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SPORTS, 8A

Eli Gilmore wins 4A state cross country title for Tonganoxie High squad at Wamego

Showing up in Hutchinson

Election Day is Tuesday for key races at county, state, federal levels

By Shawn F. Linenberger slinenberger@tonganoxiemirror.com

Election Day is almost here.

Polls will be open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday for Election Day.

Todd Lux, a longtime Tonganoxie business owner, started a write-in campaign for Leavenworth County Commission in recent months and will take on Lux, who has owned Todd’s Tire in Tonganoxie for several years, recently sold the business and has since entered the race against Republican incumbent Mike Stieben in the Fifth District. Stieben defeated Brad Noll with roughly 75% of the vote in the primaries.

Stieben is a locomotive engineer with Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad.

Though Lux’s name won’t be on the ballot, voters can cast a vote for him by writing his name in for the Leavenworth County Commission Fifth District race.

At the national level, the U.S. Senate race is incumbent Jerry Moran, RManhattan against challengers Mark R. Holland, D-Kansas City, and David C. Graham, L-Overland Park. The U.S. State Representative race for the Second District is incumbent Jake LaTurner, R-Topeka, against challenger Patrick Schmidt, D-Topeka.

In the governor’s race, incumbent Gov. Laura Kelly faces Derek Schmidt, R-Independence, Seth Cordell, L-Lyons, and Dennis Pyle, I-Hiawatha.

In the secretary of state race, incumbent Scott J. Schwab, R-Overland Park takes on challengers Jeanna Repass, D-Overland Park and Cullene Lang, LPaola.

The attorney general race is Chris Mann, D-Lawrence, against Kris Kobach, R-Lecompton. Kobach previously served as Kansas secretary of state 2011-19 and unsuccessful runs for state senate and the U.S. House, as well as the governor’s office in 2018.

Tonganoxie Veterans Program returning for 4th year later next week

By Shawn F. Linenberger slinenberger@ tonganoxiemirror.com

The fourth annual Tonganoxie Veterans Day Program will be later next week.

Veterans, families, friends and community members in general can start to congregate at the

Tonganoxie High School cafeteria and commons area starting at 12:30 p.m. To enter, visitors should go to the entrance near the flagpoles at the two-story THS Learning Center on the high school campus.

This year’s assembly will then be at 1:30 p.m. at the current THS main gymnasium (the new gymnasium

east of it is still under construction).

All THS students will attend the assembly. Tonganoxie High band and chorus students also will perform next week.

In addition, there will be five Quilts of Valor presented at the assembly. Tonganoxie VFW Post 9271 selected quilts for Steve Hill,

Robert Lenahan, Frank Garcia and Joe Blanz. American Legion Post 41 selected a fifth quilt for Ed Peel. Short bios of the five quilt recipients and more will appear in next week’s edition of The Mirror. In addition to the assembly on Nov. 10, the Leavenworth County Veterans Day Parade is Nov. 11.

The state treasurer race will be Steve Roberts, L-Overland Park, Lynn W. Rogers, D-Wichita and Steven Johnson, R-Assaria.

This year’s insurance commissioner race pits incumbent Vicki Schmidt, R-Topeka, against Kiel Corkran, DOlathe. Schmidt seeks a second term.

State representative Lance W. Neelly, R-Tonganoxie, is running for reelection unopposed. He represents the 42nd District in Topeka.

And finally, voters will have the option whether to retain Kansas Supreme court justices and select Court of Appeals positions.

Satellite voting will be available 9 a.m.-6 p.m. today at Basehor United Methodist Church, 18660 158th St., and noon-6 p.m. Thursday at Tonganoxie VFW Post 9271, 910 E. First St. in Tonganoxie.

Advance voting by mail and in person at the courthouse started Oct. 19, with advance voting in person set to end at noon Monday.

Landon Cory Photos/Special to The Mirror

HIGH VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS celebrate a point Friday during the first day of Class 4A state volleyball action at Hutchinson Sports Arena. IN THE LOWER PHOTO, Mikinzi Smoots works to get the ball over the net against an opponent.

The Mirror

ESTABLISHED 1882

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Man who points gun at law enforcement gets nearly 10 years

arrive.

Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting event and parade is Nov. 19 in Tonganoxie

The Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Parade will be Nov. 19 in downtown Tonganoxie.

This year’s theme is “The Grinch” and the parade will begin at 5 p.m. Nov. 19. Businesses and organizations interested in participating should contact Diane Bretthauer at 913-645-4726. The float entry deadline is Nov. 14. Organizers ask that no UTVs be entered in the parade.

Donald Sidney Barden Jr., 32, Leavenworth, was sentenced Friday to nearly 10 years in the Kansas Department of Corrections for his convictions in three criminal cases.

On Sept. 23 of this year, he was convicted of two counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer in connection with an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Feb. 13. He was also convicted in a second case of residential burglary and a third case of auto burglary and one count of criminal damage to property. Barden will be required to register as a violent offender for 15 years following his release from prison, according to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson’s office.

In the early morning hours of Feb. 11, 2022, Barden entered a vehicle in the 700 block of Dakota Street, in Leavenworth, with the intention of stealing any valuables inside. Barden did extensive damage to the interior of the vehicle while searching for something to steal, but he was not able to locate anything of value. A man’s wallet containing identification cards with Barden’s name was found inside the vehicle by investigating officers.

Later that same morning, Barden forced his way into a residence in the 700 block of Cheyenne Street, in Leavenworth, with the intention of stealing the keys to the homeowner’s vehicle. Barden found the keys, went outside, and attempted to steal the vehicle, but was prevented from doing so by the homeowner. Barden fled the scene before officers could

In the early morning hours of Feb. 13, 2022, officers from both the Leavenworth and Lansing police departments responded to the intersection of Fifth and Seneca Streets, in Leavenworth, after a caller reported that there was a man with a gun at that location. Upon arrival, officers contacted Barden, who was standing in the middle of the intersection armed with a Glock pistol. Officers immediately took cover and began attempts to de-escalate the situation and convince Barden to put his gun on the ground. Barden refused to do so, and approximately one and a half hours after officers first made contact with Barden, he raised his gun and ran towards the officers, making the officers believe it was his intention to shoot them. Faced with no other choice, a Leavenworth officer shot Barden several times, causing Barden to fall to the ground. Officers immediately began to render first aid to Barden, and he was subsequently transported to the University of Kansas Hospital. Barden’s gun was found to be unloaded, but that fact was impossible for the officers to determine while Barden was wielding it. Barden has since recovered from his injuries.

“This is a prime example of the importance of our law enforcement and why they deserve our greatest appreciation,” said Todd Thompson, Leavenworth County Attorney. “Our Leavenworth police risked their life that night. They also apprehended someone who caused a series of crimes in our community.”

TONGANOXIE AND LEAVENWORTH COUNTY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

To submit a calendar item, send an email to editor@tonganoxiemirror.com. Deadline is noon Friday before publication. There is no charge. For future events or more information about listings, see the online calendar at tonganoxiemirror.com/events.

2 TODAY l Leavenworth County Commission meeting, 9 a.m., Leavenworth County Courthouse Commission Chambers, second floor. Meetings also available on the county’s YouTube channel . Meetings also can be viewed at any time after that on the YouTube channel.

l Tonganoxie Public Library open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Center. Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St. Food is available for curbside pickup for residents 60 and older.

3 THURSDAY

l Tonganoxie Public Library, open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

4 FRIDAY

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St. Food is available for curbside pickup.

l Tonganoxie Public Library open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Organized dominoes, 1-3 p.m., Tonganoxie Public Library. Dominoes are played every Friday at the library.

5 SATURDAY l Tonganoxie Public

Library open 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

6 SUNDAY l Tonganoxie Public Library open 1-5 p.m.

7 MONDAY l Tonganoxie Public Library, open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

l Tonganoxie City Council meeting, 7 p.m., Council Chambers, Third and Bury streets. Meeting also can be viewed on city’s YouTube channel live or in full beginning a few days after the meeting.

8 TUESDAY l Election Day. Polls open 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Tonganoxie Public Library, open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

9 WEDNESDAY

l Leavenworth County Commission meeting, 9 a.m., Leavenworth County Courthouse Commission Chambers, second floor.

l Tonganoxie Public Library open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

Food is available for curbside pickup for residents 60 and older.

10

THURSDAY

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

l Tonganoxie Public Library, open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

11 FRIDAY

l Tonganoxie Business Association meeting, 8 a.m., Village Venue, Fourth and Delaware streets. Guest speaker: Tom Cole, Leavenworth County Economic Development director.

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

l Tonganoxie Public Library open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Organized dominoes, 1-3 p.m., Tonganoxie Public Library. Dominoes are played every Friday at the library.

12 SATURDAY

l Tonganoxie Public Library open 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

13 SUNDAY

l Tonganoxie Public Library open 1-5 p.m.

14 MONDAY

l Tonganoxie Public

Library, open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

l Tonganoxie USD 464 school board meeting, 6 p.m. USD 464 Administrative Center (former THS west campus). Meetings also can be viewed on the district’s YouTube channel.

15 TUESDAY

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

l Tonganoxie Public Library open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

16 WEDNESDAY

l Leavenworth County Commission meeting, 9 a.m., Leavenworth County Courthouse Commission Chambers, second floor. Meetings also are available on the county’s YouTube channel for the public. Meetings also can be viewed at any time after that on the YouTube channel.

l Tonganoxie Public Library open 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the center, 530 S. Bury St.

10 THURSDAY

l Meals on Wheels lunch at Florence Riford Senior Center, $2, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Basehor Craft Show set for Saturday at BLHS

The 38th annual Basehor Craft Show will be next weekend at Basehor-Linwood High School.

This year’s event will be 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 5 at BLHS, 2108 N. 155th St. in Basehor. The show features 96 booths with hand-crafted items, vintage restoration items, holiday crafts, home decor, ceramics, wood, clothing, jewelry, candles and more. A portion of proceeds from the craft show helps to fund a $700 scholarship to a Tonganoxie High School senior.

Woman convicted in involuntary manslaughter case

Brooke Minshae Johnson., 21, of Kansas City, Mo., was convicted Wednesday, Oct. 26, of one count of Involuntary manslaughter, a severity level 5 person felony, in connection with a shooting that occurred on April 14, 2021, in the parking lot of KARE Pharmacy, 2500S. Fourth St., Leavenworth.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Nov. 30. Based on the sentencing guidelines, she could be facing as much as 34 months in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections, according to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson’s office.

On April 14, 2021, the defendant used social media to arrange the sale of a gun to three residents of Leavenworth County. Brooke Johnson actually intended to sell them a BB gun that resembled a real gun, and to drive-off with their money before they realized it was not a real gun. Johnson recruited two juveniles, one of them her 12-year-old brother, to assist with the scheme. She also recruited S.L., who was 17, to drive them to Leavenworth in his car.

They met the prospective purchasers in the KARE Pharmacy parking lot, where the two cars parked across from each other. A teenage male walked from the purchasers’ car, received the fake gun from the defendant, and gave her $400 in cash. As the teenage male started to walk back to the purchasers’ car, he realized the gun was not a real gun, and shouted to Darvon Thomas and Jaylen Johnson, the two other purchasers who had remained in their car, that they had been ripped-off. Thomas told Johnson to shoot them, and Johnson exited the car and began firing a real gun at the defendant’s car, hitting it multiple times as it left the parking lot. One stray bullet struck the car of a woman driving past the pharmacy with her 6-monthold baby inside.

After leaving the scene, the defendant realized her brother had been shot. Instead of stopping at St. John’s Hospital, they drove to Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri, where the defendant’s brother was pronounced dead. The Leavenworth Police Department was notified by the Kansas City Missouri Police Department that the defendant and the others were at the hospital, and Leavenworth Police Department detectives immediately went to the hospital. The defendant, S.L. and the other juvenile were not truthful with the detectives, but thanks to a tireless investigation by the detectives, the true facts were eventually learned.

Jaylen Johnson, the person who fired the fatal bullet, was convicted by a jury on May 9, 2022, of first-degree murder, two counts of criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied vehicle, and one count criminal possession of a firearm by a felon. On June 17 he was sentenced to life in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections, with a chance to apply for parole after service of 25 years. Darvon Thomas, who told Johnson to shoot at the car, was convicted of Second Degree Murder on February 8th, 2022, and was sentenced on March 9th to 200 months, or almost 17 years, in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections. S.L., who drove the defendant to Leavenworth, was charged as a juvenile, and adjudicated on November 16th, 2021, of one count of Involuntary Manslaughter. He was sentenced on January 1st, 2022, to 15 months in the custody of the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Facility. The $400 in purchase money was never recovered.

“We don’t think Ms. Johnson wanted to see her brother die, but she is definitely responsible for his death,” Thompson said. “Kids, people, need to know guns are not toys.”

25 years ago: Nov. 5, 1997

About six months ago, a small group of area Woodcarvers began meeting at the Christian Church at 204 Washington on Monday nights. Several experienced Woodcarvers attend as well as those expressing interest in learning the art.

It is recommended that each carver bring at least a pocket knife.

Highway construction on U.S. Highway 24-40 is winding down. It appears there is a chance traffic will be moving on all four lanes by the time opening ceremonies are held on November 22nd. Of course the finishing touches won’t be done until spring when the weather warms up. At any rate with four lanes for traffic one should be able to drive from Kansas Highway 7 to Tonganoxie without a nervous breakdown real soon. Right now it takes real guts just to get in line.

50 years ago: Nov. 2, 1972

A deserted house west of Tonganoxie was literally filled to the rafters with marijuana when discovered by Deputy Sheriff Wayne Turner.

Remember When: A Community Review

It also vanished in a puff of smoke when Turner and Deputy Terry Campbell burned it a few days ago.

On Nov. 7 residents will vote to determine if the city of Tonganoxie will change to staggered four-year terms of office for the Mayor and Council positions.

With a population of 47,437, Leavenworth County has placed seventh in a listing of the state’s ten most populous counties for 1972 released by the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

The Kansas population for 1972 was set at 2,277,905 an increase of 28,657 over the 1971 census figure.

It has been estimated that one out of three persons will not vote in November.

The destiny of the country today should be as much concern of the American voter as it was in 1789 when George Washington placed a trust in our people during his first inaugural address. He said, “the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the republican model of government are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people.“ Why will one-third of our eli-

gible citizens forfeit their right to vote this year?

It’s because they don’t believe that their vote is important. Even if you do not think that your one vote is important, you can rest assured that the candidates believe it is extremely important.

The Tonganoxie defense, which has allowed only one touchdown in the last three games came through again to shut out the Lansing Lions while the offense rolled up 46 points to defeat Lansing, 46-0.

75 years ago:

Oct. 30, 1947

The Halloween Parade is this Friday night at 7 p.m. Costumed contestants will be dressed in all sorts of spooky, silly garb. The Tonganoxie and Jarbalo bands will lead the parade which begins from the high school south to Fourth Street.

They’ll turn left at Main, trod north to Second Street and then back home to the high school. Cash prizes will be offered in the following categories: Preschool and Grade School, High School and Adult and a Grand Prize overall winner. Dress up in fairy tale, patriotic, comic, and miscellaneous outfits and win a prize!

There will be a cake walk at the high school

Linwood News

By Kim Downing

Upcoming yarn and fabric exchange

Have extra scraps of fabric or leftover balls of yarn but don’t have a project planned? Bring it to the library’s first yarn and fabric exchange on Nov. 12.

Bring your leftovers and see what else you might be inspired by. Everything at the exchange will be free. Any yarn and fabric can be directly exchanged or can be left for anyone to take. From 11. a.m.-noon is just for those bringing items to the exchange. From noon onward, anyone can come look at what’s left to take home.

Any questions about the exchange, email Kim at kimd@tonganoxielibrary.org

Turkey Day!

On Nov. 11, the library is going to gobble its way through a variety of turkey-based fun for kids on their day off from school. We’ll start with a breakfast cereal, yogurt and fruit bar at 9 a.m. and then watch the holiday classic of a Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. At about 10 a.m., we’ll celebrate the bird with stories, crafts and activities. Youths who stick around at 11 a.m. will have the chance to see

live turkeys and visit with bird experts to learn neat facts. From 9-11 a.m. is for youths up to age 18, but anyone can join for the live turkey talk.

Angel tree to be offered again this year at library

Each year the library has an Angel tree on display, and this year will be no different.

It will be on display beginning Nov. 18. Those interested in participating will pick an Angel off the tree and then select a matching senior they’d like to support this holiday by purchasing gifts to brighten someone’s season.

Angels go quickly, so it’s best to come early!

— Kim Downing is circulation coordinator for Tonganoxie Public Library.

McLouth Happenings

By Beverly Muzzy McLouth FFA

recognized at state competition

Congratulations to McLouth High School FFA, recognized during the Second General Session at the National FFA Competition as 3 Star Chapter! This designation is the highest a chapter can earn from

SHOP KANSAS FARMS

OF FARMS

afterwards, along with treats for all participants.

The Mighty Chieftains belted Belton (Missouri) High School with a very lopsided win last week. The score of 42-0 was achieved even with one of our linemen out for the game.

A new pipeline will extend from Hugoton Kansas natural gas fields to the Kansas City area. Due to a shortage of steel, the delivery of this valuable resource will be not be possible until May of 1949, but when it does, the capacity will astound us. Start heavier barn feeding for cows now, before the cold rainy weather. It is a proven fact that milk production drops when cows are cold. They need good shelter in bad weather. Provide adequate bedding for better sanitation and offer good quality roughage.

This information and more is available at Franklin Ice Cream Company. Turkeys will be scarce later. Get broad breasted, oven dressed toms for Thanksgiving and Christmas from C.V. Newman.

“Rebecca”, a classic picture returns to the Royal Theatre, starring Lawrence Olivier and Joan Fontaine. Catch it next weekend.

The Columnists

the national organization regarding their success in the National Chapter Award Program. FFA goes by the acronym, but stands for Future Farmers of America.

Pancake breakfast set for Nov. 12 at fire station

Hope to see you at the Annual Fall Pancake Breakfast from 6:30 a.m.-noon Nov. 12 at the McLouth Fire Station, 104 W. Lucy. Sponsored by Jefferson County District No. 9 Fire Department.

Veterans Day Parade is Nov. 11 in Leavenworth

The oldest Veterans Day observance in the nation and the largest parade west of the Mississippi River begins at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 11 in historic downtown Leavenworth.

The theme this year is Honoring Veterans for Defending Our Lives and Freedom During Wars of Disasters.

TAPS will be played at 11 a.m. Join us as we pay tribute and honor all U.S.

100 years ago:

Nov. 2, 1922

Ribbon Pie Social at Friendship Valley school house, Friday evening, Nov. 10. Ladies, please bring pies.

Wednesday evening October 25th a wellplanned surprise was carried out complimentary to Emil Freienmuth, the occasion being his 18th birthday anniversary. The guests were members of the class of 1921. The decorations were in the class colors, purple and gold.

The Ford coupe belonging to Miss Edna Kamet and the one belonging to Charles Woodward, which were both stolen in Kansas City a week before were located there Tuesday of this week together with other missing cars in a garage where they had been taken and efforts were made to change their identity.

Nelson Quisenberry has taken the Kansas City Star route. See him at Sam Jones store or call 243 to leave subscription orders.

Miss Alice Babcock and little daughter, Mary Alice, went to Leavenworth Tuesday morning for a short visit with relatives.

125 years ago:

Nov. 4, 1897

Uncle Tom’s cabin nev-

er grows old. There runs through it a vein of pathos peculiarly touching and sweet. Like the kiss of a child, it conquers by the very innocence of its breath. In the character of Eva, it is unique. Who does not cherish in his memory some sweet angelic child, who seemed to touch this earth only as a transient visitor, and passed away with the dew of childhood’s morning too good, too pure for us? Was there ever a child like Eva? Yes, but her name is written upon gravestones. This good old play is unique because it is the only one that portrays that character.

The scenery is excellent. In the river scene one sees the floating cakes of ice slowly moving down the stream. The plantation scene depicts a typical southern home with its cotton fields, its mansions and its log cabins. The last scene in the picturesque drama has perhaps taxed the skilled painter and mechanic more than any other spectacle can boast.

It is not flattery to say that the beautiful gates ajar. As now depicted by the Fan Amberg’s Company is one of the most entrancing spectacles ever witnessed in this city.

Armed Forces members both past and present for all they have done to continue to ensure our freedoms in the United States.

McLouth to have veterans assembly at MHS gymnasium

McLouth USD 342 schools’ Honoring the Lost and All Who Served will be Nov. 10; all veterans are welcome. The event starts at 8:10 a.m. with a veteran and spouse brunch and music in the school library. The

assembly will then be at 9:15 a.m. at the MHS Gold Gymnasium, in honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 11

Anyone planning to attend should provide the following information to Vicki Enyart via an email: enyartv@mclouth.org or call 660-734-3209.

Or you may complete it and drop it off at the MHS/MMS office:

l Veterans first and last name:

l Veterans mailing and phone:

l Veterans military branch and service years:

Janet Burnett, Sarah Kettler, Connie Putthoff, Kris Roberts and Billie Aye

Gov. Kelly touts economy in reelection bid as Republicans blame her for inflation

Topeka — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly is hoping Kansans don’t have a short memory. She is betting her reelection chances on her ability to convince voters the state was in disarray just before she took office four years ago.

She says her tenure has brought stability to a state that was a teetering ship left by former GOP governors Sam Brownback and Jeff Colyer. She also attaches her challenger, Republican Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, to that ship because he was the state’s lawyer who was required to defend many of Brownback’s policies in court.

During a debate, she outright dared Schmidt to say Kansas was better off prior to her election in 2018, when the Kansas Legislature struggled to pass a balanced budget as the state saw its tax revenue dwindle under Brownback’s tax plan.

“Do you really think we were better off under Sam Brownback than we are now?” she asked Schmidt during a debate in Hutchinson.

Kelly’s vision for a second term zeros in on making Kansas life more affordable. She insists she can do this by enacting new tax cuts — which the Republican-dominated Kansas Legislature would need to approve — and expanding the economy by attracting more businesses to come to Kansas.

The plan follows a trajectory Kelly said she’s already put Kansas on by growing the state’s economy — specifically through the future $4 billion Panasonic plant in De Soto.

But Kelly must also fight off attacks from Schmidt that she is part of the problem with rising prices. He argues President Joe Biden and Democratic policies hurt Kansans’ wallets, and Kelly should have cut more taxes to provide relief.

He also argues she failed in education by closing schools during the COVID-19 pandemic and blocking a bill that would give parents more say in classrooms.

But Kelly fares much better in Kansas than Biden. Fort Hays State University’s most recent Kansas Speaks poll shows Kansans overall view Kelly positively, while they view Biden negatively.

Campaign

Like Schmidt, Kelly has never lost an election in her nearly 20 years in Kansas politics.

They served together in the Kansas Senate for

about six years. She was elected governor in 2018, beating polarizing Republican Kris Kobach.

In her first year as governor, Kelly and state lawmakers fully funded schools after the Kansas Supreme Court ordered it. She also contends state revenues are much healthier, allowing the Legislature to build budgets without taking funds from other areas, like roads and highways, to cover costs.

Kelly also takes credit for the food sales tax cut, which she and Schmidt both proposed late last year. The Legislature passed the cut in the spring, and Kelly signed it into law. The phase out begins in January and the tax is set to be completely gone in 2025. Then there’s Panasonic. She and Lt. Gov. David Toland pushed for the new law that allows the state to provide massive incentives for businesses to bring megaprojects to Kansas. That eventually led to Panasonic picking Kansas over Oklahoma for its new electric vehicle battery plant.

Kelly tells voters they can expect much of the same if she’s reelected.

“I will build on our foundation,” Kelly said in a campaign video, “and grow the economy through strategic investments we know work.”

Kelly wants to do that while also cutting taxes. She calls on the Legislature to fully eliminate the food sales tax, which is currently set to phase out over the next couple of years. She also promises to cut taxes on necessities, like diapers and women’s hygiene products.

Kelly will need the Republican-dominated Legislature’s help to get those done. But Republican lawmakers would surely like to see a new face in the governor’s office — one who won’t try to stop their more conservative bills, like banning transgender girls from girls’ sports.

Kelly twice vetoed a bill the Legislature passed regarding transgender student athletes in girls sports. Schmidt promises he would sign the bill quickly if he’s elected.

Kelly believes the matter should be handled by sports agencies, like the Kansas State High School Activities Association, which considers cases on an individual basis. She maintains the state should focus on more pressing issues.

“We really do need to focus,” Kelly said during a debate, “on the issues of true concern to people — our education, our economy, our health care access.”

Additionally, Kelly also assures she will continue to be a roadblock for the Legislature’s most conservative plans in the deep-red state.

Take abortion, for example. Kelly supports access to abortion. But the Republican supermajority in the Legislature wanted an amendment to the state constitution saying the document does not protect the right to abortion. It would have opened the door for a total ban. In August, voters overwhelmingly rejected it.

“People realize you can go too far and policies can be too extreme,” Kelly said in an interview. “And that’s not what the

We're Here for You!

Elevating

mainstream wants.”

Toss up

Recent polling suggests Kelly has more than a fighting chance for reelection. A KSN and The Hill poll conducted by Emerson College shows she and Schmidt are virtually tied.

Alexandra Middlewood, a political scientist at Wichita State University, said Kansas is a Republican state, but it’s not as conservative as its neighboring states. She said Kelly presents herself as a moderate leader focused on important issues, like the economy and schools.

That may be helping Kelly among Kansas Republicans who are growing tired of the GOP moving further right.

“Especially as we see politics become more and more polarized,” Middlewood said, “there are some voters that are looking for that middleof-the-road, moderate candidate.”

Kelly may also get a boost from another conservative in the race — state Sen. Dennis Pyle. The longtime Republican left the party to run for governor as an independent, and he argues Schmidt is a liberal, just like Kelly.

He could take votes away from Schmidt, helping Kelly earn a second term.

Election Day is Nov. 8.

For a story on opponent Derek Schmidt’s campaign for governor, see page 5A in this week’s print edition of The Mirror.

— Dylan Lysen reports for the Kansas News Service. 785-592-9220

Tonganoxie High debate teams compete at Baldwin, Sumner Academy

The Tonganoxie High debate team had two groups travel and compete this past weekend.

The upperclassmen traveled to Baldwin City for the Baldwin High School Open Invitational.

The THS team finished second in sweepstakes behind Spring Hill. The top debaters were Elizabeth Graveman and Cayden Hunter, who finished 5-0 and in first place. Gage Slabaugh and Eric Bieser finished in third place with a 4-1 record.

Other debaters at the tournament were Katelyn Dunn, Anna Tochtrop, Laikyn Bennett, and Al-

exander Washington.

The THS novices, meanwhile, headed to Sumner Academy of Arts and Sciences for their novice invitational. The team finished third in sweepstakes.

Three teams finished with 3-2 records: Rachel Harbour and Caleb Hodges; Kayleigh Williamson and Heather Leeper; and Gavin Garner and Joshua Duvall. Also competing were John Golba and Carson Heffel.

The team heads to Fort Scott this weekend and then competes in the Frontier League Tournament on Nov 12th in Spring Hill.

Deaths

Shawnee — When Derek Schmidt looks at Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, he sees Joe Biden. The Republican state attorney general argues to voters that if they’re fed up with inflation, they should elect him as governor and toss Kelly out.

“She has chosen to side with the Biden Democrats,” Schmidt told a crowd at a Republican rally in Shawnee.

“She knows she is in lockstep with that leadership in Washington. And she knows that is not in step with a majority of Kansas values.”

Schmidt leans heavily on a playbook Republicans are using across the country: seize on frustrations over the economy and crime and, as much as possible, make these midterm elections about a president with a popularity problem in red states.

He localizes the argument by saying Kelly could have done more by cutting taxes more.

He also zeroes in on parental anger over schools. While Kelly takes credit for the state fully funding public education after a Kansas Supreme Court order, Schmidt argues the Republican-led Legislature should get the credit. He also says that Kelly hurt students by closing schools when the COV-

ID-19 pandemic emerged in March 2020.

“Fully funding schools can only work if you don’t lock the kids out after they’re fully funded,” Schmidt said at a state fair debate in Hutchinson. If he wins, Schmidt would take the governor’s seat back for the Republican party and — paired with a Republican supermajority in the Legislature — the ability to pass legislation quickly. He promises to make many changes within the first 100 days in office. That includes banning transgender girls from girls sports, a bill Republican lawmakers twice passed but Kelly vetoed.

Campaign Schmidt has never lost an election in 20 years in Kansas politics. For the last 12 years, he’s been the state’s lawyer.

He’s used the attorney general’s office to sue the federal government over Democrats’ immigration policies and is attempting to block Biden’s federal student loan forgiveness. He also joined the Republican-led lawsuit challenging the 2020 presidential election results.

Earlier in his career, he held a seat in the Kansas Senate and served as the Republican Party’s leader. Schmidt and Kelly served together in the chamber for about six years.

Now he contends Kelly hurts the state with Democratic policies. While attacking her for not cutting more taxes, he also says the state’s food sales tax should already be on the way out.

Republican lawmakers passed a cut in 2019 by adding it into a bill with other tax relief plans. But Kelly vetoed it because of budget worries.

Then she and Schmidt both called for phasing out the food sales tax late last year. Republican lawmakers passed the cut in the spring, and Kelly signed it. But the first decrease doesn’t begin until January, and the tax won’t be completely gone until 2025.

“If the governor would have just signed the bill when the Legislature put it on her desk in 2019,” Schmidt said at the Shawnee rally, “the food sales tax today would be half what it currently is and on its way to zero in Janu-

ary.” Schmidt also hammers her on education. He attacks her for a veto regarding transgender athletes and girls sports and for killing a bill that would have given parents more say over classroom lessons.

Along with signing a bill on transgender athletes, Schmidt said he will also quickly increase funding for school safety measures like hardened entryways and security cameras. He’s also pledged to help put more police in schools.

Meanwhile, Schmidt said he’ll maintain his stance on abortion. Despite Kansas voters overwhelmingly rejecting an amendment to the state constitution that would have opened the door for a total ban, he said he still opposes access to abortion.

Schmidt’s campaign won’t say if he would sign off on new restric-

tions. But he promises to defend state restrictions currently in place, and suggests Kelly doesn’t want any.

William Service, an Overland Park resident who attended the Shawnee rally, said he likes Schmidt for standing firm on conservative issues.

“I’m a Christian conservative,” Service said, “and pro-life means a lot to me. So I’m going to vote for him.”

Close race Schmidt has one giant thing going for him in the race — he’s a Republican. However, despite the state’s deep-red electorate, Schmidt’s chances are far away from a layup.

The race between Kelly and Schmidt is neck and neck. A KSN and The Hill poll conducted by Emerson College shows Kelly and Schmidt are virtually tied.

Mary Frances Mc-

Gowan of the National Journal said some GOP strategists are nervous he could lose a winnable race.

“Schmidt hasn’t necessarily done everything possible to excite his Republican base,” McGowan said. “Maybe not leaning into his position as attorney general to fire people up.”

Schmidt also needs to fend off an opponent on the right — state Sen. Dennis Pyle, a longtime Republican. Pyle left the party to run as an independent candidate. He calls Schmidt a liberal, just like Kelly.

McGowan said Pyle could take some conservative votes away from Schmidt that he’ll need to win the position for Republicans.

“The race to flip this governorship might be a bit harder than they thought,” McGowan said.

Election Day is Nov. 8.

The University of Kansas is committed to providing our employees with an enriching and dynamic work environment that encourages innovation, research, creativity and equal opportunity for learning, development and professional growth. KU strives to recruit, develop, retain and reward a dynamic workforce that shares our mission and core strategic values in research, teaching and service. Learn more at http://provost.ku.edu/strategic-plan

SBCD Program Coordinator

The KU School of Business is seeking a SBCD Program Coordinator. Requires Bachelor’s degree plus three years relevant experience or Master’s degree. Application review begins 11/1/22.

TO APPLY:

employment.ku.edu/staff/23675BR

Events & Donor Relations Coordinator

KU Libraries seeks an Events and Donor Relations Coordinator to join their team. Application review begins Monday, 11/7/22 and will continue until a pool of qualified applicants is identified.

TO APPLY:

employment.ku.edu/staff/23720BR

Administrative Associate

KU’s History of Art department seeks an Administrative Associate. Duties include office management, publicity and event coordination, and course and room scheduling. Initial application review begins 11/7/22.

TO APPLY:

employment.ku.edu/staff/23717BR

Library Specialist

The University of Kansas seeks a Library Specialist for Licensing and Rights Management to serve with KU Libraries. Application review begins 11/7/22 and will continue until a pool of qualified applicants is identified.

TO APPLY: employment.ku.edu/staff/23685BR

For complete job descriptions & more information, visit: employment.ku.edu

KU is an EO/AAE, full policy http://policy.ku.edu/IOA/nondiscrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, national origin, disability, genetic information or protected Veteran status.

tition has been filed in the District Court of Leavenworth County, Kansas, praying to foreclose a real estate mortgage on the following described real estate:

LOT 3 , OAKBROOK REPLAT, CITY OF LANSING, LEAVENWORTH COUNTY, KANSAS, commonly known as 405 Brookwood St, Lansing, KS 66043 (the “Property”) and all those defendants who have not otherwise been served are required to plead to the Petition on or before the 29th day of November, 2022, in the District Court of Leavenworth County,Kansas. If you fail to plead, judgment and decree will be entered in due course upon the Petition.

NOTICE Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. §1692c(b), no information concerning the collection of this debt may be given without the prior consent of the consumer given directly to the debt collector or the express permission of a court of competent jurisdiction. The debt collector is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Prepared By: SouthLaw, P.C. Shari Ashner (KS # 14498) 13160 Foster Suite 100 Overland Park, KS 66213-2660 (913) 663-7600 (913) 663-7899 (Fax) Shari.Ashner@southlaw.com Attorneys for Plaintiff (235108)

(First published in the Tonganoxie Mirror on the 2nd of November, 2022)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of Rural Water District #9 Leavenworth County, Kansas (the “[District]”) will conduct a public hearing on December 20, 2022, at 6:30pm. at the following location: 20551 Parallel Rd. Tonganoxie, KS. 66086 regarding a proposed loan in an amount not to exceed $2,500,000.00 (the “Loan”) to be taken by the [District] from the Kansas Public Water Supply Loan Fund (the “Fund”) administered by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (“KDHE”) pursuant to K.S.A. 65-163c et seq. The [District] has made preliminary application to KDHE for the Loan, the proceeds of which will be used by the [District] to finance certain modifications and improvements (the “Project”) to the

[District]’s water supply and distribution system (the “System”), and to pay interest during construction of the Project. Further information regarding the nature and scope of the Project, the source of revenues pledged to secure the Loan, the [District]’s financial information, the [District]’s water conservation plan, environmental impact information which could qualify for a categorical exclusion, the proposed Loan documents, and the schedule of rates proposed by the Governing Body to enable the [District] to meet its financial obligations for the Loan are available for public inspection and copying at any time during normal business hours at the address set forth below.

The Governing Body will not adopt a resolution authorizing the competition of the Loan application and the execution and delivery of the Loan documents until after the conclusion of the public hearing described in this Notice.

All persons having an interest in this matter will be given an opportunity to be heard at the time and place herein specified.

Dated: [November 20, 2022]

[20551 Parallel Rd., Tonganoxie, KS. 66086]

Rural Water District #9

(First published in the Tonganoxie Mirror on the 26th of October, 2022)

vs.

The Heirs at Law of Sadie Robinson, Deceased; Bill Robinson; Sherrylinn Robinson; Sylvester Robinson; Teddy Robinson; United States of America, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; Unknown Spouse, if any, of Sadie Robinson; ; John Doe (Tenant/Occupant); Mary Doe (Tenant/Occupant) Defendants.

Case No. 2021-CV-000259 Court Number: Pursuant to K.S.A. Chapter 60

NOTICE OF SALE

Under and by virtue of an Order of Sale issued to me by the Clerk of the District Court of Leavenworth County, Kansas, the undersigned Sheriff of Leavenworth County, Kansas, will offer for sale at public auction and sell to the highest bidder for cash in hand, at the Justice Center, 2nd Floor Lobby, Leavenworth County, Kansas, on November 17, 2022, at 10:00 AM, the following real estate:

LOTS NUMBERED THIRTEEN (13) AND FOURTEEN (14) IN BLOCK NUMBERED SIXTEEN (16), IN DONIPHAN AND

REBECCA MCGLYNN,PEGGY CLEMENTS, MARK GODFREY, SARILU GODFREY and the unknown heirs, executors, administrators, devisees, trustees, creditors, and assigns of any deceased defendants or defendants alleged to be deceased; the unknown spouses of any defendants; the unknown guardians, conservators, and trustees of any defendants who are minors or are under any legal disability,

The State of Kansas to the above-named defendants, and all other persons who are or may be concerned:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed in the District Court of Leavenworth County, Kansas, by Sharon S. Blankenship, plaintiff, praying for an order quieting the title to a tract of land located in Leavenworth County, Kansas, property commonly known as 712 S, 10th St., Leavenworth, KS 66048, being more fully described in plaintiff’s petition.

The petition further seeks an order holding the plaintiff to be the owner of fee simple title to the above-described real estate, free of all right, title, and all interest of the above named defendants, and all other persons who are or may be concerned, and that they and each of them be forever barred

Looking Back

Coming next week: Tonganoxie High fall sports teams had plenty of success this year.

GIL-MORE THAN ENOUGH

Piper ends THS season

By Shawn F. Linenberger slinenberger@tonganoxiemirror.com

Tonganoxie was in a dogfight Friday in a Class 4A Week 9 playoff game at Piper.

THS opened the scoring in the first quarter with a 43-yard touchdown pass from sophomore Talon Langford to junior Isaiah Holthaus.

Piper responded with two scores of its own before the teams headed into the locker rooms with Piper leading, 14-7.

Tonganoxie senior wins state cross country title, becomes 1st individual THS winner since 1991

By Shawn F. Linenberger slinenberger@ tonganoxiemirror.com

Another year, another individual state champion for Tonganoxie athletics.

This time, it’s a Tonganoxie High standout in cross country who’s been knocking on the door of a state title since he was a freshman.

THS senior Eli Gilmore, who placed in the Top 5 his freshman, sophomore and junior years, finally got to the top of the mountain Saturday after conquering that hilly Wamego Country Club course during the Class 4A state boys race.

Gilmore finished the meet in 16 minutes, 18 seconds.

He won the race by just more than 13 seconds. Eudora junior Zachary Arnold, whom Gilmore has faced often this season, including at regionals and the Frontier League meet,

By

completed the race in 16:31.61.

The Tonganoxie High senior followed through with his ultimate goal of a state title.

He said after regionals that no matter what happened, he was of the mindset that he wouldn’t be outworked.

It turned out to be mission accomplished for Gilmore, who has followed in his mother’s footsteps. Shawna (New) Gilmore placed in the Top 20 at state three times during her Chieftain career. She then went on to be an All-American runner at Pittsburg State.

Eli Gilmore became Tonganoxie’s first state champion since Jason Hagg in 1991 and third overall. Janet (Magner) Strickland won state in 1989 on the girls side.

THS has posted individual state champions in girls golf and boys wrestling in recent years in Class 4A.

Gilmore helped lead the THS boys to a seventh-place finish at state in the team standings.

Tonganoxie High sophomore Carter Solomon finished 25th with a 17:39.96 time, while fellow sophomore came in at 63rd (18:53.17). Sophomore Brock Gibbs placed 70th (19:05.48), junior Michael Bottary 72nd (19:06.01), Cavin Hendrickson 89th (19:40.53) and senior Brandon Wilson 93rd (20:22.26)

Wamego won this year’s boys title with 48 points, finishing ahead of runner-up Buhler. The Crusaders scored 56.

Wamego won its ninth state championship on the boys side and first since winning back-toback in 2011 and 2012.

The Red Raiders also ended Buhler’s four-year reign as state champions. The Crusaders won state titles on the boys side in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.

Hoffhines places 34th at state

Tonganoxie junior Kinnley Hoffhines placed 34th in the girls race with a 22:06.76 time.

She improved 10 spots from the 2021 state meet.

Clearwater senior Hayley Trotter won her second consecutive state title. She finished with a 19:17.44 time Saturday.

Eudora won its second consecutive state title Saturday with a 51. The Cardinals finished 33 points ahead of Baldwin (84).

The Pirates responded with 14 points in the third quarter. Tonganoxie did have another score in the final stanza, but it wasn’t enough to catch up with Piper as the Pirates went on to win, 35-14.

Piper had more first downs (17-12), but committed far more penalties (11-4) and penalty yards (130-40).

Tonganoxie had a chance to pull ahead, 14-0, early in the second quarter despite an interception in the end zone. Langford threw an interception to a Piper defender and the Pirate player then attempted to bring the ball out of the end zone. Tonganoxie recovered a fumble at the 16 and had a new set of downs. The THS offense sputtered and the Chieftains attempted a 31-yard field goal. Sure-footed kicker Jackson McWilliams lined up for the field goal, but he wasn’t able to convert.

Piper then tied up the game on that next possession.

Langford went 7-for-28 with 129 passing yards and a touchdown and an interception. Isaiah Holthaus led the team in receiving with 100 yards on four catches, while Colton Brusven had 66 rushing yards on 22 carries and Langford had 44 on five carries. Senior Jack Messersmith led the team in tackles with nine, while fellow senior Nathen Smith had eight and senior Wyatt Harris seven. Sophomore Kendall Smith had a sack and Langford an interception on defense. Nathen Smith and sophomore Tucker McGuire each had fumble recoveries for the Chieftains.

The game marked the final one for five THS seniors: Jack Messersmith, Wyatt Harris, Nathen Smith, Logan Schmidt and Conner Cole.

No. 9 Tonganoxie ended its season at 4-5, while No. 8 Piper improved to 6-3 and will play No. 1 Chanute (9-0) this Friday at CHS. Chanute defeated No. 16 Schlagle, 49-6, to advance.

Tonganoxie volleyball ends state season with 25-16 record

It was a good start in Hutchinson for the Tonganoxie High volleyball team.

THS, the No. 6 seed at state with a 24-14 record, opened with a 25-22 Set 1 victory against No. 3 Clay Center on Friday morning at the Class 4A state volleyball championships at Hutchinson Sports

Arena.

The Chieftains then opened the second set with a 4-0 advantage, but the Tigers clawed their way back. Clay Center eventually tied it, 7-7, and then, after trailing, 1310, came back and tied it again at 13.

Tonganoxie coach Sara Poje then called a timeout and the match was back and forth after that for some time. Clay Cen-

ter got up, 15-14, 16-15 and 18-17, but THS responded and then went on a final run. The Chieftains went on an 8-1 run after the Tigers got up, 18-17.

Clay Center called a timeout at 20-18 and then again at 23-18, but CCHS scored just one more point in the decisive set.

Tonganoxie came out on fire against No. 2 Towanda-Circle (35-4), jumping out to a 4-0 lead.

But the Thunderbirds would erase the early deficit and then pull ahead, eventually winning, 2518. Circle jumped out to a 10-4 lead in the second set and wouldn’t look back. The Thunderbirds won that one, 25-17. That left one more match in pool play against fellow Frontier League member Louisburg.

Tonganoxie defeated LHS twice during the

regular season, but the Wildcats continued their late-season surge.

The first set turned out to be a marathon. The back-and-forth match needed extra play before it could be decided. Louisburg finally won the first set, 32-30, and then controlled the second set from the start. LHS would go on to win, 25-18.

Louisburg improved to 2-1 in pool play and 22-18.

A partner for lifelong family care

Tonganoxie fell to 1-2 in pool play and 25-16 overall. The loss knocked THS out of contention for the championship bracket on Saturday.

LHS went on to take fourth place and finish 22-20. Circle (37-6) placed third and Andale (42-2) second.

Bishop Miege, which entered state with a losing record, finished the season 21-21.

Jason Foster, MD William Weatherford, MDChelsea Willis, DO Lorelei Sunderland, APRN-BCKimberly Todd, PA-C

Shawn F. Linenberger/Staff

TONGANOXIE HIGH TEAM MEMBERS gather during Saturday’s Class 4A state cross country championships in Wamego. Eli Gilmore, fifth from left, won this year’s individual title in the 4A boys race.

Shawn F. Linenberger slinenberger@

Landon Cory/Special to The Mirror

TONGANOXIE HIGH’S Nathan Smith (63) recovers a fumble Friday against Piper in Kansas City, Kan.