Joann J. Fouse, age 85, passed away on Saturday, November 27, 2021, 
at the Ranch House in Garden City, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on October 11, 
1936, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Joe &amp; Ruby Nordstrom 
Stoeckel. &nbsp;On December 23, 1954, she married Warren L. Fouse in Clay 
Center, Kansas. &nbsp;He passed away on March 2, 1993, in Garden City, 
Kansas. &nbsp;A resident of Garden City, Kansas since 1960 moving from 
Cunningham, Kansas, she was a former sales clerk for Books Etc.

She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Garden City, 
Kansas, Presbyterian Mariners, and the GCCC Faculty Wives.&nbsp; Jo’s 
greatest love was spending time with her family.&nbsp; She also enjoyed 
singing in the church choir and helping with the church rummage sale for
 many years

In her later years, she sang with M&amp;M + 1 at various nursing 
homes, senior centers, and retirement homes in the area.&nbsp; Jo and Max 
Moomaw even sang at the Pickin’ on the Plains Bluegrass Festival in 
Colby, KS.&nbsp; Jo loved to dance, as well as read, travel, and watch 
sports.&nbsp; She always knew how to make people feel special and didn’t know
 a stranger.&nbsp; Grandma Jo was loved by everyone she came in contact with 
and will be greatly missed by all.

Survivors include her Two Sons - Dennis &amp; Donna Fouse of 
Centerton, Arkansas, Dick &amp; Liesa Fouse of Waukesha, Wisconsin, Two 
Daughters - Pat Roth of Garden City, Kansas, Susan &amp; Brad Bier of 
Palmyra, Missouri, Twelve Grandchildren, and Thirteen Great 
Grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Stepfather - 
Charles Shaple, One Sister - Ida Mae Forrester, One Son In Law - Ron 
Roth, and One Daughter In Law - Belinda Fouse.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 1, 
2021, at United Presbyterian Church in Garden City, Kansas with Pastor 
Doris Evans presiding. Services will be streamed live at 
www.priceandsons.com.&nbsp; Click the live stream tab on the left side of the
 obituary starting at 01:55 p.m.

Graveside Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 2, 2021, at Keystone Cemetery in Manchester, Kansas.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at Price 
&amp; Sons Funeral Home, 620 N. Main Street, Garden City, Kansas.

Memorials may be written to the United Presbyterian Church in care of
 Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, 620 N. Main Street, Garden City, Kansas,
 67846.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638480802390.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joann J. Fouse, age 85, passed away on Saturday, November 27, 2021, 
at the Ranch House in Garden City, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on October 11, 
1936, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Joe &amp; Ruby Nordstrom 
Stoeckel. &nbsp;On December 23, 1954, she married Warren L. Fouse in Clay 
Center, Kansas. &nbsp;He passed away on March 2, 1993, in Garden City, 
Kansas. &nbsp;A resident of Garden City, Kansas since 1960 moving from 
Cunningham, Kansas, she was a former sales clerk for Books Etc.She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Garden City, 
Kansas, Presbyterian Mariners, and the GCCC Faculty Wives.&nbsp; Jo’s 
greatest love was spending time with her family.&nbsp; She also enjoyed 
singing in the church choir and helping with the church rummage sale for
 many yearsIn her later years, she sang with M&amp;M + 1 at various nursing 
homes, senior centers, and retirement homes in the area.&nbsp; Jo and Max 
Moomaw even sang at the Pickin’ on the Plains Bluegrass Festival in 
Colby, KS.&nbsp; Jo loved to dance, as well as read, travel, and watch 
sports.&nbsp; She always knew how to make people feel special and didn’t know
 a stranger.&nbsp; Grandma Jo was loved by everyone she came in contact with 
and will be greatly missed by all.Survivors include her Two Sons - Dennis &amp; Donna Fouse of 
Centerton, Arkansas, Dick &amp; Liesa Fouse of Waukesha, Wisconsin, Two 
Daughters - Pat Roth of Garden City, Kansas, Susan &amp; Brad Bier of 
Palmyra, Missouri, Twelve Grandchildren, and Thirteen Great 
Grandchildren.She is preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, Stepfather - 
Charles Shaple, One Sister - Ida Mae Forrester, One Son In Law - Ron 
Roth, and One Daughter In Law - Belinda Fouse.Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 1, 
2021, at United Presbyterian Church in Garden City, Kansas with Pastor 
Doris Evans presiding. Services will be streamed live at 
www.priceandsons.com.&nbsp; Click the live stream tab on the left side of the
 obituary starting at 01:55 p.m.Graveside Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 2, 2021, at Keystone Cemetery in Manchester, Kansas.Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at Price 
&amp; Sons Funeral Home, 620 N. Main Street, Garden City, Kansas.Memorials may be written to the United Presbyterian Church in care of
 Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home, 620 N. Main Street, Garden City, Kansas,
 67846.

Joann J. Fouse

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly has appointed a Lawrence woman to lead a new division designed to improve the state's child welfare system. Kelly announced Thursday that Kerrie Lonard will be the Kansas Child Advocate. 

The governor created the Division of the Child Advocate in October. The independent office will review complaints against Kansas’ foster care system and recommend changes in child welfare policies. 

Lonard is an attorney who has worked at Kansas Legal Services in Topeka for nearly 14 years. Before that, she was a social worker for five years. Lonard will start on Dec. 12 and will focus first on building the division's structure.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly has appointed a Lawrence woman to lead a new division designed to improve the state's child welfare system. Kelly announced Thursday that Kerrie Lonard will be the Kansas Child Advocate. The governor created the Division of the Child Advocate in October. The independent office will review complaints against Kansas’ foster care system and recommend changes in child welfare policies. Lonard is an attorney who has worked at Kansas Legal Services in Topeka for nearly 14 years. Before that, she was a social worker for five years. Lonard will start on Dec. 12 and will focus first on building the division's structure.

Gov. names new leader of Kansas Child Advocate division

Delbert James Moeder at the age of 87 passed away on November 24th, 2021. Born October 27, 1934, in Kansas. 

Delbert is survived by his wife Carol, daughter Cynthia (Roger) Aitken, his brothers John (Dorothy) and Raymond (Linda), and his sister Delores Bongartz. Also his three grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. 

Delbert was preceded in death by his daughter Norma Lee Carey, His brothers Gary, Bobby, Willard, Sisters Viola and Anita, and parents Chris and Bertha (Schaffer). 

Recitation of the Holy Rosary is set for 8:30 AM Saturday December 4, 2021 with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Buena Vista, CO. Interment will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Buena Vista. 

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lewisandglenn.com. Arrangements are with Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638460099879.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Delbert James Moeder at the age of 87 passed away on November 24th, 2021. Born October 27, 1934, in Kansas. Delbert is survived by his wife Carol, daughter Cynthia (Roger) Aitken, his brothers John (Dorothy) and Raymond (Linda), and his sister Delores Bongartz. Also his three grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. Delbert was preceded in death by his daughter Norma Lee Carey, His brothers Gary, Bobby, Willard, Sisters Viola and Anita, and parents Chris and Bertha (Schaffer). Recitation of the Holy Rosary is set for 8:30 AM Saturday December 4, 2021 with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Buena Vista, CO. Interment will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Buena Vista. Online condolences may be sent to the family at lewisandglenn.com. Arrangements are with Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home.

Delbert James Moeder

Norman J. Karlin, 93, passed away Sunday, November 28, 2021, at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice Center in Wichita, KS. 
 Norman was born December 11, 1927 in Catharine, KS, the son of Joseph 
and Mary (Schoendaller) Karlin.&nbsp; He graduated from St. Joseph Military 
Academy in Hays, KS in 1945 and graduated from Salt City Business 
College in 1949 with a degree in accounting.&nbsp; On October 2, 1950, Norman
 married Lucille Biggs at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church in Hutchinson.&nbsp; 
Norman enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. 
Norman was the owner of Midwest Feed Company for over 43 years. &nbsp;After 
that, he worked for the Kansas State Fair for over 20 years.&nbsp; &nbsp;He was a 
member of St. Teresa’s Catholic Church. He is preceded in death
 by his parents; wife; Lucille; a grandson, Steven Karlin; siblings, 
Mildred Schmeidler, Helen Koester, Rita Mae Befort and Marvin Karlin. 
 Norman is survived by his sons, Calvin (Jan) Karlin and Ronald (Brenda)
 Karlin; sisters, Margie Weishaar and Patty (Elmer) Brungardt; four 
grandchildren, Michael Karlin, Cameron Karlin, Katelin May, and Kristen 
Karlin; five great grandchildren; and many loving and caring nieces and 
nephews. Visitation will be held at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 
on Thursday, December 2, 2021 from 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. with family greeting 
guests from 5-7 p.m. Parish Rosary will be at 10 a.m. Friday, December 
3, 2021, at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, 211 E. 5th, Hutchinson. Mass 
of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at the church; both 
officiated by Father Matt Glazier.&nbsp; Burial will follow at Memorial Park 
Cemetery, 5905 W. 4th Ave., Hutchinson.&nbsp; Memorials may be made to St. 
Teresa’s Catholic Church or Trinity Catholic High School and can be sent
 in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave. Hutchinson, KS 
67502.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638456896798.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Norman J. Karlin, 93, passed away Sunday, November 28, 2021, at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice Center in Wichita, KS. 
 Norman was born December 11, 1927 in Catharine, KS, the son of Joseph 
and Mary (Schoendaller) Karlin.&nbsp; He graduated from St. Joseph Military 
Academy in Hays, KS in 1945 and graduated from Salt City Business 
College in 1949 with a degree in accounting.&nbsp; On October 2, 1950, Norman
 married Lucille Biggs at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church in Hutchinson.&nbsp; 
Norman enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharged. 
Norman was the owner of Midwest Feed Company for over 43 years. &nbsp;After 
that, he worked for the Kansas State Fair for over 20 years.&nbsp; &nbsp;He was a 
member of St. Teresa’s Catholic Church. He is preceded in death
 by his parents; wife; Lucille; a grandson, Steven Karlin; siblings, 
Mildred Schmeidler, Helen Koester, Rita Mae Befort and Marvin Karlin. 
 Norman is survived by his sons, Calvin (Jan) Karlin and Ronald (Brenda)
 Karlin; sisters, Margie Weishaar and Patty (Elmer) Brungardt; four 
grandchildren, Michael Karlin, Cameron Karlin, Katelin May, and Kristen 
Karlin; five great grandchildren; and many loving and caring nieces and 
nephews. Visitation will be held at Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 
on Thursday, December 2, 2021 from 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. with family greeting 
guests from 5-7 p.m. Parish Rosary will be at 10 a.m. Friday, December 
3, 2021, at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church, 211 E. 5th, Hutchinson. Mass 
of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at the church; both 
officiated by Father Matt Glazier.&nbsp; Burial will follow at Memorial Park 
Cemetery, 5905 W. 4th Ave., Hutchinson.&nbsp; Memorials may be made to St. 
Teresa’s Catholic Church or Trinity Catholic High School and can be sent
 in care of Hutchinson Funeral Chapel, 300 E. 30th Ave. Hutchinson, KS 
67502.

Norman J. Karlin


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Gas prices generally are trending downward, though they are still above $3 a gallon locally.

"Kansas is fifth cheapest in the country again this week," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Reno County today is $3.04 a gallon, just slightly above the statewide average."

Prices are well below that average as close as Wichita, with Sedgwick County at $2.94 a gallon.

"Demand has started to tick downward seasonally as we usually see this time of year," Steward said. "Those crude oil prices have been heading downward. Most recently, they have been about $20 less per barrel than we saw at their peak in late October."

A recent survey of Kansas drivers from AAA said many of them are driving differently right now.

Forty-four percent said they have changed their daily driving habits because of gas prices recently," Steward said. 

Thirty-seven percent (37%) of drivers say they try to consolidate errands, carpool or otherwise drive less when the price of gas tops $3 a gallon.

By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Gas prices generally are trending downward, though they are still above $3 a gallon locally."Kansas is fifth cheapest in the country again this week," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "Reno County today is $3.04 a gallon, just slightly above the statewide average."Prices are well below that average as close as Wichita, with Sedgwick County at $2.94 a gallon."Demand has started to tick downward seasonally as we usually see this time of year," Steward said. "Those crude oil prices have been heading downward. Most recently, they have been about $20 less per barrel than we saw at their peak in late October."A recent survey of Kansas drivers from AAA said many of them are driving differently right now.Forty-four percent said they have changed their daily driving habits because of gas prices recently," Steward said. Thirty-seven percent (37%) of drivers say they try to consolidate errands, carpool or otherwise drive less when the price of gas tops $3 a gallon.

With less demand gas prices are down in Kansas

Phillipsburg resident Connie Jo Springer, age 67, passed away Friday, October 29th, 2021, at the Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS.

Connie was born August 18, 1954, in Manhattan, KS the daughter of Don and Bonnie (Sowell) Springer.

Survivors include her friend Merlyn Schick of Phillipsburg; brothers 
Russell of Manhattan, Jesse of Topeka, Ronald of Manhattan, a sister Joy
 Burgess of Manhattan; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Donald.

Cremation was planned.&nbsp; Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. 
Saturday, December 4, 2021, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, 
Phillipsburg. &nbsp;The Inurnment will follow in the St. Peter’s Cemetery, 
Phillips County.

The family will receive friends Friday, December 3rd, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. for visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips County E.M.S.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638397791557.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Phillipsburg resident Connie Jo Springer, age 67, passed away Friday, October 29th, 2021, at the Hays Medical Center, Hays, KS.Connie was born August 18, 1954, in Manhattan, KS the daughter of Don and Bonnie (Sowell) Springer.Survivors include her friend Merlyn Schick of Phillipsburg; brothers 
Russell of Manhattan, Jesse of Topeka, Ronald of Manhattan, a sister Joy
 Burgess of Manhattan; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Donald.Cremation was planned.&nbsp; Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. 
Saturday, December 4, 2021, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, 
Phillipsburg. &nbsp;The Inurnment will follow in the St. Peter’s Cemetery, 
Phillips County.The family will receive friends Friday, December 3rd, at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. for visitation.Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips County E.M.S.

Connie Jo Springer

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell took a sharp and unexpected turn Tuesday toward tightening credit for consumers and businesses in the face of mounting concerns about high inflation.

Powell signaled that the Fed will likely act more quickly to phase out its ultra-low-interest rate policies even as the emergence of the new omicron variant of COVID-19 has raised fresh doubts about the future of the economy and the direction of inflation.

The Fed chair told the Senate Banking Committee that the central bank’s policymakers will discuss at their next meeting in mid-December whether to accelerate the reduction of their monthly bond purchases, which have been intended to lower long-term borrowing costs. The Fed just announced those reductions in early November at a pace that would end the bond buying in June. But on Tuesday, Powell signaled that the Fed is inclined to end those purchases several months before then.

Doing so would put the Fed on a path to begin raising its key short-term interest rate as early as the first half of next year. That rate has been pegged at nearly zero since last March, when the coronavirus sent the economy into a deep recession. A higher Fed rate would, in turn, raise borrowing costs for mortgages, credit cards and some business loans.

Stock prices tumbled after Powell’s comments, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost more than 650 points, or nearly 2%, for the day. Very low interest rates, nurtured by the Fed, have been a key factor in driving share prices to all-time highs since the pandemic struck.

“He was decidedly more hawkish in tone than I expected and, I think, than the financial markets expected,” said Kathy Bostjancic, chief U.S. financial economist at Oxford Economics. (Hawks generally favor higher borrowing costs to quell inflation, while doves typically emphasize lower rates to fuel hiring.)

Fed policymakers have come under pressure from a sharp jump in inflation, with consumer prices having soared 6.2% in October from a year earlier, the highest such inflation rate in 31 years. In response, some Fed officials in recent weeks had already started to push for a faster tapering of the central bank’s bond purchases.

Yet the sudden emergence of the omicron variant had led some Fed-watchers to speculate that the central bank would avoid any major policy shifts until a clearer picture of the variant and its likely impact on the economy emerged. But Powell’s remarks Tuesday — and the questions he faced from senators — were far more focused on inflation than on the likelihood that omicron, about which little is known, could seriously weaken the economy.

“The economy is very strong, and inflationary pressures are high,” Powell said. “It is therefore appropriate, in my view, to consider wrapping up the taper of our asset purchases … perhaps a few months sooner.”

“This is a very abrupt pivot from the Fed,” said Krishna Guha, an analyst at the investment bank Evercore ISI. “The eight-month taper plan was only announced four weeks ago.”

Under fire from some Senate Republicans about worsening inflation, Powell suggested that price increases will likely slow next year as supply bottlenecks ease. But he also acknowledged that price increases have been spreading to broader categories of products and services, and as a result “the risk of higher inflation has increased.”

For months, Powell and other Fed officials had described inflation as “transitory,” which did not necessarily mean they thought it would disappear soon but that it wouldn’t keep spiraling higher. That outlook has so far proved too optimistic, and Powell said it is “probably a good time to retire that word and try to explain more clearly what we mean.”

The Fed chair said he thought the central bank’s policymakers will know more about the potential economic impact of the omicron variant in time for their next meeting in mid-December.

Regardless of the eventual consequences, the omicron variant seems sure to make Powell’s job more complicated next year. If omicron leads to another wave of factory and port shutdowns in the United States and overseas, supply chain bottlenecks could worsen and raise prices even more.

At the same time, omicron could renew fears among many workers about becoming infected on the job, leading to more resignations when quits are already at a record high or discouraging some of those out of work from taking a new job. That could weaken the job market and the economy. Under such a scenario, the Fed’s dual mandates of stable prices and maximum employment could come into conflict.

In a significant shift, Powell appeared to make inflation-fighting a more urgent priority than job growth by noting that higher prices themselves threaten the economic recovery. And a long period of growth, he said, is needed to regain the “great labor market” that existed before the pandemic.

“We’re going to need a long expansion,” the Fed chair said. “To get that, we’re going to need price stability, and in a sense, the risk of persistent high inflation is also a major risk to getting back to such a labor market.”

Rising inflation has put the Fed in a delicate spot, because the economy remains about 4 million jobs short of pre-pandemic levels, and many Democrats in Congress will want to see rates stay near zero until most of those jobs have been recovered.

“The Fed cannot pump the brakes on our economic recovery too soon, before workers get a chance to fully rebound,” said Sen. Sherrod Brown, the Ohio Democrat who chairs the Banking Committee. “And I mean all workers,” he added, noting that the Black unemployment rate remains twice that of white Americans.

By contrast, Sen. Pat Toomey from Pennsylvania, the senior Republican on the committee, suggested that the economy largely recovered roughly a year ago. As a result, emergency measures, such as the Fed’s bond purchases, haven’t been needed since then, he said.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who also testified before the Senate Banking panel Tuesday, urged Congress to raise the nation’s borrowing limit. Yellen has previously warned that without an increase in the debt ceiling, the government could default on its debt obligations for the first time soon after Dec. 15.

“I cannot overstate how critical it is that Congress address this issue,” she said. “America must pay its bills on time and in full. If we do not, we will eviscerate our current recovery.”

Congress, which is expected to address the borrowing limit, also faces a Friday deadline to provide enough funding to keep the federal government open.

Yellen also said that for now, the economic recovery “remains strong,” but she urged that Americans get vaccinated or receive booster shots to guard against the omicron variant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586436935167.png" alt="Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell took a sharp and unexpected turn Tuesday toward tightening credit for consumers and businesses in the face of mounting concerns about high inflation.Powell signaled that the Fed will likely act more quickly to phase out its ultra-low-interest rate policies even as the emergence of the new omicron variant of COVID-19 has raised fresh doubts about the future of the economy and the direction of inflation.The Fed chair told the Senate Banking Committee that the central bank’s policymakers will discuss at their next meeting in mid-December whether to accelerate the reduction of their monthly bond purchases, which have been intended to lower long-term borrowing costs. The Fed just announced those reductions in early November at a pace that would end the bond buying in June. But on Tuesday, Powell signaled that the Fed is inclined to end those purchases several months before then.Doing so would put the Fed on a path to begin raising its key short-term interest rate as early as the first half of next year. That rate has been pegged at nearly zero since last March, when the coronavirus sent the economy into a deep recession. A higher Fed rate would, in turn, raise borrowing costs for mortgages, credit cards and some business loans.Stock prices tumbled after Powell’s comments, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost more than 650 points, or nearly 2%, for the day. Very low interest rates, nurtured by the Fed, have been a key factor in driving share prices to all-time highs since the pandemic struck.“He was decidedly more hawkish in tone than I expected and, I think, than the financial markets expected,” said Kathy Bostjancic, chief U.S. financial economist at Oxford Economics. (Hawks generally favor higher borrowing costs to quell inflation, while doves typically emphasize lower rates to fuel hiring.)Fed policymakers have come under pressure from a sharp jump in inflation, with consumer prices having soared 6.2% in October from a year earlier, the highest such inflation rate in 31 years. In response, some Fed officials in recent weeks had already started to push for a faster tapering of the central bank’s bond purchases.Yet the sudden emergence of the omicron variant had led some Fed-watchers to speculate that the central bank would avoid any major policy shifts until a clearer picture of the variant and its likely impact on the economy emerged. But Powell’s remarks Tuesday — and the questions he faced from senators — were far more focused on inflation than on the likelihood that omicron, about which little is known, could seriously weaken the economy.“The economy is very strong, and inflationary pressures are high,” Powell said. “It is therefore appropriate, in my view, to consider wrapping up the taper of our asset purchases … perhaps a few months sooner.”“This is a very abrupt pivot from the Fed,” said Krishna Guha, an analyst at the investment bank Evercore ISI. “The eight-month taper plan was only announced four weeks ago.”Under fire from some Senate Republicans about worsening inflation, Powell suggested that price increases will likely slow next year as supply bottlenecks ease. But he also acknowledged that price increases have been spreading to broader categories of products and services, and as a result “the risk of higher inflation has increased.”For months, Powell and other Fed officials had described inflation as “transitory,” which did not necessarily mean they thought it would disappear soon but that it wouldn’t keep spiraling higher. That outlook has so far proved too optimistic, and Powell said it is “probably a good time to retire that word and try to explain more clearly what we mean.”The Fed chair said he thought the central bank’s policymakers will know more about the potential economic impact of the omicron variant in time for their next meeting in mid-December.Regardless of the eventual consequences, the omicron variant seems sure to make Powell’s job more complicated next year. If omicron leads to another wave of factory and port shutdowns in the United States and overseas, supply chain bottlenecks could worsen and raise prices even more.At the same time, omicron could renew fears among many workers about becoming infected on the job, leading to more resignations when quits are already at a record high or discouraging some of those out of work from taking a new job. That could weaken the job market and the economy. Under such a scenario, the Fed’s dual mandates of stable prices and maximum employment could come into conflict.In a significant shift, Powell appeared to make inflation-fighting a more urgent priority than job growth by noting that higher prices themselves threaten the economic recovery. And a long period of growth, he said, is needed to regain the “great labor market” that existed before the pandemic.“We’re going to need a long expansion,” the Fed chair said. “To get that, we’re going to need price stability, and in a sense, the risk of persistent high inflation is also a major risk to getting back to such a labor market.”Rising inflation has put the Fed in a delicate spot, because the economy remains about 4 million jobs short of pre-pandemic levels, and many Democrats in Congress will want to see rates stay near zero until most of those jobs have been recovered.“The Fed cannot pump the brakes on our economic recovery too soon, before workers get a chance to fully rebound,” said Sen. Sherrod Brown, the Ohio Democrat who chairs the Banking Committee. “And I mean all workers,” he added, noting that the Black unemployment rate remains twice that of white Americans.By contrast, Sen. Pat Toomey from Pennsylvania, the senior Republican on the committee, suggested that the economy largely recovered roughly a year ago. As a result, emergency measures, such as the Fed’s bond purchases, haven’t been needed since then, he said.Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who also testified before the Senate Banking panel Tuesday, urged Congress to raise the nation’s borrowing limit. Yellen has previously warned that without an increase in the debt ceiling, the government could default on its debt obligations for the first time soon after Dec. 15.“I cannot overstate how critical it is that Congress address this issue,” she said. “America must pay its bills on time and in full. If we do not, we will eviscerate our current recovery.”Congress, which is expected to address the borrowing limit, also faces a Friday deadline to provide enough funding to keep the federal government open.Yellen also said that for now, the economic recovery “remains strong,” but she urged that Americans get vaccinated or receive booster shots to guard against the omicron variant.

Federal Reserve warning: Tighter credit for consumers, businesses

TOPEKA (AP)—Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has notified state education officials that some public universities are violating a state law passed last week that loosened requirements for obtaining medical and religious exemptions to COVID-19 vaccinations.

Schmidt wrote a letter last week to Kansas Board of Regents President Blake Flanders, with copies sent to the University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod and Kansas State University President Richard Myers.

Schmidt said “at least some” public universities are violating the new law but specifically mentioned the University of Kansas and Kansas State. He said the institutions must “immediately cease and desist” from their requirements. Schmidt’s spokesman said Tuesday that the letter has not been sent to any other institutions.

University of Kansas spokeswoman Erinn Barcomb-Peterson said Tuesday that the university has updated its forms and processes to comply with state law and a federal executive order. Kansas State University did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Flanders said in a statement that state universities will follow all state laws in implementing vaccine requirements.

“The factors impacting the federal contracting requirements have been shifting rapidly, particularly with new statutes added in the special session and moving federal deadlines,” Flanders said. “The Board requires all universities to remain in compliance with all previously existing and new applicable statutes.”

In October, the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Wichita State University&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-manhattan-kansas-topeka-1e1fb5acbb8b6612bb00d5b7445a92c4">announced plans</a>&nbsp;to require all employees to be vaccinated to comply with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-26bace6485d88ad1ae3ef2aea60fbb65">executive orders</a>&nbsp;issued by President Joe Biden that require all federal employees and contractors to be vaccinated. The universities also established procedures to allow exemptions for religious or medical reasons.

Schmidt’s letter was sent two days after the Kansas Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-business-health-religion-822d31ed5cd6cdca053f21f4a9a965d9">passed a law</a>&nbsp;during a special session that requires employers to grant religious exemptions to COVID-19 vaccine mandates for workers who seeks one in writing. The law prohibits employers from investigating the sincerity of the person’s religious beliefs.

Schmidt, a Republican, said procedures initially used by the University of Kansas and Kansas State violate the law. He said the universities had similar forms that require employees to describe the nature of their religious beliefs and to seek third-party documentation to support the sincerity of those beliefs.

“None of this information is necessary except to support an inquiry into the sincerity of the employee’s claim, which is no longer relevant,” Schmidt wrote.

The attorney general also noted that the University of Kansas has a committee to review each exemption request and that Kansas State contracted with a human resources consulting firm to help evaluate the requests and recommend whether they should be approved, which he said also violates the new law.

The attorney general also objected to an “arbitrary” Nov. 15 deadline set by the universities to apply for religious or medical exemptions, earlier than the Jan. 18 deadline set by the federal order.

He said any public university using procedures that violate the new state law should stop immediately and inform employees of the changes.

TOPEKA (AP)—Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has notified state education officials that some public universities are violating a state law passed last week that loosened requirements for obtaining medical and religious exemptions to COVID-19 vaccinations.Schmidt wrote a letter last week to Kansas Board of Regents President Blake Flanders, with copies sent to the University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod and Kansas State University President Richard Myers.Schmidt said “at least some” public universities are violating the new law but specifically mentioned the University of Kansas and Kansas State. He said the institutions must “immediately cease and desist” from their requirements. Schmidt’s spokesman said Tuesday that the letter has not been sent to any other institutions.University of Kansas spokeswoman Erinn Barcomb-Peterson said Tuesday that the university has updated its forms and processes to comply with state law and a federal executive order. Kansas State University did not immediately respond to a request for comment.Flanders said in a statement that state universities will follow all state laws in implementing vaccine requirements.“The factors impacting the federal contracting requirements have been shifting rapidly, particularly with new statutes added in the special session and moving federal deadlines,” Flanders said. “The Board requires all universities to remain in compliance with all previously existing and new applicable statutes.”In October, the University of Kansas, Kansas State University and Wichita State University&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-manhattan-kansas-topeka-1e1fb5acbb8b6612bb00d5b7445a92c4">announced plans</a>&nbsp;to require all employees to be vaccinated to comply with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-26bace6485d88ad1ae3ef2aea60fbb65">executive orders</a>&nbsp;issued by President Joe Biden that require all federal employees and contractors to be vaccinated. The universities also established procedures to allow exemptions for religious or medical reasons.Schmidt’s letter was sent two days after the Kansas Legislature&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-business-health-religion-822d31ed5cd6cdca053f21f4a9a965d9">passed a law</a>&nbsp;during a special session that requires employers to grant religious exemptions to COVID-19 vaccine mandates for workers who seeks one in writing. The law prohibits employers from investigating the sincerity of the person’s religious beliefs.Schmidt, a Republican, said procedures initially used by the University of Kansas and Kansas State violate the law. He said the universities had similar forms that require employees to describe the nature of their religious beliefs and to seek third-party documentation to support the sincerity of those beliefs.“None of this information is necessary except to support an inquiry into the sincerity of the employee’s claim, which is no longer relevant,” Schmidt wrote.The attorney general also noted that the University of Kansas has a committee to review each exemption request and that Kansas State contracted with a human resources consulting firm to help evaluate the requests and recommend whether they should be approved, which he said also violates the new law.The attorney general also objected to an “arbitrary” Nov. 15 deadline set by the universities to apply for religious or medical exemptions, earlier than the Jan. 18 deadline set by the federal order.He said any public university using procedures that violate the new state law should stop immediately and inform employees of the changes.

Kan. AG: Universities in Kan. violating state's new COVID law

Kansas’ work force participation rate surpasses pre-pandemic level

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/11/30/gop-members-on-tax-panel-wary-of-statistics-on-economic-recovery-from-covid-19/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The labor force 
participation rate in Kansas fully recovered from the rapid descent at 
outset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the number of people receiving 
unemployment benefits fell to the lowest level since the global health 
crisis began, state officials said.

The percentage of the Kansas population either working or actively 
looking for work stood at 67.2% in January 2020, slumped to 66.5% by 
June 2020 and climbed to 67.5% in September.

Edward Penner, senior economist with the Kansas Legislative Research 
Department, outlined the figures and a series of other economic 
indicators Monday for a joint House and Senate committee examining 
opportunities to adjust state tax policy.

“At this point,” Penner said, “all of those people are back in the 
labor force and then some. This has been one of those stories where 
Kansas has been different from the nation. Kansas workers have kind of 
come back into the labor force and returned to their jobs at a rate that
 exceeds that of what national workers have done.”

The number of individuals receiving unemployment insurance benefits 
in Kansas stood at 10,320 in October, the lowest number since the 
COVID-19 pandemic began.

At the same time, state tax revenue surpassed estimates by $750 
million in the fiscal year that ended in June. The updated revenue 
estimate for the current fiscal year was increased by $1.3 billion, 
which prompted Gov. Laura Kelly and a bipartisan contingent of 
legislators to promote the possibility of slashing the state’s 6.5% 
sales tax on food.

Sen. Mark Steffen, a Republican from Hutchinson, said he was curious 
whether there was sharp improvement in work force participation after 
enhanced federal unemployment benefits expired in early September. Many 
GOP lawmakers pressured Kelly to cut off that congressional aid before 
the scheduled conclusion of federal programs, arguing the extra 
assistance was incentive for people to delay a return to their jobs. She
 declined to order cuts to jobless aid.

Penner said much of the labor force came back into the fold in the 
initial five months of the pandemic. Demise of supplemental unemployment
 payments didn’t substantially improve participation in the Kansas work 
force, he said.

Rep. Adam Smith, the Weskan Republican and chairman of the House 
Taxation Committee, said he was convinced businesses were still 
suffering labor shortages in northwest Kansas. He urged legislative 
staff to craft an estimate of unfilled jobs statewide in Kansas.

“I still see a lot of businesses that are hiring,” he said.

From February to April 2020, Kansas lost 158,000 non-farm jobs as the
 economy unraveled amid spread of the virus. The latest statistics 
indicated 73.5% of that job crater had been filled by September. The 
remaining gap might be linked to people who retired early or workers 
uneasy about accepting a job with a shortage of child care providers and
 uncertainty about influence of COVID-19 on schools, Penner said.

Sen. Tom Holland, a Baldwin City Democrat, said he had heartburn 
about the manner in which businesses responded to economic disruption 
associated with the pandemic. He said it appeared some employers focused
 on dropping older personnel at the upper end of the pay scale.

“My fear is that you had companies that laid off their more senior 
work force,” Holland said. “Basically, they’re dumping those jobs.”

Rep. Francis Awerkamp, R-St. Marys, said legislative staff ought to 
balance statistical presentations to the Legislature by including an 
assessment of financial harm caused by government pandemic directives.

“Can we also add an estimate on the economic impact of all the 
shutdowns, the lockdowns and the mandates from the government?” he said.

According to the state’s economic forecasters, the Kansas 
unemployment rate could complete this year at 3.9% before falling to 
3.5% in 2022 and 3.4% in 2023. The national unemployment rate is 
expected to be around 5.5% for 2021, 3.8% in 2022 and 3.5% in 2023.

Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican who chairs the Senate’s regular
 tax committee, said it was important for people to be cautious when 
weighing unemployment statistics. She said that while working on a 
master’s degree in engineering management at the University of Kansas it
 became evident to her labor estimates lacked precision.

“The way they gather the numbers, the data for those unemployment 
numbers, is speculative and not always accurate,” said Tyson, a GOP 
candidate for state treasurer.

Work on tax, budget and coronavirus issues in the 2022 legislative 
session could take on an especially partisan tone given desire of 
Republicans and Democrats to influence Kelly’s re-election campaign for 
governor in November 2022.

Tyson said she would have preferred to move ahead with significant 
tax reform during the 2021 legislative session, but was sidelined by 
House and Senate leaders who objected to timing of her goal.

The two days of hearings scheduled for the interim House-Senate tax 
committee is designed to prepare members of both chambers for 
comprehensive adjustment of state tax law in the upcoming session, she 
said.

“We can move forward quickly,” she told other members of the panel. 
“That is the objective of the two-day meeting. To help arm you and get 
us ready for the 2022 session.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638302239975.png" alt="Parker Sen. Caryn Tyson, Republican candidate for state treasurer, led a special committee Monday on the first of two days of hearings about economic ramifications of COVID-19 and options for tax reform during the 2022 legislative session. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Parker Sen. Caryn Tyson, Republican candidate for state treasurer, led a special committee Monday on the first of two days of hearings about economic ramifications of COVID-19 and options for tax reform during the 2022 legislative session. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Kansas’ work force participation rate surpasses pre-pandemic level</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/11/30/gop-members-on-tax-panel-wary-of-statistics-on-economic-recovery-from-covid-19/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The labor force 
participation rate in Kansas fully recovered from the rapid descent at 
outset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the number of people receiving 
unemployment benefits fell to the lowest level since the global health 
crisis began, state officials said.The percentage of the Kansas population either working or actively 
looking for work stood at 67.2% in January 2020, slumped to 66.5% by 
June 2020 and climbed to 67.5% in September.Edward Penner, senior economist with the Kansas Legislative Research 
Department, outlined the figures and a series of other economic 
indicators Monday for a joint House and Senate committee examining 
opportunities to adjust state tax policy.“At this point,” Penner said, “all of those people are back in the 
labor force and then some. This has been one of those stories where 
Kansas has been different from the nation. Kansas workers have kind of 
come back into the labor force and returned to their jobs at a rate that
 exceeds that of what national workers have done.”The number of individuals receiving unemployment insurance benefits 
in Kansas stood at 10,320 in October, the lowest number since the 
COVID-19 pandemic began.At the same time, state tax revenue surpassed estimates by $750 
million in the fiscal year that ended in June. The updated revenue 
estimate for the current fiscal year was increased by $1.3 billion, 
which prompted Gov. Laura Kelly and a bipartisan contingent of 
legislators to promote the possibility of slashing the state’s 6.5% 
sales tax on food.<h2>GOP statistical pushback</h2>Sen. Mark Steffen, a Republican from Hutchinson, said he was curious 
whether there was sharp improvement in work force participation after 
enhanced federal unemployment benefits expired in early September. Many 
GOP lawmakers pressured Kelly to cut off that congressional aid before 
the scheduled conclusion of federal programs, arguing the extra 
assistance was incentive for people to delay a return to their jobs. She
 declined to order cuts to jobless aid.Penner said much of the labor force came back into the fold in the 
initial five months of the pandemic. Demise of supplemental unemployment
 payments didn’t substantially improve participation in the Kansas work 
force, he said.Rep. Adam Smith, the Weskan Republican and chairman of the House 
Taxation Committee, said he was convinced businesses were still 
suffering labor shortages in northwest Kansas. He urged legislative 
staff to craft an estimate of unfilled jobs statewide in Kansas.“I still see a lot of businesses that are hiring,” he said.From February to April 2020, Kansas lost 158,000 non-farm jobs as the
 economy unraveled amid spread of the virus. The latest statistics 
indicated 73.5% of that job crater had been filled by September. The 
remaining gap might be linked to people who retired early or workers 
uneasy about accepting a job with a shortage of child care providers and
 uncertainty about influence of COVID-19 on schools, Penner said.Sen. Tom Holland, a Baldwin City Democrat, said he had heartburn 
about the manner in which businesses responded to economic disruption 
associated with the pandemic. He said it appeared some employers focused
 on dropping older personnel at the upper end of the pay scale.“My fear is that you had companies that laid off their more senior 
work force,” Holland said. “Basically, they’re dumping those jobs.”Rep. Francis Awerkamp, R-St. Marys, said legislative staff ought to 
balance statistical presentations to the Legislature by including an 
assessment of financial harm caused by government pandemic directives.“Can we also add an estimate on the economic impact of all the 
shutdowns, the lockdowns and the mandates from the government?” he said.<h2>Prep for 2022 session</h2>According to the state’s economic forecasters, the Kansas 
unemployment rate could complete this year at 3.9% before falling to 
3.5% in 2022 and 3.4% in 2023. The national unemployment rate is 
expected to be around 5.5% for 2021, 3.8% in 2022 and 3.5% in 2023.Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican who chairs the Senate’s regular
 tax committee, said it was important for people to be cautious when 
weighing unemployment statistics. She said that while working on a 
master’s degree in engineering management at the University of Kansas it
 became evident to her labor estimates lacked precision.“The way they gather the numbers, the data for those unemployment 
numbers, is speculative and not always accurate,” said Tyson, a GOP 
candidate for state treasurer.Work on tax, budget and coronavirus issues in the 2022 legislative 
session could take on an especially partisan tone given desire of 
Republicans and Democrats to influence Kelly’s re-election campaign for 
governor in November 2022.Tyson said she would have preferred to move ahead with significant 
tax reform during the 2021 legislative session, but was sidelined by 
House and Senate leaders who objected to timing of her goal.The two days of hearings scheduled for the interim House-Senate tax 
committee is designed to prepare members of both chambers for 
comprehensive adjustment of state tax law in the upcoming session, she 
said.“We can move forward quickly,” she told other members of the panel. 
“That is the objective of the two-day meeting. To help arm you and get 
us ready for the 2022 session.”

Kan. tax panel wary of statistics on economic recovery from COVID

Jimmy L. Dalton, 71, Great Bend, Kansas, passed away Sunday, November
 28, 2021, at the University of Kansas Health Systems Great Bend Campus,
 Great Bend, Kansas.

Jimmy was born October 26, 1950, in Abilene, Kansas, the son of 
Harold Dean and Mary Ella (Johnson) Dalton.&nbsp; He was a lifelong resident 
of Rush County, Kansas, and Barton County, Kansas.&nbsp; Jimmy cleaned homes 
for private individuals before his retirement.

Survivors include:&nbsp; one son, Curtis Dalton (Kandi Engel), Bison, 
Kansas; two brothers, Jerry Dalton (Rhonda), Wichita, Kansas, and Robert
 “Bob” Dalton (Mary), Bison, Kansas; two sisters, Connie Wharton (Lyle),
 Kansas, and Lonnie Call, Arlington, Kansas; one brother in law, Robert 
Giesick, Hutchinson, Kansas; and one sister in law, Debbie Dalton, Otis,
 Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Terry Dalton; and one sister, Norma Giesick.

Graveside memorial service will be Wednesday, December 8, 2021, at 
2:00 P.M. at the Baptist Cemetery, Bison, Kansas, with Pastor Terry 
Warner officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in the Baptist Cemetery, Bison, 
Kansas.

In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to 
Jimmy’s family who will designate a specific charity in the future.

Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638292080691.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jimmy L. Dalton, 71, Great Bend, Kansas, passed away Sunday, November
 28, 2021, at the University of Kansas Health Systems Great Bend Campus,
 Great Bend, Kansas.Jimmy was born October 26, 1950, in Abilene, Kansas, the son of 
Harold Dean and Mary Ella (Johnson) Dalton.&nbsp; He was a lifelong resident 
of Rush County, Kansas, and Barton County, Kansas.&nbsp; Jimmy cleaned homes 
for private individuals before his retirement.Survivors include:&nbsp; one son, Curtis Dalton (Kandi Engel), Bison, 
Kansas; two brothers, Jerry Dalton (Rhonda), Wichita, Kansas, and Robert
 “Bob” Dalton (Mary), Bison, Kansas; two sisters, Connie Wharton (Lyle),
 Kansas, and Lonnie Call, Arlington, Kansas; one brother in law, Robert 
Giesick, Hutchinson, Kansas; and one sister in law, Debbie Dalton, Otis,
 Kansas.He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Terry Dalton; and one sister, Norma Giesick.Graveside memorial service will be Wednesday, December 8, 2021, at 
2:00 P.M. at the Baptist Cemetery, Bison, Kansas, with Pastor Terry 
Warner officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will be in the Baptist Cemetery, Bison, 
Kansas.In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to 
Jimmy’s family who will designate a specific charity in the future.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Jimmy L. Dalton

Loretta Carolyn Ray (Carolyn) age 82, passed away on Saturday, 
November 20th at Scott County Hospital.&nbsp; She was born in Tribune Ks on 
October 25, 1939, to Willy C and Lulanell Dealy Ray.&nbsp; She was the 
youngest of 3 girls, Retha Roena Ray Hubbs, &nbsp;and Lorene Ray Giesick.&nbsp; 
Carolyn attended school in Greeley County where she graduated and went 
on to college at Hays University where she studied to be a radiology 
technician. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Carolyn then went on to Kansas City to do her clinical rotations at 
St Joseph Hospital. &nbsp;Carolyn worked there for a few years and then went 
to work for a group for physicians Dr. Bakey and Dr. Gentrey where they 
became a close nit family. &nbsp;She worked there as RAD Tech, a phlebotomist
 as well as cleaned the office until she retired after 35 years of 
service. &nbsp;Carolyn loved to help people and enjoyed being with friends. 
&nbsp;She had a bar for a few years in Kansas City named the WindJammer where
 she met many friends. &nbsp;Carolyn was a caregiver when she left Kansas 
City in early 2000 and moved to western Kansas to help with her older 
sister's care Retha who had Alzheimer’s.

Carolyn left there and moved to Oklahoma to help her best friend in 
life Betty and her sister Mary with their ailing mother Wanette Pistole.
 When Wanette passed on Betty and Carolyn moved back to Kansas City 
where Carolyn stayed and cared for Betty when she became ill. &nbsp;After 
Betty passed &nbsp;Carolyn moved to Scott City Ks in 2016 where she could be 
closer to her nephew and niece, Rick and Kody Rogers, and family. 
&nbsp;Carolyn enjoyed her weekly get-together with friends and family, where 
she always beat everyone at marbles even though she was legally blind.&nbsp; 
She loved collecting anything that had to do with wolves, spending time 
with family and friends, and caring for people. &nbsp;

Carolyn surviving family includes - 6 nieces and nephews and their 
spouses: Dennis Hubbs of Saratoga, Wyoming, Penny and Albert Twomey of 
Wright, Wyoming,&nbsp;Jana and Neal Raider of Richmond, Virginia, Kim and 
Georgia Hubbs of Templeton, California, Tim and Sam Giesick of Leoti, 
and Kody and Rick Rogers&nbsp;of Scott City many great-nieces and nephews. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Carolyn's wishes were to be cremated and her ashes spread with her 
older sister Retha and her brother-in-law Dale in Wyoming.&nbsp; There will 
be a private memorial in Wyoming in July for family and friends where 
Carolyn, Retha, and Dale’s lives will be celebrated. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Memorial In Lieu of Flowers may be written to the American Cancer Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638281784164.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Loretta Carolyn Ray (Carolyn) age 82, passed away on Saturday, 
November 20th at Scott County Hospital.&nbsp; She was born in Tribune Ks on 
October 25, 1939, to Willy C and Lulanell Dealy Ray.&nbsp; She was the 
youngest of 3 girls, Retha Roena Ray Hubbs, &nbsp;and Lorene Ray Giesick.&nbsp; 
Carolyn attended school in Greeley County where she graduated and went 
on to college at Hays University where she studied to be a radiology 
technician. &nbsp;&nbsp;Carolyn then went on to Kansas City to do her clinical rotations at 
St Joseph Hospital. &nbsp;Carolyn worked there for a few years and then went 
to work for a group for physicians Dr. Bakey and Dr. Gentrey where they 
became a close nit family. &nbsp;She worked there as RAD Tech, a phlebotomist
 as well as cleaned the office until she retired after 35 years of 
service. &nbsp;Carolyn loved to help people and enjoyed being with friends. 
&nbsp;She had a bar for a few years in Kansas City named the WindJammer where
 she met many friends. &nbsp;Carolyn was a caregiver when she left Kansas 
City in early 2000 and moved to western Kansas to help with her older 
sister's care Retha who had Alzheimer’s.Carolyn left there and moved to Oklahoma to help her best friend in 
life Betty and her sister Mary with their ailing mother Wanette Pistole.
 When Wanette passed on Betty and Carolyn moved back to Kansas City 
where Carolyn stayed and cared for Betty when she became ill. &nbsp;After 
Betty passed &nbsp;Carolyn moved to Scott City Ks in 2016 where she could be 
closer to her nephew and niece, Rick and Kody Rogers, and family. 
&nbsp;Carolyn enjoyed her weekly get-together with friends and family, where 
she always beat everyone at marbles even though she was legally blind.&nbsp; 
She loved collecting anything that had to do with wolves, spending time 
with family and friends, and caring for people. &nbsp;Carolyn surviving family includes - 6 nieces and nephews and their 
spouses: Dennis Hubbs of Saratoga, Wyoming, Penny and Albert Twomey of 
Wright, Wyoming,&nbsp;Jana and Neal Raider of Richmond, Virginia, Kim and 
Georgia Hubbs of Templeton, California, Tim and Sam Giesick of Leoti, 
and Kody and Rick Rogers&nbsp;of Scott City many great-nieces and nephews. &nbsp;&nbsp;Carolyn's wishes were to be cremated and her ashes spread with her 
older sister Retha and her brother-in-law Dale in Wyoming.&nbsp; There will 
be a private memorial in Wyoming in July for family and friends where 
Carolyn, Retha, and Dale’s lives will be celebrated. &nbsp;&nbsp;Memorial In Lieu of Flowers may be written to the American Cancer Association.There are no calling times.

Loretta Carolyn Ray

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Crude prices have recovered about half of the losses posted on Friday, which saw the biggest one-day dive since April of last year. A new COVID variant raised fears that travel bans would hammer demand. But Reuters reports some traders now view Friday's response as overdone. Crude prices rebounded more than five percent Monday. OPEC and its export-allies will discuss their response to the new&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;variant at their meeting this week, but will have little knowledge of the actual impact the variant will have. They postponed their scheduled technical meetings to buy time. Ministers from OPEC, Russia, and other exporters have returned 400,000 barrels per day back to the marketplace each month for the last several months.&nbsp; They meet Thursday to set production policy for January. Bloomberg reports some delegates want to ditch their planned output increase in the short term.&nbsp; The benchmark Nymex crude contract settled Friday at $68.15 per barrel. That's more than ten dollars a barrel lower than Wednesday, the biggest price drop since April of 2020. But on Monday traders pushed that price back above $70. In early trading, the near-month contract for light sweet crude was up nearly seven percent to $72.72 per barrel, a gain of more than four and a half dollars. We could see a similar price correction Monday in Kansas. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson dropped more than ten dollars on Friday to end the week at $58.50 per barrel. That's down nearly $16 from the first of the month. The rig count in eastern Kansas is up one to 14 drilling rigs either scheduled, moving to, or currently on drill sites. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says the count west of Wichita was unchanged at 27 active rigs. Operators were drilling wells in Barton, Ellis and Stafford counties, and were about to spud one in Russell County. Most of the drilling increases elsewhere in the U.S. have been of the horizontal variety. Baker Hughes reports another increase in its Rotary Rig Count, and another spike in horizontal drilling activity. There are 569 active drilling rigs in the U.S., a net increase of six oil rigs. The count in North Dakota was up four rigs, while Texas was up two. Based on spudded wells, this year's drilling activity in Kansas up more than 80% over last year at this time, with a 39 percent increase in active operators in the state. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports operators in eastern Kansas completed 19 new wells last week, and Western Kansas checks in with 11. That brings the year-to-date total to 808 new completions compared to 732 at this time last year. Kansas Regulators okayed 44 new drilling locations across the state last week, 26 east of Wichita and 18 in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County, two in Ellis county, one in Russell county and one in Stafford County. That's 1,035 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 412 by this time last year. Independent Oil &amp; &nbsp;Gas Service reports 14 active rigs in eastern Kansas and 27 west of Wichita. Both tallies are unchanged. Drilling was underway on two leases in Barton County and one in Ellis County. Operators were preparing to spud new wells in Russell and Stafford counties. Baker Hughes reports another increase in its Rotary Rig Count, and another spike in horizontal drilling activity. There are 569 active drilling rigs in the U.S., a net increase of six oil rigs. The count in North Dakota was up four rigs, while Texas was up two. Independent Operators in Texas report that states oil-and-gas employment grew by 2,300 jobs from September to October, marking the sixth consecutive monthly increase. The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) said the latest total marks a 22,800-position increase over last year. The group gets its numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.&nbsp; Oklahoma's October gross tax receipts grew by double digits again, fueled by high crude prices. The Tulsa World reported gross tax receipts for the month of $1.27 billion, a 16% increase over the same time last year. State Treasurer Randy McDaniel attributes growth to rising oil and natural gas price. For the third consecutive month, oil and gas tax revenue exceeded $100 million. As prices rebound and pipeline projects advance, a group of energy contractors predicts a big increase in drilling activity in Western Canada next year. The uptick follows a year in which Enbridge completed its Line 3 pipeline replacement and two others major pipelines in the region began construction. According to the Canadian Association of energy Contractors, operators in Western Canada will drill 27% more wells next year than this year, returning to pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp; Last week's announcement of the sale of strategic crude reserves has not had the desired effect, at least not yet. The U.S. made it official Tuesday, joining China, India, South Korea, Japan and Britain in the coordinated release of tens of million of barrels of crude from strategic reserves, expected to hit the market next month. The move was thought to be a way for major consumer nations to battle rising inflation. But the markets went the wrong way after the actual announcement fell short of expectations.&nbsp; Some U.S. lawmakers are seizing on the energy price surge to revive the long-standing NOPEC. As we've reported before, the legislation would subject the OPEC oil cartel to the same antitrust laws used more than century ago to break up Standard Oil’s monopoly. The “No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act” -- known as NOPEC -- would allow the U.S. government to sue members of the cartel, potentially seeking billions of dollars in reparations. The legislation has faced opposition from the State Department in the past. But the House Judiciary Committee did approve the latest iteration by a voice vote in April. A Senate version has attracted sponsors from across the political spectrum, from Iowa’s conservative Republican Chuck Grassland to Vermont’s liberal Democrat Patrick Leahy. No floor votes have been scheduled.

By JOHN P. TRETBAR Crude prices have recovered about half of the losses posted on Friday, which saw the biggest one-day dive since April of last year. A new COVID variant raised fears that travel bans would hammer demand. But Reuters reports some traders now view Friday's response as overdone. Crude prices rebounded more than five percent Monday. OPEC and its export-allies will discuss their response to the new&nbsp;COVID&nbsp;variant at their meeting this week, but will have little knowledge of the actual impact the variant will have. They postponed their scheduled technical meetings to buy time. Ministers from OPEC, Russia, and other exporters have returned 400,000 barrels per day back to the marketplace each month for the last several months.&nbsp; They meet Thursday to set production policy for January. Bloomberg reports some delegates want to ditch their planned output increase in the short term.&nbsp; The benchmark Nymex crude contract settled Friday at $68.15 per barrel. That's more than ten dollars a barrel lower than Wednesday, the biggest price drop since April of 2020. But on Monday traders pushed that price back above $70. In early trading, the near-month contract for light sweet crude was up nearly seven percent to $72.72 per barrel, a gain of more than four and a half dollars. We could see a similar price correction Monday in Kansas. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson dropped more than ten dollars on Friday to end the week at $58.50 per barrel. That's down nearly $16 from the first of the month. The rig count in eastern Kansas is up one to 14 drilling rigs either scheduled, moving to, or currently on drill sites. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says the count west of Wichita was unchanged at 27 active rigs. Operators were drilling wells in Barton, Ellis and Stafford counties, and were about to spud one in Russell County. Most of the drilling increases elsewhere in the U.S. have been of the horizontal variety. Baker Hughes reports another increase in its Rotary Rig Count, and another spike in horizontal drilling activity. There are 569 active drilling rigs in the U.S., a net increase of six oil rigs. The count in North Dakota was up four rigs, while Texas was up two. Based on spudded wells, this year's drilling activity in Kansas up more than 80% over last year at this time, with a 39 percent increase in active operators in the state. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports operators in eastern Kansas completed 19 new wells last week, and Western Kansas checks in with 11. That brings the year-to-date total to 808 new completions compared to 732 at this time last year. Kansas Regulators okayed 44 new drilling locations across the state last week, 26 east of Wichita and 18 in Western Kansas, including one in Barton County, two in Ellis county, one in Russell county and one in Stafford County. That's 1,035 new drilling permits so far this year, compared to 412 by this time last year. Independent Oil &amp; &nbsp;Gas Service reports 14 active rigs in eastern Kansas and 27 west of Wichita. Both tallies are unchanged. Drilling was underway on two leases in Barton County and one in Ellis County. Operators were preparing to spud new wells in Russell and Stafford counties. Baker Hughes reports another increase in its Rotary Rig Count, and another spike in horizontal drilling activity. There are 569 active drilling rigs in the U.S., a net increase of six oil rigs. The count in North Dakota was up four rigs, while Texas was up two. Independent Operators in Texas report that states oil-and-gas employment grew by 2,300 jobs from September to October, marking the sixth consecutive monthly increase. The Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) said the latest total marks a 22,800-position increase over last year. The group gets its numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.&nbsp; Oklahoma's October gross tax receipts grew by double digits again, fueled by high crude prices. The Tulsa World reported gross tax receipts for the month of $1.27 billion, a 16% increase over the same time last year. State Treasurer Randy McDaniel attributes growth to rising oil and natural gas price. For the third consecutive month, oil and gas tax revenue exceeded $100 million. As prices rebound and pipeline projects advance, a group of energy contractors predicts a big increase in drilling activity in Western Canada next year. The uptick follows a year in which Enbridge completed its Line 3 pipeline replacement and two others major pipelines in the region began construction. According to the Canadian Association of energy Contractors, operators in Western Canada will drill 27% more wells next year than this year, returning to pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp; Last week's announcement of the sale of strategic crude reserves has not had the desired effect, at least not yet. The U.S. made it official Tuesday, joining China, India, South Korea, Japan and Britain in the coordinated release of tens of million of barrels of crude from strategic reserves, expected to hit the market next month. The move was thought to be a way for major consumer nations to battle rising inflation. But the markets went the wrong way after the actual announcement fell short of expectations.&nbsp; Some U.S. lawmakers are seizing on the energy price surge to revive the long-standing NOPEC. As we've reported before, the legislation would subject the OPEC oil cartel to the same antitrust laws used more than century ago to break up Standard Oil’s monopoly. The “No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act” -- known as NOPEC -- would allow the U.S. government to sue members of the cartel, potentially seeking billions of dollars in reparations. The legislation has faced opposition from the State Department in the past. But the House Judiciary Committee did approve the latest iteration by a voice vote in April. A Senate version has attracted sponsors from across the political spectrum, from Iowa’s conservative Republican Chuck Grassland to Vermont’s liberal Democrat Patrick Leahy. No floor votes have been scheduled.

News From the Oil Patch: Prices recover from Friday freefall

Kenny (Kenneth) Wade Raudis was born on November 2, 1972, in Meriden, Connecticut to Charles Mahoney and Anna Marie Oquendo.&nbsp; Kenny and his family moved to Florida when he was a child.&nbsp; Florida, the Everglades and the South are what Kenny always called home.

He moved to Kansas in 2005, where he met Lisa Hammerschmidt and the two were married on May 9, 2010, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hays, Kansas.

Two children were born to Kenny and Lisa.&nbsp; Colt Daniel was born on February 22, 2012, and Emma Marie was born on October 22, 2015.&nbsp; Kenny was a great father and enjoyed his kids so much.&nbsp; Kenny loved to make their breakfast of choice on the weekends, take them fishing, having man day with Colt, and lovey dovey time with Emma.

Kenny enjoyed playing darts, smoking&nbsp;and grilling, and having his friends over to relax in his man cave.&nbsp; He was a great cook which led him into making his own BBQ rub.&nbsp; Not only did he learn from&nbsp;but helped,&nbsp;so many fellow BBQ friends on his own BBQ Facebook group from all over the world.

Kenny died November 23, 2021, at his home after a sudden illness.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Mahoney, stepfather, Raphael Oquendo and father-in-law, Elvis Hammerschmidt.&nbsp; Survivors include his wife, Lisa Raudis, children, Colt Raudis and Emma Raudis, all of the home.&nbsp; Mother, Anna Marie Oquendo of Florida, brother, Marc Mahoney and Maria Carbone of Florida, nephews, Joshua Raudis, Kyle Raudis, Caedin Mahoney and Jax Mahoney all of Florida, niece, Deanna Raudis of Florida, great nephew, Bentley and great niece, Everley, both of Florida, sister, Dinetta&nbsp;Van Heemst of Florida, mother-in-law, Linda Hammershmidt of Hays, and sister in law, Gwen Hammerschmidt, of Wichita.&nbsp; Along with all his friends he had&nbsp;gotten to know over the years who he considered his family.

Kenny's family will receive guests and host a celebration gathering&nbsp;from 1 PM to 3 PM at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine Street, Hays, KS 67601 on Friday, December 3, 2021.&nbsp; Please join them as they share their favorite memories and stories of "Big Country".

Memorials are suggested to further the education of Kenny and Lisa's children.&nbsp; Please make any/all checks payable to Lisa Raudis.

Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>

Services in care of Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 785-625-3215.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638217749187.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kenny (Kenneth) Wade Raudis was born on November 2, 1972, in Meriden, Connecticut to Charles Mahoney and Anna Marie Oquendo.&nbsp; Kenny and his family moved to Florida when he was a child.&nbsp; Florida, the Everglades and the South are what Kenny always called home.He moved to Kansas in 2005, where he met Lisa Hammerschmidt and the two were married on May 9, 2010, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Hays, Kansas.Two children were born to Kenny and Lisa.&nbsp; Colt Daniel was born on February 22, 2012, and Emma Marie was born on October 22, 2015.&nbsp; Kenny was a great father and enjoyed his kids so much.&nbsp; Kenny loved to make their breakfast of choice on the weekends, take them fishing, having man day with Colt, and lovey dovey time with Emma.Kenny enjoyed playing darts, smoking&nbsp;and grilling, and having his friends over to relax in his man cave.&nbsp; He was a great cook which led him into making his own BBQ rub.&nbsp; Not only did he learn from&nbsp;but helped,&nbsp;so many fellow BBQ friends on his own BBQ Facebook group from all over the world.Kenny died November 23, 2021, at his home after a sudden illness.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Mahoney, stepfather, Raphael Oquendo and father-in-law, Elvis Hammerschmidt.&nbsp; Survivors include his wife, Lisa Raudis, children, Colt Raudis and Emma Raudis, all of the home.&nbsp; Mother, Anna Marie Oquendo of Florida, brother, Marc Mahoney and Maria Carbone of Florida, nephews, Joshua Raudis, Kyle Raudis, Caedin Mahoney and Jax Mahoney all of Florida, niece, Deanna Raudis of Florida, great nephew, Bentley and great niece, Everley, both of Florida, sister, Dinetta&nbsp;Van Heemst of Florida, mother-in-law, Linda Hammershmidt of Hays, and sister in law, Gwen Hammerschmidt, of Wichita.&nbsp; Along with all his friends he had&nbsp;gotten to know over the years who he considered his family.Kenny's family will receive guests and host a celebration gathering&nbsp;from 1 PM to 3 PM at Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine Street, Hays, KS 67601 on Friday, December 3, 2021.&nbsp; Please join them as they share their favorite memories and stories of "Big Country".Memorials are suggested to further the education of Kenny and Lisa's children.&nbsp; Please make any/all checks payable to Lisa Raudis.Condolences may be left by guest book at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>&nbsp;or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com">keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com</a>Services in care of Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 785-625-3215.

Kenny Raudis

BOSTON (AP) — Phil Saviano, a clergy sex abuse survivor and whistleblower who played a pivotal role in exposing decades of predatory assaults by Roman Catholic priests in the United States, has died. He was 69.

Saviano’s story figured prominently in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bce4d6f901b2423ea23a713dc31c49da">the 2015 Oscar-winning film “Spotlight”</a>&nbsp;about The Boston Globe’s investigation that revealed how scores of priests molested children and got away with it because church leaders covered it up. He died on Sunday after a battle with gallbladder cancer, said his brother and caregiver, Jim Saviano.

In late October, Phil Saviano announced <a href="https://www.facebook.com/phil.saviano">on his Facebook page</a> that he was starting hospice care at his brother’s home in Douglas, Massachusetts, where he died.

“Things have been dicey the last few weeks,” he wrote, asking followers to “give a listen to Judy Collins singing ‘Bird On A Wire’ and think of me.”

Saviano played a central role in illuminating the scandal, which led to the resignation of Boston’s Cardinal Bernard Law and church settlements with hundreds of victims. The Globe’s 2002 series earned it the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service in 2003, and “Spotlight” won Academy Awards for best picture and best original screenplay. Actor Neal Huff played Saviano in the film.

“My gift to the world was not being afraid to speak out,” Saviano said in mid-November in a brief telephone interview with The Associated Press.

Born June 23, 1952, Saviano recalled going to confession as a young boy at St. Denis Church in tiny East Douglas, Massachusetts, in the 1960s and whispering his transgressions through a screen to the Rev. David Holley. The priest, he said,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d62e914879e92c043a7ac3a595089add">violated that sacred trust</a>&nbsp;and forced the 11-year-old to perform sex acts. Holley died in a New Mexico prison in 2008 while serving a 275-year sentence for molesting eight boys.

“When we were kids, the priests never did anything wrong. You didn’t question them, same as the police,” brother Jim Saviano told the AP. “There were many barriers put in his way intentionally and otherwise by institutions and generational thinking. That didn’t stop him. That’s a certain kind of bravery that was unique.”

A self-described “recovering Catholic,” Saviano went on to establish the New England chapter of the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests, or SNAP, an organization working to bring specific allegations of clergy sexual abuse to light.

His faith in the church shattered, Saviano instead leaned on politicians and prosecutors to bring offenders to justice.

“We’re putting our faith in legislators and prosecutors to solve this problem,” he told reporters in 2002.

“Phil was an essential source during the Spotlight Team’s reporting on the cover-up of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, providing other critical sources, research materials and the names of several accused priests,” said Mike Rezendes, a member of the Globe team that brought the scandal to light and a current AP investigative reporter.

“He also shared his own heartbreaking story of abuse, imbuing us with the iron determination we needed to break this horrific story,” Rezendes said. “During our reporting, and over the last 20 years, I got to know Phil well and have never met anyone as brave, as compassionate or as savvy.”

Saviano earned degrees in zoology and communications from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and Boston University and began working in hospital public relations. Later, he shifted to entertainment industry publicity and concert promotion, working closely with Collins, a lifelong friend and confidante, as well as Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Torme and other artists.

In 1991, he became seriously ill with AIDS and went public with his childhood abuse the following year, becoming one of the first survivors to come forward.

“Father Holley forced me and two of my friends to have repeated sexual contact with him,” Saviano said in an interview with the Globe — the first of many that would lead not only to criminal charges against the disgraced cleric but widespread prosecutions of others as the enormity of the scandal became evident.

By the early 2000s, Saviano was spending 10 hours a day on the phone with victims and journalists. He was an outspoken critic of the Vatican’s reluctance to deal decisively with the fallout from the scandal. In 2008, when Pope Benedict XVI hinted to U.S. bishops during a visit that they’d mishandled the church’s response, Saviano questioned the pontiff’s decision to follow his remarks with Masses in New York and Washington.

“If he was really serious about the issue, that Mass would not be held in New York. It would be held here in Boston,” he said.

In 2009, suffering kidney failure and unable to locate a match among family or friends, he found a donor after SNAP spread the word in a nationwide email to 8,000 clergy sex abuse survivors.

The abuse that came to light as a result of Saviano’s work prompted Cardinal Law, Boston’s highest-ranking churchman, to step down. The Globe’s reporting showed Law was aware of child molesters in the priesthood but covered up their crimes and failed to stop them, instead transferring them from parish to parish without alerting parents or police.

When the archbishop died in Rome in 2017, Saviano asked bluntly: “How is he going to explain this when he comes face to face with his maker?”

In 2019, at the Vatican for an abuse prevention summit called convened by Pope Francis,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-ap-top-news-international-news-united-states-latin-america-34df3ee878694c229c55bf1a5de533af">Saviano said he told summit organizers to release the names of abusive priests around the world along with their case files</a>.

“Do it to launch a new era of transparency. Do it to break the code of silence. Do it out of respect for the victims of these men, and do it to help prevent these creeps from abusing any more children,” he said.

Although there was a hard edge to much of his life, Saviano enjoyed traveling extensively and developed a soft spot for Indigenous art. In 1999, he launched an e-commerce website, Viva Oaxaca Folk Art, showcasing handmade decorative pieces he purchased on trips to southern Mexico and resold to collectors across the U.S.

He is survived by three brothers, Jim Saviano of Douglas; John Saviano of Douglas; and Victor Saviano of Boston; two nieces; and two nephews. A funeral Mass was scheduled for Friday at St. Denis Church in East Douglas.

BOSTON (AP) — Phil Saviano, a clergy sex abuse survivor and whistleblower who played a pivotal role in exposing decades of predatory assaults by Roman Catholic priests in the United States, has died. He was 69.Saviano’s story figured prominently in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bce4d6f901b2423ea23a713dc31c49da">the 2015 Oscar-winning film “Spotlight”</a>&nbsp;about The Boston Globe’s investigation that revealed how scores of priests molested children and got away with it because church leaders covered it up. He died on Sunday after a battle with gallbladder cancer, said his brother and caregiver, Jim Saviano.In late October, Phil Saviano announced <a href="https://www.facebook.com/phil.saviano">on his Facebook page</a> that he was starting hospice care at his brother’s home in Douglas, Massachusetts, where he died.“Things have been dicey the last few weeks,” he wrote, asking followers to “give a listen to Judy Collins singing ‘Bird On A Wire’ and think of me.”Saviano played a central role in illuminating the scandal, which led to the resignation of Boston’s Cardinal Bernard Law and church settlements with hundreds of victims. The Globe’s 2002 series earned it the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service in 2003, and “Spotlight” won Academy Awards for best picture and best original screenplay. Actor Neal Huff played Saviano in the film.“My gift to the world was not being afraid to speak out,” Saviano said in mid-November in a brief telephone interview with The Associated Press.Born June 23, 1952, Saviano recalled going to confession as a young boy at St. Denis Church in tiny East Douglas, Massachusetts, in the 1960s and whispering his transgressions through a screen to the Rev. David Holley. The priest, he said,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d62e914879e92c043a7ac3a595089add">violated that sacred trust</a>&nbsp;and forced the 11-year-old to perform sex acts. Holley died in a New Mexico prison in 2008 while serving a 275-year sentence for molesting eight boys.“When we were kids, the priests never did anything wrong. You didn’t question them, same as the police,” brother Jim Saviano told the AP. “There were many barriers put in his way intentionally and otherwise by institutions and generational thinking. That didn’t stop him. That’s a certain kind of bravery that was unique.”A self-described “recovering Catholic,” Saviano went on to establish the New England chapter of the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests, or SNAP, an organization working to bring specific allegations of clergy sexual abuse to light.His faith in the church shattered, Saviano instead leaned on politicians and prosecutors to bring offenders to justice.“We’re putting our faith in legislators and prosecutors to solve this problem,” he told reporters in 2002.“Phil was an essential source during the Spotlight Team’s reporting on the cover-up of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, providing other critical sources, research materials and the names of several accused priests,” said Mike Rezendes, a member of the Globe team that brought the scandal to light and a current AP investigative reporter.“He also shared his own heartbreaking story of abuse, imbuing us with the iron determination we needed to break this horrific story,” Rezendes said. “During our reporting, and over the last 20 years, I got to know Phil well and have never met anyone as brave, as compassionate or as savvy.”Saviano earned degrees in zoology and communications from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst and Boston University and began working in hospital public relations. Later, he shifted to entertainment industry publicity and concert promotion, working closely with Collins, a lifelong friend and confidante, as well as Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Torme and other artists.In 1991, he became seriously ill with AIDS and went public with his childhood abuse the following year, becoming one of the first survivors to come forward.“Father Holley forced me and two of my friends to have repeated sexual contact with him,” Saviano said in an interview with the Globe — the first of many that would lead not only to criminal charges against the disgraced cleric but widespread prosecutions of others as the enormity of the scandal became evident.By the early 2000s, Saviano was spending 10 hours a day on the phone with victims and journalists. He was an outspoken critic of the Vatican’s reluctance to deal decisively with the fallout from the scandal. In 2008, when Pope Benedict XVI hinted to U.S. bishops during a visit that they’d mishandled the church’s response, Saviano questioned the pontiff’s decision to follow his remarks with Masses in New York and Washington.“If he was really serious about the issue, that Mass would not be held in New York. It would be held here in Boston,” he said.In 2009, suffering kidney failure and unable to locate a match among family or friends, he found a donor after SNAP spread the word in a nationwide email to 8,000 clergy sex abuse survivors.The abuse that came to light as a result of Saviano’s work prompted Cardinal Law, Boston’s highest-ranking churchman, to step down. The Globe’s reporting showed Law was aware of child molesters in the priesthood but covered up their crimes and failed to stop them, instead transferring them from parish to parish without alerting parents or police.When the archbishop died in Rome in 2017, Saviano asked bluntly: “How is he going to explain this when he comes face to face with his maker?”In 2019, at the Vatican for an abuse prevention summit called convened by Pope Francis,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-ap-top-news-international-news-united-states-latin-america-34df3ee878694c229c55bf1a5de533af">Saviano said he told summit organizers to release the names of abusive priests around the world along with their case files</a>.“Do it to launch a new era of transparency. Do it to break the code of silence. Do it out of respect for the victims of these men, and do it to help prevent these creeps from abusing any more children,” he said.Although there was a hard edge to much of his life, Saviano enjoyed traveling extensively and developed a soft spot for Indigenous art. In 1999, he launched an e-commerce website, Viva Oaxaca Folk Art, showcasing handmade decorative pieces he purchased on trips to southern Mexico and resold to collectors across the U.S.He is survived by three brothers, Jim Saviano of Douglas; John Saviano of Douglas; and Victor Saviano of Boston; two nieces; and two nephews. A funeral Mass was scheduled for Friday at St. Denis Church in East Douglas.

Key Catholic clergy sex abuse survivor and whistleblower has died

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Governor Laura Kelly is asking a member of the Kansas House of Representatives to resign after his weekend arrest for alleged DUI. Online records indicate that&nbsp; 21-year-old Aaron Coleman, who represents the state's 37th District, was jailed briefly Saturday in Douglas County for DUI.&nbsp; This is his second arrest since late October. On Sunday night, Governor Kelly issued a statement on the arrest.

“Mr. Coleman’s most recent arrest is further evidence that he is not fit to serve in the Kansas House of Representatives and that his continued presence in the Legislature is a disservice to his constituents. He should resign immediately and seek the treatment that he needs.  If he does not resign, the Legislature should use its process to remove him from office.”&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Coleman was charged with domestic battery in Johnson County after pushed, hit and spit on his 18-year-old brother in a fight that erupted because the brother was going to get baptized. The probable cause affidavit said Coleman of Kansas City was “uncooperative” with police during the Oct. 30 fight. 

Coleman has acknowledged past abuses against girls and young women. And he took a temporary “leave of absence” earlier this month following a Johnson County district judge’s order that he undergo a mental health evaluation.

After the October arrest, House Democratic Leader Tom Sawyer issued a statement urging Coleman to resign and calling his arrest “extremely disturbing.”

After he was elected last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-congress-d8716ccabd233448ea77860d6b97b419">Coleman received a written reprimand&nbsp;</a>from a legislative committee about his conduct before taking office. The House committee’s investigation of Coleman followed accusations of abusive behavior toward girls and young women. He acknowledged some of the behavior on social media and said he had been a troubled teenager.

Earlier this month, Coleman was also banned from the Kansas Department of Labor’s offices because the agency’s director said Coleman had tried to improperly gain entry to the department’s main office through a secured employee entry and berated a security officer.

At that time, Coleman said he was trying to help constituents deal with the state’s unemployment system.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635804497310.png" alt="Coleman from his Oct. 30 domestic battery arrest in Johnson County." />
 <figcaption>Coleman from his Oct. 30 domestic battery arrest in Johnson County.</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY—Governor Laura Kelly is asking a member of the Kansas House of Representatives to resign after his weekend arrest for alleged DUI. Online records indicate that&nbsp; 21-year-old Aaron Coleman, who represents the state's 37th District, was jailed briefly Saturday in Douglas County for DUI.&nbsp; This is his second arrest since late October. On Sunday night, Governor Kelly issued a statement on the arrest.“Mr. Coleman’s most recent arrest is further evidence that he is not fit to serve in the Kansas House of Representatives and that his continued presence in the Legislature is a disservice to his constituents. He should resign immediately and seek the treatment that he needs. If he does not resign, the Legislature should use its process to remove him from office.”&nbsp;Earlier this month, Coleman was charged with domestic battery in Johnson County after pushed, hit and spit on his 18-year-old brother in a fight that erupted because the brother was going to get baptized. The probable cause affidavit said Coleman of Kansas City was “uncooperative” with police during the Oct. 30 fight. Coleman has acknowledged past abuses against girls and young women. And he took a temporary “leave of absence” earlier this month following a Johnson County district judge’s order that he undergo a mental health evaluation.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vic Miller. DUI while In office?... Very intrigued Does <a href="https://twitter.com/RepTomSawyer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepTomSawyer</a> or <a href="https://twitter.com/KSHouseDems?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KSHouseDems</a> have any remarks on my motion to expel? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/2uEL6JGKPq">https://t.co/2uEL6JGKPq</a>&mdash; Rep. Aaron Coleman 🌹✡️ (@Aaron4KS37) <a href="https://twitter.com/Aaron4KS37/status/1464400540209664000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>After the October arrest, House Democratic Leader Tom Sawyer issued a statement urging Coleman to resign and calling his arrest “extremely disturbing.”After he was elected last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-congress-d8716ccabd233448ea77860d6b97b419">Coleman received a written reprimand&nbsp;</a>from a legislative committee about his conduct before taking office. The House committee’s investigation of Coleman followed accusations of abusive behavior toward girls and young women. He acknowledged some of the behavior on social media and said he had been a troubled teenager.Earlier this month, Coleman was also banned from the Kansas Department of Labor’s offices because the agency’s director said Coleman had tried to improperly gain entry to the department’s main office through a secured employee entry and berated a security officer.At that time, Coleman said he was trying to help constituents deal with the state’s unemployment system.-The AP contributed to this report

Kan. Gov. calls for Rep. to resign after 2nd arrest in less than a month

Martha Grace Smith-Kennedy was born March 18, 1940, in Dodge City, 
Kansas to Floye and Joe Leonard. She departed this life on October 7, 
2021, after a brief illness, in Woodland Park, Colorado.

Martha is survived by siblings Steve Rohrbaugh (Raylene), Linda 
Rohrbaugh Diede (Gary), Bill DeGarmo (Randi), Barbara DeGarmo Lohmeier 
(Patrick), and Laurita DeGarmo Moyer, (Jerry); grandchildren Chris 
Howard, Tucker Smith, and Korbin Smith; great-grandchildren Jennifer, 
Nevaeh, Graciee, Aaliyah, and Bentley Howard; numerous cousins, nieces, 
and nephews.

Martha was preceded in death by her mother and father, husbands Aldon
 (Ike) Smith and Harry Kennedy, children Todd Smith and Linda Smith 
Miller.

Martha loved her family dearly, as they did her. She never met a 
stranger; everyone was a friend. Martha was a loving, praying Christian 
and was truly blessed. She will be missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service to celebrate Martha’s life will be held at 10:30 
A.M. on Saturday, December 04, 2021, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler 
Mortuary in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; Family will greet guests the day of the 
service at the mortuary.&nbsp; Cremation has been selected by the family and 
there will be no graveside service.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, please make a 
donation to your local Humane Society in honor of Martha’s love of 
dogs.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge 
of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1638146912056.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Martha Grace Smith-Kennedy was born March 18, 1940, in Dodge City, 
Kansas to Floye and Joe Leonard. She departed this life on October 7, 
2021, after a brief illness, in Woodland Park, Colorado.Martha is survived by siblings Steve Rohrbaugh (Raylene), Linda 
Rohrbaugh Diede (Gary), Bill DeGarmo (Randi), Barbara DeGarmo Lohmeier 
(Patrick), and Laurita DeGarmo Moyer, (Jerry); grandchildren Chris 
Howard, Tucker Smith, and Korbin Smith; great-grandchildren Jennifer, 
Nevaeh, Graciee, Aaliyah, and Bentley Howard; numerous cousins, nieces, 
and nephews.Martha was preceded in death by her mother and father, husbands Aldon
 (Ike) Smith and Harry Kennedy, children Todd Smith and Linda Smith 
Miller.Martha loved her family dearly, as they did her. She never met a 
stranger; everyone was a friend. Martha was a loving, praying Christian 
and was truly blessed. She will be missed by all who knew her.A memorial service to celebrate Martha’s life will be held at 10:30 
A.M. on Saturday, December 04, 2021, at the Pohlman-Varner-Peeler 
Mortuary in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; Family will greet guests the day of the 
service at the mortuary.&nbsp; Cremation has been selected by the family and 
there will be no graveside service.&nbsp; In lieu of flowers, please make a 
donation to your local Humane Society in honor of Martha’s love of 
dogs.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge 
of the funeral service arrangements.

Martha Grace Smith-Kennedy

Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas recently announced the receipt of a $20,980 grant from the Beach Family Foundation. 

Jane Hipp, daughter of Ross and Marianna Beach, continue their legacy with this grant award to support DSNWK’s efforts to remodel and retool its workshop used to produce refurbished furniture and craft items for its new Custom Creations store in downtown Hays. Having a fully functional workshop will provide greater opportunities for new skill development and additional custom created projects for persons served by DSNWK.

DSNWK’s Custom Creations store officially opened its doors in October of this year.&nbsp; The store, located at 1107 Main Street in Hays, is now open to the public and is also used for learning, collaborating and developing talent, as well as sharing the creations of the people they serve with the community.&nbsp; Donations of solid wood furniture and other items from the community support the creation of unique items and custom created and restored furniture by people served through DSNWK.

“With the ability to work in a fully operational and safe environment, persons served will learn about the function of different tools, what they are capable of doing with each, and the innovative products they can produce,” said Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president. "DSNWK would like to thank the Beach Family Foundation for their continued support of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in northwest Kansas."

DSNWK is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving 18 counties in northwest Kansas with a mission to advocate for persons with disabilities and those who care about them by planning and supporting a life of dignity, interdependence, and personal satisfaction in the community.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1602261742827.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DSNWKDevelopmental Services of Northwest Kansas recently announced the receipt of a $20,980 grant from the Beach Family Foundation. Jane Hipp, daughter of Ross and Marianna Beach, continue their legacy with this grant award to support DSNWK’s efforts to remodel and retool its workshop used to produce refurbished furniture and craft items for its new Custom Creations store in downtown Hays. Having a fully functional workshop will provide greater opportunities for new skill development and additional custom created projects for persons served by DSNWK.DSNWK’s Custom Creations store officially opened its doors in October of this year.&nbsp; The store, located at 1107 Main Street in Hays, is now open to the public and is also used for learning, collaborating and developing talent, as well as sharing the creations of the people they serve with the community.&nbsp; Donations of solid wood furniture and other items from the community support the creation of unique items and custom created and restored furniture by people served through DSNWK.“With the ability to work in a fully operational and safe environment, persons served will learn about the function of different tools, what they are capable of doing with each, and the innovative products they can produce,” said Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president. "DSNWK would like to thank the Beach Family Foundation for their continued support of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in northwest Kansas."DSNWK is a 501(c)3 nonprofit serving 18 counties in northwest Kansas with a mission to advocate for persons with disabilities and those who care about them by planning and supporting a life of dignity, interdependence, and personal satisfaction in the community.&nbsp;

DSNWK awarded grant from Beach Family Foundation

Carolyn Sulzer Redinger Peterson, 83, passed away on Thursday, November 
25, 2021, at the Smith County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, Kansas. 
 Vera Carolyn Sulzer, 7th child of Joseph Arthur and Mamie Esther 
Turner was born July 11, 1938, at the family home near Cale, Arkansas. 
 Late in 1938 the family moved to northeast Louisiana and remained 
there until 1952 when Carolyn and her parents moved to Conway County, 
Arkansas. Carolyn attended grade school and junior high at Oak Ridge, LA
 and graduated from Wonderview High School, Conway County, AR. 
 Carolyn learned to love books and reading at an early age-a love 
that continued all her life. During her junior-high, Carolyn decided 
that she would like to be a teacher. Determined to reach that goal, she 
attended Bethany Nazarene College (now Southern Nazarene Univ.), even 
though she had to work more than one job at a time to pay her expenses. 
 It could be said that Carolyn’s teaching career began while she was 
in high school when she taught a class of younger children in Sunday 
School. Her Sunday school work continued during her college days and on 
until later years. At one time or another, Carolyn taught all ages in 
Sunday school and Bible school, and, she directed the children’s church 
for several years. 
 Carolyn’s professional career began at Agra, KS after graduation 
from Bethany Nazarene College in 1962 with a major in history. Her first
 assignment was all subjects for 6th and 7th grades. Year-by-year, her 
class assignments changed until she was teaching high school history or 
English duties with the junior high and with some time in the library. 
 Carolyn and Ted Glen Redinger were married May 30, 1963, at 
Kensington, KS and continued to live in Agra until 1973 when Carolyn was
 hired as full-time librarian at the Smith Center Jr-Sr High School. 
Carolyn continued as librarian until her retirement in 2000. Ted passed 
away in 1994. 
 Raised in a home that taught and lived a personal relationship with 
Christ, Carolyn accepted Christ as her Savior in 1953. However, as a 
young adult Carolyn did not hold true to her convictions, but, in 1981 
she rededicated her life to Christ and in January, 1982 became a member 
of the Smith Center Nazarene Church. 
 Psalm 40:1-3a 
 I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and 
heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and
 the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked 
along. 
 He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. 
 Carolyn participated in the church in many ways: Sunday school and 
vacation Bible school teacher; children’s church director; choir member;
 special music participant; and as church treasurer. 
 On April 7, 2001, Carolyn and Donald Lee Peterson were married in 
Smith Center. Carolyn and Ted had no children, but now Carolyn was given
 a large and growing family. The Peterson children became very special 
friends of Carolyn’s and she dearly loved them all. As the 
greatgrandchildren came along, she enjoyed making quilts for each of the
 little ones. 
 Carolyn started researching her family history and she discovered 
she had a Revolutionary War Patriot in Peter David. She was accepted as a
 member of the DAR on October 9, 2010. She was currently serving as the 
Regent of the Sarah Steward DAR Chapter. 
 Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; an infant brother, 
Jame Alfred; brothers, Travis, Jesse, Howard and Cyrus; sister, Juanita 
Bethany; a nephew James Albert and two nieces: Barbara Nell Sulzer and 
Margaret Bethany Rebmann and by her husbands, Ted Redinger and Donald 
Peterson. 
 Survivors include her step-children: Tony and wife Coralee; Terry 
and wife Sally; Connie and husband Bruce Jacobs; Curtis and wife Martha;
 Brenda McCrary; daughter-in-law, Diane Peterson; sister in law Betty 
Sulzer of Ollala, WA 18 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; nieces; 
nephews; and a host of friends.

Click <a href="https://www.simmons-rentschler.com/obituaries/Carolyn-Peterson?obId=23218863#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637965331228.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carolyn Sulzer Redinger Peterson, 83, passed away on Thursday, November 
25, 2021, at the Smith County Memorial Hospital in Smith Center, Kansas. 
 Vera Carolyn Sulzer, 7th child of Joseph Arthur and Mamie Esther 
Turner was born July 11, 1938, at the family home near Cale, Arkansas. 
 Late in 1938 the family moved to northeast Louisiana and remained 
there until 1952 when Carolyn and her parents moved to Conway County, 
Arkansas. Carolyn attended grade school and junior high at Oak Ridge, LA
 and graduated from Wonderview High School, Conway County, AR. 
 Carolyn learned to love books and reading at an early age-a love 
that continued all her life. During her junior-high, Carolyn decided 
that she would like to be a teacher. Determined to reach that goal, she 
attended Bethany Nazarene College (now Southern Nazarene Univ.), even 
though she had to work more than one job at a time to pay her expenses. 
 It could be said that Carolyn’s teaching career began while she was 
in high school when she taught a class of younger children in Sunday 
School. Her Sunday school work continued during her college days and on 
until later years. At one time or another, Carolyn taught all ages in 
Sunday school and Bible school, and, she directed the children’s church 
for several years. 
 Carolyn’s professional career began at Agra, KS after graduation 
from Bethany Nazarene College in 1962 with a major in history. Her first
 assignment was all subjects for 6th and 7th grades. Year-by-year, her 
class assignments changed until she was teaching high school history or 
English duties with the junior high and with some time in the library. 
 Carolyn and Ted Glen Redinger were married May 30, 1963, at 
Kensington, KS and continued to live in Agra until 1973 when Carolyn was
 hired as full-time librarian at the Smith Center Jr-Sr High School. 
Carolyn continued as librarian until her retirement in 2000. Ted passed 
away in 1994. 
 Raised in a home that taught and lived a personal relationship with 
Christ, Carolyn accepted Christ as her Savior in 1953. However, as a 
young adult Carolyn did not hold true to her convictions, but, in 1981 
she rededicated her life to Christ and in January, 1982 became a member 
of the Smith Center Nazarene Church. 
 Psalm 40:1-3a 
 I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and 
heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and
 the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked 
along. 
 He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God. 
 Carolyn participated in the church in many ways: Sunday school and 
vacation Bible school teacher; children’s church director; choir member;
 special music participant; and as church treasurer. 
 On April 7, 2001, Carolyn and Donald Lee Peterson were married in 
Smith Center. Carolyn and Ted had no children, but now Carolyn was given
 a large and growing family. The Peterson children became very special 
friends of Carolyn’s and she dearly loved them all. As the 
greatgrandchildren came along, she enjoyed making quilts for each of the
 little ones. 
 Carolyn started researching her family history and she discovered 
she had a Revolutionary War Patriot in Peter David. She was accepted as a
 member of the DAR on October 9, 2010. She was currently serving as the 
Regent of the Sarah Steward DAR Chapter. 
 Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; an infant brother, 
Jame Alfred; brothers, Travis, Jesse, Howard and Cyrus; sister, Juanita 
Bethany; a nephew James Albert and two nieces: Barbara Nell Sulzer and 
Margaret Bethany Rebmann and by her husbands, Ted Redinger and Donald 
Peterson. 
 Survivors include her step-children: Tony and wife Coralee; Terry 
and wife Sally; Connie and husband Bruce Jacobs; Curtis and wife Martha;
 Brenda McCrary; daughter-in-law, Diane Peterson; sister in law Betty 
Sulzer of Ollala, WA 18 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; nieces; 
nephews; and a host of friends.Click <a href="https://www.simmons-rentschler.com/obituaries/Carolyn-Peterson?obId=23218863#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.&nbsp;

Carolyn Peterson

GREAT BEND —&nbsp;Barton County is now home to a series of murals created with the 
purpose of interaction. Featured near main roadways in Claflin, 
Ellinwood and Hoisington, the murals share a common theme and message, 
inviting all who pass by to “Rise Above.”

Early in 2021, the 
Barton Arts Movement received a $5,000 grant from Central Kansas 
Partnership and Rise Above Central Kansas for a public art installation 
on the topic of “resiliency.”

“The positive message in these 
murals acknowledges the real challenges of everyday life, while still 
encouraging those who pass by to hope, dream, support each other, and 
persevere,” said Andrea Bauer, co-chair of the Barton Arts Movement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637860885603.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy Great Bend PostGREAT BEND —&nbsp;Barton County is now home to a series of murals created with the 
purpose of interaction. Featured near main roadways in Claflin, 
Ellinwood and Hoisington, the murals share a common theme and message, 
inviting all who pass by to “Rise Above.”Early in 2021, the 
Barton Arts Movement received a $5,000 grant from Central Kansas 
Partnership and Rise Above Central Kansas for a public art installation 
on the topic of “resiliency.”“The positive message in these 
murals acknowledges the real challenges of everyday life, while still 
encouraging those who pass by to hope, dream, support each other, and 
persevere,” said Andrea Bauer, co-chair of the Barton Arts Movement.“Our
 BAM action team explored numerous canvases and artistic concepts for 
these funds,” said Bauer, “but ultimately it was decided that several 
interactive installations across the county were the best way to connect
 the community with this positive and encouraging message.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637860913999.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Regional artist Mindy Allen, owner of Mindy’s Mural’s, designed and 
installed the murals in late October. Despite fluctuating temperatures 
and Kansas wind, each mural took roughly two to three days to complete.“We
 are grateful for Mindy’s talent and the work of the gracious volunteers
 and building owners that made this happen before winter set in,” said 
Bauer. “We might be headed into some cold months, but BAM is using the 
time to firm up our process and prepare for the next outdoor art 
installation season. Stay tuned!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1637860941260.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The goal of the Barton Arts Movement (BAM) is to create community pride through public art. BAM is a grass-roots, volunteer-driven organization operating under the umbrella of the Golden Belt Community Foundation. Join the movement as a donor, volunteer, or submit an idea at www.BartonArtsMovement.com.