Sandra Jean Mostrog, 79, of Hot Springs Village, AR went to be with her 
Heavenly Father on June 17, 2021. Sandy was born October 15, 1941, to Ed 
and Ann Martin in Nevada, Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp; The daughter of a Lutheran Pastor 
and School Teacher mother, she is a lifelong Lutheran. She was a Midweek
 School Catechism teacher at Trinity Lutheran Church in Great Bend, KS, 
served on various church committees there and served as Chair of the 
Missions Committee at Community of Joy Lutheran Church in Hot Springs 
Village where she was also served as a Stephen Minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;
 Sandy is preceded in death by her parents and half sister Evelyn 
Krejci.&nbsp; She is survived by her loving husband Jerry of Hot Springs 
Village, AR, son Shannon Donley and wife Doree of Magnet Cove, AR, step 
daughter Amy Alpert and husband Cary of West Bloomfield, MI, and nieces 
Kym Sartin and Kayleen Davis, of Morrison and Broken Arrow, OK. &nbsp;
 Sandy attended Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield 
and Drury University in Springfield where she received a BA in 
Religion/Ethics with a Minor in Creative Writing. She received a BA in 
Behavioral Science from Sterling College in Sterling, KS and an MA in 
Counseling Psychology from Fort Hays State University in Hays, KS. &nbsp;She 
owned Personal Growth Unlimited, Inc. in Great Bend where she was in 
private practice as a therapist, and was a Professor of Psychology and 
Sociology at Barton County College in Great Bend and was awarded 
Community College Teacher of the Year Award from Kansas State 
University.&nbsp; She owned Behavioral Associates in Little Rock where she 
had a private practice as a child and family therapist, and was a 
Seminar and Workshop Presenter in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. She 
served on the Board of Directors of Great Bend Britt-Spaugh Zoo, the 
Great Bend Humane Society, the Kansas Golden Belt Diabetes Association, 
and worked as a fundraiser for the HSV Animal Welfare League. Sandy 
loved reading, decorating, cooking, entertaining, and being with her 
husband Jerry and their Shih Tzu Max.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
 A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of 
flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity. Online 
condolences can be made at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624550539315.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Sandra Jean Mostrog, 79, of Hot Springs Village, AR went to be with her 
Heavenly Father on June 17, 2021. Sandy was born October 15, 1941, to Ed 
and Ann Martin in Nevada, Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp; The daughter of a Lutheran Pastor 
and School Teacher mother, she is a lifelong Lutheran. She was a Midweek
 School Catechism teacher at Trinity Lutheran Church in Great Bend, KS, 
served on various church committees there and served as Chair of the 
Missions Committee at Community of Joy Lutheran Church in Hot Springs 
Village where she was also served as a Stephen Minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;
 Sandy is preceded in death by her parents and half sister Evelyn 
Krejci.&nbsp; She is survived by her loving husband Jerry of Hot Springs 
Village, AR, son Shannon Donley and wife Doree of Magnet Cove, AR, step 
daughter Amy Alpert and husband Cary of West Bloomfield, MI, and nieces 
Kym Sartin and Kayleen Davis, of Morrison and Broken Arrow, OK. &nbsp;
 Sandy attended Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield 
and Drury University in Springfield where she received a BA in 
Religion/Ethics with a Minor in Creative Writing. She received a BA in 
Behavioral Science from Sterling College in Sterling, KS and an MA in 
Counseling Psychology from Fort Hays State University in Hays, KS. &nbsp;She 
owned Personal Growth Unlimited, Inc. in Great Bend where she was in 
private practice as a therapist, and was a Professor of Psychology and 
Sociology at Barton County College in Great Bend and was awarded 
Community College Teacher of the Year Award from Kansas State 
University.&nbsp; She owned Behavioral Associates in Little Rock where she 
had a private practice as a child and family therapist, and was a 
Seminar and Workshop Presenter in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. She 
served on the Board of Directors of Great Bend Britt-Spaugh Zoo, the 
Great Bend Humane Society, the Kansas Golden Belt Diabetes Association, 
and worked as a fundraiser for the HSV Animal Welfare League. Sandy 
loved reading, decorating, cooking, entertaining, and being with her 
husband Jerry and their Shih Tzu Max.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
 A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of 
flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity. Online 
condolences can be made at www.cedarvalefuneralhome.com.

Sandra Jean Mostrog

The Kansas State Cornhusking Association, Oakley, KS was awarded a grant of $7,500 from the Logan County Community Foundation in support of the 2021 Kansas State and National Cornhusking Contests. &nbsp; 
 
“The cornhusking committee would like to thank the Logan County Community Foundation for their support of this event.&nbsp; 2021 marks the 50th year since Oakley began hosting the Kansas State cornhusking contest in 1971 and we are super appreciative to receive this grant this year as we host both the state and the national contests," Laurie Millensifer, Kansas State Cornhusking committee member.

The cornhusking contest showcases the heritage of the old-time, hand-husking tradition and is part of the annual Oakley Corn Festival held each October.&nbsp; The national contest rotates among the nine participating cornhusking states and will draw over 100 huskers competing for the national top honors. The event could not be undertaken without funding support from local and regional sponsors and the many volunteers who lend their time and talent.&nbsp;

The 2021 Oakley Corn Festival will be held on October 16th at the Dick Farmer Complex.&nbsp; The contest cornfield, sponsored by Pioneer Feedyard, is a half mile east of the complex.&nbsp; The state contest will take place on Saturday, October 16th and the national contest on Sunday, October 17th.&nbsp; For more information call 785-671-1000.&nbsp; For festival schedule and activities, visit www.buffalobilloakley.org/annual-events.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624390745532.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedThe Kansas State Cornhusking Association, Oakley, KS was awarded a grant of $7,500 from the Logan County Community Foundation in support of the 2021 Kansas State and National Cornhusking Contests. &nbsp; 
 
“The cornhusking committee would like to thank the Logan County Community Foundation for their support of this event.&nbsp; 2021 marks the 50th year since Oakley began hosting the Kansas State cornhusking contest in 1971 and we are super appreciative to receive this grant this year as we host both the state and the national contests," Laurie Millensifer, Kansas State Cornhusking committee member.The cornhusking contest showcases the heritage of the old-time, hand-husking tradition and is part of the annual Oakley Corn Festival held each October.&nbsp; The national contest rotates among the nine participating cornhusking states and will draw over 100 huskers competing for the national top honors. The event could not be undertaken without funding support from local and regional sponsors and the many volunteers who lend their time and talent.&nbsp;The 2021 Oakley Corn Festival will be held on October 16th at the Dick Farmer Complex.&nbsp; The contest cornfield, sponsored by Pioneer Feedyard, is a half mile east of the complex.&nbsp; The state contest will take place on Saturday, October 16th and the national contest on Sunday, October 17th.&nbsp; For more information call 785-671-1000.&nbsp; For festival schedule and activities, visit www.buffalobilloakley.org/annual-events.

Oakley cornhusking group receives grant from community foundation

WASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service is partnering with non-profit 
organizations, churches, community groups and others in 12 cities to 
help eligible families, particularly those who normally do not file a 
federal tax return, file a 2020 income tax return or register for the 
monthly Advance Child Tax Credit (AdvCTC) payments using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a>.

This tool, an update of last year's IRS Non-Filers tool, is also 
designed to help eligible individuals who don't normally file tax 
returns register for the $1,400 third round of Economic Impact Payments 
(also known as stimulus checks) and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for
 any amount of the first two rounds of Economic Impact Payments they may
 have missed. Individuals do not need to have children in order to 
attend these events and sign up for Economic Impact Payments.

The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5532.pdf">special events&nbsp;PDF</a>
 by IRS and partner groups to help people quickly file income tax 
returns and register for the advance payments will take place over two 
weekends, June 25-26 and July 9-10, 2021. Events will be held in 
Atlanta; New York; Detroit; Houston; Los Angeles; Las Vegas; Miami; 
Milwaukee; Philadelphia; Phoenix; St. Louis; and Washington, DC.

"This important new tax change affects millions of families across 
the nation, and the IRS wants to do everything it can to help people get
 the payments," said IRS Wage &amp; Investment Commissioner Ken Corbin, 
who also serves as the agency's Chief Taxpayer Experience Officer. "Many
 people miss out on tax benefits simply because they don't file a tax 
return. Our work in these cities is designed to help people receive 
monthly Advance Child Tax Credit payments and Economic Impact Payments."

People can check their eligibility for the AdvCTC payments by using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">Advance Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a>.

To make the sign-up process go quickly and smoothly, people are 
encouraged to have the following information when they come to one of 
these events:

As part of a wider effort to raise awareness of the expanded 
Child Tax Credit, the IRS also encourages its partners to use available <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">online tools and toolkits</a> to help non-filers, low-income families and other underserved groups sign up to receive the AdvCTC.

Some tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit (CTC), are 
"refundable," meaning that even if taxpayers don't owe income tax, the 
IRS will issue them a refund if they're eligible; but they must file a 
tax return or register with the new Non-filer Sign-up Tool to receive 
it. Some people who haven't filed a 2020 tax return yet are also 
eligible for the $1,400 per person Economic Impact Payments and the 
Recovery Rebate Credit.

The first monthly payments of the expanded and newly-advanceable CTC 
from the American Rescue Plan will be made in July. Most families will 
begin receiving monthly payments without any additional action. Eligible
 families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child 
under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 to 17.

People who need to file a 2020 federal income tax return, but are 
unable to attend one of these events, may be able to prepare and file 
their own federal income tax online using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> if their income is $72,000 or less.

People who don't need to file a 2020 federal tax return can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a> to register to receive the advance CTC payments, the Third Round Economic Impact Payment, and the Recovery Rebate Credit.

The IRS encourages people to request payments via direct deposit, 
which is faster and more secure than other payment methods. People who 
don't have a bank account should visit the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation</a> website for details on opening an account online. They can also use the FDIC's <a href="https://banks.data.fdic.gov/bankfind-suite/bankfind">BankFind</a> tool to locate an FDIC-insured bank.

Finally, <a href="https://covidbanking.joinbankon.org/">BankOn</a>, <a href="https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/consumer-resources/manage-your-money/choosing-safe-affordable-account">American Bankers Association</a>, <a href="https://www.icba.org/about/find-a-community-bank/open-a-bank-account-remotely">Independent Community Bankers of America</a> and <a href="https://www.mycreditunion.gov/about-credit-unions/credit-union-locator">National Credit Union Administration</a> have lists of banks and credit unions that can open an account online. Veterans can see the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/banking.asp">Veterans Benefits Banking Program</a> for financial services at participating banks.

The expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit was authorized by
 the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. Normally, the IRS will 
calculate the payment based on a family's 2020 tax return, including 
those who use the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. If that return is not 
available because it has not yet been filed or is still being processed,
 the IRS will instead determine the initial payment amounts using the 
2019 return or the information entered using the Non-filers tool that 
was available in 2020.

The payment will be up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child age 6 through 17.

To make sure families have easy access to their money, the IRS will 
issue these payments by direct deposit, as long as correct banking 
information has previously been provided to the IRS. Otherwise, people 
should watch their mail around July 15 for their mailed payment. The 
dates for the Advance Child Tax Credit payments are July 15, August&nbsp;13, 
September&nbsp;15, October&nbsp;15, November&nbsp;15, and December&nbsp;15.

To learn more about advance CTC payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a> or see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">FAQs on the 2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON
 — The Internal Revenue Service is partnering with non-profit 
organizations, churches, community groups and others in 12 cities to 
help eligible families, particularly those who normally do not file a 
federal tax return, file a 2020 income tax return or register for the 
monthly Advance Child Tax Credit (AdvCTC) payments using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a>.This tool, an update of last year's IRS Non-Filers tool, is also 
designed to help eligible individuals who don't normally file tax 
returns register for the $1,400 third round of Economic Impact Payments 
(also known as stimulus checks) and claim the Recovery Rebate Credit for
 any amount of the first two rounds of Economic Impact Payments they may
 have missed. Individuals do not need to have children in order to 
attend these events and sign up for Economic Impact Payments.The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5532.pdf">special events&nbsp;PDF</a>
 by IRS and partner groups to help people quickly file income tax 
returns and register for the advance payments will take place over two 
weekends, June 25-26 and July 9-10, 2021. Events will be held in 
Atlanta; New York; Detroit; Houston; Los Angeles; Las Vegas; Miami; 
Milwaukee; Philadelphia; Phoenix; St. Louis; and Washington, DC."This important new tax change affects millions of families across 
the nation, and the IRS wants to do everything it can to help people get
 the payments," said IRS Wage &amp; Investment Commissioner Ken Corbin, 
who also serves as the agency's Chief Taxpayer Experience Officer. "Many
 people miss out on tax benefits simply because they don't file a tax 
return. Our work in these cities is designed to help people receive 
monthly Advance Child Tax Credit payments and Economic Impact Payments."People can check their eligibility for the AdvCTC payments by using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">Advance Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a>.To make the sign-up process go quickly and smoothly, people are 
encouraged to have the following information when they come to one of 
these events:<ol>
 <li>Social Security numbers for their children,</li><li>Social Security numbers or Tax Identification Numbers for themselves and their spouse,</li><li>a reliable mailing address,</li><li>an email address, and</li><li>their bank account information if they want to receive their payment by direct deposit.</li>
 </ol>As part of a wider effort to raise awareness of the expanded 
Child Tax Credit, the IRS also encourages its partners to use available <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">online tools and toolkits</a> to help non-filers, low-income families and other underserved groups sign up to receive the AdvCTC.Some tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit (CTC), are 
"refundable," meaning that even if taxpayers don't owe income tax, the 
IRS will issue them a refund if they're eligible; but they must file a 
tax return or register with the new Non-filer Sign-up Tool to receive 
it. Some people who haven't filed a 2020 tax return yet are also 
eligible for the $1,400 per person Economic Impact Payments and the 
Recovery Rebate Credit.The first monthly payments of the expanded and newly-advanceable CTC 
from the American Rescue Plan will be made in July. Most families will 
begin receiving monthly payments without any additional action. Eligible
 families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month for each child 
under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 to 17.People who need to file a 2020 federal income tax return, but are 
unable to attend one of these events, may be able to prepare and file 
their own federal income tax online using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a> if their income is $72,000 or less.People who don't need to file a 2020 federal tax return can use the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a> to register to receive the advance CTC payments, the Third Round Economic Impact Payment, and the Recovery Rebate Credit.The IRS encourages people to request payments via direct deposit, 
which is faster and more secure than other payment methods. People who 
don't have a bank account should visit the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/about/initiatives/getbanked/index.html">Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation</a> website for details on opening an account online. They can also use the FDIC's <a href="https://banks.data.fdic.gov/bankfind-suite/bankfind">BankFind</a> tool to locate an FDIC-insured bank.Finally, <a href="https://covidbanking.joinbankon.org/">BankOn</a>, <a href="https://www.aba.com/advocacy/community-programs/consumer-resources/manage-your-money/choosing-safe-affordable-account">American Bankers Association</a>, <a href="https://www.icba.org/about/find-a-community-bank/open-a-bank-account-remotely">Independent Community Bankers of America</a> and <a href="https://www.mycreditunion.gov/about-credit-unions/credit-union-locator">National Credit Union Administration</a> have lists of banks and credit unions that can open an account online. Veterans can see the <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/banking.asp">Veterans Benefits Banking Program</a> for financial services at participating banks.<h2>About the advance Child Tax Credit</h2>The expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit was authorized by
 the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. Normally, the IRS will 
calculate the payment based on a family's 2020 tax return, including 
those who use the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. If that return is not 
available because it has not yet been filed or is still being processed,
 the IRS will instead determine the initial payment amounts using the 
2019 return or the information entered using the Non-filers tool that 
was available in 2020.The payment will be up to $300 per month for each child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child age 6 through 17.To make sure families have easy access to their money, the IRS will 
issue these payments by direct deposit, as long as correct banking 
information has previously been provided to the IRS. Otherwise, people 
should watch their mail around July 15 for their mailed payment. The 
dates for the Advance Child Tax Credit payments are July 15, August&nbsp;13, 
September&nbsp;15, October&nbsp;15, November&nbsp;15, and December&nbsp;15.To learn more about advance CTC payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a> or see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">FAQs on the 2021 Child Tax Credit and Advance Child Tax Credit Payments</a>.

IRS: Free tax help for families to get Child Tax Credit, COVID relief payments

Lewis Marcell Stephen of Hays, Kansas was born on January 3, 1950, in 
Stockton, Kansas to Lewis Harold Stephen and Glennys Faye (Reed) 
Stephen. They lived on the family farm along Bow Creek in Rooks County. 
He had seven other siblings: Lawrence, Loretta, Lorene, Lucille, LeRoy, 
Lana and Leonard. 
 Lewis attended schools in Stockton, Hoxie, and Colby. He graduated 
from Stockton High School with the class of 1969. Shortly after, he 
married Rhonda Irish of Nebraska in 1970. To this union were born two 
sons: Jeremy and Stacey. They later divorced. He enlisted in the United 
States Army and served his country for a faithful seven years before 
being honorably discharged in October of 1978. In the Army he worked as 
Military Police and was stationed in Germany, Fort Meade Maryland, and 
Fort Riley in Kansas. Following his discharge, he worked in Hays at 
Waffle Crete, then Contact America and Answer Net for many years as a 
supervisor. He retired as a supervisor but stayed busy by doing 
landscaping and lawn maintenance for his neighbors and friends, which he
 loved to do. 
 Lewis was a hardworking, busy body. If he wasn’t tending to a 
friend, neighbor, or family’s lawn, he was hitting garage sales to find 
treasures he could fix up to re-sell for a few extra bucks - and did 
quite well in doing so! He cared deeply for his family and his three 
furry, fat and happy cats. He will be remembered for his witty 
personality, patriotism, and work ethic.
 It has been said, “The happiest of people don’t have the best of 
everything, they just make the best of everything they have,” and 
Lewis’s life was a testament to this.” He was a kind and loving man who 
lived to serve his family, friends, and neighbors. He tended to the 
hearts and souls of all knew him and made a life that will continue to 
grow for eternity.
 Lewis is survived by his siblings, Lorene (Don) Alexander of 
Carmichael, CA, Lana (Larry) Odle of Stockton, KS, Leonard Stephen of 
Atwood, KS; sister-in-law, Barbara Stephen of Phillipsburg, KS; son, 
Stacey (Laura) Stephen of Gothenburg, NE; eight grandchildren, Chase, 
Chyler (Anthoney), Kerigan, Carlin, Collin, Keyan, Holden, and Travin; 
three great-grandchildren, Rosey, Laney, and Grayson; numerous nieces, 
nephews, and cousins; Aunt ArLene Wolfe of Concordia, KS; a very special
 friend, Lenora Goetz; and close friends, Mandy Feik, Jeff Jordan, and 
many others.
 He is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Glennys Stephen; 
son, Jeremy Stephen; siblings, Lawrence, LeRoy, Loretta Meyer and 
Lucille Brush; and grandparents.
 A Graveside Service will be held at the Stockton City Cemetery in 
Stockton on Saturday, June 26, 2021 at 11 AM. Visitation will be held at
 the funeral home on Saturday morning from 9 AM until 10:30 AM.
 Memorials are suggested to the Lewis Stephen Memorial Fund and may 
be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 North First, 
Stockton, KS 67669.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624392210185.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lewis Marcell Stephen of Hays, Kansas was born on January 3, 1950, in 
Stockton, Kansas to Lewis Harold Stephen and Glennys Faye (Reed) 
Stephen. They lived on the family farm along Bow Creek in Rooks County. 
He had seven other siblings: Lawrence, Loretta, Lorene, Lucille, LeRoy, 
Lana and Leonard. 
 Lewis attended schools in Stockton, Hoxie, and Colby. He graduated 
from Stockton High School with the class of 1969. Shortly after, he 
married Rhonda Irish of Nebraska in 1970. To this union were born two 
sons: Jeremy and Stacey. They later divorced. He enlisted in the United 
States Army and served his country for a faithful seven years before 
being honorably discharged in October of 1978. In the Army he worked as 
Military Police and was stationed in Germany, Fort Meade Maryland, and 
Fort Riley in Kansas. Following his discharge, he worked in Hays at 
Waffle Crete, then Contact America and Answer Net for many years as a 
supervisor. He retired as a supervisor but stayed busy by doing 
landscaping and lawn maintenance for his neighbors and friends, which he
 loved to do. 
 Lewis was a hardworking, busy body. If he wasn’t tending to a 
friend, neighbor, or family’s lawn, he was hitting garage sales to find 
treasures he could fix up to re-sell for a few extra bucks - and did 
quite well in doing so! He cared deeply for his family and his three 
furry, fat and happy cats. He will be remembered for his witty 
personality, patriotism, and work ethic.
 It has been said, “The happiest of people don’t have the best of 
everything, they just make the best of everything they have,” and 
Lewis’s life was a testament to this.” He was a kind and loving man who 
lived to serve his family, friends, and neighbors. He tended to the 
hearts and souls of all knew him and made a life that will continue to 
grow for eternity.
 Lewis is survived by his siblings, Lorene (Don) Alexander of 
Carmichael, CA, Lana (Larry) Odle of Stockton, KS, Leonard Stephen of 
Atwood, KS; sister-in-law, Barbara Stephen of Phillipsburg, KS; son, 
Stacey (Laura) Stephen of Gothenburg, NE; eight grandchildren, Chase, 
Chyler (Anthoney), Kerigan, Carlin, Collin, Keyan, Holden, and Travin; 
three great-grandchildren, Rosey, Laney, and Grayson; numerous nieces, 
nephews, and cousins; Aunt ArLene Wolfe of Concordia, KS; a very special
 friend, Lenora Goetz; and close friends, Mandy Feik, Jeff Jordan, and 
many others.
 He is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Glennys Stephen; 
son, Jeremy Stephen; siblings, Lawrence, LeRoy, Loretta Meyer and 
Lucille Brush; and grandparents.
 A Graveside Service will be held at the Stockton City Cemetery in 
Stockton on Saturday, June 26, 2021 at 11 AM. Visitation will be held at
 the funeral home on Saturday morning from 9 AM until 10:30 AM.
 Memorials are suggested to the Lewis Stephen Memorial Fund and may 
be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 North First, 
Stockton, KS 67669.

Lewis Marcell Stephen

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher are demanding answers from the Departments of Defense and Health and Human Services (HHS) on&nbsp;possible COVID-19 infections of U.S. Army troops&nbsp;who participated in the 2019 World Military Games that took place in Wuhan, China from October 18-28, 2019, according to a media release from Marshall's office.

 Following completion of the games, athletes from numerous participating countries reported experiencing symptoms similar to those associated with COVID-19. Senator Marshall and Representative Gallagher issued these statements after sending letters to the Secretaries of the&nbsp;Defense&nbsp;and&nbsp;HHS&nbsp;demanding answers on the matter:

“The World Military Games’ proximity to the WIV and the new details of the athletes potentially being exposed to COVID-19 while participating in the event present an alarming coincidence our government must investigate to establish an accurate timeline of the outbreak. This merits a thorough examination as a possible ‘super spreader’ event based on the time, location, and reported symptoms of the participating athletes. If these individuals were exposed in October, this evidence will further help us understand the origin of COVID-19 and prepare for future outbreaks,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Becerra-Letter_COVID-Origins_6.22.21.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read Senator Marshall’s letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.

“These reports are extremely troubling and cast further doubt on the CCP’s official timeline regarding the spread of this virus,”&nbsp;said Rep. Gallagher. “Information involving the health of those who participated in the 2019 games could provide critical insight into understanding where and when COVID-19 first emerged, and it’s essential for the Biden Administration to immediately release this information to the public.”

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Roger Marshall and U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher are demanding answers from the Departments of Defense and Health and Human Services (HHS) on&nbsp;possible COVID-19 infections of U.S. Army troops&nbsp;who participated in the 2019 World Military Games that took place in Wuhan, China from October 18-28, 2019, according to a media release from Marshall's office. Following completion of the games, athletes from numerous participating countries reported experiencing symptoms similar to those associated with COVID-19. Senator Marshall and Representative Gallagher issued these statements after sending letters to the Secretaries of the&nbsp;Defense&nbsp;and&nbsp;HHS&nbsp;demanding answers on the matter:“The World Military Games’ proximity to the WIV and the new details of the athletes potentially being exposed to COVID-19 while participating in the event present an alarming coincidence our government must investigate to establish an accurate timeline of the outbreak. This merits a thorough examination as a possible ‘super spreader’ event based on the time, location, and reported symptoms of the participating athletes. If these individuals were exposed in October, this evidence will further help us understand the origin of COVID-19 and prepare for future outbreaks,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/Becerra-Letter_COVID-Origins_6.22.21.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read Senator Marshall’s letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.“These reports are extremely troubling and cast further doubt on the CCP’s official timeline regarding the spread of this virus,”&nbsp;said Rep. Gallagher. “Information involving the health of those who participated in the 2019 games could provide critical insight into understanding where and when COVID-19 first emerged, and it’s essential for the Biden Administration to immediately release this information to the public.”

Sen. Marshall: Possible U.S. troops infected with COVID in 2019

The Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association has announced details of this year's Convention and Trade Show in Wichita from Aug. 15 to 17. The event will feature former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as keynote speaker. You can still sign up for specific events, and register for a booth at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kioga.org/">www.kioga.org</a>. Crude prices remain at 32-month highs. Monday's settlement price for the benchmark Nymex crude futures contract was $73.66 per barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson started the week at $62 per barrel after gaining 75 cents on Friday. Prices jumped another two dollars on Monday, with Kansas Common fetching $64 a barrel for the first time since October 8, 2018. The Rig Count in Kansas was up 13% last week, with 22 active drilling rigs in Western Kansas, up three from the week before. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says the count east of Wichita was unchanged at four active rigs. Kansas regulators approved 24 new drilling permits across the state last week, 11 east of Wichita and 13 in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County. That's 416 new permits so far this year. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports just ten newly completed wells last week across Kansas. That's 351 completions so far this year.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reported 470 active drilling rigs across the U.S. Friday, a net increase of eight oil rigs and one gas rig. The weekly Rotary Rig Count shows an increase of three active rigs in Wyoming. Texas and Pennsylvania were each up two, Colorado and Utah were each up one. The price gap between the world’s two most actively traded oil contracts narrowed to its lowest in more than seven months. North Sea Brent futures traded at a premium of $1.89 to WTI on Friday, the narrowest such spread since Nov. 11. The government reported a drop of more than seven million barrels in U.S. crude inventories last week. The Energy Information Administration said stockpiles are about five percent below the five-year average. Imports were up 108,000 barrels per day last week to 6.7 million. Four-week average imports are down nearly six percent from the same period last year. U.S. crude production continued to rise last week, topping eleven million barrels per day for the second week in a row. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic output reached 11.246 million barrels per day for the week ending June 11. That's up 203,000 barrels per day from the week before, and more than 785,000 barrels higher than a year earlier. The last time U.S. output topped eleven million barrels per day for two weeks in a row was in late January. One barometer of oilfield activity is showing signs of improvement. The government's monthly Drilling Productivity Report shows the number of new wells drilled but uncompleted is going down in all of the major shale plays in the U.S. The nationwide total was down 3.6% from April to May, dropping by 247 drilled, and now completed, wells. Nearly half of those were in the Permian basin of Texas and New Mexico. The Energy Information Administration says Permian production will increase by 56,000 barrels per day in July, while the other six major shale regions will all show slight declines. U.S. oil-by-rail traffic was down from a week ago, but is up nearly 13% from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,638 tanker cars hauling petroleum across the country during the week ending June 12, down 525 tankers from the prior week. Canadian oil-by-rail traffic was up 669 cars week-over-week, and marked an increase of more than 25% from a year ago. A U.S. judge ordered the Biden Administration to immediately restart its oil and gas leasing program. The court sided with 13 states asking for an injunction against an executive order issued in January that stopped the leasing of public lands for oil and gas exploration. According to the judge, there are two existing laws that require the Interior Department to hold lease sales. AAA says crude prices are up 32% from the first of the year, and that has pumped up gasoline prices. Motorists are paying an average of 37% more to fill up their gas tanks than they did on January first. The auto club predicts higher prices for the rest of the month, but says we could get some relief later this summer if crude production increases. Pump prices are slightly higher on the week. Triple-A says the national average is $3.07 per gallon. The Kansas average is just over $2. The State of Colorado is considering new rules that could cost the state's energy industry billions. The Colorado Sun newspaper reports regulators are hoping to avoid paying to plug abandoned wells, by increasing the financial guarantees required of operators for each of their wells. Draft regulations released by the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission would require a financial guarantee of the full cost of plugging each well, at $78,000 each.&nbsp; The rules would cover all 50,000 of the states oil and gas wells. That comes out to $3.9 BILLION statewide. Production in North Dakota rose slightly in April, while the state's gas-capture rate fell back from it's best-ever performance the month before. Regulators in the number-two crude producing state say output averaged over 1.12 million barrels per day, up about 13,000 barrels per day from March. The statewide gas-capture tally was 93 percent, meaning just seven percent of the natural gas produced at the state's oil wells was burned off or vented. That's well within the state's voluntary caps on flaring.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARThe Kansas Independent Oil &amp; Gas Association has announced details of this year's Convention and Trade Show in Wichita from Aug. 15 to 17. The event will feature former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as keynote speaker. You can still sign up for specific events, and register for a booth at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kioga.org/">www.kioga.org</a>. Crude prices remain at 32-month highs. Monday's settlement price for the benchmark Nymex crude futures contract was $73.66 per barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson started the week at $62 per barrel after gaining 75 cents on Friday. Prices jumped another two dollars on Monday, with Kansas Common fetching $64 a barrel for the first time since October 8, 2018. The Rig Count in Kansas was up 13% last week, with 22 active drilling rigs in Western Kansas, up three from the week before. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says the count east of Wichita was unchanged at four active rigs. Kansas regulators approved 24 new drilling permits across the state last week, 11 east of Wichita and 13 in Western Kansas, including one in Ellis County. That's 416 new permits so far this year. Independent Oil and Gas Service reports just ten newly completed wells last week across Kansas. That's 351 completions so far this year.&nbsp; Baker Hughes reported 470 active drilling rigs across the U.S. Friday, a net increase of eight oil rigs and one gas rig. The weekly Rotary Rig Count shows an increase of three active rigs in Wyoming. Texas and Pennsylvania were each up two, Colorado and Utah were each up one. The price gap between the world’s two most actively traded oil contracts narrowed to its lowest in more than seven months. North Sea Brent futures traded at a premium of $1.89 to WTI on Friday, the narrowest such spread since Nov. 11. The government reported a drop of more than seven million barrels in U.S. crude inventories last week. The Energy Information Administration said stockpiles are about five percent below the five-year average. Imports were up 108,000 barrels per day last week to 6.7 million. Four-week average imports are down nearly six percent from the same period last year. U.S. crude production continued to rise last week, topping eleven million barrels per day for the second week in a row. The Energy Information Administration reports domestic output reached 11.246 million barrels per day for the week ending June 11. That's up 203,000 barrels per day from the week before, and more than 785,000 barrels higher than a year earlier. The last time U.S. output topped eleven million barrels per day for two weeks in a row was in late January. One barometer of oilfield activity is showing signs of improvement. The government's monthly Drilling Productivity Report shows the number of new wells drilled but uncompleted is going down in all of the major shale plays in the U.S. The nationwide total was down 3.6% from April to May, dropping by 247 drilled, and now completed, wells. Nearly half of those were in the Permian basin of Texas and New Mexico. The Energy Information Administration says Permian production will increase by 56,000 barrels per day in July, while the other six major shale regions will all show slight declines. U.S. oil-by-rail traffic was down from a week ago, but is up nearly 13% from a year ago. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,638 tanker cars hauling petroleum across the country during the week ending June 12, down 525 tankers from the prior week. Canadian oil-by-rail traffic was up 669 cars week-over-week, and marked an increase of more than 25% from a year ago. A U.S. judge ordered the Biden Administration to immediately restart its oil and gas leasing program. The court sided with 13 states asking for an injunction against an executive order issued in January that stopped the leasing of public lands for oil and gas exploration. According to the judge, there are two existing laws that require the Interior Department to hold lease sales. AAA says crude prices are up 32% from the first of the year, and that has pumped up gasoline prices. Motorists are paying an average of 37% more to fill up their gas tanks than they did on January first. The auto club predicts higher prices for the rest of the month, but says we could get some relief later this summer if crude production increases. Pump prices are slightly higher on the week. Triple-A says the national average is $3.07 per gallon. The Kansas average is just over $2. The State of Colorado is considering new rules that could cost the state's energy industry billions. The Colorado Sun newspaper reports regulators are hoping to avoid paying to plug abandoned wells, by increasing the financial guarantees required of operators for each of their wells. Draft regulations released by the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission would require a financial guarantee of the full cost of plugging each well, at $78,000 each.&nbsp; The rules would cover all 50,000 of the states oil and gas wells. That comes out to $3.9 BILLION statewide. Production in North Dakota rose slightly in April, while the state's gas-capture rate fell back from it's best-ever performance the month before. Regulators in the number-two crude producing state say output averaged over 1.12 million barrels per day, up about 13,000 barrels per day from March. The statewide gas-capture tally was 93 percent, meaning just seven percent of the natural gas produced at the state's oil wells was burned off or vented. That's well within the state's voluntary caps on flaring.

News From the Oil Patch: Prices, production continue to rise

Update Portal helps families monitor and manage Child Tax Credit payments

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today launched two new 
online tools designed to help families manage and monitor the advance 
monthly payments of Child Tax Credits under the American Rescue Plan. 
These two new tools are in addition to the Non-filer Sign-up Tool, 
announced last week, which helps families not normally required to file 
an income tax return to quickly register for the Child Tax Credit.

The new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a> allows families to answer a series of questions to quickly determine whether they qualify for the advance credit.

The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/accessibility-guide-for-child-tax-credit-update-portal">Child Tax Credit Update Portal</a>
 allows families to verify their eligibility for the payments and if 
they choose to, unenroll, or opt out from receiving the monthly payments
 so they can receive a lump sum when they file their tax return next 
year. This secure, password-protected tool is available to any eligible 
family with internet access and a smart phone or computer. Future 
versions of the tool planned in the summer and fall will allow people to
 view their payment history, adjust bank account information or mailing 
addresses and other features. A Spanish version is also planned.

Both the Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant and Child Tax Credit Update Portal are available now on IRS.gov.

The American Rescue plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit 
amount in 2021 to $3,600 per child for children under the age of 6 and 
to $3,000 per child for children ages 6 through 17. The advance Child 
Tax Credit payments, which will generally be made on the 15th of each 
month, create financial certainty for families to plan their budgets. 
Eligible families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month for 
each child under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 
through 17. The first monthly payment of the expanded and 
newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit will be made on July 15. Most 
families will begin receiving monthly payments automatically next month 
without any further action required.

"IRS employees continue to work hard to help people receive this 
important credit," IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said. "The Update 
Portal is a key piece among the three new tools now available on IRS.gov
 to help families understand, register for and monitor these payments. 
We will be working across the nation with partner groups to share 
information and help eligible people receive the advance payments."

More features coming to the Update Portal soon

Coming soon, families will be able to use the Child Tax Credit Update
 Portal to check the status of their payments. In late June, people will
 be able to update their bank account information for payments starting 
in August. In early August, a feature is planned that will allow people 
to update their mailing address. Then, in future updates planned for 
this summer and fall, they will be able to use this tool for things like
 updating family status and changes in income.

For more information see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">FAQs</a>, which will continue to be updated.

Instead of receiving these advance payments, some families may prefer
 to wait until the end of the year and receive the entire credit as a 
refund when they file their 2021 return. In this first release of the 
tool, the Child Tax Credit Update Portal now enables these families to 
quickly and easily unenroll from receiving monthly payments.

The unenroll feature can also be helpful to any family that no longer
 qualifies for the Child Tax Credit or believes they will not qualify 
when they file their 2021 return. This could happen if, for example:

To access the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, a person must first 
verify their identity. If a person has an existing IRS username or an <a href="https://sa.www4.irs.gov/secureaccess/ui/?TYPE=33554433&amp;REALMOID=06-0005eaac-e22a-10b8-928e-7c2b0ad00000&amp;GUID=&amp;SMAUTHREASON=0&amp;METHOD=GET&amp;SMAGENTNAME=-SM-u0ktItgVFneUJDzkQ7tjvLYXyclDooCJJ7%2bjXGjg3YC5id2x9riHE98hoVgd1BBv&amp;TARGET=-SM-http%3a%2f%2fsa%2ewww4%2eirs%2egov%2fctc%2f">ID.me account</a>
 with a verified identity, they can use those accounts to easily sign 
in. People without an existing account will be asked to verify their 
identity with a form of photo identification using ID.me, a trusted 
third party for the IRS. Identity verification is an important safeguard
 and will protect your account from identity theft.

Anyone who lacks internet access or otherwise cannot use the online 
tool may unenroll by contacting the IRS at the phone number included in 
your outreach letter.

In general, monthly payments will go to eligible families who:

An eligible family who took any of these steps does not need to do anything else to get their payments.

Normally, the IRS will calculate the advance payment based on the 
2020 income tax return. If that return is not available, either because 
it has not yet been filed or it has not yet been processed, the IRS is 
instead determining the payment using the 2019 tax return.

Eligible families will receive advance payments, either by direct 
deposit or check. Each payment will be up to $300 per month for each 
child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 through
 17. The IRS will issue advance Child Tax Credit payments on these 
dates: July 15, August&nbsp;13, September&nbsp;15, October&nbsp;15, November&nbsp;15 and 
December&nbsp;15.

The IRS urges any family who hasn't yet filed their 2020 return – or 
2019 return – to do so as soon as possible so they can receive any 
advance payment they're eligible for. At the same time, the agency 
cautions that tax returns must be processed by June 28 to be reflected 
in the first batch of monthly payments scheduled for July 15, so 
eligible families filing now will likely receive payments in the 
following months. Even if monthly payments begin after July, the IRS 
will adjust the monthly amounts upward to ensure that people still 
receive half of their total eligible Child Tax Credit benefit by the end
 of the year.

Filing soon will also ensure that the IRS has their most current bank
 account information, as well as key details about qualifying family 
members. This includes people who don't normally file a tax return, such
 as families experiencing homelessness and people in underserved groups.

For most people, the fastest and easiest way to file a return is by using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a>,
 available only on IRS.gov. Besides qualifying them for these advance 
payments, using Free File will also enable them to claim other 
family-oriented tax benefits, if eligible, such as the Earned Income Tax
 Credit and the Recovery Rebate Credit/Economic Impact Payments.

For families who don't normally file an income tax return, another 
easy option is to register for these advance payments using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a>,
 introduced recently, and available only on IRS.gov. Among other things,
 the tool asks users to supply current bank information, along with key 
details about themselves and their qualifying children. The tool then 
automatically fills in a very basic 2020 federal income tax return that 
is electronically sent to the IRS. The new tool was developed in 
partnership with Intuit and the Free File Alliance.

Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant unveiled

Before filing a return or using the Non-filer Sign-up Tool, families 
unsure of whether they qualify for either the credit or the advance 
payments may want to check out another new tool — the Child Tax Credit 
Eligibility Assistant. By answering a series of questions, the tool 
helps people determine if they qualify for the credit and the payments.

The IRS emphasized that because the Child Tax Credit Eligibility 
Assistant requests no personalized information, it is not a registration
 tool, but merely an eligibility tool. Nevertheless, it can still help 
an eligible family determine whether they should take the next step and 
either file an income tax return or register using the Non-filer Sign-up
 Tool.

IRS and its partners are helping families register for the payments 
using the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. During late June and early July, free 
events will take place in Atlanta, Brooklyn, Detroit, Houston, Las 
Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Phoenix, St. Louis 
and Washington, D.C. More details will be available soon on IRS.gov.

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

Among other things, it provides direct links to the Non-Filer Sign Up
 Tool, the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, the Child Tax Credit 
Eligibility Assistant, a set of frequently asked questions and other 
useful resources.

The American Rescue Plan raised the maximum Child Tax Credit in 2021 
to $3,600 for children under the age of 6 and to $3,000 per child for 
children ages 6 through 17. Before 2021, the credit was worth up to 
$2,000 per eligible child.

The new maximum credit is available to taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income (AGI) of:

For most people, modified AGI is the amount shown on Line 11 of 
their 2020 Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Above these income thresholds, the 
extra amount above the original $2,000 credit — either $1,000 or $1,600 
per child — is reduced by $50 for every $1,000 in modified AGI. In 
addition, the credit is fully refundable for 2021. This means that 
eligible families can get it, even if they owe no federal income tax. 
Before this year, the refundable portion was limited to $1,400 per 
child.

The IRS urges community groups, non-profits, associations, education 
organizations and anyone else with connections to people with children 
to share this critical information about the Child Tax Credit as well as
 other important benefits. Among other things, the IRS is already 
working closely with its community partners to ensure wide access to the
 Non-filer Sign-up Tool and the Child Tax Credit Update Portal. The 
agency is also providing additional materials and information that can 
be easily shared by social media, email and other methods.

For the most up-to-date information on the Child Tax Credit and advance payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">Advance Child Tax Credit Payments in 2021</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Update Portal helps families monitor and manage Child Tax Credit payments</h2>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today launched two new 
online tools designed to help families manage and monitor the advance 
monthly payments of Child Tax Credits under the American Rescue Plan. 
These two new tools are in addition to the Non-filer Sign-up Tool, 
announced last week, which helps families not normally required to file 
an income tax return to quickly register for the Child Tax Credit.The new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-eligibility-assistant">Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant</a> allows families to answer a series of questions to quickly determine whether they qualify for the advance credit.The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/accessibility-guide-for-child-tax-credit-update-portal">Child Tax Credit Update Portal</a>
 allows families to verify their eligibility for the payments and if 
they choose to, unenroll, or opt out from receiving the monthly payments
 so they can receive a lump sum when they file their tax return next 
year. This secure, password-protected tool is available to any eligible 
family with internet access and a smart phone or computer. Future 
versions of the tool planned in the summer and fall will allow people to
 view their payment history, adjust bank account information or mailing 
addresses and other features. A Spanish version is also planned.Both the Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant and Child Tax Credit Update Portal are available now on IRS.gov.The American Rescue plan increased the maximum Child Tax Credit 
amount in 2021 to $3,600 per child for children under the age of 6 and 
to $3,000 per child for children ages 6 through 17. The advance Child 
Tax Credit payments, which will generally be made on the 15th of each 
month, create financial certainty for families to plan their budgets. 
Eligible families will receive a payment of up to $300 per month for 
each child under age 6, and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 
through 17. The first monthly payment of the expanded and 
newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit will be made on July 15. Most 
families will begin receiving monthly payments automatically next month 
without any further action required."IRS employees continue to work hard to help people receive this 
important credit," IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said. "The Update 
Portal is a key piece among the three new tools now available on IRS.gov
 to help families understand, register for and monitor these payments. 
We will be working across the nation with partner groups to share 
information and help eligible people receive the advance payments."<h2>More features coming to the Update Portal soon</h2>Coming soon, families will be able to use the Child Tax Credit Update
 Portal to check the status of their payments. In late June, people will
 be able to update their bank account information for payments starting 
in August. In early August, a feature is planned that will allow people 
to update their mailing address. Then, in future updates planned for 
this summer and fall, they will be able to use this tool for things like
 updating family status and changes in income.For more information see the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/2021-child-tax-credit-and-advance-child-tax-credit-payments-frequently-asked-questions">FAQs</a>, which will continue to be updated.<h2>Update Portal allows people to unenroll</h2>Instead of receiving these advance payments, some families may prefer
 to wait until the end of the year and receive the entire credit as a 
refund when they file their 2021 return. In this first release of the 
tool, the Child Tax Credit Update Portal now enables these families to 
quickly and easily unenroll from receiving monthly payments.The unenroll feature can also be helpful to any family that no longer
 qualifies for the Child Tax Credit or believes they will not qualify 
when they file their 2021 return. This could happen if, for example:<ul>
 <li>Their income in 2021 is too high to qualify them for the credit.</li><li>Someone else (an ex-spouse or another family member, for example) 
qualifies to claim their child or children as dependents in 2021.</li><li>Their main home was outside of the United States for more than half of 2021.</li>
 </ul><h2>Accessing the Update Portal</h2>To access the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, a person must first 
verify their identity. If a person has an existing IRS username or an <a href="https://sa.www4.irs.gov/secureaccess/ui/?TYPE=33554433&amp;REALMOID=06-0005eaac-e22a-10b8-928e-7c2b0ad00000&amp;GUID=&amp;SMAUTHREASON=0&amp;METHOD=GET&amp;SMAGENTNAME=-SM-u0ktItgVFneUJDzkQ7tjvLYXyclDooCJJ7%2bjXGjg3YC5id2x9riHE98hoVgd1BBv&amp;TARGET=-SM-http%3a%2f%2fsa%2ewww4%2eirs%2egov%2fctc%2f">ID.me account</a>
 with a verified identity, they can use those accounts to easily sign 
in. People without an existing account will be asked to verify their 
identity with a form of photo identification using ID.me, a trusted 
third party for the IRS. Identity verification is an important safeguard
 and will protect your account from identity theft.Anyone who lacks internet access or otherwise cannot use the online 
tool may unenroll by contacting the IRS at the phone number included in 
your outreach letter.<h2>Who is getting a monthly payment</h2>In general, monthly payments will go to eligible families who:<ul>
 <li>Filed either a 2019 or 2020 federal income tax return.</li><li>Used the Non-Filers tool on IRS.gov in 2020 to register for an Economic Impact Payment.</li><li>Registered for the advance Child Tax Credit this year using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-Filer Sign-up Tool</a> on IRS.gov.</li>
 </ul>An eligible family who took any of these steps does not need to do anything else to get their payments.Normally, the IRS will calculate the advance payment based on the 
2020 income tax return. If that return is not available, either because 
it has not yet been filed or it has not yet been processed, the IRS is 
instead determining the payment using the 2019 tax return.Eligible families will receive advance payments, either by direct 
deposit or check. Each payment will be up to $300 per month for each 
child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each child ages 6 through
 17. The IRS will issue advance Child Tax Credit payments on these 
dates: July 15, August&nbsp;13, September&nbsp;15, October&nbsp;15, November&nbsp;15 and 
December&nbsp;15.The IRS urges any family who hasn't yet filed their 2020 return – or 
2019 return – to do so as soon as possible so they can receive any 
advance payment they're eligible for. At the same time, the agency 
cautions that tax returns must be processed by June 28 to be reflected 
in the first batch of monthly payments scheduled for July 15, so 
eligible families filing now will likely receive payments in the 
following months. Even if monthly payments begin after July, the IRS 
will adjust the monthly amounts upward to ensure that people still 
receive half of their total eligible Child Tax Credit benefit by the end
 of the year.Filing soon will also ensure that the IRS has their most current bank
 account information, as well as key details about qualifying family 
members. This includes people who don't normally file a tax return, such
 as families experiencing homelessness and people in underserved groups.For most people, the fastest and easiest way to file a return is by using IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">Free File</a>,
 available only on IRS.gov. Besides qualifying them for these advance 
payments, using Free File will also enable them to claim other 
family-oriented tax benefits, if eligible, such as the Earned Income Tax
 Credit and the Recovery Rebate Credit/Economic Impact Payments.<h2>New tool helps non-filers register</h2>For families who don't normally file an income tax return, another 
easy option is to register for these advance payments using the new <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/child-tax-credit-non-filer-sign-up-tool">Non-filer Sign-up Tool</a>,
 introduced recently, and available only on IRS.gov. Among other things,
 the tool asks users to supply current bank information, along with key 
details about themselves and their qualifying children. The tool then 
automatically fills in a very basic 2020 federal income tax return that 
is electronically sent to the IRS. The new tool was developed in 
partnership with Intuit and the Free File Alliance.<h2>Child Tax Credit Eligibility Assistant unveiled</h2>Before filing a return or using the Non-filer Sign-up Tool, families 
unsure of whether they qualify for either the credit or the advance 
payments may want to check out another new tool — the Child Tax Credit 
Eligibility Assistant. By answering a series of questions, the tool 
helps people determine if they qualify for the credit and the payments.The IRS emphasized that because the Child Tax Credit Eligibility 
Assistant requests no personalized information, it is not a registration
 tool, but merely an eligibility tool. Nevertheless, it can still help 
an eligible family determine whether they should take the next step and 
either file an income tax return or register using the Non-filer Sign-up
 Tool.<h2>Personal help available</h2>IRS and its partners are helping families register for the payments 
using the Non-filer Sign-up Tool. During late June and early July, free 
events will take place in Atlanta, Brooklyn, Detroit, Houston, Las 
Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Phoenix, St. Louis 
and Washington, D.C. More details will be available soon on IRS.gov.<h2>Child Tax Credit 2021</h2>The IRS has created a special Advance Child Tax Credit 2021 page, 
designed to provide the most up-to-date information about the credit and
 the advance payments. It's at <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>.Among other things, it provides direct links to the Non-Filer Sign Up
 Tool, the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, the Child Tax Credit 
Eligibility Assistant, a set of frequently asked questions and other 
useful resources.<h2>Child Tax Credit changes</h2>The American Rescue Plan raised the maximum Child Tax Credit in 2021 
to $3,600 for children under the age of 6 and to $3,000 per child for 
children ages 6 through 17. Before 2021, the credit was worth up to 
$2,000 per eligible child.The new maximum credit is available to taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income (AGI) of:<ul>
 <li>$75,000 or less for singles,</li><li>$112,500 or less for heads of household and</li><li>$150,000 or less for married couples filing a joint return and qualified widows and widowers.</li>
 </ul>For most people, modified AGI is the amount shown on Line 11 of 
their 2020 Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Above these income thresholds, the 
extra amount above the original $2,000 credit — either $1,000 or $1,600 
per child — is reduced by $50 for every $1,000 in modified AGI. In 
addition, the credit is fully refundable for 2021. This means that 
eligible families can get it, even if they owe no federal income tax. 
Before this year, the refundable portion was limited to $1,400 per 
child.<h2>Help spread the word</h2>The IRS urges community groups, non-profits, associations, education 
organizations and anyone else with connections to people with children 
to share this critical information about the Child Tax Credit as well as
 other important benefits. Among other things, the IRS is already 
working closely with its community partners to ensure wide access to the
 Non-filer Sign-up Tool and the Child Tax Credit Update Portal. The 
agency is also providing additional materials and information that can 
be easily shared by social media, email and other methods.For the most up-to-date information on the Child Tax Credit and advance payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">Advance Child Tax Credit Payments in 2021</a>.

Do you qualify for Child Tax Credit payments? Find out here

Eileen K. Bergmann, 74,&nbsp;of&nbsp;Salina&nbsp;passed 
away&nbsp;Thursday,&nbsp;June 17, 2021. She was born June 21, 1946, in&nbsp;Hays, 
Kansas, the daughter of Tony and Ida&nbsp;(Herzog)&nbsp;Kuntz.

She attended elementary school in Park, KS, and graduated from Park High School with the class of 1964.

She married James “Jim” Juenemann on September 16, 1967, in Park, KS.
 Of this union were born four children, Toni, Wayne, David and Matthew 
Juenemann.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jim passed away October 1, 2010. She married Rick 
Bergmann&nbsp;on October 17, 2015, in Salina, KS.

She was a beautician early in her marriage to Jim, then a homemaker before working as a dental assistant until her retirement.

During retirement, she volunteered at Hays Medical Center, Good Samaritan Society, and Presbyterian Manor.

She was a former member of St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church in 
Hays and was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Salina. She 
enjoyed polka dances, riding her bicycle, spending time with family and 
her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Richard “Rick”&nbsp;Bergmann, four 
children, Toni (Gary) Thompson of Salina, KS, Wayne (Toni) Juenemann of 
Salina, KS, David (Mindy) Juenemann of Victoria, KS and 
Matthew&nbsp;Juenemann of Salina, KS, stepsons, Darrell (Melissa) Bergmann of
 Salina, KS and Brian Bergmann, 10 grandchildren and 4 
great-grandchildren; brothers, Robert (Kathy) Kuntz&nbsp;of Quinter, KS, Leon
 (Barbara) Kuntz of&nbsp;Tulsa, OK, Roger Kuntz of Grainfield, KS, Steve 
(Sharon) Kuntz of Edmond, OK, Virgil (LeAnn) Kuntz of Abilene, KS, 
sister, Tina (Jeff) Wick of Wamego, KS.

She was preceded in death by&nbsp;her&nbsp;late husband and her parents.

Services will be at&nbsp;10:00 a.m.&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday, June 22&nbsp;at St. Elizabeth’s
 Catholic Church, Salina, KS; burial&nbsp;in St. Joseph Cemetery, Hays, at 
2:00 p.m. &nbsp;A rosary will be at 9:30 a.m. before the service.

A visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 21, at Ryan 
Mortuary, 137 N 8th&nbsp;St, Salina, KS, with family present from 6 to 8 p.m.

Memorials are suggested to Good Shepherd&nbsp;Hospice, Newton, KS, and St.
 Mary’s Catholic Church, Salina, KS, in care of the Mortuary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624371200514.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eileen K. Bergmann, 74,&nbsp;of&nbsp;Salina&nbsp;passed 
away&nbsp;Thursday,&nbsp;June 17, 2021. She was born June 21, 1946, in&nbsp;Hays, 
Kansas, the daughter of Tony and Ida&nbsp;(Herzog)&nbsp;Kuntz.She attended elementary school in Park, KS, and graduated from Park High School with the class of 1964.She married James “Jim” Juenemann on September 16, 1967, in Park, KS.
 Of this union were born four children, Toni, Wayne, David and Matthew 
Juenemann.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jim passed away October 1, 2010. She married Rick 
Bergmann&nbsp;on October 17, 2015, in Salina, KS.She was a beautician early in her marriage to Jim, then a homemaker before working as a dental assistant until her retirement.During retirement, she volunteered at Hays Medical Center, Good Samaritan Society, and Presbyterian Manor.She was a former member of St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church in 
Hays and was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Salina. She 
enjoyed polka dances, riding her bicycle, spending time with family and 
her grandchildren.Survivors include her husband, Richard “Rick”&nbsp;Bergmann, four 
children, Toni (Gary) Thompson of Salina, KS, Wayne (Toni) Juenemann of 
Salina, KS, David (Mindy) Juenemann of Victoria, KS and 
Matthew&nbsp;Juenemann of Salina, KS, stepsons, Darrell (Melissa) Bergmann of
 Salina, KS and Brian Bergmann, 10 grandchildren and 4 
great-grandchildren; brothers, Robert (Kathy) Kuntz&nbsp;of Quinter, KS, Leon
 (Barbara) Kuntz of&nbsp;Tulsa, OK, Roger Kuntz of Grainfield, KS, Steve 
(Sharon) Kuntz of Edmond, OK, Virgil (LeAnn) Kuntz of Abilene, KS, 
sister, Tina (Jeff) Wick of Wamego, KS.She was preceded in death by&nbsp;her&nbsp;late husband and her parents.Services will be at&nbsp;10:00 a.m.&nbsp;on&nbsp;Tuesday, June 22&nbsp;at St. Elizabeth’s
 Catholic Church, Salina, KS; burial&nbsp;in St. Joseph Cemetery, Hays, at 
2:00 p.m. &nbsp;A rosary will be at 9:30 a.m. before the service.A visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 21, at Ryan 
Mortuary, 137 N 8th&nbsp;St, Salina, KS, with family present from 6 to 8 p.m.Memorials are suggested to Good Shepherd&nbsp;Hospice, Newton, KS, and St.
 Mary’s Catholic Church, Salina, KS, in care of the Mortuary.

Eileen K. Bergmann

Joyce Arlene (Poage) Mapes, longtime resident of Norton, Kansas passed 
away Friday, June 18, 2021, at Hillcrest Grand Lodge in Papillion, 
Nebraska at the age of 89. She was born to Arlie and Cora (Grabast) 
Poage on October 5, 1931, in Goodland, Kansas. Joyce attended school in 
Norcatur, Kansas during her early years and graduated from Lenora High 
School. While attending high school she met the love of her life 
Robert Mapes. They were married on September 25, 1949 in Norton, 
Kansas. They made their home in Lenora and the rural Norcatur 
communities before moving to Norton in 1970. 
 Bob and Joyce owned and operated Mapes Manufacturing in Norton, 
Kansas for many years. Joyce worked as the Office Manager of the 
business and helped on the farm. Joyce was a member of the Norton 
Christian Church. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting and made 
beautiful quilts which she has shared with her family. Bob and Joyce 
loved to play cards and travel. In retirement, they spent their winters
 in their motorhome in Texas, Florida, and Arizona. Eventually, they 
decided to buy a home in Green Valley, Arizona where the spent the 
winters and summered in the Norton. Joyce’s greatest joy in her life 
was spending time with her family.
 Joyce leaves to mourn her daughter, Susan Perkins and husband Allen 
of Omaha, Nebraska; sons, John Mapes of Norton, Kansas and Rocky Mapes 
and wife Rona of Thornton, Colorado; 12 grandchildren; 18 
great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Lee Aguilar of Elk River, MN and 
other friends and relatives.
 She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Mapes; parents, 
Arlie and Cora Poage; son, Dan Mapes; daughter-in-law, Lee Mapes; 
sisters, Jo Ann Poage and Loretta Ellis; brother, Ira James Poage; 
grandson, Kevin Mapes; granddaughter, Amy Mapes and sister-in-law, Leone
 Purton.
 A funeral service is planned for Friday, June 25, 2021, 10:30 A.M. at
 the Norton Christian Church in Norton, Kansas. Interment will follow 
the service in the Norton Cemetery. Visitation will be held on 
Thursday, June 24, 2021 from 3:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. with family 
receiving friends from 5:00 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. at the funeral home.

 
Memorials are suggested to the Andbe Home or the Norton Christian Church
 and may be sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main 
Street, Norton, Kansas 67654.  Words of comfort and caring may be left 
at www.plumergobber.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624298477173.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joyce Arlene (Poage) Mapes, longtime resident of Norton, Kansas passed 
away Friday, June 18, 2021, at Hillcrest Grand Lodge in Papillion, 
Nebraska at the age of 89. She was born to Arlie and Cora (Grabast) 
Poage on October 5, 1931, in Goodland, Kansas. Joyce attended school in 
Norcatur, Kansas during her early years and graduated from Lenora High 
School. While attending high school she met the love of her life 
Robert Mapes. They were married on September 25, 1949 in Norton, 
Kansas. They made their home in Lenora and the rural Norcatur 
communities before moving to Norton in 1970. 
 Bob and Joyce owned and operated Mapes Manufacturing in Norton, 
Kansas for many years. Joyce worked as the Office Manager of the 
business and helped on the farm. Joyce was a member of the Norton 
Christian Church. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting and made 
beautiful quilts which she has shared with her family. Bob and Joyce 
loved to play cards and travel. In retirement, they spent their winters
 in their motorhome in Texas, Florida, and Arizona. Eventually, they 
decided to buy a home in Green Valley, Arizona where the spent the 
winters and summered in the Norton. Joyce’s greatest joy in her life 
was spending time with her family.
 Joyce leaves to mourn her daughter, Susan Perkins and husband Allen 
of Omaha, Nebraska; sons, John Mapes of Norton, Kansas and Rocky Mapes 
and wife Rona of Thornton, Colorado; 12 grandchildren; 18 
great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Lee Aguilar of Elk River, MN and 
other friends and relatives.
 She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Mapes; parents, 
Arlie and Cora Poage; son, Dan Mapes; daughter-in-law, Lee Mapes; 
sisters, Jo Ann Poage and Loretta Ellis; brother, Ira James Poage; 
grandson, Kevin Mapes; granddaughter, Amy Mapes and sister-in-law, Leone
 Purton.
 A funeral service is planned for Friday, June 25, 2021, 10:30 A.M. at
 the Norton Christian Church in Norton, Kansas. Interment will follow 
the service in the Norton Cemetery. Visitation will be held on 
Thursday, June 24, 2021 from 3:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. with family 
receiving friends from 5:00 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. at the funeral home. 
Memorials are suggested to the Andbe Home or the Norton Christian Church
 and may be sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main 
Street, Norton, Kansas 67654. Words of comfort and caring may be left 
at www.plumergobber.com

Joyce A. (Poage) Mapes

BARTON COUNTY —The Judge in a Kansas man's child sex crime trial declared a mistrial Friday when the jury informed the court they were deadlocked.

Nicholas Schwerdtfeger, a Kansas Sex offender with numerous child sex crime convictions dating back to 2007 faced a new charge&nbsp; of Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child after a girl at Great Bend Middle School reported a sex offense to a school resource officer in October of 2019, according to Great Bend Police.&nbsp;

USD 428 said the incident did not take place at the school and that the accused offender was not a district employee.&nbsp;

As a result of the mistrial, the State of Kansas has the option to set the matter for a second trial. The court will review the defendant’s bond early this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624281623523.png" alt="Nicholas Schwerdtfeger photo Barton County" />
 <figcaption>Nicholas Schwerdtfeger photo Barton County</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —The Judge in a Kansas man's child sex crime trial declared a mistrial Friday when the jury informed the court they were deadlocked.Nicholas Schwerdtfeger, a Kansas Sex offender with numerous child sex crime convictions dating back to 2007 faced a new charge&nbsp; of Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child after a girl at Great Bend Middle School reported a sex offense to a school resource officer in October of 2019, according to Great Bend Police.&nbsp;USD 428 said the incident did not take place at the school and that the accused offender was not a district employee.&nbsp;As a result of the mistrial, the State of Kansas has the option to set the matter for a second trial. The court will review the defendant’s bond early this week.

Mistrial in Kansas sex offender's new child sex crime trial

NORTON — Leadership Norton County is now accepting applications for its first class, scheduled to begin in August 2021. The program, which previously ran from 1999-2016, is relaunching after a five-year hiatus and programmatic restructuring. 

Planning committee members include representatives from the following organizations: Norton County Community Foundation, Norton Area Chamber of Commerce, Norton County Attorney’s Office, Norton City/County Economic Development, K-State Research and Extension, and Norton County Hospital.&nbsp; The program will run from August to May (excluding the month of December) and will consist of seven full-day sessions that include leadership education and local tours/speakers. Curriculum for the leadership education will be taught by Kansas Leadership Center facilitators and will cover four competencies: Diagnose Situation, Manage Self, Energize Others, and Intervene Skillfully. Additional facilitations will be led by K-State Research &amp; Extension, Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership, and Betty Johnson.&nbsp;

In addition to these full-day sessions, the Leadership Norton County program will include participation in the 2-day Your Leadership Edge training at the KLC in Wichita, and a graduation reception in May. Program Outline (Subject to Change):&nbsp;

Leadership Norton County has four main objectives: To establish a network of present and potential leaders; To give upcoming and current leaders an opportunity for personal leadership growth and experience; To teach Strategic Doing and identify opportunities in Norton County; and To gain a deeper understanding of Norton County.&nbsp; Class size is limited to 12 participants. Upon acceptance to the class, the tuition fee is $150 payable by August 19, 2021. Applications can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.discovernorton.com/leadership-norton">www.discovernorton.com/leadership-norton</a>&nbsp;and must be received at the Norton Area Chamber of Commerce office by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, July 12, 2021. Class participants will be announced by Friday, July 16, 2021. Funding is provided through the Dane G. Hansen Foundation’s Community Leadership Program initiative, and Norton City/County Economic Development. For more information,&nbsp; visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.discovernorton.com/leadership-norton">www.discovernorton.com/leadership-norton</a>&nbsp;or contact Donna Eastman Liddle at 785.877.2501 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nortoncc@ruraltel.net">nortoncc@ruraltel.net</a>;&nbsp;or Tara Vance at 785.874.5106 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tara@nortonccf.org">tara@nortonccf.org</a>. &nbsp;

NORTON — Leadership Norton County is now accepting applications for its first class, scheduled to begin in August 2021. The program, which previously ran from 1999-2016, is relaunching after a five-year hiatus and programmatic restructuring. Planning committee members include representatives from the following organizations: Norton County Community Foundation, Norton Area Chamber of Commerce, Norton County Attorney’s Office, Norton City/County Economic Development, K-State Research and Extension, and Norton County Hospital.&nbsp; The program will run from August to May (excluding the month of December) and will consist of seven full-day sessions that include leadership education and local tours/speakers. Curriculum for the leadership education will be taught by Kansas Leadership Center facilitators and will cover four competencies: Diagnose Situation, Manage Self, Energize Others, and Intervene Skillfully. Additional facilitations will be led by K-State Research &amp; Extension, Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership, and Betty Johnson.&nbsp;In addition to these full-day sessions, the Leadership Norton County program will include participation in the 2-day Your Leadership Edge training at the KLC in Wichita, and a graduation reception in May. Program Outline (Subject to Change):&nbsp;August 2021<ul>
 <li>Leadership Education: Team Building</li><li>Session Highlights: Program Introduction &amp; Orientation facilitated by KLC</li>
 </ul>September<ul>
 <li>Leadership Education: Diagnose Situation (KLC Competency)</li><li>Session Highlights: Parliamentary Procedure (Facilitated by K-State Research &amp; Extension); Civic Government</li>
 </ul>October<ul>
 <li>Leadership Education: Manage Self (KLC Competency)</li><li>Session Highlights: Know Yourself (Enneagram Facilitator); Local Healthcare</li>
 </ul>November<ul>
 <li>Leadership Education: Energize Others (KLC Competency)</li><li>Session Highlights: Education</li>
 </ul>January 2022<ul>
 <li>Leadership Education: Intervene Skillfully (KLC Competency)</li><li>Session Highlights: Economic Diversity; Community Asset Mapping</li>
 </ul>February&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Leadership Education: Conflict Management (Facilitated by KARL)</li><li>Session Highlight: Agriculture</li>
 </ul>March<ul>
 <li>Leadership Education: Strategic Doing (Facilitated by Betty Johnson)</li><li>Session Highlights: Project/Program organizing and planning; Volunteerism</li>
 </ul>April<ul>
 <li>"Your Leadership Edge" Program at Kansas Leadership Center, 2-Day Session in Wichita</li>
 </ul>May<ul>
 <li>Reception</li>
 </ul> Leadership Norton County has four main objectives: To establish a network of present and potential leaders; To give upcoming and current leaders an opportunity for personal leadership growth and experience; To teach Strategic Doing and identify opportunities in Norton County; and To gain a deeper understanding of Norton County.&nbsp; Class size is limited to 12 participants. Upon acceptance to the class, the tuition fee is $150 payable by August 19, 2021. Applications can be found online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.discovernorton.com/leadership-norton">www.discovernorton.com/leadership-norton</a>&nbsp;and must be received at the Norton Area Chamber of Commerce office by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, July 12, 2021. Class participants will be announced by Friday, July 16, 2021. Funding is provided through the Dane G. Hansen Foundation’s Community Leadership Program initiative, and Norton City/County Economic Development. For more information,&nbsp; visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.discovernorton.com/leadership-norton">www.discovernorton.com/leadership-norton</a>&nbsp;or contact Donna Eastman Liddle at 785.877.2501 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:nortoncc@ruraltel.net">nortoncc@ruraltel.net</a>;&nbsp;or Tara Vance at 785.874.5106 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tara@nortonccf.org">tara@nortonccf.org</a>. &nbsp;— News release

Leadership Norton County to relaunch in August

Arlene Esther Miller, 92, passed away on June 18, 2021 at Hays 
Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on October 23, 1928 in 
Ness City, Kansas the daughter of Harvey and Kathryn (Nonnast) Musbach.

She was a lifetime resident of Ness City, a member of the First 
Baptist Church, and was a homemaker.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She graduated from Ness City 
High School and worked at the ASCS office in Ness City where she met her
 future husband.&nbsp; She married Frank X. Miller on November 13, 1949, in 
Ness City, Kansas.&nbsp; Frank preceded her in death on January 2, 2012

Arlene is survived by her two sons, Kent and Chris Miller of Beloit, 
and Kirk and Lois Miller of LaCrosse; one daughter, Annette and Dan Frey
 of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and 7 grandchildren, Jennifer, Jessica, Zach,
 Matthew, Sarah, Katie, and Max; and 10 great grandchildren.&nbsp; She was 
preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son, Kirby Miller; 
brother, Alan and Mina Musbach; two sisters, Irene and Ralph Stenzel and
 Vi and Earl Burditt; and a half sister, Grace Etzweiler.

Funeral service will be on Wednesday, June 23, 2021, 10:00 a.m. at 
the First Baptist Church, Ness City, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial in the Ness City 
Cemetery.&nbsp; Friends may call at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Tuesday from 
9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to the First Baptist Church.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624239168947.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Arlene Esther Miller, 92, passed away on June 18, 2021 at Hays 
Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on October 23, 1928 in 
Ness City, Kansas the daughter of Harvey and Kathryn (Nonnast) Musbach.She was a lifetime resident of Ness City, a member of the First 
Baptist Church, and was a homemaker.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; She graduated from Ness City 
High School and worked at the ASCS office in Ness City where she met her
 future husband.&nbsp; She married Frank X. Miller on November 13, 1949, in 
Ness City, Kansas.&nbsp; Frank preceded her in death on January 2, 2012Arlene is survived by her two sons, Kent and Chris Miller of Beloit, 
and Kirk and Lois Miller of LaCrosse; one daughter, Annette and Dan Frey
 of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and 7 grandchildren, Jennifer, Jessica, Zach,
 Matthew, Sarah, Katie, and Max; and 10 great grandchildren.&nbsp; She was 
preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son, Kirby Miller; 
brother, Alan and Mina Musbach; two sisters, Irene and Ralph Stenzel and
 Vi and Earl Burditt; and a half sister, Grace Etzweiler.Funeral service will be on Wednesday, June 23, 2021, 10:00 a.m. at 
the First Baptist Church, Ness City, Kansas.&nbsp; Burial in the Ness City 
Cemetery.&nbsp; Friends may call at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Tuesday from 
9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to the First Baptist Church.

Arlene Esther Miller

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service has started sending letters
 to more than 36 million American families who, based on tax returns 
filed with the agency, may be eligible to receive monthly Child Tax 
Credit payments starting in July.

The expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit was authorized by
 the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. The letters are going 
to families who may be eligible based on information they included in 
either their 2019 or 2020 federal income tax return or who used the 
Non-Filers tool on IRS.gov last year to register for an Economic Impact 
Payment.

Families who are eligible for advance Child Tax Credit payments will 
receive a second, personalized letter listing an estimate of their 
monthly payment, which begins July 15.

Most families do not need to take any action to get their payment. 
Normally, the IRS will calculate the payment amount based on the 2020 
tax return. If that return is not available, either because it has not 
yet been filed or it has not yet been processed, the IRS will instead 
determine the payment amount using the 2019 return.

Eligible families will begin receiving advance payments, either by 
direct deposit or check. The payment will be up to $300 per month for 
each qualifying child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each 
qualifying child ages 6 to 17.The IRS will issue advance Child Tax 
Credit payments on July 15, August&nbsp;13, September 15, October 15, 
November 15 and December 15.

Eligible families should file tax returns soon

The IRS urges individuals and families who haven't yet filed their 
2020 return – or 2019 return – to do so as soon as possible so they can 
receive any advance payment they're eligible for.

Filing soon will also ensure that the IRS has their most current 
banking information, as well as key details about qualifying children. 
This includes people who don't normally file a tax return, such as 
families experiencing homelessness, the rural poor, and other 
underserved groups.

For most people, the fastest and easiest way to file a return is by using the Free File system, available only on IRS.gov.

Throughout the summer, the IRS will be adding additional tools and 
online resources to help with the advance Child Tax Credit. One of these
 tools will enable families to unenroll from receiving these advance 
payments and instead receive the full amount of the credit when they 
file their 2021 return next year.

Additionally, later this year, individuals and families will also be 
able to go to IRS.gov and use a Child Tax Credit Update Portal to notify
 IRS of changes in their income, filing status, or number of qualifying 
children; update their direct deposit information; and make other 
changes to ensure they are receiving the right amount as quickly as 
possible.

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

In the next few weeks, the page will also feature other useful new online tools, including:

The American Rescue Plan raised the maximum Child Tax Credit in 2021 
to $3,600 for qualifying children under the age of 6 and to $3,000 per 
child for qualifying children between ages 6 and 17. Before 2021, the 
credit was worth up to $2,000 per eligible child, and 17 year-olds were 
not considered as qualifying children for the credit.

For most people, modified AGI is the amount shown on Line 11 of 
their 2020 Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Above these income thresholds, the 
extra amount above the original $2,000 credit — either $1,000 or $1,600 
per child — is reduced by $50 for every extra $1,000 in modified AGI.

In addition, the entire credit is fully refundable for 2021. This means that eligible families
 can get it, even if they owe no federal income tax. Before this year, 
the refundable portion was limited to $1,400 per child.

The IRS urges community groups, non-profits, associations, education 
organizations, and others with connections to people with children to 
share this critical information about the Child Tax Credit as well as 
other important benefits. The IRS will be providing in the near future 
additional materials and information that can be easily shared by social
 media, email and other methods.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service has started sending letters
 to more than 36 million American families who, based on tax returns 
filed with the agency, may be eligible to receive monthly Child Tax 
Credit payments starting in July.The expanded and newly-advanceable Child Tax Credit was authorized by
 the American Rescue Plan Act, enacted in March. The letters are going 
to families who may be eligible based on information they included in 
either their 2019 or 2020 federal income tax return or who used the 
Non-Filers tool on IRS.gov last year to register for an Economic Impact 
Payment.Families who are eligible for advance Child Tax Credit payments will 
receive a second, personalized letter listing an estimate of their 
monthly payment, which begins July 15.Most families do not need to take any action to get their payment. 
Normally, the IRS will calculate the payment amount based on the 2020 
tax return. If that return is not available, either because it has not 
yet been filed or it has not yet been processed, the IRS will instead 
determine the payment amount using the 2019 return.Eligible families will begin receiving advance payments, either by 
direct deposit or check. The payment will be up to $300 per month for 
each qualifying child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each 
qualifying child ages 6 to 17.The IRS will issue advance Child Tax 
Credit payments on July 15, August&nbsp;13, September 15, October 15, 
November 15 and December 15.<h2>Eligible families should file tax returns soon</h2>The IRS urges individuals and families who haven't yet filed their 
2020 return – or 2019 return – to do so as soon as possible so they can 
receive any advance payment they're eligible for.Filing soon will also ensure that the IRS has their most current 
banking information, as well as key details about qualifying children. 
This includes people who don't normally file a tax return, such as 
families experiencing homelessness, the rural poor, and other 
underserved groups.For most people, the fastest and easiest way to file a return is by using the Free File system, available only on IRS.gov.Throughout the summer, the IRS will be adding additional tools and 
online resources to help with the advance Child Tax Credit. One of these
 tools will enable families to unenroll from receiving these advance 
payments and instead receive the full amount of the credit when they 
file their 2021 return next year.Additionally, later this year, individuals and families will also be 
able to go to IRS.gov and use a Child Tax Credit Update Portal to notify
 IRS of changes in their income, filing status, or number of qualifying 
children; update their direct deposit information; and make other 
changes to ensure they are receiving the right amount as quickly as 
possible.<h2>Other tools coming soon</h2>The IRS has created a special Advance Child Tax Credit 2021 page at <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">IRS.gov/childtaxcredit2021</a>, designed to provide the most up-to-date information about the credit and the advance payments.In the next few weeks, the page will also feature other useful new online tools, including:<ul>
 <li>An interactive Child Tax Credit eligibility tool to help 
families determine whether they qualify for the Advance Child Tax Credit
 payments.</li><li>Another tool, the Child Tax Credit Update Portal, will initially 
enable anyone who has been determined to be eligible for advance 
payments unenroll/ to opt out of the advance payment program. Later this
 year, it will allow people to check on the status of their payments, 
make updates to their information, and be available in Spanish. More 
details will be available soon about the online Child Tax Credit Update 
Portal.</li>
 </ul><h2>Child Tax Credit Changes</h2>The American Rescue Plan raised the maximum Child Tax Credit in 2021 
to $3,600 for qualifying children under the age of 6 and to $3,000 per 
child for qualifying children between ages 6 and 17. Before 2021, the 
credit was worth up to $2,000 per eligible child, and 17 year-olds were 
not considered as qualifying children for the credit.The new maximum credit is available to taxpayers with a modified adjusted gross income (AGI) of:<ul>
 <li>$75,000 or less for singles,</li><li>$112,500 or less for heads of household, and</li><li>$150,000 or less for married couples filing a joint return and qualified widows and widowers.</li>
 </ul>For most people, modified AGI is the amount shown on Line 11 of 
their 2020 Form 1040 or 1040-SR. Above these income thresholds, the 
extra amount above the original $2,000 credit — either $1,000 or $1,600 
per child — is reduced by $50 for every extra $1,000 in modified AGI.In addition, the entire credit is fully refundable for 2021. This means that eligible families
 can get it, even if they owe no federal income tax. Before this year, 
the refundable portion was limited to $1,400 per child.The IRS urges community groups, non-profits, associations, education 
organizations, and others with connections to people with children to 
share this critical information about the Child Tax Credit as well as 
other important benefits. The IRS will be providing in the near future 
additional materials and information that can be easily shared by social
 media, email and other methods.For the most up-to-date information on the Child Tax Credit and advance payments, visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021">Advance Child Tax Credit Payments in 2021</a>.

IRS: Letters going out to 38M families getting Child Tax Credit payments

Clarence Willard Carr, 108, of Norton, KS passed away June 3, 2021, at 
Whispering Pines in Norton. He was born October 25, 1912, in rural 
Norton County to Milo M. and Edith Mae (Hobbs) Carr. 
 Willard grew up in rural Norton County and was a graduate of Lenora High School. 
 Willard’s passion was farming. He was quick to talk about his love for his farm, crops, cattle, horses, etc. 
 Later in life Willard started collecting and restoring tractors and other equipment.
 Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Milo and Edith and brother, Lawrence D. Carr.
 He is survived by his niece, Sher Dano of Surprise, AZ. 
 Willard’s wish was to be cremated and then have the burial at the 
Norton Cemetery at a later date. Condolences may be left at 
www.plumergobber.com

Clarence Willard Carr, 108, of Norton, KS passed away June 3, 2021, at 
Whispering Pines in Norton. He was born October 25, 1912, in rural 
Norton County to Milo M. and Edith Mae (Hobbs) Carr. 
 Willard grew up in rural Norton County and was a graduate of Lenora High School. 
 Willard’s passion was farming. He was quick to talk about his love for his farm, crops, cattle, horses, etc. 
 Later in life Willard started collecting and restoring tractors and other equipment.
 Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Milo and Edith and brother, Lawrence D. Carr.
 He is survived by his niece, Sher Dano of Surprise, AZ. 
 Willard’s wish was to be cremated and then have the burial at the 
Norton Cemetery at a later date. Condolences may be left at 
www.plumergobber.com

Clarence Willard Carr

October 5, 1931 - June 18, 2021&nbsp;

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

October 5, 1931 - June 18, 2021&nbsp;An obituary and services are pending with Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Female soldiers at Army bases in Kansas, Texas, Colorado and Kentucky face a greater risk of sexual assault and harassment than those at other posts, accounting for more than a third of all active-duty Army women sexually assaulted in 2018, according to a new Rand Corp. study.

The study, released Friday, looked at Army incidents, and found that female soldiers at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-army-8af5fb1707e06948a46823a79ab1aed7">Fort Hood</a>&nbsp;and Fort Bliss, both in Texas, faced the highest risk, particularly those in combat commands or jobs such as field artillery and engineering. And units with more frequent deployments to war also saw higher risk. Other bases with high risk were Fort Riley in Kansas, Fort Campbell in Kentucky and Fort Carson in Colorado said the study which reviewed assault data from previous years.

Rand’s study provides greater detail on the rates of sexual assault and misconduct across the Army, a chronic problem that&nbsp;<a href="vhttps://apnews.com/article/army-sexual-assault-only-on-ap-texas-ee794a62777083fd634bd08d4f16f313" target="_blank">military leaders have been struggling to combat</a>. And it comes a year after the killing of Spc. Vanessa Guillén, who was missing at Fort Hood for about two months before her remains were found late last June.

Guillen was killed by a soldier, who her family says sexually harassed her, and who killed himself as police sought to arrest him. Her death&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/criminal-investigations-army-sexual-assault-crime-violent-crime-01f74af3f2e8498685c57237bf3e4615">put a spotlight on violence and leadership problems</a>&nbsp;within the Army. The Rand report also confirmed one of the Army’s conclusions about the impact of command climate, finding a lower risk of sexual misconduct in units with more positive supervisor scores.

The Fort Hood violence prompted an independent review which found that military leaders were not adequately dealing with high rates of sexual assault and harassment at the post. Christopher Swecker, the chairman of the review panel, told Congress that the base leaders were focused on military readiness and completely neglected the sexual assault prevention program. As a result, he said, lower-level unit commanders didn’t encourage service members to report assaults, and in many cases were shaming victims.

According to the Rand study, the risk of assault for women at Fort Hood was nearly a third higher than the average risk faced by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-health-coronavirus-pandemic-government-and-politics-5702e3a822dd841a06d0b10bcea898a3">all women in the Army</a>. Overall, Rand said that the risk across the Army varied widely depending on the female soldiers’ base, unit, career field, age, and even whether they were at posts with a higher number of civilians.

For example, female soldiers in medical or personnel jobs have the lowest risk, while those in field artillery face the highest risk. Field artillery jobs were among some of the last Army combat specialties opened to women — coming in 2015. Other jobs that lagged behind were infantry, armor and special operations.

James A. Helis, director of the Army Resilience Directorate, said the study “sheds light on the environmental and occupational factors that contribute to the risk of sexual assault and sexual harassment for our soldiers and, in turn, will help inform future prevention and response efforts.”

The report used earlier Rand studies as well as data from Defense Department anonymous surveys in 2016 and 2018 that seek information about sexual assaults and harassment that may or may not have been formally reported. And it compared that to other military personnel and demographic data.

Soldiers assigned to the Washington, D.C. region, meanwhile, have some of the lowest risk totals, with the Pentagon showing the lowest of all installations listed. Among the bases with the lowest reported risk were Fort Belvoir, in northern Virginia, and Fort George G. Meade and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, in Maryland.

According to the study, an estimated 8.4% — or about 1 in 12 — of the roughly 5,883 Army women who served at Fort Hood were sexually assaulted, while at the Pentagon it was 1.8%, or about one in 50. The study noted, however, that the difference is not surprising considering that it’s likely that women at the Pentagon are, on average, older, more senior-ranking and more highly educated. They also are more likely to be working with older and more senior-ranking men.

The report said that the data can be used to help the Army tailor prevention and other programs to better counter sexual assault in the ranks.

“These findings provide the Army with increased visibility on where exactly risk is consistently high for sexual assault and sexual harassment,” said Jenna Newman, social science advisor at the resilience directorate and the Army’s project lead for the study. “It suggests there are location-specific concerns that require targeted interventions into climate and culture and will require additional research to understand.”

In the wake of the Guillen killing and a spike in suicides last year, Army leaders launched a program in October that focuses on the wellbeing of soldiers and their families, specifically making people the Army’s top priority, overtaking combat readiness and weapons modernization.

And the Sergeant Major of the Army, Michael Grinston, the top enlisted soldier, began a campaign called “This is My Squad” to build unit cohesion and encourage soldiers to look after each other. The broader effort also is aimed at improving the command climate in units, since poor leadership was identified as a significant problem at Fort Hood.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Female soldiers at Army bases in Kansas, Texas, Colorado and Kentucky face a greater risk of sexual assault and harassment than those at other posts, accounting for more than a third of all active-duty Army women sexually assaulted in 2018, according to a new Rand Corp. study.The study, released Friday, looked at Army incidents, and found that female soldiers at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-army-8af5fb1707e06948a46823a79ab1aed7">Fort Hood</a>&nbsp;and Fort Bliss, both in Texas, faced the highest risk, particularly those in combat commands or jobs such as field artillery and engineering. And units with more frequent deployments to war also saw higher risk. Other bases with high risk were Fort Riley in Kansas, Fort Campbell in Kentucky and Fort Carson in Colorado said the study which reviewed assault data from previous years.Rand’s study provides greater detail on the rates of sexual assault and misconduct across the Army, a chronic problem that&nbsp;<a href="vhttps://apnews.com/article/army-sexual-assault-only-on-ap-texas-ee794a62777083fd634bd08d4f16f313" target="_blank">military leaders have been struggling to combat</a>. And it comes a year after the killing of Spc. Vanessa Guillén, who was missing at Fort Hood for about two months before her remains were found late last June.Guillen was killed by a soldier, who her family says sexually harassed her, and who killed himself as police sought to arrest him. Her death&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/criminal-investigations-army-sexual-assault-crime-violent-crime-01f74af3f2e8498685c57237bf3e4615">put a spotlight on violence and leadership problems</a>&nbsp;within the Army. The Rand report also confirmed one of the Army’s conclusions about the impact of command climate, finding a lower risk of sexual misconduct in units with more positive supervisor scores.The Fort Hood violence prompted an independent review which found that military leaders were not adequately dealing with high rates of sexual assault and harassment at the post. Christopher Swecker, the chairman of the review panel, told Congress that the base leaders were focused on military readiness and completely neglected the sexual assault prevention program. As a result, he said, lower-level unit commanders didn’t encourage service members to report assaults, and in many cases were shaming victims.According to the Rand study, the risk of assault for women at Fort Hood was nearly a third higher than the average risk faced by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-news-health-coronavirus-pandemic-government-and-politics-5702e3a822dd841a06d0b10bcea898a3">all women in the Army</a>. Overall, Rand said that the risk across the Army varied widely depending on the female soldiers’ base, unit, career field, age, and even whether they were at posts with a higher number of civilians.For example, female soldiers in medical or personnel jobs have the lowest risk, while those in field artillery face the highest risk. Field artillery jobs were among some of the last Army combat specialties opened to women — coming in 2015. Other jobs that lagged behind were infantry, armor and special operations.James A. Helis, director of the Army Resilience Directorate, said the study “sheds light on the environmental and occupational factors that contribute to the risk of sexual assault and sexual harassment for our soldiers and, in turn, will help inform future prevention and response efforts.”The report used earlier Rand studies as well as data from Defense Department anonymous surveys in 2016 and 2018 that seek information about sexual assaults and harassment that may or may not have been formally reported. And it compared that to other military personnel and demographic data.Soldiers assigned to the Washington, D.C. region, meanwhile, have some of the lowest risk totals, with the Pentagon showing the lowest of all installations listed. Among the bases with the lowest reported risk were Fort Belvoir, in northern Virginia, and Fort George G. Meade and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, in Maryland.According to the study, an estimated 8.4% — or about 1 in 12 — of the roughly 5,883 Army women who served at Fort Hood were sexually assaulted, while at the Pentagon it was 1.8%, or about one in 50. The study noted, however, that the difference is not surprising considering that it’s likely that women at the Pentagon are, on average, older, more senior-ranking and more highly educated. They also are more likely to be working with older and more senior-ranking men.The report said that the data can be used to help the Army tailor prevention and other programs to better counter sexual assault in the ranks.“These findings provide the Army with increased visibility on where exactly risk is consistently high for sexual assault and sexual harassment,” said Jenna Newman, social science advisor at the resilience directorate and the Army’s project lead for the study. “It suggests there are location-specific concerns that require targeted interventions into climate and culture and will require additional research to understand.”In the wake of the Guillen killing and a spike in suicides last year, Army leaders launched a program in October that focuses on the wellbeing of soldiers and their families, specifically making people the Army’s top priority, overtaking combat readiness and weapons modernization.And the Sergeant Major of the Army, Michael Grinston, the top enlisted soldier, began a campaign called “This is My Squad” to build unit cohesion and encourage soldiers to look after each other. The broader effort also is aimed at improving the command climate in units, since poor leadership was identified as a significant problem at Fort Hood.

Study: Kan., Texas bases lead Army posts in risk of sex assault

R. Allen “Monk” Ward, age 80, of Hays, passed away Thursday, June 17, 2021, at his home in Hays.&nbsp; Monk was born February 18, 1941 in South Gate, California, the son of Rex and Helen (Gunter) Ward.&nbsp; Monk graduated from Scandia High School in 1958. On April 15, 1967, he married DeeAnn Parsons in Logan, Kansas.&nbsp; To this union two children were born: Annie and A.J. &nbsp;

Monk worked road construction in his early career, followed by time in the oilfield and he owned and operated service stations in Scandia and Logan, Kansas.&nbsp; He served his country in the United States Army from October 1966 to October 1968, with one year of service in Vietnam.&nbsp;

Monk is survived by his wife of 54 years, a daughter, Annie Diederich of Topeka, a son, A.J.(Cathy) of Hays, two grandchildren, Mallory Diederich of Kansas City, MO and Mason Diederich of Topeka.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, MariAnna Hanson, his father-in-law, Johnnie Parsons and son-in-law, Randy Diederich.&nbsp;

Cremation was chosen and a private family graveside service will be held at a later date.&nbsp; Memorial contributions can be made in care of Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine St., Hays, KS 67601 for a designation to be determined.&nbsp;

R. Allen “Monk” Ward, age 80, of Hays, passed away Thursday, June 17, 2021, at his home in Hays.&nbsp; Monk was born February 18, 1941 in South Gate, California, the son of Rex and Helen (Gunter) Ward.&nbsp; Monk graduated from Scandia High School in 1958. On April 15, 1967, he married DeeAnn Parsons in Logan, Kansas.&nbsp; To this union two children were born: Annie and A.J. &nbsp;Monk worked road construction in his early career, followed by time in the oilfield and he owned and operated service stations in Scandia and Logan, Kansas.&nbsp; He served his country in the United States Army from October 1966 to October 1968, with one year of service in Vietnam.&nbsp;Monk is survived by his wife of 54 years, a daughter, Annie Diederich of Topeka, a son, A.J.(Cathy) of Hays, two grandchildren, Mallory Diederich of Kansas City, MO and Mason Diederich of Topeka.&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, MariAnna Hanson, his father-in-law, Johnnie Parsons and son-in-law, Randy Diederich.&nbsp;Cremation was chosen and a private family graveside service will be held at a later date.&nbsp; Memorial contributions can be made in care of Brock’s-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine St., Hays, KS 67601 for a designation to be determined.&nbsp;

R. Allen 'Monk' Ward

Julia M. (Fish) Herren, 93, left this world on June 12, 2021. She was
 born October 2, 1927, at Wasola, MO. the daughter of John W. Fish Sr. 
and Edith (Stewart) Fish. She moved with her family to Great Bend in 
1937, graduating from Great Bend High School in 1946. She married Louis F
 Herren on November 22, 1946.

Julia was active in girl’s scouts and helped organize Camp Fire 
Girls. She was on the board of directors and an active member earning 
the rare Arthur Gulick Award. She served as a Democratic Barton County 
chairman and secretary of the big first district. Julia also belonged to
 Petal Pushers Garden Club and Riverside HDU unit and also the Etudion 
Club.

Julia was a devoted and beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and
 friend. Her family was her most precious gift. She will be remembered 
as a person of great faith which she based her life on. She was a women 
who gave far more than she even took.

Survivors include two daughters, Carol A. Selle and husband Dwight 
and Carla L. Ziegler and husband James; three granddaughters, Sheri D 
(Alan) Wornkey , Mitzi M. (Michael J.) Haines and Terra A. (Scott) 
Miller; four great grandsons Kobi and Kalib Wilson, Michael Ringo and 
Alex Cook; one great granddaughter Kholi Mae Miller; sister Evelyn (Al) 
Whitmire of Bushton. She was preceded in death by her husband Louis, son
 Louis F. Herren Jr.; &nbsp;two sisters Gwen Harmon and LaVern Hendricks, 
brothers Charles, Ervan, and John.

Julia just wanted people to remember her for the person she was. By 
her request there will be no services of visitation as cremation has 
taken place.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624039677231.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Julia M. (Fish) Herren, 93, left this world on June 12, 2021. She was
 born October 2, 1927, at Wasola, MO. the daughter of John W. Fish Sr. 
and Edith (Stewart) Fish. She moved with her family to Great Bend in 
1937, graduating from Great Bend High School in 1946. She married Louis F
 Herren on November 22, 1946.Julia was active in girl’s scouts and helped organize Camp Fire 
Girls. She was on the board of directors and an active member earning 
the rare Arthur Gulick Award. She served as a Democratic Barton County 
chairman and secretary of the big first district. Julia also belonged to
 Petal Pushers Garden Club and Riverside HDU unit and also the Etudion 
Club.Julia was a devoted and beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and
 friend. Her family was her most precious gift. She will be remembered 
as a person of great faith which she based her life on. She was a women 
who gave far more than she even took.Survivors include two daughters, Carol A. Selle and husband Dwight 
and Carla L. Ziegler and husband James; three granddaughters, Sheri D 
(Alan) Wornkey , Mitzi M. (Michael J.) Haines and Terra A. (Scott) 
Miller; four great grandsons Kobi and Kalib Wilson, Michael Ringo and 
Alex Cook; one great granddaughter Kholi Mae Miller; sister Evelyn (Al) 
Whitmire of Bushton. She was preceded in death by her husband Louis, son
 Louis F. Herren Jr.; &nbsp;two sisters Gwen Harmon and LaVern Hendricks, 
brothers Charles, Ervan, and John.Julia just wanted people to remember her for the person she was. By 
her request there will be no services of visitation as cremation has 
taken place.Memorials may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

 Julia M. Herren

It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of James Thomas Coons Jr.

Tom was born April 20, 1943 in Goodland, Kansas to James and Dorothy 
Coons. He will be lovingly remembered by his surviving family: his wife 
of 34 years, Kathy (Brewer) Coons of Gilbert, Arizona; four children, 
James T. “Jimmy” Coons III, Cristi (Coons) Whipp (their mother Carol 
Coons), Amie (Ranly) Jason and her husband Mike, and Brad Ranly; six 
grandchildren, one great-grandson, his sister, Bonnie (Coons) Neville 
(her husband Lyle, recently deceased), father-in-law Floyd Brewer, and 
two brothers-in-law, Bill Brewer and his wife Cheryl, and Harold Brewer 
and his wife Janet; all of their families, and other beloved nieces, 
nephews and dear friends.

In high school, Tom was a four-year letterman, participating in three
 sports, and graduating from Goodland High School in 1961. His greatest 
athletic accomplishments came in wrestling, where he won many 
tournaments, culminating in an individual all-Kansas State championship 
at 133 pounds his senior year.

Tom attended Kansas State University and was a varsity wrestler and 
K-State Letterman, graduating in 1968 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts 
degree. Tom remained an avid K-State fan throughout his life, attending 
many home football games.

He began his professional career as an art teacher and wrestling 
coach at Cortez High School in Cortez, Colorado. As an accomplished 
artisan, he created jewelry and sculptures that were showcased in Cortez
 and Durango art galleries. Tom also taught high school and coached 
wrestling at Ulysses High School in Ulysses, Kansas. In 1979, he led his
 wrestlers to a team State Championship in the class 4A division, and 
included three individual state champions; this remarkable 
accomplishment led to Tom receiving the honor of Kansas Wrestling Coach 
of the Year. After concluding his high school teaching and coaching 
career, Tom kept involved with his passion for the sport of wrestling, 
in coaching youth and freestyle teams, and officiating wrestling matches
 and tournaments, where he formed long lasting bonds with his fellow 
officials, and was named Wrestling Official of the Year.

He and his family moved to Montrose, Colorado in 1989, where he was a
 Vice President in mortgage banking, and served this community through 
several organizations and committees. Among his many accomplishments, he
 was awarded the Chamber of Commerce’s Red Coat of the Year. Tom 
designed and landscaped three custom homes in Montrose, where family and
 friends were always welcome.

His favorite pastimes included traveling, snow skiing, golfing, 
hunting for arrowheads and mushrooms, and fishing the West Fork of the 
Dolores River. He was an accomplished landscaper and gardener who loved 
the beauty of flowers and birds. He took great joy in his children and 
grandchildren, and was proud of all their accomplishments.

A remarkably honest, hardworking, talented man who lived his life to 
the fullest, always with a smile on his face and a whistle in his step.

Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Tom-CoonsJr">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623701938824.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>April 20, 1943 ~ October 12, 2020It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of James Thomas Coons Jr.Tom was born April 20, 1943 in Goodland, Kansas to James and Dorothy 
Coons. He will be lovingly remembered by his surviving family: his wife 
of 34 years, Kathy (Brewer) Coons of Gilbert, Arizona; four children, 
James T. “Jimmy” Coons III, Cristi (Coons) Whipp (their mother Carol 
Coons), Amie (Ranly) Jason and her husband Mike, and Brad Ranly; six 
grandchildren, one great-grandson, his sister, Bonnie (Coons) Neville 
(her husband Lyle, recently deceased), father-in-law Floyd Brewer, and 
two brothers-in-law, Bill Brewer and his wife Cheryl, and Harold Brewer 
and his wife Janet; all of their families, and other beloved nieces, 
nephews and dear friends.In high school, Tom was a four-year letterman, participating in three
 sports, and graduating from Goodland High School in 1961. His greatest 
athletic accomplishments came in wrestling, where he won many 
tournaments, culminating in an individual all-Kansas State championship 
at 133 pounds his senior year.Tom attended Kansas State University and was a varsity wrestler and 
K-State Letterman, graduating in 1968 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts 
degree. Tom remained an avid K-State fan throughout his life, attending 
many home football games.He began his professional career as an art teacher and wrestling 
coach at Cortez High School in Cortez, Colorado. As an accomplished 
artisan, he created jewelry and sculptures that were showcased in Cortez
 and Durango art galleries. Tom also taught high school and coached 
wrestling at Ulysses High School in Ulysses, Kansas. In 1979, he led his
 wrestlers to a team State Championship in the class 4A division, and 
included three individual state champions; this remarkable 
accomplishment led to Tom receiving the honor of Kansas Wrestling Coach 
of the Year. After concluding his high school teaching and coaching 
career, Tom kept involved with his passion for the sport of wrestling, 
in coaching youth and freestyle teams, and officiating wrestling matches
 and tournaments, where he formed long lasting bonds with his fellow 
officials, and was named Wrestling Official of the Year.He and his family moved to Montrose, Colorado in 1989, where he was a
 Vice President in mortgage banking, and served this community through 
several organizations and committees. Among his many accomplishments, he
 was awarded the Chamber of Commerce’s Red Coat of the Year. Tom 
designed and landscaped three custom homes in Montrose, where family and
 friends were always welcome.His favorite pastimes included traveling, snow skiing, golfing, 
hunting for arrowheads and mushrooms, and fishing the West Fork of the 
Dolores River. He was an accomplished landscaper and gardener who loved 
the beauty of flowers and birds. He took great joy in his children and 
grandchildren, and was proud of all their accomplishments.A remarkably honest, hardworking, talented man who lived his life to 
the fullest, always with a smile on his face and a whistle in his step.Click <a href="https://www.koonsrussellfuneralhome.com/obituary/Tom-CoonsJr">HERE</a> for service details.

Tom Coons Jr.

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.

<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.