Dennis 
Charles Sidener was born to Leo and Ruth Sidener in Ada, Kansas on 
October 18, 1936, the middle of five children. &nbsp;Dennis passed away 
Monday, August 23, 2021 in Manhattan.

He attended K-12 grades in Ada and was baptized in the Ada Antioch Baptist Church.

After 
graduating from Ada High School, he attended Fort Hays State University 
graduating in 1958 with a bachelor’s degree in education.

He was united in marriage to Laurel Charlene Mauk at the United Methodist Church in Delphos, Kansas on June 9th, 1957.&nbsp;

Following
 his college graduation from Fort Hays State, he moved to Agenda, Kansas,&nbsp; to begin his career of teaching woodworking and coaching high school 
football, basketball and track. He moved to Enterprise Kansas in 1961 
teaching one year at Enterprise High School before unifying with the 
Chapman, Kansas, school district in 1962. At Chapman, he taught Junior High
 Industrial Arts, and coached High School Football, 8th Grade basketball and track.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Continuing
 his education, he graduated from Kansas State University in 1965 with a
 Master of Science degree and Counseling certificate. &nbsp;In 1981 he 
transitioned from the classroom to the Guidance Counselor and Athletic 
Director position at Chapman Junior High until his retirement in 1998.

He 
resided in Enterprise, Kansas, for 55 years attending the Enterprise 
United Methodist Church where he served as a trustee, member of the 
administrative council and a ready volunteer for many church functions.&nbsp;
 He also served on the Enterprise City Council and was a summer league 
baseball coach for many years.

In 2017, Dennis and wife Laurel relocated to Manhattan, Kansas for their retirement home.

Dennis is
 survived by his wife Laurel, son Brad Sidener and wife Marilyn, 5 
grandchildren: Rachelle Swearingen and husband Ray, Sara Meng and 
husband Justin, Matthew Sidener and wife Brooke, Theodore Budden and 
wife Emily and Mark Sidener; and six great grandchildren; 2 brothers: 
Richard Sidener and wife Lucille and Rodney Sidener; 1 sister: Charlene 
Nichols, and other nieces and nephews.

He is 
preceded in death by his parents, sister Norma Prochaska and husband 
Albert (Pro), sister-in-law Betty Sidener and brother-in-law Harold 
Nichols. &nbsp;

Visitation
 with the family will be from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Friday, August 27,&nbsp; at Wilson Family Funeral Home, Minneapolis.&nbsp; Funeral services will be at
 11:00, Saturday, August 28, at the Enterprise United Methodist Church, 
Enterprise.&nbsp; Graveside services will at 3:00 P.M. at Highland Cemetery, 
Minneapolis.&nbsp; 

Memorials may be made to the Enterprise United Methodist 
Church, Enterprise, Chapman Irish Foundation, Chapman, or Good Shepard 
Homecare and Hospice, Manhattan and may be left in care of Wilson Family
 Funeral Home, P.O. Box 166, Minneapolis, KS 67467.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629834296266.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Dennis 
Charles Sidener was born to Leo and Ruth Sidener in Ada, Kansas on 
October 18, 1936, the middle of five children. &nbsp;Dennis passed away 
Monday, August 23, 2021 in Manhattan.He attended K-12 grades in Ada and was baptized in the Ada Antioch Baptist Church.After 
graduating from Ada High School, he attended Fort Hays State University 
graduating in 1958 with a bachelor’s degree in education.He was united in marriage to Laurel Charlene Mauk at the United Methodist Church in Delphos, Kansas on June 9th, 1957.&nbsp;Following
 his college graduation from Fort Hays State, he moved to Agenda, Kansas,&nbsp; to begin his career of teaching woodworking and coaching high school 
football, basketball and track. He moved to Enterprise Kansas in 1961 
teaching one year at Enterprise High School before unifying with the 
Chapman, Kansas, school district in 1962. At Chapman, he taught Junior High
 Industrial Arts, and coached High School Football, 8th Grade basketball and track.&nbsp;&nbsp;Continuing
 his education, he graduated from Kansas State University in 1965 with a
 Master of Science degree and Counseling certificate. &nbsp;In 1981 he 
transitioned from the classroom to the Guidance Counselor and Athletic 
Director position at Chapman Junior High until his retirement in 1998.He 
resided in Enterprise, Kansas, for 55 years attending the Enterprise 
United Methodist Church where he served as a trustee, member of the 
administrative council and a ready volunteer for many church functions.&nbsp;
 He also served on the Enterprise City Council and was a summer league 
baseball coach for many years.In 2017, Dennis and wife Laurel relocated to Manhattan, Kansas for their retirement home.Dennis is
 survived by his wife Laurel, son Brad Sidener and wife Marilyn, 5 
grandchildren: Rachelle Swearingen and husband Ray, Sara Meng and 
husband Justin, Matthew Sidener and wife Brooke, Theodore Budden and 
wife Emily and Mark Sidener; and six great grandchildren; 2 brothers: 
Richard Sidener and wife Lucille and Rodney Sidener; 1 sister: Charlene 
Nichols, and other nieces and nephews.He is 
preceded in death by his parents, sister Norma Prochaska and husband 
Albert (Pro), sister-in-law Betty Sidener and brother-in-law Harold 
Nichols. &nbsp;Visitation
 with the family will be from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Friday, August 27,&nbsp; at Wilson Family Funeral Home, Minneapolis.&nbsp; Funeral services will be at
 11:00, Saturday, August 28, at the Enterprise United Methodist Church, 
Enterprise.&nbsp; Graveside services will at 3:00 P.M. at Highland Cemetery, 
Minneapolis.&nbsp; Memorials may be made to the Enterprise United Methodist 
Church, Enterprise, Chapman Irish Foundation, Chapman, or Good Shepard 
Homecare and Hospice, Manhattan and may be left in care of Wilson Family
 Funeral Home, P.O. Box 166, Minneapolis, KS 67467.

Dennis Charles Sidener

A Mass of Christian Burial for Donald "Don" Gene Boucher, 74, 
Lawrence, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 21, 2021, at 
Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Lawrence, KS.&nbsp; Burial will follow at 
Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery.&nbsp; Don passed away on Wednesday, August 18,
 2021, at his home in the care of his family and VNA hospice nurses.

Don was born on October 6, 1946, in Hays, KS, the son of Louis and 
Anna (Eberle) Boucher.&nbsp; He attended St. Rose Catholic Grade school in 
Great Bend and went on to graduate from St. Francis Seminary in 
Victoria, Kansas in 1964.&nbsp; He attended St. Thomas Seminary in Denver for
 a semester before deciding God was calling him to marry and have a 
family.

He began a 41-year career with AT&amp;T on April 26, 1965.&nbsp; During 
those years he held many positions, starting as an unlocated lineman 
based in Hays and ending as a switching supervisor in Lawrence from 
which he retired in 2005.&nbsp; He was active at St. John Parish and later at
 Corpus Christi Parish.&nbsp; He was a lifelong member of the Knights of 
Columbus.&nbsp; He and Mary were always involved in the music ministry 
including being part of the guitar Mass group at St. John.&nbsp; They were 
active in Worldwide Marriage Encounter. Don coached little league 
baseball and was a 4-H woodworking leader. &nbsp;He had a wonderful singing 
voice and along with Mary enjoyed vocalizing with the Corpus Christi 
Choir until the time of his death.&nbsp; He worked at Sears in the tool 
department for several years and enjoyed playing Santa Claus for 
customers.&nbsp; He also drove a bus for KU and was a class checker on 
campus.&nbsp; He was a past president of the Jayhawk Model Masters, a club 
for model airplane enthusiasts. His greatest pleasure during retirement 
was playing golf with friends until the later stages of Parkinson’s 
slowed him down. He enjoyed weekday coffee with the guys where they 
solved the world’s problems.

Don’s faith and his family were his greatest loves.&nbsp; He married Mary 
Linda Mumm on July 29, 1967, at St. Rose Church in Great Bend, KS.&nbsp; She 
survives at the home. He met Mary at a church youth group meeting in the
 spring of 1965 and always thought their marriage was made in heaven.

Don was a good “quilt husband” and supported Mary in her pursuit of 
the craft.&nbsp; He was proud to be known as Mr. Mary Boucher!&nbsp; He and Mary 
enjoyed country dancing for many years and Don played the bass guitar 
briefly with Cliff Downing’s band.

Other survivors include his children and grandchildren Tom (Angi) 
Boucher, Wake Forest, NC, Rebecca “Scout”, Calvin, Erin and Quinn; Monica
 (Robert) Berryman, of Lawrence, and their two sons Andrew and Zachary; 
daughter Mandy (Alex) del Valle, Lawrence, and their children Gabe and 
Sofia; and son Matthew (Amy) Boucher, of Eudora, KS, Nate, Jacob Donald 
and Joshua.&nbsp; He is survived by his sister, Treva (Gary) McCain of 
Neodesha and her two children Lisa Priesner Parr and Mike Priesner and 
numerous cousins. Don enjoyed attending the grandchildren’s activities 
including marching band, football, basketball, choir concerts, dance 
recitals, karate exhibitions and choral programs. He was a big man with a
 big heart and he will be sadly missed.

Don was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation is set for 9:00 ~ 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 21, 2021, 
at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, with a Rosary recitation starting at 
9:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00.

Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to Corpus Christ 
Catholic Church Choir, or Douglas County Visiting Nurses and may be sent
 in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629755262061.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Mass of Christian Burial for Donald "Don" Gene Boucher, 74, 
Lawrence, will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 21, 2021, at 
Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Lawrence, KS.&nbsp; Burial will follow at 
Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery.&nbsp; Don passed away on Wednesday, August 18,
 2021, at his home in the care of his family and VNA hospice nurses.Don was born on October 6, 1946, in Hays, KS, the son of Louis and 
Anna (Eberle) Boucher.&nbsp; He attended St. Rose Catholic Grade school in 
Great Bend and went on to graduate from St. Francis Seminary in 
Victoria, Kansas in 1964.&nbsp; He attended St. Thomas Seminary in Denver for
 a semester before deciding God was calling him to marry and have a 
family.He began a 41-year career with AT&amp;T on April 26, 1965.&nbsp; During 
those years he held many positions, starting as an unlocated lineman 
based in Hays and ending as a switching supervisor in Lawrence from 
which he retired in 2005.&nbsp; He was active at St. John Parish and later at
 Corpus Christi Parish.&nbsp; He was a lifelong member of the Knights of 
Columbus.&nbsp; He and Mary were always involved in the music ministry 
including being part of the guitar Mass group at St. John.&nbsp; They were 
active in Worldwide Marriage Encounter. Don coached little league 
baseball and was a 4-H woodworking leader. &nbsp;He had a wonderful singing 
voice and along with Mary enjoyed vocalizing with the Corpus Christi 
Choir until the time of his death.&nbsp; He worked at Sears in the tool 
department for several years and enjoyed playing Santa Claus for 
customers.&nbsp; He also drove a bus for KU and was a class checker on 
campus.&nbsp; He was a past president of the Jayhawk Model Masters, a club 
for model airplane enthusiasts. His greatest pleasure during retirement 
was playing golf with friends until the later stages of Parkinson’s 
slowed him down. He enjoyed weekday coffee with the guys where they 
solved the world’s problems.Don’s faith and his family were his greatest loves.&nbsp; He married Mary 
Linda Mumm on July 29, 1967, at St. Rose Church in Great Bend, KS.&nbsp; She 
survives at the home. He met Mary at a church youth group meeting in the
 spring of 1965 and always thought their marriage was made in heaven.Don was a good “quilt husband” and supported Mary in her pursuit of 
the craft.&nbsp; He was proud to be known as Mr. Mary Boucher!&nbsp; He and Mary 
enjoyed country dancing for many years and Don played the bass guitar 
briefly with Cliff Downing’s band.Other survivors include his children and grandchildren Tom (Angi) 
Boucher, Wake Forest, NC, Rebecca “Scout”, Calvin, Erin and Quinn; Monica
 (Robert) Berryman, of Lawrence, and their two sons Andrew and Zachary; 
daughter Mandy (Alex) del Valle, Lawrence, and their children Gabe and 
Sofia; and son Matthew (Amy) Boucher, of Eudora, KS, Nate, Jacob Donald 
and Joshua.&nbsp; He is survived by his sister, Treva (Gary) McCain of 
Neodesha and her two children Lisa Priesner Parr and Mike Priesner and 
numerous cousins. Don enjoyed attending the grandchildren’s activities 
including marching band, football, basketball, choir concerts, dance 
recitals, karate exhibitions and choral programs. He was a big man with a
 big heart and he will be sadly missed.Don was preceded in death by his parents.Visitation is set for 9:00 ~ 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 21, 2021, 
at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, with a Rosary recitation starting at 
9:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00.Memorial contributions may be made in Don’s name to Corpus Christ 
Catholic Church Choir, or Douglas County Visiting Nurses and may be sent
 in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

Donald 'Don' Gene Boucher

Timothy
 T. Slansky entered into rest in the comfort of his home with family by 
his side on August 18, 2021, following an illness. Tim was born in 
Plainville, KS on March 4, 1966, to Roy D. and E. Eloise (Hammond) 
Slansky. Tim was a 1984 graduate of Stockton High School. He furthered 
his education at Fort Hays State University where he earned a Bachelor 
of Science degree in Biology and continued on to Wichita State 
University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical 
Technology. He worked as a Medical Technologist for over 25 years. In his leisure time Tim loved cooking, reading, traveling and spending time with his children. 
 On October 5, 1991, Timothy married Patti L. Waldschmidt in Salina, KS;
 they later divorced. He is survived by his two children Emily A. 
Slansky of Carl Junction, MO and Joshua A. Slansky of Omaha, NE; a 
brother Terle (Kristi) Slansky of Kearney, NE; Nieces Molly (Skylar) 
Hayes of Garden City, KS and Addison Slansky of Portland, OR; and a 
Nephew Zach Slansky of Kearney, NE. Tim was preceded in death by his parents and brother T.J. Slansky. 
 Family will receive friends at visitation from 10-11am on Saturday, 
August 28th, 2021, at Main Street Christian Church, 602 Main Street, 
Stockton, KS. Church service will be held at 11am with graveside service
 immediately following. Memorials are suggested to the Main Street 
Christian Church and may be left with or mailed to Bath-Naylor Funeral 
home, 522 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS, 66762. Condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.bathnaylor.com" target="_blank">www.bathnaylor.com</a>. Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629749477605.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Timothy
 T. Slansky entered into rest in the comfort of his home with family by 
his side on August 18, 2021, following an illness. Tim was born in 
Plainville, KS on March 4, 1966, to Roy D. and E. Eloise (Hammond) 
Slansky. Tim was a 1984 graduate of Stockton High School. He furthered 
his education at Fort Hays State University where he earned a Bachelor 
of Science degree in Biology and continued on to Wichita State 
University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical 
Technology. He worked as a Medical Technologist for over 25 years. In his leisure time Tim loved cooking, reading, traveling and spending time with his children. 
 On October 5, 1991, Timothy married Patti L. Waldschmidt in Salina, KS;
 they later divorced. He is survived by his two children Emily A. 
Slansky of Carl Junction, MO and Joshua A. Slansky of Omaha, NE; a 
brother Terle (Kristi) Slansky of Kearney, NE; Nieces Molly (Skylar) 
Hayes of Garden City, KS and Addison Slansky of Portland, OR; and a 
Nephew Zach Slansky of Kearney, NE. Tim was preceded in death by his parents and brother T.J. Slansky. 
 Family will receive friends at visitation from 10-11am on Saturday, 
August 28th, 2021, at Main Street Christian Church, 602 Main Street, 
Stockton, KS. Church service will be held at 11am with graveside service
 immediately following. Memorials are suggested to the Main Street 
Christian Church and may be left with or mailed to Bath-Naylor Funeral 
home, 522 S. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS, 66762. Condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.bathnaylor.com" target="_blank">www.bathnaylor.com</a>. Arrangements and services are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home of Pittsburg, KS.&nbsp;

Timothy T. Slansky

By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>

GREAT BEND — Following three executive sessions and a recess in the
regularly scheduled meeting Monday, the Barton County Commission voted 3-2 to adjust
Phil Hathcock’s contract and remove his responsibility as County Administrator.
Hathcock will remain as the county’s Director of Solid Waste and now the
Director of Facilities. 

After the resignation of Administrator Richard Boeckman
in October 2016, Hathcock was elevated as the Director of Operations in June
2017, eventually becoming the administrator. 

Commission Chair Jim Daily said
overseeing the landfill and serving as the administrator was a heavy workload
for one person. 
 
"The landfill takes up a tremendous amount of time," said Daily. "He's 
also the director of facilities, although never with the title, he's 
always taken care of facilities. Due to the increased amount of work at 
the landfill, it has been felt that he would better serve the county if 
he put all of his efforts to those two areas." 
 
After the vote passed, Hathcock walked away from his seat as the administrator
and joined the crowd for the remainder of the meeting. Daily referred to the change
of employment as an amicable agreement between the commission and Hathcock.

The
commission was then under the impression that Assistant Administrator Donna
Zimmerman would act as the interim administrator until another person was
hired, but Zimmerman told the council she felt it was best if she was left out
of the rearrangement, and resigned as assistant administrator, still retaining her
position as county clerk. 

For the time being, the county commission will perform
needed administrator duties and are prepared to conduct special meetings to do
so. 
 
"This is going to be a priority, so we will get on this as rapidly as we
 possibly can," said Daily. "We're going to try to get this taken care 
so we're not leaving ourselves out in the open. We do need to have 
someone steering the boat." 
 
The employment agreement states Hathcock will be paid a yearly salary of $85,000
for employment as the Solid Waste Director and $15,000 as the Facilities Director.

Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir asked the commission if this was the best move, knowing the
county would likely have to shell out an additional administrator-level salary
to a new employee. When Hathcock took over as director of operations in 2017,
it saved the county money by not having a full-time administrator. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629744066631.jpeg" alt="Phil Hathcock will no longer serve as Barton County Administrator. Under a new agreement approved at the Aug. 23, 2021 Barton County Commission meeting, Hathcock will remain as the Director of Solid Waste and now the Director of Facilities." />
 <figcaption>Phil Hathcock will no longer serve as Barton County Administrator. Under a new agreement approved at the Aug. 23, 2021 Barton County Commission meeting, Hathcock will remain as the Director of Solid Waste and now the Director of Facilities.</figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF <a href="https://greatbendpost.com">Great Bend Post</a>GREAT BEND — Following three executive sessions and a recess in the
regularly scheduled meeting Monday, the Barton County Commission voted 3-2 to adjust
Phil Hathcock’s contract and remove his responsibility as County Administrator.
Hathcock will remain as the county’s Director of Solid Waste and now the
Director of Facilities. After the resignation of Administrator Richard Boeckman
in October 2016, Hathcock was elevated as the Director of Operations in June
2017, eventually becoming the administrator. Commission Chair Jim Daily said
overseeing the landfill and serving as the administrator was a heavy workload
for one person. 
 
"The landfill takes up a tremendous amount of time," said Daily. "He's 
also the director of facilities, although never with the title, he's 
always taken care of facilities. Due to the increased amount of work at 
the landfill, it has been felt that he would better serve the county if 
he put all of his efforts to those two areas." 
 
After the vote passed, Hathcock walked away from his seat as the administrator
and joined the crowd for the remainder of the meeting. Daily referred to the change
of employment as an amicable agreement between the commission and Hathcock. The
commission was then under the impression that Assistant Administrator Donna
Zimmerman would act as the interim administrator until another person was
hired, but Zimmerman told the council she felt it was best if she was left out
of the rearrangement, and resigned as assistant administrator, still retaining her
position as county clerk. For the time being, the county commission will perform
needed administrator duties and are prepared to conduct special meetings to do
so. 
 
"This is going to be a priority, so we will get on this as rapidly as we
 possibly can," said Daily. "We're going to try to get this taken care 
so we're not leaving ourselves out in the open. We do need to have 
someone steering the boat." 
 
The employment agreement states Hathcock will be paid a yearly salary of $85,000
for employment as the Solid Waste Director and $15,000 as the Facilities Director.
Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir asked the commission if this was the best move, knowing the
county would likely have to shell out an additional administrator-level salary
to a new employee. When Hathcock took over as director of operations in 2017,
it saved the county money by not having a full-time administrator.

Barton County administrator steps down

You have heard a lot about “self-care” during the past year. It is easy to get overloaded with news accounts that we really have no control over. Now, more than ever, people are hoping to find a way to cope with the feelings of anxiousness and uncertainty. It is a good time to explore how meditation and simple exercises can help clear your mind and energize your body.&nbsp;

We have a “Mindful Meditation and Do-In” class that is set to begin September 28th at the Great Bend Activity Center, located at 2715 18th Street. The three week-long class will be held on Tuesday’s and Thursdays from 10 – 11 AM through October 14th. The class that I enjoy leading with my husband, John, opens with a short meditation, followed by exercises. Do-In (pronounced doe-een) exercises are exercises for health. These exercises are suitable for older adults and anyone who is dealing with a chronic condition. The exercises stimulate the energy flow along the acupuncture meridians. The focus is on imagery, breathing and relaxation when performing the Do-In exercises.&nbsp;

During our first session I will introduce participants to a fact sheet I wrote a couple of years ago. The “Everyday Mindfulness” fact sheet offers the following benefits that come from a regular meditation practice:

If the Mindful Meditation and Do-In classes sound like something you would like to participate in, please give me a call to register. There is a $10 fee that may be paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend before the first session September 28th. Class size is limited so call our office at (620)793-1910 to sign up. I hope to see you soon!

Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>You have heard a lot about “self-care” during the past year. It is easy to get overloaded with news accounts that we really have no control over. Now, more than ever, people are hoping to find a way to cope with the feelings of anxiousness and uncertainty. It is a good time to explore how meditation and simple exercises can help clear your mind and energize your body.&nbsp;We have a “Mindful Meditation and Do-In” class that is set to begin September 28th at the Great Bend Activity Center, located at 2715 18th Street. The three week-long class will be held on Tuesday’s and Thursdays from 10 – 11 AM through October 14th. The class that I enjoy leading with my husband, John, opens with a short meditation, followed by exercises. Do-In (pronounced doe-een) exercises are exercises for health. These exercises are suitable for older adults and anyone who is dealing with a chronic condition. The exercises stimulate the energy flow along the acupuncture meridians. The focus is on imagery, breathing and relaxation when performing the Do-In exercises.&nbsp;During our first session I will introduce participants to a fact sheet I wrote a couple of years ago. The “Everyday Mindfulness” fact sheet offers the following benefits that come from a regular meditation practice:<ul>
 <li>Increased ability to relax</li><li>Improved concentration</li><li>Increased energy and enthusiasm for life</li><li>Increased creativity</li><li>Increased self-awareness</li><li>Improved self-esteem</li><li>Improved work/school performance</li>
 </ul>If the Mindful Meditation and Do-In classes sound like something you would like to participate in, please give me a call to register. There is a $10 fee that may be paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend before the first session September 28th. Class size is limited so call our office at (620)793-1910 to sign up. I hope to see you soon!Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Self-care is more important than ever 

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – Two Kansas men are facing prison sentences after taking part in a pair of bank robberies, according to the United State's Attorney.

A federal jury convicted Michael Shiferaw, 22, of Olathe of two counts of Armed Bank Robbery and two counts of Discharging a Firearm in Connection with a Bank Robbery. Kenya Breakfield, 23, of Olathe pleaded guilty to one count of Armed Bank Robbery and one count of Discharging a Firearm in Connection with a Bank Robbery.

According to court documents, in October 2018, Shiferaw and Breakfield went into a Wells Fargo bank in Leawood, Kansas wearing face masks and carrying handguns. Shiferaw fired a shot into the ceiling upon entering. 

He then pointed a gun at the tellers and forced them to fill a duffel bag with money. The men fired another round into the ceiling, yelling “happy holidays” before fleeing the bank with the money.

In March 2019, the men robbed the Commerce Bank in Roeland Park, Kansas. This time Breakfield remained in the vehicle as the getaway driver, and Shiferaw entered the bank alone. Shiferaw fired four rounds during the robbery, including one aimed at a customer trying to enter the bank.

The defendants were arrested shortly after the second robbery, and law enforcement recovered the firearm used in both crimes. Prosecutors agreed to drop the charges against Breakfield in connection with the Commerce Bank robbery in exchange for his guilty plea in the Wells Fargo case. 

A Bank Robbery conviction carries a maximum of 25 years in prison for each count. A conviction of Discharging a Firearm During a Bank Robbery carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, consecutive with any other sentence.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Olathe Police Department, Leawood Police Department, Roeland Park Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629232104778.png" alt="Shiferaw-photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Shiferaw-photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KAN. – Two Kansas men are facing prison sentences after taking part in a pair of bank robberies, according to the United State's Attorney.A federal jury convicted Michael Shiferaw, 22, of Olathe of two counts of Armed Bank Robbery and two counts of Discharging a Firearm in Connection with a Bank Robbery. Kenya Breakfield, 23, of Olathe pleaded guilty to one count of Armed Bank Robbery and one count of Discharging a Firearm in Connection with a Bank Robbery.According to court documents, in October 2018, Shiferaw and Breakfield went into a Wells Fargo bank in Leawood, Kansas wearing face masks and carrying handguns. Shiferaw fired a shot into the ceiling upon entering. He then pointed a gun at the tellers and forced them to fill a duffel bag with money. The men fired another round into the ceiling, yelling “happy holidays” before fleeing the bank with the money.In March 2019, the men robbed the Commerce Bank in Roeland Park, Kansas. This time Breakfield remained in the vehicle as the getaway driver, and Shiferaw entered the bank alone. Shiferaw fired four rounds during the robbery, including one aimed at a customer trying to enter the bank.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629232187579.png" alt="Breakfield-photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Breakfield-photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The defendants were arrested shortly after the second robbery, and law enforcement recovered the firearm used in both crimes. Prosecutors agreed to drop the charges against Breakfield in connection with the Commerce Bank robbery in exchange for his guilty plea in the Wells Fargo case. Shiferaw elected to go to trial.A Bank Robbery conviction carries a maximum of 25 years in prison for each count. A conviction of Discharging a Firearm During a Bank Robbery carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, consecutive with any other sentence.The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Olathe Police Department, Leawood Police Department, Roeland Park Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service investigated the case.

Kansas man fired gun at customers during bank robbery

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service has launched a new feature allowing any 
family receiving monthly Child Tax Credit payments to quickly and easily
 update their mailing address using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-update-portal">Child Tax Credit Update Portal</a>,
 found exclusively on IRS.gov. This feature will help any family that 
chooses to receive their payment by paper check avoid mailing delays or 
even having a check returned as undeliverable.

Any family can easily have their September check and all future 
checks sent to their new address by using the portal to make an address 
change request. To have the change take effect in September, people need
 to complete the request before midnight Eastern Time on Monday, August 
30. Families can still make changes after that date, but their request 
will not be effective until the next scheduled monthly payment.

If you change your mailing address using the Child Tax Credit Update 
Portal, the IRS will use this updated address for all future IRS 
correspondence so the address change feature can also be helpful to 
taxpayers that are receiving payments by direct deposit. For example, 
the IRS will mail a year-end summary statement (Letter 6419) to all 
taxpayers who have received advance Child Tax Credit payments during 
2021 and having a current address on file with the IRS will ensure 
prompt delivery of this statement.

Families will need Letter 6419 to quickly and accurately fill out 
their 2021 federal income tax return next year. This is important 
because, for most families, the advance payments they are receiving 
during 2021 cover only half of the total credit. They will claim the 
remaining portion on their 2021 tax return.

The address change feature joins a growing set of services available 
through the Child Tax Credit Update Portal. Available only on IRS.gov, 
the portal already allows families to verify their eligibility for the 
payments and then, if they choose to:

Any of these changes made before midnight ET on August 30, will 
apply to the September 15 payment and all subsequent monthly payments, 
scheduled for October 15, November 15, and December 15.

Future enhancements are planned for the Child Tax Credit Portal

Later this year, families will also be able to use the Update Portal tool to:

Latest information for the Child Tax Credit payments on IRS.gov

The IRS has created a special Advance Child Tax Credit 2021 page 
designed to provide the most up-to-date information about the credit and
 the advance payments. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>.

The web page now features an updated set of <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">frequently asked questions</a> and the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5549.pdf">Publication 5549, IRS User Guide: Child Tax Credit Update Portal</a>.
 It also provides direct links to the portal, as well as two other 
online tools — the Non-Filer Sign Up Tool and the Child Tax Credit 
Eligibility Assistant — and other useful resources.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service has launched a new feature allowing any 
family receiving monthly Child Tax Credit payments to quickly and easily
 update their mailing address using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-update-portal">Child Tax Credit Update Portal</a>,
 found exclusively on IRS.gov. This feature will help any family that 
chooses to receive their payment by paper check avoid mailing delays or 
even having a check returned as undeliverable.Any family can easily have their September check and all future 
checks sent to their new address by using the portal to make an address 
change request. To have the change take effect in September, people need
 to complete the request before midnight Eastern Time on Monday, August 
30. Families can still make changes after that date, but their request 
will not be effective until the next scheduled monthly payment.If you change your mailing address using the Child Tax Credit Update 
Portal, the IRS will use this updated address for all future IRS 
correspondence so the address change feature can also be helpful to 
taxpayers that are receiving payments by direct deposit. For example, 
the IRS will mail a year-end summary statement (Letter 6419) to all 
taxpayers who have received advance Child Tax Credit payments during 
2021 and having a current address on file with the IRS will ensure 
prompt delivery of this statement.Families will need Letter 6419 to quickly and accurately fill out 
their 2021 federal income tax return next year. This is important 
because, for most families, the advance payments they are receiving 
during 2021 cover only half of the total credit. They will claim the 
remaining portion on their 2021 tax return.The address change feature joins a growing set of services available 
through the Child Tax Credit Update Portal. Available only on IRS.gov, 
the portal already allows families to verify their eligibility for the 
payments and then, if they choose to:<ul>
 <li>Switch from receiving a paper check to direct deposit;</li><li>Change the account where their payment is direct deposited; or</li><li>Stop monthly payments for the rest of 2021.</li>
 </ul>Any of these changes made before midnight ET on August 30, will 
apply to the September 15 payment and all subsequent monthly payments, 
scheduled for October 15, November 15, and December 15.<h2>Future enhancements are planned for the Child Tax Credit Portal</h2>Later this year, families will also be able to use the Update Portal tool to:<ul>
 <li>Add or remove children in most situations;</li><li>Report a change in marital status; or</li><li>Report a significant change in income.</li>
 </ul><h2>Latest information for the Child Tax Credit payments on IRS.gov</h2>The IRS has created a special Advance Child Tax Credit 2021 page 
designed to provide the most up-to-date information about the credit and
 the advance payments. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>.The web page now features an updated set of <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">frequently asked questions</a> and the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5549.pdf">Publication 5549, IRS User Guide: Child Tax Credit Update Portal</a>.
 It also provides direct links to the portal, as well as two other 
online tools — the Non-Filer Sign Up Tool and the Child Tax Credit 
Eligibility Assistant — and other useful resources.

Updates for Child Tax Credit payment must be completed by Aug. 30

Elizabeth L. “Betty” (Weigel) Denning, age 73, former Victoria, Kansas, resident died Thursday, August 19, 2021, at Diversicare of Council Grove, Kansas.

She was born November 11, 1947, in Hays, Kansas to Alfred G. and Mary Anna (Hammerschmidt) Weigel.&nbsp; She married Dennis L. Denning on October 15, 1977 at Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; He preceded her in death on August 9, 2014.

Betty was a bookkeeper for over 40 years.&nbsp; She worked at Home Lumber Company, Kansas Producers Gas Company, and Wasinger Brothers Plumbing-Heating &amp; Air all of Hays.&nbsp; She grew up in Victoria, and was a 1965 graduate of Victoria High School.&nbsp; She was a member of The Basilica of St. Fidelis and&nbsp; Christian Mothers both of Victoria.&nbsp; She volunteered a lot in the church, the community, Girl Scouts and served on the Ellis County Council Cancer.

Survivors include her daughter, Alicia Kelley and husband, Michael, Council Grove; three grandchildren, Ava, Owen and Everly Kelley; four sisters, Theresa Klaus and Agnes Weigel, both of Hays, KS; Twila Weigel, Victoria, KS; Stella Weigel, Salina, KS; one brother-in-law, Morris Denning and wife, Janet, Hays, KS; one sister-in-law, Dianne Ream, Hays, KS;&nbsp;

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; her son, Justin Denning; one brother, Thomas Weigel; two sisters, Kathleen Weigel and Norma Weigel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at The&nbsp; Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;

A vigil service will be at 6:15 P.M. Monday, followed by a St. Fidelis Christian Mothers rosary at 6:30 P.M. Monday, both at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.

Visitation is from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, and from 9:00 to 9:45 A.M. Tuesday, all at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria, Kansas.

The family suggests memorials payable to: The Justin Denning FCCLA Memorial Scholarship in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria, Kansas.

Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at the guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629487125447.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Elizabeth L. “Betty” (Weigel) Denning, age 73, former Victoria, Kansas, resident died Thursday, August 19, 2021, at Diversicare of Council Grove, Kansas.She was born November 11, 1947, in Hays, Kansas to Alfred G. and Mary Anna (Hammerschmidt) Weigel.&nbsp; She married Dennis L. Denning on October 15, 1977 at Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; He preceded her in death on August 9, 2014.Betty was a bookkeeper for over 40 years.&nbsp; She worked at Home Lumber Company, Kansas Producers Gas Company, and Wasinger Brothers Plumbing-Heating &amp; Air all of Hays.&nbsp; She grew up in Victoria, and was a 1965 graduate of Victoria High School.&nbsp; She was a member of The Basilica of St. Fidelis and&nbsp; Christian Mothers both of Victoria.&nbsp; She volunteered a lot in the church, the community, Girl Scouts and served on the Ellis County Council Cancer.Survivors include her daughter, Alicia Kelley and husband, Michael, Council Grove; three grandchildren, Ava, Owen and Everly Kelley; four sisters, Theresa Klaus and Agnes Weigel, both of Hays, KS; Twila Weigel, Victoria, KS; Stella Weigel, Salina, KS; one brother-in-law, Morris Denning and wife, Janet, Hays, KS; one sister-in-law, Dianne Ream, Hays, KS;&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; her son, Justin Denning; one brother, Thomas Weigel; two sisters, Kathleen Weigel and Norma Weigel.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at The&nbsp; Basilica of St. Fidelis, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial in St. Fidelis Cemetery, Victoria, Kansas.&nbsp;A vigil service will be at 6:15 P.M. Monday, followed by a St. Fidelis Christian Mothers rosary at 6:30 P.M. Monday, both at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, 412 Main Street, Victoria, Kansas 67671.Visitation is from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Monday, and from 9:00 to 9:45 A.M. Tuesday, all at Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria, Kansas.The family suggests memorials payable to: The Justin Denning FCCLA Memorial Scholarship in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary, Victoria, Kansas.Condolences can be sent via e-mail to <a href="mailto:clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net">clinesmortuary@eaglecom.net</a> or can be left at the guest book at <a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.

Elizabeth L. 'Betty' (Weigel) Denning

WASHINGTON (AP) —The Biden administration announced Thursday it will automatically erase student loan debt for more than 300,000 Americans with severe disabilities that leave them unable to earn significant incomes.

The move will wipe out more than $5.8 billion in debt, according to the Education Department, and it marks the start of a broader overhaul of a program that has been criticized for having overly burdensome rules.

“We’ve heard loud and clear from borrowers with disabilities and advocates about the need for this change and we are excited to follow through on it,” Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement.

The federal government offers student debt relief for people who are “totally and permanently disabled” and have limited incomes. But the current rules require them to submit documentation of their disability and undergo a three-year monitoring period to prove they’re earning little pay.

Tens of thousands of people have been dropped from the program and had their loans reinstated simply because they failed to submit proof of their earnings, however, and critics say the complex rules deter some from applying.

Advocates have pressed the Education Department to eliminate the monitoring period entirely and to provide automatic debt relief to people who the Social Security Administration already identifies as permanently disabled.

Under the new action, both demands will be met. Starting in September, the Education Department will start erasing student debt for 323,000 Americans identified in Social Security records as being permanently disabled.

Borrowers will be notified once they have been approved for relief. All of the loans are expected to be discharged by the end of the year.

The department also plans to eliminate the program’s three-year monitoring period, which was previously suspended during the pandemic. That change is expected to be cemented during a federal rulemaking process set to start in October, the agency said.

“This is going to be a smooth process for our borrowers,” Cardona said in a call with reporters. “They’re not going to have to be applying for it or getting bogged down by paperwork.”

Advocates celebrated the change as a victory. Aaron Ament, president of the National Student Legal Defense Network, called it a “life-changing” step.

“This is a huge moment for hundreds of thousands of borrowers with disabilities who can now move on with their lives and won’t be trapped in a cycle of debt,” he said.

Democrats in Congress said it was the right move. Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va., chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee, said borrowers shouldn’t face paperwork and other administrative hurdles if the federal government already knows they’re eligible for loan forgiveness.

“With this simple and sensible change, more than 320,000 borrowers and their families are being freed from the burden of student loans that they should not have to repay,” Scott said in a statement.

The program has faced scrutiny since 2016, when a federal watchdog agency found that the income reporting process posed an obstacle for borrowers. In 98% of cases in which loans were restored, it was because borrowers did not submit paperwork, not because their earnings were too high, the U.S. Government Accountability Office reported.

The Trump administration started granting automatic loan cancellations to eligible military veterans in 2019, but the move did not apply to hundreds of thousands of other Americans with disabilities.

In March, the Education Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-f78bae481c408b19c96a7ab1a3e426da">canceled debt</a>&nbsp;for more than 40,000 borrowers whose debt had been restored because of paperwork issues, but it indicated further changes would need to come through a federal rulemaking process.

Cardona announced the change as the White House faces mounting pressure to pursue wider debt forgiveness.

Democrats including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, N.Y., and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Mass.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-joe-biden-business-education-0c2776d99aadef0ca3931eb6098c853b">have called on Biden to erase $50,000&nbsp;</a>in student debt for all borrowers as a way to jumpstart the economy.

Biden has asked the Education and Justice departments to assess the legality of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-business-985cd1e840698acd547d5032764a5c68">mass debt cancellation</a>. Cardona said Thursday that those conversations are “still underway.” Meanwhile, he said, his agency is working to improve other debt forgiveness programs that target specific groups of borrowers.

“It’s an effort to show that we are working to improve targeted loan relief and help our borrowers,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616100370459.png" alt="“We’ve heard loud and clear from borrowers with disabilities and advocates about the need for this change and we are excited to follow through on it,” Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement." />
 <figcaption>“We’ve heard loud and clear from borrowers with disabilities and advocates about the need for this change and we are excited to follow through on it,” Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —The Biden administration announced Thursday it will automatically erase student loan debt for more than 300,000 Americans with severe disabilities that leave them unable to earn significant incomes.The move will wipe out more than $5.8 billion in debt, according to the Education Department, and it marks the start of a broader overhaul of a program that has been criticized for having overly burdensome rules.“We’ve heard loud and clear from borrowers with disabilities and advocates about the need for this change and we are excited to follow through on it,” Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a statement.The federal government offers student debt relief for people who are “totally and permanently disabled” and have limited incomes. But the current rules require them to submit documentation of their disability and undergo a three-year monitoring period to prove they’re earning little pay.Tens of thousands of people have been dropped from the program and had their loans reinstated simply because they failed to submit proof of their earnings, however, and critics say the complex rules deter some from applying.Advocates have pressed the Education Department to eliminate the monitoring period entirely and to provide automatic debt relief to people who the Social Security Administration already identifies as permanently disabled.Under the new action, both demands will be met. Starting in September, the Education Department will start erasing student debt for 323,000 Americans identified in Social Security records as being permanently disabled.Borrowers will be notified once they have been approved for relief. All of the loans are expected to be discharged by the end of the year.The department also plans to eliminate the program’s three-year monitoring period, which was previously suspended during the pandemic. That change is expected to be cemented during a federal rulemaking process set to start in October, the agency said.“This is going to be a smooth process for our borrowers,” Cardona said in a call with reporters. “They’re not going to have to be applying for it or getting bogged down by paperwork.”Advocates celebrated the change as a victory. Aaron Ament, president of the National Student Legal Defense Network, called it a “life-changing” step.“This is a huge moment for hundreds of thousands of borrowers with disabilities who can now move on with their lives and won’t be trapped in a cycle of debt,” he said.Democrats in Congress said it was the right move. Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va., chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee, said borrowers shouldn’t face paperwork and other administrative hurdles if the federal government already knows they’re eligible for loan forgiveness.“With this simple and sensible change, more than 320,000 borrowers and their families are being freed from the burden of student loans that they should not have to repay,” Scott said in a statement.The program has faced scrutiny since 2016, when a federal watchdog agency found that the income reporting process posed an obstacle for borrowers. In 98% of cases in which loans were restored, it was because borrowers did not submit paperwork, not because their earnings were too high, the U.S. Government Accountability Office reported.The Trump administration started granting automatic loan cancellations to eligible military veterans in 2019, but the move did not apply to hundreds of thousands of other Americans with disabilities.In March, the Education Department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-f78bae481c408b19c96a7ab1a3e426da">canceled debt</a>&nbsp;for more than 40,000 borrowers whose debt had been restored because of paperwork issues, but it indicated further changes would need to come through a federal rulemaking process.Cardona announced the change as the White House faces mounting pressure to pursue wider debt forgiveness.Democrats including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, N.Y., and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Mass.,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-joe-biden-business-education-0c2776d99aadef0ca3931eb6098c853b">have called on Biden to erase $50,000&nbsp;</a>in student debt for all borrowers as a way to jumpstart the economy.Biden has asked the Education and Justice departments to assess the legality of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-business-985cd1e840698acd547d5032764a5c68">mass debt cancellation</a>. Cardona said Thursday that those conversations are “still underway.” Meanwhile, he said, his agency is working to improve other debt forgiveness programs that target specific groups of borrowers.“It’s an effort to show that we are working to improve targeted loan relief and help our borrowers,” he said.

US to erase student debt for those with severe disabilities

October 17, 1955
 -
 August 4, 2021

Carol Marie Engleman, 65, of Otis, Kansas, passed away August 4, 2021, in
 Hutchinson, Kansas. She was born October 17, 1955, in Hill City, Kansas 
to Francis Marion and Reva Mildred (Teter) Moore. 
 She married Ron Engleman February 3, 1988, in Morland. He preceded 
her in death December 21, 2015. Carol was also preceded in death by her 
parents; her brother Tommy, and her son, Christopher. Survivors left to 
cherish her memory include her daughter Merri Taylor and husband Jeremy 
of Otis and her grandson Myles Binger. Carol loved her family more than 
anything else and was very close to her grandson, Myles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629318793679.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>October 17, 1955
 -
 August 4, 2021Carol Marie Engleman, 65, of Otis, Kansas, passed away August 4, 2021, in
 Hutchinson, Kansas. She was born October 17, 1955, in Hill City, Kansas 
to Francis Marion and Reva Mildred (Teter) Moore. 
 She married Ron Engleman February 3, 1988, in Morland. He preceded 
her in death December 21, 2015. Carol was also preceded in death by her 
parents; her brother Tommy, and her son, Christopher. Survivors left to 
cherish her memory include her daughter Merri Taylor and husband Jeremy 
of Otis and her grandson Myles Binger. Carol loved her family more than 
anything else and was very close to her grandson, Myles.Click HERE for service details.

Carol Marie Engleman

Joyce Maureen Sarmento, of Orland, Calif., passed away Monday, August 16, 
2021.&nbsp; Born December 4, 1933, in Weed, Calif., Joyce graduated from Yreka High
 School and attended Heald’s Business College in Sacramento.&nbsp; There she 
met her husband, Manuel, and they married on October 18, 1953.&nbsp;

Together, Manuel and Joyce were married 40 years, raised three 
children, Kathleen (Sarmento) Paslay, Mark Sarmento and Terry Sarmento. 
They owned Sarmento Jewelers, a fixture in downtown Orland, for 32 
years. She was an active member of the St. Dominic’s Catholic Church and
 volunteered as a bookkeeper for the parish. Joyce was a member of the 
Altar Society, enjoyed bowling and gardening and volunteered her time at
 the Orland Food Pantry.

Joyce was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. 
She was preceded in death by her husband Manuel Sarmento Jr and her son 
Terry Anthony Sarmento. She is survived by her children Kathleen Paslay,
 husband Greg and Mark Sarmento, wife Paula, all of Orland.&nbsp; Joyce also 
leaves behind her grandchildren Elizabeth (Paslay) Jaeger, husband John;
 Eric Paslay, wife Tamara; Latasha (Sarmento) Marston, husband Donovan; 
Scott Sarmento, wife Rachel; Rick Lower, wife Tammy; Chris Sarmento, 
wife Cassie; Emmy Sarmento and fifteen great grandchildren.

Services are to be handled by Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary in Orland. A
 graveside service will be held at the Orland Catholic Cemetery on 
Thursday, August 26th at 10 AM. Joyce will be laid to rest 
next to her husband and son. A Rosary and mass in her memory will be 
held at a later date at St. Dominic's Church in Orland.

The family would like to thank you all for your thoughts and prayers 
during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be 
made in Joyce’s name to the <a href="about:blank">St. Dominic’s Altar Society</a>, <a href="about:blank">Enloe Hospice</a> or the <a href="about:blank">American Cancer Society</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629340874681.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joyce Maureen Sarmento, of Orland, Calif., passed away Monday, August 16, 
2021.&nbsp; Born December 4, 1933, in Weed, Calif., Joyce graduated from Yreka High
 School and attended Heald’s Business College in Sacramento.&nbsp; There she 
met her husband, Manuel, and they married on October 18, 1953.&nbsp;Together, Manuel and Joyce were married 40 years, raised three 
children, Kathleen (Sarmento) Paslay, Mark Sarmento and Terry Sarmento. 
They owned Sarmento Jewelers, a fixture in downtown Orland, for 32 
years. She was an active member of the St. Dominic’s Catholic Church and
 volunteered as a bookkeeper for the parish. Joyce was a member of the 
Altar Society, enjoyed bowling and gardening and volunteered her time at
 the Orland Food Pantry.Joyce was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. 
She was preceded in death by her husband Manuel Sarmento Jr and her son 
Terry Anthony Sarmento. She is survived by her children Kathleen Paslay,
 husband Greg and Mark Sarmento, wife Paula, all of Orland.&nbsp; Joyce also 
leaves behind her grandchildren Elizabeth (Paslay) Jaeger, husband John;
 Eric Paslay, wife Tamara; Latasha (Sarmento) Marston, husband Donovan; 
Scott Sarmento, wife Rachel; Rick Lower, wife Tammy; Chris Sarmento, 
wife Cassie; Emmy Sarmento and fifteen great grandchildren.Services are to be handled by Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary in Orland. A
 graveside service will be held at the Orland Catholic Cemetery on 
Thursday, August 26th at 10 AM. Joyce will be laid to rest 
next to her husband and son. A Rosary and mass in her memory will be 
held at a later date at St. Dominic's Church in Orland.The family would like to thank you all for your thoughts and prayers 
during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be 
made in Joyce’s name to the <a href="about:blank">St. Dominic’s Altar Society</a>, <a href="about:blank">Enloe Hospice</a> or the <a href="about:blank">American Cancer Society</a>.

Joyce Maureen Sarmento

Ruby Bell Palmer Seaman Bedore was born June 10, 1925, on a farm near 
Woodston, Kansas and departed this life August 16, 2021. She was the 
second daughter and one of five children of George A. and Mabel M. 
Walker Palmer.
 Ruby Bell grew up on the family farm, attended the Chalk Mound 
School and graduated from Woodston Rural High School in 1943. She 
attended a summer teachers’ training program at Fort Hays State College 
then taught for four years in rural Rooks County at Hrabe School, Chalk 
Mound and Survey schools.
 Ruby Bell married Victor E. Seaman September 5, 1948, beginning 
their lives together on a farm near Alton, KS until 1953 when they moved
 to Stockton. Her son, Dwight Seaman, joined the family in October 1958,
 and remains Ruby’s only child even as she treated nieces and nephews as
 her own. Victor Seaman preceded her in death in March 1977. She later
 married Joseph “Bill” Bedore in November 1977. Bill Bedore died in 
June 1996.
 With service to her family and the community in mind, Ruby worked a 
variety of jobs while living in Stockton, Kansas. Her jobs and 
responsibilities included work as a café cook and waitress, employee in 
cream stations, a clerk and bookkeeper for Phelps Drug Store, a clerk in
 the Register of Deeds office, and bus driver for U.S.D. 271 for 12 
years. She was a Senior Companion from 1996 to 2013. Her work as a 
Senior Companion touched many families and was a fulfilling role for 
Ruby Bell. She was a member of and regular volunteer for the Lion’s 
Club and actively attended church throughout her life.
 Quilting remained a passion for Ruby Bell, providing her with a 
creative outlet and hobby that drew in friends who also loved quilting. 
Relatives and friends who received her quilts will be kept warm from her
 efforts for years to come. 
 She leaves to mourn a son, Dwight L. Seaman and his wife Betty of 
Madison, Mississippi, grandson Travis Seaman and his wife Mallory of 
Akron, Ohio, and granddaughter Jessica Beer and her husband Alexander of
 Denver, Colorado. Great-grandchildren include Travis Seaman’s 
children, Saffron, Benjamin and Robert. 
 Family members partaking in mourning Ruby’s passing include niece 
Debra Schellinger of Stockton, KS, nephew Ron Eggers and his wife Dana 
and their children of Parsons, KS, nephew Bob Eggers of Gilbert AZ, 
niece Linda Eggers of Plainville, KS, nephew Richard Eggers of Parsons, 
KS, nephew Gail Palmer and his wife Linda of Gilbert, AZ, niece Beverly 
Medley of Hays, KS, niece Bonnie Wilson of Fairfax, VA, niece Judy 
Blackwell and her husband George and their two sons of Fairfax, VA, 
niece Janet Keller and her daughter and son in law of W. Melbourne, FL, 
nephew “Mack” Palmer and family of Stockton, KS, nephew Ray Palmer and 
family of Hays, KS, several other Palmer family nieces and far-flung 
relatives along with many great-nieces and great-nephews including Linda
 and Jim Reed and Sheri and Trinedy Henry. Family members gained from 
her marriage to Bill Bedore include step-son Larry Bedore and his wife 
Susan of Phillipsburg, KS, step-grandson Patrick Bedore and his family 
of Stockton, KS, step-granddaughter Becky Bedore and her family of 
Parker, CO, step-grandson Chris Hrabe and his family of Smith Center, 
KS, step-granddaughter Joann Hrabe of Belleville, KS, and 
step-granddaughter Shannon Schmidt and her family of Smith County, KS. 
 Those preceding her in death besides her husbands and her parents, 
are two sisters, Florence Walker and her husband Floyd, and Betty Eggers
 and her husband Edmond, two brothers, Junior Palmer and his wife Rita, 
and Roy Lee Palmer and his wife Rosalee, two nephews, Dale Palmer and 
Terry Eggers, four nieces, Shirley Desaire, Candra Shinn, Juanita Wallis
 and Joyce Groft, and step-daughter Linda Hrabe and her husband Leonard.
 Along with her many relatives, Ruby’s passing will be observed by a 
host of lifelong friends and neighbors. Her family thanks the caring 
staff at Solomon Valley Manor for years of care and attention.
 A Graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at the
 Stockton City Cemetery at 3 PM. Visitation will be on Friday from 2PM 
until 8PM at the funeral home in Stockton.
 Memorials are suggested to Solomon Valley Manor and may be sent in 
care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 North First, Stockton, KS 
67669.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629295423011.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ruby Bell Palmer Seaman Bedore was born June 10, 1925, on a farm near 
Woodston, Kansas and departed this life August 16, 2021. She was the 
second daughter and one of five children of George A. and Mabel M. 
Walker Palmer.
 Ruby Bell grew up on the family farm, attended the Chalk Mound 
School and graduated from Woodston Rural High School in 1943. She 
attended a summer teachers’ training program at Fort Hays State College 
then taught for four years in rural Rooks County at Hrabe School, Chalk 
Mound and Survey schools.
 Ruby Bell married Victor E. Seaman September 5, 1948, beginning 
their lives together on a farm near Alton, KS until 1953 when they moved
 to Stockton. Her son, Dwight Seaman, joined the family in October 1958,
 and remains Ruby’s only child even as she treated nieces and nephews as
 her own. Victor Seaman preceded her in death in March 1977. She later
 married Joseph “Bill” Bedore in November 1977. Bill Bedore died in 
June 1996.
 With service to her family and the community in mind, Ruby worked a 
variety of jobs while living in Stockton, Kansas. Her jobs and 
responsibilities included work as a café cook and waitress, employee in 
cream stations, a clerk and bookkeeper for Phelps Drug Store, a clerk in
 the Register of Deeds office, and bus driver for U.S.D. 271 for 12 
years. She was a Senior Companion from 1996 to 2013. Her work as a 
Senior Companion touched many families and was a fulfilling role for 
Ruby Bell. She was a member of and regular volunteer for the Lion’s 
Club and actively attended church throughout her life.
 Quilting remained a passion for Ruby Bell, providing her with a 
creative outlet and hobby that drew in friends who also loved quilting. 
Relatives and friends who received her quilts will be kept warm from her
 efforts for years to come. 
 She leaves to mourn a son, Dwight L. Seaman and his wife Betty of 
Madison, Mississippi, grandson Travis Seaman and his wife Mallory of 
Akron, Ohio, and granddaughter Jessica Beer and her husband Alexander of
 Denver, Colorado. Great-grandchildren include Travis Seaman’s 
children, Saffron, Benjamin and Robert. 
 Family members partaking in mourning Ruby’s passing include niece 
Debra Schellinger of Stockton, KS, nephew Ron Eggers and his wife Dana 
and their children of Parsons, KS, nephew Bob Eggers of Gilbert AZ, 
niece Linda Eggers of Plainville, KS, nephew Richard Eggers of Parsons, 
KS, nephew Gail Palmer and his wife Linda of Gilbert, AZ, niece Beverly 
Medley of Hays, KS, niece Bonnie Wilson of Fairfax, VA, niece Judy 
Blackwell and her husband George and their two sons of Fairfax, VA, 
niece Janet Keller and her daughter and son in law of W. Melbourne, FL, 
nephew “Mack” Palmer and family of Stockton, KS, nephew Ray Palmer and 
family of Hays, KS, several other Palmer family nieces and far-flung 
relatives along with many great-nieces and great-nephews including Linda
 and Jim Reed and Sheri and Trinedy Henry. Family members gained from 
her marriage to Bill Bedore include step-son Larry Bedore and his wife 
Susan of Phillipsburg, KS, step-grandson Patrick Bedore and his family 
of Stockton, KS, step-granddaughter Becky Bedore and her family of 
Parker, CO, step-grandson Chris Hrabe and his family of Smith Center, 
KS, step-granddaughter Joann Hrabe of Belleville, KS, and 
step-granddaughter Shannon Schmidt and her family of Smith County, KS. 
 Those preceding her in death besides her husbands and her parents, 
are two sisters, Florence Walker and her husband Floyd, and Betty Eggers
 and her husband Edmond, two brothers, Junior Palmer and his wife Rita, 
and Roy Lee Palmer and his wife Rosalee, two nephews, Dale Palmer and 
Terry Eggers, four nieces, Shirley Desaire, Candra Shinn, Juanita Wallis
 and Joyce Groft, and step-daughter Linda Hrabe and her husband Leonard.
 Along with her many relatives, Ruby’s passing will be observed by a 
host of lifelong friends and neighbors. Her family thanks the caring 
staff at Solomon Valley Manor for years of care and attention.
 A Graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at the
 Stockton City Cemetery at 3 PM. Visitation will be on Friday from 2PM 
until 8PM at the funeral home in Stockton.
 Memorials are suggested to Solomon Valley Manor and may be sent in 
care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 North First, Stockton, KS 
67669.

Ruby Bell Bedore

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

Doug was born October 20, 1959, in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; He was one of four 
children born to Wesley Eugene and Katherine N. (Dinkel) Beck.&nbsp; He grew 
up in Russell and was a Class of 77 graduate of Russell High School.

Doug has done a variety of things throughout his life.&nbsp; He worked in 
the oilfields as a roustabout.&nbsp; He was a designer for King Of The Road.&nbsp;
 He worked on pipelines and his latest employment was with USD 407 as a 
Custodian and in the maintenance department.&nbsp; He had an artistic side to
 him that enjoyed drawing race cars.&nbsp; He was a racing enthusiast that 
enjoyed attending races in Topeka.&nbsp; Him and his big sister always had a 
great time gambling.&nbsp; He was well known for his grilling and smoking 
abilities.&nbsp; He loved spending time with his family and friends, 
especially his nieces, nephews and great niece.

Doug’s surviving family include his brother, Gerry Beck (Melanie) of 
Olathe, Kansas; sisters, Paula Shoemaker (Calvin) and Dianne Crawford of
 Victoria, Kansas; nieces, Madison Beck of Lawrence, Kansas, Julie Dawn 
of Seattle, Washington and McKayla Parton of Victoria, Kansas; nephew, 
Noah Beck of Olathe, Kansas; and great niece, Emma Parton of Victoria, 
Kansas.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents. 

A memorial service to 
celebrate Doug’s life will be held at a later date.&nbsp; Cremation has been 
selected by the family.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, 
Kansas, is in charge of the memorial arrangements.

Douglas A. Beck, 61, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Monday, August 9, 2021 at the Russell Regional Hospital.Doug was born October 20, 1959, in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; He was one of four 
children born to Wesley Eugene and Katherine N. (Dinkel) Beck.&nbsp; He grew 
up in Russell and was a Class of 77 graduate of Russell High School.Doug has done a variety of things throughout his life.&nbsp; He worked in 
the oilfields as a roustabout.&nbsp; He was a designer for King Of The Road.&nbsp;
 He worked on pipelines and his latest employment was with USD 407 as a 
Custodian and in the maintenance department.&nbsp; He had an artistic side to
 him that enjoyed drawing race cars.&nbsp; He was a racing enthusiast that 
enjoyed attending races in Topeka.&nbsp; Him and his big sister always had a 
great time gambling.&nbsp; He was well known for his grilling and smoking 
abilities.&nbsp; He loved spending time with his family and friends, 
especially his nieces, nephews and great niece.Doug’s surviving family include his brother, Gerry Beck (Melanie) of 
Olathe, Kansas; sisters, Paula Shoemaker (Calvin) and Dianne Crawford of
 Victoria, Kansas; nieces, Madison Beck of Lawrence, Kansas, Julie Dawn 
of Seattle, Washington and McKayla Parton of Victoria, Kansas; nephew, 
Noah Beck of Olathe, Kansas; and great niece, Emma Parton of Victoria, 
Kansas.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service to 
celebrate Doug’s life will be held at a later date.&nbsp; Cremation has been 
selected by the family.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, 
Kansas, is in charge of the memorial arrangements.

Douglas A. Beck

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration has approved a significant and permanent increase in the levels of food stamp assistance available to needy families—the largest single increase in the program’s history.

Starting in October, average benefits for food stamps (officially known as the SNAP program) will rise more than 25 percent above pre-pandemic levels. The increased assistance will be available indefinitely to all 42 million SNAP beneficiaries.

The aid boost was first reported by The New York Times and the details were confirmed by a spokeswoman for the Department of Agriculture. They will be formally announced Monday by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

The aid boost is being packaged as a major revision of the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan. In concrete terms, the average monthly per-person benefits will rise from $121 to $157.

The increase is part of a multi-pronged Biden administration effort to strengthen the country’s social safety net. Poverty and food security activists maintain that longstanding inadequacies in that safety net were laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic, presenting an opportunity to make generational improvements that reach beyond the current public health crisis.

Activists say the previous levels of pre-pandemic SNAP assistance simply weren’t enough, forcing many households to choose cheaper, less nutritious options or simply go hungry as the funds ran low toward the end of the month.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration has approved a significant and permanent increase in the levels of food stamp assistance available to needy families—the largest single increase in the program’s history.Starting in October, average benefits for food stamps (officially known as the SNAP program) will rise more than 25 percent above pre-pandemic levels. The increased assistance will be available indefinitely to all 42 million SNAP beneficiaries.The aid boost was first reported by The New York Times and the details were confirmed by a spokeswoman for the Department of Agriculture. They will be formally announced Monday by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.The aid boost is being packaged as a major revision of the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan. In concrete terms, the average monthly per-person benefits will rise from $121 to $157.The increase is part of a multi-pronged Biden administration effort to strengthen the country’s social safety net. Poverty and food security activists maintain that longstanding inadequacies in that safety net were laid bare by the COVID-19 pandemic, presenting an opportunity to make generational improvements that reach beyond the current public health crisis.Activists say the previous levels of pre-pandemic SNAP assistance simply weren’t enough, forcing many households to choose cheaper, less nutritious options or simply go hungry as the funds ran low toward the end of the month.

Biden boosts food stamp benefits; largest increase in history

Reeta Marie Avery, 80, passed away August 11, 2021 at her residence in Larned, KS.

She was born June 6, 1941 in Lenora, OK the daughter of Marvin and 
Pearl Hart Blaine. She was a 1959 graduate of Taloga High school, 
Taloga, OK. An area resident since October of 2019 moving from Enid, OK 
where she was a secretary and worked at a Beauty College.

She was of the Methodist faith and enjoyed sewing, quilting, 
crocheting and cooking. She also enjoyed listening to Mel Tillis and 
Elvis, who was said to have asked her to be his seamstress. Dogs held a 
special place in her heart.

On April 1, 1990 she married Albert Avery in Medford, OK. He passed away May 20, 2011.

Survivors include: one daughter, Annette (Robin) Hill, Larned, KS.; 
one Brother, Cecil Blaine, Pasadena, TX. and many nieces and nephews 
along with a good friend David Kloss, Larned, KS.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son, Rickey W.
 Hill; two sisters, Arlis (Russ) Smith and Arlene (Victor) Terbush; one 
sister-in-law, Peggy Blaine.

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.

Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box, 477, Larned, KS. 67550

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629121488241.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Reeta Marie Avery, 80, passed away August 11, 2021 at her residence in Larned, KS.She was born June 6, 1941 in Lenora, OK the daughter of Marvin and 
Pearl Hart Blaine. She was a 1959 graduate of Taloga High school, 
Taloga, OK. An area resident since October of 2019 moving from Enid, OK 
where she was a secretary and worked at a Beauty College.She was of the Methodist faith and enjoyed sewing, quilting, 
crocheting and cooking. She also enjoyed listening to Mel Tillis and 
Elvis, who was said to have asked her to be his seamstress. Dogs held a 
special place in her heart.On April 1, 1990 she married Albert Avery in Medford, OK. He passed away May 20, 2011.Survivors include: one daughter, Annette (Robin) Hill, Larned, KS.; 
one Brother, Cecil Blaine, Pasadena, TX. and many nieces and nephews 
along with a good friend David Kloss, Larned, KS.She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son, Rickey W.
 Hill; two sisters, Arlis (Russ) Smith and Arlene (Victor) Terbush; one 
sister-in-law, Peggy Blaine.Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.Memorials may be given to Pawnee County Humane Society in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box, 477, Larned, KS. 67550

Reeta Marie Avery

Still time for low-income families to sign up

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and the Treasury Department
 announced Friday that millions of American families are now receiving 
their advance Child Tax Credit payment for the month of August as 
direct deposits begin posting in bank accounts and checks arrive in 
mailboxes.

This second batch of advance monthly payments, worth about $15 
billion, are reaching about 36 million families today across the 
country.&nbsp;The majority will be issued by direct deposit.

Under the American Rescue Plan, most eligible families received the 
first payment on July 15, and payments will continue each month for the 
rest of 2021. For these families, each&nbsp;payment is up to $300 per month 
for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6
 through 17.

Besides the July 15 and Aug. 13 payments, payment dates are September&nbsp;15, October&nbsp;15, November&nbsp;15 and December&nbsp;15.

Here are further details on these payments:

It's not too late for low-income families to sign up for advance CTC 
payments. The IRS urged anyone who normally isn't required to file a tax
 return to explore the tools available on IRS.gov. These tools can help 
determine eligibility for the advance CTC or help people file a 
simplified tax return to sign up for these payments as well as Economic 
Impact Payments and the Recovery Rebate Credit. People can get these 
benefits, even if they don't work and even if they receive no income.

The IRS continues to raise awareness of the expanded Child Tax 
Credit. The IRS encourages partners and community groups to share 
information and use available <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-resources-and-guidance">online tools and toolkits</a>
 to help non-filers, low-income families and other underserved groups 
sign up to receive the advance Child Tax Credits as well as Economic 
Impact Payments. People can check their eligibility for the advance 
payments by using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">advance Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a>.

Families can stop payments anytime, even after payments begin. They 
do that by using the unenroll feature in the Child Tax Credit Update 
Portal. Eligible families who make this choice will still receive the 
rest of their Child Tax Credit as a lump sum when they file their 2021 
federal income tax return next year. To stop all payments starting in 
September and the rest of 2021, they must unenroll by 11:59 p.m. ET on 
August&nbsp;30, 2021.

For married couples, each spouse must unenroll separately. If they 
each choose to unenroll, they will receive no monthly payments. If only 
one spouse unenrolls, they will still receive monthly payments, but they
 will be half the normal amount.

The unenroll feature can also be helpful to any family that no longer
 qualifies for the CTC or believes they will not qualify when they file 
their 2021 return. This could happen if, for example, someone else, such
 as an ex-spouse or another family member, qualifies to claim their 
child or children as dependents in 2021.

Links to these tools, a step-by-step guide to using the Non-filer 
Sign-up Tool, answers to frequently asked questions and other helpful 
resources are available on the tax agency's special advance CTC 2021 
page. It's at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Still time for low-income families to sign up</h2>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service and the Treasury Department
 announced Friday that millions of American families are now receiving 
their advance Child Tax Credit payment for the month of August as 
direct deposits begin posting in bank accounts and checks arrive in 
mailboxes.This second batch of advance monthly payments, worth about $15 
billion, are reaching about 36 million families today across the 
country.&nbsp;The majority will be issued by direct deposit.Under the American Rescue Plan, most eligible families received the 
first payment on July 15, and payments will continue each month for the 
rest of 2021. For these families, each&nbsp;payment is up to $300 per month 
for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6
 through 17.Besides the July 15 and Aug. 13 payments, payment dates are September&nbsp;15, October&nbsp;15, November&nbsp;15 and December&nbsp;15.Here are further details on these payments:<ul>
 <li>Families will see the direct deposit payments in their accounts 
starting today, August&nbsp;13. Like the first payments, the vast majority of
 families will receive these payments by direct deposit.</li><li>The IRS wants to alert some recipients who received direct deposits
 in July that they will receive the August payments by mail. Due to an 
issue expected to be resolved by the September payments, a percentage of
 these recipients – less than 15% – who received payments by direct 
deposit in July will be mailed paper checks for the August payment. For 
those affected, no additional action is needed for the September payment
 to be issued by direct deposit. Families can visit the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-update-portal">Child Tax Credit Update Portal</a> to see if they're receiving a direct deposit or paper check this month.</li><li>For those receiving their payments by paper check, be sure to allow
 extra time for delivery by mail through the end of August. Those 
wishing to receive future payments by direct deposit can make this 
change using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-update-portal">Child Tax Credit Update Portal</a>,&nbsp;available only on IRS.gov. To access the portal or to get a new step-by-step guide for using it, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>. A change made by 11:59 p.m. ET on Aug. 30 will apply starting with the September payment.</li><li>Payments went to eligible families who filed a 2019 or 2020 income 
tax return. Returns processed by August&nbsp;2 are reflected in these 
payments. This includes people who don't typically file a return but 
during 2020 successfully registered for Economic Impact Payments using 
the IRS Non-Filers tool on IRS.gov or in 2021 successfully used the 
Non-filer Sign-up Tool for advance CTC, also available only on IRS.gov.</li><li>Payments are automatic. Aside from filing a tax return, including a
 simplified return from the Non-filer Sign-up Tool, families don't have 
to do anything if they are eligible to receive monthly payments. The 
Non-Filer Sign-Up tool is available until October 15, 2021.&nbsp;</li><li>Families who did not get a July payment and are getting their first
 monthly payment in August will still receive their total advance 
payment for the year. This means that the total payment will be spread 
over five months, rather than six, making each monthly payment larger. 
For these families, each&nbsp;payment is up to $360 per month for each child 
under age 6 and up to $300 per month for each child ages 6 through 17</li><li>Additionally, the IRS is correcting an issue regarding the advance 
CTC payments for families where the parent(s) have an Individual 
Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and the qualifying children have a
 Social Security number. Such families who did not receive a July 
payment are receiving a monthly payment in August, which also includes a
 portion of the July payment. They will receive the remainder of the 
July payment in late August.</li>
 </ul><h2>Low-income families can still sign up</h2>It's not too late for low-income families to sign up for advance CTC 
payments. The IRS urged anyone who normally isn't required to file a tax
 return to explore the tools available on IRS.gov. These tools can help 
determine eligibility for the advance CTC or help people file a 
simplified tax return to sign up for these payments as well as Economic 
Impact Payments and the Recovery Rebate Credit. People can get these 
benefits, even if they don't work and even if they receive no income.The IRS continues to raise awareness of the expanded Child Tax 
Credit. The IRS encourages partners and community groups to share 
information and use available <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-resources-and-guidance">online tools and toolkits</a>
 to help non-filers, low-income families and other underserved groups 
sign up to receive the advance Child Tax Credits as well as Economic 
Impact Payments. People can check their eligibility for the advance 
payments by using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">advance Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a>.<h2>Families can stop payments anytime</h2>Families can stop payments anytime, even after payments begin. They 
do that by using the unenroll feature in the Child Tax Credit Update 
Portal. Eligible families who make this choice will still receive the 
rest of their Child Tax Credit as a lump sum when they file their 2021 
federal income tax return next year. To stop all payments starting in 
September and the rest of 2021, they must unenroll by 11:59 p.m. ET on 
August&nbsp;30, 2021.For married couples, each spouse must unenroll separately. If they 
each choose to unenroll, they will receive no monthly payments. If only 
one spouse unenrolls, they will still receive monthly payments, but they
 will be half the normal amount.The unenroll feature can also be helpful to any family that no longer
 qualifies for the CTC or believes they will not qualify when they file 
their 2021 return. This could happen if, for example, someone else, such
 as an ex-spouse or another family member, qualifies to claim their 
child or children as dependents in 2021.Links to these tools, a step-by-step guide to using the Non-filer 
Sign-up Tool, answers to frequently asked questions and other helpful 
resources are available on the tax agency's special advance CTC 2021 
page. It's at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>.

IRS: August Child Tax Credit payments hitting bank accounts

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A forensic audit of Salina Fire Department leave time has found that some "Chiefs of Staff" (CoSs) took time off without applying it to vacation.

The audit report is scheduled to be presented to the Salina City Commission at Monday's meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 4 p.m. Monday in room 107 of the City-County Building. As of now, the audit report is scheduled near the end of the meeting.

City officials were made aware of the potential leave time fraud in October 2019, when former Salina firefighter Tim LePage brought it to their attention, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwch.com/2021/08/05/ff12-investigation-accusations-time-card-fraud-within-salina-fire-department/">Factfinder 12 report</a>&nbsp;by Alex Flippin that aired on KWCH last week. LePage made Flippin aware of his concerns and provided documentation that appeared to back up those concerns.

LePage retired from the Salina Fire Department in July after 22 years of service. He was placed on leave until his retirement because of his reporting to city officials about the alleged time fraud, he said in the KWCH report.

According to the forensics audit report conducted on behalf of the city by Kansas City, Mo., firm BKD CPAs &amp; Advisors, city management "performed a limited initial investigation and based on that investigation, the City and counsel were concerned that deliberate inaccuracies relating to the reporting of payroll may have affected compensation in various specific payroll cycles, and potentially caused overtime and inflated vacation available to be bought back, resulting in misuse of City and taxpayer money to the benefit of the individual employees."

BKD was hired to conduct a forensics accounting audit of fire department leave time from Jan. 1, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2020. According to BKD, the "scope of positions analyzed began with the entire Fire Department and was narrowed as the analysis progressed."

"An initial kickoff call was held on Oct. 27, 2020 where City Management walked through the data and how to utilize and interpret the data. Management also identified individuals of focus and discrepancies to be aware of," BKD noted.

BKD reported finding a pattern of some "Chiefs of Staff" (CoSs) collecting time worked beyond the normal work day or shift and taking the time off later. According to the report, this is "what is commonly referred to as 'compensation time.' Generally, this time is referred to in the Fire Department's historic data as 'admin time' or 'admin days,' and more recently referred to as 'executive leave.'"

According to the report, city policies and procedures do not permit compensation time, such as admin time or admin days.

The audit noted that "Chiefs of Staff" includes the fire chief, interim fire chief, battalion chiefs, fire marshal, EMS chief, and training chiefs. It is important to note, however that, per the audit, only some of this group took admin time/executive leave.

While use of admin days ranged from one to 13 per person per year, one CoS had 20 such days in 2019, the audit noted.

"A total of 265 shifts were identified during our scope period as time off not applied to vacation, which is valued at over $198,000. In addition, we identified 24 shifts where it appears to be additional personal time or sick time not reported, valued at over $18,000," the audit report noted.

According to the report, the use of admin time did not impact the amount of vacation time the CoSs accrued.

"Therefore, the CoSs had their full allowable vacation time and/or were able to sell up to 50% of unused vacation in addition to the admin days," the audit report stated.

The report continued, "Our analysis calculated that the impermissible use of admin time facilitated over $75,000 of vacation buybacks during our scope period that would not have been possible had vacation days been used to provide the admin time off."

Additionally, the report noted the "cascading effect" the use of admin time by CoSs had on lower-ranking member of the Salina Fire Department. For instance, if a CoS took admin time, a lower-ranking member of the department had to take on the CoS's duties. Other employees would then have to assume the duties of the person filling in for the CoS.

The BKD report specifically mentioned a "Use of Executive Leave" memo from May 1, 2007, that "appeared to authorize the use of executive leave by the CoS under the Executive Staff Manual section on 'Exempt Employees.'"

Following are observations made by BKD in the report.

●The fire department did not seek permission or receive authorization from the city for authorizing executive leave for the CoSs, nor was there an attempt to confirm authorization later with the city.

●The Executive Leave Memo did not comply with the Executive Staff Manual's section for exempt employees on key points, namely the requirement for city manager approval for consecutive executive leave beyond one day.

●Leave was not being used by CoSs as authorized by the Executive Leave Memo.

●While the Executive Leave Memo allegedly solidified the practice of executive leave, admin time had been taken by CoSs prior to the 2007 Executive Leave Memo.

●The Executive Leave Memo was not well circulated among CoSs until knowledge of the city's investigation into admin time came to light.

To read the report of the forensics audit of Salina Fire Department leave time plus accompanying documents, including a timeline (37 pages),&nbsp;<a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=475631&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">click here</a>.

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA forensic audit of Salina Fire Department leave time has found that some "Chiefs of Staff" (CoSs) took time off without applying it to vacation.The audit report is scheduled to be presented to the Salina City Commission at Monday's meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 4 p.m. Monday in room 107 of the City-County Building. As of now, the audit report is scheduled near the end of the meeting.City officials were made aware of the potential leave time fraud in October 2019, when former Salina firefighter Tim LePage brought it to their attention, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kwch.com/2021/08/05/ff12-investigation-accusations-time-card-fraud-within-salina-fire-department/">Factfinder 12 report</a>&nbsp;by Alex Flippin that aired on KWCH last week. LePage made Flippin aware of his concerns and provided documentation that appeared to back up those concerns.LePage retired from the Salina Fire Department in July after 22 years of service. He was placed on leave until his retirement because of his reporting to city officials about the alleged time fraud, he said in the KWCH report.According to the forensics audit report conducted on behalf of the city by Kansas City, Mo., firm BKD CPAs &amp; Advisors, city management "performed a limited initial investigation and based on that investigation, the City and counsel were concerned that deliberate inaccuracies relating to the reporting of payroll may have affected compensation in various specific payroll cycles, and potentially caused overtime and inflated vacation available to be bought back, resulting in misuse of City and taxpayer money to the benefit of the individual employees."BKD was hired to conduct a forensics accounting audit of fire department leave time from Jan. 1, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2020. According to BKD, the "scope of positions analyzed began with the entire Fire Department and was narrowed as the analysis progressed.""An initial kickoff call was held on Oct. 27, 2020 where City Management walked through the data and how to utilize and interpret the data. Management also identified individuals of focus and discrepancies to be aware of," BKD noted.BKD reported finding a pattern of some "Chiefs of Staff" (CoSs) collecting time worked beyond the normal work day or shift and taking the time off later. According to the report, this is "what is commonly referred to as 'compensation time.' Generally, this time is referred to in the Fire Department's historic data as 'admin time' or 'admin days,' and more recently referred to as 'executive leave.'"According to the report, city policies and procedures do not permit compensation time, such as admin time or admin days.The audit noted that "Chiefs of Staff" includes the fire chief, interim fire chief, battalion chiefs, fire marshal, EMS chief, and training chiefs. It is important to note, however that, per the audit, only some of this group took admin time/executive leave.While use of admin days ranged from one to 13 per person per year, one CoS had 20 such days in 2019, the audit noted."A total of 265 shifts were identified during our scope period as time off not applied to vacation, which is valued at over $198,000. In addition, we identified 24 shifts where it appears to be additional personal time or sick time not reported, valued at over $18,000," the audit report noted.According to the report, the use of admin time did not impact the amount of vacation time the CoSs accrued."Therefore, the CoSs had their full allowable vacation time and/or were able to sell up to 50% of unused vacation in addition to the admin days," the audit report stated.The report continued, "Our analysis calculated that the impermissible use of admin time facilitated over $75,000 of vacation buybacks during our scope period that would not have been possible had vacation days been used to provide the admin time off."Additionally, the report noted the "cascading effect" the use of admin time by CoSs had on lower-ranking member of the Salina Fire Department. For instance, if a CoS took admin time, a lower-ranking member of the department had to take on the CoS's duties. Other employees would then have to assume the duties of the person filling in for the CoS.The BKD report specifically mentioned a "Use of Executive Leave" memo from May 1, 2007, that "appeared to authorize the use of executive leave by the CoS under the Executive Staff Manual section on 'Exempt Employees.'"Following are observations made by BKD in the report.●The fire department did not seek permission or receive authorization from the city for authorizing executive leave for the CoSs, nor was there an attempt to confirm authorization later with the city.●The Executive Leave Memo did not comply with the Executive Staff Manual's section for exempt employees on key points, namely the requirement for city manager approval for consecutive executive leave beyond one day.●Leave was not being used by CoSs as authorized by the Executive Leave Memo.●While the Executive Leave Memo allegedly solidified the practice of executive leave, admin time had been taken by CoSs prior to the 2007 Executive Leave Memo.●The Executive Leave Memo was not well circulated among CoSs until knowledge of the city's investigation into admin time came to light.To read the report of the forensics audit of Salina Fire Department leave time plus accompanying documents, including a timeline (37 pages),&nbsp;<a href="http://weblink.salina.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=475631&amp;dbid=0&amp;repo=Salina">click here</a>.

Audit of Salina Fire department leave time shows misuse

Donald Lee Penka, 85, died Aug. 10, 2021, at Medicalodges of Great Bend.&nbsp; He was born October 11, 1935, in Larned, to John and Mary Hazel (Simmons) Penka. Don married Lilly Dreiling Nov. 25, 1963, in Garden City.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Don, a resident of Great Bend since 1963 coming from Garden City, was employed as a clerk supervisor for Dillons and later worked for Werth’s Plumbing and as a custodian for USD 428, retiring in 1998. He was a former member of the Knights of Columbus Council #862, and a current member of Prince of Peace Parish at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church where he faithfully served as a homebound Eucharistic Minister.&nbsp; In his younger years, Don served the youth of the community as a bowling coach, and in his retirement he enjoyed woodworking and enthusiastically followed his grandchildren’s activities. Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1954-1956.

Survivors include his wife Lilly Penka, of the home; one son, Matt Penka and his wife Christi of Great Bend; two daughters, Michele Smith and husband Delbert of Topeka, and Melissa Sides of Hutchinson; and seven grandchildren, Lauren Penka, Blake Penka, Dru Penka, Sarah Smith, Samantha Smith, Ashley Sides and Braden Sides.

He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Marcene Penka; two brothers, Norman Penka and Elvin Penka; three sisters, Valetta Stroble, Cleta Jackson and Ellen Jo Penka.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Great Bend, with Father Prakash Kola presiding.&nbsp; Interment will be in Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 13, at Bryant Funeral Home, with a Vigil at 7:30 p.m. 

Memorials may be given to Sully’s Foundation for Epilepsy Research and Education (SFERE) or Kans for Kids, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628803931307.jpeg" alt="Donald Penka" />
 <figcaption>Donald Penka</figcaption>
 </figure>Donald Lee Penka, 85, died Aug. 10, 2021, at Medicalodges of Great Bend.&nbsp; He was born October 11, 1935, in Larned, to John and Mary Hazel (Simmons) Penka. Don married Lilly Dreiling Nov. 25, 1963, in Garden City.&nbsp; &nbsp;Don, a resident of Great Bend since 1963 coming from Garden City, was employed as a clerk supervisor for Dillons and later worked for Werth’s Plumbing and as a custodian for USD 428, retiring in 1998. He was a former member of the Knights of Columbus Council #862, and a current member of Prince of Peace Parish at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church where he faithfully served as a homebound Eucharistic Minister.&nbsp; In his younger years, Don served the youth of the community as a bowling coach, and in his retirement he enjoyed woodworking and enthusiastically followed his grandchildren’s activities. Don proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1954-1956.Survivors include his wife Lilly Penka, of the home; one son, Matt Penka and his wife Christi of Great Bend; two daughters, Michele Smith and husband Delbert of Topeka, and Melissa Sides of Hutchinson; and seven grandchildren, Lauren Penka, Blake Penka, Dru Penka, Sarah Smith, Samantha Smith, Ashley Sides and Braden Sides.He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Marcene Penka; two brothers, Norman Penka and Elvin Penka; three sisters, Valetta Stroble, Cleta Jackson and Ellen Jo Penka.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Great Bend, with Father Prakash Kola presiding.&nbsp; Interment will be in Great Bend Cemetery, Great Bend.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 13, at Bryant Funeral Home, with a Vigil at 7:30 p.m. Memorials may be given to Sully’s Foundation for Epilepsy Research and Education (SFERE) or Kans for Kids, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Donald Lee Penka

Larry Dechant, 71, died Monday, August 9, 2021, at his home in Garden 
City, Kansas. He was born November 9, 1949, in Garden City, Kansas the 
son of Manuel &amp; Elizabeth “Betty” (Pfeiffer) Dechant. 
 Larry has been a lifetime resident of Garden City. He attended 
Garden City schools and graduated form Garden City High School. He 
served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from March of 
1970 to October of 1971. Larry was the owner and operator of Dechant 
Retail Liquor in Garden City for 14 years. He then worked for many 
years as a groundskeeper for USD #457 until his retirement. 
 Survivors include four sisters Betty Heath of Leoti, Kansas, 
Rosemary Wasinger of Scott City, Kansas, Joyce York of Ft. Worth, Texas,
 &amp; Debra Robinson of Holcomb, Kansas; two brothers Ronald Dechant of
 Garden City, Kansas and James “Jake” Dechant of Garden City, Kansas; 
and many nieces and nephews. 
 Larry is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers Alex 
Dechant and Ken Dechant; and two sisters Linda Sinclair and Evelyn 
Berning. 
 A private family interment will take place at a later date at 
Valley View Cemetery in Garden City with military graveside rites 
conducted by the Kansas Army National Guard Honor Guard. There will be 
no calling hours.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Larry Dechant, 71, died Monday, August 9, 2021, at his home in Garden 
City, Kansas. He was born November 9, 1949, in Garden City, Kansas the 
son of Manuel &amp; Elizabeth “Betty” (Pfeiffer) Dechant. 
 Larry has been a lifetime resident of Garden City. He attended 
Garden City schools and graduated form Garden City High School. He 
served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from March of 
1970 to October of 1971. Larry was the owner and operator of Dechant 
Retail Liquor in Garden City for 14 years. He then worked for many 
years as a groundskeeper for USD #457 until his retirement. 
 Survivors include four sisters Betty Heath of Leoti, Kansas, 
Rosemary Wasinger of Scott City, Kansas, Joyce York of Ft. Worth, Texas,
 &amp; Debra Robinson of Holcomb, Kansas; two brothers Ronald Dechant of
 Garden City, Kansas and James “Jake” Dechant of Garden City, Kansas; 
and many nieces and nephews. 
 Larry is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers Alex 
Dechant and Ken Dechant; and two sisters Linda Sinclair and Evelyn 
Berning. 
 A private family interment will take place at a later date at 
Valley View Cemetery in Garden City with military graveside rites 
conducted by the Kansas Army National Guard Honor Guard. There will be 
no calling hours.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Larry Dechant

TOPEKA - The Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC), an affiliate of the Kansas Chamber, is looking for the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70eYsysZDXiWHTE9nnbAmWFNjm1g9FcdJl_ukwMnF5-L8iAURLa6v_R_vRfZNEE8PrRnKOC868ufqngm-iKk1kQP58wiK_igFSqQ==&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>.

Presented by BKD CPAs &amp; Advisors, this competition is a great way to learn about the many products made in Kansas. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for Kansas manufacturers to show their best stuff and prove they have what it takes to be the&nbsp;Coolest Thing Made in Kansas.

“The Kansas Manufacturing Council’s annual contest showcases Kansas’s wide variety of manufacturers that keep our state’s economy strong and our communities growing. It’s with great pride that KMC supports manufacturing technology and integration to embrace the future. ”said Mark Chalfant, KMC’s board of advisors chairman and president and CEO of Fuller Industries, Great Bend.

Any product that is made in Kansas qualifies for the competition.

The top 32 nominated products will set the tournament-style bracket. They will compete in weekly head-to-head match-ups. The products that receive the highest votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70eXILSxrLU2Y_BZvQFrFmw4LqNLeUAs_vP96K8D5CgGAk4Qg5ArDiwLkjgDXJ2lRUT94y24WQvEyb3Irzo07mEdA=&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">Coolest Thing Made in Kansas</a>.

The winner will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70ee7o1wr9RRn9wvH4jaTXBE1BtIq7YxHmkHM77S9pOyKrUw_uVccdZRCH-ehvutmzG9lzOmCloCqcSFZbxxJombBMgNReP43J2KFCTf4XQlX9&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at the Kansas Star Casino. All 32 nominees will be invited to display their products at the summit.

"BKD is fortunate to have the opportunity to work and engage with manufacturers across Kansas and is able to see first-hand the research, development and ultimate success of innovative products.&nbsp;We are excited to sponsor this competition and provide manufacturers a platform to showcase their products and promote the entrepreneurial spirit of Kansas manufacturers and the solutions they are bringing to the market," said Jennifer Wold, BKD Commercial Services partner.

The reigning Coolest Thing Made in Kansas is the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70eawKluIcin5R1in3h_P6Zdj-Jg-rwzB7QV1RmK0dZsMBQFT4Ts6yeXe65bBQ9f6EjIIwQ9Zkzph0cBukruXw71gs1nPsdUZk5w==&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">EMP Shield</a>&nbsp;made in Burlington. EMP Shield is the world’s first electromagnetic pulse (EMP) surge protection technology for an entire home and vehicle tested to military and UL 1449 standards from ETL. How cool is that? <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70ee7o1wr9RRn9akslXn6Ti4QlaLbti0nyFw_6hukI1aEp8kARM3z7KeUMjy7PO_2ZOVAfDXJkJf8c2gnL5VPEAdg8SOe4y7ofl9M2D8zxLRg56jzKB4FTiM1jJ7gSW6hX3e24BamgCm0x&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank"></a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628696610927.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KMCTOPEKA - The Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC), an affiliate of the Kansas Chamber, is looking for the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70eYsysZDXiWHTE9nnbAmWFNjm1g9FcdJl_ukwMnF5-L8iAURLa6v_R_vRfZNEE8PrRnKOC868ufqngm-iKk1kQP58wiK_igFSqQ==&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">Coolest Thing Made In Kansas</a>.Presented by BKD CPAs &amp; Advisors, this competition is a great way to learn about the many products made in Kansas. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for Kansas manufacturers to show their best stuff and prove they have what it takes to be the&nbsp;Coolest Thing Made in Kansas. “The Kansas Manufacturing Council’s annual contest showcases Kansas’s wide variety of manufacturers that keep our state’s economy strong and our communities growing. It’s with great pride that KMC supports manufacturing technology and integration to embrace the future. ”said Mark Chalfant, KMC’s board of advisors chairman and president and CEO of Fuller Industries, Great Bend.Any product that is made in Kansas qualifies for the competition.The top 32 nominated products will set the tournament-style bracket. They will compete in weekly head-to-head match-ups. The products that receive the highest votes in each match-up will advance to the next round, moving one step closer to winning the ultimate prize – being named the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70eXILSxrLU2Y_BZvQFrFmw4LqNLeUAs_vP96K8D5CgGAk4Qg5ArDiwLkjgDXJ2lRUT94y24WQvEyb3Irzo07mEdA=&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">Coolest Thing Made in Kansas</a>.The winner will be announced during the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70ee7o1wr9RRn9wvH4jaTXBE1BtIq7YxHmkHM77S9pOyKrUw_uVccdZRCH-ehvutmzG9lzOmCloCqcSFZbxxJombBMgNReP43J2KFCTf4XQlX9&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">Kansas Manufacturing Summit</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at the Kansas Star Casino. All 32 nominees will be invited to display their products at the summit. "BKD is fortunate to have the opportunity to work and engage with manufacturers across Kansas and is able to see first-hand the research, development and ultimate success of innovative products.&nbsp;We are excited to sponsor this competition and provide manufacturers a platform to showcase their products and promote the entrepreneurial spirit of Kansas manufacturers and the solutions they are bringing to the market," said Jennifer Wold, BKD Commercial Services partner.The reigning Coolest Thing Made in Kansas is the&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70eawKluIcin5R1in3h_P6Zdj-Jg-rwzB7QV1RmK0dZsMBQFT4Ts6yeXe65bBQ9f6EjIIwQ9Zkzph0cBukruXw71gs1nPsdUZk5w==&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">EMP Shield</a>&nbsp;made in Burlington. EMP Shield is the world’s first electromagnetic pulse (EMP) surge protection technology for an entire home and vehicle tested to military and UL 1449 standards from ETL. How cool is that? <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70ee7o1wr9RRn9akslXn6Ti4QlaLbti0nyFw_6hukI1aEp8kARM3z7KeUMjy7PO_2ZOVAfDXJkJf8c2gnL5VPEAdg8SOe4y7ofl9M2D8zxLRg56jzKB4FTiM1jJ7gSW6hX3e24BamgCm0x&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70ee7o1wr9RRn9akslXn6Ti4QlaLbti0nyFw_6hukI1aEp8kARM3z7KeUMjy7PO_2ZOVAfDXJkJf8c2gnL5VPEAdg8SOe4y7ofl9M2D8zxLRg56jzKB4FTiM1jJ7gSW6hX3e24BamgCm0x&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank">Click here</a>&nbsp;to nominate your favorite Kansas-made product. Nominations for the 2021 contest close on August 27 at 5:00 p.m. CT. <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0010OTzp5LfGcKZo_dGM1hGDBmj0zoaYIEUfNHb2tSAm42oEernlr70eT0YDRAdj0_6DuzFuSLiIXpjKjLK6zLbiKydHY8PLQJ5HoaBmrxUpcCi7M941CbkKGe2Dsc9lQM2CrYuB6WobhEDkHb92n2gKSTR6hJeZEpMG5LdjZt8vvA_MqI538VMyPfseVpyV54d&amp;c=T-lWz1ZElUOlj-l0FJAycjQB2hZfanSAMw8PMs7dLC5la45zVpB3qQ==&amp;ch=YD3ZOqfRYjA_nWYhrCMLIKmoOcFg96lKH8Ia5Jo8W2tp7JT395ee8w==" target="_blank"></a>Nomination Rules <ul>
 <li>Everyone is encouraged to nominate their favorite products. There is no limit to the number of product nominations per person.</li><li>Products nominated can be from any sector of the state’s manufacturing industry.</li><li>The company does not have to be headquartered in Kansas but the product must be manufactured in a Kansas-based facility.</li><li>The product must be made using a manufacturing process.</li><li>The Kansas Manufacturing Council will review each nomination to ensure these requirements are met. If for any reason, the nomination does not meet these requirements, the nominator will be notified.</li><li>Companies may only have one product featured in the top eight, so only one product nomination per company is encouraged.</li><li>Winning companies are prohibited from participating in the contest for one year, while each winning product is indefinitely prohibited from being nominated again.</li><li>Companies with products nominated will be notified by the Kansas Manufacturing Council.</li>
 </ul>Voting Rules <ul>
 <li>Voting during the tournament is open to the public. A voter may vote once per day.</li><li>Nominated products will advance through a series of voting rounds.</li><li>The products receiving the highest number of votes in their head-to-head match-ups during each voting period will advance rounds to top 16, eight, final four, and finally the winner.</li><li>The number of votes received will be reset at the beginning of each round.</li><li>&nbsp;New this year, the final round of final four (4) will be decided by popular vote.</li>
 </ul>2021 Contest Calendar <ul>
 <li>Aug. 10th - 27th: Submit Nominations</li><li>Aug. 30th - Sept 10th: Announce Bracket of 32, open voting</li><li>Sept. 13th - 24th: Announce Bracket of 16, open voting</li><li>Sept. 27th - Oct. 1st: Announce Bracket of Top 8, open voting</li><li>Oct. 4th - Oct 11th: Announce Final Round, open voting</li><li>Oct 11th: Coolest Celebration Reception</li><li>Oct 12th: 2021 CTMK Winner Announced</li>
 </ul>