The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported another spike in COVID-19 cases in Norton County.

The county, which has a population of just less than 5,500, has identified a total of 870 cases of COVID-19 — almost all since the beginning of October. The spike was driven by clusters at the Norton Correctional Facility, which has more than 500 of the cases, according to the Norton Health Department, and the Andbe Home long-term care facility.

Friday's total is an increase of 59 new cases compared to the health department's report on Wednesday. A total of 19 deaths have been attributed to coronavirus in Norton County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604686638643.png" alt="KDHE / Norton County numbers" />
 <figcaption>KDHE / Norton County numbers</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Health and Environment on Friday reported another spike in COVID-19 cases in Norton County.The county, which has a population of just less than 5,500, has identified a total of 870 cases of COVID-19 — almost all since the beginning of October. The spike was driven by clusters at the Norton Correctional Facility, which has more than 500 of the cases, according to the Norton Health Department, and the Andbe Home long-term care facility.Friday's total is an increase of 59 new cases compared to the health department's report on Wednesday. A total of 19 deaths have been attributed to coronavirus in Norton County.

Norton County virus numbers continue to rise

Lawrence Dean “Larry” Steckline, age 63, of Hays, Kansas died Thursday, November 5, 2020, at Hays Medical Center Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; He was born October 12, 1957, in Hays, Kansas to Clarence A. and Norma Jean (Dreiling) Steckline.&nbsp; He married Donna (Pfannenstiel) on October 12, 1996, at Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; She preceded him in death on February 16, 2008.

He was a farm laborer and worked at the LaCrosse Livestock Commission for 30&nbsp; years.&nbsp; He grew up north of Yocemento, Kansas, he attended school in Ellis, Kansas, and attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis. &nbsp; He enjoyed Polka music, the Hays Farmers Market, going to the yearly Oktoberfest’s, and attending auctions.&nbsp;

Survivors include one brother, JR Steckline and Debbie Ledoux, Bazine, KS; two sisters, Veronica Leiker, Hays, KS; Dorothy Urban and husband, Patrick, Saratoga WY; eight nephews; three nieces; three great nephews and three great nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, November 10, 2020, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Ellis, Kansas.

A vigil service and rosary will be held at 7:00 P.M. Monday, evening at St. Mary Catholic Church in Ellis.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, all at the church.

The family suggests memorials to the Steckline family in care of Veronica Steckline.

Due to the coronavirus, if you have a cough, fever or are not feeling well, please use our e-mail or on line guestbook.&nbsp; Social distancing and wearing masks will be required at the visitation and funeral services.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Services are entrusted to Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604684796503.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lawrence Dean “Larry” Steckline, age 63, of Hays, Kansas died Thursday, November 5, 2020, at Hays Medical Center Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; He was born October 12, 1957, in Hays, Kansas to Clarence A. and Norma Jean (Dreiling) Steckline.&nbsp; He married Donna (Pfannenstiel) on October 12, 1996, at Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; She preceded him in death on February 16, 2008.He was a farm laborer and worked at the LaCrosse Livestock Commission for 30&nbsp; years.&nbsp; He grew up north of Yocemento, Kansas, he attended school in Ellis, Kansas, and attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis. &nbsp; He enjoyed Polka music, the Hays Farmers Market, going to the yearly Oktoberfest’s, and attending auctions.&nbsp;Survivors include one brother, JR Steckline and Debbie Ledoux, Bazine, KS; two sisters, Veronica Leiker, Hays, KS; Dorothy Urban and husband, Patrick, Saratoga WY; eight nephews; three nieces; three great nephews and three great nieces.He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, November 10, 2020, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Ellis, Kansas.A vigil service and rosary will be held at 7:00 P.M. Monday, evening at St. Mary Catholic Church in Ellis.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, and from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, all at the church.The family suggests memorials to the Steckline family in care of Veronica Steckline.Due to the coronavirus, if you have a cough, fever or are not feeling well, please use our e-mail or on line guestbook.&nbsp; Social distancing and wearing masks will be required at the visitation and funeral services.&nbsp; &nbsp;Services are entrusted to Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd Street, Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;

Lawrence Dean 'Larry' Steckline

Max George Crum, 99, of Quinter, KS, formerly of Arvada, CO, died 
Monday, November 2, 2020, at the Gove County Long Term Care. He was born
 October 27, 1921, in Sunol, NE, to George and Mabel (Hobson) Crum. Max 
attended High School in Littleton, CO, graduating in 1940. He enlisted 
in the United States Army, serving from 1942-1946. 

On December 29, 1945,
 Max married Helen Hooper, in Arvada, CO. He attended Colorado School of
 Mines for a year before beginning a career as an aerospace engineer. He
 worked as an aerospace engineer for 25 years and then did real-estate 
and land development for another 25 years, before retiring. Max and 
Helen spent numerous years traveling the US in their motorhome. He 
enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially for trout. Max was a member of 
the Colorado Association of Realtors, the Arvada Elks Club and the 
Arvada Masonic Lodge. He was a handyman and builder. He built three 
houses for his family in the Denver area, doing all of the work himself.
 The last house was his home for 42 years prior to moving to Quinter in
 2018. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Helen; a still born son; 
son J. Michael Crum; son-in-law Steve Ostmeyer; granddaughter Christina 
Ostmeyer and 6 siblings. 
He is survived by his daughter, Sandii Ostmeyer, of Quinter; 
grandchildren, Kendra (Austin) Barnes, Kara (Chet) Lang, Carver 
(Cherina) Ostmeyer and Kasen Ostmeyer; great-grandchildren, Gavin 
Barnes, Shea Salyers, Dylan Lang, Tyla Lang and Kyla Lang and numerous 
nieces and nephews. 
Inurnment will take place at the Ft. Logan National Cemetery, in Denver,
 CO. Memorials are suggested to the Gove County Long Term Care and can 
be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For 
information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604931339351.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Max George Crum, 99, of Quinter, KS, formerly of Arvada, CO, died 
Monday, November 2, 2020, at the Gove County Long Term Care. He was born
 October 27, 1921, in Sunol, NE, to George and Mabel (Hobson) Crum. Max 
attended High School in Littleton, CO, graduating in 1940. He enlisted 
in the United States Army, serving from 1942-1946. On December 29, 1945,
 Max married Helen Hooper, in Arvada, CO. He attended Colorado School of
 Mines for a year before beginning a career as an aerospace engineer. He
 worked as an aerospace engineer for 25 years and then did real-estate 
and land development for another 25 years, before retiring. Max and 
Helen spent numerous years traveling the US in their motorhome. He 
enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially for trout. Max was a member of 
the Colorado Association of Realtors, the Arvada Elks Club and the 
Arvada Masonic Lodge. He was a handyman and builder. He built three 
houses for his family in the Denver area, doing all of the work himself.
 The last house was his home for 42 years prior to moving to Quinter in
 2018. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Helen; a still born son; 
son J. Michael Crum; son-in-law Steve Ostmeyer; granddaughter Christina 
Ostmeyer and 6 siblings. 
He is survived by his daughter, Sandii Ostmeyer, of Quinter; 
grandchildren, Kendra (Austin) Barnes, Kara (Chet) Lang, Carver 
(Cherina) Ostmeyer and Kasen Ostmeyer; great-grandchildren, Gavin 
Barnes, Shea Salyers, Dylan Lang, Tyla Lang and Kyla Lang and numerous 
nieces and nephews. 
Inurnment will take place at the Ft. Logan National Cemetery, in Denver,
 CO. Memorials are suggested to the Gove County Long Term Care and can 
be sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For 
information or condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Max George Crum

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Langer Industrial Service opened a metal recycling transfer station in Hays in October.&nbsp;

The transfer station, 1007 E. 37th, is a part of a network of three businesses with salvage yards in Colby and in Scottsbluff, Neb.

The station is accepting aluminum, copper, brass, batteries, starters, alternators — any non-ferrous metals, said manager Austin Brier.

Within three weeks, the business, which is located off of Vine Street across the street from the Sinclair gas station, will have a full-length scale and trailers. It will be able to handle anything up to about the size of a car.

Brier wanted to emphasize the business in Hays is a transfer station. All of the metals that are received at the business go into bins or will go on trailers. Nothing will be stored on the ground.

All the metal received at Hays will eventually be shipped to the Scottsbluff location for processing,&nbsp;Brier said.

"This is not a full on scrap yard facility like in our Colby and Scottsbluff locations," he said. "This is mainly serving as a place we can build an inventory and then ship it back to one of our other yards to be processed from there."

As a transfer station and not a salvage yard, the business is allowed under the zoning at its location within the city limits, Brier said.

Brier said Langer saw Hays a good location. There is competition in the area, but Brier said he thought Langer can be competitive in the market.

Prices vary on metals based on the market. If information on rates, contact Langer at 785-656-1926 or via email at austin.brier@langerindustrial.com.

Brier came to Hays after working at Langer's Colby location for four years. He said Langer had been considering Hays for a location for a couple of years.

COVID-19 has affected the metal salvage business. Some metal prices&nbsp; dropped sharply during the pandemic, Brier said. However, he said those prices are rebounding.

He said he still thinks the investment in the Hays location was a good one at this time.

The transfer station is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, but closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m.

As with any metal sales in Kansas, first-time sellers at the transfer station will need to provide their driver's license and fill out a short form verifying ownership and environmental compliance.

In addition, people who are selling copper must provide a fingerprint.

"We're a family-owned business. We are here to do what's best for the customer," Brier said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604357168597.jpeg" alt="Austin Brier, manager of Langer Industrial Service, stands next to the sign of the business's new metal recycling transfer station location at 1007 E. 37th, Hays." />
 <figcaption>Austin Brier, manager of Langer Industrial Service, stands next to the sign of the business's new metal recycling transfer station location at 1007 E. 37th, Hays.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostLanger Industrial Service opened a metal recycling transfer station in Hays in October.&nbsp;The transfer station, 1007 E. 37th, is a part of a network of three businesses with salvage yards in Colby and in Scottsbluff, Neb.The station is accepting aluminum, copper, brass, batteries, starters, alternators — any non-ferrous metals, said manager Austin Brier.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604421323225.jpeg" alt="The transfer station is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, but closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m." />
 <figcaption>The transfer station is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, but closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m.</figcaption>
 </figure>Within three weeks, the business, which is located off of Vine Street across the street from the Sinclair gas station, will have a full-length scale and trailers. It will be able to handle anything up to about the size of a car.Brier wanted to emphasize the business in Hays is a transfer station. All of the metals that are received at the business go into bins or will go on trailers. Nothing will be stored on the ground.All the metal received at Hays will eventually be shipped to the Scottsbluff location for processing,&nbsp;Brier said."This is not a full on scrap yard facility like in our Colby and Scottsbluff locations," he said. "This is mainly serving as a place we can build an inventory and then ship it back to one of our other yards to be processed from there."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604421407139.jpeg" alt="All of the metals that are received at the business go into bins or will go on trailers. Nothing will be stored on the ground." />
 <figcaption>All of the metals that are received at the business go into bins or will go on trailers. Nothing will be stored on the ground.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a transfer station and not a salvage yard, the business is allowed under the zoning at its location within the city limits, Brier said.Brier said Langer saw Hays a good location. There is competition in the area, but Brier said he thought Langer can be competitive in the market.Prices vary on metals based on the market. If information on rates, contact Langer at 785-656-1926 or via email at austin.brier@langerindustrial.com.Brier came to Hays after working at Langer's Colby location for four years. He said Langer had been considering Hays for a location for a couple of years.COVID-19 has affected the metal salvage business. Some metal prices&nbsp; dropped sharply during the pandemic, Brier said. However, he said those prices are rebounding.He said he still thinks the investment in the Hays location was a good one at this time.The transfer station is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, but closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m.As with any metal sales in Kansas, first-time sellers at the transfer station will need to provide their driver's license and fill out a short form verifying ownership and environmental compliance.In addition, people who are selling copper must provide a fingerprint."We're a family-owned business. We are here to do what's best for the customer," Brier said.

Langer opens metal recycling station in Hays

James David “J.D.” Hickert, age 37, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, as the result of an automobile accident in Scott County, Kansas.  He was born on October 2, 1983, in Colby, Kansas, the son of Dave &amp; Marcia Ayers Hickert.  J.D. He grew up in Bird City, Kansas, and was a 2002 graduate of Cheylin High School in Bird City, Kansas.  A resident of Scott City, Kansas since 2012 moving from Colby, Kansas, he was an electrician and worked for S-K Electric of Scott City.

He was a graduate of NWKTC Electrical in Goodland, Kansas.

On October 15, 2005, he married Laura Gossman in Scott City, Kansas.  She survives.

Survivors include his Wife - Laura Hickert of Scott City, Kansas, Two Daughters - Ashleigh Hickert of Scott City, Kansas, Haileigh Hickert of Scott City, Kansas, One Son - Ethan Hickert of Scott City, Kansas, Parents - Dave &amp; Marcia Hickert of Bird City, Kansas, One Sister - Anne &amp; Clint Gossman of Scott City, Kansas, Father &amp; Mother in Law - Steve &amp; Veta Gossman of Scott City, Kansas, Numerous Brothers and Sisters in Laws, Nieces &amp; Nephews.

He was preceded in death by One Brother in Law - Jeremy Gossman.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Scott City, Kansas with Pastor Don Williams officiating. 

Memorials In Lieu Of Flowers can be made to the James D. Hickert Memorial Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604603367896.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>James David “J.D.” Hickert, age 37, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, as the result of an automobile accident in Scott County, Kansas. He was born on October 2, 1983, in Colby, Kansas, the son of Dave &amp; Marcia Ayers Hickert. J.D. He grew up in Bird City, Kansas, and was a 2002 graduate of Cheylin High School in Bird City, Kansas. A resident of Scott City, Kansas since 2012 moving from Colby, Kansas, he was an electrician and worked for S-K Electric of Scott City.He was a graduate of NWKTC Electrical in Goodland, Kansas.On October 15, 2005, he married Laura Gossman in Scott City, Kansas. She survives.Survivors include his Wife - Laura Hickert of Scott City, Kansas, Two Daughters - Ashleigh Hickert of Scott City, Kansas, Haileigh Hickert of Scott City, Kansas, One Son - Ethan Hickert of Scott City, Kansas, Parents - Dave &amp; Marcia Hickert of Bird City, Kansas, One Sister - Anne &amp; Clint Gossman of Scott City, Kansas, Father &amp; Mother in Law - Steve &amp; Veta Gossman of Scott City, Kansas, Numerous Brothers and Sisters in Laws, Nieces &amp; Nephews.He was preceded in death by One Brother in Law - Jeremy Gossman.Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Scott City, Kansas with Pastor Don Williams officiating. Memorials In Lieu Of Flowers can be made to the James D. Hickert Memorial Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.There will be no calling times.

James David 'J.D.' Hickert

Donald Marvane “Don” Moore, Sr., 92, Hays, died Friday, October 30, 2020, at Hays Good Samaritan Society.

He was born March 6, 1928, in Nicodemus,
 the son of Nathaniel Moore, Sr. and Sarah (Griffee) Moore. &nbsp;He attended
 Nicodemus schools. &nbsp;Don served in the United States Army in the Korean 
War and was a member of the Nicodemus V.F.W. &nbsp;He was a road construction
 worker, heavy equipment operator, and farmer. &nbsp;On November 6, 1952, he 
was united in marriage to Pearlena Oetna Napue in Nicodemus, and they 
were married 64 years before she preceded him in death on August 20, 
2017. &nbsp;He loved hunting, fishing, and visiting with people.

Survivors include two sons: Donald 
Moore, Jr. of Hays and Daniel Moore of Hill City, one daughter: Twillia 
Berry of Topeka, two sisters: Florence Howard of Oakley and Bertha 
Carter of Nicodemus, five grandchildren: Denise Moore-Martinez of 
Denver, Michaela Moore of Overland Park, Danica Moore of Lawrence, Tyrel
 Wilson of Springfield, MO, and Sarah Moore-Jolly of Tennessee, and five
 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his 
parents, his wife Pearlena, one son: Dennis Moore, two brothers: 
Nathaniel, Jr. and Wilford, and one sister: Dorothy Moultry.

A memorial service will be at a later 
date. &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the family, payable to Twillia Berry, 
in care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences and memories 
of Don may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604600587597.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Donald Marvane “Don” Moore, Sr., 92, Hays, died Friday, October 30, 2020, at Hays Good Samaritan Society.He was born March 6, 1928, in Nicodemus,
 the son of Nathaniel Moore, Sr. and Sarah (Griffee) Moore. &nbsp;He attended
 Nicodemus schools. &nbsp;Don served in the United States Army in the Korean 
War and was a member of the Nicodemus V.F.W. &nbsp;He was a road construction
 worker, heavy equipment operator, and farmer. &nbsp;On November 6, 1952, he 
was united in marriage to Pearlena Oetna Napue in Nicodemus, and they 
were married 64 years before she preceded him in death on August 20, 
2017. &nbsp;He loved hunting, fishing, and visiting with people.Survivors include two sons: Donald 
Moore, Jr. of Hays and Daniel Moore of Hill City, one daughter: Twillia 
Berry of Topeka, two sisters: Florence Howard of Oakley and Bertha 
Carter of Nicodemus, five grandchildren: Denise Moore-Martinez of 
Denver, Michaela Moore of Overland Park, Danica Moore of Lawrence, Tyrel
 Wilson of Springfield, MO, and Sarah Moore-Jolly of Tennessee, and five
 great grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his 
parents, his wife Pearlena, one son: Dennis Moore, two brothers: 
Nathaniel, Jr. and Wilford, and one sister: Dorothy Moultry.A memorial service will be at a later 
date. &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to the family, payable to Twillia Berry, 
in care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. Condolences and memories 
of Don may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

Donald Marvane 'Don' Moore Sr.

Deanna Lee (Beck) Becker passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, at 
Hays Medical Center, at the age of 82. She was born on August 28, 1938,&nbsp; to Harold and Reva (Rigby) Beck in the Round Mound Township of Osborne 
County, Kansas. She was united in marriage to Lawrence Becker on October
 22, 1960, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. The couple 
spent 60 years of marriage together and were blessed with three sons: 
Michael, Douglas, and Chad.
 Deanna grew up in the Osborne County area. She graduated from Natoma
 High School with the Class of 1956 and then attended Fort Hays State 
University for one year before starting a job at the State Capital in 
1957. She then moved to Plainville in 1958 and worked for Southwestern 
Bell Telephone Company for 15 years, followed by 20 years for Chase Well
 Service taking care of the books and radio communication. While working
 at home for Chase Well Service, she would also babysit for friends and 
family in Plainville. She stayed busy later in life when her children 
grew up and had children of their own. It was rare for her to miss any 
activities or events that her grandkids or great-grandkids were involved
 in. She was a sports fan and her top teams were K-State for football 
and KU Jayhawks for basketball. She also enjoyed watching her grandson 
Joseph play football at McPherson College. When she traveled to her 
grandkids’ games, she would visit different churches in the area – she 
has probably seen most of the churches in the state, a testament to her 
devoted faith and love for the Lord. Traveling in general was something 
she loved to do as she traveled to several different vacation spots and 
made sure to hit some casinos on the way. She stayed busy when she was 
at home with her garden, being apart of the Daughters of Isabella, 
attending church events or masses, and even helping prepare funeral 
meals for Sacred Heart members who passed on before her. 
 Deanna was a hardworking woman who showed her love by serving and 
caring for her family, friends, and church. With the same love and 
patience required to grow her gardens, she planted in each one of us the
 seeds of faith, hope, and love. Through her daily example, she showed 
us that the greatest of these is love. Although Deanna will be greatly 
missed, she will live forever in the hearts of those who knew her best, 
for she was greatly loved.
 She is survived by her husband, Lawrence Becker of the home; sons, 
Michael (Jody) Becker of Plainville, KS, Douglas (Tammi) Becker of 
Raytown, MO, and Chad (Lisa) Becker of Tecumseh, KS; siblings, Beverly 
Hachmeister of Natoma, KS, Anita (Gail) Griffin of Alton KS, and Harold 
Jr. “Bud” Beck of Russell, KS; eleven grandchildren, Ashley (Brian) Hay,
 Joseph (Jana) Becker, Alaina Becker, Andrew Becker, the twins: Henry 
and Cory Becker, Matthew Becker, Emma Becker, Jacob Becker, Jeremy 
Rowles and Adel (Christina) Bjiouat; and eleven great-grandchildren.
 She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Reva Beck.
 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 7, 
2020, at 10:30AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church with burial to 
follow at the Natoma Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday, 2:00PM to 
4:30PM, at the funeral home in Plainville and moved to the church 6:00PM
 to 8:00PM with a Vigil Service and Rosary at 7:00PM.
 Memorials are suggested to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sacred 
Heart Catholic Schools, D of I, or Rooks County Health Center and may be
 sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, 
Plainville, KS 67663.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604530158338.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Deanna Lee (Beck) Becker passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, at 
Hays Medical Center, at the age of 82. She was born on August 28, 1938,&nbsp; to Harold and Reva (Rigby) Beck in the Round Mound Township of Osborne 
County, Kansas. She was united in marriage to Lawrence Becker on October
 22, 1960, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. The couple 
spent 60 years of marriage together and were blessed with three sons: 
Michael, Douglas, and Chad.
 Deanna grew up in the Osborne County area. She graduated from Natoma
 High School with the Class of 1956 and then attended Fort Hays State 
University for one year before starting a job at the State Capital in 
1957. She then moved to Plainville in 1958 and worked for Southwestern 
Bell Telephone Company for 15 years, followed by 20 years for Chase Well
 Service taking care of the books and radio communication. While working
 at home for Chase Well Service, she would also babysit for friends and 
family in Plainville. She stayed busy later in life when her children 
grew up and had children of their own. It was rare for her to miss any 
activities or events that her grandkids or great-grandkids were involved
 in. She was a sports fan and her top teams were K-State for football 
and KU Jayhawks for basketball. She also enjoyed watching her grandson 
Joseph play football at McPherson College. When she traveled to her 
grandkids’ games, she would visit different churches in the area – she 
has probably seen most of the churches in the state, a testament to her 
devoted faith and love for the Lord. Traveling in general was something 
she loved to do as she traveled to several different vacation spots and 
made sure to hit some casinos on the way. She stayed busy when she was 
at home with her garden, being apart of the Daughters of Isabella, 
attending church events or masses, and even helping prepare funeral 
meals for Sacred Heart members who passed on before her. 
 Deanna was a hardworking woman who showed her love by serving and 
caring for her family, friends, and church. With the same love and 
patience required to grow her gardens, she planted in each one of us the
 seeds of faith, hope, and love. Through her daily example, she showed 
us that the greatest of these is love. Although Deanna will be greatly 
missed, she will live forever in the hearts of those who knew her best, 
for she was greatly loved.
 She is survived by her husband, Lawrence Becker of the home; sons, 
Michael (Jody) Becker of Plainville, KS, Douglas (Tammi) Becker of 
Raytown, MO, and Chad (Lisa) Becker of Tecumseh, KS; siblings, Beverly 
Hachmeister of Natoma, KS, Anita (Gail) Griffin of Alton KS, and Harold 
Jr. “Bud” Beck of Russell, KS; eleven grandchildren, Ashley (Brian) Hay,
 Joseph (Jana) Becker, Alaina Becker, Andrew Becker, the twins: Henry 
and Cory Becker, Matthew Becker, Emma Becker, Jacob Becker, Jeremy 
Rowles and Adel (Christina) Bjiouat; and eleven great-grandchildren.
 She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Reva Beck.
 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, November 7, 
2020, at 10:30AM at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church with burial to 
follow at the Natoma Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday, 2:00PM to 
4:30PM, at the funeral home in Plainville and moved to the church 6:00PM
 to 8:00PM with a Vigil Service and Rosary at 7:00PM.
 Memorials are suggested to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sacred 
Heart Catholic Schools, D of I, or Rooks County Health Center and may be
 sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St, 
Plainville, KS 67663.

Deanna Lee Becker

Vernon Edward Steinert, 92, passed away November 4, 2020, at his home
 in Great Bend. He was born August 18, 1928, at Galatia, to Edward &amp;
 Emma (Tittel) Steinert. He married Geneva Popp October 28, 1949, at 
Great Bend.&nbsp; She survives.

A lifetime Barton county resident, Vernon was the owner and operator 
of Steinert Oil Company, serving as a bulk agent for Texaco, until his 
retirement in 1981.&nbsp; Following his retirement, he pursued his heart’s 
passion, volunteering for the Mobile Missionary Assistance Program until
 2008, which allowed them to travel throughout the United States.&nbsp; He 
and Geneva continued their ministry at Brookdale Assisted Living, 
through Faith Community Church, leading worship for several years. &nbsp;&nbsp;He 
was a member of Faith Community Church and a former member of Trinity 
Lutheran Church where he held many leadership roles.

Survivors include, his wife Geneva Steinert of the home; a son, Marty
 Steinert and wife Kim of Topeka; a daughter, Mary French and husband 
Terry of Great Bend; and nine grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Vernon David Steinert; 
two brothers, Orando Steinert, and Alfred Steinert; and a sister, Olga 
Wells.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Graveside 
services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, November 7, 2020, at 
Hillcrest Memorial Park, Great Bend, with Pastor Sandy Kennedy 
presiding. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to Faith 
Community Church or Trinity Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral 
Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604585804764.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Vernon Edward Steinert, 92, passed away November 4, 2020, at his home
 in Great Bend. He was born August 18, 1928, at Galatia, to Edward &amp;
 Emma (Tittel) Steinert. He married Geneva Popp October 28, 1949, at 
Great Bend.&nbsp; She survives.A lifetime Barton county resident, Vernon was the owner and operator 
of Steinert Oil Company, serving as a bulk agent for Texaco, until his 
retirement in 1981.&nbsp; Following his retirement, he pursued his heart’s 
passion, volunteering for the Mobile Missionary Assistance Program until
 2008, which allowed them to travel throughout the United States.&nbsp; He 
and Geneva continued their ministry at Brookdale Assisted Living, 
through Faith Community Church, leading worship for several years. &nbsp;&nbsp;He 
was a member of Faith Community Church and a former member of Trinity 
Lutheran Church where he held many leadership roles.Survivors include, his wife Geneva Steinert of the home; a son, Marty
 Steinert and wife Kim of Topeka; a daughter, Mary French and husband 
Terry of Great Bend; and nine grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Vernon David Steinert; 
two brothers, Orando Steinert, and Alfred Steinert; and a sister, Olga 
Wells.There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Graveside 
services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, November 7, 2020, at 
Hillcrest Memorial Park, Great Bend, with Pastor Sandy Kennedy 
presiding. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been designated to Faith 
Community Church or Trinity Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral 
Home.

Vernon Edward Steinert

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

With row crop harvest winding down, it is time to start planning fall herbicide applications. Herbicide applications in late October through November can improve control of difficult winter annual weeds. Fall weed control is associated with warmer soils and easier planting in the spring, however, it is important to remember that fall-applied herbicides may limit your crop options in the spring. Also remember that herbicides should not be applied to frozen ground.

Some of the key herbicides to consider for fall herbicide applications include Autumn Super, Canopy, Spartan or Authority, and Valor for residual activity. For burndown activity, glyphosate, 2,4-D or dicamba are good options to consider. One thing to keep in mind about residual activity from fall herbicide applications is that weather conditions will influence the length of residual control and the weed emergence patterns. So, even though they provide some residual activity, additional spring application pre-emergence herbicides will likely be needed for season-long weed control.

Some of the key weeds to target with fall herbicide applications are marestail, henbit, dandelion, prickly lettuce, pepperweed, field pansy, evening primrose, and recently-emerged cool-season grasses. When higher rates of herbicides are used, some control of early spring-germinating summer annual broadleaf weeds such as kochia, common lambsquarters, wild buckwheat, and Pennsylvania smartweed can be achieved.

Marestail is a problem that merits special attention. Marestail is much easier to control in fall or early spring while it is still in the rosette growth stage. 2,4-D or dicamba can effectively control fall-emerging marestail plants. Sharpen can also be very good on marestail and may provide residual control through spring, but should be tank-mixed with 2,4-D, dicamba, or glyphosate to prevent regrowth. Valor is another product that may provide residual control of marestail. Because many marestail populations are resistant to Group 2 herbicides, ALS-inhibitors like Autumn Super and Canopy may not provide control if applied alone.

The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.

Every year K-State Research &amp; Extension has available on-line or printed books that can be picked up at your local or district Extension Offices. <a href="https://www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/SRP1148.pdf">2020 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland</a>, K-State publication SRP-1148.

Information provided by Sarah Lancaster and Vipan Kumar, K-State Research &amp; Extension Weed Science Specialist.

Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430, if after hours leave a voice mail for a return call.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604350385143.jpeg" alt="89398124-corn-field-after-the-harvest-with-visible-plant-residues-and-fertile-soil.jpg" />
 <figcaption>89398124-corn-field-after-the-harvest-with-visible-plant-residues-and-fertile-soil.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWith row crop harvest winding down, it is time to start planning fall herbicide applications. Herbicide applications in late October through November can improve control of difficult winter annual weeds. Fall weed control is associated with warmer soils and easier planting in the spring, however, it is important to remember that fall-applied herbicides may limit your crop options in the spring. Also remember that herbicides should not be applied to frozen ground.Some of the key herbicides to consider for fall herbicide applications include Autumn Super, Canopy, Spartan or Authority, and Valor for residual activity. For burndown activity, glyphosate, 2,4-D or dicamba are good options to consider. One thing to keep in mind about residual activity from fall herbicide applications is that weather conditions will influence the length of residual control and the weed emergence patterns. So, even though they provide some residual activity, additional spring application pre-emergence herbicides will likely be needed for season-long weed control.Some of the key weeds to target with fall herbicide applications are marestail, henbit, dandelion, prickly lettuce, pepperweed, field pansy, evening primrose, and recently-emerged cool-season grasses. When higher rates of herbicides are used, some control of early spring-germinating summer annual broadleaf weeds such as kochia, common lambsquarters, wild buckwheat, and Pennsylvania smartweed can be achieved.Marestail is a problem that merits special attention. Marestail is much easier to control in fall or early spring while it is still in the rosette growth stage. 2,4-D or dicamba can effectively control fall-emerging marestail plants. Sharpen can also be very good on marestail and may provide residual control through spring, but should be tank-mixed with 2,4-D, dicamba, or glyphosate to prevent regrowth. Valor is another product that may provide residual control of marestail. Because many marestail populations are resistant to Group 2 herbicides, ALS-inhibitors like Autumn Super and Canopy may not provide control if applied alone.The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.Every year K-State Research &amp; Extension has available on-line or printed books that can be picked up at your local or district Extension Offices. <a href="https://www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/SRP1148.pdf">2020 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland</a>, K-State publication SRP-1148.Information provided by Sarah Lancaster and Vipan Kumar, K-State Research &amp; Extension Weed Science Specialist.Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430, if after hours leave a voice mail for a return call.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="Campbell" />
 <figcaption>Campbell</figcaption>
 </figure>

CAMPBELL: Control annual weeds with fall-applied herbicides

Nelda Jeanne (Sheets) Shields passed away peacefully surrounded by her 
family in Kansas City, Missouri at McCrite Plaza Memory Care October 30,
 2020 at the age of 90.
 	Nelda was born August 4,1930 in Lincoln, Kansas to Harry “Dusty” 
and Esther (Loy) Sheets. She was the youngest of four children. 
 When she was 16, she met “the guy”, Otto Shields, Jr. at his family 
owned grocery store. They soon became sweethearts. Nelda graduated from 
Lincoln High School, graduating in May of 1948. The August following 
graduation, Nelda celebrated her 18th birthday and four days later, 
August 8, Nelda and Junior were married. 
 An opportunity with a grocery store prompted the young couple to 
move to Hill City where they started building their family and life 
together. Working side by side, they operated Shields IGA Grocery Store 
and then Shields Party Mix Liquor Store for four decades in the Hill 
City Community. Later Nelda worked as the Deputy Clerk and eventually 
became Clerk of the District Court, retiring in 2003 at age 73. Nelda 
loved her small-town life, going on walks every evening, attending local
 sporting events, cooking, gatherings with family and friends, traveling
 to see grandkids, and taking trips with her friends. She was a loyal 
member of the First United Presbyterian Church of Hill City.
 She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Junior; brother 
Robert Sheets; sisters: Wanda Huston and Helen Jensen; son-in-law Don 
Scott; grandson Nathan Elliott, and great grandson Andrew Elliott.
 Nelda is survived by her eight children: Ron Shields of Hill City, 
Kay Elliott (Bill) of Woodland Park, Colorado, Carmen Shields of Hill 
City, Rod Shields of Salina, Melanie Scott of Hill City, Lori Newell 
(Stan) of Monticello, Illinois, Mike Shields (Donna) of Kansas City, 
Missouri, David Shields (Sara) of Kansas City, Missouri; 14 
grandchildren, and 20 great grandchildren and many friends.
 Nelda will be remembered as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, 
great-grandmother, sister, and treasured friend, who was known for her 
kindness, generosity, grace, and tireless work ethic. Nelda was married 
to Junior for 62 years and were never apart except for the nine months 
Junior was in the Navy. Her love for her husband and family was beyond 
measure.
 In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the First United Presbyterian Church of Hill City.

Click <a href="https://www.stinemetzfh.com/obituaries/Nelda-Jeanne-Shields?obId=18828741#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604436148606.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Nelda Jeanne (Sheets) Shields passed away peacefully surrounded by her 
family in Kansas City, Missouri at McCrite Plaza Memory Care October 30,
 2020 at the age of 90.
 	Nelda was born August 4,1930 in Lincoln, Kansas to Harry “Dusty” 
and Esther (Loy) Sheets. She was the youngest of four children. 
 When she was 16, she met “the guy”, Otto Shields, Jr. at his family 
owned grocery store. They soon became sweethearts. Nelda graduated from 
Lincoln High School, graduating in May of 1948. The August following 
graduation, Nelda celebrated her 18th birthday and four days later, 
August 8, Nelda and Junior were married. 
 An opportunity with a grocery store prompted the young couple to 
move to Hill City where they started building their family and life 
together. Working side by side, they operated Shields IGA Grocery Store 
and then Shields Party Mix Liquor Store for four decades in the Hill 
City Community. Later Nelda worked as the Deputy Clerk and eventually 
became Clerk of the District Court, retiring in 2003 at age 73. Nelda 
loved her small-town life, going on walks every evening, attending local
 sporting events, cooking, gatherings with family and friends, traveling
 to see grandkids, and taking trips with her friends. She was a loyal 
member of the First United Presbyterian Church of Hill City.
 She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Junior; brother 
Robert Sheets; sisters: Wanda Huston and Helen Jensen; son-in-law Don 
Scott; grandson Nathan Elliott, and great grandson Andrew Elliott.
 Nelda is survived by her eight children: Ron Shields of Hill City, 
Kay Elliott (Bill) of Woodland Park, Colorado, Carmen Shields of Hill 
City, Rod Shields of Salina, Melanie Scott of Hill City, Lori Newell 
(Stan) of Monticello, Illinois, Mike Shields (Donna) of Kansas City, 
Missouri, David Shields (Sara) of Kansas City, Missouri; 14 
grandchildren, and 20 great grandchildren and many friends.
 Nelda will be remembered as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, 
great-grandmother, sister, and treasured friend, who was known for her 
kindness, generosity, grace, and tireless work ethic. Nelda was married 
to Junior for 62 years and were never apart except for the nine months 
Junior was in the Navy. Her love for her husband and family was beyond 
measure.
 In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials to the First United Presbyterian Church of Hill City.Click <a href="https://www.stinemetzfh.com/obituaries/Nelda-Jeanne-Shields?obId=18828741#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Nelda Jeanne Shields

Gary Lee Beydler, 62, of WaKeeney,KS, passed away on Friday, October 9th, 2020. Gary was born in Great Bend, KS on May 10th, 1958 to Bernard Beydler and Twila (Bartley) Beydler. He was a graduate from TCHS class of 1976 and continued his education at Dodge City Community College. He then proceeded to spend most of his adult life as a resident of WaKeeney, KS.

For many who knew Gary, knew that he was a very loving, kind, outgoing, hardworking man. From a young age he enjoyed the outdoors and all it had to offer. He spent many afternoons hunting and fishing with family and friends. He enjoyed all aspects of hunting but one of his great passions that he shared with his father was coyote hunting.&nbsp; Fishing was another great pastime that he enjoyed. It didn’t matter whether he was out catching perch with his grandsons or enjoying a week-long fishing trip at Texoma with family. Growing up, Gary was a very competitive and talented athlete. During his high school years, he was named All State in basketball, and then continued to play football at Dodge City Community College. &nbsp;

He is survived by his beloved mother Twila (Bartley) Beydler of WaKeeney, KS; his children: Tara Beydler -&nbsp; Jeff McDermott of WaKeeney, KS, Dusty Beydler - wife Clare Beydler of Derby, KS and Cher and Nathan Fouty of Granville, OH; his loving companion of 18 years Athenna Moore of Antonino, KS; 4 grandchildren: Samuel, Camden, Blakely, and Shiloh; 2 brothers and a sister all of WaKeeney, KS : Larry and Carla Beydler, Alvin and Becky Beydler, Rhonda and Bob Whisler.

Gary was preceded in death by his father Bernard Beydler, niece Sara (Shubert) Starr, grandparents, aunts and uncles.

By family’s request a graveside funeral was performed on October 10th. A memorial service for family and friends will be set for a later date.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Gary Beydler Memorial Fund.&nbsp; Donations to the fund may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS&nbsp; 67672.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604526509350.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gary Lee Beydler, 62, of WaKeeney,KS, passed away on Friday, October 9th, 2020. Gary was born in Great Bend, KS on May 10th, 1958 to Bernard Beydler and Twila (Bartley) Beydler. He was a graduate from TCHS class of 1976 and continued his education at Dodge City Community College. He then proceeded to spend most of his adult life as a resident of WaKeeney, KS.For many who knew Gary, knew that he was a very loving, kind, outgoing, hardworking man. From a young age he enjoyed the outdoors and all it had to offer. He spent many afternoons hunting and fishing with family and friends. He enjoyed all aspects of hunting but one of his great passions that he shared with his father was coyote hunting.&nbsp; Fishing was another great pastime that he enjoyed. It didn’t matter whether he was out catching perch with his grandsons or enjoying a week-long fishing trip at Texoma with family. Growing up, Gary was a very competitive and talented athlete. During his high school years, he was named All State in basketball, and then continued to play football at Dodge City Community College. &nbsp;He is survived by his beloved mother Twila (Bartley) Beydler of WaKeeney, KS; his children: Tara Beydler -&nbsp; Jeff McDermott of WaKeeney, KS, Dusty Beydler - wife Clare Beydler of Derby, KS and Cher and Nathan Fouty of Granville, OH; his loving companion of 18 years Athenna Moore of Antonino, KS; 4 grandchildren: Samuel, Camden, Blakely, and Shiloh; 2 brothers and a sister all of WaKeeney, KS : Larry and Carla Beydler, Alvin and Becky Beydler, Rhonda and Bob Whisler.Gary was preceded in death by his father Bernard Beydler, niece Sara (Shubert) Starr, grandparents, aunts and uncles.By family’s request a graveside funeral was performed on October 10th. A memorial service for family and friends will be set for a later date.Memorial contributions are suggested to the Gary Beydler Memorial Fund.&nbsp; Donations to the fund may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS&nbsp; 67672.

Gary Lee Beydler

Donald Eugene Durr, age 67, of Palco, Kansas, passed away at his home
 on October 25, 2020, from heart failure with is wife, Jane, by his 
side.&nbsp; Donald was born August 6, 1953, to Robert S. and Thelma K. 
(Francis) Durr, in Monte Vista, Colorado.&nbsp;

Donald graduated from Dodge City High School in May of 1972.&nbsp; He was 
united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Lucy B. Trabert, in 
Dodge City, on May 26, 1972.&nbsp; To this union, they had a son, Jerry Lee 
Durr.&nbsp; Sadly, their marriage ended in July of 1978.&nbsp; On November 3, 
1979, Donald then married Tanya E. Choate in Arapahoe, Colorado.&nbsp; To 
this union, Michelle Kathleen was born.&nbsp; They divorced in October of 
1987.&nbsp; Donald married Jane E. Coleman on December 11, 1987.&nbsp; Until death
 did they part.

He worked as a maintenance man for Crustbuster/Speed King and WW 
Livestock Systems in Dodge City, Kansas.&nbsp; After moving to Palco, he 
worked in maintenance for Schult Home in Plainville, Kansas and Hess 
Services in Hays, Kansas.

Preceding him in death are his parents; two sisters, Anna M. Dykstra 
and Rose Mary Hammond.&nbsp; Donald is survived by three brothers, Ross R. 
(Thersa), Robert L. and Delmer L. Durr; and three sisters, Roberta J. 
Herring, Twila R. (Dennis) Payne, and Naomi L. Durr.&nbsp; He is also 
survived by on stepdaughter, Kristina K. Choate; three stepsons, Jackie 
R. Coleman, Jerry L. Coleman, and Joshua L. Coleman; and 12 
grandchildren.&nbsp;

Cremation was chosen.&nbsp; To honor his wishes, no services are planned at this time.

Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney, is assisting with arrangements.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604522312751.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Donald Eugene Durr, age 67, of Palco, Kansas, passed away at his home
 on October 25, 2020, from heart failure with is wife, Jane, by his 
side.&nbsp; Donald was born August 6, 1953, to Robert S. and Thelma K. 
(Francis) Durr, in Monte Vista, Colorado.&nbsp;Donald graduated from Dodge City High School in May of 1972.&nbsp; He was 
united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Lucy B. Trabert, in 
Dodge City, on May 26, 1972.&nbsp; To this union, they had a son, Jerry Lee 
Durr.&nbsp; Sadly, their marriage ended in July of 1978.&nbsp; On November 3, 
1979, Donald then married Tanya E. Choate in Arapahoe, Colorado.&nbsp; To 
this union, Michelle Kathleen was born.&nbsp; They divorced in October of 
1987.&nbsp; Donald married Jane E. Coleman on December 11, 1987.&nbsp; Until death
 did they part.He worked as a maintenance man for Crustbuster/Speed King and WW 
Livestock Systems in Dodge City, Kansas.&nbsp; After moving to Palco, he 
worked in maintenance for Schult Home in Plainville, Kansas and Hess 
Services in Hays, Kansas.Preceding him in death are his parents; two sisters, Anna M. Dykstra 
and Rose Mary Hammond.&nbsp; Donald is survived by three brothers, Ross R. 
(Thersa), Robert L. and Delmer L. Durr; and three sisters, Roberta J. 
Herring, Twila R. (Dennis) Payne, and Naomi L. Durr.&nbsp; He is also 
survived by on stepdaughter, Kristina K. Choate; three stepsons, Jackie 
R. Coleman, Jerry L. Coleman, and Joshua L. Coleman; and 12 
grandchildren.&nbsp;Cremation was chosen.&nbsp; To honor his wishes, no services are planned at this time.Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney, is assisting with arrangements.&nbsp;

Donald E. Durr

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

Fall harvest has come to a screeching halt for my family. We have had some minor issues that have slowed us down, but those issues are always expected during the marathon known as fall harvest. We began back in August picking corn. Since then, we have transitioned to popcorn followed by soybeans followed by sorghum with wheat sowing sprinkled into the mix starting in late September.  

And now here we are in November. I can always begin to see the light at the end of the proverbial fall harvest tunnel when we start cutting sorghum. Once we move into our sorghum fields, I know we are getting closer to being done with harvest. We are closer to being done eating sandwiches in the field. Closer to putting fewer miles on my vehicle. Closer to having regular grocery bills for a family of four instead of for a harvest crew. Closer to having my husband home at night to help with bedtime routines. Closer to returning to order and normalcy.

When we start harvesting the sorghum, it’s as if a switch is flipped in my mind. It happens every year. For so many months before the sorghum harvest, I try to stay laser focused on the tasks at hand that need to be done on a day-by-day basis. I do what I can to help the crew stay as efficient as possible. I put my head down and keep moving forward while trying to preserve as much of a routine as possible for the kids. But by the time sorghum harvest rolls around, my focus wears off, and I begin envisioning our anticipated “downtime” once harvest wraps up. I am ready to get the crop in and return to normalcy with my family.

However, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. Case in point — 2020. The recent change of weather has completely shut down our harvest efforts. We were running full-steam ahead, but our late October ice and snow has made it impossible to get the machines into fields. It’s simply too wet. My husband half-jokingly stated we should be done with harvest by Christmas now. 

In the 10 years I’ve been part of this farm, the latest we have ever gone with fall harvest is the day before Thanksgiving. I’d like to aim for the eve of Thanksgiving this year if possible. But I realize we very well could be harvesting into December. Afterall, we still have the sunflower crop to harvest after we get done with the sorghum.

One silver lining to harvest being delayed because of weather is my husband has been home during the evenings. My family has been able to eat warm meals at the kitchen table together. We’ve cuddled on the couch with the kids to enjoy a family movie night. We’ve played board games in the living room before bedtimes. It’s a rare occurrence to have him join us at home in the evenings during fall harvest, but it’s one we truly embrace when we get the sweet opportunity. 

I know this pause in harvest will soon end, and I also know we will eventually get all of the crops out of the fields. Even though it’s less than ideal — and regardless of my desire to get harvest done as soon as possible — there is a possibility that we will harvest clear into late December. I’ll continue to remind myself that whenever we officially finish our fall harvest it will still allow my little farm family some much anticipated normalcy before spring planting begins and another busy season rolls around.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575904358712.png" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher Fall harvest has come to a screeching halt for my family. We have had some minor issues that have slowed us down, but those issues are always expected during the marathon known as fall harvest. We began back in August picking corn. Since then, we have transitioned to popcorn followed by soybeans followed by sorghum with wheat sowing sprinkled into the mix starting in late September. And now here we are in November. I can always begin to see the light at the end of the proverbial fall harvest tunnel when we start cutting sorghum. Once we move into our sorghum fields, I know we are getting closer to being done with harvest. We are closer to being done eating sandwiches in the field. Closer to putting fewer miles on my vehicle. Closer to having regular grocery bills for a family of four instead of for a harvest crew. Closer to having my husband home at night to help with bedtime routines. Closer to returning to order and normalcy.When we start harvesting the sorghum, it’s as if a switch is flipped in my mind. It happens every year. For so many months before the sorghum harvest, I try to stay laser focused on the tasks at hand that need to be done on a day-by-day basis. I do what I can to help the crew stay as efficient as possible. I put my head down and keep moving forward while trying to preserve as much of a routine as possible for the kids. But by the time sorghum harvest rolls around, my focus wears off, and I begin envisioning our anticipated “downtime” once harvest wraps up. I am ready to get the crop in and return to normalcy with my family.However, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. Case in point — 2020. The recent change of weather has completely shut down our harvest efforts. We were running full-steam ahead, but our late October ice and snow has made it impossible to get the machines into fields. It’s simply too wet. My husband half-jokingly stated we should be done with harvest by Christmas now. Wait, what?In the 10 years I’ve been part of this farm, the latest we have ever gone with fall harvest is the day before Thanksgiving. I’d like to aim for the eve of Thanksgiving this year if possible. But I realize we very well could be harvesting into December. Afterall, we still have the sunflower crop to harvest after we get done with the sorghum.One silver lining to harvest being delayed because of weather is my husband has been home during the evenings. My family has been able to eat warm meals at the kitchen table together. We’ve cuddled on the couch with the kids to enjoy a family movie night. We’ve played board games in the living room before bedtimes. It’s a rare occurrence to have him join us at home in the evenings during fall harvest, but it’s one we truly embrace when we get the sweet opportunity. I know this pause in harvest will soon end, and I also know we will eventually get all of the crops out of the fields. Even though it’s less than ideal — and regardless of my desire to get harvest done as soon as possible — there is a possibility that we will harvest clear into late December. I’ll continue to remind myself that whenever we officially finish our fall harvest it will still allow my little farm family some much anticipated normalcy before spring planting begins and another busy season rolls around."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.

Kansas Farm Bureau Insight: Anticipating normalcy

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican Rep. Roger Marshall won an open Senate seat in Kansas on Tuesday in a tougher-than-expected race that saw his Democratic opponent raise far more campaign cash than he did.

Marshall, who has represented western and central Kansas in Congress for two terms, prevailed over Democratic state Sen. Barbara Bollier. After a tough campaign, he struck a conciliatory tone in his victory speech, saying his prayer was “for healing.”

“We’re always Kansans first. We’re Americans first,” Marshall said. “We will fight to end the divisions.”

Marshall entered the fall campaign with the GOP’s traditional advantages in a state that tends to vote for conservatives. But Bollier excited fellow Democrats because her campaign was able to raise more than $25 million and set a Kansas record that Marshall couldn’t match.

In a concession statement, Bollier said, “Remember, this race was never ‘supposed’ to be competitive at all.”

“Of course, this wasn’t the finale we hoped for,” she said. “But at a time of deep national cynicism — when faith in our democratic institutions hangs by a thread — I consider it a sacred, patriotic duty to accept tonight’s outcome.”

Republicans haven’t lost a Senate race in Kansas since 1932. Marshall will replace retiring four-term Republican Sen. Pat Roberts, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee and didn’t seek reelection.

The race for Roberts’ seat was the most expensive in Kansas history. Spending on advertising by outside groups topped $41 million, with three-quarters of it coming from the Senate Leadership Fund aligned with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and other GOP groups to boost Marshall’s campaign. It also was the Democrats’ best shot to pick up a Kansas Senate seat since 1974, when then-Republican Sen. Bob Dole narrowly won reelection in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal that forced President Richard Nixon to resign.

Like other Democratic Senate candidates around the country, Bollier received millions of dollars in campaign contributions from outside of her home state as the party sought to overturn the GOP’s 53-47 Senate majority. While Marshall raised $6.5 million, outside groups poured more than $41 million into advertising, and three-quarters came from GOP organizations.

Marshall also benefitted from President Donald Trump carrying the state. He played up his loyalty to the president on the campaign trail and that resonated with some voters such as Thora Bean, an 83-year-old retired nurse and Republican. Bean voted Tuesday in Belle Plaine, south of Wichita, and backed Trump and Marshall, citing Bollier’s support for abortion rights.

As for Marshall, she said: “I think he will go along with Trump with whatever Trump decides. He will be good for him.”

Bollier, a Kansas City-area state senator, was a lifelong moderate Republican who switched parties at the end of 2018, partly over her dissatisfaction with President Donald Trump and the Kansas GOP’s strong opposition to LGBTQ rights. She pitched herself as an independent and commonsense centrist.

She emphasized health care issues, such as protecting insurance coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. That appealed to Haley Miller, a 28-year-old health care scheduler and Democrat from the Kansas City suburb of Mission.

“I have family that has had cancer and I don’t want them to lose their insurance and not be able to get it back,” Miller said. “My mom had breast cancer, both breasts removed and things like that.”

Marshall and his allies portrayed Bollier as too liberal and too radical for Kansas, attacking her over her strong support for abortion rights and for gun control measures. They circulated video from an October event near Kansas City in which Bollier praised an Australian gun control law passed in response to a 1996 mass shooting that forced the owners of 700,000 firearms to sell them to the government.

The race also featured two physicians who have taken different approaches to the coronavirus pandemic. Bollier, a retired anesthesiologist, began her campaign by avoiding public events and later insisted on masks and social distancing.

Marshall, an obstetrician before he entered Congress in 2017, said he tried to have outdoor events, but he sometimes was indoors with people who didn’t wear masks or maintain social distance and he refused to endorse mask mandates. He also said at one point that he was taking the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as an anti-coronavirus measure, even though experts say it isn’t effective against the disease.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican Roger Marshall won the most competitive U.S. Senate race in Kansas in decades, while President Donald Trump carried the state again, as expected.

The marquee race in Tuesday’s election was the Senate contest between the two term-congressman Marshall and Democratic state Sen. Barbara Bollier in what was the most expensive political contest in state history. Marshall and his allies attacked Bollier for her strong support of abortion rights and gun control measures. Bollier was among the Democratic candidates around the country who attracted millions of dollars in contributions from outside their home states as the party tried to take control of the Senate.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas has had its most competitive U.S. Senate race in decades, though President Donald Trump carried the state as expected. 

The marquee race in Tuesday’s election was the Senate contest between two-term Republican U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall and Democratic state Sen. Barbara Bollier, and it was the most expensive political contest in state history. Trump’s grip on the state’s six electoral votes always seemed secure because no Democrat has carried the state in a presidential race since 1964. Republicans were likely to retain Marshall’s congressional seat and elect a new eastern Kansas congressman.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas has had its most competitive U.S. Senate race in decades, though President Donald Trump is expected to carry the state again and voters appear likely to elect two new Republican congressmen.

The marquee race heading into Tuesday’s election was the Senate contest between Republican Roger Marshall, a two-term congressman for western and central Kansas, and Democrat Barbara Bollier, a Kansas City-area state senator. The race was the most expensive in Kansas history, with Bollier setting a record for any Kansas political race by raising more than $25 million to Marshall’s $6.5 million and outside groups pouring in $41 million on advertising, the bulk of it from GOP groups backing Marshall.

The two are vying for the seat held by retiring four-term Republican Sen. Pat Roberts, and two of the state’s four U.S. House seats were also up for grabs this year.

Polls were to open statewide at 7 a.m. and were to stay open until 7 p.m. local time.

Here’s what to know about the election.

Democrats have not won a Senate race in Kansas since 1932, but the Marshall-Bollier contest represented their best shot since 1974, when then-Republican Sen. Bob Dole won reelection by less than 2 percentage points following the Watergate scandal that forced President Richard Nixon from office.

Bollier, a former lifelong moderate Republican who switched parties at the end of 2018, was one of several Democratic candidates around the country who attracted millions of dollars in contributions from outside their home states as the party tried to take control of the Senate. Bollier pitched herself as an independent centrist.

Marshall and his allies attacked Bollier for her strong support of abortion rights and gun control measures, and he hoped wavering GOP voters would drift back to the fold, as they had in past elections.

Trump’s hold on Kansas’ six electoral votes seemed secure heading into Election Day, given that no Democratic presidential candidate has carried the state since incumbent Lyndon Johnson in his 1964 national landslide. Trump won Kansas by nearly 21 percentage points over Hillary Clinton in 2016.

But with Trump’s support in suburban areas eroded, Democrats at leased hoped that presidential nominee and former Vice President Joe Biden would do better than Clinton, particularly in the Kansas City area. Democrat Barack Obama topped 41% in 2008, and Jimmy Carter approached 45% in 1976.

The state’s top elections official forecast a 70% turnout, predicting that a record 1.35 million of the state’s nearly 1.94 million registered would cast ballots. The coronavirus pandemic led to an unusual surge in early voting, with more than 813,005 ballots cast before Election Day by mail or in person. Even before polls opened on Election Day, the state had reached a 42% turnout rate, and election officials said they expected to exceed their initial forecast turnout by the time all ballots were cast.

Marshall’s decision to run for the Senate opened up his seat representing the sprawling 1st Congressional District in central and western Kansas. The district is among the safest in the country for Republicans, making it an near-certainty that former Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann, a commercial real estate broker from Salina, would defeat Democrat Kali Barnett, a Garden City elementary school teacher.

Republicans also were expected to retain the 2nd District seat representing eastern Kansas after State Treasurer Jake LaTurner ousted Rep. Steve Watkins in the GOP primary. Watkins was charged with three felonies for allegedly listing a postal box at a UPS Inc. store as his residence for voter registration late last year. LaTurner was vying for the seat Tuesday with Topeka’s Democratic mayor, Michelle De La Isla.

The lone Democrat in the state’s congressional delegation, freshman Rep. Sharice Davids, was expected to defeat Republican Amanda Adkins and win a second term representing the state’s 3rd Congressional District, in the Kansas City area. Adkins is an executive on leave from medical computer systems firm Cerner Corp. and a former Kansas Republican Party chairwoman who has political ties to unpopular former GOP Gov. Sam Brownback. After winning the seat in 2018, Davids positioned herself as a centrist in Congress. Trump lost the district narrowly in 2016.

In the 4th District in the Wichita area, Republican Rep. Ron Estes was expected to win reelection easily.

By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican Rep. Roger Marshall won an open Senate seat in Kansas on Tuesday in a tougher-than-expected race that saw his Democratic opponent raise far more campaign cash than he did.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FDrRogerMarshall%2Fvideos%2F692324678362987%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Marshall, who has represented western and central Kansas in Congress for two terms, prevailed over Democratic state Sen. Barbara Bollier. After a tough campaign, he struck a conciliatory tone in his victory speech, saying his prayer was “for healing.”“We’re always Kansans first. We’re Americans first,” Marshall said. “We will fight to end the divisions.”Marshall entered the fall campaign with the GOP’s traditional advantages in a state that tends to vote for conservatives. But Bollier excited fellow Democrats because her campaign was able to raise more than $25 million and set a Kansas record that Marshall couldn’t match.In a concession statement, Bollier said, “Remember, this race was never ‘supposed’ to be competitive at all.”“Of course, this wasn’t the finale we hoped for,” she said. “But at a time of deep national cynicism — when faith in our democratic institutions hangs by a thread — I consider it a sacred, patriotic duty to accept tonight’s outcome.”Republicans haven’t lost a Senate race in Kansas since 1932. Marshall will replace retiring four-term Republican Sen. Pat Roberts, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee and didn’t seek reelection.The race for Roberts’ seat was the most expensive in Kansas history. Spending on advertising by outside groups topped $41 million, with three-quarters of it coming from the Senate Leadership Fund aligned with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and other GOP groups to boost Marshall’s campaign. It also was the Democrats’ best shot to pick up a Kansas Senate seat since 1974, when then-Republican Sen. Bob Dole narrowly won reelection in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal that forced President Richard Nixon to resign.Like other Democratic Senate candidates around the country, Bollier received millions of dollars in campaign contributions from outside of her home state as the party sought to overturn the GOP’s 53-47 Senate majority. While Marshall raised $6.5 million, outside groups poured more than $41 million into advertising, and three-quarters came from GOP organizations.Marshall also benefitted from President Donald Trump carrying the state. He played up his loyalty to the president on the campaign trail and that resonated with some voters such as Thora Bean, an 83-year-old retired nurse and Republican. Bean voted Tuesday in Belle Plaine, south of Wichita, and backed Trump and Marshall, citing Bollier’s support for abortion rights.As for Marshall, she said: “I think he will go along with Trump with whatever Trump decides. He will be good for him.”Bollier, a Kansas City-area state senator, was a lifelong moderate Republican who switched parties at the end of 2018, partly over her dissatisfaction with President Donald Trump and the Kansas GOP’s strong opposition to LGBTQ rights. She pitched herself as an independent and commonsense centrist.She emphasized health care issues, such as protecting insurance coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. That appealed to Haley Miller, a 28-year-old health care scheduler and Democrat from the Kansas City suburb of Mission.“I have family that has had cancer and I don’t want them to lose their insurance and not be able to get it back,” Miller said. “My mom had breast cancer, both breasts removed and things like that.”Marshall and his allies portrayed Bollier as too liberal and too radical for Kansas, attacking her over her strong support for abortion rights and for gun control measures. They circulated video from an October event near Kansas City in which Bollier praised an Australian gun control law passed in response to a 1996 mass shooting that forced the owners of 700,000 firearms to sell them to the government.The race also featured two physicians who have taken different approaches to the coronavirus pandemic. Bollier, a retired anesthesiologist, began her campaign by avoiding public events and later insisted on masks and social distancing.Marshall, an obstetrician before he entered Congress in 2017, said he tried to have outdoor events, but he sometimes was indoors with people who didn’t wear masks or maintain social distance and he refused to endorse mask mandates. He also said at one point that he was taking the malaria drug hydroxychloroquine as an anti-coronavirus measure, even though experts say it isn’t effective against the disease.___-----TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republican Roger Marshall won the most competitive U.S. Senate race in Kansas in decades, while President Donald Trump carried the state again, as expected.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FDrRogerMarshall%2Fvideos%2F692324678362987%2F&show_text=false&width=560" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The marquee race in Tuesday’s election was the Senate contest between the two term-congressman Marshall and Democratic state Sen. Barbara Bollier in what was the most expensive political contest in state history. Marshall and his allies attacked Bollier for her strong support of abortion rights and gun control measures. Bollier was among the Democratic candidates around the country who attracted millions of dollars in contributions from outside their home states as the party tried to take control of the Senate.------TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas has had its most competitive U.S. Senate race in decades, though President Donald Trump carried the state as expected. The marquee race in Tuesday’s election was the Senate contest between two-term Republican U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall and Democratic state Sen. Barbara Bollier, and it was the most expensive political contest in state history. Trump’s grip on the state’s six electoral votes always seemed secure because no Democrat has carried the state in a presidential race since 1964. Republicans were likely to retain Marshall’s congressional seat and elect a new eastern Kansas congressman.TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas has had its most competitive U.S. Senate race in decades, though President Donald Trump is expected to carry the state again and voters appear likely to elect two new Republican congressmen.The marquee race heading into Tuesday’s election was the Senate contest between Republican Roger Marshall, a two-term congressman for western and central Kansas, and Democrat Barbara Bollier, a Kansas City-area state senator. The race was the most expensive in Kansas history, with Bollier setting a record for any Kansas political race by raising more than $25 million to Marshall’s $6.5 million and outside groups pouring in $41 million on advertising, the bulk of it from GOP groups backing Marshall.The two are vying for the seat held by retiring four-term Republican Sen. Pat Roberts, and two of the state’s four U.S. House seats were also up for grabs this year.Polls were to open statewide at 7 a.m. and were to stay open until 7 p.m. local time.Here’s what to know about the election.HOT SENATE RACEDemocrats have not won a Senate race in Kansas since 1932, but the Marshall-Bollier contest represented their best shot since 1974, when then-Republican Sen. Bob Dole won reelection by less than 2 percentage points following the Watergate scandal that forced President Richard Nixon from office.Bollier, a former lifelong moderate Republican who switched parties at the end of 2018, was one of several Democratic candidates around the country who attracted millions of dollars in contributions from outside their home states as the party tried to take control of the Senate. Bollier pitched herself as an independent centrist.Marshall and his allies attacked Bollier for her strong support of abortion rights and gun control measures, and he hoped wavering GOP voters would drift back to the fold, as they had in past elections.PRESIDENTIAL RACETrump’s hold on Kansas’ six electoral votes seemed secure heading into Election Day, given that no Democratic presidential candidate has carried the state since incumbent Lyndon Johnson in his 1964 national landslide. Trump won Kansas by nearly 21 percentage points over Hillary Clinton in 2016.But with Trump’s support in suburban areas eroded, Democrats at leased hoped that presidential nominee and former Vice President Joe Biden would do better than Clinton, particularly in the Kansas City area. Democrat Barack Obama topped 41% in 2008, and Jimmy Carter approached 45% in 1976.RECORD NUMBERS EXPECTEDThe state’s top elections official forecast a 70% turnout, predicting that a record 1.35 million of the state’s nearly 1.94 million registered would cast ballots. The coronavirus pandemic led to an unusual surge in early voting, with more than 813,005 ballots cast before Election Day by mail or in person. Even before polls opened on Election Day, the state had reached a 42% turnout rate, and election officials said they expected to exceed their initial forecast turnout by the time all ballots were cast.NEW HOUSE MEMBERSMarshall’s decision to run for the Senate opened up his seat representing the sprawling 1st Congressional District in central and western Kansas. The district is among the safest in the country for Republicans, making it an near-certainty that former Lt. Gov. Tracey Mann, a commercial real estate broker from Salina, would defeat Democrat Kali Barnett, a Garden City elementary school teacher.Republicans also were expected to retain the 2nd District seat representing eastern Kansas after State Treasurer Jake LaTurner ousted Rep. Steve Watkins in the GOP primary. Watkins was charged with three felonies for allegedly listing a postal box at a UPS Inc. store as his residence for voter registration late last year. LaTurner was vying for the seat Tuesday with Topeka’s Democratic mayor, Michelle De La Isla.INCUMBENTS EXPECTED TO WINThe lone Democrat in the state’s congressional delegation, freshman Rep. Sharice Davids, was expected to defeat Republican Amanda Adkins and win a second term representing the state’s 3rd Congressional District, in the Kansas City area. Adkins is an executive on leave from medical computer systems firm Cerner Corp. and a former Kansas Republican Party chairwoman who has political ties to unpopular former GOP Gov. Sam Brownback. After winning the seat in 2018, Davids positioned herself as a centrist in Congress. Trump lost the district narrowly in 2016.In the 4th District in the Wichita area, Republican Rep. Ron Estes was expected to win reelection easily.___

 🎥  GOP Rep. Marshall wins unusually tough Senate race

Theda Maryse Ball, daughter of Ernest Fred and Eva Marie (Campbell) Minor, was born July 2, 1934, in Leoti, Kansas.  She passed away peacefully at her home in Norton, Kansas, surrounded by her family, on October 30, 2020, at the age of 86.

Theda grew up in the Leoti community and graduated from the Wichita County Community High School where she was very active in band, vocal, cheerleading and basketball.  On October 7, 1956, she married Max Colvin Ball at the First Presbyterian Church in Leoti.  To this union three children were born.  The family moved 16 times around the state of Kansas, due to Max's profession of being a brick mason.   In 1960, they made Norton their permanent home.  

Theda was a member of the Presbyterian Church.  Theda was a homemaker and loved raising her family and her garden.  She was an avid reader and loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Spending time together, Theda and Max enjoyed fishing, turkey hunting and bird watching.  

Survivors include:  her loving husband, Max Ball, of their home in Norton; three children, Patricia (Dave) Fischer, Randall (Tammy) Ball, and Tammie (Dan) Bainter, all of Norton; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; one brother, Gordon Minor, Stilwell, Oklahoma; two sisters, Lois Phillis, Hutchinson, Kansas; Margaret Turner, Scott City, Kansas; other relatives and friends.

Theda was preceded in death by her parents, eight brothers, Gerald, Leon, Duane, Vernon, Kay, Harold, Donald and Larry Minor, and two sisters, Joyce Farr and Charlotte Carson.

There will be a private family service held at a later date.  

A memorial has been established to the Theda Ball Memorial Fund.

Theda Maryse Ball, daughter of Ernest Fred and Eva Marie (Campbell) Minor, was born July 2, 1934, in Leoti, Kansas. She passed away peacefully at her home in Norton, Kansas, surrounded by her family, on October 30, 2020, at the age of 86.Theda grew up in the Leoti community and graduated from the Wichita County Community High School where she was very active in band, vocal, cheerleading and basketball. On October 7, 1956, she married Max Colvin Ball at the First Presbyterian Church in Leoti. To this union three children were born. The family moved 16 times around the state of Kansas, due to Max's profession of being a brick mason. In 1960, they made Norton their permanent home. Theda was a member of the Presbyterian Church. Theda was a homemaker and loved raising her family and her garden. She was an avid reader and loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Spending time together, Theda and Max enjoyed fishing, turkey hunting and bird watching. Survivors include: her loving husband, Max Ball, of their home in Norton; three children, Patricia (Dave) Fischer, Randall (Tammy) Ball, and Tammie (Dan) Bainter, all of Norton; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; one brother, Gordon Minor, Stilwell, Oklahoma; two sisters, Lois Phillis, Hutchinson, Kansas; Margaret Turner, Scott City, Kansas; other relatives and friends.Theda was preceded in death by her parents, eight brothers, Gerald, Leon, Duane, Vernon, Kay, Harold, Donald and Larry Minor, and two sisters, Joyce Farr and Charlotte Carson.There will be a private family service held at a later date. A memorial has been established to the Theda Ball Memorial Fund.

Theda Maryse Ball

Thursday, October 27th, 1921-Monday, November 2nd, 2020

An obituary and services are pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

Thursday, October 27th, 1921-Monday, November 2nd, 2020An obituary and services are pending with Baalmann Mortuary.

TOPEKA — An Ellsworth Correctional Facility resident who died Monday, Nov. 2, had tested positive for COVID-19, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

This is second resident death from ECF, and the ninth resident death related to COVID-19 for the department.

The resident was moved October 28 to the Lansing Correctional Facility COVID-19 Management Unit after testing positive for the virus. He was transported from LCF to the hospital on Oct. 29.

The resident was a 76-year-old while male with underlying medical concerns that contributed to his condition.&nbsp;

He was serving a 176 months sentence for two counts of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child and aggravated endangerment of a child.

TOPEKA — An Ellsworth Correctional Facility resident who died Monday, Nov. 2, had tested positive for COVID-19, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.This is second resident death from ECF, and the ninth resident death related to COVID-19 for the department.The resident was moved October 28 to the Lansing Correctional Facility COVID-19 Management Unit after testing positive for the virus. He was transported from LCF to the hospital on Oct. 29.The resident was a 76-year-old while male with underlying medical concerns that contributed to his condition.&nbsp;He was serving a 176 months sentence for two counts of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child and aggravated endangerment of a child.

Ninth Kansas inmate dies after positive COVID -19 test

Leland Sylvester McAlister, 86, passed away October 24, 2020, in Larned.

He was born September 30, 1934, in Wayne, Oklahoma, the son of Grover Wilburn McAlister and Veta May Gregory Burris.

A longtime area resident, he was a welder. He served in the United States Air force at McConnell Air Force Base in the 3520th Flight Line Maintenance Squadron. He was of the Christian faith and enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, and dancing.

He married Lauralee Cessna; she preceded him in death.

Survivors include: mother, Veta Burris, Great Bend; five children, 
Lori (Bob) Wilson, Lyons, Curtis (Deb) McAlister, Larned, Kevin (Cindy) 
McAlister, Overland Park, Deanna (Chris) Harrison, Port Orange, Florida,
 Donnie (Cheryl) Stejskal, Tualatin, Oregon; three sisters, Laveta 
Furthmyer, Gorham, Fredia Burris, Great Bend, Wanda Dodson, Hays; a 
brother, Glenn Burris, Ellinwood; eighteen grandchildren, twenty-four 
great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father; his wife; a sister, Gloria Barrientez, a brother, Rennie Burris, and a great &nbsp;grandson.

Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2020 at 
Saint Marks Episcopal Church, 520 East Avenue S, Lyons, Kansas, with 
Pastor Byron Barrientez presiding. Inurnment with military graveside 
rites will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 7, 2020 at Lakin Comanche 
Cemetery, Ellinwood, Kansas.

Memorials may be given to St Marks Episcopal Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, KS 67550

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604436250834.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Leland Sylvester McAlister, 86, passed away October 24, 2020, in Larned.He was born September 30, 1934, in Wayne, Oklahoma, the son of Grover Wilburn McAlister and Veta May Gregory Burris.A longtime area resident, he was a welder. He served in the United States Air force at McConnell Air Force Base in the 3520th Flight Line Maintenance Squadron. He was of the Christian faith and enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, and dancing.He married Lauralee Cessna; she preceded him in death.Survivors include: mother, Veta Burris, Great Bend; five children, 
Lori (Bob) Wilson, Lyons, Curtis (Deb) McAlister, Larned, Kevin (Cindy) 
McAlister, Overland Park, Deanna (Chris) Harrison, Port Orange, Florida,
 Donnie (Cheryl) Stejskal, Tualatin, Oregon; three sisters, Laveta 
Furthmyer, Gorham, Fredia Burris, Great Bend, Wanda Dodson, Hays; a 
brother, Glenn Burris, Ellinwood; eighteen grandchildren, twenty-four 
great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his father; his wife; a sister, Gloria Barrientez, a brother, Rennie Burris, and a great &nbsp;grandson.Memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2020 at 
Saint Marks Episcopal Church, 520 East Avenue S, Lyons, Kansas, with 
Pastor Byron Barrientez presiding. Inurnment with military graveside 
rites will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 7, 2020 at Lakin Comanche 
Cemetery, Ellinwood, Kansas.Memorials may be given to St Marks Episcopal Church in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, KS 67550

Leland Sylvester McAlister

Loren Henry Dyke, 87, passed away November 2, 2020, at Hutchinson 
Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson, KS. He was born October 30, 1933, 
in Malvern, Iowa, to Dale D. &amp; Maxine (Boyer) Dyke. He married 
Marilyn Patricia Mueller May 27, 1956 at First United Methodist Church 
in Griswold, Iowa. She survives.

Loren was an active child and loved exploring the woods, fields, and 
streams that were all around the small farming community where he grew 
up. He suffered several life-threatening injuries and sicknesses in his 
youth, including a long siege with rheumatic fever, and possibly polio. 
At age six, he tripped right by the Methodist church and jammed the 
point of a wooden sword into his throat. Unbeknown to his parents, the 
tip had broken off inside the throat. Two weeks later, doctors in a 
Council Bluffs hospital removed that bloody piece of wood.

Along with his family, Loren was active in that same Methodist church
 during his early years. He enjoyed all sports and engaged vigorously in
 all of them. In conjunction with the WWII jobs program, his dad moved 
the family to Los Angeles in 1943 to work in the Howard Hughes shipyard 
and was assigned to work on the famous Spruce Goose. The family’s 
temporary housing was in a trailer park right across the street from MGM
 studios where Loren became acquainted and often played with members of 
the Our Gang, sometimes called The Little Rascals, including Froggie and
 Alfalfa. With Froggie and other boys, he climbed a high fence to sneak 
into those studios to watch the making of films.

The family returned to Iowa after the war and in 1947, Loren 
accompanied a Baptist preacher and his sons to Minneapolis to attend a 
Youth for Christ meeting in which a young evangelist named Billy Graham 
was the featured speaker. On one evening during that conference, Loren 
walked a long-tabernacle aisle to the front and committed his life to 
Jesus Christ.

Loren graduated from Chariton, Iowa High School in 1951 and enrolled 
in Peru State Teachers’ College in1952, and in l953, while the Korean 
War was on, was inducted into the Army. The war ended, and Loren spent 
most of his service time in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. While there, he had a
 life-changing encounter with Jesus while serving as a Chaplain’s 
Assistant at the base chapel.

Following discharge, back in Iowa, he accepted a role as counselor at
 a Methodist youth camp at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa. It was 
there he met Marilyn Mueller of Griswold, Iowa. They both loved music, 
worked together in the camp’s music program, and became best friends. 
They were married on May 27, 1956, and became the parents of three 
children, Lorene, Daniel, and Jerry.

Loren taught school in southwest Iowa for five years, and during that
 time, the most spiritually transforming event of his and Marilyn’s 
lives occurred when the two of them attended a Christian Ashram in 
Salina, Kansas, a retreat movement founded by Dr. E. Stanley Jones. For 
Loren, a new intimacy with Jesus began. In 1962 he accepted a position 
as youth director at a Methodist church in Great Bend, Kansas, and in 
1963, he became director of the Kansas Ashram.

In 1964, Loren began a full-time faithbased, evangelistic ministry, 
largely connected with the Ashram movement, and for eight years, on 
several occasions had opportunity to work closely with Stanley Jones. 
Loren spoke at many retreats and meetings across the US, mostly around 
the eastern part of the country and during that time, established an 
organization named The King’s Team focused on revival in America and 
have been praying for revival in the US since June 1,1970.

Just before 1980, Loren and Marilyn became active in the Republican 
Party and in 1980, Loren became Barton county chairman for Ronald Reagan
 and was elected as an alternate delegate to the Republican National 
Convention in Detroit. As Loren and Marilyn became more involved with 
politics, the Lord gave them many opportunities to witness for Him and 
engage with numerous persons involved in governmental leadership at the 
state and national levels. At one point, they were able to meet Ronald 
Reagan and Loren was able to hold hands with Nancy Reagan and have a 
brief prayer with her.

Loren and Marilyn were scheduled to sing at the Kansas Day Banquet in
 Topeka in January of 1989, but on the way there, Loren had a heart 
attack which prevented their doing that. But in 1994, the couple had 
another opportunity to sing America the Beautiful at that same banquet 
of one-thousand persons, including governors, U.S. senators and 
legislators, all to the honor and glory of their dear Lord and Savior 
Jesus, and received a standing ovation. Later, while speaking with 
Senator Nancy Kassebaum in her Washington office, she told them that she
 was the first one on her feet following that song.

More than all of the things that Loren has been able to do throughout
 his life, the most important thing to him in all the world is his 
personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a desire to tell everyone he
 meets about Jesus. In the end, his desire is that everyone who reads 
this obituary or hears about his life over the coming years is that they
 know Jesus (John 3:16).

Survivors include, his wife, Marilyn Dyke of the home; two sons, 
Daniel “Danny” L. Dyke of Boston, MA, and Jerry S. Dyke and wife Kathy 
of Pflugerville, TX; a daughter, Lorene “Lore” Meltzer and husband Paul 
of Kansas City, Mo.; a sister-in-law, Gayle Dyke; a brother-in-law, 
Elden Bickley; three grandchildren, Daniel Meyer and wife Rachel, 
Stephanie Meyer, and Jeffrey Dyke and wife Alyssa; and four great 
grandchildren, Isaiah Meyer, Luke Meyer, Selah Dyke, and Asher Dyke. He 
was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, David Dyke; and a 
sister, Theresa Bickley.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, 
November 5, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends
 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., 
Friday, November 6, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home. Interment will be in 
Golden Belt Memorial Park. Memorials have been designated to the King’s 
Team, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604434584225.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Loren Henry Dyke, 87, passed away November 2, 2020, at Hutchinson 
Regional Medical Center, Hutchinson, KS. He was born October 30, 1933, 
in Malvern, Iowa, to Dale D. &amp; Maxine (Boyer) Dyke. He married 
Marilyn Patricia Mueller May 27, 1956 at First United Methodist Church 
in Griswold, Iowa. She survives.Loren was an active child and loved exploring the woods, fields, and 
streams that were all around the small farming community where he grew 
up. He suffered several life-threatening injuries and sicknesses in his 
youth, including a long siege with rheumatic fever, and possibly polio. 
At age six, he tripped right by the Methodist church and jammed the 
point of a wooden sword into his throat. Unbeknown to his parents, the 
tip had broken off inside the throat. Two weeks later, doctors in a 
Council Bluffs hospital removed that bloody piece of wood.Along with his family, Loren was active in that same Methodist church
 during his early years. He enjoyed all sports and engaged vigorously in
 all of them. In conjunction with the WWII jobs program, his dad moved 
the family to Los Angeles in 1943 to work in the Howard Hughes shipyard 
and was assigned to work on the famous Spruce Goose. The family’s 
temporary housing was in a trailer park right across the street from MGM
 studios where Loren became acquainted and often played with members of 
the Our Gang, sometimes called The Little Rascals, including Froggie and
 Alfalfa. With Froggie and other boys, he climbed a high fence to sneak 
into those studios to watch the making of films.The family returned to Iowa after the war and in 1947, Loren 
accompanied a Baptist preacher and his sons to Minneapolis to attend a 
Youth for Christ meeting in which a young evangelist named Billy Graham 
was the featured speaker. On one evening during that conference, Loren 
walked a long-tabernacle aisle to the front and committed his life to 
Jesus Christ.Loren graduated from Chariton, Iowa High School in 1951 and enrolled 
in Peru State Teachers’ College in1952, and in l953, while the Korean 
War was on, was inducted into the Army. The war ended, and Loren spent 
most of his service time in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. While there, he had a
 life-changing encounter with Jesus while serving as a Chaplain’s 
Assistant at the base chapel.Following discharge, back in Iowa, he accepted a role as counselor at
 a Methodist youth camp at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa. It was 
there he met Marilyn Mueller of Griswold, Iowa. They both loved music, 
worked together in the camp’s music program, and became best friends. 
They were married on May 27, 1956, and became the parents of three 
children, Lorene, Daniel, and Jerry.Loren taught school in southwest Iowa for five years, and during that
 time, the most spiritually transforming event of his and Marilyn’s 
lives occurred when the two of them attended a Christian Ashram in 
Salina, Kansas, a retreat movement founded by Dr. E. Stanley Jones. For 
Loren, a new intimacy with Jesus began. In 1962 he accepted a position 
as youth director at a Methodist church in Great Bend, Kansas, and in 
1963, he became director of the Kansas Ashram.In 1964, Loren began a full-time faithbased, evangelistic ministry, 
largely connected with the Ashram movement, and for eight years, on 
several occasions had opportunity to work closely with Stanley Jones. 
Loren spoke at many retreats and meetings across the US, mostly around 
the eastern part of the country and during that time, established an 
organization named The King’s Team focused on revival in America and 
have been praying for revival in the US since June 1,1970.Just before 1980, Loren and Marilyn became active in the Republican 
Party and in 1980, Loren became Barton county chairman for Ronald Reagan
 and was elected as an alternate delegate to the Republican National 
Convention in Detroit. As Loren and Marilyn became more involved with 
politics, the Lord gave them many opportunities to witness for Him and 
engage with numerous persons involved in governmental leadership at the 
state and national levels. At one point, they were able to meet Ronald 
Reagan and Loren was able to hold hands with Nancy Reagan and have a 
brief prayer with her.Loren and Marilyn were scheduled to sing at the Kansas Day Banquet in
 Topeka in January of 1989, but on the way there, Loren had a heart 
attack which prevented their doing that. But in 1994, the couple had 
another opportunity to sing America the Beautiful at that same banquet 
of one-thousand persons, including governors, U.S. senators and 
legislators, all to the honor and glory of their dear Lord and Savior 
Jesus, and received a standing ovation. Later, while speaking with 
Senator Nancy Kassebaum in her Washington office, she told them that she
 was the first one on her feet following that song.More than all of the things that Loren has been able to do throughout
 his life, the most important thing to him in all the world is his 
personal relationship with Jesus Christ and a desire to tell everyone he
 meets about Jesus. In the end, his desire is that everyone who reads 
this obituary or hears about his life over the coming years is that they
 know Jesus (John 3:16).Survivors include, his wife, Marilyn Dyke of the home; two sons, 
Daniel “Danny” L. Dyke of Boston, MA, and Jerry S. Dyke and wife Kathy 
of Pflugerville, TX; a daughter, Lorene “Lore” Meltzer and husband Paul 
of Kansas City, Mo.; a sister-in-law, Gayle Dyke; a brother-in-law, 
Elden Bickley; three grandchildren, Daniel Meyer and wife Rachel, 
Stephanie Meyer, and Jeffrey Dyke and wife Alyssa; and four great 
grandchildren, Isaiah Meyer, Luke Meyer, Selah Dyke, and Asher Dyke. He 
was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, David Dyke; and a 
sister, Theresa Bickley.Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, 
November 5, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family to receive friends
 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., 
Friday, November 6, 2020, at Bryant Funeral Home. Interment will be in 
Golden Belt Memorial Park. Memorials have been designated to the King’s 
Team, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Loren Henry Dyke

Lucille I. Stevenson, age 92, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2020, at Wedgewood South Assisted Living in Lubbock, Texas.  She was born on March 30, 1928, in Pueblo, Colorado, the daughter of Paul Frederick and Esther Gladys Bjork Moser.  

Lucille graduated from Greeley County High School in 1946 and was a resident of Tribune, Kansas, until 1950 when she married Bobbie Ray Stevenson in Raton, New Mexico in 1950.  Soon after their marriage, they moved to Texas.  They resided and raised their family in Seagraves, Texas.  

Lucille worked for the Farm Service Agency for over 40 years starting at a young age in Kansas.  She worked the majority of her career serving the Farmers and Ranchers in Gaines County then became the office manager in Andrews County the last ten years of her service. During her employment she was and active member of Texas Association of County Office employees (TASCOE), the National Association of County Office Employees (NASCOE) and served as a director off and on for years. Following her retirement, they moved to San Angelo, Texas.   

Survivors include two daughters, Bobbi R Bowling of Midland Texas, Belinda R Davis of Lubbock Texas, one brother Marvin Moser of Tribune, Kansas, one sister Catherine Hamaker of Gage, Oklahoma, six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bob Stevenson, son Brake R Stevenson, one sister Vera Woods and one brother Robert Moser.  

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, November 7, 2020, at the Greeley County Cemetery in Tribune, Kansas with Jeri Farmer-Smith presiding.

Memorials in Lieu of Flowers may be written to the First Presbyterian Church or Greeley County EMT’s both of Tribune, Kansas in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Homes.

Burial will be in the Greeley County Cemetery in Tribune, Kansas.

Visitation will be on Friday from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Tribune, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604431299845.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lucille I. Stevenson, age 92, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2020, at Wedgewood South Assisted Living in Lubbock, Texas. She was born on March 30, 1928, in Pueblo, Colorado, the daughter of Paul Frederick and Esther Gladys Bjork Moser. Lucille graduated from Greeley County High School in 1946 and was a resident of Tribune, Kansas, until 1950 when she married Bobbie Ray Stevenson in Raton, New Mexico in 1950. Soon after their marriage, they moved to Texas. They resided and raised their family in Seagraves, Texas. Lucille worked for the Farm Service Agency for over 40 years starting at a young age in Kansas. She worked the majority of her career serving the Farmers and Ranchers in Gaines County then became the office manager in Andrews County the last ten years of her service. During her employment she was and active member of Texas Association of County Office employees (TASCOE), the National Association of County Office Employees (NASCOE) and served as a director off and on for years. Following her retirement, they moved to San Angelo, Texas. Survivors include two daughters, Bobbi R Bowling of Midland Texas, Belinda R Davis of Lubbock Texas, one brother Marvin Moser of Tribune, Kansas, one sister Catherine Hamaker of Gage, Oklahoma, six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Bob Stevenson, son Brake R Stevenson, one sister Vera Woods and one brother Robert Moser. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, November 7, 2020, at the Greeley County Cemetery in Tribune, Kansas with Jeri Farmer-Smith presiding.Memorials in Lieu of Flowers may be written to the First Presbyterian Church or Greeley County EMT’s both of Tribune, Kansas in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Homes.Burial will be in the Greeley County Cemetery in Tribune, Kansas.Visitation will be on Friday from 10:00 am until 8:00 pm at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Tribune, Kansas.

Lucille I. Stevenson

Out-of-state donations fuel record Kansas campaign with GOP control of Senate at stake

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604086469655.png" alt="Roger Marshall. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Roger Marshall. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Out-of-state donations fuel record Kansas campaign with GOP control of Senate at stake</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/03/u-s-senate-the-marshall-and-bollier-showdown-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Barbara Bollier 
and Roger Marshall both graduated from University of Kansas’ medical 
school, built careers as physicians in Kansas and ended up on the same 
red-state U.S. Senate ballot in a campaign colored by coronavirus.They unexpectedly became 
featured players in the most expensive political contest in Kansas 
history. Campaign finance reports say they combined to raise at least 
$30.5 million. That would form a strip of $100 dollar bills laid 
end-to-end from Salina to Abilene, with several million dollars to 
spare. And the total excludes all the dark money pouring into the Kansas
 showdown, which became a second-tier thriller in the larger national 
struggle for operational control of the U.S. Senate.All that cash bought the 
Kansas Republican and Democratic nominees a tidal waive of advertising 
and mailers. Some of the messaging was self-congratulatory, but the bulk
 was designed to attack and conquer. Bollier was effectively labeled an 
“abortion fanatic.” The idea was planted in voters’ minds Marshall was 
“deceptive” and “got caught lying.” Bollier was “extreme” on gun 
control, while Marshall engaged in “shady” hospital investments. Bollier
 would be a puppet of socialists in Washington, D.C., and Marshall a 
hack for interests willing to harm Kansans by repealing the Affordable 
Care Act signed by President Barack Obama.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1604086532586.png" alt="Barbara Bollier. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Barbara Bollier. Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure>The solid work and 
advocacy of the Mission Hills Democrat in the Kansas Legislature and of 
the Great Bend Republican in the U.S. House was lost amid all that 
shouting.The toxic cloud got so 
thick folks rarely noticed a third person in the race, Libertarian Party
 nominee Jason Buckley. He’s a U.S. Navy veteran who lives in Overland 
Park and works as an IT contractor in the banking industry. He’ll get a 
slice of the vote, perhaps several percentage points.“I am running for Senate 
because I believe no other U.S. senator or Senate candidate has ever 
understood that the government belongs to people. And, we are not 
government property,” Buckley said. “The purpose of government is to 
protect our rights. All people should be able to live their life however
 they choose as long as those choices don’t hurt others and don’t steal 
their property.”Casting of votes in the 
Senate contest began in mid-October and comes to a close at 7 p.m. 
Tuesday. There will be an unofficial tally on election night, but final 
results won’t be affirmed for days. Polling indicated a close race for 
the seat being vacated by retiring U.S. Sen. Pat Roberts. The Bollier 
and Marshall campaigns have weighed contingency plans if the margin was 
narrow. A Kansas recount is a possibility, especially if the balance of 
power in the U.S. Senate was still in play.Such a competitive race 
for U.S. Senate in Kansas was inconceivable in 2016 after President 
Donald Trump dismantled Democrat Hillary Clinton by more than 20 
percentage points. In the past 25 years, no Democratic Senate candidate 
in Kansas has surpassed 44% in the general election.<h2>Bollier’s closing</h2>Bollier, 62, anchored her 
campaign with a pledge to fight for better access to affordable health 
care and to continue her commitment to quality public education. She 
promised to be an independent voice in the U.S. Senate and work on a 
bipartisan basis with her colleagues. A Republican for four decades, 
Bollier changed her party affiliation to Democrat in 2018.During the campaign, 
Bollier accused Marshall of running a private, for-profit hospital in 
Great Bend that contributed to closure of the community’s nonprofit 
hospital. She accused Marshall of pushing legislation beneficial to his 
family’s investment interests in health care rather than seeking 
bipartisan reforms to support rural hospitals. She said he sided with 
business and political interests keen to discriminate against the 
400,000 Kansans with a pre-existing medical condition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604422556227.jpeg" alt="U.S. Senate candidate Barbara Bollier, a state senator from Mission Hills, says she will be an independent voice for Kansas in Washington, D.C. and a keen advocate for greater access to affordable health care. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Senate candidate Barbara Bollier, a state senator from Mission Hills, says she will be an independent voice for Kansas in Washington, D.C. and a keen advocate for greater access to affordable health care. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“Kansas hasn’t elected a 
Democart to the Senate in 88 years,” said Bollier, who sought to be the 
first woman doctor elected to the U.S. Senate. “This election, we’re not
 just making history. We’re fighting for affordable health care, working
 toward unity and bringing along integrity.”She didn’t complain relentlessly about Marshall’s affinity for Trump, given the GOP president’s standing in Kansas.Former Republican U.S. 
Sen. Nancy Kassebaum and former Democratic Gov. Kathleen Sebelius 
endorsed Bollier’s campaign for the Senate.“Barbara has the 
character, know how and compassion to represent all communities in our 
state,” Kassebaum said. “Above all, Barbara shares my belief in working 
with members of both parties to solve problems and get things done. I 
believe achieving bipartisanship and cooperation in the U.S. Senate is 
still possible.”Sebelius, who served as 
secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services during the
 Obama administration, said the U.S. Senate required people who 
understood and respected the science of public health.“Not just to get through 
this pandemic, but to deal with climate change,” Sebelius said. “There 
has never been a better time to have a candidate like Barbara Bollier.”Bollier, who was elected 
to the Kansas House in 2010 and the Kansas Senate in 2016, had token 
opposition in the August primary. She raised an astonishing $13.5 
million in the third quarter of 2020, and $24.4 million during her 
campaign for the Senate. In contrast, Marshall’s finance reports show he
 attracted $5.9 million in contributions for his Senate bid.<h2>Marshall’s pitch</h2>Marshall, 60, said Kansans
 would be mistaken to swallow the fiction of Bollier as a political 
moderate. He said the Democratic nominee would oppose conservative 
appointees to the U.S. Supreme Court, gave every indication she 
supported late-term abortions, would side with Democrats intent on 
raising taxes and would fall in line behind Democratic Sen. Chuck 
Schumer of New York.Marshall, who has 
represented the largely rural 1st District in Congress since 2017, said 
Bollier was out of touch with common-sense Kansans. He pointed to her 
praise of strict Australian laws that forced owners of 700,000 guns to 
sell them to the government in the 1990s. He said she wasn’t capable of 
understanding needs of the dominant industry of agriculture.“Barbara Bollier pretends 
to be a moderate, an independent,” Marshall said. “She calls 
confiscating weapons an ‘amazing thing.’ She believes and supports 
late-term abortion. She wants to give Supreme Court justices a religious
 test. She’s too extreme for Kansas.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604422587930.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sens. Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran, Kansas Republicans, joined with former U.S. Sen. Robert Dole to endorse GOP U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall for Roberts’ seat in the U.S. Senate. (Submitted/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sens. Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran, Kansas Republicans, joined with former U.S. Sen. Robert Dole to endorse GOP U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall for Roberts’ seat in the U.S. Senate. (Submitted/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Marshall is intrinsically 
tied to Trump in terms of COVID-19 — mirroring the president’s views on 
wearing a mask during the pandemic, taking hydroxychloroquine to ward 
off the virus and urging businesses to stay open despite risk of a virus
 that has killed more than 1,000 Kansans. The president’s popularity has
 waned since 2016, but his coattails remain long. There’s little doubt 
Kansas will support Trump’s re-election.U.S. Sens. Jerry Moran and
 Roberts, both Repubicans, and former U.S. Sen. Robert Dole endorsed 
Marshall’s candidacy. Marshall survived a crowded GOP primary in August,
 with assistance from the National Republican Senatorial Committee, 
which openly sought to derail the campaign for Kansas Secretary of State
 Kris Kobach. Marshall earned 40% of the primary vote while losing only 
one county west of Emporia and racking up a double-digit advantage in 
populous Sedgwick County.“It is more important than
 ever that Republicans maintain the majority in the U.S. Senate,” said 
Moran, a reflection of apprehension Democratic presidential candidate 
Joe Biden could beat Trump. “A Republican Senate stands as a firewall to
 stop damaging liberal and socialist policies from becoming law.”Dole, the 97-year-old 
native of Russell, began representing Kansans in Washington 60 years ago
 and was the GOP’s presidential nominee in 1996.“I know Dr. Roger 
Marshall,” Dole said. “And I trust him. He will continue our state’s 
proud tradition of common sense leadership and results. This race 
presents as clear a contrast as any I’ve seen.”Roberts, who declined to seek re-election in 2020, offered this closing advice: “Take it from Bob, and vote for Roger.”Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.