary American frontiersman Christopher "Kit" Carson was born in Madison County, Kentucky.

In 1814, the United States and Britain signed the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the War of 1812 following ratification by both the British Parliament and the U.S. Senate.

In 1865, several veterans of the Confederate Army formed a private social club in Pulaski, Tennessee, that was the original version of the Ku Klux Klan.

In 1913, 73 people, most of them children, died in a crush of panic after a false cry of "Fire!" during a Christmas party for striking miners and their families at the Italian Hall in Calumet, Michigan.

In 1914, during World War I, impromptu Christmas truces began to take hold along parts of the Western Front between British and German soldiers.

In 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower supreme commander of Allied forces in Europe as part of Operation Overlord.

In 1980, Americans remembered the U.S. hostages in Iran by burning candles or shining lights for 417 seconds — one second for each day of captivity.

In 1984, actor Peter Lawford, 61, died in Los Angeles.

In 1990, actor Tom Cruise married his "Days of Thunder" co-star, Nicole Kidman, during a private ceremony at a Colorado ski resort (the marriage ended in 2001).

In 1992, President Bush pardoned former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger and five others in the Iran-Contra scandal.

In 1993, the Rev. Norman Vincent Peale, who blended Christian and psychiatric principles into a message of "positive thinking," died in Pawling, New York, at age 95.

In 1994, militants hijacked an Air France Airbus A-300 at the Algiers airport; three passengers were slain during the siege before all four hijackers were killed by French commandos in Marseille two days later.

Ten years ago: The Senate passed health care legislation, 60-39, in the chamber's first Christmas Eve vote since 1895. Sean Goldman, a 9-year-old boy at the center of a five-year custody battle on two continents, was finally turned over to his American father, David Goldman, in Brazil. A woman jumped barriers in St. Peter's Basilica and knocked down Pope Benedict XVI as he was walking down the main aisle to begin Christmas Eve Mass; the pope was unhurt.

Five years ago: Sony Pictures broadly released "The Interview" online — an unprecedented counterstroke against the hackers who'd spoiled the Christmas opening of the comedy depicting the assassination of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. A Jordanian pilot, Lt. Mu'ath al-Kaseasbeh, was captured by the Islamic State group after his warplane crashed in Syria; he was later killed. TCU's Gary Patterson was named The Associated Press college football coach of the year. Western Kentucky held on to defeat Central Michigan 49-48 in a wild inaugural Bahamas Bowl.

One year ago: An 8-year-old boy from Guatemala died while in the custody of U.S. Customs and Border Protection; he was the second immigrant child to die in December while in the agency's care. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump took Christmas Eve calls from children anxious to find out where Santa was on his gift-giving journey; Trump asked one 7-year-old girl if she still believed in Santa and added, "Because at 7, it's marginal, right?" An hours-long coordinated attack on a public welfare building in the Afghan capital of Kabul left at least 40 people dead, as gunmen held out for eight hours against security forces. A federal judge ordered North Korea to pay more than $500 million in a wrongful death suit filed by the parents of Otto Warmbier, an American college student who died shortly after being released from that country.

Today's Birthdays: Author Mary Higgins Clark is 92. Federal health official Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., is 79. Recording company executive Mike Curb is 75. Actress Sharon Farrell is 73. Former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions is 73. Actor Grand L. Bush is 64. Actor Clarence Gilyard is 64. Actress Stephanie Hodge is 63. The former president of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai, is 62. Rock musician Ian Burden (The Human League) is 62. Actor Anil Kapoor is 60. Actress Eva Tamargo is 59. Actor Wade Williams is 58. Rock singer Mary Ramsey (10,000 Maniacs) is 56. Actor Mark Valley is 55. Actor Diedrich Bader is 53. Actor Amaury Nolasco is 49. Singer Ricky Martin is 48. Author Stephenie Meyer is 46. TV personality Ryan Seacrest (TV: "Live With Kelly &amp; Ryan") is 45. Actor Michael Raymond-James is 42. Actor Austin Stowell is 35. Actress Sofia Black-D'Elia is 28. Rock singer Louis Tomlinson (One Direction) is 28.

Thought for Today: "Christmas comes, but once a year is enough." — American proverb.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Today is Tuesday, Dec. 24, the 358th day of 2019. There are seven days left in the year. This is Christmas Eve.Today's Highlight in History:On Dec. 24, 1968, the Apollo 8 astronauts, orbiting the moon, read passages from the Old Testament Book of Genesis during a Christmas Eve telecast.On this date:In 1809, legendary American frontiersman Christopher "Kit" Carson was born in Madison County, Kentucky.In 1814, the United States and Britain signed the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the War of 1812 following ratification by both the British Parliament and the U.S. Senate.In 1865, several veterans of the Confederate Army formed a private social club in Pulaski, Tennessee, that was the original version of the Ku Klux Klan.In 1913, 73 people, most of them children, died in a crush of panic after a false cry of "Fire!" during a Christmas party for striking miners and their families at the Italian Hall in Calumet, Michigan.In 1914, during World War I, impromptu Christmas truces began to take hold along parts of the Western Front between British and German soldiers.In 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower supreme commander of Allied forces in Europe as part of Operation Overlord.In 1980, Americans remembered the U.S. hostages in Iran by burning candles or shining lights for 417 seconds — one second for each day of captivity.In 1984, actor Peter Lawford, 61, died in Los Angeles.In 1990, actor Tom Cruise married his "Days of Thunder" co-star, Nicole Kidman, during a private ceremony at a Colorado ski resort (the marriage ended in 2001).In 1992, President Bush pardoned former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger and five others in the Iran-Contra scandal.In 1993, the Rev. Norman Vincent Peale, who blended Christian and psychiatric principles into a message of "positive thinking," died in Pawling, New York, at age 95.In 1994, militants hijacked an Air France Airbus A-300 at the Algiers airport; three passengers were slain during the siege before all four hijackers were killed by French commandos in Marseille two days later.Ten years ago: The Senate passed health care legislation, 60-39, in the chamber's first Christmas Eve vote since 1895. Sean Goldman, a 9-year-old boy at the center of a five-year custody battle on two continents, was finally turned over to his American father, David Goldman, in Brazil. A woman jumped barriers in St. Peter's Basilica and knocked down Pope Benedict XVI as he was walking down the main aisle to begin Christmas Eve Mass; the pope was unhurt.Five years ago: Sony Pictures broadly released "The Interview" online — an unprecedented counterstroke against the hackers who'd spoiled the Christmas opening of the comedy depicting the assassination of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. A Jordanian pilot, Lt. Mu'ath al-Kaseasbeh, was captured by the Islamic State group after his warplane crashed in Syria; he was later killed. TCU's Gary Patterson was named The Associated Press college football coach of the year. Western Kentucky held on to defeat Central Michigan 49-48 in a wild inaugural Bahamas Bowl.One year ago: An 8-year-old boy from Guatemala died while in the custody of U.S. Customs and Border Protection; he was the second immigrant child to die in December while in the agency's care. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump took Christmas Eve calls from children anxious to find out where Santa was on his gift-giving journey; Trump asked one 7-year-old girl if she still believed in Santa and added, "Because at 7, it's marginal, right?" An hours-long coordinated attack on a public welfare building in the Afghan capital of Kabul left at least 40 people dead, as gunmen held out for eight hours against security forces. A federal judge ordered North Korea to pay more than $500 million in a wrongful death suit filed by the parents of Otto Warmbier, an American college student who died shortly after being released from that country.Today's Birthdays: Author Mary Higgins Clark is 92. Federal health official Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., is 79. Recording company executive Mike Curb is 75. Actress Sharon Farrell is 73. Former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions is 73. Actor Grand L. Bush is 64. Actor Clarence Gilyard is 64. Actress Stephanie Hodge is 63. The former president of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai, is 62. Rock musician Ian Burden (The Human League) is 62. Actor Anil Kapoor is 60. Actress Eva Tamargo is 59. Actor Wade Williams is 58. Rock singer Mary Ramsey (10,000 Maniacs) is 56. Actor Mark Valley is 55. Actor Diedrich Bader is 53. Actor Amaury Nolasco is 49. Singer Ricky Martin is 48. Author Stephenie Meyer is 46. TV personality Ryan Seacrest (TV: "Live With Kelly &amp; Ryan") is 45. Actor Michael Raymond-James is 42. Actor Austin Stowell is 35. Actress Sofia Black-D'Elia is 28. Rock singer Louis Tomlinson (One Direction) is 28.Thought for Today: "Christmas comes, but once a year is enough." — American proverb.Copyright 2019, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- Dec. 24

By RON WILSON Kansas State University

Here we are at a winery in Massachusetts. Between the samples of wine, we are offered some wine-tasting crackers which help cleanse the palate between wine tastings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Where did they come from? They came from halfway across the country in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s one of the healthy products offered by this innovative store in the heartland of the nation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576705148452.jpeg" alt="Aaron&nbsp;Gaeddert. Photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Aaron&nbsp;Gaeddert. Photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Kansas State UniversityHere we are at a winery in Massachusetts. Between the samples of wine, we are offered some wine-tasting crackers which help cleanse the palate between wine tastings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Where did they come from? They came from halfway across the country in rural Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s one of the healthy products offered by this innovative store in the heartland of the nation.Last week we met Joel Gaeddert who founded Flint Hills Design in North Newton. His younger brother Aaron also operates a small business.Aaron came to Newton to attend Bethel College, as had his parents and his older brother Joel. When Joel founded Flint Hills Design, Aaron worked for him during college and after graduation. In 2014, he had the opportunity to pursue a business of his own.Newton had a local food cooperative that closed in 2000. After it closed, a couple of women bought some of the supplies and equipment and opened a bulk health food store of their own. It was called Prairie Harvest. They later relocated into a historic 1892 building in downtown Newton.In 2014, Aaron Gaeddert and family had the opportunity to purchase the business. He has expanded it over time.The business has recently been rebranded as Prairy. That’s Prairy spelled with a Y as in the title of the book PrairyErth by the author William Least-Heat Moon. That book is about Chase County in the heart of the Flint Hills of Kansas.Prairy is now the overall name for this multifaceted business. “We began as a full line natural foods store but we have branched out and expanded,” Aaron said. The business now includes a deli restaurant, catering, wholesale products, and online sales.“When we started, natural foods was a niche,” he noted. “Now it has become more mainstream. We’re evolving toward specialty foods and drinks, with an emphasis on locally grown products.”The Prairy store now offers local and organic produce, locally supplied meat from area farmers and ranchers, and bulk foods and spices. These include bulk grains, beans, coffee, tea, and more. Customers of the bulk products can buy containers and then pick up as much or as little of the products as needed.Prairy has also opened a juice bar which offers made-in-Kansas kombucha and cold brewed coffee. The in-store restaurant offers a hot lunch, Monday through Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hot food options usually include soup and homemade comfort foods such as pot pie, mac and cheese, taco bar, or something similar.Their historic building downtown has a mezzanine which has been converted into a beautiful event space. The next natural progression was to do catering there. Prairy catering can cover everything from formal five-course meals to party platters and appetizers.Another product line is offered for online shopping. Those products include Prairy Bites, Prairy Provisions, and Prairy Life.&nbsp;&nbsp;Prairy Bites are bite-size cookies and crackers, inspired by the German Mennonite tradition of pfeffernusse. “Our grandmother made German spice cookies,” Aaron said. The previous owners had purchased a peppernut cookie business from a woman in the nearby rural community of Goessel, population 539 people. Now, that’s rural.They used these classic family recipes and expanded the business. “My sister-in-law’s grandmother had a Swedish cookie recipe,” Aaron said. They added other cookie flavors such as chocolate crunch, orange dream and lemon sugar, in addition to the afore-mentioned wine tasting crackers. There are wheat-free and anise-free options as well.Prairy Provisions includes various types of trail mixes and granola, plus coffee, peanut butter, and more. Prairy Life refers to a line of prairie-themed greeting cards and candles.All these products are available online. These products have gone from California to New York.For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.prairy.com/" target="_blank">www.prairy.com</a>.It’s time to leave this winery in Massachusetts where we found wine-tasting crackers which came from Kansas. We salute Aaron Gaeddert for making a difference with entrepreneurial expansion based on healthy foods. It certainly leaves a good taste in my mouth.And there’s more. We’ve met Aaron and Joel, but there was one more brother. He followed the entrepreneurial trail also. We’ll learn about his business next week.Audio and text files of Kansas Profiles are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kansasprofile.com/" target="_blank">http://www.kansasprofile.com</a>. For more information about the Huck Boyd Institute, interested persons can visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.huckboydinstitute.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huckboydinstitute.org</a>.Ron Wilson is director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.