<a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel?fh_id=10931</a>

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Denton Ralph “Rip” Schlegel, 78, passed away on July 31, 2023, at Azria Health, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on June 20, 1945, at Hoisington, Kansas, to Ralph &amp; Carrie (Gustin) Schlegel. 

On October 27, 1973, he married Linda Monroe at Hoisington, Kansas. &nbsp;She died November 28, 2010.

Mr. Schlegel was a lifetime resident of Barton County. 

He was a 1963 graduate of Otis High School. During his time in high school, he earned the nickname “Rip” for how he would rip the nets from basketball goals and make three-point shots before they were a common shot made. 

Denton worked as a machinist at Great Bend Industries for over 30 years. 

When he wasn’t mowing yards or being directed in life by Linda and Glen, he enjoyed polka dances and loved going to Las Vegas.

Survivors include sister-in-law, Jeannette (Ken) Clark of Shawnee; nieces and nephews; and many friends.&nbsp;

Denton is preceded in death by his wife; brother and sister-in-law, Curtis and Wanda Schlegel; his parents; and his parents-in-law, Glen and Rosemary Monroe.

Friends may sign the book noon to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home.&nbsp;

Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 10, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home with Ron Bailey presiding. Inurnment will follow at Hoisington Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Kans for Kids or the First United Methodist Church of Hoisington, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Denton Ralph Schlegel, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Denton Ralph Schlegel</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690988651868.png" alt="Denton Ralph Schlegel" />
 <figcaption>Denton Ralph Schlegel</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel?fh_id=10931</a>June 20, 1945 - July 31, 2023<a href="https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/91024" target="_blank">View Funeral Webcast</a>Denton Ralph “Rip” Schlegel, 78, passed away on July 31, 2023, at Azria Health, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on June 20, 1945, at Hoisington, Kansas, to Ralph &amp; Carrie (Gustin) Schlegel. On October 27, 1973, he married Linda Monroe at Hoisington, Kansas. &nbsp;She died November 28, 2010.Mr. Schlegel was a lifetime resident of Barton County. He was a 1963 graduate of Otis High School. During his time in high school, he earned the nickname “Rip” for how he would rip the nets from basketball goals and make three-point shots before they were a common shot made. Denton worked as a machinist at Great Bend Industries for over 30 years. When he wasn’t mowing yards or being directed in life by Linda and Glen, he enjoyed polka dances and loved going to Las Vegas.Survivors include sister-in-law, Jeannette (Ken) Clark of Shawnee; nieces and nephews; and many friends.&nbsp;Denton is preceded in death by his wife; brother and sister-in-law, Curtis and Wanda Schlegel; his parents; and his parents-in-law, Glen and Rosemary Monroe.Friends may sign the book noon to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home.&nbsp;Memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 10, 2023, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home with Ron Bailey presiding. Inurnment will follow at Hoisington Cemetery.Memorials may be made to Kans for Kids or the First United Methodist Church of Hoisington, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Denton Ralph Schlegel, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/denton-schlegel/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Denton Ralph Schlegel

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

ELLSWORTH COUNTY —The 2023 Primary Election may not have garnered much interest across much of Kansas, but an important matter was decided in Central Kansas as voters in USD 112-Central Plains voted overwhelmingly against disorganizing the school district.

<a href="http://ellsworthcounty.org/residents/elections/index.php'">According to the Ellsworth County Clerk,</a> there were 1179 no votes and&nbsp; 587 yes votes.

The USD 112 school district will stay the same, keeping the tax rate and schools intact.&nbsp;The district covers portions of five counties, including the  communities of Wilson, Holyrood, Bushton, Claflin, Dorrance, Lorraine, Beaver and Odin.

In January, the school board voted to close Wilson Jr. Sr. High School.

Last October, the Wilson High School Future Committee was formed in an effort to keep Wilson High School open. On May 9, the official petition to disorganize the district was filed in Ellsworth County after the USD 112 Board of Education declined a request to keep Wilson High School open for another year.

The results are unofficial until an Aug. 7 canvass.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686337406551.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostELLSWORTH COUNTY —The 2023 Primary Election may not have garnered much interest across much of Kansas, but an important matter was decided in Central Kansas as voters in USD 112-Central Plains voted overwhelmingly against disorganizing the school district.<a href="http://ellsworthcounty.org/residents/elections/index.php'">According to the Ellsworth County Clerk,</a> there were 1179 no votes and&nbsp; 587 yes votes.The USD 112 school district will stay the same, keeping the tax rate and schools intact.&nbsp;The district covers portions of five counties, including the communities of Wilson, Holyrood, Bushton, Claflin, Dorrance, Lorraine, Beaver and Odin.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690942109506.png" alt="File photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>File photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>In January, the school board voted to close Wilson Jr. Sr. High School.Last October, the Wilson High School Future Committee was formed in an effort to keep Wilson High School open. On May 9, the official petition to disorganize the district was filed in Ellsworth County after the USD 112 Board of Education declined a request to keep Wilson High School open for another year.The results are unofficial until an Aug. 7 canvass.

'No' vote prevails: USD 112 Central Plains to remain intact

<a href="https://www.moweryfs.com/obituaries/Arthur-Wagner-4/#!/TributeWall">https://www.moweryfs.com/obituaries/Arthur-Wagner-4/#!/TributeWall</a>

Arthur “Art” Francis Wagner was born on October 17, 1948, in Hays, Kansas, to Arthur A. Wagner and Hedwig (Werth) Wagner. He passed from this life on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, in Owasso, Oklahoma, at the age of 74 years. 

Art was reared and educated in Victoria, Kansas, and graduated with the Victoria High School Class of 1966. He furthered his education at Fort Hays Kansas State College in Hays and graduated in 1970 with a bachelor of science degree in business. 

Art married Joyce (Rohr) Wagner on August 30, 1969, in Vincent, Kansas. 

He spent most of his working life as a corporate tax specialist with Cities Service, later known as Occidental Petroleum, before his retirement after 40-plus years. 

Art was a longtime faithful member of St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso, Oklahoma, where he was active with the Men’s Club. In his spare time, he enjoyed a variety of pastimes such as hunting, fishing, bowling, reading, and watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball games, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.&nbsp;

Survivors include his loving wife of over 53 years,&nbsp;Joyce Wagner;&nbsp;three sons,&nbsp;Todd Wagner and wife Vicki,&nbsp;Bryan Wagner and wife Belinda,&nbsp;Jason Wagner and wife Christine;&nbsp;seven grandchildren,&nbsp;Ethan Wagner, Camdyn Wagner, Mason Mathis, Maddie Mathis, Maizy Wagner, Sydney Wagner, and Ryan Mathis;&nbsp;three siblings,&nbsp;Ron Wagner, Jeanette Pfannenstiel, and Gary Wagner

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Hedwig, two brothers, Arthur Anthony, Jr., and Gene, and his sister, Nellie.

A rosary with be held 7:00 p.m. Sunday, August 6,2023 at St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso. A funeral mass will be held 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023, at St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso with Father Matt LaChance officiating. Final resting place will be at St. Therese Cemetery Columbarium in Collinsville. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Catholic Charities Development Office, P.O. Box 580460 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74158.&nbsp;

Arrangements and&nbsp;services were entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service of Owasso at www.moweryfs.com.

<h2>Arthur 'Art' Francis Wagner</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1690907365449.png" alt="Arthur 'Art' Francis Wagner" />
 <figcaption>Arthur 'Art' Francis Wagner</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.moweryfs.com/obituaries/Arthur-Wagner-4/#!/TributeWall">https://www.moweryfs.com/obituaries/Arthur-Wagner-4/#!/TributeWall</a>October 17, 1948 - July 25, 2023Arthur “Art” Francis Wagner was born on October 17, 1948, in Hays, Kansas, to Arthur A. Wagner and Hedwig (Werth) Wagner. He passed from this life on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, in Owasso, Oklahoma, at the age of 74 years. Art was reared and educated in Victoria, Kansas, and graduated with the Victoria High School Class of 1966. He furthered his education at Fort Hays Kansas State College in Hays and graduated in 1970 with a bachelor of science degree in business. Art married Joyce (Rohr) Wagner on August 30, 1969, in Vincent, Kansas. He spent most of his working life as a corporate tax specialist with Cities Service, later known as Occidental Petroleum, before his retirement after 40-plus years. Art was a longtime faithful member of St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso, Oklahoma, where he was active with the Men’s Club. In his spare time, he enjoyed a variety of pastimes such as hunting, fishing, bowling, reading, and watching St. Louis Cardinals baseball games, but most of all he loved spending time with his family.&nbsp;Survivors include his loving wife of over 53 years,&nbsp;Joyce Wagner;&nbsp;three sons,&nbsp;Todd Wagner and wife Vicki,&nbsp;Bryan Wagner and wife Belinda,&nbsp;Jason Wagner and wife Christine;&nbsp;seven grandchildren,&nbsp;Ethan Wagner, Camdyn Wagner, Mason Mathis, Maddie Mathis, Maizy Wagner, Sydney Wagner, and Ryan Mathis;&nbsp;three siblings,&nbsp;Ron Wagner, Jeanette Pfannenstiel, and Gary WagnerHe was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Hedwig, two brothers, Arthur Anthony, Jr., and Gene, and his sister, Nellie.A rosary with be held 7:00 p.m. Sunday, August 6,2023 at St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso. A funeral mass will be held 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 7, 2023, at St. Henry Catholic Church in Owasso with Father Matt LaChance officiating. Final resting place will be at St. Therese Cemetery Columbarium in Collinsville. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Catholic Charities Development Office, P.O. Box 580460 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74158.&nbsp;Arrangements and&nbsp;services were entrusted to Mowery Funeral Service of Owasso at www.moweryfs.com.

Arthur 'Art' Francis Wagner

GRANT COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities investigating a double-fatal crash that occurred in southwest Kansas in 2019 captured a man accused of fleeing the accident scene, according to the United State's Marshals Service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On July 28 , the Kansas Fugitive Apprehension Task Force and the Southeast Region Fugitive Task Force arrested 46-year-old Paulo I. Garcia in Douglas County, Georgia.&nbsp;Garcia was wanted out of Grant County Kansas, for "leaving the scene of an accident which involved great bodily injury/death, and felony theft."

In October of  2019, the Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just before 12:30 p.m. on that Saturday, a 2007 Kenworth truck was westbound on Grant County Road 10 three miles north of U.S. 160.

The driver, later identified as Garcia, failed to yield right of way to a 2012 Chevy Silverado that was southbound on County Road X and driven by Kevin Jay Coyle, 57, Turpin, Oklahoma. The Kenworth entered the uncontrolled intersection&nbsp;directly into the path of the Silverado.

Coyle and his father 81-year-old Gerald Lee Coyle also of Turpin, Oklahoma, who was a passenger, were pronounced dead at the scene.

While a witness to the crash was working to assist the victims, the driver of the Kenworth truck drove away in the witness’s pickup, according to KHP Trooper Michael Racy. Authorities located the stolen pickup in a Haskell County, Kansas field.&nbsp;

Garcia was also wanted for a federal supervised release violation in Wichita.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is being held without bond, according to online jail records.

“I am proud of the dedicated work of our Fugitive Task Force, and I hope this arrest will help the victim’s family get some sense of closure,” said Ronald Miller, US Marshal for the District of Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690834733508.png" alt="Garcia-photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Garcia-photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>GRANT COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities investigating a double-fatal crash that occurred in southwest Kansas in 2019 captured a man accused of fleeing the accident scene, according to the United State's Marshals Service.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On 10/26/2019 KHP troopers worked a fatal in Grant County on U160 between East Rd 10-12. One of the drivers involved stole another vehicle and fled the scene. If you know who this person is or where he might be please contact TECHTRP Michael Racy at (620) 276-3201. <a href="https://t.co/d6CaBG3H7N">pic.twitter.com/d6CaBG3H7N</a>&mdash; Trooper Racy (@TrooperMikeKHP) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrooperMikeKHP/status/1189580318732406787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On July 28 , the Kansas Fugitive Apprehension Task Force and the Southeast Region Fugitive Task Force arrested 46-year-old Paulo I. Garcia in Douglas County, Georgia.&nbsp;Garcia was wanted out of Grant County Kansas, for "leaving the scene of an accident which involved great bodily injury/death, and felony theft."In October of 2019, the Kansas Highway Patrol reported that just before 12:30 p.m. on that Saturday, a 2007 Kenworth truck was westbound on Grant County Road 10 three miles north of U.S. 160.The driver, later identified as Garcia, failed to yield right of way to a 2012 Chevy Silverado that was southbound on County Road X and driven by Kevin Jay Coyle, 57, Turpin, Oklahoma. The Kenworth entered the uncontrolled intersection&nbsp;directly into the path of the Silverado.Coyle and his father 81-year-old Gerald Lee Coyle also of Turpin, Oklahoma, who was a passenger, were pronounced dead at the scene.While a witness to the crash was working to assist the victims, the driver of the Kenworth truck drove away in the witness’s pickup, according to KHP Trooper Michael Racy. Authorities located the stolen pickup in a Haskell County, Kansas field.&nbsp;Garcia was also wanted for a federal supervised release violation in Wichita.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is being held without bond, according to online jail records.“I am proud of the dedicated work of our Fugitive Task Force, and I hope this arrest will help the victim’s family get some sense of closure,” said Ronald Miller, US Marshal for the District of Kansas.

Driver captured 4-years after he fled fatal SW Kansas crash 

KANSAS CITY —A Jackson County judge sentenced a Kansas City woman to 20 years in prison after she was convicted for severely beating two children while the children were in her care in a Kansas City home, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

In March, a Jackson County jury convicted 41-year-old&nbsp; Nancy Russell of four Class B felonies of Domestic Assault 1st Degree and four counts of Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;

According to court records, in October 2017, police in Kansas City were alerted by Arkansas police of possible child abuse. A family member had come forward to say that one of the children had been abused at a home in Kansas City in the area of 53rd and Hardesty.

 The child was reportedly walking with a limp and had gashes on the head. Forensic interviews in Arkansas disclosed the defendant struck the child with a cord and metal pipe.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678322605798.png" alt="Russell-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Russell-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Jackson County judge sentenced a Kansas City woman to 20 years in prison after she was convicted for severely beating two children while the children were in her care in a Kansas City home, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.In March, a Jackson County jury convicted 41-year-old&nbsp; Nancy Russell of four Class B felonies of Domestic Assault 1st Degree and four counts of Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;According to court records, in October 2017, police in Kansas City were alerted by Arkansas police of possible child abuse. A family member had come forward to say that one of the children had been abused at a home in Kansas City in the area of 53rd and Hardesty. The child was reportedly walking with a limp and had gashes on the head. Forensic interviews in Arkansas disclosed the defendant struck the child with a cord and metal pipe.&nbsp;

Kansas City woman sentenced for beating child with a metal pipe 

<a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith?fh_id=10931</a>

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Morgan D. “Smitty” Smith, 92, passed away on July 27, 2023, surrounded by his family at Credo Senior Living, Hoisington, Kansas. He was born on January 2, 1931, in Lawton, Oklahoma, the son of John P. and Pauline (Swann) Smith.&nbsp;

On June 2, 1956, he married Norma L. Whitsel at First Christian Church in Great Bend, Kansas. &nbsp;She died October 20, 2021.

Mr. Smith was a resident of Hoisington for 60 years, coming from Lawton, Oklahoma, and Great Bend. 

He was the owner and operator of Smith Acid Company. 

Morgan was a member of the First Christian Church of Great Bend and V.F.W. He enjoyed hunting, painting portraits and landscapes, tinkering with watches and guns, and gardening. His family was left with his many examples and lessons of the importance of a strong work ethic and a giving, charitable nature.&nbsp;

Survivors include five children, Michael D. (Debbie) Smith of Hoisington, Randall D. Smith of Fort Worth, Texas, Sabrina (Oscar) Mariño of Lawrence, Sonya (Wayde) Brozek of Wamego, and Kevin (Jennifer) Smith of Lee's Summit, Missouri; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren, with one on the way.&nbsp;

He is preceded in death by his wife, Norma; his parents; and siblings, Gloria Guyselman, Marie Yarmuk, and Paul Smith.

Visitation will be from noon to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 1, 2023, with family to greet friends 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, with Pastor Don Fisher presiding.

Memorials may be made to Kans for Kids or Hoisington Church of the Nazarene, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. 146, Hoisington, KS, 67544.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Morgan D. Smith, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Morgan D. Smith</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690579438675.png" alt="Morgan D. Smith" />
 <figcaption>Morgan D. Smith</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith?fh_id=10931">https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith?fh_id=10931</a><a href="https://webcast.funeralvue.com/events/viewer/90981" target="_blank">View Funeral Webcast</a>January 2, 1931 - July 27, 2023Morgan D. “Smitty” Smith, 92, passed away on July 27, 2023, surrounded by his family at Credo Senior Living, Hoisington, Kansas. He was born on January 2, 1931, in Lawton, Oklahoma, the son of John P. and Pauline (Swann) Smith.&nbsp;On June 2, 1956, he married Norma L. Whitsel at First Christian Church in Great Bend, Kansas. &nbsp;She died October 20, 2021.Mr. Smith was a resident of Hoisington for 60 years, coming from Lawton, Oklahoma, and Great Bend. He was the owner and operator of Smith Acid Company. Morgan was a member of the First Christian Church of Great Bend and V.F.W. He enjoyed hunting, painting portraits and landscapes, tinkering with watches and guns, and gardening. His family was left with his many examples and lessons of the importance of a strong work ethic and a giving, charitable nature.&nbsp;Survivors include five children, Michael D. (Debbie) Smith of Hoisington, Randall D. Smith of Fort Worth, Texas, Sabrina (Oscar) Mariño of Lawrence, Sonya (Wayde) Brozek of Wamego, and Kevin (Jennifer) Smith of Lee's Summit, Missouri; 11 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren, with one on the way.&nbsp;He is preceded in death by his wife, Norma; his parents; and siblings, Gloria Guyselman, Marie Yarmuk, and Paul Smith.Visitation will be from noon to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, August 1, 2023, with family to greet friends 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 9:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at Hillcrest Memorial Park, with Pastor Don Fisher presiding.Memorials may be made to Kans for Kids or Hoisington Church of the Nazarene, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. 146, Hoisington, KS, 67544.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Morgan D. Smith, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/morgan-smith/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Morgan D. Smith

<a href="https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers">https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers</a>

Billy George Akin-Summers, age 59, of Garfield, Kansas passed away on Saturday evening, July 29, 2023 at his home after a long battle with COPD and congestive heart failure. &nbsp;Billy was born on October 31, 1963 to Elvis McFarland and Loretta Yocham in Vian, Oklahoma. &nbsp;His mother later married Elmer Akin, who adopted Billy. &nbsp;

Billy belonged to a large family of 12 sisters and 8 brothers: &nbsp;Marylou, John, and James (and Leslie) of Arkansas; Gladys, Edna (and Jim), Tracy, Doug (and Lori), and Les of Kansas; Betty (and Dan), Bea (and Neev), Ethel, Lisa (and John), Don, and Jesse (and Kim) of Oklahoma. 

Billy made a living by hanging drywall, roofing, and did some truck driving. He was known to be a jokester and often made up names to make you laugh.

Billy married Sandra Hill in 1992. &nbsp;In July of 1992 they welcomed a daughter, Sandeana. As years passed, they later divorced.

In 2008, Billy and Susan started dating and later married on May 12, 2018 at Ottawa, Kansas. This marriage was blessed with four boys: &nbsp;Shawn, David, Jason, and Zackhary; and three brothers-in-law, Rick, Steve (and Dena), and Chris (and Clarissa).

Billy has 18 beautiful grandchildren: &nbsp;Cameron, Jordyn, Jolynn, Astrid, Jazzmine, Gavin, Jayden, Dayton, Dakota, Alexa, Kayleen, Jordan, Zayden, James, Jame-Lynn, Kayson, William and Asuna. Plus, there are many nieces and nephews. Billy was a big family man and loved them all. Billy also had three good friends he could count on in Loren, Jody, and Shelly.

Billy had a passion for writing songs, singing, and playing the guitar. He loved entertaining not only his family with his talent but would also go to the nursing homes and share his love for music with the elderly. &nbsp;Billy also enjoyed fishing and was a die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan. &nbsp;One of his fondest memories is watching the Chiefs game with Sue, Zack, and Dakota and seeing who would cuss and scream the loudest.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents and siblings (Ruby, Billie June, Barbara, Wendy, Edward, William, and Roy); son Zackhary and grandchildren Astrid and Jame-Lynn.

Cremation has been chosen. &nbsp;A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date to be announced. &nbsp;

The family requests that Memorial Contributions be directed to the Billy G. Akin-Summers Funeral Expense Fund with Charter Funerals of Great Bend, Kansas in charge. &nbsp;

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Billy George Akin-Summers, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Billy George Akin-Summers, Garfield</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690838758774.jpeg" alt="Billy George Akin-Summers" />
 <figcaption>Billy George Akin-Summers</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers">https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers</a>Billy George Akin-Summers, age 59, of Garfield, Kansas passed away on Saturday evening, July 29, 2023 at his home after a long battle with COPD and congestive heart failure. &nbsp;Billy was born on October 31, 1963 to Elvis McFarland and Loretta Yocham in Vian, Oklahoma. &nbsp;His mother later married Elmer Akin, who adopted Billy. &nbsp;Billy belonged to a large family of 12 sisters and 8 brothers: &nbsp;Marylou, John, and James (and Leslie) of Arkansas; Gladys, Edna (and Jim), Tracy, Doug (and Lori), and Les of Kansas; Betty (and Dan), Bea (and Neev), Ethel, Lisa (and John), Don, and Jesse (and Kim) of Oklahoma. Billy made a living by hanging drywall, roofing, and did some truck driving. He was known to be a jokester and often made up names to make you laugh.Billy married Sandra Hill in 1992. &nbsp;In July of 1992 they welcomed a daughter, Sandeana. As years passed, they later divorced.In 2008, Billy and Susan started dating and later married on May 12, 2018 at Ottawa, Kansas. This marriage was blessed with four boys: &nbsp;Shawn, David, Jason, and Zackhary; and three brothers-in-law, Rick, Steve (and Dena), and Chris (and Clarissa).Billy has 18 beautiful grandchildren: &nbsp;Cameron, Jordyn, Jolynn, Astrid, Jazzmine, Gavin, Jayden, Dayton, Dakota, Alexa, Kayleen, Jordan, Zayden, James, Jame-Lynn, Kayson, William and Asuna. Plus, there are many nieces and nephews. Billy was a big family man and loved them all. Billy also had three good friends he could count on in Loren, Jody, and Shelly.Billy had a passion for writing songs, singing, and playing the guitar. He loved entertaining not only his family with his talent but would also go to the nursing homes and share his love for music with the elderly. &nbsp;Billy also enjoyed fishing and was a die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan. &nbsp;One of his fondest memories is watching the Chiefs game with Sue, Zack, and Dakota and seeing who would cuss and scream the loudest.Billy was preceded in death by his parents and siblings (Ruby, Billie June, Barbara, Wendy, Edward, William, and Roy); son Zackhary and grandchildren Astrid and Jame-Lynn.Cremation has been chosen. &nbsp;A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date to be announced. &nbsp;The family requests that Memorial Contributions be directed to the Billy G. Akin-Summers Funeral Expense Fund with Charter Funerals of Great Bend, Kansas in charge. &nbsp;To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;Billy George Akin-Summers, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.charterfunerals.com/obituary/billy-akin-summers/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Billy George Akin-Summers

PRATT&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is conducting a five-year review of the lists of Kansas species that are endangered, threatened or Species In Need of Conservation (SINC). 

Endangered is the most imperiled category of the three, and species on the SINC list are deemed to require conservation measures to prevent them from becoming threatened or endangered. 

A five-year review is required by the Kansas Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1975. 

Any individual or group can petition KDWP to propose an addition, deletion, or modification to the current lists by providing pertinent scientific information required within the petition form.

KDWP relies on the Threatened and Endangered Species Task Committee to assist with the review process. The task committee, including Elmer Finck at Fort Hays State University, consists of seven members representing various disciplines, and include staff from state and federal agencies and state universities.

To determine if a full review is warranted, the task committee examines updated scientific information and research for any species petitioned for a listing change. Species experts are consulted and all available data is evaluated during the full review. 

These recommendations, and any amendments to them, are published in the Kansas Register for public comment for at least 90 days. After a full review is completed, the task committee makes recommendations to the KDWP Secretary and any changes to the lists must be approved by the KDWP Commission following a public hearing.

At the last five-year review completed in 2019, the Arkansas darter was removed from the threatened list and added to the SINC list. The Wabash pigtoe mussel was removed from the SINC list, and the cylindrical papershell mussel was added to the endangered list.

The state endangered list currently includes 11 invertebrates, five fish, two amphibians, two birds and two mammals. The state threatened list includes six invertebrates, 10 fish, six amphibians, three reptiles, one turtle, two birds and one mammal. The state SINC list includes 82 species.

A recent survey conducted by Responsive Management – an internationally recognized research firm specializing in natural resource and outdoor recreation issues – found that conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife remains important among Kansans. Some interesting findings included:

Petitions must be received by October 5, 2023 to be considered for the current five-year review. 

Petition forms can be downloaded at: <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife/2023-Five-Year-Review">https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife/2023-Five-Year-Review</a> and submitted electronically to kdwpt.ess@ks.gov or mailed to KDWP, Attn: Ecological Services, 512 SE 25th Ave., Pratt, KS 67124-8174.

For more information, including a list of the current threatened and endangered species in Kansas, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife">ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689021162807.jpeg" alt="The Cylindrical Papershell is a&nbsp;relatively short-lived (10 years) freshwater mussel that was formerly documented in most rivers of northern Kansas. Currently, it is found in limited reaches of the Smoky Hill and Saline Rivers.&nbsp; Courtesy Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>The Cylindrical Papershell is a&nbsp;relatively short-lived (10 years) freshwater mussel that was formerly documented in most rivers of northern Kansas. Currently, it is found in limited reaches of the Smoky Hill and Saline Rivers.&nbsp; Courtesy Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is conducting a five-year review of the lists of Kansas species that are endangered, threatened or Species In Need of Conservation (SINC). Endangered is the most imperiled category of the three, and species on the SINC list are deemed to require conservation measures to prevent them from becoming threatened or endangered. A five-year review is required by the Kansas Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1975. Any individual or group can petition KDWP to propose an addition, deletion, or modification to the current lists by providing pertinent scientific information required within the petition form. KDWP relies on the Threatened and Endangered Species Task Committee to assist with the review process. The task committee, including Elmer Finck at Fort Hays State University, consists of seven members representing various disciplines, and include staff from state and federal agencies and state universities. To determine if a full review is warranted, the task committee examines updated scientific information and research for any species petitioned for a listing change. Species experts are consulted and all available data is evaluated during the full review. These recommendations, and any amendments to them, are published in the Kansas Register for public comment for at least 90 days. After a full review is completed, the task committee makes recommendations to the KDWP Secretary and any changes to the lists must be approved by the KDWP Commission following a public hearing.At the last five-year review completed in 2019, the Arkansas darter was removed from the threatened list and added to the SINC list. The Wabash pigtoe mussel was removed from the SINC list, and the cylindrical papershell mussel was added to the endangered list.The state endangered list currently includes 11 invertebrates, five fish, two amphibians, two birds and two mammals. The state threatened list includes six invertebrates, 10 fish, six amphibians, three reptiles, one turtle, two birds and one mammal. The state SINC list includes 82 species.A recent survey conducted by Responsive Management – an internationally recognized research firm specializing in natural resource and outdoor recreation issues – found that conservation of threatened and endangered wildlife remains important among Kansans. Some interesting findings included:<ul>
 <li>A majority of Kansas residents (94 percent) agreed that the KDWP should continue to identify and protect habitat critical to threatened and endangered species.</li><li>A majority (84 percent) of residents agree with the statement, “Wildlife that is threatened and endangered in Kansas yet abundant in other states should still be protected in Kansas.”</li>
 </ul>Petitions must be received by October 5, 2023 to be considered for the current five-year review. Petition forms can be downloaded at: <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife/2023-Five-Year-Review">https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife/2023-Five-Year-Review</a> and submitted electronically to kdwpt.ess@ks.gov or mailed to KDWP, Attn: Ecological Services, 512 SE 25th Ave., Pratt, KS 67124-8174.For more information, including a list of the current threatened and endangered species in Kansas, visit <a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife">ksoutdoors.com/Services/Threatened-and-Endangered-Wildlife</a>.

Public can submit to Kan. species in need of conservation lists

<a href="https://www.olliffboeve.com/obituary/joan-mccall?fh_id=12336">https://www.olliffboeve.com/obituary/joan-mccall?fh_id=12336</a>

October 29, 1929&nbsp; -&nbsp; July 26, 2023

Phillipsburg resident, Joan McCall, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at the Phillips County Retirement Center, Phillipsburg, at the age of 93.

She was born October 29, 1929 in Lincoln, KS, the daughter of Alfred and Gertrude (Brumbaugh) Thompson.

Joan was united in marriage to Donald McCall on October 25, 1953 in Paradise, KS. &nbsp;He preceded her in death in 2013.

Survivors include a son, Kent, of Phillipsburg; two daughters, Cynthia McCall of Overland Park, KS and Linnette McCall of Kansas City, MO; grandson, Major Nicholas J. Cline and wife Kelly of Oceanside, CA; a great-granddaughter, Everly Joan Cline; and two sisters, Vivian Martinez of Wichita, KS and Sue Heitschmidt and husband Rodney of Granbury, TX.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 29, 2023 in the United Presbyterian Church, Phillipsburg. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Olliff-Boeve-Memorial-Chapel/100055272974764/">The services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The burial will take place at 2:00 p.m. Saturday in the Mt. Hermon Cemetery, Paradise, KS.

Mrs. McCall will lie in state from noon until 9 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the United Presbyterian Church.

<h2>Joan L. McCall, Phillipsburg</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690557696135.jpeg" alt="Joan L. McCall" />
 <figcaption>Joan L. McCall</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.olliffboeve.com/obituary/joan-mccall?fh_id=12336">https://www.olliffboeve.com/obituary/joan-mccall?fh_id=12336</a>October 29, 1929&nbsp; -&nbsp; July 26, 2023Phillipsburg resident, Joan McCall, passed away on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at the Phillips County Retirement Center, Phillipsburg, at the age of 93.She was born October 29, 1929 in Lincoln, KS, the daughter of Alfred and Gertrude (Brumbaugh) Thompson.Joan was united in marriage to Donald McCall on October 25, 1953 in Paradise, KS. &nbsp;He preceded her in death in 2013.Survivors include a son, Kent, of Phillipsburg; two daughters, Cynthia McCall of Overland Park, KS and Linnette McCall of Kansas City, MO; grandson, Major Nicholas J. Cline and wife Kelly of Oceanside, CA; a great-granddaughter, Everly Joan Cline; and two sisters, Vivian Martinez of Wichita, KS and Sue Heitschmidt and husband Rodney of Granbury, TX.Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 29, 2023 in the United Presbyterian Church, Phillipsburg. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Olliff-Boeve-Memorial-Chapel/100055272974764/">The services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel Facebook page.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The burial will take place at 2:00 p.m. Saturday in the Mt. Hermon Cemetery, Paradise, KS.Mrs. McCall will lie in state from noon until 9 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg.Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to the United Presbyterian Church.

Joan L. McCall

PRATT&nbsp;– Exclusive access to land not normally open to hunting and above average success rates.&nbsp; Sound like an expensive hunting lease? Well, it’s not. 

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ Special Hunts program provides hundreds of such hunts each fall and winter, and what’s even better? There’s no charge – all you have to do is apply and be selected.

KDWP’s Special Hunts program offers hunting opportunities with limited access to public and private lands, including select refuge areas, for deer, upland game, waterfowl, doves, turkey and furbearers.

Applications must be made online here,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.Kil5HYv5kK_8M4-qnZlKbZFrNdeslitp7LTJF0bNdqg/s/1303161001/br/222439233164-l" target="_blank">https://programs.ksoutdoors.com/2023-Fall-Winter-Hunts</a>, and a random drawing will determine who is selected.

This fall and winter, KDWP is offering more than 350 individual “Special Hunt” opportunities.

The application period opened July 8, 2023, with the application draw dates as follows:

Resident or nonresident hunters may apply, though some hunts are restricted to residents only. When applying online, hunters will select hunts by species, date and category, which include “Open,” “Youth,” or “Mentored” hunts. 

All applicants are eligible to apply for Open Hunts, regardless of age or hunting experience. Youth Hunts require parties to include at least one hunter age 18 or younger, accompanied by an adult age 21 or older (who may not hunt). And Mentored Hunts are open to both youth and novice hunters supervised by a mentor age 21 or older (who may also hunt).

E-mail notifications are sent to both "successful" and "unsuccessful" applicants within two business weeks of the drawing. Successful applicants will also be emailed their hunt permit, as well as area maps and other pertinent information. Hunters are responsible for purchasing necessary licenses and permits required by law.

For more information on KDWP’s Special Hunts Program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUh1bnRzLUluZm9ybWF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDcxMC43OTQ1ODYwMSJ9.3DLZegaoSziEO8p2V1RexwOT4nCg7Km21brLcFdDr-s/s/1303161001/br/222439233164-l" target="_blank">https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689103843455.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KDWPPRATT&nbsp;– Exclusive access to land not normally open to hunting and above average success rates.&nbsp; Sound like an expensive hunting lease? Well, it’s not. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ Special Hunts program provides hundreds of such hunts each fall and winter, and what’s even better? There’s no charge – all you have to do is apply and be selected.KDWP’s Special Hunts program offers hunting opportunities with limited access to public and private lands, including select refuge areas, for deer, upland game, waterfowl, doves, turkey and furbearers.Applications must be made online here,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.Kil5HYv5kK_8M4-qnZlKbZFrNdeslitp7LTJF0bNdqg/s/1303161001/br/222439233164-l" target="_blank">https://programs.ksoutdoors.com/2023-Fall-Winter-Hunts</a>, and a random drawing will determine who is selected.This fall and winter, KDWP is offering more than 350 individual “Special Hunt” opportunities.The application period opened July 8, 2023, with the application draw dates as follows:<ul>
 <li>First Draw Hunts (hunts occurring in September and October) –&nbsp;Aug. 7, 2023</li><li>Second Draw Hunts (hunts occurring in November and December) –&nbsp;Sept. 25, 2023</li><li>Third Draw Hunts (hunts occurring in January and February) –&nbsp;Dec. 11, 2023</li>
 </ul>Resident or nonresident hunters may apply, though some hunts are restricted to residents only. When applying online, hunters will select hunts by species, date and category, which include “Open,” “Youth,” or “Mentored” hunts. All applicants are eligible to apply for Open Hunts, regardless of age or hunting experience. Youth Hunts require parties to include at least one hunter age 18 or younger, accompanied by an adult age 21 or older (who may not hunt). And Mentored Hunts are open to both youth and novice hunters supervised by a mentor age 21 or older (who may also hunt).E-mail notifications are sent to both "successful" and "unsuccessful" applicants within two business weeks of the drawing. Successful applicants will also be emailed their hunt permit, as well as area maps and other pertinent information. Hunters are responsible for purchasing necessary licenses and permits required by law.For more information on KDWP’s Special Hunts Program, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8va3NvdXRkb29ycy5jb20vSHVudGluZy9TcGVjaWFsLUh1bnRzLUluZm9ybWF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDIzMDcxMC43OTQ1ODYwMSJ9.3DLZegaoSziEO8p2V1RexwOT4nCg7Km21brLcFdDr-s/s/1303161001/br/222439233164-l" target="_blank">https://ksoutdoors.com/Hunting/Special-Hunts-Information</a>.

KDWP to offer special hunting access to exclusive land

By ARNIE STAPLETON AP Sports Writer

BOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Colorado is leaving the Pac-12 to return to the conference the Buffaloes jilted a dozen years ago, and the Big 12 celebrated the reunion with a two-word statement released through Commissioner Brett Yomark:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference/status/1684677566001557504?s=20">“They’re back.”</a>

“The landscape of collegiate sports is ever-evolving, and the University of Colorado Boulder has determined the Big 12 is the best future fit for our athletic teams,” CU President Todd Saliman said after the board of regents voted 9-0 in a special remote meeting Thursday to approve the conference switch in 2024.

Colorado becomes the third school to leave the Pac-12 in the last year; UCLA and USC are joining the Big Ten next year, leaving the Pac-12, at least for the moment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pac12-big12-kliavkoff-yormark-conference-realignment-c78bcca0b15dc48f58ec8b0980628d43">with only nine member schools for the 2024-25 season.</a>

Colorado is expected to take in $31.7 million in annual television revenue over the course of the Big 12's new deal, but Chancellor Philip DiStefano and athletic director Rick George insisted that money wasn't the only factor in CU becoming the first Power Five school to return to the conference it had left.

“A decision this big has to do with a lot more than just money,” George said, emphasising that the Buffaloes will get greater exposure playing in earlier time slots and by returning from road games at a more reasonable hour.

“CU Boulder is a national university, and by spanning three time zones, the Big 12 is very much a national conference,” added DiStefano. “The national exposure that joining the Big 12 provides will shine a spotlight not only on our incredible student-athletes, but also on our groundbreaking research that really changes the world.”

While some of the regents expressed disappointment about leaving the Pac-12, they said the shifting sports landscape left CU no option but to rejoin the conference where they were a founding member before heading West in 2011.

One lure for the Buffaloes bolting the Big 12 in the first place was the school's large West Coast alumni base, a factor mitigated by the impending departures of the Trojans and Bruins.

“The Pac-12 is a great conference with vital institutions and it was a privilege to be a member for the last 12 years,” DiStefano said. “While it’s difficult to leave, we’re excited about what the future holds for CU Boulder as we start our next era in the Big 12.”

Pac-12 presidents and chancellors, athletic directors and Commissioner George Kliavkoff were scheduled to convene Thursday to discuss the next moves for the conference, two people with knowledge of the meeting told AP on condition of anonymity because the conference is not making its internal moves public.

Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark has spoken for months&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-football-yormark-open-for-business-b8b0f3a27b8dc95791e3704a5610a421">about his desire to expand the conference</a>&nbsp;and add schools in the Mountain and Pacific time zones. A person familiar with the Big 12’s expansion aspirations, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AP the school and league&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-pac12-big-12-conference-realignment-yormark-kliavkoff-09b3d9604505b23e311564fac677971d">had been in contact for more than a month</a>&nbsp;about a potential departure from the Pac-12.

There could be more defections from the Pac-12, which has seemed vulnerable to more poaching after losing USC and UCLA and with negotiations for a new media rights contract dragging on. Current deals with ESPN and Fox expire after this school year just about the same time the three schools leave.

The Big 12 last year came to an agreement with ESPN and Fox on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-entertainment-sports-7a6ff1cb356d89377609c47d99505bc3">six-year extension worth more than $2 billion that runs through 2030-31</a>.

The Buffaloes’ football team has had only one winning record over a full season since joining the Pac-12, and went 1-11 last year, leading to the hiring of former NFL star Deion Sanders.

“I will tell you, there’s tremendous benefits for being in the Big 12 for the direction that Coach Prime is going as it relates to recruiting, being able to play in Orlando, against UCF, where he’s recruited very heavily,” George said. “The state of Texas has always been a priority for us and now (we're) playing four teams in that area. And then just up north, Oklahoma State.”

Chris Yuhl, a Los Angeles attorney and 1983 CU graduate who attends home and road football games, said he disagrees with the move from a fan standpoint but understands why it happened.

“It’s like Rick George and Phil DiStefano are at a craps table and have a hot hand, getting Deion and doing what they did here,” Yuhl said. “We went from nobody wanting CU last October to being the first girl everyone wants to dance with in the Big 12 right now.”

The Big 12 has 14 members this year, but Texas and Oklahoma are leaving for the Southeastern Conference next year. A second person familiar with the Big 12’s discussions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-pac12-big-12-conference-realignment-yormark-kliavkoff-09b3d9604505b23e311564fac677971d">told AP the conference would ideally like to expand to 16 schools</a>&nbsp;with Arizona, Arizona State, Utah and Colorado all coming over from the Pac-12 to create a Western wing of the league.

Although the Big 12 landscape is different this time around with the additions of BYU, Central Florida, Houston and Cincinnati, the Buffaloes have several rivalries to renew.

"Iowa State is thrilled to welcome the University of Colorado back into the Big 12 Conference," Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard said. “The Cyclones and Buffaloes enjoyed a spirited rivalry for more than 60 years in the Big 7, Big 8 and early years of the Big 12, so we are excited to resume competing with them next year.”

George said he will seek a seventh home game to replace what were non-conference games at Houston in 2025 and Kansas State in 2028.

By ARNIE STAPLETON AP Sports WriterBOULDER, Colo. (AP) — Colorado is leaving the Pac-12 to return to the conference the Buffaloes jilted a dozen years ago, and the Big 12 celebrated the reunion with a two-word statement released through Commissioner Brett Yomark:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Big12Conference/status/1684677566001557504?s=20">“They’re back.”</a>“The landscape of collegiate sports is ever-evolving, and the University of Colorado Boulder has determined the Big 12 is the best future fit for our athletic teams,” CU President Todd Saliman said after the board of regents voted 9-0 in a special remote meeting Thursday to approve the conference switch in 2024.Colorado becomes the third school to leave the Pac-12 in the last year; UCLA and USC are joining the Big Ten next year, leaving the Pac-12, at least for the moment,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pac12-big12-kliavkoff-yormark-conference-realignment-c78bcca0b15dc48f58ec8b0980628d43">with only nine member schools for the 2024-25 season.</a>Colorado is expected to take in $31.7 million in annual television revenue over the course of the Big 12's new deal, but Chancellor Philip DiStefano and athletic director Rick George insisted that money wasn't the only factor in CU becoming the first Power Five school to return to the conference it had left.“A decision this big has to do with a lot more than just money,” George said, emphasising that the Buffaloes will get greater exposure playing in earlier time slots and by returning from road games at a more reasonable hour.“CU Boulder is a national university, and by spanning three time zones, the Big 12 is very much a national conference,” added DiStefano. “The national exposure that joining the Big 12 provides will shine a spotlight not only on our incredible student-athletes, but also on our groundbreaking research that really changes the world.”While some of the regents expressed disappointment about leaving the Pac-12, they said the shifting sports landscape left CU no option but to rejoin the conference where they were a founding member before heading West in 2011.One lure for the Buffaloes bolting the Big 12 in the first place was the school's large West Coast alumni base, a factor mitigated by the impending departures of the Trojans and Bruins.“The Pac-12 is a great conference with vital institutions and it was a privilege to be a member for the last 12 years,” DiStefano said. “While it’s difficult to leave, we’re excited about what the future holds for CU Boulder as we start our next era in the Big 12.”Pac-12 presidents and chancellors, athletic directors and Commissioner George Kliavkoff were scheduled to convene Thursday to discuss the next moves for the conference, two people with knowledge of the meeting told AP on condition of anonymity because the conference is not making its internal moves public.Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark has spoken for months&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/big-12-football-yormark-open-for-business-b8b0f3a27b8dc95791e3704a5610a421">about his desire to expand the conference</a>&nbsp;and add schools in the Mountain and Pacific time zones. A person familiar with the Big 12’s expansion aspirations, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AP the school and league&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-pac12-big-12-conference-realignment-yormark-kliavkoff-09b3d9604505b23e311564fac677971d">had been in contact for more than a month</a>&nbsp;about a potential departure from the Pac-12.There could be more defections from the Pac-12, which has seemed vulnerable to more poaching after losing USC and UCLA and with negotiations for a new media rights contract dragging on. Current deals with ESPN and Fox expire after this school year just about the same time the three schools leave.The Big 12 last year came to an agreement with ESPN and Fox on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-football-entertainment-sports-7a6ff1cb356d89377609c47d99505bc3">six-year extension worth more than $2 billion that runs through 2030-31</a>.The Buffaloes’ football team has had only one winning record over a full season since joining the Pac-12, and went 1-11 last year, leading to the hiring of former NFL star Deion Sanders.“I will tell you, there’s tremendous benefits for being in the Big 12 for the direction that Coach Prime is going as it relates to recruiting, being able to play in Orlando, against UCF, where he’s recruited very heavily,” George said. “The state of Texas has always been a priority for us and now (we're) playing four teams in that area. And then just up north, Oklahoma State.”Chris Yuhl, a Los Angeles attorney and 1983 CU graduate who attends home and road football games, said he disagrees with the move from a fan standpoint but understands why it happened.“It’s like Rick George and Phil DiStefano are at a craps table and have a hot hand, getting Deion and doing what they did here,” Yuhl said. “We went from nobody wanting CU last October to being the first girl everyone wants to dance with in the Big 12 right now.”The Big 12 has 14 members this year, but Texas and Oklahoma are leaving for the Southeastern Conference next year. A second person familiar with the Big 12’s discussions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/colorado-pac12-big-12-conference-realignment-yormark-kliavkoff-09b3d9604505b23e311564fac677971d">told AP the conference would ideally like to expand to 16 schools</a>&nbsp;with Arizona, Arizona State, Utah and Colorado all coming over from the Pac-12 to create a Western wing of the league.Although the Big 12 landscape is different this time around with the additions of BYU, Central Florida, Houston and Cincinnati, the Buffaloes have several rivalries to renew."Iowa State is thrilled to welcome the University of Colorado back into the Big 12 Conference," Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard said. “The Cyclones and Buffaloes enjoyed a spirited rivalry for more than 60 years in the Big 7, Big 8 and early years of the Big 12, so we are excited to resume competing with them next year.”George said he will seek a seventh home game to replace what were non-conference games at Houston in 2025 and Kansas State in 2028.

Colorado leaving Pac-12 and returning to Big 12 in 2024 following unanimous vote by board of regents

By Tony Guerrero Hays Post

The freeze on federal student loan payments put in place during the pandemic ends this fall. 

While on the federal level, new relief programs are being debated, some programs already exist. But as payments resume, the full impact on borrowers and the economy is yet to be seen.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The resumption of payments will impact both current and former Fort Hays State University students.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Holly Younger graduated in 2012 and still owes a considerable amount to repay her student loans but said she wouldn't have trouble paying them off thanks to existing government repayment programs.&nbsp;

“My loans are based on my income, and I have never had an issue with making the payments,” Younger said. “As for managing the debt long term, after a certain period of time, the debt is forgiven as long as you're on an income-based repayment (plan) for that long.”&nbsp;

With the end of the three-year pause put in place during the pandemic, over 40 million Americans will have to make payments again. 

Interest on the loans resumes September 1, and payments will resume during the month of October.&nbsp;Failure to do so results in damaged credit ratings and prevents access to additional aid and government resources.&nbsp;&nbsp; And bankruptcy for the vast majority of borrowers does not eliminate the debt.&nbsp;

Falling behind on a loan by 270 days will cause the loan to appear on a credit report as being in default. Once in default, the government intercepts tax refunds, garnishes wages and confiscates portions of Social Security checks and other benefits to collect on the debt.

But for those that were in default before the pause was put in place, a program is available to help.&nbsp;&nbsp;

President Biden’s<a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/default-fresh-start"> Fresh Start program</a>&nbsp;is currently accepting applications and will help those borrowers become current as payments become due. Participants will be relieved from the most serious negative consequences of default and can apply for federal student loans in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Fresh Start program also applies to missed payments bringing the loan current.&nbsp;

Younger said passing additional loan forgiveness laws will help future generations succeed. 

Regardless of the pause being lifted, she said she is prepared to make payments again.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I was hopeful for some kind of forgiveness,” Younger said. “Even it wasn't for me. I feel like it would help make life better for those who are young and struggling. I'm ok, but I know a lot of people who aren't, and it's sad.”&nbsp;

Current FHSU student Tereus Henry said he's attempting to mitigate the amount of loans he is taking through good financial decisions and encourages peers to do the same.&nbsp;

“Be smart with your money. Make sure you know what you can spend and what you can't,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

But Henry thinks the government should be offering more assistance to those with student loan debt.&nbsp;

Younger encourages high school graduates to consider their options before committing to anything long-term, as well as talking to past graduates in their field.&nbsp;

Although it would be years before she returned to college after finishing high school, she was unaware of how taking out loans would affect the rest of her life.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I don't regret my degree, but I 100 percent regret how I obtained it,” Younger said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602603609844.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By Tony Guerrero Hays PostThe freeze on federal student loan payments put in place during the pandemic ends this fall. While on the federal level, new relief programs are being debated, some programs already exist. But as payments resume, the full impact on borrowers and the economy is yet to be seen.&nbsp;&nbsp;The resumption of payments will impact both current and former Fort Hays State University students.&nbsp;&nbsp;Holly Younger graduated in 2012 and still owes a considerable amount to repay her student loans but said she wouldn't have trouble paying them off thanks to existing government repayment programs.&nbsp;“My loans are based on my income, and I have never had an issue with making the payments,” Younger said. “As for managing the debt long term, after a certain period of time, the debt is forgiven as long as you're on an income-based repayment (plan) for that long.”&nbsp;With the end of the three-year pause put in place during the pandemic, over 40 million Americans will have to make payments again. Interest on the loans resumes September 1, and payments will resume during the month of October.&nbsp;Failure to do so results in damaged credit ratings and prevents access to additional aid and government resources.&nbsp;&nbsp; And bankruptcy for the vast majority of borrowers does not eliminate the debt.&nbsp;Falling behind on a loan by 270 days will cause the loan to appear on a credit report as being in default. Once in default, the government intercepts tax refunds, garnishes wages and confiscates portions of Social Security checks and other benefits to collect on the debt.But for those that were in default before the pause was put in place, a program is available to help.&nbsp;&nbsp;President Biden’s<a href="https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/default-fresh-start"> Fresh Start program</a>&nbsp;is currently accepting applications and will help those borrowers become current as payments become due. Participants will be relieved from the most serious negative consequences of default and can apply for federal student loans in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Fresh Start program also applies to missed payments bringing the loan current.&nbsp;Younger said passing additional loan forgiveness laws will help future generations succeed. Regardless of the pause being lifted, she said she is prepared to make payments again.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I was hopeful for some kind of forgiveness,” Younger said. “Even it wasn't for me. I feel like it would help make life better for those who are young and struggling. I'm ok, but I know a lot of people who aren't, and it's sad.”&nbsp;Current FHSU student Tereus Henry said he's attempting to mitigate the amount of loans he is taking through good financial decisions and encourages peers to do the same.&nbsp;“Be smart with your money. Make sure you know what you can spend and what you can't,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;But Henry thinks the government should be offering more assistance to those with student loan debt.&nbsp;Younger encourages high school graduates to consider their options before committing to anything long-term, as well as talking to past graduates in their field.&nbsp;Although it would be years before she returned to college after finishing high school, she was unaware of how taking out loans would affect the rest of her life.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I don't regret my degree, but I 100 percent regret how I obtained it,” Younger said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Student loan payments to resume this fall; assistance programs available

LONDON (AP) — Sinéad O'Connor, the gifted Irish singer-songwriter who became a superstar in her mid-20s but was known as much for her private struggles and provocative actions as for her fierce and expressive music, has died at 56.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time," the singer's family said in a statement reported Wednesday by the BBC and RTE. No cause was disclosed. O'Connor had publicly struggled with mental health in recent years.

Recognizable by her shaved head and elfin features, O'Connor began her career singing on the streets of Dublin and soon rose to international fame. She was a star from her 1987 debut album "The Lion and the Cobra" and became a sensation in 1990 with her cover of Prince's ballad "Nothing Compares 2 U," a seething, shattering performance that topped charts from Europe to Australia and was heightened by a promotional video featuring the gray-eyed O'Connor in intense close-up.

"Nothing Compares 2 U" received three Grammy nominations and was the featured track off her acclaimed album "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got," which helped lead Rolling Stone to name her Artist of the Year in 1991.

"She proved that a recording artist could refuse to compromise and still connect with millions of listeners hungry for music of substance," the magazine declared.

She was a lifelong non-conformist — she would say that she shaved her head in response to record executives pressuring her to be conventionally glamorous — but her political and cultural stances and troubled private life often overshadowed her music. She feuded with Frank Sinatra over her refusal to allow the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at one of her shows and accused Prince of physically threatening her. In 1989 she declared her support for the Irish Republican Army, a statement she retracted a year later. Around the same time, she skipped the Grammy ceremony, saying it was too commercialized.

A critic of the Catholic Church well before allegations sexual abuse were widely reported, O'Connor made headlines in October 1992 when she tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II while appearing live on NBC's "Saturday Night Live" and denounced the church as the enemy. The following week, Joe Pesci hosted "Saturday Night Live," held up a repaired photo of the Pope and said that if he had been on the show with O'Connor he "would have gave her such a smack." Days later, she appeared at an all-star tribute for Bob Dylan at Madison Square Garden and was immediately booed. She was supposed to sing Dylan's "I Believe in You," but switched to an a cappella version of Bob Marley's "War," which she had sung on "Saturday Night Live."

Although consoled and encouraged on stage by her friend Kris Kristofferson, she left and broke down, and her performance was kept off the concert CD. (Years later, Kristofferson recorded "Sister Sinead," for which he wrote "And maybe she's crazy and maybe she ain't/But so was Picasso and so were the saints.")

In 1999, O'Connor caused uproar in Ireland when she became a priestess of the breakaway Latin Tridentine Church — a position that was not recognized by the mainstream Catholic Church. For many years, she called for a full investigation into the extent of the church's role in concealing child abuse by clergy. In 2010, when Pope Benedict XVI apologized to Ireland to atone for decades of abuse, O'Connor condemned the apology for not going far enough and called for Catholics to boycott Mass until there was a full investigation into the Vatican's role, which by 2018 was making international headlines.

"People assumed I didn't believe in God. That's not the case at all. I'm Catholic by birth and culture and would be the first at the church door if the Vatican offered sincere reconciliation," she wrote in the Washington Post in 2010.

O'Connor announced in 2018 that she had converted to Islam and would be adopting the name Shuhada' Davitt, later Shuhada Sadaqat — although she continued to use Sinéad O'Connor professionally.

"Her music was loved around the world and her talent was unmatched and beyond compare," Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said in a statement on social media.

O'Connor was born on Dec. 8, 1966. She had a difficult childhood, with a mother whom she alleged was abusive and encouraged her to shoplift. As a teenager she spent time in a church-sponsored institution for girls, where she said she washed priests' clothes for no wages. But a nun gave O'Connor her first guitar, and soon she sang and performed on the streets of Dublin, her influences ranging from Dylan to Siouxsie and the Banshees.

Her performance with a local band caught the eye of a small record label, and, in 1987, O'Connor released "The Lion and the Cobra," which sold hundreds of thousands of copies and featured the hit "Mandinka," driven by a hard rock guitar riff and O'Connor's piercing vocals. O'Connor, 20 years old and pregnant while making "Lion and the Cobra," co-produced the album.

"I suppose I've got to say that music saved me," she said in an interview with the Independent newspaper in 2013. "I didn't have any other abilities, and there was no learning support for girls like me, not in Ireland at that time. It was either jail or music. I got lucky."

O'Connor's other musical credits included the albums "Universal Mother" and "Faith and Courage," a cover of Cole Porter's "You Do Something to Me" from the AIDS fundraising album "Red Hot + Blue" and backing vocals on Peter Gabriel's "Blood of Eden." She received eight Grammy nominations overall and in 1991 won for best alternative musical performance.

O'Connor announced she was retiring from music in 2003, but she continued to record new material. Her most recent album was " I'm Not Bossy, I'm the Boss," released in 2014 and she sang the theme song for Season 7 of "Outlander."

The singer married four times; her union to drug counsellor Barry Herridge, in 2011, lasted just 16 days. She was open about her private life, from her sexuality to her mental illness. She said she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and on social media wrote openly about taking her own life. When her teenage son Shane died by suicide in 2022, O'Connor tweeted there was "no point living without him" and was soon hospitalized.

In 2014, she said she was joining the Irish nationalist Sinn Fein party and called for its leaders to step aside so that a younger generation of activists could take over. She later withdrew her application.

O'Connor had four children: Jake, with her first husband John Reynolds; Roisin, with John Waters; Shane, with Donal Lunny; and Yeshua Bonadio, with Frank Bonadio.

EDITOR'S NOTE — This story includes discussion of suicide. The U.S. national suicide and crisis lifeline is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690397085522.png" alt=""Nothing Compares 2 U" received three Grammy nominations and was the featured track off her acclaimed album "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got," which helped lead Rolling Stone to name her Artist of the Year in 1991." />
 <figcaption>"Nothing Compares 2 U" received three Grammy nominations and was the featured track off her acclaimed album "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got," which helped lead Rolling Stone to name her Artist of the Year in 1991.</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) — Sinéad O'Connor, the gifted Irish singer-songwriter who became a superstar in her mid-20s but was known as much for her private struggles and provocative actions as for her fierce and expressive music, has died at 56."It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time," the singer's family said in a statement reported Wednesday by the BBC and RTE. No cause was disclosed. O'Connor had publicly struggled with mental health in recent years.Recognizable by her shaved head and elfin features, O'Connor began her career singing on the streets of Dublin and soon rose to international fame. She was a star from her 1987 debut album "The Lion and the Cobra" and became a sensation in 1990 with her cover of Prince's ballad "Nothing Compares 2 U," a seething, shattering performance that topped charts from Europe to Australia and was heightened by a promotional video featuring the gray-eyed O'Connor in intense close-up."Nothing Compares 2 U" received three Grammy nominations and was the featured track off her acclaimed album "I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got," which helped lead Rolling Stone to name her Artist of the Year in 1991."She proved that a recording artist could refuse to compromise and still connect with millions of listeners hungry for music of substance," the magazine declared.She was a lifelong non-conformist — she would say that she shaved her head in response to record executives pressuring her to be conventionally glamorous — but her political and cultural stances and troubled private life often overshadowed her music. She feuded with Frank Sinatra over her refusal to allow the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at one of her shows and accused Prince of physically threatening her. In 1989 she declared her support for the Irish Republican Army, a statement she retracted a year later. Around the same time, she skipped the Grammy ceremony, saying it was too commercialized.A critic of the Catholic Church well before allegations sexual abuse were widely reported, O'Connor made headlines in October 1992 when she tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II while appearing live on NBC's "Saturday Night Live" and denounced the church as the enemy. The following week, Joe Pesci hosted "Saturday Night Live," held up a repaired photo of the Pope and said that if he had been on the show with O'Connor he "would have gave her such a smack." Days later, she appeared at an all-star tribute for Bob Dylan at Madison Square Garden and was immediately booed. She was supposed to sing Dylan's "I Believe in You," but switched to an a cappella version of Bob Marley's "War," which she had sung on "Saturday Night Live."Although consoled and encouraged on stage by her friend Kris Kristofferson, she left and broke down, and her performance was kept off the concert CD. (Years later, Kristofferson recorded "Sister Sinead," for which he wrote "And maybe she's crazy and maybe she ain't/But so was Picasso and so were the saints.")In 1999, O'Connor caused uproar in Ireland when she became a priestess of the breakaway Latin Tridentine Church — a position that was not recognized by the mainstream Catholic Church. For many years, she called for a full investigation into the extent of the church's role in concealing child abuse by clergy. In 2010, when Pope Benedict XVI apologized to Ireland to atone for decades of abuse, O'Connor condemned the apology for not going far enough and called for Catholics to boycott Mass until there was a full investigation into the Vatican's role, which by 2018 was making international headlines."People assumed I didn't believe in God. That's not the case at all. I'm Catholic by birth and culture and would be the first at the church door if the Vatican offered sincere reconciliation," she wrote in the Washington Post in 2010.O'Connor announced in 2018 that she had converted to Islam and would be adopting the name Shuhada' Davitt, later Shuhada Sadaqat — although she continued to use Sinéad O'Connor professionally."Her music was loved around the world and her talent was unmatched and beyond compare," Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said in a statement on social media.O'Connor was born on Dec. 8, 1966. She had a difficult childhood, with a mother whom she alleged was abusive and encouraged her to shoplift. As a teenager she spent time in a church-sponsored institution for girls, where she said she washed priests' clothes for no wages. But a nun gave O'Connor her first guitar, and soon she sang and performed on the streets of Dublin, her influences ranging from Dylan to Siouxsie and the Banshees.Her performance with a local band caught the eye of a small record label, and, in 1987, O'Connor released "The Lion and the Cobra," which sold hundreds of thousands of copies and featured the hit "Mandinka," driven by a hard rock guitar riff and O'Connor's piercing vocals. O'Connor, 20 years old and pregnant while making "Lion and the Cobra," co-produced the album."I suppose I've got to say that music saved me," she said in an interview with the Independent newspaper in 2013. "I didn't have any other abilities, and there was no learning support for girls like me, not in Ireland at that time. It was either jail or music. I got lucky."O'Connor's other musical credits included the albums "Universal Mother" and "Faith and Courage," a cover of Cole Porter's "You Do Something to Me" from the AIDS fundraising album "Red Hot + Blue" and backing vocals on Peter Gabriel's "Blood of Eden." She received eight Grammy nominations overall and in 1991 won for best alternative musical performance.O'Connor announced she was retiring from music in 2003, but she continued to record new material. Her most recent album was " I'm Not Bossy, I'm the Boss," released in 2014 and she sang the theme song for Season 7 of "Outlander."The singer married four times; her union to drug counsellor Barry Herridge, in 2011, lasted just 16 days. She was open about her private life, from her sexuality to her mental illness. She said she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and on social media wrote openly about taking her own life. When her teenage son Shane died by suicide in 2022, O'Connor tweeted there was "no point living without him" and was soon hospitalized.In 2014, she said she was joining the Irish nationalist Sinn Fein party and called for its leaders to step aside so that a younger generation of activists could take over. She later withdrew her application.O'Connor had four children: Jake, with her first husband John Reynolds; Roisin, with John Waters; Shane, with Donal Lunny; and Yeshua Bonadio, with Frank Bonadio.___EDITOR'S NOTE — This story includes discussion of suicide. The U.S. national suicide and crisis lifeline is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org

Sinéad O’Connor, gifted and provocative Irish singer, dies at 56

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-hunter-biden">President Joe Biden’s son Hunter</a>&nbsp;pleaded not guilty Wednesday to two tax crimes after a deal with federal prosecutors unraveled during a court hearing following the judge's concerns over the agreement.

Hunter Biden was charged last month with two misdemeanor tax crimes of failure to pay more than $100,000 in taxes from over $1.5 million in income in both 2017 and 2018, and he was expected to plead guilty after he made an agreement with prosecutors, who were planning to recommend two years of probation. That deal is now on hold.

But during the hearing Wednesday, there was a dispute in court over whether the initial agreement gave him protection against any future charges. U.S. District Court Judge Maryellen Noreika, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, raised concerns about the language of the deal.

Biden had also been charged with possession of a firearm by a person who is a known drug user, a felony. He had a Colt Cobra .38 Special for 11 days in October 2018. He had agreed to enter into a diversion agreement, which means that he would not technically plead guilty to the crime. As long as he adhered to the terms of his agreement, the case would be wiped from his record. If not, the deal would be withdrawn. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

The overlapping agreements created confusion for the judge, who said the lawyers needed to untangle the issues before moving forward.

“It seems to me like you are saying ‘just rubber stamp the agreement, Your Honor.' … This seems to me to be form over substance," she said. She gave defense lawyers and prosecutors 30 days to explain why she should accept the deal.

The collapsed proceedings were a surprising development because the plea had been carefully negotiated over weeks and included a lengthy back-and-forth between Justice Department prosecutors and Biden's attorneys.

It was meant to clear the air for Hunter Biden and avert a trial that would have generated weeks or months of distracting headlines. But the politics remain as messy as ever, with Republicans insisting he got a sweetheart deal and the Justice Department pressing ahead on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-criminal-investigations-jack-smith-b8836e28a7ad1c1ae5fadc4645f6a363">investigations into Trump</a>, the GOP’s 2024 presidential primary front-runner.

Trump is already facing a state criminal case in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-new-york-indictment-stormy-daniels-cohen-e673f673d205a70275d05510793672f2">New York</a>&nbsp;and a federal indictment in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-document-search-judge-c9d93a3a90e5ab35fed7f4eb00e94edb">Florida</a>. But last week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-jan-6-investigation-2020-election-7caa4d45b9dc287af868aa12f87fe254">a target letter</a>&nbsp;was sent to Trump from special counsel Jack Smith that suggests the former president may soon be indicted on new federal charges, this time involving his struggle to cling to power after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">his 2020 election loss to Joe Biden</a>.

Republicans claim a double standard, in which the Democratic president's son got off easy while the president's rival has been unfairly castigated.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-investigation-house-republicans-prosecutor-irs-17f33b5f85443ee2c3315654b47f5a1c">Congressional Republicans are pursuing their own investigations</a>&nbsp;into nearly every facet of Hunter Biden's dealings, including foreign payments.

On Tuesday, a dustup arose after Republicans on the House Ways and Means Committee filed court documents urging Noreika to consider testimony from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-irs-justice-department-congress-republicans-32d9f33fb0d05c483d76926504d45bef">IRS whistleblowers</a>&nbsp;who alleged Justice Department interference in the investigation.

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/robert-hunter-biden">President Joe Biden’s son Hunter</a>&nbsp;pleaded not guilty Wednesday to two tax crimes after a deal with federal prosecutors unraveled during a court hearing following the judge's concerns over the agreement.Hunter Biden was charged last month with two misdemeanor tax crimes of failure to pay more than $100,000 in taxes from over $1.5 million in income in both 2017 and 2018, and he was expected to plead guilty after he made an agreement with prosecutors, who were planning to recommend two years of probation. That deal is now on hold.But during the hearing Wednesday, there was a dispute in court over whether the initial agreement gave him protection against any future charges. U.S. District Court Judge Maryellen Noreika, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, raised concerns about the language of the deal.Biden had also been charged with possession of a firearm by a person who is a known drug user, a felony. He had a Colt Cobra .38 Special for 11 days in October 2018. He had agreed to enter into a diversion agreement, which means that he would not technically plead guilty to the crime. As long as he adhered to the terms of his agreement, the case would be wiped from his record. If not, the deal would be withdrawn. The charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.The overlapping agreements created confusion for the judge, who said the lawyers needed to untangle the issues before moving forward.“It seems to me like you are saying ‘just rubber stamp the agreement, Your Honor.' … This seems to me to be form over substance," she said. She gave defense lawyers and prosecutors 30 days to explain why she should accept the deal.The collapsed proceedings were a surprising development because the plea had been carefully negotiated over weeks and included a lengthy back-and-forth between Justice Department prosecutors and Biden's attorneys.It was meant to clear the air for Hunter Biden and avert a trial that would have generated weeks or months of distracting headlines. But the politics remain as messy as ever, with Republicans insisting he got a sweetheart deal and the Justice Department pressing ahead on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-criminal-investigations-jack-smith-b8836e28a7ad1c1ae5fadc4645f6a363">investigations into Trump</a>, the GOP’s 2024 presidential primary front-runner.Trump is already facing a state criminal case in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-new-york-indictment-stormy-daniels-cohen-e673f673d205a70275d05510793672f2">New York</a>&nbsp;and a federal indictment in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-document-search-judge-c9d93a3a90e5ab35fed7f4eb00e94edb">Florida</a>. But last week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-jan-6-investigation-2020-election-7caa4d45b9dc287af868aa12f87fe254">a target letter</a>&nbsp;was sent to Trump from special counsel Jack Smith that suggests the former president may soon be indicted on new federal charges, this time involving his struggle to cling to power after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">his 2020 election loss to Joe Biden</a>.Republicans claim a double standard, in which the Democratic president's son got off easy while the president's rival has been unfairly castigated.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-investigation-house-republicans-prosecutor-irs-17f33b5f85443ee2c3315654b47f5a1c">Congressional Republicans are pursuing their own investigations</a>&nbsp;into nearly every facet of Hunter Biden's dealings, including foreign payments.On Tuesday, a dustup arose after Republicans on the House Ways and Means Committee filed court documents urging Noreika to consider testimony from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-irs-justice-department-congress-republicans-32d9f33fb0d05c483d76926504d45bef">IRS whistleblowers</a>&nbsp;who alleged Justice Department interference in the investigation.Shortly after their motion was filed,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hunter-biden-guilty-tax-gun-case-judge-republican-deaa687655e6c111f37397873ff622cc">a court clerk received a call</a>&nbsp;requesting that “sensitive grand jury, taxpayer and Social Security information” be kept under seal, according to an oral order from the judge. The clerk said the lawyer gave her name and said she worked with an attorney from the Ways and Means Committee but was in fact a lawyer with the defense team.Noreika demanded the defense team show why she should not consider sanctioning them for “misrepresentations to the court.” Defense attorneys responded that their lawyer had represented herself truthfully from the start and called the matter a misunderstanding.President Biden, meanwhile, has said very little publicly, except to note,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-hunter-laptop-ba96537a686d04dc3773552cfa13deeb">"I'm very proud of my son."</a>