September 2, 1957
                                                                                                                    &nbsp;-&nbsp;
                                                                                                                    October 6, 2022

An obituary is pending with Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home.

Click <a href="https://www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com/obituaries/Loretta-Mae-Kinderknecht-Karnes-?obId=26080388#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

September 2, 1957
 &nbsp;-&nbsp;
 October 6, 2022An obituary is pending with Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com/obituaries/Loretta-Mae-Kinderknecht-Karnes-?obId=26080388#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Loretta Mae (Kinderknecht) Karnes

Saturday, January 19th, 1935-Monday, October 3rd, 2022

An obituary is pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Click <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/wayne-bosler/5035564/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Saturday, January 19th, 1935-Monday, October 3rd, 2022An obituary is pending with Baalmann Mortuary.Click <a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/wayne-bosler/5035564/index.php">HERE</a> for service details.

Wayne Eldon Bosler

Lucille Rupp, age 92, of Hays, Kansas passed away Wednesday, October 5, 2022, in Hays.

Funeral Services will be 1:30 PM on 
Monday, October 10, 2022, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Hays. Burial
 will follow in the St. Francis Cemetery in Munjor. Officiating services
 will be Fr. Richard Daise.

A complete obituary is pending with Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665147996135.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lucille Rupp, age 92, of Hays, Kansas passed away Wednesday, October 5, 2022, in Hays.Funeral Services will be 1:30 PM on 
Monday, October 10, 2022, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Hays. Burial
 will follow in the St. Francis Cemetery in Munjor. Officiating services
 will be Fr. Richard Daise.A complete obituary is pending with Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601

Lucille Rupp

Wanda Marie Alcorn Anderson Thummel was born May 11, 1932, to William 
and Verda Hayman Alcorn in Ionia, Kansas.  After an active, productive 
and joy filled life Wanda passed from this world to the next on October 
6, 2022, at the age of 90 years 4 months 25 days.

Wanda
 is survived by her husband of 56 years, Ted Thummel and their family 
James Allen, and his wife Sabrina, McLouth, Regina Marie, Topeka, 
Jonathan Peter and his wife Karen, Topeka and Joel Christopher, Salina. 
 Roxangela Elaine, a daughter died at birth.  Surviving from a previous 
marriage, a son Olaf Carl “Trey” Anderson and his wife Carol, Great 
Bend.  There are now 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Wanda was also preceded in death by her parents, an older brother Robert Laverne and her first husband, Olaf Carl Anderson.

Wanda,
 of Irish, Dutch and English ancestry, lived her entire life involved in
 education.  Her early years were filled with her own education, 
beginning in Ionia, then Kansas Wesleyan University, for a Bachelor of 
Arts degree in Music, and graduate work at Kansas University and Kansas 
State University.  Continuing education to maintain her teaching 
certification was acquired at several additional institutions of higher 
learning across Kansas.  All of the education and training was to obtain
 and maintain her certificate as a teacher in the school systems of 
Kansas.  As a primary and secondary education teacher she taught in 
Ionia, Mankato, Manhattan, Lebanon, Esbon, and Burr Oak. 

 An early 
adopter of “distance teaching” technology, she provided essential Spanish
 language classes to several school systems in the area.  She was a 
teacher for many years in a formal sense, but her life was teaching, 
sometimes in a classroom, but always as an unending lifestyle – Wanda 
simply could NOT not teach:  family, 4-H, Extension classes, private 
music lessons for piano, organ and voice, cooking, sewing, photography, 
girls basketball . . . and the list goes on.  Anyone from 2 to 92, 
learned from her throughout her life.  She taught throughout her life, 
through the life she lived.

Her Christian faith was a 
vital part of her life throughout the years – and there again she was a 
teacher: vacation Bible school, Disciple Bible Study, Lay Leader in the 
United Methodist Church – and the list goes on.

Wanda 
was a wife, mother, farm wife (a.k.a. truck driver, cook, housekeeper, 
parts courier), musician, community supporter, Christian – but ALWAYS a 
teacher.  She will be missed by many.  Her legacy lives on through her 
students.

Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Wanda-Marie-Thummel?obId=26080065#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665147888727.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Wanda Marie Alcorn Anderson Thummel was born May 11, 1932, to William 
and Verda Hayman Alcorn in Ionia, Kansas. After an active, productive 
and joy filled life Wanda passed from this world to the next on October 
6, 2022, at the age of 90 years 4 months 25 days.Wanda
 is survived by her husband of 56 years, Ted Thummel and their family 
James Allen, and his wife Sabrina, McLouth, Regina Marie, Topeka, 
Jonathan Peter and his wife Karen, Topeka and Joel Christopher, Salina. 
 Roxangela Elaine, a daughter died at birth. Surviving from a previous 
marriage, a son Olaf Carl “Trey” Anderson and his wife Carol, Great 
Bend. There are now 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.Wanda was also preceded in death by her parents, an older brother Robert Laverne and her first husband, Olaf Carl Anderson.Wanda,
 of Irish, Dutch and English ancestry, lived her entire life involved in
 education. Her early years were filled with her own education, 
beginning in Ionia, then Kansas Wesleyan University, for a Bachelor of 
Arts degree in Music, and graduate work at Kansas University and Kansas 
State University. Continuing education to maintain her teaching 
certification was acquired at several additional institutions of higher 
learning across Kansas. All of the education and training was to obtain
 and maintain her certificate as a teacher in the school systems of 
Kansas. As a primary and secondary education teacher she taught in 
Ionia, Mankato, Manhattan, Lebanon, Esbon, and Burr Oak. An early 
adopter of “distance teaching” technology, she provided essential Spanish
 language classes to several school systems in the area. She was a 
teacher for many years in a formal sense, but her life was teaching, 
sometimes in a classroom, but always as an unending lifestyle – Wanda 
simply could NOT not teach: family, 4-H, Extension classes, private 
music lessons for piano, organ and voice, cooking, sewing, photography, 
girls basketball . . . and the list goes on. Anyone from 2 to 92, 
learned from her throughout her life. She taught throughout her life, 
through the life she lived.Her Christian faith was a 
vital part of her life throughout the years – and there again she was a 
teacher: vacation Bible school, Disciple Bible Study, Lay Leader in the 
United Methodist Church – and the list goes on.Wanda 
was a wife, mother, farm wife (a.k.a. truck driver, cook, housekeeper, 
parts courier), musician, community supporter, Christian – but ALWAYS a 
teacher. She will be missed by many. Her legacy lives on through her 
students.Click <a href="https://www.rfmortuaries.com/obituaries/Wanda-Marie-Thummel?obId=26080065#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Wanda Marie Thummel

Kevin Zeman, age 61, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, October 4, 2022. 

Services are pending with Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney.

Kevin Zeman, age 61, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, October 4, 2022. Services are pending with Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney.

Kevin Zeman

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminds taxpayers who
 requested an extension to file their 2021 tax return to do so by 
Monday, October 17.

While October 17 is the last day for most people to file a Form 1040 
to avoid the late filing penalty, those who still need to file should do
 so as soon as possible. If they have their information ready, there's 
no need to wait.

However, some taxpayers may have additional time. They include:

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>
 is available to any person or family with an adjusted gross income 
(AGI) of $73,000 or less in 2021. Leading tax software providers make 
their online products available for free. Taxpayers can use IRS Free 
File to claim the Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit and 
other important credits. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-fillable-forms/free-file-fillable-forms-is-closed">Free File Fillable Forms</a>
 is available for taxpayers whose 2021&nbsp;AGI is greater than $73,000 and 
are comfortable preparing their own tax return—so there is a free option
 for everyone.

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account">Online Account</a>
 provides information to help file an accurate return, including Advance
 Child Tax Credit and Economic Impact Payment amounts, AGI amounts from 
last year's tax return, estimated tax payment amounts and refunds 
applied as a credit.

Taxpayers can also get answers to many tax law questions by using the IRS's <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita">Interactive Tax Assistant</a> tool.

Additionally, taxpayers can view tax information in several languages
 by clicking on the "English" tab located on the IRS.gov home page.

Schedule federal tax payments electronically

Taxpayers can file now and schedule their federal tax payments up to 
the October 17 due date. They can pay online, by phone or with their 
mobile device and the IRS2Go app. When paying federal taxes 
electronically, taxpayers should remember:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminds taxpayers who
 requested an extension to file their 2021 tax return to do so by 
Monday, October 17.While October 17 is the last day for most people to file a Form 1040 
to avoid the late filing penalty, those who still need to file should do
 so as soon as possible. If they have their information ready, there's 
no need to wait.However, some taxpayers may have additional time. They include:<ul>
 <li>Members of the military and others serving in a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/military/combat-zones">combat zone</a>. They typically have 180 days after they leave the combat zone to file returns and pay any taxes due.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>The IRS calls special attention to people hit by recent 
national disasters, including Hurricane Ian. Taxpayers with an IRS 
address of record in areas covered by Federal Emergency Management 
Agency disaster declarations in Missouri, Kentucky, the island of St. 
Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands and members of the Tribal Nation of the
 Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community have until November 15, 2022,
 to file various individual and business tax returns. Taxpayers in 
Florida, Puerto Rico, North Carolina, South Carolina, parts of Alaska 
and Hinds County, Mississippi, have until February&nbsp;15, 2023. This list 
continues to be updated regularly; potentially affected taxpayers by 
recent storms should visit the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations">disaster relief</a> page on IRS.gov for the latest information.</li>
 </ul><h2>IRS Free File and other resources</h2><a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>
 is available to any person or family with an adjusted gross income 
(AGI) of $73,000 or less in 2021. Leading tax software providers make 
their online products available for free. Taxpayers can use IRS Free 
File to claim the Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit and 
other important credits. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-fillable-forms/free-file-fillable-forms-is-closed">Free File Fillable Forms</a>
 is available for taxpayers whose 2021&nbsp;AGI is greater than $73,000 and 
are comfortable preparing their own tax return—so there is a free option
 for everyone.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/your-online-account">Online Account</a>
 provides information to help file an accurate return, including Advance
 Child Tax Credit and Economic Impact Payment amounts, AGI amounts from 
last year's tax return, estimated tax payment amounts and refunds 
applied as a credit.Taxpayers can also get answers to many tax law questions by using the IRS's <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita">Interactive Tax Assistant</a> tool.Additionally, taxpayers can view tax information in several languages
 by clicking on the "English" tab located on the IRS.gov home page.<h2>Schedule federal tax payments electronically</h2>Taxpayers can file now and schedule their federal tax payments up to 
the October 17 due date. They can pay online, by phone or with their 
mobile device and the IRS2Go app. When paying federal taxes 
electronically, taxpayers should remember:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">Electronic payment options</a> are the optimal way to make a tax payment.</li><li>They can pay when they file electronically using tax software 
online. If using a tax preparer, taxpayers should ask the preparer to 
make the tax payment through an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-taxes-by-electronic-funds-withdrawal">electronic funds withdrawal</a> from a bank account.</li><li>Online Account and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">IRS Direct Pay</a>
 allow taxpayers to pay online directly from a checking or savings 
account for free, and to schedule payments up to 365 days in advance. 
Taxpayers should be aware they will need to create an account to use 
Online Account services.</li><li>Choices to pay with a credit card, debit card or digital wallet option are available through a <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">payment processor</a>. The payment processor, not the IRS, charges a fee for this service.</li><li>The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> mobile app provides mobile-friendly payment options, including Direct Pay and debit or credit card payments.</li><li>The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>
 is convenient, safe and easy. Choose to pay online or by phone, using 
the EFTPS Voice Response System. EFTPS payments must be scheduled by 8 
p.m. ET at least one calendar day before the tax due date.</li>
 </ul>

IRS: Important tax extension deadline looming

WASHINGTON (AP) — President <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/10/06/granting-pardon-for-the-offense-of-simple-possession-of-marijuana/">Joe Biden is pardoning </a>thousands of Americans convicted of “simple possession” of marijuana under federal law, as his administration takes a dramatic step toward decriminalizing the drug and addressing charging practices that disproportionately impact people of color.

<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/10/06/granting-pardon-for-the-offense-of-simple-possession-of-marijuana/">Click here to read the </a>statement from the White House

Biden's move also covers thousands convicted of the crime in the District of Columbia. He is also calling on governors to issue similar pardons for those convicted of state marijuana offenses, which reflect the vast majority of marijuana possession cases.

Biden, in a statement, said the move reflects his position that “no one should be in jail just for using or possessing marijuana.”

“Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana," he added. "It’s time that we right these wrongs."

According to the White House, no one is currently in federal prison solely for “simple possession” of the drug, but the pardon could help thousands overcome obstacles to renting a home or finding a job.

“There are thousands of people who have prior Federal convictions for marijuana possession, who may be denied employment, housing, or educational opportunities as a result,” he said. “My action will help relieve the collateral consequences arising from these convictions.”

Biden is also directing the secretary of Health and Human Services and the U.S. attorney general to review how marijuana is scheduled under federal law. Rescheduling the drug would reduce or potentially eliminate criminal penalties for possession.

But Biden said he believes that as the federal government and many states ease marijuana laws, they should maintain limitations on trafficking, marketing and underage sales.

The move by Biden puts the federal government on par with other big cities like New York that have been moving toward decriminalizing low-level marijuana arrests for years. But there’s a big divide in the nation as some police departments still believe the drug leads to more serious crime and ignoring low-level offenses emboldens criminals.

The move also fulfills one of the top priorities of the Democratic nominee in one of their party's most critical Senate races, as Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman has repeatedly pressed Biden to take the step.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/10/06/granting-pardon-for-the-offense-of-simple-possession-of-marijuana/">Joe Biden is pardoning </a>thousands of Americans convicted of “simple possession” of marijuana under federal law, as his administration takes a dramatic step toward decriminalizing the drug and addressing charging practices that disproportionately impact people of color.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana. Hear from <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on the three steps he is taking to right these wrongs. <a href="https://t.co/IqOxHxjgue">pic.twitter.com/IqOxHxjgue</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1578108939174281218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/10/06/granting-pardon-for-the-offense-of-simple-possession-of-marijuana/">Click here to read the </a>statement from the White HouseBiden's move also covers thousands convicted of the crime in the District of Columbia. He is also calling on governors to issue similar pardons for those convicted of state marijuana offenses, which reflect the vast majority of marijuana possession cases.Biden, in a statement, said the move reflects his position that “no one should be in jail just for using or possessing marijuana.”“Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana," he added. "It’s time that we right these wrongs."According to the White House, no one is currently in federal prison solely for “simple possession” of the drug, but the pardon could help thousands overcome obstacles to renting a home or finding a job.“There are thousands of people who have prior Federal convictions for marijuana possession, who may be denied employment, housing, or educational opportunities as a result,” he said. “My action will help relieve the collateral consequences arising from these convictions.”Biden is also directing the secretary of Health and Human Services and the U.S. attorney general to review how marijuana is scheduled under federal law. Rescheduling the drug would reduce or potentially eliminate criminal penalties for possession.But Biden said he believes that as the federal government and many states ease marijuana laws, they should maintain limitations on trafficking, marketing and underage sales.The move by Biden puts the federal government on par with other big cities like New York that have been moving toward decriminalizing low-level marijuana arrests for years. But there’s a big divide in the nation as some police departments still believe the drug leads to more serious crime and ignoring low-level offenses emboldens criminals.The move also fulfills one of the top priorities of the Democratic nominee in one of their party's most critical Senate races, as Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman has repeatedly pressed Biden to take the step.

🎥Biden pardons thousands for 'simple possession' of marijuana

LaVerna Marie (Braun) Younger, 90, left
 this life on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at Locust Grove Village, 
La Crosse, Kansas, surrounded by her family.&nbsp;

LaVerna was born on March 6, 1932, in 
Hays, Kansas, to Frank J. and Helen (Brungardt) Braun.&nbsp; She was the 
second of five children raised on the Braun Dairy Farm north of Hays.&nbsp; 
One of her childhood chores was milking dairy cows before school.&nbsp; She 
often blamed her arthritic fingers on her milking cows, but she was 
especially proud of how hard her parents and her siblings worked on the 
family farm.

LaVerna attended Hays schools and 
graduated from Girls Catholic High School in 1950.&nbsp; She was employed at 
Spiess Bookkeeping Service until she married the love of her life, 
Bernard A. Younger on June 10, 1952.&nbsp; He was one of twelve children of 
Jacob and Catherine Younger, and at the time of their marriage, he was a
 member of the Signal Corps of the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort 
Polk, Louisiana.&nbsp; After serving his duty and being honorably discharged,
 Bernie and LaVerna returned to Hays in February 1953.&nbsp;

Together they owned and operated the 
Jobbership for Sunray DX Oil Co. in Hays and Russell and later started 
their own business, Younger Propane.&nbsp; She was the bookkeeper for several
 other jointly owned family businesses throughout the years including 
Younger Party Mix, BA Younger Oil, and various rental properties.

LaVerna and Bernie built their home on 
Toulon Road in 1955 and resided there throughout their 50-year 
marriage.&nbsp;&nbsp; They celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary with their 
family shortly before Bernie’s passing on October 20, 2002.&nbsp; Mom spent 
the 20 years after his death missing him and continuing to love and 
honor his memory.&nbsp; She spread the love they shared with her children, 
grandchildren and great-grandchildren.&nbsp; Her home was meticulous and her 
flower gardens flourished.&nbsp; Many of her friends and family wear winter 
scarves that she knitted and many of her needlepoint pictures and 
embroidered tea-towels are displayed in her children’s homes.&nbsp; LaVerna 
instilled her love of reading in her children and grandchildren.&nbsp; She 
enjoyed word search, praying her rosary, and playing Bingo, Chinese 
checkers, and pinochle.&nbsp;

LaVerna is survived by her children:&nbsp; 
Janet (Mike) McCann, Rock Springs, WY; James (Sue) Younger, Hays, KS; 
Jolene (Ken) Windholz, Hays, KS; Jeff (Karie) Younger, Olathe, KS; Joan 
(William) Steinkuhler, Battlement Mesa, CO; and Jean Younger (Scott 
Dold) Lawrence, KS.

LaVerna’s pride and joy were her 16 
grandchildren:&nbsp; Nicole (Brian) Nelson; Erin (Todd) Graham; Bridget 
(Kobe) Burraston; Adrianna Smith; Michael (Kelsi) Younger; Megan (Craig)
 Mason; Mason (Maddie) Younger; Ben (Joan) Karst; Mark (Nikki) Karst; 
Jon Karst; Clayton (Janae Levier) Karst; Kyle (Kendra) Younger; Emily 
Younger; Alexa (Chad Turek) Steinkuhler; Kennedy Dold and Crosby Dold.

While greatly enjoying the love of her 
grandchildren, LaVerna was able to meet her 23 great-grandchildren:&nbsp; 
Tyler and Hollie Nelson; Alex Graham; Syree, Bernie and Carter 
Burraston; Mallory Fallas; Jacob, Parker, Blake and Grayson Younger; 
Joslyn, Lexi and Trevor Mason; Katrina and Kailey Delimont; Hendrix and 
Jaxon Karst; Cadence and Lyric Karst; and Ava, Owen and Elsie Younger.

LaVerna is also survived by her sister:
 Helen Werth and sisters-in law: Jeanette Younger, Det Younger, Ethel 
Younger, Nadine Pederson, Mary Jo Braun, Jacky Braun, and Jan Braun.

LaVerna was preceded in death by her 
parents Frank and Helen Braun, her husband and her three brothers 
Marvin, Frankie and Robert Braun.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 
10:00 am on Monday, October 10, 2022, at Immaculate Heart of Mary 
Catholic Church with Fr. John Schmeidler officiating.&nbsp; Burial will 
follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 
8:00 on Sunday and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Monday, all at Hays 
Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; To honor LaVerna’s longtime membership 
with the Daughters of Isabella, current members will pray a rosary at 
5:30 pm followed by a vigil service at 6:30, all on Sunday at the 
funeral home.&nbsp; 

Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes 
Association, Alzheimer’s Association, HHS Pantry, O’Loughlin Pantry, or 
to masses.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of LaVerna may be shared with her 
family at <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">www.haysmemorial.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665081759500.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LaVerna Marie (Braun) Younger, 90, left
 this life on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at Locust Grove Village, 
La Crosse, Kansas, surrounded by her family.&nbsp;LaVerna was born on March 6, 1932, in 
Hays, Kansas, to Frank J. and Helen (Brungardt) Braun.&nbsp; She was the 
second of five children raised on the Braun Dairy Farm north of Hays.&nbsp; 
One of her childhood chores was milking dairy cows before school.&nbsp; She 
often blamed her arthritic fingers on her milking cows, but she was 
especially proud of how hard her parents and her siblings worked on the 
family farm.LaVerna attended Hays schools and 
graduated from Girls Catholic High School in 1950.&nbsp; She was employed at 
Spiess Bookkeeping Service until she married the love of her life, 
Bernard A. Younger on June 10, 1952.&nbsp; He was one of twelve children of 
Jacob and Catherine Younger, and at the time of their marriage, he was a
 member of the Signal Corps of the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort 
Polk, Louisiana.&nbsp; After serving his duty and being honorably discharged,
 Bernie and LaVerna returned to Hays in February 1953.&nbsp;Together they owned and operated the 
Jobbership for Sunray DX Oil Co. in Hays and Russell and later started 
their own business, Younger Propane.&nbsp; She was the bookkeeper for several
 other jointly owned family businesses throughout the years including 
Younger Party Mix, BA Younger Oil, and various rental properties.LaVerna and Bernie built their home on 
Toulon Road in 1955 and resided there throughout their 50-year 
marriage.&nbsp;&nbsp; They celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary with their 
family shortly before Bernie’s passing on October 20, 2002.&nbsp; Mom spent 
the 20 years after his death missing him and continuing to love and 
honor his memory.&nbsp; She spread the love they shared with her children, 
grandchildren and great-grandchildren.&nbsp; Her home was meticulous and her 
flower gardens flourished.&nbsp; Many of her friends and family wear winter 
scarves that she knitted and many of her needlepoint pictures and 
embroidered tea-towels are displayed in her children’s homes.&nbsp; LaVerna 
instilled her love of reading in her children and grandchildren.&nbsp; She 
enjoyed word search, praying her rosary, and playing Bingo, Chinese 
checkers, and pinochle.&nbsp;LaVerna is survived by her children:&nbsp; 
Janet (Mike) McCann, Rock Springs, WY; James (Sue) Younger, Hays, KS; 
Jolene (Ken) Windholz, Hays, KS; Jeff (Karie) Younger, Olathe, KS; Joan 
(William) Steinkuhler, Battlement Mesa, CO; and Jean Younger (Scott 
Dold) Lawrence, KS.LaVerna’s pride and joy were her 16 
grandchildren:&nbsp; Nicole (Brian) Nelson; Erin (Todd) Graham; Bridget 
(Kobe) Burraston; Adrianna Smith; Michael (Kelsi) Younger; Megan (Craig)
 Mason; Mason (Maddie) Younger; Ben (Joan) Karst; Mark (Nikki) Karst; 
Jon Karst; Clayton (Janae Levier) Karst; Kyle (Kendra) Younger; Emily 
Younger; Alexa (Chad Turek) Steinkuhler; Kennedy Dold and Crosby Dold.While greatly enjoying the love of her 
grandchildren, LaVerna was able to meet her 23 great-grandchildren:&nbsp; 
Tyler and Hollie Nelson; Alex Graham; Syree, Bernie and Carter 
Burraston; Mallory Fallas; Jacob, Parker, Blake and Grayson Younger; 
Joslyn, Lexi and Trevor Mason; Katrina and Kailey Delimont; Hendrix and 
Jaxon Karst; Cadence and Lyric Karst; and Ava, Owen and Elsie Younger.LaVerna is also survived by her sister:
 Helen Werth and sisters-in law: Jeanette Younger, Det Younger, Ethel 
Younger, Nadine Pederson, Mary Jo Braun, Jacky Braun, and Jan Braun.LaVerna was preceded in death by her 
parents Frank and Helen Braun, her husband and her three brothers 
Marvin, Frankie and Robert Braun.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 
10:00 am on Monday, October 10, 2022, at Immaculate Heart of Mary 
Catholic Church with Fr. John Schmeidler officiating.&nbsp; Burial will 
follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 
8:00 on Sunday and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Monday, all at Hays 
Memorial Chapel Funeral Home.&nbsp; To honor LaVerna’s longtime membership 
with the Daughters of Isabella, current members will pray a rosary at 
5:30 pm followed by a vigil service at 6:30, all on Sunday at the 
funeral home.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes 
Association, Alzheimer’s Association, HHS Pantry, O’Loughlin Pantry, or 
to masses.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of LaVerna may be shared with her 
family at <a href="http://www.haysmemorial.com">www.haysmemorial.com</a>

LaVerna Marie (Braun) Younger

Mitchell Ryan Nollette, 50, of Monument, KS, died Tuesday, October 4, 
2022. He was born October 4, 1972, in Oakley, KS, to Michael and 
Lorraine (Close) Nollette. 

Mitch accepted Jesus as his savior at the age
 of 12 and was baptized. He graduated from Oakley High School in 1991 
and went on to Garden City Community College where he received his 
Criminal Justice Associate's Degree. Mitch then earned his bachelor’s 
degree at Friends University in Wichita. In 1996, he joined the Kansas 
Highway Patrol and served with them for over 20 years. Mitch was also a 
big part of the family farm operation. He was a good son and father. He 
had many friends and enjoyed spending time with them so much. 
Mitch is survived by his son Preston Nollette; parents, Michael and 
Lorraine Nollette; brother Brandon (Amy) Nollette; nephew Brody Nollette
 and many loving uncles, aunts and cousins. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Sunday, October 9, 2022, at Baalmann Mortuary,
 Oakley. Funeral Service is 10:00 a.m. Monday, October 10, 2022, at the 
United Christian Church, Oakley with Pastor Bob Kelly officiating. 
Burial will take place in the Monument Township Cemetery.

Memorials may 
be made to the Logan County EMS or the United Christian Church and sent 
in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For 
information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665081677662.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mitchell Ryan Nollette, 50, of Monument, KS, died Tuesday, October 4, 
2022. He was born October 4, 1972, in Oakley, KS, to Michael and 
Lorraine (Close) Nollette. Mitch accepted Jesus as his savior at the age
 of 12 and was baptized. He graduated from Oakley High School in 1991 
and went on to Garden City Community College where he received his 
Criminal Justice Associate's Degree. Mitch then earned his bachelor’s 
degree at Friends University in Wichita. In 1996, he joined the Kansas 
Highway Patrol and served with them for over 20 years. Mitch was also a 
big part of the family farm operation. He was a good son and father. He 
had many friends and enjoyed spending time with them so much. 
Mitch is survived by his son Preston Nollette; parents, Michael and 
Lorraine Nollette; brother Brandon (Amy) Nollette; nephew Brody Nollette
 and many loving uncles, aunts and cousins. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Sunday, October 9, 2022, at Baalmann Mortuary,
 Oakley. Funeral Service is 10:00 a.m. Monday, October 10, 2022, at the 
United Christian Church, Oakley with Pastor Bob Kelly officiating. 
Burial will take place in the Monument Township Cemetery. Memorials may 
be made to the Logan County EMS or the United Christian Church and sent 
in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For 
information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Mitchell Ryan Nollette

Jason Lee Brown, age 44, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, October 5, 2022. 

Services are pending with Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665081637179.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jason Lee Brown, age 44, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, October 5, 2022. Services are pending with Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Jason Lee Brown

TOPEKA - The Kansas Volleyball Association is pleased to announce the 2022 Week 5 Volleyball Rankings. This week’s rankings reflect the new 2022-23 KSHSAAclassifications, as well as information that was submitted by Monday, October 3.

Class 6A 1. Washburn Rural 20-1 (1) 2. Olathe Northwest 18-5 (2) 3. Olathe West 21-4 (3) 4. Blue Valley 19-6 (4) 5. Blue Valley West 15-7 (5) 6. Blue Valley Northwest 17-8 (7) 7. Mill Valley 19-6 (8) 8. Shawnee Mission Northwest 19-9 (NR) 9. Wichita Northwest 20-3 (10) 10. Blue Valley North 13-8 (6)

Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas 18-2 (1) 2. St. James Academy 15-1 (2) 3. Maize South 17-2 (3) 4. Lansing 22-4 (4) 5. Topeka-Seaman 18-4 (6) 6. Hutchinson 25-5 (7) 7. Bishop Carroll 13-5 (8) 8. Andover Central 25-7 (5) 9. Blue Valley Southwest 18-11 (NR) 10. Goddard-Eisenhower 19-7 (9)

Class 4A 1. Andale 26-0 (1) 2. Baldwin 24-1 (2) 3. Circle 17-3 (3) 4. Bishop Miege 8-14 (4) 5. Rock Creek 17-7 (6) 6. Paola 15-9 (5) 7. Clay Center 16-8 (7) 8. Eudora 16-9 (8) 9. Tonganoxie 16-12 (9) 10. Chanute 17-7 (10)

Class 3A 1. Nemaha Central 27-1 (1) 2. Heritage Christian 19-7 (2) 3. Cheney 23-2 (4) 4. Beloit 26-5 (3) 5. Riverton 23-1 (5) 6. Goodland 20-3 (7) 7. Rossville 23-3 (10) 8. Eureka 22-1 (8) 9. Silver Lake 21-8 (NR) 10. Smoky Valley 18-6 (NR)

Class 2A 1. Hillsboro 23-1 (1) 2. Sedgwick 28-0 (2) 3. Smith Center 28-2 (3) 4. Ellinwood 23-3 (5) 5. Inman 24-5 (4) 6. Garden Plain 14-5 (6) 7. Jackson Heights 20-3 (7) 8. Berean Academy 21-6 (9) 9. Ell-Saline 23-4 (NR) 10. Hoxie 22-6 (10)

Class 1A – Division 1 1. Spearville 18-2 (3) 2. Little River 24-3 (1) 3. Pretty Prairie 23-3 (2) 4. Doniphan West 20-2 (4) 5. South Gray 19-4 (6) 6. Sylvan-Lucas 25-2 (5) 7. Centralia 21-5 (8) 8. St. Francis 21-6 (7) 9. Flinthills 25-2 (9) 10. Kiowa County 16-6 (10)

Class 1A – Division 2 1. Attica 25-1 (1) 2. Lebo 23-1 (2) 3. Hanover 20-5 (3) 4. Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton 20-6 (4) 5. St. Paul 24-6 (5) 6. Coldwater-South Central 16-6 (6) 7. Greeley County 17-7 (7) 8. Southern Coffey County 16-6 (8) 9. Hutchinson-Central Christian 16-7 (10) 10. Ingalls 14-7 (NR)

KVA ReleaseTOPEKA - The Kansas Volleyball Association is pleased to announce the 2022 Week 5 Volleyball Rankings. This week’s rankings reflect the new 2022-23 KSHSAAclassifications, as well as information that was submitted by Monday, October 3.Class 6A 1. Washburn Rural 20-1 (1) 2. Olathe Northwest 18-5 (2) 3. Olathe West 21-4 (3) 4. Blue Valley 19-6 (4) 5. Blue Valley West 15-7 (5) 6. Blue Valley Northwest 17-8 (7) 7. Mill Valley 19-6 (8) 8. Shawnee Mission Northwest 19-9 (NR) 9. Wichita Northwest 20-3 (10) 10. Blue Valley North 13-8 (6)Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas 18-2 (1) 2. St. James Academy 15-1 (2) 3. Maize South 17-2 (3) 4. Lansing 22-4 (4) 5. Topeka-Seaman 18-4 (6) 6. Hutchinson 25-5 (7) 7. Bishop Carroll 13-5 (8) 8. Andover Central 25-7 (5) 9. Blue Valley Southwest 18-11 (NR) 10. Goddard-Eisenhower 19-7 (9)Class 4A 1. Andale 26-0 (1) 2. Baldwin 24-1 (2) 3. Circle 17-3 (3) 4. Bishop Miege 8-14 (4) 5. Rock Creek 17-7 (6) 6. Paola 15-9 (5) 7. Clay Center 16-8 (7) 8. Eudora 16-9 (8) 9. Tonganoxie 16-12 (9) 10. Chanute 17-7 (10)Class 3A 1. Nemaha Central 27-1 (1) 2. Heritage Christian 19-7 (2) 3. Cheney 23-2 (4) 4. Beloit 26-5 (3) 5. Riverton 23-1 (5) 6. Goodland 20-3 (7) 7. Rossville 23-3 (10) 8. Eureka 22-1 (8) 9. Silver Lake 21-8 (NR) 10. Smoky Valley 18-6 (NR)Class 2A 1. Hillsboro 23-1 (1) 2. Sedgwick 28-0 (2) 3. Smith Center 28-2 (3) 4. Ellinwood 23-3 (5) 5. Inman 24-5 (4) 6. Garden Plain 14-5 (6) 7. Jackson Heights 20-3 (7) 8. Berean Academy 21-6 (9) 9. Ell-Saline 23-4 (NR) 10. Hoxie 22-6 (10)Class 1A – Division 1 1. Spearville 18-2 (3) 2. Little River 24-3 (1) 3. Pretty Prairie 23-3 (2) 4. Doniphan West 20-2 (4) 5. South Gray 19-4 (6) 6. Sylvan-Lucas 25-2 (5) 7. Centralia 21-5 (8) 8. St. Francis 21-6 (7) 9. Flinthills 25-2 (9) 10. Kiowa County 16-6 (10)Class 1A – Division 2 1. Attica 25-1 (1) 2. Lebo 23-1 (2) 3. Hanover 20-5 (3) 4. Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton 20-6 (4) 5. St. Paul 24-6 (5) 6. Coldwater-South Central 16-6 (6) 7. Greeley County 17-7 (7) 8. Southern Coffey County 16-6 (8) 9. Hutchinson-Central Christian 16-7 (10) 10. Ingalls 14-7 (NR)

🏐 Latest KVA rankings

Donald Wayne Schlegel, 73, died October 4, 2022, at his home in Otis,
 Kansas.&nbsp; He was born November 9, 1948, in Great Bend, Kansas, the son 
of Samuel and Margaret (Lebsack) Schlegel. Don served in the United 
States Army, stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War.

A lifetime resident of Otis, Don was a farmer and a truck driver. He 
worked for H &amp; K Trucking, Westcott Trucking and Old Dominion 
Freight Line.

On December 14, 1983, he married Donna L. Moore-Evans in Otis, Kansas. She preceded him in death on January 4, 2009.

He is survived by his mother, Margaret Schlegel; and a sister, Connie
 Galusha, both of Otis; three stepsons; Gerald Evans and wife Brenda of 
Naperville, Indiana, David Evans of New Creek, West Virginia, and Steven
 Evans and wife Deanna of Scherr, West Virginia; and six grandchildren, 
Justin and Cody Evans, Luke and Louise Evans, Deprise Evans-Hawk and 
husband Logan, and Desire-e Evans.

He was preceded in death by his father and a nephew, David Galusha.

Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday at the funeral home.

Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 
Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Lyle Knebel presiding. 
Burial with military honors will follow at Hoisington Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Golden Belt Humane Society or Relay for 
Life in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS
 67544.

Donald Wayne Schlegel, 73, died October 4, 2022, at his home in Otis,
 Kansas.&nbsp; He was born November 9, 1948, in Great Bend, Kansas, the son 
of Samuel and Margaret (Lebsack) Schlegel. Don served in the United 
States Army, stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War.A lifetime resident of Otis, Don was a farmer and a truck driver. He 
worked for H &amp; K Trucking, Westcott Trucking and Old Dominion 
Freight Line.On December 14, 1983, he married Donna L. Moore-Evans in Otis, Kansas. She preceded him in death on January 4, 2009.He is survived by his mother, Margaret Schlegel; and a sister, Connie
 Galusha, both of Otis; three stepsons; Gerald Evans and wife Brenda of 
Naperville, Indiana, David Evans of New Creek, West Virginia, and Steven
 Evans and wife Deanna of Scherr, West Virginia; and six grandchildren, 
Justin and Cody Evans, Luke and Louise Evans, Deprise Evans-Hawk and 
husband Logan, and Desire-e Evans.He was preceded in death by his father and a nephew, David Galusha.Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday and Friday at the funeral home.Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 
Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Lyle Knebel presiding. 
Burial with military honors will follow at Hoisington Cemetery.Memorials may be made to the Golden Belt Humane Society or Relay for 
Life in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS
 67544.

Donald Wayne Schlegel

And just like that, another month has flown by and it's time for another First Friday in downtown Salina!

October festivities kick off at True Betty Boutique, 108 N. Santa Fe Avenue. From 4-7 p.m., True Betty will be hosting Ethan Caylor, the creator of E.D. Caylor Candles. "I design fragrances based on feeling and memories. My fragrances start as accurate renditions of memories - like playing under the lilac bushes - then I add some artistic flare," Caylor noted.

The opening reception for Frank Shaw's ReConsider is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. Friday in the Salina Art Center, 242 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5718977c-8f18-43cf-bc35-1751c60e0b26">Shaw's 'ReConsider' now open at Salina Art Center; reception Friday</a>

You also can see The Illusion of Color and meet artist Raphael Hernandez from 5-7 p.m. Friday at Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, 148 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

Additionally, live entertainment is scheduled from 5-7:30 p.m. at the stage at N. Santa Fe Avenue and W. Ash Street, sponsored by The Bennington State Bank and Salina Downtown, Inc. This month, Taylor's Twirlers and Bootleg Mercy are scheduled to perform.

By SALINA POSTAnd just like that, another month has flown by and it's time for another First Friday in downtown Salina!October festivities kick off at True Betty Boutique, 108 N. Santa Fe Avenue. From 4-7 p.m., True Betty will be hosting Ethan Caylor, the creator of E.D. Caylor Candles. "I design fragrances based on feeling and memories. My fragrances start as accurate renditions of memories - like playing under the lilac bushes - then I add some artistic flare," Caylor noted.The opening reception for Frank Shaw's ReConsider is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. Friday in the Salina Art Center, 242 S. Santa Fe Avenue.READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5718977c-8f18-43cf-bc35-1751c60e0b26">Shaw's 'ReConsider' now open at Salina Art Center; reception Friday</a>You also can see The Illusion of Color and meet artist Raphael Hernandez from 5-7 p.m. Friday at Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, 148 S. Santa Fe Avenue.Additionally, live entertainment is scheduled from 5-7:30 p.m. at the stage at N. Santa Fe Avenue and W. Ash Street, sponsored by The Bennington State Bank and Salina Downtown, Inc. This month, Taylor's Twirlers and Bootleg Mercy are scheduled to perform.

Fragrances, art, live entertainment for Salina's First Friday

<a href="http://www.grannymaes.com/">Granny Mae's Pumpkin Patch</a>, located in Dorrance, recently was honored by national website The Travel.

The Kansas attraction was featured in the story "Fall on a Budget: 10 Affordable Places to Visit in the US This Autumn."

Click <a href="https://www.thetravel.com/affordable-places-to-visit-in-the-us-this-autumn/">HERE</a> to read the entire story.

OPEN WEEKENDS IN OCTOBER BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2022! SATURDAYS 10-6 AND SUNDAYS 1-5

HOW TO FIND US-INTERSTATE 70 DORRANCE EXIT 199. TURN SOUTH AND FOLLOW THE SIGNS! 3 MILES SOUTH, TWO MILES WEST, 1/2 MILE NORTH

<a href="http://www.grannymaes.com/">Granny Mae's Pumpkin Patch</a>, located in Dorrance, recently was honored by national website The Travel.The Kansas attraction was featured in the story "Fall on a Budget: 10 Affordable Places to Visit in the US This Autumn."Click <a href="https://www.thetravel.com/affordable-places-to-visit-in-the-us-this-autumn/">HERE</a> to read the entire story.<h2>OPEN WEEKENDS IN OCTOBER BEGINNING OCTOBER 1, 2022! SATURDAYS 10-6 AND SUNDAYS 1-5</h2><h2>HOW TO FIND US-INTERSTATE 70 DORRANCE EXIT 199. TURN SOUTH AND FOLLOW THE SIGNS! 3 MILES SOUTH, TWO MILES WEST, 1/2 MILE NORTH</h2>

Police found murder weapon hidden in KC man's apartment

Clara Mae (Wright) Riffel of Stockton, KS, passed away on October 3, 2022, at the Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton at the age of 91. She was born on June 10, 1931, to Irvin Day and Lula (Jennings) Wright in Pittsfield, MA. She was married to Donald Eugene Riffel on&nbsp;October 26, 1952, in Stockton.&nbsp;They were blessed with three sons: Larry, Steve, and Randy.

Clara grew up in Stockton and graduated from Stockton High School with the Class of 1949. She attended Kansas State University for two years.&nbsp;A woman of many talents,&nbsp;Clara&nbsp;raised three boys,&nbsp;ran a sewing and farm business out of her basement making cheerleader uniforms and many dresses for ladies around the area, tended to her huge&nbsp;garden,&nbsp;raised chickens, and even&nbsp;helped&nbsp;design and build their house in town&nbsp;so she&nbsp;could better&nbsp;entertain and cook for&nbsp;her&nbsp;family and hired men.&nbsp;She was&nbsp;a&nbsp;member of the Kansas&nbsp;Master Farmer&nbsp;Association and&nbsp;Homemakers Guild, awarded from&nbsp;the K-State&nbsp;Cooperative&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;Service.&nbsp;She was also a member of the United Methodist Church, P.E.O., Bridge Club, an FFA helper, and 4-H leader for many years. She and Donald enjoyed traveling and made&nbsp;a visit to every National Park in the U.S., as well as trips to Europe, Venezuela, and Hawaii to name a few.&nbsp;

Clara is survived by her sons, Larry (Kerry) Riffel of Overland Park, KS, Steve (Michelle Wieden) Riffel and Randy (Debby) Riffel&nbsp;-&nbsp;both of Stockton; 7 grandchildren, Chris (Sarah) Riffel, Kim (J.) Leary, David (Sonya) Riffel, Katie (Jason) Lindsey, J.D (Ginger) Riffel, Daniel (Amanda) Riffel, and Donny Riffel; and 10 great-grandchildren.&nbsp;

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald; and sister, Barbara Gartrell.&nbsp;

<a></a>It isn’t the farm that makes the farmer’s wife; it’s the love, hard work, dedication, faith, and character. Clara was all these things and more. She set for us an example and passed on to us the values of hard work, noble character, and devout love for God, family, friends and neighbors.&nbsp;She will be greatly missed by all who knew her, but the celebration of her life and memories will never be forgotten.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at 10:30 AM at the United Methodist Church in Stockton.&nbsp;Burial will follow in the Stockton City Cemetery.&nbsp;Visitation will be on Friday 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.&nbsp;

Memorials are suggested to Stockton Library or Solomon Valley Manor and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669. Online condolences may be left for the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com/">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665012910054.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clara Mae (Wright) Riffel of Stockton, KS, passed away on October 3, 2022, at the Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton at the age of 91. She was born on June 10, 1931, to Irvin Day and Lula (Jennings) Wright in Pittsfield, MA. She was married to Donald Eugene Riffel on&nbsp;October 26, 1952, in Stockton.&nbsp;They were blessed with three sons: Larry, Steve, and Randy.Clara grew up in Stockton and graduated from Stockton High School with the Class of 1949. She attended Kansas State University for two years.&nbsp;A woman of many talents,&nbsp;Clara&nbsp;raised three boys,&nbsp;ran a sewing and farm business out of her basement making cheerleader uniforms and many dresses for ladies around the area, tended to her huge&nbsp;garden,&nbsp;raised chickens, and even&nbsp;helped&nbsp;design and build their house in town&nbsp;so she&nbsp;could better&nbsp;entertain and cook for&nbsp;her&nbsp;family and hired men.&nbsp;She was&nbsp;a&nbsp;member of the Kansas&nbsp;Master Farmer&nbsp;Association and&nbsp;Homemakers Guild, awarded from&nbsp;the K-State&nbsp;Cooperative&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;Service.&nbsp;She was also a member of the United Methodist Church, P.E.O., Bridge Club, an FFA helper, and 4-H leader for many years. She and Donald enjoyed traveling and made&nbsp;a visit to every National Park in the U.S., as well as trips to Europe, Venezuela, and Hawaii to name a few.&nbsp;Clara is survived by her sons, Larry (Kerry) Riffel of Overland Park, KS, Steve (Michelle Wieden) Riffel and Randy (Debby) Riffel&nbsp;-&nbsp;both of Stockton; 7 grandchildren, Chris (Sarah) Riffel, Kim (J.) Leary, David (Sonya) Riffel, Katie (Jason) Lindsey, J.D (Ginger) Riffel, Daniel (Amanda) Riffel, and Donny Riffel; and 10 great-grandchildren.&nbsp;She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald; and sister, Barbara Gartrell.&nbsp;<a></a>It isn’t the farm that makes the farmer’s wife; it’s the love, hard work, dedication, faith, and character. Clara was all these things and more. She set for us an example and passed on to us the values of hard work, noble character, and devout love for God, family, friends and neighbors.&nbsp;She will be greatly missed by all who knew her, but the celebration of her life and memories will never be forgotten.A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at 10:30 AM at the United Methodist Church in Stockton.&nbsp;Burial will follow in the Stockton City Cemetery.&nbsp;Visitation will be on Friday 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.&nbsp;Memorials are suggested to Stockton Library or Solomon Valley Manor and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N. 1st, Stockton, KS 67669. Online condolences may be left for the family at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.plumeroverlease.com/">www.plumeroverlease.com</a>

Clara Mae (Wright) Riffel

With deepest sorrow, we announce that Cole Darran Rodenbeek,
 age 39, our beloved father, son, brother, fiance, family member and 
friend passed away on Saturday, October 1st, 2022, in a car accident.&nbsp; 
Cole made his grand entrance into the world on December 25th, 1982.&nbsp; He 
was known to say that he wanted to make sure everyone remembered his 
birthday.

Cole grew up in Salina, but spent time living in Reno, NV and Denver,
 CO amassing friends from across the country.&nbsp; In 2010, he married 
Kyrsten (Beckmann) and they had two beautiful children, Payge and 
Marley, who were and are the lights of their lives. &nbsp;

You can't explain Cole, you have to experience Cole. This quote, by 
one of his friends, perfectly sums up the man. He lived and loved large.
 In 2020, he and fiance Meredith Frazier moved to Lawrence and bought a 
home in the country.&nbsp; They quickly turned that home into a farm fully 
stocked with goats, chickens, dogs, cats, children, and lots of love and
 laughter.&nbsp; There was always a friend or two, or twenty stopping by, and
 Cole welcomed them all. His most enduring gift was his ability to spin a
 yarn.&nbsp; He could stretch an ordinary tale into a two hour narrative full
 of truths, but mostly half truths. Cole loved to wow people and make 
them laugh. What Cole loved most of all was to be surrounded by his 
children. His proudest moments involved Payge and Marley.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Cole is predeceased by grandparents William and Evelyn Cole of 
Salina; Betty Rodenbeek, of Salina;&nbsp; great grandparents, Nathan and 
Dorothy Butcher of Salina; and Edward and Ruby Rodenbeek, of Scott City.

Cole will be missed everyday by his fiance, Meredith Frazier and her 
two children, Jack and Kincaid of the home; his son, Payge Rodenbeek, of
 Bennington; his daughter, Marley Rodenbeek, of Bennington;&nbsp; his mother,
 Barbara Nitz and stepfather Rod, of Lawrence; fathers Michael 
Rodenbeek, of Salina; Paul Lowe and wife Terry, of Reno, NV; 
grandfather, Jim Rodenbeek, of Scott City;&nbsp; brothers Noah Rodenbeek and 
wife Renee,&nbsp; of Lawrence; Benton Bates and wife Amanda, of Denver; 
sister Alexandria Keith and husband Troy, of Lawrence; sister Caitlin 
Sidener, of Mission, KS; brother Max Lowe, of Reno, NV; sister Marina 
Lowe, of Seattle, WA; sister Chloe Vaugirard and husband Loic, of Miami,
 FL; sister Lilly Bristow of Brookville; step brothers, Karl Nitz and 
wife Stacy, of Frisco, TX; and Ryan Nitz and wife Alicia, of Falmouth, 
Maine.

Cole loved and was loved by his many nieces and nephews.

It would be remiss not to include all of Cole’s friends, whom he loved most fiercely.

Cole’s mother is putting together a book for his children to include 
memories of him from his family and friends.&nbsp; If you would like to 
contribute, please email your memories to barb.nitz@gmail.com or mail 
them to her at 4611 Hearthside Dr., Lawrence, KS&nbsp; 66049.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 15th, at 5:00 
p.m., at the Bennington Bible Church, 824 N. Nelson St., Bennington, 
KS.&nbsp; Also, that Saturday evening, there will be a celebration of Cole’s 
life.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established for the 
Payge and Marley Rodenbeek Educational Fund, please send donations to 
Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th, Salina, KS.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665001316403.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>With deepest sorrow, we announce that Cole Darran Rodenbeek,
 age 39, our beloved father, son, brother, fiance, family member and 
friend passed away on Saturday, October 1st, 2022, in a car accident.&nbsp; 
Cole made his grand entrance into the world on December 25th, 1982.&nbsp; He 
was known to say that he wanted to make sure everyone remembered his 
birthday.Cole grew up in Salina, but spent time living in Reno, NV and Denver,
 CO amassing friends from across the country.&nbsp; In 2010, he married 
Kyrsten (Beckmann) and they had two beautiful children, Payge and 
Marley, who were and are the lights of their lives. &nbsp;You can't explain Cole, you have to experience Cole. This quote, by 
one of his friends, perfectly sums up the man. He lived and loved large.
 In 2020, he and fiance Meredith Frazier moved to Lawrence and bought a 
home in the country.&nbsp; They quickly turned that home into a farm fully 
stocked with goats, chickens, dogs, cats, children, and lots of love and
 laughter.&nbsp; There was always a friend or two, or twenty stopping by, and
 Cole welcomed them all. His most enduring gift was his ability to spin a
 yarn.&nbsp; He could stretch an ordinary tale into a two hour narrative full
 of truths, but mostly half truths. Cole loved to wow people and make 
them laugh. What Cole loved most of all was to be surrounded by his 
children. His proudest moments involved Payge and Marley.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Cole is predeceased by grandparents William and Evelyn Cole of 
Salina; Betty Rodenbeek, of Salina;&nbsp; great grandparents, Nathan and 
Dorothy Butcher of Salina; and Edward and Ruby Rodenbeek, of Scott City.Cole will be missed everyday by his fiance, Meredith Frazier and her 
two children, Jack and Kincaid of the home; his son, Payge Rodenbeek, of
 Bennington; his daughter, Marley Rodenbeek, of Bennington;&nbsp; his mother,
 Barbara Nitz and stepfather Rod, of Lawrence; fathers Michael 
Rodenbeek, of Salina; Paul Lowe and wife Terry, of Reno, NV; 
grandfather, Jim Rodenbeek, of Scott City;&nbsp; brothers Noah Rodenbeek and 
wife Renee,&nbsp; of Lawrence; Benton Bates and wife Amanda, of Denver; 
sister Alexandria Keith and husband Troy, of Lawrence; sister Caitlin 
Sidener, of Mission, KS; brother Max Lowe, of Reno, NV; sister Marina 
Lowe, of Seattle, WA; sister Chloe Vaugirard and husband Loic, of Miami,
 FL; sister Lilly Bristow of Brookville; step brothers, Karl Nitz and 
wife Stacy, of Frisco, TX; and Ryan Nitz and wife Alicia, of Falmouth, 
Maine.Cole loved and was loved by his many nieces and nephews.It would be remiss not to include all of Cole’s friends, whom he loved most fiercely.Cole’s mother is putting together a book for his children to include 
memories of him from his family and friends.&nbsp; If you would like to 
contribute, please email your memories to barb.nitz@gmail.com or mail 
them to her at 4611 Hearthside Dr., Lawrence, KS&nbsp; 66049.A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 15th, at 5:00 
p.m., at the Bennington Bible Church, 824 N. Nelson St., Bennington, 
KS.&nbsp; Also, that Saturday evening, there will be a celebration of Cole’s 
life.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund is being established for the 
Payge and Marley Rodenbeek Educational Fund, please send donations to 
Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th, Salina, KS.

Cole Darran Rodenbeek

Jo was born on a farm near Hoxie, Kansas on December 13, 1927, to 
Mathias and Elizabeth (Reinert) Schuetz, the seventh of eight children. 
 She graduated from Sheridan County High school and went on to attend 
beauty school in Salina, Kansas. After graduating from beauty school, Jo
 and her sister Henrietta operated a beauty shop in Clay Center, Ks for a
 few years. 
 Jo married Sylvester (Sal) Goscha on April 18, 1949, in Seguin, Ks. 
They lived in Clay Center before moving to Garden City in 1950. Sal 
died in 2008. 
She is survived by their children: Larry (Sarah), Salina, Ks; Bob, 
Garden City, Ks; Diana Johnson, Amarillo, Tx.; Jolene Buxman (Dale), 
McPherson, Ks; and Nancy, New Braunfels, Tx. Sal and Jo were blessed 
with six grandchildren; Josh Tweedy, Lucas, Ks; Adam Johnson, Amarillo, 
Tx; Laura Gerber, Amarillo, Tx; Marc Buxman, Olathe, Ks; Emily Spohn, 
Lindsborg, Ks; and Amy McWilliams, Burden, Ks. She had eleven 
great-grandchildren, Emma, Meyah, Madison, Lily, Ty, Kolt, Avery, Macy, 
Abby, Whit and Hadley. She is also survived by numerous nieces and 
nephews. 
She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Ray Schuetz, 
Bernard Schuetz, Robert Schuetz, Isabel Peltier, Paula Perkins, 
Henrietta LaBarge and Asella Lindstrom. She was also preceded by her 
son-in-law Jerry Johnson. 
Jo loved spending time with her family and friends. From time to time, 
Jo enjoyed the challenge of winning at the slot machines in Nevada. She
 also enjoyed walking with her weekly walking group, followed by coffee 
and a cinnamon roll. She volunteered for many years at Finney County 
Senior Center. She was a member of St Dominic Catholic Church, Daughters
 of Isabella, and Altar Society. 
A Vigil Service and Rosary will be held at 7:00 pm on Friday, October 7,
 2022, at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City, Kansas. Funeral Mass 
will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at St. Dominic 
Catholic Church in Garden City with Rev. Warren Stecklein as Celebrant. 
 Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Friends may
 call from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday at Garnand Funeral Home in 
Garden City and the family will be at the funeral home from 5:00 pm to 
7:00 pm to visit with friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are 
suggested to St. Dominic Catholic Church or St. Jude in care of the 
funeral home. Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes.com. 
The family would like to express our sincere appreciation to the staff 
of St. Catherine’s Hospice, especially Scarlett and Roxane, and Home 
Health Aide Carol DeLeon for the care given to our mother.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665001205259.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jo was born on a farm near Hoxie, Kansas on December 13, 1927, to 
Mathias and Elizabeth (Reinert) Schuetz, the seventh of eight children. 
 She graduated from Sheridan County High school and went on to attend 
beauty school in Salina, Kansas. After graduating from beauty school, Jo
 and her sister Henrietta operated a beauty shop in Clay Center, Ks for a
 few years. 
 Jo married Sylvester (Sal) Goscha on April 18, 1949, in Seguin, Ks. 
They lived in Clay Center before moving to Garden City in 1950. Sal 
died in 2008. 
She is survived by their children: Larry (Sarah), Salina, Ks; Bob, 
Garden City, Ks; Diana Johnson, Amarillo, Tx.; Jolene Buxman (Dale), 
McPherson, Ks; and Nancy, New Braunfels, Tx. Sal and Jo were blessed 
with six grandchildren; Josh Tweedy, Lucas, Ks; Adam Johnson, Amarillo, 
Tx; Laura Gerber, Amarillo, Tx; Marc Buxman, Olathe, Ks; Emily Spohn, 
Lindsborg, Ks; and Amy McWilliams, Burden, Ks. She had eleven 
great-grandchildren, Emma, Meyah, Madison, Lily, Ty, Kolt, Avery, Macy, 
Abby, Whit and Hadley. She is also survived by numerous nieces and 
nephews. 
She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Ray Schuetz, 
Bernard Schuetz, Robert Schuetz, Isabel Peltier, Paula Perkins, 
Henrietta LaBarge and Asella Lindstrom. She was also preceded by her 
son-in-law Jerry Johnson. 
Jo loved spending time with her family and friends. From time to time, 
Jo enjoyed the challenge of winning at the slot machines in Nevada. She
 also enjoyed walking with her weekly walking group, followed by coffee 
and a cinnamon roll. She volunteered for many years at Finney County 
Senior Center. She was a member of St Dominic Catholic Church, Daughters
 of Isabella, and Altar Society. 
A Vigil Service and Rosary will be held at 7:00 pm on Friday, October 7,
 2022, at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City, Kansas. Funeral Mass 
will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at St. Dominic 
Catholic Church in Garden City with Rev. Warren Stecklein as Celebrant. 
 Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Friends may
 call from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Friday at Garnand Funeral Home in 
Garden City and the family will be at the funeral home from 5:00 pm to 
7:00 pm to visit with friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials are 
suggested to St. Dominic Catholic Church or St. Jude in care of the 
funeral home. Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes.com. 
The family would like to express our sincere appreciation to the staff 
of St. Catherine’s Hospice, especially Scarlett and Roxane, and Home 
Health Aide Carol DeLeon for the care given to our mother.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Josephine A. 'Jo' Goscha (Schuetz)

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — The OPEC+ alliance of oil-exporting countries decided Wednesday to sharply cut production to support sagging oil prices, a move that could deal the struggling global economy another blow and raise politically sensitive pump prices for U.S. drivers just ahead of key national elections.

Energy ministers meeting at the Vienna headquarters of the OPEC oil cartel cut production by a larger-than-expected 2 million barrels per day starting in November after gathering for their first face-to-face meeting since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The group said the decision was based on the “uncertainty that surrounds the global economic and oil market outlooks.” Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman stressed the cartel’s stated role as a guardian of stable energy markets.

“We are here to stay as a moderating force, to bring about stability,” he told reporters.

Besides a token trim last month, the major cut in the amount of crude that OPEC+ ships to the world is an abrupt turnaround from months of restoring deep cuts made in 2020 during the depths of the pandemic. As demand rebounded, global energy prices have swung wildly since Russia invaded Ukraine, fueling inflation that is squeezing economies around the world.

The OPEC+ decision could help alliance member Russia weather a looming European ban on oil imports. But the impact of the production cut on oil prices — and thus the price of gasoline made from crude — will have some limitations because OPEC+ members already can't meet their quotas.

The decision comes as oil trades well below its summer peaks because of fears that major global economies such as the U.S. or Europe will sink into recession due to high inflation, rising interest rates meant to curb rising consumer prices, and uncertainty over Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“We are going through a period of diverse uncertainties, which could come our way, it’s a brewing cloud,” bin Salman said, adding that OPEC+ sought to remain “ahead of the curve.”

The fall in oil prices has been a boon to U.S. drivers, who saw lower gasoline prices at the pump before costs recently started ticking up, and for U.S. President Joe Biden as his Democratic Party gears up for congressional elections next month.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday that the U.S. would not extend releases from its strategic reserve to increase global supplies.

Biden has tried to receive credit for gasoline prices falling from their average June peak of $5.02 — with administration officials highlighting a late March announcement that a million barrels a day would be released from the strategic reserve for six months. High inflation is a fundamental drag on Biden’s approval and has dampened Democrats’ chances in the midterm elections.

Oil supply could face further cutbacks in coming months when a European ban on most Russian imports takes effect in December. A separate move by the U.S. and other members of the Group of Seven wealthy democracies to impose a price cap on Russian oil could reduce supply if Russia retaliates by refusing to ship to countries and companies that observe the cap.

The EU agreed Wednesday on new sanctions that are expected to include a price cap on Russian oil.

Russia “will need to find new buyers for its oil when the EU embargo comes into force in early December and will presumably have to make further price concessions to do so,” analysts at Commerzbank said. “Higher prices beforehand — boosted by production cuts elsewhere — would therefore doubtless be very welcome.”

Dwindling prospects for a diplomatic deal to limit Iran’s nuclear program also have lowered prospects for a return of as much as 1.5 million barrels a day in Iranian oil to the market if sanctions are removed.

Oil prices surged this summer as markets worried about the loss of Russian supplies from sanctions over the war in Ukraine, but they slipped as fears about recessions in major economies and China’s COVID-19 restrictions weighed on demand for crude.

International benchmark Brent has sagged as low as $84 in recent days after spending most of the summer months over $100 per barrel. U.S. crude rose to $87.64, and international benchmark Brent went up to $93.21 after the decision.

At its last meeting in September, OPEC+ reduced the amount of oil it produces by 100,000 barrels a day in October. That token cut didn’t do much to boost lower oil prices, but it put markets on notice that the group was willing to act if prices kept falling.

FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — The OPEC+ alliance of oil-exporting countries decided Wednesday to sharply cut production to support sagging oil prices, a move that could deal the struggling global economy another blow and raise politically sensitive pump prices for U.S. drivers just ahead of key national elections.Energy ministers meeting at the Vienna headquarters of the OPEC oil cartel cut production by a larger-than-expected 2 million barrels per day starting in November after gathering for their first face-to-face meeting since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.The group said the decision was based on the “uncertainty that surrounds the global economic and oil market outlooks.” Saudi Energy Minister Abdulaziz bin Salman stressed the cartel’s stated role as a guardian of stable energy markets.“We are here to stay as a moderating force, to bring about stability,” he told reporters.Besides a token trim last month, the major cut in the amount of crude that OPEC+ ships to the world is an abrupt turnaround from months of restoring deep cuts made in 2020 during the depths of the pandemic. As demand rebounded, global energy prices have swung wildly since Russia invaded Ukraine, fueling inflation that is squeezing economies around the world.The OPEC+ decision could help alliance member Russia weather a looming European ban on oil imports. But the impact of the production cut on oil prices — and thus the price of gasoline made from crude — will have some limitations because OPEC+ members already can't meet their quotas.The decision comes as oil trades well below its summer peaks because of fears that major global economies such as the U.S. or Europe will sink into recession due to high inflation, rising interest rates meant to curb rising consumer prices, and uncertainty over Russia’s war in Ukraine.“We are going through a period of diverse uncertainties, which could come our way, it’s a brewing cloud,” bin Salman said, adding that OPEC+ sought to remain “ahead of the curve.”The fall in oil prices has been a boon to U.S. drivers, who saw lower gasoline prices at the pump before costs recently started ticking up, and for U.S. President Joe Biden as his Democratic Party gears up for congressional elections next month.White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday that the U.S. would not extend releases from its strategic reserve to increase global supplies.Biden has tried to receive credit for gasoline prices falling from their average June peak of $5.02 — with administration officials highlighting a late March announcement that a million barrels a day would be released from the strategic reserve for six months. High inflation is a fundamental drag on Biden’s approval and has dampened Democrats’ chances in the midterm elections.Oil supply could face further cutbacks in coming months when a European ban on most Russian imports takes effect in December. A separate move by the U.S. and other members of the Group of Seven wealthy democracies to impose a price cap on Russian oil could reduce supply if Russia retaliates by refusing to ship to countries and companies that observe the cap.The EU agreed Wednesday on new sanctions that are expected to include a price cap on Russian oil.Russia “will need to find new buyers for its oil when the EU embargo comes into force in early December and will presumably have to make further price concessions to do so,” analysts at Commerzbank said. “Higher prices beforehand — boosted by production cuts elsewhere — would therefore doubtless be very welcome.”Dwindling prospects for a diplomatic deal to limit Iran’s nuclear program also have lowered prospects for a return of as much as 1.5 million barrels a day in Iranian oil to the market if sanctions are removed.Oil prices surged this summer as markets worried about the loss of Russian supplies from sanctions over the war in Ukraine, but they slipped as fears about recessions in major economies and China’s COVID-19 restrictions weighed on demand for crude.International benchmark Brent has sagged as low as $84 in recent days after spending most of the summer months over $100 per barrel. U.S. crude rose to $87.64, and international benchmark Brent went up to $93.21 after the decision.At its last meeting in September, OPEC+ reduced the amount of oil it produces by 100,000 barrels a day in October. That token cut didn’t do much to boost lower oil prices, but it put markets on notice that the group was willing to act if prices kept falling.

OPEC+ makes big oil cut; U.S. gasoline pump price may rise

The entire Major League Baseball playoff picture is now set. 

The four matchups in the wild-card round were locked in Tuesday night, right before the last day of the regular season. Every series starts Friday and is a best two of three. Plus, the higher seed will host every game. In the National League, the San Diego Padres visit the New York Mets while the Philadelphia Phillies play at the St. Louis Cardinals. In the American League, the Seattle Mariners visit the Toronto Blue Jays while the Tampa Bay Rays play at the Cleveland Guardians. The postseason was expanded from 10 teams last year to 12 this season.

Albert Pujols taking his final swings in October, Julio Rodríguez stepping in for the first time. Max Scherzer and Jacob deGrom facing Manny Machado and Juan Soto.

Bryce Harper, back at last. José Ramírez and his Cleveland teammates trying to break a long drought — with a new name.

And Aaron Judge, Mookie Betts and other top stars looming next week.

The entire Major League Baseball playoff picture came into focus Tuesday night. The matchups were finally set, right before the last day of the regular season.

The postseason, expanded from 10 teams last year to 12 this season, begins Friday with a newly created wild-card round. All four series are best two of three — three days in a row, no breaks, with the higher seed hosting every game.

In the National League, it's Padres-Mets and Phillies-Cardinals. In the American League, it's Mariners-Blue Jays and Rays-Guardians.

At Citi Field, New York figures to throw aces Scherzer and deGrom at San Diego, featuring big-hitting Machado and Soto. The Mets' bid to win the NL East ended when they were beaten out by the defending World Series champion Atlanta Braves, so New York wound up as the top NL wild-card team.

"We have to go on the road and play against a tough team and beat some of the best pitchers in the game," Machado said. "It is about going out there and enjoying the moment."

At Busch Stadium, soon-to-be retired St. Louis stars Yadier Molina and Pujols host Harper and Philadelphia. The Cardinals won the NL Central, but as the No. 3 seed don't get the benefit of an early bye.

A two-time champion with the Cardinals, the 42-year-old Pujols has looked like a 24-year-old version of himself down the stretch, topping 700 career home runs and passing Babe Ruth for second place on the all-time RBIs list.

A two-time MVP, Harper makes his first playoff appearance since 2017 with Washington. He missed two months in the middle of the season because of a broken thumb but is ready to swing away for the Phillies.

In Cleveland, Ramírez leads a young team that includes rookie sparkplug Steven Kwan and hard-throwing closer Emmanuel Clase as the AL Central champs host Tampa Bay.

This will be Cleveland's first postseason appearance as the Guardians. The team hasn't won the World Series since 1948. Randy Arozarena, already established as a playoff star, will try to boost the Rays to the first championship in franchise history.

The Guardians went 4-2 against the Rays this year, winning two of three last week at Progressive Field. All three games in the series were decided by one run, with two going to extra innings.

"It will be a good environment," Tampa Bay second baseman Taylor Walls. "It's a good thing that we just went there. ... I know the guys are amped up. We're ready to be there."

In Toronto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the top AL wild-card Blue Jays take on Seattle and its rookie sensation, Rodríguez. The series also matches Robbie Ray, who won the Cy Young Award with Toronto last year, against his former team.

All four matchups are scheduled to end Sunday. The best-of-five Division Series in both leagues begin Oct. 11.

Judge, fresh off hitting his 62nd home run to set the AL record, and the Yankees will host the Tampa Bay-Cleveland winner in Game 1. Justin Verlander and the Houston Astros start at home against the Seattle-Toronto winner.

In the NL, Freddie Freeman, Betts and the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have set a franchise record for wins, host the Mets-San Diego winner in the opener. Ronald Acuña Jr., injured last fall when the Braves won the World Series, will start at home against the St. Louis-Philadelphia winner.

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSThe entire Major League Baseball playoff picture is now set. The four matchups in the wild-card round were locked in Tuesday night, right before the last day of the regular season. Every series starts Friday and is a best two of three. Plus, the higher seed will host every game. In the National League, the San Diego Padres visit the New York Mets while the Philadelphia Phillies play at the St. Louis Cardinals. In the American League, the Seattle Mariners visit the Toronto Blue Jays while the Tampa Bay Rays play at the Cleveland Guardians. The postseason was expanded from 10 teams last year to 12 this season.Albert Pujols taking his final swings in October, Julio Rodríguez stepping in for the first time. Max Scherzer and Jacob deGrom facing Manny Machado and Juan Soto.Bryce Harper, back at last. José Ramírez and his Cleveland teammates trying to break a long drought — with a new name.And Aaron Judge, Mookie Betts and other top stars looming next week.The entire Major League Baseball playoff picture came into focus Tuesday night. The matchups were finally set, right before the last day of the regular season.The postseason, expanded from 10 teams last year to 12 this season, begins Friday with a newly created wild-card round. All four series are best two of three — three days in a row, no breaks, with the higher seed hosting every game.In the National League, it's Padres-Mets and Phillies-Cardinals. In the American League, it's Mariners-Blue Jays and Rays-Guardians.At Citi Field, New York figures to throw aces Scherzer and deGrom at San Diego, featuring big-hitting Machado and Soto. The Mets' bid to win the NL East ended when they were beaten out by the defending World Series champion Atlanta Braves, so New York wound up as the top NL wild-card team."We have to go on the road and play against a tough team and beat some of the best pitchers in the game," Machado said. "It is about going out there and enjoying the moment."At Busch Stadium, soon-to-be retired St. Louis stars Yadier Molina and Pujols host Harper and Philadelphia. The Cardinals won the NL Central, but as the No. 3 seed don't get the benefit of an early bye.A two-time champion with the Cardinals, the 42-year-old Pujols has looked like a 24-year-old version of himself down the stretch, topping 700 career home runs and passing Babe Ruth for second place on the all-time RBIs list.A two-time MVP, Harper makes his first playoff appearance since 2017 with Washington. He missed two months in the middle of the season because of a broken thumb but is ready to swing away for the Phillies.In Cleveland, Ramírez leads a young team that includes rookie sparkplug Steven Kwan and hard-throwing closer Emmanuel Clase as the AL Central champs host Tampa Bay.This will be Cleveland's first postseason appearance as the Guardians. The team hasn't won the World Series since 1948. Randy Arozarena, already established as a playoff star, will try to boost the Rays to the first championship in franchise history.The Guardians went 4-2 against the Rays this year, winning two of three last week at Progressive Field. All three games in the series were decided by one run, with two going to extra innings."It will be a good environment," Tampa Bay second baseman Taylor Walls. "It's a good thing that we just went there. ... I know the guys are amped up. We're ready to be there."In Toronto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and the top AL wild-card Blue Jays take on Seattle and its rookie sensation, Rodríguez. The series also matches Robbie Ray, who won the Cy Young Award with Toronto last year, against his former team.All four matchups are scheduled to end Sunday. The best-of-five Division Series in both leagues begin Oct. 11.Judge, fresh off hitting his 62nd home run to set the AL record, and the Yankees will host the Tampa Bay-Cleveland winner in Game 1. Justin Verlander and the Houston Astros start at home against the Seattle-Toronto winner.In the NL, Freddie Freeman, Betts and the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have set a franchise record for wins, host the Mets-San Diego winner in the opener. Ronald Acuña Jr., injured last fall when the Braves won the World Series, will start at home against the St. Louis-Philadelphia winner.

⚾ MLB playoff picture all set, best-of-3 matchups start Friday

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Health reported&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;1,698 new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday Sept. 28, to Wednesday October 5, for a total of 880,197cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Wednesday, th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported</a>&nbsp; 18 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on September 28, for a total of 9,573.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<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;1,698 new coronavirus cases in Kansas from Wednesday Sept. 28, to Wednesday October 5, for a total of 880,197cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Wednesday, th<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1529/June-15-Case-Summary-PDF?bidId=">e state reported</a>&nbsp; 18 additional COVID-19 deaths since the report on September 28, for a total of 9,573.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664384369884.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></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: 18 additional COVID death since Sept. 28

Robert was born on November 15, 1931, in Red Cloud, NE to Charles E. 
Hildreth, of Wray, CO and Ruth Pauline Harris Hildreth, of Salina, KS.

Bob's father passed away when he was only two months-old.&nbsp; After the 
passing of his father, Bob’s mother along with his four year-old brother
 moved to Fort Morgan, CO, where his mother married Ray Johnson.&nbsp; His 
step dad worked for the railroad and the family with 10 children lived 
in two box cars that had been set across the road from the railroad 
tracks, and heated with coal stoves.

Bob joined the Navy in 1951, and was in the Seabees until February of
 1955.&nbsp; He was a member of the Seabees Construction Battalion, serving 
in French Morocco, North Africa, where he was an electrician.

Upon Bob's honorable discharge from the Navy, he moved to Denver, CO,
 where he met his Marita Orle at the Assembly of God Church. They were 
married on December 7, 1958.

Bob was a devout born-again believer in Jesus Christ and never hesitated to share his testimony and belief in God with others.&nbsp;

Bob was a business man and invested in residential and commercial real estate throughout Colorado and Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1664992461258.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert was born on November 15, 1931, in Red Cloud, NE to Charles E. 
Hildreth, of Wray, CO and Ruth Pauline Harris Hildreth, of Salina, KS.Bob's father passed away when he was only two months-old.&nbsp; After the 
passing of his father, Bob’s mother along with his four year-old brother
 moved to Fort Morgan, CO, where his mother married Ray Johnson.&nbsp; His 
step dad worked for the railroad and the family with 10 children lived 
in two box cars that had been set across the road from the railroad 
tracks, and heated with coal stoves.Bob joined the Navy in 1951, and was in the Seabees until February of
 1955.&nbsp; He was a member of the Seabees Construction Battalion, serving 
in French Morocco, North Africa, where he was an electrician.Upon Bob's honorable discharge from the Navy, he moved to Denver, CO,
 where he met his Marita Orle at the Assembly of God Church. They were 
married on December 7, 1958.Bob was a devout born-again believer in Jesus Christ and never hesitated to share his testimony and belief in God with others.&nbsp;Bob was a business man and invested in residential and commercial real estate throughout Colorado and Kansas.Bob and Marita were married for 53 years and welcomed two children, 
Lynette Penny (Gary) of Burlington, CO and Karl Hildreth (Holly) of 
Tulsa, OK.&nbsp; Bob will be deeply missed by his children and their spouses 
along with his 7 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren: Kyle Gateley 
of Rochester, NY (Jude 7) Brittany Bodley (Tim) of Claremore, OK&nbsp; (Ella 
14, Kaleb 12, Lyla 9, Kamden 7 &amp; Charlotte 9mo) Kameron Gateley 
(Beth) of Timnath, CO (Lyla 2 &amp; Weston 1 mo.) Kollin Gateley 
(Amanda) of Englewood, CO (Elise 3 &amp; baby due October 2022) Brielle 
Hildreth (Michael) of Oklahoma City, OK (baby due November 2022) Brianna
 Eichelberger (Rhett) of Broken Arrow, OK (Kate 4, Emma 2 &amp; Avery 1)
 Kirsten Daly (Jack) of Golden, CO.Bob and Marita built their lifetime legacy, a Cabin in Grand Lake, 
CO, where they spent their weekends, summers and holidays with their 
growing family, making memories with their children and grandchildren.Following Marita's death in 2011, Bob married Karen Hansen in 2018.Bob is proceeded in death by his parents, a brother Chuck Hildreth, 
sisters June Doris, Retha Holmes &amp; Maxine Lecrone, and step siblings
 Viola, Lorraine, Gerald, Robert and Illa.Because of Bob’s faith,&nbsp;he reunited with the love of his life Marita 
in heaven on October 2, 2022, leaving a true legacy behind for his 
loving family and numerous friends.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/RobertBob-Hildreth">HERE</a> for service and memorial details.