Garry H. Batt, 81, of rural
Russell, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at his home with his
wife by his side.

Garry was born October 29, 1943
in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; He was one of three
children to Herman and Esther (Elsasser) Batt.&nbsp;
He grew up in northern Barton County and graduated from Hoisington High
School in 1961.&nbsp; He then attended and
graduated from the Missouri Auction School in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; He served his country in the US Army from
1962 to 1964 and saw active duty in Vietnam.&nbsp;
After his tour of duty, he returned to northern Barton County.

Garry met, fell in love, and was
united in marriage to Ellen Boxberger on October 23, 1965 in Milberger,
Kansas.&nbsp; This union was blessed with two
sons; Terry and Tom.&nbsp; They lived in
Milberger for a short time before moving out to the farm.

Garry was a Farmer and
Rancher.&nbsp; He also was owner and operator
of Garry Batt Real Estate Auction and worked with Don Krug with K&amp;B Auction
Service.&nbsp; He was very active in trap
shooting contests for many years.&nbsp; He was
an oil pumper for many years and did dirt work for H.S. Radke.&nbsp; He served on the Township Board for 35 years.&nbsp; He was a member of the American Trap
Association and the Kansas Trap Association and was a life member of the
Russell V.F.W. #6240.&nbsp; He loved playing
Polka with the Dutchmasters and the Polka Kings.&nbsp; In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking and
traveling around with Ellen.

Garry’s surviving family include
his wife of 59 years, Ellen of the home; son, Tom Batt (Sandy) of Russell,
Kansas; sister, Shirley Dewald of Russell, Kansas; two grandchildren,
Christopher Batt and Cody Batt; two step grandchildren, Craig Boos and Jakob
Boos; three great grandchildren, Sophia Batt, Hagen Batt, and Cheyenne Batt;
and step great grandchild, Claire Boos.

Garry was preceded in death by
his parents; son, Terry Batt; and sister, Arletta Batt.

Celebration of Garry’s Life will
be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, October 24, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church of
Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the
Trinity Bender Hill Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation
will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, October 23, 2025 at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, where the family will be present to greet
friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; A
memorial has been established with the Trinity Bender Hill Cemetery Fund.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761150553966.jpeg" alt="Garry H. Batt" />
 <figcaption>Garry H. Batt</figcaption>
 </figure>Garry H. Batt, 81, of rural
Russell, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at his home with his
wife by his side.Garry was born October 29, 1943
in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; He was one of three
children to Herman and Esther (Elsasser) Batt.&nbsp;
He grew up in northern Barton County and graduated from Hoisington High
School in 1961.&nbsp; He then attended and
graduated from the Missouri Auction School in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; He served his country in the US Army from
1962 to 1964 and saw active duty in Vietnam.&nbsp;
After his tour of duty, he returned to northern Barton County.Garry met, fell in love, and was
united in marriage to Ellen Boxberger on October 23, 1965 in Milberger,
Kansas.&nbsp; This union was blessed with two
sons; Terry and Tom.&nbsp; They lived in
Milberger for a short time before moving out to the farm.Garry was a Farmer and
Rancher.&nbsp; He also was owner and operator
of Garry Batt Real Estate Auction and worked with Don Krug with K&amp;B Auction
Service.&nbsp; He was very active in trap
shooting contests for many years.&nbsp; He was
an oil pumper for many years and did dirt work for H.S. Radke.&nbsp; He served on the Township Board for 35 years.&nbsp; He was a member of the American Trap
Association and the Kansas Trap Association and was a life member of the
Russell V.F.W. #6240.&nbsp; He loved playing
Polka with the Dutchmasters and the Polka Kings.&nbsp; In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking and
traveling around with Ellen.Garry’s surviving family include
his wife of 59 years, Ellen of the home; son, Tom Batt (Sandy) of Russell,
Kansas; sister, Shirley Dewald of Russell, Kansas; two grandchildren,
Christopher Batt and Cody Batt; two step grandchildren, Craig Boos and Jakob
Boos; three great grandchildren, Sophia Batt, Hagen Batt, and Cheyenne Batt;
and step great grandchild, Claire Boos.Garry was preceded in death by
his parents; son, Terry Batt; and sister, Arletta Batt.Celebration of Garry’s Life will
be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, October 24, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church of
Russell.&nbsp; Burial will follow at the
Trinity Bender Hill Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation
will be held from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, October 23, 2025 at
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, where the family will be present to greet
friends from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.&nbsp; A
memorial has been established with the Trinity Bender Hill Cemetery Fund.&nbsp; Contributions and condolences may be sent to
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

Garry H. Batt

Minnie Lou Krannawitter, 93, former Hays, KS, resident, died
Monday, October 13, 2025, at Otterbein-Springboro Senior Life in Centerville,
OH. She was born January 6, 1932, in Selden, KS, to Oliver A. and Elsie I.
(Bosworth) Shrader. She married Wilfred W. Krannawitter in Hoxie, KS, on
October 28, 1950. He died in 1970.

Minnie grew up during the Great Depression and learned the
importance of hard work and frugality. She and her husband Wilfred farmed near
Hoxie for several years. When he became seriously ill and could no longer farm,
she had to take care of him and raise her sons by herself; they later moved to
Hays.

After Wilfred’s death, she worked as a ward clerk at St. Anthony
Hospital, as an assembler at the Travenol factory, as a cook at Thomas More
Prep high school, as a nurse assistant at the Good Samaritan Society nursing
home, and later at Hays Medical Center, where she obtained her Certified
Nursing Assistant training and license. Minnie will be remembered as a
kindhearted, generous, and dedicated daughter, sister, wife, mother,
grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend.

She is survived by her two sons Michael J. Krannawitter (Maria
Sarratud) of Kettering, OH, and Jon W. Krannawitter (Kathleen Mar) of Garden
City, KS, as well as three grandchildren: Angela M. Krannawitter (Joshua
Weinstein) of Kettering, Josue E. Krannawitter (Addison Heptig) of Wichita, KS,
and Amy L. Krannawitter (Jaron Zamarripa) of Garden City. Minnie is also
survived by seven great-grandchildren: David A. Weinstein, Elizabeth M.
Weinstein, Marcus G. Krannawitter, William J. Krannawitter, Zaylyn N. Krannawitter,
Geddy Zamarripa, and Benmont Zamarripa. Also left to mourn her passing are her
sister Margaret Tripp, sister-in-law Marie Bjorklund Shrader (widow of James
Shrader), and many nieces and nephews.

Minnie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a
grandson David J. Krannawitter, and her siblings Al Shrader (Barbara Stegman),
Frances Pryor (William), Katherine McKinzie (Vergil), James Shrader, and Mabel
Wells (Wayne). She was also predeceased by all of Wilfred’s siblings and their
spouses.

Graveside services and inurnment will be at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday,
October 30, 2025, at St. Joseph Cemetery, Hays, KS

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761150145972.jpeg" alt="Minnie Lou Krannawitter" />
 <figcaption>Minnie Lou Krannawitter</figcaption>
 </figure>Minnie Lou Krannawitter, 93, former Hays, KS, resident, died
Monday, October 13, 2025, at Otterbein-Springboro Senior Life in Centerville,
OH. She was born January 6, 1932, in Selden, KS, to Oliver A. and Elsie I.
(Bosworth) Shrader. She married Wilfred W. Krannawitter in Hoxie, KS, on
October 28, 1950. He died in 1970.Minnie grew up during the Great Depression and learned the
importance of hard work and frugality. She and her husband Wilfred farmed near
Hoxie for several years. When he became seriously ill and could no longer farm,
she had to take care of him and raise her sons by herself; they later moved to
Hays.After Wilfred’s death, she worked as a ward clerk at St. Anthony
Hospital, as an assembler at the Travenol factory, as a cook at Thomas More
Prep high school, as a nurse assistant at the Good Samaritan Society nursing
home, and later at Hays Medical Center, where she obtained her Certified
Nursing Assistant training and license. Minnie will be remembered as a
kindhearted, generous, and dedicated daughter, sister, wife, mother,
grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend.She is survived by her two sons Michael J. Krannawitter (Maria
Sarratud) of Kettering, OH, and Jon W. Krannawitter (Kathleen Mar) of Garden
City, KS, as well as three grandchildren: Angela M. Krannawitter (Joshua
Weinstein) of Kettering, Josue E. Krannawitter (Addison Heptig) of Wichita, KS,
and Amy L. Krannawitter (Jaron Zamarripa) of Garden City. Minnie is also
survived by seven great-grandchildren: David A. Weinstein, Elizabeth M.
Weinstein, Marcus G. Krannawitter, William J. Krannawitter, Zaylyn N. Krannawitter,
Geddy Zamarripa, and Benmont Zamarripa. Also left to mourn her passing are her
sister Margaret Tripp, sister-in-law Marie Bjorklund Shrader (widow of James
Shrader), and many nieces and nephews.Minnie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a
grandson David J. Krannawitter, and her siblings Al Shrader (Barbara Stegman),
Frances Pryor (William), Katherine McKinzie (Vergil), James Shrader, and Mabel
Wells (Wayne). She was also predeceased by all of Wilfred’s siblings and their
spouses.Graveside services and inurnment will be at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday,
October 30, 2025, at St. Joseph Cemetery, Hays, KS

Minnie Lou Krannawitter

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) has received a letter from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) regarding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to a media release from the ageny.

 That letter to all states says that if a lapse in funding, caused by the shutdown, continues, there will not be enough money to pay full SNAP benefits for November.

The letter directs agencies to hold off on processing November benefits until further notice. Until a budget agreement or continuing resolution is reached at the federal level, or the federal government identifies a funding pathway, November SNAP benefits may be delayed or interrupted entirely. If no federal action is taken by October 28, 2025, November SNAP benefits will not be disbursed until the federal government reaches a resolution.

SNAP provides benefits for approximately 42 million people across the country. That includes a total distribution of more than $34.4 million to more than 93,000 Kansas households&nbsp;–&nbsp;nearly 188,000 Kansans&nbsp;–&nbsp;who depend on SNAP each month to help put food on their tables.

This potential interruption in benefits comes at the start of the holiday season – an already busy time for food banks and food pantries helping people in need and when many children have days off from school without access to school meals.

DCF is monitoring the situation closely and is exploring what this may mean for Kansans. November benefits for current SNAP recipients are set to begin processing on October 28 and appearing on Kansas Benefits Cards beginning November 1-10 on an established staggered schedule based on last names. If an agreement is not reached by October 28, benefits could be delayed or suspended until the shutdown has ended.

“As soon as an agreement is reached or the federal government finds an alternative funding source, and DCF receives approval from FNS, we are prepared to act quickly with contracting partners to get benefits out to Kansans,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“Depending on the timing of the approval, DCF and its partners could have benefits available on cards within 72 hours.”

October SNAP benefits were distributed as planned. At this time, SNAP recipients should continue using their October benefits as normal. SNAP recipients should continue meeting program requirements, including reporting required changes and completing recertifications.

DCF is continuing to process SNAP applications as usual. Applications can be accessed online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fdefault.aspx/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/Pw50Ky-F6jZe97hbD8910xmJbnwz4c5ds_T1aiJ-LPY=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or by visiting a local DCF service center. A map with service center locations can be found on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fcontacts.aspx/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/yIVHnmTgHvIx8KE_7gV4h9rxS4s3LfNUIP6BARB07NQ=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>.

DCF is closely monitoring the impact the federal government shutdown is having on programs and services the agency delivers and will provide updates through its various communication channels as this situation evolves. Information about federal shutdown impacts on DCF programs and services is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fcontacts.aspx/2/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/HyecglYp9szWTxUSH16i3dNP81VB1Yk_TwHNB2z3F1w=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>.

For Kansans in need of additional support, Kansas Food Source,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkansasfoodsource.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/VEyJqWTKk0_hI2zUeCwKkZH_zjY6AZ1kmIwda4WDuIY=427">kansasfoodsource.org</a>, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.harvesters.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/1MBJcfOfx5eKTBQ3gAxcMFp0N-zWt-YKc8YD-kB-byo=427">Harvesters.org</a>&nbsp;provide locations of food banks and food pantries across the state. The United Way’s 211 hotline or website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.211.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/_1vmhiAbZnEEnnUeIbHPI9qqsXHd2UeeT-8vEaesxug=427">211.org</a>, and 1-800-CHILDREN,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2F1800childrenks.com%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/ito8OQbQ2CaG44nOjBaS7MmKFdED3Q_3sl4uhHFy5Go=427">1800childrenks.com</a>, also connects Kansans to resources in their communities.

The loss of federal funding places additional stress on Kansas food banks, pantries and meals programs, which are already strained to meet the needs of those who utilize them. Kansans wishing to help their local food resources can find those locations on the Kansas Food Source website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkansasfoodsource.org%2F/2/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/M-IrQv87Mio2He4EBpIzXKtc4WoQbFYcAAObNQh6drE=427">kansasfoodsource.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689674819900.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;– The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) has received a letter from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) regarding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for November amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to a media release from the ageny. That letter to all states says that if a lapse in funding, caused by the shutdown, continues, there will not be enough money to pay full SNAP benefits for November.The letter directs agencies to hold off on processing November benefits until further notice. Until a budget agreement or continuing resolution is reached at the federal level, or the federal government identifies a funding pathway, November SNAP benefits may be delayed or interrupted entirely. If no federal action is taken by October 28, 2025, November SNAP benefits will not be disbursed until the federal government reaches a resolution.SNAP provides benefits for approximately 42 million people across the country. That includes a total distribution of more than $34.4 million to more than 93,000 Kansas households&nbsp;–&nbsp;nearly 188,000 Kansans&nbsp;–&nbsp;who depend on SNAP each month to help put food on their tables.Impact on KansansThis potential interruption in benefits comes at the start of the holiday season – an already busy time for food banks and food pantries helping people in need and when many children have days off from school without access to school meals.DCF is monitoring the situation closely and is exploring what this may mean for Kansans. November benefits for current SNAP recipients are set to begin processing on October 28 and appearing on Kansas Benefits Cards beginning November 1-10 on an established staggered schedule based on last names. If an agreement is not reached by October 28, benefits could be delayed or suspended until the shutdown has ended.“As soon as an agreement is reached or the federal government finds an alternative funding source, and DCF receives approval from FNS, we are prepared to act quickly with contracting partners to get benefits out to Kansans,”&nbsp;said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.&nbsp;“Depending on the timing of the approval, DCF and its partners could have benefits available on cards within 72 hours.”October SNAP benefits were distributed as planned. At this time, SNAP recipients should continue using their October benefits as normal. SNAP recipients should continue meeting program requirements, including reporting required changes and completing recertifications.DCF is continuing to process SNAP applications as usual. Applications can be accessed online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fdefault.aspx/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/Pw50Ky-F6jZe97hbD8910xmJbnwz4c5ds_T1aiJ-LPY=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or by visiting a local DCF service center. A map with service center locations can be found on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fcontacts.aspx/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/yIVHnmTgHvIx8KE_7gV4h9rxS4s3LfNUIP6BARB07NQ=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>.What happens next?DCF is closely monitoring the impact the federal government shutdown is having on programs and services the agency delivers and will provide updates through its various communication channels as this situation evolves. Information about federal shutdown impacts on DCF programs and services is available at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.dcf.ks.gov%2FPages%2Fcontacts.aspx/2/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/HyecglYp9szWTxUSH16i3dNP81VB1Yk_TwHNB2z3F1w=427">dcf.ks.gov</a>.Help for KansansFor Kansans in need of additional support, Kansas Food Source,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkansasfoodsource.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/VEyJqWTKk0_hI2zUeCwKkZH_zjY6AZ1kmIwda4WDuIY=427">kansasfoodsource.org</a>, and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.harvesters.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/1MBJcfOfx5eKTBQ3gAxcMFp0N-zWt-YKc8YD-kB-byo=427">Harvesters.org</a>&nbsp;provide locations of food banks and food pantries across the state. The United Way’s 211 hotline or website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fwww.211.org%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/_1vmhiAbZnEEnnUeIbHPI9qqsXHd2UeeT-8vEaesxug=427">211.org</a>, and 1-800-CHILDREN,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2F1800childrenks.com%2F/1/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/ito8OQbQ2CaG44nOjBaS7MmKFdED3Q_3sl4uhHFy5Go=427">1800childrenks.com</a>, also connects Kansans to resources in their communities.The loss of federal funding places additional stress on Kansas food banks, pantries and meals programs, which are already strained to meet the needs of those who utilize them. Kansans wishing to help their local food resources can find those locations on the Kansas Food Source website,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fkansasfoodsource.org%2F/2/0101019a09046a94-dc1eaf74-ebe0-4b03-ba24-ecde7a79d679-000000/M-IrQv87Mio2He4EBpIzXKtc4WoQbFYcAAObNQh6drE=427">kansasfoodsource.org</a>.

Kan. SNAP benefits on hold for November due to government shutdown

Welcome to Cash Grab! It is your chance to win $250 on Friday's in October!

Keywords are given out at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. You will have 20 minutes to enter the correct keyword that you heard on our radio stations. We will then draw out one winner on Friday morning!

Cash Grab is presented by Robert Brogden GMC in downtown Hays, Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hahn and Mitch Keeley, Tri-Central Office Supply, and Vanderbilt’s of Hays.

Welcome to Cash Grab! It is your chance to win $250 on Friday's in October!Keywords are given out at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. You will have 20 minutes to enter the correct keyword that you heard on our radio stations. We will then draw out one winner on Friday morning!Thanks for playing and good luck!!Cash Grab is presented by Robert Brogden GMC in downtown Hays, Whitetail Properties Agents Adam Hahn and Mitch Keeley, Tri-Central Office Supply, and Vanderbilt’s of Hays.<div><script src="https://xp.audience.io/widget.js"></script>
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COLBY — Western Plains Arts Alliance will be hosting the Denver Brass Sunday, October 26 at 3:00 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Center on the Colby Community College campus in Colby.&nbsp; 

Denver Brass is one of the nation’s premier brass ensembles, featuring 14 world-class musicians who perform original compositions and innovative arrangements. 

Each year the ensemble performs over 140 concerts and provides outreach programs that inspire and delight more than 30,000 people across the Denver area. Denver Brass works diligently and methodically to increase outreach and exposure, not just to be heard or appreciated, but to provide inspiration, nourish and uplift the human spirit. 

Tickets available at the door if you don’t already have your WPAA season ticket.&nbsp;

 We would like to thank our sponsors and Dane G Hansen Foundation for your support.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761057386482.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedCOLBY — Western Plains Arts Alliance will be hosting the Denver Brass Sunday, October 26 at 3:00 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Center on the Colby Community College campus in Colby.&nbsp; Denver Brass is one of the nation’s premier brass ensembles, featuring 14 world-class musicians who perform original compositions and innovative arrangements. Each year the ensemble performs over 140 concerts and provides outreach programs that inspire and delight more than 30,000 people across the Denver area. Denver Brass works diligently and methodically to increase outreach and exposure, not just to be heard or appreciated, but to provide inspiration, nourish and uplift the human spirit. Tickets available at the door if you don’t already have your WPAA season ticket.&nbsp; We would like to thank our sponsors and Dane G Hansen Foundation for your support.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Denver Brass to perform Oct. 26 at Colby Cultural Arts Center

ELLIS — Ellis High School proudly recognizes our seniors in Band, Cross Country, and Football. Senior Recognition will take place on Friday, October 24, 2025.

 Seniors and their parents will be honored before the football game against the Wichita County-Leoti Indians at 6:40 p.m. The kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.

Back Row (L to R):&nbsp; Brendan Seibel, son of Craig and Becky Seibel; Tracyn Bollig, son of Preston and Annie Bollig; Brody Fischer, son of DJ and Julie Fischer; Benjamyn Byers, son of Nickole Byers; Carson Schartz, son of Jake and Jennifer Schartz; Mason Rohleder, son of Logan and Ashley Kauten; Owen Richards, son Brady and Jamie Richards.

Front Row (L to R):&nbsp; Kinzie Sunley, granddaughter of Allen and Kim Weber; Ethan Carroll, son of Matt and Nicole Carroll; Avery Boydston, daughter of Monte and Deidre Boydston; Tayler Schmidt, daughter of Tyler and Ashley Schmidt and Teresa Graham.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761065938119.jpeg" alt="Ellis High School&nbsp; seniors in band, cross country and football. Photo courtesy Ellis High School&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Ellis High School&nbsp; seniors in band, cross country and football. Photo courtesy Ellis High School&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis High SchoolELLIS — Ellis High School proudly recognizes our seniors in Band, Cross Country, and Football. Senior Recognition will take place on Friday, October 24, 2025. Seniors and their parents will be honored before the football game against the Wichita County-Leoti Indians at 6:40 p.m. The kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.PICTURED ABOVE:Back Row (L to R):&nbsp; Brendan Seibel, son of Craig and Becky Seibel; Tracyn Bollig, son of Preston and Annie Bollig; Brody Fischer, son of DJ and Julie Fischer; Benjamyn Byers, son of Nickole Byers; Carson Schartz, son of Jake and Jennifer Schartz; Mason Rohleder, son of Logan and Ashley Kauten; Owen Richards, son Brady and Jamie Richards.Front Row (L to R):&nbsp; Kinzie Sunley, granddaughter of Allen and Kim Weber; Ethan Carroll, son of Matt and Nicole Carroll; Avery Boydston, daughter of Monte and Deidre Boydston; Tayler Schmidt, daughter of Tyler and Ashley Schmidt and Teresa Graham.Congratulations to our seniors!

Ellis High School Railer senior to be honored Friday evening

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)

Wednesday, October 22
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Lance Leipold, 6:00pm

Thursday, October 23
 none

Friday, October 24
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Louisville (exhibition), 6:00pm KKQY: Thunder Ridge FB at Osborne, 6:00pm&nbsp; KFIX: Hays High FB at Liberal, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Plainville, 6:30pm

Saturday, October 25
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs.
Kansas State, 9:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State FB at Washburn, 12:00pm

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Wednesday, October 22
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Lance Leipold, 6:00pmThursday, October 23
 noneFriday, October 24
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Louisville (exhibition), 6:00pm KKQY: Thunder Ridge FB at Osborne, 6:00pm&nbsp; KFIX: Hays High FB at Liberal, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Plainville, 6:30pmSaturday, October 25
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs.
Kansas State, 9:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State FB at Washburn, 12:00pm Sunday, October 26
 none

🎧 Eagle Radio, Hull sports broadcast schedule

The nation is feeling the financial hit of the government shutdown, which is on track to become among the longest in U.S. history. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers are&nbsp;going without pay and there are few signs of any end to the stalemate.

The U.S. Senate will vote again Wednesday on whether to end the shutdown.

The nation is feeling the financial hit of the government shutdown, which is on track to become among the longest in U.S. history. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers are&nbsp;going without pay and there are few signs of any end to the stalemate.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Democrats attempt to be recognized during House Pro Forma Session. <a href="https://t.co/VcH9hZqGVu">pic.twitter.com/VcH9hZqGVu</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1980699082415874173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Leader Thune is offering to negotiate on the Affordable Care Act with you if you re-open the government. Why won&#39;t you take the deal?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenSchumer</a>: &quot;The bottom line is that&#39;s no deal, that&#39;s a partisan plan that leaves the American people high and dry.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/zDYUyqlyhr">pic.twitter.com/zDYUyqlyhr</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1980713747120275965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/LeaderJohnThune?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeaderJohnThune</a>: &quot;People keep saying, &#39;Negotiate!&#39; — Negotiate what? I don&#39;t know what that is right now. The government needs to open up, and then we&#39;re happy to sit down and talk about any other issues the Democrats want to talk about.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/LCms5PQq3K">pic.twitter.com/LCms5PQq3K</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980706435945119745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Three weeks in, Washington Democrats are still playing politics with Americans’ livelihoods.<a href="https://twitter.com/HouseGOP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HouseGOP</a> passed a clean, non-partisan CR to keep the government open 36 days ago, but Washington Democrats would rather fight for free health care for illegal immigrants than keep basic…&mdash; Tracey Mann (@RepMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMann/status/1980703529149837819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenJohnBarrasso?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenJohnBarrasso</a>: &quot;The government has been closed now for 21 days and the Democrats have had a chance to open it 11 times — and each time, they voted no... The Democrats are holding this country hostage. It&#39;s time for it to END. It&#39;s time to reopen the government...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/fp7UYE8iXR">pic.twitter.com/fp7UYE8iXR</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980702533929607441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;From the beginning, our message has been very simple: we will NOT be extorted&quot; by Democrats, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> tells Senate Republicans. &quot;Chuck Schumer and the Senate Democrats need to vote for the clean, bipartisan CR and reopen our government!&quot; <a href="https://t.co/g4GaTYWB8s">pic.twitter.com/g4GaTYWB8s</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980682137264144490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The U.S. Senate will vote again Wednesday on whether to end the shutdown.

🎥What Congressional leaders are saying about the gov't shutdown

On October 7, 2025,
Marilyn (Truan) Riedel went to heaven. Mom was a farm girl who grew up south of
Gorham, KS and married John M Riedel Jr a couple months after graduating from high
school. Dad was a farm boy from the next town over in Walker, KS. Their early
years were spent in Hays, KS until moving to Salina, KS in 1981. Mom was an
active member of the Salina community until moving to Overland Park, KS shortly
after dad's passing in 2001. We couldn't begin to put mom's beautiful life into
words so we ask those that knew mom to reminisce on happy memories spent with
her. 

A funeral Mass will be
held at St. Ann’s in Walker, KS on Friday, 14 November 2025 at 10:30am. Mass
will be followed by interment at St. Ann’s cemetery in Walker. Friends and
family are invited to lunch following the interment at the Walker school hall. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Marilyn is survived by her
three children - Amy Riedel of Overland Park, J.L. Riedel and his wife Jayme of
Salina, and Ann Ewy of Lenexa; four grandchildren - Jack, John, Makenzie, and
JJ; her brother Rick Truan of Gorham, KS and sister Jerilyn Esfeld of Great
Bend, KS. Marilyn was proceeded in death by her husband John and her sister
Jacquelyn Truan. 

Marilyn’s children would like
to&nbsp;thank everyone for their support and friendship through their loss.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761084643516.jpeg" alt="Marilyn (Truan) Riedel" />
 <figcaption>Marilyn (Truan) Riedel</figcaption>
 </figure>On October 7, 2025,
Marilyn (Truan) Riedel went to heaven. Mom was a farm girl who grew up south of
Gorham, KS and married John M Riedel Jr a couple months after graduating from high
school. Dad was a farm boy from the next town over in Walker, KS. Their early
years were spent in Hays, KS until moving to Salina, KS in 1981. Mom was an
active member of the Salina community until moving to Overland Park, KS shortly
after dad's passing in 2001. We couldn't begin to put mom's beautiful life into
words so we ask those that knew mom to reminisce on happy memories spent with
her. A funeral Mass will be
held at St. Ann’s in Walker, KS on Friday, 14 November 2025 at 10:30am. Mass
will be followed by interment at St. Ann’s cemetery in Walker. Friends and
family are invited to lunch following the interment at the Walker school hall. &nbsp;&nbsp;Marilyn is survived by her
three children - Amy Riedel of Overland Park, J.L. Riedel and his wife Jayme of
Salina, and Ann Ewy of Lenexa; four grandchildren - Jack, John, Makenzie, and
JJ; her brother Rick Truan of Gorham, KS and sister Jerilyn Esfeld of Great
Bend, KS. Marilyn was proceeded in death by her husband John and her sister
Jacquelyn Truan. Marilyn’s children would like
to&nbsp;thank everyone for their support and friendship through their loss.&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Marilyn (Truan) Riedel

MONKEY ISLAND, Okla. – Fort Hays State Men's Golf placed seventh among MIAA teams at the second conference mandated event of the 2025-26 season, the MSSU Fall Invitational held at Shangri La Resort October 20-21. FHSU was 10th overall out of the 18 total teams in the field, which included seven teams outside of the conference. Cooper Scheck tied for the 10th-best finish among MIAA individuals in the field and was 12th overall.

Scoring was tough in the first round with windswept conditions. The Tigers shot 26-over par (314) as a team in the first round, but drastically improved that down to a 6-over 294 in the second round. FHSU posted a 12-over par team score of 300 in the final round. FHSU finished at 44-over par for the tournament. Central Oklahoma ran away with the team title at 10-under par overall as a team, 33 strokes better than Washburn at 23-over par overall.

Central Oklahoma had three of the top five finishers individually, including champion Baylor Bostick, who shot 4-under par overall. Teammate Bryant Polhill was a shot back at 3-under, while Nicholas Canales tied for fifth at 2-over par.

Scheck finished at 5-over par overall, remaining even over his final 36 holes after an opening round 77 (+5). He shot a 2-under par 70 in the second round and then a 2-over par 74 in the final round. He carded 10 birdies throughout the tournament and half of those were in the second round.

Chutithep Rungpajchim was the second-best finisher for FHSU, staying in the top 25 at 24th individually. He shot 9-over par overall. He had a big week on par 5s, shooting 6-under par on that type of hole. He eagled the par-5 16th in the first round and eagled the par-5 18th in the final round. He matched Scheck in birdie count with 10. He also shot a first-round 77 (+5), then backed that with rounds of 73 (+1) and 75 (+3).

Colby Hays placed 50th as an individual at 15-over par overall. He shot rounds of 79, 76, and 76 while posting six birdies (two in each round). Jordan McCaslin was right on his heels at 16-over par overall, tying for 60th. He carded rounds of 82, 75, and 75 and had eight birdies in the tournament, including five in the second round. Isaak Bowman also competed for FHSU and shot +30 overall. He had rounds of 81, 81, and 84 and had a pair of birdies for the tournament.

FHSU wraps up its fall portion of the 2025-26 schedule next week at the Tulsa Cup. The tournament will take place at The Club at Indian Springs, October 27-28.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761129439147.png" alt="Fort Hays State's Cooper Scheck hits a shot off the tee at the the MSSU Fall Invitational on Tuesday, October 22, 2025 at Monkey Island, Okla. (FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Cooper Scheck hits a shot off the tee at the the MSSU Fall Invitational on Tuesday, October 22, 2025 at Monkey Island, Okla. (FHSU Athletics photo/Seth Kincaid)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsMONKEY ISLAND, Okla. – Fort Hays State Men's Golf placed seventh among MIAA teams at the second conference mandated event of the 2025-26 season, the MSSU Fall Invitational held at Shangri La Resort October 20-21. FHSU was 10th overall out of the 18 total teams in the field, which included seven teams outside of the conference. Cooper Scheck tied for the 10th-best finish among MIAA individuals in the field and was 12th overall.Scoring was tough in the first round with windswept conditions. The Tigers shot 26-over par (314) as a team in the first round, but drastically improved that down to a 6-over 294 in the second round. FHSU posted a 12-over par team score of 300 in the final round. FHSU finished at 44-over par for the tournament. Central Oklahoma ran away with the team title at 10-under par overall as a team, 33 strokes better than Washburn at 23-over par overall.Central Oklahoma had three of the top five finishers individually, including champion Baylor Bostick, who shot 4-under par overall. Teammate Bryant Polhill was a shot back at 3-under, while Nicholas Canales tied for fifth at 2-over par.Scheck finished at 5-over par overall, remaining even over his final 36 holes after an opening round 77 (+5). He shot a 2-under par 70 in the second round and then a 2-over par 74 in the final round. He carded 10 birdies throughout the tournament and half of those were in the second round.Chutithep Rungpajchim was the second-best finisher for FHSU, staying in the top 25 at 24th individually. He shot 9-over par overall. He had a big week on par 5s, shooting 6-under par on that type of hole. He eagled the par-5 16th in the first round and eagled the par-5 18th in the final round. He matched Scheck in birdie count with 10. He also shot a first-round 77 (+5), then backed that with rounds of 73 (+1) and 75 (+3).Colby Hays placed 50th as an individual at 15-over par overall. He shot rounds of 79, 76, and 76 while posting six birdies (two in each round). Jordan McCaslin was right on his heels at 16-over par overall, tying for 60th. He carded rounds of 82, 75, and 75 and had eight birdies in the tournament, including five in the second round. Isaak Bowman also competed for FHSU and shot +30 overall. He had rounds of 81, 81, and 84 and had a pair of birdies for the tournament.FHSU wraps up its fall portion of the 2025-26 schedule next week at the Tulsa Cup. The tournament will take place at The Club at Indian Springs, October 27-28.

⛳ FHSU men seventh among MIAA teams, Scheck Top 10 among MIAA individuals at MSSU Fall Invite

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Fort Hays State elevated another notch to No. 5 in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll released on Tuesday. The Tigers are in the top five of the poll for just the third time in program history. FHSU was No. 4 in the final poll of 2018 and then No. 3 in the preseason poll of 2019, which are the two highest marks in the poll for the program.

Fort Hays State remains unbeaten through 13 matches this season with a record of 11-0-2 overall. They are 7-0 so far in GAC play and have five matches remaining in the season, all in conference play. Fort Hays State plays host to Southern Nazarene and Rogers State this week in Hays.

This is the longest unbeaten streak to start a season in program history and 13 matches ties the second-longest unbeaten streak in program history at any point of a season. Last year's team had a 13-match unbeaten run from September 25-November 22, 2024. The program record is 16, set by the 2018 team that made the national semifinals.

Fort Hays State is also riding a 10-match win streak going back to September 14. It is just the second time in program history the Tigers have reached a win streak of double figures, second only to a 14-match win streak by the 2018 squad.

Fort Hays State and Rogers State continue as the two teams from the GAC represented in the Top 25. The Hillcats are No. 17 in the latest poll with an overall record of 9-1-3. Rogers State's only loss this year was to Fort Hays State. Northeastern State is among the receiving votes section of the latest poll.

Fort Hays State is one of six teams in the top 10 this week that remain unbeaten for the season. FHSU and No. 1 ranked Cal State-Stanislaus are tied for the national lead in wins, both with 11. There are eight total teams in the top 25 without a loss this season.

Aside from wins, Fort Hays State is also the national leader in total goals (41), total assists (42), total points (124), goal differential (+35), assists per match (3.23), corner kicks per match (8.08), and points per match (9.54).

United Soccer Coaches Top 25 (October 21, 2025) Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1. California State University Stanislaus	2	11-0-1 2. University of Charleston	3	10-0-3 3. Palm Beach Atlantic University	5	10-1-1 4. Anderson University (S.C.)	4	7-0-4 5. Fort Hays State University	6	11-0-2 6. Lynn University	1	9-1-1 7. Bentley University	10	8-1-2 8. Young Harris College	7	10-0-2 9. Cedarville University	8	8-0-5 10. Point Loma Nazarene University	11	8-2-1 11. Colorado State University-Pueblo	23	6-1-7 12. Midwestern State University	9	8-3-3 13. Bloomsburg University	13	6-0-5 14. Southern New Hampshire University	12	9-1-2 15. Florida Tech	16	6-1-5 16. California State University-Dominguez Hills	RV	8-2-3 17. Rogers State University	14	9-1-3 18. Rockhurst University	17	9-2-2 19. Fort Lewis College	18	5-3-4 20. University of North Georgia	RV	7-3-4 21. Lincoln University (Mo.)	20	8-0-4 22. Franklin Pierce University	NR	6-2-3 23. University of West Florida	19	8-1-4 24. Gannon University	RV	6-2-4 25. Cal Poly Pomona	25	6-3-4

Receiving Votes: California State University-Los Angeles, Flagler College, Post University, University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Northeastern State University, Rollins College, University of Tampa.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761129973666.png" alt="FHSU Athletics image" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics image</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsKANSAS CITY, Mo. - Fort Hays State elevated another notch to No. 5 in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25 Poll released on Tuesday. The Tigers are in the top five of the poll for just the third time in program history. FHSU was No. 4 in the final poll of 2018 and then No. 3 in the preseason poll of 2019, which are the two highest marks in the poll for the program.Fort Hays State remains unbeaten through 13 matches this season with a record of 11-0-2 overall. They are 7-0 so far in GAC play and have five matches remaining in the season, all in conference play. Fort Hays State plays host to Southern Nazarene and Rogers State this week in Hays.This is the longest unbeaten streak to start a season in program history and 13 matches ties the second-longest unbeaten streak in program history at any point of a season. Last year's team had a 13-match unbeaten run from September 25-November 22, 2024. The program record is 16, set by the 2018 team that made the national semifinals.Fort Hays State is also riding a 10-match win streak going back to September 14. It is just the second time in program history the Tigers have reached a win streak of double figures, second only to a 14-match win streak by the 2018 squad.Fort Hays State and Rogers State continue as the two teams from the GAC represented in the Top 25. The Hillcats are No. 17 in the latest poll with an overall record of 9-1-3. Rogers State's only loss this year was to Fort Hays State. Northeastern State is among the receiving votes section of the latest poll.Fort Hays State is one of six teams in the top 10 this week that remain unbeaten for the season. FHSU and No. 1 ranked Cal State-Stanislaus are tied for the national lead in wins, both with 11. There are eight total teams in the top 25 without a loss this season.Aside from wins, Fort Hays State is also the national leader in total goals (41), total assists (42), total points (124), goal differential (+35), assists per match (3.23), corner kicks per match (8.08), and points per match (9.54).United Soccer Coaches Top 25 (October 21, 2025) Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1. California State University Stanislaus	2	11-0-1 2. University of Charleston	3	10-0-3 3. Palm Beach Atlantic University	5	10-1-1 4. Anderson University (S.C.)	4	7-0-4 5. Fort Hays State University	6	11-0-2 6. Lynn University	1	9-1-1 7. Bentley University	10	8-1-2 8. Young Harris College	7	10-0-2 9. Cedarville University	8	8-0-5 10. Point Loma Nazarene University	11	8-2-1 11. Colorado State University-Pueblo	23	6-1-7 12. Midwestern State University	9	8-3-3 13. Bloomsburg University	13	6-0-5 14. Southern New Hampshire University	12	9-1-2 15. Florida Tech	16	6-1-5 16. California State University-Dominguez Hills	RV	8-2-3 17. Rogers State University	14	9-1-3 18. Rockhurst University	17	9-2-2 19. Fort Lewis College	18	5-3-4 20. University of North Georgia	RV	7-3-4 21. Lincoln University (Mo.)	20	8-0-4 22. Franklin Pierce University	NR	6-2-3 23. University of West Florida	19	8-1-4 24. Gannon University	RV	6-2-4 25. Cal Poly Pomona	25	6-3-4Receiving Votes: California State University-Los Angeles, Flagler College, Post University, University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Northeastern State University, Rollins College, University of Tampa.

⚽ Tiger men climb to No. 5 in latest D2 coaches poll

Darlene (Dinkel) Braun age 83, of
Victoria, Kansas, left to greet our Lord on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Hays
Medical Center, after a brief illness.&nbsp;She was born February 18, 1942, in
Hays, Kansas, to Andrew and Felicitas 'Flitz' (Hertel) Dinkel.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;

She was born the eldest to a twin sister, Marlene, and 11 years later they were
given the gift of their baby brother, Floyd.&nbsp; She attended St. Mary’s
Elementary School in Ellis, Kansas, and graduated from Ellis High School in the
class of 1960.&nbsp; After graduation, she moved to Hays and worked at St.
Anthony Hospital for two years and did some babysitting on the side for some
very dear friends.&nbsp; It was through them that she met and fell in love with
LaVern J. Braun of Victoria.&nbsp; They were married on May 4, 1963, at Ellis,
Kansas, and moved to Victoria to work and raise a family.&nbsp; He preceded her
in death on October 31, 2013.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

This union blessed them with two ornery boys, Richard (Rick) and Terry.&nbsp;
Darlene worked at St. John‘s Rest Home for 23 years as a cook, housekeeper, and
as the office manager, where she met many wonderful staff, residents, and
family members who became lifelong friends.&nbsp; But Darlene felt she needed a
change, and in 1998, she opened the Hungry Haus Cafe in Victoria, where she
provided home-cooked German meals and desserts until closing in Dec. of
2000.&nbsp; She then went to work at&nbsp;Sunflower Bank in Victoria where she
worked as a teller until her retirement in May 2013.&nbsp; Darlene never knew a
stranger and always greeted everyone with a smile and a story of how they knew
each other.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Though she loved her work-family and friends, her true
love was her own family.&nbsp; She was lucky enough to celebrate 50 years of
marriage with LaVern, her best friend who always kept her on her toes.
Together, they raised those two ornery boys into two hard working men who
learned the value of prideful work and the willingness to jump in and help
others when needed. They moved to the farm in 1979 where the boys began
learning to live the life of the land by farming with their dad and
grandparents.

Rick married Janice (Zerr) in 1985, and they were blessed with a daughter,
Jenna, and son, Lane.&nbsp; Terry married Krista (Rathbun) in 1996, and they
were blessed with two boys, Jacy and Walker. Darlene loved spending time with
her grandchildren, and later, great-grandchildren, watching them in 4-H and
sporting activities throughout their careers.&nbsp;

Of course, her favorite sport was football, and she was a proud Victoria
Knights fan cheering in the stands for years.&nbsp; Even when she didn’t have
grandchildren playing, that did not stop her from watching or listening to all
the football games!&nbsp; Darlene was blessed with two great-grandsons, Gentry
and Braxton Dempewolf, and adored all their hugs and kisses, but especially
enjoyed sharing her Kindle with them for some fun Grammy screen-time. She was
also blessed with one great-granddaughter, Gracie, who loves to smile, wave,
and say, 'Hi Grammy!'&nbsp; &nbsp; 

She is survived by her sons, Rick Braun and wife,
Janice, Victoria, KS; Terry Braun and wife, Krista, Victoria, KS; her
grandchildren, Jenna Dempewolf (Andrew), Gorham, KS; Lane Braun (Arrica),
Victoria, KS;&nbsp; Walker Braun (Kayla), Victoria; KS; her great
grandchildren, Gentry and Braxton Dempewolf; and Gracie Braun; her
sisters-in-law, Pat Dinklel, WaKeeney, KS; Louise Robben, Victoria, KS; Rosie
Dinkel, Victoria, KS; Doris Robben, Victoria, KS; and numerous caring nieces
and nephews.

Darlene is preceded in death by her parents, Andrew J, and Felicitas Dinkel;
her loving husband LaVern; her grandson, Jacy Braun; her&nbsp;infant twin
brothers: her twin sister Marlene Dinkel and husband Leland; her brother Floyd
Dinkel.&nbsp;

Mass of Christian Burial will&nbsp; be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, October
25, 2025, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave, Victoria, Kansas
with Celebrants, Father John Schmeidler and Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M.
Cap.&nbsp; Burial will be in St. Boniface Cemetery, Vincent, Kansas
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, and from 9:00 to
10:00 A.M. Saturday, all at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 A St. Boniface Christian Mothers rosary will be at
6:30 P.M. Friday, followed by a Vigil Service at 7:00 P.M. Friday, both at The
Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas.

Darlene’s faith was always very important to her, and she spent many hours a
day praying for family, friends, and people she never even met.&nbsp; Because
of her strong faith, the family suggests memorials made payable to St. Boniface
Catholic Church or Concerned Decendents of Vincent Cemetery Association or
Masses in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas
67671. 

Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761079395477.jpeg" alt="Darlene (Dinkel) Braun" />
 <figcaption>Darlene (Dinkel) Braun</figcaption>
 </figure>Darlene (Dinkel) Braun age 83, of
Victoria, Kansas, left to greet our Lord on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Hays
Medical Center, after a brief illness.&nbsp;She was born February 18, 1942, in
Hays, Kansas, to Andrew and Felicitas 'Flitz' (Hertel) Dinkel.&nbsp;&nbsp;
&nbsp;She was born the eldest to a twin sister, Marlene, and 11 years later they were
given the gift of their baby brother, Floyd.&nbsp; She attended St. Mary’s
Elementary School in Ellis, Kansas, and graduated from Ellis High School in the
class of 1960.&nbsp; After graduation, she moved to Hays and worked at St.
Anthony Hospital for two years and did some babysitting on the side for some
very dear friends.&nbsp; It was through them that she met and fell in love with
LaVern J. Braun of Victoria.&nbsp; They were married on May 4, 1963, at Ellis,
Kansas, and moved to Victoria to work and raise a family.&nbsp; He preceded her
in death on October 31, 2013.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; This union blessed them with two ornery boys, Richard (Rick) and Terry.&nbsp;
Darlene worked at St. John‘s Rest Home for 23 years as a cook, housekeeper, and
as the office manager, where she met many wonderful staff, residents, and
family members who became lifelong friends.&nbsp; But Darlene felt she needed a
change, and in 1998, she opened the Hungry Haus Cafe in Victoria, where she
provided home-cooked German meals and desserts until closing in Dec. of
2000.&nbsp; She then went to work at&nbsp;Sunflower Bank in Victoria where she
worked as a teller until her retirement in May 2013.&nbsp; Darlene never knew a
stranger and always greeted everyone with a smile and a story of how they knew
each other.
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Though she loved her work-family and friends, her true
love was her own family.&nbsp; She was lucky enough to celebrate 50 years of
marriage with LaVern, her best friend who always kept her on her toes.
Together, they raised those two ornery boys into two hard working men who
learned the value of prideful work and the willingness to jump in and help
others when needed. They moved to the farm in 1979 where the boys began
learning to live the life of the land by farming with their dad and
grandparents.Rick married Janice (Zerr) in 1985, and they were blessed with a daughter,
Jenna, and son, Lane.&nbsp; Terry married Krista (Rathbun) in 1996, and they
were blessed with two boys, Jacy and Walker. Darlene loved spending time with
her grandchildren, and later, great-grandchildren, watching them in 4-H and
sporting activities throughout their careers.&nbsp;Of course, her favorite sport was football, and she was a proud Victoria
Knights fan cheering in the stands for years.&nbsp; Even when she didn’t have
grandchildren playing, that did not stop her from watching or listening to all
the football games!&nbsp; Darlene was blessed with two great-grandsons, Gentry
and Braxton Dempewolf, and adored all their hugs and kisses, but especially
enjoyed sharing her Kindle with them for some fun Grammy screen-time. She was
also blessed with one great-granddaughter, Gracie, who loves to smile, wave,
and say, 'Hi Grammy!'&nbsp; &nbsp; She is survived by her sons, Rick Braun and wife,
Janice, Victoria, KS; Terry Braun and wife, Krista, Victoria, KS; her
grandchildren, Jenna Dempewolf (Andrew), Gorham, KS; Lane Braun (Arrica),
Victoria, KS;&nbsp; Walker Braun (Kayla), Victoria; KS; her great
grandchildren, Gentry and Braxton Dempewolf; and Gracie Braun; her
sisters-in-law, Pat Dinklel, WaKeeney, KS; Louise Robben, Victoria, KS; Rosie
Dinkel, Victoria, KS; Doris Robben, Victoria, KS; and numerous caring nieces
and nephews.Darlene is preceded in death by her parents, Andrew J, and Felicitas Dinkel;
her loving husband LaVern; her grandson, Jacy Braun; her&nbsp;infant twin
brothers: her twin sister Marlene Dinkel and husband Leland; her brother Floyd
Dinkel.&nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will&nbsp; be at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, October
25, 2025, at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, 900 Cathedral Ave, Victoria, Kansas
with Celebrants, Father John Schmeidler and Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M.
Cap.&nbsp; Burial will be in St. Boniface Cemetery, Vincent, Kansas
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Visitation will be from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. Friday, and from 9:00 to
10:00 A.M. Saturday, all at The Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A St. Boniface Christian Mothers rosary will be at
6:30 P.M. Friday, followed by a Vigil Service at 7:00 P.M. Friday, both at The
Basilica of Saint Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas.Darlene’s faith was always very important to her, and she spent many hours a
day praying for family, friends, and people she never even met.&nbsp; Because
of her strong faith, the family suggests memorials made payable to St. Boniface
Catholic Church or Concerned Decendents of Vincent Cemetery Association or
Masses in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas
67671. Condolences can be emailed to <a href="mailto:clineschapels@gmail.com">clineschapels@gmail.com</a> or left by guest
book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Darlene (Dinkel) Braun

FHSU&nbsp;Science and Mathematics Education Institute

The October FHSU Science Cafe is Monday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. in The Venue at Thirsty's, 2704 Vine Street, Hays.&nbsp;

What actually drives love? Scientists from anthropology to neuroscience have been chasing that very question for decades. And here’s the interesting part: the science of love is at once surprisingly simple and incredibly complex. We’re going to take a quick tour through some of the key chemicals that fuel love.

Presenter is James R. Balthazor, PhD, professor of chemistry, K-INBRE Campus Coordinator at Fort Hays State University.

The event is free and open to the public, sponsored by FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.fhsu.edu%2fsmei&amp;c=E,1,dx0E4bkWgiThIFHFqvYKg9drbQ7aA2U-xIV2MZW5FYIOCw6Mym-clUd_XJLU9v96GC6aIMCGMmdjUJRlcESYuJgE3KDvpE3832SCq4KUit_B4gSgIPIcrak,&amp;typo=1">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a>.

Drinks will be available for purchase. No food will be served.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759419404270.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU&nbsp;Science and Mathematics Education InstituteThe October FHSU Science Cafe is Monday, Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. in The Venue at Thirsty's, 2704 Vine Street, Hays.&nbsp;What actually drives love? Scientists from anthropology to neuroscience have been chasing that very question for decades. And here’s the interesting part: the science of love is at once surprisingly simple and incredibly complex. We’re going to take a quick tour through some of the key chemicals that fuel love.Presenter is James R. Balthazor, PhD, professor of chemistry, K-INBRE Campus Coordinator at Fort Hays State University.The event is free and open to the public, sponsored by FHSU Science and Mathematics Education Institute at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=http%3a%2f%2fwww.fhsu.edu%2fsmei&amp;c=E,1,dx0E4bkWgiThIFHFqvYKg9drbQ7aA2U-xIV2MZW5FYIOCw6Mym-clUd_XJLU9v96GC6aIMCGMmdjUJRlcESYuJgE3KDvpE3832SCq4KUit_B4gSgIPIcrak,&amp;typo=1">www.fhsu.edu/smei</a>.Drinks will be available for purchase. No food will be served.&nbsp;

FHSU Science Cafe examines biochemistry behind lust, attraction, companionship

Ruth S. Kirtland, 89, Hays passed
away Monday, October 20, 2025 at Hays Good Samaritan Society.

She was born May 15, 1936, the
daughter of John O. and Virginia B. (Oldham) Kirtland at Hadley Hospital in
Hays. &nbsp;She was among the first premature
babies to thrive in an “incubator” newly available to hospitals. 

To family and friends, Ruth’s
extraordinary sense of adventure and love of life brought many experiences at
home, and especially in her career as a teacher of elementary aged
students&nbsp;overseas&nbsp;on U.S. Air Force bases.&nbsp;&nbsp;After schooling
at Hays High School, Fort Hays State,&nbsp;and Kansas State University, she
began her teaching career in Casper, Wyoming.&nbsp;&nbsp;There she learned of
the program for teachers to work and live abroad on&nbsp;U. S.
Air&nbsp;Force&nbsp;bases.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1963, she took at position in
Adana,&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;at Incirlik.&nbsp; The
following two years she taught in England at Alconbury.&nbsp; Her next assignment to Tripoli, Libya in
1966-67 was interrupted by the evacuation of Wheeler Air Force Base due to
the&nbsp;military coup&nbsp;by&nbsp;Muammar Gaddafi.&nbsp; With her personal items packed into one or
two trunks, she flew safely to Madrid, Spain where she taught from
1967-1969.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her trunks were lost then were spotted in a storage room,
and she was&nbsp;ultimately reunited&nbsp;with her belongings. &nbsp;Following her tenure in Spain, where
she&nbsp;purchased&nbsp;an antique Rolls Royce which she painted black and
yellow, she ended her teaching career in Upper Heyford and Bicester England
(1969-1989). &nbsp;This twenty-year life of
teaching in England made her a solid anglophile who&nbsp;later&nbsp;followed
The Royals in American news reports.&nbsp; In England, she owned her own home
and cultivated a proper English garden. At home in Hays, from 1990 on, she gave
her&nbsp;life to caring for her elderly mother with the support of a Hays
contingent of family members.&nbsp;

Those who knew Ruth loved her
sense of humor, her love and generosity, and her&nbsp;tremendous affection for
animals of every kind – feline, canine and even a parrot.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the war years, Ruth was a
teenager.&nbsp; She was the baby of three
sisters, Joan and Marilyn.&nbsp; In the yard
south of the home on south Main Street grew a mighty Hackberry tree which
supported a swing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ruth would climb the&nbsp;tree and&nbsp;never
missed an opportunity to whistle at the soldiers walking on the sidewalk, while
one of her sisters innocently swung in the tree.&nbsp; This joyful trickery was not necessarily
appreciated by her sisters.&nbsp;

Many videos of family and friends
chronicle her life, and one might see her atop a camel with Egyptian pyramids
in the backdrop, or in a family favorite – her photo with her mother dangling
in the air above the ski slope in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She is survived by her
sister Joan Kirtland McAfee of Kansas City, Kansas, her nieces Melinda McAfee
and Wanda Osborn (John), her nephews Brian Doerfler (Deanna) and Doug Doerfler
(Debbie), and many great nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, her
sister Marilyn Doerfler, her brothers-in-law Alex Doerfler and Troy McAfee, and
two nephews John Doerfler and Carl McAfee. 

Funeral services are pending and will be announced by Hays
Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; Private
family inurnment will be in Mount Allen Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to
American Overseas Schools Historical Society (AOSHS) Operating Fund, 704 W.
Douglas Ave. Wichita, KS 67203.&nbsp;
Condolences and memories of Ruth may be left for her family at
www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761070189121.jpeg" alt="Ruth S. Kirtland" />
 <figcaption>Ruth S. Kirtland</figcaption>
 </figure>Ruth S. Kirtland, 89, Hays passed
away Monday, October 20, 2025 at Hays Good Samaritan Society.She was born May 15, 1936, the
daughter of John O. and Virginia B. (Oldham) Kirtland at Hadley Hospital in
Hays. &nbsp;She was among the first premature
babies to thrive in an “incubator” newly available to hospitals. To family and friends, Ruth’s
extraordinary sense of adventure and love of life brought many experiences at
home, and especially in her career as a teacher of elementary aged
students&nbsp;overseas&nbsp;on U.S. Air Force bases.&nbsp;&nbsp;After schooling
at Hays High School, Fort Hays State,&nbsp;and Kansas State University, she
began her teaching career in Casper, Wyoming.&nbsp;&nbsp;There she learned of
the program for teachers to work and live abroad on&nbsp;U. S.
Air&nbsp;Force&nbsp;bases.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1963, she took at position in
Adana,&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;at Incirlik.&nbsp; The
following two years she taught in England at Alconbury.&nbsp; Her next assignment to Tripoli, Libya in
1966-67 was interrupted by the evacuation of Wheeler Air Force Base due to
the&nbsp;military coup&nbsp;by&nbsp;Muammar Gaddafi.&nbsp; With her personal items packed into one or
two trunks, she flew safely to Madrid, Spain where she taught from
1967-1969.&nbsp;&nbsp;Her trunks were lost then were spotted in a storage room,
and she was&nbsp;ultimately reunited&nbsp;with her belongings. &nbsp;Following her tenure in Spain, where
she&nbsp;purchased&nbsp;an antique Rolls Royce which she painted black and
yellow, she ended her teaching career in Upper Heyford and Bicester England
(1969-1989). &nbsp;This twenty-year life of
teaching in England made her a solid anglophile who&nbsp;later&nbsp;followed
The Royals in American news reports.&nbsp; In England, she owned her own home
and cultivated a proper English garden. At home in Hays, from 1990 on, she gave
her&nbsp;life to caring for her elderly mother with the support of a Hays
contingent of family members.&nbsp;Those who knew Ruth loved her
sense of humor, her love and generosity, and her&nbsp;tremendous affection for
animals of every kind – feline, canine and even a parrot.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the war years, Ruth was a
teenager.&nbsp; She was the baby of three
sisters, Joan and Marilyn.&nbsp; In the yard
south of the home on south Main Street grew a mighty Hackberry tree which
supported a swing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ruth would climb the&nbsp;tree and&nbsp;never
missed an opportunity to whistle at the soldiers walking on the sidewalk, while
one of her sisters innocently swung in the tree.&nbsp; This joyful trickery was not necessarily
appreciated by her sisters.&nbsp;Many videos of family and friends
chronicle her life, and one might see her atop a camel with Egyptian pyramids
in the backdrop, or in a family favorite – her photo with her mother dangling
in the air above the ski slope in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.&nbsp;&nbsp;She is survived by her
sister Joan Kirtland McAfee of Kansas City, Kansas, her nieces Melinda McAfee
and Wanda Osborn (John), her nephews Brian Doerfler (Deanna) and Doug Doerfler
(Debbie), and many great nieces and nephews.She was proceeded in death by her parents, her
sister Marilyn Doerfler, her brothers-in-law Alex Doerfler and Troy McAfee, and
two nephews John Doerfler and Carl McAfee. Funeral services are pending and will be announced by Hays
Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; Private
family inurnment will be in Mount Allen Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to
American Overseas Schools Historical Society (AOSHS) Operating Fund, 704 W.
Douglas Ave. Wichita, KS 67203.&nbsp;
Condolences and memories of Ruth may be left for her family at
www.haysmemorial.com

Ruth S. Kirtland

WASHINGTON (AP) —In this fourth week of the government shutdown, Senate Republicans including Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall are gathering at White House — not for urgent talks on how to end it, but for a display of unity with President Donald Trump as they refuse to negotiate on any Democratic demands.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer called it a “pep rally” and said it’s “shameful” that House Speaker Mike Johnson has kept the House out of town during the shutdown. Schumer says his side wants to end the shutdown and fix the health care premium crisis that “looms over 20 million hardworking Americans.”

WASHINGTON (AP) —In this fourth week of the government shutdown, Senate Republicans including Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall are gathering at White House — not for urgent talks on how to end it, but for a display of unity with President Donald Trump as they refuse to negotiate on any Democratic demands.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you, President Trump for your leadership and hospitality! Republicans are standing strong together — it’s time for Chuck Schumer to stop playing games and reopen the government. <a href="https://t.co/GEe7HD5DDh">pic.twitter.com/GEe7HD5DDh</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1980666177497276458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Senate Republicans at White House for Rose Garden lunch with President Trump. <a href="https://t.co/MipUP7469J">pic.twitter.com/MipUP7469J</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1980670311248093460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Senate Republicans at the White House for Rose Garden lunch with President Trump. <a href="https://t.co/rWGnnY72kl">pic.twitter.com/rWGnnY72kl</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1980677135087071349?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer called it a “pep rally” and said it’s “shameful” that House Speaker Mike Johnson has kept the House out of town during the shutdown. Schumer says his side wants to end the shutdown and fix the health care premium crisis that “looms over 20 million hardworking Americans.”

Kan. U.S. Senators at the Rose Garden for lunch with President Trump

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A suspect arrested in connection with a violent abduction shown on a doorbell video last week in Wichita made his first appearance in court Monday.&nbsp;

A judge charged 22-year-old Daniel T. Espitia Guevara with&nbsp;aggravated domestic battery and misdemeanor counts of domestic battery and&nbsp; criminal restraint, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He is also on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement hold.

Last week, the Wichita Police Department asked for the community’s help in identifying and locating a woman in a doorbell video who was seen being taken by force on October 12, at approximately 2 AM., in the 1400 block of North Volutsia in Wichita.

Just after 3p.m. October 14, Wichita Police Investigators received a phone call, from a woman claiming to be the individual investigators were attempting to identify. Investigators immediately responded to her location, made contact, and transported her to City Hall so detectives could conduct a victim interview. Police confirmed the identity of the woman as a 35-year-old who lives in the area where the video was captured. Police believed this incident is a case of domestic violence where the woman was victimized by her boyfriend. The woman did not have any significant injuries.

Just after 7 p.m. October 14, officers with the Wichita Police Domestic Intervention and Violence Reduction team (DIVRT) located and arrested Guevara in relation to a doorbell surveillance case and booked him into jail.

He remains in custody on a $75,000 bond, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760555163921.png" alt="ESPITIA GUEVARA-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>ESPITIA GUEVARA-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A suspect arrested in connection with a violent abduction shown on a doorbell video last week in Wichita made his first appearance in court Monday.&nbsp;A judge charged 22-year-old Daniel T. Espitia Guevara with&nbsp;aggravated domestic battery and misdemeanor counts of domestic battery and&nbsp; criminal restraint, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. He is also on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement hold.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760408562025.png" alt="Image from Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Image from Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Last week, the Wichita Police Department asked for the community’s help in identifying and locating a woman in a doorbell video who was seen being taken by force on October 12, at approximately 2 AM., in the 1400 block of North Volutsia in Wichita.Just after 3p.m. October 14, Wichita Police Investigators received a phone call, from a woman claiming to be the individual investigators were attempting to identify. Investigators immediately responded to her location, made contact, and transported her to City Hall so detectives could conduct a victim interview. Police confirmed the identity of the woman as a 35-year-old who lives in the area where the video was captured. Police believed this incident is a case of domestic violence where the woman was victimized by her boyfriend. The woman did not have any significant injuries.Just after 7 p.m. October 14, officers with the Wichita Police Domestic Intervention and Violence Reduction team (DIVRT) located and arrested Guevara in relation to a doorbell surveillance case and booked him into jail.He remains in custody on a $75,000 bond, according to the district attorney's office.

Suspect in Kansas doorbell camera abduction faces a judge

Tuesday, October 21
 none

KAYS - (1400/94.3) KFIX - (96.9) KHAZ - (99.5) KJLS - (103.3) KKQY - (101.9)Tuesday, October 21
 noneWednesday, October 22
 KAYS: Hawk Talk with
Lance Leipold, 6:00pmThursday, October 23
 noneFriday, October 24
 KAYS: Kansas MBKB at
Louisville (exhibition), 6:00pm KKQY: Thunder Ridge FB at Osborne, 6:00pm&nbsp; KFIX: Hays High FB at Liberal, 6:30pm
 KHAZ: TMP-Marian FB vs. Plainville, 6:30pmSaturday, October 25
 KAYS: Kansas FB vs.
Kansas State, 9:30am KJLS: Fort Hays State FB at Washburn, 12:00pm Sunday, October 26
 none

Girod described ‘productive’ dialogue on strategy to reshape colleges, universities

TOPEKA — The University of Kansas said Monday the chancellor privately shared insights about a proposed compact offering preferential treatment by the Trump administration in exchange for freezing tuition rates, limiting international student enrollment and restraining campus employees from expressing political views.

KU Chancellor Doug Girod, vice chair of the prestigious Association of American Universities, responded to a request Friday to provide feedback on President Donald Trump’s unprecedented plan to bring higher education institutions into line with his agenda.

Seven of nine universities originally offered the Trump deal have rejected the offer, which was denounced in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acenet.edu/Documents/Statement-Compact-101725.pdf" target="_blank">statement by the American Council on Education</a>&nbsp;and dozens of other education associations. KU’s last-minute role in a virtual meeting was sought along with that of Washington University in St. Louis, as well as Arizona State University. It wasn’t clear if KU was asked to sign the deal with Trump.

“Chancellor Girod was invited to provide feedback to federal officials on the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education and related matters impacting universities,” said Erinn Barcomb-Peterson, director of media relations at KU. “The chancellor described the discussion as productive, and federal officials were interested in his perspective.”

After the meeting, Linda McMahon, secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, said on X that the gathering with Girod and others was “an important step toward defending a shared vision.”

“With continued federal investment and strong institutional leadership, the higher education sector can do more to enhance American leadership in the world and build tomorrow’s workforce,” she said. “A renewed commitment to the time-honored principles that helped make American universities great will strengthen the country and deepen public confidence in higher education.”

The White House convened the group ahead of Monday’s deadline for reaction and comment from nine private and public institutions — KU wasn’t on that list — initially contacted by the Trump administration. No institutions have signed the agreement.

On Saturday, Dartmouth President&nbsp;<a href="https://president.dartmouth.edu/news/2025/10/dartmouths-feedback-compact" target="_blank">Sian Beilock issued a statement</a>&nbsp;that said she shared on the call that “I do not believe that a compact — with any administration — is the right approach to achieve academic excellence, as it would compromise our academic freedom, our ability to govern ourselves and the principle that federal research funds should be awarded to the best, most promising ideas.”

Paul Mahoney, interim president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://news.virginia.edu/content/community-message-interim-president-paul-mahoney" target="_blank">University of Virginia, said a contract with the federal government</a>&nbsp;predicating assessment of students on anything other than merit would erode confidence in U.S. higher education and threatened to undermine lifesaving research.

In addition to Dartmouth and UVA, the answer was “no” from Brown University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern California and University of Arizona. Vanderbilt University and University of Texas had yet to provide conclusive answers.

The Trump administration since taking office in January has blocked billions of dollars in research grants in an effort to compel operational changes at U.S. universities and colleges. Reasons for the budget cuts included alleged antisemitism on campus; policies ensuring LGBTQ+ equality; and programs tied to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Frustrated by pushback from higher education, the White House delivered letters Oct. 1 to select colleges and universities on the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. The strategy was to invite voluntary compliance with changes the Trump administration could have difficult enforcing.

The Trump administration’s compact would mandate that schools freeze tuition for five years, limit international students to 15% of undergraduate enrollment, impose standardized tests for admission, abide by a ban on DEI programs and adopt a definition of gender that would block transgender individuals from using restrooms or participating in sports that aligned with their gender identity.

In addition, the arrangement would forbid participating colleges and universities from allowing employees to express political views on behalf of their institutions. Academic departments offering opinions counter to views held by conservatives would have to be closed. Students and employees would be polled on compact compliance and the results released publicly. There would be financial penalties for institutions that violated pledges included in the deal.

Trump wrote on Truth Social that other colleges or universities beyond those contacted so far could be signers of the deal.

The American Council on Education’s statement, with 35 other organizations in opposition to the compact, said Trump’s maneuvering raised concern about undermining qualities that made the U.S. educational system exceptional.

“The compact offers nothing less than government control of a university’s basic and necessary freedoms — the freedoms to decide who we teach, what we teach and who teaches,” the statement said. “The compact is just the kind of excessive federal overreach and regulation, to the detriment of state and local input and control, that this administration says it is against.”

The joint statement said the proposed compact would hamper ability of colleges and universities to innovate and make advancements that contributed to the nation’s economic well-being and security.

“It would hinder, not safeguard, freedom of expression for all points of view, and it will not assist in expanding social and economic mobility for all of our students,” the statement read.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761050638542.png" alt=" Doug Girod, chancellor at the University of Kansas, participated in a White House virtual meeting about President Donald Trump’s campaign to exchange special access to federal funding or grants when colleges and universities agree to freeze tuition, limit international student enrollment, ban DEI and transgender policies and restrain employees from sharing political views on behalf of a higher education institution. In this Oct. 17, 2025, image, Girod delivers the annual State of the University speech at KU. (Photo taken by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Doug Girod, chancellor at the University of Kansas, participated in a White House virtual meeting about President Donald Trump’s campaign to exchange special access to federal funding or grants when colleges and universities agree to freeze tuition, limit international student enrollment, ban DEI and transgender policies and restrain employees from sharing political views on behalf of a higher education institution. In this Oct. 17, 2025, image, Girod delivers the annual State of the University speech at KU. (Photo taken by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Girod described ‘productive’ dialogue on strategy to reshape colleges, universities</h2>TOPEKA — The University of Kansas said Monday the chancellor privately shared insights about a proposed compact offering preferential treatment by the Trump administration in exchange for freezing tuition rates, limiting international student enrollment and restraining campus employees from expressing political views.KU Chancellor Doug Girod, vice chair of the prestigious Association of American Universities, responded to a request Friday to provide feedback on President Donald Trump’s unprecedented plan to bring higher education institutions into line with his agenda.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am grateful to the university presidents who joined White House and Agency officials for a positive and wide-ranging conversation about the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. American universities power our economy, drive innovation, and prepare young people…&mdash; Secretary Linda McMahon (@EDSecMcMahon) <a href="https://twitter.com/EDSecMcMahon/status/1979323613548364278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Seven of nine universities originally offered the Trump deal have rejected the offer, which was denounced in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acenet.edu/Documents/Statement-Compact-101725.pdf" target="_blank">statement by the American Council on Education</a>&nbsp;and dozens of other education associations. KU’s last-minute role in a virtual meeting was sought along with that of Washington University in St. Louis, as well as Arizona State University. It wasn’t clear if KU was asked to sign the deal with Trump.“Chancellor Girod was invited to provide feedback to federal officials on the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education and related matters impacting universities,” said Erinn Barcomb-Peterson, director of media relations at KU. “The chancellor described the discussion as productive, and federal officials were interested in his perspective.”After the meeting, Linda McMahon, secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, said on X that the gathering with Girod and others was “an important step toward defending a shared vision.”“With continued federal investment and strong institutional leadership, the higher education sector can do more to enhance American leadership in the world and build tomorrow’s workforce,” she said. “A renewed commitment to the time-honored principles that helped make American universities great will strengthen the country and deepen public confidence in higher education.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761050707809.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The White House convened the group ahead of Monday’s deadline for reaction and comment from nine private and public institutions — KU wasn’t on that list — initially contacted by the Trump administration. No institutions have signed the agreement.On Saturday, Dartmouth President&nbsp;<a href="https://president.dartmouth.edu/news/2025/10/dartmouths-feedback-compact" target="_blank">Sian Beilock issued a statement</a>&nbsp;that said she shared on the call that “I do not believe that a compact — with any administration — is the right approach to achieve academic excellence, as it would compromise our academic freedom, our ability to govern ourselves and the principle that federal research funds should be awarded to the best, most promising ideas.”Paul Mahoney, interim president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://news.virginia.edu/content/community-message-interim-president-paul-mahoney" target="_blank">University of Virginia, said a contract with the federal government</a>&nbsp;predicating assessment of students on anything other than merit would erode confidence in U.S. higher education and threatened to undermine lifesaving research.In addition to Dartmouth and UVA, the answer was “no” from Brown University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern California and University of Arizona. Vanderbilt University and University of Texas had yet to provide conclusive answers.The Trump administration since taking office in January has blocked billions of dollars in research grants in an effort to compel operational changes at U.S. universities and colleges. Reasons for the budget cuts included alleged antisemitism on campus; policies ensuring LGBTQ+ equality; and programs tied to diversity, equity and inclusion.Frustrated by pushback from higher education, the White House delivered letters Oct. 1 to select colleges and universities on the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. The strategy was to invite voluntary compliance with changes the Trump administration could have difficult enforcing.The Trump administration’s compact would mandate that schools freeze tuition for five years, limit international students to 15% of undergraduate enrollment, impose standardized tests for admission, abide by a ban on DEI programs and adopt a definition of gender that would block transgender individuals from using restrooms or participating in sports that aligned with their gender identity.In addition, the arrangement would forbid participating colleges and universities from allowing employees to express political views on behalf of their institutions. Academic departments offering opinions counter to views held by conservatives would have to be closed. Students and employees would be polled on compact compliance and the results released publicly. There would be financial penalties for institutions that violated pledges included in the deal.Trump wrote on Truth Social that other colleges or universities beyond those contacted so far could be signers of the deal.The American Council on Education’s statement, with 35 other organizations in opposition to the compact, said Trump’s maneuvering raised concern about undermining qualities that made the U.S. educational system exceptional.“The compact offers nothing less than government control of a university’s basic and necessary freedoms — the freedoms to decide who we teach, what we teach and who teaches,” the statement said. “The compact is just the kind of excessive federal overreach and regulation, to the detriment of state and local input and control, that this administration says it is against.”The joint statement said the proposed compact would hamper ability of colleges and universities to innovate and make advancements that contributed to the nation’s economic well-being and security.“It would hinder, not safeguard, freedom of expression for all points of view, and it will not assist in expanding social and economic mobility for all of our students,” the statement read.

University of Kansas chancellor joins White House talks on Trump’s higher education deal

WASHINGTON — The&nbsp;federal government shutdown&nbsp;is moving into its third week with&nbsp;no end in sight. Most members of the House of Representatives are finally back in Washington after being out for over a month. Second District Kansas Congressman what he's doing after arriving back in the nation's capitol.

House Speaker Mike Johnson hinted he might call the House back into session if Senate passes bill to pay furloughed workers.&nbsp; That could happen this week.

WASHINGTON — The&nbsp;federal government shutdown&nbsp;is moving into its third week with&nbsp;no end in sight. Most members of the House of Representatives are finally back in Washington after being out for over a month. Second District Kansas Congressman what he's doing after arriving back in the nation's capitol.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Day 20 of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SchumerShutdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SchumerShutdown</a>. <a href="https://t.co/iFUZTistPq">pic.twitter.com/iFUZTistPq</a>&mdash; Rep. Derek Schmidt Press (@RepDerekSchmidt) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDerekSchmidt/status/1980295827429179669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>House Speaker Mike Johnson hinted he might call the House back into session if Senate passes bill to pay furloughed workers.&nbsp; That could happen this week.

🎥Kansas Congressman: Government shutdown very frustrating

John
Lee 'Jack' Ostmeyer, 85, of Oakley, died Friday, October 17, 2025.

Jack
was born July 9, 1940, in Oakley, the son of Tony and Armella (Schwebach)
Ostmeyer. Jack was a proud Oakley Plainsman graduating with the class of 1958.

Jack
married Billie Munk in 1960. Together they had three sons, Jeff, Pat, and Todd.
After Billi's passing in 1967 when the boys were 3, 4, and 6, he married Ann
(Mannebach-Ryan) in 1969 to which two children, Lisa and Rex were born.

Farm
related occupations were his life choice having careers in IHC parts and
service, hay grinding, Moormans feed sales, and farming the land.

Throughout
his life Jack was active in his Catholic faith. He was a member of the Knights
of Columbus 3rd and 4th Degrees, as well as the Loyal Order of Elks, holding
offices in each organization. Sports were also a big part of his life, playing
many holes of golf, and watching countless Wildcat, Chiefs, and Royals games.
Later in life he enjoyed reading and was an avid collector of anything John
Wayne.

Survivors include his wife Ann; children,
Jeff (Karen), Pat, Todd (Ann), Lisa (Tim) Zenger, and Rex (Paula); thirteen
grandchildren, Brandon (Roxanne), Kayla (Brandon) Potts, Nicholas, Jacob
(Madeline), Brittany (Austin) Feyh, Keegan (Shawnna) Dick, Amber Dick, April
(Travis) Vonfeldt, Jackilyn (Jeffrey) (Zenger) Blundon, Scuyler Zenger, Shailyn
Zenger, Emily, and Natalie; ten great-grandchildren, Avalyn, Emmett, Rowan,
Keeleigh (Brenden) Steinert, Grayson, Parker, Jordan, Remington, and one
great-great grandchild Briggs, as well as his five siblings Stan, Joyce, Lynn,
Dixie, and Rick.

Preceding
him in death were his wife Billie, his parents, and his parents-in-law from
each marriage.

Visitation
is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at
Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m.
on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Oakley with
Fr. Jesse Ochs officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Oakley.
Memorials may be made to the Oakley Public Library, St. Joseph’s Catholic
Cemetery, or the Sheridan County Amusement Association and sent in care of
Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences
visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761060053842.jpeg" alt="John Lee 'Jack' Ostmeyer" />
 <figcaption>John Lee 'Jack' Ostmeyer</figcaption>
 </figure>John
Lee 'Jack' Ostmeyer, 85, of Oakley, died Friday, October 17, 2025.Jack
was born July 9, 1940, in Oakley, the son of Tony and Armella (Schwebach)
Ostmeyer. Jack was a proud Oakley Plainsman graduating with the class of 1958.Jack
married Billie Munk in 1960. Together they had three sons, Jeff, Pat, and Todd.
After Billi's passing in 1967 when the boys were 3, 4, and 6, he married Ann
(Mannebach-Ryan) in 1969 to which two children, Lisa and Rex were born.Farm
related occupations were his life choice having careers in IHC parts and
service, hay grinding, Moormans feed sales, and farming the land.Throughout
his life Jack was active in his Catholic faith. He was a member of the Knights
of Columbus 3rd and 4th Degrees, as well as the Loyal Order of Elks, holding
offices in each organization. Sports were also a big part of his life, playing
many holes of golf, and watching countless Wildcat, Chiefs, and Royals games.
Later in life he enjoyed reading and was an avid collector of anything John
Wayne.Survivors include his wife Ann; children,
Jeff (Karen), Pat, Todd (Ann), Lisa (Tim) Zenger, and Rex (Paula); thirteen
grandchildren, Brandon (Roxanne), Kayla (Brandon) Potts, Nicholas, Jacob
(Madeline), Brittany (Austin) Feyh, Keegan (Shawnna) Dick, Amber Dick, April
(Travis) Vonfeldt, Jackilyn (Jeffrey) (Zenger) Blundon, Scuyler Zenger, Shailyn
Zenger, Emily, and Natalie; ten great-grandchildren, Avalyn, Emmett, Rowan,
Keeleigh (Brenden) Steinert, Grayson, Parker, Jordan, Remington, and one
great-great grandchild Briggs, as well as his five siblings Stan, Joyce, Lynn,
Dixie, and Rick.Preceding
him in death were his wife Billie, his parents, and his parents-in-law from
each marriage.Visitation
is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at
Baalmann Mortuary, Oakley. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m.
on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Oakley with
Fr. Jesse Ochs officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Oakley.
Memorials may be made to the Oakley Public Library, St. Joseph’s Catholic
Cemetery, or the Sheridan County Amusement Association and sent in care of
Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences
visit <a href="http://baalmannmortuary.com">baalmannmortuary.com</a>

John Lee 'Jack' Ostmeyer

LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating an alleged arson fire have made an arrest.

Just before 5:30a.m.&nbsp;October 18,&nbsp;the Emporia Fire Department responded to a reported vehicle fire in the area of&nbsp;West South Avenue and Neosho Street&nbsp;in Emporia, according to a media release.

Fire crews located the vehicle at&nbsp;10 South Neosho Street, where the fire was quickly extinguished. Following the initial response,&nbsp;Emporia Fire Department Fire Investigators&nbsp;determined the fire was intentionally set.

Police arrested 53-year-old Miguel Solorio Renterio, 53, of Emporia on requested charges of arson&nbsp;in connection with the incident. He has previous convictions for attempted battery on a law enforcement officer and criminal possession of a weapon, according to online records.

The case has been referred to the Lyon County Attorney’s Office&nbsp;for formal charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760968599933.png" alt="Renterio photo Lyon County" />
 <figcaption>Renterio photo Lyon County</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating an alleged arson fire have made an arrest.Just before 5:30a.m.&nbsp;October 18,&nbsp;the Emporia Fire Department responded to a reported vehicle fire in the area of&nbsp;West South Avenue and Neosho Street&nbsp;in Emporia, according to a media release.Fire crews located the vehicle at&nbsp;10 South Neosho Street, where the fire was quickly extinguished. Following the initial response,&nbsp;Emporia Fire Department Fire Investigators&nbsp;determined the fire was intentionally set.Police arrested 53-year-old Miguel Solorio Renterio, 53, of Emporia on requested charges of arson&nbsp;in connection with the incident. He has previous convictions for attempted battery on a law enforcement officer and criminal possession of a weapon, according to online records.The case has been referred to the Lyon County Attorney’s Office&nbsp;for formal charges.

Kansas felon back in jail for alleged arson fire

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House on Monday started tearing down part of the East Wing, the traditional base of operations for the first lady, to build President Donald&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-house-trump-ballroom-ea5c645a45e8f8846ebc98d5b2976678">Trump's $250 million ballroom</a>&nbsp;despite lacking approval for construction from the federal agency that oversees such projects.

Dramatic photos of the demolition work showed construction equipment tearing into the East Wing façade and windows and other building parts in tatters on the ground. Some reporters watched from a park near the Treasury Department, which is next to the East Wing.

Trump announced the start of construction in a social media post and referenced the work while hosting 2025 college baseball champs Louisiana State University and LSU-Shreveport in the East Room. He noted the work was happening “right behind us.”

“We have a lot of construction going on, which you might hear periodically,” he said, adding, “It just started today.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ballroom-national-planning-commission-approval-f537fa373705d560a9842b6250aee9ef">White House has moved ahead with the massive construction project</a>&nbsp;despite not yet having sign-off from the National Capital Planning Commission, which approves construction work and major renovations to government buildings in the Washington area.

Its chairman, Will Scharf, who is also the White House staff secretary and one of Trump's top aides, said at the commission's September meeting that agency does not have jurisdiction over demolition or site preparation work for buildings on federal property.

“What we deal with is essentially construction, vertical build,” Scharf said last month.

It was unclear whether the White House had submitted the ballroom plans for the agency's review and approval. The White House did not respond to a request for comment and the commission's offices are closed because of the government shutdown.

The Republican president had said in July when the project was announced that the ballroom would not interfere with the mansion itself.

“It’ll be near it but not touching it and pays total respect to the existing building, which I’m the biggest fan of,” he said of the White House.

The East Wing houses several offices, including those of the first lady. It was built in 1902 and and has been renovated over the years, with a second story added in 1942, according to the White House.

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said those East Wing offices will be temporarily relocated during construction and that wing of the building will be modernized and renovated.

“Nothing will be torn down,” Leavitt said when she announced the project in July.

Trump insists that presidents have desired such a ballroom for 150 years and that he's adding the massive 90,000-square-foot, glass-walled space because the East Room, which is the largest room in the White House with an approximately 200-person capacity, is too small. He also has said he does not like the idea of hosting kings, queens, presidents and prime ministers in pavilions on the South Lawn.

Trump said in the social media announcement that the project would be completed “with zero cost to the American Taxpayer! The White House Ballroom is being privately funded by many generous Patriots, Great American Companies, and, yours truly.”

The ballroom will be the biggest structural change to the Executive Mansion since the addition in 1948 of the Truman Balcony overlooking the South Lawn, even dwarfing the residence itself.

At a dinner he hosted last week for some of the wealthy business executives who are donating money toward the $250 million construction cost, Trump said the project had grown in size and now will accommodate 999 people. The capacity was 650 seated people at the July announcement.

The White House has said it will disclose information on who has contributed money to build the ballroom, but has yet to do so.

The clearing of trees on the south grounds and other site preparation work started in September. Plans call for the ballroom to be ready before Trump's term ends in January 2029.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House on Monday started tearing down part of the East Wing, the traditional base of operations for the first lady, to build President Donald&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-house-trump-ballroom-ea5c645a45e8f8846ebc98d5b2976678">Trump's $250 million ballroom</a>&nbsp;despite lacking approval for construction from the federal agency that oversees such projects.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;I am pleased to announce that ground has been broken on the White House grounds to build the new, big, beautiful White House Ballroom... The White House Ballroom is being privately funded by many generous Patriots, Great American Companies, and, yours truly.&quot; - President Trump <a href="https://t.co/GibeLevvFP">pic.twitter.com/GibeLevvFP</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1980385123037270023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A lot of FAKE OUTRAGE over construction of the big, beautiful (and privately funded) White House Ballroom. FACT: Presidents have been renovating and expanding the White House for more than 100 years. In 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt built the West Wing . In 1909,… <a href="https://t.co/p7opxjsNAm">pic.twitter.com/p7opxjsNAm</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980411112307700146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Dramatic photos of the demolition work showed construction equipment tearing into the East Wing façade and windows and other building parts in tatters on the ground. Some reporters watched from a park near the Treasury Department, which is next to the East Wing.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Construction has always been a part of the evolution of the White House. Losers who are quick to criticize need to stop their pearl clutching and understand the building needs to be modernized. Otherwise you’re just living in the past. <a href="https://t.co/OpINUW2ofA">pic.twitter.com/OpINUW2ofA</a>&mdash; Steven Cheung (@StevenCheung47) <a href="https://twitter.com/StevenCheung47/status/1980406883690389560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump announced the start of construction in a social media post and referenced the work while hosting 2025 college baseball champs Louisiana State University and LSU-Shreveport in the East Room. He noted the work was happening “right behind us.”“We have a lot of construction going on, which you might hear periodically,” he said, adding, “It just started today.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ballroom-national-planning-commission-approval-f537fa373705d560a9842b6250aee9ef">White House has moved ahead with the massive construction project</a>&nbsp;despite not yet having sign-off from the National Capital Planning Commission, which approves construction work and major renovations to government buildings in the Washington area.Its chairman, Will Scharf, who is also the White House staff secretary and one of Trump's top aides, said at the commission's September meeting that agency does not have jurisdiction over demolition or site preparation work for buildings on federal property.“What we deal with is essentially construction, vertical build,” Scharf said last month.It was unclear whether the White House had submitted the ballroom plans for the agency's review and approval. The White House did not respond to a request for comment and the commission's offices are closed because of the government shutdown.The Republican president had said in July when the project was announced that the ballroom would not interfere with the mansion itself.“It’ll be near it but not touching it and pays total respect to the existing building, which I’m the biggest fan of,” he said of the White House.The East Wing houses several offices, including those of the first lady. It was built in 1902 and and has been renovated over the years, with a second story added in 1942, according to the White House.Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said those East Wing offices will be temporarily relocated during construction and that wing of the building will be modernized and renovated.“Nothing will be torn down,” Leavitt said when she announced the project in July.Trump insists that presidents have desired such a ballroom for 150 years and that he's adding the massive 90,000-square-foot, glass-walled space because the East Room, which is the largest room in the White House with an approximately 200-person capacity, is too small. He also has said he does not like the idea of hosting kings, queens, presidents and prime ministers in pavilions on the South Lawn.Trump said in the social media announcement that the project would be completed “with zero cost to the American Taxpayer! The White House Ballroom is being privately funded by many generous Patriots, Great American Companies, and, yours truly.”The ballroom will be the biggest structural change to the Executive Mansion since the addition in 1948 of the Truman Balcony overlooking the South Lawn, even dwarfing the residence itself.At a dinner he hosted last week for some of the wealthy business executives who are donating money toward the $250 million construction cost, Trump said the project had grown in size and now will accommodate 999 people. The capacity was 650 seated people at the July announcement.The White House has said it will disclose information on who has contributed money to build the ballroom, but has yet to do so.The clearing of trees on the south grounds and other site preparation work started in September. Plans call for the ballroom to be ready before Trump's term ends in January 2029.

Part of White House demolished for Trump ballroom construction

Tiger Talk with Fort Hays State football coach Chris Brown. This week's player guest is linebacker Gavin Meyers.

Tiger Talk airs live Monday at 9:00 a.m. on Tiger Radio Mix-103.3.

Tiger Talk with Fort Hays State football coach Chris Brown. This week's player guest is linebacker Gavin Meyers.Tiger Talk airs live Monday at 9:00 a.m. on Tiger Radio Mix-103.3.<div><iframe title="Tiger Talk (October 20, 2025)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=g4gcb-199b869-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>