Michael “Mike” Brunk,&nbsp; resident of Alma, KS died in his home unexpectedly on February 11th&nbsp;at the age of 63.

Mike survived by his wife, Mary Brunk, Uncle Edward Brunk, his children;&nbsp; Steve Buero, Kenny Buero, Christine Yoakum, Mikey Buero and Michelle Patwell;&nbsp; his Mother Sharon Garcia, step father Jess Garcia; Brother Brian Brunk ; (9) Grandchildren, (8) Great Grandchildren , Uncle to (4).&nbsp; He is predeceased by his Father Daniel Brunk; brother William Brunk; Uncles Richard and Lawrence Brunk; and Grandparnts Fenella and Roy Brunk.

Mike was born in Salina, KS on October 27, 1957.&nbsp; He served 4 years in the United States Army.&nbsp; Married to his wife Mary on October 10th, 1982.&nbsp; Mike enjoyed hunting, fishing, his grandkids and barbequing with his family after retiring in 2017 as a senior maintenance technician in Anaheim, Ca.&nbsp;&nbsp; Mike and Mary built their retirement home in Alma, KS where he enjoyed his time sitting on the porch watching the grass grow and family Fourth of July’s.&nbsp;

Mike was known for his inventions; building a redneck smoker, 21-gun salute for fireworks and his humor, even in bad times he had the ability to make everyone laugh.&nbsp; He was his own person and never would compromise his own beliefs “to fit in”.

Family will be celebrating his life on July 4th, 2021 at their home in Alma for all family who want to attend.

Michael “Mike” Brunk,&nbsp; resident of Alma, KS died in his home unexpectedly on February 11th&nbsp;at the age of 63.Mike survived by his wife, Mary Brunk, Uncle Edward Brunk, his children;&nbsp; Steve Buero, Kenny Buero, Christine Yoakum, Mikey Buero and Michelle Patwell;&nbsp; his Mother Sharon Garcia, step father Jess Garcia; Brother Brian Brunk ; (9) Grandchildren, (8) Great Grandchildren , Uncle to (4).&nbsp; He is predeceased by his Father Daniel Brunk; brother William Brunk; Uncles Richard and Lawrence Brunk; and Grandparnts Fenella and Roy Brunk.Mike was born in Salina, KS on October 27, 1957.&nbsp; He served 4 years in the United States Army.&nbsp; Married to his wife Mary on October 10th, 1982.&nbsp; Mike enjoyed hunting, fishing, his grandkids and barbequing with his family after retiring in 2017 as a senior maintenance technician in Anaheim, Ca.&nbsp;&nbsp; Mike and Mary built their retirement home in Alma, KS where he enjoyed his time sitting on the porch watching the grass grow and family Fourth of July’s.&nbsp;Mike was known for his inventions; building a redneck smoker, 21-gun salute for fireworks and his humor, even in bad times he had the ability to make everyone laugh.&nbsp; He was his own person and never would compromise his own beliefs “to fit in”.Family will be celebrating his life on July 4th, 2021 at their home in Alma for all family who want to attend.

Michael 'Mike' Brunk

Maurine Dora Hopkins, daughter of Oscar G. and Mary R. (Shoemaker) Markley, was born September 5, 1925, and sojourned on this earth for 95 years, five months and six days, passing peacefully on to eternal life in the early morning hours of Thursday, February 11, 2021.

At the age of 15, she responded to the call of the Spirit and was baptized into the Old German Baptist Brethren Church to which she remained faithful until death.

On August 2, 1959, she married Harvey James Bogert.&nbsp; Together they raised their three children, living in Tulsa, Oklahoma; Baldwin City, Kansas; Amarillo, Texas, and finally moving to Quinter, Kansas in 1985.

Harvey passed on to eternity February 11, 1991.

On March 15, 2011, Maurine married Arthur Hopkins, and they enjoyed nearly ten years together.

Maurine had a positive attitude toward life, and a strong bond with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.&nbsp; She enjoyed doing for others and sought ways to make a difference even as her strength waned.&nbsp; Her family, her brothers- and sisters-in-Christ, and the Quinter community were a blessing to her, and she often spoke of those who called or stopped by, appreciating each one.

Realizing the brevity of life and her failing heart, she asked for and received the anointing according to scripture on September 25, 2020.

She was proceeded in death by her parents; husband, Harvey J. Bogert; son, James M. Bogert on October 23, 2020; brother, Marlin D. Markley and wife Maggie; brother, Kenneth O. Markley and wife Naomi; brother-in-law, Albert J. Bogert and wife Lois; sister-in-law, Edith B. Jones and husband Walter.

She will be missed and remembered by her husband, Arthur; daughter-in-law, Gladys (James) Bogert; son, John C. Bogert and wife Cindy; daughter, Mary Alice Bogert; stepson, Kenneth Hopkins and wife Arlene; stepson, Wayne Hopkins and wife Gail; as well as her grandchildren and step-grandchildren, Megan and Madison Bowman, Cody Bogert, Jesse Bogert, Bradley Bogert, Matthew Bogert, Melissa Bogert, Sonya and Tim Hess, Sheila and Dean Mason, Laban and Mandy Hopkins; her many&nbsp; great- grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, step-great-great-grandchildren each in whom she delighted; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation will be held Monday, February 15, 2021, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Big Creek Old German Baptist Brethren Church, Quinter.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at 10:00 AM at Big Creek Old German Baptist Brethren Church, Quinter.

Graveside and committal service will be held Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Douglas County, Kansas.

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

Maurine Dora Hopkins, daughter of Oscar G. and Mary R. (Shoemaker) Markley, was born September 5, 1925, and sojourned on this earth for 95 years, five months and six days, passing peacefully on to eternal life in the early morning hours of Thursday, February 11, 2021.At the age of 15, she responded to the call of the Spirit and was baptized into the Old German Baptist Brethren Church to which she remained faithful until death.On August 2, 1959, she married Harvey James Bogert.&nbsp; Together they raised their three children, living in Tulsa, Oklahoma; Baldwin City, Kansas; Amarillo, Texas, and finally moving to Quinter, Kansas in 1985.Harvey passed on to eternity February 11, 1991.On March 15, 2011, Maurine married Arthur Hopkins, and they enjoyed nearly ten years together.Maurine had a positive attitude toward life, and a strong bond with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.&nbsp; She enjoyed doing for others and sought ways to make a difference even as her strength waned.&nbsp; Her family, her brothers- and sisters-in-Christ, and the Quinter community were a blessing to her, and she often spoke of those who called or stopped by, appreciating each one.Realizing the brevity of life and her failing heart, she asked for and received the anointing according to scripture on September 25, 2020.She was proceeded in death by her parents; husband, Harvey J. Bogert; son, James M. Bogert on October 23, 2020; brother, Marlin D. Markley and wife Maggie; brother, Kenneth O. Markley and wife Naomi; brother-in-law, Albert J. Bogert and wife Lois; sister-in-law, Edith B. Jones and husband Walter.She will be missed and remembered by her husband, Arthur; daughter-in-law, Gladys (James) Bogert; son, John C. Bogert and wife Cindy; daughter, Mary Alice Bogert; stepson, Kenneth Hopkins and wife Arlene; stepson, Wayne Hopkins and wife Gail; as well as her grandchildren and step-grandchildren, Megan and Madison Bowman, Cody Bogert, Jesse Bogert, Bradley Bogert, Matthew Bogert, Melissa Bogert, Sonya and Tim Hess, Sheila and Dean Mason, Laban and Mandy Hopkins; her many&nbsp; great- grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, step-great-great-grandchildren each in whom she delighted; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.Visitation will be held Monday, February 15, 2021, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Big Creek Old German Baptist Brethren Church, Quinter.Funeral service will be Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at 10:00 AM at Big Creek Old German Baptist Brethren Church, Quinter.Graveside and committal service will be held Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Douglas County, Kansas.Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.schmittfuneral.com.

Maurine Dora Hopkins

Norma Jean (Gagna) Anderson, 92, of Russell, Kansas, died on Thursday, February 11, 2021, at the Russell Regional Hospital.

Norma Jean was born on February 10, 1929, on the family farm near Rice, Kansas, the daughter of Elzear H. and Ida Maude (Hanna) Gagna.&nbsp; Her family attended St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Aurora where she was baptized.&nbsp; The family lived on farms in the Aurora and Concordia areas and attended country schools through the eighth grade.&nbsp; Her family moved to Concordia, Kansas, in April 1943, and she graduated from Concordia High School and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic High School.&nbsp; Norma Jean met her future husband, James W. (Jim) Anderson in 1946, following his return from service in the Army.&nbsp; They were united in marriage on October 14, 1946, in Concordia and moved to Russell, Kansas, in 1947.&nbsp; From this union Norma Jean and Jim were blessed with a son David.&nbsp; Norma Jean was a devoted wife and homemaker.&nbsp; She worked outside the house as an Avon representative, cook at the Russell High School, Travenol in Hays, Kansas and as a receptionist for Dr. Kuhn’s office.&nbsp; Norma Jean and Jim were longtime members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Russell.&nbsp; After 65 years of marriage, Jim preceded her in death on September 20, 2012. &nbsp;

Norma Jean enjoyed being involved in church activities, working with the youth organizations, church dinners, banquets and St. Mary’s Catholic Guild.&nbsp; She was also involved with the Salina Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, Russell County 4-H Fair, and working with her husband in the Knights of Columbus.&nbsp; She was very proud in helping put together the Knights of Columbus cookbook, featuring recipes submitted by K of C wives where over 11,000 cookbooks were sold.&nbsp; She also enjoyed being a fulltime wife and mother to her husband and son David.&nbsp; Most of all she cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Norma Jean is survived by her son, James David (Lisa) Anderson; Grandchildren Tiffinie (Monte) Mai, and Tammie (Kris) Schultz; Great Grandchildren, Lane Earlin Mai, Braden David Mai, Bailey Lynn (Sam) Kilian and Great Great Grandchildren, Brantley John, Oaklynn Alene and Emery Layne, all of Russell.

Norma Jean was also preceded in death by her parents; her five Gagna brothers, Alden, Duane, Dean, Hobart and Harold, and her two sisters Bernice Trahan and Fedora Mae Nobert. &nbsp;

A celebration of the funeral mass for Norma Jean will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, February 18, 2021, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at the mortuary with family present to greet guests from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. Wednesday, evening.&nbsp; 

Memorials may be given to K of C Charities Aid Foundation and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613332517757.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Norma Jean (Gagna) Anderson, 92, of Russell, Kansas, died on Thursday, February 11, 2021, at the Russell Regional Hospital.Norma Jean was born on February 10, 1929, on the family farm near Rice, Kansas, the daughter of Elzear H. and Ida Maude (Hanna) Gagna.&nbsp; Her family attended St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Aurora where she was baptized.&nbsp; The family lived on farms in the Aurora and Concordia areas and attended country schools through the eighth grade.&nbsp; Her family moved to Concordia, Kansas, in April 1943, and she graduated from Concordia High School and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic High School.&nbsp; Norma Jean met her future husband, James W. (Jim) Anderson in 1946, following his return from service in the Army.&nbsp; They were united in marriage on October 14, 1946, in Concordia and moved to Russell, Kansas, in 1947.&nbsp; From this union Norma Jean and Jim were blessed with a son David.&nbsp; Norma Jean was a devoted wife and homemaker.&nbsp; She worked outside the house as an Avon representative, cook at the Russell High School, Travenol in Hays, Kansas and as a receptionist for Dr. Kuhn’s office.&nbsp; Norma Jean and Jim were longtime members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Russell.&nbsp; After 65 years of marriage, Jim preceded her in death on September 20, 2012. &nbsp;Norma Jean enjoyed being involved in church activities, working with the youth organizations, church dinners, banquets and St. Mary’s Catholic Guild.&nbsp; She was also involved with the Salina Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, Russell County 4-H Fair, and working with her husband in the Knights of Columbus.&nbsp; She was very proud in helping put together the Knights of Columbus cookbook, featuring recipes submitted by K of C wives where over 11,000 cookbooks were sold.&nbsp; She also enjoyed being a fulltime wife and mother to her husband and son David.&nbsp; Most of all she cherished spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.Norma Jean is survived by her son, James David (Lisa) Anderson; Grandchildren Tiffinie (Monte) Mai, and Tammie (Kris) Schultz; Great Grandchildren, Lane Earlin Mai, Braden David Mai, Bailey Lynn (Sam) Kilian and Great Great Grandchildren, Brantley John, Oaklynn Alene and Emery Layne, all of Russell.Norma Jean was also preceded in death by her parents; her five Gagna brothers, Alden, Duane, Dean, Hobart and Harold, and her two sisters Bernice Trahan and Fedora Mae Nobert. &nbsp;A celebration of the funeral mass for Norma Jean will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, February 18, 2021, at the St. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Russell.&nbsp; Visitation will be from 9 A.M. to 8 P.M. on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, at the mortuary with family present to greet guests from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. Wednesday, evening.&nbsp; Memorials may be given to K of C Charities Aid Foundation and sent in care of the mortuary.&nbsp; Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas is in charge of the funeral service arrangements.

Norma Jean (Gagna) Anderson

Donna Jean Olsen, 90, passed away Friday February 12, 2021, at River 
Bend Assisted Living in Great Bend. Donna was born July 4, 1930, in 
Graettinger, Iowa to Melvin and Verna (Allen) Bratrud. She was united in
 marriage to Gaylord Dean Olsen on August 22, 1949, at Blakjer Lutheran 
Church in Palo Alto, County, Iowa. He passed away October 31, 2014.

Donna has been a resident of Great Bend since 2004 coming from 
Graettinger, Iowa, to be close to her daughters. She was a member of 
Trinity Lutheran Church. Donna enjoyed spending time with her family.

Survivors include two sons Danny Lee Olsen and wife Vickie of Des 
Moines, Iowa and Mark Allen Olsen and wife Cheryl of Atlanta, Georgia; 
two daughters, Diane Kay Olsen and Coleen Mossberg both of Great Bend; 
one brother Alan Bratrud of Jackson, Minnesota; one sister Judy Olson of
 Mankato, Minnesota; two grandchildren, Trevor Olsen and Shannon 
Mossberg, and three great grandchildren, Shyanna Kuehler, Sheridan 
Kuehler and Hadley Olsen. She was preceded in death by her parents, 
husband and a sister Marlys Macomber.

There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A 
celebration of Life will be held Saturday, 2:00-4:00 p.m. February 20, 
2021 at Kansas Trophy Experience Lodge, 54 SE 10 Rd. Great Bend. 
Memorial service will be held at a later date in Graettinger, Iowa.

Memorial is suggested to the St Jude Children Hospital, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613332630328.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Donna Jean Olsen, 90, passed away Friday February 12, 2021, at River 
Bend Assisted Living in Great Bend. Donna was born July 4, 1930, in 
Graettinger, Iowa to Melvin and Verna (Allen) Bratrud. She was united in
 marriage to Gaylord Dean Olsen on August 22, 1949, at Blakjer Lutheran 
Church in Palo Alto, County, Iowa. He passed away October 31, 2014.Donna has been a resident of Great Bend since 2004 coming from 
Graettinger, Iowa, to be close to her daughters. She was a member of 
Trinity Lutheran Church. Donna enjoyed spending time with her family.Survivors include two sons Danny Lee Olsen and wife Vickie of Des 
Moines, Iowa and Mark Allen Olsen and wife Cheryl of Atlanta, Georgia; 
two daughters, Diane Kay Olsen and Coleen Mossberg both of Great Bend; 
one brother Alan Bratrud of Jackson, Minnesota; one sister Judy Olson of
 Mankato, Minnesota; two grandchildren, Trevor Olsen and Shannon 
Mossberg, and three great grandchildren, Shyanna Kuehler, Sheridan 
Kuehler and Hadley Olsen. She was preceded in death by her parents, 
husband and a sister Marlys Macomber.There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. A 
celebration of Life will be held Saturday, 2:00-4:00 p.m. February 20, 
2021 at Kansas Trophy Experience Lodge, 54 SE 10 Rd. Great Bend. 
Memorial service will be held at a later date in Graettinger, Iowa.Memorial is suggested to the St Jude Children Hospital, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Donna Jean Olsen

Coralie Jeannine Button, 92, passed away February 10, 2021, at Salina
 Regional Health Center. She was born January 2, 1929, at Bazine, to Leo
 &amp; Anna (Cornelssen) Niedens. She married Robert “Bob” Button April 
21, 1999. He died October 30, 2020.

A Great Bend resident since 1968, Coralie was a second grade teacher 
for USD 428 at Washington and EE Morrison Elementary Schools. She was a 
member of Trinity Lutheran Church, BCAC board member, Sigma Alpha Iota 
and Delta Kappa Gamma Parnussus. Coralie enjoyed quilting and was a 
wonderful cook. She especially loved spending time with her family.

Survivors include, a son, Steven Murphy of Great Bend; a daughter, 
Kathleen Asher of Derby; a sister, Marjorie Miller; three grandchildren,
 Amanda Pfenninger and husband Scott, Taylor Murphy and Will Asher; two 
great grandchildren, Liam Pfenninger and Owen Pfenninger; two stepsons, 
Robert "Rob" Button and wife RoAnn and Randy Button and wife Renee, all 
of Great Bend; two stepdaughters, Debra Sue Hill and husband Bill of 
Bountiful, Utah, and Judy VonFeldt and husband Jim of Larned; ten step 
grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, 
Robert "Bob" Button; and two grandchildren, Angela Murphy and Brian 
Murphy.

Friends may sign the register book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 
Monday, February 15, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral Service will 
be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran 
Church, with Pastor Barbara Jones presiding. Masks and social distancing
 are required. Private Family Interment will be in the Great Bend 
Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to the Golden Belt Humane 
Society or Trinity Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613159341273.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Coralie Jeannine Button, 92, passed away February 10, 2021, at Salina
 Regional Health Center. She was born January 2, 1929, at Bazine, to Leo
 &amp; Anna (Cornelssen) Niedens. She married Robert “Bob” Button April 
21, 1999. He died October 30, 2020.A Great Bend resident since 1968, Coralie was a second grade teacher 
for USD 428 at Washington and EE Morrison Elementary Schools. She was a 
member of Trinity Lutheran Church, BCAC board member, Sigma Alpha Iota 
and Delta Kappa Gamma Parnussus. Coralie enjoyed quilting and was a 
wonderful cook. She especially loved spending time with her family.Survivors include, a son, Steven Murphy of Great Bend; a daughter, 
Kathleen Asher of Derby; a sister, Marjorie Miller; three grandchildren,
 Amanda Pfenninger and husband Scott, Taylor Murphy and Will Asher; two 
great grandchildren, Liam Pfenninger and Owen Pfenninger; two stepsons, 
Robert "Rob" Button and wife RoAnn and Randy Button and wife Renee, all 
of Great Bend; two stepdaughters, Debra Sue Hill and husband Bill of 
Bountiful, Utah, and Judy VonFeldt and husband Jim of Larned; ten step 
grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, 
Robert "Bob" Button; and two grandchildren, Angela Murphy and Brian 
Murphy.Friends may sign the register book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 
Monday, February 15, 2021, at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral Service will 
be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 16, 2021, at Trinity Lutheran 
Church, with Pastor Barbara Jones presiding. Masks and social distancing
 are required. Private Family Interment will be in the Great Bend 
Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to the Golden Belt Humane 
Society or Trinity Lutheran Church, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Coralie Jeannine Button

Marietta Legleiter Walker passed away on a sunny winter afternoon, January 21, 2021, in the loving presence of her husband and children. The cause of her death was bacterial pneumonia. She was 90 years old. 

Marietta was born in western Kansas, on October 14, 1930. A prodigy in accounting, she was hired by local businesses while still in high school. She then went to attain her college degree in business at Fort Hays State University. It was there, at the 1949 freshmen mixer, where she met the love of her life, Richard. After a courtship that included driving to Big Band concerts in Richard's 1947 convertible Studebaker Champion, they wed in 1952, and started their family soon thereafter. They eventually moved to Minneapolis in 1967, where Richard had been promoted to a senior executive position in a national retail company, while Marietta continued investing and managing her own portfolio. 

In 1978, they undertook an opportunity to acquire the La Crosse Furniture Company. Marietta led its design team, and together she and Richard thrived as business partners over the next 20 years. Marietta was an insatiable reader and attentive birdwatcher, feeding her cardinals through the winter and hummingbirds through the summer. Her wit and spark were contagious. 

She was an ace bridge player and avid Twins baseball fan. She loved music, enjoying season tickets at Orchestra Hall concerts for over fifty years. She and Richard were active in their parish, St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Golden Valley, Minnesota, leading its adult religious education programs. Among their numerous international trips, their most cherished one was to the Holy Land with their life-long friend and spiritual guide, Archbishop Robert Carlson, of St. Louis. 

Marietta is survived by her devoted husband of 68 years, Richard. She is also survived by her four children Randall (Patricia), Stan, Michelle Skudlarek (Richard, deceased), and Kevin (Alice), as well as six grandchildren: Sophia, Gregory, Kip, Ellie, Ryan and Margaret. Marietta is also survived by her brother Rudy (Maralyn) Legleiter, sisters Margaret Hamilton and Bernadette Oelkers, sisters-in-law Mary Ann Legleiter &amp; Maureen Legleiter, as well as many nephews, nieces, cousins, other inlaws and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Lidwina, her brothers Gilbert, Francis, Jules, Paul, Greg and Gene, and her Goddaughter, Stephanie Legleiter Adams. 

Marietta was immensely proud of her daughter Michelle, an award-winning editor, her sons, all physicians, and all her grandchildren. She was happiest when the entire clan was together, especially at the family lake home in Northern Wisconsin. 

She had a deep faith, praying the rosary daily, and lived by the teachings of St. Paul, "Fill your minds with those things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable." Most of all, Marietta was loving and was well-loved. And though she will be deeply missed, she will live on in the lives of those who knew and loved her, and in the divine peace that is far beyond human understanding. 

After a small family service, Marietta will be laid to rest at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis. A special service to celebrate her life will be announced after the pandemic has subsided, in the spring. The family requests that memorials would be made to the charity of the donor's choice. <a href="https://www.washburn-mcreavy.com">Washburn-McReavy.com</a> Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613153006037.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Marietta Legleiter Walker passed away on a sunny winter afternoon, January 21, 2021, in the loving presence of her husband and children. The cause of her death was bacterial pneumonia. She was 90 years old. Marietta was born in western Kansas, on October 14, 1930. A prodigy in accounting, she was hired by local businesses while still in high school. She then went to attain her college degree in business at Fort Hays State University. It was there, at the 1949 freshmen mixer, where she met the love of her life, Richard. After a courtship that included driving to Big Band concerts in Richard's 1947 convertible Studebaker Champion, they wed in 1952, and started their family soon thereafter. They eventually moved to Minneapolis in 1967, where Richard had been promoted to a senior executive position in a national retail company, while Marietta continued investing and managing her own portfolio. In 1978, they undertook an opportunity to acquire the La Crosse Furniture Company. Marietta led its design team, and together she and Richard thrived as business partners over the next 20 years. Marietta was an insatiable reader and attentive birdwatcher, feeding her cardinals through the winter and hummingbirds through the summer. Her wit and spark were contagious. She was an ace bridge player and avid Twins baseball fan. She loved music, enjoying season tickets at Orchestra Hall concerts for over fifty years. She and Richard were active in their parish, St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Golden Valley, Minnesota, leading its adult religious education programs. Among their numerous international trips, their most cherished one was to the Holy Land with their life-long friend and spiritual guide, Archbishop Robert Carlson, of St. Louis. Marietta is survived by her devoted husband of 68 years, Richard. She is also survived by her four children Randall (Patricia), Stan, Michelle Skudlarek (Richard, deceased), and Kevin (Alice), as well as six grandchildren: Sophia, Gregory, Kip, Ellie, Ryan and Margaret. Marietta is also survived by her brother Rudy (Maralyn) Legleiter, sisters Margaret Hamilton and Bernadette Oelkers, sisters-in-law Mary Ann Legleiter &amp; Maureen Legleiter, as well as many nephews, nieces, cousins, other inlaws and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Lidwina, her brothers Gilbert, Francis, Jules, Paul, Greg and Gene, and her Goddaughter, Stephanie Legleiter Adams. Marietta was immensely proud of her daughter Michelle, an award-winning editor, her sons, all physicians, and all her grandchildren. She was happiest when the entire clan was together, especially at the family lake home in Northern Wisconsin. She had a deep faith, praying the rosary daily, and lived by the teachings of St. Paul, "Fill your minds with those things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable." Most of all, Marietta was loving and was well-loved. And though she will be deeply missed, she will live on in the lives of those who knew and loved her, and in the divine peace that is far beyond human understanding. After a small family service, Marietta will be laid to rest at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis. A special service to celebrate her life will be announced after the pandemic has subsided, in the spring. The family requests that memorials would be made to the charity of the donor's choice. <a href="https://www.washburn-mcreavy.com">Washburn-McReavy.com</a> Edina Chapel 952-920-3996

Marietta Legleiter Walker

Emporia Public Schools recently announced Keaton Tuttle as the next head football
coach for Emporia High School. Tuttle, who has been with the Emporia High football
program for the past five seasons as the offensive line coach, had been named the
interim head coach in October of 2020. Currently, Tuttle is in his sixth year of teaching
and is a Technology Education teacher at Emporia High School.


Tuttle, originally from Iowa, played collegiately at Iowa Western Community College
before receiving a scholarship to play in Kansas in the MIAA at Fort Hays State
University. Upon graduating from FHSU, Tuttle accepted a teaching job at EHS and
has made Emporia his home ever since. Tuttle brings a wealth of knowledge and is
well respected in the coaching community. “​I'm very thankful for the opportunity to
continue to build upon what we have started here at Emporia High. It is a great chance
to combine a lot of things I'm very passionate about, the Emporia community, our
schools, football, and a family atmosphere,” Tuttle said. “Being a positive role model for
young students and athletes is very important to me. I have called Emporia home for 6
years, and I could not see myself anywhere else. Lastly, I would like to thank my
parents, family, administration, friends, and coaches. Especially those who believed in
me and helped shape me into the man I am today."

Curtis Simons, assistant principal/athletic director at EHS said, “We are excited to offer
Keaton the opportunity to be the head coach of our football program. He is familiar with
our student-athletes and has been a part of the program for the past five seasons. We
sincerely appreciate his time as the interim head coach and look forward to watching
him grow and continue his success as the head coach.”


The Board of Education and USD 253 Administration value our student-athletes and
want to express continued support for Emporia High Football as the program begins this
new chapter.


<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613081336137.jpeg" alt="Tuttle / Courtesy USD 253" />
 <figcaption>Tuttle / Courtesy USD 253</figcaption>
 </figure>USD 253Emporia Public Schools recently announced Keaton Tuttle as the next head football
coach for Emporia High School. Tuttle, who has been with the Emporia High football
program for the past five seasons as the offensive line coach, had been named the
interim head coach in October of 2020. Currently, Tuttle is in his sixth year of teaching
and is a Technology Education teacher at Emporia High School.
Tuttle, originally from Iowa, played collegiately at Iowa Western Community College
before receiving a scholarship to play in Kansas in the MIAA at Fort Hays State
University. Upon graduating from FHSU, Tuttle accepted a teaching job at EHS and
has made Emporia his home ever since. Tuttle brings a wealth of knowledge and is
well respected in the coaching community. “​I'm very thankful for the opportunity to
continue to build upon what we have started here at Emporia High. It is a great chance
to combine a lot of things I'm very passionate about, the Emporia community, our
schools, football, and a family atmosphere,” Tuttle said. “Being a positive role model for
young students and athletes is very important to me. I have called Emporia home for 6
years, and I could not see myself anywhere else. Lastly, I would like to thank my
parents, family, administration, friends, and coaches. Especially those who believed in
me and helped shape me into the man I am today."Curtis Simons, assistant principal/athletic director at EHS said, “We are excited to offer
Keaton the opportunity to be the head coach of our football program. He is familiar with
our student-athletes and has been a part of the program for the past five seasons. We
sincerely appreciate his time as the interim head coach and look forward to watching
him grow and continue his success as the head coach.”
The Board of Education and USD 253 Administration value our student-athletes and
want to express continued support for Emporia High Football as the program begins this
new chapter.

Former FHSU player named coach of Emporia High football team

WASHINGTON — With some areas seeing mail delays, the Internal Revenue
 Service reminds taxpayers to double-check to make sure they have all of
 their tax documents, including Forms W-2 and 1099, before filing a tax 
return.

The IRS reminds taxpayers that many of these forms may be available online. When other options aren't available, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc154">taxpayers who haven't received a W-2 or Form 1099</a>
 should contact the employer, payer or issuing agency directly to 
request the missing documents before filing their 2020 federal tax 
return. This also applies for those who received an incorrect W-2 or 
Form 1099.

Those who don't get a response, are unable to reach the 
employer/payer/issuing agency or cannot otherwise get copies or 
corrected copies of their Forms W-2 or 1099 must still file their tax 
return on time by the April 15 deadline (or October 15 if requesting an 
automatic extension). They may need to use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4852">Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement</a>, or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1099-r">Form 1099-R, Distributions From Pensions, Annuities, Retirement or Profit-Sharing Plans, IRAs, Insurance Contracts, etc.</a> to avoid filing an incomplete or amended return.

If the taxpayer doesn't receive the missing or corrected form in time
 to file their tax return by the April deadline, they may estimate the 
wages or payments made to them, as well as any taxes withheld. Use Form 
4852 to report this information on their federal tax return.

If the taxpayer receives the missing or corrected Form W-2 or Form 
1099-R after filing their return and the information differs from their 
previous estimate, they must file <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1040x">Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>. For additional information on filing an amended return, see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc308">Topic No. 308</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/should-i-file-an-amended-return">Should I File an Amended Return?</a>

Taxpayers should allow enough time for tax records to arrive in the 
mail before filing their 2020 tax return. In a normal year, most 
taxpayers should have received income documents near the end of January,
 including:

Incorrect Form 1099-G for unemployment benefits

Millions of Americans received unemployment compensation in 2020, 
many of them for the first time. This compensation is taxable and must 
be included as gross income on their tax return.

Taxpayers who receive an incorrect <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-offers-guidance-to-taxpayers-on-identity-theft-involving-unemployment-benefits">Form 1099-G for unemployment benefits</a>
 they did not receive should contact the issuing state agency to request
 a revised Form 1099-G showing they did not receive these benefits. 
Taxpayers who are unable to obtain a timely, corrected form from states 
should still file an accurate tax return, reporting only the income they
 received.

IRS tax help is available 24 hours a day on IRS.gov, the official IRS
 website, where people can find answers to tax questions and resolve tax
 issues online. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/telephone-assistance">Let Us Help You</a> page helps answer most tax questions, and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5136.pdf">IRS Services Guide &nbsp;PDF</a>links to other important IRS services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — With some areas seeing mail delays, the Internal Revenue
 Service reminds taxpayers to double-check to make sure they have all of
 their tax documents, including Forms W-2 and 1099, before filing a tax 
return.The IRS reminds taxpayers that many of these forms may be available online. When other options aren't available, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc154">taxpayers who haven't received a W-2 or Form 1099</a>
 should contact the employer, payer or issuing agency directly to 
request the missing documents before filing their 2020 federal tax 
return. This also applies for those who received an incorrect W-2 or 
Form 1099.Those who don't get a response, are unable to reach the 
employer/payer/issuing agency or cannot otherwise get copies or 
corrected copies of their Forms W-2 or 1099 must still file their tax 
return on time by the April 15 deadline (or October 15 if requesting an 
automatic extension). They may need to use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4852">Form 4852, Substitute for Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement</a>, or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1099-r">Form 1099-R, Distributions From Pensions, Annuities, Retirement or Profit-Sharing Plans, IRAs, Insurance Contracts, etc.</a> to avoid filing an incomplete or amended return.If the taxpayer doesn't receive the missing or corrected form in time
 to file their tax return by the April deadline, they may estimate the 
wages or payments made to them, as well as any taxes withheld. Use Form 
4852 to report this information on their federal tax return.If the taxpayer receives the missing or corrected Form W-2 or Form 
1099-R after filing their return and the information differs from their 
previous estimate, they must file <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1040x">Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>. For additional information on filing an amended return, see <a href="https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc308">Topic No. 308</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/should-i-file-an-amended-return">Should I File an Amended Return?</a>Taxpayers should allow enough time for tax records to arrive in the 
mail before filing their 2020 tax return. In a normal year, most 
taxpayers should have received income documents near the end of January,
 including:<ul>
 <li>Forms W-2, Wage and Tax Statement</li><li>Form 1099-MISC, Miscellaneous Income</li><li>Form 1099-INT, Interest Income</li><li>Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation</li><li>Form 1099-G, Certain Government Payments;&nbsp;like unemployment compensation or state tax refund</li>
 </ul><h2>Incorrect Form 1099-G for unemployment benefits</h2>Millions of Americans received unemployment compensation in 2020, 
many of them for the first time. This compensation is taxable and must 
be included as gross income on their tax return.Taxpayers who receive an incorrect <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-offers-guidance-to-taxpayers-on-identity-theft-involving-unemployment-benefits">Form 1099-G for unemployment benefits</a>
 they did not receive should contact the issuing state agency to request
 a revised Form 1099-G showing they did not receive these benefits. 
Taxpayers who are unable to obtain a timely, corrected form from states 
should still file an accurate tax return, reporting only the income they
 received.<h2>Use IRS.gov</h2>IRS tax help is available 24 hours a day on IRS.gov, the official IRS
 website, where people can find answers to tax questions and resolve tax
 issues online. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/telephone-assistance">Let Us Help You</a> page helps answer most tax questions, and the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5136.pdf">IRS Services Guide &nbsp;PDF</a>links to other important IRS services.

Double-check for missing or incorrect Forms W-2, 1099 before filing taxes

Robert Lee “Bob” Seltmann, 100, Nekoma, Kansas, passed away Friday, 
February 5, 2021, at Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas.

Bob was born November 28, 1920, in Rush County, Kansas, the son of 
Anton and Carrie (Spreier) Seltmann.&nbsp; He was a lifelong resident of Rush
 County, Kansas.&nbsp; He was a farmer and rancher.

He was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, and VFW Post 3147, both of La Crosse, Kansas.

Bob was a United States Army veteran serving during World War II as a medic.

On January 1, 1949, he married Donna Yeager at the home of her 
mother, Edith Yeager, at Larned, Kansas.&nbsp; To this union were born two 
sons, Richard Lee Seltmann and Thomas Joe Seltmann.&nbsp; She preceded him in
 death October 27, 1975.

On May 10, 1981, he married Elizabeth “Betty” Kelling at the Messiah Lutheran Church, Hays, Kansas.

Survivors include:&nbsp; his wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Seltmann; one son, 
Richard Lee Seltmann; two step daughters, Karen Bennett, and Kathy 
Buchanan (Rob); one step grandson, Kody Buchanan; and many nephews and 
nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife; one son, 
Thomas Seltmann; five brothers, Andy, Albert, Ernest, El Verne, and 
Harley; and four sisters, Sophia, Minnie, Lillian, and Carol.

Graveside service will be Thursday, February 18, 2021, at 1:30 P.M. 
at Nekoma Union Township Cemetery, Nekoma, Kansas, with Pastor Mitch 
Elrod officiating.&nbsp; Interment will be in the Nekoma Union Township 
Cemetery, Nekoma, Kansas.

Social distancing is recommended. Masks are also recommended. Due to Covid 19, if you have a fever, cough, or are not feeling well, please send condolences via the on line guestbook, or mail.

Memorials are suggested to the Rush County Food Bank.

Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Robert Lee “Bob” Seltmann, 100, Nekoma, Kansas, passed away Friday, 
February 5, 2021, at Locust Grove Village, La Crosse, Kansas.Bob was born November 28, 1920, in Rush County, Kansas, the son of 
Anton and Carrie (Spreier) Seltmann.&nbsp; He was a lifelong resident of Rush
 County, Kansas.&nbsp; He was a farmer and rancher.He was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, and VFW Post 3147, both of La Crosse, Kansas.Bob was a United States Army veteran serving during World War II as a medic.On January 1, 1949, he married Donna Yeager at the home of her 
mother, Edith Yeager, at Larned, Kansas.&nbsp; To this union were born two 
sons, Richard Lee Seltmann and Thomas Joe Seltmann.&nbsp; She preceded him in
 death October 27, 1975.On May 10, 1981, he married Elizabeth “Betty” Kelling at the Messiah Lutheran Church, Hays, Kansas.Survivors include:&nbsp; his wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Seltmann; one son, 
Richard Lee Seltmann; two step daughters, Karen Bennett, and Kathy 
Buchanan (Rob); one step grandson, Kody Buchanan; and many nephews and 
nieces.He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife; one son, 
Thomas Seltmann; five brothers, Andy, Albert, Ernest, El Verne, and 
Harley; and four sisters, Sophia, Minnie, Lillian, and Carol.Graveside service will be Thursday, February 18, 2021, at 1:30 P.M. 
at Nekoma Union Township Cemetery, Nekoma, Kansas, with Pastor Mitch 
Elrod officiating.&nbsp; Interment will be in the Nekoma Union Township 
Cemetery, Nekoma, Kansas.Social distancing is recommended. Masks are also recommended. Due to Covid 19, if you have a fever, cough, or are not feeling well, please send condolences via the on line guestbook, or mail.Memorials are suggested to the Rush County Food Bank.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Robert Lee 'Bob' Seltmann

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Two top Republican lawmakers said Monday that Kansas might not need to keep its state of emergency for COVID-19 in place past the end of March, signaling possible internal GOP divisions about keeping the pandemic restrictions further into the spring.

The comments from Senate President Ty Masterson, of Andover, and Senate Majority Leader Gene Suellentrop, of Wichita, are significant because&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb14_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a law</a>&nbsp;enacted last month keeps the current state of emergency in place only through March 31. Lawmakers plan to revise the emergency management laws that govern the state’s response to the pandemic and haven’t yet discussed how far they want to let Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly extend the current state of emergency.

The GOP leaders’ comments also came as lawmakers were wrestling with an issue arising out of the pandemic. Some prosecutors want to suspend a law that sets deadlines for criminal trials to protect defendants’ right to speedy trials, fearing that a backlog of pandemic-delayed cases could lead many to be dismissed.

Masterson said with COVID-19 vaccines “taking hold” and some immunity among the state’s 2.9 million residents, he could see the state of emergency ending. Suellentrop said Kansas still could see some spikes in cases but added that he believes the state is “reaching the tail end of this.”

“It won’t be over for a while,” Suellentrop said in an interview. “Will we get a handle on it? I think that in the next 45 days we certainly will have a much better handle on it.”

The state’s average number of new daily confirmed and probable COVID-19 cases has dropped in recent weeks to lows not seen since late October.

Kansas saw an average of 899 new cases a day for the seven days that ended Monday, according to state health department data. The department added 1,398 cases since Friday to its pandemic total of 282,960. That’s almost one case for every 10 Kansas residents.

The department also added 96 additional COVID-19 deaths since Friday, pushing its COVID-19 death toll to 4,197. While Kansas averaged a record 55 new deaths a day for the seven days that ended Monday, part of the surge was due to past deaths being recorded when birth certificates were filed weeks after people died.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data" target="_blank">The health department reported</a>&nbsp;that 8% of the state’s population had been vaccinated as of Monday, with more than 233,000 people receiving at least the first of two required doses. Almost 304,000 doses had been administered, or 73% of the 413,000 doses sent to Kansas by the federal government.

“Hopefully, by the end of March, when the time tolls, we’ll have a reason to shut it (the state of emergency) down,” Masterson said.

The law extending the current state of emergency until March 31 also kept in place previous restrictions on Kelly’s authority. It allows the state’s 105 counties to opt out of a mask mandate she issued in November, as well as other health orders from her. And it prevents her from closing businesses statewide again, as she did last spring.

Kelly has said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pandemics-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-laws-11d4ab2aa30ffe24690564e05683ed7b">she wants lawmakers to rethink&nbsp;</a>giving local officials control over pandemic restriction, arguing that a “patchwork approach” doesn’t work. But many Republicans want counties in control, and some of them want the Legislature, including its rank-and-file members, to have more say over the state’s response to a pandemic.

It’s not yet clear how many Republican lawmakers have embraced ending the state of emergency March 31. Kelly’s office did not immediately respond to Masterson’s and Suellentrop’s comments, but she and officials in her administration have said repeatedly that having it in place makes it easier to move resources around the state and tap federal funding to cover the state’s costs.

Also, vaccinating the general population is likely to take months, and public health officials worry that case numbers will rise again with the arrival last week of a more contagious coronavirus variant first identified in the United Kingdom.

“I haven’t even thought that far ahead, to tell you the truth,” said House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican.

During the pandemic, Kansas district courts have not been required to abide by a law that generally requires criminal defendants to be brought to trial within six months of entering a plea or be released. But Kansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Marla Luckert’s authority to extend speedy trial deadlines would expire with the state of emergency.

The Senate Judiciary Committee is considering&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/sb57_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill&nbsp;</a>proposed by prosecutors to suspend the deadline for cases filed by May 1, 2024, so that courts can catch up on holding trials that have been delayed. During hearings last week, some senators and defense attorneys questioned the measure, and Chair Kellie Warren, a Leawood Republican, said Monday that she’s asked both sides to draft a compromise.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593513419144.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pandemics-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-laws-11d4ab2aa30ffe24690564e05683ed7b">she wants lawmakers to rethink&nbsp;</a>giving local officials control over pandemic restriction, arguing that a “patchwork approach” doesn’t work.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pandemics-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-laws-11d4ab2aa30ffe24690564e05683ed7b">she wants lawmakers to rethink&nbsp;</a>giving local officials control over pandemic restriction, arguing that a “patchwork approach” doesn’t work.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Two top Republican lawmakers said Monday that Kansas might not need to keep its state of emergency for COVID-19 in place past the end of March, signaling possible internal GOP divisions about keeping the pandemic restrictions further into the spring.The comments from Senate President Ty Masterson, of Andover, and Senate Majority Leader Gene Suellentrop, of Wichita, are significant because&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/supp_note_sb14_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a law</a>&nbsp;enacted last month keeps the current state of emergency in place only through March 31. Lawmakers plan to revise the emergency management laws that govern the state’s response to the pandemic and haven’t yet discussed how far they want to let Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly extend the current state of emergency.The GOP leaders’ comments also came as lawmakers were wrestling with an issue arising out of the pandemic. Some prosecutors want to suspend a law that sets deadlines for criminal trials to protect defendants’ right to speedy trials, fearing that a backlog of pandemic-delayed cases could lead many to be dismissed.Masterson said with COVID-19 vaccines “taking hold” and some immunity among the state’s 2.9 million residents, he could see the state of emergency ending. Suellentrop said Kansas still could see some spikes in cases but added that he believes the state is “reaching the tail end of this.”“It won’t be over for a while,” Suellentrop said in an interview. “Will we get a handle on it? I think that in the next 45 days we certainly will have a much better handle on it.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612809873940.png" alt="February 8, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>February 8, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>The state’s average number of new daily confirmed and probable COVID-19 cases has dropped in recent weeks to lows not seen since late October.Kansas saw an average of 899 new cases a day for the seven days that ended Monday, according to state health department data. The department added 1,398 cases since Friday to its pandemic total of 282,960. That’s almost one case for every 10 Kansas residents.The department also added 96 additional COVID-19 deaths since Friday, pushing its COVID-19 death toll to 4,197. While Kansas averaged a record 55 new deaths a day for the seven days that ended Monday, part of the surge was due to past deaths being recorded when birth certificates were filed weeks after people died.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data" target="_blank">The health department reported</a>&nbsp;that 8% of the state’s population had been vaccinated as of Monday, with more than 233,000 people receiving at least the first of two required doses. Almost 304,000 doses had been administered, or 73% of the 413,000 doses sent to Kansas by the federal government.“Hopefully, by the end of March, when the time tolls, we’ll have a reason to shut it (the state of emergency) down,” Masterson said.The law extending the current state of emergency until March 31 also kept in place previous restrictions on Kelly’s authority. It allows the state’s 105 counties to opt out of a mask mandate she issued in November, as well as other health orders from her. And it prevents her from closing businesses statewide again, as she did last spring.Kelly has said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pandemics-kansas-coronavirus-pandemic-topeka-laws-11d4ab2aa30ffe24690564e05683ed7b">she wants lawmakers to rethink&nbsp;</a>giving local officials control over pandemic restriction, arguing that a “patchwork approach” doesn’t work. But many Republicans want counties in control, and some of them want the Legislature, including its rank-and-file members, to have more say over the state’s response to a pandemic.It’s not yet clear how many Republican lawmakers have embraced ending the state of emergency March 31. Kelly’s office did not immediately respond to Masterson’s and Suellentrop’s comments, but she and officials in her administration have said repeatedly that having it in place makes it easier to move resources around the state and tap federal funding to cover the state’s costs.Also, vaccinating the general population is likely to take months, and public health officials worry that case numbers will rise again with the arrival last week of a more contagious coronavirus variant first identified in the United Kingdom.“I haven’t even thought that far ahead, to tell you the truth,” said House Majority Leader Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican.During the pandemic, Kansas district courts have not been required to abide by a law that generally requires criminal defendants to be brought to trial within six months of entering a plea or be released. But Kansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Marla Luckert’s authority to extend speedy trial deadlines would expire with the state of emergency.The Senate Judiciary Committee is considering&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/sb57_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">a bill&nbsp;</a>proposed by prosecutors to suspend the deadline for cases filed by May 1, 2024, so that courts can catch up on holding trials that have been delayed. During hearings last week, some senators and defense attorneys questioned the measure, and Chair Kellie Warren, a Leawood Republican, said Monday that she’s asked both sides to draft a compromise.

GOP leaders: Kan. virus emergency might end next month

Marie M. Hoss, 99, died Sunday, February 7, 2021, at the Rice County 
District Hospital, Lyons, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born September 8, 1921, the 
daughter of Frank Miller and Louise (Zecha) Miller.&nbsp; She married Basil 
K. Hoss on October 18, 1949, in Claflin.&nbsp; He died March 7, 1982.

Marie was a homemaker, caregiver, and bookkeeper for Hoss Standard 
Service Station.&nbsp; She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic
 Church, Altar Society, and former member of the Daughters of Isabella 
in Claflin.&nbsp;

Survivors include; sons, Jeffrey (Mary Lou) of Manhattan, Gregory of 
Belle Plain, and Dennis (Deanna) of Lecompton; daughters, Vicky Folk 
(Jerry) of Bushton, and Mary Jo Gifford of Topeka; sisters, Teresa 
Dolechek of Hoisington, and Roberta Prosser of Hoisington; 14 
grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband and five siblings, Martin 
and William “Bill” Miller, Leona Leiker, Rita Doll and Doris Smith; and 
son-in-law, Dennis Gifford.

Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

There will be a Vigil service &nbsp;and Rosary will begin at 7 p.m., 
Wednesday, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Claflin, Kansas.&nbsp; Mass of 
Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Thursday, February 11th, 
2021, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Claflin, celebrated 
by Father Terrance Klein and Father Meinrad Miller.&nbsp; Burial will follow 
in the Claflin Cemetery.&nbsp;

Memorials may be made to the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or
 Claflin Ambulance, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146,
 Hoisington, KS 67544.

Marie M. Hoss, 99, died Sunday, February 7, 2021, at the Rice County 
District Hospital, Lyons, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born September 8, 1921, the 
daughter of Frank Miller and Louise (Zecha) Miller.&nbsp; She married Basil 
K. Hoss on October 18, 1949, in Claflin.&nbsp; He died March 7, 1982.Marie was a homemaker, caregiver, and bookkeeper for Hoss Standard 
Service Station.&nbsp; She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic
 Church, Altar Society, and former member of the Daughters of Isabella 
in Claflin.&nbsp;Survivors include; sons, Jeffrey (Mary Lou) of Manhattan, Gregory of 
Belle Plain, and Dennis (Deanna) of Lecompton; daughters, Vicky Folk 
(Jerry) of Bushton, and Mary Jo Gifford of Topeka; sisters, Teresa 
Dolechek of Hoisington, and Roberta Prosser of Hoisington; 14 
grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her husband and five siblings, Martin 
and William “Bill” Miller, Leona Leiker, Rita Doll and Doris Smith; and 
son-in-law, Dennis Gifford.Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.There will be a Vigil service &nbsp;and Rosary will begin at 7 p.m., 
Wednesday, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, Claflin, Kansas.&nbsp; Mass of 
Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Thursday, February 11th, 
2021, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Claflin, celebrated 
by Father Terrance Klein and Father Meinrad Miller.&nbsp; Burial will follow 
in the Claflin Cemetery.&nbsp;Memorials may be made to the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or
 Claflin Ambulance, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146,
 Hoisington, KS 67544.

Marie M. Hoss

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/">Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas</a> has rented a space in downtown Hays, which they hope to use to showcase the talents of the people who they serve.

Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president, said the exact plan for the space is still being developed by a DSNWK team, but he hopes the building can be a hub where people who have disabilities can connect with the community.

"It has been our desire to have a presence on Main Street, and this has come together in a movement in that direction," he said.&nbsp;

DSNWK is renting 1107 Main, which is next door to Couture for Men. The space is undergoing remodeling, and DSNWK does not intend to occupy the space until October.

The community will need to "stay tuned" to learn the details of the programming that will be offered at the new location. Several options are being considered.

"We envision that this space will be a learning space. We envision that this space will be a front door or a window into the sharing of talent," Michaud said. "You may have seen the stuff with Custom Creations, but there is a number of&nbsp; individuals who we support who have wonderful talents."

DSNWK has individuals who upcycle furniture and sell it through a small business called <a href="https://sites.google.com/mydsnwk.org/eccccatalog/home">EC Custom Creations</a>. The organization has thought about moving that operations from its Employment Connections building, which is the near the Hays airport, to the downtown location.

DSNWK has also partnered with the art department at Fort Hays State University on a collaborative arts project. That could be located in the downtown location, as well.

"It is our desire that this could not only be a window in to see the reality of the talents people have, but it is also a window in to people seeing a little bit more about what individuals with disabilities do and can do," Michaud said.

The building could host a small retail space for the individuals's creations to be sold. It could be a learning site. It could also be a location to display art, said Sara Biggs, DSNWK director of programs and services.

The program doesn't have to be limited to Hays residents. Biggs said DSNWK serves individuals with development disabilities from 18 Kansas counties.

She said she hoped the location would help individuals with disabilities to become more involved in downtown events, including Hays Arts Walks.

"Just that ability to connect with our community and truly be in the heart of downtown Hays on the Bricks, I think that's so important for us and to bring people together," Biggs said.

"A lot of our individuals, I think, will be super excited to be able to connect with other people downtown."

Michaud said the downtown project is continuation of DSNWK's mission and rebranding process.

"For far too long, people with disabilities have been on the outside edges of society," Michaud said. "Unfortunately, that is just part of our history. Any ways that we can build bridges and close that gap is beneficial for them, but it is also beneficial for the community.

"Once you get to know some of the people we serve I think people will get really excited and be like 'Wow! I had no idea.' That's what's exciting."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612558370767.jpeg" alt="DSNWK representatives stand in front of 1107 Main St., Hays. The organization hopes to open a center in the building in October that will promote learning for people with developmental disabilities, as well as showcase their art. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>DSNWK representatives stand in front of 1107 Main St., Hays. The organization hopes to open a center in the building in October that will promote learning for people with developmental disabilities, as well as showcase their art. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post<a href="https://www.mydsnwk.org/">Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas</a> has rented a space in downtown Hays, which they hope to use to showcase the talents of the people who they serve.Jerry Michaud, DSNWK president, said the exact plan for the space is still being developed by a DSNWK team, but he hopes the building can be a hub where people who have disabilities can connect with the community."It has been our desire to have a presence on Main Street, and this has come together in a movement in that direction," he said.&nbsp;DSNWK is renting 1107 Main, which is next door to Couture for Men. The space is undergoing remodeling, and DSNWK does not intend to occupy the space until October.The community will need to "stay tuned" to learn the details of the programming that will be offered at the new location. Several options are being considered."We envision that this space will be a learning space. We envision that this space will be a front door or a window into the sharing of talent," Michaud said. "You may have seen the stuff with Custom Creations, but there is a number of&nbsp; individuals who we support who have wonderful talents."DSNWK has individuals who upcycle furniture and sell it through a small business called <a href="https://sites.google.com/mydsnwk.org/eccccatalog/home">EC Custom Creations</a>. The organization has thought about moving that operations from its Employment Connections building, which is the near the Hays airport, to the downtown location.DSNWK has also partnered with the art department at Fort Hays State University on a collaborative arts project. That could be located in the downtown location, as well."It is our desire that this could not only be a window in to see the reality of the talents people have, but it is also a window in to people seeing a little bit more about what individuals with disabilities do and can do," Michaud said.The building could host a small retail space for the individuals's creations to be sold. It could be a learning site. It could also be a location to display art, said Sara Biggs, DSNWK director of programs and services.The program doesn't have to be limited to Hays residents. Biggs said DSNWK serves individuals with development disabilities from 18 Kansas counties.She said she hoped the location would help individuals with disabilities to become more involved in downtown events, including Hays Arts Walks."Just that ability to connect with our community and truly be in the heart of downtown Hays on the Bricks, I think that's so important for us and to bring people together," Biggs said."A lot of our individuals, I think, will be super excited to be able to connect with other people downtown."Michaud said the downtown project is continuation of DSNWK's mission and rebranding process."For far too long, people with disabilities have been on the outside edges of society," Michaud said. "Unfortunately, that is just part of our history. Any ways that we can build bridges and close that gap is beneficial for them, but it is also beneficial for the community."Once you get to know some of the people we serve I think people will get really excited and be like 'Wow! I had no idea.' That's what's exciting."

DSNWK to open center in downtown Hays

Gloria Hagen, age 64 of Hays, Kansas 
passed away on Thursday, February 4, 2021 at Hays Medical Center. Gloria
 was born on October 24, 1956 to Oscar and Betty (Sparks) Hagen. She 
attended schools in Ellis including a couple of early years at Star 
School, which was a country school. She also went to Hutchinson 
Community College.&nbsp;

Gloria held long-term jobs, including 
Klines, Stage and most recently Walmart. As a member of the Ellis VFW 
Auxiliary. After her mother passed away she took over putting out 
Auxiliary flags on Memorial Day weekend for members who had passed away.
 Gloria was a die-hard animal lover. There were times when driving out 
in the country, she would pull over and move a turtle to the side of the
 road so it would not get hit.

Gloria is survived by brothers Rex 
Hagen of Ellis and Ralph Sparks of Hays; sisters, Ellen Berry and Annys 
Pfannenstiel both of Hays; nephews, Justin Berry and Russell Berry both 
of Colby, Jody Hagen (Debbie) of Hays; niece, Laurel Sparks Beebe of 
Washington State; great nephew, Krystian Hagen; great nieces, Mykaela 
Hagen, Annzlee Berry, Tristan Jay, and Maigen Jay.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a nephew, Benjamin Sparks and a brother-in-law Danny Pfannenstiel.

Services will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday February 9, 2021 at Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery Ellis. Services will be livestreamed <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Christ-Lutheran-Church-111688785534530">HERE</a>.&nbsp; Visitation will be Tuesday 9:30 AM until service time at the church.&nbsp;

Memorial contributions are suggested to
 be used according to the wishes of the family. Arrangements in care of 
Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637.

Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or by email at keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612715306012.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Gloria Hagen, age 64 of Hays, Kansas 
passed away on Thursday, February 4, 2021 at Hays Medical Center. Gloria
 was born on October 24, 1956 to Oscar and Betty (Sparks) Hagen. She 
attended schools in Ellis including a couple of early years at Star 
School, which was a country school. She also went to Hutchinson 
Community College.&nbsp;Gloria held long-term jobs, including 
Klines, Stage and most recently Walmart. As a member of the Ellis VFW 
Auxiliary. After her mother passed away she took over putting out 
Auxiliary flags on Memorial Day weekend for members who had passed away.
 Gloria was a die-hard animal lover. There were times when driving out 
in the country, she would pull over and move a turtle to the side of the
 road so it would not get hit.Gloria is survived by brothers Rex 
Hagen of Ellis and Ralph Sparks of Hays; sisters, Ellen Berry and Annys 
Pfannenstiel both of Hays; nephews, Justin Berry and Russell Berry both 
of Colby, Jody Hagen (Debbie) of Hays; niece, Laurel Sparks Beebe of 
Washington State; great nephew, Krystian Hagen; great nieces, Mykaela 
Hagen, Annzlee Berry, Tristan Jay, and Maigen Jay.She was preceded in death by her parents; a nephew, Benjamin Sparks and a brother-in-law Danny Pfannenstiel.Services will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday February 9, 2021 at Christ Lutheran Church in Ellis. Burial will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery Ellis. Services will be livestreamed <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Christ-Lutheran-Church-111688785534530">HERE</a>.&nbsp; Visitation will be Tuesday 9:30 AM until service time at the church.&nbsp;Memorial contributions are suggested to
 be used according to the wishes of the family. Arrangements in care of 
Keithley Funeral Chapel 400 E. 17th Ellis, KS 67637.Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or by email at keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com

Gloria Hagen

Mary Therese Landreth, 89, passed away February 3, 2021, at Hospice 
House of Hutchinson. She was born October 12, 1931, at Ellinwood, to 
Harry &amp; Esther (Schartz) Kimpler. She married Ray Landreth at Sts. 
Peter &amp; Paul Catholic Church in rural Ellinwood. He died in 2000.

Growing up in Ellinwood, living most of her adult life in the Wichita
 area. Mary joined the Sisters of Precious Heart after high school and 
practiced for 20 years. She also taught special education classes at 
Cowley College and Newman University in the Wichita area for many years.
 Mary was a member of the Catholic Church of the Magdalen in Wichita and
 St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ellinwood. She loved children, playing 
slots, going to the Heritage, and fishing.

Survivors include her seven nieces and nephews, four Godchildren.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ray Landreth; a 
brother, Bill Kimpler; and a sister, Henrietta Casey.

Visitation will be February 8, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Joseph 
Catholic Church, a Rosary will be held at 11:00 a.m., with Mass of 
Christian Burial to follow with Father Terrance Klein presiding. 
Interment will be in the Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. 
Memorials are designated to St. Joseph Catholic School, in care of 
Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612560517306.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Mary Therese Landreth, 89, passed away February 3, 2021, at Hospice 
House of Hutchinson. She was born October 12, 1931, at Ellinwood, to 
Harry &amp; Esther (Schartz) Kimpler. She married Ray Landreth at Sts. 
Peter &amp; Paul Catholic Church in rural Ellinwood. He died in 2000.Growing up in Ellinwood, living most of her adult life in the Wichita
 area. Mary joined the Sisters of Precious Heart after high school and 
practiced for 20 years. She also taught special education classes at 
Cowley College and Newman University in the Wichita area for many years.
 Mary was a member of the Catholic Church of the Magdalen in Wichita and
 St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ellinwood. She loved children, playing 
slots, going to the Heritage, and fishing.Survivors include her seven nieces and nephews, four Godchildren.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ray Landreth; a 
brother, Bill Kimpler; and a sister, Henrietta Casey.Visitation will be February 8, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Joseph 
Catholic Church, a Rosary will be held at 11:00 a.m., with Mass of 
Christian Burial to follow with Father Terrance Klein presiding. 
Interment will be in the Lakin-Comanche District Cemetery in Ellinwood. 
Memorials are designated to St. Joseph Catholic School, in care of 
Bryant Funeral Home.

Mary Therese Landreth

Irene Thresea Ann (Soukup) Healey, 95, of Perryton, Tx completed her life journey on Tuesday, February 2, 2021. 
 Irene was born on October 15, 1925 to Frank Joseph and Albina 
Catherine (Tymer) Soukup on the family farm near Wilson, Ks. The family 
worked hard to sustain farm life, and Irene had many stories to tell 
about her wonderful childhood. She attended Pleasant Valley country 
school. In the summers, she would help other farm families with cooking 
and caring for children, especially during harvest season. Her father, 
Frank, not only farmed, but he also played the concertina in a polka 
band. Weekends were filled with dancing. At one of these dances, Irene 
met the love of her life, James Patrick Healey. James was also a Wilson 
native and newly returned from serving in Europe during World War II. On
 October 28, 1947, Irene and James were married at the Saint Bernard 
Catholic Church in Ellsworth, Ks. 
 Together they raised three children, Juliana Louise Healey Sursa, 
James Patrick Healey II, and Timothy Joseph Healey. The family resided 
in Wilson, Ks but in 1958, they moved to Perryton, Tx. Perryton remained
 Irene’s home for the remainder of her life. She was a member of the 
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, and in her younger days, she was a
 member of the Alter Society. She also made many pies for church 
functions.
 Irene was a loving wife and mother. She was an excellent cook and 
homemaker. She loved her beautiful flower gardens, and at each home in 
which she lived, she always had a cactus garden. Her greatest pride was 
her family, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
 She joins her husband, James, of 58 years; her parents, Frank and 
Albina; two sisters, Helen Mickulecky and Leona Scantland; along with 
numerous relatives and friends who are in God’s home.
 Surviving Irene are her children, Juliana and Rick Sursa of 
Tucumcari, NM, James Healey of Spearman, Tx and Timothy and Tina Healey 
of Topeka, Ks. She is survived by nine loving grandchildren; Ronald and 
Lara Sursa, Summer and Toby Smith, Katherine Sursa, Curtis and Alyssa 
Sursa, James P. Healey III and Heather, Kimberley and Brian Edwards, and
 Ashley and Jessie Burkhalter. Irene has fourteen great-grandchildren 
and two lovely former daughters-in-law, Delores Healey and Rhonda 
Shafer. Irene is also survived by her sister, Edna Buehler of Wilson, Ks
 and her brother, Victor and Sharen Soukup of Garden City, Ks; along 
with numerous nieces and nephews. 
 The family wishes to say a special thank you to Dr. Rick Siewert and
 the nurses and staff of Hospice of Ochiltree General Hospital in 
Perryton, Tx. 
 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021
 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wilson, KS with 
Father Tony Kulandaijesu officiating. Burial will follow in Wilson 
Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 8, 2020 from 4:00
 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. with a vigil at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. 
 Irene loved flowers, but in lieu of flowers, donations to the 
Ochiltree Hospice Volunteers, 2309 S. Cedar, Perryton, Tx 79070 or St. 
Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Box 1000, Dept 142, Memphis, Tn 38148-0142 
would be appreciated.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612538660445.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Irene Thresea Ann (Soukup) Healey, 95, of Perryton, Tx completed her life journey on Tuesday, February 2, 2021. 
 Irene was born on October 15, 1925 to Frank Joseph and Albina 
Catherine (Tymer) Soukup on the family farm near Wilson, Ks. The family 
worked hard to sustain farm life, and Irene had many stories to tell 
about her wonderful childhood. She attended Pleasant Valley country 
school. In the summers, she would help other farm families with cooking 
and caring for children, especially during harvest season. Her father, 
Frank, not only farmed, but he also played the concertina in a polka 
band. Weekends were filled with dancing. At one of these dances, Irene 
met the love of her life, James Patrick Healey. James was also a Wilson 
native and newly returned from serving in Europe during World War II. On
 October 28, 1947, Irene and James were married at the Saint Bernard 
Catholic Church in Ellsworth, Ks. 
 Together they raised three children, Juliana Louise Healey Sursa, 
James Patrick Healey II, and Timothy Joseph Healey. The family resided 
in Wilson, Ks but in 1958, they moved to Perryton, Tx. Perryton remained
 Irene’s home for the remainder of her life. She was a member of the 
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, and in her younger days, she was a
 member of the Alter Society. She also made many pies for church 
functions.
 Irene was a loving wife and mother. She was an excellent cook and 
homemaker. She loved her beautiful flower gardens, and at each home in 
which she lived, she always had a cactus garden. Her greatest pride was 
her family, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
 She joins her husband, James, of 58 years; her parents, Frank and 
Albina; two sisters, Helen Mickulecky and Leona Scantland; along with 
numerous relatives and friends who are in God’s home.
 Surviving Irene are her children, Juliana and Rick Sursa of 
Tucumcari, NM, James Healey of Spearman, Tx and Timothy and Tina Healey 
of Topeka, Ks. She is survived by nine loving grandchildren; Ronald and 
Lara Sursa, Summer and Toby Smith, Katherine Sursa, Curtis and Alyssa 
Sursa, James P. Healey III and Heather, Kimberley and Brian Edwards, and
 Ashley and Jessie Burkhalter. Irene has fourteen great-grandchildren 
and two lovely former daughters-in-law, Delores Healey and Rhonda 
Shafer. Irene is also survived by her sister, Edna Buehler of Wilson, Ks
 and her brother, Victor and Sharen Soukup of Garden City, Ks; along 
with numerous nieces and nephews. 
 The family wishes to say a special thank you to Dr. Rick Siewert and
 the nurses and staff of Hospice of Ochiltree General Hospital in 
Perryton, Tx. 
 A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021
 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Wilson, KS with 
Father Tony Kulandaijesu officiating. Burial will follow in Wilson 
Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 8, 2020 from 4:00
 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. with a vigil at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. 
 Irene loved flowers, but in lieu of flowers, donations to the 
Ochiltree Hospice Volunteers, 2309 S. Cedar, Perryton, Tx 79070 or St. 
Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Box 1000, Dept 142, Memphis, Tn 38148-0142 
would be appreciated.

Irene Healey

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A faster-spreading coronavirus variant first identified in the United Kingdom is probably more widespread in Kansas than a single confirmed case in the state’s northwest suggests, officials with a major health system said Thursday.

The first identified case of the variant came as the number of new COVID-19 cases dropped in the state and with officials focused on distributing vaccines. State health department data showed that Kansas averaged 914 new confirmed and probable cases a day for the seven days ending Wednesday, the lowest seven-day rolling average since late October and just a third of the record average of 2,767 cases for the seven days ending Nov. 18.

Public health officials also are concerned that people will attend gatherings and not maintain social distances at Super Bowl parties this weekend.

<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/NewsRelease/PDFs/2-3-21%20variant%20final.pdf" target="_blank">The state health department announced</a>&nbsp;Wednesday that it had confirmed a case of the U.K. variant, in Ellis County, which is home to Hays and Fort Hays State University. Officials had worried that the variant was responsible for a fast-developing outbreak at a minimum-security state prison in Winfield in south-central Kansas, but genetic testing ruled that out.

“If it is in Hays, is there a chance it is in Kansas City? I think there is a chance it is in Kansas City and surrounding areas,” Dr. Dana Hawkinson, director of infection control for the University of Kansas Health System, said during an online briefing Thursday.

Dr. David Wild, a University of Kansas Health System vice president, said even before the first Kansas case was identified, he could “nearly guarantee” coronavirus variants were spreading already in Kansas and the Kansas City area.

“We know now of one in the state,” he said. “There will be more.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-many-coronavirus-variants-are-there-12d1f000ed9601f99c1c7c08e020ba7b">Cases of the U.K. and other variants</a>&nbsp;are identified through a full review of the virus’ genome.

Fort Hays State and the local health department said the person infected with variant was a student-athlete at the university, which tests its athletes weekly for COVID-19. Officials said the athlete’s contacts are being traced and that the state health department was sending a mobile testing van to Hays.

Hawkinson said it’s “well established” that the U.K. variant is “more transmissible,” and public health officials fear it could be deadlier. But he added, “We have to be concerned about other variants arising as well.”

“We are all tired, and it is one day at a time, but that is why we need to continue to need to be more vigilant, especially this weekend,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Republican-controlled Kansas Senate debated formally condemning a decision by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s administration to make prison inmates eligible for COVID-19 vaccines during the second phase of vaccine distribution, which Kansas launched last month.

Prison inmates are in line with people 65 and older, workers critical to the economy and other people in group living situations. They’re ahead of most of the state’s 2.9 million residents, including people under 65 with medical conditions putting them at risk of severe complications if they are infected with COVID-19.

The Senate’s&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/sr1707_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">nonbinding resolution</a>&nbsp;was drafted by health committee Chair Richard Hilderbrand, a Galena Republican. It called on Kelly to reverse her policy on inoculating inmates “without delay,” criticizing the idea that violent offenders could get shots before their victims.

Kelly has defended the policy, saying it will protect prison workers and helps keep COVID-19 in check in communities with prisons. Kansas also is following the recommendations of public health officials and experts, and state prisons have been especially hard-hit with virus outbreaks.

“I continue to believe that we are doing the right thing,” she said during a Wednesday news conference at the Statehouse.

But Kelly also said the state is for now vaccinating prison employees and, “Then, when we have finished with the staff, we will move on and begin with inmates who are 65 or older.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608566572342.png" alt="Virus variant -image courtesy GISAID" />
 <figcaption>Virus variant -image courtesy GISAID</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A faster-spreading coronavirus variant first identified in the United Kingdom is probably more widespread in Kansas than a single confirmed case in the state’s northwest suggests, officials with a major health system said Thursday.The first identified case of the variant came as the number of new COVID-19 cases dropped in the state and with officials focused on distributing vaccines. State health department data showed that Kansas averaged 914 new confirmed and probable cases a day for the seven days ending Wednesday, the lowest seven-day rolling average since late October and just a third of the record average of 2,767 cases for the seven days ending Nov. 18.Public health officials also are concerned that people will attend gatherings and not maintain social distances at Super Bowl parties this weekend.<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/NewsRelease/PDFs/2-3-21%20variant%20final.pdf" target="_blank">The state health department announced</a>&nbsp;Wednesday that it had confirmed a case of the U.K. variant, in Ellis County, which is home to Hays and Fort Hays State University. Officials had worried that the variant was responsible for a fast-developing outbreak at a minimum-security state prison in Winfield in south-central Kansas, but genetic testing ruled that out.“If it is in Hays, is there a chance it is in Kansas City? I think there is a chance it is in Kansas City and surrounding areas,” Dr. Dana Hawkinson, director of infection control for the University of Kansas Health System, said during an online briefing Thursday.Dr. David Wild, a University of Kansas Health System vice president, said even before the first Kansas case was identified, he could “nearly guarantee” coronavirus variants were spreading already in Kansas and the Kansas City area.“We know now of one in the state,” he said. “There will be more.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-many-coronavirus-variants-are-there-12d1f000ed9601f99c1c7c08e020ba7b">Cases of the U.K. and other variants</a>&nbsp;are identified through a full review of the virus’ genome.Fort Hays State and the local health department said the person infected with variant was a student-athlete at the university, which tests its athletes weekly for COVID-19. Officials said the athlete’s contacts are being traced and that the state health department was sending a mobile testing van to Hays.Hawkinson said it’s “well established” that the U.K. variant is “more transmissible,” and public health officials fear it could be deadlier. But he added, “We have to be concerned about other variants arising as well.”“We are all tired, and it is one day at a time, but that is why we need to continue to need to be more vigilant, especially this weekend,” he said.Meanwhile, the Republican-controlled Kansas Senate debated formally condemning a decision by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s administration to make prison inmates eligible for COVID-19 vaccines during the second phase of vaccine distribution, which Kansas launched last month.Prison inmates are in line with people 65 and older, workers critical to the economy and other people in group living situations. They’re ahead of most of the state’s 2.9 million residents, including people under 65 with medical conditions putting them at risk of severe complications if they are infected with COVID-19.The Senate’s&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/documents/sr1707_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">nonbinding resolution</a>&nbsp;was drafted by health committee Chair Richard Hilderbrand, a Galena Republican. It called on Kelly to reverse her policy on inoculating inmates “without delay,” criticizing the idea that violent offenders could get shots before their victims.Kelly has defended the policy, saying it will protect prison workers and helps keep COVID-19 in check in communities with prisons. Kansas also is following the recommendations of public health officials and experts, and state prisons have been especially hard-hit with virus outbreaks.“I continue to believe that we are doing the right thing,” she said during a Wednesday news conference at the Statehouse.But Kelly also said the state is for now vaccinating prison employees and, “Then, when we have finished with the staff, we will move on and begin with inmates who are 65 or older.”___

Officials: Coronavirus variant likely more common in Kansas

Margie Marie LeSage passed away 
Saturday, January 30th, 2021, at Good Samaritan Society in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;
 She was born July 20, 1925, in rural Graham, Kansas to Elery and Blanche
 Fitch.&nbsp; She was the youngest of three children.

She married Chet LeSage on October 16, 
1948.&nbsp; They made their home in Stockton, Kansas until moving to Hays in 
1987.&nbsp; Margie was a beautician for 40 years, most of the time working in
 her shop in her home. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting and sports, 
especially watching KU basketball.&nbsp; Margie was a member of the Christian
 Church in Stockton for many years.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, and a grandson Leon LeSage.

Survivors include her daughter, Sherry 
(Mike) Muir of Hays, KS; stepson Larry LeSage, three granddaughters, 
Stacie (David) Jackson, Amy Muir, and Pamela (Scott) Sprague, and three 
great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to HaysMed 
Hospice. Checks made payable to the organization may be sent in care of 
Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.

Private inurnment will be in Stockton, Kansas, at a later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612385042867.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Margie Marie LeSage passed away 
Saturday, January 30th, 2021, at Good Samaritan Society in Hays, Kansas.&nbsp;
 She was born July 20, 1925, in rural Graham, Kansas to Elery and Blanche
 Fitch.&nbsp; She was the youngest of three children.She married Chet LeSage on October 16, 
1948.&nbsp; They made their home in Stockton, Kansas until moving to Hays in 
1987.&nbsp; Margie was a beautician for 40 years, most of the time working in
 her shop in her home. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting and sports, 
especially watching KU basketball.&nbsp; Margie was a member of the Christian
 Church in Stockton for many years.She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, and a grandson Leon LeSage.Survivors include her daughter, Sherry 
(Mike) Muir of Hays, KS; stepson Larry LeSage, three granddaughters, 
Stacie (David) Jackson, Amy Muir, and Pamela (Scott) Sprague, and three 
great-grandchildren.Memorials may be made to HaysMed 
Hospice. Checks made payable to the organization may be sent in care of 
Brock's-Keithley Funeral Chapel and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, KS 67601.Private inurnment will be in Stockton, Kansas, at a later date.Condolences may be left by guest book at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com or by email at keithleyfuneralhomes@gmail.com

Margie Marie LeSage

Stacy Carl Olson II, 71, passed away January 31, 2021, at The University of Kansas Health System HaysMed Campus, Hays, KS.

He was born October 21, 1949, in Dodge City, the son of Carl W. and 
Velma C. Anderson Olson.&nbsp; A lifetime area resident, he was a banker and 
financial advisor at Farmers State Bank, Jetmore, where he served as 
past president as well as the board.

He was a member of the St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Lions Club 
member since 1973, serving in all capacities, was the Jetmore Mayor for 
sixteen years, Cub Scout and Boy Scout Leader, Cemetery Board, Sons Of 
The American Legion and was one of the first EMT and EMT I’s for 
Hodgeman County. Stacy graduated from Hodgeman County High School in 
1968, Fort Hays State University, with a BS in business in 1974 and The 
University of Colorado, School of Banking in 1977.&nbsp; Stacy loved to play 
slow-pitch and he even had a team when he was in college.&nbsp; He also 
enjoyed meeting with friends in the morning at the local coffee shop and
 visiting.&nbsp; Stacy supported all the activities his children and 
grandchildren participated in and enjoyed watching them succeed. He 
loved his family and his family loved him.

On June 1, 1974, he married Marla F. Tracy in Phillipsburg, Ks. &nbsp;She survives.

Other survivors include: a son, Derek (Katie) Olson, Jetmore; two 
daughters, Carla Lowry and Connie Olson, both of Jetmore; five 
grandchildren, Zoe Lowry, Sophie Lowry, Caroline Olson, Shelby Olson and
 Austin Olson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Norman Olson.

Due to covid, a graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, 
February 5, 2021 at the Fairmount Cemetery with Father John Forkuoh 
presiding.&nbsp; Service will be viewable via Facebook live at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/beckwithmortuary">www.facebook.com/beckwithmortuary</a>.
 Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, February 4, 2021 at 
Beckwith Funeral Home, Jetmore.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Fairmount 
Cemetery, Jetmore.

Memorials may be given to Hodgeman County EMS or Hodgeman County Love
 Tree in care of Beckwith Funeral Home, Box 663 Jetmore, KS 67854.&nbsp; 
Condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.beckwithfuneralhome.com">www.beckwithfuneralhome.com</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612360837485.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Stacy Carl Olson II, 71, passed away January 31, 2021, at The University of Kansas Health System HaysMed Campus, Hays, KS.He was born October 21, 1949, in Dodge City, the son of Carl W. and 
Velma C. Anderson Olson.&nbsp; A lifetime area resident, he was a banker and 
financial advisor at Farmers State Bank, Jetmore, where he served as 
past president as well as the board.He was a member of the St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Lions Club 
member since 1973, serving in all capacities, was the Jetmore Mayor for 
sixteen years, Cub Scout and Boy Scout Leader, Cemetery Board, Sons Of 
The American Legion and was one of the first EMT and EMT I’s for 
Hodgeman County. Stacy graduated from Hodgeman County High School in 
1968, Fort Hays State University, with a BS in business in 1974 and The 
University of Colorado, School of Banking in 1977.&nbsp; Stacy loved to play 
slow-pitch and he even had a team when he was in college.&nbsp; He also 
enjoyed meeting with friends in the morning at the local coffee shop and
 visiting.&nbsp; Stacy supported all the activities his children and 
grandchildren participated in and enjoyed watching them succeed. He 
loved his family and his family loved him.On June 1, 1974, he married Marla F. Tracy in Phillipsburg, Ks. &nbsp;She survives.Other survivors include: a son, Derek (Katie) Olson, Jetmore; two 
daughters, Carla Lowry and Connie Olson, both of Jetmore; five 
grandchildren, Zoe Lowry, Sophie Lowry, Caroline Olson, Shelby Olson and
 Austin Olson.He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Norman Olson.Due to covid, a graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, 
February 5, 2021 at the Fairmount Cemetery with Father John Forkuoh 
presiding.&nbsp; Service will be viewable via Facebook live at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/beckwithmortuary">www.facebook.com/beckwithmortuary</a>.
 Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, February 4, 2021 at 
Beckwith Funeral Home, Jetmore.&nbsp; Burial will be in the Fairmount 
Cemetery, Jetmore.Memorials may be given to Hodgeman County EMS or Hodgeman County Love
 Tree in care of Beckwith Funeral Home, Box 663 Jetmore, KS 67854.&nbsp; 
Condolences may be left at <a href="http://www.beckwithfuneralhome.com">www.beckwithfuneralhome.com</a>.

Stacy Carl Olson II

Our sweet, beautiful mother, Mary, passed away Thursday, January 28, 
2021, at Brookside Retirement Community, Overbrook, Kansas. 
Mary was born of Volga German descent in Hays, Kansas, the oldest of 
five children, to Joe and Sophie Scheutz Gerstner on October 28, 1925. 
She married her beloved husband, Harold P. Schmidt, in 1949 and together
 they raised a family of five children in Topeka, Kansas. They were 
married 63 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, 
Harold; her mother and father; two brothers, Dennis and Leroy Gerstner; 
and her dear daughter-in-law, Joy Schmidt. Mary is survived by
 her five children, Debbie (Jim Wasko), Paul (Joy Schmidt, deceased), 
Bruce (Brenda), Jason and Rodney; as well as seven grandchildren, 
Nathaniel (Nicole), Simon, Philip, Madalyn (Jayant Chandhary) and 
Joseph, Anna (companion, Jared Petefish) and Sara (Jake Machnov). Other 
survivors include her sister, Lillian Rohr and brother, Jim Gerstner. 
She was well loved and will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, 
friends, neighbors and former colleagues. Mom began her long 
work career devoted to helping children stricken with the polio virus. 
Her stories conveyed to us the love she poured into helping these 
children walk again. She worked relentlessly using the world famous, 
Sister Kenny treatments, involving long massages and warm baths. 
 Mom was smart and creative. She devised her own method of shorthand to 
land a good job at the Walker Army Airbase, 58th Bombing Wing, as a 
clerk, ordering parts for the B-29 through the Pentagon. He sales 
ability was outstanding. She was the often sought after clothing and 
bridal consultant for JC Penney for many years. Mary always 
found time for her husband, five children, seven grandchildren and 
activities involving church, school or volunteering. She stayed active 
in the news and loved politics and read voraciously. Her love for 
veterans lead her to a volunteer librarian position at the VA Hospital. 
She loved the arts, attending many theatrical productions, ballets and 
musicals. Mom was fun, rarely turning down a trip to the casino with 
Joy. She traveled extensively with family and was a skilled seamstress 
and painter. Her smile was big and her blue eyes sparkled. She was 
strong but soft in heart. Most of all Mom loved her family. 
She instilled in each of us strong values, good education and our faith.
 She was an excellent cook and a master of Volga German cooking, always 
stressing the importance of our Saturday night meals together. 
 Mom loved her church, Most Pure Heart of Mary, where she and our father
 were original founding members. Mass of Christian Burial will be 
Tuesday, February 9, at 10 a.m. at the Church. Prior to that, visitation
 will be from 9 to 9:30 followed by praying the rosary at 9:30, all at 
the Church. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. 
 We thank our brother, Jason, for taking care of Mom so lovingly so she 
could remain in her home. We thank Paul for his constant show of love, 
visiting Mom daily and bringing Holy Communion to her at Brookside. 
 Our family deeply appreciates the love, friendship and beautiful care 
she embraced at Brookside. We are deeply grateful to Brookside Hospice 
who cared for Mom with such compassion to the end. Mom had deep 
spiritual faith; we rejoice knowing she had no fear but the greatest 
anticipation of God’s beautiful promise. We celebrate this and it gives 
us great peace. Memorial contributions may be made to 
Brookside Retirement Community (the Joy Fund) or to Most Pure Heart of 
Mary Church and sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 
SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Condolences may be sent online to <a href="http://www.kevinbrennanfamily.com" target="_blank">www.kevinbrennanfamily.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612276120685.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Our sweet, beautiful mother, Mary, passed away Thursday, January 28, 
2021, at Brookside Retirement Community, Overbrook, Kansas. 
Mary was born of Volga German descent in Hays, Kansas, the oldest of 
five children, to Joe and Sophie Scheutz Gerstner on October 28, 1925. 
She married her beloved husband, Harold P. Schmidt, in 1949 and together
 they raised a family of five children in Topeka, Kansas. They were 
married 63 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, 
Harold; her mother and father; two brothers, Dennis and Leroy Gerstner; 
and her dear daughter-in-law, Joy Schmidt. Mary is survived by
 her five children, Debbie (Jim Wasko), Paul (Joy Schmidt, deceased), 
Bruce (Brenda), Jason and Rodney; as well as seven grandchildren, 
Nathaniel (Nicole), Simon, Philip, Madalyn (Jayant Chandhary) and 
Joseph, Anna (companion, Jared Petefish) and Sara (Jake Machnov). Other 
survivors include her sister, Lillian Rohr and brother, Jim Gerstner. 
She was well loved and will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, 
friends, neighbors and former colleagues. Mom began her long 
work career devoted to helping children stricken with the polio virus. 
Her stories conveyed to us the love she poured into helping these 
children walk again. She worked relentlessly using the world famous, 
Sister Kenny treatments, involving long massages and warm baths. 
 Mom was smart and creative. She devised her own method of shorthand to 
land a good job at the Walker Army Airbase, 58th Bombing Wing, as a 
clerk, ordering parts for the B-29 through the Pentagon. He sales 
ability was outstanding. She was the often sought after clothing and 
bridal consultant for JC Penney for many years. Mary always 
found time for her husband, five children, seven grandchildren and 
activities involving church, school or volunteering. She stayed active 
in the news and loved politics and read voraciously. Her love for 
veterans lead her to a volunteer librarian position at the VA Hospital. 
She loved the arts, attending many theatrical productions, ballets and 
musicals. Mom was fun, rarely turning down a trip to the casino with 
Joy. She traveled extensively with family and was a skilled seamstress 
and painter. Her smile was big and her blue eyes sparkled. She was 
strong but soft in heart. Most of all Mom loved her family. 
She instilled in each of us strong values, good education and our faith.
 She was an excellent cook and a master of Volga German cooking, always 
stressing the importance of our Saturday night meals together. 
 Mom loved her church, Most Pure Heart of Mary, where she and our father
 were original founding members. Mass of Christian Burial will be 
Tuesday, February 9, at 10 a.m. at the Church. Prior to that, visitation
 will be from 9 to 9:30 followed by praying the rosary at 9:30, all at 
the Church. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. 
 We thank our brother, Jason, for taking care of Mom so lovingly so she 
could remain in her home. We thank Paul for his constant show of love, 
visiting Mom daily and bringing Holy Communion to her at Brookside. 
 Our family deeply appreciates the love, friendship and beautiful care 
she embraced at Brookside. We are deeply grateful to Brookside Hospice 
who cared for Mom with such compassion to the end. Mom had deep 
spiritual faith; we rejoice knowing she had no fear but the greatest 
anticipation of God’s beautiful promise. We celebrate this and it gives 
us great peace. Memorial contributions may be made to 
Brookside Retirement Community (the Joy Fund) or to Most Pure Heart of 
Mary Church and sent in care of Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home, 2801 
SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614. Condolences may be sent online to <a href="http://www.kevinbrennanfamily.com" target="_blank">www.kevinbrennanfamily.com</a>.

Mary A. Schmidt

Millions of Americans are reporting they are struggling to pay rent in the midst of the pandemic.

A local housing and resource agency in Hays says it has seen some increases in those applying for assistance, but local aid workers acknowledge the actual number of local renters struggling to pay rent and utilities is likely under-represented in the agency's numbers.

The Centers for Disease Control extended its nationwide eviction moratorium through March 31. Tenants must sign&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/declaration-form.pdf" target="_blank">declaration</a>s&nbsp;and present them to their landlords stating they are unable to pay their rent as a result of the pandemic to qualify for the&nbsp;moratorium protection.

Nationwide Household Pulse data indicated almost one in five renters have not been caught up on their rent during the pandemic.

Ryan Vincent, <a href="https://kshousingcorp.org/">Kansas Housing’s</a> executive director, in an announcement on Jan. 6 of Tenant Based Rental Assistance grants expressed concerns about the effects of the pandemic on renters.

“A lack of quality, affordable housing across our state was a challenge even before COVID-19,” Vincent said. “With the current pandemic, this shortage has become a crisis. We’re pleased to offer this support to keep Kansans in their homes during this time of critical need.”

Harvest America, which serves Ellis County and much of western Kansas, received $400,000 from the TBRA program.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1612207845557.jpg" alt="" />
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 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostMillions of Americans are reporting they are struggling to pay rent in the midst of the pandemic.A local housing and resource agency in Hays says it has seen some increases in those applying for assistance, but local aid workers acknowledge the actual number of local renters struggling to pay rent and utilities is likely under-represented in the agency's numbers.The Centers for Disease Control extended its nationwide eviction moratorium through March 31. Tenants must sign&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/declaration-form.pdf" target="_blank">declaration</a>s&nbsp;and present them to their landlords stating they are unable to pay their rent as a result of the pandemic to qualify for the&nbsp;moratorium protection.Nationwide Household Pulse data indicated almost one in five renters have not been caught up on their rent during the pandemic.Ryan Vincent, <a href="https://kshousingcorp.org/">Kansas Housing’s</a> executive director, in an announcement on Jan. 6 of Tenant Based Rental Assistance grants expressed concerns about the effects of the pandemic on renters.“A lack of quality, affordable housing across our state was a challenge even before COVID-19,” Vincent said. “With the current pandemic, this shortage has become a crisis. We’re pleased to offer this support to keep Kansans in their homes during this time of critical need.”Harvest America, which serves Ellis County and much of western Kansas, received $400,000 from the TBRA program.The funding, made possible through the state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kshousingcorp.org/renters/tenant-based-rental-assistance/">TBRA</a>&nbsp;program and funded through federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program, helps income-eligible households afford rental subsidies, utility deposits and security deposits.You can learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://kshousingcorp.org/renters/tenant-based-rental-assistance/">TBRA</a>&nbsp;in Ellis County by Calling Heart of America at 785-746-4321. The aid application does take time to process.Local relief agency <a href="https://www.firstcallelliscounty.com/">First Call for Help</a> has assisted a handful of local residents with rent and utility assistance specifically related to COVID-19, but Hays has not seen the housing crisis that more urban areas experienced in 2020."I don't know that we are really seeing the evictions yet," said Linda Mills, First Call for Help executive director. "The landlords are really trying their best to work with [renters]."First Call for Help received $5,000 from the Schmidt Foundation and additional private donations earmarked for COVID relief last year.First Call for Help has used funds specifically designated for COVID-19 relief to help some families get caught up on back rent or utilities. The agency was able to increase the amount of assistance to families by combining the COVID funds with its general assistance program.Mills noted Hays did not have the unemployment rate that urban areas had before the shutdown and cost of living in Hays is lower than in other areas of the nation.Unemployment rates in Northwest Kansas are returning to pre-COVID numbers, according to a report of December numbers released Jan. 25. Ellis County's jobless rate fell to 2.6 percent as of December from a high of 7 percent in April.Mills said although many workers were able to return their jobs after the spring shutdown, some households have had to deal with loss of income due to quarantines.First Call for Help assisted six people with rent in May and three people in June who were directly affected by COVID. Several more people were assisted with utilities during this time.&nbsp;That trended continued through the end of 2020.That did not include people who were not affected by COVID who the agency helped through other housing assistance funds.Mills said requests for COVID-related assistance have been trickling in. She said the agency received many calls in January, but numbers on those who received assistance have yet to be posted.The number of those seeking assistance for none COVID reasons have trended higher, Mills said. Sixteen people were helped with rent assistance in October who were not directly affected by COVID, she said.Mills said she believes more people are struggling with rent and utilities than are seeking help from First Call for Help.Many don't know about the agency, don't know their rights or may only reach out for assistance when they have been given notice of eviction, she said."We talk to renters on an one-on-one basis as far as the legal issues or when they call here and say, 'I'm getting kicked out of here in two days,'" Mills said. "We say, 'Take a breath. There are some laws you need to know about and then determine if you are getting kicked out in two days.' "Evictions are continuing in the county, but for non-COVID reasons, said Amanda Truan, Ellis County District Court administrator.First Call for Help refers renters to <a href="https://www.kansaslegalservices.org/">Kansas Legal Services</a> for legal questions on renting and evictions.Landlords have to go through proper procedures. A landlord can't shut your utilities off or lock you out of the rental until all of the procedure have been followed, Mills said.She said she First Call has dealt with renters whose landlords have tried these illegal tactics in the past. A landlord also may threaten such tactics, which can panic the renter, she said.Although a few landlords may attempt to use unethical or illegal practices, most will follow the law and many in Hays are willing to work with renters, Mills said.Mills urged renters who may think they will have difficulty paying their rent to contact their landlords well in advance of the rent being due."The landlords have been really good through all of this. I know they felt like they were limited in what they could do too, as far as not being able to evict people" she said.&nbsp;To qualify for the moratorium, the renter must fill out a short form and give that to their landlord to sign before eviction proceedings begin. This does not mean the rent is no longer due. It must be paid in full at the end of the moratorium. Tenants also must to continue to follow all the stipulations of their leases."I think people are worried if they talk to the utility company or the rental agent about what they are dealing with then that will hurry the process along, and they don't want to do that" Mills said, "or they're just embarrassed. They don't want to call the rental agent and tell them they don't have the rent yet.&nbsp;"The worst thing you can do is avoid contacting your landlord because most of our landlords are really good about working with tenants. If you don't call them, their only option is to start putting notices on your door."