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Month: October 2017

Topeka records 25 homicides, up dramatically from 2014

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Police on the scene of July shooting in Topeka-photo courtesy WIBW-TV

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Topeka is investigating an unusually high number of homicides.

There have been more than 25 so far this year. That’s a marked increase from 2014 when there were seven.

Topeka police deputy chief Darin Scott says violent crime is a “community issue” and that police “cannot tackle this problem alone.”

Staff has been added to the police department’s organized crime and gang unit and the behavioral health unit. Authorities also have identified areas with high levels of violent crime and focused officers on those neighborhoods.

Of the 25 homicides, one suspect was identified, but died. Two others were found to be justified. Four were a result of murder-suicides. Eleven led to arrests, and six others remain unsolved. A police shooting in September remains under investigation.

Work nearly done at Kansas Air Force Base for new tanker

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WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Work is nearly complete at McConnell Air Force Base in preparation for the KC-46A Pegasus air refueling tanker.

It has been almost three years since work began on $267 million in new construction projects.

On Monday officials celebrated the work at the base. McConnell will be the first base to receive the new Boeing tankers that will replace a nearly 60-year-old fleet of KC-135 aircraft.

The project features three new hangers. They are among 16 construction projects on and off McConnell’s flight line required to support the new tankers.

The Air Force says the first KC-46 delivery to the Air Force is expected in spring 2018.

News From the Oil Patch, Oct. 16

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By JOHN P. TRETBAR

Baker Hughes reported 928 rigs actively drilling coast to coast, down five oil rigs. The number of active horizontal rigs was down six on the week. Canada reported 212, an increase of three gas rigs. Independent Oil & Gas Service reports 38 active rigs across Kansas, 14 east of Wichita (unchanged) and 24 in the western half of the state (down one). In Stafford County, operators report drilling ahead at one site, they’re moving in rotary tools at another, and they’re moving in completion tools at two more.

Operators filed 19 permits to drill at new locations across the state last week, 12 in eastern Kansas and seven west of Wichita (including one in Barton County and one in Ellis County). So far this year, we’ve seen just 1,112 new drilling permits issued across Kansas, compared to 1,852 by mid October of 2015 and just 797 by this time a year ago.

Kansas operators filed 124 new drilling permits last month, for a year-to-date total of 1,078, compared to third quarter totals of 785 permits last year, and 1,802 in 2015. There were 69 permits filed in eastern Kansas during September, and 55 west of Wichita, including three in Barton County, five in Ellis County, one in Russell County and five in Stafford County.

Independent Oil & Gas Service reported 16 well completions across Kansas last week. There were ten completions east of Wichita, and six in western Kansas, including one in Ellis County. The year-to-date total is 1,006, compared to 3,160 two years ago at this time, and just 888 last year.

Through the third quarter of this year, about one in every four completed wells across Kansas has been a dry hole. Independent Oil & Gas Service reported 27 dry holes out of 87 completions last month, for a third-quarter total of 237 dry holes out of 952 completions. There were 36 completions reported east of Wichita and 51 in western Kansas last month. Ellis County reported one completion in September. Barton County reported two completions. There was one well completed in Russell County, and three in Stafford County.

The Kansas Geological Society recognized and named two new oil fields in Kansas at its September meeting, 40 so far this year. They also recognized new pay sources in nine existing fields including the Post Rock North field in Ellis County and three fields in Ness County.

Record-setting US crude exports are creating what Bloomberg termed an “increasingly disruptive force” on international markets, with North Sea producers suffering “collateral damage.” US exports reached 1.98 million barrels per day during the week ending September 29. That’s roughly equal to the amount shipped from the North Sea. More than half went of those exports went to East Asia and nearly a third was shipped to Northwest Europe and the Mediterranean region. All three are important North Sea markets.

The publication Texas Monthly offers reporting on just how the Administration’s new tax reform plan will impact the oil patch. One big plus for the patch is the expansion of deductions for investment expenses, which taxpayers could immediately write off the cost of new investments for at least five years, to incentivize domestic investment. Under the new plan, oil and gas companies will continue deducting Intangible Drilling Costs and will get to deduct other investment costs as well. Some deductions will go away under the new plan, including one for domestic manufacturing. These deductions cost the federal government about $152 billion per year overall, of which $1.25 billion comes from the fossil fuel sector. The tax plan would also exempt overseas profits, which would offer big benefits to companies with international oil and gas operations.

North Dakota’s oil production rose 3.5 percent in August, hitting the highest monthly mark in over a year. The state pumped 1.085 million barrels of crude per day in August, up nearly 40,000 barrels from the month before, according from the Department of Mineral Resources.

A new report says more and better inspections of freight railroad tracks and greater training for emergency workers are needed to address the continuing risk of fiery oil and ethanol train crashes. The report by the National Academies of Sciences says preventing derailments is imperative. Derailments are overwhelmingly caused by track wear and defects.

An economist this week warned CNBC that China will “compel” Saudi Arabia to trade oil based on the Chinese currency the yuan. With Chinese demand set to dwarf US demand, Carl Weinberg of High Frequency Economics says once this happens, the rest of the international market will follow suit, and abandon the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency.

China is the world’s largest importer of oil, due largely to purchases for its strategic petroleum reserves, now over 850 million barrel. Reuters reports China has spent $24 billion since 2015 for its reserves. IEA announced Chinese oil imports hit 9 million barrels per day in September. That , along with new tensions in the Middle East propped up prices Friday, with US crude posting a 2% weekly gain, and the international benchmark jumping 4% week over week.

A Miami businessman pleaded guilty in Houston to federal bribery charges in a corruption scheme involving Venezuela’s state-run energy company. He is the tenth person to be snared in a federal probe of foreign corrupt practices involving PDVSA according to a news release from the Acting U.S. Attorney. Fernando Ardila Rueda admitted to offering bribes to illegally secure contracts from the national oil company. He pleaded guilty to violating the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, with sentencing scheduled Feb. 8.

OPEC crude production hit the second highest monthly level this year in September, returning to growth after falling in August for the first time in five months. OPEC’s 14 members pumped 32.75 million barrels a day in September, up about 88,500 barrels, according to independent sources cited in the group’s monthly report. Nigeria and Libya, both exempt from the cartel’s production cuts, led the gains with monthly increases of about 50,000 bpd each. The cartel on Wednesday also raised its forecast for world oil consumption in 2017 and 2018 for a third-straight month. OPEC forecasts the world’s appetite for oil will grow by 1.5 million bpd this year and 1.4 million bpd in 2018. It cited higher-than-expected demand in China and other developed nations this year, and an improving economic outlook in Russia and China next year.

UPDATE: Police search for burglary suspect who shot Kansas homeowner

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Police on the scene of Sunday’s shooting investigation in Newton-photo courtesy KWCH

 

HARVEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and continue looking for a suspect.

Just before 8:30p.m. Sunday, Newton Police Officers were notified of a violent crime in the 400 block of Normandy Road, according to a social media report.

A homeowner witnessed someone trying to steal a vehicle and confronted the suspect. The suspect shot the property owner one time. The bullet passed through his abdomen and struck his arm causing multiple wounds. The Homeowner was transported for medical treatment. 

The suspect fled on foot and as of 4p.m. Monday was still at large, according to Newton Police. The suspect is described as a white male in his mid 20’s, standing approximately 5’9″ tall with facial hair. 

Police have received numerous calls asking if people are safe in this neighborhood. We have no reason to believe the suspect is still in the neighborhood, but we encourage everyone to always use good safety practices. Locking doors, house and vehicle at all times, using yard lighting and being aware of your surroundings are all activities we should practice routinely.

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HARVEY COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and looking for a suspect.
Just before 8:30p.m. Sunday, Newton Police Officers were notified of a violent crime in the 400 block of Normandy Road, according to a social media report.

A homeowner witnessed someone trying to steal a vehicle and confronted the suspect. The suspect shot the property owner one time. The bullet passed through his abdomen and struck his arm causing multiple wounds. The Homeowner was transported for medical treatment. The suspect fled on foot.

Police encouraged everyone living in the area to remain in their homes. Bethel College in Newton was briefly placed on lockdown. That ended just after midnight, according to the school’s social media account.

The suspect is to be considered armed and dangerous.
Police used a drone to assist with search efforts. Anyone with information is asked to call 911.

Kobach gets help from Pres. Trump’s son in Kan. governor’s race

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Donald Trump, Jr. -courtesy photo

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach’s run for the Republican nomination for Kansas governor is getting a boost from President Donald Trump’s son.

Kobach announced Monday that Donald Trump Jr. will be in Kansas on Nov. 28 for a campaign fundraiser. Kobach is vice chairman of the President’s commission on election fraud.

So far 18 candidates — 11 Republicans, six Democrats and an independent — have appointed treasurers or committees for a campaign for governor next year, a requirement to raise money.

Kobach says in a news release it is an honor that Trump Jr. will join his campaign “at this important time.”

Republican Gov. Sam Brownback is term-limited and is expected to step down this fall to become U.S. ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom.

Equipment breakdown causes delay in Monday’s refuse collection

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CITY OF HAYS

Due to unforeseen equipment breakdowns, Monday’s refuse collection may not be collected on Monday, October 16, 2017.

In the event your refuse is not collected today, it will be collected on Tuesday, October 17, 2017. Tuesday’s refuse collection may be collected later than usual.

City of Hays customers who have any questions regarding this notice should contact the Solid Waste Division of the Public Works Department at 785-628-7357.

Please make sure your polycarts are out by 7:00 AM and keep in mind the trucks have no set time schedule.

Tigers hold steady at No. 8 in AFCA Division II Poll

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WACO, Texas – Fort Hays State maintained its position in the latest edition of the AFCA Division II Poll, released on Monday (Oct. 16). The Tigers are No. 8 for a second straight week after all teams higher in the rankings also won. This is the sixth straight week the Tigers are in the Top 25 after entering back on September 11.

The Tigers are coming off a 37-20 win over Washburn this past week. Washburn was among the teams receiving votes last week and remain there this week along with Central Missouri. Northwest Missouri State remains No. 1 after cruising to a win over Northeastern State. The Tigers and Bearcats are now two games clear of the rest of the MIAA field at 7-0. Washburn and Central Missouri are both 5-2.

Fort Hays State has another strong road test this week at Missouri Western. The Griffons are coming off a 26-10 loss at Pittsburg State last week. Missouri Western ranks second in the nation in turnovers gained (22) and turnover margin per game (+2.0).

Below is the AFCA Poll for October 16, 2017.

Rank School (1st votes) Record Points Prev.
1. Northwest Missouri State (34) 7-0 850 1
2. Shepherd (W.Va.) 6-0 791 2
3. Indiana (Pa.) 7-0 782 3
4. Minnesota State 7-0 754 4
5. Midwestern State (Texas) 5-0 682 6
6. Indianapolis (Ind.) 7-0 678 5
7. Grand Valley State (Mich.) 6-1 635 7
8. Fort Hays State (Kan.) 7-0 616 8
9. Central Washington 7-0 572 10
10. Texas A&M-Commerce 5-1 541 11
11. Winona State (Minn.) 7-0 494 13
12. Ferris State (Mich.) 5-1 424 15
13. Ashland (Ohio) 6-1 423 16
14. Assumption (Mass.) 6-0 406 17
15. Sioux Falls (S.D.) 6-1 352 18
16. Colorado Mesa 6-1 307 20
17. Slippery Rock (Pa.) 6-1 288 9
18. West Alabama 6-1 271 23
19. Delta State (Miss.) 6-1 263 21
20. Wingate (N.C.) 6-0 243 24
21. Virginia State 6-0 165 NR
22. Humboldt State (Calif.) 5-1 154 25
23. Bowie State (Md.) 6-1 95 14
24. Eastern New Mexico 6-1 66 NR
25. Southeastern Oklahoma State 6-1 64 19

Others Receiving Votes: Colorado St.-Pueblo, 46; Notre Dame (Ohio), 28; California (Pa.), 16; Findlay (Ohio), 16; Central Missouri, 15; West Georgia, 11; Virginia Union, 1; Washburn (Kan.), 1.

K-State apologizes after stadium breast pump confusion

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Katie Doyle -courtesy photo

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas State University has apologized to a concession worker who complained on Facebook about being told she would have to put her breast pump in a clear plastic bag before entering the football stadium.

Katie Doyle, of Holton, said she was humiliated by the experience Saturday. The mother of a 5-month-old son says she decided against putting the pump in a clear bag because she didn’t think anybody wanted to look at the milk-covered pump parts.

She also told the Post, “Kansas State contacted me to apologize. I feel the issue has been handled.”

Kansas State began requiring clear bags for ticketed athletic events last school year, although breast pumps are exempted as medically necessary. Kansas State senior associate athletic director for communications, Kenny Lannou, says there will be more staff training.

Doyle said that a security official was “very apologetic.”

🎥 Students pack 30,000 meals at Numana event Saturday

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By CRISTINA JANNEY
Hays Post

Fort Hays State University students and community members packed more than 30,000 meals bound for Puerto Rico during the Numana Swipe Out Hunger event Saturday.

Based in El Dorado, Numana, is a nonprofit formed in August 2008, as an international hunger relief organization. Since then, it has packaged over 37 million meals across the United States with the help of over 197,000 volunteers.

Organizers estimated 120 people, mostly students, volunteered to pack meals on Saturday at Forsyth Library. This is the sixth year Numana has packed food with Fort Hays.

Numana partners with an organization called Convoy of Hope, which ships the food to areas in need. Numana already sent a shipping container full of 285,000 meals to Puerto Rico, which was hit hard by Hurricane Maria.

The meals packed Saturday will be in the next shipment to Puerto Rico, which will likely make it to the island in the next three to six months.

Numana also has regular partnerships with relief organizations in Haiti and Africa.

The volunteers Saturday helped pack a special meal bag that contains precooked pinto beans, soy and a vitamin packet. Each meal bag can feed up to six people. There are 36 bags in a box and 216 meals in a box.

The meal bags might not look like much, but the contents are designed for nutrition and ease of cooking.

Volunteers pack one of the last boxes of food during a Numana packing event Saturday at FHSU.

Ashley Burns, event manager, said the meal packs are often mixed with local ingredients to make a stew or casserole.

“We sometimes get a hard time because they are so bland, but in Haiti they add chicken and fish and hot sauce. In Africa, they add vegetables and things they grow in their own harvest,” she said.

Reilly Franek, one of the student coordinators of Global Leadership Project at FHSU, helped organize the event.

“Really, we want to put a focus on how students can make an impact even from here in Kansas on global issues around the world and acute hunger issues around the world,” she said. “Numana provided us with an avenue to do that and get a large amount of students involved at the same time.”

Franek said the sorority Alpha Gamma Delta partnered with Numana and the Global Leadership Project to host the event, and Sigma Sigma Sigma also provided a group of volunteers for the event.

Ashley Templeton, a graduate student in the higher education student affairs program, said she became involved through one of her sorority sisters.

“This is an annual event, and we always want to support (it), and of course, this is a really important cause,” she said of why she came out to volunteer Saturday.

Rachel Ashbaugh, senior in business management, said, “I feel that it is important to give back to others. I wanted to be a part of what is going on today. With everything that is going on with natural disaster, I think it is important not to forget who needs help.”

Sierra Eichman, freshman in biology and pre-med, said “I have helped with something like this with other organizations, and I have seen how this can help other people in other countries.”

Numana packed food with the Hays Rotary this spring and is already planning for an event next year at FHSU.

If you wish to donate to Numana or volunteer for a future event, visit its website at https://numanainc.com/.

Multi-state crime suspect sentenced for shooting in Kansas

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Alex Deaton courtesy of Ellsworth County Sheriff’s Office

PRATT, Kan. (AP) — A man suspected of killing or wounding people in Mississippi, New Mexico and Kansas has been sentenced in Kansas.

Alex Deaton was sentenced Monday to nearly 13 years in prison and $4,000 in restitution for shooting a Pratt convenience store clerk in March.

Deaton pleaded guilty in July to attempted first-degree murder and aggravated robbery.

He’s charged in Brandon, Mississippi, with first-degree murder, auto theft, and drive-by shooting. He’s accused of strangling his girlfriend, stealing her car, and shooting a jogger in February.

He’s also suspected of killing a woman near Philadelphia, Mississippi.

Scene of Deaton’s crash in Ellsworth Co.-photo courtesy KHP

Police say Deaton then carjacked a New Mexico couple before fleeing to Kansas and shooting the clerk.

Pratt County District Attorney Tracey Beverlin says she doesn’t know when Deaton will go to Mississippi.

Andrew Lynn Richmeier

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Andrew Lynn Richmeier, age 43, of Hays, Kansas passed away Saturday, October 14, 2017 at Hays Medical Center. He was born March 26, 1974 in Hays to Marilyn Rome and Charles Leiker.

He graduated in 1992 from TMP-Marian High School and attended Fort Hays State University and Kansas State University. He had been working as an Audio Video Technician and had also worked on custom cutting crews. Andrew enjoyed remote control cars and aircraft and the Kansas City Royals.

He is survived by a son, Ryan Richmeier of Hays; his parents, Leon and Marilyn Richmeier of Hays; a brother, Shawn Richmeier and wife Erin of Hays and two sisters, Kelly Bradstreet and husband Dustin of Hays and Emily Baker and husband Garret of Cedar City, Utah.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Leiker in 1981.

Services will be 10 AM Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Munjor, Kansas. Inurnment will follow in the church cemetery.

A Memorial visitation will be Tuesday 6 PM- 8 PM with a combined rosary and vigil service at 7 PM all at Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel & Crematory, 2509 Vine St., Hays, KS 67601.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Ryan Richmeier Education Fund.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or can be sent via email at [email protected].

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