The Southeast of Saline Trojans are traveling to Chapman to take on the Irish tonight. If you can't make it to the games, we have you covered!

The girls play at 6 p.m. Friday and the boys at approximately 7:30 p.m.

You can listen to the basketball games on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM). Devin Hanney has the call. You also can watch a live stream of the games right here on Salina Post, thanks to Salina Surgical Hospital!

Click the QR code or the link below to watch the games Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675394084746.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Southeast of Saline Trojans are traveling to Chapman to take on the Irish tonight. If you can't make it to the games, we have you covered!The girls play at 6 p.m. Friday and the boys at approximately 7:30 p.m.You can listen to the basketball games on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM). Devin Hanney has the call. You also can watch a live stream of the games right here on Salina Post, thanks to Salina Surgical Hospital!Click the QR code or the link below to watch the games Friday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675394287589.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xKvoest7qb4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Video by Bryan Dennett

🎥Watch live as Southeast of Saline takes on Chapman tonight!

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly believes in being fiscally responsible, and she believes that her Axing Your Taxes package will be fiscally responsible while saving Kansans approximately $500 million over the next three years.

Kelly discussed her Axing Your Taxes package during an exclusive interview with Salina Post on Tuesday afternoon.

The governor announced on Jan. 19 that the package, comprised of three parts, had been introduced in the Kansas House and Senate.

Kelly told Salina Post that the package builds off of last year's bipartisan legislation that she signed to gradually eliminate over three years the 6.5 percent state sales tax on groceries.

"One of the three things my bill does is eliminate the state portion of the food sales tax completely and immediately," Kelly said. "The money is in the budget. The revenue would be coming in to cover that for as far out as we can see, so there's absolutely no reason to not do that."

If that part of the package is passed, the state sales tax would immediately be eliminated on groceries, diapers, and feminine hygiene products.

The second component of Kelly's proposed legislation would create in August a four-day sales tax holiday on school supplies, personal computers, instructional materials, and art supplies.

"That will help not only our parents and teachers, but I think it will also help our businesses, particularly those on the borders of states that have that sales tax holiday," she said.

The third component would benefit retirees who might be taxed on their Social Security income. Currently, Kansans earning less than $75,000 annually do not pay state income tax on social security income. Under Kelly's proposal, no Kansas retiree making under $100,000 would pay full taxes on Social Security income.

"That would help a lot of our senior citizens," Kelly said. "It would help put more money back in their pockets."

Kelly said that her administration is estimating a $500 million in savings for Kansans from the three components combined.

Should the tax cut package be approved, no state services will need to be cut to make up for the estimated $500 million in tax savings, Kelly said.

"I am a true fiscal conservative. I don't like to spend money I don't have. I won't spend money I don't have," she said. "So you can trust that we've looked at this every which way from Sunday. We won't touch our schools. We won't touch our transportation program. All of those will remain intact with these tax cuts in place."

Kelly said she was not proposing any additional relief measures at this point.

"We thought this was a fiscally responsible approach to take for providing relief," she said.

Kelly did say, however, that as her administration is putting together its budget proposal for next year, "we will look at the numbers and see if that allows us to do some more."

On Jan. 10, Kelly signed an executive order to establish the Early Childhood Transition Task Force. Kelly said the executive order will give her administration a year to study the current early childhood services that are being provided by the state.

"We have a slew of different entities that are providing some sort of service to early childhood. We want to study all of that. We'll likely be working with the Hunt Institute out of North Carolina. They are experts in this area," she said.

Once the study is complete, recommendations will be made for realigning early childhood services, including the possible creation of a cabinet-level agency.

"That agency would focus entirely on the range of services for early childhood to ensure that we have more consistency, more continuity, less overlap, with fewer gaps" to make better use of resources for early childhood, including childcare, Kelly said. 

"If you listened to the State of the State, you know that we have a lot of plans for the second term, including building on many of the things that we started in the first term. That would include things like broadband expansion. We are being focused like a laser ensuring that as many homes and hospitals, schools, and businesses as want are connected to high-speed internet. That will continue to be a major focus of our administration," Kelly said.

Affordable housing, which Kelly noted was an important issue for the Salina area, also will continue to be a focus of her administration.

"We've been working with your local folks to ensure that you have plenty of housing available for all the jobs that are being created in your area," she said.

"And then all of that flows into our effort to build our workforce. We have been very successful in bringing businesses and bringing jobs to Kansas. We need to ensure that they have the people they need," she added.

On Sept. 1, Kelly placed the first legal sports wager in Kansas when she bet $15 on the Kansas City Chiefs to win Super Bowl LVII. The amount was no coincidence as 15 also happens to be the jersey number of Chiefs' QB1 Patrick Mahomes.

When asked whether she was still positive that the Chiefs would win the Super Bowl, Kelly said, "Absolutely! I don't know that Patrick Mahomes knows how to lose. Every time it seems like it's a possibility, he seems to pull it out. I'm confident that will happen and hopefully, he won't have to be coming from behind."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628276900594.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. Photos courtesy Governor's Office" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly. Photos courtesy Governor's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostKansas Governor Laura Kelly believes in being fiscally responsible, and she believes that her Axing Your Taxes package will be fiscally responsible while saving Kansans approximately $500 million over the next three years.Kelly discussed her Axing Your Taxes package during an exclusive interview with Salina Post on Tuesday afternoon.The governor announced on Jan. 19 that the package, comprised of three parts, had been introduced in the Kansas House and Senate.Kelly told Salina Post that the package builds off of last year's bipartisan legislation that she signed to gradually eliminate over three years the 6.5 percent state sales tax on groceries."One of the three things my bill does is eliminate the state portion of the food sales tax completely and immediately," Kelly said. "The money is in the budget. The revenue would be coming in to cover that for as far out as we can see, so there's absolutely no reason to not do that."If that part of the package is passed, the state sales tax would immediately be eliminated on groceries, diapers, and feminine hygiene products.The second component of Kelly's proposed legislation would create in August a four-day sales tax holiday on school supplies, personal computers, instructional materials, and art supplies."That will help not only our parents and teachers, but I think it will also help our businesses, particularly those on the borders of states that have that sales tax holiday," she said.The third component would benefit retirees who might be taxed on their Social Security income. Currently, Kansans earning less than $75,000 annually do not pay state income tax on social security income. Under Kelly's proposal, no Kansas retiree making under $100,000 would pay full taxes on Social Security income."That would help a lot of our senior citizens," Kelly said. "It would help put more money back in their pockets."Kelly said that her administration is estimating a $500 million in savings for Kansans from the three components combined."Everybody benefits," she said.Should the tax cut package be approved, no state services will need to be cut to make up for the estimated $500 million in tax savings, Kelly said."I am a true fiscal conservative. I don't like to spend money I don't have. I won't spend money I don't have," she said. "So you can trust that we've looked at this every which way from Sunday. We won't touch our schools. We won't touch our transportation program. All of those will remain intact with these tax cuts in place."Kelly said she was not proposing any additional relief measures at this point."We thought this was a fiscally responsible approach to take for providing relief," she said.Kelly did say, however, that as her administration is putting together its budget proposal for next year, "we will look at the numbers and see if that allows us to do some more."Early childhood and childcareOn Jan. 10, Kelly signed an executive order to establish the Early Childhood Transition Task Force. Kelly said the executive order will give her administration a year to study the current early childhood services that are being provided by the state."We have a slew of different entities that are providing some sort of service to early childhood. We want to study all of that. We'll likely be working with the Hunt Institute out of North Carolina. They are experts in this area," she said.Once the study is complete, recommendations will be made for realigning early childhood services, including the possible creation of a cabinet-level agency."That agency would focus entirely on the range of services for early childhood to ensure that we have more consistency, more continuity, less overlap, with fewer gaps" to make better use of resources for early childhood, including childcare, Kelly said. Kelly's second term"If you listened to the State of the State, you know that we have a lot of plans for the second term, including building on many of the things that we started in the first term. That would include things like broadband expansion. We are being focused like a laser ensuring that as many homes and hospitals, schools, and businesses as want are connected to high-speed internet. That will continue to be a major focus of our administration," Kelly said.Affordable housing, which Kelly noted was an important issue for the Salina area, also will continue to be a focus of her administration."We've been working with your local folks to ensure that you have plenty of housing available for all the jobs that are being created in your area," she said."And then all of that flows into our effort to build our workforce. We have been very successful in bringing businesses and bringing jobs to Kansas. We need to ensure that they have the people they need," she added.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1662056609748.png" alt="Kelly kicked off legal sports betting in Kansas on Sept. 1 in the&nbsp;Hollywood Casino in Kansas City, Kan. Kelly placed the first wager in the state, a $15 bet that the Kansas City Chiefs would win Super Bowl LVII.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kelly kicked off legal sports betting in Kansas on Sept. 1 in the&nbsp;Hollywood Casino in Kansas City, Kan. Kelly placed the first wager in the state, a $15 bet that the Kansas City Chiefs would win Super Bowl LVII.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City ChiefsOn Sept. 1, Kelly placed the first legal sports wager in Kansas when she bet $15 on the Kansas City Chiefs to win Super Bowl LVII. The amount was no coincidence as 15 also happens to be the jersey number of Chiefs' QB1 Patrick Mahomes.When asked whether she was still positive that the Chiefs would win the Super Bowl, Kelly said, "Absolutely! I don't know that Patrick Mahomes knows how to lose. Every time it seems like it's a possibility, he seems to pull it out. I'm confident that will happen and hopefully, he won't have to be coming from behind."

Governor Kelly talks axing taxes, early childhood, second term, Chiefs

By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancher This past weekend was my favorite Kansas Farm Bureau event, the Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&amp;R) Conference. I am going to let you in on a secret, I am over 35. I know you are all shocked, and I am a bit surprised they still let me through the doors. I guess they either take pity on me or they let me in because I am on the state board of directors. Either way I am always happy to sneak in and get my batteries recharged. I think I have figured out the fountain of youth, and it is to spend time around this outstanding group of young farmers, ranchers, agribusiness people and students. Their enthusiasm and energy is contagious, even for an old guy several years past the YF&amp;R expiration date. The conference itself is outstanding. The keynote speakers and information shared is some of the best and most timely for those of us in agriculture. Then there are the breakout sessions and workshops, again some of the leading experts in their fields and cutting edge information. Include that with contests showcasing our industry’s best and brightest along with social events and you have a great weekend. The best part is it is planned, coordinated and put on by the Young Farmer and Rancher committee, the best and brightest members 35 and younger in Kansas Farm Bureau. Does it sound like I am bragging? I hope so because I am. We hear all the time about the aging agriculture industry and often pundits wonder where we are headed. Will our producers age out? Will we be able to feed a growing, hungry population? Spend a weekend at the Young Farmer and Rancher Conference and you know we will be in good hands. Spending time with this group will renew your faith in the future. I love listening to the conversations and hearing the new ideas and enthusiasm. This conference was crucial for Jennifer and I as we started our journey in agriculture. So many times you feel alone and it seems like no one understands what you are going through. Then you come to your first YF&amp;R Conference and find out there are many others going through the same trials and tribulations. The networking in the hallways and the friendships you make over the weekend are truly the most valuable part of the conference. We still have friendships that were forged during this conference. That is why each year I look forward to this weekend. I must admit I am being a little selfish because I know I get more out of it than I give to the participants I meet. This old guy is transformed back into a time when anything was possible and my career was ahead of me. I wish I could bottle the excitement and energy up for all of you, it is something we all need these days. I can’t do that, but I can go forth knowing agriculture is in good hands.

"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 © 2023 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576508626397.png" alt="Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow. Photo courtesy Kansas Farm Bureau</figcaption>
 </figure>By GLENN BRUNKOW Pottawatomie&nbsp;County farmer and rancher This past weekend was my favorite Kansas Farm Bureau event, the Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&amp;R) Conference. I am going to let you in on a secret, I am over 35. I know you are all shocked, and I am a bit surprised they still let me through the doors. I guess they either take pity on me or they let me in because I am on the state board of directors. Either way I am always happy to sneak in and get my batteries recharged. I think I have figured out the fountain of youth, and it is to spend time around this outstanding group of young farmers, ranchers, agribusiness people and students. Their enthusiasm and energy is contagious, even for an old guy several years past the YF&amp;R expiration date. The conference itself is outstanding. The keynote speakers and information shared is some of the best and most timely for those of us in agriculture. Then there are the breakout sessions and workshops, again some of the leading experts in their fields and cutting edge information. Include that with contests showcasing our industry’s best and brightest along with social events and you have a great weekend. The best part is it is planned, coordinated and put on by the Young Farmer and Rancher committee, the best and brightest members 35 and younger in Kansas Farm Bureau. Does it sound like I am bragging? I hope so because I am. We hear all the time about the aging agriculture industry and often pundits wonder where we are headed. Will our producers age out? Will we be able to feed a growing, hungry population? Spend a weekend at the Young Farmer and Rancher Conference and you know we will be in good hands. Spending time with this group will renew your faith in the future. I love listening to the conversations and hearing the new ideas and enthusiasm. This conference was crucial for Jennifer and I as we started our journey in agriculture. So many times you feel alone and it seems like no one understands what you are going through. Then you come to your first YF&amp;R Conference and find out there are many others going through the same trials and tribulations. The networking in the hallways and the friendships you make over the weekend are truly the most valuable part of the conference. We still have friendships that were forged during this conference. That is why each year I look forward to this weekend. I must admit I am being a little selfish because I know I get more out of it than I give to the participants I meet. This old guy is transformed back into a time when anything was possible and my career was ahead of me. I wish I could bottle the excitement and energy up for all of you, it is something we all need these days. I can’t do that, but I can go forth knowing agriculture is in good hands."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 © 2023 Kansas Farm Bureau, All rights reserved.

INSIGHT: Faith in the future of agriculture

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Donna Kelce is going to have to pull out that now-familiar custom jersey — the one with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce's front stitched to Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce's back — one more time this season.

At least this time, she'll get to see her boys in person.

For the first time in Super Bowl history, a pair of siblings will play each other on the NFL's grandest stage. Kelce helped the Chiefs return to their third championship game in four seasons on Sunday night when they beat the Bengals for the AFC title, while Jason has the Eagles back for the second time in six years after their NFC title win over the 49ers.

"Cool scenario to be in, you know?" Travis Kelce said. "My mom can't lose."

Indeed, there have been plenty of famous NFL siblings over the years, and many had some memorable matchups: Peyton vs. Eli Manning, Tiki vs. Ronde Barber. But they never reached the same Super Bowl, or had to put their dear old mom in such a predicament, where one will be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy at the other one's expense.

"It's going to be an amazing feeling playing against him," added Travis, whose team has gotten the better of big brother's Eagles the last three matchups. "I respect everyone over there in the Eagles organization. You won't see me talk too much trash because of how much I love my brother. But it's going to be an emotional game, for sure."

Jason Kelce was even ever-so-briefly a Chiefs fan Sunday night, pulling on a Kansas City sweatshirt for about the three hours between the end of the Eagles' 31-7 rout of San Francisco and the finish of his little brother's 23-20 win over Cincinnati.

"That's it for the rest of the year," Jason said with a smile. "I am done being a Chiefs fan."

While her husband, Ed, has mostly kept private over the years, Donna has been a fixture as she crisscrosses the country to watch her boys. During wild-card weekend last year, she started in Tampa Bay watching the Eagles against the Buccaneers, then hopped a plane to Kansas City in time to watch the Chiefs play the Steelers at night.

She already has seen both of her sons win Super Bowls, too: The Eagles beat the Patriots in 2018 in Minneapolis, and the Chiefs rallied to beat the 49ers in Miami two years later.

She hasn't seen much of them lately, though. The way the playoff schedule worked out for the divisional round and the conference championship games, it was impossible for Donna to make it to see both of her boys in person.

In any case, they've come a long way from their solidly middle-class upbringing in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. Jason blazed the trail as the star offensive lineman who earned a scholarship to Cincinnati, and Travis soon followed suit. Both caught the eyes of NFL scout during their college careers, and of one coach in particular: Andy Reid.

It was Big Red who, while coaching the Eagles, used a sixth-round pick on Jason during the 2011 draft. And two years later, after Reid had gotten a fresh start in Kansas City, the Chiefs used a third-rounder to bring Travis into the fold.

"Big brother probably protected Travis from doing some crazy things. He probably talked him from dropping off a ladder into raked-up leaves once or twice," Reid said Monday. "Listen, they're both at heart very competitive and compassionate, is the biggest thing. They care and they care about people and they care about they're game."

Jason has been to six Pro Bowls and was just voted an All-Pro for the fifth time, and he's emerged as one of the best offensive linemen in Eagles history. Travis has been to eight Pro Bowls, just made a fourth All-Pro team and is second in NFL history to Jerry Rice in playoff catches, yards and touchdowns.

Football's not the only thing they're good at, either.

The brothers have new a podcast called "New Heights with Jason &amp; Travis Kelce," which takes listeners on a riotous, real-time ride through the NFL season. The weekly shows are recorded on Tuesdays and last between 60 and 90 minutes, the two NFL stars playing off each other as if they were hanging out in mom's basement.

Special guests have included Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and Chiefs counterpart Patrick Mahomes.

"They have a good mesh there, and a good relationship," Reid said. "I think Travis has grown up a lot. Jason probably came in a bit more mature — Travis was a little immature. But he's really grown into a good person.

"I have invested time in both of those two," Reid added, "so I feel like a part of the family."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675194896582.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, left, talks to his brother, Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, after they exchanged jerseys following an NFL game in Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 17, 2017. For the first time in Super Bowl history, a pair of siblings will play each other on the NFL's grandest stage. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga, file)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, left, talks to his brother, Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, after they exchanged jerseys following an NFL game in Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 17, 2017. For the first time in Super Bowl history, a pair of siblings will play each other on the NFL's grandest stage. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga, file)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Donna Kelce is going to have to pull out that now-familiar custom jersey — the one with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce's front stitched to Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce's back — one more time this season.At least this time, she'll get to see her boys in person.For the first time in Super Bowl history, a pair of siblings will play each other on the NFL's grandest stage. Kelce helped the Chiefs return to their third championship game in four seasons on Sunday night when they beat the Bengals for the AFC title, while Jason has the Eagles back for the second time in six years after their NFC title win over the 49ers."Cool scenario to be in, you know?" Travis Kelce said. "My mom can't lose."Or maybe can't win.Indeed, there have been plenty of famous NFL siblings over the years, and many had some memorable matchups: Peyton vs. Eli Manning, Tiki vs. Ronde Barber. But they never reached the same Super Bowl, or had to put their dear old mom in such a predicament, where one will be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy at the other one's expense."It's going to be an amazing feeling playing against him," added Travis, whose team has gotten the better of big brother's Eagles the last three matchups. "I respect everyone over there in the Eagles organization. You won't see me talk too much trash because of how much I love my brother. But it's going to be an emotional game, for sure."Jason Kelce was even ever-so-briefly a Chiefs fan Sunday night, pulling on a Kansas City sweatshirt for about the three hours between the end of the Eagles' 31-7 rout of San Francisco and the finish of his little brother's 23-20 win over Cincinnati."That's it for the rest of the year," Jason said with a smile. "I am done being a Chiefs fan."He'll leave that to mom and dad.While her husband, Ed, has mostly kept private over the years, Donna has been a fixture as she crisscrosses the country to watch her boys. During wild-card weekend last year, she started in Tampa Bay watching the Eagles against the Buccaneers, then hopped a plane to Kansas City in time to watch the Chiefs play the Steelers at night.She already has seen both of her sons win Super Bowls, too: The Eagles beat the Patriots in 2018 in Minneapolis, and the Chiefs rallied to beat the 49ers in Miami two years later.She hasn't seen much of them lately, though. The way the playoff schedule worked out for the divisional round and the conference championship games, it was impossible for Donna to make it to see both of her boys in person.In any case, they've come a long way from their solidly middle-class upbringing in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. Jason blazed the trail as the star offensive lineman who earned a scholarship to Cincinnati, and Travis soon followed suit. Both caught the eyes of NFL scout during their college careers, and of one coach in particular: Andy Reid.It was Big Red who, while coaching the Eagles, used a sixth-round pick on Jason during the 2011 draft. And two years later, after Reid had gotten a fresh start in Kansas City, the Chiefs used a third-rounder to bring Travis into the fold."Big brother probably protected Travis from doing some crazy things. He probably talked him from dropping off a ladder into raked-up leaves once or twice," Reid said Monday. "Listen, they're both at heart very competitive and compassionate, is the biggest thing. They care and they care about people and they care about they're game."They also happen to be very good at it.Jason has been to six Pro Bowls and was just voted an All-Pro for the fifth time, and he's emerged as one of the best offensive linemen in Eagles history. Travis has been to eight Pro Bowls, just made a fourth All-Pro team and is second in NFL history to Jerry Rice in playoff catches, yards and touchdowns.Football's not the only thing they're good at, either.The brothers have new a podcast called "New Heights with Jason &amp; Travis Kelce," which takes listeners on a riotous, real-time ride through the NFL season. The weekly shows are recorded on Tuesdays and last between 60 and 90 minutes, the two NFL stars playing off each other as if they were hanging out in mom's basement.Special guests have included Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts and Chiefs counterpart Patrick Mahomes."They have a good mesh there, and a good relationship," Reid said. "I think Travis has grown up a lot. Jason probably came in a bit more mature — Travis was a little immature. But he's really grown into a good person."I have invested time in both of those two," Reid added, "so I feel like a part of the family."

Brother vs. brother: Kelces prepare for Super Bowl showdown

The Sacred Heart Knights are coming to Southeast of Saline to take on the Trojans tonight. If you can't make it to the games, we have you covered!

The girls play at 6 p.m. Tuesday and the boys at approximately 7:30 p.m.

You can listen to the basketball games on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM). Devin Hanney has the call. You also can watch a live stream of the games right here on Salina Post, thanks to Salina Ortho!

Click the QR code or the link below to watch the games Tuesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675188243956.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Sacred Heart Knights are coming to Southeast of Saline to take on the Trojans tonight. If you can't make it to the games, we have you covered!The girls play at 6 p.m. Tuesday and the boys at approximately 7:30 p.m.You can listen to the basketball games on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM). Devin Hanney has the call. You also can watch a live stream of the games right here on Salina Post, thanks to Salina Ortho!Click the QR code or the link below to watch the games Tuesday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675188382085.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O7lGGqO8QnA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Video by Bryan Dennett

🎥Watch live as Southeast of Saline takes on Sacred Heart tonight!

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Basketball Writer

MANHATTAN — Keyontae Johnson gathered with a few of his old Florida teammates after leading No. 5 Kansas State to a 64-50 win over the Gators on Saturday night, the group smiling for some cameras for a picture he'll no doubt cherish.

Not only because of what Johnson had been through but how the Wildcats had performed.

Johnson had 13 points and 11 rebounds in a sentimental matchup with the Gators, while Markquis Nowell flirted with the first triple-double in Kanas State history, helping the Wildcats to a dominant 64-50 victory in the Big 12-SEC Challenge.

Johnson struggled mightily from the field, going just 5 of 16 and even getting stuffed by the front of the rim during a windmill dunk on a second-half fast break. But it was nevertheless a special night for the senior forward, who collapsed on the Gators' sideline during a game against Florida State just over two years ago.

Johnson spent 10 days in the hospital and never played another meaningful minute for Florida, whose medical staff would not clear him. He wound up at Kansas State, where doctors gave his heart the green light, and he has emerged as the Big 12's third-leading scorer and rebounder while helping the Wildcats to their highest ranking in more than a decade.

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime memory. You'll never get that moment back," he said. "Just trying to embrace that moment."

Wildcats coach Jerome Tang spoke to Johnson throughout the week about what was undoubtedly an emotional night.

"It was really cool. As a fan, I wanted to see him have a good game. I wanted him to get the win. I think the team wanted him to get the win," Tang said. "We knew it was important to him, even though he didn't make a big deal of it."

Nowell finished with 13 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, and Nae'Qwan Tomlin also had 11 points. The Wildcats improved to 18-3 to match the 1972-73 team for the best start through 21 games in school history.

"I was aware the second half," Nowell said of the triple-double. "I tried to get it but the cards didn't allow it to happen."

Colin Castleton scored 13 points for the Gators (12-9). Myreon Jones and Will Richard had 11 apiece.

"I thought we got some looks. I thought we should have shot the ball a little better than we did," first-year Gators coach Todd Golden said. "It's been a little bit of an Achilles heel for us on the road."

Most of the Wildcats' offense against the Gators flowed through the 5-foot-8 Nowell, who had eight points, eight assists and six boards by the break. By that point, Kansas State had built a commanding 37-16 advantage.

The Gators, meanwhile, had no offense whatsoever.

They missed five of their first six shots and were 6 of 29 from the field at halftime. In fact, Florida shot it so poorly that Alex Fudge wedged a free throw between the rim and backboard, and that came one possession after the Gators' Kowacie Reeves clanked an open dunk off the back of the iron.

Florida managed to regroup, scoring the first 10 points of the second half, before Nowell answered with a jump shot and Johnson added a bucket and a couple of free throws to halt the Gators' momentum.

The Wildcats stretched the lead back over 20 with about 5 1/2 minutes to go before coasting to the finish.

"Listen, I like competing, man, and an opportunity to go up against a really good team like Kansas State on the road was a really good challenge for us," Golden said. "It was a good opportunity for us."

Florida: Golden had been 5-0 against fellow first-year coaches. But his Gators had no answer for Tang's bunch, which became the third Big 12 team to beat them this season. They lost to West Virginia at the Phil Knight Legacy in November and to Oklahoma at the Jumpman Invitational in December.

Kansas State: David N'Guessan, who had played just four minutes since Dec. 21 because of a foot injury, was back on the court. He got the start and had nine points in 11 first-half minutes, though he did not score in the second half. "I don't think I'm close to where I was when I got hurt," he said, "but a couple more practices and I'll be there."

Florida's brutal stretch continues with No. 5 Tennessee on Wednesday night, then trips to Kentucky and No. 2 Alabama.

Kansas State heads down Interstate 70 for a rematch with ninth-ranked Kansas on Tuesday night.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Basketball WriterMANHATTAN — Keyontae Johnson gathered with a few of his old Florida teammates after leading No. 5 Kansas State to a 64-50 win over the Gators on Saturday night, the group smiling for some cameras for a picture he'll no doubt cherish.Not only because of what Johnson had been through but how the Wildcats had performed.Johnson had 13 points and 11 rebounds in a sentimental matchup with the Gators, while Markquis Nowell flirted with the first triple-double in Kanas State history, helping the Wildcats to a dominant 64-50 victory in the Big 12-SEC Challenge.Johnson struggled mightily from the field, going just 5 of 16 and even getting stuffed by the front of the rim during a windmill dunk on a second-half fast break. But it was nevertheless a special night for the senior forward, who collapsed on the Gators' sideline during a game against Florida State just over two years ago.Johnson spent 10 days in the hospital and never played another meaningful minute for Florida, whose medical staff would not clear him. He wound up at Kansas State, where doctors gave his heart the green light, and he has emerged as the Big 12's third-leading scorer and rebounder while helping the Wildcats to their highest ranking in more than a decade."It's a once-in-a-lifetime memory. You'll never get that moment back," he said. "Just trying to embrace that moment."Wildcats coach Jerome Tang spoke to Johnson throughout the week about what was undoubtedly an emotional night."It was really cool. As a fan, I wanted to see him have a good game. I wanted him to get the win. I think the team wanted him to get the win," Tang said. "We knew it was important to him, even though he didn't make a big deal of it."Nowell finished with 13 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, and Nae'Qwan Tomlin also had 11 points. The Wildcats improved to 18-3 to match the 1972-73 team for the best start through 21 games in school history."I was aware the second half," Nowell said of the triple-double. "I tried to get it but the cards didn't allow it to happen."Colin Castleton scored 13 points for the Gators (12-9). Myreon Jones and Will Richard had 11 apiece."I thought we got some looks. I thought we should have shot the ball a little better than we did," first-year Gators coach Todd Golden said. "It's been a little bit of an Achilles heel for us on the road."Most of the Wildcats' offense against the Gators flowed through the 5-foot-8 Nowell, who had eight points, eight assists and six boards by the break. By that point, Kansas State had built a commanding 37-16 advantage.The Gators, meanwhile, had no offense whatsoever.They missed five of their first six shots and were 6 of 29 from the field at halftime. In fact, Florida shot it so poorly that Alex Fudge wedged a free throw between the rim and backboard, and that came one possession after the Gators' Kowacie Reeves clanked an open dunk off the back of the iron.Florida managed to regroup, scoring the first 10 points of the second half, before Nowell answered with a jump shot and Johnson added a bucket and a couple of free throws to halt the Gators' momentum.The Wildcats stretched the lead back over 20 with about 5 1/2 minutes to go before coasting to the finish."Listen, I like competing, man, and an opportunity to go up against a really good team like Kansas State on the road was a really good challenge for us," Golden said. "It was a good opportunity for us."BIG PICTUREFlorida: Golden had been 5-0 against fellow first-year coaches. But his Gators had no answer for Tang's bunch, which became the third Big 12 team to beat them this season. They lost to West Virginia at the Phil Knight Legacy in November and to Oklahoma at the Jumpman Invitational in December.Kansas State: David N'Guessan, who had played just four minutes since Dec. 21 because of a foot injury, was back on the court. He got the start and had nine points in 11 first-half minutes, though he did not score in the second half. "I don't think I'm close to where I was when I got hurt," he said, "but a couple more practices and I'll be there."UP NEXTFlorida's brutal stretch continues with No. 5 Tennessee on Wednesday night, then trips to Kentucky and No. 2 Alabama.Kansas State heads down Interstate 70 for a rematch with ninth-ranked Kansas on Tuesday night.

Johnson, Nowell lead No. 5 K-State to 64-50 win over Florida

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs activated tight end Jody Fortson from injured reserve and elevated wide receivers Marcus Kemp and Ihmir Smith-Marsette from the practice squad for Sunday night's AFC title game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The move to activate Fortson on Saturday was widely expected after the big, rangy red-zone threat showed no lingering problems from his elbow injury in practice this week. Fortson has not played since Dec. 18 against the Texans.

He filled a roster spot that was already available after the Chiefs waived cornerback Chris Lammons.

The decision to elevate Kemp and Smith-Marsette gives the Chiefs some insurance at wide receiver. Justin Watson was questionable on the final injury report because of an illness, while speedster Mecole Hardman has been dealing with a pelvis injury that landed him on IR and has kept him out of the lineup since Nov. 6 against the Titans.

Asked whether Hardman could play this week, Chiefs coach Andy Reid replied: "Listen, he's worked his tail off. I think he's feeling better than what he was definitely last week, so we'll see how he does."

The Chiefs did not activate Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who like Fortson has been designated to return from IR and has spent the past couple of weeks at practice. The running back has not played since Nov. 20, and even then had been ceding time to seventh-round pick Isiah Pacheco, who will start his 13th consecutive game against Cincinnati.

Pacheco ran 12 times for 95 yards in the Chiefs' 27-20 win over Jacksonville last week.

Kansas City is hosting the AFC title game for the fifth straight time, and it's a rematch of last year's championship game, when Patrick Mahomes and Co. blew an early 21-3 in a 27-24 overtime loss to the Bengals.

Mahomes practiced fully this week after spraining his right ankle against the Jaguars. He carried no injury designation on Friday's final report, though, and the Chiefs expect Mahomes to start as usual.

"I think progressively I've gotten better throughout the week and I'm just going to try to keep doing that," he said. "Keep that same mentality and push it, but then at the same time be ready to go whenever the game comes up."

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs activated tight end Jody Fortson from injured reserve and elevated wide receivers Marcus Kemp and Ihmir Smith-Marsette from the practice squad for Sunday night's AFC title game against the Cincinnati Bengals.The move to activate Fortson on Saturday was widely expected after the big, rangy red-zone threat showed no lingering problems from his elbow injury in practice this week. Fortson has not played since Dec. 18 against the Texans.He filled a roster spot that was already available after the Chiefs waived cornerback Chris Lammons.The decision to elevate Kemp and Smith-Marsette gives the Chiefs some insurance at wide receiver. Justin Watson was questionable on the final injury report because of an illness, while speedster Mecole Hardman has been dealing with a pelvis injury that landed him on IR and has kept him out of the lineup since Nov. 6 against the Titans.Asked whether Hardman could play this week, Chiefs coach Andy Reid replied: "Listen, he's worked his tail off. I think he's feeling better than what he was definitely last week, so we'll see how he does."The Chiefs did not activate Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who like Fortson has been designated to return from IR and has spent the past couple of weeks at practice. The running back has not played since Nov. 20, and even then had been ceding time to seventh-round pick Isiah Pacheco, who will start his 13th consecutive game against Cincinnati.Pacheco ran 12 times for 95 yards in the Chiefs' 27-20 win over Jacksonville last week.Kansas City is hosting the AFC title game for the fifth straight time, and it's a rematch of last year's championship game, when Patrick Mahomes and Co. blew an early 21-3 in a 27-24 overtime loss to the Bengals.Mahomes practiced fully this week after spraining his right ankle against the Jaguars. He carried no injury designation on Friday's final report, though, and the Chiefs expect Mahomes to start as usual."I think progressively I've gotten better throughout the week and I'm just going to try to keep doing that," he said. "Keep that same mentality and push it, but then at the same time be ready to go whenever the game comes up."

Chiefs active TE Jody Fortson from IR for AFC title game

The Ellsworth Bearcats are coming to Southeast of Saline to take on the Trojans tonight. If you can't make it to the games, we have you covered!

You can listen to the basketball games on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM). Devin Hanney has the call. You also can watch a live stream of the games right here on Salina Post, thanks to Commercial Tire Centers, Inc.!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674847426683.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>The Ellsworth Bearcats are coming to Southeast of Saline to take on the Trojans tonight. If you can't make it to the games, we have you covered!The girls play at 6 p.m. Friday and the boys at approximately 7:30 p.m.You can listen to the basketball games on KINA (910 AM or 107.5 FM). Devin Hanney has the call. You also can watch a live stream of the games right here on Salina Post, thanks to Commercial Tire Centers, Inc.!Click the QR code or the link below to watch the games Friday.<figure>
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🎥Watch live as Southeast of Saline takes on Ellsworth tonight!

<a href="https://memorials.martinbeckercarlson.com/ann-mclaughlin/5126815/index.php">https://memorials.martinbeckercarlson.com/ann-mclaughlin/5126815/index.php</a>

September 26th, 1934 - January 23rd, 2023

Funeral services for Ann Louise McLaughlin, age 88, of Shawnee, Kansas formerly of Chapman, will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 28, 2023 at the Chapman United Methodist Church in Chapman with Reverend Connie Wooldridge officiating. Mrs. McLaughlin passed away Monday, January 23, 2023 at her home in Shawnee. She was born September 26, 1934 in Muskegon, Michigan the daughter of Milton and Faye (Baker) Anderson.

Ann loved spending time with her family, baking cakes, bowling, crocheting, reading, and listening to music. On February 14, 1953 Ann was united in marriage to Calvin George McLaughlin in Muskegon. They had 65 years together before Calvin passed away on June 19, 2019. Ann was a homemaker and is survived by her loving children George McLaughlin and his wife Marcia of Salina, Carolyn Herrs and her husband Larry of Abilene, Anita Jamison and her husband Chris of Neodesha, Kansas, Colleen Farthing and her boyfriend Johnny Saavedra of Shawnee, Kansas, daughter-in- law Jina McLaughlin of Colona, Illinois, 19 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.

Along with her husband Calvin, Ann is preceded in death by her son Dale, daughter-in-law Lynette McLaughlin and her parents. Ann’s final resting place will be in the Indian Hills Cemetery in Chapman. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Friday at the Chapman United Methodist Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or to the Chapman United Methodist Church and may be sent in care of the Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel, P.O. Box 411, Chapman, Kansas 67431.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Ann McLaughlin, formerly of Chapman</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674786538184.jpeg" alt="Ann McLaughlin" />
 <figcaption>Ann McLaughlin</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://memorials.martinbeckercarlson.com/ann-mclaughlin/5126815/index.php">https://memorials.martinbeckercarlson.com/ann-mclaughlin/5126815/index.php</a>September 26th, 1934 - January 23rd, 2023Funeral services for Ann Louise McLaughlin, age 88, of Shawnee, Kansas formerly of Chapman, will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 28, 2023 at the Chapman United Methodist Church in Chapman with Reverend Connie Wooldridge officiating. Mrs. McLaughlin passed away Monday, January 23, 2023 at her home in Shawnee. She was born September 26, 1934 in Muskegon, Michigan the daughter of Milton and Faye (Baker) Anderson. Ann loved spending time with her family, baking cakes, bowling, crocheting, reading, and listening to music. On February 14, 1953 Ann was united in marriage to Calvin George McLaughlin in Muskegon. They had 65 years together before Calvin passed away on June 19, 2019. Ann was a homemaker and is survived by her loving children George McLaughlin and his wife Marcia of Salina, Carolyn Herrs and her husband Larry of Abilene, Anita Jamison and her husband Chris of Neodesha, Kansas, Colleen Farthing and her boyfriend Johnny Saavedra of Shawnee, Kansas, daughter-in- law Jina McLaughlin of Colona, Illinois, 19 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren. Along with her husband Calvin, Ann is preceded in death by her son Dale, daughter-in-law Lynette McLaughlin and her parents. Ann’s final resting place will be in the Indian Hills Cemetery in Chapman. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Friday at the Chapman United Methodist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or to the Chapman United Methodist Church and may be sent in care of the Londeen-Overlease Funeral Chapel, P.O. Box 411, Chapman, Kansas 67431.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ann McLaughlin

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs have lost three straight games to the Cincinnati Bengals, including last year's AFC title game, when they blew an early 21-3 lead in an overtime defeat before a sea of stunned fans inside Arrowhead Stadium.

Patrick Mahomes, who expects to lead the Chiefs against the Bengals on a sprained right ankle in Sunday night's rematch, is likewise winless against Bengals counterpart Joe Burrow, the only quarterback to have beaten him three straight times.

In other words, there's a reason the AFC North champions are imbued with a certain degree of confidence as they return to Kansas City, where the burgeoning rivals will once again determine who represents the AFC in the Super Bowl.

"Your preparation leads to confidence. That's just what you see from Joe and all of our players," explained the even-keeled Bengals coach Zac Taylor, who has somehow out-schemed, out-coached and gotten his team to out-execute Andy Reid and his Chiefs over the past 13 months. "So when they walk on the field on Sunday, they're relaxed."

In fact, the Bengals are so confident that some have taken to calling the Chiefs' home "Burrowhead Stadium."

Which, as you can imagine, doesn't sit well with the AFC West champs.

"I'm sure a lot of guys are aware of the comments they're making," Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster admitted. "The Bengals have always been the rah-rah team, and they back it up. And they're doing so again in the postseason."

Yet it's not as if the Bengals, who roared past the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round, have dominated the Chiefs, who took care of the Jacksonville Jaguars despite losing Mahomes for most of a quarter following his injury.

All three of their meetings have been decided by just three points each.

"We know what team we're playing, a team that has been to this game the last five seasons, and they've all been in that stadium," Burrow said. "So to me, they're still the team to beat and we're coming for them, but we know it's going to be tough. We know it's going to be hard-fought, and we know the kind of players they have on that side."

Their matchup in last year's title game was a classic. Mahomes threw three first-half touchdown passes, then Burrow led a dramatic comeback for Cincinnati. And when the Chiefs' Harrison Butker kicked a 41-yard field goal with no time left to send the game to overtime, the Bengals quickly picked off Mahomes to set up Evan McPherson's winning kick.

"Listen, they probably should be confident. They've won three games," said Reid, who is trying to guide Kansas City back to the Super Bowl for the third time in four seasons. "That's OK. We're still going to play the game."

Besides, the Chiefs have a quiet confidence about them, too.

"I would say they know us. We know them. And we're all searching for that little extra that you can throw at them," Reid said. "We've played each other enough that I'm sure both sides feel the same way."

The Chiefs' All-Pro quarterback practiced as usual this week, and Mahomes' ailing right ankle did not appear more heavily taped than the left. His ability to scramble is a big part of his game, though, particularly when it comes to finding time to make off-schedule throws, and any hesitation could be costly for Kansas City's offense.

"It's about being a competitor," Mahomes said this week. "You want to be out there, especially in these games."

The Bengals often struggled to run the ball this season, but Joe Mixon dominated the Bills last week, despite an offensive line forced to use a trio of backups because of injuries. He finished with 105 yards rushing and a touchdown.

"That's nothing I'm surprised about," Mixon said. "At the same time it's a great thing to be able to contribute in a major way with my teammates in a crucial moment. So as the moments get bigger, I've just got to keep elevating my game."

Whatever the limitations on Mahomes because of his ankle, the Chiefs will almost certainly try to help him out by getting their run game going. Isiah Pacheco had 95 yards on just 12 carries last week, and the bulk of that came during a 12-play, 98-yard drive when Mahomes was getting examined and backup Chad Henne was in the game.

A big part of Burrow's success is getting the ball out quickly, before pass rushers can find a lane and defenders can process what's happening. His release time averaged about 2 1/2 seconds last week and the Bills sacked him just once.

"We can't let him sit back in the pocket and get into rhythm throws because that's when he's most dangerous," Chiefs safety Justin Reid said. "You're not going to win games if you don't get sacks and turnovers, especially against a team like this."

The Bengals have one of the league's best groups of wide receivers, headlined by Ja'Marr Chase, who set the franchise's single-game record with 266 yards receiving in a regular-season win over Kansas City last season.

They'll be facing one of the youngest defensive backfields, which often has three rookie corners and a rookie safety on the field at once.

"Hopefully we've grown enough that we can match what they put out there," Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said. "This is an elite group we're going against. We have to have an elite game. We have to play our best game of the year."

AP Sports Writer Mitch Stacy in Cincinnati contributed to this report.

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs have lost three straight games to the Cincinnati Bengals, including last year's AFC title game, when they blew an early 21-3 lead in an overtime defeat before a sea of stunned fans inside Arrowhead Stadium.Patrick Mahomes, who expects to lead the Chiefs against the Bengals on a sprained right ankle in Sunday night's rematch, is likewise winless against Bengals counterpart Joe Burrow, the only quarterback to have beaten him three straight times.In other words, there's a reason the AFC North champions are imbued with a certain degree of confidence as they return to Kansas City, where the burgeoning rivals will once again determine who represents the AFC in the Super Bowl."Your preparation leads to confidence. That's just what you see from Joe and all of our players," explained the even-keeled Bengals coach Zac Taylor, who has somehow out-schemed, out-coached and gotten his team to out-execute Andy Reid and his Chiefs over the past 13 months. "So when they walk on the field on Sunday, they're relaxed."In fact, the Bengals are so confident that some have taken to calling the Chiefs' home "Burrowhead Stadium."Which, as you can imagine, doesn't sit well with the AFC West champs."I'm sure a lot of guys are aware of the comments they're making," Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster admitted. "The Bengals have always been the rah-rah team, and they back it up. And they're doing so again in the postseason."Yet it's not as if the Bengals, who roared past the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round, have dominated the Chiefs, who took care of the Jacksonville Jaguars despite losing Mahomes for most of a quarter following his injury.All three of their meetings have been decided by just three points each."We know what team we're playing, a team that has been to this game the last five seasons, and they've all been in that stadium," Burrow said. "So to me, they're still the team to beat and we're coming for them, but we know it's going to be tough. We know it's going to be hard-fought, and we know the kind of players they have on that side."Their matchup in last year's title game was a classic. Mahomes threw three first-half touchdown passes, then Burrow led a dramatic comeback for Cincinnati. And when the Chiefs' Harrison Butker kicked a 41-yard field goal with no time left to send the game to overtime, the Bengals quickly picked off Mahomes to set up Evan McPherson's winning kick."Listen, they probably should be confident. They've won three games," said Reid, who is trying to guide Kansas City back to the Super Bowl for the third time in four seasons. "That's OK. We're still going to play the game."Besides, the Chiefs have a quiet confidence about them, too."I would say they know us. We know them. And we're all searching for that little extra that you can throw at them," Reid said. "We've played each other enough that I'm sure both sides feel the same way."MAHOMES ON THE MENDThe Chiefs' All-Pro quarterback practiced as usual this week, and Mahomes' ailing right ankle did not appear more heavily taped than the left. His ability to scramble is a big part of his game, though, particularly when it comes to finding time to make off-schedule throws, and any hesitation could be costly for Kansas City's offense."It's about being a competitor," Mahomes said this week. "You want to be out there, especially in these games."RECHARGED RUN GAMEThe Bengals often struggled to run the ball this season, but Joe Mixon dominated the Bills last week, despite an offensive line forced to use a trio of backups because of injuries. He finished with 105 yards rushing and a touchdown."That's nothing I'm surprised about," Mixon said. "At the same time it's a great thing to be able to contribute in a major way with my teammates in a crucial moment. So as the moments get bigger, I've just got to keep elevating my game."SPEAKING OF RUNNINGWhatever the limitations on Mahomes because of his ankle, the Chiefs will almost certainly try to help him out by getting their run game going. Isiah Pacheco had 95 yards on just 12 carries last week, and the bulk of that came during a 12-play, 98-yard drive when Mahomes was getting examined and backup Chad Henne was in the game.QUICK RELEASEA big part of Burrow's success is getting the ball out quickly, before pass rushers can find a lane and defenders can process what's happening. His release time averaged about 2 1/2 seconds last week and the Bills sacked him just once."We can't let him sit back in the pocket and get into rhythm throws because that's when he's most dangerous," Chiefs safety Justin Reid said. "You're not going to win games if you don't get sacks and turnovers, especially against a team like this."INTRIGUING MATCHUPSThe Bengals have one of the league's best groups of wide receivers, headlined by Ja'Marr Chase, who set the franchise's single-game record with 266 yards receiving in a regular-season win over Kansas City last season.They'll be facing one of the youngest defensive backfields, which often has three rookie corners and a rookie safety on the field at once."Hopefully we've grown enough that we can match what they put out there," Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo said. "This is an elite group we're going against. We have to have an elite game. We have to play our best game of the year."AP Sports Writer Mitch Stacy in Cincinnati contributed to this report.

Bengals return to Kansas City for another AFC title game

Kansas Wesleyan's baseball program finally reached the NAIA's Promised Land at the end of the 2022 season.

The Coyotes caught fire late in the regular season, winning their last four games then stunned the Kansas Conference by winning the conference tournament in the most improbable fashion. After losing to Tabor in the opening round KWU won five games in three days, including two against Tabor in the championship on the third day.

Wesleyan's magical run continued in the NAIA National Championship Opening Round with a victory over LSU-Alexandria in the first game. The Coyotes were eliminated with two losses, the first a 7-5 setback against No. 3-ranked Oklahoma City – a game they led 5-4 in the seventh inning.

"Obviously doing that has been the goal every year and we've been close," said coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13219">Bill Neale</a>, who entering his eighth season. "It was awesome to win the conference tournament and make it to the national tournament. It just kind of proved to everyone where we are as a team and they got to see it firsthand."

The Coyotes finished the season 35-29 including a 17-16 record in the KCAC.

"We got one of (the KCAC's two) automatic bids by getting hot," Neale said. "It was awesome to win a game at the national tournament and then play a heck of a game against the number three team in the country and just come up short against them."

Neale expects more of the same this season with a veteran team returning and the addition of several promising newcomers. Expectations will be high with six position players returning along with much of the bullpen. The Coyotes set single-season school records for strikeouts (579) and home runs (96) in 2022.

"We're embracing that, we're not hiding from it," Neale said. "We know where we should be and it's going to take winning baseball games and being better than the team across from us each day.

"We're getting better players in here and we've got depth at several positions. We have a pitching staff now where a my first few years it was just five or six pitchers. Last year we had 10 or 11 pitchers that contributed. If we have a position player not playing well, we have someone behind them that is just as good and can do the job."

Pitching is the key, of course. The Coyotes lost three starters from last year's team – Trent Dewyer, Oscar Sanchez and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13237">Branden Voytko</a>&nbsp;(SR/El Paso, Texas), who will miss the season with an injury. Dewyer and Voytko each had at least 100 strikeouts.

Neale, though, believes he has filled the gaps. KWU opens the 2023 season against MidAmerica Nazarene on Thursday in Glendale, Arizona. They'll play five games in four days during the trip.

"We have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13273">Spencer Foley</a>&nbsp;(SR/Lancaster, Calif.) back (3-1, 1.65 ERA) and he had a great year for us," Neale said. "We're going to have a lot of new faces too.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14237">Nathan Righi</a>&nbsp;(JR/Pekin, Ill.) (Parkland College transfer) will open up on Thursday and will be followed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14249">Zach Westbrook</a>&nbsp;(JR/Azle, Texas) (transfer from Frank Phillips) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14248">Luis Villanueva</a>&nbsp;(JR/Willis, Texas) (Brescia transfer) will come in behind him. And there's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14210">Jarrett Brannen</a>&nbsp;(JR/Bakersfield, Calif.) (transfer from Bakersfield) as well."

The bullpen is well stocked with closers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13256">KT Gearlds</a>&nbsp;(SR/Ingram, Texas) (6-2, 6.47) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13264">Ryan Sandoval</a>&nbsp;(SR/El Paso, Texas) (5-5, 6.68, 5 saves).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13261">Cayden Diccion</a>&nbsp;(SR/Piedmont, Calif.) (0-0, 5.40) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13229">Cesar Rodriguez</a>&nbsp;(JR/Houston, Texas) (1-0, 6.50) also return.

"We've added some more depth," Neale said. "Even with some of the guys that are hurt right now we're still 14, 15, 16 pitchers deep so we're excited about that."

The entire infield returns led by All-KCAC First Team selection&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13262">Dustin Sipe</a>&nbsp;(SR/Aztec, N.M.) (15 home runs, 71 runs batted in, .322 batting average) at third base and Second Team choice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14201">Haydn Brown</a>&nbsp;(SR/Gardnerville, Nev.) (17-63-.326) at first.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14204">William Dryburgh</a>&nbsp;(SR/St. Joseph, Mo.) (8-34-.405, 33 stolen bases) is back at second after earning All-KCAC Honorable Mention honors and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13260">Jarrett Gable</a>&nbsp;(SR/Colleyville, Texas) (14-48-.258) returns at shortstop.

Kevin Esquillin-Cruz (5-38-.381) will be in centerfield once again while veterans&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13274">Diego Fisher</a>&nbsp;(SR/Hollister, Calif.) (3-21-2.59) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13271">Zach Olson</a>&nbsp;(JR/Red Deer, Alberta) (6-11-.254) will alternate in right field.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14219">Kendall Foster</a>&nbsp;(SR/Prosper, Texs), a transfer from Division I Northwestern State (La.), will start in left field and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14240">Diego Solis</a>&nbsp;(SO/El Paso, Texas), a transfer from New Mexico Military Institute, will open at catcher. He's joined by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14228">Jackson Newman</a>&nbsp;(JR/Bixby, Okla.), a transfer from Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M.

<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14208">Zack Beatty</a>&nbsp;(JR/Maple Park, Ill.), who hit 24 home runs for McCook Community College last spring, will be the designated hitter.

Four others also will see duty – shortstop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14247">Adrian Villalobos</a>&nbsp;(SO/Kelseyville, Calif.) from Mendocino College (Calif.) and is currently injured, catcher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14229">Kansuke Okada</a>&nbsp;(SR/Osaka, Japan) from Northwest Oklahoma State and freshmen Coulson&nbsp;Riggs, an outfielder, and first baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14230">Cruz Oxford</a>&nbsp;(FR/Peoria, Ariz.).

Neale says the Coyotes' attack will be a combination of power and speed – they stole 83 bases in 2022.

"That's the one thing that I've always prided myself on," he said. "I want to hit the long ball; I want to be able to hit a three-run home run but I also want to run the bases as well. And I thought we proved that last year.

"I think we'll hit 100 home runs and steal 100 bases this year.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14219">Kendall Foster</a>&nbsp;brings that running aspect and he's also got pop in his bat. I think with him, Will and Kevin there's 75-80 stolen bases between them."

Neale has three new assistant coaches. Longtime assistant Jonathan Freemyer was named Ottawa's head coach during the offseason and Neale hired&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13910">Bret Ringer</a>, Tyler&nbsp;Huffstickler and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13278">Ethan Wilson</a>.

Ringer was head coach at Medocino College (Calif.) the last three years while Huffstickler was on the staff at Division II Central Missouri. Wilson was a member of the KWU pitching staff the last three seasons.

"Coach Ringer does a great job with our infielders and hitters," Neale said. "He brings a calming aspect and I need that sometimes. He knows how to talk to our guys too. Coach Huff knows pitching and is an energy guy. He works really hard for the pitching staff. Ethan was the leader of our team last three years. It's the perfect role for him to step into, be that guy kids can bounce ideas off of and will just listen."

The Coyotes play their home opener in a doubleheader against Peru State at noon on Feb. 4 at Dean Evans Stadium.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674682441254.jpeg" alt="Photo courtesy <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com">kwucoyotes.com</a></figcaption>
 </figure>KWU Sports InformationKansas Wesleyan's baseball program finally reached the NAIA's Promised Land at the end of the 2022 season.The Coyotes caught fire late in the regular season, winning their last four games then stunned the Kansas Conference by winning the conference tournament in the most improbable fashion. After losing to Tabor in the opening round KWU won five games in three days, including two against Tabor in the championship on the third day.Wesleyan's magical run continued in the NAIA National Championship Opening Round with a victory over LSU-Alexandria in the first game. The Coyotes were eliminated with two losses, the first a 7-5 setback against No. 3-ranked Oklahoma City – a game they led 5-4 in the seventh inning."Obviously doing that has been the goal every year and we've been close," said coach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13219">Bill Neale</a>, who entering his eighth season. "It was awesome to win the conference tournament and make it to the national tournament. It just kind of proved to everyone where we are as a team and they got to see it firsthand."The Coyotes finished the season 35-29 including a 17-16 record in the KCAC."We got one of (the KCAC's two) automatic bids by getting hot," Neale said. "It was awesome to win a game at the national tournament and then play a heck of a game against the number three team in the country and just come up short against them."Neale expects more of the same this season with a veteran team returning and the addition of several promising newcomers. Expectations will be high with six position players returning along with much of the bullpen. The Coyotes set single-season school records for strikeouts (579) and home runs (96) in 2022."We're embracing that, we're not hiding from it," Neale said. "We know where we should be and it's going to take winning baseball games and being better than the team across from us each day."We're getting better players in here and we've got depth at several positions. We have a pitching staff now where a my first few years it was just five or six pitchers. Last year we had 10 or 11 pitchers that contributed. If we have a position player not playing well, we have someone behind them that is just as good and can do the job."Pitching is the key, of course. The Coyotes lost three starters from last year's team – Trent Dewyer, Oscar Sanchez and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13237">Branden Voytko</a>&nbsp;(SR/El Paso, Texas), who will miss the season with an injury. Dewyer and Voytko each had at least 100 strikeouts.Neale, though, believes he has filled the gaps. KWU opens the 2023 season against MidAmerica Nazarene on Thursday in Glendale, Arizona. They'll play five games in four days during the trip."We have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13273">Spencer Foley</a>&nbsp;(SR/Lancaster, Calif.) back (3-1, 1.65 ERA) and he had a great year for us," Neale said. "We're going to have a lot of new faces too.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14237">Nathan Righi</a>&nbsp;(JR/Pekin, Ill.) (Parkland College transfer) will open up on Thursday and will be followed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14249">Zach Westbrook</a>&nbsp;(JR/Azle, Texas) (transfer from Frank Phillips) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14248">Luis Villanueva</a>&nbsp;(JR/Willis, Texas) (Brescia transfer) will come in behind him. And there's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14210">Jarrett Brannen</a>&nbsp;(JR/Bakersfield, Calif.) (transfer from Bakersfield) as well."The bullpen is well stocked with closers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13256">KT Gearlds</a>&nbsp;(SR/Ingram, Texas) (6-2, 6.47) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13264">Ryan Sandoval</a>&nbsp;(SR/El Paso, Texas) (5-5, 6.68, 5 saves).&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13261">Cayden Diccion</a>&nbsp;(SR/Piedmont, Calif.) (0-0, 5.40) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13229">Cesar Rodriguez</a>&nbsp;(JR/Houston, Texas) (1-0, 6.50) also return."We've added some more depth," Neale said. "Even with some of the guys that are hurt right now we're still 14, 15, 16 pitchers deep so we're excited about that."The entire infield returns led by All-KCAC First Team selection&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13262">Dustin Sipe</a>&nbsp;(SR/Aztec, N.M.) (15 home runs, 71 runs batted in, .322 batting average) at third base and Second Team choice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14201">Haydn Brown</a>&nbsp;(SR/Gardnerville, Nev.) (17-63-.326) at first.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14204">William Dryburgh</a>&nbsp;(SR/St. Joseph, Mo.) (8-34-.405, 33 stolen bases) is back at second after earning All-KCAC Honorable Mention honors and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13260">Jarrett Gable</a>&nbsp;(SR/Colleyville, Texas) (14-48-.258) returns at shortstop.Kevin Esquillin-Cruz (5-38-.381) will be in centerfield once again while veterans&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13274">Diego Fisher</a>&nbsp;(SR/Hollister, Calif.) (3-21-2.59) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13271">Zach Olson</a>&nbsp;(JR/Red Deer, Alberta) (6-11-.254) will alternate in right field.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14219">Kendall Foster</a>&nbsp;(SR/Prosper, Texs), a transfer from Division I Northwestern State (La.), will start in left field and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14240">Diego Solis</a>&nbsp;(SO/El Paso, Texas), a transfer from New Mexico Military Institute, will open at catcher. He's joined by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14228">Jackson Newman</a>&nbsp;(JR/Bixby, Okla.), a transfer from Northeastern Oklahoma A&amp;M.<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14208">Zack Beatty</a>&nbsp;(JR/Maple Park, Ill.), who hit 24 home runs for McCook Community College last spring, will be the designated hitter.Four others also will see duty – shortstop&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14247">Adrian Villalobos</a>&nbsp;(SO/Kelseyville, Calif.) from Mendocino College (Calif.) and is currently injured, catcher&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14229">Kansuke Okada</a>&nbsp;(SR/Osaka, Japan) from Northwest Oklahoma State and freshmen Coulson&nbsp;Riggs, an outfielder, and first baseman&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14230">Cruz Oxford</a>&nbsp;(FR/Peoria, Ariz.).Neale says the Coyotes' attack will be a combination of power and speed – they stole 83 bases in 2022."That's the one thing that I've always prided myself on," he said. "I want to hit the long ball; I want to be able to hit a three-run home run but I also want to run the bases as well. And I thought we proved that last year."I think we'll hit 100 home runs and steal 100 bases this year.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/14219">Kendall Foster</a>&nbsp;brings that running aspect and he's also got pop in his bat. I think with him, Will and Kevin there's 75-80 stolen bases between them."Neale has three new assistant coaches. Longtime assistant Jonathan Freemyer was named Ottawa's head coach during the offseason and Neale hired&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13910">Bret Ringer</a>, Tyler&nbsp;Huffstickler and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwucoyotes.com/roster/24/3/13278">Ethan Wilson</a>.Ringer was head coach at Medocino College (Calif.) the last three years while Huffstickler was on the staff at Division II Central Missouri. Wilson was a member of the KWU pitching staff the last three seasons."Coach Ringer does a great job with our infielders and hitters," Neale said. "He brings a calming aspect and I need that sometimes. He knows how to talk to our guys too. Coach Huff knows pitching and is an energy guy. He works really hard for the pitching staff. Ethan was the leader of our team last three years. It's the perfect role for him to step into, be that guy kids can bounce ideas off of and will just listen."The Coyotes play their home opener in a doubleheader against Peru State at noon on Feb. 4 at Dean Evans Stadium.

Season preview: KWU baseball looks to build on last year's successes

By BLAISE MESA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-01-24/kids-regularly-run-away-kansas-foster-homes-and-some-have-died-how-the-state-hopes-to-improve">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA — Two Kansas foster runaways died in 2022. The 
body of one turned up in an empty lot in Kansas City, Kansas. The second
 stole a car and crashed into a semi near Parsons.

The 
deaths of those children prompted criticism of the Kansas Department for
 Children and Families, the agency ultimately responsible for kids 
tangled in the state’s foster system.

The agency still operates 
under the conditions of a lawsuit settlement to reduce the number of 
times foster children get shipped from home to home or get stuck 
overnight in offices of the private agencies hired to place them with 
families.

“There have been ongoing concerns, and now there have 
been growing concerns, about the lack of transparency and 
accountability, particularly with children spending the night in offices
 and runaways,” said state Sen. Molly Baumgardner, a Republican from 
Louisburg, when she heard about the death of the child in Parsons.

The lawmaker has called for the firing of DCF Secretary Laura Howard.

<a href="https://oig.hhs.gov/oas/reports/region7/72006095.pdf" target="_blank">A federal report</a>
 found that 7% of Kansas foster children went missing in a 30-month 
period, one of the highest rates in the nation — though state officials 
say that number is lower if the data is looked at in a different 
context.

Even by the state’s calculations, the runaway problem 
grew in recent years. In fiscal year 2015, 0.74% of all children in 
out-of-home placements were defined as runaways, according to state 
data. By fiscal year 2022, that number rose to 1.23%. The number of 
runaways hit 59 in fiscal year 2015 and topped off at 95 in fiscal year 
2022.

The state has also lost 500 foster homes in the last few years, another issue concerning lawmakers.

Meanwhile,
 state officials say they’re making progress by working on the things 
that typically cause kids to run away from group homes or foster care.

The
 state created a 12-person special response team to work with kids who 
have run or are identified as likely to run. That team tries to build a 
relationship with and mentor them.

TFI Family Services Inc., a 
private foster care agency hired by the state, partnered with the 
University of Kansas to study why kids leave. Its study found that 
children leave placement because they need more supportive care, lack 
control over their situation, are trying to get away from a flawed 
system — like one with high caseworker turnover — or they miss their 
families.

Kansas tries to keep kids with relatives.

Just
 28% of all foster care placements were in relatives’ homes in fiscal 
year 2010. That number now sits at 36%, or more than 2,000 kids in the 
most recent report. A relative's home, or kinship placements, keeps 
children with familiar family, friends, coaches or teachers.

Howard,
 the DCF chief, said that no matter how loving a foster family is, 
moving a child from the family they grew up with to a household of 
strangers is traumatic. Kinship placements are seen as a more 
comfortable transition because it keeps kids in their communities with 
support networks they’ve had throughout their lives.

Foster care 
agencies also see the benefits. They said that kids run to homes of 
people they call family, whatever their definition of family is. When 
that happens, those homes are checked to see if that could become a 
viable placement option for the child.

Kinship parents are often not expecting a new child, so DCF has rolled out <a href="https://www.kcur.org/2022-02-08/family-and-friends-who-take-on-foster-kids-in-kansas-say-they-need-more-support-from-the-state" target="_blank">training programs</a> for those fill-in parents to feel less overwhelmed by a sudden change.

The
 agency also wants more money to increase the pay for those kinship 
parents, something requested in Gov. Laura Kelly’s proposed budget. 
Family and friends who take on foster kids currently get at least $11.55
 a day. Licensed foster homes get $25.20 at a minimum. Howard said the 
proposed increase would get kinship families within 70% of the 
non-relative rate.

Kansas was also selected for a 
first-of-its-kind program that lets children play a larger role in 
picking their legal guardians. <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-05-18/kansas-is-taking-a-nationally-unprecedented-move-to-let-foster-teens-pick-their-families" target="_blank">SOUL Family</a>
 lets foster kids 16 and older pick up to two adults to be their legal, 
permanent family. Pending changes to state law, Kansas can be the first 
state in the nation to take that approach.

“We don’t shy away from innovation,” Howard said.

State
 Rep. Susan Ruiz, a Shawnee Democrat, has been a social worker for 
decades. She said children often fear foster care. One day they are 
living their lives, and the next, their things are thrown into a plastic
 bag and they are moved somewhere else.

“Why would you want to be cooperative?” Ruiz said. “Why would you not be angry about that?”

Creating
 welcoming environments could ease that anger and Ruiz said the state 
needs to pay attention to the particular needs of LGBTQ children. A 
foster family not accepting their gender identity or sexual orientation 
is reason enough for kids to run, multiple people told the Kansas News 
Service.

Kansas has no requirement that foster kids be placed in homes that accept their <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-09-24/lgbtq-foster-kids-in-kansas-have-no-guarantee-theyll-land-in-homes-that-accept-their-identity" target="_blank">sexual or gender identity</a>. But state Rep. Timothy Johnson, a Leavenworth Republican, says he doesn’t think this is that big of an issue.

“The families that I know are caring and loving, regardless of what your personal beliefs are,” he said.

Foster
 care agencies acknowledged children need to be in homes that accept 
them, but they stopped short of backing mandatory training on how to 
raise a gay or transgender kid.

Foster care agencies say they 
track which homes are supportive and do their best to steer appropriate 
placements that way. Kansas added new positions that focus on targeted 
recruiting of families to fill gaps in the system, which could be LGBTQ 
families or other areas of need.

Keeping kids in similar cultural 
backgrounds can play a role in welcoming kids. Everything from homes 
that like basketball or families without dogs are crucial.

Experts say a diverse array of foster homes is important because kids run for so many reasons.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674572213855.png" alt="A photo of the youth recovery report, which shows over 550 kids ran away in 2022. Blaise Mesa / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>A photo of the youth recovery report, which shows over 550 kids ran away in 2022. Blaise Mesa / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By BLAISE MESA <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-01-24/kids-regularly-run-away-kansas-foster-homes-and-some-have-died-how-the-state-hopes-to-improve">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA — Two Kansas foster runaways died in 2022. The 
body of one turned up in an empty lot in Kansas City, Kansas. The second
 stole a car and crashed into a semi near Parsons.The 
deaths of those children prompted criticism of the Kansas Department for
 Children and Families, the agency ultimately responsible for kids 
tangled in the state’s foster system.The agency still operates 
under the conditions of a lawsuit settlement to reduce the number of 
times foster children get shipped from home to home or get stuck 
overnight in offices of the private agencies hired to place them with 
families.“There have been ongoing concerns, and now there have 
been growing concerns, about the lack of transparency and 
accountability, particularly with children spending the night in offices
 and runaways,” said state Sen. Molly Baumgardner, a Republican from 
Louisburg, when she heard about the death of the child in Parsons.The lawmaker has called for the firing of DCF Secretary Laura Howard.<a href="https://oig.hhs.gov/oas/reports/region7/72006095.pdf" target="_blank">A federal report</a>
 found that 7% of Kansas foster children went missing in a 30-month 
period, one of the highest rates in the nation — though state officials 
say that number is lower if the data is looked at in a different 
context.Even by the state’s calculations, the runaway problem 
grew in recent years. In fiscal year 2015, 0.74% of all children in 
out-of-home placements were defined as runaways, according to state 
data. By fiscal year 2022, that number rose to 1.23%. The number of 
runaways hit 59 in fiscal year 2015 and topped off at 95 in fiscal year 
2022.The state has also lost 500 foster homes in the last few years, another issue concerning lawmakers.Meanwhile,
 state officials say they’re making progress by working on the things 
that typically cause kids to run away from group homes or foster care.The
 state created a 12-person special response team to work with kids who 
have run or are identified as likely to run. That team tries to build a 
relationship with and mentor them.TFI Family Services Inc., a 
private foster care agency hired by the state, partnered with the 
University of Kansas to study why kids leave. Its study found that 
children leave placement because they need more supportive care, lack 
control over their situation, are trying to get away from a flawed 
system — like one with high caseworker turnover — or they miss their 
families. <h2>Closest kin&nbsp;</h2>Kansas tries to keep kids with relatives.Just
 28% of all foster care placements were in relatives’ homes in fiscal 
year 2010. That number now sits at 36%, or more than 2,000 kids in the 
most recent report. A relative's home, or kinship placements, keeps 
children with familiar family, friends, coaches or teachers.Howard,
 the DCF chief, said that no matter how loving a foster family is, 
moving a child from the family they grew up with to a household of 
strangers is traumatic. Kinship placements are seen as a more 
comfortable transition because it keeps kids in their communities with 
support networks they’ve had throughout their lives.Foster care 
agencies also see the benefits. They said that kids run to homes of 
people they call family, whatever their definition of family is. When 
that happens, those homes are checked to see if that could become a 
viable placement option for the child.Kinship parents are often not expecting a new child, so DCF has rolled out <a href="https://www.kcur.org/2022-02-08/family-and-friends-who-take-on-foster-kids-in-kansas-say-they-need-more-support-from-the-state" target="_blank">training programs</a> for those fill-in parents to feel less overwhelmed by a sudden change.The
 agency also wants more money to increase the pay for those kinship 
parents, something requested in Gov. Laura Kelly’s proposed budget. 
Family and friends who take on foster kids currently get at least $11.55
 a day. Licensed foster homes get $25.20 at a minimum. Howard said the 
proposed increase would get kinship families within 70% of the 
non-relative rate.Kansas was also selected for a 
first-of-its-kind program that lets children play a larger role in 
picking their legal guardians. <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-05-18/kansas-is-taking-a-nationally-unprecedented-move-to-let-foster-teens-pick-their-families" target="_blank">SOUL Family</a>
 lets foster kids 16 and older pick up to two adults to be their legal, 
permanent family. Pending changes to state law, Kansas can be the first 
state in the nation to take that approach.“We don’t shy away from innovation,” Howard said. <h2>Creating welcoming homes&nbsp;</h2>State
 Rep. Susan Ruiz, a Shawnee Democrat, has been a social worker for 
decades. She said children often fear foster care. One day they are 
living their lives, and the next, their things are thrown into a plastic
 bag and they are moved somewhere else.“Why would you want to be cooperative?” Ruiz said. “Why would you not be angry about that?”Creating
 welcoming environments could ease that anger and Ruiz said the state 
needs to pay attention to the particular needs of LGBTQ children. A 
foster family not accepting their gender identity or sexual orientation 
is reason enough for kids to run, multiple people told the Kansas News 
Service.Kansas has no requirement that foster kids be placed in homes that accept their <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2021-09-24/lgbtq-foster-kids-in-kansas-have-no-guarantee-theyll-land-in-homes-that-accept-their-identity" target="_blank">sexual or gender identity</a>. But state Rep. Timothy Johnson, a Leavenworth Republican, says he doesn’t think this is that big of an issue.“The families that I know are caring and loving, regardless of what your personal beliefs are,” he said.Foster
 care agencies acknowledged children need to be in homes that accept 
them, but they stopped short of backing mandatory training on how to 
raise a gay or transgender kid.Foster care agencies say they 
track which homes are supportive and do their best to steer appropriate 
placements that way. Kansas added new positions that focus on targeted 
recruiting of families to fill gaps in the system, which could be LGBTQ 
families or other areas of need.Keeping kids in similar cultural 
backgrounds can play a role in welcoming kids. Everything from homes 
that like basketball or families without dogs are crucial.Experts say a diverse array of foster homes is important because kids run for so many reasons.Leecia
 Welch, deputy legal director with foster care advocacy group Children’s
 Rights, said kids could run away just to get their hair dyed and then 
come right back.“If you don’t have choices,” she said, “you’re 
going to have a higher likelihood that you’re not going to have a fit 
and the young person is going to vote with their feet and get out of 
there.” <h2>Drugs and mental health</h2>Kansas
 was sued in 2019 for systemic problems and made promises to fix 
problems when settling the lawsuit. In September, a settlement agreement
 tracking the state’s progress found some progress — like increasing 
placement stability. But it also found delays in mental health services.Kids
 can move from home to home, complicating a trip to the therapist. And 
76% of the time, mental health care got delayed for other reasons.The
 state did launch a therapeutic foster home system that takes higher 
needs kids and emphasizes a more hands-on approach, like nearly daily 
contact from specialists. The program started in July and the state has 
about four therapeutic homes six months into the program.Howard with DCF said the effort is a work in progress.Kansas has reworked reimbursement rates for <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-09-12/foster-kids-in-kansas-cant-get-the-mental-health-care-they-need-but-there-might-be-a-fix" target="_blank">community mental health centers </a>to give them more money. That’s intended to give all Kansans access to mental health services.Mental
 health struggles can also co-occur with substance abuse. Drug and 
alcohol use is one of the top reasons kids run away from homes overseen 
by private foster agency KVC, said Linda Bass, the president of KVC 
Kansas.Kids could run to go find drugs, do drugs but intend on 
coming back. That puts them in dangerous situations, Bass said. There is
 only one inpatient facility for youth with substance abuse in the 
state.“That means every family and child do not have a facility 
that’s in their community or that’s close for them to access,” she said. <h2>Big caseloads</h2>Kansas
 has a heavily privatized foster care system. That means case management
 services, hiring of social workers and adoptions get outsourced to 
private companies.Cornerstones of Care and TFI Family Services 
are keeping caseloads manageable, the settlement agreement tracking the 
data found. Both agencies said fewer than 5% of its caseworkers had more
 than 30 cases as of Dec. 2021. KVC Kansas said 24% of its caseworkers 
had more than 30 cases. For St. Francis Ministries, that number was 42%.Inconsistencies in caseload reporting made it hard to confirm all caseload numbers were accurate, the lawsuit settlement said.Reducing
 caseloads lets caseworkers better connect with children, social 
workers, legislators and experts said. That connection allows children 
to be listened to, which is the most important thing states can do to 
reduce the number of runaway kids, said Jennifer Townsend, vice 
president of children and youth programs at FosterAdopt Connect.“You
 can involve yourself before the issues become insurmountable … (before)
 someone’s either potentially running away or having to leave a 
placement,” she said.Multiple people told the Kansas News Service
 that caseworkers have not been spared from labor shortages seen 
nationwide. The job is tough and the pay ranges can stretch from $30,000
 to over $50,000. Caseworkers can make more, but it depends on 
experience, whether someone is licensed, what their degree is and if 
they supervise other employees. State agencies are offering bonuses to 
attract and retain staff.Republican state Rep. Susan Concannon, 
chair of the Child Welfare and Foster Care committee, said she wants the
 state to insist on minimum pay levels for caseworkers.“I would be very interested in looking at some way that we can have some impact on what the pay is,” she said.Additional
 pay, she said, could attract more qualified social workers, but other 
lawmakers called for more proactive benefit packages to increase 
interest in the jobs. <h2>Too many foster kids</h2><a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-07-27/ku-research-suggests-more-food-assistance-for-families-can-keep-kids-out-of-foster-care" target="_blank">A University of Kansas study</a>
 estimated foster care caseloads can drop by 14% if more money was spent
 on food benefits for families. That has some Democrats clamoring for 
expanded programs and chipping away at the HOPE Act.The HOPE Act 
severely tightened food stamp programs and, after it passed, the number 
of people getting food assistance dropped by over 50,000, research from 
nonprofit Kansas Appleseed found in 2020. The Kansas Legislature passed 
additional SNAP requirements earlier this year. Republicans say that 
will efficiently save taxpayer dollars and make families less dependent 
on the government.Nationally, over 70% of children put into 
foster care land there because of neglect. That can be someone 
struggling to keep enough food in the refrigerator — something a 
stronger social safety net could prevent.Attempts to boost social
 welfare benefits gained little traction in the Legislature and 
lawmakers said the Republican-controlled body isn’t interested in a more
 liberal approach to welfare programs.Yet Kansas was one of the 
first in the nation to join the Family First Initiative. Family First 
lets states use federal tax dollars earmarked for foster care to 
proactively address issues to keep kids out of the system.For 
foster care agency St. Francis, that allowed funding of a 
family-centered therapy program that finds kids who might soon enter 
foster care and provides intensive, in-home services. So far, 95% of the
 children in that program have avoided the system.Since 2019, the
 number of Kansas kids in foster care has dropped by 1,000. DCF 
officials said Family First had a significant impact because almost 90% 
of families who used those services avoided the foster care system.Matt
 Stephens, vice president of foster care homes at foster agency St. 
Francis, said states with more robust programs — food benefits, mental 
health care or drug treatment — often have fewer kids in care.“Systems
 that invest in the community resourcing – it pays for itself for the 
prevention benefit versus (paying for) out of home care,” he said. “It 
also is a much more efficient use of taxpayer dollars.” <h2>A solution?</h2>Most of the lawmakers, foster agencies and experts interviewed for this story had ideas that someone else never mentioned.They
 include changing state law to require foster parents to report a child 
missing the second they know they are gone; making DCF do a deeper case 
review for every single child that goes missing; continue working on 
foster parent exit surveys to see why families quit; or put social 
workers on state benefits to make jobs more desirable.Welch, with the Children’s Alliance, said the state just needs to keep listening.“If
 you center the voice of young people, and listen to them and understand
 what it is that is driving them out of placement, and try to correct 
that,” she said, “that’s how you're going to fix the system.”