Richard “Rick” Anthony Stefan was born October 8, 1956, in Quinter 
Kansas, the son of the late Marcus R. and Genevieve M. (Zimmerman) 
Stefan.&nbsp; Rick was employed with UPS for 30 years and retired in 2011. 
&nbsp;He was a businessman with many interests.&nbsp; While employed with UPS, he 
owned M &amp; S Auto Sales, farmed and raised cattle.&nbsp; After his 
retirement, farming and ranching became a very important part of his 
life.&nbsp;

One of his many pleasures in life was enjoying his morning coffee with friends before starting his day.&nbsp;

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law, Kiel D. 
McKenrick, and sister-in-law, Cheryl Stefan. He is survived by siblings 
Gilbert Stefan of Emporia, Kansas; Harold Stefan of Marion, Kansas; 
Darrold Stefan and wife Colleen of Pinedale, Wyoming; Bernard “Bernie” 
Stefan and wife Diane of Goodland, Kansas; Leana McKenrickof Longview, 
Texas; Mary Svoboda and husband Terry of Newton, Kansas; Robert Stefan 
of Marion, Kansas; Mark Stefan of Calhan, Colorado, and Anita Svoboda 
and husband Steven of Lincolnville, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;Nephews and nieces, Ryan, 
Derek, Shellee, Eric, Jeremy, Megan, Kyle, Raynel, Erica, Emily, Adam, 
James, Miranda, Mallory, Makaela, Abigail, and Cody, and 14 great-nieces
 and nephews.

Schmitt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623690955927.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Richard “Rick” Anthony Stefan was born October 8, 1956, in Quinter 
Kansas, the son of the late Marcus R. and Genevieve M. (Zimmerman) 
Stefan.&nbsp; Rick was employed with UPS for 30 years and retired in 2011. 
&nbsp;He was a businessman with many interests.&nbsp; While employed with UPS, he 
owned M &amp; S Auto Sales, farmed and raised cattle.&nbsp; After his 
retirement, farming and ranching became a very important part of his 
life.&nbsp;One of his many pleasures in life was enjoying his morning coffee with friends before starting his day.&nbsp;He is preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law, Kiel D. 
McKenrick, and sister-in-law, Cheryl Stefan. He is survived by siblings 
Gilbert Stefan of Emporia, Kansas; Harold Stefan of Marion, Kansas; 
Darrold Stefan and wife Colleen of Pinedale, Wyoming; Bernard “Bernie” 
Stefan and wife Diane of Goodland, Kansas; Leana McKenrickof Longview, 
Texas; Mary Svoboda and husband Terry of Newton, Kansas; Robert Stefan 
of Marion, Kansas; Mark Stefan of Calhan, Colorado, and Anita Svoboda 
and husband Steven of Lincolnville, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;Nephews and nieces, Ryan, 
Derek, Shellee, Eric, Jeremy, Megan, Kyle, Raynel, Erica, Emily, Adam, 
James, Miranda, Mallory, Makaela, Abigail, and Cody, and 14 great-nieces
 and nephews.Schmitt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Richard 'Rick' Anthony Stefan

The Hays Lions Club will be holding a ribbon cutting at 4 p.m. on June 17th at The Press, 230 E 8th Street, Hays. &nbsp;The public is invited to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony conducted by the Hays Chamber of Commerce. Refreshments will be served.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hays Lions Club was chartered on October 10, 1924. The Lions Club's motto "We Serve" and it's members are how individuals join together to give their valuable time and effort to improve the community and the world. Lions Club empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding. 

To join or find more information, contact us on our Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysLionsClub" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/HaysLionsClub</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623688364954.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Hays Lions Club will be holding a ribbon cutting at 4 p.m. on June 17th at The Press, 230 E 8th Street, Hays. &nbsp;The public is invited to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony conducted by the Hays Chamber of Commerce. Refreshments will be served.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Hays Lions Club was chartered on October 10, 1924. The Lions Club's motto "We Serve" and it's members are how individuals join together to give their valuable time and effort to improve the community and the world. Lions Club empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding. To join or find more information, contact us on our Facebook page at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaysLionsClub" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/HaysLionsClub</a>

Hays Lions Club holds ribbon-cutting ceremony

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds complained in a letter sent Thursday that the federal government didn't notify her before flying migrant children into the Des Moines airport in April, then shuttling them to other cities as part of an effort to join them with relatives.

In a letter sent to Iowa U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, Reynolds called for a Senate Judiciary Committee oversight hearing on immigration that should address the Biden administration’s lack of notice when it moves children through the states.

Although similar migrant children relocation occurred during the Trump and Obama administrations, Reynolds spokesman Pat Garrett said the recent flight was different because it occurred late at night and a federal agency initially denied it had organized the flight.

Reynolds claims 19 children were flown into the Des Moines International Airport from Long Beach, California, late on April 22. Two buses were used to transport most of the children to other airports in or near Kansas City, Chicago, Detroit, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and Janesville, Wisconsin. Two children were unified with their sponsors at the Des Moines airport.

Reynolds, a Republican and a Donald Trump supporter, said little about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-politics-immigration-united-states-a5bfcbea280a468b431a02e82c15a150">immigration problems</a>&nbsp;when Trump was president despite highly publicized issues, but she has repeatedly sought to focus attention on President Joe Biden's immigration efforts since the Democrat took office.

In the letter, Reynolds said Trump had made significant progress at the nation's southern border and argued Biden's “failed policies have incentivized the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-coronavirus-pandemic-immigration-central-america-united-states-cfc974a2358e926438e8a8f24bd642b6">largest surge</a>&nbsp;in illegal crossings in 20 years, including the largest monthly number of unaccompanied children in history.”

Reynolds said the lack of notice about the movement of children through the airport forced law enforcement to investigate whether the flights indicated “a criminal act of human trafficking or the federally-sponsored transport of vulnerable children.”

The letter also was signed by Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, who questioned similar flights into his state.

The travel was arranged by the Office of Refugee Resettlement in the Administration for Children and Families, which is in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The Office of Refugee Resettlement said in a statement that its mission is to safely care for unaccompanied children until they can be unified with a vetted sponsor, usually a parent or close relative.

“Their parents and relatives are located across the United States, and ORR contractors use various transportation modes to unite unaccompanied children with their families. These modes include air and ground transportation options, taking into account child safety and wellness, travel time, and cost-effectiveness. This travel may consist of flights originating from various locations with stops/layovers in different airports," the agency said.

Data from the agency shows 27,417 unaccompanied children have been released to sponsors since October 2020, including 163 in Iowa. Last year, Iowa sponsors took 119 children and 489 were located with Iowa sponsors in 2019.

The agency provided data details numbers of children brought to Iowa since 2015.

Reynolds last month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kim-reynolds-iowa-immigration-9c1b43cab8b52c8bdf5b597934fd5406">rejected</a>&nbsp;a federal request for the state to help migrant children, saying the need to find homes for them “is the president’s problem."

Reynolds’ stand contrasted with her willingness to accept refugees coming into the United States when Trump raised the issue in 2019. At that time, Trump signed an executive order giving states the right to refuse to take refugees.

Reynolds was among more than 30 governors who said they would accept refugees.

Iowa Democratic Party Chair Ross Wilburn said in a statement that Reynolds is "only focused on dividing and distracting Iowans from her own record and using a fake crisis to further attacks on our friends and neighbors.”

However, Democratic U.S. Rep. Cindy Axne, whose district includes Des Moines, also complained that when she asked about reports of the flights, the Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement didn't clarify the situation.

“I join Governor Reynolds in demanding further investigation and disclosure from HHS to determine why this flight was kept secret and why its existence was denied to both the public and to the public officials seeking to learn the whole truth," Axne said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623407646888.png" alt="Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds claims 19 children were flown into the Des Moines International Airport from Long Beach, California, late on April 22. Two buses were used to transport most of the children to other airports in or near Kansas City, Chicago, Detroit, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and Janesville, Wisconsin.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds claims 19 children were flown into the Des Moines International Airport from Long Beach, California, late on April 22. Two buses were used to transport most of the children to other airports in or near Kansas City, Chicago, Detroit, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and Janesville, Wisconsin.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds complained in a letter sent Thursday that the federal government didn't notify her before flying migrant children into the Des Moines airport in April, then shuttling them to other cities as part of an effort to join them with relatives.In a letter sent to Iowa U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, Reynolds called for a Senate Judiciary Committee oversight hearing on immigration that should address the Biden administration’s lack of notice when it moves children through the states.Although similar migrant children relocation occurred during the Trump and Obama administrations, Reynolds spokesman Pat Garrett said the recent flight was different because it occurred late at night and a federal agency initially denied it had organized the flight.Reynolds claims 19 children were flown into the Des Moines International Airport from Long Beach, California, late on April 22. Two buses were used to transport most of the children to other airports in or near Kansas City, Chicago, Detroit, Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and Janesville, Wisconsin. Two children were unified with their sponsors at the Des Moines airport.Reynolds, a Republican and a Donald Trump supporter, said little about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-politics-immigration-united-states-a5bfcbea280a468b431a02e82c15a150">immigration problems</a>&nbsp;when Trump was president despite highly publicized issues, but she has repeatedly sought to focus attention on President Joe Biden's immigration efforts since the Democrat took office.In the letter, Reynolds said Trump had made significant progress at the nation's southern border and argued Biden's “failed policies have incentivized the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-coronavirus-pandemic-immigration-central-america-united-states-cfc974a2358e926438e8a8f24bd642b6">largest surge</a>&nbsp;in illegal crossings in 20 years, including the largest monthly number of unaccompanied children in history.”Reynolds said the lack of notice about the movement of children through the airport forced law enforcement to investigate whether the flights indicated “a criminal act of human trafficking or the federally-sponsored transport of vulnerable children.”The letter also was signed by Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, who questioned similar flights into his state.The travel was arranged by the Office of Refugee Resettlement in the Administration for Children and Families, which is in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.The Office of Refugee Resettlement said in a statement that its mission is to safely care for unaccompanied children until they can be unified with a vetted sponsor, usually a parent or close relative.“Their parents and relatives are located across the United States, and ORR contractors use various transportation modes to unite unaccompanied children with their families. These modes include air and ground transportation options, taking into account child safety and wellness, travel time, and cost-effectiveness. This travel may consist of flights originating from various locations with stops/layovers in different airports," the agency said.Data from the agency shows 27,417 unaccompanied children have been released to sponsors since October 2020, including 163 in Iowa. Last year, Iowa sponsors took 119 children and 489 were located with Iowa sponsors in 2019.The agency provided data details numbers of children brought to Iowa since 2015.Reynolds last month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kim-reynolds-iowa-immigration-9c1b43cab8b52c8bdf5b597934fd5406">rejected</a>&nbsp;a federal request for the state to help migrant children, saying the need to find homes for them “is the president’s problem."Reynolds’ stand contrasted with her willingness to accept refugees coming into the United States when Trump raised the issue in 2019. At that time, Trump signed an executive order giving states the right to refuse to take refugees.Reynolds was among more than 30 governors who said they would accept refugees.Iowa Democratic Party Chair Ross Wilburn said in a statement that Reynolds is "only focused on dividing and distracting Iowans from her own record and using a fake crisis to further attacks on our friends and neighbors.”However, Democratic U.S. Rep. Cindy Axne, whose district includes Des Moines, also complained that when she asked about reports of the flights, the Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement didn't clarify the situation.“I join Governor Reynolds in demanding further investigation and disclosure from HHS to determine why this flight was kept secret and why its existence was denied to both the public and to the public officials seeking to learn the whole truth," Axne said in a statement.

Governor questions migrant children flown to midwest states

HAYS, Kan. – After a year without games due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fort Hays State Football team finally returns to the field this coming fall for a full 11-game slate starting on September 2 at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays. Coming off an 8-3 season in 2019, the Tigers will play six of their 11 games at home in 2021. The majority of the team retained their eligibility for the lost season in 2020 looking to build on their strong success in&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=823">Chris Brown</a>'s tenure as head coach. Brown enters his 10th&nbsp;season at the helm and has led the Tigers to a 44-15 record over the last five seasons, including post-season game appearances in four of those seasons and at least eight wins in all five. Recently Fort Hays State University and Fort Hays State Athletics moved back to pre-pandemic policies and procedures as masks are no longer required in facilities or at events going into the 2021 fall season. Lewis Field Stadium and all FHSU athletic facilities will be back to operating at full capacity. The season starts with a bang on September 2 as two of the top programs in the MIAA collide in Hays at 7 pm. Northwest Missouri State, the MIAA champions in six of the last seven seasons (3 outright and 3 co-championships), will face FHSU (2017 outright and 2018 co-champion) to open the 2021 slate. Northwest Missouri State was the last team to face FHSU in Hays, a double-overtime thriller the Bearcats won 36-33 in Week 10 of the 2019 season. The Tigers took the two previous meetings with the Bearcats in Maryville (2017 and 2018) by one point each to help capture back-to-back MIAA titles. The Tigers will welcome Lincoln University to Lewis Field Stadium for the first time since 2012 on September 18. Lincoln re-joined the MIAA for football in 2019 after playing in the GLVC from 2014-18. The Tigers rolled to a 66-6 win over the Blue Tigers in 2019 in Jefferson City. Homecoming on October 2 projects as a thrilling matchup with FHSU's rival from the north, Nebraska-Kearney. The Tigers look to extend an 8-game win streak over the Lopers that dates back to 2012 (UNK's first year as members of the MIAA), though the last two contests have been decided by six or less points. Nebraska-Kearney has seen a resurgence in football over the last two full seasons played, posting five wins in 2018 and seven wins in 2019. The Lopers struggled to three or less wins in their first six years as members of the MIAA after going 10-2 in their final year with the RMAC in 2011. The Bronchos of Central Oklahoma will travel to Hays on October 16 for the last evening home game of the season. The first four home games of the season will be under the lights at Lewis Field Stadium. FHSU looks to extend a 5-game win streak against UCO dating back to 2015. A pair of in-state rivals come calling to Hays for the final home contests of the season on October 30 and November 13, both at 1 pm. Emporia State will be the first of the two as the Tigers have won three straight over the Hornets in Hays. Pittsburg State will serve as the opponent on Senior Day at Lewis Field Stadium. The Gorillas dominated the series with FHSU from 1979-2011, but the Tigers have won five of the last six contests including four straight, which ties their longest win streak in the series history. The 2021 regular season slate will be an alternating home/away format throughout which starts and ends in Hays. Road opponents in the gaps between home contests this year include Missouri Western, Missouri Southern, Washburn, Central Missouri, and Northeastern State. Below are the home dates for the 2021 season. Thursday, September 2 Northwest Missouri State 7 pm Saturday, September 18 Lincoln 7 pm Saturday, October 2 Nebraska-Kearney 7 pm Saturday, October 16 Central Oklahoma 7 pm Saturday, October 30 Emporia State 1 pm Saturday, November 13 Pittsburg State1 pm&nbsp; <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">ENTIRE 2021 FHSU FOOTBALL SCHEDULE</a> Season Tickets Renewal information for previous season ticket holders has been mailed out. For those who are not renewals from the 2019 season, view our season ticket form below or call 785-628-4050 for more information. Get reserved chairback seats for as low as $90 for the entire season (6 games). <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/documents/2021/6/9//2021_22_Season_Ticket_brochure.pdf?id=6291">SEASON TICKET FORM&nbsp;(PDF)</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623362528471.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HAYS, Kan. – After a year without games due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fort Hays State Football team finally returns to the field this coming fall for a full 11-game slate starting on September 2 at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays. Coming off an 8-3 season in 2019, the Tigers will play six of their 11 games at home in 2021. The majority of the team retained their eligibility for the lost season in 2020 looking to build on their strong success in&nbsp;<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/coaches.aspx?rc=823">Chris Brown</a>'s tenure as head coach. Brown enters his 10th&nbsp;season at the helm and has led the Tigers to a 44-15 record over the last five seasons, including post-season game appearances in four of those seasons and at least eight wins in all five. Recently Fort Hays State University and Fort Hays State Athletics moved back to pre-pandemic policies and procedures as masks are no longer required in facilities or at events going into the 2021 fall season. Lewis Field Stadium and all FHSU athletic facilities will be back to operating at full capacity. The season starts with a bang on September 2 as two of the top programs in the MIAA collide in Hays at 7 pm. Northwest Missouri State, the MIAA champions in six of the last seven seasons (3 outright and 3 co-championships), will face FHSU (2017 outright and 2018 co-champion) to open the 2021 slate. Northwest Missouri State was the last team to face FHSU in Hays, a double-overtime thriller the Bearcats won 36-33 in Week 10 of the 2019 season. The Tigers took the two previous meetings with the Bearcats in Maryville (2017 and 2018) by one point each to help capture back-to-back MIAA titles. The Tigers will welcome Lincoln University to Lewis Field Stadium for the first time since 2012 on September 18. Lincoln re-joined the MIAA for football in 2019 after playing in the GLVC from 2014-18. The Tigers rolled to a 66-6 win over the Blue Tigers in 2019 in Jefferson City. Homecoming on October 2 projects as a thrilling matchup with FHSU's rival from the north, Nebraska-Kearney. The Tigers look to extend an 8-game win streak over the Lopers that dates back to 2012 (UNK's first year as members of the MIAA), though the last two contests have been decided by six or less points. Nebraska-Kearney has seen a resurgence in football over the last two full seasons played, posting five wins in 2018 and seven wins in 2019. The Lopers struggled to three or less wins in their first six years as members of the MIAA after going 10-2 in their final year with the RMAC in 2011. The Bronchos of Central Oklahoma will travel to Hays on October 16 for the last evening home game of the season. The first four home games of the season will be under the lights at Lewis Field Stadium. FHSU looks to extend a 5-game win streak against UCO dating back to 2015. A pair of in-state rivals come calling to Hays for the final home contests of the season on October 30 and November 13, both at 1 pm. Emporia State will be the first of the two as the Tigers have won three straight over the Hornets in Hays. Pittsburg State will serve as the opponent on Senior Day at Lewis Field Stadium. The Gorillas dominated the series with FHSU from 1979-2011, but the Tigers have won five of the last six contests including four straight, which ties their longest win streak in the series history. The 2021 regular season slate will be an alternating home/away format throughout which starts and ends in Hays. Road opponents in the gaps between home contests this year include Missouri Western, Missouri Southern, Washburn, Central Missouri, and Northeastern State. Below are the home dates for the 2021 season. Thursday, September 2 Northwest Missouri State 7 pm Saturday, September 18 Lincoln 7 pm Saturday, October 2 Nebraska-Kearney 7 pm Saturday, October 16 Central Oklahoma 7 pm Saturday, October 30 Emporia State 1 pm Saturday, November 13 Pittsburg State1 pm&nbsp; <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/sports/football/schedule">ENTIRE 2021 FHSU FOOTBALL SCHEDULE</a> Season Tickets Renewal information for previous season ticket holders has been mailed out. For those who are not renewals from the 2019 season, view our season ticket form below or call 785-628-4050 for more information. Get reserved chairback seats for as low as $90 for the entire season (6 games). <a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/documents/2021/6/9//2021_22_Season_Ticket_brochure.pdf?id=6291">SEASON TICKET FORM&nbsp;(PDF)</a>

🏈2021 FHSU football schedule announced

Kansas Common crude at CHS starts the week at $59.75 per barrel, the best price in McPherson since October 2018.&nbsp; That's up nearly two dollars from the first of the month and $21 higher than at the first of the year. By midday, Monday the Nymex benchmark futures contract was down 16 cents from Friday's settlement, to $69.46 per barrel. London Brent reached $72.17 a barrel in intraday trading Friday, the highest price for the international benchmark since 2019. Brent prices remained above $71 Monday. Kansas crude-oil production rose 15% in March from the month before, according to a government report. But state output remained more than 11% behind March of last year. The Energy Information Administration said Kansas production reached 2.3 million barrels in March. That's about 77,000 barrels per day, compared to 67,000 barrels a day the month before and 87,000 barrels per day a year earlier. EIA reports U.S. output in March reached 11.2 million barrels per day, up 14% on the month, but down 12 percent from March 2020. After a big drop in February, crude output in Texas jumped 26% in March to 4.4 million barrels per day. The government's weekly petroleum report shows production, inventories and imports all dropped last week. U.S. operators produced 10.88 million barrels per day during the week ending May 28. That's down 168,000 barrels per day from the week before and about 300,000 barrels per day less than the same week last year. EIA said inventories dropped more than half a million barrels. Stockpiles are about three percent below the five-year seasonal average. Imports were down more than half a million barrels per day last week at 5.6 million barrels per day. EIA said over the last four weeks, average imports are slightly lower than the same four weeks last year. The Rig Count in Kansas from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service was down one rig in the eastern half of the state and unchanged out west. Drilling was underway on one lease in Ellis County Friday. Baker Hughes reports 456 active drilling rigs across the U.S., which is down one gas rig from last week. The count in Texas was down two while New Mexico was up two. There are 18 new drilling permits in Kansas this week, including 11 in Western Kansas, to bring the total so far this year to 369 new drilling permits. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 21 newly-completed wells across Kansas, 11 of them west of Wichita. That's 321 well completions so far this year. Weekly oil-by-rail totals posted a 27% increase over last year at this time. The Association of American Railroads reports 11,163 tanker cars moving petroleum products for the week ending May 29. That's up 363 tankers from the week before. AAR says total U.S. rail traffic in May was up 28% over May of 2020. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 21 weeks of the year was up nearly 14% compared to last year. The auto club AAA says gasoline demand has jumped steadily since the end of April, dropping supply levels around the country.&nbsp; That means pump prices are likely to see fluctuation this month. The average price across the country was just over $3.04, or more than a dollar a gallon higher than a year ago. The average across Kansas was just under $2.83 per gallon.&nbsp; Filling up a 15-gallon tank locally will cost you about a dollar more than last week, a dollar less than last month, and about $17 more than a year ago at this time.&nbsp; The government says U.S. energy consumption last year dropped by a record seven percent from the year before. The Energy Information Administration sways energy use decreased for all fuels except renewable energy, which increased by two percent. Petroleum consumption last year dropped by 13%, and natural gas was down two percent. Authorities braced for protests in northern Minnesota in the final construction push to replace a crude oil pipeline. Environmental and tribal groups oppose Enbridge Energy’s ongoing effort to replace its aging Line 3, which carries Canadian crude from Alberta. It clips a corner of North Dakota on its way across northern Minnesota to Enbridge’s terminal in Superior, Wisconsin. The Canadian and Wisconsin replacement segments are already carrying oil. The Minnesota segment is about 60% complete.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARKansas Common crude at CHS starts the week at $59.75 per barrel, the best price in McPherson since October 2018.&nbsp; That's up nearly two dollars from the first of the month and $21 higher than at the first of the year. By midday, Monday the Nymex benchmark futures contract was down 16 cents from Friday's settlement, to $69.46 per barrel. London Brent reached $72.17 a barrel in intraday trading Friday, the highest price for the international benchmark since 2019. Brent prices remained above $71 Monday. Kansas crude-oil production rose 15% in March from the month before, according to a government report. But state output remained more than 11% behind March of last year. The Energy Information Administration said Kansas production reached 2.3 million barrels in March. That's about 77,000 barrels per day, compared to 67,000 barrels a day the month before and 87,000 barrels per day a year earlier. EIA reports U.S. output in March reached 11.2 million barrels per day, up 14% on the month, but down 12 percent from March 2020. After a big drop in February, crude output in Texas jumped 26% in March to 4.4 million barrels per day. The government's weekly petroleum report shows production, inventories and imports all dropped last week. U.S. operators produced 10.88 million barrels per day during the week ending May 28. That's down 168,000 barrels per day from the week before and about 300,000 barrels per day less than the same week last year. EIA said inventories dropped more than half a million barrels. Stockpiles are about three percent below the five-year seasonal average. Imports were down more than half a million barrels per day last week at 5.6 million barrels per day. EIA said over the last four weeks, average imports are slightly lower than the same four weeks last year. The Rig Count in Kansas from Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service was down one rig in the eastern half of the state and unchanged out west. Drilling was underway on one lease in Ellis County Friday. Baker Hughes reports 456 active drilling rigs across the U.S., which is down one gas rig from last week. The count in Texas was down two while New Mexico was up two. There are 18 new drilling permits in Kansas this week, including 11 in Western Kansas, to bring the total so far this year to 369 new drilling permits. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 21 newly-completed wells across Kansas, 11 of them west of Wichita. That's 321 well completions so far this year. Weekly oil-by-rail totals posted a 27% increase over last year at this time. The Association of American Railroads reports 11,163 tanker cars moving petroleum products for the week ending May 29. That's up 363 tankers from the week before. AAR says total U.S. rail traffic in May was up 28% over May of 2020. Total combined U.S. traffic for the first 21 weeks of the year was up nearly 14% compared to last year. The auto club AAA says gasoline demand has jumped steadily since the end of April, dropping supply levels around the country.&nbsp; That means pump prices are likely to see fluctuation this month. The average price across the country was just over $3.04, or more than a dollar a gallon higher than a year ago. The average across Kansas was just under $2.83 per gallon.&nbsp; Filling up a 15-gallon tank locally will cost you about a dollar more than last week, a dollar less than last month, and about $17 more than a year ago at this time.&nbsp; The government says U.S. energy consumption last year dropped by a record seven percent from the year before. The Energy Information Administration sways energy use decreased for all fuels except renewable energy, which increased by two percent. Petroleum consumption last year dropped by 13%, and natural gas was down two percent. Authorities braced for protests in northern Minnesota in the final construction push to replace a crude oil pipeline. Environmental and tribal groups oppose Enbridge Energy’s ongoing effort to replace its aging Line 3, which carries Canadian crude from Alberta. It clips a corner of North Dakota on its way across northern Minnesota to Enbridge’s terminal in Superior, Wisconsin. The Canadian and Wisconsin replacement segments are already carrying oil. The Minnesota segment is about 60% complete.

News From the Oil Patch: Best Kan. crude prices since October 2018

Beginning Monday, Hess Services Inc. began constructing improvements at the intersection of 230th Avenue and 55th Street. &nbsp;The construction will take place in multiple phases. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=3999" target="_blank">(See Location Map)</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The anticipated construction impacts and traffic control operations are as follows:

•&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The first phase will consist of grading and asphalt pavement widening along 55th Street and the East side of 230th Avenue. &nbsp;During this phase, 230th Avenue and 55th Street will remain open for two-way traffic with restricted lane widths and intermittent flagger operations to manage traffic. &nbsp;Phase I is expected to last four weeks.

•&nbsp; &nbsp; After Phase I is complete,&nbsp;Phase II consists of grading, storm sewer installation, curb and gutter construction, and concrete pavement construction of the intersection and 230th Avenue North of 55th Street. During this phase, 230th Avenue will be closed between 55th Street and 58th Street for the remainder of construction. &nbsp;

Southbound 230th Avenue traffic will be restricted at Feedlot Road to local traffic only, a signed detour is not anticipated to be posted. &nbsp;The intersection will be constructed half at a time and 230th Avenue will be restricted to one northbound lane which will provide access to Eastbound 55th Street only. Southbound 230th Avenue between I-70 and 55th Street will be closed during this portion of phase two. &nbsp;Westbound 55th Street will be restricted at 240th Avenue to local traffic only, a signed detour is not anticipated to be to posted. 

The total project is expected to be completed by October.

Contact the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 with questions

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623081028962.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>City of HaysBeginning Monday, Hess Services Inc. began constructing improvements at the intersection of 230th Avenue and 55th Street. &nbsp;The construction will take place in multiple phases. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.haysusa.com/ImageRepository/Document?documentId=3999" target="_blank">(See Location Map)</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The anticipated construction impacts and traffic control operations are as follows:•&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;The first phase will consist of grading and asphalt pavement widening along 55th Street and the East side of 230th Avenue. &nbsp;During this phase, 230th Avenue and 55th Street will remain open for two-way traffic with restricted lane widths and intermittent flagger operations to manage traffic. &nbsp;Phase I is expected to last four weeks.•&nbsp; &nbsp; After Phase I is complete,&nbsp;Phase II consists of grading, storm sewer installation, curb and gutter construction, and concrete pavement construction of the intersection and 230th Avenue North of 55th Street. During this phase, 230th Avenue will be closed between 55th Street and 58th Street for the remainder of construction. &nbsp;Southbound 230th Avenue traffic will be restricted at Feedlot Road to local traffic only, a signed detour is not anticipated to be posted. &nbsp;The intersection will be constructed half at a time and 230th Avenue will be restricted to one northbound lane which will provide access to Eastbound 55th Street only. Southbound 230th Avenue between I-70 and 55th Street will be closed during this portion of phase two. &nbsp;Westbound 55th Street will be restricted at 240th Avenue to local traffic only, a signed detour is not anticipated to be to posted. The total project is expected to be completed by October.Contact the Office of Project Management at 785-628-7350 with questions

55th Street construction gets underway east of 230th 

HARRISONVILLE, Mo. (AP) — A Kansas City man convicted of killing two women a decade apart was sentenced Monday to life in prison for one of the killings and 15 years behind bars for the other, with the terms to run consecutively.

Kylr Yust, 32, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-us-news-michael-brown-87aa24fcde87cef728d1f013d0ae9ae7">convicted</a>&nbsp;in April of second-degree murder in the death of Jessica Runions, 21, of Raymore, and voluntary manslaughter in the death of Kara Kopetsky, 17, of Belton.

The Cass County jury that convicted him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sentencing-kansas-city-michael-brown-df9d1ea429446e48f19485216efafe62">recommended</a>&nbsp;life in prison for Runions' death and 15 years in Kopetsky's death, and Cass County Circuit Judge William Collins followed those recommendations. Collins also denied Yust's motion for a new trial.

Yust's attorney, Sharon Turlington, said in court that an appeal is planned. She had asked that the sentences run concurrently.

Prosecutors told jurors in April that Yust killed the women because they rejected him. Turlington said no physical evidence connected him to either death.

The two women were both seen with Yust before they disappeared. Runions left a party with him before she went missing in September 2016. Kopetsky had taken out a protection order against Yust a month before she was last seen leaving Belton High School in April 2007.

A mushroom hunter found their bodies near each other in a Cass County field south of Kansas City in April 2017. Runions’ remains were identified quickly but Kopetsky’s remains weren’t positively&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/a5ab3e00dba34407a798be48a5a012aa">identified&nbsp;</a>until August of that year.

Yust testified during his trial that he didn't kill either woman and suggested that his half-brother, Jessep Carter, was responsible for the deaths. Carter died by suicide in 2018 while being held in the Jackson County jail on a charge of second-degree arson.

Yust was&nbsp;<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/2693dcd7a44e52b318838784b508887d/apnews.com/article/missouri-us-news-mo-state-wire-kansas-city-2e9fd844eed84ba1a2999295a675fe04">originally charged</a>&nbsp;in October 2017 with two counts of first-degree murder but the jury found him guilty of the lesser charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1567616156500.png" alt="Yust-Cass Co." />
 <figcaption>Yust-Cass Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>HARRISONVILLE, Mo. (AP) — A Kansas City man convicted of killing two women a decade apart was sentenced Monday to life in prison for one of the killings and 15 years behind bars for the other, with the terms to run consecutively.Kylr Yust, 32, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-us-news-michael-brown-87aa24fcde87cef728d1f013d0ae9ae7">convicted</a>&nbsp;in April of second-degree murder in the death of Jessica Runions, 21, of Raymore, and voluntary manslaughter in the death of Kara Kopetsky, 17, of Belton.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576707396150.png" alt="Jessica Runions- photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Jessica Runions- photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>The Cass County jury that convicted him&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/sentencing-kansas-city-michael-brown-df9d1ea429446e48f19485216efafe62">recommended</a>&nbsp;life in prison for Runions' death and 15 years in Kopetsky's death, and Cass County Circuit Judge William Collins followed those recommendations. Collins also denied Yust's motion for a new trial.Yust's attorney, Sharon Turlington, said in court that an appeal is planned. She had asked that the sentences run concurrently.Prosecutors told jurors in April that Yust killed the women because they rejected him. Turlington said no physical evidence connected him to either death.The two women were both seen with Yust before they disappeared. Runions left a party with him before she went missing in September 2016. Kopetsky had taken out a protection order against Yust a month before she was last seen leaving Belton High School in April 2007.A mushroom hunter found their bodies near each other in a Cass County field south of Kansas City in April 2017. Runions’ remains were identified quickly but Kopetsky’s remains weren’t positively&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/a5ab3e00dba34407a798be48a5a012aa">identified&nbsp;</a>until August of that year.Yust testified during his trial that he didn't kill either woman and suggested that his half-brother, Jessep Carter, was responsible for the deaths. Carter died by suicide in 2018 while being held in the Jackson County jail on a charge of second-degree arson.Yust was&nbsp;<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/2693dcd7a44e52b318838784b508887d/apnews.com/article/missouri-us-news-mo-state-wire-kansas-city-2e9fd844eed84ba1a2999295a675fe04">originally charged</a>&nbsp;in October 2017 with two counts of first-degree murder but the jury found him guilty of the lesser charges.

Kansas City man sentenced for killing 2 women

October 25, 1912
 -
 June 3, 2021

An obituary and services are pending with Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home.

October 25, 1912
 -
 June 3, 2021 An obituary and services are pending with Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home.

C. Willard Carr

Ivan Ralph Lee, 73, of Colby, died Friday, June 4, 2021, at Wesley 
Medical Center, in Wichita. He was born October 7, 1947, in Burlington, 
CO, to George Leslie and Wanda (LaRue) Lee. 

Ivan graduated high school 
in Liberal, KS and served in the United States Army. He was a Vietnam 
Vet and was part of the Big Red One. After the military, Ivan continued 
to serve others as a Fireman. He was a member of the American Legion, 
V.F.W. and Kiwanis. Ivan married Leta Delay on November 11, 1966, and to
 this union two children were born. 
Ivan was preceded in death by his mother Wanda Thomas; father George 
Leslie Lee; stepfather Chester Thomas; father-in-law Wilmer Dean Delay; 
mother-in-law Barbara Lee (Bundy) Delay and brothers-in-law, James 
Edward Kaspari, Gary Volden and Leon Williams. 
Ivan is survived by his wife Leta, of Colby; children, Robert (Kelly) 
Lee and Tonja Lee, all of Colby, grandsons, Braydon and Parker Lazaro; 
sisters, Pearl Kaspari, Sutherland, NE and Judy Volden, Dumas, TX; 
brother Steven Lee, Park City, KS; sister-in-law Deanna Delay Williams, 
of Topeka, KS and brother-in-law Guy E. (Doretta) Delay, of Hugoton, KS.
 
A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 10, 
2021, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby. Memorials may be made to the Colby 
Fire Department, for equipment, and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, 
PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information and 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/2021/6/1623009568124.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ivan Ralph Lee, 73, of Colby, died Friday, June 4, 2021, at Wesley 
Medical Center, in Wichita. He was born October 7, 1947, in Burlington, 
CO, to George Leslie and Wanda (LaRue) Lee. Ivan graduated high school 
in Liberal, KS and served in the United States Army. He was a Vietnam 
Vet and was part of the Big Red One. After the military, Ivan continued 
to serve others as a Fireman. He was a member of the American Legion, 
V.F.W. and Kiwanis. Ivan married Leta Delay on November 11, 1966, and to
 this union two children were born. 
Ivan was preceded in death by his mother Wanda Thomas; father George 
Leslie Lee; stepfather Chester Thomas; father-in-law Wilmer Dean Delay; 
mother-in-law Barbara Lee (Bundy) Delay and brothers-in-law, James 
Edward Kaspari, Gary Volden and Leon Williams. 
Ivan is survived by his wife Leta, of Colby; children, Robert (Kelly) 
Lee and Tonja Lee, all of Colby, grandsons, Braydon and Parker Lazaro; 
sisters, Pearl Kaspari, Sutherland, NE and Judy Volden, Dumas, TX; 
brother Steven Lee, Park City, KS; sister-in-law Deanna Delay Williams, 
of Topeka, KS and brother-in-law Guy E. (Doretta) Delay, of Hugoton, KS.
 
A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 10, 
2021, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby. Memorials may be made to the Colby 
Fire Department, for equipment, and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, 
PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information and condolences visit www. 
baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Ivan Ralph Lee

Update: 10:11 a.m. June 7:&nbsp; DSNWK Custom Creation will be participating in the downtown art walk on June 18. It will be doing a fundraiser on the bricks to help raise money for its new store start up costs and hopefully some of its wish list items. The Downtown Hays Development Corp.&nbsp; is letting Custom Creations use its space to showcase some art that will be for sale and up for auction.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Do you have some unwanted furniture in your basement? Have leftover furniture that didn't sell at this weekend's garage sale?

You could help Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas' Custom Creations program.

The program, which has been in operation since 2016, is stock piling merchandise to open a new downtown Hays store that will sell refurbished and upcycled furniture, as well as crafts and art created by DSNWK clients.

DSNWK is hoping to open the new store, 1107 Main, by Oct. 15.

Custom Creations is taking donations of used solid-wood furniture that they will transform and update for resale.

"We hope to get a lot of real wood that the guys can refurbish and turn into new things,"&nbsp;LaVonne Giess, DSNWK program manager, said. 

"We used to get tables, and they were all scratched up," she said. "If it was real wood, Dustin [Olsen, employment services assistant,] has taught the guys to sand things down, how to stain, how to paint and even how to turn things into new pieces."

A head board might be transformed into a bench, and an old piano might become a bar. Pallets might be made into Christmas trees or pumpkins.

"A lot of these guys enjoy doing this stuff," Olsen said. "We have a really good group back here. We're pretty tight-knit back there."

Six individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities work in the Custom Creations shop, but Giess said she hopes those numbers can grow.

With the opening of the store, the program will also be able to sell smaller arts and crafts made by DSNWK's day program clients.

DSNWK has six day services sites within its 18-county service area. That includes sites at Hays, Norton, Russell, Hill City, Atwood and Hoxie.

"We have some people who do amazing cross stitching, painters, so many unique artists," said&nbsp;Sara Biggs, director of programs and services. "They will also have the opportunity to have their pieces displayed and sold."

DSNWK officials hope to rotate feature artists throughout the year.

Biggs said she is excited the new store and DSNWK clients will be able to participate in downtown Hays activities, including art walks.

On the program's wish list is a Chromebox, so DSNWK can connect day sites, such as Atwood, to the store so visitors can watch clients making items at remote locations.

Officials also hope to offer classes for clients in the store, so members of the community can interact with clients as they work on their projects.

"Our individuals here get so excited when we come up with new project," Giess said.

The artists and craftspeople will receive a portion of the proceeds from the furniture, art and crafts they will make.

DSNWK will also be accepting donations of other craft materials. A women who was moving recently donated a large amount of fabric she no longer needed. Nothing goes to waste, Giess said.

If people have large donations to offer, such as furniture, they can call the Employment Connections Office in Hays at 785-625-2018 to have the furniture or materials picked up. Donations are tax dedcutible.

Monetary donations can also be made to DSNWK. C<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/donate">lick here to donate online.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622737503425.jpeg" alt="Dustin Olsen, DSNWK employment services assistant, paints a desk with Custom Creations craftsman Cole Robben of Victoria at the Custom Creations workshop outside of Hays. Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Olsen, DSNWK employment services assistant, paints a desk with Custom Creations craftsman Cole Robben of Victoria at the Custom Creations workshop outside of Hays. Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Update: 10:11 a.m. June 7:&nbsp; DSNWK Custom Creation will be participating in the downtown art walk on June 18. It will be doing a fundraiser on the bricks to help raise money for its new store start up costs and hopefully some of its wish list items. The Downtown Hays Development Corp.&nbsp; is letting Custom Creations use its space to showcase some art that will be for sale and up for auction.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDo you have some unwanted furniture in your basement? Have leftover furniture that didn't sell at this weekend's garage sale?You could help Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas' Custom Creations program.The program, which has been in operation since 2016, is stock piling merchandise to open a new downtown Hays store that will sell refurbished and upcycled furniture, as well as crafts and art created by DSNWK clients.DSNWK is hoping to open the new store, 1107 Main, by Oct. 15.Custom Creations is taking donations of used solid-wood furniture that they will transform and update for resale."We hope to get a lot of real wood that the guys can refurbish and turn into new things,"&nbsp;LaVonne Giess, DSNWK program manager, said. "We used to get tables, and they were all scratched up," she said. "If it was real wood, Dustin [Olsen, employment services assistant,] has taught the guys to sand things down, how to stain, how to paint and even how to turn things into new pieces."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622737796643.jpeg" alt="DSNWK client Betty Bieker works on a craft project at the&nbsp;Prairie Developmental Center in Atwood. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>DSNWK client Betty Bieker works on a craft project at the&nbsp;Prairie Developmental Center in Atwood. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>A head board might be transformed into a bench, and an old piano might become a bar. Pallets might be made into Christmas trees or pumpkins."A lot of these guys enjoy doing this stuff," Olsen said. "We have a really good group back here. We're pretty tight-knit back there."Six individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities work in the Custom Creations shop, but Giess said she hopes those numbers can grow.With the opening of the store, the program will also be able to sell smaller arts and crafts made by DSNWK's day program clients.DSNWK has six day services sites within its 18-county service area. That includes sites at Hays, Norton, Russell, Hill City, Atwood and Hoxie."We have some people who do amazing cross stitching, painters, so many unique artists," said&nbsp;Sara Biggs, director of programs and services. "They will also have the opportunity to have their pieces displayed and sold."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622738213580.jpeg" alt="The Custom Creations shop outside of Hays. Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>The Custom Creations shop outside of Hays. Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>DSNWK officials hope to rotate feature artists throughout the year.Biggs said she is excited the new store and DSNWK clients will be able to participate in downtown Hays activities, including art walks.On the program's wish list is a Chromebox, so DSNWK can connect day sites, such as Atwood, to the store so visitors can watch clients making items at remote locations.Officials also hope to offer classes for clients in the store, so members of the community can interact with clients as they work on their projects."Our individuals here get so excited when we come up with new project," Giess said.The artists and craftspeople will receive a portion of the proceeds from the furniture, art and crafts they will make.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622738492864.jpeg" alt="Cheryl Hartzog, DSNWK client, sands a piece of wood for a craft project that will be sold in the new Custom Creations store that is scheduled to open in October. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Cheryl Hartzog, DSNWK client, sands a piece of wood for a craft project that will be sold in the new Custom Creations store that is scheduled to open in October. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>DSNWK will also be accepting donations of other craft materials. A women who was moving recently donated a large amount of fabric she no longer needed. Nothing goes to waste, Giess said.If people have large donations to offer, such as furniture, they can call the Employment Connections Office in Hays at 785-625-2018 to have the furniture or materials picked up. Donations are tax dedcutible.Monetary donations can also be made to DSNWK. C<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/donate">lick here to donate online.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622738269043.jpeg" alt="Dustin Olsen, DSNWK employment services assistant, with an old piano that has been converted by the Custom Creations workers into a bar. The bar's lights flash and change colors to the beat of digital music.&nbsp;Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Dustin Olsen, DSNWK employment services assistant, with an old piano that has been converted by the Custom Creations workers into a bar. The bar's lights flash and change colors to the beat of digital music.&nbsp;Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

UPDATE: Custom Creations seeking donations in advance of store opening

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who missed the recent 
tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is no penalty for 
filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline without requesting an
 extension should file quickly to limit penalties and interest.

Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:

The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.

COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.

Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.

Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.

Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.

Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.

Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.

Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.

Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.

The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparers

The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.

Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers who missed the recent 
tax-filing deadline who are due a refund that there is no penalty for 
filing late. Those who owe and missed the deadline without requesting an
 extension should file quickly to limit penalties and interest.<h2>Extra time to file and pay any taxes due without penalties and interest is available for some taxpayers. Included are:</h2><ul>
 <li>Members of the military who served or are currently in a combat zone. They may qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p3#idm139848472538848">additional extension of at least 180 days</a> to file and pay taxes.</li><li>Support personnel in combat zones or a contingency operation in support of the Armed Forces. They may also <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">qualify for a filing and payment extension</a> of at least 180 days.</li><li>Some disaster victims. Those who qualify have <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/disaster-assistance-and-emergency-relief-for-individuals-and-businesses">more time to file and pay</a> what they owe.</li>
 </ul><h2>Here are some tips for late filers:</h2><h2>File to get a tax refund</h2>The only way to get a refund is to file a tax return. There is no 
penalty for filing after the deadline if a refund is due. Use electronic
 filing options including IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> available on IRS.gov through October 15 to prepare and file returns electronically.COVID-19 continues to cause delays in some IRS services. If a 
taxpayer filed a paper tax return, the IRS will process it in the order 
it was received. Taxpayers should not file a second tax return or call 
the IRS. The IRS issues more than nine out of 10 refunds in less than 21
 days. However, it's possible a tax return may require <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/tax-season-refund-frequently-asked-questions">additional review</a> and take longer.Taxpayers can track a refund using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a> tool on IRS.gov, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> and by phone at <a href="tel:800-829-1954">800-829-1954</a>.
 Taxpayers need the primary Social Security number on the tax return, 
the filing status and the expected refund amount. The tool updates once 
daily, usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently. 
The Where's My Refund?&nbsp;tool cannot be used to track Economic Impact 
Payments.<h2>File to reduce penalties and interest</h2>Normally, taxpayers should file their tax return, or request an 
extension, and pay any taxes they owe by the deadline to avoid penalties
 and interest. An extension to file is not an extension to pay. 
Penalties and interest will apply to taxes owed after May 17.Even if a taxpayer can't afford to immediately pay the taxes they 
owe, they should still file a tax return as soon as possible to reduce 
possible penalties. The IRS has more information for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/what-if-i-cant-pay-my-taxes">taxpayers who owe the IRS, but cannot afford to pay</a>.Ordinarily, the failure to file penalty is 5% of the tax owed for 
each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to five 
months, reduced by the failure to pay penalty amount for any month where
 both penalties apply. If a return is filed more than 60 days after the 
due date, the minimum penalty is either $435 or 100% of the unpaid tax, 
whichever is less. Filing and paying as much as possible is important 
because the late-filing penalty and late-payment penalty add up quickly.
 The failure to pay penalty rate is generally 0.5% of unpaid tax owed 
for each month or part of a month until the tax is fully paid or until 
25% is reached. The rate is subject to change. For more information see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/penalties">IRS.gov/penalties</a>.Taxpayers who have a history of filing and paying on time often 
qualify for penalty relief. A taxpayer will usually qualify if they have
 filed and paid timely for the past three years and meet other 
requirements. For more information, see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/penalty-relief-due-to-first-time-penalty-abatement-or-other-administrative-waiver">first-time penalty abatement</a> page on IRS.gov.Interest is charged on tax and penalties until the balance is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">paid in full</a>.<h2>Pay taxes due electronically</h2>Those who owe taxes can pay with IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/direct-pay">Direct Pay</a>, by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/pay-your-taxes-by-debit-or-credit-card">debit or credit card</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application">apply online for a payment plan (including an installment agreement)</a>. For more electronic payment options visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a>.
 They are secure and easy to use. Taxpayers paying electronically 
receive immediate confirmation when they submit their payment. With 
Direct Pay and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/eftps-the-electronic-federal-tax-payment-system">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)</a>, taxpayers can opt in to receive email notifications about their payments.<h2>Selecting a tax professional</h2>The IRS offers tips to help taxpayers choose a tax return preparer wisely. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a> page has information about tax return preparer <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/understanding-tax-return-preparer-credentials-and-qualifications">credentials and qualification</a>s and guidance on avoiding unscrupulous tax return preparersThe <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 can help taxpayers find tax return preparers who hold a professional 
credential recognized by the IRS or who have completed the requirements 
for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>.<h2>Taxpayer Bill of Rights</h2>Taxpayers have fundamental rights under the law that protect taxpayers when they interact with the IRS. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxpayer-bill-of-rights">Taxpayer Bill of Rights</a> presents these rights in 10 categories. IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-1">Publication 1, Your Rights as a Taxpayer</a>, highlights these rights and the agency's obligation to protect them.

Missed your tax filing deadline? There is still time to get help, relief

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas ordered less than 1% of its vaccine allocation from the federal government for this week, the state health department reported Friday.

The disclosure came as the department’s data showed that Kansas still had nearly 593,000 unused doses as of Friday, about 21% of the 2.8 million shipped to the state.

Demand for inoculations has dropped, prompting the state and county health departments to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ks-state-wire-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-health-government-and-politics-a9d76246ddba18a0d776b90717efc707">increase mobile clinics and bring vaccines</a>&nbsp;to churches and work sites.

The state, Wyandotte County and the University of Kansas Health System partnered with Kansas Speedway to promote vaccinations Thursday and Friday at the Kansas City, Kansas, NASCAR track. The speedway offered people who got vaccinated two laps around its track and entered them in a raffle for prizes that included tickets to the NASCAR Cup Series race there in October.

The state health department said it ordered only 1,020 or 0.7% of its federal allocation of 147,660 vaccine doses for this week.

Its data showed that an average of 4,348 vaccine shots a day were administered during the seven days ending Friday, its lowest seven-day average since Jan. 21.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data" target="_blank">The department said</a>&nbsp;42.5% of the state’s 2.9 million residents had received at least one vaccine shot as of Friday.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas ordered less than 1% of its vaccine allocation from the federal government for this week, the state health department reported Friday.The disclosure came as the department’s data showed that Kansas still had nearly 593,000 unused doses as of Friday, about 21% of the 2.8 million shipped to the state.Demand for inoculations has dropped, prompting the state and county health departments to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ks-state-wire-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-health-government-and-politics-a9d76246ddba18a0d776b90717efc707">increase mobile clinics and bring vaccines</a>&nbsp;to churches and work sites.The state, Wyandotte County and the University of Kansas Health System partnered with Kansas Speedway to promote vaccinations Thursday and Friday at the Kansas City, Kansas, NASCAR track. The speedway offered people who got vaccinated two laps around its track and entered them in a raffle for prizes that included tickets to the NASCAR Cup Series race there in October.The state health department said it ordered only 1,020 or 0.7% of its federal allocation of 147,660 vaccine doses for this week.Its data showed that an average of 4,348 vaccine shots a day were administered during the seven days ending Friday, its lowest seven-day average since Jan. 21.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data" target="_blank">The department said</a>&nbsp;42.5% of the state’s 2.9 million residents had received at least one vaccine shot as of Friday.

Kansas orders less than 1% of its COVID vaccine allocation

Helen Marie Koel passed away on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at the Redbud 
Village in Plainville at the age of 99. She was born in Norton County, 
Kansas to Edward and Lizzie (Bartel) Paugh on May 2, 1922. She was 
united in marriage to her first husband Edwin Kent on October 17, 1942. 
They were blessed with a son, Alvin Kent. Edwin passed away on July 3, 
1945 and Helen was remarried on October 15, 1946 to Francis Koel in New 
Almelo, Kansas. Francis and Helen were blessed with five children: 
James, Joyce, David, Venetia, and Karla.
 Helen was a member of the graduating class of 1942 at Lenora High 
School and a lifelong resident of Graham County. After high school, she 
then worked hard to provide for her family by pursuing her career as a 
nurse at the local hospital, working her way from the kitchen to getting
 promoted to higher positions. Helen then decided to go to school in 
Beloit for their nursing program. At the age of 60, she went back to 
college and continued her education in nursing. She was a licensed LPN 
and truly loved working at the hospital.
 Helen was a woman with many amazing qualities and hobbies. She loved
 to play many games, with bingo being her favorite. She would play bingo
 anytime and anyplace with anyone. She also liked to play her luck at 
gambling and would take a bus to go gambling often. 
 Helen was a very inviting woman, welcoming everyone to her house. 
She even had an “open door policy” to attest to this. All were equal in 
her eyes. She also loved to make handmade gifts. You could be sure to 
receive one before leaving her house and you would always know what you 
were receiving before she ever gave it to you! One of her most favorite 
gifts was a specially made quilt by her, which she gave to her children 
made from handkerchiefs from her mother that was shaped like 
butterflies.
 Truly one of the most generous people you could ever meet, Helen was
 a loving and caring woman who seemed to always have a smile on her 
face. Helen will be greatly missed by the countless lives she touched 
and by all who knew and loved her, but her life and memory will continue
 to have an impact for eternity. 
 She is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Lizzie Paugh; 
first husband, Edwin Kent; second husband, Francis Koel; daughter, 
Venetia Holmes; and a grandson, Kenny Kaylor; daughter-in-laws, Linda 
Kent and Becky Koel.
 Left to cherish Helen’s memories are her children, Alvin (Karen) 
Kent of Jefferson City, MO, James (Melissa) Koel of Dewey, AZ, Joyce 
(Mark) Griffin of Wichita, KS, David (Trisha) Koel of Plainville, KS, 
and Karla (Calvin) Morgan of Hill City, KS; twenty grandchildren, 
fifteen great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.
 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at
 the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Hill City, starting at 1:30 PM. 
Visitation will also be held on Saturday at the church from 12 PM until 
service time.
 Memorials are suggested to the Redbud Village 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/2021/6/1622835723462.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Helen Marie Koel passed away on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at the Redbud 
Village in Plainville at the age of 99. She was born in Norton County, 
Kansas to Edward and Lizzie (Bartel) Paugh on May 2, 1922. She was 
united in marriage to her first husband Edwin Kent on October 17, 1942. 
They were blessed with a son, Alvin Kent. Edwin passed away on July 3, 
1945 and Helen was remarried on October 15, 1946 to Francis Koel in New 
Almelo, Kansas. Francis and Helen were blessed with five children: 
James, Joyce, David, Venetia, and Karla.
 Helen was a member of the graduating class of 1942 at Lenora High 
School and a lifelong resident of Graham County. After high school, she 
then worked hard to provide for her family by pursuing her career as a 
nurse at the local hospital, working her way from the kitchen to getting
 promoted to higher positions. Helen then decided to go to school in 
Beloit for their nursing program. At the age of 60, she went back to 
college and continued her education in nursing. She was a licensed LPN 
and truly loved working at the hospital.
 Helen was a woman with many amazing qualities and hobbies. She loved
 to play many games, with bingo being her favorite. She would play bingo
 anytime and anyplace with anyone. She also liked to play her luck at 
gambling and would take a bus to go gambling often. 
 Helen was a very inviting woman, welcoming everyone to her house. 
She even had an “open door policy” to attest to this. All were equal in 
her eyes. She also loved to make handmade gifts. You could be sure to 
receive one before leaving her house and you would always know what you 
were receiving before she ever gave it to you! One of her most favorite 
gifts was a specially made quilt by her, which she gave to her children 
made from handkerchiefs from her mother that was shaped like 
butterflies.
 Truly one of the most generous people you could ever meet, Helen was
 a loving and caring woman who seemed to always have a smile on her 
face. Helen will be greatly missed by the countless lives she touched 
and by all who knew and loved her, but her life and memory will continue
 to have an impact for eternity. 
 She is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Lizzie Paugh; 
first husband, Edwin Kent; second husband, Francis Koel; daughter, 
Venetia Holmes; and a grandson, Kenny Kaylor; daughter-in-laws, Linda 
Kent and Becky Koel.
 Left to cherish Helen’s memories are her children, Alvin (Karen) 
Kent of Jefferson City, MO, James (Melissa) Koel of Dewey, AZ, Joyce 
(Mark) Griffin of Wichita, KS, David (Trisha) Koel of Plainville, KS, 
and Karla (Calvin) Morgan of Hill City, KS; twenty grandchildren, 
fifteen great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.
 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at
 the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Hill City, starting at 1:30 PM. 
Visitation will also be held on Saturday at the church from 12 PM until 
service time.
 Memorials are suggested to the Redbud Village and may be sent in 
care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd St., Plainville, KS 
67663.

Helen Marie Koel

David Drew Ford, 65, passed away June 3, 2021, at Kinwood View Health
 &amp; Rehab, Salina. He was born October 13, 1955, at Clovis, New 
Mexico, to Burl &amp; Dorothy (Camp) Ford.

A Great Bend resident for most of his life, David was a handiman for 
Venture Corporation. He enjoyed painting and BBQ's. He loved his cats 
but especially loved spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Survivors include, his mother, Dorothy Morgan of Great Bend; a 
daughter, Chelsea Shanks and husband Frank of Great Bend; two brothers, 
Curtis Ford of Great Bend, and Kevin Ford of Ruidoso, New Mexico; a 
sister, Denise King and significant other Steve Fricks of Great Bend; a 
brother in law, Eddie King of Great Bend; three grandchildren, Fabio 
Chavez, Zain Shanks, and Kash Shanks; a nephew, Wayne King; and several 
other nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded 
in death by his father, Burl Ford; and a brother, John Ford.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place and a 
Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Memorials have
 been designated to the David Ford Funeral Expense Fund, in care of 
Bryant Funeral Home.

David Drew Ford, 65, passed away June 3, 2021, at Kinwood View Health
 &amp; Rehab, Salina. He was born October 13, 1955, at Clovis, New 
Mexico, to Burl &amp; Dorothy (Camp) Ford.A Great Bend resident for most of his life, David was a handiman for 
Venture Corporation. He enjoyed painting and BBQ's. He loved his cats 
but especially loved spending time with his family and grandchildren.Survivors include, his mother, Dorothy Morgan of Great Bend; a 
daughter, Chelsea Shanks and husband Frank of Great Bend; two brothers, 
Curtis Ford of Great Bend, and Kevin Ford of Ruidoso, New Mexico; a 
sister, Denise King and significant other Steve Fricks of Great Bend; a 
brother in law, Eddie King of Great Bend; three grandchildren, Fabio 
Chavez, Zain Shanks, and Kash Shanks; a nephew, Wayne King; and several 
other nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded 
in death by his father, Burl Ford; and a brother, John Ford.There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place and a 
Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Memorials have
 been designated to the David Ford Funeral Expense Fund, in care of 
Bryant Funeral Home.

David Drew Ford

Harold Francis Newell, age 76, of Beloit, passed away peacefully in 
his home, surrounded by loved ones on May 31, 2021. He was born on April
 29, 1945, in Hays, Kansas, son of Lawrence (Joe) and Rita Newell, who 
preceded him in death. He was a dearly loved husband, father, grandpa, 
papa, great-grandpa, and brother.&nbsp; On October 26, 1965, Harold married 
Joyce Ann Compton. Home for Harold was Damar, Kansas, where he and 
Joyce, his lovely wife of 55 and a ½ years, raised their family and 
attended church.

There are no coincidences in God’s kingdom. Harold was a man of faith
 and generosity. He was also a man with a dashing sense of humor. It is 
fitting that he passed away on Memorial Day. He proudly served in the US
 Army during the Vietnam War, receiving a Bronze Star. On May 31, 2015 
he was selected to take an Honor Flight. He was awarded a Quilt of Valor
 on November 3, 2017. He worked for Abercombie Drilling Company until 
the oil crash in 1985. He then became a truck driver for the next 25 
years, retiring only last December. Describing Harold as a hard worker 
is an enormous understatement. Just a few years ago, he was harvesting 
fields in other states. He was known as the man in his seventies who 
could keep up with the kids in their twenties. There was never a dull 
moment with Harold. He lived his life to the fullest. In his younger 
years he enjoyed both motorcycle and horseback riding, playing pool and 
cards as well as hunting and camping. In his later years he loved 
spending time with his family and friends. He had a way of making 
everyone feel welcome. No one left the Newell table hungry. Joyce did 
the cooking and he did the laughing. He was passionate about guns, loved
 showing them to his loved ones and telling them stories. He enjoyed 
making ice cream and spoiling his grandchildren. He was loving, funny, 
and most of all ornery. He loved on his great-grandchildren, squeezing 
their little toes, roaring with laughter. He also enjoyed spending time 
with his siblings. Family was always the most important part of his 
life. He will be infinitely missed. 

Harold is preceded in death by his 
beloved grandson, Brandon Doerfler; angel grandchildren, John, 
Christopher, Carsen, and Jessie Heidrick; angel great-grandchildren 
Tripp Fox &amp; Baby Sharp; brothers, Leland and Michael Newell; 
sisters, Albertine Garcia, and Louise Schmidt. 

Left to cherish his 
memory are his wife, Joyce Ann Compton Newell; children, Shawna (Arlan) 
VanEngen, Billy (Tammi) Newell, Teresa (Scott) Heidrick; grandchildren, 
Jordan (John) Fox, Brooke Newell, Brady (Shelby) Doerfler, Logan 
(Brooklyn) Newell, Brant (Theresa) Doerfler, Bryant Doerfler, Ragen 
(Justin) Sharp, Blake Newell, Andersen Heidrick; twenty 
great-grandchildren; brother, Dale Newell; sisters, Kathyleen Brown, 
Lois Sumner, Carmen Sims, and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp; Memorials may 
be given to the Perdue Hospitality House or the Damar City Park.

Memorial services&nbsp; will be at 10:30 AM Saturday, June 5 at St. Joseph
 Catholic Church in Damar.&nbsp; Visitation will be held at the church Friday
 from 6PM-9PM.&nbsp; Rosary will take place at 7PM. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622813295563.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Harold Francis Newell, age 76, of Beloit, passed away peacefully in 
his home, surrounded by loved ones on May 31, 2021. He was born on April
 29, 1945, in Hays, Kansas, son of Lawrence (Joe) and Rita Newell, who 
preceded him in death. He was a dearly loved husband, father, grandpa, 
papa, great-grandpa, and brother.&nbsp; On October 26, 1965, Harold married 
Joyce Ann Compton. Home for Harold was Damar, Kansas, where he and 
Joyce, his lovely wife of 55 and a ½ years, raised their family and 
attended church.There are no coincidences in God’s kingdom. Harold was a man of faith
 and generosity. He was also a man with a dashing sense of humor. It is 
fitting that he passed away on Memorial Day. He proudly served in the US
 Army during the Vietnam War, receiving a Bronze Star. On May 31, 2015 
he was selected to take an Honor Flight. He was awarded a Quilt of Valor
 on November 3, 2017. He worked for Abercombie Drilling Company until 
the oil crash in 1985. He then became a truck driver for the next 25 
years, retiring only last December. Describing Harold as a hard worker 
is an enormous understatement. Just a few years ago, he was harvesting 
fields in other states. He was known as the man in his seventies who 
could keep up with the kids in their twenties. There was never a dull 
moment with Harold. He lived his life to the fullest. In his younger 
years he enjoyed both motorcycle and horseback riding, playing pool and 
cards as well as hunting and camping. In his later years he loved 
spending time with his family and friends. He had a way of making 
everyone feel welcome. No one left the Newell table hungry. Joyce did 
the cooking and he did the laughing. He was passionate about guns, loved
 showing them to his loved ones and telling them stories. He enjoyed 
making ice cream and spoiling his grandchildren. He was loving, funny, 
and most of all ornery. He loved on his great-grandchildren, squeezing 
their little toes, roaring with laughter. He also enjoyed spending time 
with his siblings. Family was always the most important part of his 
life. He will be infinitely missed. Harold is preceded in death by his 
beloved grandson, Brandon Doerfler; angel grandchildren, John, 
Christopher, Carsen, and Jessie Heidrick; angel great-grandchildren 
Tripp Fox &amp; Baby Sharp; brothers, Leland and Michael Newell; 
sisters, Albertine Garcia, and Louise Schmidt. Left to cherish his 
memory are his wife, Joyce Ann Compton Newell; children, Shawna (Arlan) 
VanEngen, Billy (Tammi) Newell, Teresa (Scott) Heidrick; grandchildren, 
Jordan (John) Fox, Brooke Newell, Brady (Shelby) Doerfler, Logan 
(Brooklyn) Newell, Brant (Theresa) Doerfler, Bryant Doerfler, Ragen 
(Justin) Sharp, Blake Newell, Andersen Heidrick; twenty 
great-grandchildren; brother, Dale Newell; sisters, Kathyleen Brown, 
Lois Sumner, Carmen Sims, and many nieces and nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp; Memorials may 
be given to the Perdue Hospitality House or the Damar City Park.Memorial services&nbsp; will be at 10:30 AM Saturday, June 5 at St. Joseph
 Catholic Church in Damar.&nbsp; Visitation will be held at the church Friday
 from 6PM-9PM.&nbsp; Rosary will take place at 7PM. &nbsp;

Harold Francis Newell

Darlene 
Joyce Meredith, 78, Delphos, was born July 30, 1942 in Lincoln, KS to 
Jay and Mabel (Richardson) Smith. She passed away Monday, May 24, 2021.&nbsp;

Darlene 
attended Minneapolis High School and was active in 4-H while in school.&nbsp;
 She married Thomas Meredith on October 10, 1959 in Minneapolis, KS.&nbsp; 
Tom and Darlene were inseparable.&nbsp; They truly loved life and spending 
time together. They had four children of their own and through Darlene’s
 selfless love and care for generations of children in the Delphos area,
 she helped to raise many others.&nbsp; She not only provided childcare for 
over 50 years, she showered the children with her love and affection, 
often attending countless events in the community.&nbsp; Darlene was also a 
Boy Scout leader and involved in the St. Jude Bike-A-Thon, raising money
 for hospitalized children.

Survivors
 include her husband, Tom; son, Ron and his wife Jacque Meredith of 
Hulbert, Oklahoma; daughters, Pam and her husband Keith Cole of 
Minneapolis, Kansas and Lori and her husband Larry Geist of Natoma, 
Kansas; grandchildren, Brian Cole, Sabetha, KS, Matt (Janet) Meredith, 
Tahlequah, OK, Luke (Laura) Geist, Soldier, KS, Mitch (Kara) Meredith, 
Hulbert, OK, and Lyndsey (Logan) Brown, Maize, KS; great-grandchildren, 
Jarrett, Maverick, Navy and Lemi Meredith, Lakely and Tennessee 
Meredith, Garrett, Kylen, and Haddlea Kilpatrick, Kaedin, Kael, and 
Kynleigh Lamas, and Henry Brown; brothers, Jay Smith, Robert Smith, and 
Walter (Sheree) Smith; sisters, LaVaughn McClintock and Jaylin Kirby; 
special friend Madelon Hardy.

Darlene 
was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Julie Ann Meredith; 
brothers, John Smith, and Edgar Smith; sisters, Mable Smith, Mary (Sam) 
Thomas, Frances Theissen, and Margret Adams; brother-in-law, Larry 
McClintock and sister-in-law, Jo Smith; and great-grandson, Oliver 
Thomas Brown.

Visitation
 will be from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., Sunday, June 6 at Wilson Family 
Funeral Home, Minneapolis, where family will receive friends from 4:00 
to 6:00.&nbsp; Funeral services for Tom and Darlene will be at 11:00 A.M., 
Monday, June 7 at the Delphos Auditorium with burial in the Delphos 
Cemetery, Delphos, KS.&nbsp; 

Memorials can be made to the Delphos Community 
Fund (please make checks out to GSCF and put Delphos Community Fund in 
the memo) or the Delphos Senior Center and left in care of Wilson Family
 Funeral Home, P.O. Box 166, Minneapolis, KS 67467.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622752191171.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Darlene 
Joyce Meredith, 78, Delphos, was born July 30, 1942 in Lincoln, KS to 
Jay and Mabel (Richardson) Smith. She passed away Monday, May 24, 2021.&nbsp;Darlene 
attended Minneapolis High School and was active in 4-H while in school.&nbsp;
 She married Thomas Meredith on October 10, 1959 in Minneapolis, KS.&nbsp; 
Tom and Darlene were inseparable.&nbsp; They truly loved life and spending 
time together. They had four children of their own and through Darlene’s
 selfless love and care for generations of children in the Delphos area,
 she helped to raise many others.&nbsp; She not only provided childcare for 
over 50 years, she showered the children with her love and affection, 
often attending countless events in the community.&nbsp; Darlene was also a 
Boy Scout leader and involved in the St. Jude Bike-A-Thon, raising money
 for hospitalized children.Survivors
 include her husband, Tom; son, Ron and his wife Jacque Meredith of 
Hulbert, Oklahoma; daughters, Pam and her husband Keith Cole of 
Minneapolis, Kansas and Lori and her husband Larry Geist of Natoma, 
Kansas; grandchildren, Brian Cole, Sabetha, KS, Matt (Janet) Meredith, 
Tahlequah, OK, Luke (Laura) Geist, Soldier, KS, Mitch (Kara) Meredith, 
Hulbert, OK, and Lyndsey (Logan) Brown, Maize, KS; great-grandchildren, 
Jarrett, Maverick, Navy and Lemi Meredith, Lakely and Tennessee 
Meredith, Garrett, Kylen, and Haddlea Kilpatrick, Kaedin, Kael, and 
Kynleigh Lamas, and Henry Brown; brothers, Jay Smith, Robert Smith, and 
Walter (Sheree) Smith; sisters, LaVaughn McClintock and Jaylin Kirby; 
special friend Madelon Hardy.Darlene 
was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Julie Ann Meredith; 
brothers, John Smith, and Edgar Smith; sisters, Mable Smith, Mary (Sam) 
Thomas, Frances Theissen, and Margret Adams; brother-in-law, Larry 
McClintock and sister-in-law, Jo Smith; and great-grandson, Oliver 
Thomas Brown.Visitation
 will be from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., Sunday, June 6 at Wilson Family 
Funeral Home, Minneapolis, where family will receive friends from 4:00 
to 6:00.&nbsp; Funeral services for Tom and Darlene will be at 11:00 A.M., 
Monday, June 7 at the Delphos Auditorium with burial in the Delphos 
Cemetery, Delphos, KS.&nbsp; Memorials can be made to the Delphos Community 
Fund (please make checks out to GSCF and put Delphos Community Fund in 
the memo) or the Delphos Senior Center and left in care of Wilson Family
 Funeral Home, P.O. Box 166, Minneapolis, KS 67467.

Darlene J. Meredith

Thomas 
Udeen Meredith, 86, Delphos, passed away Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at his 
home.&nbsp; He was born May 29, 1935, in Delphos to Ronald Thomas and Doris 
Lillian (Pounds) Meredith.

Tom 
attended school in Delphos and he was a 1954 graduate of Delphos High 
School. He married Darlene Smith on October 10, 1959, in Minneapolis, 
KS.&nbsp; Tom and Darlene were inseparable. They truly loved life and 
spending time together. He served as city superintendent in Delphos for 
over 40 plus years before retiring.&nbsp; Tom also served on the Delphos Fire
 Department for 52 years.&nbsp;

He 
coached softball for over 40 years and he was an avid coyote and coon 
hunter, and he dearly loved his greyhounds.&nbsp; He had a true love for all 
of his family.

Survivors
 include his son, Ron and his wife Jacque Meredith of Hulbert, Oklahoma;
 daughters, Pam and her husband Keith Cole of Minneapolis, Kansas and 
Lori and her husband Larry Geist of Natoma, Kansas; grandchildren, Brian
 Cole, Sabetha, KS, Matt (Janet) Meredith, Tahlequah, OK, Luke (Laura) 
Geist, Soldier, KS, Mitch (Kara) Meredith, Hulbert, OK, and Lyndsey 
(Logan) Brown, Maize, KS; great-grandchildren, Jarrett, Maverick, Navy 
and Lemi Meredith, Lakely and Tennessee Meredith, Garrett, Kylen, and 
Haddlea Kilpatrick, Kaedin, Kael, and Kynleigh Lamas, and Henry Brown; 
brother, Louis (Amy) Meredith; sister, Ronelda (Bob) Darrow; and 
brother-in-law, Rollis Sechrist.

He was 
preceded in death by his parents; wife, Darlene on May 24, 2021; 
daughter, Julie Ann Meredith; sisters, Marilyn Sechrist and Rowena 
(A.C.) Williams; sister-in-law, Marjorie Meredith; and great-grandson, 
Oliver Thomas Brown.

Visitation
 will be from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., Sunday, June 6 at Wilson Family 
Funeral Home, Minneapolis, where family will receive friends from 4:00 
to 6:00. &nbsp;There will be softballs available to sign if you were one of 
Tom’s “softball kids."&nbsp; They will be available at the visitation and the
 funeral. Funeral services for Tom and Darlene will be at 11:00 A.M., 
Monday, June 7 at the Delphos Auditorium with burial in the Delphos 
Cemetery, Delphos, KS.&nbsp; Memorials can be made to the Delphos Community 
Fund (please make checks out to GSCF and put Delphos Community Fund in 
the memo) or the Delphos Senior Center and left in care of Wilson Family
 Funeral Home, P.O. Box 166, Minneapolis, KS 67467.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622752119810.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Thomas 
Udeen Meredith, 86, Delphos, passed away Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at his 
home.&nbsp; He was born May 29, 1935, in Delphos to Ronald Thomas and Doris 
Lillian (Pounds) Meredith.Tom 
attended school in Delphos and he was a 1954 graduate of Delphos High 
School. He married Darlene Smith on October 10, 1959, in Minneapolis, 
KS.&nbsp; Tom and Darlene were inseparable. They truly loved life and 
spending time together. He served as city superintendent in Delphos for 
over 40 plus years before retiring.&nbsp; Tom also served on the Delphos Fire
 Department for 52 years.&nbsp;He 
coached softball for over 40 years and he was an avid coyote and coon 
hunter, and he dearly loved his greyhounds.&nbsp; He had a true love for all 
of his family.Survivors
 include his son, Ron and his wife Jacque Meredith of Hulbert, Oklahoma;
 daughters, Pam and her husband Keith Cole of Minneapolis, Kansas and 
Lori and her husband Larry Geist of Natoma, Kansas; grandchildren, Brian
 Cole, Sabetha, KS, Matt (Janet) Meredith, Tahlequah, OK, Luke (Laura) 
Geist, Soldier, KS, Mitch (Kara) Meredith, Hulbert, OK, and Lyndsey 
(Logan) Brown, Maize, KS; great-grandchildren, Jarrett, Maverick, Navy 
and Lemi Meredith, Lakely and Tennessee Meredith, Garrett, Kylen, and 
Haddlea Kilpatrick, Kaedin, Kael, and Kynleigh Lamas, and Henry Brown; 
brother, Louis (Amy) Meredith; sister, Ronelda (Bob) Darrow; and 
brother-in-law, Rollis Sechrist.He was 
preceded in death by his parents; wife, Darlene on May 24, 2021; 
daughter, Julie Ann Meredith; sisters, Marilyn Sechrist and Rowena 
(A.C.) Williams; sister-in-law, Marjorie Meredith; and great-grandson, 
Oliver Thomas Brown.Visitation
 will be from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., Sunday, June 6 at Wilson Family 
Funeral Home, Minneapolis, where family will receive friends from 4:00 
to 6:00. &nbsp;There will be softballs available to sign if you were one of 
Tom’s “softball kids."&nbsp; They will be available at the visitation and the
 funeral. Funeral services for Tom and Darlene will be at 11:00 A.M., 
Monday, June 7 at the Delphos Auditorium with burial in the Delphos 
Cemetery, Delphos, KS.&nbsp; Memorials can be made to the Delphos Community 
Fund (please make checks out to GSCF and put Delphos Community Fund in 
the memo) or the Delphos Senior Center and left in care of Wilson Family
 Funeral Home, P.O. Box 166, Minneapolis, KS 67467.

Thomas U. Meredith

Jesse Rocha Medina, 89, passed away May 30, 2021 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Jesse was born January 11, 1932 in Offerle, Kansas to Sebastian and 
Julia Rocha Medina and raised in Kinsley, Kansas by his grandfather, 
Santiago Rocha and great aunt Lupe Rocha.&nbsp; Jesse was active in high 
school sports lettering in track, basketball and football.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Jesse enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 18 and
 served in the Korean War between the years of 1951 and 1953 as a 
Forward Observer.

On October 9, 1954 Jesse married Amelia Garcia in Larned; Amelia preceded him in death on October 11, 1973.

He later married Darlene Heinrich on August 1, 1987 in Larned Kansas.

As a lifetime area resident, Jesse was a member of Sacred Heart 
Catholic Church. Jesse held several professions in Larned, after 
attending trade school in Chicago for TV repair and became a small 
business owner of a TV repair shop in 1965, Facilities Electrical 
Maintenance Supervisor for Larned State Hospital and finally the 
maintenance supervisor at Diversicare of Larned nursing home before 
retiring at the age of 84.

Jesse is survived by his wife Darlene, Larned, three daughters, 
Patricia (Donnie) Harper, Larned, Linda (George) Spady, Colorado 
Springs, Colorado, Caroline “Sophia” Smith, Larned; two sons, Michael 
(Paula Michelle) Medina, Katy, Texas, Steven (Ruth) Medina, Houston, 
Texas; sixteen grandchildren, thirty-nine great grandchildren, and seven
 great-great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Amelia Garcia 
Medina; his grandparents; and infant brother Sebastian Medina Jr.

Funeral mass will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 9th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Bernard Felix presiding. Visitation will be Tuesday June 8th
 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with family 
present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Vigil and Rosary service will begin
 at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned, Kansas with
 Military Graveside Rites.

Memorials may be given to the Fallen Heroes Fund in care of Beckwith 
Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may 
be left at <a href="http://www.beckwithmortuary.com">www.beckwithmortuary.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622752059802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jesse Rocha Medina, 89, passed away May 30, 2021 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.Jesse was born January 11, 1932 in Offerle, Kansas to Sebastian and 
Julia Rocha Medina and raised in Kinsley, Kansas by his grandfather, 
Santiago Rocha and great aunt Lupe Rocha.&nbsp; Jesse was active in high 
school sports lettering in track, basketball and football.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Jesse enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 18 and
 served in the Korean War between the years of 1951 and 1953 as a 
Forward Observer.On October 9, 1954 Jesse married Amelia Garcia in Larned; Amelia preceded him in death on October 11, 1973.He later married Darlene Heinrich on August 1, 1987 in Larned Kansas.As a lifetime area resident, Jesse was a member of Sacred Heart 
Catholic Church. Jesse held several professions in Larned, after 
attending trade school in Chicago for TV repair and became a small 
business owner of a TV repair shop in 1965, Facilities Electrical 
Maintenance Supervisor for Larned State Hospital and finally the 
maintenance supervisor at Diversicare of Larned nursing home before 
retiring at the age of 84.Jesse is survived by his wife Darlene, Larned, three daughters, 
Patricia (Donnie) Harper, Larned, Linda (George) Spady, Colorado 
Springs, Colorado, Caroline “Sophia” Smith, Larned; two sons, Michael 
(Paula Michelle) Medina, Katy, Texas, Steven (Ruth) Medina, Houston, 
Texas; sixteen grandchildren, thirty-nine great grandchildren, and seven
 great-great grandchildren.He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Amelia Garcia 
Medina; his grandparents; and infant brother Sebastian Medina Jr.Funeral mass will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 9th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Bernard Felix presiding. Visitation will be Tuesday June 8th
 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Beckwith Mortuary, Larned, with family 
present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.&nbsp; Vigil and Rosary service will begin
 at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in the Larned Cemetery, Larned, Kansas with
 Military Graveside Rites.Memorials may be given to the Fallen Heroes Fund in care of Beckwith 
Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may 
be left at <a href="http://www.beckwithmortuary.com">www.beckwithmortuary.com</a>.

Jesse R. Medina

Many people mistake little barley (Hordeum pusillum) for a little foxtail because the foxtail and little barley seedheads are similar. However, little barley is a winter annual that comes up in late September - October and spends the winter as a small plant. It thrives in the cooler spring temperatures, forms seed heads, and dies out usually by July. Foxtail, on the other hand, is a summer annual that does well in hot weather. Also, foxtail will not produce seedheads until mid-to late-summer. So, why are we talking about little barley now? Because now is NOT the time to control it unless it is in an area where a non-selective herbicide that kills everything such as glyphosate (Roundup) can be used. The best control for little barley in turf is a thick lawn that is mowed high enough that sunlight does not hit the soil. Little barley seed will not germinate in such conditions. Overseeding in early September can thicken up a tall fescue lawn and prevent a little barley infestation. However, if you do not plan to overseed even though the lawn is a bit thin, preemergence herbicides can be used to provide at least partial control of this weed. The only preemergence herbicide that I know is labeled specifically for little barley is&nbsp; Weed Impede by Monterey Lawn and Garden. Weed Impede can only be used on warm-season grasses (bermudagrass, buffalograss, zoysiagrass) and tall fescue that is grown in warm-season areas such as Kansas. However, Dimension (dithiopyr) a pre-emergent, is labeled for barley (Herodium spp.) which would include little barley and therefore can be used to keep this weed under control. Because little barley is a winter annual, apply the preemergence herbicide about mid-September and water in to activate. If overseeding, do not apply any preemergence herbicide as it will interfere with the germination of tall fescue. 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.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Many people mistake little barley (Hordeum pusillum) for a little foxtail because the foxtail and little barley seedheads are similar. However, little barley is a winter annual that comes up in late September - October and spends the winter as a small plant. It thrives in the cooler spring temperatures, forms seed heads, and dies out usually by July. Foxtail, on the other hand, is a summer annual that does well in hot weather. Also, foxtail will not produce seedheads until mid-to late-summer. So, why are we talking about little barley now? Because now is NOT the time to control it unless it is in an area where a non-selective herbicide that kills everything such as glyphosate (Roundup) can be used. The best control for little barley in turf is a thick lawn that is mowed high enough that sunlight does not hit the soil. Little barley seed will not germinate in such conditions. Overseeding in early September can thicken up a tall fescue lawn and prevent a little barley infestation. However, if you do not plan to overseed even though the lawn is a bit thin, preemergence herbicides can be used to provide at least partial control of this weed. The only preemergence herbicide that I know is labeled specifically for little barley is&nbsp; Weed Impede by Monterey Lawn and Garden. Weed Impede can only be used on warm-season grasses (bermudagrass, buffalograss, zoysiagrass) and tall fescue that is grown in warm-season areas such as Kansas. However, Dimension (dithiopyr) a pre-emergent, is labeled for barley (Herodium spp.) which would include little barley and therefore can be used to keep this weed under control. Because little barley is a winter annual, apply the preemergence herbicide about mid-September and water in to activate. If overseeding, do not apply any preemergence herbicide as it will interfere with the germination of tall fescue. 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: Little barley in lawns 

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded taxpayers living and 
working outside of the United States that they must file their 2020 
federal income tax return by Tuesday, June 15. This deadline applies to 
both <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-citizens-and-resident-aliens-abroad">U.S. citizens and resident aliens abroad</a>, including those with dual citizenship.

Just as most taxpayers in the United States are required to timely 
file their tax returns with the IRS, those living and working in another
 country are also required to file. An automatic two-month deadline 
extension is normally granted for those overseas and in 2021 that date 
is still June 15 even though the normal income tax filing deadline was 
extended a month from April 15 to <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-day-for-individuals-extended-to-may-17-treasury-irs-extend-filing-and-payment-deadline">May 17</a>.

An income tax filing requirement generally applies even if a taxpayer qualifies for tax benefits, such as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-earned-income-exclusion">Foreign Earned Income Exclusion</a> or the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-tax-credit">Foreign Tax Credit</a>,
 which substantially reduce or eliminate U.S. tax liability. These tax 
benefits are only available if an eligible taxpayer files a U.S. income 
tax return.

A taxpayer qualifies for the special June 15 filing deadline if both 
their tax home and abode are outside the United States and Puerto Rico. 
Those serving in the military outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico on the 
regular due date of their tax return also qualify for the extension to 
June 15. IRS recommends attaching a statement if one of these two 
situations apply.

Reporting required for foreign accounts and assets

Federal law requires U.S. citizens and resident aliens to report any 
worldwide income, including income from foreign trusts and foreign bank 
and securities accounts. In most cases, affected taxpayers need to 
complete and attach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-b-form-1040">Schedule B</a>&nbsp;to
 their tax return. Part III of Schedule B asks about the existence of 
foreign accounts, such as bank and securities accounts, and usually 
requires U.S. citizens to report the country in which each account is 
located.

In addition, certain taxpayers may also have to complete and attach to their return&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8938">Form 8938, Statement of Foreign Financial Assets</a>.
 Generally, U.S. citizens, resident aliens and certain nonresident 
aliens must report specified foreign financial assets on this form if 
the aggregate value of those assets exceeds certain thresholds. See the 
instructions for this form for details.

Foreign accounts reporting deadline&nbsp;

Separate from reporting specified foreign financial assets on their 
tax return, taxpayers with an interest in, or signature or other 
authority over foreign financial accounts whose aggregate value exceeded
 $10,000 at any time during 2020, must file electronically with the 
Treasury Department a Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)&nbsp;<a href="https://bsaefiling.fincen.treas.gov/NoRegFBARFiler.html">Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>.
 Because of this threshold, the IRS encourages taxpayers with foreign 
assets, even relatively small ones, to check if this filing requirement 
applies to them. The form is only available through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fincen.gov/bsa-e-filing-system">BSA E-filing System website</a>.

The deadline for filing the annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/report-of-foreign-bank-and-financial-accounts-fbar">Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>&nbsp;was
 April 15, 2021, but FinCEN is granting filers who missed the original 
deadline an automatic extension until October 15, 2021, to file the 
FBAR. There is no need to request this extension.

Any income received or deductible expenses paid in foreign currency 
must be reported on a U.S. tax return in U.S. dollars. Likewise, any tax
 payments must be made in U.S. dollars.

Both FINCEN Form 114 and IRS Form 8938 require the use of a December 
31 exchange rate for all transactions, regardless of the actual exchange
 rate on the date of the transaction. Generally, the IRS accepts any 
posted exchange rate that is used consistently. For more information on 
exchange rates, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-currency-and-currency-exchange-rates">Foreign Currency and Currency Exchange Rates</a>.

Taxpayers who relinquished their U.S. citizenship or ceased to be 
lawful permanent residents of the United States during 2020 must file a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/dual-status-aliens">dual-status alien</a>&nbsp;tax return, and attach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8854">Form 8854, Initial and Annual Expatriation Statement</a>.
 A copy of Form 8854 must also be filed with Internal Revenue Service, 
3651 S IH35 MS 4301AUSC, Austin, TX 78741, by the due date of the tax 
return (including extensions). See the instructions for this form and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-09-85.pdf">Notice 2009-85&nbsp;PDF</a>, Guidance for Expatriates Under Section 877A, for further details.

Extra time is available for those who cannot meet the June 15 date. 
Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file can request a 
filing extension to Oct. 15 by printing and mailing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868">Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>. The IRS can't process extension requests filed electronically after May 17, 2021. Find out <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/where-to-file-paper-tax-returns-with-or-without-a-payment">where to mail the form.</a>

Businesses that need additional time to file income tax returns must file <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-7004">Form 7004, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File Certain Business Income Tax, Information, and Other Returns</a>.

Members of the military qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/filing-extensions-and-tax-return-preparation-assistance-for-military-personnel-stationed-abroad-or-in-a-combat-zone">additional extension of at least 180 days</a> to file and pay taxes if either of the following situations apply:

Deadlines are also extended for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">individuals serving in a combat zone or a contingency operation in support of the Armed Forces</a>.
 This applies to Red Cross personnel, accredited correspondents and 
civilian personnel acting under the direction of the Armed Forces in 
support of those forces.

Spouses of individuals who served in a combat zone or contingency 
operation are generally entitled to the same deadline extensions with 
some exceptions. Extension details and more <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/military">military tax information</a> is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-3">IRS Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide</a>.

Tax help and filing information is available anytime on IRS.gov. The 
IRS website offers a variety of online tools to help taxpayers answer 
common tax questions. For example, taxpayers can search the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita">Interactive Tax Assistant</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics">Tax Topics</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/faqs">Frequently Asked Questions</a> to get answers to common questions. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a> provides information on electronic payment options.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded taxpayers living and 
working outside of the United States that they must file their 2020 
federal income tax return by Tuesday, June 15. This deadline applies to 
both <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/us-citizens-and-resident-aliens-abroad">U.S. citizens and resident aliens abroad</a>, including those with dual citizenship.Just as most taxpayers in the United States are required to timely 
file their tax returns with the IRS, those living and working in another
 country are also required to file. An automatic two-month deadline 
extension is normally granted for those overseas and in 2021 that date 
is still June 15 even though the normal income tax filing deadline was 
extended a month from April 15 to <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-day-for-individuals-extended-to-may-17-treasury-irs-extend-filing-and-payment-deadline">May 17</a>.<h2>Benefits and qualifications</h2>An income tax filing requirement generally applies even if a taxpayer qualifies for tax benefits, such as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-earned-income-exclusion">Foreign Earned Income Exclusion</a> or the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-tax-credit">Foreign Tax Credit</a>,
 which substantially reduce or eliminate U.S. tax liability. These tax 
benefits are only available if an eligible taxpayer files a U.S. income 
tax return.A taxpayer qualifies for the special June 15 filing deadline if both 
their tax home and abode are outside the United States and Puerto Rico. 
Those serving in the military outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico on the 
regular due date of their tax return also qualify for the extension to 
June 15. IRS recommends attaching a statement if one of these two 
situations apply.<h2>Reporting required for foreign accounts and assets</h2>Federal law requires U.S. citizens and resident aliens to report any 
worldwide income, including income from foreign trusts and foreign bank 
and securities accounts. In most cases, affected taxpayers need to 
complete and attach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-b-form-1040">Schedule B</a>&nbsp;to
 their tax return. Part III of Schedule B asks about the existence of 
foreign accounts, such as bank and securities accounts, and usually 
requires U.S. citizens to report the country in which each account is 
located.In addition, certain taxpayers may also have to complete and attach to their return&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8938">Form 8938, Statement of Foreign Financial Assets</a>.
 Generally, U.S. citizens, resident aliens and certain nonresident 
aliens must report specified foreign financial assets on this form if 
the aggregate value of those assets exceeds certain thresholds. See the 
instructions for this form for details.<h2>Foreign accounts reporting deadline&nbsp;</h2>Separate from reporting specified foreign financial assets on their 
tax return, taxpayers with an interest in, or signature or other 
authority over foreign financial accounts whose aggregate value exceeded
 $10,000 at any time during 2020, must file electronically with the 
Treasury Department a Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)&nbsp;<a href="https://bsaefiling.fincen.treas.gov/NoRegFBARFiler.html">Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>.
 Because of this threshold, the IRS encourages taxpayers with foreign 
assets, even relatively small ones, to check if this filing requirement 
applies to them. The form is only available through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fincen.gov/bsa-e-filing-system">BSA E-filing System website</a>.The deadline for filing the annual&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/report-of-foreign-bank-and-financial-accounts-fbar">Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>&nbsp;was
 April 15, 2021, but FinCEN is granting filers who missed the original 
deadline an automatic extension until October 15, 2021, to file the 
FBAR. There is no need to request this extension.<h2>Report in U.S. dollars</h2>Any income received or deductible expenses paid in foreign currency 
must be reported on a U.S. tax return in U.S. dollars. Likewise, any tax
 payments must be made in U.S. dollars.Both FINCEN Form 114 and IRS Form 8938 require the use of a December 
31 exchange rate for all transactions, regardless of the actual exchange
 rate on the date of the transaction. Generally, the IRS accepts any 
posted exchange rate that is used consistently. For more information on 
exchange rates, see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-currency-and-currency-exchange-rates">Foreign Currency and Currency Exchange Rates</a>.<h2>Expatriate reporting</h2>Taxpayers who relinquished their U.S. citizenship or ceased to be 
lawful permanent residents of the United States during 2020 must file a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/dual-status-aliens">dual-status alien</a>&nbsp;tax return, and attach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8854">Form 8854, Initial and Annual Expatriation Statement</a>.
 A copy of Form 8854 must also be filed with Internal Revenue Service, 
3651 S IH35 MS 4301AUSC, Austin, TX 78741, by the due date of the tax 
return (including extensions). See the instructions for this form and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-09-85.pdf">Notice 2009-85&nbsp;PDF</a>, Guidance for Expatriates Under Section 877A, for further details.<h2>More time is available</h2>Extra time is available for those who cannot meet the June 15 date. 
Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file can request a 
filing extension to Oct. 15 by printing and mailing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868">Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>. The IRS can't process extension requests filed electronically after May 17, 2021. Find out <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/where-to-file-paper-tax-returns-with-or-without-a-payment">where to mail the form.</a>Businesses that need additional time to file income tax returns must file <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-7004">Form 7004, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File Certain Business Income Tax, Information, and Other Returns</a>.<h2>Combat zone extension</h2>Members of the military qualify for an <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/filing-extensions-and-tax-return-preparation-assistance-for-military-personnel-stationed-abroad-or-in-a-combat-zone">additional extension of at least 180 days</a> to file and pay taxes if either of the following situations apply:<ul>
 <li>They serve in a combat zone or they have qualifying service outside of a combat zone or</li><li>They serve on deployment outside the United States away from their 
permanent duty station while participating in a contingency operation. 
This is a military operation that is designated by the Secretary of 
Defense or results in calling members of the uniformed services to 
active duty (or retains them on active duty) during a war or a national 
emergency declared by the President or Congress.</li>
 </ul>Deadlines are also extended for <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/extension-of-deadlines-combat-zone-service">individuals serving in a combat zone or a contingency operation in support of the Armed Forces</a>.
 This applies to Red Cross personnel, accredited correspondents and 
civilian personnel acting under the direction of the Armed Forces in 
support of those forces.Spouses of individuals who served in a combat zone or contingency 
operation are generally entitled to the same deadline extensions with 
some exceptions. Extension details and more <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/military">military tax information</a> is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-3">IRS Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide</a>.<h2>Visit IRS.gov for tax information</h2>Tax help and filing information is available anytime on IRS.gov. The 
IRS website offers a variety of online tools to help taxpayers answer 
common tax questions. For example, taxpayers can search the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita">Interactive Tax Assistant</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics">Tax Topics</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/faqs">Frequently Asked Questions</a> to get answers to common questions. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments">IRS.gov/payments</a> provides information on electronic payment options.<h2>Other resources:</h2><ul>
 <li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-54">About Publication 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad</a></li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-519">About Publication 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens</a></li>
 </ul>

Tax return deadline looming for U.S. taxpayers living abroad

Barbara Jean Newton, 88, passed away April 3, 2020, in Hutchinson, 
KS. She was born July 30, 1931, to Austin and Alice (Blair) Ramsey in 
Arkansas City. Barbara attended public school there and graduated from 
the local junior college and later Kansas State University. She married 
Albert E. Newton of Dexter on October 27, 1950, at her parent’s home. He
 died May 4, 2019. They taught in several school districts across north 
central and western Kansas, retiring at Conway Springs in 1985.

During retirement they made their home in rural Arkansas City before 
embarking on full-time camping in the late 1990-96. Barbara loved to 
travel, read, tell a joke or funny story to whomever would listen, and 
quilt. She delighted in making quilts for each grandchild and 
great-grandchild and great-great-grandson. She and Albert were proud 
that they had visited each of the 50 states. They moved to Hutchinson in
 2006 to be closer to family.

Other survivors include three sons – Chris of Lawrence; Craig 
(Kristy) of Decatur, TX; Clint (Joann) of Salina; seven grandchildren – 
Austin and Kevin Newton; Jamie (Mark) Pena and Tyler (Jennifer) Newton; 
Tonya (Bobby) Lawson, Tina (JD) Grace, and Stacey (Sterling) Montgomery,
 and two sisters – Marjorie (Fred) Wolf, El Reno, OK; and Betty Smith, 
Ferndale, Washington. Also surviving are eleven great-grandchildren, a 
great-great grandson, and a host of nieces and nephews. Preceding her in
 death was her husband, daughter-in-law, parents, sister, brother, two 
brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at St. Paul’s Methodist 
Church in Arkansas City on June 5, 2021, at 11 am and burial at Hope 
Cemetery at 2 pm near Arkansas City. Cremation has taken place. Memorial
 contributions can be made to Kansas Retired Teachers, Arkansas City 
Chapter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1622564483756.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Barbara Jean Newton, 88, passed away April 3, 2020, in Hutchinson, 
KS. She was born July 30, 1931, to Austin and Alice (Blair) Ramsey in 
Arkansas City. Barbara attended public school there and graduated from 
the local junior college and later Kansas State University. She married 
Albert E. Newton of Dexter on October 27, 1950, at her parent’s home. He
 died May 4, 2019. They taught in several school districts across north 
central and western Kansas, retiring at Conway Springs in 1985.During retirement they made their home in rural Arkansas City before 
embarking on full-time camping in the late 1990-96. Barbara loved to 
travel, read, tell a joke or funny story to whomever would listen, and 
quilt. She delighted in making quilts for each grandchild and 
great-grandchild and great-great-grandson. She and Albert were proud 
that they had visited each of the 50 states. They moved to Hutchinson in
 2006 to be closer to family.Other survivors include three sons – Chris of Lawrence; Craig 
(Kristy) of Decatur, TX; Clint (Joann) of Salina; seven grandchildren – 
Austin and Kevin Newton; Jamie (Mark) Pena and Tyler (Jennifer) Newton; 
Tonya (Bobby) Lawson, Tina (JD) Grace, and Stacey (Sterling) Montgomery,
 and two sisters – Marjorie (Fred) Wolf, El Reno, OK; and Betty Smith, 
Ferndale, Washington. Also surviving are eleven great-grandchildren, a 
great-great grandson, and a host of nieces and nephews. Preceding her in
 death was her husband, daughter-in-law, parents, sister, brother, two 
brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law.A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at St. Paul’s Methodist 
Church in Arkansas City on June 5, 2021, at 11 am and burial at Hope 
Cemetery at 2 pm near Arkansas City. Cremation has taken place. Memorial
 contributions can be made to Kansas Retired Teachers, Arkansas City 
Chapter.

Barbara Jean Newton

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Stinemetz Funeral Home 522 N. Pomeroy Ave., Hill City, KS 67642.&nbsp;Family will be present from 5 to 7 p.m.

Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday United Methodist Church - Bogue, 902 Hummingbird Road,&nbsp;Bogue, Ark. 67642.

A full obituary for Scott Hart is pending with <a href="https://www.stinemetzfh.com/">Stinemetz Funeral Home.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622489306500.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>October 5, 1950 - May 26, 2021Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Stinemetz Funeral Home 522 N. Pomeroy Ave., Hill City, KS 67642.&nbsp;Family will be present from 5 to 7 p.m.Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday United Methodist Church - Bogue, 902 Hummingbird Road,&nbsp;Bogue, Ark. 67642.A full obituary for Scott Hart is pending with <a href="https://www.stinemetzfh.com/">Stinemetz Funeral Home.</a>

Scott Hart

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran will present the remains of Kansan Sergeant Carol Eugene Domer to the surviving family at Nemaha County Veterans’ Memorial in Seneca, Kan. on Memorial Day, according to a release from his office.

Sgt. Domer was killed in action off the coast of Papua New Guinea&nbsp;when his crew had to ditch their B-24 plane while returning from a bombing mission on January 1, 1943. Sen. Moran and family member Ken Domer have been working since 2003 to recover Sgt. Domer’s remains and return them to his final resting place at the Nemaha County Veterans’ Memorial.

“After sixteen years of work to bring Sgt. Domer’s remains back home to Kansas, I’m grateful to have the opportunity to present his family with this ring and honor his ultimate sacrifice during WWII,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I would also like to thank Ken Domer and his family for their persistent effort to recover Sgt. Domer’s remains, Pacific Wrecks for their insight into the crash area and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency for the recovery of Sgt. Domer’s remains and their work to bring peace to families of our country’s fallen servicemembers.”

Senator Moran's office provided details on the recovery effort:

December 2003:&nbsp;Ken Domer of Spearville, Kan., Sgt. Domer’s nephew, contacted then-Congressman Moran’s office with a request to have his uncle’s remains returned to Kansas. Then-Congressman Moran made this request to the Army upon determination of if the site of the crash was recoverable. The Army indicated the request had been shared with the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC).

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;February 2004:&nbsp;JPAC informed then-Congressman Moran that Sgt. Domer’s loss was on their list for investigation/recovery and they were working to develop a strategy for underwater recoveries in Papua New Guinea. They later informed then-Congressman Moran that,&nbsp;at that time, JPAC was not able to survey the site of the crash to make a determination of whether recovery of Sgt. Domer’s remains was possible.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622298504339.png" alt="Sergeant Carol Eugene Domer -photo courtesy office of Senator Moran" />
 <figcaption>Sergeant Carol Eugene Domer -photo courtesy office of Senator Moran</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran will present the remains of Kansan Sergeant Carol Eugene Domer to the surviving family at Nemaha County Veterans’ Memorial in Seneca, Kan. on Memorial Day, according to a release from his office.Sgt. Domer was killed in action off the coast of Papua New Guinea&nbsp;when his crew had to ditch their B-24 plane while returning from a bombing mission on January 1, 1943. Sen. Moran and family member Ken Domer have been working since 2003 to recover Sgt. Domer’s remains and return them to his final resting place at the Nemaha County Veterans’ Memorial.“After sixteen years of work to bring Sgt. Domer’s remains back home to Kansas, I’m grateful to have the opportunity to present his family with this ring and honor his ultimate sacrifice during WWII,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“I would also like to thank Ken Domer and his family for their persistent effort to recover Sgt. Domer’s remains, Pacific Wrecks for their insight into the crash area and the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency for the recovery of Sgt. Domer’s remains and their work to bring peace to families of our country’s fallen servicemembers.”Senator Moran's office provided details on the recovery effort:December 2003:&nbsp;Ken Domer of Spearville, Kan., Sgt. Domer’s nephew, contacted then-Congressman Moran’s office with a request to have his uncle’s remains returned to Kansas. Then-Congressman Moran made this request to the Army upon determination of if the site of the crash was recoverable. The Army indicated the request had been shared with the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;February 2004:&nbsp;JPAC informed then-Congressman Moran that Sgt. Domer’s loss was on their list for investigation/recovery and they were working to develop a strategy for underwater recoveries in Papua New Guinea. They later informed then-Congressman Moran that,&nbsp;at that time, JPAC was not able to survey the site of the crash to make a determination of whether recovery of Sgt. Domer’s remains was possible.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;June 2008:&nbsp;Then-Congressman Moran’s office requested a status update on Sgt. Domer’s case. The Army responded that the site of Sgt. Domer’s crash had yet to be surveyed.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;July 2012:&nbsp;Sen. Moran’s office inquired again into the status of recovering Sgt. Domer from the plane crash site to see if there was any new information available. The Army later informed Sen. Moran that JPAC’s November 2012 mission for the underwater investigation/survey of the wreckage in New Guinea has been rescheduled for January 2013 and recommended follow-up in March 2013.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;March 2013:&nbsp;Sen. Moran contacted JPAC about the New Guinea mission, who responded the mission had been rescheduled for a November 2013 timeframe.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;January 2015:&nbsp;JPAC transitioned into the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;February 2015:&nbsp;After the mission was repeatedly delayed, Sen. Moran elevated the case to the Secretary of Defense’s (SecDef) office.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;April 2015:&nbsp;Sen. Moran was informed DPAA was working with the Navy regarding the navigability of the waters to assess the mission. Upon further research and Ken Domer’s personal knowledge, Sen. Moran’s staff found information that Pacific Wrecks, a non-governmental organization, had discovered Sgt. Domer’s plane in 2000 and completed a dive to the plane in 2002. This information was shared with SecDef’s office.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;June 2015:&nbsp;Sen. Moran was informed an investigative dive was scheduled for Jan. 2016. Sen. Moran later sent a letter to Director of DPAA Michael Linnington to make certain the investigation and recovery of Sgt. Domer was a priority in the Jan. 2016 planned missions.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;September 2015:&nbsp;Sen. Moran and Director Linnington met in person in Washington, D.C. Sen. Moran asked for a commitment to schedule the search for January 2016, and after hearing the details of the site, Director Linnington agreed. Sen. Moran’s staff stayed in continual contact with DPAA through the rest of year leading up to the investigative mission.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622298810946.png" alt="Recovery site photo -Courtesy office of Senator Moran" />
 <figcaption>Recovery site photo -Courtesy office of Senator Moran</figcaption>
 </figure>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;January 2016:&nbsp;DPAA confirmed the investigative mission occurred. Later, DPAA provided an update that a recovery mission would be conducted. Several photos of the site where shared (Appendix A-D).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;November 2016:&nbsp;DPAA confirmed the recovery mission occurred and would share the report when completed after 3-6 months.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;April 2017:&nbsp;The Army shared the report (see “DPAA Search and Recovery Report” pdf).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;October 2017:&nbsp;Following a request for additional information, the Department of Defense responded to Ken about the artifacts found during the recovery mission (see “Material Evidence Report” pdf).·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;September 2019:&nbsp;After nearly two years of waiting for DNA analysis on the ring, Sen. Moran began additional inquiries on the status of the case. Later, the Army produced a report that no DNA could be recovered from the ring.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;December 2019:&nbsp;Sen. Moran met with DPAA Director Kelly McKeague to officially request to provide the Domer family with the ring. In an effort to produce any evidence connecting the ring to Sgt. Domer, the Domer family discovered a photo of Sgt. Domer wearing the ring. The ring is seen on the third finger of his right hand. The photo was shared with DPAA (Appendix E). Following the proper approvals, the ring was delivered to Sgt. Domer’s next of kin, Mr. Robin R. Domer III on Monday, February 17, 2020.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;February 28, 2020:&nbsp;Sen. Moran flew an American flag over the U.S. Capitol in honor of Sgt. Domer’s 100th birthday.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;March 2020:&nbsp;Sen. Moran was invited to a memorial service at the Nemaha County Veterans’ Memorial Park on Memorial Day, May 23. It was later postponed due to COVID-19.