Merle K. Aistrup, 88, died Thursday, October 7, 2021 at Hodgeman County Health Center, Jetmore, KS.&nbsp;

He was born February 17, 1933 on the family farm near Bison, Kansas, 
the son of Tenus and Mintie (Hoofer) Aistrup. He was a graduate of 
Hanston High School. He was a longtime area resident and a farmer and 
stockman.&nbsp;

He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Offerle, St Mary’s 
Catholic Church, Hodgeman County, and Knights of Columbus Council #1539 
Spearville. He loved watching college football and softball especially 
his granddaughter play softball.

On December 18, 1971 he married Dorothy P. Lynch in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

Survivors include his wife of 49 years of the home; their son, Bob 
and friend Barb New, Stafford, KS, daughter Rebecca Gerber and husband 
Lance, Dodge City, two sisters-in-law, Teresa Aistrup, Dodge City and 
Toni Aistrup, Spearville and one granddaughter, Regan Gerber, Dodge 
City.

He is preceded in death by his parents, 6 brothers, Guy “G.W.”, Lyle,
 Duayne "Bud", Jack, Jerry and Rex Aistrup; 1 sister, Betty Houser; and a
 daughter-in-law, Debra Aistrup.

Rosary will be at 7:00 pm Monday, October 11, 2021 St. Joseph 
Catholic Church, Offerle. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am Tuesday with 
Fr. Jim Mainzer presiding at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will 
follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hodgeman County. Visitation will be held 
from noon to 4:00 pm Monday at Ziegler Funeral Chapel, Dodge City.

The family suggests memorials to the St. Mary’s Cemetery Fund or the 
Hodgeman County Health Center both in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 
1901 N. 14th&nbsp;Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633700367572.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Merle K. Aistrup, 88, died Thursday, October 7, 2021 at Hodgeman County Health Center, Jetmore, KS.&nbsp;He was born February 17, 1933 on the family farm near Bison, Kansas, 
the son of Tenus and Mintie (Hoofer) Aistrup. He was a graduate of 
Hanston High School. He was a longtime area resident and a farmer and 
stockman.&nbsp;He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Offerle, St Mary’s 
Catholic Church, Hodgeman County, and Knights of Columbus Council #1539 
Spearville. He loved watching college football and softball especially 
his granddaughter play softball.On December 18, 1971 he married Dorothy P. Lynch in Stillwater, Oklahoma.Survivors include his wife of 49 years of the home; their son, Bob 
and friend Barb New, Stafford, KS, daughter Rebecca Gerber and husband 
Lance, Dodge City, two sisters-in-law, Teresa Aistrup, Dodge City and 
Toni Aistrup, Spearville and one granddaughter, Regan Gerber, Dodge 
City.He is preceded in death by his parents, 6 brothers, Guy “G.W.”, Lyle,
 Duayne "Bud", Jack, Jerry and Rex Aistrup; 1 sister, Betty Houser; and a
 daughter-in-law, Debra Aistrup.Rosary will be at 7:00 pm Monday, October 11, 2021 St. Joseph 
Catholic Church, Offerle. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am Tuesday with 
Fr. Jim Mainzer presiding at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will 
follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hodgeman County. Visitation will be held 
from noon to 4:00 pm Monday at Ziegler Funeral Chapel, Dodge City.The family suggests memorials to the St. Mary’s Cemetery Fund or the 
Hodgeman County Health Center both in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 
1901 N. 14th&nbsp;Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.

Merle K. Aistrup

TOPEKA - The Kansas Volleyball Association is pleased to announce the 2021 Week 5 Volleyball Rankings. This week’s rankings reflect the new 2021-22 KSHSAAclassifications, as well as information that was submitted by Monday, October 4.

Victoria moves to No. 1 in 1A Division I, Smith Center is No. 1 in 2A and TMP-Marian jumps up one to No. 8 in 3A.

Rank – School – Record – Last Week’s Rank

Class 6A 1. Washburn Rural 20-0 (1) 2. Blue Valley North 22-2 (2) 3. Blue Valley West 15-7 (4) 4. Shawnee Mission Northwest 27-6 (3) 5. Wichita Northwest 26-0 (5) 6. Olathe Northwest 15-7 (7) 7. Lawrence-Free State 15-5 (6) 8. Hutchinson 24-1 (8) 9. Blue Valley Northwest 14-8 (9) 10. Derby 17-8 (NR)

Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas 27-2 (1) 2. Lansing 24-1 (3) 3. St. James Academy 15-9 (2) 4. Mill Valley 19-5 (4) 5. Maize South 18-5 (5) 6. Seaman 17-7 (6) 7. Spring Hill 18-6 (7) 8. Basehor-Linwood 20-6 (9) 9. Bishop Carroll 13-6 (10) 10. Goddard-Eisenhower 18-7 (NR)

Class 4A 1. Andale 24-1 (1) 2. McPherson 20-6 (2) 3. Baldwin 23-3 (3) 4. Circle 16-5 (4) 5. Clay Center 19-5 (6) 6. Augusta 14-3 (8) 7. Bishop Miege 4-15 (5) 8. Louisburg 17-10 (7) 9. Clearwater 13-6 (10) 10. Ottawa 12-16 (NR)

Class 3A 1. Smoky Valley 23-3 (1) 2. Heritage Christian 23-2 (2) 3. Cheney 22-1 (3) 4. Nemaha Central 24-3 (4) 5. Hiawatha 19-3 (5) 6. Riverton 25-2 (6) 7. Eureka 22-0 (7) 8. Thomas More Prep-Marian 20-5 (9) 9. Goodland 20-3 (8) 10. Holcomb 28-1 (NR)

Class 2A 1. Smith Center 28-2 (1) 2. Garden Plain 15-4 (2) 3. Sedgwick 23-3 (3) 4. Hillsboro 19-6 (4) 5. Ellinwood 21-3 (6) 6. Wabaunsee 25-4 (5) 7. Sterling 22-6 (7) 8. Meade/Fowler 21-1 (8) 9. Jefferson County North 16-5 (9) 10. Inman 20-8 (10)

Class 1A – Division 1 1. Victoria 20-0 (1) 2. Little River 23-3 (2) 3. Centralia 26-3 (5) 4. Pretty Prairie 24-4 (4) 5. Kiowa County 19-3 (3) 6. Burlingame 17-4 (8) 7. St. Paul 23-4 (6) 8. Spearville 13-5 (7) 9. South Gray 16-5 (9) 10. Ness City 13-7 (10)

Class 1A – Division 2 1. Hanover 23-4 (1) 2. Lebo 23-3 (3) 3. Attica 23-1 (2) 4. Golden Plains 19-2 (4) 5. Central Plains 17-7 (5) 6. Linn 18-8 (7) 7. Wheatland-Grinnell 19-8 (8) 8. Argonia 13-3 (6) 9. Central Christian 15-7 (9) 10. Dighton 16-6 (10)

TOPEKA - The Kansas Volleyball Association is pleased to announce the 2021 Week 5 Volleyball Rankings. This week’s rankings reflect the new 2021-22 KSHSAAclassifications, as well as information that was submitted by Monday, October 4.Victoria moves to No. 1 in 1A Division I, Smith Center is No. 1 in 2A and TMP-Marian jumps up one to No. 8 in 3A.Rank – School – Record – Last Week’s RankClass 6A 1. Washburn Rural 20-0 (1) 2. Blue Valley North 22-2 (2) 3. Blue Valley West 15-7 (4) 4. Shawnee Mission Northwest 27-6 (3) 5. Wichita Northwest 26-0 (5) 6. Olathe Northwest 15-7 (7) 7. Lawrence-Free State 15-5 (6) 8. Hutchinson 24-1 (8) 9. Blue Valley Northwest 14-8 (9) 10. Derby 17-8 (NR)Class 5A 1. St. Thomas Aquinas 27-2 (1) 2. Lansing 24-1 (3) 3. St. James Academy 15-9 (2) 4. Mill Valley 19-5 (4) 5. Maize South 18-5 (5) 6. Seaman 17-7 (6) 7. Spring Hill 18-6 (7) 8. Basehor-Linwood 20-6 (9) 9. Bishop Carroll 13-6 (10) 10. Goddard-Eisenhower 18-7 (NR)Class 4A 1. Andale 24-1 (1) 2. McPherson 20-6 (2) 3. Baldwin 23-3 (3) 4. Circle 16-5 (4) 5. Clay Center 19-5 (6) 6. Augusta 14-3 (8) 7. Bishop Miege 4-15 (5) 8. Louisburg 17-10 (7) 9. Clearwater 13-6 (10) 10. Ottawa 12-16 (NR)Class 3A 1. Smoky Valley 23-3 (1) 2. Heritage Christian 23-2 (2) 3. Cheney 22-1 (3) 4. Nemaha Central 24-3 (4) 5. Hiawatha 19-3 (5) 6. Riverton 25-2 (6) 7. Eureka 22-0 (7) 8. Thomas More Prep-Marian 20-5 (9) 9. Goodland 20-3 (8) 10. Holcomb 28-1 (NR)Class 2A 1. Smith Center 28-2 (1) 2. Garden Plain 15-4 (2) 3. Sedgwick 23-3 (3) 4. Hillsboro 19-6 (4) 5. Ellinwood 21-3 (6) 6. Wabaunsee 25-4 (5) 7. Sterling 22-6 (7) 8. Meade/Fowler 21-1 (8) 9. Jefferson County North 16-5 (9) 10. Inman 20-8 (10)Class 1A – Division 1 1. Victoria 20-0 (1) 2. Little River 23-3 (2) 3. Centralia 26-3 (5) 4. Pretty Prairie 24-4 (4) 5. Kiowa County 19-3 (3) 6. Burlingame 17-4 (8) 7. St. Paul 23-4 (6) 8. Spearville 13-5 (7) 9. South Gray 16-5 (9) 10. Ness City 13-7 (10)Class 1A – Division 2 1. Hanover 23-4 (1) 2. Lebo 23-3 (3) 3. Attica 23-1 (2) 4. Golden Plains 19-2 (4) 5. Central Plains 17-7 (5) 6. Linn 18-8 (7) 7. Wheatland-Grinnell 19-8 (8) 8. Argonia 13-3 (6) 9. Central Christian 15-7 (9) 10. Dighton 16-6 (10)

🏐 Latest KVA rankings

The first free hearing screening of the semester to be held in western Kansas by Fort Hays State University graduate students. The screening will be hosted by the Sharon Springs Masonic Lodge #417 at the Sharon Springs United Methodist Church on Friday, October 15th&nbsp;from, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Mountain Time.&nbsp;

“The FHSU Speech-Language Hearing Clinic is continuing into its fifth year of providing hearing screenings sponsored by a grant from the Kansas Masonic Foundation after last year’s screenings were delayed due to COVID-19,” said Marcy Beougher, speech-language pathologist and an instructor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. &nbsp; The grant has and will continue to provide numerous opportunities for older adults in western Kansas to receive important health screening services that are currently scarce or difficult to access. “Over the years, the Herndon Clinic students, faculty, and staff have provided over 830 free screenings in Western Kansas communities providing hearing screening results, referrals, free hearing protective earplugs, and helpful handouts.” Said Beougher. “Through these community screenings hosted by active Masonic lodges, we are trying to reach individuals who likely would not have access to a free hearing screening.” &nbsp;&nbsp; Appointments may be scheduled ahead of time, but walk-ins will be welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site will have four stations, with each screening lasting approximately 15-20 minutes. Information about hearing loss and follow-up services available will be shared during the screenings. Free educational materials and earplugs will be provided by the Kansas Masons. The screening is provided by graduate students from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders under the supervision of an FHSU Herndon Clinic instructor. &nbsp; “The students are gaining excellent clinical experience as well as mandatory clinical hours from each screening,” she said. “We are grateful to the Kansas Masons for their support of this quality program.” Additional free hearing screenings will be offered this fall in Nickerson on Nov. 5 and Lewis on Nov. 19. Three more screenings will be set in communities with active Masonic Lodges in the Spring of 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp; To schedule an appointment for the Sharon Springs screening, contact Daniel Smith at (620) 376-8497 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:DozerDan74@gmail.com">DozerDan74@gmail.com</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=xPslMx44JjC7Rus-2BUf-2BldFHAeOa4VRZhJo5kBY1kajyYw5V1hEOXyM1pg0ogI9xcXPOR_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BQNAmtA3y7vaVgo02Ya9qojlZRC0DnomBCGYiVMIwZCT33t5A9DCixRhJSSzRz35e9FrwXCtzYA1pgEKd5f5TIJf-2Bj8-2FMKs5hj8oMoy55jvP4dT1-2Bzukb15fPe07xCKAhf7DG-2B9BozDorsQypFjSKU-2B3O7f8H2vDselSJPxV2IbYukPRKL1SijaDIXBrvrJqbeYi7Cd9wk5xsYahrg5227POi5seuI1uG1i4tZO2jxBfmpAf2t9kDrVvIa5Jekh85">fhsu.edu/herndon-clinic/</a>&nbsp;or contact the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at 785-628-5366.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633554518673.jpeg" alt="Former CSD graduate student, Carmen Hill screening the hearing of Dr. Glen McNeil, former dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences." />
 <figcaption>Former CSD graduate student, Carmen Hill screening the hearing of Dr. Glen McNeil, former dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences.</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU University RelationsThe first free hearing screening of the semester to be held in western Kansas by Fort Hays State University graduate students. The screening will be hosted by the Sharon Springs Masonic Lodge #417 at the Sharon Springs United Methodist Church on Friday, October 15th&nbsp;from, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Mountain Time.&nbsp;“The FHSU Speech-Language Hearing Clinic is continuing into its fifth year of providing hearing screenings sponsored by a grant from the Kansas Masonic Foundation after last year’s screenings were delayed due to COVID-19,” said Marcy Beougher, speech-language pathologist and an instructor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. &nbsp; The grant has and will continue to provide numerous opportunities for older adults in western Kansas to receive important health screening services that are currently scarce or difficult to access. “Over the years, the Herndon Clinic students, faculty, and staff have provided over 830 free screenings in Western Kansas communities providing hearing screening results, referrals, free hearing protective earplugs, and helpful handouts.” Said Beougher. “Through these community screenings hosted by active Masonic lodges, we are trying to reach individuals who likely would not have access to a free hearing screening.” &nbsp;&nbsp; Appointments may be scheduled ahead of time, but walk-ins will be welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site will have four stations, with each screening lasting approximately 15-20 minutes. Information about hearing loss and follow-up services available will be shared during the screenings. Free educational materials and earplugs will be provided by the Kansas Masons. The screening is provided by graduate students from the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders under the supervision of an FHSU Herndon Clinic instructor. &nbsp; “The students are gaining excellent clinical experience as well as mandatory clinical hours from each screening,” she said. “We are grateful to the Kansas Masons for their support of this quality program.” Additional free hearing screenings will be offered this fall in Nickerson on Nov. 5 and Lewis on Nov. 19. Three more screenings will be set in communities with active Masonic Lodges in the Spring of 2022.&nbsp; &nbsp; To schedule an appointment for the Sharon Springs screening, contact Daniel Smith at (620) 376-8497 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:DozerDan74@gmail.com">DozerDan74@gmail.com</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=xPslMx44JjC7Rus-2BUf-2BldFHAeOa4VRZhJo5kBY1kajyYw5V1hEOXyM1pg0ogI9xcXPOR_r-2BDMsuWuYVmb7-2F1Mu1QL1I-2FJ8-2BHR91nNNNGTTc38Ah0CWayiZL-2BkhdmA3sx0XGnG-2FN1jk6rVQRO9vN7U5rFC-2BcXi909IOPAdkr3SvXFdyn3Ag1h6-2F-2B6atf0vMUKxRgZ-2BQNAmtA3y7vaVgo02Ya9qojlZRC0DnomBCGYiVMIwZCT33t5A9DCixRhJSSzRz35e9FrwXCtzYA1pgEKd5f5TIJf-2Bj8-2FMKs5hj8oMoy55jvP4dT1-2Bzukb15fPe07xCKAhf7DG-2B9BozDorsQypFjSKU-2B3O7f8H2vDselSJPxV2IbYukPRKL1SijaDIXBrvrJqbeYi7Cd9wk5xsYahrg5227POi5seuI1uG1i4tZO2jxBfmpAf2t9kDrVvIa5Jekh85">fhsu.edu/herndon-clinic/</a>&nbsp;or contact the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at 785-628-5366.

Free Herndon hearing screenings set for Sharon Springs

TOPEKA —&nbsp;Each year, in October, advocates, survivors and supporters recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

This October, the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence is partnering with the National Network to End Domestic Violence and other state and territorial coalitions across the nation to start a coordinated national conversation about domestic violence and how we can all contribute to changing the narrative on this overshadowed, but fundamental topic.&nbsp;

&nbsp;More prevalent than most realize, one in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. Anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual identity or orientation, or socio-economic status, can become a victim of domestic violence. This year’s campaign theme, #Every1KnowsSome1, strives to highlight how common domestic violence is and that it is more than physical violence.

“Recent incidents in Kansas and around the country continue to demonstrate that domestic violence is all around us, demanding our attention to support victims and survivors,” said Joyce Grover, KCSDV executive director. “Whether they know it or not – every Kansan knows someone who is or has been or will be a victim of domestic violence. It is up to each of us to believe victims and to stand up to abusers.”

In Sept. 2020 during a one-day nationwide domestic violence census count. 824 victims were served in one day in Kansas. Those numbers include 393 adult and child victims who found refuge in shelters, transitional house or other housing provided by local domestic violence programs; 431 adult and child victims who received nonresidential assistance and services, including counseling, legal advocacy, children’s support groups and more.

Domestic violence hotlines are a lifeline for victims in danger, providing support, information, safety planning, and resources via phone, chat, text, and/or email. During the 24-hour survey period, hotline staff in Kansas received 195 contacts, averaging 8 contacts per hour.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month through proclamation declaring domestic violence as a widespread, preventable, public health problem impacting all demographics of Kansans and Kansas communities. The declaration is shown below.

&nbsp;Throughout October,&nbsp;KCSDV&nbsp;and NNEDV will be sharing content on their social media channels to help raise awareness and educate the public on the complex dynamics of domestic violence. A week of action is planned for October 18 – 24, 2021 designed to engage advocates, partners, and the public in starting a national conversation.

&nbsp;Free and confidential help is available 24/7 for individuals experiencing domestic violence. Those seeking help may contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at&nbsp;<a href="http://thehotline.org/">thehotline.org</a>&nbsp;or 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or the&nbsp;Kansas Hotline 888-363-2287.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633357219088.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>News releaseTOPEKA —&nbsp;Each year, in October, advocates, survivors and supporters recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.This October, the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence is partnering with the National Network to End Domestic Violence and other state and territorial coalitions across the nation to start a coordinated national conversation about domestic violence and how we can all contribute to changing the narrative on this overshadowed, but fundamental topic.&nbsp;&nbsp;More prevalent than most realize, one in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. Anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual identity or orientation, or socio-economic status, can become a victim of domestic violence. This year’s campaign theme, #Every1KnowsSome1, strives to highlight how common domestic violence is and that it is more than physical violence.“Recent incidents in Kansas and around the country continue to demonstrate that domestic violence is all around us, demanding our attention to support victims and survivors,” said Joyce Grover, KCSDV executive director. “Whether they know it or not – every Kansan knows someone who is or has been or will be a victim of domestic violence. It is up to each of us to believe victims and to stand up to abusers.”In Sept. 2020 during a one-day nationwide domestic violence census count. 824 victims were served in one day in Kansas. Those numbers include 393 adult and child victims who found refuge in shelters, transitional house or other housing provided by local domestic violence programs; 431 adult and child victims who received nonresidential assistance and services, including counseling, legal advocacy, children’s support groups and more.Domestic violence hotlines are a lifeline for victims in danger, providing support, information, safety planning, and resources via phone, chat, text, and/or email. During the 24-hour survey period, hotline staff in Kansas received 195 contacts, averaging 8 contacts per hour.Kansas Governor Laura Kelly recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month through proclamation declaring domestic violence as a widespread, preventable, public health problem impacting all demographics of Kansans and Kansas communities. The declaration is shown below.&nbsp;Throughout October,&nbsp;KCSDV&nbsp;and NNEDV will be sharing content on their social media channels to help raise awareness and educate the public on the complex dynamics of domestic violence. A week of action is planned for October 18 – 24, 2021 designed to engage advocates, partners, and the public in starting a national conversation.&nbsp;Free and confidential help is available 24/7 for individuals experiencing domestic violence. Those seeking help may contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at&nbsp;<a href="http://thehotline.org/">thehotline.org</a>&nbsp;or 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or the&nbsp;Kansas Hotline 888-363-2287.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633357235235.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Kansas coalition recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month

TOPEKA, Kansas –&nbsp;Minimum-custody resident Elvin Eugene Morris continues on escape status since 7:50 p.m. Saturday, October 2, after he walked away from the Wichita Work Release Facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Morris, a 43-year-old black male, left for Walmart in the community at 4:05 p.m. and was reported missing when he did not report back to the facility following an approved community pass.

Morris is currently serving a sentence for a conviction in Sedgwick County for removing electronic monitoring equipment. Morris was last seen leaving the Wichita Work Release Facility at 400 South Emporia in Wichita, Kansas.

Morris is 5 feet 10 inches tall, 179 pounds with brown eyes and black hair. Morris was last seen wearing jeans and a long sleeved, button up, white shirt and gray sweatshirt.

Anyone with information on Morris can call the Kansas Department of Corrections at 316-265-5211, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (800) 572-7463 or local law enforcement at 911.

The&nbsp;escape&nbsp;is currently being investigated.&nbsp; New information will be released as it becomes available.

The Wichita Work Release Facility, a satellite unit of the Winfield Correctional Facility, is an all-male, minimum-custody state prison with a population of 250.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633225847462.png" alt="Morris has previous convictions for theft and one for aggravated robbery in addition to his conviction in Sedgwick County for removing electronic monitoring equipment, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Morris has previous convictions for theft and one for aggravated robbery in addition to his conviction in Sedgwick County for removing electronic monitoring equipment, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kansas –&nbsp;Minimum-custody resident Elvin Eugene Morris continues on escape status since 7:50 p.m. Saturday, October 2, after he walked away from the Wichita Work Release Facility, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.Morris, a 43-year-old black male, left for Walmart in the community at 4:05 p.m. and was reported missing when he did not report back to the facility following an approved community pass.Morris is currently serving a sentence for a conviction in Sedgwick County for removing electronic monitoring equipment. Morris was last seen leaving the Wichita Work Release Facility at 400 South Emporia in Wichita, Kansas.Morris is 5 feet 10 inches tall, 179 pounds with brown eyes and black hair. Morris was last seen wearing jeans and a long sleeved, button up, white shirt and gray sweatshirt.Anyone with information on Morris can call the Kansas Department of Corrections at 316-265-5211, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (800) 572-7463 or local law enforcement at 911.The&nbsp;escape&nbsp;is currently being investigated.&nbsp; New information will be released as it becomes available.The Wichita Work Release Facility, a satellite unit of the Winfield Correctional Facility, is an all-male, minimum-custody state prison with a population of 250.

Kan. felon still missing after walking away from work release facility

Virginia Mae Willis, daughter of Lester and Emma (Simko) Stewart, 
April 30, 1926, in Gainesville, Texas and passed away October 3, 2021, at 
the Cloud County Health Center in Concordia, KS at the age of 95.

She grew up and graduated in Shawnee, OK.&nbsp; Virginia enjoyed her 
family, traveling, “Driving”, “MAC Donalds” drive thru, and Red Hat Lady
 gatherings.&nbsp; After high school Virginia earned a bachelor of science in
 Education at Central State College in Edmond, OK with the class of 
58’.&nbsp; She then earned a Master’s of Science at Kansas State Teachers 
College in Emporia, KS where she met and married Richard Willis on June 
4, 1960 in Wichita, KS.

Virginia taught school in Kirwin, KS and Logan, KS before delightfully becoming a Tupperware sales representative.

Virginia was most proud of being a mother to Jason, grandmother of 
Justin and Trenton, and great grandmother to Ronan aka “Ro Ro”.&nbsp; She 
enjoyed traveling the country and visited all 48 continental United 
States either by train or by driving.&nbsp; She could spend hours on every 
single isle at Wal-Mart or most recently Dollar General.&nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Richard; son Jason;
 brother Ivan and wife Polly; brother Arthur and wife Mary Ann; and 
sister Sylvia Griffey.

Survivors include her grandsons Justin Alan Willis and Trenton James 
Willis both of Concordia, KS; great grandson Ronan James “Ro Ro” Willis;
 a sister-in-law Mary Fern Stewart of Oklahoma City, OK; and many loving
 nieces and nephews.

Virginia, also known as “Aunt Gi Gi”, had a contagious gift of laughter, and will be missed by many family and friends.

Graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, October 8, 2021,&nbsp; in the Kirwin Cemetery, Kirwin, KS with Pastor Becky Saddler 
officiating.&nbsp; The services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve 
Memorial Chapel Facebook page.

Virginia will lie in state from noon until 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Virginia Willis Memorial Fund.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633642668270.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Virginia Mae Willis, daughter of Lester and Emma (Simko) Stewart, 
April 30, 1926, in Gainesville, Texas and passed away October 3, 2021, at 
the Cloud County Health Center in Concordia, KS at the age of 95.She grew up and graduated in Shawnee, OK.&nbsp; Virginia enjoyed her 
family, traveling, “Driving”, “MAC Donalds” drive thru, and Red Hat Lady
 gatherings.&nbsp; After high school Virginia earned a bachelor of science in
 Education at Central State College in Edmond, OK with the class of 
58’.&nbsp; She then earned a Master’s of Science at Kansas State Teachers 
College in Emporia, KS where she met and married Richard Willis on June 
4, 1960 in Wichita, KS.Virginia taught school in Kirwin, KS and Logan, KS before delightfully becoming a Tupperware sales representative.Virginia was most proud of being a mother to Jason, grandmother of 
Justin and Trenton, and great grandmother to Ronan aka “Ro Ro”.&nbsp; She 
enjoyed traveling the country and visited all 48 continental United 
States either by train or by driving.&nbsp; She could spend hours on every 
single isle at Wal-Mart or most recently Dollar General.&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Richard; son Jason;
 brother Ivan and wife Polly; brother Arthur and wife Mary Ann; and 
sister Sylvia Griffey.Survivors include her grandsons Justin Alan Willis and Trenton James 
Willis both of Concordia, KS; great grandson Ronan James “Ro Ro” Willis;
 a sister-in-law Mary Fern Stewart of Oklahoma City, OK; and many loving
 nieces and nephews.Virginia, also known as “Aunt Gi Gi”, had a contagious gift of laughter, and will be missed by many family and friends.Graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, October 8, 2021,&nbsp; in the Kirwin Cemetery, Kirwin, KS with Pastor Becky Saddler 
officiating.&nbsp; The services will be streamed live on the Olliff-Boeve 
Memorial Chapel Facebook page.Virginia will lie in state from noon until 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral chapel.Memorial contributions may be made to The Virginia Willis Memorial Fund.

Virginia Mae Willis

Sharlett Webster, 60, of Hanston, KS 
died Wednesday, October 6, 2021, at HaysMed - Hays.&nbsp; Services are pending
 and will be announced by Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory,
 2509 Vine Street, Hays, KS 67601.

Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633642605274.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sharlett Webster, 60, of Hanston, KS 
died Wednesday, October 6, 2021, at HaysMed - Hays.&nbsp; Services are pending
 and will be announced by Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory,
 2509 Vine Street, Hays, KS 67601.Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com.

Sharlett Webster

Longtime Goodland, KS resident, Velta Marie Bradshaw, 82, passed away at her home on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 in Goodland.

Velta was born on January 12, 1939 in Big Bow, Kansas to George W. 
and Comilla Mae (Conn) Farr.&nbsp; She was one of four children.&nbsp; She 
attended school at various places, and graduated from Sherman Community 
High School in 1957.&nbsp; On June 2, 1957, she married Robert “Bob” Bradshaw
 in Raton, New Mexico.

Velta was a realtor for most of her life.&nbsp; She also owned an Ice 
Cream Shop in Garden City, KS called the Peppermint Pad.&nbsp; Velta and her 
husband owned Bradshaw Angus Cattle Company, and she spent a lot of her 
time helping him around the farm.&nbsp; Along with her husband, she was a 
member of the American Cattle Association.

Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband Bob and 3 brothers.

Surviving family includes her children Cyndi (Mike) Hoelting of 
Shawnee, KS, Robin (Mike) Ginther of Overland Park, KS, Rod Bradshaw of 
Salina, KS and Debbie (Ronnie) Reed of Goodland, KS.&nbsp; She is also 
survived by her 7 grandchildren; Heather (Chris) Handlin, Michael 
Hoelting, Jr., Clayton Ginther, Ryan (Megan) Bradshaw, Tyler (Katelyn) 
Bradshaw, Marysa (Justin) McCartney and Austin Bradshaw, as well as 8 
great grandchildren.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633624689335.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Longtime Goodland, KS resident, Velta Marie Bradshaw, 82, passed away at her home on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 in Goodland.Velta was born on January 12, 1939 in Big Bow, Kansas to George W. 
and Comilla Mae (Conn) Farr.&nbsp; She was one of four children.&nbsp; She 
attended school at various places, and graduated from Sherman Community 
High School in 1957.&nbsp; On June 2, 1957, she married Robert “Bob” Bradshaw
 in Raton, New Mexico.Velta was a realtor for most of her life.&nbsp; She also owned an Ice 
Cream Shop in Garden City, KS called the Peppermint Pad.&nbsp; Velta and her 
husband owned Bradshaw Angus Cattle Company, and she spent a lot of her 
time helping him around the farm.&nbsp; Along with her husband, she was a 
member of the American Cattle Association.Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband Bob and 3 brothers.Surviving family includes her children Cyndi (Mike) Hoelting of 
Shawnee, KS, Robin (Mike) Ginther of Overland Park, KS, Rod Bradshaw of 
Salina, KS and Debbie (Ronnie) Reed of Goodland, KS.&nbsp; She is also 
survived by her 7 grandchildren; Heather (Chris) Handlin, Michael 
Hoelting, Jr., Clayton Ginther, Ryan (Megan) Bradshaw, Tyler (Katelyn) 
Bradshaw, Marysa (Justin) McCartney and Austin Bradshaw, as well as 8 
great grandchildren.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Velta-Bradshaw">HERE</a> for service details.

Velta Marie (Farr) Bradshaw

Alberta Ann Mawhiney, 91, passed away on October 5, 2021, at Country 
Place Senior Living in Hoisington, KS. She was born on December 29, 
1929, in Parsons, KS to James and Mabel (Pearce) Aldridge. She 
married&nbsp;Billy Joe (Bill) Mawhiney on March 31, 1951 in Parsons.&nbsp; Bill 
died June 5, 2021, three months after their 70th wedding anniversary. &nbsp;

Alberta was a resident of Hoisington since 1971 when she and Bill 
moved from Great Bend to purchase the V.L. Durand Insurance Agency which
 later became the Mawhiney Insurance Agency. &nbsp;Alberta was a co-owner and
 licensed agent of Mawhiney Insurance Agency and worked along side Bill 
for many years before their retirement in 1992. Prior to that she was 
the administrative assistant to the president of Barton County Community
 College in its early days. Before coming to central Kansas, Alberta and
 Bill lived in Parsons and Coffeyville, KS then Norfolk and McCook, NE. 
At that time she was a homemaker devoting her time and love to their 
four children.&nbsp; She took great pride in her family which grew to nine 
grandchildren, their spouses and then 16 great grandchildren.&nbsp; She and 
Bill followed the activities and sports for their four in town 
grandchildren and hosted many summer camp weeks for the out of town 
kids.&nbsp; Alberta was a member of First United Methodist Church in 
Hoisington. She enjoyed playing bridge, needle craftwork, reading and 
gardening.&nbsp; She and Bill traveled extensively, going to K-State games 
with friends, bus trips all over the US, as well as to visit family. She
 spoiled her family by cooking giant, hearty meals to feed all the 
generations. The family returning for Labor Day was an especially strong
 Mawhiney tradition.&nbsp; However, holiday or not, she created a special 
place that always drew her family home.

Survivors include two sons, Mark Mawhiney and wife Kim of Overland 
Park, and Brad Mawhiney and wife Cyndi of Gardner; two daughters, Janet 
Koester and husband Duane of Hoisington, and Lisa Baum and husband Bob 
of Great Bend; a brother, James Edward Aldridge and wife Dixie of 
Parsons, KS; a sister, Rosella "Rosie" Shivers of Pleasanton, CA, and; 
nine grandchildren, Brett Mawhiney and wife Kati, Blair Uriell and 
husband Brandon, Megan Bray and husband Jerron, Brian Koester and wife 
Brooke, Audrey Koester, Sarah Lober and husband Kyle, Allison 
Klingenberg and husband Grant, Amanda Malone and husband Jake, and Matt 
Mawhiney and wife Jaci; and 16 great grandchildren. She is preceded in 
death by her parents; and sister Nadine Hoffman.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Memorial 
services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 27, 2021, at First 
United Methodist Church in Hoisington with Reverend Chris Lehew and 
Chaplain Jeffrey Owen presiding.&nbsp; The family will receive friends prior 
to the service.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow at the Hoisington Cemetery at 1 
p.m., for those wishing to attend.&nbsp; 

Memorials may be given to First 
United Methodist Church or Kindred Hospice in care of Nicholson-Ricke 
Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS&nbsp; 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633624622560.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Alberta Ann Mawhiney, 91, passed away on October 5, 2021, at Country 
Place Senior Living in Hoisington, KS. She was born on December 29, 
1929, in Parsons, KS to James and Mabel (Pearce) Aldridge. She 
married&nbsp;Billy Joe (Bill) Mawhiney on March 31, 1951 in Parsons.&nbsp; Bill 
died June 5, 2021, three months after their 70th wedding anniversary. &nbsp;Alberta was a resident of Hoisington since 1971 when she and Bill 
moved from Great Bend to purchase the V.L. Durand Insurance Agency which
 later became the Mawhiney Insurance Agency. &nbsp;Alberta was a co-owner and
 licensed agent of Mawhiney Insurance Agency and worked along side Bill 
for many years before their retirement in 1992. Prior to that she was 
the administrative assistant to the president of Barton County Community
 College in its early days. Before coming to central Kansas, Alberta and
 Bill lived in Parsons and Coffeyville, KS then Norfolk and McCook, NE. 
At that time she was a homemaker devoting her time and love to their 
four children.&nbsp; She took great pride in her family which grew to nine 
grandchildren, their spouses and then 16 great grandchildren.&nbsp; She and 
Bill followed the activities and sports for their four in town 
grandchildren and hosted many summer camp weeks for the out of town 
kids.&nbsp; Alberta was a member of First United Methodist Church in 
Hoisington. She enjoyed playing bridge, needle craftwork, reading and 
gardening.&nbsp; She and Bill traveled extensively, going to K-State games 
with friends, bus trips all over the US, as well as to visit family. She
 spoiled her family by cooking giant, hearty meals to feed all the 
generations. The family returning for Labor Day was an especially strong
 Mawhiney tradition.&nbsp; However, holiday or not, she created a special 
place that always drew her family home.Survivors include two sons, Mark Mawhiney and wife Kim of Overland 
Park, and Brad Mawhiney and wife Cyndi of Gardner; two daughters, Janet 
Koester and husband Duane of Hoisington, and Lisa Baum and husband Bob 
of Great Bend; a brother, James Edward Aldridge and wife Dixie of 
Parsons, KS; a sister, Rosella "Rosie" Shivers of Pleasanton, CA, and; 
nine grandchildren, Brett Mawhiney and wife Kati, Blair Uriell and 
husband Brandon, Megan Bray and husband Jerron, Brian Koester and wife 
Brooke, Audrey Koester, Sarah Lober and husband Kyle, Allison 
Klingenberg and husband Grant, Amanda Malone and husband Jake, and Matt 
Mawhiney and wife Jaci; and 16 great grandchildren. She is preceded in 
death by her parents; and sister Nadine Hoffman.There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Memorial 
services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 27, 2021, at First 
United Methodist Church in Hoisington with Reverend Chris Lehew and 
Chaplain Jeffrey Owen presiding.&nbsp; The family will receive friends prior 
to the service.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow at the Hoisington Cemetery at 1 
p.m., for those wishing to attend.&nbsp; Memorials may be given to First 
United Methodist Church or Kindred Hospice in care of Nicholson-Ricke 
Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS&nbsp; 67544.

Alberta Ann Mawhiney

Greg Slaven, 66, died Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at his home near 
Cimarron after battling glioblastoma for the last year and a half.

He was born May 20, 1955 at Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, the son of John
 Paul and Doris (Walker) Slaven.&nbsp; He was a graduate of Palco High School
 and attended MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe.&nbsp; On August 2, 
1975 he married Wrenn Unruh at Cimarron.&nbsp; He was in sales most of his 
life and owned and operated Variety Vending for 20 years.&nbsp;

He was a member of the Cimarron Church of the Nazarene.&nbsp; He enjoyed 
running cattle and being involved in his children’s activities as well 
as KU sports and the Green Bay Packers.

Survivors include: his wife of 46 years, Wrenn; 2 sons, Wyatt Slaven 
and fiancé, Maddison Carr, Grandview, Missouri and Caleb Slaven, 
Wichita; 2 daughters, Jordan Sage Lawrence, San Antonio, Texas and 
Prairie Brooke Conlon and husband Sean, Ft. Atkinson, Wisconsin; his 
father, Paul Slaven, Dodge City; 2 sisters, Diane Connally and husband 
Keith, Olathe and Shannon Satterfield, Derby, Kansas; 3 grandchildren, 
Emory Slaven, Maverick Slaven-Conlon and Greyson Conlon.

He was preceded in death by his mother, his brother, Michael Slaven and 3 infants.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 am Saturday, October 9, 2021 at the 
Cimarron Church of the Nazarene with Pastor Tom Boese officiating.&nbsp; 
Cremation will follow the service.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be at a
 later date in the Weskan Cemetery, Weskan, Kansas.&nbsp; Viewing will be 
Saturday from 9:30 am to service time at the church.

The family suggests memorials to Hospice of the Prairie or the 
Glioblastoma Foundation both in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 
14th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633614068681.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Greg Slaven, 66, died Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at his home near 
Cimarron after battling glioblastoma for the last year and a half.He was born May 20, 1955 at Cheyenne Wells, Colorado, the son of John
 Paul and Doris (Walker) Slaven.&nbsp; He was a graduate of Palco High School
 and attended MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe.&nbsp; On August 2, 
1975 he married Wrenn Unruh at Cimarron.&nbsp; He was in sales most of his 
life and owned and operated Variety Vending for 20 years.&nbsp;He was a member of the Cimarron Church of the Nazarene.&nbsp; He enjoyed 
running cattle and being involved in his children’s activities as well 
as KU sports and the Green Bay Packers.Survivors include: his wife of 46 years, Wrenn; 2 sons, Wyatt Slaven 
and fiancé, Maddison Carr, Grandview, Missouri and Caleb Slaven, 
Wichita; 2 daughters, Jordan Sage Lawrence, San Antonio, Texas and 
Prairie Brooke Conlon and husband Sean, Ft. Atkinson, Wisconsin; his 
father, Paul Slaven, Dodge City; 2 sisters, Diane Connally and husband 
Keith, Olathe and Shannon Satterfield, Derby, Kansas; 3 grandchildren, 
Emory Slaven, Maverick Slaven-Conlon and Greyson Conlon.He was preceded in death by his mother, his brother, Michael Slaven and 3 infants.Funeral service will be at 10:30 am Saturday, October 9, 2021 at the 
Cimarron Church of the Nazarene with Pastor Tom Boese officiating.&nbsp; 
Cremation will follow the service.&nbsp; Private family inurnment will be at a
 later date in the Weskan Cemetery, Weskan, Kansas.&nbsp; Viewing will be 
Saturday from 9:30 am to service time at the church.The family suggests memorials to Hospice of the Prairie or the 
Glioblastoma Foundation both in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 
14th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.

Greg Slaven

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Happy National Cooperatives Month! As a cooperative communicator, October is full of educating people about and emphasizing the benefits of cooperative membership. Last year at this time, I wrote in this column about the history and value of cooperatives. To recap, we are fortunate to have robust, mature, and stabile cooperatives build on the foresight of our ancestors. During my recent travels to the Baltics with Kansas Farm Bureau’s Casten Fellows Program, building my cooperative knowledge was one of several highlights. A little context is important here. The Baltic countries all have relatively “young” farms started from scratch with a history of less than three decades because they were only liberated from the USSR in the early 1990s. That liberation came with the collapse of their existing system of agriculture, supply chain as the USSR utilized collective farms where the state mandated regions specialize in a few pieces of the system. In the Baltics the freedom to own land, farm independently and conduct free-market business has been tempered by the challenges of lack of infrastructure and capital, and inexperienced farmers and landowners. It should not have been surprising but my jaw dropped the first time a farmer shared that they were the proud member of a 2-year-old grain cooperative with 30 members. The farmer was also excited to share they were one of 10 farms starting a beef cattle cooperative. Even small cooperatives in Kansas have seven or eight decades of history and dozens to hundreds of members. I was primed with all kind of questions when we arrived at our first cooperative. It was the closest opportunity I would get to travel back in time and question my organization’s founders. I was not disappointed as both the general manager and chair of the board, who was also one of the founders, were both there to meet with our group. There were many similarities with us, like sourcing seed and fertilizer for members, grain storage and constantly exploring opportunities to add value for members. We also saw farmers having coffee, confirming that is a universal ritual of cooperatives. We all laughed when the chair told us we could not leave without discussing crop yields and land prices as he couldn’t return empty-handed to his neighbors. In contrast, we observed how being new altered their business. The cooperative had rented a barge and took on risk for grain until it reached northern Africa. It was exploring processing grain for domestic demand that was not being met. We were also reminded that their farmers had real skin in the game because they didn’t have past sales to build equity and capital. Their farmers had to buy-in with a membership fee assessed on how much ground they farmed. One of my most important take-aways for the trip came from this visit. I was curious about how they market the idea of cooperative membership to get people to buy-in. The chair’s response was a bit shocking. He said it was easy to sell the cooperative but they don’t really actively seek new members. He went on to say they could sign-up new members who would benefit from the cooperative but not be a good fit for the community. Their core group of members are neighbors who want to work together, not just for their own profitability but for the community. They are a small committed group. They work together, socialize together and grow together. Having that community mindset is more important than any other benefit when seeking or evaluating new members. Farmers in the Baltics reminded me that cooperatives are all about community. They are a community of people who act, risk their resources, and do things that benefit themselves and their neighbors, children and the industry. That mindset of working toward a common good and investing in the community not for shellfish gain sometimes feels absent in our lives here. As we celebrate Cooperatives Month, I challenge us all move away from the complacency that comes with our well-established roles in the community. Maybe taking new eyes to your community will help you to see needs and find ways to build something new or at least supporting something for the greater good.

"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher Happy National Cooperatives Month! As a cooperative communicator, October is full of educating people about and emphasizing the benefits of cooperative membership. Last year at this time, I wrote in this column about the history and value of cooperatives. To recap, we are fortunate to have robust, mature, and stabile cooperatives build on the foresight of our ancestors. During my recent travels to the Baltics with Kansas Farm Bureau’s Casten Fellows Program, building my cooperative knowledge was one of several highlights. A little context is important here. The Baltic countries all have relatively “young” farms started from scratch with a history of less than three decades because they were only liberated from the USSR in the early 1990s. That liberation came with the collapse of their existing system of agriculture, supply chain as the USSR utilized collective farms where the state mandated regions specialize in a few pieces of the system. In the Baltics the freedom to own land, farm independently and conduct free-market business has been tempered by the challenges of lack of infrastructure and capital, and inexperienced farmers and landowners. It should not have been surprising but my jaw dropped the first time a farmer shared that they were the proud member of a 2-year-old grain cooperative with 30 members. The farmer was also excited to share they were one of 10 farms starting a beef cattle cooperative. Even small cooperatives in Kansas have seven or eight decades of history and dozens to hundreds of members. I was primed with all kind of questions when we arrived at our first cooperative. It was the closest opportunity I would get to travel back in time and question my organization’s founders. I was not disappointed as both the general manager and chair of the board, who was also one of the founders, were both there to meet with our group. There were many similarities with us, like sourcing seed and fertilizer for members, grain storage and constantly exploring opportunities to add value for members. We also saw farmers having coffee, confirming that is a universal ritual of cooperatives. We all laughed when the chair told us we could not leave without discussing crop yields and land prices as he couldn’t return empty-handed to his neighbors. In contrast, we observed how being new altered their business. The cooperative had rented a barge and took on risk for grain until it reached northern Africa. It was exploring processing grain for domestic demand that was not being met. We were also reminded that their farmers had real skin in the game because they didn’t have past sales to build equity and capital. Their farmers had to buy-in with a membership fee assessed on how much ground they farmed. One of my most important take-aways for the trip came from this visit. I was curious about how they market the idea of cooperative membership to get people to buy-in. The chair’s response was a bit shocking. He said it was easy to sell the cooperative but they don’t really actively seek new members. He went on to say they could sign-up new members who would benefit from the cooperative but not be a good fit for the community. Their core group of members are neighbors who want to work together, not just for their own profitability but for the community. They are a small committed group. They work together, socialize together and grow together. Having that community mindset is more important than any other benefit when seeking or evaluating new members. Farmers in the Baltics reminded me that cooperatives are all about community. They are a community of people who act, risk their resources, and do things that benefit themselves and their neighbors, children and the industry. That mindset of working toward a common good and investing in the community not for shellfish gain sometimes feels absent in our lives here. As we celebrate Cooperatives Month, I challenge us all move away from the complacency that comes with our well-established roles in the community. Maybe taking new eyes to your community will help you to see needs and find ways to build something new or at least supporting something for the greater good."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Cooperative communities

Pfizer asked the U.S. government Thursday to allow use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children ages 5 to 11 -- and if regulators agree, shots could begin within a matter of weeks.

Many parents and pediatricians are clamoring for protection for children younger than 12, today’s age cutoff for the vaccine made by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech. Not only can youngsters sometimes get seriously ill, but keeping them in school can be a challenge with the coronavirus still raging in poorly vaccinated communities.

Pfizer announced in a tweet that it had formally filed its application with the Food and Drug Administration.

Now the FDA will have to decide if there’s enough evidence that the shots are safe and will work for younger children like they do for teens and adults. An independent expert panel will publicly debate the evidence on Oct. 26.

One big change: Pfizer says its research shows the younger kids should get a third of the dose now given to everyone else. After their second dose, the 5- to 11-year-olds developed virus-fighting antibody levels just as strong as teens and young adults get from regular-strength shots.

While kids are at lower risk of severe illness or death than older people, COVID-19 does sometimes kill children and cases in youngsters have skyrocketed as the extra-contagious delta variant has swept through the country

“It makes me very happy that I am helping other kids get the vaccine,” said Sebastian Prybol, 8, of Raleigh, North Carolina. He is enrolled in Pfizer’s study at Duke University and doesn’t yet know if he received the vaccine or dummy shots.

“We do want to make sure that it is absolutely safe for them,” said Sebastian’s mother, Britni Prybol. But she said she will be “overjoyed” if the FDA clears the vaccine.

Pfizer studied the lower dose in 2,268 volunteers ages 5 to 11, and has said there were no serious side effects. The study isn’t large enough to detect any extremely rare side effects, such as the heart inflammation that sometimes occurs after the second dose of the regular-strength vaccine, mostly in young men.

If the FDA authorizes emergency use of the kid-sized doses, there’s another hurdle before vaccinations in this age group can begin. Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will decide whether to recommend the shots for youngsters, and the CDC will make a final decision.

By LAURAN NEERGAARD, Associated PressPfizer asked the U.S. government Thursday to allow use of its COVID-19 vaccine in children ages 5 to 11 -- and if regulators agree, shots could begin within a matter of weeks.Many parents and pediatricians are clamoring for protection for children younger than 12, today’s age cutoff for the vaccine made by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech. Not only can youngsters sometimes get seriously ill, but keeping them in school can be a challenge with the coronavirus still raging in poorly vaccinated communities.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UPDATE: We and <a href="https://twitter.com/BioNTech_Group?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BioNTech_Group</a> officially submitted our request to <a href="https://twitter.com/US_FDA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@US_FDA</a> for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> vaccine in children 5 to &lt;12. <a href="https://t.co/72Z2HXlkOx">pic.twitter.com/72Z2HXlkOx</a>&mdash; Pfizer Inc. (@pfizer) <a href="https://twitter.com/pfizer/status/1446082946335715334?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Pfizer announced in a tweet that it had formally filed its application with the Food and Drug Administration.Now the FDA will have to decide if there’s enough evidence that the shots are safe and will work for younger children like they do for teens and adults. An independent expert panel will publicly debate the evidence on Oct. 26.One big change: Pfizer says its research shows the younger kids should get a third of the dose now given to everyone else. After their second dose, the 5- to 11-year-olds developed virus-fighting antibody levels just as strong as teens and young adults get from regular-strength shots.While kids are at lower risk of severe illness or death than older people, COVID-19 does sometimes kill children and cases in youngsters have skyrocketed as the extra-contagious delta variant has swept through the country“It makes me very happy that I am helping other kids get the vaccine,” said Sebastian Prybol, 8, of Raleigh, North Carolina. He is enrolled in Pfizer’s study at Duke University and doesn’t yet know if he received the vaccine or dummy shots.“We do want to make sure that it is absolutely safe for them,” said Sebastian’s mother, Britni Prybol. But she said she will be “overjoyed” if the FDA clears the vaccine.Pfizer studied the lower dose in 2,268 volunteers ages 5 to 11, and has said there were no serious side effects. The study isn’t large enough to detect any extremely rare side effects, such as the heart inflammation that sometimes occurs after the second dose of the regular-strength vaccine, mostly in young men.If the FDA authorizes emergency use of the kid-sized doses, there’s another hurdle before vaccinations in this age group can begin. Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will decide whether to recommend the shots for youngsters, and the CDC will make a final decision.___

Pfizer asks US to allow COVID shots for kids ages 5 to 11

2021 FHSU Tiger Open Saturday, October 9 Sand Plum Nature Trail • Victoria, Kan. Women's 5K Black Race (JuCo/NAIA) - 9:00 a.m. Men's 8K Black Race (JuCo/NAIA) - 9:35 a.m. Women's 5K Gold Race (NCAA DII/Open) - 10:25 a.m. Men's 8K Gold Race (NCAA DII/Open) - 11:00 a.m. The Fort Hays State cross country team will host the 2021 FHSU Tiger Open on Saturday (Oct. 9) at the Sand Plum Nature Trail in Victoria, Kan. The first of four races will begin at 9 a.m. This is the ninth edition of the Tiger Open and is slated to be the largest in meet history. 785 individuals from 40 different schools are currently entered across the four races. There will be eight MIAA programs in attendance and a total of 25 ranked programs across the NCAA DII, NAIA and NJCAA ranks. The previous record for the largest field was set in 2017 when 695 athletes crossed the finish line. Maps of the course and directions to Sand Plum can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sandplumnaturetrail.com/maps.html">here</a>&nbsp;or at the link above. Results will be posted to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.heartlandtiming.com/">Heartland Timing's website</a>&nbsp;as soon as they are available. The majority of the NAIA and junior college programs in attendance will compete in the black races, with the women's 5K to start at 9 a.m. and the men's 8K to follow at 9:35 a.m.&nbsp; The majority of the NCAA DII teams, including all 31 Fort Hays State athletes, will run in the gold races, with the women's 5K going off at 10:25 a.m. and the men's 8K wrapping up the day at 11 a.m. The women's five-kilometer course record belongs to Georgia Porter of Western State, who traversed the course in 16:33 in 2016. The men's eight-kilometer record was broken in the most recent Tiger Open when Wesley Banguria of Colby CC crossed the finish line in 23:11 in 2019. The Tiger women are coming off a team win in their most recent race, with FHSU coming away victorious at the Emporia State Invitational for the fourth-straight time.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6399">Brooke Navarro</a>&nbsp;has led the Tigers to the finish line in two of three events this season, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6403">Abigail Stewart</a>&nbsp;pacing the team in Denver last month.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6402">Emily Salmans</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6414">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;have also factored into the team score at all three events this year.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6395">Hannah Burks</a>&nbsp;has been in the top five for the Tigers twice while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6411">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;occupied the fifth spot for FHSU once. The Fort Hays State men have a pair of runner-up finishes and one fourth-place finish as a team so far this season.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6428">Robbie Schmidt</a>&nbsp;has been the top Tiger all year, winning the UNK Invitational and placing in the top 10 at the Roadrunner Invitational before finishing second at the Emporia State Invite.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6426">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6419">Erick Estrada</a>&nbsp;have also been in the top five for FHSU in all three races, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6416">Caleb Carrasco</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6423">Aaron Mangan</a>&nbsp;have both factored into the team score twice.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6434">Edwin Garcia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6432">Javyn Contreras</a>&nbsp;have both been in the top five once this year. Scheduled runners for the women's team include&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6396">Hayley Burks</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6411">Darian Hudgeons</a>, Halle Johnson,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6412">Marina Johnson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6397">Gretchen Kuffel</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6398">Faith Little</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6399">Brooke Navarro</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6400">Mya Navarro</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6401">Carson Pierce</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6402">Emily Salmans</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6403">Abigail Stewart</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6407">Tabitha Stowers</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6414">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6404">Hannah Wiebe</a>. Those representing the Tigers on the men's side include&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6415">Grant Bradley</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6431">Gavin Brady</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6416">Caleb Carrasco</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6432">Javyn Contreras</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6433">Ethan Emmons</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6419">Erick Estrada</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6434">Edwin Garcia</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6421">Sebastian Garcia</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6422">Ethan Lang</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6423">Aaron Mangan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6424">Trever Medina</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6426">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6427">Isaac Radke</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6428">Robbie Schmidt</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6430">Matthew Schrag</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6429">Kaden Wren</a>. Ranked Programs Competing in 2021 FHSU Tiger Classic (Rankings as of 9/29/2021) Men DII #1 Colorado School of Mines #3 Adams State #5 Colorado Christian #20 Northwest Missouri State Women DII #2 Colorado School of Mines #3 Adams State #21 Colorado Christian #26 Northwest Missouri State Men JuCo DI #2 Colby CC #5 Cloud County CC #8 Northwest Kansas Tech #11 Garden City CC #16 Hutchinson CC #17 Fort Scott CC #21 Dodge City CC Women JuCo DI #7 Dodge City #9 Cloud County CC #11 Hutchinson CC #14 Garden City CC #18 Butler CC Men JuCo DII #1 Cowley College #13 Allen CC Women JuCo DII #2 Cowley College Men NAIA #2 Saint Mary's Women NAIA #6 Saint Mary's&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633601528531.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>2021 FHSU Tiger Open Saturday, October 9 Sand Plum Nature Trail • Victoria, Kan. Women's 5K Black Race (JuCo/NAIA) - 9:00 a.m. Men's 8K Black Race (JuCo/NAIA) - 9:35 a.m. Women's 5K Gold Race (NCAA DII/Open) - 10:25 a.m. Men's 8K Gold Race (NCAA DII/Open) - 11:00 a.m. The Fort Hays State cross country team will host the 2021 FHSU Tiger Open on Saturday (Oct. 9) at the Sand Plum Nature Trail in Victoria, Kan. The first of four races will begin at 9 a.m. This is the ninth edition of the Tiger Open and is slated to be the largest in meet history. 785 individuals from 40 different schools are currently entered across the four races. There will be eight MIAA programs in attendance and a total of 25 ranked programs across the NCAA DII, NAIA and NJCAA ranks. The previous record for the largest field was set in 2017 when 695 athletes crossed the finish line. Maps of the course and directions to Sand Plum can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sandplumnaturetrail.com/maps.html">here</a>&nbsp;or at the link above. Results will be posted to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.heartlandtiming.com/">Heartland Timing's website</a>&nbsp;as soon as they are available. The majority of the NAIA and junior college programs in attendance will compete in the black races, with the women's 5K to start at 9 a.m. and the men's 8K to follow at 9:35 a.m.&nbsp; The majority of the NCAA DII teams, including all 31 Fort Hays State athletes, will run in the gold races, with the women's 5K going off at 10:25 a.m. and the men's 8K wrapping up the day at 11 a.m. The women's five-kilometer course record belongs to Georgia Porter of Western State, who traversed the course in 16:33 in 2016. The men's eight-kilometer record was broken in the most recent Tiger Open when Wesley Banguria of Colby CC crossed the finish line in 23:11 in 2019. The Tiger women are coming off a team win in their most recent race, with FHSU coming away victorious at the Emporia State Invitational for the fourth-straight time.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6399">Brooke Navarro</a>&nbsp;has led the Tigers to the finish line in two of three events this season, with&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6403">Abigail Stewart</a>&nbsp;pacing the team in Denver last month.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6402">Emily Salmans</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6414">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;have also factored into the team score at all three events this year.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6395">Hannah Burks</a>&nbsp;has been in the top five for the Tigers twice while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6411">Darian Hudgeons</a>&nbsp;occupied the fifth spot for FHSU once. The Fort Hays State men have a pair of runner-up finishes and one fourth-place finish as a team so far this season.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6428">Robbie Schmidt</a>&nbsp;has been the top Tiger all year, winning the UNK Invitational and placing in the top 10 at the Roadrunner Invitational before finishing second at the Emporia State Invite.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6426">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6419">Erick Estrada</a>&nbsp;have also been in the top five for FHSU in all three races, while&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6416">Caleb Carrasco</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6423">Aaron Mangan</a>&nbsp;have both factored into the team score twice.&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6434">Edwin Garcia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6432">Javyn Contreras</a>&nbsp;have both been in the top five once this year. Scheduled runners for the women's team include&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6396">Hayley Burks</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6411">Darian Hudgeons</a>, Halle Johnson,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6412">Marina Johnson</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6397">Gretchen Kuffel</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6398">Faith Little</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6399">Brooke Navarro</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6400">Mya Navarro</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6401">Carson Pierce</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6402">Emily Salmans</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6403">Abigail Stewart</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6407">Tabitha Stowers</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6414">Jaycee Vath</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6404">Hannah Wiebe</a>. Those representing the Tigers on the men's side include&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6415">Grant Bradley</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6431">Gavin Brady</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6416">Caleb Carrasco</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6432">Javyn Contreras</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6433">Ethan Emmons</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6419">Erick Estrada</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6434">Edwin Garcia</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6421">Sebastian Garcia</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6422">Ethan Lang</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6423">Aaron Mangan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6424">Trever Medina</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6426">Jaret Pfizenmaier</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6427">Isaac Radke</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6428">Robbie Schmidt</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6430">Matthew Schrag</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=6429">Kaden Wren</a>. Ranked Programs Competing in 2021 FHSU Tiger Classic (Rankings as of 9/29/2021) Men DII #1 Colorado School of Mines #3 Adams State #5 Colorado Christian #20 Northwest Missouri State Women DII #2 Colorado School of Mines #3 Adams State #21 Colorado Christian #26 Northwest Missouri State Men JuCo DI #2 Colby CC #5 Cloud County CC #8 Northwest Kansas Tech #11 Garden City CC #16 Hutchinson CC #17 Fort Scott CC #21 Dodge City CC Women JuCo DI #7 Dodge City #9 Cloud County CC #11 Hutchinson CC #14 Garden City CC #18 Butler CC Men JuCo DII #1 Cowley College #13 Allen CC Women JuCo DII #2 Cowley College Men NAIA #2 Saint Mary's Women NAIA #6 Saint Mary's&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏃 Nearly 800 runners to compete at FHSU Tiger Open Saturday in Victoria

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of business burglaries and have made an arrest.

On October 1 and October 4, police responded to A &amp; A Auto and Truck Parts Inc., 1440 SE Jefferson Street in Topeka, to take reports for two separate burglaries that occurred at the business, according to police department spokesperson Gretchen Spiker.

 In each burglary, the suspect took various items.

Throughout the course of the investigation, Curtis D. Callarman, 43 of Topeka was identified as the suspect in the burglaries.

On Tuesday, police arrested Callarman in the 3800 block of SW Topeka Blvd. and later booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charge Burglary and Theft &lt;$1,500 From Building.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633556066077.png" alt="Callarman-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Callarman-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of business burglaries and have made an arrest.On October 1 and October 4, police responded to A &amp; A Auto and Truck Parts Inc., 1440 SE Jefferson Street in Topeka, to take reports for two separate burglaries that occurred at the business, according to police department spokesperson Gretchen Spiker. In each burglary, the suspect took various items.Throughout the course of the investigation, Curtis D. Callarman, 43 of Topeka was identified as the suspect in the burglaries.On Tuesday, police arrested Callarman in the 3800 block of SW Topeka Blvd. and later booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charge Burglary and Theft &lt;$1,500 From Building.

Suspect jailed for series of Kansas business burglaries

Genevieve Margaret (Becker) Milholland, "Jenny" as she was known, 
passed away on October 4, 2021, at Nicol Home in Glasco. She was born at
 home on the family farm near Corinth, KS on March 24, 1941. The oldest
 child of Anton and Josephine Becker. Jenny graduated from Downs High 
School in 1959. She married Morris Earl on February 11, 1961, at the St 
Boniface Catholic Church in Tipton,&nbsp;KS. To this union 4 children were 
born Theresa, Gerry, Jeff and Tony.

After marriage, they moved to Spokane Washington and lived there for 4
 years. Then moved back to Beloit, KS. The family showed horses and rode
 in several parades around KS winning many awards. Jenny was a homemaker
 until Tony graduated. Jenny was an excellent cook and made a mean 
German chocolate cake with real cream. She was a good seamstress and 
made quilts for all her children.

Jenny is survived by her husband Morris of the home, four children; 
Theresa Milholland of Beloit, Gerry Milholland (Linda) of Iola, Jeff 
Milholland (Susan) of Hoisington, and Tony Milholland (Frances) of 
Glasco. Siblings; Al Becker, DiAnna Palen, Ronnie Becker, Viola Michler.
 Grandchildren; Justin, Crystal, Ashley, Trever, Megan, Kayn and Lane. 
Great Grandchildren; Tai, Paige, Kaden, Lilly, Emberly, Hudson, Oren, 
Cam, Rayne, Sloan, Jaxon. And 2 great great grandchildren.

Proceeded in death by her parents, and siblings; Joyce Mick, Virgil 
Becker, Donnie Becker, Leonard Becker, Steven Becker. Grandchild Tyler 
Milholland and great grandchild Heaven La’Shay Milholland.

A Rosary/ Vigil service will be at 7 p.m. at&nbsp;Schoen Funeral Home and 
Monuments on Friday, October 8th.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be at 
10 a.m. Saturday, October 9th at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Glasco. 
Interment to follow at Glasco Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Solomon
 Valley Hospice.&nbsp;

Genevieve Margaret (Becker) Milholland, "Jenny" as she was known, 
passed away on October 4, 2021, at Nicol Home in Glasco. She was born at
 home on the family farm near Corinth, KS on March 24, 1941. The oldest
 child of Anton and Josephine Becker. Jenny graduated from Downs High 
School in 1959. She married Morris Earl on February 11, 1961, at the St 
Boniface Catholic Church in Tipton,&nbsp;KS. To this union 4 children were 
born Theresa, Gerry, Jeff and Tony.After marriage, they moved to Spokane Washington and lived there for 4
 years. Then moved back to Beloit, KS. The family showed horses and rode
 in several parades around KS winning many awards. Jenny was a homemaker
 until Tony graduated. Jenny was an excellent cook and made a mean 
German chocolate cake with real cream. She was a good seamstress and 
made quilts for all her children.Jenny is survived by her husband Morris of the home, four children; 
Theresa Milholland of Beloit, Gerry Milholland (Linda) of Iola, Jeff 
Milholland (Susan) of Hoisington, and Tony Milholland (Frances) of 
Glasco. Siblings; Al Becker, DiAnna Palen, Ronnie Becker, Viola Michler.
 Grandchildren; Justin, Crystal, Ashley, Trever, Megan, Kayn and Lane. 
Great Grandchildren; Tai, Paige, Kaden, Lilly, Emberly, Hudson, Oren, 
Cam, Rayne, Sloan, Jaxon. And 2 great great grandchildren.Proceeded in death by her parents, and siblings; Joyce Mick, Virgil 
Becker, Donnie Becker, Leonard Becker, Steven Becker. Grandchild Tyler 
Milholland and great grandchild Heaven La’Shay Milholland.A Rosary/ Vigil service will be at 7 p.m. at&nbsp;Schoen Funeral Home and 
Monuments on Friday, October 8th.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mass of Christian Burial will be at 
10 a.m. Saturday, October 9th at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Glasco. 
Interment to follow at Glasco Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Solomon
 Valley Hospice.&nbsp;

Genevieve M. (Becker) Milholland

Eileen Heier Yeager, 73, of Park, Kan., passed away peacefully on October 2, 2021, at Covenant Village in Gastonia, N.C.&nbsp;Born on July 26, 1948, in Quinter, Kansas, Eileen was&nbsp;the youngest child of the late Anthony “Tony” and Marcella “Sally” (Shmidtberger) Heier.

From a young age, Eileen was determined, outspoken and&nbsp;fiercely independent.&nbsp;As a teenager she was a star volleyball player&nbsp;and had her heart set on&nbsp;attending Marian All Girls Catholic&nbsp;School in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;Her father relented and allowed her to enroll after she kept a bargain with him&nbsp;to earn&nbsp;a certain level of spending money.&nbsp;Eileen was successful and loved her time at Marian, where she built lifelong friendships. Following Marian, she attended Fort Hays State University where she majored in Communication.

Although Eileen was always a proud native of Kansas, she spent most of her adulthood living elsewhere. At age 23, she moved away from her hometown to Salina where she began a family. Later she lived in&nbsp;Michigan, Wisconsin and Ohio.&nbsp;Eileen worked for the United States Postal Service in West Chester, Ohio,&nbsp;for more than 20 years before returning to&nbsp;Park to care for her mother&nbsp;Sally in 2010.&nbsp;Eileen&nbsp;had “naturally” blonde hair and cornflower blue eyes, was charming, warm hearted, sarcastic and goofy. It was no surprise that Eileen attracted supportive and loving friends everywhere she lived.

She dreamed of being a country-western singer, though she couldn’t sing. That didn’t stop her love of music. She often listened to oldies on her jukeboxes&nbsp;with a margarita in hand.&nbsp;Eileen loved the 1950s and all that came with it – especially old cars, flamingos and the color&nbsp;turquoise. She enjoyed hosting parties with her “flock” and lived out Jimmy Buffett’s&nbsp;song, “It’s 5&nbsp;O’Clock&nbsp;Somewhere.”&nbsp;In her later years, she&nbsp;spent a great deal of her time&nbsp;gardening and traveling to beautiful places like Lake Havasu Arizona and the beaches of the Carolinas. She prioritized time with her grandchildren&nbsp;and&nbsp;was the world’s greatest&nbsp;grammama to Lauren and Zane.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Eileen is survived by&nbsp;Sheldon Yeager of Freeland, Mich., and&nbsp;daughter, Julie Yeager Andrews, (Brian) of Gastonia, N.C.,&nbsp;her cherished&nbsp;grandchildren Lauren Marie Andrews of Atlanta, Ga.,&nbsp;and Zane William Andrews of Clemson, S.C. Eileen was also preceded in death by&nbsp;her beloved son,&nbsp;Shannon&nbsp;Troy Yeager (2019) and siblings; Ronald (2010), Marlene (2008), Gilbert (1965) and Virginia (1943).

The family extends their sincere thanks to the team at Covenant Village for their exceptional care and caregivers&nbsp;Cindy Jo&nbsp;Sane, Darlene Tulbert, Terry Moore, Shannon Muse and Audrey Swayney.

In lieu of&nbsp;flowers, the family asks for memorial contributions. In Kansas:&nbsp;Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Cemetery; American Legion Auxiliary Grainfield;&nbsp;or Developmental Services of NW Kansas.&nbsp;In&nbsp;North Carolina: Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church;&nbsp;Catherine’s House;&nbsp;or Life Enrichment Center Kings Mountain.

A prayer service will be held at&nbsp;4 p.m. on Sunday, October 10, at&nbsp;Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church in Belmont, N.C.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp;on Saturday, October&nbsp;16, 2021, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Park, Kansas.&nbsp;Interment will follow in the church cemetery.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633546857281.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eileen Heier Yeager, 73, of Park, Kan., passed away peacefully on October 2, 2021, at Covenant Village in Gastonia, N.C.&nbsp;Born on July 26, 1948, in Quinter, Kansas, Eileen was&nbsp;the youngest child of the late Anthony “Tony” and Marcella “Sally” (Shmidtberger) Heier.From a young age, Eileen was determined, outspoken and&nbsp;fiercely independent.&nbsp;As a teenager she was a star volleyball player&nbsp;and had her heart set on&nbsp;attending Marian All Girls Catholic&nbsp;School in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;Her father relented and allowed her to enroll after she kept a bargain with him&nbsp;to earn&nbsp;a certain level of spending money.&nbsp;Eileen was successful and loved her time at Marian, where she built lifelong friendships. Following Marian, she attended Fort Hays State University where she majored in Communication.Although Eileen was always a proud native of Kansas, she spent most of her adulthood living elsewhere. At age 23, she moved away from her hometown to Salina where she began a family. Later she lived in&nbsp;Michigan, Wisconsin and Ohio.&nbsp;Eileen worked for the United States Postal Service in West Chester, Ohio,&nbsp;for more than 20 years before returning to&nbsp;Park to care for her mother&nbsp;Sally in 2010.&nbsp;Eileen&nbsp;had “naturally” blonde hair and cornflower blue eyes, was charming, warm hearted, sarcastic and goofy. It was no surprise that Eileen attracted supportive and loving friends everywhere she lived.She dreamed of being a country-western singer, though she couldn’t sing. That didn’t stop her love of music. She often listened to oldies on her jukeboxes&nbsp;with a margarita in hand.&nbsp;Eileen loved the 1950s and all that came with it – especially old cars, flamingos and the color&nbsp;turquoise. She enjoyed hosting parties with her “flock” and lived out Jimmy Buffett’s&nbsp;song, “It’s 5&nbsp;O’Clock&nbsp;Somewhere.”&nbsp;In her later years, she&nbsp;spent a great deal of her time&nbsp;gardening and traveling to beautiful places like Lake Havasu Arizona and the beaches of the Carolinas. She prioritized time with her grandchildren&nbsp;and&nbsp;was the world’s greatest&nbsp;grammama to Lauren and Zane.&nbsp;&nbsp;Eileen is survived by&nbsp;Sheldon Yeager of Freeland, Mich., and&nbsp;daughter, Julie Yeager Andrews, (Brian) of Gastonia, N.C.,&nbsp;her cherished&nbsp;grandchildren Lauren Marie Andrews of Atlanta, Ga.,&nbsp;and Zane William Andrews of Clemson, S.C. Eileen was also preceded in death by&nbsp;her beloved son,&nbsp;Shannon&nbsp;Troy Yeager (2019) and siblings; Ronald (2010), Marlene (2008), Gilbert (1965) and Virginia (1943).The family extends their sincere thanks to the team at Covenant Village for their exceptional care and caregivers&nbsp;Cindy Jo&nbsp;Sane, Darlene Tulbert, Terry Moore, Shannon Muse and Audrey Swayney.In lieu of&nbsp;flowers, the family asks for memorial contributions. In Kansas:&nbsp;Sacred Heart Catholic Church and Cemetery; American Legion Auxiliary Grainfield;&nbsp;or Developmental Services of NW Kansas.&nbsp;In&nbsp;North Carolina: Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church;&nbsp;Catherine’s House;&nbsp;or Life Enrichment Center Kings Mountain.A prayer service will be held at&nbsp;4 p.m. on Sunday, October 10, at&nbsp;Queen of the Apostles Catholic Church in Belmont, N.C.Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m.&nbsp;on Saturday, October&nbsp;16, 2021, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Park, Kansas.&nbsp;Interment will follow in the church cemetery.&nbsp;

Eileen Heier Yeager

Kansas felon still missing from work release facility

William Dale McGuire, age 74, passed away Monday, October 4, 2021, at the 
Smith County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, KS. He was born the son
 of Marley &amp; Lavonna (Baker) in St. Joseph, MO on June 2, 1947. 
 Survivors include wife Nancy of the home; 2 sons William Jr. 
(Elizabeth) of Norfolk, NE and Jeffrey (Barbara) of Elwood, KS; a 
stepdaughter Angela Baker of Kansas City, KS; 2 sisters Rhonda McGuire 
and Karen McGuire both of West Port Richey, FL; 9 grandchildren.

Services are private. Arrangements are in the care of Simmons-Rentschler Mortuary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633533735220.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>William Dale McGuire, age 74, passed away Monday, October 4, 2021, at the 
Smith County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, KS. He was born the son
 of Marley &amp; Lavonna (Baker) in St. Joseph, MO on June 2, 1947. 
 Survivors include wife Nancy of the home; 2 sons William Jr. 
(Elizabeth) of Norfolk, NE and Jeffrey (Barbara) of Elwood, KS; a 
stepdaughter Angela Baker of Kansas City, KS; 2 sisters Rhonda McGuire 
and Karen McGuire both of West Port Richey, FL; 9 grandchildren.Services are private. Arrangements are in the care of Simmons-Rentschler Mortuary.

William Dale McGuire

Karolyn Marie Breneman passed away Monday, October 
4, 2021, at the age of 75, two days shy of 76 at Salina Regional Health 
Center.&nbsp; Karolyn was born October 6, 1945, to Kenneth “Bud” and Arlita 
Akers in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; 

She attended Hays High School, Fort Hays State 
University and Salina Beauty Academy.&nbsp; She married the love of her life,
 her Cowboy, Art Breneman on January 31, 1965 in Culver, Kansas.&nbsp; To 
this union were born 3 children, Monty (Debbie) Breneman of Lincoln, 
Dean Breneman of Park City and Amy (David) Thompson of Salina.&nbsp; She was 
so proud of all 10 of her grandchildren Tyler, Kyle, Mikayla, Cory and 
Kristy Breneman, Faith Wolf, Cheyenne, Marius, David and Micah Thompson 
and 1 great-grandson Jeremiah Thompson.

Karolyn’s working years included positions as a hair dresser, night 
transit at a bank, a cook and bus driver for Ell-Saline High School and 
Happy Corner Grade School, a secretary for Farm Bureau and retired as an
 Administrative Assistant from Riggs Engineering in Lindsborg, Kansas.

Services will be held at Ryan Mortuary in Salina on Friday, October 
8, at 10 a.m.&nbsp; Private inurnment will be with family at a later date. &nbsp;

Memorials suggested to Tammy Walker Cancer Center.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633528180620.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Karolyn Marie Breneman passed away Monday, October 
4, 2021, at the age of 75, two days shy of 76 at Salina Regional Health 
Center.&nbsp; Karolyn was born October 6, 1945, to Kenneth “Bud” and Arlita 
Akers in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; She attended Hays High School, Fort Hays State 
University and Salina Beauty Academy.&nbsp; She married the love of her life,
 her Cowboy, Art Breneman on January 31, 1965 in Culver, Kansas.&nbsp; To 
this union were born 3 children, Monty (Debbie) Breneman of Lincoln, 
Dean Breneman of Park City and Amy (David) Thompson of Salina.&nbsp; She was 
so proud of all 10 of her grandchildren Tyler, Kyle, Mikayla, Cory and 
Kristy Breneman, Faith Wolf, Cheyenne, Marius, David and Micah Thompson 
and 1 great-grandson Jeremiah Thompson.Karolyn’s working years included positions as a hair dresser, night 
transit at a bank, a cook and bus driver for Ell-Saline High School and 
Happy Corner Grade School, a secretary for Farm Bureau and retired as an
 Administrative Assistant from Riggs Engineering in Lindsborg, Kansas.Services will be held at Ryan Mortuary in Salina on Friday, October 
8, at 10 a.m.&nbsp; Private inurnment will be with family at a later date. &nbsp;Memorials suggested to Tammy Walker Cancer Center.

Karolyn Marie Breneman

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer is receiving votes in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25, released on Tuesday. The Tigers dropped from the Top 25 following a loss to Harding this past Saturday, but sit just outside the rankings among seven teams receiving votes. The Tigers are 5-3-1 overall. The Tigers will challenge their record against Top 25 teams again this week when they travel to Southern Nazarene on Saturday. The Crimson Storm entered the Top 25 for the first time in the program's NCAA Division II history last week at No. 24 and moved up to No. 20 this week, holding a record of 6-3 overall. Fort Hays State is 2-0-1 against Top 25 ranked teams so far this season. The Tigers also have a challenging match at Northeastern State on Thursday before playing SNU. Northeastern State joins FHSU in the list of teams receiving votes this week. The teams have had a competitive history against each other with FHSU holding an 11-9-5 advantage in the series history. Below is the Top 25 Poll for October 5, 2021.

Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1. Franklin Pierce (2) 9-0-0 2. UIndy (1) 6-0-1 3. Lynn (6) 7-1-0 4. Davis &amp; Elkins College (7) 7-0-0 5. Young Harris College (9) 9-0-0 6. West Texas A&amp;M (3) 7-1-0 7. University Of Charleston (8) 7-1-0 8. Seattle Pacific (16) 7-1-0 9. Wilmington (10) 9-0-1 10. Azusa Pacific (5) 6-1-2 11. Midwestern State (12) 8-1-0 12. Limestone (17) 7-1-0 13. Nova Southeastern (20) 5-1-1 14. Maryville of St. Louis (NR) 7-2-1 15. Colorado Mesa (RV) 8-2-0 16. Palm Beach Atlantic (RV) 5-1-0 17. Gannon (21) 7-1-0 18. American International College (22) 8-0-1 19. California State-Los Angeles (NR) 4-2-1 20. Southern Nazarene (24) 6-3-0 21. Chowan (RV) 6-2-0 22. Walsh (23) 7-1-2 23. University Of Tampa (11) 6-2-0 24. CSU-Pueblo (19) 8-2-0 25. California State-Dominguez Hills (NR) 4-1-1

Also receiving votes: Lenoir-Rhyne,&nbsp;Fort Hays State, Montevallo, Georgian Court, Northeastern State, Auburn-Montgomery, Ohio Dominican

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State Men's Soccer is receiving votes in the latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25, released on Tuesday. The Tigers dropped from the Top 25 following a loss to Harding this past Saturday, but sit just outside the rankings among seven teams receiving votes. The Tigers are 5-3-1 overall. The Tigers will challenge their record against Top 25 teams again this week when they travel to Southern Nazarene on Saturday. The Crimson Storm entered the Top 25 for the first time in the program's NCAA Division II history last week at No. 24 and moved up to No. 20 this week, holding a record of 6-3 overall. Fort Hays State is 2-0-1 against Top 25 ranked teams so far this season. The Tigers also have a challenging match at Northeastern State on Thursday before playing SNU. Northeastern State joins FHSU in the list of teams receiving votes this week. The teams have had a competitive history against each other with FHSU holding an 11-9-5 advantage in the series history. Below is the Top 25 Poll for October 5, 2021. Rank	School	Prev	W-L-T 1. Franklin Pierce (2) 9-0-0 2. UIndy (1) 6-0-1 3. Lynn (6) 7-1-0 4. Davis &amp; Elkins College (7) 7-0-0 5. Young Harris College (9) 9-0-0 6. West Texas A&amp;M (3) 7-1-0 7. University Of Charleston (8) 7-1-0 8. Seattle Pacific (16) 7-1-0 9. Wilmington (10) 9-0-1 10. Azusa Pacific (5) 6-1-2 11. Midwestern State (12) 8-1-0 12. Limestone (17) 7-1-0 13. Nova Southeastern (20) 5-1-1 14. Maryville of St. Louis (NR) 7-2-1 15. Colorado Mesa (RV) 8-2-0 16. Palm Beach Atlantic (RV) 5-1-0 17. Gannon (21) 7-1-0 18. American International College (22) 8-0-1 19. California State-Los Angeles (NR) 4-2-1 20. Southern Nazarene (24) 6-3-0 21. Chowan (RV) 6-2-0 22. Walsh (23) 7-1-2 23. University Of Tampa (11) 6-2-0 24. CSU-Pueblo (19) 8-2-0 25. California State-Dominguez Hills (NR) 4-1-1 Also receiving votes: Lenoir-Rhyne,&nbsp;Fort Hays State, Montevallo, Georgian Court, Northeastern State, Auburn-Montgomery, Ohio DominicanFHSU Athletics

⚽ Tiger men receiving votes in latest United Soccer Coaches Top 25

Douglas Allen Beck, 61 of Russell, Kansas, passed away on Monday, August 9, 2021 at the Russell Regional Hospital.

Doug was born October 20, 1959, in Hays Kansas.&nbsp; He was one of four children born to Wesley Eugene and Katherine (Dinkel) Beck.&nbsp; He was raised in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in 1977.

Doug was known by many in and around Russell as a talented artisan who’s craftmanship was on display in King of the Road RV and Camper interiors built in Russell in the early 1980s.&nbsp; He later spent his time in the Kansas oil patches as general roustabout.&nbsp; His latest employment was performing general maintenance and custodial duties for the USD 407.&nbsp; When not working, Doug enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, showing and sharing his love of Bar-B-Que and attending the NHRA drag races in Topeka, of which he didn’t miss a race since the raceway opened in 1989.&nbsp; Friends and family knew him as a genuine friend, loving brother, uncle and great uncle with a generous heart and contagious laughter that will be missed by many.

Doug is survived by his sisters, Paula Shoemaker (Calvin) of Bellingham Washington; Dianne Crawford of Victoria, Kansas; brother, Gerry Beck (Melanie) of Olathe, Kansas; nieces, Julie (Brad) Clark of Snohomish, Washington; MaKayla (Kelby) Parton of Victoria, Kansas; Madison Beck of Olathe, Kansas; nephew, Noah Beck of Olathe, Kansas; great nephew Terran Clark of Snohomish, Washington; and great niece, Emma Parton of Victoria Kansas.&nbsp; He is preceded in death by his parents, Katherine and Eugene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visitation will be held from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Friday, October 8, 2021, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas with family to greet guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M.&nbsp; A private burial of ashes will be on Saturday, October 9, 2021 in Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; 

Condolences may be sent to&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, who is in charge of the memorial arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633528100627.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Douglas Allen Beck, 61 of Russell, Kansas, passed away on Monday, August 9, 2021 at the Russell Regional Hospital.Doug was born October 20, 1959, in Hays Kansas.&nbsp; He was one of four children born to Wesley Eugene and Katherine (Dinkel) Beck.&nbsp; He was raised in Russell and graduated from Russell High School in 1977.Doug was known by many in and around Russell as a talented artisan who’s craftmanship was on display in King of the Road RV and Camper interiors built in Russell in the early 1980s.&nbsp; He later spent his time in the Kansas oil patches as general roustabout.&nbsp; His latest employment was performing general maintenance and custodial duties for the USD 407.&nbsp; When not working, Doug enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, showing and sharing his love of Bar-B-Que and attending the NHRA drag races in Topeka, of which he didn’t miss a race since the raceway opened in 1989.&nbsp; Friends and family knew him as a genuine friend, loving brother, uncle and great uncle with a generous heart and contagious laughter that will be missed by many.Doug is survived by his sisters, Paula Shoemaker (Calvin) of Bellingham Washington; Dianne Crawford of Victoria, Kansas; brother, Gerry Beck (Melanie) of Olathe, Kansas; nieces, Julie (Brad) Clark of Snohomish, Washington; MaKayla (Kelby) Parton of Victoria, Kansas; Madison Beck of Olathe, Kansas; nephew, Noah Beck of Olathe, Kansas; great nephew Terran Clark of Snohomish, Washington; and great niece, Emma Parton of Victoria Kansas.&nbsp; He is preceded in death by his parents, Katherine and Eugene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Visitation will be held from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Friday, October 8, 2021, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary in Russell, Kansas with family to greet guests from 6 P.M. to 7 P.M.&nbsp; A private burial of ashes will be on Saturday, October 9, 2021 in Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Condolences may be sent to&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, who is in charge of the memorial arrangements.

Douglas Allen Beck

Glenn H. Weathers, 91, of Russell, Kansas, died on Sunday, September 5, 2021, at the Russell Regional Hospital in Russell, Kansas.

Glenn was born on August 13, 1930, Skiatook, Oklahoma, the son of Carl Glen and Marjorie (Dutton) Weathers.&nbsp; He grew up in the Skiatook area and graduated from Skiatook High School.&nbsp; After high school he served his country by joining the United States Army.&nbsp; He was united in marriage to Wilma Lee Boxberger on June 23, 1961, in Liberal, Kansas.&nbsp; He worked in the oil field industry as a mechanic and truck driver for Revell’s Oil Field Service.&nbsp; He also worked as a truck driver for Richard Polcyn farms.&nbsp; He enjoyed working on drag race cars for R.C. Williams.

Surviving family include is daughter Cheri L. Dunn of Peckham, Oklahoma; son Randy G. Weathers of Newkirk, Oklahoma and stepdaughter Susie young and husband Steven of Pratt, Kansas; brothers Lyle Weathers and wife Sandy of Skiatook, Oklahoma and sister Mary Kuntzsch and husband Bill of Russell, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Wilma; 2 sisters Betty Smith and Jackie Adams; brother Carl Weathers.

A graveside service will be held at 4 P.M. on Friday, October 8, 2021, at the Bunker Hill Cemetery in Bunker Hill, Kansas.&nbsp; Cremation has been selected by the family.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633528026038.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Glenn H. Weathers, 91, of Russell, Kansas, died on Sunday, September 5, 2021, at the Russell Regional Hospital in Russell, Kansas.Glenn was born on August 13, 1930, Skiatook, Oklahoma, the son of Carl Glen and Marjorie (Dutton) Weathers.&nbsp; He grew up in the Skiatook area and graduated from Skiatook High School.&nbsp; After high school he served his country by joining the United States Army.&nbsp; He was united in marriage to Wilma Lee Boxberger on June 23, 1961, in Liberal, Kansas.&nbsp; He worked in the oil field industry as a mechanic and truck driver for Revell’s Oil Field Service.&nbsp; He also worked as a truck driver for Richard Polcyn farms.&nbsp; He enjoyed working on drag race cars for R.C. Williams.Surviving family include is daughter Cheri L. Dunn of Peckham, Oklahoma; son Randy G. Weathers of Newkirk, Oklahoma and stepdaughter Susie young and husband Steven of Pratt, Kansas; brothers Lyle Weathers and wife Sandy of Skiatook, Oklahoma and sister Mary Kuntzsch and husband Bill of Russell, Kansas.He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Wilma; 2 sisters Betty Smith and Jackie Adams; brother Carl Weathers.A graveside service will be held at 4 P.M. on Friday, October 8, 2021, at the Bunker Hill Cemetery in Bunker Hill, Kansas.&nbsp; Cremation has been selected by the family.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Glenn H. Weathers

DOWNS — The Downs Arts Council invites amateur storytellers to tell their best tale at the Tall Tale contest on October 9 in Downs, Kansas.

The popular October preliminary contest will narrow down the contestants to four. The four will then move on to vie for the traveling trophy, the storytelling shovel, at the Kansas Storytelling Festival Tall Tale Contest in April. 

"We all have a story, but no one can hear it if you don't tell it," encourages Keyta Kelly, Master Storyteller, Tongaxonie, Kansas. "Sometimes, the things you think you can't do, you actually can do rather well. The only reason you couldn't is that you didn't try," said Kelly.

"A Tall Tale is some truth and some facts. I find great enjoyment telling good-natured stories to a live audience," said Kenneth Lee, Master Storyteller, Downs, Kansas. "We invite amateur storytellers to bring their best tall tale to the annual contest at 7 p.m. this Saturday." 

Through the Kansas Storytelling Festival events, Tall Tale Contests, Master Storytellers, and audience members celebrate the American genre of tall tales.  

For more information and to register to tell a story in the competition, call 785-545-5105 or email kansasstorytelling@gmail.com.

The public is welcome to enjoy an evening of stories that will tickle the funny bone and warm the heart. The contest location is Zion Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 1019 Blunt St., Downs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633354483865.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedDOWNS — The Downs Arts Council invites amateur storytellers to tell their best tale at the Tall Tale contest on October 9 in Downs, Kansas.The popular October preliminary contest will narrow down the contestants to four. The four will then move on to vie for the traveling trophy, the storytelling shovel, at the Kansas Storytelling Festival Tall Tale Contest in April. "We all have a story, but no one can hear it if you don't tell it," encourages Keyta Kelly, Master Storyteller, Tongaxonie, Kansas. "Sometimes, the things you think you can't do, you actually can do rather well. The only reason you couldn't is that you didn't try," said Kelly."A Tall Tale is some truth and some facts. I find great enjoyment telling good-natured stories to a live audience," said Kenneth Lee, Master Storyteller, Downs, Kansas. "We invite amateur storytellers to bring their best tall tale to the annual contest at 7 p.m. this Saturday." Through the Kansas Storytelling Festival events, Tall Tale Contests, Master Storytellers, and audience members celebrate the American genre of tall tales. For more information and to register to tell a story in the competition, call 785-545-5105 or email kansasstorytelling@gmail.com.The public is welcome to enjoy an evening of stories that will tickle the funny bone and warm the heart. The contest location is Zion Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 1019 Blunt St., Downs.

Tall Tale contest set for this weekend in Downs

William Eugene “Bill” Polzin, 74, died October 4, 2021, at Clara 
Barton Hospital, Hoisington, with his wife Christine at his side, along 
with many wonderful doctors and nurses.&nbsp; He was born June 9, 1947, in 
Hoisington, the son of Matt and Irene (Reif) Polzin.&nbsp;

Bill was a longtime resident of Hoisington. He worked in Kansas City,
 Missouri for several years before coming back to Hoisington where he 
was employed and retired from Great Bend CO-OP.&nbsp; Bill served in the 
United States Army and was a member of the St. John the Evangelist 
Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the V.F.W.

Survivors include; his wife Christine of the home; stepdaughter, 
Robyn Dodge; step-son, Clayton Van Brimmer; and daughter of the heart, 
Christi Henry, all of Hoisington; brother-in-law, Cliff Bieberle of 
Great Bend; brother, Ron Polzin and wife Carol of Hoisington; sister, 
Maxine Olivier and husband Larry of Danville, Kansas; grandchildren, 
Zander Strandberg, Ava Henry, Grayson Strandberg, Elli Van Brimmer, Trae
 Van Brimmer, Jaxson Henry, Autumn Dodge, and Tommy Van Brimmer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Janet Bieberle, 
brother, Eldon “Butch” Polzin, and grandson, Austin Strandberg.

Private family graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to Clara Barton Hospital Foundation in care 
of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS&nbsp; 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1633528453625.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>William Eugene “Bill” Polzin, 74, died October 4, 2021, at Clara 
Barton Hospital, Hoisington, with his wife Christine at his side, along 
with many wonderful doctors and nurses.&nbsp; He was born June 9, 1947, in 
Hoisington, the son of Matt and Irene (Reif) Polzin.&nbsp;Bill was a longtime resident of Hoisington. He worked in Kansas City,
 Missouri for several years before coming back to Hoisington where he 
was employed and retired from Great Bend CO-OP.&nbsp; Bill served in the 
United States Army and was a member of the St. John the Evangelist 
Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, and the V.F.W.Survivors include; his wife Christine of the home; stepdaughter, 
Robyn Dodge; step-son, Clayton Van Brimmer; and daughter of the heart, 
Christi Henry, all of Hoisington; brother-in-law, Cliff Bieberle of 
Great Bend; brother, Ron Polzin and wife Carol of Hoisington; sister, 
Maxine Olivier and husband Larry of Danville, Kansas; grandchildren, 
Zander Strandberg, Ava Henry, Grayson Strandberg, Elli Van Brimmer, Trae
 Van Brimmer, Jaxson Henry, Autumn Dodge, and Tommy Van Brimmer.He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Janet Bieberle, 
brother, Eldon “Butch” Polzin, and grandson, Austin Strandberg.Private family graveside service will be held at a later date.Memorials are suggested to Clara Barton Hospital Foundation in care 
of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS&nbsp; 67544.

William Eugene 'Bill' Polzin

Kathleen A. (Baalman) Zerr, age 85, of Grinnell, KS, peacefully 
transitioned in the comfort and loving care of her family on October 4, 
2021, at Citizens Medical Center in Colby, KS. Kathleen was the only 
daughter of Ben and Frances Baalman. 
Kathleen attended Angelus Grade School, her freshman year at Sacred 
Heart Academy in Wichita and graduated from Grinnell High School in 
1954. On October 4, 1955, Kathleen was united in marriage to Vincent 
Zerr at Immaculate Conception Church in Grinnell, KS. Kathleen and 
Vincent were married for exactly 66 years (to the day) and were blessed 
with seven children. She was a homemaker, working alongside her husband
 and family on the farm in rural Sheridan County, KS. 
Kathleen enjoyed taking care of her family, watching them in sports and 
in life. Kathleen loved to play cards and just have a nice long laugh 
with friends and family. She greeted people with a sweet smile and 
provided countless deeds of care and support for her community, family 
and friends. Her caring ways were evident in her 20 plus years of work 
at the Oakley Manor. 
Kathleen proudly taught CCD classes in Angelus for many years, she was a
 member of the Angelus Altar Society and was a life-long member of both 
the Angelus “Daughters of Isabella” and of the Grinnell VFW Auxiliary, 
where she happily served as Post President and 9th District President. 
Kathleen is survived by her husband Vincent: sons and daughter, Leon 
Zerr, of Grinnell, Rocky (Tracie), of Ft. Worth, TX, Sherri (Robert) 
Kuhlman, of Oakley, Darrell (Diane), of Centennial, CO, Thomas (Donna), 
of Kansas City, MO, Donald (Anne), of Aurora, Co and Curtis, of Park 
City, KS, 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. 
She is preceded in death by her parents; brother Terry Baalman, infant son John, and her daughter-in-law Loyce (Leon) Zerr. 
Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 8th at St. Paul's Catholic 
Church in Angelus from 5 PM-7 PM with a Vigil at 7 PM. Funeral Mass will
 also be held in Angelus at 10 AM on Saturday, October 9th, with Father 
Luke Thielen and Father Brian Lager as celebrants, with the burial at 
the Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery, in Grinnell. The family 
would love you to join them for lunch at the VFW in Grinnell. Memorials 
may be made to the Grinnell VFW Auxiliary, Grinnell Senior Citizen 
Center or St. Paul's Catholic 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/2021/10/1633470589219.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kathleen A. (Baalman) Zerr, age 85, of Grinnell, KS, peacefully 
transitioned in the comfort and loving care of her family on October 4, 
2021, at Citizens Medical Center in Colby, KS. Kathleen was the only 
daughter of Ben and Frances Baalman. 
Kathleen attended Angelus Grade School, her freshman year at Sacred 
Heart Academy in Wichita and graduated from Grinnell High School in 
1954. On October 4, 1955, Kathleen was united in marriage to Vincent 
Zerr at Immaculate Conception Church in Grinnell, KS. Kathleen and 
Vincent were married for exactly 66 years (to the day) and were blessed 
with seven children. She was a homemaker, working alongside her husband
 and family on the farm in rural Sheridan County, KS. 
Kathleen enjoyed taking care of her family, watching them in sports and 
in life. Kathleen loved to play cards and just have a nice long laugh 
with friends and family. She greeted people with a sweet smile and 
provided countless deeds of care and support for her community, family 
and friends. Her caring ways were evident in her 20 plus years of work 
at the Oakley Manor. 
Kathleen proudly taught CCD classes in Angelus for many years, she was a
 member of the Angelus Altar Society and was a life-long member of both 
the Angelus “Daughters of Isabella” and of the Grinnell VFW Auxiliary, 
where she happily served as Post President and 9th District President. 
Kathleen is survived by her husband Vincent: sons and daughter, Leon 
Zerr, of Grinnell, Rocky (Tracie), of Ft. Worth, TX, Sherri (Robert) 
Kuhlman, of Oakley, Darrell (Diane), of Centennial, CO, Thomas (Donna), 
of Kansas City, MO, Donald (Anne), of Aurora, Co and Curtis, of Park 
City, KS, 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. 
She is preceded in death by her parents; brother Terry Baalman, infant son John, and her daughter-in-law Loyce (Leon) Zerr. 
Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 8th at St. Paul's Catholic 
Church in Angelus from 5 PM-7 PM with a Vigil at 7 PM. Funeral Mass will
 also be held in Angelus at 10 AM on Saturday, October 9th, with Father 
Luke Thielen and Father Brian Lager as celebrants, with the burial at 
the Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery, in Grinnell. The family 
would love you to join them for lunch at the VFW in Grinnell. Memorials 
may be made to the Grinnell VFW Auxiliary, Grinnell Senior Citizen 
Center or St. Paul's Catholic 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;