Terri Brown, 66, received her angel wings on July 24, 2021, at her 
daughter’s home in Oberlin, Kansas. Terri was born to Melvin and Betty 
(Norton) West on March 9, 1955, in Fort Collins, Colorado. Terri lived 
in the Loveland-Fort Collins area most of her childhood. She was 
surrounded by her dad, mom, and sister Cindi (West) Grafel.
 Her parents divorced and married again bringing new people into 
Terri’s life. Melvin married Nancy Reider and her two children. A 
daughter Debbie (Reider) Gray and a son Mark Reider. Betty married 
Archie Aman and his daughter Lorri (Aman) Grafel.
 Terri married Jack Brown on October 19, 1975, in Loveland, Colorado.
 To this union they had a daughter Jackie Lynn (Brown) Winder. Terri 
moved to California where Jack was stationed in the Marines. They 
returned to Colorado in December 1977. Terri was a stay-at-home mom. She
 did part time jobs here and there. She helped out wherever she could. 
She loved to crochet and color pictures. Her favorite past time was 
collecting figurines. She loved animals, angels, and crystals. 
 Terri had the spirit of adventure, she loved road trips anywhere at 
any time. Most of all she loved spending time with family and friends. 
In 1984, she moved to Kansas to be closer to her sister Cindi and her 
family. She divorced Jack and remained in Kansas to be close to her 
daughter until her passing.
 Terri was preceded in death by her dad and stepmom, Melvin and Nancy
 West, of Loveland, Colorado and mom and stepdad, Betty and Archie Aman,
 of Loveland, Colorado.
 She leaves behind her daughter, Jackie Lynn (Brown) Winder and 
husband James of Oberlin, Kansas; sisters: Cindi (West) Grafel and 
husband Kyle of Herndon, Kansas, Lorri (Aman) Grafel and husband Kent of
 Culbertson, Nebraska, Debbie (Reider) Gray and husband Mike of Montana;
 brother, Mark Reider of Cut Bend, Montana; Granddaughters: Carmen 
(Winder) Ridpath and husband Joseph of Goodland, Kansas, Cheyenne Winder
 of Oberlin, Kansas and a lot of nieces, nephews and great friends.
 She will be missed deeply by all.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628107007618.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Terri Brown, 66, received her angel wings on July 24, 2021, at her 
daughter’s home in Oberlin, Kansas. Terri was born to Melvin and Betty 
(Norton) West on March 9, 1955, in Fort Collins, Colorado. Terri lived 
in the Loveland-Fort Collins area most of her childhood. She was 
surrounded by her dad, mom, and sister Cindi (West) Grafel.
 Her parents divorced and married again bringing new people into 
Terri’s life. Melvin married Nancy Reider and her two children. A 
daughter Debbie (Reider) Gray and a son Mark Reider. Betty married 
Archie Aman and his daughter Lorri (Aman) Grafel.
 Terri married Jack Brown on October 19, 1975, in Loveland, Colorado.
 To this union they had a daughter Jackie Lynn (Brown) Winder. Terri 
moved to California where Jack was stationed in the Marines. They 
returned to Colorado in December 1977. Terri was a stay-at-home mom. She
 did part time jobs here and there. She helped out wherever she could. 
She loved to crochet and color pictures. Her favorite past time was 
collecting figurines. She loved animals, angels, and crystals. 
 Terri had the spirit of adventure, she loved road trips anywhere at 
any time. Most of all she loved spending time with family and friends. 
In 1984, she moved to Kansas to be closer to her sister Cindi and her 
family. She divorced Jack and remained in Kansas to be close to her 
daughter until her passing.
 Terri was preceded in death by her dad and stepmom, Melvin and Nancy
 West, of Loveland, Colorado and mom and stepdad, Betty and Archie Aman,
 of Loveland, Colorado.
 She leaves behind her daughter, Jackie Lynn (Brown) Winder and 
husband James of Oberlin, Kansas; sisters: Cindi (West) Grafel and 
husband Kyle of Herndon, Kansas, Lorri (Aman) Grafel and husband Kent of
 Culbertson, Nebraska, Debbie (Reider) Gray and husband Mike of Montana;
 brother, Mark Reider of Cut Bend, Montana; Granddaughters: Carmen 
(Winder) Ridpath and husband Joseph of Goodland, Kansas, Cheyenne Winder
 of Oberlin, Kansas and a lot of nieces, nephews and great friends.
 She will be missed deeply by all.

Terri Lynn Brown

SPRINGDALE, ARK.— Tyson Foods is requiring its team members at U.S. office locations to be fully vaccinated by October 1, 2021. All other team members are required to be fully vaccinated by November 1, 2021, subject to ongoing discussions with locations represented by unions, according to a media release from the company.&nbsp;

Exceptions to the vaccination mandate will involve workers who seek medical or religious accommodation.

"Once fully vaccinated, and verified in the Vaccination Verification Program, employees will receive $200 as thank you for doing your part to keep us all safe, subject to ongoing discussions with our unions," <a href="https://thefeed.blog/2021/08/03/our-next-step-in-the-fight-against-the-pandemic/">according to a memo to team members</a> from President and CEO Donnie King.

This action makes Tyson Foods the largest U.S. food company to require COVID-19 vaccinations for its entire workforce. Almost half of Tyson Foods’ U.S. workforce has been vaccinated and coronavirus infection rates among team members remain low.

“Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is the single most effective thing we can do to protect our team members, their families and their communities,” said Dr. Claudia Coplein, Chief Medical Officer, Tyson Foods. “With rapidly rising COVID-19 case counts of contagious, dangerous variants leading to increasing rates of severe illness and hospitalization among the U.S. unvaccinated population, this is the right time to take the next step to ensure a fully vaccinated workforce.”

Since February, Tyson Foods has hosted more than 100 vaccination events for team members across the country and more than 56,000 U.S. team members have been vaccinated so far. Additional onsite vaccination events will be scheduled, and the company will continue to collaborate with local health departments and healthcare providers to make the vaccine more accessible. &nbsp;

In addition to the $200, the company will compensate workers for up to four hours of regular pay if they are vaccinated outside of their normal shift or through an external source. &nbsp;

To date, Tyson Foods has spent more than $700 million related to COVID-19, including on efforts to combat its spread, such as buying masks, face shields and temperature scanners, installing protective barriers and providing on-site testing and vaccinations. It also partnered with an independent medical provider to bring medical services on site, hired an additional 200 nurses and its first Chief Medical Officer. In addition, Tyson Foods has invested countless hours educating our team members, in dozens of languages, about the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1618924071042.png" alt="Since February, Tyson Foods has hosted more than 100 vaccination events for team members across the country, according to a media release from the company -Photo courtesy Tyson Foods" />
 <figcaption>Since February, Tyson Foods has hosted more than 100 vaccination events for team members across the country, according to a media release from the company -Photo courtesy Tyson Foods</figcaption>
 </figure>SPRINGDALE, ARK.— Tyson Foods is requiring its team members at U.S. office locations to be fully vaccinated by October 1, 2021. All other team members are required to be fully vaccinated by November 1, 2021, subject to ongoing discussions with locations represented by unions, according to a media release from the company.&nbsp;Exceptions to the vaccination mandate will involve workers who seek medical or religious accommodation."Once fully vaccinated, and verified in the Vaccination Verification Program, employees will receive $200 as thank you for doing your part to keep us all safe, subject to ongoing discussions with our unions," <a href="https://thefeed.blog/2021/08/03/our-next-step-in-the-fight-against-the-pandemic/">according to a memo to team members</a> from President and CEO Donnie King.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593167451853.png" alt="Photo courtesy Tyson Foods" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Tyson Foods</figcaption>
 </figure>This action makes Tyson Foods the largest U.S. food company to require COVID-19 vaccinations for its entire workforce. Almost half of Tyson Foods’ U.S. workforce has been vaccinated and coronavirus infection rates among team members remain low.“Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is the single most effective thing we can do to protect our team members, their families and their communities,” said Dr. Claudia Coplein, Chief Medical Officer, Tyson Foods. “With rapidly rising COVID-19 case counts of contagious, dangerous variants leading to increasing rates of severe illness and hospitalization among the U.S. unvaccinated population, this is the right time to take the next step to ensure a fully vaccinated workforce.”Since February, Tyson Foods has hosted more than 100 vaccination events for team members across the country and more than 56,000 U.S. team members have been vaccinated so far. Additional onsite vaccination events will be scheduled, and the company will continue to collaborate with local health departments and healthcare providers to make the vaccine more accessible. &nbsp;In addition to the $200, the company will compensate workers for up to four hours of regular pay if they are vaccinated outside of their normal shift or through an external source. &nbsp;To date, Tyson Foods has spent more than $700 million related to COVID-19, including on efforts to combat its spread, such as buying masks, face shields and temperature scanners, installing protective barriers and providing on-site testing and vaccinations. It also partnered with an independent medical provider to bring medical services on site, hired an additional 200 nurses and its first Chief Medical Officer. In addition, Tyson Foods has invested countless hours educating our team members, in dozens of languages, about the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination.

Vaccine Mandate: Tyson workers get $200 to take COVID shot

If there are areas of the garden that are done producing, chop and shred residue in preparation for tilling. If soils are wet, wait a few days so the soil is no longer muddy. Tilling in residue allows plant material to decompose and helps reduce insect and disease problems for the next year. Also, consider using a cover crop to hold the soil and increase the organic matter content of the soil. Small grains such as wheat should be seeded at 3/4 to 1 pound of seed per 1,000 square feet from mid-September to late October. &nbsp;Spring oats can also be seeded until mid-September but the rate should be 2 to 4 pounds per 1,000 square feet. &nbsp;Spring oats will winter kill and can be tilled under in the spring. &nbsp;Legume cover crops such as hairy vetch, alfalfa, and sweet clover provide an additional benefit by "fixing" nitrogen, thereby increasing the fertility of the soil. Each of these should be seeded at about 1/4 to ½ pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet of garden. Sweetclover should be seeded from August to early September and hairy vetch and alfalfa from mid-August to late September. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>If there are areas of the garden that are done producing, chop and shred residue in preparation for tilling. If soils are wet, wait a few days so the soil is no longer muddy. Tilling in residue allows plant material to decompose and helps reduce insect and disease problems for the next year. Also, consider using a cover crop to hold the soil and increase the organic matter content of the soil. Small grains such as wheat should be seeded at 3/4 to 1 pound of seed per 1,000 square feet from mid-September to late October. &nbsp;Spring oats can also be seeded until mid-September but the rate should be 2 to 4 pounds per 1,000 square feet. &nbsp;Spring oats will winter kill and can be tilled under in the spring. &nbsp;Legume cover crops such as hairy vetch, alfalfa, and sweet clover provide an additional benefit by "fixing" nitrogen, thereby increasing the fertility of the soil. Each of these should be seeded at about 1/4 to ½ pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet of garden. Sweetclover should be seeded from August to early September and hairy vetch and alfalfa from mid-August to late September. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Preparing the vegetable garden for next year

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A grand jury indicted a man and woman on a first-degree murder charge alleging they strangled a woman and dismembered her body, the Jackson County prosecutor announced Monday.

Kansas City-area residents Michael Hendricks, 40, and Maggie Ybarra, 30, are charged with killing 32-year-old Kensie Renee Aubry. The grand jury also indicted them on harassment, first-degree sexual misconduct and child molestation charges, among others.

Aubry went missing in October. A teenage girl who said Hendricks sexually assaulted her&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-michael-brown-8bbb5388d4a5f00b1ea2bc5acf269cda">helped police find Aubry's body</a>.

Police in July found Aubry's body in garbage bags buried in Hendricks' Grain Valley, Missouri, property.

“Our community owes greatly a child victim in this case who came forward and alerted police of the gruesome criminal activity detailed in these charges,” Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said in a statement. “Without her bravery, we might not know today Kensie Aubry’s fate.”

Hendricks' lawyer in an email said he remains “steadfast in our determination to represent Mr. Hendricks with a robust defense.”

Ybarra's public defender didn't immediately return an Associated Press request for comment Monday.

The teenage girl, who was in foster care, told police that Hendricks confessed to choking the woman and putting her body in a freezer. The girl said Hendricks showed her photos of a naked and bound woman and the chainsaw he allegedly used to chop up her body.

Ybarra was arrested in late April and jailed on sexual abuse charges related to the teenage girl, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article252836573.html">reported</a>. Police alleged that Ybarra called Hendricks from jail and asked him to throw away evidence at her house.

Ybarra is also charged with multiple crimes related to tampering with a victim. According to charging documents, Ybarra attempted to get other people to buy gifts for the teenage girl and pressure her to take back what she told police.

Police said Ybarra met Hendricks after he paid her for sex sometime last year. Ybarra has described Hendricks as both her boss and her boyfriend to police. Hendricks' wife filed for divorce within days of his June arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627949313111.png" alt="Hendricks photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hendricks photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A grand jury indicted a man and woman on a first-degree murder charge alleging they strangled a woman and dismembered her body, the Jackson County prosecutor announced Monday.Kansas City-area residents Michael Hendricks, 40, and Maggie Ybarra, 30, are charged with killing 32-year-old Kensie Renee Aubry. The grand jury also indicted them on harassment, first-degree sexual misconduct and child molestation charges, among others.Aubry went missing in October. A teenage girl who said Hendricks sexually assaulted her&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-michael-brown-8bbb5388d4a5f00b1ea2bc5acf269cda">helped police find Aubry's body</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626354604788.png" alt="Police found Aubry's body buried on Hendricks' Grain Valley&nbsp; property-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police found Aubry's body buried on Hendricks' Grain Valley&nbsp; property-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Police in July found Aubry's body in garbage bags buried in Hendricks' Grain Valley, Missouri, property.“Our community owes greatly a child victim in this case who came forward and alerted police of the gruesome criminal activity detailed in these charges,” Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said in a statement. “Without her bravery, we might not know today Kensie Aubry’s fate.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1627949238765.png" alt="Ybarra photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Ybarra photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hendricks' lawyer in an email said he remains “steadfast in our determination to represent Mr. Hendricks with a robust defense.”Ybarra's public defender didn't immediately return an Associated Press request for comment Monday.The teenage girl, who was in foster care, told police that Hendricks confessed to choking the woman and putting her body in a freezer. The girl said Hendricks showed her photos of a naked and bound woman and the chainsaw he allegedly used to chop up her body.Ybarra was arrested in late April and jailed on sexual abuse charges related to the teenage girl, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article252836573.html">reported</a>. Police alleged that Ybarra called Hendricks from jail and asked him to throw away evidence at her house.Ybarra is also charged with multiple crimes related to tampering with a victim. According to charging documents, Ybarra attempted to get other people to buy gifts for the teenage girl and pressure her to take back what she told police.Police said Ybarra met Hendricks after he paid her for sex sometime last year. Ybarra has described Hendricks as both her boss and her boyfriend to police. Hendricks' wife filed for divorce within days of his June arrest.

KC-area couple charged with killing, dismembering woman

Gloria Ann Dockstader, 82, of Bunker Hill, Kansas, died on Thursday, 
July 22, 2021, at the Homestead Assisted Living Center in Russell, 
Kansas.

Gloria was born on March 18, 1939, on the family farm in Bunker Hill,
 Kansas, the daughter of Guy and Elenore (Sharp) Duvall.&nbsp; The youngest 
of 10 kids she grew up on the farm known today as Duvall Cove and 
graduated from Bunker Hill High School in 1957, and later graduated from
 Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp; She met fell in love and was 
united in marriage to Robert “Bob” Louis Dockstader on September 14, 
1962 in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; From this union Gloria and Robert were blessed
 with two daughters, Patty and Elizabeth.&nbsp; They made their home in rural
 Russell, Kansas, north of Bunker Hill.&nbsp; She worked as a homemaker and 
farm wife, working together with her husband on the family farm. &nbsp;Bob 
preceded her in death on October 05, 2005.&nbsp; After Bob’s passing, for 
many years, she continued to enjoy raising cattle and horses.&nbsp; She also 
enjoyed driving around the country roads, seeing family and spending 
time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving family include her daughters Elizabeth Krape and husband 
Tad of St. Lucie, Florida and Patty Krape of Russell, Kansas;&nbsp; 2 
grandchildren Ashley Hopper and husband Jeremy of Russell, Kansas and 
Mary Carabajal and husband Calen of Lawrence, Kansas and 2 great 
grandchildren Abigal and Janae Hopper of Russell, Kansas.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, brothers Guy, Duane 
and Dean Duvall and sisters Mary Chard, Isabel Letsch, Vivian Steinle, 
Betty Neill, Wilma Mills and Elnora Cook. There will be a private family
 service at a later date and cremation has been selected.&nbsp; An open 
visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Thursday, August 5, 2021, 
at the mortuary, with family greeting guests from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. 
Thursday evening.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is 
in charge of the arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627409837458.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gloria Ann Dockstader, 82, of Bunker Hill, Kansas, died on Thursday, 
July 22, 2021, at the Homestead Assisted Living Center in Russell, 
Kansas.Gloria was born on March 18, 1939, on the family farm in Bunker Hill,
 Kansas, the daughter of Guy and Elenore (Sharp) Duvall.&nbsp; The youngest 
of 10 kids she grew up on the farm known today as Duvall Cove and 
graduated from Bunker Hill High School in 1957, and later graduated from
 Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska.&nbsp; She met fell in love and was 
united in marriage to Robert “Bob” Louis Dockstader on September 14, 
1962 in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; From this union Gloria and Robert were blessed
 with two daughters, Patty and Elizabeth.&nbsp; They made their home in rural
 Russell, Kansas, north of Bunker Hill.&nbsp; She worked as a homemaker and 
farm wife, working together with her husband on the family farm. &nbsp;Bob 
preceded her in death on October 05, 2005.&nbsp; After Bob’s passing, for 
many years, she continued to enjoy raising cattle and horses.&nbsp; She also 
enjoyed driving around the country roads, seeing family and spending 
time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.Surviving family include her daughters Elizabeth Krape and husband 
Tad of St. Lucie, Florida and Patty Krape of Russell, Kansas;&nbsp; 2 
grandchildren Ashley Hopper and husband Jeremy of Russell, Kansas and 
Mary Carabajal and husband Calen of Lawrence, Kansas and 2 great 
grandchildren Abigal and Janae Hopper of Russell, Kansas.She was also preceded in death by her parents, brothers Guy, Duane 
and Dean Duvall and sisters Mary Chard, Isabel Letsch, Vivian Steinle, 
Betty Neill, Wilma Mills and Elnora Cook. There will be a private family
 service at a later date and cremation has been selected.&nbsp; An open 
visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Thursday, August 5, 2021, 
at the mortuary, with family greeting guests from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. 
Thursday evening.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is 
in charge of the arrangements.

Gloria Ann Dockstader

Birney Joseph Feldt passed away at Parker Adventist Hospital, Parker, 
Colorado, Thursday, July 22, 2021, at the age of 59. He was born to 
Robert and Leona (Cousins) Feldt on October 2, 1961, in Hoxie, Kansas. 
Birney was the youngest of three boys. He grew up on a farm outside of 
Menlo, Kansas and attended Hoxie Grade School and Hoxie High School, 
graduating with the class of 1979. 
 On April 19, 1980, in Leoville, Kansas, Birney married the love of 
his life and best friend, Virginia (Zodrow) Feldt. They were blest with
 two daughters, Angela and Erin. 
 After 36 years of living and raising their family in Hoxie, Birney 
and Virginia made the difficult decision to leave the only place they 
had ever called home to embark on a new journey in Kearney, NE. 
 Birney had many hobbies that kept him busy. He always had a passion 
for farming and raising animals. He loved raising cattle and pigs. He 
was co-owner of Elevated Pastures, a custom poultry and pork farm in 
Colorado. He enjoyed playing golf and visiting new golf courses. In 
the spring, Birney would enjoy fishing and going to the lake. He enjoyed
 opening weekend of pheasant hunting with friends and family. His 
biggest joy, however, came from spending time with his wife, Virginia. 
He loved his wife, girls, and grandchildren, and they were the most 
important thing in the world to him.
 Birney was a member St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, 
Kansas; Prince of Peace Catholic Church, Kearney, Nebraska; Our Lady of 
the Visitation Catholic Church, Elizabeth, CO, Knights of Columbus, and 
Hoxie Golf Club. 
 Birney is survived by his daughters Angela Paulsen and her husband 
Jeff of Lincoln, Nebraska; Erin Bieker and her husband Brent of 
Elizabeth, Colorado; grandchildren, Hayden Bieker, Jacob Paulsen, Tessa 
Bieker, Jace Paulsen; his mother, Leona Feldt, brothers, Terry Feldt and
 wife Kathleen, and Tom Feldt and wife Paulette, Hoxie, Kansas.
 He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Feldt; father, Robert Feldt, and in-laws Seraphine and Florence Zodrow.
 A funeral service is planned for Thursday, July 29, 2021, at the St.
 Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas at 10:00 A.M. with 
interment to follow in the St. Frances Catholic Cemetery, Hoxie, Kansas.
 A visitation is planned for Wednesday, July 28, 2018, from 1:00 P.M. 
until 8:00 P.M. Family will receive friends from 5:00 P.M. until 6:30 
P.M. A vigil service will be held at 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday, July 28, 
2021. Visitation and Vigil will be held at the Mickey-Leopold Funeral 
Home. Memorials are suggested to the Sheridan County Benefit Walk. 
On-line condolences may be left at www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com.
 Birney had a kind and fun-loving soul. He was the first to offer 
help to anyone in need. He had a deep love for his soulmate and best 
friend, Virginia. Although he is gone from this earth, he is resting 
peacefully at home with the Lord and his wife.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627393394090.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Birney Joseph Feldt passed away at Parker Adventist Hospital, Parker, 
Colorado, Thursday, July 22, 2021, at the age of 59. He was born to 
Robert and Leona (Cousins) Feldt on October 2, 1961, in Hoxie, Kansas. 
Birney was the youngest of three boys. He grew up on a farm outside of 
Menlo, Kansas and attended Hoxie Grade School and Hoxie High School, 
graduating with the class of 1979. 
 On April 19, 1980, in Leoville, Kansas, Birney married the love of 
his life and best friend, Virginia (Zodrow) Feldt. They were blest with
 two daughters, Angela and Erin. 
 After 36 years of living and raising their family in Hoxie, Birney 
and Virginia made the difficult decision to leave the only place they 
had ever called home to embark on a new journey in Kearney, NE. 
 Birney had many hobbies that kept him busy. He always had a passion 
for farming and raising animals. He loved raising cattle and pigs. He 
was co-owner of Elevated Pastures, a custom poultry and pork farm in 
Colorado. He enjoyed playing golf and visiting new golf courses. In 
the spring, Birney would enjoy fishing and going to the lake. He enjoyed
 opening weekend of pheasant hunting with friends and family. His 
biggest joy, however, came from spending time with his wife, Virginia. 
He loved his wife, girls, and grandchildren, and they were the most 
important thing in the world to him.
 Birney was a member St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, 
Kansas; Prince of Peace Catholic Church, Kearney, Nebraska; Our Lady of 
the Visitation Catholic Church, Elizabeth, CO, Knights of Columbus, and 
Hoxie Golf Club. 
 Birney is survived by his daughters Angela Paulsen and her husband 
Jeff of Lincoln, Nebraska; Erin Bieker and her husband Brent of 
Elizabeth, Colorado; grandchildren, Hayden Bieker, Jacob Paulsen, Tessa 
Bieker, Jace Paulsen; his mother, Leona Feldt, brothers, Terry Feldt and
 wife Kathleen, and Tom Feldt and wife Paulette, Hoxie, Kansas.
 He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Feldt; father, Robert Feldt, and in-laws Seraphine and Florence Zodrow.
 A funeral service is planned for Thursday, July 29, 2021, at the St.
 Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, Hoxie, Kansas at 10:00 A.M. with 
interment to follow in the St. Frances Catholic Cemetery, Hoxie, Kansas.
 A visitation is planned for Wednesday, July 28, 2018, from 1:00 P.M. 
until 8:00 P.M. Family will receive friends from 5:00 P.M. until 6:30 
P.M. A vigil service will be held at 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday, July 28, 
2021. Visitation and Vigil will be held at the Mickey-Leopold Funeral 
Home. Memorials are suggested to the Sheridan County Benefit Walk. 
On-line condolences may be left at www.mickeyleopoldfuneral.com.
 Birney had a kind and fun-loving soul. He was the first to offer 
help to anyone in need. He had a deep love for his soulmate and best 
friend, Virginia. Although he is gone from this earth, he is resting 
peacefully at home with the Lord and his wife.

Birney Joseph Feldt

Robert Louis Berens, age 90, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away Saturday, July 24, 2021, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. Robert was born December 9, 1930, to Louis and Rose (Hazelhorst) Berens in Collyer, Kansas.&nbsp;

After graduating high school, Robert enlisted in the United States Navy in January of 1951, proudly serving his country in Korea before his discharge in December of 1954. On October 16, 1962, Robert was united in marriage to Joan Ziegler, and they enjoyed 58 years of marriage. To their union, two children were born. Robert loved his farm and took great pride in his work and his cattle.

Robert was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and church council. He was on the board of directors for the Federal Land Bank, served as a volunteer firefighter, and loved sports, especially those involving K-State. He also loved to dance with his wife, adored his grandchildren, and loved to spend time with them, and enjoyed having hunters out to the farm every year to visit and chat with them. Robert was a very kind and loving father, and will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and community.

Robert is survived by his wife Joan; son Glenn (Lori) Buchholz of El Dorado, Kansas; daughter Melissa (Max) Atwood of Littleton, Colorado; grandchildren Morgan Buchholz of Nashville, Tennessee, Brandon (Julianne) Atwood of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Gregory Atwood (and fiancé Cali) of Gardner, Kansas; and sisters Darlene Stenzel of Overland Park, Kansas, Joan Deges of Aurora, Colorado, and Karen Coons of Sebastian, Florida.

Those preceding Robert in death are both parents; and sisters Mary Lou Goetz, and Gloriann Goodman.

A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 AM Thursday, July 29, 2021, at Christ the King Catholic Church in WaKeeney with Father Charles Steier as celebrant.

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 PM, Wednesday, July 28, 2021, at Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney, with a vigil service beginning at 7:00 PM, and rosary to follow.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Trego County Endowment Center or Heritage of our Forefathers Inc. Restoration of the St. Michael’s church and cemetery in Collyer, Kansas. Donations to the organizations can be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th St, WaKeeney, Kansas, 67672.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.schmittfuneral.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627242117683.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert Louis Berens, age 90, of WaKeeney, Kansas, passed away Saturday, July 24, 2021, at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. Robert was born December 9, 1930, to Louis and Rose (Hazelhorst) Berens in Collyer, Kansas.&nbsp;After graduating high school, Robert enlisted in the United States Navy in January of 1951, proudly serving his country in Korea before his discharge in December of 1954. On October 16, 1962, Robert was united in marriage to Joan Ziegler, and they enjoyed 58 years of marriage. To their union, two children were born. Robert loved his farm and took great pride in his work and his cattle.Robert was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and church council. He was on the board of directors for the Federal Land Bank, served as a volunteer firefighter, and loved sports, especially those involving K-State. He also loved to dance with his wife, adored his grandchildren, and loved to spend time with them, and enjoyed having hunters out to the farm every year to visit and chat with them. Robert was a very kind and loving father, and will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and community.Robert is survived by his wife Joan; son Glenn (Lori) Buchholz of El Dorado, Kansas; daughter Melissa (Max) Atwood of Littleton, Colorado; grandchildren Morgan Buchholz of Nashville, Tennessee, Brandon (Julianne) Atwood of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Gregory Atwood (and fiancé Cali) of Gardner, Kansas; and sisters Darlene Stenzel of Overland Park, Kansas, Joan Deges of Aurora, Colorado, and Karen Coons of Sebastian, Florida.Those preceding Robert in death are both parents; and sisters Mary Lou Goetz, and Gloriann Goodman.A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 AM Thursday, July 29, 2021, at Christ the King Catholic Church in WaKeeney with Father Charles Steier as celebrant.Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 PM, Wednesday, July 28, 2021, at Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney, with a vigil service beginning at 7:00 PM, and rosary to follow.Memorial contributions are suggested to Trego County Endowment Center or Heritage of our Forefathers Inc. Restoration of the St. Michael’s church and cemetery in Collyer, Kansas. Donations to the organizations can be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N 12th St, WaKeeney, Kansas, 67672.Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.schmittfuneral.com

Robert L. Berens

James R. Lofland, 95, passed away July 24, 2021, at Hospice House, 
Hutchinson. He was born April 7, 1926, in Stafford, KS, the son of James
 P. &amp; Leah (Keesling) Lofland. On June 18, 1949, he married Joyce L.
 Mohr in Wichita. She died October 5, 2019.

James lived most of his life in Great Bend. He worked for American 
Electric until he retired in 1986. He was also self employed with Jim’s 
Lawn Service and continued working his business into his 80’s. James was
 an active member and trustee of Central Baptist Church and a member of 
the American Legion Post #180. He always had a story to tell and anyone 
who met him most likely heard one or two of them. James was a veteran of
 the United States Navy, having served during WWII.

James is survived by his children, Janna Huschka and husband Kurt of 
Hutchinson, Jill Hopper and husband Derrel of Arvada,&nbsp;Colo., Jerry 
Lofland and wife Paige of Great Bend, and Jackie Goosen and husband 
LoWayne of Freeman, SD; his sisters, Darlene Unruh of Houston, Tex., and
 Mayme DuBois of Oberlin; 14 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. 
James was preceeded in death by his parents; his children, James Lofland
 and Julia Barnes; his brother, Arthur Lofland; and his sisters, Pauline
 Crowley, Alice Biskeborn, Letha Luther and Elise Hiss.

There will be no visitation, as cremation has taken place.&nbsp; Memorial 
services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Central 
Baptist Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627325768240.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>James R. Lofland, 95, passed away July 24, 2021, at Hospice House, 
Hutchinson. He was born April 7, 1926, in Stafford, KS, the son of James
 P. &amp; Leah (Keesling) Lofland. On June 18, 1949, he married Joyce L.
 Mohr in Wichita. She died October 5, 2019.James lived most of his life in Great Bend. He worked for American 
Electric until he retired in 1986. He was also self employed with Jim’s 
Lawn Service and continued working his business into his 80’s. James was
 an active member and trustee of Central Baptist Church and a member of 
the American Legion Post #180. He always had a story to tell and anyone 
who met him most likely heard one or two of them. James was a veteran of
 the United States Navy, having served during WWII.James is survived by his children, Janna Huschka and husband Kurt of 
Hutchinson, Jill Hopper and husband Derrel of Arvada,&nbsp;Colo., Jerry 
Lofland and wife Paige of Great Bend, and Jackie Goosen and husband 
LoWayne of Freeman, SD; his sisters, Darlene Unruh of Houston, Tex., and
 Mayme DuBois of Oberlin; 14 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. 
James was preceeded in death by his parents; his children, James Lofland
 and Julia Barnes; his brother, Arthur Lofland; and his sisters, Pauline
 Crowley, Alice Biskeborn, Letha Luther and Elise Hiss.There will be no visitation, as cremation has taken place.&nbsp; Memorial 
services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Central 
Baptist Memorial Fund, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

James R. Lofland

Loris Dean “Bud” Hestermann passed away at the Good Samaritan Society, 
Atwood, Kansas, on July 21, 2021, at the age of 91. Bud was born on July
 22, 1929, on the farm north of Ludell, to Henry and Emma (Niermeier) 
Hestermann. Bud was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 
Ludell. He graduated from Atwood High School in 1947 and enlisted in the
 United States Air Force in December 1950. He served at Moses Lake, 
Washington and England, before being honorably discharged. 
On November 12, 1955, he married the love of his life, Betty Wicke. Four
 sons were born to their union, Thomas, Richard, John, and James. 
Bud was a rural mail carrier for over 40 years, from June 28, 1958, 
until October 29, 1999. Bud was also engaged in farming the family farm 
with his brother Fran, until 1984. 
Bud was a good-hearted soul who had a deep faith and love for God and 
family with his wife, Betty. He was a church elder for many years, sang 
in church choirs for decades and was active in the Lutheran Laymen’s 
League (now Lutheran Hour Ministries) holding several district and state
 offices. 
Preceding him in death were his wife; his parents; son John (1996); 
brothers, Harold and Edwin Holste, and Francis Hestermann; sisters, 
Irene Hart, Elfrieda Tobias, Laura McGuire, and Ruth Penzes; and baby 
brothers Gerhard and Herman Holste and Henry Hestermann. 
He is survived by a sister Norma Wegener of Norton, KS; sons, Thomas and
 wife Francine, of Hays KS, Richard, of Valley Center, KS and James and 
wife Roxane, of Valley Center, KS; daughter-in-law Deb Hestermann, 
Topeka, Kansas; grandchildren Jeremy Coulter, Hays, KS, Joshua 
Coulter(Rose), Cypress, TX, Metka Kolm (Allen), Norfolk NE, Kasandra 
Hoover(Cody), Burlington, CO, Tysa Ostrander (Kelby), Henderson, NE, 
Zane Hestermann, Hays, KS, Jayme Hestermann (Alisha), Bakersfield, CA, 
Zachary Hestermann(Nichole), Maize, KS and great-grandchildren Sophia 
Mickelson-Coulter, Riley and Tobias Coulter, Kyler and Mariah Kolm, Evan
 and Grace Hoover, Kaleb and Damon Ostrander, Hayden and Jax Hestermann 
and Avery and Ryder Hestermann. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at Baalmann Mortuary, 
Atwood. Funeral service is at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 28, 2021, at 
Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Atwood, and will be live 
streamed on the church’s facebook page. Interment will take place at 
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Ludell. Memorials may be made to the Lutheran 
Hour Ministries or the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch and sent in care of 
Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or 
condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627242289408.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Loris Dean “Bud” Hestermann passed away at the Good Samaritan Society, 
Atwood, Kansas, on July 21, 2021, at the age of 91. Bud was born on July
 22, 1929, on the farm north of Ludell, to Henry and Emma (Niermeier) 
Hestermann. Bud was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 
Ludell. He graduated from Atwood High School in 1947 and enlisted in the
 United States Air Force in December 1950. He served at Moses Lake, 
Washington and England, before being honorably discharged. 
On November 12, 1955, he married the love of his life, Betty Wicke. Four
 sons were born to their union, Thomas, Richard, John, and James. 
Bud was a rural mail carrier for over 40 years, from June 28, 1958, 
until October 29, 1999. Bud was also engaged in farming the family farm 
with his brother Fran, until 1984. 
Bud was a good-hearted soul who had a deep faith and love for God and 
family with his wife, Betty. He was a church elder for many years, sang 
in church choirs for decades and was active in the Lutheran Laymen’s 
League (now Lutheran Hour Ministries) holding several district and state
 offices. 
Preceding him in death were his wife; his parents; son John (1996); 
brothers, Harold and Edwin Holste, and Francis Hestermann; sisters, 
Irene Hart, Elfrieda Tobias, Laura McGuire, and Ruth Penzes; and baby 
brothers Gerhard and Herman Holste and Henry Hestermann. 
He is survived by a sister Norma Wegener of Norton, KS; sons, Thomas and
 wife Francine, of Hays KS, Richard, of Valley Center, KS and James and 
wife Roxane, of Valley Center, KS; daughter-in-law Deb Hestermann, 
Topeka, Kansas; grandchildren Jeremy Coulter, Hays, KS, Joshua 
Coulter(Rose), Cypress, TX, Metka Kolm (Allen), Norfolk NE, Kasandra 
Hoover(Cody), Burlington, CO, Tysa Ostrander (Kelby), Henderson, NE, 
Zane Hestermann, Hays, KS, Jayme Hestermann (Alisha), Bakersfield, CA, 
Zachary Hestermann(Nichole), Maize, KS and great-grandchildren Sophia 
Mickelson-Coulter, Riley and Tobias Coulter, Kyler and Mariah Kolm, Evan
 and Grace Hoover, Kaleb and Damon Ostrander, Hayden and Jax Hestermann 
and Avery and Ryder Hestermann. 
Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at Baalmann Mortuary, 
Atwood. Funeral service is at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 28, 2021, at 
Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church, of Atwood, and will be live 
streamed on the church’s facebook page. Interment will take place at 
Immanuel Lutheran Church, Ludell. Memorials may be made to the Lutheran 
Hour Ministries or the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch and sent in care of 
Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or 
condolences visit www.baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Loris Dean 'Bud' Hestermann

Frances L. Stocking, age 99, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, October 22, 2020. She passed away at home with family and friends in Choctaw Beach, FL. Frances was born in Severance, Kansas, to the late Charles Frank and Emma Albers. 

She married Clark Stocking in May, 1942, who preceded her in death on June 8, 2010. She was also preceded in death by her son, Dennis, and siblings Louis, Charles, Catherine, Carolyn and Frieda. Frances was a member of the Main Street Christian Church of Stockton, Kansas. 

Frances leaves her cherished memories to her two loving daughters, Mary Locke of Choctaw Beach, FL and Sharon McDonald of Raytown, MO., five grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. 

A Celebration of Frances’ life will be held on August 7 at 10:00 at the Stockton cemetery in Stockton, KS. Expressions of love and sympathy may be viewed or placed at Plumer Overlease Funeral Home.

Click <a href="https://www.plumeroverlease.com/obituaries/Frances-Stocking?obId=21776882#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627241971272.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Frances L. Stocking, age 99, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, October 22, 2020. She passed away at home with family and friends in Choctaw Beach, FL. Frances was born in Severance, Kansas, to the late Charles Frank and Emma Albers. She married Clark Stocking in May, 1942, who preceded her in death on June 8, 2010. She was also preceded in death by her son, Dennis, and siblings Louis, Charles, Catherine, Carolyn and Frieda. Frances was a member of the Main Street Christian Church of Stockton, Kansas. Frances leaves her cherished memories to her two loving daughters, Mary Locke of Choctaw Beach, FL and Sharon McDonald of Raytown, MO., five grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Frances’ life will be held on August 7 at 10:00 at the Stockton cemetery in Stockton, KS. Expressions of love and sympathy may be viewed or placed at Plumer Overlease Funeral Home.Click <a href="https://www.plumeroverlease.com/obituaries/Frances-Stocking?obId=21776882#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Frances L. Stocking

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A southwest Missouri couple&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-fe24ade3e378bfb53796a0af7cd71deb">facing multiple charges of abuse against girls&nbsp;</a>at a Christian reform school have been released from jail and placed on home confinement after they reported health issues.

In a bond hearing on Friday, Circuit Judge David Munton released Boyd and Stephanie Householder from the Cedar County jail after setting a $10,000 bond for the couple. They will be on house arrest with GPS monitoring pending their trial.

The couple's attorney said in a court filings that Boyd Householder, 72, has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and Beth Householder, 56, has a serious blood clot disorder that might cause her to lose her foot.

Attorney Adam Woody said the couple needs medical care that county jails cannot provide.

The Householders have been accused of statutory rape, sodomy, physical abuse and neglect against girls at the Circle of Hope Girls Ranch they operated near Humansville. They pleaded not guilty in March.

The Missouri Attorney General’s Office argued in its response to the request for Friday's bond hearing that no medical documentation or doctor's diagnosis had been provided to confirm the couple's health issues or their need for extra medical care.

Prosecutors have argued in the past against releasing the Householders, saying they are a flight risk and a danger to the community and their alleged victims.

A woman who attended Circle of Hope from October 2007 to January 2013 said she was “shocked and horrified” that the couple was released.

“I thought they would be in custody until the trial. … I’m worried that they are going to run or start targeting girls,” said Maggie Drew.

Circle of Hope was closed after about two dozen girls&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/media-kansas-social-media-archive-michael-brown-87ba63e06f2cc6e7661dc806a6c77da4">were removed&nbsp;</a>during an investigation into the allegations last summer.

Four lawsuits filed by former students against the school have been settled. The girls alleged in the lawsuits that they were raped, thrown against walls, forced to eat until they vomited and starved by the Householders.

Residential religious care facilities were exempted from state licensure requirements. Prompted by the Circle of Hope allegations, Republican Gov. Mike Parson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-michael-brown-0377a84c0cdf657eb2173f90cedb0c30">signed a bill</a>&nbsp;this month to regulate the unlicensed schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615414551416.png" alt="Householder-photo Cedar Co." />
 <figcaption>Householder-photo Cedar Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A southwest Missouri couple&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-fe24ade3e378bfb53796a0af7cd71deb">facing multiple charges of abuse against girls&nbsp;</a>at a Christian reform school have been released from jail and placed on home confinement after they reported health issues.In a bond hearing on Friday, Circuit Judge David Munton released Boyd and Stephanie Householder from the Cedar County jail after setting a $10,000 bond for the couple. They will be on house arrest with GPS monitoring pending their trial.The couple's attorney said in a court filings that Boyd Householder, 72, has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and Beth Householder, 56, has a serious blood clot disorder that might cause her to lose her foot.Attorney Adam Woody said the couple needs medical care that county jails cannot provide.The Householders have been accused of statutory rape, sodomy, physical abuse and neglect against girls at the Circle of Hope Girls Ranch they operated near Humansville. They pleaded not guilty in March.The Missouri Attorney General’s Office argued in its response to the request for Friday's bond hearing that no medical documentation or doctor's diagnosis had been provided to confirm the couple's health issues or their need for extra medical care.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615414571281.png" alt="Householder-photo Cedar Co." />
 <figcaption>Householder-photo Cedar Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Prosecutors have argued in the past against releasing the Householders, saying they are a flight risk and a danger to the community and their alleged victims.A woman who attended Circle of Hope from October 2007 to January 2013 said she was “shocked and horrified” that the couple was released.“I thought they would be in custody until the trial. … I’m worried that they are going to run or start targeting girls,” said Maggie Drew.Circle of Hope was closed after about two dozen girls&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/media-kansas-social-media-archive-michael-brown-87ba63e06f2cc6e7661dc806a6c77da4">were removed&nbsp;</a>during an investigation into the allegations last summer.Four lawsuits filed by former students against the school have been settled. The girls alleged in the lawsuits that they were raped, thrown against walls, forced to eat until they vomited and starved by the Householders.Residential religious care facilities were exempted from state licensure requirements. Prompted by the Circle of Hope allegations, Republican Gov. Mike Parson&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-michael-brown-0377a84c0cdf657eb2173f90cedb0c30">signed a bill</a>&nbsp;this month to regulate the unlicensed schools.

Couple accused of reform school abuses released from jail

Frances leaves her cherished memories to her two loving daughters, Mary Locke of Choctaw Beach, FL and Sharon McDonald of Raytown, MO., five grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Frances’ life will be held on August 7 at 10:00 at the Stockton cemetery in Stockton, KS. Expressions of love and sympathy may be viewed or placed at Plumer Overlease Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1627159215937.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Frances L. Stocking, age 99, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, October 22, 2020. She passed away at home with family and friends in Choctaw Beach, FL. Frances was born in Severance, Kansas, to the late Charles Frank and Emma Albers. She married Clark Stocking in May, 1942, who preceded her in death on June 8, 2010. She was also preceded in death by her son, Dennis, and siblings Louis, Charles, Catherine, Carolyn and Frieda. Frances was a member of the Main Street Christian Church of Stockton, Kansas. Frances leaves her cherished memories to her two loving daughters, Mary Locke of Choctaw Beach, FL and Sharon McDonald of Raytown, MO., five grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Frances’ life will be held on August 7 at 10:00 at the Stockton cemetery in Stockton, KS. Expressions of love and sympathy may be viewed or placed at Plumer Overlease Funeral Home.

October 2, 1961
 -
 July 22, 2021

An obituary and services are pending with Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home.

October 2, 1961
 -
 July 22, 2021An obituary and services are pending with Mickey-Leopold Funeral Home.

Bernard 'Birney' Joseph Feldt

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Families and advocates for the elderly in Kansas argue that with most nursing home residents vaccinated against COVID-19, some facilities’ visiting rules need to be relaxed, though the delta variant’s spread is making operators nervous.

A state official who investigates complaints against nursing homes and the elder-care focused Kansas Advocates for Better Care are calling on the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services to crack down on homes that aren’t open enough. They’re concerned that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-government-and-politics-coronavirus-pandemic-f15f7ec30eb50ab778f3f4a0b8d855b0">the delta variant</a>&nbsp;will prompt new lockdowns.

The aging department says it is working to ensure that residents and families have a voice in visitation policies, though some industry officials still see a need to proceed with caution.

The debate shows how operators feel they’re still facing tough choices after nursing homes were COVID-19 hot spots early on during the pandemic. It also shows how residents’ and families’ anguish and anger still linger.

“We hear about the threat of the COVID and the death from COVID, and its real,” Camille Russell, the state’s long-term care ombudsman, said Tuesday. “What we don’t understand is the pain and suffering and neglect and deaths that happen when there are not other people in the building.”

Clusters of COVID-19 cases in nursing homes accounted for fewer than 5% of the 324,000 cases reported by Kansas as of Monday but for nearly 39% of the state’s 5,200 reported deaths — more than 2,000 of them.

More than 90% of those cases and deaths happened before May 4, but they’re still happening, with nine active clusters as of last week. Meanwhile, confirmed delta variant cases grew by 84% during the 10-day period that ended Monday.

“It’s not time to fling the doors open with no guidance,” said Debra Zehr, CEO of LeadingAge Kansas, which represents nonprofit aging-services providers.

Limits on visitors, including lockdowns early in the pandemic, were aimed at preventing people from bringing COVID-19 into nursing homes, where elderly residents were particularly vulnerable to severe complications.

“Our families — our base — have basically been very, very supportive for the most part,” said Elizabeth Howarth, administrator of the Homestead Health Center in southwestern Wichita.

State and industry officials said homes’ current visitation policies are driven by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdads.ks.gov/docs/default-source/covid-19/ach-data/visitation/long-term-care-visitation-guidance-update-5-7-21.pdf?sfvrsn=32790eee_4" target="_blank">guidance</a>&nbsp;from federal and state regulators and health officials. The guidance calls for restricting visitors when more than 10% of a county’s COVID-19 tests are positive and fewer than 70% of a home’s residents are vaccinated.

The state said its overall positivity rate was 8.1% on Friday, but the figure has been as high as 11.2% this month. The federal government says more than 84% of Kansas nursing home residents have been fully vaccinated, while the rate for staff is 55%.

Homestead Health in Wichita does not limit how many times family members can visit residents each week. But it requires appointments, keeps visits to 45 minutes and allows two adult visitors per resident.

Those policies took effect in March, when about 90% of the residents had been vaccinated. Howarth said most family members didn’t want to visit without being vaccinated themselves.

And, she added, “That pandemic train is still coming down the track.”

The aging department says it had received 40 calls about homes’ visitation rules on a telephone hotline this year through July 13, without any citations. Deputy Secretary Scott Brunner said the agency told homes in December that they must discuss with all residents what they want and what’s possible with visitors.

As for getting more aggressive about cracking down on homes that restrict visitors, he said, “We have to weigh more than just one consideration at a time.”

Russell said the long-term care ombudsman’s office took up 40 complaints from May 10 through July 10 and received hundreds of calls.

“Some facilities have perhaps gotten comfortable with being in charge of when residents can receive visitors,” said Margaret Farley, executive director of Kansas Advocates for Better. Care. “COVID is still lingering as a good excuse.”

In Ness City, Tatum Lee’s frustration with rules at the local county-run nursing home where her grandfather lives pushed her to seek a Kansas House seat last year. Once in office, Lee, a Republican, sponsored&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/hb2327_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill that sought to</a>&nbsp;prevent county-run homes from restricting visits. It didn’t pass.

She’s still frustrated that visits with “my papa” are limited to an hour. Lee said family members monitor conditions and care at homes.

She said that last year, she had to ask workers at the local home when she saw them out in the community to give her grandfather hugs for her. Lee said she and others worry that homes will shut out visitors again if the area sees another wave of cases.

Lee also said families monitor their relatives’ care and, “It matters to the health of these residents.”

Ken Kennedy, a retired educator, said his mother’s isolation early in the pandemic at the Prairie Sunset Home in Pretty Prairie, west of Wichita, was “the worst part of it all.” In the fall, the home began putting up a tent in its courtyard for in-person visits, allowing him and other family members to see his mother regularly before she died in December.

The home’s administrator, Aaron Kelley, said residents thrived once restrictions were lifted. Prairie Sunset posts regulators’ guidance for visits on its website, but Kelley said he’s not having employees police them strictly, adding that, “Somebody’s going to hug somebody.”

“We’ve got to get back to humanity,” Kelley said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603391671069.png" alt="In October 2020, the Garden Valley Healthcare Center reported Ninety-eight residents and 44 employees had tested positive for COVID-19 -Google image" />
 <figcaption>In October 2020, the Garden Valley Healthcare Center reported Ninety-eight residents and 44 employees had tested positive for COVID-19 -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNATOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Families and advocates for the elderly in Kansas argue that with most nursing home residents vaccinated against COVID-19, some facilities’ visiting rules need to be relaxed, though the delta variant’s spread is making operators nervous.A state official who investigates complaints against nursing homes and the elder-care focused Kansas Advocates for Better Care are calling on the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services to crack down on homes that aren’t open enough. They’re concerned that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-government-and-politics-coronavirus-pandemic-f15f7ec30eb50ab778f3f4a0b8d855b0">the delta variant</a>&nbsp;will prompt new lockdowns.The aging department says it is working to ensure that residents and families have a voice in visitation policies, though some industry officials still see a need to proceed with caution.The debate shows how operators feel they’re still facing tough choices after nursing homes were COVID-19 hot spots early on during the pandemic. It also shows how residents’ and families’ anguish and anger still linger.“We hear about the threat of the COVID and the death from COVID, and its real,” Camille Russell, the state’s long-term care ombudsman, said Tuesday. “What we don’t understand is the pain and suffering and neglect and deaths that happen when there are not other people in the building.”Clusters of COVID-19 cases in nursing homes accounted for fewer than 5% of the 324,000 cases reported by Kansas as of Monday but for nearly 39% of the state’s 5,200 reported deaths — more than 2,000 of them.More than 90% of those cases and deaths happened before May 4, but they’re still happening, with nine active clusters as of last week. Meanwhile, confirmed delta variant cases grew by 84% during the 10-day period that ended Monday.“It’s not time to fling the doors open with no guidance,” said Debra Zehr, CEO of LeadingAge Kansas, which represents nonprofit aging-services providers.Limits on visitors, including lockdowns early in the pandemic, were aimed at preventing people from bringing COVID-19 into nursing homes, where elderly residents were particularly vulnerable to severe complications.“Our families — our base — have basically been very, very supportive for the most part,” said Elizabeth Howarth, administrator of the Homestead Health Center in southwestern Wichita.State and industry officials said homes’ current visitation policies are driven by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kdads.ks.gov/docs/default-source/covid-19/ach-data/visitation/long-term-care-visitation-guidance-update-5-7-21.pdf?sfvrsn=32790eee_4" target="_blank">guidance</a>&nbsp;from federal and state regulators and health officials. The guidance calls for restricting visitors when more than 10% of a county’s COVID-19 tests are positive and fewer than 70% of a home’s residents are vaccinated.The state said its overall positivity rate was 8.1% on Friday, but the figure has been as high as 11.2% this month. The federal government says more than 84% of Kansas nursing home residents have been fully vaccinated, while the rate for staff is 55%.Homestead Health in Wichita does not limit how many times family members can visit residents each week. But it requires appointments, keeps visits to 45 minutes and allows two adult visitors per resident.Those policies took effect in March, when about 90% of the residents had been vaccinated. Howarth said most family members didn’t want to visit without being vaccinated themselves.And, she added, “That pandemic train is still coming down the track.”The aging department says it had received 40 calls about homes’ visitation rules on a telephone hotline this year through July 13, without any citations. Deputy Secretary Scott Brunner said the agency told homes in December that they must discuss with all residents what they want and what’s possible with visitors.As for getting more aggressive about cracking down on homes that restrict visitors, he said, “We have to weigh more than just one consideration at a time.”Russell said the long-term care ombudsman’s office took up 40 complaints from May 10 through July 10 and received hundreds of calls.“Some facilities have perhaps gotten comfortable with being in charge of when residents can receive visitors,” said Margaret Farley, executive director of Kansas Advocates for Better. Care. “COVID is still lingering as a good excuse.”In Ness City, Tatum Lee’s frustration with rules at the local county-run nursing home where her grandfather lives pushed her to seek a Kansas House seat last year. Once in office, Lee, a Republican, sponsored&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/hb2327_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill that sought to</a>&nbsp;prevent county-run homes from restricting visits. It didn’t pass.She’s still frustrated that visits with “my papa” are limited to an hour. Lee said family members monitor conditions and care at homes.She said that last year, she had to ask workers at the local home when she saw them out in the community to give her grandfather hugs for her. Lee said she and others worry that homes will shut out visitors again if the area sees another wave of cases.Lee also said families monitor their relatives’ care and, “It matters to the health of these residents.”Ken Kennedy, a retired educator, said his mother’s isolation early in the pandemic at the Prairie Sunset Home in Pretty Prairie, west of Wichita, was “the worst part of it all.” In the fall, the home began putting up a tent in its courtyard for in-person visits, allowing him and other family members to see his mother regularly before she died in December.The home’s administrator, Aaron Kelley, said residents thrived once restrictions were lifted. Prairie Sunset posts regulators’ guidance for visits on its website, but Kelley said he’s not having employees police them strictly, adding that, “Somebody’s going to hug somebody.”“We’ve got to get back to humanity,” Kelley said.

Kansas debate heats up over nursing homes' visitor rules

The tragic death of a AAA tow truck driver in Ohio highlights the risks faced by emergency first responders here in Kansas and around the country.

More than 80 tow truck drivers participated in a procession in honor of 32-year old Glenn Ewing during his funeral services last week. The AAA tow truck driver was killed on July 4th while placing a disabled vehicle on the back of a flatbed on the side of the road.

“When one of our colleagues is lost, we’re all affected,” said Bryan Page, Wichita roadside assistance fleet manager for AAA Kansas. “He died while helping a driver on the side of the road – it can happen to any one of us.”

Ewing’s death illustrates why Move Over laws are critical to safety. The best thing drivers can do to keep someone on the side of the road safe is slow down, and move over into the next lane if you can do so safely.    

“We can’t stress enough how important it is that drivers move over and change lanes when they see AAA or any other first responder working in and around traffic,” said Jerry Stanley, Topeka/Lawrence Roadside Assistance Fleet Manager for AAA Kansas. “By doing so you are also potentially saving someone’s life.”

Move Over laws exist in all 50 states. AAA and other traffic safety advocates have been instrumental in the passage of laws to better protect tow truck drivers, road construction workers and other first responders.

“First responders work tirelessly to make our roads safer for all of us,” said Kansas Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz. “In return, they ask to be afforded a safe place to work in order to perform their job so they may return to their families each day. We encourage everyone to please move over and slow down for these workers and help spread the word. It’s not just the law. It’s the right thing to do.”

“Troopers across Kansas have noticed that drivers are not moving over when approaching and passing emergency vehicles and roadway maintenance vehicles,” said Lieutenant Candice Breshears of the Kansas Highway Patrol. “First responders and roadway workers are dedicated to making our Kansas highways safer for everyone traveling in and through Kansas. Not only is it a Kansas law to move over, but it is also the courteous thing to do. We want everyone, including our first responders, to make it home safely to their families. Please do your part and Move Over and Slow Down for all roadway workers.”

Distractions behind the wheel As more people hit the roads after confinement and with summer vacation travel, the number of vehicles on the road is increasing and the risks associated with distractions increase. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the national traffic safety research arm of AAA, found that drivers are four times more likely to crash if they are talking on a cell phone while driving and eight times more likely to be in a crash if texting.

“Drivers talking on a phone or otherwise distracted may not readily see a vehicle on the side of the road in enough time to safely move over to the next lane,” said Shawn Steward, manager, public and government affairs for AAA Kansas.&nbsp;“In safety, split seconds count.”

Kansas’ move over law State law requires drivers approaching a stationary emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights, including towing and recovery vehicles, traveling in the same direction, to vacate the lane closest if safe and possible to do so, or slow to a speed safe for road, weather, and traffic conditions. In Kansas, the original law took effect in 2000 to protect law enforcement officers. It has been expanded over the years to to reduce risk to roadside construction crews, emergency responders and tow operators and waste collection vehicles. It was most recently broadened during the 2021 Kansas Legislative session to include to utility and telecommunications crews.

If motorists are cited for violating this statute, they will face a $75 fine plus, potentially, additional court costs.

Tragic numbers In Kansas designated road construction work zones alone – not even including incidents involving law enforcement officers, tow truck drivers and other roadside workers – the impact of vehicle crashes has been significant and tragic. According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, from 2010-2019, there were:

What’s being done Law enforcement agencies across Kansas and the nation regularly enforce Move Over law violations. AAA and its traffic safety partners will strengthen advocacy and community awareness throughout the year, including “National Move Over Day” which happens every third Saturday in October.

AAA Kansas, through a donation from the AAA Kansas Traffic Safety Fund, this year is donating sets of digital LED flares to about two dozen smaller police departments and sheriff’s offices across the Sunflower State, to help increase visibility and safety when officers work roadside emergency incidents during limited visibility times.

About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 62&nbsp;million members nationwide and more than three&nbsp;hundred fifty thousand&nbsp;members in Kansas.&nbsp;AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, membership corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, access a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b36%3a0-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=443816&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID travel restriction map</a>, find local gas prices and&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b36%3a0-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=443815&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">electric vehicle charging stations</a>,&nbsp;discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b36%3a0-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=443814&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b36%3a0-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=443813&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>..

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626920912160.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy AAA Kansas" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy AAA Kansas</figcaption>
 </figure>By AAA KANSAS The tragic death of a AAA tow truck driver in Ohio highlights the risks faced by emergency first responders here in Kansas and around the country.More than 80 tow truck drivers participated in a procession in honor of 32-year old Glenn Ewing during his funeral services last week. The AAA tow truck driver was killed on July 4th while placing a disabled vehicle on the back of a flatbed on the side of the road.“When one of our colleagues is lost, we’re all affected,” said Bryan Page, Wichita roadside assistance fleet manager for AAA Kansas. “He died while helping a driver on the side of the road – it can happen to any one of us.”Ewing’s death illustrates why Move Over laws are critical to safety. The best thing drivers can do to keep someone on the side of the road safe is slow down, and move over into the next lane if you can do so safely. “We can’t stress enough how important it is that drivers move over and change lanes when they see AAA or any other first responder working in and around traffic,” said Jerry Stanley, Topeka/Lawrence Roadside Assistance Fleet Manager for AAA Kansas. “By doing so you are also potentially saving someone’s life.”Move Over laws exist in all 50 states. AAA and other traffic safety advocates have been instrumental in the passage of laws to better protect tow truck drivers, road construction workers and other first responders.“First responders work tirelessly to make our roads safer for all of us,” said Kansas Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz. “In return, they ask to be afforded a safe place to work in order to perform their job so they may return to their families each day. We encourage everyone to please move over and slow down for these workers and help spread the word. It’s not just the law. It’s the right thing to do.”“Troopers across Kansas have noticed that drivers are not moving over when approaching and passing emergency vehicles and roadway maintenance vehicles,” said Lieutenant Candice Breshears of the Kansas Highway Patrol. “First responders and roadway workers are dedicated to making our Kansas highways safer for everyone traveling in and through Kansas. Not only is it a Kansas law to move over, but it is also the courteous thing to do. We want everyone, including our first responders, to make it home safely to their families. Please do your part and Move Over and Slow Down for all roadway workers.”Distractions behind the wheel As more people hit the roads after confinement and with summer vacation travel, the number of vehicles on the road is increasing and the risks associated with distractions increase. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the national traffic safety research arm of AAA, found that drivers are four times more likely to crash if they are talking on a cell phone while driving and eight times more likely to be in a crash if texting.“Drivers talking on a phone or otherwise distracted may not readily see a vehicle on the side of the road in enough time to safely move over to the next lane,” said Shawn Steward, manager, public and government affairs for AAA Kansas.&nbsp;“In safety, split seconds count.”Kansas’ move over law State law requires drivers approaching a stationary emergency vehicle displaying flashing lights, including towing and recovery vehicles, traveling in the same direction, to vacate the lane closest if safe and possible to do so, or slow to a speed safe for road, weather, and traffic conditions. In Kansas, the original law took effect in 2000 to protect law enforcement officers. It has been expanded over the years to to reduce risk to roadside construction crews, emergency responders and tow operators and waste collection vehicles. It was most recently broadened during the 2021 Kansas Legislative session to include to utility and telecommunications crews.If motorists are cited for violating this statute, they will face a $75 fine plus, potentially, additional court costs.Tragic numbers In Kansas designated road construction work zones alone – not even including incidents involving law enforcement officers, tow truck drivers and other roadside workers – the impact of vehicle crashes has been significant and tragic. According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, from 2010-2019, there were:•15,925 work zone crashes•5,126 injuries in those crashes•65 people killedWhat’s being done Law enforcement agencies across Kansas and the nation regularly enforce Move Over law violations. AAA and its traffic safety partners will strengthen advocacy and community awareness throughout the year, including “National Move Over Day” which happens every third Saturday in October.AAA Kansas, through a donation from the AAA Kansas Traffic Safety Fund, this year is donating sets of digital LED flares to about two dozen smaller police departments and sheriff’s offices across the Sunflower State, to help increase visibility and safety when officers work roadside emergency incidents during limited visibility times.About AAA AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 62&nbsp;million members nationwide and more than three&nbsp;hundred fifty thousand&nbsp;members in Kansas.&nbsp;AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a&nbsp;non-stock, membership corporation working&nbsp;on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, access a&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b36%3a0-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=443816&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">COVID travel restriction map</a>, find local gas prices and&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b36%3a0-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=443815&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">electric vehicle charging stations</a>,&nbsp;discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b36%3a0-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=443814&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">AAA.com/mobile</a>) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://aaacluballiance.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b36%3a0-%3eLCE59.%3c5%3a%26SDG%3c90%3a.&amp;RE=MC&amp;RI=5430239&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=443813&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">www.AAA.com</a>..

AAA: Roadside tragedy underscores need to 'slow down, move over'

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A 34-year-old Kansas man has been convicted in the deaths of a woman and her cousin in Topeka. 

Richard Showalter, of Greenleaf in Washington County, was convicted Tuesday for his role in the beating and stabbing deaths of 28-year-old Lisa Sportsman and her 17-year-old cousin, Jesse Polinskey in July 2018. 

Showalter was the third man convicted in the case. Lisa Sportsman was the estranged wife of 43-year-old Bradley Sportsman, of Hollenberg, who pleaded guilty in October to two counts of second-degree murder and was sentenced to almost 46 years in prison.

The third suspect, 22-year-old Matthew Hutto, of Clay Center, was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574611652984.png" alt="Richard Showalter photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Richard Showalter photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A 34-year-old Kansas man has been convicted in the deaths of a woman and her cousin in Topeka. Richard Showalter, of Greenleaf in Washington County, was convicted Tuesday for his role in the beating and stabbing deaths of 28-year-old Lisa Sportsman and her 17-year-old cousin, Jesse Polinskey in July 2018. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574350781439.png" alt="Sportsman photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Sportsman photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>Showalter was the third man convicted in the case. Lisa Sportsman was the estranged wife of 43-year-old Bradley Sportsman, of Hollenberg, who pleaded guilty in October to two counts of second-degree murder and was sentenced to almost 46 years in prison.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625951183808.png" alt="Matthew Hutto photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Hutto photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>The third suspect, 22-year-old Matthew Hutto, of Clay Center, was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences.

Man convicted in murder of Kan. woman, her teen cousin

Clint Alan Froelich, 39, Hays, Kansas, 
died Sunday, April 12, 2020, with his wife holding his hand at HaysMed.&nbsp;
 At 2:45 am on that Easter morning, he was freed of all his earthly 
pains and joined his heavenly Father away from all earthly burdens.

He was born August 16, 1980, the son of
 Morris Alan and Marie Kay (Dreiling) Froelich in Hays.&nbsp; Growing up, 
Clint was a very loving, happy, energetic, and ornery little boy.&nbsp; Clint
 attended Hays High School and graduated in May 1999.&nbsp; He was a very 
hardworking man of many talents, but most of all he loved construction.&nbsp;
 He worked for Bieker Construction for seven years before starting with 
Brackney Construction where he continued for the next 14 years.&nbsp; Clint 
was never one to turn down a person in need of help and would help 
friends and family many nights and weekends.&nbsp; He was a Kansas City 
Chiefs fan and enjoyed fishing, shooting, gardening, and baking.&nbsp; He 
would bake for days in preparation for ski trips with his family.&nbsp; He 
loved spending time with his daughters. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In March of 1998, as a junior in high 
school, he met his soulmate and future wife Savanna Tibbetts.&nbsp; Clint and
 Savanna dated long distance until she graduated from high school in 
2001.&nbsp; In 2003, the happy couple welcomed their first daughter Marissa 
to the world, and Clint’s light never shown brighter.&nbsp; On September 16, 
2006 Clint and Savanna were united in marriage in Hays at St. Nicholas 
of Myra Catholic Church where Clint had been a member since the church 
was built.&nbsp; Clint loved being a father, and the couple welcomed three 
more children to their family.&nbsp; Afton was welcomed in October of 2007, 
Joselin was welcomed in July of 2009, and after many years of trying and
 being devastated by the loss of their only son Talon in August of 2014 
and a daughter Piper in December of 2015, their daughter Victoria joined
 the party in October of 2017.

When Victoria was only six months old, 
Clint was taken to HaysMed for appendicitis.&nbsp; Five days after the 
appendectomy Clint was diagnosed with an extremely rare and aggressive 
form of cancer.&nbsp; Clint took a breath and vowed to give every ounce of 
fight within him to conquer this disease.&nbsp; Over the next 23 months Clint
 endured 29 procedures, 83 days away from his beloved children, three 
different hospitals, two different states, 13 doctors, numerous nurses 
and many missed family holidays and celebrations.&nbsp; Clint NEVER gave up. 
&nbsp;Each and every day he woke up he put a smile on his face, and kept life
 as normal as possible for his girls.

Clint is survived by his wife; Savanna,
 and four daughters; Marissa, Afton, Joselin, and Victoria, all of 
Beaver, OK, his parents; Morris and Marie Froelich of Hays, KS, a 
sister; Jill Russell and husband Bill, and two nieces; Kaeleah and Brynn
 Russell, all of Papillion, NE, his grandparents; Morris and MaryAnn 
Froelich of Gorham, KS and Marvin and Kathleen Dreiling of Hays, KS, his
 father-in-law; Russell Tibbetts of Beaver, OK and a host of aunts, 
uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many, many loved family and 
friends.

He was preceded in death by a son; 
Talon Froelich, a daughter; Piper Froelich, a cousin; Wade Dreiling, and
 his mother-in-law; Mary Tibbetts.

A memorial mass will be at 10:00 am on 
Saturday, July 24, 2021 at St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church.&nbsp; 
Private family burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are 
suggested to Clint’s children's education made payable to Savanna 
Froelich, in care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, 1906 Pine 
Street, Hays.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Clint may be shared with the 
family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626546802461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Clint Alan Froelich, 39, Hays, Kansas, 
died Sunday, April 12, 2020, with his wife holding his hand at HaysMed.&nbsp;
 At 2:45 am on that Easter morning, he was freed of all his earthly 
pains and joined his heavenly Father away from all earthly burdens.He was born August 16, 1980, the son of
 Morris Alan and Marie Kay (Dreiling) Froelich in Hays.&nbsp; Growing up, 
Clint was a very loving, happy, energetic, and ornery little boy.&nbsp; Clint
 attended Hays High School and graduated in May 1999.&nbsp; He was a very 
hardworking man of many talents, but most of all he loved construction.&nbsp;
 He worked for Bieker Construction for seven years before starting with 
Brackney Construction where he continued for the next 14 years.&nbsp; Clint 
was never one to turn down a person in need of help and would help 
friends and family many nights and weekends.&nbsp; He was a Kansas City 
Chiefs fan and enjoyed fishing, shooting, gardening, and baking.&nbsp; He 
would bake for days in preparation for ski trips with his family.&nbsp; He 
loved spending time with his daughters. &nbsp;&nbsp;In March of 1998, as a junior in high 
school, he met his soulmate and future wife Savanna Tibbetts.&nbsp; Clint and
 Savanna dated long distance until she graduated from high school in 
2001.&nbsp; In 2003, the happy couple welcomed their first daughter Marissa 
to the world, and Clint’s light never shown brighter.&nbsp; On September 16, 
2006 Clint and Savanna were united in marriage in Hays at St. Nicholas 
of Myra Catholic Church where Clint had been a member since the church 
was built.&nbsp; Clint loved being a father, and the couple welcomed three 
more children to their family.&nbsp; Afton was welcomed in October of 2007, 
Joselin was welcomed in July of 2009, and after many years of trying and
 being devastated by the loss of their only son Talon in August of 2014 
and a daughter Piper in December of 2015, their daughter Victoria joined
 the party in October of 2017.When Victoria was only six months old, 
Clint was taken to HaysMed for appendicitis.&nbsp; Five days after the 
appendectomy Clint was diagnosed with an extremely rare and aggressive 
form of cancer.&nbsp; Clint took a breath and vowed to give every ounce of 
fight within him to conquer this disease.&nbsp; Over the next 23 months Clint
 endured 29 procedures, 83 days away from his beloved children, three 
different hospitals, two different states, 13 doctors, numerous nurses 
and many missed family holidays and celebrations.&nbsp; Clint NEVER gave up. 
&nbsp;Each and every day he woke up he put a smile on his face, and kept life
 as normal as possible for his girls.Clint is survived by his wife; Savanna,
 and four daughters; Marissa, Afton, Joselin, and Victoria, all of 
Beaver, OK, his parents; Morris and Marie Froelich of Hays, KS, a 
sister; Jill Russell and husband Bill, and two nieces; Kaeleah and Brynn
 Russell, all of Papillion, NE, his grandparents; Morris and MaryAnn 
Froelich of Gorham, KS and Marvin and Kathleen Dreiling of Hays, KS, his
 father-in-law; Russell Tibbetts of Beaver, OK and a host of aunts, 
uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many, many loved family and 
friends.He was preceded in death by a son; 
Talon Froelich, a daughter; Piper Froelich, a cousin; Wade Dreiling, and
 his mother-in-law; Mary Tibbetts.A memorial mass will be at 10:00 am on 
Saturday, July 24, 2021 at St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church.&nbsp; 
Private family burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery.&nbsp; Memorials are 
suggested to Clint’s children's education made payable to Savanna 
Froelich, in care of Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home, 1906 Pine 
Street, Hays.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of Clint may be shared with the 
family at www.haysmemorial.com

Clint Alan Froelich

Barbara Ann “Bobbi” Norton passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2021 at her
 home in Plainville at the age of 65. She was born in Plainville on 
October 9, 1955 to William and Esther “Ruth” (Larsen) Brickley. Bobbi 
was united in marriage to Don Norton, the couple was blessed with two 
children: Kim and Thomas, the couple later divorced.
 Bobbi was a lifetime resident of Plainville, she attended Plainville
 High School and graduated with the class of 1973. Following High 
School, she was a homemaker for many years and cherished the many 
memories she made with her children while they were growing up. Outside 
of raising her children she later was co-owner of Norton Tractor Service
 for many years and later honored the Brickley legacy by accepting a job
 in healthcare at the Plainville Rural Hospital later known as Rooks 
County Health Center, in Dietary Management. She furthered her education
 at Barton Community College to earn a degree in this field so she could
 pursue her passion of food, service, and family. She devoted 14 years 
to the Hospital and become well known, and very loved by the patients, 
staff, and the community of Plainville. She later accepted a position at
 RedBud Village Nursing Home in the Dietary Department. Bobbi loved the 
residents and her co-workers, she looked forward to her job everyday and
 the residents and staff looked forward to seeing her.
 Bobbi was passionate about her family and enjoyed being close to her
 children and later her grandchildren. She loved her granddaughters and 
looked forward to their growth in their future careers. Bobbi’s cats and
 dogs were also loved like her children and grandchildren. The family 
was unified through a love of each other, food, and of course the Kansas
 City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs. She will be remembered through 
her good works, her caring nature, and fierce patriotism with an 
unforgettable social media presence.
 Bobbi is survived by her children, Kim Brown (Dan Bingle) of 
Plainville, KS and Thomas Norton (Megan Bell) of Plainville, KS; 
brother, Ross (Jan) Brickely of Lexington, NC; grandchildren, Emily 
Norton and Elizabeth Brown; nieces, Morgan (Tim) Lendino of Charlotte, 
NC, Samantha Norton of Beloit, KS; nephews, Jamie Smith of Salina, KS 
and Josh (Amber) Smith of Baldwin City, KS, JT (Danielle) Norton of 
Wilcox, NE, Nathan Norton of Kearney, NE; and great nieces and nephew, 
Mary, Matthew, Michel, and Malena.
 She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Ruth Brickley and a sister, Marsha Brickley Smith.
 A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at the 
First Christian Church in Plainville at 10:30 AM. Visitation will be on 
Monday at the Funeral Home from 2 PM until 8 PM with Family Receiving 
Friends from 5:30P to 7P. 
 Memorials are suggested to Animal Hospital or Donor’s Choice and may
 be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St., 
Plainville, KS 67663.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626451849137.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barbara Ann “Bobbi” Norton passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2021 at her
 home in Plainville at the age of 65. She was born in Plainville on 
October 9, 1955 to William and Esther “Ruth” (Larsen) Brickley. Bobbi 
was united in marriage to Don Norton, the couple was blessed with two 
children: Kim and Thomas, the couple later divorced.
 Bobbi was a lifetime resident of Plainville, she attended Plainville
 High School and graduated with the class of 1973. Following High 
School, she was a homemaker for many years and cherished the many 
memories she made with her children while they were growing up. Outside 
of raising her children she later was co-owner of Norton Tractor Service
 for many years and later honored the Brickley legacy by accepting a job
 in healthcare at the Plainville Rural Hospital later known as Rooks 
County Health Center, in Dietary Management. She furthered her education
 at Barton Community College to earn a degree in this field so she could
 pursue her passion of food, service, and family. She devoted 14 years 
to the Hospital and become well known, and very loved by the patients, 
staff, and the community of Plainville. She later accepted a position at
 RedBud Village Nursing Home in the Dietary Department. Bobbi loved the 
residents and her co-workers, she looked forward to her job everyday and
 the residents and staff looked forward to seeing her.
 Bobbi was passionate about her family and enjoyed being close to her
 children and later her grandchildren. She loved her granddaughters and 
looked forward to their growth in their future careers. Bobbi’s cats and
 dogs were also loved like her children and grandchildren. The family 
was unified through a love of each other, food, and of course the Kansas
 City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs. She will be remembered through 
her good works, her caring nature, and fierce patriotism with an 
unforgettable social media presence.
 Bobbi is survived by her children, Kim Brown (Dan Bingle) of 
Plainville, KS and Thomas Norton (Megan Bell) of Plainville, KS; 
brother, Ross (Jan) Brickely of Lexington, NC; grandchildren, Emily 
Norton and Elizabeth Brown; nieces, Morgan (Tim) Lendino of Charlotte, 
NC, Samantha Norton of Beloit, KS; nephews, Jamie Smith of Salina, KS 
and Josh (Amber) Smith of Baldwin City, KS, JT (Danielle) Norton of 
Wilcox, NE, Nathan Norton of Kearney, NE; and great nieces and nephew, 
Mary, Matthew, Michel, and Malena.
 She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Ruth Brickley and a sister, Marsha Brickley Smith.
 A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at the 
First Christian Church in Plainville at 10:30 AM. Visitation will be on 
Monday at the Funeral Home from 2 PM until 8 PM with Family Receiving 
Friends from 5:30P to 7P. 
 Memorials are suggested to Animal Hospital or Donor’s Choice and may
 be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St., 
Plainville, KS 67663.

Barbara 'Bobbi' Ann Norton

Rhonda Lou Blazek, 73, died July 15, 2021, at her home in Salina, 
Kansas.&nbsp; She was born November 17, 1947, in Glendale, Cal., the daughter
 of Chester H. and Anna Louise (Wray) Smith.

On May 21, 1966, she married Edward LeRoy Blazek in Dubuque, Kansas. 
They later divorced, and remarried May 21, 1989.&nbsp; He preceded her in 
death on October 14, 2005.

A lifetime resident of Hoisington, Rhonda was a long time Hoisington 
E.M.S. director, also being employed by Essex, Albert Co-op, Fuller 
Brush and the Women’s Recovery Center.&nbsp; She enjoyed gardening, reading, 
tinkering with computers, and above all, time spent with her 
grandchildren.

She is survived by: a son, Eric Blazek and wife Kristy of Hoisington;
 and a daughter, Chrystie Blazek and husband Rob Teschke of Salina; two 
brothers, Randy Smith of Great Bend, and Ron Smith and wife Christina of
 Hoisington; 10 grandchildren, Austin LaViolette, Nathan LaViolette, 
Ryan Meade, Shannon Meade, Steven Mickle, Karissa Wagner, Kelsea Wagner,
 Kaleb Blazek, Brady Blazek and Ali Jo Blazek; and 17 great 
grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Chet and Louise Smith, 
husband, Ed, an infant son, Paul Lee Blazek, and son, Aaron Lee Blazek.

Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 23, 2021, with
 the family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Nicholson-Ricke
 Funeral Home.&nbsp; Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 24, 
2021, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Don Fisher 
presiding.&nbsp; Burial will follow in Hoisington City Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Hoisington E.M.S. or GPS Kids Club, in 
care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS&nbsp; 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626546845483.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rhonda Lou Blazek, 73, died July 15, 2021, at her home in Salina, 
Kansas.&nbsp; She was born November 17, 1947, in Glendale, Cal., the daughter
 of Chester H. and Anna Louise (Wray) Smith.On May 21, 1966, she married Edward LeRoy Blazek in Dubuque, Kansas. 
They later divorced, and remarried May 21, 1989.&nbsp; He preceded her in 
death on October 14, 2005.A lifetime resident of Hoisington, Rhonda was a long time Hoisington 
E.M.S. director, also being employed by Essex, Albert Co-op, Fuller 
Brush and the Women’s Recovery Center.&nbsp; She enjoyed gardening, reading, 
tinkering with computers, and above all, time spent with her 
grandchildren.She is survived by: a son, Eric Blazek and wife Kristy of Hoisington;
 and a daughter, Chrystie Blazek and husband Rob Teschke of Salina; two 
brothers, Randy Smith of Great Bend, and Ron Smith and wife Christina of
 Hoisington; 10 grandchildren, Austin LaViolette, Nathan LaViolette, 
Ryan Meade, Shannon Meade, Steven Mickle, Karissa Wagner, Kelsea Wagner,
 Kaleb Blazek, Brady Blazek and Ali Jo Blazek; and 17 great 
grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents, Chet and Louise Smith, 
husband, Ed, an infant son, Paul Lee Blazek, and son, Aaron Lee Blazek.Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 23, 2021, with
 the family receiving friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at Nicholson-Ricke
 Funeral Home.&nbsp; Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 24, 
2021, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Don Fisher 
presiding.&nbsp; Burial will follow in Hoisington City Cemetery.Memorials may be made to the Hoisington E.M.S. or GPS Kids Club, in 
care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS&nbsp; 67544.

Rhonda Lou Blazek

On Monday, construction will begin in Hays on Phase 2 of 230th Avenue and 55th Street intersection project, which consists of new curb and gutter, and concrete pavement for the intersection &nbsp;and 230th Avenue approximately ¼ mile north. &nbsp;

During Phase 2, 230th Avenue will be closed north of 55th Street for the remainder of the project. 

The only allowable movement through the intersection of 230th Avenue and 55th Street will be a right turn from northbound 230th to eastbound 55th Street. 

&nbsp;Access to Celebration Community Church will be from 55th Street only and access to businesses and areas along 230th Street north of 55th Street will be from the north via Feedlot Road. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=4064" target="_blank">See location map.</a>

The total project is expected to be completed by October. Contact the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 with questions.

<figure>
 <iframe width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X7p5lDgq-Kc"></iframe>
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysOn Monday, construction will begin in Hays on Phase 2 of 230th Avenue and 55th Street intersection project, which consists of new curb and gutter, and concrete pavement for the intersection &nbsp;and 230th Avenue approximately ¼ mile north. &nbsp;During Phase 2, 230th Avenue will be closed north of 55th Street for the remainder of the project. The only allowable movement through the intersection of 230th Avenue and 55th Street will be a right turn from northbound 230th to eastbound 55th Street. &nbsp;Access to Celebration Community Church will be from 55th Street only and access to businesses and areas along 230th Street north of 55th Street will be from the north via Feedlot Road. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=4064" target="_blank">See location map.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626281392510.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The total project is expected to be completed by October. Contact the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 with questions.

🎥 Phase 2 of 230th/55th improvement for truck plaza begins Monday

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman involved in a double-fatal crash during a police chase in a stolen SUV will make a court appearance Friday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In May of 2019, police reported then 24-year-old Mia Collins led officers on a chase in a stolen BMW sport utility vehicle. After about on mile, the car collided with a car and another SUV at an intersection.

The crash killed 70-year-old Maria Wood and 12-year-old Rosemary McElroy and critically injured 36-year-old Jenny Wood, a popular Wichita musician known for performing with children. She is Wood’s daughter and McElroy’s aunt.

&nbsp;Collins was on probation for stealing a handgun at the time of the crash. A passenger in her car, 38-year-old Christopher English, was on parole. They were not seriously injured in the crash.

She is <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20020842">charged with two counts </a>of first-degree murder and numerous other charges. The trial is scheduled to begin in October.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597421975250.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal 2019 crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal 2019 crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman involved in a double-fatal crash during a police chase in a stolen SUV will make a court appearance Friday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In May of 2019, police reported then 24-year-old Mia Collins led officers on a chase in a stolen BMW sport utility vehicle. After about on mile, the car collided with a car and another SUV at an intersection.The crash killed 70-year-old Maria Wood and 12-year-old Rosemary McElroy and critically injured 36-year-old Jenny Wood, a popular Wichita musician known for performing with children. She is Wood’s daughter and McElroy’s aunt.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597432907464.png" alt="Collins photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Collins photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Collins was on probation for stealing a handgun at the time of the crash. A passenger in her car, 38-year-old Christopher English, was on parole. They were not seriously injured in the crash.She is <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20020842">charged with two counts </a>of first-degree murder and numerous other charges. The trial is scheduled to begin in October.---

Kan. woman charged in fatal chase, crash to appear in court

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

A 27-year-old Hays man has been charged with killing his
wife in the early morning hours of Oct. 31, 2019.

According to a press release from the Ellis County Attorney’s
Office, Colby Alan Trickle, 27, Hays, was charged Wednesday with first-degree
murder in the October 2019 shooting death of his wife, <a href="https://www.haysmemorial.com/obituary/Kristen-Trickle">Kristen Trickle</a>, 26, Hays.

Colby Trickle, who was arrested Thursday, is alleged to have,
“feloniously, and intentionally with premeditation” shoot Kristen Trickle in
the head with a revolver on Oct. 31, 2019. 

Premediated first-degree murder in Kansas is an off-grid
person felony, and anyone convicted of first degree faces life in prison. The mandatory
minimum is 25 years in prison with the possibility of post-release supervision.

Colby Trickle was also charged with two counts of
interference with law enforcement. Prosecutors allege Trickle reported false
information to law enforcement officials on two separate occasions in an effort
to obstruct an investigation.

Trickle is being held on $1.5 million bond. 

His next court appearance is expected to be Friday in Ellis County District
Court. 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostA 27-year-old Hays man has been charged with killing his
wife in the early morning hours of Oct. 31, 2019.According to a press release from the Ellis County Attorney’s
Office, Colby Alan Trickle, 27, Hays, was charged Wednesday with first-degree
murder in the October 2019 shooting death of his wife, <a href="https://www.haysmemorial.com/obituary/Kristen-Trickle">Kristen Trickle</a>, 26, Hays.Colby Trickle, who was arrested Thursday, is alleged to have,
“feloniously, and intentionally with premeditation” shoot Kristen Trickle in
the head with a revolver on Oct. 31, 2019. Premediated first-degree murder in Kansas is an off-grid
person felony, and anyone convicted of first degree faces life in prison. The mandatory
minimum is 25 years in prison with the possibility of post-release supervision.Colby Trickle was also charged with two counts of
interference with law enforcement. Prosecutors allege Trickle reported false
information to law enforcement officials on two separate occasions in an effort
to obstruct an investigation.Trickle is being held on $1.5 million bond. His next court appearance is expected to be Friday in Ellis County District
Court.

Hays man accused of 2019 first-degree murder of wife

By SKIP VAUGHN <a href="https://www.theredstonerocket.com">Redstone Rocket</a>

DECATUR, Ala. — Links golfer Donna Lowen has added to her impressive list of golf accomplishments.

Lowen
 won the Alabama women’s state senior championship June 22-24 at Goose 
Pond, the lake course, in Scottsboro. She shot 76, 72 and 68 to finish 
even par for the three days and won by eight strokes.

“I was very 
happy to win and get back to competing again,” said Lowen, account manager 
with McGriff Insurance Services. “I’ve been hitting the ball 
really well. I just struggled with the putting the first couple of days.
 Just kept on myself to be patient. Keep playing the game and then 
hopefully eventually the putts will start dropping the last day.”

This
 was her first year competing in this annual tournament. 

“I decided to 
play. It’s over here in Scottsboro and I love that course. The layout, 
the view, lake right there,” she said.

Lowen, 53, from Hays, played golf for the University of 
Kansas from 1986 to 1990. They won the Big Eight Conference in 1990 as a team
 and she finished second individually. Lowen has lived in Huntsville for
 20 years. She won the Redstone women’s championship in 2019, 2018, 
2016, 2014, 2013 and 2012; and the post women’s senior championship in 
2019 and 2018. She won the Kansas state junior titles in 1983 and 1984, 
and the Kansas state women’s amateur titles in 1985 and 1990.

She 
has made three holes-in-one, most recently May 11 in the OMMCS league on
 hole No. 8 on the Warrior course at the Links. Her previous hole-in-one
 was last October at Huntsville Country Club on hole No. 10. As a 
12-year-old she made a hole-in-one at the Jayhawk golf camp.

In 
the state senior championship at Goose Pond, Lowen shot 76-72-68-216, 
even par. Second place Kathy Hartwiger of Birmingham shot 74-73-77-224, 
8-over. Third place Susan West of Tuscaloosa shot 75-77-75-227, 11-over.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626298440114.jpeg" alt="Donna Lowen, who played golf for the University of Kansas from 1986 to 1990, has captured her first Alabama women’s state senior title. Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.theredstonerocket.com">The Redstone Rocket.</a>" />
 <figcaption>Donna Lowen, who played golf for the University of Kansas from 1986 to 1990, has captured her first Alabama women’s state senior title. Photo courtesy <a href="https://www.theredstonerocket.com">The Redstone Rocket.</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By SKIP VAUGHN <a href="https://www.theredstonerocket.com">Redstone Rocket</a>DECATUR, Ala. — Links golfer Donna Lowen has added to her impressive list of golf accomplishments.Lowen
 won the Alabama women’s state senior championship June 22-24 at Goose 
Pond, the lake course, in Scottsboro. She shot 76, 72 and 68 to finish 
even par for the three days and won by eight strokes.“I was very 
happy to win and get back to competing again,” said Lowen, account manager 
with McGriff Insurance Services. “I’ve been hitting the ball 
really well. I just struggled with the putting the first couple of days.
 Just kept on myself to be patient. Keep playing the game and then 
hopefully eventually the putts will start dropping the last day.”This
 was her first year competing in this annual tournament. “I decided to 
play. It’s over here in Scottsboro and I love that course. The layout, 
the view, lake right there,” she said.Lowen, 53, from Hays, played golf for the University of 
Kansas from 1986 to 1990. They won the Big Eight Conference in 1990 as a team
 and she finished second individually. Lowen has lived in Huntsville for
 20 years. She won the Redstone women’s championship in 2019, 2018, 
2016, 2014, 2013 and 2012; and the post women’s senior championship in 
2019 and 2018. She won the Kansas state junior titles in 1983 and 1984, 
and the Kansas state women’s amateur titles in 1985 and 1990.She 
has made three holes-in-one, most recently May 11 in the OMMCS league on
 hole No. 8 on the Warrior course at the Links. Her previous hole-in-one
 was last October at Huntsville Country Club on hole No. 10. As a 
12-year-old she made a hole-in-one at the Jayhawk golf camp.In 
the state senior championship at Goose Pond, Lowen shot 76-72-68-216, 
even par. Second place Kathy Hartwiger of Birmingham shot 74-73-77-224, 
8-over. Third place Susan West of Tuscaloosa shot 75-77-75-227, 11-over.

Hays native wins state senior golf title in Alabama

Terry Allen Batt, 54, of Thornton, Colorado, passed away Monday, July 5, 2021, in Thornton.

Terry was born October 23, 1966, in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; One of two sons born to Garry and Ellen (Boxberger) Batt.&nbsp; He grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School Class of 1985. He graduated from Fort Hays State University with Honors, receiving the Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges with outstanding merit and accomplishments.

Terry was employed with KOCH Industries in Wichita, Kansas out of college. Later he was employed with AQUAILA Energy in Kansas City, Kansas. In 2004, he was appointed the President of the South West Petroleum Inc. In 2010 he relocated to Thornton, Colorado and was employed with NGL Energy Partners LP as Senior Credit Manager.

Terry became a member of the Polka Kings Band in 1979, and enjoyed his musical career with his father, brother and many others.&nbsp; He was the organist of the Annunciation Church in Denver, Colorado.&nbsp; He also played with various bands in the Denver area.&nbsp; He was also very active with the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia (Volga Germans).

Terry’s surviving family includes his parents, Garry and Ellen Batt of Russell, Kansas; brother, Tom Batt (Sandy) of Russell, Kansas; two nephews, two great nieces and a great nephew.

Terry was preceded in death by his grandparents, Herman and Esther Batt and Sigmund and Rosa Boxberger.

Celebration of Terry’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, July 16, 2021, at St. John Lutheran Church of Russell.&nbsp; A private family burial of ashes will follow at a later date at Trinity Bender Hill Cemetery.&nbsp; No visitation will be held.&nbsp; 

A Memorial has been established as the Terry Batt Memorial Fund. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626277456339.jpeg" alt="Batt, Terry Cover pic.jpg" />
 <figcaption>Batt, Terry Cover pic.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>Terry Allen Batt, 54, of Thornton, Colorado, passed away Monday, July 5, 2021, in Thornton.Terry was born October 23, 1966, in Russell, Kansas.&nbsp; One of two sons born to Garry and Ellen (Boxberger) Batt.&nbsp; He grew up in Russell and graduated from Russell High School Class of 1985. He graduated from Fort Hays State University with Honors, receiving the Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges with outstanding merit and accomplishments.Terry was employed with KOCH Industries in Wichita, Kansas out of college. Later he was employed with AQUAILA Energy in Kansas City, Kansas. In 2004, he was appointed the President of the South West Petroleum Inc. In 2010 he relocated to Thornton, Colorado and was employed with NGL Energy Partners LP as Senior Credit Manager.Terry became a member of the Polka Kings Band in 1979, and enjoyed his musical career with his father, brother and many others.&nbsp; He was the organist of the Annunciation Church in Denver, Colorado.&nbsp; He also played with various bands in the Denver area.&nbsp; He was also very active with the American Historical Society of Germans from Russia (Volga Germans).Terry’s surviving family includes his parents, Garry and Ellen Batt of Russell, Kansas; brother, Tom Batt (Sandy) of Russell, Kansas; two nephews, two great nieces and a great nephew.Terry was preceded in death by his grandparents, Herman and Esther Batt and Sigmund and Rosa Boxberger.Celebration of Terry’s Life will be held at 10:30 AM, Friday, July 16, 2021, at St. John Lutheran Church of Russell.&nbsp; A private family burial of ashes will follow at a later date at Trinity Bender Hill Cemetery.&nbsp; No visitation will be held.&nbsp; A Memorial has been established as the Terry Batt Memorial Fund. Contributions and condolences may be sent to Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary, who is in charge of these arrangements.