Franklin Ray Smith passed away on Monday, March 30, 2020, at the Hays 
Medical Center in Hays, Kansas, at the age of 92. He was born to Clyde 
and Georgia (Copeland) Smith in El Dorado, Kansas on June 1, 1927. Frank
 grew up in El Dorado and attended El Dorado High School until he went 
into the United States Merchant Marines in 1944 during World War II. He 
returned to El Dorado and later married Allene (Franklin) Smith on 
October 27, 1946 at the First Baptist Church. To this union, three 
children were born: Bob, Marcie, and Kathy.


Frank worked for Lane Wells Oil Service Company out of El Dorado for
 many years. When it was taken over by Dresser Atlas, they moved to 
Stockton. His last position as District Manager for Dresser moved him to
 North Dakota before his retirement in 1986. He then moved back to 
Stockton to spend the remainder of his years. Frank enjoyed the 
outdoors, especially fishing, and horses. He was on the Fair Board for 
many years and a big part of the county’s free fair. Frank and Allene 
enjoyed adventure and travels with some of their favorite trips to 
Australia, Branson, Missouri and visiting their son in Louisiana. He 
also loved to square dance; he and Allene would dance any chance they 
got, including competing at national square dancing events. Frank loved 
his family, and to keep the family connected, he and his brother put 
together an annual family reunion that hosted over 100 family and 
extended family members for over 30 years.


Frank was a member of the First Baptist Church while in El Dorado and a lifetime member of the VFW Post #8873. 


He is survived by his children, Bob (Kathy) Smith of Haughton, LA, 
Marcie McClure of El Dorado, and Kathy (Jim) Stice of Stockton; seven 
grandchildren, Jeff (Peggy) Smith, Shannon (Ricki) Mitchell, Jared 
(Sonja) Stice, Jacob (LaDonna) Stice, Kyleigh Stice, Marshall McClure, 
and Mason McClure; eleven great-grandchildren, and one great-great 
granddaughter.


Frank is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Georgia Smith; 
wife, Allene Smith; and siblings Don Smith, Jim Smith, and Veloris Fine.


A memorial service for Frank will be held at a later date due to the
 COVID-19 outbreak. Memorials are suggested to the Rooks County Fair and
 may be sent in care of Plumer- Overlease Funeral Home, 723 North First,
 Stockton, KS 67669.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585765083088.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Franklin Ray Smith passed away on Monday, March 30, 2020, at the Hays 
Medical Center in Hays, Kansas, at the age of 92. He was born to Clyde 
and Georgia (Copeland) Smith in El Dorado, Kansas on June 1, 1927. Frank
 grew up in El Dorado and attended El Dorado High School until he went 
into the United States Merchant Marines in 1944 during World War II. He 
returned to El Dorado and later married Allene (Franklin) Smith on 
October 27, 1946 at the First Baptist Church. To this union, three 
children were born: Bob, Marcie, and Kathy.
Frank worked for Lane Wells Oil Service Company out of El Dorado for
 many years. When it was taken over by Dresser Atlas, they moved to 
Stockton. His last position as District Manager for Dresser moved him to
 North Dakota before his retirement in 1986. He then moved back to 
Stockton to spend the remainder of his years. Frank enjoyed the 
outdoors, especially fishing, and horses. He was on the Fair Board for 
many years and a big part of the county’s free fair. Frank and Allene 
enjoyed adventure and travels with some of their favorite trips to 
Australia, Branson, Missouri and visiting their son in Louisiana. He 
also loved to square dance; he and Allene would dance any chance they 
got, including competing at national square dancing events. Frank loved 
his family, and to keep the family connected, he and his brother put 
together an annual family reunion that hosted over 100 family and 
extended family members for over 30 years.
Frank was a member of the First Baptist Church while in El Dorado and a lifetime member of the VFW Post #8873. 
He is survived by his children, Bob (Kathy) Smith of Haughton, LA, 
Marcie McClure of El Dorado, and Kathy (Jim) Stice of Stockton; seven 
grandchildren, Jeff (Peggy) Smith, Shannon (Ricki) Mitchell, Jared 
(Sonja) Stice, Jacob (LaDonna) Stice, Kyleigh Stice, Marshall McClure, 
and Mason McClure; eleven great-grandchildren, and one great-great 
granddaughter.
Frank is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Georgia Smith; 
wife, Allene Smith; and siblings Don Smith, Jim Smith, and Veloris Fine.
A memorial service for Frank will be held at a later date due to the
 COVID-19 outbreak. Memorials are suggested to the Rooks County Fair and
 may be sent in care of Plumer- Overlease Funeral Home, 723 North First,
 Stockton, KS 67669.

Franklin R. Smith

The Eagle Radio of Hays Online Auction is currently underway!

There are several great items to bid on including:

$1,620&nbsp;certificate from Century Stone

Improve the look of your home with stone accents from
Century Stone of Hays. Choose from a great selection of colors and designs.
Great for new home construction, home remodeling, fireplaces, retaining walls,
commercial property and more. Certificate is good for Approximately 90 feet.
And includes installation. All stone has a 50 year warranty. May not apply this
certificate to current account balance. Valid through October 31st 2020.
Century Stone of Hays. 785-261-1771.

Current Bid: $210.00 Retail Price: $1,620.00

Taste, Dine and Stay Package from Claremont Inn in Stratton,
Colorado

The Claremont Inn Bed and Breakfast is now also a winery.
Along with your one night stay for two that includes dinner and breakfast for
two, it now includes a wine tasting event. All wines are crafted and bottled
right at the Claremont Inn. You get to try several new and exciting flavors.
Whether it’s a getaway, romance or a group get together, the Claremont Inn in
Stratton Colorado is just a short drive to relaxation. Choose from one of ten
themed rooms and enjoy a truly unique bed and breakfast that specializes in
making your trip everything you had hoped it would be. Go online today at
www.claremontinn.com or call 888-291-8910 A bed and breakfast, romantic getaway
and so much more.

Current Bid: $128.00 Retail Price: $377.00

LaCrosse Sofa from Fitzgerald Furniture in Ness City

Manufactured in Kansas by LaCrosse Furniture, this sofa has
a brown "suede" cover and two matching pillows. It's a neutral sofa
and would look good anywhere It measures 82 inches long X 37 inches deep X 35
inches tall.

Current Bid: $230.00 Retail Price: $1,020.00

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/eagle-radio-auction">HERE</a>&nbsp;to see all the latest deals from local merchants.

Register, bid and buy from the comfort of your own home!

The Eagle Radio of Hays Online Auction is currently underway!There are several great items to bid on including:$1,620&nbsp;certificate from Century StoneImprove the look of your home with stone accents from
Century Stone of Hays. Choose from a great selection of colors and designs.
Great for new home construction, home remodeling, fireplaces, retaining walls,
commercial property and more. Certificate is good for Approximately 90 feet.
And includes installation. All stone has a 50 year warranty. May not apply this
certificate to current account balance. Valid through October 31st 2020.
Century Stone of Hays. 785-261-1771.Current Bid: $210.00 Retail Price: $1,620.00Taste, Dine and Stay Package from Claremont Inn in Stratton,
ColoradoThe Claremont Inn Bed and Breakfast is now also a winery.
Along with your one night stay for two that includes dinner and breakfast for
two, it now includes a wine tasting event. All wines are crafted and bottled
right at the Claremont Inn. You get to try several new and exciting flavors.
Whether it’s a getaway, romance or a group get together, the Claremont Inn in
Stratton Colorado is just a short drive to relaxation. Choose from one of ten
themed rooms and enjoy a truly unique bed and breakfast that specializes in
making your trip everything you had hoped it would be. Go online today at
www.claremontinn.com or call 888-291-8910 A bed and breakfast, romantic getaway
and so much more.Current Bid: $128.00 Retail Price: $377.00LaCrosse Sofa from Fitzgerald Furniture in Ness CityManufactured in Kansas by LaCrosse Furniture, this sofa has
a brown "suede" cover and two matching pillows. It's a neutral sofa
and would look good anywhere It measures 82 inches long X 37 inches deep X 35
inches tall.Current Bid: $230.00 Retail Price: $1,020.00Click&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/eagle-radio-auction">HERE</a>&nbsp;to see all the latest deals from local merchants.Register, bid and buy from the comfort of your own home!

Eagle Radio Online Auction is underway!

Jane Buchholz, 91, died March 28, 2020, at Bethesda Home in Goessel. 

 She was born October 7, 1928, in WaKeeney, KS to Charles and Audrey (Kenyon) Surprise.  She married LaVerne Buchholz June 1, 1947, in Wakeeney. 

 Survivors include: son, DeVerne (Sue) Buchholz of rural Hillsboro; daughter, Jan (Leonard) Frantz of rural Hillsboro; 7 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; sister-in-laws, Norma Surprise of Fairfax, Ok, Donna Surprise of Lions, KS. 

 Predeceased by: husband, LaVerne Buchholz in 2020; son, Kirk Buchholz in 1969; brothers, Dell, Curtis, Boyd, David. 

 Due to COVID-19 all services will be private.  A Celebration of Life service will be held when the COVID-19 is no longer a health concern to the community. 

 Memorials to Bethesda Home in care of Jost Funeral Home P.O. Box 266 Hillsboro, KS 67063.  Online condolences at www.jostfuneralhome.com

Jane Buchholz, 91, died March 28, 2020, at Bethesda Home in Goessel. She was born October 7, 1928, in WaKeeney, KS to Charles and Audrey (Kenyon) Surprise. She married LaVerne Buchholz June 1, 1947, in Wakeeney. Survivors include: son, DeVerne (Sue) Buchholz of rural Hillsboro; daughter, Jan (Leonard) Frantz of rural Hillsboro; 7 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; sister-in-laws, Norma Surprise of Fairfax, Ok, Donna Surprise of Lions, KS. Predeceased by: husband, LaVerne Buchholz in 2020; son, Kirk Buchholz in 1969; brothers, Dell, Curtis, Boyd, David. Due to COVID-19 all services will be private. A Celebration of Life service will be held when the COVID-19 is no longer a health concern to the community. Memorials to Bethesda Home in care of Jost Funeral Home P.O. Box 266 Hillsboro, KS 67063. Online condolences at www.jostfuneralhome.com

Jane Buchholz

Evelyn Josephine Penka, 92, passed away March 28, 2020, at University
 Of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, Great Bend. She was born 
September 19, 1927, in rural Hoisington to John and Antonia (Langer) 
Stoss. Evelyn married Edward Lambert Penka October 15, 1947, in Olmitz. 
He died October 17, 2007.

Evelyn was a resident of Great Bend since 1967 moving from rural 
Beaver. She was a long time proud checker at Dillons and had a home 
cleaning service. Evelyn was a member of Prince of Peace Parish at St. 
Patrick Catholic Church, Altar Society, and enjoyed every aspect of 
homemaking, especially cooking, baking, sewing, crocheting, clothing 
fashion and ironing.

Survivors include her three children, Karen Wallace and husband Ken 
of Wichita, Kenneth Penka and wife Rhonda of Great Bend and Kathy Penka 
of Lenexa; one sister, Arlene Yarmer of Galatia; sister in law, Darlene 
Stoss of Hosington; ten grandchildren, Jeremy Penka, Grant Wallace, 
Dillon Wallace, Denise Dietz, Tony Penka, Gina Calhoon, Lisa Shepherd, 
Rolla Hansen, Garin Hansen and Emory Hansen; and 12 great grandchildren 
and one step great granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her 
husband, Edward; son, Dale; brother, Edward Stoss; and two sisters, Erma
 Schloctermeier and Leona Reichuber.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick 
Catholic Church in Great Bend with Father Don Bedore presiding. 
Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Beaver. Public visitation 
will be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2020, at Bryant 
Funeral Home. Public celebration of life services are pending, due to 
the Mass restrictions and limitations set forth by the Catholic Diocese,
 and will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials 
may be given to Holy Family School Endowment Fund, in care of Bryant 
Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585661534083.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Evelyn Josephine Penka, 92, passed away March 28, 2020, at University
 Of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus, Great Bend. She was born 
September 19, 1927, in rural Hoisington to John and Antonia (Langer) 
Stoss. Evelyn married Edward Lambert Penka October 15, 1947, in Olmitz. 
He died October 17, 2007.Evelyn was a resident of Great Bend since 1967 moving from rural 
Beaver. She was a long time proud checker at Dillons and had a home 
cleaning service. Evelyn was a member of Prince of Peace Parish at St. 
Patrick Catholic Church, Altar Society, and enjoyed every aspect of 
homemaking, especially cooking, baking, sewing, crocheting, clothing 
fashion and ironing.Survivors include her three children, Karen Wallace and husband Ken 
of Wichita, Kenneth Penka and wife Rhonda of Great Bend and Kathy Penka 
of Lenexa; one sister, Arlene Yarmer of Galatia; sister in law, Darlene 
Stoss of Hosington; ten grandchildren, Jeremy Penka, Grant Wallace, 
Dillon Wallace, Denise Dietz, Tony Penka, Gina Calhoon, Lisa Shepherd, 
Rolla Hansen, Garin Hansen and Emory Hansen; and 12 great grandchildren 
and one step great granddaughter. She was preceded in death by her 
husband, Edward; son, Dale; brother, Edward Stoss; and two sisters, Erma
 Schloctermeier and Leona Reichuber.A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick 
Catholic Church in Great Bend with Father Don Bedore presiding. 
Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Beaver. Public visitation 
will be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2020, at Bryant 
Funeral Home. Public celebration of life services are pending, due to 
the Mass restrictions and limitations set forth by the Catholic Diocese,
 and will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials 
may be given to Holy Family School Endowment Fund, in care of Bryant 
Funeral Home.

Evelyn Josephine Penka

Jean Ann Turley, age 82, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2020 at her home in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on January 8, 1938 in Minneola, Kansas, the daughter of George S. and Marie A. Thomas Dauma.&nbsp; A resident of Scott City, Kansas since 1948 moving from Colorado, she was an EMT, School Bus Driver and a cashier at Casper Foods until her retirement.

She was a member of the Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Scott City, Kansas.

On October 31, 1954 she married Melvin Q. Turley in Raton, New Mexico.&nbsp; He passed away on December 2, 1990 in Ulysses, Kansas.

Survivors include her Three Sons - David &amp; Evelina Turley of Scott City, Kansas, Nathan &amp; Jackie Turley of Scott City, Kansas, Keith Turley of Phoenix, Arizona, Two Nieces - Connie Wright of Scott City, Kansas, Kathy Wright of Scott City, Kansas, Thirteen Grandchildren, Twenty Two Great Grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, One Son - Noel Turley, One Sister - Evelyn, several Grandsons and One Great Granddaughter.

Due to the current virus situation, Private Family Graveside services will be heldlater this week with Rev. Warren Prochnow presiding and Memorial service for the public will be held at a later date.&nbsp;

Interment will be in the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp;

Memorials In Lieu of Flowers can be made to the Jean Turley Memorial Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.

Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Scott City, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585598123852.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Jean Ann Turley, age 82, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2020 at her home in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on January 8, 1938 in Minneola, Kansas, the daughter of George S. and Marie A. Thomas Dauma.&nbsp; A resident of Scott City, Kansas since 1948 moving from Colorado, she was an EMT, School Bus Driver and a cashier at Casper Foods until her retirement.She was a member of the Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Scott City, Kansas.On October 31, 1954 she married Melvin Q. Turley in Raton, New Mexico.&nbsp; He passed away on December 2, 1990 in Ulysses, Kansas.Survivors include her Three Sons - David &amp; Evelina Turley of Scott City, Kansas, Nathan &amp; Jackie Turley of Scott City, Kansas, Keith Turley of Phoenix, Arizona, Two Nieces - Connie Wright of Scott City, Kansas, Kathy Wright of Scott City, Kansas, Thirteen Grandchildren, Twenty Two Great Grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her Parents, Husband, One Son - Noel Turley, One Sister - Evelyn, several Grandsons and One Great Granddaughter.Due to the current virus situation, Private Family Graveside services will be heldlater this week with Rev. Warren Prochnow presiding and Memorial service for the public will be held at a later date.&nbsp;Interment will be in the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp;Memorials In Lieu of Flowers can be made to the Jean Turley Memorial Fund in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Scott City, Kansas.

Jean Ann Turley

UNDATED (AP) — The final pitch of the 2020 baseball season could be thrown closer to Christmas than Halloween. Major League Baseball owners ratified a 17-page agreement with the union Friday with players willing to extend the season as long as needed to cover as close to a full schedule as possible.

If the season had started on schedule Thursday, Game 7 of the World Series would be Oct. 28. But with opening day postponed until mid-May at the earliest, the sides have discussed a regular season extending into October and a postseason in November.

UNDATED (AP) — The final pitch of the 2020 baseball season could be thrown closer to Christmas than Halloween. Major League Baseball owners ratified a 17-page agreement with the union Friday with players willing to extend the season as long as needed to cover as close to a full schedule as possible.If the season had started on schedule Thursday, Game 7 of the World Series would be Oct. 28. But with opening day postponed until mid-May at the earliest, the sides have discussed a regular season extending into October and a postseason in November.

MLB could extend baseball season into early winter

Audrey Ann Pavlicek was born July 14, 1942 in Oberlin, KS to Donald 
Charles and Mary Christine (Fisher) Lemman. She passed away March 26, 
2020 in Oberlin at the age of 77.


Audrey grew up in Oberlin, KS and graduated from Decatur County High
 School in 1960. She went on to graduate from McCook Jr. College in 1962
 and Kearney College in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary 
Education. Audrey married Murry Dean Pavlicek on October 26, 1961 at the
 Oberlin Covenant Church. She began her teaching career at a Country 
School in District 91 in Frontier County, NE for six years teaching K-8 
grades then in 1968 they moved to McCook, NE and she taught 4th Grade at
 Eastward Elementary for three years. In 1971, she taught Preschool in 
Denver before returning to Oberlin in 1974. Audrey started out as a 
substitute teacher then taught at Norcatur Elementary School 1st-3rd 
grades for 10 years until the school closed in 1985. She then began 
teaching at Oberlin Elementary School, teaching one year of 
Kindergarten, then 5th grade, and finished her career teaching 1st grade
 until her retirement in 2004. She loved teaching so much that she 
continued tutoring students during the summer. Audrey loved having her 
student do plays/programs. She would have Murry help build the sets and 
set them up. 


Audrey loved her family and had many fond memories of growing up 
with her cousins, playing cowboys and Indians, paper dolls, coloring and
 reading. Audrey sold Home Interiors for 10 years, earning a trip to 
Hawaii for two, which she traded in for a trip to Florida for four. The 
whole family got to go to Walt Disney World, Sea World, and Busch 
Gardens. She was a member of KNEA and was a past president of the 
Lioness Club. Audrey loved reading, embroidery and making doll clothes 
for Kelli and Kristi’s dolls. She also enjoyed bowling, playing Bingo 
and watching Days of Our Lives and Dallas. 


Audrey devoted her life to her parents, sisters and brother, 
husband, daughters, nieces and nephews and her beloved grandchildren. 
She attended every event possible that her family was involved in. She 
spent many hours babysitting Kerri’s boys while she worked and got her 
master’s degree. She valued family and loved family reunions; she was 
their rock. Audrey had a beautiful smile and was rarely seen without it.
 Her family will never forget “Audrey is a good girl”.


Audrey was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Mary Lemman;
 sister, Dona VanPelt and brothers-in-law, Roy VanPelt and Steve Newton.
 She is survived by her husband, Murry of the home; children: Kelli 
Butherus (Daniel) of Wichita, KS and Kerri Schippers (Marvin Kaus) of 
Hoxie, KS; siblings: Janet Wright (Stephen) of Hays, KS, Donnie Lemman 
(Gerry) of Hays, KS, Carol Hodson (Scott) of Omaha, NE; brother-in-law, 
Cletus Knipp of Hays, KS; sister-in-law, Marcia Lemman of Salina, KS; 
grandchildren: Kollyn Schippers of Oberlin, KS, Mark Schippers of Colby,
 KS, Luke Schippers of Hoxie, KS, Clay and Erin Butherus of Wichita, KS 
and 16 nieces and nephews.


Funeral services will be 11:00 am Monday, March 30, 2020 at Pauls 
Funeral Home for immediate family only. Burial will follow at Oberlin 
Cemetery. Visitation will be 1-5:00 pm Sunday, March 29, 2020 at Pauls 
Funeral Home in Oberlin. Public is welcome but we will need to limit the
 numbers in the building and social distancing practices must be 
followed. Memorial contributions may be made to Decatur Health Systems 
or the Oberlin City Library. Condolences may be left at www.paulsfh.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585341349246.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Audrey Ann Pavlicek was born July 14, 1942 in Oberlin, KS to Donald 
Charles and Mary Christine (Fisher) Lemman. She passed away March 26, 
2020 in Oberlin at the age of 77.
Audrey grew up in Oberlin, KS and graduated from Decatur County High
 School in 1960. She went on to graduate from McCook Jr. College in 1962
 and Kearney College in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary 
Education. Audrey married Murry Dean Pavlicek on October 26, 1961 at the
 Oberlin Covenant Church. She began her teaching career at a Country 
School in District 91 in Frontier County, NE for six years teaching K-8 
grades then in 1968 they moved to McCook, NE and she taught 4th Grade at
 Eastward Elementary for three years. In 1971, she taught Preschool in 
Denver before returning to Oberlin in 1974. Audrey started out as a 
substitute teacher then taught at Norcatur Elementary School 1st-3rd 
grades for 10 years until the school closed in 1985. She then began 
teaching at Oberlin Elementary School, teaching one year of 
Kindergarten, then 5th grade, and finished her career teaching 1st grade
 until her retirement in 2004. She loved teaching so much that she 
continued tutoring students during the summer. Audrey loved having her 
student do plays/programs. She would have Murry help build the sets and 
set them up. 
Audrey loved her family and had many fond memories of growing up 
with her cousins, playing cowboys and Indians, paper dolls, coloring and
 reading. Audrey sold Home Interiors for 10 years, earning a trip to 
Hawaii for two, which she traded in for a trip to Florida for four. The 
whole family got to go to Walt Disney World, Sea World, and Busch 
Gardens. She was a member of KNEA and was a past president of the 
Lioness Club. Audrey loved reading, embroidery and making doll clothes 
for Kelli and Kristi’s dolls. She also enjoyed bowling, playing Bingo 
and watching Days of Our Lives and Dallas. 
Audrey devoted her life to her parents, sisters and brother, 
husband, daughters, nieces and nephews and her beloved grandchildren. 
She attended every event possible that her family was involved in. She 
spent many hours babysitting Kerri’s boys while she worked and got her 
master’s degree. She valued family and loved family reunions; she was 
their rock. Audrey had a beautiful smile and was rarely seen without it.
 Her family will never forget “Audrey is a good girl”.
Audrey was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Mary Lemman;
 sister, Dona VanPelt and brothers-in-law, Roy VanPelt and Steve Newton.
 She is survived by her husband, Murry of the home; children: Kelli 
Butherus (Daniel) of Wichita, KS and Kerri Schippers (Marvin Kaus) of 
Hoxie, KS; siblings: Janet Wright (Stephen) of Hays, KS, Donnie Lemman 
(Gerry) of Hays, KS, Carol Hodson (Scott) of Omaha, NE; brother-in-law, 
Cletus Knipp of Hays, KS; sister-in-law, Marcia Lemman of Salina, KS; 
grandchildren: Kollyn Schippers of Oberlin, KS, Mark Schippers of Colby,
 KS, Luke Schippers of Hoxie, KS, Clay and Erin Butherus of Wichita, KS 
and 16 nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 11:00 am Monday, March 30, 2020 at Pauls 
Funeral Home for immediate family only. Burial will follow at Oberlin 
Cemetery. Visitation will be 1-5:00 pm Sunday, March 29, 2020 at Pauls 
Funeral Home in Oberlin. Public is welcome but we will need to limit the
 numbers in the building and social distancing practices must be 
followed. Memorial contributions may be made to Decatur Health Systems 
or the Oberlin City Library. Condolences may be left at www.paulsfh.com

Audrey Ann Pavlicek

Patricia Ann “Patty” (Karst) Bricker, 67, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Thursday, March 12, 2020 at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

Patty was born December 
7, 1952 in Russell.&nbsp; She was one of five children born to Nathan and 
Dorothy (Anderson) Karst.&nbsp; She grew up in Russell a few years before 
moving to Ellis, Kansas.&nbsp; She graduated from Ellis High School in the 
Class of 1970.

Patty was united in 
marriage to Herman Joseph Bricker on October 14, 1972 in Gorham, 
Kansas.&nbsp; This union was blessed with two children; Sandy and Chris.&nbsp; 
They made their home in the Gorham area and then in the Russell area.&nbsp; 
Herman preceded her in death on November 3, 2019.

Patty was involved with 
food services and bartending at several businesses in the Russell and 
Gorham area.&nbsp; She worked at Russell Elks Lodge, owner and operator of 
the Gorham Café, Log Cabin, Jerry’s Place, Waudby’s and was a dietary 
manager for the Russell Regional Hospital and the Sterling House in 
Hays.&nbsp; She was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Gorham.&nbsp; 
She also was a member of the Russell V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary and the 
Russell Elks Lodge.&nbsp; Patty was “a person who never know a stranger” and 
was always willing to help others the best she could.&nbsp; She enjoyed 
fishing, playing bingo and pitch and loved to spoil her grandchildren.

Patty’s surviving family
 include her daughter, Sandy Boos (Tom Batt) of Russell, Kansas; son, 
Chris Bricker (Shani) of Taft, California; brother, Ed Karst (Nancy) of 
Aurora, Colorado; two sisters, Kathy Hashenberger (Dave) of Russell, 
Kansas and Kay Scheck (Butch) of Russell, Kansas; three grandchildren, 
Craig Boos (Victoria) of Wichita, Kansas, Jakob Boos (Elle) of Hays, 
Kansas and Kiera Bricker of Taft, California; and many nieces and 
nephews.

Patty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother, Steve Karst.

Services at this 
time are pending and cremation has been selected by the family.&nbsp; Please 
check back later for confirmed funeral service date and time.&nbsp; 
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the 
memorial services.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585232022487.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia Ann “Patty” (Karst) Bricker, 67, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Thursday, March 12, 2020 at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.Patty was born December 
7, 1952 in Russell.&nbsp; She was one of five children born to Nathan and 
Dorothy (Anderson) Karst.&nbsp; She grew up in Russell a few years before 
moving to Ellis, Kansas.&nbsp; She graduated from Ellis High School in the 
Class of 1970.Patty was united in 
marriage to Herman Joseph Bricker on October 14, 1972 in Gorham, 
Kansas.&nbsp; This union was blessed with two children; Sandy and Chris.&nbsp; 
They made their home in the Gorham area and then in the Russell area.&nbsp; 
Herman preceded her in death on November 3, 2019.Patty was involved with 
food services and bartending at several businesses in the Russell and 
Gorham area.&nbsp; She worked at Russell Elks Lodge, owner and operator of 
the Gorham Café, Log Cabin, Jerry’s Place, Waudby’s and was a dietary 
manager for the Russell Regional Hospital and the Sterling House in 
Hays.&nbsp; She was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Gorham.&nbsp; 
She also was a member of the Russell V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary and the 
Russell Elks Lodge.&nbsp; Patty was “a person who never know a stranger” and 
was always willing to help others the best she could.&nbsp; She enjoyed 
fishing, playing bingo and pitch and loved to spoil her grandchildren.Patty’s surviving family
 include her daughter, Sandy Boos (Tom Batt) of Russell, Kansas; son, 
Chris Bricker (Shani) of Taft, California; brother, Ed Karst (Nancy) of 
Aurora, Colorado; two sisters, Kathy Hashenberger (Dave) of Russell, 
Kansas and Kay Scheck (Butch) of Russell, Kansas; three grandchildren, 
Craig Boos (Victoria) of Wichita, Kansas, Jakob Boos (Elle) of Hays, 
Kansas and Kiera Bricker of Taft, California; and many nieces and 
nephews.Patty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother, Steve Karst.Services at this 
time are pending and cremation has been selected by the family.&nbsp; Please 
check back later for confirmed funeral service date and time.&nbsp; 
Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell, Kansas, is in charge of the 
memorial services.

Patricia Ann 'Patty' (Karst) Bricker

Betty Joan Poppelreiter, 79, died March 18, 2020, at Tiffany Springs 
Senior Living and Rehabilitation Center, Kansas City, Missouri. She was 
born November 21, 1940, in Claflin, Kansas, the daughter of William and 
Elizabeth (Muller) Randeberg. Betty graduated from Claflin High School 
in 1958.

On May 1, 1965, she married Robert A. Poppelreiter at the Holy Name 
Catholic Church in Bushton, Kansas. He preceded her in death on October 
10, 2017.

A lifelong resident of Claflin, Betty worked for the Farmers and 
Merchants Bank of Claflin from 1958 to 1974. It was then that she 
decided to stay home and raise her family. In the 1990’s she returned to
 work at the Petroleum Club in Great Bend. After that she worked part 
time at Keating’s Grocery Store in Claflin for a few years.

Betty was a member of the United Methodist Women of Claflin. She 
enjoyed shopping, visiting with friends, collecting recipes and spending
 time with her grandkids.

She is survived by her daughters, Amie Attebery and husband Eric of 
Kansas City, Missouri; Julie Pletcher and husband Dan of Lawrence and 
Portis, Kansas; grandchildren, Ocean, Callie, Macy, and Ava Attebery of 
Kansas City, Missouri, and Jade and Dane Colclasure of Lawrence.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband; sisters, Viola Talbot and Violet Krebbs; and a brother, Kenneth Radenberg.

Betty’s wishes were to not have a funeral just a visitation. Given 
the current Covid-19 social precautions we have decided to postpone a 
visitation at this time. Interment will take place at a later date in 
the Claflin Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Golden Belt Humane Society, as she had a
 great love of animals, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 
146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585090397675.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Betty Joan Poppelreiter, 79, died March 18, 2020, at Tiffany Springs 
Senior Living and Rehabilitation Center, Kansas City, Missouri. She was 
born November 21, 1940, in Claflin, Kansas, the daughter of William and 
Elizabeth (Muller) Randeberg. Betty graduated from Claflin High School 
in 1958.On May 1, 1965, she married Robert A. Poppelreiter at the Holy Name 
Catholic Church in Bushton, Kansas. He preceded her in death on October 
10, 2017.A lifelong resident of Claflin, Betty worked for the Farmers and 
Merchants Bank of Claflin from 1958 to 1974. It was then that she 
decided to stay home and raise her family. In the 1990’s she returned to
 work at the Petroleum Club in Great Bend. After that she worked part 
time at Keating’s Grocery Store in Claflin for a few years.Betty was a member of the United Methodist Women of Claflin. She 
enjoyed shopping, visiting with friends, collecting recipes and spending
 time with her grandkids.She is survived by her daughters, Amie Attebery and husband Eric of 
Kansas City, Missouri; Julie Pletcher and husband Dan of Lawrence and 
Portis, Kansas; grandchildren, Ocean, Callie, Macy, and Ava Attebery of 
Kansas City, Missouri, and Jade and Dane Colclasure of Lawrence.She was preceded in death by her parents, husband; sisters, Viola Talbot and Violet Krebbs; and a brother, Kenneth Radenberg.Betty’s wishes were to not have a funeral just a visitation. Given 
the current Covid-19 social precautions we have decided to postpone a 
visitation at this time. Interment will take place at a later date in 
the Claflin Cemetery.Memorials may be made to the Golden Belt Humane Society, as she had a
 great love of animals, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 
146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

Betty Joan Poppelreiter

Josephine P. (Carlock) Lorance, daughter of James and Daisy Carlock, was born October 4th, 1926 in Eckley, CO and passed away Saturday, March 21st, 2020 in Norton, KS at the age of 93.

She grew to womanhood in and around Wray, CO and Haigler,
 NE and attended country school in Haigler, graduating from the 8th grade in 1941.&nbsp; She met Alfred L. Lorance and at a young age they married on February 7th,
 1942 at Golden, CO.&nbsp; They lived in Denver, CO and in 1945 they moved to
 Wray, CO.&nbsp; Then in 1948 the couple moved to Norton, KS where Al started
 his own business, the Country Cobbler, and Jo went to work for 
Duckwalls until she retired in 1987.&nbsp; Al and Jo were married 54 years 
when Al passed away in 1996.

&nbsp;Jo enjoyed being home working in her flower garden and 
helping Al tend to his gardening.&nbsp; They both enjoyed traveling and 
meeting with their friends.&nbsp; She was a faithful member of the Community 
Full Gospel Church in Norton, serving as Sunday School Teacher and 
Church Secretary.

Survivors include a daughter Reges Caren and husband 
James L. Ohlsen of Norton, KS; son Barry of Lubbock, TX; 8 
grandchildren; 2 step grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; and 2 gret 
great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 4 brothers, 3 
sisters, husband Al, son Gary L., grandchild Ben, 2 daughter’s-in-law 
and other relatives and friends.

Private family inurnment will take place at a later date in the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Almena, KS.

Josephine P. (Carlock) Lorance, daughter of James and Daisy Carlock, was born October 4th, 1926 in Eckley, CO and passed away Saturday, March 21st, 2020 in Norton, KS at the age of 93.She grew to womanhood in and around Wray, CO and Haigler,
 NE and attended country school in Haigler, graduating from the 8th grade in 1941.&nbsp; She met Alfred L. Lorance and at a young age they married on February 7th,
 1942 at Golden, CO.&nbsp; They lived in Denver, CO and in 1945 they moved to
 Wray, CO.&nbsp; Then in 1948 the couple moved to Norton, KS where Al started
 his own business, the Country Cobbler, and Jo went to work for 
Duckwalls until she retired in 1987.&nbsp; Al and Jo were married 54 years 
when Al passed away in 1996.&nbsp;Jo enjoyed being home working in her flower garden and 
helping Al tend to his gardening.&nbsp; They both enjoyed traveling and 
meeting with their friends.&nbsp; She was a faithful member of the Community 
Full Gospel Church in Norton, serving as Sunday School Teacher and 
Church Secretary.Survivors include a daughter Reges Caren and husband 
James L. Ohlsen of Norton, KS; son Barry of Lubbock, TX; 8 
grandchildren; 2 step grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; and 2 gret 
great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents, 4 brothers, 3 
sisters, husband Al, son Gary L., grandchild Ben, 2 daughter’s-in-law 
and other relatives and friends.Private family inurnment will take place at a later date in the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Almena, KS.

Josephine P. (Carlock) Lorance

Virginia K. Clinton, age 61, passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2020 at her home in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on October 23, 1958 in Scott City, Kansas, the daughter of Reece and Delores Thon Roemer.&nbsp; A resident of Scott City, Kansas since 1981 moving from Healy, Kansas, she was a Bookkeeper and Grain Merchandiser for Scott Coop for 38 years.

She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Scott City, Kansas and was a member of the United Methodist Women.

On April 11, 1981 she married Darryl Clinton in Healy, Kansas.&nbsp; He survives.

Survivors include her Husband - Darryl Clinton of Scott City, Kansas, Two Sons - Matthew &amp; Marissa Clinton of Scott City, Kansas, Jeremy Clinton of Scott City, Kansas, Mother - Delores Roemer of Scott City, Kansas, Two Grandchildren - Kale Clinton and Karli Clinton of Scott City, Kansas, and Three Brothers - Vernon &amp; Michelle Roemer of Colby, Kansas, Kenneth &amp; Dana Roemer of Emporia, Kansas, Dennis &amp; Janet Roemer of Edmond, Oklahoma.

She was preceded in death by her Father - Reece Roemer.

Graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas with Rev. Bud Tuxhorn presiding.&nbsp;

Memorials In Lieu of Flowers can be made to the United Methodist Women in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.

Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Scott City, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585059463393.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Virginia K. Clinton, age 61, passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2020 at her home in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp; She was born on October 23, 1958 in Scott City, Kansas, the daughter of Reece and Delores Thon Roemer.&nbsp; A resident of Scott City, Kansas since 1981 moving from Healy, Kansas, she was a Bookkeeper and Grain Merchandiser for Scott Coop for 38 years.She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Scott City, Kansas and was a member of the United Methodist Women.On April 11, 1981 she married Darryl Clinton in Healy, Kansas.&nbsp; He survives.Survivors include her Husband - Darryl Clinton of Scott City, Kansas, Two Sons - Matthew &amp; Marissa Clinton of Scott City, Kansas, Jeremy Clinton of Scott City, Kansas, Mother - Delores Roemer of Scott City, Kansas, Two Grandchildren - Kale Clinton and Karli Clinton of Scott City, Kansas, and Three Brothers - Vernon &amp; Michelle Roemer of Colby, Kansas, Kenneth &amp; Dana Roemer of Emporia, Kansas, Dennis &amp; Janet Roemer of Edmond, Oklahoma.She was preceded in death by her Father - Reece Roemer.Graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas with Rev. Bud Tuxhorn presiding.&nbsp;Interment will be in the Scott County Cemetery in Scott City, Kansas.&nbsp;Memorials In Lieu of Flowers can be made to the United Methodist Women in care of Price and Sons Funeral Home.Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Scott City, Kansas.

Virginia K. Clinton

Niki Leone Murray, 75, passed away March 20, 2020, at Hospice House, 
Hutchinson. She was born October 11, 1944, at Brisbane, Australia, to 
John Vincent and Diane (Tattersal) Murray.

A long-time resident of Holyrood, Niki was loving mother, grandmother
 and caregiver for her family. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic 
Church, Holyrood, and enjoyed reading and all animals.

Survivors include two daughters, Desiree Werth of Holyrood and Dawn 
Feist of Great Bend; seven grandchildren, Ashley Rios, Keshia Werth, 
Sydney Werth, Jotni Pankey, Kialy Giesking, Brianna Feist and Kirsten 
Feist; seven great grandchildren; and one sister, Jacquline Yager of 
Holyrood. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Diane 
Murray; one daughter, Sue Murray, and one brother, John Vincent Murray, 
II.

Funeral will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2020, at Bryant Funeral 
Home, with Father Don Bedore presiding. Interment will follow at Holy 
Family Cemetery, Odin. Due to restrictions and limitations set forth by 
the State of Kansas, limited attendance will be allowed. Visitation will
 be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, March 26, at Bryant Funeral 
Home. Memorials may be given to the Niki Murray Expense Fund, in care of
 Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584892015225.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Niki Leone Murray, 75, passed away March 20, 2020, at Hospice House, 
Hutchinson. She was born October 11, 1944, at Brisbane, Australia, to 
John Vincent and Diane (Tattersal) Murray.A long-time resident of Holyrood, Niki was loving mother, grandmother
 and caregiver for her family. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic 
Church, Holyrood, and enjoyed reading and all animals.Survivors include two daughters, Desiree Werth of Holyrood and Dawn 
Feist of Great Bend; seven grandchildren, Ashley Rios, Keshia Werth, 
Sydney Werth, Jotni Pankey, Kialy Giesking, Brianna Feist and Kirsten 
Feist; seven great grandchildren; and one sister, Jacquline Yager of 
Holyrood. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Diane 
Murray; one daughter, Sue Murray, and one brother, John Vincent Murray, 
II.Funeral will be 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2020, at Bryant Funeral 
Home, with Father Don Bedore presiding. Interment will follow at Holy 
Family Cemetery, Odin. Due to restrictions and limitations set forth by 
the State of Kansas, limited attendance will be allowed. Visitation will
 be from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday, March 26, at Bryant Funeral 
Home. Memorials may be given to the Niki Murray Expense Fund, in care of
 Bryant Funeral Home.

Niki Leone Murray

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. (AP) — Actor-singer Kenny Rogers, the smooth, Grammy-winning balladeer who spanned jazz, folk, country and pop with such hits as “Lucille,” “Lady” and “Islands in the Stream” and embraced his persona as “The Gambler” on record and on TV, died Friday night. He was 81.

He died at home in Sandy Springs, Georgia, representative Keith Hagan told The Associated Press. He was under hospice care and died of natural causes, Hagan said.

The Houston-born performer with the husky voice and silver beard sold tens of millions of records, won three Grammys and was the star of TV movies based on “The Gambler” and other songs, making him a superstar in the ‘70s and ’80s. Rogers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMOyCIAbCVo">thrived for some 60 years</a>&nbsp;before retired from touring in 2017 at age 79. Despite his crossover success, he always preferred to be thought of as a country singer.

“You either do what everyone else is doing and you do it better, or you do what no one else is doing and you don’t invite comparison,” Rogers told The Associated Press in 2015. “And I chose that way because I could never be better than Johnny Cash or Willie or Waylon at what they did. So I found something that I could do that didn’t invite comparison to them. And I think people thought it was my desire to change country music. But that was never my issue.”

“Kenny was one of those artists who transcended beyond one format and geographic borders,” says Sarah Trahern, chief executive officer of the Country Music Association. “He was a global superstar who helped introduce country music to audiences all around the world."

Rogers was a five-time CMA Award winner, as well as the recipient of the CMA's Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, the same year he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He received 10 awards from the Academy of Country Music. He sold more than 47 million records in the United States alone, according to the Recording Industry Association of America.

A true rags-to-riches story, Rogers was raised in public housing in Houston Heights with seven siblings. As a 20-year-old, he had a gold single called “That Crazy Feeling,” under the name Kenneth Rogers, but when that early success stalled, he joined a jazz group, the Bobby Doyle Trio, as a standup bass player.

But his breakthrough came when he was asked to join the New Christy Minstrels, a folk group, in 1966. The band reformed as First Edition and scored a pop hit with the psychedelic song, “Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In).” Rogers and First Edition mixed country-rock and folk on songs like “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town,” a story of a Vietnam veteran begging his girlfriend to stay.

After the group broke up in 1974, Rogers started his solo career and found a big hit with the sad country ballad “Lucille,” in 1977, which crossed over to the pop charts and earned Rogers his first Grammy. Suddenly the star, Rogers added hit after hit for more than a decade.

“The Gambler,” the Grammy-winning story song penned by Don Schlitz, came out in 1978 and became his signature song with a signature refrain: “You gotta know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ’em.” The song spawned a hit TV movie of the same name and several more sequels featuring Rogers as professional gambler Brady Hawkes, and led to a lengthy side career for Rogers as a TV actor and host of several TV specials.

Other hits included “You Decorated My Life,” “Every Time Two Fools Collide” with Dottie West, “Don’t Fall In Love with a Dreamer” with Kim Carnes, and “Coward of the County.” One of his biggest successes was “Lady,” written by Lionel Richie, a chart topper for six weeks straight in 1980. Richie said in a 2017 interview with the AP that he often didn’t finish songs until he had already pitched them, which was the case for “Lady.”

“In the beginning, the song was called, ‘Baby,'” Richie said. “And because when I first sat with him, for the first 30 minutes, all he talked about was he just got married to a real lady. A country guy like him is married to a lady. So, he said, ‘By the way, what’s the name of the song?’” Richie replies: “Lady.”

Over the years, Rogers worked often with female duet partners, most memorably, Dolly Parton. The two were paired at the suggestion of the Bee Gees’ Barry Gibb, who wrote “Islands in the Stream.”

“Barry was producing an album on me and he gave me this song,” Rogers told the AP in 2017. “And I went and learned it and went into the studio and sang it for four days. And I finally looked at him and said, ‘Barry, I don’t even like this song anymore.’ And he said, ‘You know what we need? We need Dolly Parton.’ I thought, ‘Man, that guy is a visionary.’”

Coincidentally, Parton was actually in the same recording studio in Los Angeles when the idea came up.

“From the moment she marched into that room, that song never sounded the same,” Rogers said. “It took on a whole new spirit.”

The two singers toured together, including in Australia and New Zealand in 1984 and 1987, and were featured in a HBO concert special. Over the years the two would continue to record together, including their last duet, “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” which was released in 2013. Parton&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgM7yI-SmMY">reprised “Islands in the Stream”</a>&nbsp;with Rogers during his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b21e73bf0eae4265835c8d8943132223">all-star retirement concert</a>&nbsp;held in Nashville in October 2017.

Rogers invested his time and money in a lot of other endeavors over his career, including a passion for photography that led to several books, as well as an autobiography, “Making It With Music.” He had a chain of restaurants called Kenny Rogers Roasters and was a partner behind a riverboat in Branson, Missouri. He was also involved in numerous charitable causes, among them the Red Cross and MusiCares, and was part of the all-star “We are the World” recording for famine relief.

By the '90s, his ability to chart hits had waned, although he still remained a popular live entertainer with regular touring. Still he was an inventive businessman and never stopped trying to find his way back onto the charts.

At the age of 61, Rogers had a brief comeback on the country charts in 2000 with a hit song “Buy Me A Rose,” thanks to his other favorite medium, television. Producers of the series “Touched By An Angel” wanted him to appear in an episode, and one of his managers suggested the episode be based on his latest single. That cross-promotional event earned him his first No. 1 country song in 13 years.

Rogers is survived by his wife, Wanda, and his sons Justin, Jordan, Chris and Kenny Jr., as well as two brothers, a sister and grandchildren, nieces and nephews, his representative said. The family is planning a private service “out of concern for the national COVID-19 emergency,” a statement posted early Saturday read. A public memorial will be held at a later date.

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. (AP) — Actor-singer Kenny Rogers, the smooth, Grammy-winning balladeer who spanned jazz, folk, country and pop with such hits as “Lucille,” “Lady” and “Islands in the Stream” and embraced his persona as “The Gambler” on record and on TV, died Friday night. He was 81.He died at home in Sandy Springs, Georgia, representative Keith Hagan told The Associated Press. He was under hospice care and died of natural causes, Hagan said.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKennyRogersOfficial%2Fposts%2F3184449164918803&width=500" width="500" height="510" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>The Houston-born performer with the husky voice and silver beard sold tens of millions of records, won three Grammys and was the star of TV movies based on “The Gambler” and other songs, making him a superstar in the ‘70s and ’80s. Rogers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMOyCIAbCVo">thrived for some 60 years</a>&nbsp;before retired from touring in 2017 at age 79. Despite his crossover success, he always preferred to be thought of as a country singer.“You either do what everyone else is doing and you do it better, or you do what no one else is doing and you don’t invite comparison,” Rogers told The Associated Press in 2015. “And I chose that way because I could never be better than Johnny Cash or Willie or Waylon at what they did. So I found something that I could do that didn’t invite comparison to them. And I think people thought it was my desire to change country music. But that was never my issue.”“Kenny was one of those artists who transcended beyond one format and geographic borders,” says Sarah Trahern, chief executive officer of the Country Music Association. “He was a global superstar who helped introduce country music to audiences all around the world."Rogers was a five-time CMA Award winner, as well as the recipient of the CMA's Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, the same year he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He received 10 awards from the Academy of Country Music. He sold more than 47 million records in the United States alone, according to the Recording Industry Association of America.A true rags-to-riches story, Rogers was raised in public housing in Houston Heights with seven siblings. As a 20-year-old, he had a gold single called “That Crazy Feeling,” under the name Kenneth Rogers, but when that early success stalled, he joined a jazz group, the Bobby Doyle Trio, as a standup bass player.But his breakthrough came when he was asked to join the New Christy Minstrels, a folk group, in 1966. The band reformed as First Edition and scored a pop hit with the psychedelic song, “Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In).” Rogers and First Edition mixed country-rock and folk on songs like “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town,” a story of a Vietnam veteran begging his girlfriend to stay.After the group broke up in 1974, Rogers started his solo career and found a big hit with the sad country ballad “Lucille,” in 1977, which crossed over to the pop charts and earned Rogers his first Grammy. Suddenly the star, Rogers added hit after hit for more than a decade.“The Gambler,” the Grammy-winning story song penned by Don Schlitz, came out in 1978 and became his signature song with a signature refrain: “You gotta know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ’em.” The song spawned a hit TV movie of the same name and several more sequels featuring Rogers as professional gambler Brady Hawkes, and led to a lengthy side career for Rogers as a TV actor and host of several TV specials.Other hits included “You Decorated My Life,” “Every Time Two Fools Collide” with Dottie West, “Don’t Fall In Love with a Dreamer” with Kim Carnes, and “Coward of the County.” One of his biggest successes was “Lady,” written by Lionel Richie, a chart topper for six weeks straight in 1980. Richie said in a 2017 interview with the AP that he often didn’t finish songs until he had already pitched them, which was the case for “Lady.”“In the beginning, the song was called, ‘Baby,'” Richie said. “And because when I first sat with him, for the first 30 minutes, all he talked about was he just got married to a real lady. A country guy like him is married to a lady. So, he said, ‘By the way, what’s the name of the song?’” Richie replies: “Lady.”Over the years, Rogers worked often with female duet partners, most memorably, Dolly Parton. The two were paired at the suggestion of the Bee Gees’ Barry Gibb, who wrote “Islands in the Stream.”“Barry was producing an album on me and he gave me this song,” Rogers told the AP in 2017. “And I went and learned it and went into the studio and sang it for four days. And I finally looked at him and said, ‘Barry, I don’t even like this song anymore.’ And he said, ‘You know what we need? We need Dolly Parton.’ I thought, ‘Man, that guy is a visionary.’”Coincidentally, Parton was actually in the same recording studio in Los Angeles when the idea came up.“From the moment she marched into that room, that song never sounded the same,” Rogers said. “It took on a whole new spirit.”The two singers toured together, including in Australia and New Zealand in 1984 and 1987, and were featured in a HBO concert special. Over the years the two would continue to record together, including their last duet, “You Can’t Make Old Friends,” which was released in 2013. Parton&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgM7yI-SmMY">reprised “Islands in the Stream”</a>&nbsp;with Rogers during his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/b21e73bf0eae4265835c8d8943132223">all-star retirement concert</a>&nbsp;held in Nashville in October 2017.Rogers invested his time and money in a lot of other endeavors over his career, including a passion for photography that led to several books, as well as an autobiography, “Making It With Music.” He had a chain of restaurants called Kenny Rogers Roasters and was a partner behind a riverboat in Branson, Missouri. He was also involved in numerous charitable causes, among them the Red Cross and MusiCares, and was part of the all-star “We are the World” recording for famine relief.By the '90s, his ability to chart hits had waned, although he still remained a popular live entertainer with regular touring. Still he was an inventive businessman and never stopped trying to find his way back onto the charts.At the age of 61, Rogers had a brief comeback on the country charts in 2000 with a hit song “Buy Me A Rose,” thanks to his other favorite medium, television. Producers of the series “Touched By An Angel” wanted him to appear in an episode, and one of his managers suggested the episode be based on his latest single. That cross-promotional event earned him his first No. 1 country song in 13 years.Rogers is survived by his wife, Wanda, and his sons Justin, Jordan, Chris and Kenny Jr., as well as two brothers, a sister and grandchildren, nieces and nephews, his representative said. The family is planning a private service “out of concern for the national COVID-19 emergency,” a statement posted early Saturday read. A public memorial will be held at a later date.

Singer, actor, 'The Gambler': Kenny Rogers dies at 81

Elmer J. “Schmidty” Schmidt, 89, Hays, died Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at his home.

He was born October 18, 1930 in 
Catharine, the son of Adolph J. and Anna (Staab) Schmidt.&nbsp; On November 
7, 1955 he was united in marriage to Rosalinda “Rosie” Meier in 
Catharine, and they celebrated 64 years of marriage.&nbsp; He proudly served 
in the United States Army, was parts manager for 57 years at 
International Harvester/Radke Implement, and was a farmer.&nbsp; His 
memberships included Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Third 
Degree Knights of Columbus Council #6984, Fourth Degree Knights of 
Columbus Bishop Cunningham Assembly, the American Legion, and served on 
the church funeral dinner committee.&nbsp; He enjoyed all sports, was a 
Kansas City Chiefs and Royals fan, and loved watching WWE wrestling.&nbsp; He
 enjoyed woodworking, and loved his family, especially his grandchildren
 and great grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife; Rosie of 
the home in Hays, a son Brian Schmidt and wife Cherie of Hays, three 
daughters; Patty Kuhn and husband Duane of Hays, Debbie Pittman and 
husband Lance of Flagstaff, AZ, and Brenda Gottschalk and husband Dan of
 Hays, three brothers; Emery Schmidt and wife Shirley of Catharine, 
Adolph Schmidt and wife DeAnn, and Gerald Schmidt and wife Elaine, all 
of Hays, a sister; Cora Dortland of Gorham, a brother-in-law; Maynard 
Evans of Hays, five grandchildren; Brandon Kuhn and wife Ashley, Dustin 
Kuhn and wife Mindy, Ayrton Pittman, Derek Gottschalk and wife Hayley, 
and Danna Decker and husband Brandon, and eleven great grandchildren; 
Kayleigh Kuhn, Jolie Kuhn, Shiloh Kuhn, Dayton Kuhn, Kasen Kuhn, Kaycee 
Kuhn, Claire Decker, Caleb Decker, Skyler Anderson, Leigh Anderson, and 
Lilly Fross.

He was preceded in death by his 
parents, four brothers; infant brother Elmer, Celly, Herbert, and Alfred
 Schmidt, three sisters; Cyrilla Evans, Fedelia Rome, and Irene Dinkel, 
and a brother-in-law; Everett Dortland.

Due to the Mass restrictions and 
limitations set forth by the Catholic Diocese, a Memorial Mass at 
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church will be scheduled and announced
 by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home at a later date.&nbsp; Private family 
burial with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard will 
be in St. Joseph Cemetery. &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to Immaculate Heart 
of Mary Catholic Church Building Fund.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of 
Elmer may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584741534727.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Elmer J. “Schmidty” Schmidt, 89, Hays, died Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at his home.He was born October 18, 1930 in 
Catharine, the son of Adolph J. and Anna (Staab) Schmidt.&nbsp; On November 
7, 1955 he was united in marriage to Rosalinda “Rosie” Meier in 
Catharine, and they celebrated 64 years of marriage.&nbsp; He proudly served 
in the United States Army, was parts manager for 57 years at 
International Harvester/Radke Implement, and was a farmer.&nbsp; His 
memberships included Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Third 
Degree Knights of Columbus Council #6984, Fourth Degree Knights of 
Columbus Bishop Cunningham Assembly, the American Legion, and served on 
the church funeral dinner committee.&nbsp; He enjoyed all sports, was a 
Kansas City Chiefs and Royals fan, and loved watching WWE wrestling.&nbsp; He
 enjoyed woodworking, and loved his family, especially his grandchildren
 and great grandchildren.Survivors include his wife; Rosie of 
the home in Hays, a son Brian Schmidt and wife Cherie of Hays, three 
daughters; Patty Kuhn and husband Duane of Hays, Debbie Pittman and 
husband Lance of Flagstaff, AZ, and Brenda Gottschalk and husband Dan of
 Hays, three brothers; Emery Schmidt and wife Shirley of Catharine, 
Adolph Schmidt and wife DeAnn, and Gerald Schmidt and wife Elaine, all 
of Hays, a sister; Cora Dortland of Gorham, a brother-in-law; Maynard 
Evans of Hays, five grandchildren; Brandon Kuhn and wife Ashley, Dustin 
Kuhn and wife Mindy, Ayrton Pittman, Derek Gottschalk and wife Hayley, 
and Danna Decker and husband Brandon, and eleven great grandchildren; 
Kayleigh Kuhn, Jolie Kuhn, Shiloh Kuhn, Dayton Kuhn, Kasen Kuhn, Kaycee 
Kuhn, Claire Decker, Caleb Decker, Skyler Anderson, Leigh Anderson, and 
Lilly Fross.He was preceded in death by his 
parents, four brothers; infant brother Elmer, Celly, Herbert, and Alfred
 Schmidt, three sisters; Cyrilla Evans, Fedelia Rome, and Irene Dinkel, 
and a brother-in-law; Everett Dortland.Due to the Mass restrictions and 
limitations set forth by the Catholic Diocese, a Memorial Mass at 
Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church will be scheduled and announced
 by Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home at a later date.&nbsp; Private family 
burial with military honors by the Hays VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard will 
be in St. Joseph Cemetery. &nbsp;Memorials are suggested to Immaculate Heart 
of Mary Catholic Church Building Fund.&nbsp; Condolences and memories of 
Elmer may be shared with the family at www.haysmemorial.com

Elmer J. 'Schmidty' Schmidt

Robert “Bob” James Holt, 59, passed away peacefully in his home on 
March 16, 2020, surrounded by those he loved most dearly. He was born to
 John (Jack) &amp; Charlette Holt on October 6th, 1960, in Kansas City, 
MO and grew up in Great Bend, KS. In 1973 he met the love of his life, 
Tammy (Spray) Holt, who moved in across the street. On January 8th, 
1983, in Great Bend, Bob and Tammy got married after a decade of 
friendship.

Bob was a 1979 graduate of Great Bend High School and earned his B.S.
 in Business Administration from the University of Kansas in 1983, where
 he was a proud member of Delta Upsilon fraternity. After college, Bob 
&amp; Tammy moved to Omaha, NE where he took a job as an estimator for 
AC&amp;S Construction.

In 1985 he was offered a job at Venture Corporation, and the young 
couple were excited to move back to their hometown of Great Bend. During
 his 30 years at Venture he was active on several committees with the 
Kansas Contractors Association. Bob served as Venture Corporation’s 
Secretary &amp; Estimator until his retirement in May of 2015. His 
involvement included; Action Auction (Chairman, 1998-2006, Public 
Relations (1998, Kansas Good Roads (Director, Convention Committee 
(1999-2015, Legislative Committee (2001-2015, Education Foundation 
(2008-2015, Summer Fest (Chairman, 2010-2013) and Flexible Paving 
Division (Chairman, 2012). Outside of his work involvement, he was a 
member of; CKMC Board of Directors, Past President and member of St. 
Patrick’s School Board, Prince of Peace Parish, having served on the 
Property Commission, and Board of Directors of Lakota HOA (Winter Park, 
CO).

His passions in life were his faith, family, friends, golf, KU 
basketball, and Polaris off-roading throughout the Rocky Mountains and 
Moab. Even after being diagnosed with cancer, he refused to lose his 
passion for life. Through his fight, he acted as a living example of how
 important our brief time is on this earth. He continued to establish 
and build relationships, leaving lasting impressions on those whose 
paths’ he crossed.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Tammy, and their three sons: 
Brett (Leslie) Holt &amp; his granddaughter Landreigh, Brad (Jordan) 
Holt, and Allan Holt. Also, his mother, Charlette Holt and 4 siblings: 
John (Suzy) Holt, Beth (Paul) Jantsch, Tom (Mindy) Holt, and Mary (Vic) 
Adamle. As well has his mother-in-law, Doris Spray, and two 
brothers-in-law, Kip (Kelly) Spray and Chris (Julie) Spray. Bob was also
 an amazing uncle to his 16 nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death 
by his father, John (Jack) Holt, his father-in-law, Orville (Butch) 
Spray.

Memorial services are pending, due to the Mass restrictions and 
limitations set forth by the Catholic Diocese, and will be announced at a
 later date. Memorials are suggested to the Cancer Fund at Golden Belt 
Community Foundation, Prince of Peace Parish, and Golden Belt Home 
Health &amp; Hospice, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584538172303.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Robert “Bob” James Holt, 59, passed away peacefully in his home on 
March 16, 2020, surrounded by those he loved most dearly. He was born to
 John (Jack) &amp; Charlette Holt on October 6th, 1960, in Kansas City, 
MO and grew up in Great Bend, KS. In 1973 he met the love of his life, 
Tammy (Spray) Holt, who moved in across the street. On January 8th, 
1983, in Great Bend, Bob and Tammy got married after a decade of 
friendship.Bob was a 1979 graduate of Great Bend High School and earned his B.S.
 in Business Administration from the University of Kansas in 1983, where
 he was a proud member of Delta Upsilon fraternity. After college, Bob 
&amp; Tammy moved to Omaha, NE where he took a job as an estimator for 
AC&amp;S Construction.In 1985 he was offered a job at Venture Corporation, and the young 
couple were excited to move back to their hometown of Great Bend. During
 his 30 years at Venture he was active on several committees with the 
Kansas Contractors Association. Bob served as Venture Corporation’s 
Secretary &amp; Estimator until his retirement in May of 2015. His 
involvement included; Action Auction (Chairman, 1998-2006, Public 
Relations (1998, Kansas Good Roads (Director, Convention Committee 
(1999-2015, Legislative Committee (2001-2015, Education Foundation 
(2008-2015, Summer Fest (Chairman, 2010-2013) and Flexible Paving 
Division (Chairman, 2012). Outside of his work involvement, he was a 
member of; CKMC Board of Directors, Past President and member of St. 
Patrick’s School Board, Prince of Peace Parish, having served on the 
Property Commission, and Board of Directors of Lakota HOA (Winter Park, 
CO).His passions in life were his faith, family, friends, golf, KU 
basketball, and Polaris off-roading throughout the Rocky Mountains and 
Moab. Even after being diagnosed with cancer, he refused to lose his 
passion for life. Through his fight, he acted as a living example of how
 important our brief time is on this earth. He continued to establish 
and build relationships, leaving lasting impressions on those whose 
paths’ he crossed.Bob is survived by his loving wife, Tammy, and their three sons: 
Brett (Leslie) Holt &amp; his granddaughter Landreigh, Brad (Jordan) 
Holt, and Allan Holt. Also, his mother, Charlette Holt and 4 siblings: 
John (Suzy) Holt, Beth (Paul) Jantsch, Tom (Mindy) Holt, and Mary (Vic) 
Adamle. As well has his mother-in-law, Doris Spray, and two 
brothers-in-law, Kip (Kelly) Spray and Chris (Julie) Spray. Bob was also
 an amazing uncle to his 16 nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death 
by his father, John (Jack) Holt, his father-in-law, Orville (Butch) 
Spray.Memorial services are pending, due to the Mass restrictions and 
limitations set forth by the Catholic Diocese, and will be announced at a
 later date. Memorials are suggested to the Cancer Fund at Golden Belt 
Community Foundation, Prince of Peace Parish, and Golden Belt Home 
Health &amp; Hospice, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.

Robert 'Bob' James Holt

Last week the Senate spent most of our time working in our individual committees on bills that have come over from the House along with Senate bills that were in exempt committees. 

On Wednesday I testified before the Senate Health Committee on SB 407 that will require KDADS to open and operate acute mental health services for youth ages 6 to 18. 

Over 10 years ago when the acute care beds were closed in Larned it was agreed that acute care beds would be placed in Hays to replace the loss of beds in Larned.

 This October 2019 secretary of KDADS closed the acute care beds in Hays. 

This facility was operated by KVC who had operated the facility for over 10 years.  Currently, when parents show up in Hays with a child needing psychiatric help, they are being told the Hays facility is closed, and you will either have to go to Wichita or Kansas City for help.

 Since October 2019 we have had 45 families who have driven to Hays; 18 have been referred to Wichita; and 11 to Kansas City. No one knows the number of families that arrived in Hays for help, and after being told the options of Wichita or Kansas City have just decided to return home.

 This puts a real burden on families. Some of these parents have jobs and other children at home. My concern is that without psychiatric help any one of these children could harm themselves or someone else.

 Since the closure in Hays, parents and families in southwest Kansas are also faced with the same options of Wichita or Kansas City. 

The bill proposes psychiatric beds in Hays as well as Garden City or the surrounding area. 

Laura Howard, secretary of KADDS, spoke in favor of the bill. She said the lack of psychiatric beds west of Wichita could create problems for families. Chairman Senator Suellentrop agreed to work the bill this coming week. 

Some good news, since the acute care beds were closed in October 2019, (PRTF) Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities beds in Hays, run by KVC, has added an additional 38 long-term care beds.  

The Senate Ways and Means Committee heard two bills to discuss paying off nearly $300 million of the state’s debt toward KPERS. Both SB368 and HB2503 authorize the state to transfer $268,412,000 from the state general fund to the KPERS fund before the end of fiscal year 2020. Both the Senate and House Bills do not re-amortize KPERS. 

The Senate Ways and Means passed the budget and it will be worked on the Senate floor Tuesday. There is one major difference between the Senate and House budget that was highly discussed. The Senate wants to stop the continued transfer of funds from KDOT to the state general fund, the House budget did not. Our Senate Ways and Means Committee agreed that we would not transfer $50 million from KDOT to the state general fund, which the Governor had recommended in her budget, 

It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or you may call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399 or my call number is 785 899-4700.  

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581353884625.jpeg" alt="Sen. Rick Billinger (R-Goodland, 40th Dist." />
 <figcaption>Sen. Rick Billinger (R-Goodland, 40th Dist.</figcaption>
 </figure>Last week the Senate spent most of our time working in our individual committees on bills that have come over from the House along with Senate bills that were in exempt committees. On Wednesday I testified before the Senate Health Committee on SB 407 that will require KDADS to open and operate acute mental health services for youth ages 6 to 18. Over 10 years ago when the acute care beds were closed in Larned it was agreed that acute care beds would be placed in Hays to replace the loss of beds in Larned. This October 2019 secretary of KDADS closed the acute care beds in Hays. This facility was operated by KVC who had operated the facility for over 10 years. Currently, when parents show up in Hays with a child needing psychiatric help, they are being told the Hays facility is closed, and you will either have to go to Wichita or Kansas City for help. Since October 2019 we have had 45 families who have driven to Hays; 18 have been referred to Wichita; and 11 to Kansas City. No one knows the number of families that arrived in Hays for help, and after being told the options of Wichita or Kansas City have just decided to return home. This puts a real burden on families. Some of these parents have jobs and other children at home. My concern is that without psychiatric help any one of these children could harm themselves or someone else. Since the closure in Hays, parents and families in southwest Kansas are also faced with the same options of Wichita or Kansas City. The bill proposes psychiatric beds in Hays as well as Garden City or the surrounding area. Laura Howard, secretary of KADDS, spoke in favor of the bill. She said the lack of psychiatric beds west of Wichita could create problems for families. Chairman Senator Suellentrop agreed to work the bill this coming week. Some good news, since the acute care beds were closed in October 2019, (PRTF) Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities beds in Hays, run by KVC, has added an additional 38 long-term care beds. The Senate Ways and Means Committee heard two bills to discuss paying off nearly $300 million of the state’s debt toward KPERS. Both SB368 and HB2503 authorize the state to transfer $268,412,000 from the state general fund to the KPERS fund before the end of fiscal year 2020. Both the Senate and House Bills do not re-amortize KPERS. The Senate Ways and Means passed the budget and it will be worked on the Senate floor Tuesday. There is one major difference between the Senate and House budget that was highly discussed. The Senate wants to stop the continued transfer of funds from KDOT to the state general fund, the House budget did not. Our Senate Ways and Means Committee agreed that we would not transfer $50 million from KDOT to the state general fund, which the Governor had recommended in her budget, It is an honor and pleasure to serve the 40th Senate District of Kansas. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email at rick.billinger@senate.ks.gov or you may call me with your questions or concerns. My office number is 785 296-7399 or my call number is 785 899-4700.

BILLINGER: Senate Update March 16

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court announced Monday that it is postponing arguments for late March and early April because of the coronavirus, including fights over subpoenas for President Donald Trump’s financial records.

Other business will go on as planned, including the justices' private conference on Friday and the release of orders in a week's time. Some justices may participate by telephone, the court said in a statement.

Six of the nine justices are 65 and older, at higher risk of getting very sick from the illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 87, and Stephen Breyer, 81, are the oldest members of the court.

There is no new date set for the postponed arguments. the building has been closed to the public since last week.

The only other time the 85-year-old court building was closed for arguments was in October 2001, when anthrax was detected in the court mailroom. That led the justices to hold arguments in the federal courthouse about a half mile from the Supreme Court,

Within a week and after a thorough cleaning, the court reopened.

In 1918, when the court still met inside the Capitol, arguments were postponed for a month because of the flu pandemic. In the nation's early years, in August 1793 and August 1798, adjustments were made because of yellow fever outbreaks, the court said.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court announced Monday that it is postponing arguments for late March and early April because of the coronavirus, including fights over subpoenas for President Donald Trump’s financial records.Other business will go on as planned, including the justices' private conference on Friday and the release of orders in a week's time. Some justices may participate by telephone, the court said in a statement.Six of the nine justices are 65 and older, at higher risk of getting very sick from the illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg, 87, and Stephen Breyer, 81, are the oldest members of the court.There is no new date set for the postponed arguments. the building has been closed to the public since last week.The only other time the 85-year-old court building was closed for arguments was in October 2001, when anthrax was detected in the court mailroom. That led the justices to hold arguments in the federal courthouse about a half mile from the Supreme Court,Within a week and after a thorough cleaning, the court reopened.In 1918, when the court still met inside the Capitol, arguments were postponed for a month because of the flu pandemic. In the nation's early years, in August 1793 and August 1798, adjustments were made because of yellow fever outbreaks, the court said.

Supreme Court postpones arguments because of virus outbreak

Margarett E. McIntyre died on Thursday March 12, 2020 at St. Catherine 
Hospital in Garden City, Kansas. She was born April 4 1941, in Belfont, 
Kansas, the daughter of Richard and Margaret (Norton) Knouse.


Margarett and her family moved to Scott City when she was a young girl, 
it was there that she attended school and grew up just a block away from
 her husband of 62 years, Bruce McIntyre. They were wed October 12, 
1957, in Scott City. The couple later relocated to Garden City. 
Margarett worked alongside Bruce at M &amp; W Drilling for many years, 
co-owned and operated the Continental Inn Restaurant, and worked in the 
Nutrition Department at Edith Sheuerman until her retirement. She 
enjoyed reading, dancing, cooking, and visiting with just about anyone. 
Playing slots in Vegas also became some what of a tradition she shared 
with her daughters. She loved her family and enjoyed, most of all, time 
spent at any one of her grandchildren’s events.


Margarett is survived by her husband Bruce, of the home; children- 
Kimberly (Jose) Garcia of Garden City, Kevin (Tami) McIntyre of 
Amarillo, Texas, and Kerri (Richard A.) Sperry of Garden City, 12 
grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, sisters- Kit (Kenny) Green of 
Garden City, and Annie Mather of Meade, Kansas, brothers and sisters 
in-law- Luella Smith of Colby, Kansas, Clayton McIntyre of Salt Lake 
City, Utah, Rayburn Drake of Fallbrook, California, Sandra Donlon of 
Pueblo, Colorado, Marilyn Wheeler of Branson, Missouri, Roxie Berning of
 Augusta, Kansas and Relda Everett of Evergreen, Colorado.


She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, and two granddaughters.


Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 am Tuesday March 17, 2020 at 
Turning Point Church of the Nazarene with Rev. James Mather officiating.
 Visitation will be Monday March 16, 2020 from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm at 
Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. The family suggests memorial 
contributions be made to Garden Valley Retirement Village or Heartland 
Cancer Center both in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Condolences may be 
posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584208448375.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Margarett E. McIntyre died on Thursday March 12, 2020 at St. Catherine 
Hospital in Garden City, Kansas. She was born April 4 1941, in Belfont, 
Kansas, the daughter of Richard and Margaret (Norton) Knouse.
Margarett and her family moved to Scott City when she was a young girl, 
it was there that she attended school and grew up just a block away from
 her husband of 62 years, Bruce McIntyre. They were wed October 12, 
1957, in Scott City. The couple later relocated to Garden City. 
Margarett worked alongside Bruce at M &amp; W Drilling for many years, 
co-owned and operated the Continental Inn Restaurant, and worked in the 
Nutrition Department at Edith Sheuerman until her retirement. She 
enjoyed reading, dancing, cooking, and visiting with just about anyone. 
Playing slots in Vegas also became some what of a tradition she shared 
with her daughters. She loved her family and enjoyed, most of all, time 
spent at any one of her grandchildren’s events.
Margarett is survived by her husband Bruce, of the home; children- 
Kimberly (Jose) Garcia of Garden City, Kevin (Tami) McIntyre of 
Amarillo, Texas, and Kerri (Richard A.) Sperry of Garden City, 12 
grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, sisters- Kit (Kenny) Green of 
Garden City, and Annie Mather of Meade, Kansas, brothers and sisters 
in-law- Luella Smith of Colby, Kansas, Clayton McIntyre of Salt Lake 
City, Utah, Rayburn Drake of Fallbrook, California, Sandra Donlon of 
Pueblo, Colorado, Marilyn Wheeler of Branson, Missouri, Roxie Berning of
 Augusta, Kansas and Relda Everett of Evergreen, Colorado.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, and two granddaughters.
Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 am Tuesday March 17, 2020 at 
Turning Point Church of the Nazarene with Rev. James Mather officiating.
 Visitation will be Monday March 16, 2020 from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm at 
Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. The family suggests memorial 
contributions be made to Garden Valley Retirement Village or Heartland 
Cancer Center both in care of Garnand Funeral Home. Condolences may be 
posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.

Margarett E. McIntyre

October 12, 1931
 -
 March 12, 2020

An obituary is pending with Plumer Overlease Funeral Homes.

Click <a href="https://www.plumeroverlease.com/obituaries/Ida-Mae-Casper?obId=12414207#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584133190745.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>October 12, 1931
 -
 March 12, 2020An obituary is pending with Plumer Overlease Funeral Homes.Click <a href="https://www.plumeroverlease.com/obituaries/Ida-Mae-Casper?obId=12414207#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Ida Mae Casper

Elmer Leroy Steinle, 97, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at Main Street Manor in Russell.

Elmer was born February 19, 1923 in Russell.  He was first of four children born to David Samuel and Amelia Molly (Ehrlich) Steinle.  Elmer grew up in Russell and attended Russell High School, but had to quite before graduating, when the family farm was lost during the great depression, and went to work as a cook at the Puritan Café, in Russell, to help the family.  Elmer was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943, sent to Cook and Baker school at Camp San Luis Obispo, California by the Army.  Elmer was promoted to Tec 4th Class and served as company Mess Sergeant in the Asiatic Theater, primarily Burma, April 1944 until December 1945.  Elmer was discharged from the Army in January 1946, returning to Russell.

Elmer had married prior to his military service, October 1942 to Dorothy Ruth Bussin of Great Bend, and was blessed with their only son, Roy.  They divorced January 1946 and Elmer was joined in marriage with the love of his life, Sophie Mathilda Scheck, of Collyer, April 1946.  Elmer and Sophie, with Roy, made their home in Russell.

Elmer worked in his father’s business, Steinle Produce, primarily purchasing cream, eggs, and chickens from the area farmers and in turn selling them various farm supplies such as livestock feeds, seed, bailing wire, salt lick blocks, twine, etc.  Shortly after his father retired from the business in the late fifties Elmer also left the Produce business and became a full time Carpenter.  He was diversified in that he remodeled homes, built furniture, built homes in Russell, worked construction on a number of larger building projects in Russell, the Russell State Bank one of the local projects.  Elmer was also carpenter Forman for the Kansas Refined Helium plant construction in Otis.  For many years Elmer served on the Russell-Great township fire department as well as serving as the Dep0artments Fire Chief for a number of years until his retirement from the fire department.  Elmer was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church, past member of the Russell Elks Lodge, a member of the Russell VFW Post #6240 and a member of the Russell American Legion, William Roe Post 99.  A past Commander of Post 99 and held various officer positions at the Post.

Elmer enjoyed playing cards, for many years he dealt Black Jack, and later loved playing Texas Holdem with friends any time he could find a game.  He and Sophie took to antique collecting and spent most of their time together traveling, buying and selling antiques, attending and participating in antique shows.  For many years antiques were their passion.  Elmer also became known in Russell as a Studebaker collector, and at one time had a number of Studebaker cars and trucks, plus spare parts, and restored them to operating condition.  In retirement Elmer took up square dancing, joining the “Shooting Stars” club in Hays and continued carpenter work in his shop building children’s furniture, chairs, rockers, tables, and wagons.

Elmer’s surviving family include his son, Roy Steinle (Rosemary) of Russell, Kansas; brother, Gorden Dave Steinle of Kansas City, Missouri; two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.  Elmer was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, his sister Fern Harman Deutscher and brother Wilber Dean Steinle.

A Graveside Service will be held at  time and date   at St. John Lutheran Cemetery of Russell, Kansas.  The family selected cremation and no visitation will be held.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584046255517.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Elmer Leroy Steinle, 97, of Russell, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at Main Street Manor in Russell.Elmer was born February 19, 1923 in Russell. He was first of four children born to David Samuel and Amelia Molly (Ehrlich) Steinle. Elmer grew up in Russell and attended Russell High School, but had to quite before graduating, when the family farm was lost during the great depression, and went to work as a cook at the Puritan Café, in Russell, to help the family. Elmer was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943, sent to Cook and Baker school at Camp San Luis Obispo, California by the Army. Elmer was promoted to Tec 4th Class and served as company Mess Sergeant in the Asiatic Theater, primarily Burma, April 1944 until December 1945. Elmer was discharged from the Army in January 1946, returning to Russell.Elmer had married prior to his military service, October 1942 to Dorothy Ruth Bussin of Great Bend, and was blessed with their only son, Roy. They divorced January 1946 and Elmer was joined in marriage with the love of his life, Sophie Mathilda Scheck, of Collyer, April 1946. Elmer and Sophie, with Roy, made their home in Russell.Elmer worked in his father’s business, Steinle Produce, primarily purchasing cream, eggs, and chickens from the area farmers and in turn selling them various farm supplies such as livestock feeds, seed, bailing wire, salt lick blocks, twine, etc. Shortly after his father retired from the business in the late fifties Elmer also left the Produce business and became a full time Carpenter. He was diversified in that he remodeled homes, built furniture, built homes in Russell, worked construction on a number of larger building projects in Russell, the Russell State Bank one of the local projects. Elmer was also carpenter Forman for the Kansas Refined Helium plant construction in Otis. For many years Elmer served on the Russell-Great township fire department as well as serving as the Dep0artments Fire Chief for a number of years until his retirement from the fire department. Elmer was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church, past member of the Russell Elks Lodge, a member of the Russell VFW Post #6240 and a member of the Russell American Legion, William Roe Post 99. A past Commander of Post 99 and held various officer positions at the Post.Elmer enjoyed playing cards, for many years he dealt Black Jack, and later loved playing Texas Holdem with friends any time he could find a game. He and Sophie took to antique collecting and spent most of their time together traveling, buying and selling antiques, attending and participating in antique shows. For many years antiques were their passion. Elmer also became known in Russell as a Studebaker collector, and at one time had a number of Studebaker cars and trucks, plus spare parts, and restored them to operating condition. In retirement Elmer took up square dancing, joining the “Shooting Stars” club in Hays and continued carpenter work in his shop building children’s furniture, chairs, rockers, tables, and wagons.Elmer’s surviving family include his son, Roy Steinle (Rosemary) of Russell, Kansas; brother, Gorden Dave Steinle of Kansas City, Missouri; two grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Elmer was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, his sister Fern Harman Deutscher and brother Wilber Dean Steinle.A Graveside Service will be held at time and date at St. John Lutheran Cemetery of Russell, Kansas. The family selected cremation and no visitation will be held.

Elmer Leroy Steinle

SALINA – A Kansas man has been convicted of two counts of insurance fraud and a related charge, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.

On Monday, Daniel Carl D’Albini, 59, Marion, pleaded no contest in Saline County District Court to two felony counts of insurance fraud and one felony count of interference with law enforcement.

Chief Judge Rene Young accepted the plea and scheduled sentencing for June 1, at 11 a.m.

An investigation by the Saline County Sheriff’s Office found that sometime between October 2017 and December 2017, in order to ensure the continuation of his homeowner’s insurance policy, D’Albini submitted false documentation to his insurance provider alleging the roof on his home had been inspected and required no repairs when in fact no such inspection had occurred.

In addition, in December 2017, D’Albini falsely reported his truck as stolen and made a claim against his automobile insurance for theft.

As part of a plea agreement with the attorney general’s office, D’Albini has agreed to pay $460,083.51 in restitution and serve 30 days in the Saline County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583867855267.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Daniel DAlbini&nbsp; photo Saline CountySALINA – A Kansas man has been convicted of two counts of insurance fraud and a related charge, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.On Monday, Daniel Carl D’Albini, 59, Marion, pleaded no contest in Saline County District Court to two felony counts of insurance fraud and one felony count of interference with law enforcement.Chief Judge Rene Young accepted the plea and scheduled sentencing for June 1, at 11 a.m.An investigation by the Saline County Sheriff’s Office found that sometime between October 2017 and December 2017, in order to ensure the continuation of his homeowner’s insurance policy, D’Albini submitted false documentation to his insurance provider alleging the roof on his home had been inspected and required no repairs when in fact no such inspection had occurred.In addition, in December 2017, D’Albini falsely reported his truck as stolen and made a claim against his automobile insurance for theft.As part of a plea agreement with the attorney general’s office, D’Albini has agreed to pay $460,083.51 in restitution and serve 30 days in the Saline County Jail.

Kan. man who reported truck stolen convicted of insurance fraud

BY STEPHEN KORANDA, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-might-let-college-athletes-make-money-their-fame-through-endorsement-deals#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA, Kansas — If Kansas lawmakers pass a bill 
allowing student-athletes to make money off endorsements, you might see 
the next five-star KU or K-State basketball recruits selling cars, shoes
 or soda.

<a href="http://www.sfltimes.com/sports/ncaa-presses-senate-for-guardrails-on-athlete-pay" target="_blank">Dozens of states</a>, including <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb474/" target="_blank">Kansas</a>, <a href="https://www.ozarksfirst.com/local-news/local-news-local-news/both-parties-support-paying-college-athletes-in-missouri/" target="_blank">Missouri </a>and <a href="https://oklahoman.com/article/5651462/oklahoma-legislator-files-bill-to-pay-college-athletes" target="_blank">Oklahoma</a>, are thinking about changing the rules since the <a href="https://www.npr.org/2019/10/29/774439078/ncaa-starts-process-to-allow-compensation-for-college-athletes" target="_blank">NCAA said</a>
 in October that it will eventually allow student-athletes to be paid 
for their name, image and likeness. These bills are stopgaps, aimed at 
putting rules in place should there be a period of time before national 
rules are approved by the NCAA or Congress.

It’s a question that’s been problematic for the NCAA for years; in 2016, the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/04/us/politics/supreme-court-declconsider-ncaa-rules-on-paying-athletes.html" target="_blank">U.S. Supreme Court declined</a> to take up an antitrust suit filed by a former UCLA basketball player. California took matters into its own hands last year <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200SB206" target="_blank">with a law</a> to let students profit off their likeness, though it doesn't take effect until 2023.

Currently,
 student-athletes are ruled ineligible if they make money on 
endorsements. Missouri U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver has proposed <a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/rep-cleaver-to-propose-law-requiring-colleges-to-pay-student-athletes" target="_blank">a national rule</a>
 that would have colleges directly pay athletes. The Kansas plan doesn’t
 go as far, instead allowing money from outside endorsement contracts.

Emporia
 State University President Allison Garrett urged Kansas lawmakers to 
approve the bill, but ultimately hopes it never has to take effect.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583773947682.png" alt=" The Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball team is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation. The school's athletics director says that if other schools have laws about endorsement deals and Kansas does not, KU would be "at a disadvantage." Erica Hunzinger / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> The Kansas Jayhawks men's basketball team is currently ranked No. 1 in the nation. The school's athletics director says that if other schools have laws about endorsement deals and Kansas does not, KU would be "at a disadvantage." Erica Hunzinger / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>BY STEPHEN KORANDA, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-might-let-college-athletes-make-money-their-fame-through-endorsement-deals#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA, Kansas — If Kansas lawmakers pass a bill 
allowing student-athletes to make money off endorsements, you might see 
the next five-star KU or K-State basketball recruits selling cars, shoes
 or soda.<a href="http://www.sfltimes.com/sports/ncaa-presses-senate-for-guardrails-on-athlete-pay" target="_blank">Dozens of states</a>, including <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb474/" target="_blank">Kansas</a>, <a href="https://www.ozarksfirst.com/local-news/local-news-local-news/both-parties-support-paying-college-athletes-in-missouri/" target="_blank">Missouri </a>and <a href="https://oklahoman.com/article/5651462/oklahoma-legislator-files-bill-to-pay-college-athletes" target="_blank">Oklahoma</a>, are thinking about changing the rules since the <a href="https://www.npr.org/2019/10/29/774439078/ncaa-starts-process-to-allow-compensation-for-college-athletes" target="_blank">NCAA said</a>
 in October that it will eventually allow student-athletes to be paid 
for their name, image and likeness. These bills are stopgaps, aimed at 
putting rules in place should there be a period of time before national 
rules are approved by the NCAA or Congress.It’s a question that’s been problematic for the NCAA for years; in 2016, the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/04/us/politics/supreme-court-declconsider-ncaa-rules-on-paying-athletes.html" target="_blank">U.S. Supreme Court declined</a> to take up an antitrust suit filed by a former UCLA basketball player. California took matters into its own hands last year <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200SB206" target="_blank">with a law</a> to let students profit off their likeness, though it doesn't take effect until 2023.Currently,
 student-athletes are ruled ineligible if they make money on 
endorsements. Missouri U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver has proposed <a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/rep-cleaver-to-propose-law-requiring-colleges-to-pay-student-athletes" target="_blank">a national rule</a>
 that would have colleges directly pay athletes. The Kansas plan doesn’t
 go as far, instead allowing money from outside endorsement contracts.Emporia
 State University President Allison Garrett urged Kansas lawmakers to 
approve the bill, but ultimately hopes it never has to take effect.“This
 legislation in Kansas makes sense at this time,” Garrett said, “but the
 hope would be that there is that federal legislation.”It’s a 
sort of begrudging endorsement from the schools. Kansas State University
 Athletic Director Gene Taylor wants to keep up the current system, in 
which student-athletes aren’t allowed outside endorsements deals.“We
 would prefer no rules, honestly,” Taylor said. “Just let us continue 
that this scholarship is valuable enough. But that’s not the direction 
this is going, so we have to move forward.”The colleges don’t 
want to be on the cutting edge, where they might run afoul of NCAA rules
 and trigger punishments from the league. But they also don’t want to be
 left behind if other states allow endorsement deals.To walk that tightrope, <a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2019_20/measures/sb474/" target="_blank">Kansas’ bill</a>
 includes a trigger: It would only legalize outside endorsement deals 
for student-athletes after 15 other states have similar laws.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583774008806.png" alt=" Emporia State University President Allison Garrett (left, KU Director of Athletics Jeff Long (center) and Kansas State Athletics Director Gene Taylor testified in support of a bill that would allow student-athletes to be paid for endorsements. Credit Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption> Emporia State University President Allison Garrett (left, KU Director of Athletics Jeff Long (center) and Kansas State Athletics Director Gene Taylor testified in support of a bill that would allow student-athletes to be paid for endorsements. Credit Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>For schools in Kansas, the concern is that recruiting won’t be easy 
if other states allow athletes to make money but Kansas doesn’t.“I
 think it gets very tough,” University of Kansas Director of Athletics 
Jeff Long said. “Without this bill passing, we would be placed at a 
disadvantage.”The discussion comes at a time when KU <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/ku-denies-wrongdoing-response-ncaas-charges-recruiting-violations" target="_blank">is being investigated</a>
 for potential NCAA recruiting violations. It’s based on federal court 
testimony in which Adidas representatives said they made payments to 
recruits. The school didn’t address the allegations during a legislative
 hearing in Topeka, but <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2020/03/05/kansas-objects-to-ncaa-charges-in-response-to-allegations/111397794/" target="_blank">told the NCAA</a> that the agents weren’t working on behalf of KU.Garrett wants to see enough controls in a Kansas law so the endorsement deals aren’t used as part of recruiting.Lawmakers
 could take action on the bill later this session or continue work next 
year, according to Republican Sen. Julia Lynn, who chairs the Senate 
Commerce Committee.Lynn said there are still a variety of details to work out, including how the endorsement deals would be taxed.“Collegiate athletics is very complex. There are multiple layers there,” she said. “The money is really big in this issue.”Republican
 Sen. Molly Baumgarnder wants to make sure there are enough protections 
in the bill, so athletes and their families know what they’re getting 
into with endorsement deals, especially when it comes to high school 
recruits.“Agents are going to be flocking to high schools to try
 and enter into that contract,” Baumgarnder said. “How do the high 
school counselors, how do the high school coaches help that student that
 might be embarking on that next step?”Smaller private schools, 
who aren’t major players in the recruiting game like KU, K-State and 
Wichita State are, are concerned about the types of endorsements that 
might be made available.Some of the 20 schools in the Kansas 
Independent College Association have faith traditions that disapprove of
 alcohol and don’t allow it on campus.But under the bill, the schools wouldn’t have any say in outside endorsement deals.“A
 student-athlete could share his or her likeness with a beer company and
 the institution would have no power to limit such a contract,” KICA 
President Matt Lindsey told lawmakers.Stephen Koranda is the Statehouse reporter for Kansas Public Radio and the Kansas News Service. You can follow him on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/kprkoranda">@kprkoranda</a>.