By KEN CARPENTER Great Bend Post

Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir is criticizing Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for failing to adequately respond to security and operational issues at Larned State Hospital. Bellendir was a guest Thursday on 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM's County Edition.&nbsp;

Bellendir cited the escape from the facility of 43-year-old Isaac Watts on Monday night. Watts was being held at the hospital for a mental evaluation after being charged with kidnapping and attempted second-degree murder in Grant County. He was apprehended by Garden City Police the next day. In June, 42-year-old John Freeman Colt escaped from the hospital's Sexual Predator Treatment Program and remained at large until his capture in Utah in September.&nbsp;

Bellendir was joined by 58 other county sheriffs in Kansas last October in sending a letter to Kelly to express their concern about the hospital's management. &nbsp;

"The Governor didn’t even bother to send us a response,” Bellendir reported. “The gist of that letter was that something needs to change over there drastically. We’re not talking about forced escapes and we’re not talking about overpowering people. These guys are just walking out of the facility. There needs to be, in my opinion, a change of leadership over there.” &nbsp;

Safety is not the only issue Bellendir is concerned about. He said that he knew of nine people in western Kansas this week who are on a waiting list to be admitted.&nbsp;

"We can’t get people into the state hospital who are in mental crisis. When you’ve got eight or nine people waiting to get in, the state needs to step up here. This is a disservice to those people as well.” &nbsp;

Kelly announced on Tuesday that she is directing the state agency in charge of Larned State Hospital to hire an independent firm to conduct a review of the facility's operations. Bellendir is not pleased with that approach. He said that process could take at least a year to complete and&nbsp;change&nbsp;is needed before then.&nbsp;

Listen below to the entire interview with Bellendir from Jan. 6, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614955691374.jpeg" alt="Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir" />
 <figcaption>Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir</figcaption>
 </figure>By KEN CARPENTER Great Bend PostBarton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir is criticizing Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for failing to adequately respond to security and operational issues at Larned State Hospital. Bellendir was a guest Thursday on 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM's County Edition.&nbsp;Bellendir cited the escape from the facility of 43-year-old Isaac Watts on Monday night. Watts was being held at the hospital for a mental evaluation after being charged with kidnapping and attempted second-degree murder in Grant County. He was apprehended by Garden City Police the next day. In June, 42-year-old John Freeman Colt escaped from the hospital's Sexual Predator Treatment Program and remained at large until his capture in Utah in September.&nbsp;Bellendir was joined by 58 other county sheriffs in Kansas last October in sending a letter to Kelly to express their concern about the hospital's management. &nbsp;"The Governor didn’t even bother to send us a response,” Bellendir reported. “The gist of that letter was that something needs to change over there drastically. We’re not talking about forced escapes and we’re not talking about overpowering people. These guys are just walking out of the facility. There needs to be, in my opinion, a change of leadership over there.” &nbsp;Safety is not the only issue Bellendir is concerned about. He said that he knew of nine people in western Kansas this week who are on a waiting list to be admitted.&nbsp;"We can’t get people into the state hospital who are in mental crisis. When you’ve got eight or nine people waiting to get in, the state needs to step up here. This is a disservice to those people as well.” &nbsp;Kelly announced on Tuesday that she is directing the state agency in charge of Larned State Hospital to hire an independent firm to conduct a review of the facility's operations. Bellendir is not pleased with that approach. He said that process could take at least a year to complete and&nbsp;change&nbsp;is needed before then.&nbsp;Listen below to the entire interview with Bellendir from Jan. 6, 2022.<div><iframe width="100%" height="265" src="https://clyp.it/hsj0rpnd/widget" frameborder="0"></iframe></div>

Barton Co. Sheriff challenges governor to take action at LSH

PAWNEE COUNTY– Liliana Guadalupe Houser, 45, of Garden City, appeared in the Pawnee County District Court Thursday afternoon before District Judge Bruce Gatterman for a Felony Arraignment, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

Houser plead No Contest to three felonies including Unlawful Sexual Relations with a patient while employed by Kansas Dept. of Aging and Disability Services(KDADS), Traffic in Contraband in a Care &amp; Treatment Facility while employed by KDADS and Obstructing in the Apprehension or Prosecution of a Registered Sex Offender.

In exchange for the plea, the State agreed to dismiss an additional count of Unlawful Sexual Relations with a patient while employed by KDADS and nine additional counts of Traffic in Contraband in a Care &amp; Treatment Facility while employed by KDADS.

The charges stem from an ongoing investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department following the June 30, 2021, escape of John Freeman Colt from the Sexual Predator Treatment Program located on the campus of Larned State Hospital. Colt was captured in Wayne Country Utah on September 27.

In support of the plea, Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the Court that had the matter proceeded to trial the State would have presented testimony that Houser, while employed at Larned State Hospital, engaged in a sexual relationship with Colt between January 17 and June 24, 2021, and that she sent sexually explicit videos to Colt utilizing the Facebook Messenger platform.

 When law enforcement interviewed her on July 1, Houser failed to disclose her relationship with Colt or the existence of Colt’s Facebook account. It is the State’s position this nondisclosure was intended to assist Colt avoid apprehension as information contained in the account later played a crucial role in the investigation. The defendant did not make any statement regarding the State’s proffer of evidence.

Prior to accepting the plea, Judge Gatterman advised Houser she would be subject to register as a Sex Offender for a period of twenty-five years. Under the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines she faces a presumptive prison sentence between 31 months and 136 months depending on her criminal history.

Sentencing has been scheduled for February 17. Houser has been in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff since her arrest on October 8, on a Bond of $45,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634076547899.png" alt="Houser-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Houser-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY– Liliana Guadalupe Houser, 45, of Garden City, appeared in the Pawnee County District Court Thursday afternoon before District Judge Bruce Gatterman for a Felony Arraignment, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.Houser plead No Contest to three felonies including Unlawful Sexual Relations with a patient while employed by Kansas Dept. of Aging and Disability Services(KDADS), Traffic in Contraband in a Care &amp; Treatment Facility while employed by KDADS and Obstructing in the Apprehension or Prosecution of a Registered Sex Offender.In exchange for the plea, the State agreed to dismiss an additional count of Unlawful Sexual Relations with a patient while employed by KDADS and nine additional counts of Traffic in Contraband in a Care &amp; Treatment Facility while employed by KDADS.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632850718422.png" alt="With assistance from three state hospital employees, John Freeman Colt escaped from the treatment program at the Larned State Hospital in June. He was captured in Utah on Sept. 27." />
 <figcaption>With assistance from three state hospital employees, John Freeman Colt escaped from the treatment program at the Larned State Hospital in June. He was captured in Utah on Sept. 27.</figcaption>
 </figure>The charges stem from an ongoing investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department following the June 30, 2021, escape of John Freeman Colt from the Sexual Predator Treatment Program located on the campus of Larned State Hospital. Colt was captured in Wayne Country Utah on September 27.In support of the plea, Pawnee County Attorney Douglas McNett advised the Court that had the matter proceeded to trial the State would have presented testimony that Houser, while employed at Larned State Hospital, engaged in a sexual relationship with Colt between January 17 and June 24, 2021, and that she sent sexually explicit videos to Colt utilizing the Facebook Messenger platform. When law enforcement interviewed her on July 1, Houser failed to disclose her relationship with Colt or the existence of Colt’s Facebook account. It is the State’s position this nondisclosure was intended to assist Colt avoid apprehension as information contained in the account later played a crucial role in the investigation. The defendant did not make any statement regarding the State’s proffer of evidence.Prior to accepting the plea, Judge Gatterman advised Houser she would be subject to register as a Sex Offender for a period of twenty-five years. Under the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines she faces a presumptive prison sentence between 31 months and 136 months depending on her criminal history.Sentencing has been scheduled for February 17. Houser has been in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff since her arrest on October 8, on a Bond of $45,000.

State hospital employee had sex with offender before his escape

NEW YORK (AP) — Oh, how things have changed.

Just a year ago, many Republicans joined Democrats in reacting with horror to the Capitol insurrection, denouncing both the violence perpetrated by the rioters and the role played by former President Donald Trump in stoking the outrage that fueled their actions with lies about a “stolen” election.

But on the anniversary of the attack, top Republicans were far more muted. Some acknowledged the terror of the day but quickly pivoted to bashing Democrats. Many avoided observances planned at the Capitol. And still others didn’t say anything at all.

It’s all part of the political calculus in a party in which the former president remains very much in charge.

The party’s top congressional leaders were missing from Thursday’s commemoration events at the Capitol. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy did not make an appearance or issue a statement. Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell, who delivered one of the sharpest denunciations of Trump after the attack, was in Atlanta for the funeral of former Sen. Johnny Isakson.

Indeed, during a moment of silence held in honor of law enforcement officers, only two Republicans were present in the House chamber: Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, who has become a pariah in her party over her criticism of Trump’s actions, and her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney.

In a statement, McConnell called Jan. 6 “a dark day for Congress and our country” after “the seat of the first branch of our federal government was stormed by criminals who brutalized police officers and used force to try to stop Congress from doing its job.”

But he also criticized Democrats for what he said was their politicization of the attack. “It has been stunning to see some Washington Democrats try to exploit this anniversary to advance partisan policy goals that long predated this event,” he said.

It was a notable shift from the comments he had made last year after the Senate voted against Trump’s impeachment.

“There’s no question — none — that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day. No question about it,” he said then, calling it “a disgraceful, disgraceful dereliction of duty.”

Like McConnell, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, a friend and ally of the former president, was clear in his denunciation of Trump immediately following the Jan. 6 attack.

“All I can say is count me out. Enough is enough,” he’d said then.

On Thursday, however, Graham, who remains close to Trump, marked the occasion with a mix of shock and partisan attacks.

“I still cannot believe that a mob was able to take over the United States Capitol during such a pivotal moment — certifying a presidential election. It would have been so easy for terrorists to boot strap onto this protest and wreak even further destruction on the U.S. Capitol,” he wrote.

Still, he pivoted to politics, characterizing the speeches by President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris at the Capitol as an “effort to resurrect a failed presidency more than marking the anniversary of a dark day in American history.”

“Their brazen attempts to use January 6 to support radical election reform and changing the rules of the Senate to accomplish this goal will not succeed,” he wrote.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, considered a potential 2024 presidential candidate, was also quick to pounce. Speaking to reporters in Florida on Thursday morning around the same time Biden was addressing the nation, DeSantis slammed Democrats and the media for making so much hay of the event.

“This is their Christmas, January 6th,” he said. “They are going to take this and milk this for anything they could to try to be able to smear anyone who ever supported Donald Trump​.”

He lashed out at those who have compared the gravity of what happened on Jan. 6 to the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks and said most Florida residents have other issues on their minds.

“I think it’s going to end up being just a politicized Charlie Foxtrot today,” he said, using military slang for a chaotic situation. “I think it’s going to be nauseating, quite frankly.”

Other potential 2024 candidates, meanwhile, stayed conspicuously silent, underscoring the complicated calculus they face in a party in which Trump remains very much in charge, with the support of wide swaths of the primary-voting electorate.

Former Vice President Mike Pence — who fled for his life on Jan. 6 as rioters broke into the Capitol, chanting “Hang Mike Pence!” — did not not release a statement marking the occasion.

Pence has said that he and the former president will likely never “see eye to eye” on the events of Jan. 6 and has defended his role that day in rejecting Trump’s demands that he overturn the election results — something he did not have the power to do. At the same time, he has accused the media of reporting on the attack to “demean” Trump’s supporters and to “distract from the Biden administration’s failed agenda,” as he said on Fox News in October.

Also saying nothing were former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who has been laying the groundwork for a possible 2024 campaign by highlighting the Trump administration’s successes, and former Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, who found herself on the wrong side of the party’s base when she criticized Trump immediately after the insurrection. She has since said that she will not run for the GOP nomination if Trump chooses to move forward with the comeback campaign he’s been teasing.

While Trump canceled the anniversary news conference he’d been planning in Florida for Thursday, several of his most ardent followers scheduled their own counterprogramming.

“We’re ashamed of nothing,” said GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida during an appearance with Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene on a podcast hosted by former Trump strategist Steve Bannon, who has been indicted for defying a subpoena from the House committee investigating the insurrection. “We’re proud of the work that we did on Jan. 6 to make legitimate arguments about election integrity.”

Greene slammed Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, another potential 2024 contender, for having characterized the anniversary as an event marking “a violent terrorist attack on the Capitol” Wednesday.

She accused Cruz of disrespecting “MAGA patriots” and “people that rioted at the Capitol and did breach the Capitol.”

Cruz later appeared on Fox News to walk back his comments, saying his phrasing was “sloppy” and “frankly dumb.”

The GOP’s transformation into the Party of Trump came perhaps most clearly into focus as former Vice President Dick Cheney paid an unexpected visit to the Capitol to support his daughter, who has become one of the most prominent anti-Trump voices.

Asked what he made of Republican leadership’s handling of the anniversary, Cheney, who served under George W. Bush, was glib in his assessment of an institution that has all but been remade in Trump’s image.

“It’s not a leadership that resembles any of the folks I knew when I was here for 10 years, dramatically,” Cheney, also a former congressman, told reporters.

“The importance of January 6th as an historic event cannot be overstated,” he added in a statement. “I am deeply disappointed at the failure of many members of my party to recognize the grave nature of the January 6 attacks and the ongoing threat to our nation.”

Karl Rove, who served as deputy chief of staff in the Bush administration and advised Trump at points during the 2020 campaign, wrote an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/republicans-jan-6-responsibility-anniversary-riot-storm-capitol-trump-protesters-investigation-11641417707" target="_blank">op-ed in the Wall Street Journal</a>&nbsp;addressing those in his own party “who for a year have excused the actions of the rioters who stormed the Capitol, disrupted Congress as it received the Electoral College’s results, and violently attempted to overturn the election.”

“There can be no soft-pedaling what happened and no absolution for those who planned, encouraged and aided the attempt to overthrow our democracy. Love of country demands nothing less. That’s true patriotism,” he wrote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641554009997.png" alt="Congressional leaders and lawmakers marked the one year anniversary of the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol with a vigil on the steps of the Capitol-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Congressional leaders and lawmakers marked the one year anniversary of the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol with a vigil on the steps of the Capitol-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Oh, how things have changed.Just a year ago, many Republicans joined Democrats in reacting with horror to the Capitol insurrection, denouncing both the violence perpetrated by the rioters and the role played by former President Donald Trump in stoking the outrage that fueled their actions with lies about a “stolen” election.But on the anniversary of the attack, top Republicans were far more muted. Some acknowledged the terror of the day but quickly pivoted to bashing Democrats. Many avoided observances planned at the Capitol. And still others didn’t say anything at all.It’s all part of the political calculus in a party in which the former president remains very much in charge.MISSING IN ACTIONThe party’s top congressional leaders were missing from Thursday’s commemoration events at the Capitol. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy did not make an appearance or issue a statement. Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell, who delivered one of the sharpest denunciations of Trump after the attack, was in Atlanta for the funeral of former Sen. Johnny Isakson.Indeed, during a moment of silence held in honor of law enforcement officers, only two Republicans were present in the House chamber: Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, who has become a pariah in her party over her criticism of Trump’s actions, and her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney.In a statement, McConnell called Jan. 6 “a dark day for Congress and our country” after “the seat of the first branch of our federal government was stormed by criminals who brutalized police officers and used force to try to stop Congress from doing its job.”But he also criticized Democrats for what he said was their politicization of the attack. “It has been stunning to see some Washington Democrats try to exploit this anniversary to advance partisan policy goals that long predated this event,” he said.It was a notable shift from the comments he had made last year after the Senate voted against Trump’s impeachment.“There’s no question — none — that President Trump is practically and morally responsible for provoking the events of the day. No question about it,” he said then, calling it “a disgraceful, disgraceful dereliction of duty.”THEN AND NOWLike McConnell, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, a friend and ally of the former president, was clear in his denunciation of Trump immediately following the Jan. 6 attack.“All I can say is count me out. Enough is enough,” he’d said then.On Thursday, however, Graham, who remains close to Trump, marked the occasion with a mix of shock and partisan attacks.“I still cannot believe that a mob was able to take over the United States Capitol during such a pivotal moment — certifying a presidential election. It would have been so easy for terrorists to boot strap onto this protest and wreak even further destruction on the U.S. Capitol,” he wrote.Still, he pivoted to politics, characterizing the speeches by President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris at the Capitol as an “effort to resurrect a failed presidency more than marking the anniversary of a dark day in American history.”“Their brazen attempts to use January 6 to support radical election reform and changing the rules of the Senate to accomplish this goal will not succeed,” he wrote.POLITICS FIRSTFlorida Gov. Ron DeSantis, considered a potential 2024 presidential candidate, was also quick to pounce. Speaking to reporters in Florida on Thursday morning around the same time Biden was addressing the nation, DeSantis slammed Democrats and the media for making so much hay of the event.“This is their Christmas, January 6th,” he said. “They are going to take this and milk this for anything they could to try to be able to smear anyone who ever supported Donald Trump​.”He lashed out at those who have compared the gravity of what happened on Jan. 6 to the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks and said most Florida residents have other issues on their minds.“I think it’s going to end up being just a politicized Charlie Foxtrot today,” he said, using military slang for a chaotic situation. “I think it’s going to be nauseating, quite frankly.”NO COMMENTOther potential 2024 candidates, meanwhile, stayed conspicuously silent, underscoring the complicated calculus they face in a party in which Trump remains very much in charge, with the support of wide swaths of the primary-voting electorate.Former Vice President Mike Pence — who fled for his life on Jan. 6 as rioters broke into the Capitol, chanting “Hang Mike Pence!” — did not not release a statement marking the occasion.Pence has said that he and the former president will likely never “see eye to eye” on the events of Jan. 6 and has defended his role that day in rejecting Trump’s demands that he overturn the election results — something he did not have the power to do. At the same time, he has accused the media of reporting on the attack to “demean” Trump’s supporters and to “distract from the Biden administration’s failed agenda,” as he said on Fox News in October.Also saying nothing were former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who has been laying the groundwork for a possible 2024 campaign by highlighting the Trump administration’s successes, and former Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, who found herself on the wrong side of the party’s base when she criticized Trump immediately after the insurrection. She has since said that she will not run for the GOP nomination if Trump chooses to move forward with the comeback campaign he’s been teasing.COUNTERPROGRAMMINGWhile Trump canceled the anniversary news conference he’d been planning in Florida for Thursday, several of his most ardent followers scheduled their own counterprogramming.“We’re ashamed of nothing,” said GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida during an appearance with Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene on a podcast hosted by former Trump strategist Steve Bannon, who has been indicted for defying a subpoena from the House committee investigating the insurrection. “We’re proud of the work that we did on Jan. 6 to make legitimate arguments about election integrity.”Greene slammed Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, another potential 2024 contender, for having characterized the anniversary as an event marking “a violent terrorist attack on the Capitol” Wednesday.She accused Cruz of disrespecting “MAGA patriots” and “people that rioted at the Capitol and did breach the Capitol.”“Shame on Ted Cruz,” she said.Cruz later appeared on Fox News to walk back his comments, saying his phrasing was “sloppy” and “frankly dumb.”THE OLD GUARDThe GOP’s transformation into the Party of Trump came perhaps most clearly into focus as former Vice President Dick Cheney paid an unexpected visit to the Capitol to support his daughter, who has become one of the most prominent anti-Trump voices.Asked what he made of Republican leadership’s handling of the anniversary, Cheney, who served under George W. Bush, was glib in his assessment of an institution that has all but been remade in Trump’s image.“It’s not a leadership that resembles any of the folks I knew when I was here for 10 years, dramatically,” Cheney, also a former congressman, told reporters.“The importance of January 6th as an historic event cannot be overstated,” he added in a statement. “I am deeply disappointed at the failure of many members of my party to recognize the grave nature of the January 6 attacks and the ongoing threat to our nation.”Karl Rove, who served as deputy chief of staff in the Bush administration and advised Trump at points during the 2020 campaign, wrote an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/republicans-jan-6-responsibility-anniversary-riot-storm-capitol-trump-protesters-investigation-11641417707" target="_blank">op-ed in the Wall Street Journal</a>&nbsp;addressing those in his own party “who for a year have excused the actions of the rioters who stormed the Capitol, disrupted Congress as it received the Electoral College’s results, and violently attempted to overturn the election.”“There can be no soft-pedaling what happened and no absolution for those who planned, encouraged and aided the attempt to overthrow our democracy. Love of country demands nothing less. That’s true patriotism,” he wrote.

Republican lawmakers mark Jan. 6 with silence, deflection

Harold Karspeck, 101, of Goodland, Kansas passed away peacefully January 4, 2022, at the Goodland Regional Medical Center with his family by his side.&nbsp; Harold was born October 27, 1920, in Syracuse, NE.&nbsp; He was the son of Henry and Elizabeth Karspeck and the youngest of ten children.&nbsp; Harold was baptized into the Christian faith at the Delaware Country Church in Nebraska.&nbsp; The family farmed near Syracuse until Harold was six years old at which time they moved to the new farm his dad built six miles south of Burlington, Colorado. He attended a country school through the eighth grade and then attended Burlington High School, graduating in 1939. After graduation, he worked on the family farm northeast of Burlington with his parents.

After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Harold enlisted in the United States Army in July of 1942. He served in the European Theatre with the 168th General Hospital &nbsp; Unit.&nbsp; He was a motor pool sergeant in charge of ambulances, trucks and jeeps. The 168th crossed the Atlantic Ocean on the Queen Mary with Winston Churchill. The 168th Hospital Unit entered France on the beaches of Normandy the same way it was done on D-Day. Harold was honorably discharged February 1946.

He married Mary Jane Anthis, the love of his life, December 8, 1946 in Cushing, Oklahoma. They enjoyed 65 years together. To this union three children were born:&nbsp; Steven, Kathy and Roger. Harold and Mary raised their family on the farm northeast of Burlington. They grew wheat, corn, milo and raised cattle. Some of the years were very hard with drought and terrible hail storms. But through these hard times Harold always enjoyed taking his family on fishing trips in the mountains.&nbsp; While we were fishing, Dad kept a hot fire with a fresh pot of coffee for everyone to enjoy.

While on the farm, the family was active members of First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Burlington. When Harold and Mary moved to Goodland in 1977, they joined the Goodland United Methodist Church. At this time, they were still involved in the family farm but now had time to enjoy many cruises and visited numerous foreign countries.

Harold was a lifetime member of the Goodland VFW Post 1133.&nbsp; He served as post chaplain for many years. Harold was the last surviving WWII veteran in Sherman County.

Those preceding him in death were his wife Mary Karspeck, daughter Kathy Scott, his parents, siblings Agnes Tonsing, Hilda James, Ruby Tonsing, Omar Karspeck, Irene Skidmore, Edna Krebs, and three who died in infancy.

Survivors include sons Steven (JoAnn) Karspeck, Hoehne, CO; Roger (Deena) Karspeck, Burlington, CO; and son-in-law Bill (Jeanne) Scott, Gold Canyon, AZ; six grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.&nbsp;

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 10, 2022 6:00 PM-8:00 PM at Koons-Russell-Funeral Home in Goodland, KS.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, 10:00 AM at Goodland United Methodist Church, Goodland, KS.&nbsp; Interment will follow in Goodland Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be designated to the Goodland United Methodist Church and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

Online condolences for the family may be left at <a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.

Funeral services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641493203558.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Harold Karspeck, 101, of Goodland, Kansas passed away peacefully January 4, 2022, at the Goodland Regional Medical Center with his family by his side.&nbsp; Harold was born October 27, 1920, in Syracuse, NE.&nbsp; He was the son of Henry and Elizabeth Karspeck and the youngest of ten children.&nbsp; Harold was baptized into the Christian faith at the Delaware Country Church in Nebraska.&nbsp; The family farmed near Syracuse until Harold was six years old at which time they moved to the new farm his dad built six miles south of Burlington, Colorado. He attended a country school through the eighth grade and then attended Burlington High School, graduating in 1939. After graduation, he worked on the family farm northeast of Burlington with his parents.After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Harold enlisted in the United States Army in July of 1942. He served in the European Theatre with the 168th General Hospital &nbsp; Unit.&nbsp; He was a motor pool sergeant in charge of ambulances, trucks and jeeps. The 168th crossed the Atlantic Ocean on the Queen Mary with Winston Churchill. The 168th Hospital Unit entered France on the beaches of Normandy the same way it was done on D-Day. Harold was honorably discharged February 1946.He married Mary Jane Anthis, the love of his life, December 8, 1946 in Cushing, Oklahoma. They enjoyed 65 years together. To this union three children were born:&nbsp; Steven, Kathy and Roger. Harold and Mary raised their family on the farm northeast of Burlington. They grew wheat, corn, milo and raised cattle. Some of the years were very hard with drought and terrible hail storms. But through these hard times Harold always enjoyed taking his family on fishing trips in the mountains.&nbsp; While we were fishing, Dad kept a hot fire with a fresh pot of coffee for everyone to enjoy.While on the farm, the family was active members of First St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Burlington. When Harold and Mary moved to Goodland in 1977, they joined the Goodland United Methodist Church. At this time, they were still involved in the family farm but now had time to enjoy many cruises and visited numerous foreign countries.Harold was a lifetime member of the Goodland VFW Post 1133.&nbsp; He served as post chaplain for many years. Harold was the last surviving WWII veteran in Sherman County.Those preceding him in death were his wife Mary Karspeck, daughter Kathy Scott, his parents, siblings Agnes Tonsing, Hilda James, Ruby Tonsing, Omar Karspeck, Irene Skidmore, Edna Krebs, and three who died in infancy.Survivors include sons Steven (JoAnn) Karspeck, Hoehne, CO; Roger (Deena) Karspeck, Burlington, CO; and son-in-law Bill (Jeanne) Scott, Gold Canyon, AZ; six grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.&nbsp;Visitation will be held on Monday, January 10, 2022 6:00 PM-8:00 PM at Koons-Russell-Funeral Home in Goodland, KS.Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, 10:00 AM at Goodland United Methodist Church, Goodland, KS.&nbsp; Interment will follow in Goodland Cemetery.Memorial contributions may be designated to the Goodland United Methodist Church and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.Online condolences for the family may be left at <a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.Funeral services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.

Harold Karspeck

Lifelong Goodland, KS resident Angela Benavides, 41, passed away on January 2, 2022, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, KS.

Angela was born on October 2, 1980, to Irma Benavides in Goodland, KS.&nbsp; She was raised in Goodland and graduated from Goodland High School with the Class of 1999.

Angela met her husband Rafael “Junior” Macias in high school and shared love for an amazing 23 years.&nbsp; Soon to follow was their first born Rafael “Ralf” Macias IV born in October 1999.&nbsp; Then came their second born Mariza Jade Macias born in March 2002.

She started working for the Sherman County Early Childhood Center (SCECC) in September of 2009 and had worked for them for 12 years.&nbsp; Throughout her years of working there, she cared deeply for her co-workers and absolutely adored all the kids.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother Dominga Benavides, mother-in-law Ilda Macias and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Angela is survived by her husband “Baby Daddy” Rafael Macias III, two wonderful children Rafael “Jay” Macias IV and Mariza Jade Macias, her mother Irma Benavides; four sisters, Melinda Benavides of Goodland, KS, Crisy (Adrian) Conde of Bossier City, LA, Mary Hernandez of Goodland, KS and Crystal (Chris) Irvin of Goodland, KS; nieces and nephews, Cesar Jr., Sebastian, Mackenzie and Mackayla Rodriguez, Javy, Evanie, Dominic, Gabriela and Adam Conde, Alexzander Boll, and Julian and Kilian Irvin; sister-in-law Vanessa (Jose) Galindo of Campwood, TX and nieces Vanessa “Tita”, Zenaida and Angela Galindo, father-in-law Rafael (Esther) Macias of Waxahachie, TX.

Funeral services for Angela will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at 1:30 PM MT at Calvary Gospel Church in Goodland with Pastor Randy Payne officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Goodland Cemetery.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 7, 2022, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.

Memorial contributions may be designated to the Sherman County Early Childhood Center and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641492930487.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lifelong Goodland, KS resident Angela Benavides, 41, passed away on January 2, 2022, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, KS.Angela was born on October 2, 1980, to Irma Benavides in Goodland, KS.&nbsp; She was raised in Goodland and graduated from Goodland High School with the Class of 1999.Angela met her husband Rafael “Junior” Macias in high school and shared love for an amazing 23 years.&nbsp; Soon to follow was their first born Rafael “Ralf” Macias IV born in October 1999.&nbsp; Then came their second born Mariza Jade Macias born in March 2002.She started working for the Sherman County Early Childhood Center (SCECC) in September of 2009 and had worked for them for 12 years.&nbsp; Throughout her years of working there, she cared deeply for her co-workers and absolutely adored all the kids.She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother Dominga Benavides, mother-in-law Ilda Macias and several aunts, uncles and cousins.Angela is survived by her husband “Baby Daddy” Rafael Macias III, two wonderful children Rafael “Jay” Macias IV and Mariza Jade Macias, her mother Irma Benavides; four sisters, Melinda Benavides of Goodland, KS, Crisy (Adrian) Conde of Bossier City, LA, Mary Hernandez of Goodland, KS and Crystal (Chris) Irvin of Goodland, KS; nieces and nephews, Cesar Jr., Sebastian, Mackenzie and Mackayla Rodriguez, Javy, Evanie, Dominic, Gabriela and Adam Conde, Alexzander Boll, and Julian and Kilian Irvin; sister-in-law Vanessa (Jose) Galindo of Campwood, TX and nieces Vanessa “Tita”, Zenaida and Angela Galindo, father-in-law Rafael (Esther) Macias of Waxahachie, TX.Funeral services for Angela will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at 1:30 PM MT at Calvary Gospel Church in Goodland with Pastor Randy Payne officiating.&nbsp; Burial will follow in the Goodland Cemetery.Visitation will be held on Friday, January 7, 2022, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.Memorial contributions may be designated to the Sherman County Early Childhood Center and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.Online condolences for the family may be left at <a href="http://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com">www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com</a>.Funeral services have been entrusted to Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland.

Angela Benavides

October 27, 1920 ~ January 4, 2022

An obituary is pending with Koons-Russell Funeral Home.

Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Harold-Karspeck">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641479336385.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>October 27, 1920 ~ January 4, 2022An obituary is pending with Koons-Russell Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Harold-Karspeck">HERE</a> for service details.

Harold Alfred Karspeck

Due to high sales, the Multi-State Lottery Association has increased the estimated jackpot amount for the Wednesday, January 5 Powerball drawing to $630 million or $448.4 million with the cash option selected.

The Powerball jackpot starts at $20 million and continues to grow each drawing until it is won. There have been 39 consecutive Powerball drawings since October 6 without a jackpot winner. This is the 7th largest jackpot in Powerball history.

Ten jackpots ranging from $2.5 million to $365 million have been won in Nebraska since the Nebraska Lottery began offering Powerball in July of 1994. The largest Powerball jackpot won in Nebraska occurred in February 2006 when a group of eight coworkers at the ConAgra Foods ham and corned beef plant in Lincoln split a $365 million jackpot.

Because of the high Powerball jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at problemgambling.nebraska.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641402292805.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News Release Nebraska LotteryDue to high sales, the Multi-State Lottery Association has increased the estimated jackpot amount for the Wednesday, January 5 Powerball drawing to $630 million or $448.4 million with the cash option selected.The Powerball jackpot starts at $20 million and continues to grow each drawing until it is won. There have been 39 consecutive Powerball drawings since October 6 without a jackpot winner. This is the 7th largest jackpot in Powerball history.Ten jackpots ranging from $2.5 million to $365 million have been won in Nebraska since the Nebraska Lottery began offering Powerball in July of 1994. The largest Powerball jackpot won in Nebraska occurred in February 2006 when a group of eight coworkers at the ConAgra Foods ham and corned beef plant in Lincoln split a $365 million jackpot.Play ResponsiblyBecause of the high Powerball jackpot, the Nebraska Lottery encourages customers to play within their means. “It’s important for Nebraska Lottery players to remember that no matter how large the jackpot is, the odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million,” said Lottery Director Brian Rockey. “Your odds of winning remain the same, regardless of how many tickets are purchased or how many people play.” If you or someone you know has a problem with compulsive gambling, free help is available at problemgambling.nebraska.gov.

Powerball jackpot increased for Wednesday's drawing

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to set a hearing to discuss the mental health of a man charged with killing six people in Kansas and Missouri.

The U.S. Attorney's office in St. Louis filed a motion asking for a hearing to determine if 26-year-old Perez Deshay Reed, of Bellefontaine Neighbors, is mentally competent to stand trial on federal gun charges, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Reed is charged in federal court with transporting a gun across state lines with the intent to commit a felony.

He is also charged with killing two people in St. Louis, two others in St. Louis County and two in Kansas City, Kansas, in September and October.

Prosecutors believe Reed used the same weapon in all six killings.&nbsp;

State prosecutors had not filed a similar request for a mental exam. Reed, who is due in St. Louis Circuit Court on Jan. 26, is currently jailed without bail. Reed has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636462416961.png" alt="Reed-photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Reed-photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to set a hearing to discuss the mental health of a man charged with killing six people in Kansas and Missouri.The U.S. Attorney's office in St. Louis filed a motion asking for a hearing to determine if 26-year-old Perez Deshay Reed, of Bellefontaine Neighbors, is mentally competent to stand trial on federal gun charges, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.Reed is charged in federal court with transporting a gun across state lines with the intent to commit a felony.He is also charged with killing two people in St. Louis, two others in St. Louis County and two in Kansas City, Kansas, in September and October.Prosecutors believe Reed used the same weapon in all six killings.&nbsp;State prosecutors had not filed a similar request for a mental exam. Reed, who is due in St. Louis Circuit Court on Jan. 26, is currently jailed without bail. Reed has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Federal prosecutors seek evaluation of Kan. serial killer suspect

Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Angela-Benavides">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641305328335.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>October 2, 1980 ~ January 2, 2022An obituary is pending with Koons-Russell Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Angela-Benavides">HERE</a> for service details.

KANSAS CITY– A Mexican national was sentenced in federal court Thursday for his role in a conspiracy that distributed more than 2,600 kilograms of cocaine in the Kansas City metropolitan area, according to the United State's Attorney.

Jesus Salvador Campoy-Estrada, also known as “Chava” and “Chavita,” 27, of Kansas City, Kansas, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 12 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Campoy-Estrada to forfeit to the government $12,150,000, which represents the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.

On Dec. 19, 2019, Campoy-Estrada pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and one count of money laundering. He is the final defendant among 13 defendants to be sentenced in this case.

When Campoy-Estrada was arrested, law enforcement searched his residence and found $111,995 that he admitted was illicit drug proceeds, marijuana, a drug ledger, and a loaded XD 9mm semi-automatic handgun.

Campoy-Estrada was a primary organizer in a drug-trafficking organization that distributed substantial amounts of cocaine from Mexico in the Kansas City metropolitan area from October 2013 to Nov. 15, 2018. Campoy-Estrada admitted that he was personally responsible for the distribution of well in excess of 450 kilograms of cocaine during his involvement with the larger conspiracy. At one point, he distributed approximately 10 to 20 kilograms of cocaine each week.

Campoy-Estrada obtained substantial sums of money from his involvement in the drug-trafficking conspiracy, which he converted to other forms of property, such as real estate, in an effort to conceal the illicit nature of the drug proceeds.

Campoy-Estrada received cocaine from the leader of the conspiracy, co-defendant Jose Luis Armendariz-Rascon, also known as “Uncle” or “Rambo,” 41, of Kansas City, Kan. Campoy-Estrada then sold cocaine to other cocaine dealers, including co-defendant Howard Christopher Walters, also known as “Chris,” 44, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Investigators intercepted several telephone calls in which Campoy-Estrada and Walters discussed the sale of multiple kilograms of cocaine to Walters. Law enforcement also intercepted many other wire and electronic communications between Campoy-Estrada and persons he sold cocaine to during the course of the conspiracy.

Armendariz-Rascon was sentenced on May 21, 2021, to 15 years in federal prison without parole. Walters was sentenced on April 21, 2021, to 25 years in federal prison without parole after pleading guilty to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy. The court also ordered Armendariz-Rascon to forfeit to the government more than $56 million, which represents the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.

Armendariz-Rascon was in charge of coordinating the transportation of loads of cocaine from the El Paso, Texas, area to the Kansas City metropolitan area for distribution. Armendariz-Rascon would then coordinate the collection of bulk cash that was sent back to El Paso as payment for the cocaine.

Otilio Zaragoza-Navarrette, 65, of El Paso, delivered cocaine to Jose Armendariz-Rascon as well as to Campoy-Estrada and Miguel Armendariz-Rascon, 33, a citizen of Mexico residing in Olathe, Kan. Zaragoza-Navarrette and Miguel Armendariz-Rascon have pleaded guilty and been sentenced.

Zaragoza-Navarette also transported illicit drug proceeds from the drug-trafficking organization back to Texas and/or to Mexico. Zaragoza-Navarrette hid the cocaine and/or the cash proceeds inside of five-gallon gas cans and anti-freeze jugs on his commercial semi-tractor trailer. In one instance, law enforcement officers seized nearly $500,000 from Zaragoza-Navarrette, who was transferring the illicit drug proceeds in an operation orchestrated by Armendariz-Rascon.

KANSAS CITY– A Mexican national was sentenced in federal court Thursday for his role in a conspiracy that distributed more than 2,600 kilograms of cocaine in the Kansas City metropolitan area, according to the United State's Attorney.Jesus Salvador Campoy-Estrada, also known as “Chava” and “Chavita,” 27, of Kansas City, Kansas, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 12 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Campoy-Estrada to forfeit to the government $12,150,000, which represents the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.On Dec. 19, 2019, Campoy-Estrada pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and one count of money laundering. He is the final defendant among 13 defendants to be sentenced in this case.When Campoy-Estrada was arrested, law enforcement searched his residence and found $111,995 that he admitted was illicit drug proceeds, marijuana, a drug ledger, and a loaded XD 9mm semi-automatic handgun.Campoy-Estrada was a primary organizer in a drug-trafficking organization that distributed substantial amounts of cocaine from Mexico in the Kansas City metropolitan area from October 2013 to Nov. 15, 2018. Campoy-Estrada admitted that he was personally responsible for the distribution of well in excess of 450 kilograms of cocaine during his involvement with the larger conspiracy. At one point, he distributed approximately 10 to 20 kilograms of cocaine each week.Campoy-Estrada obtained substantial sums of money from his involvement in the drug-trafficking conspiracy, which he converted to other forms of property, such as real estate, in an effort to conceal the illicit nature of the drug proceeds.Campoy-Estrada received cocaine from the leader of the conspiracy, co-defendant Jose Luis Armendariz-Rascon, also known as “Uncle” or “Rambo,” 41, of Kansas City, Kan. Campoy-Estrada then sold cocaine to other cocaine dealers, including co-defendant Howard Christopher Walters, also known as “Chris,” 44, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Investigators intercepted several telephone calls in which Campoy-Estrada and Walters discussed the sale of multiple kilograms of cocaine to Walters. Law enforcement also intercepted many other wire and electronic communications between Campoy-Estrada and persons he sold cocaine to during the course of the conspiracy.Armendariz-Rascon was sentenced on May 21, 2021, to 15 years in federal prison without parole. Walters was sentenced on April 21, 2021, to 25 years in federal prison without parole after pleading guilty to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy. The court also ordered Armendariz-Rascon to forfeit to the government more than $56 million, which represents the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.Armendariz-Rascon was in charge of coordinating the transportation of loads of cocaine from the El Paso, Texas, area to the Kansas City metropolitan area for distribution. Armendariz-Rascon would then coordinate the collection of bulk cash that was sent back to El Paso as payment for the cocaine.Otilio Zaragoza-Navarrette, 65, of El Paso, delivered cocaine to Jose Armendariz-Rascon as well as to Campoy-Estrada and Miguel Armendariz-Rascon, 33, a citizen of Mexico residing in Olathe, Kan. Zaragoza-Navarrette and Miguel Armendariz-Rascon have pleaded guilty and been sentenced.Zaragoza-Navarette also transported illicit drug proceeds from the drug-trafficking organization back to Texas and/or to Mexico. Zaragoza-Navarrette hid the cocaine and/or the cash proceeds inside of five-gallon gas cans and anti-freeze jugs on his commercial semi-tractor trailer. In one instance, law enforcement officers seized nearly $500,000 from Zaragoza-Navarrette, who was transferring the illicit drug proceeds in an operation orchestrated by Armendariz-Rascon.

Mexican national ran large KC-area cocaine distribution organization

Eloise Dolezal, 94, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 
31, 2021, at the University Of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus.
 She was born on June 27, 1927 at Rural Stafford Co. to Edwin &amp; 
Lydia (Dirks) Grow. She married Ralph James Dolezal on June 3, 1948 at 
Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp; He died October 1, 2018.

A lifetime area resident, Eloise was a homemaker who had previously 
worked as a sales clerk in the home improvement department at Sears. She
 was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Great Bend. She enjoyed 
crafting, sewing and gardening.

Survivors include, a son, William Dolezal, Sr. and wife Joleen of 
Beatrice, Neb.; a daughter, Dianne Willesden and husband Bob of Great 
Bend; a sister, Anna Marie Holt of Kansas City, Mo.; a sister in law, 
Laura Reiser of Great Bend; six grandchildren, William Dolezal, Jr., 
Brian Ewing, Brandy Gaddis and husband Mark, Tiffany Nily and husband 
David, Aimee Faris and husband Bill and Robert Willesden III; sixteen 
great grandchildren; six great great grandchildren; and many nieces and 
nephews who called her Aunt Do. She was preceded in death by her 
parents; a son, Randy Dolezal; an infant brother, Edwin "Sonny" Grow; a 
sister, Evelyn Wallen; and a granddaughter, Destiny Dolezal.

Visitation will be held from Noon to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, January 6, 
2022, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to received friends from 4:00 
to 6:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, January 
7, 2022, with Pastor Dwight Dozier presiding. Interment will be in the 
Great Bend Cemetery. 

Memorials have been designated to Trinity Lutheran 
Church or Alzheimer's Association, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641334268713.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eloise Dolezal, 94, went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 
31, 2021, at the University Of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus.
 She was born on June 27, 1927 at Rural Stafford Co. to Edwin &amp; 
Lydia (Dirks) Grow. She married Ralph James Dolezal on June 3, 1948 at 
Great Bend.&nbsp;&nbsp; He died October 1, 2018.A lifetime area resident, Eloise was a homemaker who had previously 
worked as a sales clerk in the home improvement department at Sears. She
 was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Great Bend. She enjoyed 
crafting, sewing and gardening.Survivors include, a son, William Dolezal, Sr. and wife Joleen of 
Beatrice, Neb.; a daughter, Dianne Willesden and husband Bob of Great 
Bend; a sister, Anna Marie Holt of Kansas City, Mo.; a sister in law, 
Laura Reiser of Great Bend; six grandchildren, William Dolezal, Jr., 
Brian Ewing, Brandy Gaddis and husband Mark, Tiffany Nily and husband 
David, Aimee Faris and husband Bill and Robert Willesden III; sixteen 
great grandchildren; six great great grandchildren; and many nieces and 
nephews who called her Aunt Do. She was preceded in death by her 
parents; a son, Randy Dolezal; an infant brother, Edwin "Sonny" Grow; a 
sister, Evelyn Wallen; and a granddaughter, Destiny Dolezal.Visitation will be held from Noon to 8:00 p.m., Thursday, January 6, 
2022, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to received friends from 4:00 
to 6:00 p.m. Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, January 
7, 2022, with Pastor Dwight Dozier presiding. Interment will be in the 
Great Bend Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to Trinity Lutheran 
Church or Alzheimer's Association, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Eloise Dolezal

Frank M. Petersen, 95, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2022, in 
Garden City, Kansas. He was born October 19, 1926, in Lead, South 
Dakota, the son of Soren &amp; Helen (Gavin) Petersen. 
Frank grew up in Garden City, graduating from Garden City High school in
 1944. He was a World War II Veteran, having served his country in the 
United States Navy from 1944 to 1946 aboard the aircraft carrier USS 
Vella (CVE-111). 
He married the love of his life, Martha (Marty) Crosson, on July 9, 
1960. From this union four children were born: Brent, Joe, Nanci &amp;
 Ann. Frank &amp; Marty loved time spent with their family. Married 55
 wonderful years, Marty passed away on November 13, 2015. 
He was a devoted husband, proud father and longtime resident of Garden 
City. In 1955 Frank started as a press operator at the The Garden City 
Telegram. After 22 years, he retired in 1977 as press foreman to work 
full-time at the family business, Petersen Printing. After retirement,&nbsp; Frank continued to help out at the print shop. He also delivered 
newspapers to area towns for The Garden City Telegram and was a parts 
courier for American Implement. 
He is survived by two sons, Brent Petersen and wife Celeste of Garden 
City, Joe Petersen of Plainville; two daughters, Nanci Koster and 
husband Chad of Garden City, Ann Haberly and husband Brian of Wichita; 
12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren. Two sisters, Catherine Brady 
of Wichita and Patricia Honaker of Longmont, CO; one brother, James 
Petersen of Iowa City, Iowa. 
He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife; two brothers, John 
Petersen and Jim Petersen; and two grandchildren, Luke Haberly and Mia 
Haberly. 
A vigil service and rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 
07, 2022, at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Garden City. Funeral Mass 
will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 08 also at St. Dominic 
Catholic Church with Rev. Warren Stecklein as Celebrant. The Funeral 
Mass may also be viewed on Facebook Live on the Garnand Funeral Home 
Facebook page. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden 
City with military rites conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard
 and American Legion District 8 Honor Guard. 
It was Frank’s wish that any memorial tributes be made to Kansas Honor 
Flight or St. Dominic Catholic Church, both in care of Garnand Funeral 
Home, 412 N. 7th St., Garden City, Kansas 67846.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641327715958.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Frank M. Petersen, 95, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2022, in 
Garden City, Kansas. He was born October 19, 1926, in Lead, South 
Dakota, the son of Soren &amp; Helen (Gavin) Petersen. 
Frank grew up in Garden City, graduating from Garden City High school in
 1944. He was a World War II Veteran, having served his country in the 
United States Navy from 1944 to 1946 aboard the aircraft carrier USS 
Vella (CVE-111). 
He married the love of his life, Martha (Marty) Crosson, on July 9, 
1960. From this union four children were born: Brent, Joe, Nanci &amp;
 Ann. Frank &amp; Marty loved time spent with their family. Married 55
 wonderful years, Marty passed away on November 13, 2015. 
He was a devoted husband, proud father and longtime resident of Garden 
City. In 1955 Frank started as a press operator at the The Garden City 
Telegram. After 22 years, he retired in 1977 as press foreman to work 
full-time at the family business, Petersen Printing. After retirement,&nbsp; Frank continued to help out at the print shop. He also delivered 
newspapers to area towns for The Garden City Telegram and was a parts 
courier for American Implement. 
He is survived by two sons, Brent Petersen and wife Celeste of Garden 
City, Joe Petersen of Plainville; two daughters, Nanci Koster and 
husband Chad of Garden City, Ann Haberly and husband Brian of Wichita; 
12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren. Two sisters, Catherine Brady 
of Wichita and Patricia Honaker of Longmont, CO; one brother, James 
Petersen of Iowa City, Iowa. 
He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife; two brothers, John 
Petersen and Jim Petersen; and two grandchildren, Luke Haberly and Mia 
Haberly. 
A vigil service and rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 
07, 2022, at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Garden City. Funeral Mass 
will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 08 also at St. Dominic 
Catholic Church with Rev. Warren Stecklein as Celebrant. The Funeral 
Mass may also be viewed on Facebook Live on the Garnand Funeral Home 
Facebook page. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden 
City with military rites conducted by the United States Navy Honor Guard
 and American Legion District 8 Honor Guard. 
It was Frank’s wish that any memorial tributes be made to Kansas Honor 
Flight or St. Dominic Catholic Church, both in care of Garnand Funeral 
Home, 412 N. 7th St., Garden City, Kansas 67846.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Frank M. Petersen

Beverly L. Kindler was born on the family farm near Esbon, Kansas on 
October 29, 1930 to Edna (Willson) and Glenn E. Kindler. She attended 
grade school at Mount Zion #127 a one room school house one mile north 
of the farm. She graduated from Lebanon High School in 1948. While at 
home on the farm, she was a 10 year 4-H member of the Westside Winners 
Club. She received many 4-H awards. In 1948, she was a Rock Island 
Railway winner, traveling by train to Chicago for the National 4-H Club 
Congress. 
 Besides 4-H projects in cooking, sewing and other home economics, 
she raised baby beef along with her sisters. Her parents gave the girls
 their first calves but after the fair when the calves were sold the 
girls bought the calves for the next year and put extra money in their 
college fund. Beverly showed cattle in Wichita and the American Royal 
in Kansas City. Through her 4-H experience she decided to become a home
 economist.
 She attended college at Kansas State University from 1948 to 1952 
graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics. Beverly
 was able to travel from the farm to the K-State campus via the 
Continental bus line since the family farm was on Highway 36. 
 In August 1952, she was hired as the home economist in Decatur County
 where she stayed for 8 years. She transferred to Norton County in the 
summer of 1960. Some of her fondest memories were the county fairs. 
 In 1966 she was awarded a JC Penney Fellowship to attend Michigan 
State University where she received a Masters of Arts Degree in 1967. 
After finishing her degree, she returned to Norton to her extension job.
 She served as an officer for many years at both the state and national
 level of home economists including National President in 1979. In 1988
 she received the distinguished service award of Epsilon Sigma Phi a 
national extension fraternity. In 1989 she was recognized as the 
outstanding home economist in Kansas. She attended the majority of 
national meetings starting in 1958 until her final one in 2016, 
traveling to all 50 states except for Hawaii, Alaska and Alabama. Each 
time she returned home to Norton, she felt proud to be from Kansas.
 She retired in 1994 after serving as a home economist professional 
for 42 years. On her retirement day celebration, Beverly told the 
attendees to never stop learning. After retirement she continued 
working with 4-H organizations as a volunteer and judging at many county
 fairs and the Kansas State Fair. 
 In addition to 4-H she was involved in many clubs including P. E. O,
 Mid-Century Federated Club, United Methodist Women’s organization and 
the Heritage Quilt Club. She volunteered in the Norton community for 
numerous organizations and causes. 
 Beverly had many hobbies and many friends. When she celebrated her 
90th birthday in 2020 she received more than 200 cards from far and 
near. She was blessed to have so many wonderful experiences and 
friends. Beverly was preceded in death by her parents, her sister 
Shirley Reynolds, her brothers-in-law Kenneth Reynolds and Merlin 
Alexander, her niece Linda Gleason and grand nephew Jeffrey Gleason. 
She is survived by her sister Virginia Alexander of Esbon, nephews Larry
 (Mary Beth) Reynolds and Jim Gleason, nieces Kathy Atkins and her 
husband Dave, Deanne Alexander and Tammy Alexander along with many other
 relatives and friends.

Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Beverly-Louise-Kindler?obId=23558226#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641327482179.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Beverly L. Kindler was born on the family farm near Esbon, Kansas on 
October 29, 1930 to Edna (Willson) and Glenn E. Kindler. She attended 
grade school at Mount Zion #127 a one room school house one mile north 
of the farm. She graduated from Lebanon High School in 1948. While at 
home on the farm, she was a 10 year 4-H member of the Westside Winners 
Club. She received many 4-H awards. In 1948, she was a Rock Island 
Railway winner, traveling by train to Chicago for the National 4-H Club 
Congress. 
 Besides 4-H projects in cooking, sewing and other home economics, 
she raised baby beef along with her sisters. Her parents gave the girls
 their first calves but after the fair when the calves were sold the 
girls bought the calves for the next year and put extra money in their 
college fund. Beverly showed cattle in Wichita and the American Royal 
in Kansas City. Through her 4-H experience she decided to become a home
 economist.
 She attended college at Kansas State University from 1948 to 1952 
graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics. Beverly
 was able to travel from the farm to the K-State campus via the 
Continental bus line since the family farm was on Highway 36. 
 In August 1952, she was hired as the home economist in Decatur County
 where she stayed for 8 years. She transferred to Norton County in the 
summer of 1960. Some of her fondest memories were the county fairs. 
 In 1966 she was awarded a JC Penney Fellowship to attend Michigan 
State University where she received a Masters of Arts Degree in 1967. 
After finishing her degree, she returned to Norton to her extension job.
 She served as an officer for many years at both the state and national
 level of home economists including National President in 1979. In 1988
 she received the distinguished service award of Epsilon Sigma Phi a 
national extension fraternity. In 1989 she was recognized as the 
outstanding home economist in Kansas. She attended the majority of 
national meetings starting in 1958 until her final one in 2016, 
traveling to all 50 states except for Hawaii, Alaska and Alabama. Each 
time she returned home to Norton, she felt proud to be from Kansas.
 She retired in 1994 after serving as a home economist professional 
for 42 years. On her retirement day celebration, Beverly told the 
attendees to never stop learning. After retirement she continued 
working with 4-H organizations as a volunteer and judging at many county
 fairs and the Kansas State Fair. 
 In addition to 4-H she was involved in many clubs including P. E. O,
 Mid-Century Federated Club, United Methodist Women’s organization and 
the Heritage Quilt Club. She volunteered in the Norton community for 
numerous organizations and causes. 
 Beverly had many hobbies and many friends. When she celebrated her 
90th birthday in 2020 she received more than 200 cards from far and 
near. She was blessed to have so many wonderful experiences and 
friends. Beverly was preceded in death by her parents, her sister 
Shirley Reynolds, her brothers-in-law Kenneth Reynolds and Merlin 
Alexander, her niece Linda Gleason and grand nephew Jeffrey Gleason. 
She is survived by her sister Virginia Alexander of Esbon, nephews Larry
 (Mary Beth) Reynolds and Jim Gleason, nieces Kathy Atkins and her 
husband Dave, Deanne Alexander and Tammy Alexander along with many other
 relatives and friends.Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Beverly-Louise-Kindler?obId=23558226#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Beverly Louise Kindler

WASHINGTON (AP) — A record 4.5 million American workers quit their jobs in November, a sign of confidence and more evidence that the U.S. job market is bouncing back strongly from last year's coronavirus recession.

The Labor Department also reported Tuesday that employers posted 10.6 million job openings in November, down from 11.1 million in October but still high by historical standards.

Employers hired 6.7 million people in November, up from 6.5 million in October, the Labor Department reported Tuesday in its monthly Jobs Openings and Labor Turnover Survey.

The job market has bounced back from last year’s brief but intense coronavirus recession. When COVID hit, governments ordered lockdowns, consumers stayed home and many businesses closed or cut hours. Employers slashed more than 22 million jobs in March and April 2020, and the unemployment rate rocketed to 14.8%.

But massive government spending — and eventually the rollout of vaccines — brought the economy back. Employers have added 18.5 million jobs since April 2020, still leaving the U.S. still 3.9 million jobs short of what it had before the pandemic. The December jobs report, out Friday, is expected to show that the economy generated almost 393,000 more jobs this month, according to a survey by the data firm FactSet.

The unemployment rate has fallen to 4.2%, close to what economists consider full employment.

By PAUL WISEMAN, AP Economics WriterWASHINGTON (AP) — A record 4.5 million American workers quit their jobs in November, a sign of confidence and more evidence that the U.S. job market is bouncing back strongly from last year's coronavirus recession.The Labor Department also reported Tuesday that employers posted 10.6 million job openings in November, down from 11.1 million in October but still high by historical standards.Employers hired 6.7 million people in November, up from 6.5 million in October, the Labor Department reported Tuesday in its monthly Jobs Openings and Labor Turnover Survey.The job market has bounced back from last year’s brief but intense coronavirus recession. When COVID hit, governments ordered lockdowns, consumers stayed home and many businesses closed or cut hours. Employers slashed more than 22 million jobs in March and April 2020, and the unemployment rate rocketed to 14.8%.But massive government spending — and eventually the rollout of vaccines — brought the economy back. Employers have added 18.5 million jobs since April 2020, still leaving the U.S. still 3.9 million jobs short of what it had before the pandemic. The December jobs report, out Friday, is expected to show that the economy generated almost 393,000 more jobs this month, according to a survey by the data firm FactSet.The unemployment rate has fallen to 4.2%, close to what economists consider full employment.

A record 4.5 million Americans quit their jobs in November

Anita (Wasinger) Lang, age 86 of Victoria, Kansas died Saturday, January 1, 2022, at the Good Samaritan Society of Hays Care Center.

She was born February 26, 1935, at Hays, Kansas to Ludwig and Veronica (Ruder) Wasinger. She married Vitus F. Lang on October 1, 1956 in Hays, Kansas.

Anita was a homemaker, a member of The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria Daughters of Isabella, Christian Mothers and was a volunteer on the St. Fidelis funeral dinner committee.&nbsp; She completed the Salina Diocese catechism courses and was a religion teacher at Victoria for over 15 years.&nbsp; Anita grew up in Hays and was a graduate of Girls Catholic High School.&nbsp; Anita enjoyed her dogs and cats, bowling, bingo, puzzles and picking blackberries.&nbsp;

Survivors include her husband, Vitus F. Lang, of the home; her daughters, Laurie Lang and husband, Al, Shawnee, KS; Janet Frank and husband, Leon, Hays, KS; Karen Cruce and husband, Steve, Dewey, OK; her son David Lang, Topeka, KS; one sister-in-law, Virginia Wasinger, Hays, KS; nine grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren.

Anita was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Lubin Wasinger and Julius Wasinger; and one sister, Julianna Scheck. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 6, 2022, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas with Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap. officiating.&nbsp; Burial in Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.

A vigil service with a Daughters of Isabella and Christian Mothers rosary will be at 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.

Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Thursday, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis.

The family suggests memorials to The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Good Samaritan Society of Hays or Hospice of Hays Medical Center made payable to the organization in care of the mortuary.

Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641311540647.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Anita (Wasinger) Lang, age 86 of Victoria, Kansas died Saturday, January 1, 2022, at the Good Samaritan Society of Hays Care Center.She was born February 26, 1935, at Hays, Kansas to Ludwig and Veronica (Ruder) Wasinger. She married Vitus F. Lang on October 1, 1956 in Hays, Kansas.Anita was a homemaker, a member of The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria Daughters of Isabella, Christian Mothers and was a volunteer on the St. Fidelis funeral dinner committee.&nbsp; She completed the Salina Diocese catechism courses and was a religion teacher at Victoria for over 15 years.&nbsp; Anita grew up in Hays and was a graduate of Girls Catholic High School.&nbsp; Anita enjoyed her dogs and cats, bowling, bingo, puzzles and picking blackberries.&nbsp;Survivors include her husband, Vitus F. Lang, of the home; her daughters, Laurie Lang and husband, Al, Shawnee, KS; Janet Frank and husband, Leon, Hays, KS; Karen Cruce and husband, Steve, Dewey, OK; her son David Lang, Topeka, KS; one sister-in-law, Virginia Wasinger, Hays, KS; nine grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren.Anita was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Lubin Wasinger and Julius Wasinger; and one sister, Julianna Scheck. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 6, 2022, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas with Father Curtis Carlson O.F.M. Cap. officiating.&nbsp; Burial in Saint Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.A vigil service with a Daughters of Isabella and Christian Mothers rosary will be at 7:00 P.M. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.Visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday, at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Thursday, at The Basilica of St. Fidelis.The family suggests memorials to The Basilica of St. Fidelis, Good Samaritan Society of Hays or Hospice of Hays Medical Center made payable to the organization in care of the mortuary.Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Anita (Wasinger) Lang

Phillipsburg resident Linda D. Edwards passed away Sunday, January 
2, 2022, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, KS at the age of 71.

She was born October 5, 1950, in Fort Benton, Montana, the daughter of Leland J. and Ruth Adeline (Davies) Edwards.

Linda was united in marriage to Glen “Ike” Edwards on August 8, 1971, in Downs, KS.&nbsp;

Survivors include her husband Ike of Phillipsburg; sons Tim of 
Phillipsburg and Matt and wife Wendy of Des Moines, Iowa; daughter 
Sammie Pinkal and husband Kyle of Wilcox, NE; a brother Ronald Juilfs of
 Sardinia, Ohio; sisters Katherine Henry and husband Jessie of Harrison,
 Ohio, Bonnie Edwards and husband John of Cawker City, KS, and Rita 
Martin of Downs, KS; along with 11 Grandchildren.

Cremation was planned.&nbsp; Memorial services are pending at this time.

Phillipsburg resident Linda D. Edwards passed away Sunday, January 
2, 2022, at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, KS at the age of 71.She was born October 5, 1950, in Fort Benton, Montana, the daughter of Leland J. and Ruth Adeline (Davies) Edwards.Linda was united in marriage to Glen “Ike” Edwards on August 8, 1971, in Downs, KS.&nbsp;Survivors include her husband Ike of Phillipsburg; sons Tim of 
Phillipsburg and Matt and wife Wendy of Des Moines, Iowa; daughter 
Sammie Pinkal and husband Kyle of Wilcox, NE; a brother Ronald Juilfs of
 Sardinia, Ohio; sisters Katherine Henry and husband Jessie of Harrison,
 Ohio, Bonnie Edwards and husband John of Cawker City, KS, and Rita 
Martin of Downs, KS; along with 11 Grandchildren.Cremation was planned.&nbsp; Memorial services are pending at this time.

Linda D. Edwards

Oil posted its biggest annual price advance since 2009 as vaccination roll-outs ramped up economies and spurred consumption, while crude production returned at a more moderate pace. Bloomberg reported West Texas Intermediate crude prices rose 55% for the biggest year-to-date gain in over a decade. Brent, the global benchmark, rose 50%, the largest gain since 2016. US crude also finished the year with the longest run of consecutive quarterly price increases since 1983.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson dropped nearly two dollars on Friday to end the year at $65.50 [["sixty-five fifty"]] per barrel. That's up $9.75 from the first of the month, and up nearly twenty dollars from a year ago. The average price for the month of December was just over $61.71 [["sixty-one seventy-one"]] per barrel, compared to just over $68 in November and a little over $37 in December of last year. Kansas operators this year will nearly double the number of wells spudded last year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported 1,080 wells were drilled during the first 51 weeks of the year, compared to only 563 at the same time last year. That's an increase of nearly 92%. The number of active operators searching for oil and gas in Kansas this year is now up to 240, an increase of nearly 38% over the same period last year. The government last week reported a drop in domestic crude inventories of 3.6 million barrels. At 420 million barrels, US stockpiles are about seven percent below the five year average for this time of year. The Energy Information Administration says gasoline inventories dropped by 1.5 million barrels, and are about six percent below the five-year average. EIA said US Operators pumped nearly 11.9 million barrels of crude oil per day during the week through December 24. That’s a production increase of more than 330,000 barrels per day over the week before, and 877,000 barrels per day more than the same week last year. Regulators in Kansas approved 36 new drilling permits last week. That's 1,182 so far this year. Out of 15 new permits in western Kansas, one was in Barton County and two were in Russell County. There are 21 new permits in eastern Kansas. In the last weekly completions tally of the year, over twenty percent of the completed oil wells in Kansas were dry holes. The year-to-date total of 959 newly-completed wells included 199 dry holes. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 27 new completions statewide last week, including one each in Barton and Ellis counties. One barometer of future oil production is the number of wells that are drilled but not yet completed, or DUC wells. Such wells can be used to bring crude into production quickly. The Energy Information Administration tracks DUCs in the nation's seven major shale plays each month. In November the total dropped by 226 wells. All seven shale regions showed lower DUC numbers, with the Permian basin down 105 wells from October. Oil-by-rail traffic was down for the week and for the year. The Association of American Railroads reported 10,398 tankers hauling petroleum or petroleum products for the week through December 18. That's down 316 carloads from the week before, and 11 percent lower than a year earlier. Canadian shippers moved 8,533 tanker carloads, which is up slightly for the week but down about six percent compared to a year earlier. Authorities in Colorado have passed sweeping new regulations that could cost operators in the patch tens of millions of dollars each year. The Colorado Air Quality Control Commission this month passed the new regs in order to comply with the state's emissions goals. The stat's Air Pollution Control Division is imposing stringent requirements to capture and dispose of byproducts without allowing the gasses to escape into the atmosphere. They want the industry to reduce emissions compared to 2005 levels by 36% in four years and 60% by the year 2030. The move is expected to cost energy producers $59 million to $142 million a year.&nbsp; Having called a dirge for the merger, the pipeline company must pay the piper. That colorful turn of phrase from a judge in Delaware finalized a very expensive ruling for oil pipeline giant Energy Transfer LP. The company must pay $410 million for scuttling a $33 billion merger with rival Williams Companies over a tax flaw in the deal. According to reporting from Bloomberg last week, Energy Transfer is required to pay what's called a break-up fee under the terms of the merger agreement. The 95-page ruling from Delaware Chancery Court Judge Sam Glasscock III ends a more than five-year dispute over the deal. Mexico plans to end crude oil exports in 2023 as part of a strategy by the new government to reach self-sufficiency in domestic fuels. The state-owned oil company Pemex will reduce crude exports to 435,000 barrels per day next year, before phasing them out entirely the following year. The move is part of a drive to expand Mexico's domestic production of fuels, instead of sending its oil abroad and importing costly refined products like gasoline and diesel. Mexico currently buys most of its fuel from U.S. refiners. Five years after it was created Norway's Aker BP is about to become a major North Sea player, and the second-largest producer on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. The company is buying Lundin Energy for ten billion dollars. The deal makes Aker BP Norway's second biggest producer, behind only state-owned Equinor. The combined companies will pump the equivalent of about 400,000 barrels of oil a day, more than some OPEC members. Another announcement marked good news for Aker-BP and great news for Maersk Drilling, which secures a five-year, $1 billion contract for two drilling rigs. Aker-BP will deploy the rigs in the North Sea off the shore of Norway. The new contract is worth all of last year's revenues reported by Maersk, which posted losses in four of the five prior years.

By JOHN P. TRETBAROil posted its biggest annual price advance since 2009 as vaccination roll-outs ramped up economies and spurred consumption, while crude production returned at a more moderate pace. Bloomberg reported West Texas Intermediate crude prices rose 55% for the biggest year-to-date gain in over a decade. Brent, the global benchmark, rose 50%, the largest gain since 2016. US crude also finished the year with the longest run of consecutive quarterly price increases since 1983.&nbsp; Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson dropped nearly two dollars on Friday to end the year at $65.50 [["sixty-five fifty"]] per barrel. That's up $9.75 from the first of the month, and up nearly twenty dollars from a year ago. The average price for the month of December was just over $61.71 [["sixty-one seventy-one"]] per barrel, compared to just over $68 in November and a little over $37 in December of last year. Kansas operators this year will nearly double the number of wells spudded last year. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reported 1,080 wells were drilled during the first 51 weeks of the year, compared to only 563 at the same time last year. That's an increase of nearly 92%. The number of active operators searching for oil and gas in Kansas this year is now up to 240, an increase of nearly 38% over the same period last year. The government last week reported a drop in domestic crude inventories of 3.6 million barrels. At 420 million barrels, US stockpiles are about seven percent below the five year average for this time of year. The Energy Information Administration says gasoline inventories dropped by 1.5 million barrels, and are about six percent below the five-year average. EIA said US Operators pumped nearly 11.9 million barrels of crude oil per day during the week through December 24. That’s a production increase of more than 330,000 barrels per day over the week before, and 877,000 barrels per day more than the same week last year. Regulators in Kansas approved 36 new drilling permits last week. That's 1,182 so far this year. Out of 15 new permits in western Kansas, one was in Barton County and two were in Russell County. There are 21 new permits in eastern Kansas. In the last weekly completions tally of the year, over twenty percent of the completed oil wells in Kansas were dry holes. The year-to-date total of 959 newly-completed wells included 199 dry holes. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 27 new completions statewide last week, including one each in Barton and Ellis counties. One barometer of future oil production is the number of wells that are drilled but not yet completed, or DUC wells. Such wells can be used to bring crude into production quickly. The Energy Information Administration tracks DUCs in the nation's seven major shale plays each month. In November the total dropped by 226 wells. All seven shale regions showed lower DUC numbers, with the Permian basin down 105 wells from October. Oil-by-rail traffic was down for the week and for the year. The Association of American Railroads reported 10,398 tankers hauling petroleum or petroleum products for the week through December 18. That's down 316 carloads from the week before, and 11 percent lower than a year earlier. Canadian shippers moved 8,533 tanker carloads, which is up slightly for the week but down about six percent compared to a year earlier. Authorities in Colorado have passed sweeping new regulations that could cost operators in the patch tens of millions of dollars each year. The Colorado Air Quality Control Commission this month passed the new regs in order to comply with the state's emissions goals. The stat's Air Pollution Control Division is imposing stringent requirements to capture and dispose of byproducts without allowing the gasses to escape into the atmosphere. They want the industry to reduce emissions compared to 2005 levels by 36% in four years and 60% by the year 2030. The move is expected to cost energy producers $59 million to $142 million a year.&nbsp; Having called a dirge for the merger, the pipeline company must pay the piper. That colorful turn of phrase from a judge in Delaware finalized a very expensive ruling for oil pipeline giant Energy Transfer LP. The company must pay $410 million for scuttling a $33 billion merger with rival Williams Companies over a tax flaw in the deal. According to reporting from Bloomberg last week, Energy Transfer is required to pay what's called a break-up fee under the terms of the merger agreement. The 95-page ruling from Delaware Chancery Court Judge Sam Glasscock III ends a more than five-year dispute over the deal. Mexico plans to end crude oil exports in 2023 as part of a strategy by the new government to reach self-sufficiency in domestic fuels. The state-owned oil company Pemex will reduce crude exports to 435,000 barrels per day next year, before phasing them out entirely the following year. The move is part of a drive to expand Mexico's domestic production of fuels, instead of sending its oil abroad and importing costly refined products like gasoline and diesel. Mexico currently buys most of its fuel from U.S. refiners. Five years after it was created Norway's Aker BP is about to become a major North Sea player, and the second-largest producer on the Norwegian Continental Shelf. The company is buying Lundin Energy for ten billion dollars. The deal makes Aker BP Norway's second biggest producer, behind only state-owned Equinor. The combined companies will pump the equivalent of about 400,000 barrels of oil a day, more than some OPEC members. Another announcement marked good news for Aker-BP and great news for Maersk Drilling, which secures a five-year, $1 billion contract for two drilling rigs. Aker-BP will deploy the rigs in the North Sea off the shore of Norway. The new contract is worth all of last year's revenues reported by Maersk, which posted losses in four of the five prior years.

News From the Oil Patch: 2021 was a good year for oil prices

Gary J. Weathers, 67, passed away on December 28, 2021 in Salina, 
Kan. He was born on July 24, 1954, in Great Bend, Kan., to Winton and 
Winifred (Watson) Weathers. He is survived by two children, Mollie 
Weathers and Miles Weathers, both of Salina; three sisters-in-law, Mary 
Kohr (Mike), of Norwood Young America, Minn., Mardella Chambers 
(Blaine), and Betsy Beadleston, both of Salina; nieces, Meaghan Urban 
(Michael), and Jodie Platz, both of Kansas City, Kan.; nephew, Matthew 
Kohr, of Norwood Young America, Minn.; and grandchildren, Winifred Lea 
Bounsombath, Angelina Maybrier, and Wade Pugh, all of Salina, and 
Charley Robinson, of Kansas City, Mo.

Gary grew up in Salina and graduated from Salina South High School in
 1972. He married Nancy Beadleston on October 1, 1983 at the University 
United Methodist Church in Salina. With the marriage came two children, 
Mollie and Miles. Gary worked for many years as a fabricator/machinist. 
He finished his working career as a print press operator for the Salina 
Journal. In retirement he took care of his ailing wife, Nancy, until her
 passing, and then took up her role in helping to watch his grandchild, 
Winifred. Having many hobbies through the years, Gary was known to enjoy
 his motorcycle, being a Deadhead, the Community Theater, cycling, and 
anything to do with history. Through the community theater he was 
introduced to the Salina Mennonite Church where his was baptized and 
remained an active member. Always the first to offer help or to show up 
randomly with something he saw that made him think of you, Gary always 
hoped that the world would find peace and everyone would stop fighting.

A celebration of life gathering will be held on Friday, January 7, 
2022 from 4 – 8 p.m, at Ryan Mortuary, Salina. Memorials may be made to 
donor’s choice, left in care of the mortuary. For more information or to
 leave online condolences visit www.ryanmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641241604924.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gary J. Weathers, 67, passed away on December 28, 2021 in Salina, 
Kan. He was born on July 24, 1954, in Great Bend, Kan., to Winton and 
Winifred (Watson) Weathers. He is survived by two children, Mollie 
Weathers and Miles Weathers, both of Salina; three sisters-in-law, Mary 
Kohr (Mike), of Norwood Young America, Minn., Mardella Chambers 
(Blaine), and Betsy Beadleston, both of Salina; nieces, Meaghan Urban 
(Michael), and Jodie Platz, both of Kansas City, Kan.; nephew, Matthew 
Kohr, of Norwood Young America, Minn.; and grandchildren, Winifred Lea 
Bounsombath, Angelina Maybrier, and Wade Pugh, all of Salina, and 
Charley Robinson, of Kansas City, Mo.Gary grew up in Salina and graduated from Salina South High School in
 1972. He married Nancy Beadleston on October 1, 1983 at the University 
United Methodist Church in Salina. With the marriage came two children, 
Mollie and Miles. Gary worked for many years as a fabricator/machinist. 
He finished his working career as a print press operator for the Salina 
Journal. In retirement he took care of his ailing wife, Nancy, until her
 passing, and then took up her role in helping to watch his grandchild, 
Winifred. Having many hobbies through the years, Gary was known to enjoy
 his motorcycle, being a Deadhead, the Community Theater, cycling, and 
anything to do with history. Through the community theater he was 
introduced to the Salina Mennonite Church where his was baptized and 
remained an active member. Always the first to offer help or to show up 
randomly with something he saw that made him think of you, Gary always 
hoped that the world would find peace and everyone would stop fighting.A celebration of life gathering will be held on Friday, January 7, 
2022 from 4 – 8 p.m, at Ryan Mortuary, Salina. Memorials may be made to 
donor’s choice, left in care of the mortuary. For more information or to
 leave online condolences visit www.ryanmortuary.com.

Gary J. Weathers

Keith Wendell Mull, 98, passed away January 2, 2022, at Country Place Senior Living in Larned.

He was born October 29, 1923, in Great Bend, the son of John and Vida Unruh Mull.

A lifetime area resident he was a farmer/stockman, building two 
commercial feed lots. Keith was a 1941 Graduate of Pawnee Rock High 
School and later attended Emporia State University, Denver University, 
and Kansas State University. He served in the United States Army during 
World War II in the European Theatre. He was a Farm Bureau Leader of the
 Year and a Larned Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow; a member of New 
Jerusalem Church, Pawnee Rock, Prairie Arts Unlimited, and a member of 
the Kansas Livestock Association for fifty years. He served on the 
Pawnee Rock School Board, Farm Service Board, River Township Board, 
First National Bank Board of Directors, National Cattleman Association 
Committee, 4-H Club Leader, Pawnee County Republican Party Leader, BCCC 
Endowment Board, New Jerusalem Church Urbana College Board of Trustees, 
Urbana, OH, Pawnee County Environmental Task Force, Larned Recreation 
Commission, CKMC Foundation Board, and Kansas State University Endowment
 Board.

On December 27, 1945, he married Marian E. Schmitt in Pawnee Rock; she preceded him in death on October 19, 2005.

Survivors include: a daughter, Jeanine (Brad) Haynes, Westfield, IN; 
four grandchildren, Jennifer (Walter) Ladwig, London, England, John 
Mull, Wichita, Jason (Terri) Haynes, Goshen, KY, Robyn (Brian) Kavanagh,
 Carmel, IN and Doug Harter, Pawnee Rock; ten great grandchildren, Ava 
Mull, Pratt, Chase Harter, Lewis, Walter and William Ladwig, London, 
England, Gabe and Maddy Mull, Larned, Avery and Ben Haynes, Goshen, KY, 
and Jameson and Emily Kavanagh, Carmel IN.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife; a brother, 
Charles Mull; son and daughter-in-law, Glenn and Elaine Mull; 
granddaughter, Amy Harter; and great granddaughter, Samantha Harter.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 8, 2022, at First
 Presbyterian Church, Larned, with Pastor Jane Siebert and Pastor Bill 
Stapleton presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, 
January 7, 2022, at Beckwith Mortuary with family present from 6:00 p.m. 
to 8:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Pawnee Rock Cemetery, Pawnee Rock 
with military graveside rites.

Memorials may be given to Pawnee County 4-H Foundation, Santa Fe 
Trail Center, or Pawnee Valley Community Hospital in care of Beckwith 
Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1641241528105.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Keith Wendell Mull, 98, passed away January 2, 2022, at Country Place Senior Living in Larned.He was born October 29, 1923, in Great Bend, the son of John and Vida Unruh Mull.A lifetime area resident he was a farmer/stockman, building two 
commercial feed lots. Keith was a 1941 Graduate of Pawnee Rock High 
School and later attended Emporia State University, Denver University, 
and Kansas State University. He served in the United States Army during 
World War II in the European Theatre. He was a Farm Bureau Leader of the
 Year and a Larned Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow; a member of New 
Jerusalem Church, Pawnee Rock, Prairie Arts Unlimited, and a member of 
the Kansas Livestock Association for fifty years. He served on the 
Pawnee Rock School Board, Farm Service Board, River Township Board, 
First National Bank Board of Directors, National Cattleman Association 
Committee, 4-H Club Leader, Pawnee County Republican Party Leader, BCCC 
Endowment Board, New Jerusalem Church Urbana College Board of Trustees, 
Urbana, OH, Pawnee County Environmental Task Force, Larned Recreation 
Commission, CKMC Foundation Board, and Kansas State University Endowment
 Board.On December 27, 1945, he married Marian E. Schmitt in Pawnee Rock; she preceded him in death on October 19, 2005.Survivors include: a daughter, Jeanine (Brad) Haynes, Westfield, IN; 
four grandchildren, Jennifer (Walter) Ladwig, London, England, John 
Mull, Wichita, Jason (Terri) Haynes, Goshen, KY, Robyn (Brian) Kavanagh,
 Carmel, IN and Doug Harter, Pawnee Rock; ten great grandchildren, Ava 
Mull, Pratt, Chase Harter, Lewis, Walter and William Ladwig, London, 
England, Gabe and Maddy Mull, Larned, Avery and Ben Haynes, Goshen, KY, 
and Jameson and Emily Kavanagh, Carmel IN.He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife; a brother, 
Charles Mull; son and daughter-in-law, Glenn and Elaine Mull; 
granddaughter, Amy Harter; and great granddaughter, Samantha Harter.Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 8, 2022, at First
 Presbyterian Church, Larned, with Pastor Jane Siebert and Pastor Bill 
Stapleton presiding. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, 
January 7, 2022, at Beckwith Mortuary with family present from 6:00 p.m. 
to 8:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Pawnee Rock Cemetery, Pawnee Rock 
with military graveside rites.Memorials may be given to Pawnee County 4-H Foundation, Santa Fe 
Trail Center, or Pawnee Valley Community Hospital in care of Beckwith 
Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.&nbsp;

Keith Wendell Mull

Each year, I like to look back and create a “Top 10 list” in David Letterman style. The list, roughly in chronological order, is certainly not all-encompassing – there are great stories and good news every day at Fort Hays State University. However, it does provide a means of looking back and recounting some of the many blessings we enjoyed in 2021. So, in keeping with tradition, here is my top 10 list for 2021.&nbsp;

March brought the exciting news that beginning fall of 2021, thanks to the generosity of the Schmidt Foundation, five students would receive full-ride scholarships to FHSU. The Schmidt Foundation Scholarship includes 30 hours of tuition and fees for fall and spring courses, books, and room and board over a period of four years. Each year, five students will be selected – so in the fall of 2024, we will have 20 Schmidt Foundation scholars on campus.&nbsp;

Speaking of outstanding students, we were enamored with the accomplishments of Brynn Wooten, a sophomore from Westminster, Colo., who was named a 2021 Barry Goldwater Scholar in May. This nationally competitive scholarship will fully fund her final two years of undergraduate study. Brynn’s passion for science, especially paleobiology, began at a very young age as a visitor to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. During her college search process, she learned of Sternberg Museum’s affiliation with Fort Hays State and immediately decided she wanted to become a Tiger. Brynn is the first FHSU student to receive this prestigious award.

The return to in-person commencement ceremonies was definitely a highlight of 2021. The thrill of having students once again walk across the commencement stage was fantastic. Hats off to the planning committee that thoughtfully balanced honoring our students and their families with best practices for health and safety.

In June, the Kansas Board of Regents approved our new 2022 regional tuition for on-campus students. Fort Hays State doubled down on its commitment to providing quality accessible education by making the bold move to redefine the meaning of regional on-campus tuition. We now offer the equivalent of in-state tuition to students from Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. I can’t wait to welcome more students home to Hays, America!

Over the summer, we celebrated the accomplishments of two student-athletes: basketball standout Whitney Randall received the MIAA Women’s Winter Student-Athlete-of-the-Year Award, and pole vaulter Ryan Stanley earned the MIAA Men’s Spring Student-Athlete-of-the-Year Award after claiming the NCAA Division II national championship in the pole vault. Extraordinary accomplishments for both student-athletes. Tiger proud!

Fully returning to face-to-face classes and a myriad of student activities, from football to theatre, was a spectacular high point in fall 2021.

In August, we dedicated the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design. I especially loved listening to the personal stories about Bob and Pat Schmidt, who enjoyed nearly 69 years of married life together before Pat passed away in 2015 and Bob in 2017. The couple was known for their love of FHSU and their philanthropic support. With a generous $2.5 million gift, the Schmidt Foundation has carried on Bob’s and Pat's legacy and their love for education, the arts, and Fort Hays State by naming a building after them – a building with which the couple would have been enamored.

Speaking of extraordinary generosity, September concluded our Journey campaign. The Journey campaign kicked off Homecoming of 2016 with a goal of raising $100 million in support of FHSU and its students over a five-year period. Those years flew by, and not only was that ambitious goal reached – it was surpassed. The Journey campaign raised a total of $112,769,457!

In October, the university hosted a ribbon-cutting event for the Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success. Similar to the Center for Art and Design, this celebration honored two extraordinary individuals, the late Richard Fischli and Dolores Wills-Fischli. Richard and Dolores began their journey with Fort Hays State as two rural Kansas kids pursuing a college education. Both earned bachelor's and master's degrees from FHSU in the 1950s, then moved to southern California. Upon retiring from their careers in education, the Fischlis moved back home to Logan, Kansas. Today, this impressive new facility has become a reality thanks to a $5 million gift from the Fischlis’ estate. Although the generous couple is no longer with us, their legacy of impacting students will continue to live on at Fort Hays State.

Given our focus on improving the lives, our Criminal Justice Department chair, Dr. Tamara Lynn – in partnership with Chief of University Police, Ed Howell – put together a de-escalation center. With the invaluable assistance of U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, FHSU began our Thanksgiving break by celebrating a $1.25 million federal grant for the training center. Fort Hays State’s regional training center will train police on how to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations using a psychological approach. The training provided by FHSU places the university at the forefront of this vital law enforcement training initiative.

And while I have mentioned 10 items, like that extra cookie in a baker’s dozen, I must add how excited I am, that at the writing of this column, both our men and women’s basketball teams were undefeated, and our women were ranked No. 1 in the NCAA Division II coaches poll. Perhaps this is a foreshadowing of what will appear in my 2022 Top 10 list.

I end 2021 and begin 2022 by expressing my deepest gratitude to our faculty and staff for their resilience and innovation, never losing sight of our enduring commitment to caring for our students. Simply put, our faculty and staff rose to the challenge in 2021 and continued to deliver robust support services and outstanding teaching and learning experiences in thoughtful, impactful, and personal ways. I also thank our students for having faith in Fort Hays State University and working together to create an environment of respect and kindness.

Happy New Year to you and yours – and to FHSU!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>Each year, I like to look back and create a “Top 10 list” in David Letterman style. The list, roughly in chronological order, is certainly not all-encompassing – there are great stories and good news every day at Fort Hays State University. However, it does provide a means of looking back and recounting some of the many blessings we enjoyed in 2021. So, in keeping with tradition, here is my top 10 list for 2021.&nbsp;March brought the exciting news that beginning fall of 2021, thanks to the generosity of the Schmidt Foundation, five students would receive full-ride scholarships to FHSU. The Schmidt Foundation Scholarship includes 30 hours of tuition and fees for fall and spring courses, books, and room and board over a period of four years. Each year, five students will be selected – so in the fall of 2024, we will have 20 Schmidt Foundation scholars on campus.&nbsp;Speaking of outstanding students, we were enamored with the accomplishments of Brynn Wooten, a sophomore from Westminster, Colo., who was named a 2021 Barry Goldwater Scholar in May. This nationally competitive scholarship will fully fund her final two years of undergraduate study. Brynn’s passion for science, especially paleobiology, began at a very young age as a visitor to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History. During her college search process, she learned of Sternberg Museum’s affiliation with Fort Hays State and immediately decided she wanted to become a Tiger. Brynn is the first FHSU student to receive this prestigious award.The return to in-person commencement ceremonies was definitely a highlight of 2021. The thrill of having students once again walk across the commencement stage was fantastic. Hats off to the planning committee that thoughtfully balanced honoring our students and their families with best practices for health and safety.In June, the Kansas Board of Regents approved our new 2022 regional tuition for on-campus students. Fort Hays State doubled down on its commitment to providing quality accessible education by making the bold move to redefine the meaning of regional on-campus tuition. We now offer the equivalent of in-state tuition to students from Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. I can’t wait to welcome more students home to Hays, America!Over the summer, we celebrated the accomplishments of two student-athletes: basketball standout Whitney Randall received the MIAA Women’s Winter Student-Athlete-of-the-Year Award, and pole vaulter Ryan Stanley earned the MIAA Men’s Spring Student-Athlete-of-the-Year Award after claiming the NCAA Division II national championship in the pole vault. Extraordinary accomplishments for both student-athletes. Tiger proud!Fully returning to face-to-face classes and a myriad of student activities, from football to theatre, was a spectacular high point in fall 2021.In August, we dedicated the Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design. I especially loved listening to the personal stories about Bob and Pat Schmidt, who enjoyed nearly 69 years of married life together before Pat passed away in 2015 and Bob in 2017. The couple was known for their love of FHSU and their philanthropic support. With a generous $2.5 million gift, the Schmidt Foundation has carried on Bob’s and Pat's legacy and their love for education, the arts, and Fort Hays State by naming a building after them – a building with which the couple would have been enamored.Speaking of extraordinary generosity, September concluded our Journey campaign. The Journey campaign kicked off Homecoming of 2016 with a goal of raising $100 million in support of FHSU and its students over a five-year period. Those years flew by, and not only was that ambitious goal reached – it was surpassed. The Journey campaign raised a total of $112,769,457!In October, the university hosted a ribbon-cutting event for the Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success. Similar to the Center for Art and Design, this celebration honored two extraordinary individuals, the late Richard Fischli and Dolores Wills-Fischli. Richard and Dolores began their journey with Fort Hays State as two rural Kansas kids pursuing a college education. Both earned bachelor's and master's degrees from FHSU in the 1950s, then moved to southern California. Upon retiring from their careers in education, the Fischlis moved back home to Logan, Kansas. Today, this impressive new facility has become a reality thanks to a $5 million gift from the Fischlis’ estate. Although the generous couple is no longer with us, their legacy of impacting students will continue to live on at Fort Hays State.Given our focus on improving the lives, our Criminal Justice Department chair, Dr. Tamara Lynn – in partnership with Chief of University Police, Ed Howell – put together a de-escalation center. With the invaluable assistance of U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, FHSU began our Thanksgiving break by celebrating a $1.25 million federal grant for the training center. Fort Hays State’s regional training center will train police on how to de-escalate potentially dangerous situations using a psychological approach. The training provided by FHSU places the university at the forefront of this vital law enforcement training initiative.And while I have mentioned 10 items, like that extra cookie in a baker’s dozen, I must add how excited I am, that at the writing of this column, both our men and women’s basketball teams were undefeated, and our women were ranked No. 1 in the NCAA Division II coaches poll. Perhaps this is a foreshadowing of what will appear in my 2022 Top 10 list.I end 2021 and begin 2022 by expressing my deepest gratitude to our faculty and staff for their resilience and innovation, never losing sight of our enduring commitment to caring for our students. Simply put, our faculty and staff rose to the challenge in 2021 and continued to deliver robust support services and outstanding teaching and learning experiences in thoughtful, impactful, and personal ways. I also thank our students for having faith in Fort Hays State University and working together to create an environment of respect and kindness.Happy New Year to you and yours – and to FHSU!&nbsp;

MASON: Top 10 list brimming with good news

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary.

On Thursday morning, police were dispatched to the 300 block of SE 21st Street in Topeka on the citizen report of an overnight burglary to a business captured on video, according to Lt. Shane Hilton.

Officers, going off of the suspect vehicle description,&nbsp;located the vehicle behind another business on SW Topeka Boulevard. The occupant identified as&nbsp;Curtis Callarman, 43, of Topeka, was questioned and taken into custody without incident.

Callarman, 43, of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of burglary, according to Hilton.

In October, police arrested Callarman in the 3800 block of SW Topeka Blvd. in connection with Burglary and Theft from businesses in the Topeka area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640894137857.png" alt="Callarman photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Callarman photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary.On Thursday morning, police were dispatched to the 300 block of SE 21st Street in Topeka on the citizen report of an overnight burglary to a business captured on video, according to Lt. Shane Hilton.Officers, going off of the suspect vehicle description,&nbsp;located the vehicle behind another business on SW Topeka Boulevard. The occupant identified as&nbsp;Curtis Callarman, 43, of Topeka, was questioned and taken into custody without incident.Callarman, 43, of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of burglary, according to Hilton.In October, police arrested Callarman in the 3800 block of SW Topeka Blvd. in connection with Burglary and Theft from businesses in the Topeka area.

Police use video of Kan. business burglary to track down suspect

CHICAGO (AP) — States and the federal government carried out 11 executions this year, the fewest since 1988, as support for the death penalty has continued to decline.

That’s according to an&nbsp;<a href="https://deathpenaltyinfo.org/facts-and-research/dpic-reports/dpic-year-end-reports/the-death-penalty-in-2021-year-end-report" target="_blank">annual report on the death penalty </a>&nbsp;which was also sharply critical of the Supreme Court and its role in green-lighting executions. Three of the death sentences were carried out in January during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-death-penalty-legacy-838932ac2b665b42373309336d130f56">an unprecedented run of federal executions</a>&nbsp;that ended days before President Donald Trump left office. Annual executions have steadily declined since peaking at 98 in 1999.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1621882682950.png" alt="Ernest Johnson was executed in October for killing three workers while robbing a Missouri convenience store in 1994-photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Ernest Johnson was executed in October for killing three workers while robbing a Missouri convenience store in 1994-photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO (AP) — States and the federal government carried out 11 executions this year, the fewest since 1988, as support for the death penalty has continued to decline.That’s according to an&nbsp;<a href="https://deathpenaltyinfo.org/facts-and-research/dpic-reports/dpic-year-end-reports/the-death-penalty-in-2021-year-end-report" target="_blank">annual report on the death penalty </a>&nbsp;which was also sharply critical of the Supreme Court and its role in green-lighting executions. Three of the death sentences were carried out in January during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-death-penalty-legacy-838932ac2b665b42373309336d130f56">an unprecedented run of federal executions</a>&nbsp;that ended days before President Donald Trump left office. Annual executions have steadily declined since peaking at 98 in 1999.Pandemic-related disruptions partly accounted for the low number of executions this year — though 2021 marked the seventh consecutive year when there were fewer than 30 executions and fewer than 50 new death sentences, the report said.The federal death penalty was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-executions-government-and-politics-9daf230ef2257b901cb0dfeeeb60be44">put on hold in June&nbsp;</a>by Attorney General Merrick Garland, well short of the permanent abolition activists hoped for when Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-joe-biden-executions-health-coronavirus-pandemic-67ed5dd28d92f11629310ddb7590357a">became the first sitting U.S. president</a>&nbsp;to have openly opposed the death penalty. State executions continue despite growing numbers of Americans opposed to the death penalty.The report from the Death Penalty Information Center said far from representing the “worst of the worst,” 10 of the 11 prisoners executed this year had “significant impairments,” including IQs in the intellectually disabled range.Many cases were tainted by poor legal representation at trial and jurisdictions engaging in “shocking conduct” to thwart judicial review of credible constitutional claims, the report said.“As death-penalty usage continues to erode, its flaws become even more evident,” the report from the Washington, D.C.-based center said.The report also noted the three conservative appointments to the Supreme Court by Trump and said the justices demonstrated “deep hostility to stays of execution,” denying or lifting every stay of execution requested — other than a few on religious grounds that inmates should have fuller access to spiritual advisers.The report also noted how some death-penalty states scrambled for alternative execution methods after pharmaceutical companies restricted access to drugs once widely used for lethal injections. It highlighted Arizona’s proposal this year to use&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-joe-biden-executions-health-coronavirus-pandemic-67ed5dd28d92f11629310ddb7590357a"></a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/arizona-executions-business-health-government-and-politics-c3f67a6ec65959fea817b4c3193bb15e">the same cyanide hydrogen gas</a>&nbsp;deployed by Nazis to kill Jews.Support for the death penalty, meanwhile, has plummeted from a high of 80% in 1994 to 54% this year, according to a 2021 Gallup poll cited in the report. Since the mid-1990s, opposition has risen from under 20% to around 45% now.States also continue to rescind death penalty laws.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/virginia-to-end-death-penalty-ralph-northam-0a5b51f2e4458a0600bce6b75e6389bd">Virginia, once a prolific executioner, did so in March</a>, bringing the number of states to have abolished the death penalty to 23. Three, including California, have moratoriums on executions.Executions have been increasingly concentrated in a few Southern states. Texas executed three inmates and Oklahoma two in 2021. Alabama, Mississippi and Missouri each executed one. The Trump administration executed three. The last, Dustin Higgs, was executed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-wildlife-coronavirus-pandemic-crime-terre-haute-28e44cc5c026dc16472751bbde0ead50">five days before Joe Biden’s inauguration</a>. The federal executions brought the year’s total to 11.Trump’s Justice Department executed 10 federal prisoners in 2020, ending a 17-year hiatus&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/public-health-prisons-health-coronavirus-pandemic-executions-ac5afd6c1df5b8acbeece712830e6469">as COVID raged through prisons</a>. States suspended their death penalty programs during the height of the pandemic.Among other report highlights:— Seven states imposed 18 new death sentences in 2021 — tying a record low. Alabama and Oklahoma imposed four each. California and Texas both imposed three. Florida imposed two and Nebraska and Tennessee one each.— Six of the 11 inmates executed in 2021 were Black. Black and Hispanic defendants made up more than 60% of the death sentences imposed this year.— Some 2,500 prisoners remain on state death rows. Some 50 are left on federal death row at a Terre Haute, Indiana, prison after the Trump executions reduced their numbers by nearly a quarter.The Justice Department’s June order halted federal executions while it reviewed Trump-era practices. The Biden administration also withdrew notices of intent to seek the death penalty in several cases. But the administration did still keep pressing for death sentences for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/religion-crime-courts-south-carolina-hate-crimes-0db104e0c60baaa954d9833daccaf6b4">white supremacist Dylann Roof</a>, convicted in the 2015 slayings of nine members of a Black congregation in South Carolina, and for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-sports-dzhokhar-tsarnaev-boston-bombings-ad5f5d675c401d55ec27b54d9e3ef202">Boston Marathon bomber</a>&nbsp;Dzhokhar Tsarnaev.Despite&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-death-row-inmates-talk-biden-executions-6381ed8b3e821a34a6b6ade6bb3375c0">a campaign pledge to decisively end executions</a>, Biden hasn’t addressed the issue publicly as president. The report noted he hasn’t backed legislation to strike the death penalty from U.S. statutes. Activists fear federal executions could restart if Trump were to run again for president and win a second term or if another capital punishment advocate becomes president.The report spotlighted several individual executions.It described Oklahoma’s execution of John Grant on Oct. 28 as “botched.” The 60-year-old, convicted in the 1998 slaying of a prison cafeteria worker, repeatedly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-prisons-executions-oklahoma-oklahoma-attorney-generals-office-6e5eedd1956a38f83db96187651f145c">convulsed and vomited</a>&nbsp;after his lethal injection. Oklahoma’s Department of Corrections said the execution occurred “without complication.”The report also pointed to the May 19 Texas execution of Quintin Jones, 41, convicted of killing his great aunt in 1999. It proceeded&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-executions-lifestyle-747fc8994706df9dee9e64909c464b99">without media witnesses</a>, the first time since Texas resumed capital punishment in 1982 that no journalist was present. Officials blamed a failure to bring in reporters waiting nearby on miscommunication.Two death row inmates were exonerated in 2021, both in Mississippi. One, Eddie Lee Howard Jr., who is Black, was freed after spending&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-mississippi-crime-f13826a919f192108cba4502f965d4ef">26 years on death row&nbsp;</a>after debunked bite-mark testimony and DNA evidence cleared him in the 1992 rape and killing of an 84-year-old white woman.Those exonerations bring the total number of exonerees out of more than 9,600 death sentences since the early 1970s to 186, the report said.That figure, it added, “revealed that the American death-penalty system is even more frighteningly unreliable than was previously understood.”