Shirley Ruth Leslie, 88, passed away October 20, 2022, at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, Larned.

She was born December 21, 1933, in Larned, Kansas, the daughter of Robert and Ruth Row Walker.

A Larned resident, she worked at the Larned State Hospital in the 
Reimbursement Office. She was a member of Larned United Methodist 
Church, United Methodist Women and D.A.R. She enjoyed volunteering at 
the UMW Budget Shop, traveling, golfing, fishing and reading.

On August 12, 1972, she married Dean Leslie in Larned; he survives.

Other survivors include: daughters, Debra (Tom) Snyder, Larned, Patti
 (Don) Smithson, Arlington, Texas, Pam Almquist, Fort Worth, Texas; step
 son, Kevin (Cathy Jo) Leslie, Rock River, Wyoming; step daughter, Mary 
(Kevin) Yurchak, Melbourne Beach, Florida, Brenda (Richard)Winn, Mexico,
 Missouri; two brothers, Robert (Bob) Walker and William (Bill) Walker, 
Larned; twelve grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren and four 
great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by: her parents and a brother Duane Walker.

Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at Beckwith
 Mortuary Chapel, Larned, with Pastor Tricia North presiding. Visitation
 will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, October 24, 2022, with family present 
from 6-8 p.m. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned.

Memorials may be given to Larned United Methodist Church or St Jude 
Children’s Research Hospital&nbsp;&nbsp; both in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box
 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666304039607.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Shirley Ruth Leslie, 88, passed away October 20, 2022, at Pawnee Valley Community Hospital, Larned.She was born December 21, 1933, in Larned, Kansas, the daughter of Robert and Ruth Row Walker.A Larned resident, she worked at the Larned State Hospital in the 
Reimbursement Office. She was a member of Larned United Methodist 
Church, United Methodist Women and D.A.R. She enjoyed volunteering at 
the UMW Budget Shop, traveling, golfing, fishing and reading.On August 12, 1972, she married Dean Leslie in Larned; he survives.Other survivors include: daughters, Debra (Tom) Snyder, Larned, Patti
 (Don) Smithson, Arlington, Texas, Pam Almquist, Fort Worth, Texas; step
 son, Kevin (Cathy Jo) Leslie, Rock River, Wyoming; step daughter, Mary 
(Kevin) Yurchak, Melbourne Beach, Florida, Brenda (Richard)Winn, Mexico,
 Missouri; two brothers, Robert (Bob) Walker and William (Bill) Walker, 
Larned; twelve grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren and four 
great-great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by: her parents and a brother Duane Walker.Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at Beckwith
 Mortuary Chapel, Larned, with Pastor Tricia North presiding. Visitation
 will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, October 24, 2022, with family present 
from 6-8 p.m. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned.Memorials may be given to Larned United Methodist Church or St Jude 
Children’s Research Hospital&nbsp;&nbsp; both in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box
 477, Larned, Kansas 67550.

Shirley Ruth Leslie

Marilyn Ruth (Bieker) Armstrong was born 
in Kansas City, KS, on December 11, 1926. She was adopted on August 19,
 1928, by Anthony John and Elizabeth Bieker (Boos) from Marienthal, KS.&nbsp;
 She attended parochial school for two years in Marienthal and then 
moved to Leoti, KS, where she completed her schooling and graduated from
 Wichita County High School in 1944.

Marilyn married Robert Wilson “R.W.” Clark (b. 1924, d. 2001) in 1944
 and was divorced in 1956.&nbsp; She raised her six beloved children: Richard
 Allen (b. 1947, d. 1998), Janelle Diane (b. 1948), Kathleen Anne (b. 
1950), Mark Wayne (b. 1953), Ruth Ellen (b. 1954), and Timothy Lee (b. 
1955).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those years were quite an adventure, and Marilyn and her children 
love telling stories about those times still today!&nbsp; One of her favorite
 adventures was a trip west.&nbsp; They drove to Pueblo, CO, and from there, 
took the train to Grand Junction, CO, to visit R.W.’s sister, Margaret.&nbsp;
 The train stopped under the Royal Gorge Bridge and let passengers out 
to see the bridge.

As her children grew, Marilyn started to cut and dye ladies’ hair.&nbsp; 
She studied for the state board of cosmetology while an apprentice and 
passed the exam and became a licensed beautician.&nbsp; She was the 
proprietor of Marilyn's Beauty Shop in Leoti for many years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 1973, Marilyn married Robert “Bob” Armstrong (b. 1933, d. 1990) in
 Leoti, KS.&nbsp; They enjoyed each other's company greatly. Marilyn also 
worked for a time at the local vet clinic to help with the animals.

In retirement, Marilyn lived for a time on Whidbey Island, WA.&nbsp; She 
moved back to Leoti and then on to Phoenix, AZ.&nbsp; There she enjoyed the 
warm weather, doted on her dogs Katie and Penny, and developed her 
passion for Diamondback baseball.&nbsp; She moved back to Leoti and lived for
 several years with her daughter Ruth before moving to the Leoti Care 
Center in 2021.

Marilyn was a devout Catholic her whole life and her faith saw her 
through every day.&nbsp; Besides her children and her dogs, Marilyn also 
loved to play cards including bridge, rummy, and spades.&nbsp; She also loved
 to read, and devoured books well into her 90s!

Vigil service will be held on Monday, October 24, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Leoti, Kansas.

Funeral mass will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Leoti, 
Kansas at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 with Father Tim Hickey
 presiding.&nbsp;

Interment will be at the Leoti Cemetery in Leoti, Kansas.

Memorials may be given to St. Anthony of Padua Church or the Wichita 
County Health Center - Long Term Care in care of Price and Sons funeral 
home, PO Box 161, Leoti Kansas 67861.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666299706173.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Marilyn Ruth (Bieker) Armstrong was born 
in Kansas City, KS, on December 11, 1926. She was adopted on August 19,
 1928, by Anthony John and Elizabeth Bieker (Boos) from Marienthal, KS.&nbsp;
 She attended parochial school for two years in Marienthal and then 
moved to Leoti, KS, where she completed her schooling and graduated from
 Wichita County High School in 1944.Marilyn married Robert Wilson “R.W.” Clark (b. 1924, d. 2001) in 1944
 and was divorced in 1956.&nbsp; She raised her six beloved children: Richard
 Allen (b. 1947, d. 1998), Janelle Diane (b. 1948), Kathleen Anne (b. 
1950), Mark Wayne (b. 1953), Ruth Ellen (b. 1954), and Timothy Lee (b. 
1955).&nbsp;&nbsp;Those years were quite an adventure, and Marilyn and her children 
love telling stories about those times still today!&nbsp; One of her favorite
 adventures was a trip west.&nbsp; They drove to Pueblo, CO, and from there, 
took the train to Grand Junction, CO, to visit R.W.’s sister, Margaret.&nbsp;
 The train stopped under the Royal Gorge Bridge and let passengers out 
to see the bridge.As her children grew, Marilyn started to cut and dye ladies’ hair.&nbsp; 
She studied for the state board of cosmetology while an apprentice and 
passed the exam and became a licensed beautician.&nbsp; She was the 
proprietor of Marilyn's Beauty Shop in Leoti for many years.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 1973, Marilyn married Robert “Bob” Armstrong (b. 1933, d. 1990) in
 Leoti, KS.&nbsp; They enjoyed each other's company greatly. Marilyn also 
worked for a time at the local vet clinic to help with the animals.In retirement, Marilyn lived for a time on Whidbey Island, WA.&nbsp; She 
moved back to Leoti and then on to Phoenix, AZ.&nbsp; There she enjoyed the 
warm weather, doted on her dogs Katie and Penny, and developed her 
passion for Diamondback baseball.&nbsp; She moved back to Leoti and lived for
 several years with her daughter Ruth before moving to the Leoti Care 
Center in 2021.Marilyn was a devout Catholic her whole life and her faith saw her 
through every day.&nbsp; Besides her children and her dogs, Marilyn also 
loved to play cards including bridge, rummy, and spades.&nbsp; She also loved
 to read, and devoured books well into her 90s!Vigil service will be held on Monday, October 24, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Leoti, Kansas.Funeral mass will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Leoti, 
Kansas at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 with Father Tim Hickey
 presiding.&nbsp;Interment will be at the Leoti Cemetery in Leoti, Kansas.Memorials may be given to St. Anthony of Padua Church or the Wichita 
County Health Center - Long Term Care in care of Price and Sons funeral 
home, PO Box 161, Leoti Kansas 67861.

Marilyn Ruth (Bieker) Armstrong

MACON, Georgia —Kansas Senator Roger Marshall made a campaign appearance Thursday in support of controversial&nbsp;Georgia Republican U.S. Senate candidate Herschel Walker.

Allegations that Walker, a football icon, paid for a woman's abortion have rocked one of the nation's most important Senate matchups, according to the Associated Press.

 Walker is in a tight contest with Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock, with the outcome potentially determining which party controls the Senate for the final two years of President Joe Biden's term.

&nbsp;Walker pitches himself as a politician who can bridge America’s racial and cultural divides because he loves everyone and overlooks differences.

“I don’t care what color you are,” Georgia’s Republican Senate nominee, who is Black, told an overwhelmingly white crowd recently in Bartow County, north of Atlanta. The United States, he said, “is a good place,” adding that ”a way we make it better is by coming together.”

Yet the former football star who calls all Georgians “my family” has staked out familiar conservative ground on America’s most glaring societal fissures, seemingly contradicting his promises of unity.

Walker says those who do not share his vision of the country can leave. He says his opponent, Sen. Raphael Warnock, and the Democratic Party are the real purveyors of division. He insists that their “wokeness” on race, transgender rights and other issues threatens U.S. power and identity.

“Sen. Warnock believes America is a bad country full of racist people,” Walker says in one ad, making a claim based on the fact that Warnock, who is also Black, has acknowledged institutional racism during his sermons as a Baptist minister. “I believe we’re a great country full of generous people,” Walker concludes.

That approach is not surprising in a state controlled for most of its history by white cultural conservatives, and it aligns Walker with many high-profile Republicans, including former President Donald Trump. But Walker’s arguments make for a striking contrast in a Senate contest featuring two Black men born in the Deep South during or immediately following the civil rights movement.

The strategy will face its fiercest test in the closing weeks of the campaign as Walker vehemently denies reports from The Daily Beast that he encouraged and paid for a woman’s 2009 abortion and later fathered a child with her. The New York Times reported Friday that he urged her to have a second abortion, a request that she refused. The Daily Beast also published new details provided by the woman about Walker’s lack of involvement with their child.

Such developments would typically sink a Republican candidate. Walker, however, is betting that the conservative ground he has staked out will win over voters singularly focused on retaking the Senate majority.

His advisers believe Walker’s rhetoric reflects the views of many Georgians, at least most who will vote this fall. Most specifically, it is an appeal to whites, including moderates who may be wary of the first-time candidate yet believe Democrats push too much social change.

The outcome could turn on how Walker’s pitch lands in an electorate younger, more urban, less white, and less native to Georgia than when Walker, 60, and Warnock, 53, grew up in the state.

Warnock, as minister of Atlanta’s Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King Jr. preached, has long linked the civil rights icon’s vision of a “beloved community” to 21st century discussions of diversity and justice, including religious pluralism, LGBTQ rights, ballot access, racial equity, law enforcement and other issues. But in his paid advertising, the pastor-politician casts himself mostly as a hardworking senator who has delivered results and federal money for Georgia.

Walker saves his hottest rhetoric for campaign events, where crowds are measured in the dozens or hundreds, rather than the thousands and millions watching carefully cultivated ads.

In one such ad, a smiling Walker talks of unity after a string of Democrats — Warnock, Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and Georgia’s Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams — are heard discussing racism.

Addressing fellow Republicans, Walker maintains the smile but goes harder at the left, especially on transgender rights.

“They’re bringing wokeness in our military,” Walker said in Cumming. It was an apparent reference to the Pentagon allowing transgender persons to serve and have access to medical care.

“The greatest fighting force ever assembled before God (and) they’re talking about pronouns,” Walker said. “Are you serious? How do you identify? I can promise you right now China ain’t talking about how you can identify. They’re talking about war.”

Walker sometimes presents his mores as humor. “Y’all see it. They telling you what is a woman. Think about it,” he said in Bartow County, drawing laughter from voters. “That’s right,” he continued with a broad smile. “They’re telling you a man can get pregnant. Hey, I’m gone tell you right now, a man can’t get pregnant.”

Warnock, Walker says, “wants men in women’s sports.” His campaign aides point separately to a Senate vote on a Republican amendment that would have limited federal money for any educational institutions “that permit any student whose biological sex is male to participate in an athletic program or activity designated for women or girls.” The amendment failed on a party-line vote.

“That’s sort of like saying you want Herschel Walker to compete against your daughters,” Walker said in Norcross, eliciting more laughs.

Walker rarely identifies the policies he opposes or explains counter proposals. He sticks with broader cultural branding, and in perhaps the most direct contradiction of his unity messaging, recommends that those with a different vision for America consider moving. “If you don’t like the rules under our roof, you can go somewhere else,” he said in Bartow County, after recalling a similar message his father once delivered to him.

Warnock seems reluctant to answer Walker’s broadsides directly. “My job is to represent all the people of Georgia across racial and ethnic and religious line, and all corner of this state,” he told reporters last week.

Asked specifically about Walker’s emphasis on transgender politics, Warnock said, “People love their children and they want to make sure that their children are safe from hatred and bigotry. So, you know, I will remain focused on all our young people and, at the same time, creating opportunities for young people.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666276991768.png" alt="Photo courtesy Senator Roger Marshall" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Senator Roger Marshall</figcaption>
 </figure>MACON, Georgia —Kansas Senator Roger Marshall made a campaign appearance Thursday in support of controversial&nbsp;Georgia Republican U.S. Senate candidate Herschel Walker.Allegations that Walker, a football icon, paid for a woman's abortion have rocked one of the nation's most important Senate matchups, according to the Associated Press. Walker is in a tight contest with Democratic Sen. Raphael Warnock, with the outcome potentially determining which party controls the Senate for the final two years of President Joe Biden's term.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FIRED UP crowd for <a href="https://twitter.com/HerschelWalker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HerschelWalker</a> in Macon this morning! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gapol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gapol</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/gasen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#gasen</a> <a href="https://t.co/oeYKeQBKUS">pic.twitter.com/oeYKeQBKUS</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1583099061304844288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>&nbsp;Walker pitches himself as a politician who can bridge America’s racial and cultural divides because he loves everyone and overlooks differences.“I don’t care what color you are,” Georgia’s Republican Senate nominee, who is Black, told an overwhelmingly white crowd recently in Bartow County, north of Atlanta. The United States, he said, “is a good place,” adding that ”a way we make it better is by coming together.”Yet the former football star who calls all Georgians “my family” has staked out familiar conservative ground on America’s most glaring societal fissures, seemingly contradicting his promises of unity.Walker says those who do not share his vision of the country can leave. He says his opponent, Sen. Raphael Warnock, and the Democratic Party are the real purveyors of division. He insists that their “wokeness” on race, transgender rights and other issues threatens U.S. power and identity.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What a morning in Macon with <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottforFlorida?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ScottforFlorida</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPChairwoman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPChairwoman</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SteveDaines?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SteveDaines</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerMarshallMD</a> and a couple hundred voters! Sheriffs from across Georgia joined to show their support. While my opponent calls the police thugs and fights to defund them, I’ll always have their backs. <a href="https://t.co/OuTqSyotAa">pic.twitter.com/OuTqSyotAa</a>&mdash; Herschel Walker (@HerschelWalker) <a href="https://twitter.com/HerschelWalker/status/1583116801516654593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Sen. Warnock believes America is a bad country full of racist people,” Walker says in one ad, making a claim based on the fact that Warnock, who is also Black, has acknowledged institutional racism during his sermons as a Baptist minister. “I believe we’re a great country full of generous people,” Walker concludes.That approach is not surprising in a state controlled for most of its history by white cultural conservatives, and it aligns Walker with many high-profile Republicans, including former President Donald Trump. But Walker’s arguments make for a striking contrast in a Senate contest featuring two Black men born in the Deep South during or immediately following the civil rights movement.The strategy will face its fiercest test in the closing weeks of the campaign as Walker vehemently denies reports from The Daily Beast that he encouraged and paid for a woman’s 2009 abortion and later fathered a child with her. The New York Times reported Friday that he urged her to have a second abortion, a request that she refused. The Daily Beast also published new details provided by the woman about Walker’s lack of involvement with their child.Such developments would typically sink a Republican candidate. Walker, however, is betting that the conservative ground he has staked out will win over voters singularly focused on retaking the Senate majority.His advisers believe Walker’s rhetoric reflects the views of many Georgians, at least most who will vote this fall. Most specifically, it is an appeal to whites, including moderates who may be wary of the first-time candidate yet believe Democrats push too much social change.The outcome could turn on how Walker’s pitch lands in an electorate younger, more urban, less white, and less native to Georgia than when Walker, 60, and Warnock, 53, grew up in the state.Warnock, as minister of Atlanta’s Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King Jr. preached, has long linked the civil rights icon’s vision of a “beloved community” to 21st century discussions of diversity and justice, including religious pluralism, LGBTQ rights, ballot access, racial equity, law enforcement and other issues. But in his paid advertising, the pastor-politician casts himself mostly as a hardworking senator who has delivered results and federal money for Georgia.Walker saves his hottest rhetoric for campaign events, where crowds are measured in the dozens or hundreds, rather than the thousands and millions watching carefully cultivated ads.In one such ad, a smiling Walker talks of unity after a string of Democrats — Warnock, Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and Georgia’s Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams — are heard discussing racism.Addressing fellow Republicans, Walker maintains the smile but goes harder at the left, especially on transgender rights.“They’re bringing wokeness in our military,” Walker said in Cumming. It was an apparent reference to the Pentagon allowing transgender persons to serve and have access to medical care.“The greatest fighting force ever assembled before God (and) they’re talking about pronouns,” Walker said. “Are you serious? How do you identify? I can promise you right now China ain’t talking about how you can identify. They’re talking about war.”Walker sometimes presents his mores as humor. “Y’all see it. They telling you what is a woman. Think about it,” he said in Bartow County, drawing laughter from voters. “That’s right,” he continued with a broad smile. “They’re telling you a man can get pregnant. Hey, I’m gone tell you right now, a man can’t get pregnant.”Warnock, Walker says, “wants men in women’s sports.” His campaign aides point separately to a Senate vote on a Republican amendment that would have limited federal money for any educational institutions “that permit any student whose biological sex is male to participate in an athletic program or activity designated for women or girls.” The amendment failed on a party-line vote.“That’s sort of like saying you want Herschel Walker to compete against your daughters,” Walker said in Norcross, eliciting more laughs.Walker rarely identifies the policies he opposes or explains counter proposals. He sticks with broader cultural branding, and in perhaps the most direct contradiction of his unity messaging, recommends that those with a different vision for America consider moving. “If you don’t like the rules under our roof, you can go somewhere else,” he said in Bartow County, after recalling a similar message his father once delivered to him.Warnock seems reluctant to answer Walker’s broadsides directly. “My job is to represent all the people of Georgia across racial and ethnic and religious line, and all corner of this state,” he told reporters last week.Asked specifically about Walker’s emphasis on transgender politics, Warnock said, “People love their children and they want to make sure that their children are safe from hatred and bigotry. So, you know, I will remain focused on all our young people and, at the same time, creating opportunities for young people.”

Kan. Senator makes campaign appearance for Herschel Walker

Christine “Joan” Strano, 78, died unexpectedly at her home on October
 17, 2022.&nbsp; She was born October 2, 1944, in Wichita to William Clark 
and Olive Aileen (Kissick) Anderson.

Joan graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1962, and Southwestern 
College, Winfield, in 1966, earning her bachelor’s degree. &nbsp;

While at Southwestern College, Joan met a young man from 
Punxsutawney, PA, Richard Francis “Dick” Strano. They were married June 
4, 1966, in South Hutchinson.&nbsp; Together, they raised two daughters, and 
eventually, their family grew to include two wonderful sons-in-law and 
seven precious grandchildren.&nbsp; Dick died March 6, 2018, after he and 
Joan shared nearly 52 years of marriage.

Joan was a natural born teacher.&nbsp; Throughout her career, Joan taught 
health/physical education and science in Osborne USD 392 and Hutchinson 
USD 308.&nbsp; Most recently, she was a substitute teacher for Buhler USD 
313.&nbsp; In her free time, she enjoyed being outdoors; Joan was an 
outstanding gardener, and had a talent for growing amazing flowers. She 
also enjoyed decorating, especially at Christmas. Joans’ greatest joy 
and calling though was that of being a mom and grandma; she loved her 
daughters and grandchildren unconditionally.&nbsp; She would do anything for 
them. Joan attended Grace Bible Church, Hutchinson.&nbsp;

Joan is survived by:&nbsp; daughters, Angie White (Eric) of Hutchinson, 
and Amy Dye (Derek) of Lawrence; grandchildren, Ethan, Addi, Aidyn and 
Eli White, and Josie, Emme, and Harper Dye; brother, Jeff Anderson 
(Rogene) of Lawrence; sisters, Jan Dwyer and Jill Foss of Hutchinson; a 
sister-in-law, Tamra Strano of Baytown, TX; and her faithful four-legged
 companions, dogs, Berki and Berne and cats, Rush and Rusty.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother’s in-law, Robert “Bob” Strano, Ed Dwyer, and Doug Foss.

Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at 
Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Bart Horton officiating.&nbsp; Friends may sign 
her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; Cremation has
 taken place.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666283279829.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Christine “Joan” Strano, 78, died unexpectedly at her home on October
 17, 2022.&nbsp; She was born October 2, 1944, in Wichita to William Clark 
and Olive Aileen (Kissick) Anderson.Joan graduated from Hutchinson High School in 1962, and Southwestern 
College, Winfield, in 1966, earning her bachelor’s degree. &nbsp;While at Southwestern College, Joan met a young man from 
Punxsutawney, PA, Richard Francis “Dick” Strano. They were married June 
4, 1966, in South Hutchinson.&nbsp; Together, they raised two daughters, and 
eventually, their family grew to include two wonderful sons-in-law and 
seven precious grandchildren.&nbsp; Dick died March 6, 2018, after he and 
Joan shared nearly 52 years of marriage.Joan was a natural born teacher.&nbsp; Throughout her career, Joan taught 
health/physical education and science in Osborne USD 392 and Hutchinson 
USD 308.&nbsp; Most recently, she was a substitute teacher for Buhler USD 
313.&nbsp; In her free time, she enjoyed being outdoors; Joan was an 
outstanding gardener, and had a talent for growing amazing flowers. She 
also enjoyed decorating, especially at Christmas. Joans’ greatest joy 
and calling though was that of being a mom and grandma; she loved her 
daughters and grandchildren unconditionally.&nbsp; She would do anything for 
them. Joan attended Grace Bible Church, Hutchinson.&nbsp;Joan is survived by:&nbsp; daughters, Angie White (Eric) of Hutchinson, 
and Amy Dye (Derek) of Lawrence; grandchildren, Ethan, Addi, Aidyn and 
Eli White, and Josie, Emme, and Harper Dye; brother, Jeff Anderson 
(Rogene) of Lawrence; sisters, Jan Dwyer and Jill Foss of Hutchinson; a 
sister-in-law, Tamra Strano of Baytown, TX; and her faithful four-legged
 companions, dogs, Berki and Berne and cats, Rush and Rusty.She was preceded in death by her parents and brother’s in-law, Robert “Bob” Strano, Ed Dwyer, and Doug Foss.Memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at 
Elliott Chapel, with Pastor Bart Horton officiating.&nbsp; Friends may sign 
her book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary.&nbsp; Cremation has
 taken place.

Christine 'Joan' Strano

Norman “Pete” Kramer, 67, passed away October 19, 2022, at Clara 
Barton Hospital, Hoisington, Kan. He was born November 25, 1954, at 
Oakland, Calif. to Bernard &amp; Norma (Bowman) Kramer. He married Jean 
A. Scheer August 14, 1976, at Garden City.

Coming from Garden City in 2015, Pete was a current Great Bend 
resident. He was a machinist for Simmons Pump &amp; Machinery. Pete was 
of the Catholic faith. He enjoyed collecting coins and hot wheels, and 
hunting and fishing. He was an avid football and baseball fan. Pete 
especially enjoyed spending time with his family.

Survivors include, his wife, Jean Kramer of the home; a son, Nathan 
Kramer and wife Barbara of Garden City; two daughters, Anna Kramer and 
Stacey Kramer (Milton Barnes) both of Garden City; a daughter in law, 
Radonda Kramer of Great Bend; a sister, Carol Tieben and husband Daryl 
of Dodge City; and fifteen grandchildren, Alyssia Garcia Kramer (David),
 Jayden Kramer, Janica Kramer, Anastacia Kramer, Michael Kramer, 
Julianna Kramer, Matthew Kramer, Mia Vera, Isaac Owens, Jaylene Campos, 
Brysen Owens, Destiny Kramer, Alexander Kramer, Maddison Kramer and 
Gabriel Kramer. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Bryan
 Kramer and Adam Kramer; and a brother, Mark Kramer.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, October 23, 
2022, at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m.,
 Monday, October 24, 2022, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Archie 
Moody presiding. Interment will be in Valley View Cemetery, Garden City,
 Kan. at 2:00 p.m. 

Memorials have been designated to the Norman “Pete” 
Kramer Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666277505603.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Norman “Pete” Kramer, 67, passed away October 19, 2022, at Clara 
Barton Hospital, Hoisington, Kan. He was born November 25, 1954, at 
Oakland, Calif. to Bernard &amp; Norma (Bowman) Kramer. He married Jean 
A. Scheer August 14, 1976, at Garden City.Coming from Garden City in 2015, Pete was a current Great Bend 
resident. He was a machinist for Simmons Pump &amp; Machinery. Pete was 
of the Catholic faith. He enjoyed collecting coins and hot wheels, and 
hunting and fishing. He was an avid football and baseball fan. Pete 
especially enjoyed spending time with his family.Survivors include, his wife, Jean Kramer of the home; a son, Nathan 
Kramer and wife Barbara of Garden City; two daughters, Anna Kramer and 
Stacey Kramer (Milton Barnes) both of Garden City; a daughter in law, 
Radonda Kramer of Great Bend; a sister, Carol Tieben and husband Daryl 
of Dodge City; and fifteen grandchildren, Alyssia Garcia Kramer (David),
 Jayden Kramer, Janica Kramer, Anastacia Kramer, Michael Kramer, 
Julianna Kramer, Matthew Kramer, Mia Vera, Isaac Owens, Jaylene Campos, 
Brysen Owens, Destiny Kramer, Alexander Kramer, Maddison Kramer and 
Gabriel Kramer. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, Bryan
 Kramer and Adam Kramer; and a brother, Mark Kramer.Visitation will be held from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, October 23, 
2022, at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m.,
 Monday, October 24, 2022, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Pastor Archie 
Moody presiding. Interment will be in Valley View Cemetery, Garden City,
 Kan. at 2:00 p.m. Memorials have been designated to the Norman “Pete” 
Kramer Expense Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Norman 'Pete' Kramer

Ben Keith, formerly of Morland, Kansas, died October 16, 2022, at Pharr, Texas. He was the son of William and Ethel (Fawcett) Keith.&nbsp;

An obituary and services details are pending with Stinemetz Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666284861226.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ben Keith, formerly of Morland, Kansas, died October 16, 2022, at Pharr, Texas. He was the son of William and Ethel (Fawcett) Keith.&nbsp;An obituary and services details are pending with Stinemetz Funeral Home.

Ben William Keith

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — With advance voting underway in Kansas ahead of the November 8, general election, the Biden administration sent U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Labor Secretary Martin Walsh to campaign for Democrat candidates Governor Laura Kelly and Rep. Sharice Davids.

&nbsp;Walsh appeared with Kansas 3rd District Democratic Representative Sharice Davids in Edgerton for a supply chain-focused event. Governor Laura Kelly was not in attendance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As the trucking industry continues to face a driver shortage, training and retaining drivers is imperative so we can unstick our supply chain," Davids wrote on social media. "I’m glad Secretary Walsh&nbsp;got to visit Kansas 3rd District today to see the great things happening at the Johnson County Community College CDL program."

Davids is trying to hold off GOP challenger Amanda Adkins.

Buttigieg&nbsp; addressed a rally for candidates in Kansas City, Kansas. Senate candidate Mark Holland, Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers and KCMO Mayor Quinton Lucas attended. Governor Laura Kelly did not attend the event.&nbsp; 

Kelly was on a tour of Quest Diagnostics in nearby Lenexa, according to her social media page. She reminds those who follow her on Twitter that she is "committed to show she works with all Kansans – no matter their party or politics."

On Friday, former Vice President Mike Pence will appear with Derek Schmidt at<a href="https://bbqwichita.com/">&nbsp;B&amp;C Barbecue</a>&nbsp;in Wichita,&nbsp;according to Schmidt’s campaign.&nbsp;

Fellow Republicans, Sen. Jerry Moran and Reps. Ron Estes, Tracey Mann and Jake LaTurner are also expected to attend the campaign event.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666209817104.png" alt="Rep. Davids (center )and Sec. Walsh in Edgerton, Kansas on Wednesday -courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Davids (center )and Sec. Walsh in Edgerton, Kansas on Wednesday -courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. — With advance voting underway in Kansas ahead of the November 8, general election, the Biden administration sent U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Labor Secretary Martin Walsh to campaign for Democrat candidates Governor Laura Kelly and Rep. Sharice Davids.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Got to cross the state line today to spend time with the women and men of <a href="https://twitter.com/UAW?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UAW</a> Local 31, as they welcomed Sec. Pete Buttigieg to town to support the retention of outstanding Kansas office holders, Gov. Kelly and Rep. Davids. Great spirit heading into November in the labor crowd. <a href="https://t.co/8IbNF0gVFG">pic.twitter.com/8IbNF0gVFG</a>&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/1582839402526801921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>&nbsp;Walsh appeared with Kansas 3rd District Democratic Representative Sharice Davids in Edgerton for a supply chain-focused event. Governor Laura Kelly was not in attendance.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666210169752.png" alt="Davids and Sec. Walsh at Johnson County Community College-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Davids and Sec. Walsh at Johnson County Community College-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"As the trucking industry continues to face a driver shortage, training and retaining drivers is imperative so we can unstick our supply chain," Davids wrote on social media. "I’m glad Secretary Walsh&nbsp;got to visit Kansas 3rd District today to see the great things happening at the Johnson County Community College CDL program."Davids is trying to hold off GOP challenger Amanda Adkins.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666233119638.png" alt="Buttigieg and U.S. Senate candidate Mark Holland" />
 <figcaption>Buttigieg and U.S. Senate candidate Mark Holland</figcaption>
 </figure>Buttigieg&nbsp; addressed a rally for candidates in Kansas City, Kansas. Senate candidate Mark Holland, Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers and KCMO Mayor Quinton Lucas attended. Governor Laura Kelly did not attend the event.&nbsp; Kelly was on a tour of Quest Diagnostics in nearby Lenexa, according to her social media page. She reminds those who follow her on Twitter that she is "committed to show she works with all Kansans – no matter their party or politics."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I was pleased to tour the <a href="https://twitter.com/QuestDX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@QuestDX</a> lab in <a href="https://twitter.com/cityoflenexa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cityoflenexa</a> today– a thriving business that employs nearly 2,000 people in the Kansas City area. Thank you for your critical role in our state&#39;s health care services. <a href="https://t.co/jARD6eQJVu">pic.twitter.com/jARD6eQJVu</a>&mdash; Governor Laura Kelly (@GovLauraKelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly/status/1582829335836098562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On Friday, former Vice President Mike Pence will appear with Derek Schmidt at<a href="https://bbqwichita.com/">&nbsp;B&amp;C Barbecue</a>&nbsp;in Wichita,&nbsp;according to Schmidt’s campaign.&nbsp;Fellow Republicans, Sen. Jerry Moran and Reps. Ron Estes, Tracey Mann and Jake LaTurner are also expected to attend the campaign event.

Gov. Kelly skips campaign events with Biden cabinet secretaries 

Linda Marie (Sandvil) Rumback passed from this world October 13, 2022, 
at 63 years of age. As most who knew her were aware, she had been ill 
for some time, and her passing was expected. 
She was born in September of 1959 to Joseph Jr. and Sheila Sandvil in 
Highland Falls, New York. Born into a military family, her early 
childhood was spent at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. 
She attended high school in Dunedin, Florida, where she graduated in 
1979. She worked as a florist until her marriage to Jim Rumback in 1986.
 To this marriage were born four children. 
After moving from Georgia to Kansas, she began to work for Oakley Public
 Schools in the cafeteria, where she made ¬life-long friends. Many may 
remember stopping for a hug as they grabbed their milk in the lunch 
line. 
In 2009, she became seriously ill and faced a lengthy hospitalization, 
which saw an incredibly generous outpouring of thoughtfulness and 
kindness from the community. 
Linda spent most of the last decade residing at the Logan County Manor, 
where she saw many friends come and go. Our family could not be more 
grateful for the care she received from the staff at the Logan County 
Manor and hospice, as well as from her personal physician, Dr. Herscher. 
She is preceded in death by her parents, and more recently, by her younger brother, Mark Sandvil. 
She leaves behind her spouse, James Rumback, daughter Mollie and husband
 Bryan Kough, of Dighton, Kansas; son Alexander and wife Kendra Rumback,
 of Spruce Pine, North Carolina; and daughters Heidi and husband Dakota 
Pannell and Floralee and husband Ryan Samut Tagliaferro, of Duncan, 
Oklahoma. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Logan, Sawyer, and 
Rory Kough; Owen and Daphne Rumback; Isaac Rumback; and Lexis Glassman 
and Levi Samut Tagliaferro. 
Funeral services will be provided by Baalmann Mortuary, of Oakley, Kansas. Services will be announced at a later date.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666277774309.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Linda Marie (Sandvil) Rumback passed from this world October 13, 2022, 
at 63 years of age. As most who knew her were aware, she had been ill 
for some time, and her passing was expected. 
She was born in September of 1959 to Joseph Jr. and Sheila Sandvil in 
Highland Falls, New York. Born into a military family, her early 
childhood was spent at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. 
She attended high school in Dunedin, Florida, where she graduated in 
1979. She worked as a florist until her marriage to Jim Rumback in 1986.
 To this marriage were born four children. 
After moving from Georgia to Kansas, she began to work for Oakley Public
 Schools in the cafeteria, where she made ¬life-long friends. Many may 
remember stopping for a hug as they grabbed their milk in the lunch 
line. 
In 2009, she became seriously ill and faced a lengthy hospitalization, 
which saw an incredibly generous outpouring of thoughtfulness and 
kindness from the community. 
Linda spent most of the last decade residing at the Logan County Manor, 
where she saw many friends come and go. Our family could not be more 
grateful for the care she received from the staff at the Logan County 
Manor and hospice, as well as from her personal physician, Dr. Herscher. 
She is preceded in death by her parents, and more recently, by her younger brother, Mark Sandvil. 
She leaves behind her spouse, James Rumback, daughter Mollie and husband
 Bryan Kough, of Dighton, Kansas; son Alexander and wife Kendra Rumback,
 of Spruce Pine, North Carolina; and daughters Heidi and husband Dakota 
Pannell and Floralee and husband Ryan Samut Tagliaferro, of Duncan, 
Oklahoma. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Logan, Sawyer, and 
Rory Kough; Owen and Daphne Rumback; Isaac Rumback; and Lexis Glassman 
and Levi Samut Tagliaferro. 
Funeral services will be provided by Baalmann Mortuary, of Oakley, Kansas. Services will be announced at a later date.&nbsp;

Linda Marie (Sandvil) Rumback

TOPEKA - The Kansas Volleyball Association is pleased to announce the 2022 Week 7 Volleyball Rankings. Records listed reflect information that was submitted by Monday, October 17. This is the final week of rankings for the 2022 season.

Class 6A 1. Washburn Rural 38-1 (1) 2. Olathe Northwest 25-7 (2) 3. Blue Valley Northwest 23-10 (4) 4. Blue Valley 26-9 (8) 5. Blue Valley North 19-10 (7) 6. Shawnee Mission Northwest 24-9 (6) 7. Mill Valley 28-8 (5) 8. Olathe West 24-6 (3) 9. Wichita Northwest 31-4 (10) 10. Blue Valley West 21-13 (9)

Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas 32-3 (1) 2. St. James Academy 31-3 (2) 3. Topeka-Seaman 28-8 (3) 4. Lansing 24-8 (4) 5. Bishop Carroll 26-9 (7) 6. Andover Central 30-7 (8) 7. Maize South 29-5 (6) 8. Hutchinson 28-7 (5) 9. Spring Hill 22-12 (NR) 10. Goddard-Eisenhower 27-10 (10)

Class 4A 1. Andale 35-0 (1) 2. Baldwin 29-3 (2) 3. Circle 30-4 (3) 4. Bishop Miege 14-21 (4) 5. Clay Center 23-10 (7) 6. Rock Creek 23-10 (6) 7. Paola 23-11 (5) 8. Tonganoxie 20-14 (9) 9. Eudora 20-13 (8) 10. Abilene 20-16 (NR)

Class 3A 1. Nemaha Central 37-1 (1) 2. Heritage Christian 27-7 (3) 3. Cheney 30-4 (2) 4. Beloit 29-5 (4) 5. Riverton 32-2 (5) 6. Rossville 30-5 (7) 7. Goodland 33-3 (6) 8. Smoky Valley 27-8 (8) 9. Silver Lake 24-9 (9) 10. Phillipsburg 28-7 (10)

Class 2A 1. Hillsboro 34-1 (1) 2. Sedgwick 34-0 (2) 3. Smith Center 33-4 (3) 4. Ellinwood 32-3 (4) 5. Inman 29-5 (5) 6. Garden Plain 25-9 (6) 7. Berean Academy 27-6 (7) 8. Ell-Saline 27-8 (9) 9. Jefferson County North 25-8 (NR) 10. Hoxie 26-9 (10)

Class 1A – Division 1 1. Little River 32-4 (2) 2. Spearville 25-4 (3) 3. Pretty Prairie 32-4 (1) 4. South Gray 29-5 (5) 5. Doniphan West 31-5 (4) 6. Flinthills 34-2 (6) 7. Sylvan-Lucas 34-2 (7) 8. Centralia 29-9 (8) 9. Kiowa County 23-9 (10) 10. St. Francis 26-9 (9)

Class 1A – Division 2 1. Attica 33-3 (1) 2. Hanover 30-5 (3) 3. Lebo 35-1 (2) 4. Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton 28-7 (4) 5. St. Paul 30-6 (5) 6. Southern Coffey County 28-7 (7) 7. Greeley County 25-10 (6) 8. Coldwater-South Central 21-11 (10) 9. Hutchinson-Central Christian 23-10 (8) 10. Golden Plains 25-11 (9)

KVA ReleaseTOPEKA - The Kansas Volleyball Association is pleased to announce the 2022 Week 7 Volleyball Rankings. Records listed reflect information that was submitted by Monday, October 17. This is the final week of rankings for the 2022 season.Class 6A 1. Washburn Rural 38-1 (1) 2. Olathe Northwest 25-7 (2) 3. Blue Valley Northwest 23-10 (4) 4. Blue Valley 26-9 (8) 5. Blue Valley North 19-10 (7) 6. Shawnee Mission Northwest 24-9 (6) 7. Mill Valley 28-8 (5) 8. Olathe West 24-6 (3) 9. Wichita Northwest 31-4 (10) 10. Blue Valley West 21-13 (9)Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas 32-3 (1) 2. St. James Academy 31-3 (2) 3. Topeka-Seaman 28-8 (3) 4. Lansing 24-8 (4) 5. Bishop Carroll 26-9 (7) 6. Andover Central 30-7 (8) 7. Maize South 29-5 (6) 8. Hutchinson 28-7 (5) 9. Spring Hill 22-12 (NR) 10. Goddard-Eisenhower 27-10 (10)Class 4A 1. Andale 35-0 (1) 2. Baldwin 29-3 (2) 3. Circle 30-4 (3) 4. Bishop Miege 14-21 (4) 5. Clay Center 23-10 (7) 6. Rock Creek 23-10 (6) 7. Paola 23-11 (5) 8. Tonganoxie 20-14 (9) 9. Eudora 20-13 (8) 10. Abilene 20-16 (NR)Class 3A 1. Nemaha Central 37-1 (1) 2. Heritage Christian 27-7 (3) 3. Cheney 30-4 (2) 4. Beloit 29-5 (4) 5. Riverton 32-2 (5) 6. Rossville 30-5 (7) 7. Goodland 33-3 (6) 8. Smoky Valley 27-8 (8) 9. Silver Lake 24-9 (9) 10. Phillipsburg 28-7 (10)Class 2A 1. Hillsboro 34-1 (1) 2. Sedgwick 34-0 (2) 3. Smith Center 33-4 (3) 4. Ellinwood 32-3 (4) 5. Inman 29-5 (5) 6. Garden Plain 25-9 (6) 7. Berean Academy 27-6 (7) 8. Ell-Saline 27-8 (9) 9. Jefferson County North 25-8 (NR) 10. Hoxie 26-9 (10)Class 1A – Division 1 1. Little River 32-4 (2) 2. Spearville 25-4 (3) 3. Pretty Prairie 32-4 (1) 4. South Gray 29-5 (5) 5. Doniphan West 31-5 (4) 6. Flinthills 34-2 (6) 7. Sylvan-Lucas 34-2 (7) 8. Centralia 29-9 (8) 9. Kiowa County 23-9 (10) 10. St. Francis 26-9 (9)Class 1A – Division 2 1. Attica 33-3 (1) 2. Hanover 30-5 (3) 3. Lebo 35-1 (2) 4. Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton 28-7 (4) 5. St. Paul 30-6 (5) 6. Southern Coffey County 28-7 (7) 7. Greeley County 25-10 (6) 8. Coldwater-South Central 21-11 (10) 9. Hutchinson-Central Christian 23-10 (8) 10. Golden Plains 25-11 (9)

🏐 KVA releases week seven rankings

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged violent attack on a woman.

Just after 9p.m October 17, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the north part of Garden City after 911 communications received an inaudible call from a woman. She then texted 911 stating she needed help. 

Upon arrival, officers observed a woman in distress and learned she had been in a physical altercation with a man known to her.

The investigation revealed that the woman and the man, identified as Siraj Mohamad, 43, Garden City, got into an argument, and the woman attempted to leave. 

Mohamad allegedly became upset, struck the woman several times, and prevented her from leaving. 

Mohamad allegedly strangled the woman and upon letting her go, the woman was able to contact 911. Police arrested Mohamad on requested charges of&nbsp; Aggravated Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666124146537.png" alt="Mohamad-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Mohamad-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for an alleged violent attack on a woman.Just after 9p.m October 17, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the north part of Garden City after 911 communications received an inaudible call from a woman. She then texted 911 stating she needed help. Upon arrival, officers observed a woman in distress and learned she had been in a physical altercation with a man known to her.The investigation revealed that the woman and the man, identified as Siraj Mohamad, 43, Garden City, got into an argument, and the woman attempted to leave. Mohamad allegedly became upset, struck the woman several times, and prevented her from leaving. Mohamad allegedly strangled the woman and upon letting her go, the woman was able to contact 911. Police arrested Mohamad on requested charges of&nbsp; Aggravated Domestic Battery and Criminal Restraint.

Police: SW Kan. woman texted 911 for help after violent attack

Betty M. Swartz, age 67 years, longtime Great Bend, Kansas, resident, passed away at her home in Great Bend on Tuesday afternoon, October 18, 2022.&nbsp; Betty was born on October 18, 1955, at Danville, Illinois, to Leon and Ileta (Morgeson) Burton, and raised by Willard and Ileta Schuckman.&nbsp; She worked as a Machinist for FMC Corporation at their plant in Hoopeston, Illinois, for 11 years, after moving to Great Bend in 2003 was employed by Oversize Warning Products Inc. in Great Bend for many years.&nbsp; Betty was an accomplished quilter and seamstress, and also sewed and sold handmade quilts.&nbsp; She loved quilting and sewing, puzzles, and outdoor activities including Sand Rails.&nbsp;

Survivors include her longtime companion Leland “Lee” Zerr of Great Bend, Kansas; one son Jason Grove of Great Bend, and one daughter-in-law Amy Grove of Great Bend; one grandson Tyler Grove; two sisters:&nbsp; Donna Brazda of Hoisington, Kansas and Kim (&amp; Keith) Frank of La Crosse, Kansas; nieces and nephews.&nbsp; Betty was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Mont Burton.

According to her wishes, cremation has been chosen and inurnment will take place in the La Crosse Cemetery, La Crosse, Kansas, at a later date.&nbsp; 

Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society with Janousek Funeral Home of La Crosse, Kansas, in charge. Online condolences may be left for the family and a full obituary notice may be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.janousekfuneralhome.com/">http://www.janousekfuneralhome.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666274329511.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Betty M. Swartz, age 67 years, longtime Great Bend, Kansas, resident, passed away at her home in Great Bend on Tuesday afternoon, October 18, 2022.&nbsp; Betty was born on October 18, 1955, at Danville, Illinois, to Leon and Ileta (Morgeson) Burton, and raised by Willard and Ileta Schuckman.&nbsp; She worked as a Machinist for FMC Corporation at their plant in Hoopeston, Illinois, for 11 years, after moving to Great Bend in 2003 was employed by Oversize Warning Products Inc. in Great Bend for many years.&nbsp; Betty was an accomplished quilter and seamstress, and also sewed and sold handmade quilts.&nbsp; She loved quilting and sewing, puzzles, and outdoor activities including Sand Rails.&nbsp;Survivors include her longtime companion Leland “Lee” Zerr of Great Bend, Kansas; one son Jason Grove of Great Bend, and one daughter-in-law Amy Grove of Great Bend; one grandson Tyler Grove; two sisters:&nbsp; Donna Brazda of Hoisington, Kansas and Kim (&amp; Keith) Frank of La Crosse, Kansas; nieces and nephews.&nbsp; Betty was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Mont Burton.According to her wishes, cremation has been chosen and inurnment will take place in the La Crosse Cemetery, La Crosse, Kansas, at a later date.&nbsp; Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society with Janousek Funeral Home of La Crosse, Kansas, in charge. Online condolences may be left for the family and a full obituary notice may be viewed at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.janousekfuneralhome.com/">http://www.janousekfuneralhome.com</a>

Betty M. Swartz

A Memorial 
Mass for Clarence “Butch” Dreiling will be held on Friday, November 4, 
2022, at 10:30 a.m. at the All Saints Catholic Church in Holdrege, 
Nebraska, with Father Jay Buhman as Celebrant.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow at
 the Prairie Home Cemetery at Holdrege with Military Honors provided by 
the Martin-Horn American Legion Post #66 in conjunction with the United 
States Army Funeral Honors Team.

Rosary will be prayed prior to mass at 9:30 a.m. at the church.

Clarence “Butch” Dreiling, of Holdrege, passed away peacefully 
surrounded by his family on Friday, October 14, 2022 at the Regional 
West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. During his 83 years, Butch
 lived a full life. He was born on August 9, 1939, in Ellis, Kansas, the
 fourth of five children to Celestine and Bernadetta “Nettie” (Reidel) 
Dreiling. Butch grew up in Ellis, Kansas, where he graduated from Ellis 
High School in 1957.

After 
high school, Butch worked for Coca-Cola bottling company as a truck 
driver, followed by delivering meat for the B&amp;B meat packing company
 in Hays, Kansas. In 1960, Butch started his long-time career at 
Kansas-Nebraska Natural Gas Company. After starting off digging ditches,
 his loyalty and work ethic led his career up to Fleet Administrator. 
After 39 hard working years, Butch retired in 1999. Butch enlisted in 
the Army in 1961 and was honorably discharged in 1963. He loved his time
 in the service and continued to serve in many capacities after retiring
 from the gas company.

Butch 
met Marietta Lee Munk and they were married on August 21, 1965 in 
Oakley, Kansas. They lived in Kansas until 1976, when they relocated to 
Holdrege, Nebraska for Butch’s job. Through that union, Butch and 
Marietta were blessed with 56 years of marriage, three children (Kelly, 
Leslee and Matt) and their seven grandchildren. They shared their last 
44 years of marriage in Holdrege, Nebraska.

Butch 
was a member of the All Saints Catholic Church, Disabled Veterans, Fleet
 Association of America, Kansas-Nebraska Trap Shooting Association and 
the American Legion.

Butch 
enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life.&nbsp; Butch enjoyed wood-working, 
making countless pieces for his family, as well as people in the 
community. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, trap shooting, golfing, and 
playing cards, but his greatest joy was watching his grandkids play 
their sports. Butch always led by example, volunteering in the 
community. He drove veterans to appointments, worked at the food pantry 
and was instrumental in the creation of the Veterans Memorial in 
Holdrege. Some may be surprised to know that after retirement, Butch and
 Marietta enjoyed a few trips to Sturgis on their Harley.

Family 
who survived to cherish his memory are daughter, Kelly (Clinton) Ratliff
 of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; daughter, Leslee (Brian) Valenta of Grimes, 
Iowa; and son, Matt (Tiffany) Dreiling of Destrehan, Louisiana; 
Grandchildren: Jarrett Ratliff, Jakob Ratliff, Zoey Valenta, Wyatt 
Valenta, Tate Valenta, Brayden Dreiling and Emma Dreiling.&nbsp; Also 
survived are brother, Robert (Mary) Dreiling of Hays, Kansas; and 
sister, Elfreda Eberle of Fort Collins, Colorado.

Butch was preceded in death by his wife, Marietta; sister, Alice Weber; brother, Jerry Dreiling and his parents.

There 
will be no visitation, viewing, or memorial book signing the evening 
prior to the mass.&nbsp; The family has honored Butch’s wish for cremation.

A memorial has been established in Butch’s honor, and kindly suggested to the family for later designation.

Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at <a href="http://www.nelsonbauerfh.com/">www.nelsonbauerfh.com</a>

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666272114735.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Memorial 
Mass for Clarence “Butch” Dreiling will be held on Friday, November 4, 
2022, at 10:30 a.m. at the All Saints Catholic Church in Holdrege, 
Nebraska, with Father Jay Buhman as Celebrant.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow at
 the Prairie Home Cemetery at Holdrege with Military Honors provided by 
the Martin-Horn American Legion Post #66 in conjunction with the United 
States Army Funeral Honors Team.Rosary will be prayed prior to mass at 9:30 a.m. at the church.Clarence “Butch” Dreiling, of Holdrege, passed away peacefully 
surrounded by his family on Friday, October 14, 2022 at the Regional 
West Medical Center in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. During his 83 years, Butch
 lived a full life. He was born on August 9, 1939, in Ellis, Kansas, the
 fourth of five children to Celestine and Bernadetta “Nettie” (Reidel) 
Dreiling. Butch grew up in Ellis, Kansas, where he graduated from Ellis 
High School in 1957.After 
high school, Butch worked for Coca-Cola bottling company as a truck 
driver, followed by delivering meat for the B&amp;B meat packing company
 in Hays, Kansas. In 1960, Butch started his long-time career at 
Kansas-Nebraska Natural Gas Company. After starting off digging ditches,
 his loyalty and work ethic led his career up to Fleet Administrator. 
After 39 hard working years, Butch retired in 1999. Butch enlisted in 
the Army in 1961 and was honorably discharged in 1963. He loved his time
 in the service and continued to serve in many capacities after retiring
 from the gas company.Butch 
met Marietta Lee Munk and they were married on August 21, 1965 in 
Oakley, Kansas. They lived in Kansas until 1976, when they relocated to 
Holdrege, Nebraska for Butch’s job. Through that union, Butch and 
Marietta were blessed with 56 years of marriage, three children (Kelly, 
Leslee and Matt) and their seven grandchildren. They shared their last 
44 years of marriage in Holdrege, Nebraska.Butch 
was a member of the All Saints Catholic Church, Disabled Veterans, Fleet
 Association of America, Kansas-Nebraska Trap Shooting Association and 
the American Legion.Butch 
enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life.&nbsp; Butch enjoyed wood-working, 
making countless pieces for his family, as well as people in the 
community. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, trap shooting, golfing, and 
playing cards, but his greatest joy was watching his grandkids play 
their sports. Butch always led by example, volunteering in the 
community. He drove veterans to appointments, worked at the food pantry 
and was instrumental in the creation of the Veterans Memorial in 
Holdrege. Some may be surprised to know that after retirement, Butch and
 Marietta enjoyed a few trips to Sturgis on their Harley.Family 
who survived to cherish his memory are daughter, Kelly (Clinton) Ratliff
 of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; daughter, Leslee (Brian) Valenta of Grimes, 
Iowa; and son, Matt (Tiffany) Dreiling of Destrehan, Louisiana; 
Grandchildren: Jarrett Ratliff, Jakob Ratliff, Zoey Valenta, Wyatt 
Valenta, Tate Valenta, Brayden Dreiling and Emma Dreiling.&nbsp; Also 
survived are brother, Robert (Mary) Dreiling of Hays, Kansas; and 
sister, Elfreda Eberle of Fort Collins, Colorado.Butch was preceded in death by his wife, Marietta; sister, Alice Weber; brother, Jerry Dreiling and his parents.There 
will be no visitation, viewing, or memorial book signing the evening 
prior to the mass.&nbsp; The family has honored Butch’s wish for cremation.A memorial has been established in Butch’s honor, and kindly suggested to the family for later designation.Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at <a href="http://www.nelsonbauerfh.com/">www.nelsonbauerfh.com</a>The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is in charge of the arrangements.

Clarence 'Butch' Dreiling

R. Janice Jacobs Klein, age &nbsp;95, passed 
away at her home in Tribune, Kansas on Tuesday, October 18, 2022. She 
was born on October 24, 1926, to Vernon Huntley and Ruby Nancy Willett 
Jacobs in Liberal, Kansas.

Her life will be celebrated Saturday, October 22, 2022, 11:00 MST at 
the Tribune United Methodist Church &nbsp;pastored by Jeri Farmer Smith. This
 will be a joint service with her husband, Bill. 

Click <a href="https://www.priceandsons.com/obituaries/r-klein">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666271875728.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>R. Janice Jacobs Klein, age &nbsp;95, passed 
away at her home in Tribune, Kansas on Tuesday, October 18, 2022. She 
was born on October 24, 1926, to Vernon Huntley and Ruby Nancy Willett 
Jacobs in Liberal, Kansas.Her life will be celebrated Saturday, October 22, 2022, 11:00 MST at 
the Tribune United Methodist Church &nbsp;pastored by Jeri Farmer Smith. This
 will be a joint service with her husband, Bill. Click <a href="https://www.priceandsons.com/obituaries/r-klein">HERE</a> for service details.

R. Janice Klein

WASHINGTON —President Joe Biden announced the release of 15 million barrels of oil from the U.S. strategic reserve Wednesday as part of a response to recent production cuts announced by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/opec">OPEC+ nations</a>, and he said more drawdowns are possible this winter, as his administration rushes to be seen as pulling out all the stops ahead of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections">next month’s midterm elections</a>.

Below is a transcript of his comments provided by the White House. "Earlier this year, because of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, the price of oil and gas increased dramatically, and I acted decisively at the time.&nbsp; And thanks in part to those actions, the price of our gas has fallen 30 percent from the summer highs.&nbsp; Now it’s down about $1.15 a gallon from their peak during the summer, and gas prices have fallen every day in the last week.&nbsp; Let me repeat: Gas prices have come down, and they continue to come down again.&nbsp; They’re now down more than 27 cents a gallon in Wisconsin this past week, 27 cents in Oregon, 16 cents in Ohio, 25 cents in Nevada, 17 cents in — in Indiana in just the last 10 days.&nbsp; And that’s progress.&nbsp; But they’re not falling fast enough.&nbsp; Families are hurting.&nbsp; You’ve heard me say before, but I get it.&nbsp; I come from a family — if the price of gasoline went up at the gas station, we felt it.&nbsp; Gas prices hit almost every family in this country, and they squeeze their family budgets.&nbsp;

And when the price of gas goes up, other expenses get cut. That’s why I have been doing everything in my power to reduce gas prices since Putin’s invasion of Ukraine caused these price hikes — these prices to spike and rattled international oil markets.&nbsp; (Clears throat.)&nbsp; Excuse me.&nbsp; I focused on how we can protect American families from that spike and give folks just a little bit of breathing room, as my dad would say.&nbsp; Today I’m announcing three critical steps that my administration will take to reduce gas prices at the pump.&nbsp; First, the Department of Energy will release another 15 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, extending our previously announced release through the month of December."

"Independent analysis they — excuse me, independent analysts have confirmed that drawdowns from the reserves so far have played a big role in bringing down oil prices — bringing them down.&nbsp; So, we’re going to continue to responsibly use that national asset.&nbsp; Right now, the Strategic Pol- — the Strategic Petroleum Reserve is more than half full, with about 400 million barrels of oil.&nbsp; That’s more than enough for any emergency drawdown. With my announcement today, we’re going to continue to stabilize markets and decrease the prices at a time when the actions of other countries have caused such volatility.&nbsp; And I’ve told my team behind me here to be prepared to look further — look for further releases in the months ahead if needed.&nbsp; We’re calling it a “Ready and Release” plan.&nbsp; This allows us to move quickly to prevent oil price spikes and respond to international events.&nbsp; Secondly, we need to responsibly increase American oil production without delaying or deferring our transition to clean energy.&nbsp; Let me — let’s debunk some myths here.&nbsp; My administration has not stopped or slowed U.S. oil production; quite the opposite.&nbsp; We’re producing 12 million barrels of oil per day.&nbsp; And by the end of this year, we will be producing 1 million barrels a day, more than the day in which I took office.&nbsp; In fact, we’re on track for record oil production in 2023. And today, the United States is the largest producer of oil and petroleum products in the world.&nbsp; We export more than we import.&nbsp; And I still heard from oil comp- — and I’ve heard from oil companies that they’re worried that investing in additional oil production today will — will — in case of the — in case demand goes down in the future, and they’re not going to be able to sell their oil products at a competitive price later. Well, we have a solution for that.&nbsp; Today, I’m announcing a plan to refill the Strato- — the Strategic Petroleum Res- — Oil Reserve in the years ahead at a profit for taxpayers.&nbsp; The United States government is going to purchase oil to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve when prices fall to $70 a barrel.&nbsp; And that means oil companies can invest to ramp up production now, with confidence they’ll be able to sell their oil to us at that price in the future: $70. Refining and refilling the reserve at $70 a barrel is a good price for companies and it’s a good price for the taxpayers, and it’s critical to our national security. To put it in context, since March, the average price of oil has been more than $90 a barrel, the highest since 2014.&nbsp; By selling from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve at the higher price of $90 earlier this year and then refilling it in the future at a lower price, around $70, it will actually make money for the taxpayers, lower the price of gas, and help bolster production, all while totally consistent with my commitment to accelerate to transition to clean energy.&nbsp; So my message to oil companies is: You’re sitting on record profits, and you’re — and we’re giving you more certainty.&nbsp; So you can act now to increase oil production now. The third thing I’m doing is I’m calling on oil companies to pass the savings on to consumers. Consider this: In the second quarter of this year, profits at six of the largest produce- — publicly traded oil companies were more than $70 billion.&nbsp; That’s $70 billion in just one quarter — 90 days.&nbsp; Seventy billion.&nbsp; So far, American oil companies are using that windfall — the windfall of profits to buy back their own stock, passing that money on to their shareholders, not to consumers. In fact, in the first half of the year, those same companies spent over $20 billion buying back their own stock and, most importantly, buying back — a buyback that — the most significant buyback in the last — almost a decade. That’s great if you own a lot of stock in oil companies or if you’re an executive in an oil company.&nbsp; It puts a lot of money in your pocket.&nbsp; That — it’s how you get paid.&nbsp; But it’s not the case for the vast majority of Americans paying at the pump. Here’s another thing: When the cost of oil comes down, we should see the price at the gas station — at the pump come down as well.&nbsp; That’s how it’s supposed to work.&nbsp; But that’s not what’s happening. In the past two weeks, the price of oil has fallen $4 a barrel.&nbsp; And you think — and thanks in large part to steps we’ve taken this year, the price of oil has fallen nearly $40 a barrel since mid-June.&nbsp; That’s a 30 percent drop in the price of a barrel of oil.&nbsp; But guess what?&nbsp; Gas prices haven’t fallen that much.&nbsp; And it’s not right.&nbsp; Gas prices at the pump should be lower. In fact, if retailers and refiners were earning the average profit they’ve made over the last 17 years, Americans would be paying at least 60 cents less per gallon for every gallon they buy.&nbsp; Say it again: 60 cents less for every gallon they buy.&nbsp; That makes a big difference in a family. My message to the American energy companies is this: You should not be using your profits to buy back stock or for dividends.&nbsp; Not now.&nbsp; Not while a war is raging. You should use those record-breaking profits to increase production and refining.&nbsp; Invest in America for the American people.&nbsp; Bring down the price you charge at the pump to reflect what you pay for the product. You still make a significant profit.&nbsp; Your shareholders will still do very well.&nbsp; And the American people will catch the break they deserve and get a fair price at the pump as well. One more thing I want to mention today.&nbsp; Our country needs to pass permitting reform to accelerate the development of clean energy. Right now, the process of getting clean energy projects approved is too cumbersome and too time consuming.&nbsp; So, I’m asking the Congress: Pass a permitting bill to speed up the approval of all kinds of energy production from wind, to solar, to clean hydrogen.&nbsp; Because we need to get this moving now, quickly — now. It would take — you know, this — if we do this, it would take the historic clean energy investments that I signed into law and put them into action. In fact, one independent analyst has already estimated that the $369 billion we’re making in federal investments that will generate — if we just — just that will generate $1.7 trillion in total public and private investments in the years ahead. You can increase oil and gas production now while still moving full speed ahead to accelerate our transition to clean energy.&nbsp; That way — that way, we can lower energy costs for American families, enhance our national security at a very difficult moment.&nbsp; Let me close with this.&nbsp; I know it’s been a rough four or five years for the country.&nbsp; For a lot of families, things are still tough. The choices made by other countries are affecting the price of gas here at home.&nbsp; That’s why I’ve been acting so aggressively. Without the steps we have taken over the past several months to ramp up production and lower prices and get relief to consumers, gas prices would be higher than they are today. And we’ll keep doing everything we can to keep it going to ensure our energy independence and security is available and to lower gas prices here at home and to give folks a little bit of breathing room. We just have to remember who we are.&nbsp; We’re the United States of America, for God’s sake.&nbsp; There’s not a single thing we can’t do when we put our minds to it.&nbsp; And we can strengthen our energy security now, and we can build a clean energy economy for the future at the same time.&nbsp; This is totally within our capacity.&nbsp; Totally within our capacity. Gas prices are coming down.&nbsp; We’re going to do everything we can to make sure they continue to come down and companies act responsibly so it’s reflected at the pump. Thank you all.&nbsp; And may God bless you.&nbsp; And may God protect our troops."&nbsp;

WASHINGTON —President Joe Biden announced the release of 15 million barrels of oil from the U.S. strategic reserve Wednesday as part of a response to recent production cuts announced by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/opec">OPEC+ nations</a>, and he said more drawdowns are possible this winter, as his administration rushes to be seen as pulling out all the stops ahead of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections">next month’s midterm elections</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Happening Now: President Biden delivers remarks on additional actions to lower costs and strengthen energy security. <a href="https://t.co/pRJ5ioOiKY">https://t.co/pRJ5ioOiKY</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1582785782976159744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Below is a transcript of his comments provided by the White House. "Earlier this year, because of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, the price of oil and gas increased dramatically, and I acted decisively at the time.&nbsp; And thanks in part to those actions, the price of our gas has fallen 30 percent from the summer highs.&nbsp; Now it’s down about $1.15 a gallon from their peak during the summer, and gas prices have fallen every day in the last week.&nbsp; Let me repeat: Gas prices have come down, and they continue to come down again.&nbsp; They’re now down more than 27 cents a gallon in Wisconsin this past week, 27 cents in Oregon, 16 cents in Ohio, 25 cents in Nevada, 17 cents in — in Indiana in just the last 10 days.&nbsp; And that’s progress.&nbsp; But they’re not falling fast enough.&nbsp; Families are hurting.&nbsp; You’ve heard me say before, but I get it.&nbsp; I come from a family — if the price of gasoline went up at the gas station, we felt it.&nbsp; Gas prices hit almost every family in this country, and they squeeze their family budgets.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Biden-Harris Administration is taking additional steps to reduce gas prices. <a href="https://t.co/u0tZrai13q">pic.twitter.com/u0tZrai13q</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1582811474233155584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> And when the price of gas goes up, other expenses get cut. That’s why I have been doing everything in my power to reduce gas prices since Putin’s invasion of Ukraine caused these price hikes — these prices to spike and rattled international oil markets.&nbsp; (Clears throat.)&nbsp; Excuse me.&nbsp; I focused on how we can protect American families from that spike and give folks just a little bit of breathing room, as my dad would say.&nbsp; Today I’m announcing three critical steps that my administration will take to reduce gas prices at the pump.&nbsp; First, the Department of Energy will release another 15 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, extending our previously announced release through the month of December."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We all know the decreased supply of gasoline is on the back of Joe Biden’s policies. It is shameful that because of these policies, the President is having to dip into our emergency reserve yet again. <a href="https://t.co/dpEAxtZxXR">pic.twitter.com/dpEAxtZxXR</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1582754280213475329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> "Independent analysis they — excuse me, independent analysts have confirmed that drawdowns from the reserves so far have played a big role in bringing down oil prices — bringing them down.&nbsp; So, we’re going to continue to responsibly use that national asset.&nbsp; Right now, the Strategic Pol- — the Strategic Petroleum Reserve is more than half full, with about 400 million barrels of oil.&nbsp; That’s more than enough for any emergency drawdown. With my announcement today, we’re going to continue to stabilize markets and decrease the prices at a time when the actions of other countries have caused such volatility.&nbsp; And I’ve told my team behind me here to be prepared to look further — look for further releases in the months ahead if needed.&nbsp; We’re calling it a “Ready and Release” plan.&nbsp; This allows us to move quickly to prevent oil price spikes and respond to international events.&nbsp; Secondly, we need to responsibly increase American oil production without delaying or deferring our transition to clean energy.&nbsp; Let me — let’s debunk some myths here.&nbsp; My administration has not stopped or slowed U.S. oil production; quite the opposite.&nbsp; We’re producing 12 million barrels of oil per day.&nbsp; And by the end of this year, we will be producing 1 million barrels a day, more than the day in which I took office.&nbsp; In fact, we’re on track for record oil production in 2023. And today, the United States is the largest producer of oil and petroleum products in the world.&nbsp; We export more than we import.&nbsp; And I still heard from oil comp- — and I’ve heard from oil companies that they’re worried that investing in additional oil production today will — will — in case of the — in case demand goes down in the future, and they’re not going to be able to sell their oil products at a competitive price later. Well, we have a solution for that.&nbsp; Today, I’m announcing a plan to refill the Strato- — the Strategic Petroleum Res- — Oil Reserve in the years ahead at a profit for taxpayers.&nbsp; The United States government is going to purchase oil to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve when prices fall to $70 a barrel.&nbsp; And that means oil companies can invest to ramp up production now, with confidence they’ll be able to sell their oil to us at that price in the future: $70. Refining and refilling the reserve at $70 a barrel is a good price for companies and it’s a good price for the taxpayers, and it’s critical to our national security. To put it in context, since March, the average price of oil has been more than $90 a barrel, the highest since 2014.&nbsp; By selling from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve at the higher price of $90 earlier this year and then refilling it in the future at a lower price, around $70, it will actually make money for the taxpayers, lower the price of gas, and help bolster production, all while totally consistent with my commitment to accelerate to transition to clean energy.&nbsp; So my message to oil companies is: You’re sitting on record profits, and you’re — and we’re giving you more certainty.&nbsp; So you can act now to increase oil production now. The third thing I’m doing is I’m calling on oil companies to pass the savings on to consumers. Consider this: In the second quarter of this year, profits at six of the largest produce- — publicly traded oil companies were more than $70 billion.&nbsp; That’s $70 billion in just one quarter — 90 days.&nbsp; Seventy billion.&nbsp; So far, American oil companies are using that windfall — the windfall of profits to buy back their own stock, passing that money on to their shareholders, not to consumers. In fact, in the first half of the year, those same companies spent over $20 billion buying back their own stock and, most importantly, buying back — a buyback that — the most significant buyback in the last — almost a decade. That’s great if you own a lot of stock in oil companies or if you’re an executive in an oil company.&nbsp; It puts a lot of money in your pocket.&nbsp; That — it’s how you get paid.&nbsp; But it’s not the case for the vast majority of Americans paying at the pump. Here’s another thing: When the cost of oil comes down, we should see the price at the gas station — at the pump come down as well.&nbsp; That’s how it’s supposed to work.&nbsp; But that’s not what’s happening. In the past two weeks, the price of oil has fallen $4 a barrel.&nbsp; And you think — and thanks in large part to steps we’ve taken this year, the price of oil has fallen nearly $40 a barrel since mid-June.&nbsp; That’s a 30 percent drop in the price of a barrel of oil.&nbsp; But guess what?&nbsp; Gas prices haven’t fallen that much.&nbsp; And it’s not right.&nbsp; Gas prices at the pump should be lower. In fact, if retailers and refiners were earning the average profit they’ve made over the last 17 years, Americans would be paying at least 60 cents less per gallon for every gallon they buy.&nbsp; Say it again: 60 cents less for every gallon they buy.&nbsp; That makes a big difference in a family. My message to the American energy companies is this: You should not be using your profits to buy back stock or for dividends.&nbsp; Not now.&nbsp; Not while a war is raging. You should use those record-breaking profits to increase production and refining.&nbsp; Invest in America for the American people.&nbsp; Bring down the price you charge at the pump to reflect what you pay for the product. You still make a significant profit.&nbsp; Your shareholders will still do very well.&nbsp; And the American people will catch the break they deserve and get a fair price at the pump as well. One more thing I want to mention today.&nbsp; Our country needs to pass permitting reform to accelerate the development of clean energy. Right now, the process of getting clean energy projects approved is too cumbersome and too time consuming.&nbsp; So, I’m asking the Congress: Pass a permitting bill to speed up the approval of all kinds of energy production from wind, to solar, to clean hydrogen.&nbsp; Because we need to get this moving now, quickly — now. It would take — you know, this — if we do this, it would take the historic clean energy investments that I signed into law and put them into action. In fact, one independent analyst has already estimated that the $369 billion we’re making in federal investments that will generate — if we just — just that will generate $1.7 trillion in total public and private investments in the years ahead. You can increase oil and gas production now while still moving full speed ahead to accelerate our transition to clean energy.&nbsp; That way — that way, we can lower energy costs for American families, enhance our national security at a very difficult moment.&nbsp; Let me close with this.&nbsp; I know it’s been a rough four or five years for the country.&nbsp; For a lot of families, things are still tough. The choices made by other countries are affecting the price of gas here at home.&nbsp; That’s why I’ve been acting so aggressively. Without the steps we have taken over the past several months to ramp up production and lower prices and get relief to consumers, gas prices would be higher than they are today. And we’ll keep doing everything we can to keep it going to ensure our energy independence and security is available and to lower gas prices here at home and to give folks a little bit of breathing room. We just have to remember who we are.&nbsp; We’re the United States of America, for God’s sake.&nbsp; There’s not a single thing we can’t do when we put our minds to it.&nbsp; And we can strengthen our energy security now, and we can build a clean energy economy for the future at the same time.&nbsp; This is totally within our capacity.&nbsp; Totally within our capacity. Gas prices are coming down.&nbsp; We’re going to do everything we can to make sure they continue to come down and companies act responsibly so it’s reflected at the pump. Thank you all.&nbsp; And may God bless you.&nbsp; And may God protect our troops."&nbsp;

🎥Biden defends US oil reserve release to fight rising gas prices 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes.

On October 17, a 23-year-old woman reported she was sexually&nbsp; assaulted by a suspect identified as 23-year-old Hunter Peach, according to Officer Chad Ditch.&nbsp;

Officers located Peach and arrested him in the 400 block of West Central and booked him on requested charges of Aggravated Criminal Sodomy, Aggravated Domestic Battery, and Rape.

&nbsp;Peach and the woman know each other, according to police. He is being held on a $300,000 bond, according to online jail records. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666123400223.png" alt="Peach-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Peach-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes.On October 17, a 23-year-old woman reported she was sexually&nbsp; assaulted by a suspect identified as 23-year-old Hunter Peach, according to Officer Chad Ditch.&nbsp;Officers located Peach and arrested him in the 400 block of West Central and booked him on requested charges of Aggravated Criminal Sodomy, Aggravated Domestic Battery, and Rape.&nbsp;Peach and the woman know each other, according to police. He is being held on a $300,000 bond, according to online jail records. The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

Police: Kansas man held on $300K bond for alleged sex crimes

KANSAS CITY —The fentanyl crisis is getting worse.&nbsp;The Kansas City Police Department responded to&nbsp;four confirmed fentanyl overdose deaths, including a toddler, in a 13-day timespan during the month of October, according to a release from the agency.

In addition, the department has investigated several other suspected fentanyl deaths and 17 nonfatal overdoses in recent days.

Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid drug that is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. It is cheap and highly addictive, leading drug dealers to mix it into counterfeit pills of oxycodone, Xanax, and Adderall.

In September, KCPD’s Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) seized four large amounts of fentanyl: a 3,300 pill seizure, an 11,000 pill seizure, a 3,100 pill seizure, and a two-kilogram seizure. The department’s largest seizure this year, to-date, is 41,000 pills. On multiple occasions, the Department's Drug Enforcement Unit has seized fentanyl in brick/kilogram form.

Drug dealers also mix fentanyl with other drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin, with many users unaware they are taking fentanyl.

The Department urged the public, "Please talk with your family and friends; they should never take a medication that was not prescribed to them."

"If you know anyone who abuses illicit drugs and opioids, please encourage them to get help with their addiction. Additionally, many groups we work with suggest having Narcan on hand and utilizing fentanyl test kits to determine the presence of fentanyl."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666203451131.png" alt="Seized pills that contain fentanyl -photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Seized pills that contain fentanyl -photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The fentanyl crisis is getting worse.&nbsp;The Kansas City Police Department responded to&nbsp;four confirmed fentanyl overdose deaths, including a toddler, in a 13-day timespan during the month of October, according to a release from the agency.In addition, the department has investigated several other suspected fentanyl deaths and 17 nonfatal overdoses in recent days.Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid drug that is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. It is cheap and highly addictive, leading drug dealers to mix it into counterfeit pills of oxycodone, Xanax, and Adderall.In September, KCPD’s Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) seized four large amounts of fentanyl: a 3,300 pill seizure, an 11,000 pill seizure, a 3,100 pill seizure, and a two-kilogram seizure. The department’s largest seizure this year, to-date, is 41,000 pills. On multiple occasions, the Department's Drug Enforcement Unit has seized fentanyl in brick/kilogram form.Drug dealers also mix fentanyl with other drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin, with many users unaware they are taking fentanyl.The Department urged the public, "Please talk with your family and friends; they should never take a medication that was not prescribed to them.""If you know anyone who abuses illicit drugs and opioids, please encourage them to get help with their addiction. Additionally, many groups we work with suggest having Narcan on hand and utilizing fentanyl test kits to determine the presence of fentanyl."------

KCPD: 4 fentanyl deaths including a toddler this month

Albert Junior Mitchell, 84, died Saturday, October 15, 2022, in Hill 
City, Kansas. He was also known as Junior, A.J. or by most of the family
 as “Mitch."

Mitch was born March 1, 1938, in Summer 
Hill, Illinois to Albert Henry Mitchell and Ada Stout. They had two 
children Albert Junior “Mitch” and Beverly. Ada was later married to 
Linney Brown. Together they raised the two children. They later 
divorced. Mitch attended East St. Louis High until the eleventh grade 
and enlisted in the Marines in 1955. His tour of duty found him in 
Okinawa, Japan, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Sicily, Italy, and Spain.

Following
 his honorable discharge in 1958, he  began working for Monsanto as a 
chemical mechanic operator. This was the job he would continue for 37 
years.  In the early 60’s he and Sheila Wohlrab Lankas were married. To 
this union two children were born: Brian Albert and Barry Joseph. He 
later married, Joyce Scharringhausen. These two marriages ended in 
divorce. His last wife, Dee Shephard, proceeded him in death March 17, 
2013 after 12 years of marriage. Not only did Mitch live for many years 
just south of St. Louis,  but his sister Beverly Brown Butler and her 
husband Homer Butler were only a few miles away. He so enjoyed spending 
quality time with them. They both proceeded him death.

Mitch
 was a collector. Be it hats,  coffee cups, or coins for his great 
grandchildren. But his love of cars was astounding. Mitch LOVED cars. 
His favorites however were the 1956 and 1957 Chevys. His first car was a
 1929 Chevy he purchased along with two buddies when he was 15 years 
old. Too young to have a driver’s license, he drove it up and down the 
alley with those wooden spoke wheels. His obsession with cars was not 
his passing hobby but a lifetime of wonderful memories. In 1959, he 
became a member of the Piston Pushers Car Club and was the first 
lifetime member. He also joined many other car clubs in the Illinois and
 Missouri area. Mitch lived near  the Belleville, Illinois, and 
Imperial/Pevely, Missouri areas for 84 years. Of course, enjoying 
collecting cars and attending car shows and he treasured the times just 
being with friends and family. This past March, he moved to Hill City, 
Kansas to be closer to his son Brian and his family.

Mitch
 will be sadly missed by his son Brian Mitchell and his wife Kay of Hill
 City,  and his grandchildren: Taylor Vap and wife Audrey; Dylan Vap and
 wife Amanda, all of Atwood; great grandchildren: Kaceton, Oakleigh, 
Chesney, Landrik and Daya Pearl, all of Atwood; his son Barry of 
Missouri; niece Traci Wingerter and husband David; their children: 
Aimee, Allison (Eddie) and children: Bentley and Mavis Clark, and Adam; 
niece Kim Schweizer and children Andrew and Austin Whaley of the 
Hillsboro, Missouri area.

A come and go reception to 
celebrate Mitch's life will be held Sunday, October 23, 2022, from 1:00 
to 4:00 p.m. at the home of Brian and Kay Mitchell, 716 N. 6th Ave., 
Hill City, Kansas.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666183838979.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Albert Junior Mitchell, 84, died Saturday, October 15, 2022, in Hill 
City, Kansas. He was also known as Junior, A.J. or by most of the family
 as “Mitch."Mitch was born March 1, 1938, in Summer 
Hill, Illinois to Albert Henry Mitchell and Ada Stout. They had two 
children Albert Junior “Mitch” and Beverly. Ada was later married to 
Linney Brown. Together they raised the two children. They later 
divorced. Mitch attended East St. Louis High until the eleventh grade 
and enlisted in the Marines in 1955. His tour of duty found him in 
Okinawa, Japan, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Sicily, Italy, and Spain.Following
 his honorable discharge in 1958, he began working for Monsanto as a 
chemical mechanic operator. This was the job he would continue for 37 
years. In the early 60’s he and Sheila Wohlrab Lankas were married. To 
this union two children were born: Brian Albert and Barry Joseph. He 
later married, Joyce Scharringhausen. These two marriages ended in 
divorce. His last wife, Dee Shephard, proceeded him in death March 17, 
2013 after 12 years of marriage. Not only did Mitch live for many years 
just south of St. Louis, but his sister Beverly Brown Butler and her 
husband Homer Butler were only a few miles away. He so enjoyed spending 
quality time with them. They both proceeded him death.Mitch
 was a collector. Be it hats, coffee cups, or coins for his great 
grandchildren. But his love of cars was astounding. Mitch LOVED cars. 
His favorites however were the 1956 and 1957 Chevys. His first car was a
 1929 Chevy he purchased along with two buddies when he was 15 years 
old. Too young to have a driver’s license, he drove it up and down the 
alley with those wooden spoke wheels. His obsession with cars was not 
his passing hobby but a lifetime of wonderful memories. In 1959, he 
became a member of the Piston Pushers Car Club and was the first 
lifetime member. He also joined many other car clubs in the Illinois and
 Missouri area. Mitch lived near the Belleville, Illinois, and 
Imperial/Pevely, Missouri areas for 84 years. Of course, enjoying 
collecting cars and attending car shows and he treasured the times just 
being with friends and family. This past March, he moved to Hill City, 
Kansas to be closer to his son Brian and his family.Mitch
 will be sadly missed by his son Brian Mitchell and his wife Kay of Hill
 City, and his grandchildren: Taylor Vap and wife Audrey; Dylan Vap and
 wife Amanda, all of Atwood; great grandchildren: Kaceton, Oakleigh, 
Chesney, Landrik and Daya Pearl, all of Atwood; his son Barry of 
Missouri; niece Traci Wingerter and husband David; their children: 
Aimee, Allison (Eddie) and children: Bentley and Mavis Clark, and Adam; 
niece Kim Schweizer and children Andrew and Austin Whaley of the 
Hillsboro, Missouri area.A come and go reception to 
celebrate Mitch's life will be held Sunday, October 23, 2022, from 1:00 
to 4:00 p.m. at the home of Brian and Kay Mitchell, 716 N. 6th Ave., 
Hill City, Kansas.&nbsp;

Albert Junior Mitchell

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden promised Tuesday that the first bill he sends to Capitol Hill next year will be one that codifies Roe v. Wade — if Democrats control enough seats in Congress for Biden to sign abortion protections into law — in a speech designed to energize his party's voters just three weeks ahead of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections">the November midterms.</a>

“If you care about the right to choose, then you gotta vote,” Biden said during remarks at the Howard Theatre in Washington. He urged those in attendance to recall how they felt when the Supreme Court in late June overturned the landmark 1973 ruling legalizing abortion, and repeatedly lambasted Republicans nationwide who have pushed for restrictions on the procedure, often without exceptions.

Biden said “the only sure way to stop these extremist laws that are putting in jeopardy women’s health and rights is for Congress to pass a law.” He acknowledged that right now, “we're short a handful of votes” to reinstate abortion protections at the federal level, urging voters to send more Democrats to Congress.

“If we do that, here’s the promise I make to you and the American people: The first bill that I will send to the Congress will be to codify Roe v. Wade," Biden said. “And when Congress passes it, I’ll sign it in January, 50 years after Roe was first decided the law of the land.”

Democrats tried repeatedly in this Congress to enshrine abortion rights into law, only to be thwarted by GOP filibusters and the unwillingness of their own members to change the Senate’s rules. That dynamic is likely to persist no matter what happens in the November elections.

Abortion rights have been a key&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-elections-campaigns-8a6e3db27082cc212e9e5183b25e7c32">motivating factor for Democrats this year</a>, although the economy and inflation still rank as chief concern for most voters.

For the White House, it won’t be enough just to keep control of both chambers of Congress, already an uphill battle, to be able to enshrine the protections of Roe into law. The Senate would need to abolish the filibuster, the legislative rule that requires 60 votes for most bills to advance in the chamber, in order to pass an abortion measure with a simple majority of senators.

Long resistant to any revisions to Senate institutional rules, Biden said in the days after the decision by the Supreme Court to overrule Roe in Dobbs v. Jackson that he would support eliminating that supermajority threshold for abortion bills, just as he did on voting rights legislation.

But two moderate Democrats — Sens. Kyrsten Sinema, Ariz., and Joe Manchin, W.Va. — support keeping the filibuster. Sinema has said she wants to retain the filibuster precisely so any abortion restrictions backed by Republicans would face a much higher hurdle to pass in the Senate.

Democratic Senate candidates in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin — the party's two best chances to flip seats currently held by Republicans — have both said they support eliminating the filibuster in order to pass abortion legislation. Pennsylvania Senate candidate John Fetterman has actively campaigned on being the 51st vote for priorities such as legalizing abortion, codifying same-sex marriage protections, and making it easier for workers to unionize — all measures that would otherwise be blocked by a filibuster in the Senate.

Abortion — and proposals from some Republicans to impose nationwide restrictions on the procedure — have been a regular fixture of Biden's political rhetoric this election cycle, as Democrats seek to energize voters in a difficult midterm season for the party in power in Washington.

In fundraisers and in political speeches, Biden has vowed to reject any abortion restrictions that may come to his desk in a GOP-controlled Congress. He has also urged voters to boost the Democratic ranks in the Senate so enough senators would not only support reinstating abortion nationwide, but would be willing to change Senate rules to do it.

"If you give me two more Democratic senators in the United States Senate, I promise you, I promise you we’re going to codify Roe," Biden said at a Democratic National Committee rally in Washington last month. “We’ll once again make Roe the law of the land. And we’ll once again protect a woman’s right to choose.”

On Tuesday, Biden made a pointed appeal to young voters, who traditionally participate in lower rates than other age demographics in midterm elections. Though his remarks were primarily focused on abortion, Biden also mentioned his decisions to forgive billions of dollars in student loan debt and to issue pardons for marijuana possession — moves popular with younger voters.

“What I am saying is, you represent the best of us. Your generation will not be ignored, will not be shunned and will not be silent,” Biden said, adding: “In 2020, you voted to deliver the change you wanted to see in the world. In 2022, you need to exercise your power to vote again for the future of our nation and the future of your generation.”

Court decisions and state legislation have shifted — and sometimes, re-shifted — the status of abortion laws across the country. Currently, bans are in place at all states of pregnancy in 12 states. In another, Wisconsin, clinics have stopped providing abortions though there’s dispute over whether a ban is in effect. In Georgia, abortion is banned at the detection of cardiac activity -- generally around six weeks and before women often know they’re pregnant.

Meanwhile, codifying Roe remains a broadly popular position. In a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-biden-nancy-pelosi-womens-rights-government-and-politics-c410dbe9a8321b35a4e779b2fb226de5">July AP-NORC poll</a>, 60% of U.S. adults said they believe Congress should pass a law guaranteeing access to legal abortion nationwide.

Even with the economy dominating so much of the midterm discourse, abortion has been a touchstone in high-profile contests from Ohio to Arizona, especially as Democrats try to trap Republicans between their most ardent anti-abortion base voters who want absolute or near-total bans and a majority of U.S. adults that wants at least some legal access to elective abortions.

For instance, in Georgia, Republican Senate nominee Herschel Walker went so far in his only debate against Sen. Raphael Warnock, a Democrat, as to deny his previous support for a national abortion ban with no exceptions. Despite Walker’s previous statements captured on video, he insisted Warnock misrepresented his position. Walker said in the debate that he backs a Georgia statute outlawing abortion after six weeks of pregnancy – an effective ban for some women because it’s so early they don’t yet know they’re pregnant. The law includes exceptions for later abortions in cases of rape, incest and involving health risks to a woman.

Warnock, meanwhile, avoided direct questions about whether he’d support any abortion limits, instead turning the question to Walker’s position.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666127025170.png" alt="“If you care about the right to choose, then you gotta vote,” Biden said during remarks at the Howard Theatre in Washington-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>“If you care about the right to choose, then you gotta vote,” Biden said during remarks at the Howard Theatre in Washington-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden promised Tuesday that the first bill he sends to Capitol Hill next year will be one that codifies Roe v. Wade — if Democrats control enough seats in Congress for Biden to sign abortion protections into law — in a speech designed to energize his party's voters just three weeks ahead of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections">the November midterms.</a><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Biden on if Democrats keep their majority in Congress: &quot;If we do that, here&#39;s the promise I make to you and the American people: the first bill that I will send to the Congress will be to codify Roe v. Wade.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/D7CGg2Cl25">pic.twitter.com/D7CGg2Cl25</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1582416394473603072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“If you care about the right to choose, then you gotta vote,” Biden said during remarks at the Howard Theatre in Washington. He urged those in attendance to recall how they felt when the Supreme Court in late June overturned the landmark 1973 ruling legalizing abortion, and repeatedly lambasted Republicans nationwide who have pushed for restrictions on the procedure, often without exceptions.Biden said “the only sure way to stop these extremist laws that are putting in jeopardy women’s health and rights is for Congress to pass a law.” He acknowledged that right now, “we're short a handful of votes” to reinstate abortion protections at the federal level, urging voters to send more Democrats to Congress.“If we do that, here’s the promise I make to you and the American people: The first bill that I will send to the Congress will be to codify Roe v. Wade," Biden said. “And when Congress passes it, I’ll sign it in January, 50 years after Roe was first decided the law of the land.”That's a big if.Democrats tried repeatedly in this Congress to enshrine abortion rights into law, only to be thwarted by GOP filibusters and the unwillingness of their own members to change the Senate’s rules. That dynamic is likely to persist no matter what happens in the November elections.Abortion rights have been a key&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-elections-campaigns-8a6e3db27082cc212e9e5183b25e7c32">motivating factor for Democrats this year</a>, although the economy and inflation still rank as chief concern for most voters.For the White House, it won’t be enough just to keep control of both chambers of Congress, already an uphill battle, to be able to enshrine the protections of Roe into law. The Senate would need to abolish the filibuster, the legislative rule that requires 60 votes for most bills to advance in the chamber, in order to pass an abortion measure with a simple majority of senators.Long resistant to any revisions to Senate institutional rules, Biden said in the days after the decision by the Supreme Court to overrule Roe in Dobbs v. Jackson that he would support eliminating that supermajority threshold for abortion bills, just as he did on voting rights legislation.But two moderate Democrats — Sens. Kyrsten Sinema, Ariz., and Joe Manchin, W.Va. — support keeping the filibuster. Sinema has said she wants to retain the filibuster precisely so any abortion restrictions backed by Republicans would face a much higher hurdle to pass in the Senate.Democratic Senate candidates in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin — the party's two best chances to flip seats currently held by Republicans — have both said they support eliminating the filibuster in order to pass abortion legislation. Pennsylvania Senate candidate John Fetterman has actively campaigned on being the 51st vote for priorities such as legalizing abortion, codifying same-sex marriage protections, and making it easier for workers to unionize — all measures that would otherwise be blocked by a filibuster in the Senate.Abortion — and proposals from some Republicans to impose nationwide restrictions on the procedure — have been a regular fixture of Biden's political rhetoric this election cycle, as Democrats seek to energize voters in a difficult midterm season for the party in power in Washington.In fundraisers and in political speeches, Biden has vowed to reject any abortion restrictions that may come to his desk in a GOP-controlled Congress. He has also urged voters to boost the Democratic ranks in the Senate so enough senators would not only support reinstating abortion nationwide, but would be willing to change Senate rules to do it."If you give me two more Democratic senators in the United States Senate, I promise you, I promise you we’re going to codify Roe," Biden said at a Democratic National Committee rally in Washington last month. “We’ll once again make Roe the law of the land. And we’ll once again protect a woman’s right to choose.”On Tuesday, Biden made a pointed appeal to young voters, who traditionally participate in lower rates than other age demographics in midterm elections. Though his remarks were primarily focused on abortion, Biden also mentioned his decisions to forgive billions of dollars in student loan debt and to issue pardons for marijuana possession — moves popular with younger voters.“What I am saying is, you represent the best of us. Your generation will not be ignored, will not be shunned and will not be silent,” Biden said, adding: “In 2020, you voted to deliver the change you wanted to see in the world. In 2022, you need to exercise your power to vote again for the future of our nation and the future of your generation.”Court decisions and state legislation have shifted — and sometimes, re-shifted — the status of abortion laws across the country. Currently, bans are in place at all states of pregnancy in 12 states. In another, Wisconsin, clinics have stopped providing abortions though there’s dispute over whether a ban is in effect. In Georgia, abortion is banned at the detection of cardiac activity -- generally around six weeks and before women often know they’re pregnant.Meanwhile, codifying Roe remains a broadly popular position. In a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-biden-nancy-pelosi-womens-rights-government-and-politics-c410dbe9a8321b35a4e779b2fb226de5">July AP-NORC poll</a>, 60% of U.S. adults said they believe Congress should pass a law guaranteeing access to legal abortion nationwide.Even with the economy dominating so much of the midterm discourse, abortion has been a touchstone in high-profile contests from Ohio to Arizona, especially as Democrats try to trap Republicans between their most ardent anti-abortion base voters who want absolute or near-total bans and a majority of U.S. adults that wants at least some legal access to elective abortions.For instance, in Georgia, Republican Senate nominee Herschel Walker went so far in his only debate against Sen. Raphael Warnock, a Democrat, as to deny his previous support for a national abortion ban with no exceptions. Despite Walker’s previous statements captured on video, he insisted Warnock misrepresented his position. Walker said in the debate that he backs a Georgia statute outlawing abortion after six weeks of pregnancy – an effective ban for some women because it’s so early they don’t yet know they’re pregnant. The law includes exceptions for later abortions in cases of rape, incest and involving health risks to a woman.Warnock, meanwhile, avoided direct questions about whether he’d support any abortion limits, instead turning the question to Walker’s position.

🎥Biden uses promise of abortion legislation to energize Dem voters

Linda Mae Fisher, age 71, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Monday, October 17, 2022, in Hays.

Funeral services will be 10:00 AM 
Saturday, October 22, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays. Burial 
will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Hays.

Visitation will be Friday 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.

A combined rosary and parish vigil service will be 7:00 PM Friday at the funeral chapel.

Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

A complete obituary will be provided when completed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666205356777.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Linda Mae Fisher, age 71, of Hays, Kansas, passed away Monday, October 17, 2022, in Hays.Funeral services will be 10:00 AM 
Saturday, October 22, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays. Burial 
will follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Hays.Visitation will be Friday 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.A combined rosary and parish vigil service will be 7:00 PM Friday at the funeral chapel.Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.comA complete obituary will be provided when completed.

Linda Mae Fisher

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;1,906&nbsp; new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday October 12, to Wednesday October 19, for a total of 884,969 cases.&nbsp; &nbsp;The state reported 2,866 new cases during the first week of October.

On Wednesday, th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported</a>&nbsp;11 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on October 12 for a total of 9,601.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

Kansas is providing fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”

The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;1,906&nbsp; new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday October 12, to Wednesday October 19, for a total of 884,969 cases.&nbsp; &nbsp;The state reported 2,866 new cases during the first week of October.On Wednesday, th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported</a>&nbsp;11 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on October 12 for a total of 9,601.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666200505822.png" alt="Wednesday October 19, 2022 -KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday October 19, 2022 -KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a>&nbsp;about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.Kansas is providing fewer updates of its data about COVID-19 now that Gov. Laura Kelly formally declared that the state is moving toward treating COVID-19 as a disease like the flu that spreads regularly and isn't considered a pandemic.&nbsp;The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.The state continues to support access to free COVID-19 testing, works to ensure that vulnerable populations can get vaccinated, see that providers serve a broad population and give “comprehensive guidance” about the virus. She called the new phase “endemic normalcy.”The health department plans to update data about cases and vaccinations each Wednesday.

KDHE: COVID case numbers down over the past week

Leland Clarence Pallister, 93, passed away October 17, 2022, at Hospice House, Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;He&nbsp;was born September 22, 1929, in Hutchinson, to Glenn C. Pallister and Minnie (Hauschild) Pallister.

Leland was a 1947 graduate of Nickerson High School, Nickerson, KS. &nbsp;He graduated from Hutchinson Community College (HCC), formerly Hutchinson Community Junior College, in 1949, and was a member of the HCC Blue Dragons basketball team that was the runner-up in the 1949 National Junior College Athletic Association National Basketball Tournament. &nbsp;

Leland was a farmer and rancher for over 50 years and drove a school bus for Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD309 for over 30 years. &nbsp;He attended Midland Community United Church of Christ, Sterling, KS, and Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson.

Leland married Betty Lou Collins. &nbsp;She died November 24, 1992. &nbsp;He then married Dorothy (Bray) Perez.

Leland is survived by: &nbsp;his wife, Dorothy Pallister of Hutchinson; children, Craig (Sue) Pallister of Hays, KS, and Pamela (Dwayne) Upton of Merriam, KS; three grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; sister-in-law, Barbara Pallister; stepsons, John (Jennifer) Perez of Pittsburg, KS, Jeff (LeeAnn) Perez of Parsons, KS, and Rod Perez of&nbsp;Arma, KS;&nbsp;seven&nbsp;step-grandchildren;&nbsp;eight&nbsp;step-great-grandchildren; and two step-great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by: &nbsp;his parents; wife, Betty Lou Pallister; siblings, Lyle Pallister and&nbsp;Aurel&nbsp;Lea Pallister; grandson, Paul Upton; and one step-granddaughter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666197026665.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Leland Clarence Pallister, 93, passed away October 17, 2022, at Hospice House, Hutchinson, KS. &nbsp;He&nbsp;was born September 22, 1929, in Hutchinson, to Glenn C. Pallister and Minnie (Hauschild) Pallister.Leland was a 1947 graduate of Nickerson High School, Nickerson, KS. &nbsp;He graduated from Hutchinson Community College (HCC), formerly Hutchinson Community Junior College, in 1949, and was a member of the HCC Blue Dragons basketball team that was the runner-up in the 1949 National Junior College Athletic Association National Basketball Tournament. &nbsp;Leland was a farmer and rancher for over 50 years and drove a school bus for Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD309 for over 30 years. &nbsp;He attended Midland Community United Church of Christ, Sterling, KS, and Trinity United Methodist Church, Hutchinson.Leland married Betty Lou Collins. &nbsp;She died November 24, 1992. &nbsp;He then married Dorothy (Bray) Perez.Leland is survived by: &nbsp;his wife, Dorothy Pallister of Hutchinson; children, Craig (Sue) Pallister of Hays, KS, and Pamela (Dwayne) Upton of Merriam, KS; three grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; sister-in-law, Barbara Pallister; stepsons, John (Jennifer) Perez of Pittsburg, KS, Jeff (LeeAnn) Perez of Parsons, KS, and Rod Perez of&nbsp;Arma, KS;&nbsp;seven&nbsp;step-grandchildren;&nbsp;eight&nbsp;step-great-grandchildren; and two step-great-great-grandchildren.He was preceded in death by: &nbsp;his parents; wife, Betty Lou Pallister; siblings, Lyle Pallister and&nbsp;Aurel&nbsp;Lea Pallister; grandson, Paul Upton; and one step-granddaughter.Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Friday, October 21, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary, with the Reverend Dr. Kim Biery officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the Lyons Municipal Cemetery, Lyons, KS. &nbsp;Friends may sign the book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, October 19, 2022, and Thursday, October 20, 2022, at Elliott Mortuary.In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Trinity United Methodist Church,&nbsp;Midland Community United Church of Christ, or Hospice House,&nbsp;in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.