Norman Caulfield, age 72, of Lawrence, KS, passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2024 after a long battle with congestive heart failure. He was born on October 17, 1951 to Robert and Virginia (Dorn) Caulfield in Dayton, OH.&nbsp;Norman attended Kent State University and the University of Houston, earning a BA, MA, and PhD in History from the University of Houston. He studied Spanish at The University of Costa Rica, where he met his wife Maria (Esquivel). They were married in 1984 in Costa Rica and were blessed with a daughter, Margarita.&nbsp;A scholar of Latin American history, Norman spoke Spanish fluently and often conducted historical research directly from original Spanish language sources and lectured in Spanish at universities in Latin America. He was a Professor of History at Fort Hays State University in Hays, KS, and was the former acting director of research at the North American Free Trade Agreement (“NAFTA”) Labor Secretariat in Washington, D.C. He was also a Fulbright Lecturer at the University of Panama in Panama City, Panama, and gave countless academic guest presentations and lectures at universities around the world.&nbsp;Norman was considered to be a top scholar on NAFTA. In 2007, Fort Hays State University awarded Norman with the President’s Distinguished Scholar Award, which annually recognizes a faculty member with truly outstanding performance in scholarly activities. Norman published two books, NAFTA and Labor in North America and Mexican Workers and the State: From the Porfiriato to NAFTA, as well as numerous academic articles. NAFTA and Labor in North America won the 2011 Harvey Johnson Best Book Award from the Southwest Council on Latin American Studies, an award given annually to the author of the best book published on Latin America.

Norman is remembered by his family and friends for his compassion, caring, brilliance, supportiveness, sense of humor, and intention to make the world a better place. He was an activist that protested the Vietnam War at Kent State University and was a survivor of the May 4th shooting. Norman remained close with many of his friends from that time.&nbsp;Norman enjoyed traveling with his wife Maria and daughter Margarita, conducting historical and economic research, watching sports (particularly the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas Jayhawks, Houston Cougars, and Dayton Flyers), and playing chess.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia, his sister Kathleen Caulfield, and brother-in-law William Miller.&nbsp;He is survived by his wife Maria, his daughter Margarita and her husband Timothy Hertach of Lawrence, KS; his brother: Tim Caulfield of Dayton, OH; his sisters: Roberta Miller of Dayton, OH, Gina Caulfield of Brooklyn, NY, and Rose Soltz (Steve) of Akron, OH; his brothers and sisters-in-law: Ramon (Lucila), Flor, Ana, and Fabio (Emilia) Esquivel of Heredia, Costa Rica; and many nieces and nephews in Ohio, New York, and Costa Rica.

Services for Norman will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Lawrence, KS. In remembrance of Norman’s life and love, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Just Food, the Douglas County, KS food bank. Lawrence Chapel Oaks Cremation &amp; Funeral Services is honored to serve the family.

<figure>
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 </figure>Norman Caulfield, age 72, of Lawrence, KS, passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2024 after a long battle with congestive heart failure. He was born on October 17, 1951 to Robert and Virginia (Dorn) Caulfield in Dayton, OH.&nbsp;Norman attended Kent State University and the University of Houston, earning a BA, MA, and PhD in History from the University of Houston. He studied Spanish at The University of Costa Rica, where he met his wife Maria (Esquivel). They were married in 1984 in Costa Rica and were blessed with a daughter, Margarita.&nbsp;A scholar of Latin American history, Norman spoke Spanish fluently and often conducted historical research directly from original Spanish language sources and lectured in Spanish at universities in Latin America. He was a Professor of History at Fort Hays State University in Hays, KS, and was the former acting director of research at the North American Free Trade Agreement (“NAFTA”) Labor Secretariat in Washington, D.C. He was also a Fulbright Lecturer at the University of Panama in Panama City, Panama, and gave countless academic guest presentations and lectures at universities around the world.&nbsp;Norman was considered to be a top scholar on NAFTA. In 2007, Fort Hays State University awarded Norman with the President’s Distinguished Scholar Award, which annually recognizes a faculty member with truly outstanding performance in scholarly activities. Norman published two books, NAFTA and Labor in North America and Mexican Workers and the State: From the Porfiriato to NAFTA, as well as numerous academic articles. NAFTA and Labor in North America won the 2011 Harvey Johnson Best Book Award from the Southwest Council on Latin American Studies, an award given annually to the author of the best book published on Latin America.Norman is remembered by his family and friends for his compassion, caring, brilliance, supportiveness, sense of humor, and intention to make the world a better place. He was an activist that protested the Vietnam War at Kent State University and was a survivor of the May 4th shooting. Norman remained close with many of his friends from that time.&nbsp;Norman enjoyed traveling with his wife Maria and daughter Margarita, conducting historical and economic research, watching sports (particularly the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas Jayhawks, Houston Cougars, and Dayton Flyers), and playing chess.He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Virginia, his sister Kathleen Caulfield, and brother-in-law William Miller.&nbsp;He is survived by his wife Maria, his daughter Margarita and her husband Timothy Hertach of Lawrence, KS; his brother: Tim Caulfield of Dayton, OH; his sisters: Roberta Miller of Dayton, OH, Gina Caulfield of Brooklyn, NY, and Rose Soltz (Steve) of Akron, OH; his brothers and sisters-in-law: Ramon (Lucila), Flor, Ana, and Fabio (Emilia) Esquivel of Heredia, Costa Rica; and many nieces and nephews in Ohio, New York, and Costa Rica.Services for Norman will be held on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Lawrence, KS. In remembrance of Norman’s life and love, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Just Food, the Douglas County, KS food bank. Lawrence Chapel Oaks Cremation &amp; Funeral Services is honored to serve the family.

Norman Caulfield

Ruby Belle Hageman Mosher was born July 20, 1928, in Stockton, Kansas to Edward C. VI and Jesse Rae Maris Hageman. She passed away at the age of 96, at Redbud Village in Plainville on August 26, 2024.

Ruby graduated from Stockton High School with the Class of 1946. On October 19, 1947, she married Gail Arven Mosher at the Methodist Church in Stockton. Ruby &amp; Gail moved to Kansas City after marriage while Gail attended mortuary school. They then returned to Plainville, where Gail eventually joined in business with his father, R.A., to operate Mosher’s Inc., which consisted of a hardware store in downtown Plainville and a funeral business. When R.A. and his wife retired, the hardware store was liquidated and Gail &amp; Ruby together operated Mosher Funeral Home, and Wheatland Vault Co. Ruby &amp; Gail traveled extensively, attending conventions and other business-related ventures. Highlighted personal trip locations included the Middle East and Australia.

Through the years, three children joined the family – Nancy Ann, David Arven and Michelle Rae “Shelly”. David passed away in January of 1976, and Gail passed in March of 2005. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, E. Charles Hageman VII and Joanna Johnson.

Ruby was a good housekeeper, and a wonderful cook for her family. She enjoyed gardening, needlework and reading, and was an avid collector of numerous items. She loved clothes and fashion, and all things sparkly, and was known to have color-matched shoes for every single outfit she owned. Decorating her home was another passion. She loved movies, which created another favorite hobby, recording them from TV so she could watch them again and again. In her later years, when her eyesight failed her, she would play soothing music on her TV all day long.

She was a member of the Plainville United Methodist Church, Plainville VFW Auxiliary, RCHC Auxiliary, Eastern Star and Chapter HB of PEO.

Ruby is survived by her daughters, Nancy Clopton and husband Jim of Lubbock, Tx and Michelle “Shelly” Haas and her husband Danny of Plainville; 4 grandchildren, Sarah Clopton of Plano, Tx, Jeff Clopton of Lubbock, Jennifer Vohs of Kirwin and Katie Hunziker of Plainville; two step-grandchildren, Clayton Haas and Angela Calvin; 21 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren.

A Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM, at the United Methodist Church in Plainville. Visitation will be on Thursday, August 29th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the funeral home in Plainville.

Memorials are suggested to United Methodist Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.

<figure>
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 </figure>Ruby Belle Hageman Mosher was born July 20, 1928, in Stockton, Kansas to Edward C. VI and Jesse Rae Maris Hageman. She passed away at the age of 96, at Redbud Village in Plainville on August 26, 2024.Ruby graduated from Stockton High School with the Class of 1946. On October 19, 1947, she married Gail Arven Mosher at the Methodist Church in Stockton. Ruby &amp; Gail moved to Kansas City after marriage while Gail attended mortuary school. They then returned to Plainville, where Gail eventually joined in business with his father, R.A., to operate Mosher’s Inc., which consisted of a hardware store in downtown Plainville and a funeral business. When R.A. and his wife retired, the hardware store was liquidated and Gail &amp; Ruby together operated Mosher Funeral Home, and Wheatland Vault Co. Ruby &amp; Gail traveled extensively, attending conventions and other business-related ventures. Highlighted personal trip locations included the Middle East and Australia.Through the years, three children joined the family – Nancy Ann, David Arven and Michelle Rae “Shelly”. David passed away in January of 1976, and Gail passed in March of 2005. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, E. Charles Hageman VII and Joanna Johnson.Ruby was a good housekeeper, and a wonderful cook for her family. She enjoyed gardening, needlework and reading, and was an avid collector of numerous items. She loved clothes and fashion, and all things sparkly, and was known to have color-matched shoes for every single outfit she owned. Decorating her home was another passion. She loved movies, which created another favorite hobby, recording them from TV so she could watch them again and again. In her later years, when her eyesight failed her, she would play soothing music on her TV all day long.She was a member of the Plainville United Methodist Church, Plainville VFW Auxiliary, RCHC Auxiliary, Eastern Star and Chapter HB of PEO.Ruby is survived by her daughters, Nancy Clopton and husband Jim of Lubbock, Tx and Michelle “Shelly” Haas and her husband Danny of Plainville; 4 grandchildren, Sarah Clopton of Plano, Tx, Jeff Clopton of Lubbock, Jennifer Vohs of Kirwin and Katie Hunziker of Plainville; two step-grandchildren, Clayton Haas and Angela Calvin; 21 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren.A Funeral service will be held on Friday, August 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM, at the United Methodist Church in Plainville. Visitation will be on Thursday, August 29th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the funeral home in Plainville.Memorials are suggested to United Methodist Church and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd, Plainville, KS 67663.

Ruby Belle Hageman Mosher

Joan Ostmeyer, 72, died at home in Overland Park, Kansas, on Wednesday, August 28th, 2024, surrounded by the family that loved her, after battling glioblastoma brain cancer with strength and grace.

This beautiful wife and mother was born on October 18th, 1951, to Stephen and Elizabeth “Betty” (Halbleib) Broeckelman of Angelus, Kansas. She was blessed with six siblings: Phyllis Rueschhoff, Edith Broeckelman, Judith Brull, Lee Broeckelman, Lois Stafford, and Barb Dayvault. Joan attended Angelus Grade School and Grinnell High School. She played the alto saxophone and French horn in the high school pep and dress bands. Joan was a dedicated student and was the salutatorian of her high school class. She attended Fort Hays State University majoring in elementary education.

Joan fell in love with Rick Ostmeyer, and they married on January 8th, 1971. They were united as one for 53 wonderful years, and had two daughters, Jennifer Hunter and Darielle McGriff. Rick was the dreamer and Joan was the strength that led them all over Kansas from Oakley to Kansas City to Derby and then home to Hays, Kansas, where they built a successful business and beautiful life.

Rick and Joan co-owned Hays Memorial Chapel since 1983 until their retirement in 2014. Joan was a faithful member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Hays, Kansas and Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, Kansas. She served on the Board of Trustees at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, the parish board of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, was a former member of Daughters of Isabella, a CASA volunteer, and devoted religion teacher. The achievement she was most proud of was being a dedicated wife, mother and grandma to her family.

Survivors include her husband Rick; daughter Jennifer Hunter and her husband Levi of Olathe, Kansas; daughter Darielle McGriff and her husband Derek of Olathe, Kansas; six grandchildren, Haley McGriff, Miles McGriff, Caitlin McGriff, Drew McGriff, Lia Hunter and Kyla Hunter; brother Lee (Barb) Broeckelman of Oakley, Kansas, sister Lois (Don) Stafford of Hays, Kansas, and sister Barbara Dayvault of Sacramento, California.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stephen and Elizabeth Broeckelman, sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Day Rueschhoff, sister Edith Broeckelman, sister and brother-in-law Judith and Kenneth Brull, brother-in-law Doug Powers, and niece Michelle Mason.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Don Zimmerman, Fr. Fred Gatschet, Fr. David Metz, and Fr. Alvin Werth officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Monday at the church and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Tuesday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A vigil service and rosary will be at 7:00 pm on Monday at the church. Memorials are suggested to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays, Good Shepherd Hospice of Olathe, or to Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. Condolences and memories of Joan may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Joan Ostmeyer, 72, died at home in Overland Park, Kansas, on Wednesday, August 28th, 2024, surrounded by the family that loved her, after battling glioblastoma brain cancer with strength and grace.This beautiful wife and mother was born on October 18th, 1951, to Stephen and Elizabeth “Betty” (Halbleib) Broeckelman of Angelus, Kansas. She was blessed with six siblings: Phyllis Rueschhoff, Edith Broeckelman, Judith Brull, Lee Broeckelman, Lois Stafford, and Barb Dayvault. Joan attended Angelus Grade School and Grinnell High School. She played the alto saxophone and French horn in the high school pep and dress bands. Joan was a dedicated student and was the salutatorian of her high school class. She attended Fort Hays State University majoring in elementary education.Joan fell in love with Rick Ostmeyer, and they married on January 8th, 1971. They were united as one for 53 wonderful years, and had two daughters, Jennifer Hunter and Darielle McGriff. Rick was the dreamer and Joan was the strength that led them all over Kansas from Oakley to Kansas City to Derby and then home to Hays, Kansas, where they built a successful business and beautiful life.Rick and Joan co-owned Hays Memorial Chapel since 1983 until their retirement in 2014. Joan was a faithful member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Hays, Kansas and Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, Kansas. She served on the Board of Trustees at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, the parish board of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, was a former member of Daughters of Isabella, a CASA volunteer, and devoted religion teacher. The achievement she was most proud of was being a dedicated wife, mother and grandma to her family.Survivors include her husband Rick; daughter Jennifer Hunter and her husband Levi of Olathe, Kansas; daughter Darielle McGriff and her husband Derek of Olathe, Kansas; six grandchildren, Haley McGriff, Miles McGriff, Caitlin McGriff, Drew McGriff, Lia Hunter and Kyla Hunter; brother Lee (Barb) Broeckelman of Oakley, Kansas, sister Lois (Don) Stafford of Hays, Kansas, and sister Barbara Dayvault of Sacramento, California.She was preceded in death by her parents, Stephen and Elizabeth Broeckelman, sister and brother-in-law, Phyllis and Day Rueschhoff, sister Edith Broeckelman, sister and brother-in-law Judith and Kenneth Brull, brother-in-law Doug Powers, and niece Michelle Mason.Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Don Zimmerman, Fr. Fred Gatschet, Fr. David Metz, and Fr. Alvin Werth officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 on Monday at the church and from 9:00 am until 9:45 on Tuesday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home. A vigil service and rosary will be at 7:00 pm on Monday at the church. Memorials are suggested to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays, Good Shepherd Hospice of Olathe, or to Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. Condolences and memories of Joan may be left for her family at www.haysmemorial.com

Joan Irene Ostmeyer

NEW YORK (AP)—The average rate on a 30-year mortgage eased for the second week in a row and remains at its lowest level in more than a year, good news for prospective homebuyers facing home prices near all-time highs.

The rate fell to 6.35% from 6.46% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 7.18%.

The last time the average rate was this low was May 11, 2023.

Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages also fell this week, good news for homeowners seeking to refinance their home loan at a lower rate. The average rate fell to 5.51% from 5.62% last week. A year ago, it averaged 6.55%, Freddie Mac said.

“Mortgage rates fell again this week due to expectations of a Fed rate cut,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. “Rates are expected to continue their decline, and while potential homebuyers are watching closely, a rebound in purchase activity remains elusive until we see further declines.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-rates-economy-federal-reserve-biden-8d15ca77433a1ae072a1e63dfc089f24">Signs of waning inflation</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-jobs-unemployment-federal-reserve-inflation-22095766804d9c1532b4fcc29565be49">a cooling job market</a>&nbsp;have raised expectations that&nbsp;the Federal Reserve will cut its benchmark interest rate next month&nbsp;for the first time in four years.

Elevated mortgage rates, which can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, have kept many would-be homebuyers on the sidelines, extending the nation’s housing slump into its third year.

Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes are running below last year’s pace, though they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-home-sales-real-estate-home-prices-ad5fa2acbe49758e5c1e9640e7320231">ended a four-month slide in July.</a>

After climbing to a 23-year high of 7.79% in October, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage has mostly hovered around 7% this year — more than double what it was just three years ago. But this month, the average rate has made its biggest downshift in more than a year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659001075252.jpeg" alt="AP photo" />
 <figcaption>AP photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP)—The average rate on a 30-year mortgage eased for the second week in a row and remains at its lowest level in more than a year, good news for prospective homebuyers facing home prices near all-time highs.The rate fell to 6.35% from 6.46% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 7.18%.The last time the average rate was this low was May 11, 2023.Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages also fell this week, good news for homeowners seeking to refinance their home loan at a lower rate. The average rate fell to 5.51% from 5.62% last week. A year ago, it averaged 6.55%, Freddie Mac said.“Mortgage rates fell again this week due to expectations of a Fed rate cut,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. “Rates are expected to continue their decline, and while potential homebuyers are watching closely, a rebound in purchase activity remains elusive until we see further declines.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-rates-economy-federal-reserve-biden-8d15ca77433a1ae072a1e63dfc089f24">Signs of waning inflation</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-jobs-unemployment-federal-reserve-inflation-22095766804d9c1532b4fcc29565be49">a cooling job market</a>&nbsp;have raised expectations that&nbsp;the Federal Reserve will cut its benchmark interest rate next month&nbsp;for the first time in four years.Elevated mortgage rates, which can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, have kept many would-be homebuyers on the sidelines, extending the nation’s housing slump into its third year.Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes are running below last year’s pace, though they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-home-sales-real-estate-home-prices-ad5fa2acbe49758e5c1e9640e7320231">ended a four-month slide in July.</a>After climbing to a 23-year high of 7.79% in October, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage has mostly hovered around 7% this year — more than double what it was just three years ago. But this month, the average rate has made its biggest downshift in more than a year.

Freddie Mac: Rate on a 30-year mortgage at lowest level in more than a year

WASHINGTON (AP) — An&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pvt-travis-king-released-north-korea-746487710c11a812f33ad25d60861b1b">Army private who fled to North Korea</a>&nbsp;just over a year ago will plead guilty to desertion and four other charges and take responsibility for his conduct, his lawyer said Monday.

Travis King’s attorney, Franklin D. Rosenblatt, told The Associated Press that King intends to admit guilt to a total of five military offenses, including desertion and assaulting an officer. Nine other offenses, including possession of sexual images of a child, will be withdrawn and dismissed under the terms of the deal.

King will be given an opportunity at a Sept. 20 hearing at Fort Bliss, Texas, to discuss his actions and explain what he did.

“He wants to take responsibility for the things that he did,” Rosenblatt said.

In a separate statement, he added, “Travis is grateful to his friends and family who have supported him, and to all outside his circle who did not pre-judge his case based on the initial allegations.”

He declined to comment on a possible sentence that his client might face. Desertion is a serious charge and can result in imprisonment.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travis-king-army-north-korea-court-martial-2e10b58801a89b8f180c0471a0626357">AP reported last month that the two sides were in plea talks.</a>

King bolted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-us-citizen-crossed-border-e4aaa883901052e65f5c400c8279438b">across the heavily fortified border</a>&nbsp;from South Korea in July 2023, and became the first American detained in North Korea in nearly five years.

His run into North Korea came soon after he was released from a South Korean prison where he had served nearly two months on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-us-citizen-crossed-border-e4aaa883901052e65f5c400c8279438b">assault charges</a>.

About a week after his release from the prison, military officers took him to the airport so he could return to Fort Bliss to face disciplinary action. He was escorted as far as customs, but instead of getting on the plane, he joined a civilian tour of the Korean border village of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/panmunjom">Panmunjom</a>. He then ran across the border, which is lined with guards and often crowded with tourists.

He was detained by North Korea, but after about two months, Pyongyang abruptly announced that it would expel him. On Sept. 28, he was flown to back to Texas, and has been in custody there.

The U.S. military in October filed a series of charges against King under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-travis-king-army-14794185ea3dfc197a86ba376b1626ea">desertion</a>, as well as kicking and punching other officers, unlawfully possessing alcohol, making a false statement and possessing a video of a child engaged in sexual activity. Those allegations date back to July 10, the same day he was released from the prison.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692140954260.png" alt="A TV screen shows a file image of American soldier Travis King during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Monday, July 24, 2023. The deputy commander of the U.N. Command said Monday it has started conversations with North Korea over King who ran into the North last week across the Koreas' heavily armed border. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)" />
 <figcaption>A TV screen shows a file image of American soldier Travis King during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Monday, July 24, 2023. The deputy commander of the U.N. Command said Monday it has started conversations with North Korea over King who ran into the North last week across the Koreas' heavily armed border. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — An&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pvt-travis-king-released-north-korea-746487710c11a812f33ad25d60861b1b">Army private who fled to North Korea</a>&nbsp;just over a year ago will plead guilty to desertion and four other charges and take responsibility for his conduct, his lawyer said Monday.Travis King’s attorney, Franklin D. Rosenblatt, told The Associated Press that King intends to admit guilt to a total of five military offenses, including desertion and assaulting an officer. Nine other offenses, including possession of sexual images of a child, will be withdrawn and dismissed under the terms of the deal.King will be given an opportunity at a Sept. 20 hearing at Fort Bliss, Texas, to discuss his actions and explain what he did.“He wants to take responsibility for the things that he did,” Rosenblatt said.In a separate statement, he added, “Travis is grateful to his friends and family who have supported him, and to all outside his circle who did not pre-judge his case based on the initial allegations.”He declined to comment on a possible sentence that his client might face. Desertion is a serious charge and can result in imprisonment.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travis-king-army-north-korea-court-martial-2e10b58801a89b8f180c0471a0626357">AP reported last month that the two sides were in plea talks.</a>King bolted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-us-citizen-crossed-border-e4aaa883901052e65f5c400c8279438b">across the heavily fortified border</a>&nbsp;from South Korea in July 2023, and became the first American detained in North Korea in nearly five years.His run into North Korea came soon after he was released from a South Korean prison where he had served nearly two months on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-us-citizen-crossed-border-e4aaa883901052e65f5c400c8279438b">assault charges</a>.About a week after his release from the prison, military officers took him to the airport so he could return to Fort Bliss to face disciplinary action. He was escorted as far as customs, but instead of getting on the plane, he joined a civilian tour of the Korean border village of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/panmunjom">Panmunjom</a>. He then ran across the border, which is lined with guards and often crowded with tourists.He was detained by North Korea, but after about two months, Pyongyang abruptly announced that it would expel him. On Sept. 28, he was flown to back to Texas, and has been in custody there.The U.S. military in October filed a series of charges against King under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-korea-travis-king-army-14794185ea3dfc197a86ba376b1626ea">desertion</a>, as well as kicking and punching other officers, unlawfully possessing alcohol, making a false statement and possessing a video of a child engaged in sexual activity. Those allegations date back to July 10, the same day he was released from the prison.

U.S. Army private who fled to North Korea will agree to plea deal

“Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! &nbsp;I once was lost, but now am found was blind but now I see.”

Beverly June (Fyler) Steitz of Inola, Oklahoma, transitioned from her earthly life to her heavenly home on August 24, 2024. &nbsp;She passed peacefully in her sleep to the arms of Jesus in the early hours of the morning, leaving quietly and with dignity.

Beverly was born in Great Bend, Kansas, on July 26, 1930, to William and Blanche Fyler, the fourth of six children. The family later moved to Bison, Kansas, where Beverly attended high school and graduated in 1948. December 18, 1949, Beverly married the love of her life, Eberhardt Steitz at the United Methodist Church. &nbsp;While Eber served his country, Beverly worked for a local dentist office. &nbsp;She was eager to help the young family’s finances and her years in the work force include Dollies, Western Auto, Ben Franklin, and a stint in the Elkhart School District cafeteria. Her favorite job, her most important job, and the vocation for which she was most proud, was that of a mother. On March 17, 1960, the young couple proudly added to their family a baby girl, Janice June. For Beverly, Janice was an answer to her dreams. Four years later, March 19, 1964, the proud couple added a son, Randy Jay, making their family unit complete. &nbsp;Beverly was also a favorite aunt to her many nephews and nieces before and after her children joined the flock. &nbsp;She definitely found her niche as a homemaker where her baking abilities went unsurpassed. &nbsp;Family members in the know say she was most famous for her cinnamon rolls and pumpkin pies. &nbsp;She was not shy about sharing her abilities with granddaughter, Tia, who now follows in her grandmother’s footsteps baking for family get togethers.

Beverly loved to sew, loved cutting hair and giving perms, enjoyed playing the piano by ear and singing to her children, was adventuress when traveling with her husband, and was the life of the party when sharing stories with others. &nbsp;The family laughingly recognize that when Beverly had something to say she had the floor until she was finished.

She and Eberhardt made Elkhart, Kansas, their family home. &nbsp;When he passed in 1993, she continued living in their family residence until she relocated in October, 2017, to Inola, Oklahoma, to live with her son, Randy, where she remained until December 2022. It was at this point she moved to Inola Care Facility.

Her last two years have been filled with the upheaval felt by many families as a cherished elder in the family makes that tragic transition from parent to child, from healthy to weak and tired, from cared for to misunderstood in the chaos of unspeakable illnesses of the old, tired and forgotten. &nbsp;Beverly left a grieving family behind, struggling to make sense of just what the horrors of dementia and how it ravishes a once vital human being bring.

Her legacy remains: Honest love only a parent can show a child and a willingness to forgive that which most think is unforgiveable. &nbsp;Her strengths are many and admired but when she passed her words were few. If she could talk, perhaps she would have used the words of a favorite hymn, “I’m but a stranger here, Heaven is my home; Earth is a desert drear, Heaven is my home. &nbsp;Danger and sorrow stand round me on every hand; Heaven is my fatherland, Heaven is my Home.”

Beverly June Steitz is survived by her sister Joyce Buchholtz; her son, Randy Jay Steitz (Teresa); daughter, Janice June Moe; two granddaughters, AhLia Hoover and Tia (Ryan) Drifka; five great-grandsons and one great-great-grandson; along with a slew of thankful and loving nieces and nephews. &nbsp;She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Eberhardt Steitz; her parents, William and Blanche Fyler; son-in-law, Ron Moe; brothers, Kenneth Fyler, Bill Fyler, Carl Fyler; and sister, Doris Jackson.

Funeral service will be Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at the First Lutheran Church, La Crosse, Kansas, with Pastor Phyllis Burdge officiating. &nbsp;Interment will be in the La Crosse City Cemetery, La Crosse, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to the First Lutheran Church, La Crosse, Kansas.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724779422114.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! &nbsp;I once was lost, but now am found was blind but now I see.”Beverly June (Fyler) Steitz of Inola, Oklahoma, transitioned from her earthly life to her heavenly home on August 24, 2024. &nbsp;She passed peacefully in her sleep to the arms of Jesus in the early hours of the morning, leaving quietly and with dignity.Beverly was born in Great Bend, Kansas, on July 26, 1930, to William and Blanche Fyler, the fourth of six children. The family later moved to Bison, Kansas, where Beverly attended high school and graduated in 1948. December 18, 1949, Beverly married the love of her life, Eberhardt Steitz at the United Methodist Church. &nbsp;While Eber served his country, Beverly worked for a local dentist office. &nbsp;She was eager to help the young family’s finances and her years in the work force include Dollies, Western Auto, Ben Franklin, and a stint in the Elkhart School District cafeteria. Her favorite job, her most important job, and the vocation for which she was most proud, was that of a mother. On March 17, 1960, the young couple proudly added to their family a baby girl, Janice June. For Beverly, Janice was an answer to her dreams. Four years later, March 19, 1964, the proud couple added a son, Randy Jay, making their family unit complete. &nbsp;Beverly was also a favorite aunt to her many nephews and nieces before and after her children joined the flock. &nbsp;She definitely found her niche as a homemaker where her baking abilities went unsurpassed. &nbsp;Family members in the know say she was most famous for her cinnamon rolls and pumpkin pies. &nbsp;She was not shy about sharing her abilities with granddaughter, Tia, who now follows in her grandmother’s footsteps baking for family get togethers.Beverly loved to sew, loved cutting hair and giving perms, enjoyed playing the piano by ear and singing to her children, was adventuress when traveling with her husband, and was the life of the party when sharing stories with others. &nbsp;The family laughingly recognize that when Beverly had something to say she had the floor until she was finished.She and Eberhardt made Elkhart, Kansas, their family home. &nbsp;When he passed in 1993, she continued living in their family residence until she relocated in October, 2017, to Inola, Oklahoma, to live with her son, Randy, where she remained until December 2022. It was at this point she moved to Inola Care Facility.Her last two years have been filled with the upheaval felt by many families as a cherished elder in the family makes that tragic transition from parent to child, from healthy to weak and tired, from cared for to misunderstood in the chaos of unspeakable illnesses of the old, tired and forgotten. &nbsp;Beverly left a grieving family behind, struggling to make sense of just what the horrors of dementia and how it ravishes a once vital human being bring.Her legacy remains: Honest love only a parent can show a child and a willingness to forgive that which most think is unforgiveable. &nbsp;Her strengths are many and admired but when she passed her words were few. If she could talk, perhaps she would have used the words of a favorite hymn, “I’m but a stranger here, Heaven is my home; Earth is a desert drear, Heaven is my home. &nbsp;Danger and sorrow stand round me on every hand; Heaven is my fatherland, Heaven is my Home.”Beverly June Steitz is survived by her sister Joyce Buchholtz; her son, Randy Jay Steitz (Teresa); daughter, Janice June Moe; two granddaughters, AhLia Hoover and Tia (Ryan) Drifka; five great-grandsons and one great-great-grandson; along with a slew of thankful and loving nieces and nephews. &nbsp;She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Eberhardt Steitz; her parents, William and Blanche Fyler; son-in-law, Ron Moe; brothers, Kenneth Fyler, Bill Fyler, Carl Fyler; and sister, Doris Jackson.Funeral service will be Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at the First Lutheran Church, La Crosse, Kansas, with Pastor Phyllis Burdge officiating. &nbsp;Interment will be in the La Crosse City Cemetery, La Crosse, Kansas.In lieu of flowers or plants, the family requests memorials to the First Lutheran Church, La Crosse, Kansas.Condolences or remembrances may be left for the family at www.janousekfuneralhome.com.Arrangements were by Janousek Funeral Home, 719 Pine Street, P O Box 550, La Crosse, Kansas 67548, 785/222-2517.

Beverly June (Fyler) Steitz

Grow Hays, in association with the Network Kansas E-Community Partnership, announces the ‘Think Like an Entrepreneur’ - Ice House Entrepreneurship Program offered in Ellis County. 

Sessions will be held over eight weeks, on Wednesdays beginning September 25 through November 13. 

The goal of the course is to teach participants to develop an entrepreneurial mindset.

Taught by Kris Munsch, a certified Ice House facilitator, this interactive 8-week program provides practical entrepreneurial lessons through first-hand experiences of successful, real-life entrepreneurs. Based on the book, Who Owns the Ice House, this curriculum consists of case studies along with individual assignments, assessments, and discussion topics. 

This popular course is offered only a handful of times per year across the state and Grow Hays is excited to have local resident Kris Munsch teaching the course.

"To think like an entrepreneur, you need to begin at the beginning. The beginning is 'what is a mindset?' I believe we need that understanding, a foundational building block of self. From there, we can seek, explore, and build our path," said Munsch, Ice House facilitator.

The program fee runs $150 for adults and $75 for students and covers catered meals. We are offering an early bird price of $100 if signed up and paid by September 11. 

Registration is limited, and in-county attendees will have priority to fill the course. Out-of-county attendees are welcome to register but may be put on a waiting list. The deadline to register is Thursday, September 18.

To register for the Think Like an Entrepreneur program online, visit: <a href="https://briefspace.proximity.app/">https://briefspace.proximity.app/</a>

For more information contact James Robben at 785.628.3102 or james@growhays.com.

Think Like an Entrepreneur Program BriefSpace- 219 West 10th Street in Hays – 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Week #1 – Wednesday, September 25 – Power of Choice

Week #2 – Wednesday, October 2 – Recognizing Opportunity

Week #3 – Wednesday, October 9 – Ideas into Action

Week #4 – Wednesday, October 16 – Pursuit of Knowledge

Week #5 – Wednesday, October 23 – Creating Wealth

Week #6 – Wednesday, October 30 – Building Your Brand

Week #7 – Wednesday, November 6– Creating Community

Week #8 – Wednesday, November 13 – The Power of Persistence

For more information about NetWork Kansas or the E-Community Partnership, visit <a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">www.networkkansas.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724273005296.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Grow HaysGrow Hays, in association with the Network Kansas E-Community Partnership, announces the ‘Think Like an Entrepreneur’ - Ice House Entrepreneurship Program offered in Ellis County. Sessions will be held over eight weeks, on Wednesdays beginning September 25 through November 13. The goal of the course is to teach participants to develop an entrepreneurial mindset.Taught by Kris Munsch, a certified Ice House facilitator, this interactive 8-week program provides practical entrepreneurial lessons through first-hand experiences of successful, real-life entrepreneurs. Based on the book, Who Owns the Ice House, this curriculum consists of case studies along with individual assignments, assessments, and discussion topics. This popular course is offered only a handful of times per year across the state and Grow Hays is excited to have local resident Kris Munsch teaching the course."To think like an entrepreneur, you need to begin at the beginning. The beginning is 'what is a mindset?' I believe we need that understanding, a foundational building block of self. From there, we can seek, explore, and build our path," said Munsch, Ice House facilitator.The program fee runs $150 for adults and $75 for students and covers catered meals. We are offering an early bird price of $100 if signed up and paid by September 11. Registration is limited, and in-county attendees will have priority to fill the course. Out-of-county attendees are welcome to register but may be put on a waiting list. The deadline to register is Thursday, September 18.To register for the Think Like an Entrepreneur program online, visit: <a href="https://briefspace.proximity.app/">https://briefspace.proximity.app/</a>For more information contact James Robben at 785.628.3102 or james@growhays.com.Think Like an Entrepreneur Program BriefSpace- 219 West 10th Street in Hays – 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Week #1 – Wednesday, September 25 – Power of ChoiceWeek #2 – Wednesday, October 2 – Recognizing OpportunityWeek #3 – Wednesday, October 9 – Ideas into ActionWeek #4 – Wednesday, October 16 – Pursuit of KnowledgeWeek #5 – Wednesday, October 23 – Creating WealthWeek #6 – Wednesday, October 30 – Building Your BrandWeek #7 – Wednesday, November 6– Creating CommunityWeek #8 – Wednesday, November 13 – The Power of Persistence For more information about NetWork Kansas or the E-Community Partnership, visit <a href="https://www.networkkansas.com/">www.networkkansas.com</a>.

Think Like an Entrepreneur/Ice House program launches in September at Grow Hays

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Supermarket chain Albertsons told a federal judge Monday that it might have to lay off workers, close stores and even exit some markets if its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-ftc-antitrust-3ba6eba066636626c4bdc6cd4f73fa29">planned merger</a>&nbsp;with Kroger isn't allowed to proceed.

The two companies proposed what would be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9">largest supermarket merger</a>&nbsp;in U.S. history in October 2022. But the Federal Trade Commission sued to prevent the $24.6 billion deal, alleging it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-antitrust-grocery-merger-competition-71b47dc86ec7449f29b2b488c1d3f9de">eliminate competition</a>&nbsp;and raise grocery prices in a time of already high&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-price-gouging-ban-inflation-65dc8844bb41159d76886f752b6cab28">food price inflation</a>.

In the three-week hearing that opened Monday, the FTC is seeking a preliminary injunction that would block the merger while its complaint goes before an in-house administrative law judge.

“This lawsuit is part of an effort aimed at helping Americans feed their families," the FTC's chief trial counsel, Susan Musser, said in her opening arguments on Monday.

Musser said Kroger and Albertsons currently compete in 22 states, closely matching each other on price, quality, private label products and services like store pickup. Shoppers benefit from that competition, she said, and will lose those benefits if the merger is allowed to proceed.

Customers also are wary of the merger, the lawyer said. In Santa Fe, New Mexico, for example, 278 shoppers wrote to the FTC to express their concerns about a combined Kroger and Albertsons, which would own five of the city's eight supermarkets.

But Kroger and Albertsons insist the FTC's objections don't take into account the rising competition in the grocery sector.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/walmart-apple-juice-recall-e4c185fd48af2438023ea94b3f6b2b74">Walmart's</a>&nbsp;grocery sales totaled $247 billion last year compared to $63 billion in 2003, for example; Costco's sales have grown more than 400% in the same period.

“Consumers are blurring the line of where they buy groceries," Albertsons attorney Enu Mainigi said.

Mainigi said Albertsons' customers now spend 88 cents of every dollar at competitors that range from Aldi and Trader Joe's to Dollar General. Albertsons can't compete with larger rivals that have national scale, but joining forces with Kroger would help it do that, she said.

Kroger attorney Matthew Wolf also defended the proposed merger.

“The savings that come from the merger are obvious and intuitive. Kroger may have the best price on Pepsi. Albertsons may have the best price on Coke. Put them together, they have the best price on both," Wolf said.

The two sides also disagree on Kroger and Albertsons' plan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-grocery-9a1d40ba06f752d3c5c3d5db78fede4c">to sell 579 stores</a>&nbsp;in places where their stores overlap. The buyer would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-wholesale-grocer-401520f2a25ea2ae5fd06be4973b7c48">C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers</a>, a New Hampshire-based supplier to independent supermarkets that also owns the Grand Union and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b50f18e7e7dc4701823b2d4346a8bd28">Piggly Wiggly</a>&nbsp;store brands.

The FTC says C&amp;S is ill-prepared to take on those stores. Laura Hall, the FTC's senior trial counsel, cited internal documents that indicated C&amp;S executives were skeptical about the quality of the stores they would get and may want the option to sell or close them.

But Wolf said C&amp;S has the experience and infrastructure to run the divested stores and would be the eighth-largest supermarket company in the U.S., if the merger plan goes through.

The commission also alleges that workers' wages and benefits would decline if Kroger and Albertsons no longer compete with each other.

Before the hearing, several members of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-united-food-and-commercial-workers-0815f09c0ad7bc7826b350abe6a2543b">United Food and Commercial Workers International</a>&nbsp;union gathered outside the federal courthouse in downtown Portland to speak out against the proposed deal.

“Enough is enough,” said Carol McMillian, a bakery manager at a Kroger-owned grocery store in Colorado. “We can no longer stand by and allow corporate greed that puts profit before people. Our workers, our communities and our customers deserve better.”

The labor union also expressed concern that potential store closures could create so-called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lifestyle-health-6b59475a8da2ef2587f31112555ac03b">food and pharmacy “deserts”</a>&nbsp;for consumers.

For people in many communities across the U.S., when a grocery store shutters, “their only source of food actually is walking to the nearest gas station,” said Kim Cordova, the president of UFCW Local 7, which represents over 23,000 members in Colorado and Wyoming.

Mainigi argued the deal could actually bolster union jobs, since many of Kroger's and Albertsons' competitors, like Walmart or Costco, have few unionized workers.

U.S. District Judge Adrienne Nelson is expected to hear from around 40 witnesses, including the CEOs of Kroger and Albertsons, before deciding whether to issue the preliminary injunction. If she does decide to temporarily block the merger, the FTC's in-house hearings are scheduled to begin Oct. 1.

But Nelson's decision will seal the merger's fate, according to Wolf. He said the FTC's in-house administrative process is so long and cumbersome that merger deals almost always fall apart before it's through. Earlier this month, Kroger sued the FTC, alleging the agency’s internal proceedings were unconstitutional and saying it wants the merger’s merits decided in federal court.

The attorneys general of Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Wyoming all joined the case on the FTC’s side. Washington and Colorado filed separate cases in state courts seeking to block the merger.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in 35 states, including brands like Dillons,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralphs-supermarkets-california-job-applicants-46a287ac76515ffbbd196202c4ee3c38">Ralphs</a>, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724718577355.png" alt="Photo from a Monday press conference courtesy United Food and commercial workers union local 3000" />
 <figcaption>Photo from a Monday press conference courtesy United Food and commercial workers union local 3000</figcaption>
 </figure>PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Supermarket chain Albertsons told a federal judge Monday that it might have to lay off workers, close stores and even exit some markets if its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-ftc-antitrust-3ba6eba066636626c4bdc6cd4f73fa29">planned merger</a>&nbsp;with Kroger isn't allowed to proceed.The two companies proposed what would be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9">largest supermarket merger</a>&nbsp;in U.S. history in October 2022. But the Federal Trade Commission sued to prevent the $24.6 billion deal, alleging it would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-antitrust-grocery-merger-competition-71b47dc86ec7449f29b2b488c1d3f9de">eliminate competition</a>&nbsp;and raise grocery prices in a time of already high&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-price-gouging-ban-inflation-65dc8844bb41159d76886f752b6cab28">food price inflation</a>.In the three-week hearing that opened Monday, the FTC is seeking a preliminary injunction that would block the merger while its complaint goes before an in-house administrative law judge.“This lawsuit is part of an effort aimed at helping Americans feed their families," the FTC's chief trial counsel, Susan Musser, said in her opening arguments on Monday.Musser said Kroger and Albertsons currently compete in 22 states, closely matching each other on price, quality, private label products and services like store pickup. Shoppers benefit from that competition, she said, and will lose those benefits if the merger is allowed to proceed.Customers also are wary of the merger, the lawyer said. In Santa Fe, New Mexico, for example, 278 shoppers wrote to the FTC to express their concerns about a combined Kroger and Albertsons, which would own five of the city's eight supermarkets.But Kroger and Albertsons insist the FTC's objections don't take into account the rising competition in the grocery sector.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/walmart-apple-juice-recall-e4c185fd48af2438023ea94b3f6b2b74">Walmart's</a>&nbsp;grocery sales totaled $247 billion last year compared to $63 billion in 2003, for example; Costco's sales have grown more than 400% in the same period.“Consumers are blurring the line of where they buy groceries," Albertsons attorney Enu Mainigi said.Mainigi said Albertsons' customers now spend 88 cents of every dollar at competitors that range from Aldi and Trader Joe's to Dollar General. Albertsons can't compete with larger rivals that have national scale, but joining forces with Kroger would help it do that, she said.Kroger attorney Matthew Wolf also defended the proposed merger.“The savings that come from the merger are obvious and intuitive. Kroger may have the best price on Pepsi. Albertsons may have the best price on Coke. Put them together, they have the best price on both," Wolf said.The two sides also disagree on Kroger and Albertsons' plan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-grocery-9a1d40ba06f752d3c5c3d5db78fede4c">to sell 579 stores</a>&nbsp;in places where their stores overlap. The buyer would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-wholesale-grocer-401520f2a25ea2ae5fd06be4973b7c48">C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers</a>, a New Hampshire-based supplier to independent supermarkets that also owns the Grand Union and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b50f18e7e7dc4701823b2d4346a8bd28">Piggly Wiggly</a>&nbsp;store brands.The FTC says C&amp;S is ill-prepared to take on those stores. Laura Hall, the FTC's senior trial counsel, cited internal documents that indicated C&amp;S executives were skeptical about the quality of the stores they would get and may want the option to sell or close them.But Wolf said C&amp;S has the experience and infrastructure to run the divested stores and would be the eighth-largest supermarket company in the U.S., if the merger plan goes through.The commission also alleges that workers' wages and benefits would decline if Kroger and Albertsons no longer compete with each other.Before the hearing, several members of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-business-health-united-food-and-commercial-workers-0815f09c0ad7bc7826b350abe6a2543b">United Food and Commercial Workers International</a>&nbsp;union gathered outside the federal courthouse in downtown Portland to speak out against the proposed deal.“Enough is enough,” said Carol McMillian, a bakery manager at a Kroger-owned grocery store in Colorado. “We can no longer stand by and allow corporate greed that puts profit before people. Our workers, our communities and our customers deserve better.”The labor union also expressed concern that potential store closures could create so-called&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-lifestyle-health-6b59475a8da2ef2587f31112555ac03b">food and pharmacy “deserts”</a>&nbsp;for consumers.For people in many communities across the U.S., when a grocery store shutters, “their only source of food actually is walking to the nearest gas station,” said Kim Cordova, the president of UFCW Local 7, which represents over 23,000 members in Colorado and Wyoming.Mainigi argued the deal could actually bolster union jobs, since many of Kroger's and Albertsons' competitors, like Walmart or Costco, have few unionized workers.U.S. District Judge Adrienne Nelson is expected to hear from around 40 witnesses, including the CEOs of Kroger and Albertsons, before deciding whether to issue the preliminary injunction. If she does decide to temporarily block the merger, the FTC's in-house hearings are scheduled to begin Oct. 1.But Nelson's decision will seal the merger's fate, according to Wolf. He said the FTC's in-house administrative process is so long and cumbersome that merger deals almost always fall apart before it's through. Earlier this month, Kroger sued the FTC, alleging the agency’s internal proceedings were unconstitutional and saying it wants the merger’s merits decided in federal court.The attorneys general of Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Wyoming all joined the case on the FTC’s side. Washington and Colorado filed separate cases in state courts seeking to block the merger.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in 35 states, including brands like Dillons,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralphs-supermarkets-california-job-applicants-46a287ac76515ffbbd196202c4ee3c38">Ralphs</a>, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.

Kroger and Albertsons defend merger plan in federal court

Deloris M. (Inderlied) Pianalto, 94, of Atwood, died Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood. She was born on November 29, 1929, in DeWitt, NE, the third child of William and Mildred Inderlied. Deloris was baptized on December 22, 1929, and confirmed on May 9, 1943, at Trinity Lutheran Church, in DeWitt, NE. Deloris attended Country School near the family farm where she was raised. She graduated from DeWitt High School in 1948, then went to work at the Elgin Watch Factory in Lincoln, NE.

In 1952, Deloris moved to California and married a service man in the Marines. They moved to Baton Rouge, LA when he got out of the service. They were blessed in 1956, with son Glenn and another son Roy, in 1969. After they divorced in 1974, Deloris moved back to her hometown, DeWitt, NE.

Deloris met and married Lester Pianalto on May 7, 1982, in Lincoln, NE. They lived on a dairy farm in Atwood, KS until moving into the town of Atwood in 1997.

Deloris joined Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Atwood, in October of 1994. She was a member of the Christian Mothers Altar Society, Homemakers Club, Coffee Club, Red hat Club and helped with many community projects. Deloris knew no stranger and always had a kind word and helped those in need. She loved watching football games, reading, dancing and many other hobbies.

She was preceded in death by her son Glenn in 1976; her parents; husband Lester Pianalto; sister Betty and brother Lowell.

Survivors include her son Roy Lee Harris and wife Jenn; three stepdaughters, Anita Squier, Diane Kostal and Teresa Clark; sisters, Meryl Hespin and Margie Aksamit; brother Bob Inderlied; five step-grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and many relatives and friends.

Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 23, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, with burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Atwood. Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood or the Rawlins County Hospital and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724707568134.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Deloris M. (Inderlied) Pianalto, 94, of Atwood, died Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood. She was born on November 29, 1929, in DeWitt, NE, the third child of William and Mildred Inderlied. Deloris was baptized on December 22, 1929, and confirmed on May 9, 1943, at Trinity Lutheran Church, in DeWitt, NE. Deloris attended Country School near the family farm where she was raised. She graduated from DeWitt High School in 1948, then went to work at the Elgin Watch Factory in Lincoln, NE.In 1952, Deloris moved to California and married a service man in the Marines. They moved to Baton Rouge, LA when he got out of the service. They were blessed in 1956, with son Glenn and another son Roy, in 1969. After they divorced in 1974, Deloris moved back to her hometown, DeWitt, NE.Deloris met and married Lester Pianalto on May 7, 1982, in Lincoln, NE. They lived on a dairy farm in Atwood, KS until moving into the town of Atwood in 1997.Deloris joined Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Atwood, in October of 1994. She was a member of the Christian Mothers Altar Society, Homemakers Club, Coffee Club, Red hat Club and helped with many community projects. Deloris knew no stranger and always had a kind word and helped those in need. She loved watching football games, reading, dancing and many other hobbies.She was preceded in death by her son Glenn in 1976; her parents; husband Lester Pianalto; sister Betty and brother Lowell.Survivors include her son Roy Lee Harris and wife Jenn; three stepdaughters, Anita Squier, Diane Kostal and Teresa Clark; sisters, Meryl Hespin and Margie Aksamit; brother Bob Inderlied; five step-grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren and many relatives and friends.Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Atwood. Funeral Mass is 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 23, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Atwood, with burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Atwood. Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Society, Atwood or the Rawlins County Hospital and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Deloris Pianalto (Inderlied)

Daryl Walter Hartzog, 93, passed away on August 21, 2024 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Daryl was born on October 3, 1930 to Harold Clifton Hartzog and Dena Kroeze Hartzog in Long Island, Kansas. Following Harold’s death in 1936, Dena married George Gillespie in 1940 and the family moved to a farm south of Jennings where Daryl and his siblings grew to adulthood. Daryl was drafted during the Korean War and joined the Army in 1952, later completing 10 weeks of basic training at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. He served the remainder of his tour of duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and was honorably discharged in 1954.

After discharge from the US Army at the rank of Corporal, Daryl resumed working on the family farm and raised wheat, corn and milo in addition to managing a cattle and hog operation. Daryl married Marjorie Shimmick on October 25, 1959 in Jennings and they had four sons; Scott, Steve, Stann and Stacy. Daryl eventually turned over primary operation of the farm to Stann but never ceased to be involved in the farming operation. He drove the tractor and worked in the field as recently as two months prior to his death. With the exception of the most recent wheat harvest and

time spent in the Army, Daryl was involved with around 80 summer harvests, starting when he was 14.

Daryl was a 70 year member of the American Legion, and was very active in supporting and promoting Legion events and participating in the Honor Guard and firing squad at Memorial Day ceremonies and funerals. He was a strong supporter of veteran causes and was the inspiration for the re-establishment of a Sons of The American Legion squadron in Jennings. He was instrumental in working with the American Legion to promote the creation of the SAL in Jennings, and proud of his sons’ participation in the Sons of the American Legion. Daryl had a lifelong hobby of collecting coins, especially silver dollars. In later years, he gave out many valuable dollar coins as Christmas gifts. He also had a passion for collecting Winchester rifles and other rare guns. He collected small farm toys and was passionate about antique cars and pickups. Daryl was an avid sports fan, especially of all Kansas teams. Some of the more recent highlights of his life included a family trip to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, an Honor Flight to Washington, DC, a trip to Angel Fire, NM to help his sons lay a brick in his name at the Veterans Memorial Brick Walkway, and the realization of a lifelong desire to visit Saguaro National Park in Arizona, along with a visit to White Sands, NM on the return trip home.

One of the brightest parts of Daryl’s life was his only grandchild, Allison Hartzog. They enjoyed running the combine together, as well as taking rides on the 4 wheeler and the John Deere Gator, where he helped her learn how to drive.

Daryl is survived by his wife Marjorie Hartzog, sons Scott Hartzog and wife Tracey, Norcatur, KS, Steve Hartzog, Garland, TX, Stann Hartzog, Jennings, KS, Stacy Hartzog and wife Jocelyn, and granddaughter Allison Hartzog of Olathe, KS. Daryl was preceded in death by his father Harold Hartzog, his mother Dena Kroeze Hartzog Gillespie, step-father George Gillespie, brother Earl Hartzog, sister Darlene LaRue, brother in law Martin LaRue, and sisters in law, Patty Hartzog, Joyce Hartzog, and Erma Gillespie.

Viewing and visitation with family and friends will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 27 at the Jennings United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on August 28, 2024 at the Jennings United Methodist Church at 10:30 am. Interment will be in the Jennings Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jennings American Legion, Post #351. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com.

Daryl Walter Hartzog, 93, passed away on August 21, 2024 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Daryl was born on October 3, 1930 to Harold Clifton Hartzog and Dena Kroeze Hartzog in Long Island, Kansas. Following Harold’s death in 1936, Dena married George Gillespie in 1940 and the family moved to a farm south of Jennings where Daryl and his siblings grew to adulthood. Daryl was drafted during the Korean War and joined the Army in 1952, later completing 10 weeks of basic training at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. He served the remainder of his tour of duty at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri and was honorably discharged in 1954.After discharge from the US Army at the rank of Corporal, Daryl resumed working on the family farm and raised wheat, corn and milo in addition to managing a cattle and hog operation. Daryl married Marjorie Shimmick on October 25, 1959 in Jennings and they had four sons; Scott, Steve, Stann and Stacy. Daryl eventually turned over primary operation of the farm to Stann but never ceased to be involved in the farming operation. He drove the tractor and worked in the field as recently as two months prior to his death. With the exception of the most recent wheat harvest andtime spent in the Army, Daryl was involved with around 80 summer harvests, starting when he was 14.Daryl was a 70 year member of the American Legion, and was very active in supporting and promoting Legion events and participating in the Honor Guard and firing squad at Memorial Day ceremonies and funerals. He was a strong supporter of veteran causes and was the inspiration for the re-establishment of a Sons of The American Legion squadron in Jennings. He was instrumental in working with the American Legion to promote the creation of the SAL in Jennings, and proud of his sons’ participation in the Sons of the American Legion. Daryl had a lifelong hobby of collecting coins, especially silver dollars. In later years, he gave out many valuable dollar coins as Christmas gifts. He also had a passion for collecting Winchester rifles and other rare guns. He collected small farm toys and was passionate about antique cars and pickups. Daryl was an avid sports fan, especially of all Kansas teams. Some of the more recent highlights of his life included a family trip to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, an Honor Flight to Washington, DC, a trip to Angel Fire, NM to help his sons lay a brick in his name at the Veterans Memorial Brick Walkway, and the realization of a lifelong desire to visit Saguaro National Park in Arizona, along with a visit to White Sands, NM on the return trip home.One of the brightest parts of Daryl’s life was his only grandchild, Allison Hartzog. They enjoyed running the combine together, as well as taking rides on the 4 wheeler and the John Deere Gator, where he helped her learn how to drive.Daryl is survived by his wife Marjorie Hartzog, sons Scott Hartzog and wife Tracey, Norcatur, KS, Steve Hartzog, Garland, TX, Stann Hartzog, Jennings, KS, Stacy Hartzog and wife Jocelyn, and granddaughter Allison Hartzog of Olathe, KS. Daryl was preceded in death by his father Harold Hartzog, his mother Dena Kroeze Hartzog Gillespie, step-father George Gillespie, brother Earl Hartzog, sister Darlene LaRue, brother in law Martin LaRue, and sisters in law, Patty Hartzog, Joyce Hartzog, and Erma Gillespie.Viewing and visitation with family and friends will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 27 at the Jennings United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held on August 28, 2024 at the Jennings United Methodist Church at 10:30 am. Interment will be in the Jennings Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Jennings American Legion, Post #351. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com.

Daryl Walter Hartzog

NEW YORK (AP) —The campaigns of Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;are arguing in advance of their high-stakes Sept. 10 debate over whether microphones should be muted except for the candidate whose turn it is to speak.

While it's common for campaigns to quibble beforehand over debate mechanics, both Harris and Trump are under pressure to deliver a strong performance next month in Philadelphia. The first debate during this campaign led to President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;departure from the race.

Trump on Sunday night raised the possibility that he might not show up on ABC, posting on his Truth Social network that he had watched the network's Sunday show with a “so-called Panel of Trump Haters” and posited, “why would I do the Debate against Kamala Harris on that network?” and urging followers to “Stay tuned!!”

The current dispute centers on the muting of microphones when a candidate isn't speaking, a condition both Biden and Trump accepted for their June debate hosted by CNN. Both sides are accusing the other of gaming the system to protect their candidate.

Biden’s campaign team made microphone muting a condition of its decision to accept any debates this year, and some aides now regret the decision, saying voters were shielded from hearing Trump’s outbursts during the debate. That move likely would not have helped the incumbent Democrat’s disastrous performance.

The Harris campaign now wants microphones to be live all the time, according to Harris spokesman Brian Fallon, who issued a statement needling Trump.

“Trump’s handlers prefer the muted microphone because they don’t think their candidate can act presidential for 90 minutes on his own,” Fallon said. Harris “is ready to deal with Trump’s constant lies and interruptions in real time. Trump should stop hiding behind the mute button.”

Trump spokesman Jason Miller retorted that the Republican nominee had “accepted the ABC debate under the exact same terms as the CNN debate." He alleged Harris’ representatives sought “a seated debate, with notes, and opening statements.”

Miller then took a shot at Harris not sitting for an interview or holding a news conference since Biden ended his reelection and endorsed her, arguing her campaign now wants “to give her a cheat sheet for the debate.”

The Harris campaign denied Miller's claim that she wanted notes or to be seated during the debate.

“I’d rather have it probably on,” Trump said Monday during a stop in the Washington area, when asked if he wanted microphones muted. “I didn't like it the last time, but it worked out fine,” he added, in terms of the policy during his debate with Biden.

“We agreed to the same rules — same rules, same specifications,” Trump noted, for his Sept. 10 debate with Harris. "And I think that’s probably what it should be.”

Asked how he was preparing for the debate, Trump responded, “I’m not. ... I think my whole life I’ve been preparing for a debate.”

Complicating the negotiations this year is that debates are being orchestrated on an ad hoc basis by host networks, as opposed to the bipartisan Commission on Presidential Debates, through which debate rules were negotiated privately.

Microphones have been unmuted for both candidates for most of televised presidential debate history. The debate commission announced that its October 2020 debate would have microphones muted when candidates were not recognized to speak after the first Biden-Trump contest descended into a shouting match. The second 2020 debate with the microphone muting rules was widely celebrated for being more substantive than the earlier matchup.

Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Colleen Long in Washington, and Jill Colvin in New York contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721587521577.png" alt="Photo Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>Photo Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —The campaigns of Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;are arguing in advance of their high-stakes Sept. 10 debate over whether microphones should be muted except for the candidate whose turn it is to speak.While it's common for campaigns to quibble beforehand over debate mechanics, both Harris and Trump are under pressure to deliver a strong performance next month in Philadelphia. The first debate during this campaign led to President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;departure from the race.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump on Sept. 10 ABC News debate: &quot;We&#39;re thinking about it. They also want to change the rules. You know, the deal was we keep the same rules. Now, all of a sudden they want to make a change in the rules because she can&#39;t answer questions.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/YxaJE6kV3o">pic.twitter.com/YxaJE6kV3o</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1828168021283688868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump on Sunday night raised the possibility that he might not show up on ABC, posting on his Truth Social network that he had watched the network's Sunday show with a “so-called Panel of Trump Haters” and posited, “why would I do the Debate against Kamala Harris on that network?” and urging followers to “Stay tuned!!”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724695187260.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The current dispute centers on the muting of microphones when a candidate isn't speaking, a condition both Biden and Trump accepted for their June debate hosted by CNN. Both sides are accusing the other of gaming the system to protect their candidate.Biden’s campaign team made microphone muting a condition of its decision to accept any debates this year, and some aides now regret the decision, saying voters were shielded from hearing Trump’s outbursts during the debate. That move likely would not have helped the incumbent Democrat’s disastrous performance.The Harris campaign now wants microphones to be live all the time, according to Harris spokesman Brian Fallon, who issued a statement needling Trump.“Trump’s handlers prefer the muted microphone because they don’t think their candidate can act presidential for 90 minutes on his own,” Fallon said. Harris “is ready to deal with Trump’s constant lies and interruptions in real time. Trump should stop hiding behind the mute button.”Trump spokesman Jason Miller retorted that the Republican nominee had “accepted the ABC debate under the exact same terms as the CNN debate." He alleged Harris’ representatives sought “a seated debate, with notes, and opening statements.”Miller then took a shot at Harris not sitting for an interview or holding a news conference since Biden ended his reelection and endorsed her, arguing her campaign now wants “to give her a cheat sheet for the debate.”The Harris campaign denied Miller's claim that she wanted notes or to be seated during the debate.“I’d rather have it probably on,” Trump said Monday during a stop in the Washington area, when asked if he wanted microphones muted. “I didn't like it the last time, but it worked out fine,” he added, in terms of the policy during his debate with Biden.“We agreed to the same rules — same rules, same specifications,” Trump noted, for his Sept. 10 debate with Harris. "And I think that’s probably what it should be.”Asked how he was preparing for the debate, Trump responded, “I’m not. ... I think my whole life I’ve been preparing for a debate.”Complicating the negotiations this year is that debates are being orchestrated on an ad hoc basis by host networks, as opposed to the bipartisan Commission on Presidential Debates, through which debate rules were negotiated privately.Microphones have been unmuted for both candidates for most of televised presidential debate history. The debate commission announced that its October 2020 debate would have microphones muted when candidates were not recognized to speak after the first Biden-Trump contest descended into a shouting match. The second 2020 debate with the microphone muting rules was widely celebrated for being more substantive than the earlier matchup.___Associated Press writers Zeke Miller and Colleen Long in Washington, and Jill Colvin in New York contributed to this report.___

🎥Harris and Trump squabble over rules for upcoming debate

NEW YORK (AP) —The largest proposed grocery store merger in U.S. history is going to court.

On one side are supermarket chains Kroger and Albertsons, which say their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9">planned merger</a>&nbsp;will help them compete against rivals like Costco. On the other side are antitrust regulators from the Federal Trade Commission, who say the merger would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-antitrust-grocery-merger-competition-71b47dc86ec7449f29b2b488c1d3f9de">eliminate competition</a>&nbsp;and raise grocery prices in a time of already high&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-price-gouging-ban-inflation-65dc8844bb41159d76886f752b6cab28">food price inflation</a>.

Starting Monday, a federal district court judge in Portland, Oregon, will consider both sides and decide whether to grant the FTC’s request for a preliminary injunction. An injunction would delay the merger while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/federal-trade-commission">the FTC</a>&nbsp;conducts an in-house case against the deal before an administrative law judge.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in Kansas and 34 other states, including brands like Dillons,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralphs-supermarkets-california-job-applicants-46a287ac76515ffbbd196202c4ee3c38">Ralphs</a>, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.

Here’s what to know ahead of the hearing, which is expected to last until Sept. 13.

Why do Kroger and Albertsons want to merge?

Kroger and Albertsons – two of the largest grocery chains in the U.S. – announced in October 2022 that they planned to merge. The companies say the $24.6 billion deal would hold down prices by giving them more leverage&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/grocery-store-supply-chain-issues-166cc40b0ff095af9d0bf4041fa1b5fc">with suppliers</a>&nbsp;and allowing them to combine their store brands. They say a merger also would help them compete with big rivals&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/walmart-settlement-weighted-grocery-class-action-62405b8c5fda5e63f0b0e4f1f64949e6">like Walmart</a>, which now controls around 22% of U.S. grocery sales. Combined, Kroger and Albertsons would control around 13%.

Why does the FTC want to block the merger?

Antitrust regulators say the proposed merger would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-federal-trade-commission-2fda44d9d8b82ef20d6c7e7cffb2ccc3">eliminate competition</a>, leading to higher prices, poorer quality and lower wages and benefits&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-contract-west-virginia-471b61f4212e4a803e0777c9a6b0ab67">for workers</a>. In February, the FTC issued a complaint seeking to block the merger before an administrative judge at the FTC. At the same time, the FTC filed the lawsuit in federal court in Oregon seeking the preliminary injunction. The attorneys general of Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Wyoming all joined the federal lawsuit.

Will Kroger and Albertsons close some stores if they merge?

They say no. If the merger is approved, Kroger and Albertsons have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-grocery-9a1d40ba06f752d3c5c3d5db78fede4c">agreed to sell 579 stores</a>&nbsp;in places where their stores overlap. The buyer would be C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers, a New Hampshire-based supplier to independent supermarkets that also owns the Grand Union and Piggly Wiggly store brands. Kroger and Albertsons&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-wholesale-grocer-401520f2a25ea2ae5fd06be4973b7c48">initially planned</a>&nbsp;to divest 413 stores, but the FTC said that plan would not have allowed C&amp;S to be a robust competitor. Kroger and Albertsons agreed to divest additional stores in April. Washington has the most stores that would be divested, with 124, followed by Colorado with 91 and California with 63.

What happens if the Oregon judge issues a preliminary injunction?

If the preliminary injunction is approved, Kroger and Albertsons would likely appeal to a higher court, said Mike Keeley, a partner and antitrust chair at Axinn, Veltrop &amp; Harkrider, a Washington law firm. The case could then move through the FTC’s own judicial system, but since that can take a year or more, companies often abandon a deal before going through the process, Keeley said. Kroger sued the FTC this month, alleging the agency's internal proceedings are unconstitutional and saying it wants the merger's merits decided in federal court. In that case, filed in Ohio, Kroger cited a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-regulatory-agencies-sec-36f16444b1d4fc52985fdb68896362bb">recent Supreme Court ruling</a>&nbsp;that limited the power of the Securities and Exchange Commission to try some civil fraud complaints within the agency instead of in court.

What happens if the Oregon judge agrees with Kroger and Albertsons?

The FTC would likely appeal the ruling, but Keeley said it's rare for an appeals court to reverse a lower court's ruling on a merger, so the FTC might decide to drop the challenge. The case could still proceed through the FTC's administrative process. It's unclear what impact the presidential election could have on the case. The Biden administration has been particularly aggressive in challenging mergers that it considered anti-competitive, but lawmakers from both parties&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-prices-alex-padilla-congress-rodney-mcmullen-54929ed8d702642fbc33269fb69b0373">expressed skepticism</a>&nbsp;about the merger in a 2022 hearing.

If the federal court lets the merger proceed, could state courts still prevent it?

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-colorado-06a59a420139ef8f4400b128778d408d">Colorado</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-washington-lawsuit-35681b212a416d19d24d1a3a8126f4ca">Washington</a>&nbsp;have separately sued to block&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-colorado-06a59a420139ef8f4400b128778d408d">the merger</a>&nbsp;in state courts. That's an unusual situation; normally states are co-plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit. But both states believe they have a lot at stake. Colorado has more than 200 Kroger and Albertsons stores, while Washington has more than 300. Keeley said both states could seek their own injunctions from a different court if the FTC loses, but it would be surprising for another court to block the merger if Kroger and Albertsons are successful in the federal case.

NEW YORK (AP) —The largest proposed grocery store merger in U.S. history is going to court.On one side are supermarket chains Kroger and Albertsons, which say their&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-albertsons-companies-inc-0cfbd68f81ba8aab7c1d3012c69804d9">planned merger</a>&nbsp;will help them compete against rivals like Costco. On the other side are antitrust regulators from the Federal Trade Commission, who say the merger would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-antitrust-grocery-merger-competition-71b47dc86ec7449f29b2b488c1d3f9de">eliminate competition</a>&nbsp;and raise grocery prices in a time of already high&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-price-gouging-ban-inflation-65dc8844bb41159d76886f752b6cab28">food price inflation</a>.Starting Monday, a federal district court judge in Portland, Oregon, will consider both sides and decide whether to grant the FTC’s request for a preliminary injunction. An injunction would delay the merger while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/federal-trade-commission">the FTC</a>&nbsp;conducts an in-house case against the deal before an administrative law judge.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/opioid-crisis-settlement-kroger-79356d42ded9c5099e1c2b88d3ffc061">Kroger</a>, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores in Kansas and 34 other states, including brands like Dillons,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralphs-supermarkets-california-job-applicants-46a287ac76515ffbbd196202c4ee3c38">Ralphs</a>, Smith’s and Harris Teeter.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-dividends-8c6e67bf9fb0cc3da523c672a6ca9141">Albertsons</a>, based in Boise, Idaho, operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw’s. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.Here’s what to know ahead of the hearing, which is expected to last until Sept. 13.<h2>Why do Kroger and Albertsons want to merge?</h2>Kroger and Albertsons – two of the largest grocery chains in the U.S. – announced in October 2022 that they planned to merge. The companies say the $24.6 billion deal would hold down prices by giving them more leverage&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/grocery-store-supply-chain-issues-166cc40b0ff095af9d0bf4041fa1b5fc">with suppliers</a>&nbsp;and allowing them to combine their store brands. They say a merger also would help them compete with big rivals&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/walmart-settlement-weighted-grocery-class-action-62405b8c5fda5e63f0b0e4f1f64949e6">like Walmart</a>, which now controls around 22% of U.S. grocery sales. Combined, Kroger and Albertsons would control around 13%.<h2>Why does the FTC want to block the merger?</h2>Antitrust regulators say the proposed merger would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-federal-trade-commission-2fda44d9d8b82ef20d6c7e7cffb2ccc3">eliminate competition</a>, leading to higher prices, poorer quality and lower wages and benefits&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-contract-west-virginia-471b61f4212e4a803e0777c9a6b0ab67">for workers</a>. In February, the FTC issued a complaint seeking to block the merger before an administrative judge at the FTC. At the same time, the FTC filed the lawsuit in federal court in Oregon seeking the preliminary injunction. The attorneys general of Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Wyoming all joined the federal lawsuit.<h2>Will Kroger and Albertsons close some stores if they merge?</h2>They say no. If the merger is approved, Kroger and Albertsons have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-grocery-9a1d40ba06f752d3c5c3d5db78fede4c">agreed to sell 579 stores</a>&nbsp;in places where their stores overlap. The buyer would be C&amp;S Wholesale Grocers, a New Hampshire-based supplier to independent supermarkets that also owns the Grand Union and Piggly Wiggly store brands. Kroger and Albertsons&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-cs-wholesale-grocer-401520f2a25ea2ae5fd06be4973b7c48">initially planned</a>&nbsp;to divest 413 stores, but the FTC said that plan would not have allowed C&amp;S to be a robust competitor. Kroger and Albertsons agreed to divest additional stores in April. Washington has the most stores that would be divested, with 124, followed by Colorado with 91 and California with 63.<h2>What happens if the Oregon judge issues a preliminary injunction?</h2>If the preliminary injunction is approved, Kroger and Albertsons would likely appeal to a higher court, said Mike Keeley, a partner and antitrust chair at Axinn, Veltrop &amp; Harkrider, a Washington law firm. The case could then move through the FTC’s own judicial system, but since that can take a year or more, companies often abandon a deal before going through the process, Keeley said. Kroger sued the FTC this month, alleging the agency's internal proceedings are unconstitutional and saying it wants the merger's merits decided in federal court. In that case, filed in Ohio, Kroger cited a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-regulatory-agencies-sec-36f16444b1d4fc52985fdb68896362bb">recent Supreme Court ruling</a>&nbsp;that limited the power of the Securities and Exchange Commission to try some civil fraud complaints within the agency instead of in court.<h2>What happens if the Oregon judge agrees with Kroger and Albertsons?</h2>The FTC would likely appeal the ruling, but Keeley said it's rare for an appeals court to reverse a lower court's ruling on a merger, so the FTC might decide to drop the challenge. The case could still proceed through the FTC's administrative process. It's unclear what impact the presidential election could have on the case. The Biden administration has been particularly aggressive in challenging mergers that it considered anti-competitive, but lawmakers from both parties&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-prices-alex-padilla-congress-rodney-mcmullen-54929ed8d702642fbc33269fb69b0373">expressed skepticism</a>&nbsp;about the merger in a 2022 hearing.<h2>If the federal court lets the merger proceed, could state courts still prevent it?</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-colorado-06a59a420139ef8f4400b128778d408d">Colorado</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-washington-lawsuit-35681b212a416d19d24d1a3a8126f4ca">Washington</a>&nbsp;have separately sued to block&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kroger-albertsons-merger-colorado-06a59a420139ef8f4400b128778d408d">the merger</a>&nbsp;in state courts. That's an unusual situation; normally states are co-plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit. But both states believe they have a lot at stake. Colorado has more than 200 Kroger and Albertsons stores, while Washington has more than 300. Keeley said both states could seek their own injunctions from a different court if the FTC loses, but it would be surprising for another court to block the merger if Kroger and Albertsons are successful in the federal case.

Kroger and Albertsons head to court to defend merger plan

Ida Mary Smrcka, 93, passed away August 24, 2024 at Diversicare of Larned.

She was born March 28, 1931 in La Crosse, the daughter of Clarence and Anna Irish Morrison.

A lifetime Rush County resident, she was a homemaker. She loved cooking, sewing, gardening, and working alongside her husband on the farm. Her greatest joy was to be a grandma to Katie Ann and a great grandma GG to Brielle.

On October 15, 1955 she married Willard Dean Smrcka at La Crosse; he preceded her in death.

Survivors include: &nbsp;daughter, Vickie Sue (R.J.) Tammen, Timken; granddaughter, Katie Ann (Shawn) Doyle, Timken; great granddaughter, Brielle Maryn Doyle; brother, Victor Morrison, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Robert Allen Smrcka; and her brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, August 26, 2024 with family present from 6-8 p.m. Burial will be in Bohemian National Cemetery, Timken. Private family service will be at a later date.

Memorials may be given to Bohemian National Cemetery in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724621628269.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ida Mary Smrcka, 93, passed away August 24, 2024 at Diversicare of Larned.She was born March 28, 1931 in La Crosse, the daughter of Clarence and Anna Irish Morrison.A lifetime Rush County resident, she was a homemaker. She loved cooking, sewing, gardening, and working alongside her husband on the farm. Her greatest joy was to be a grandma to Katie Ann and a great grandma GG to Brielle.On October 15, 1955 she married Willard Dean Smrcka at La Crosse; he preceded her in death.Survivors include: &nbsp;daughter, Vickie Sue (R.J.) Tammen, Timken; granddaughter, Katie Ann (Shawn) Doyle, Timken; great granddaughter, Brielle Maryn Doyle; brother, Victor Morrison, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Robert Allen Smrcka; and her brothers and sisters.Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, August 26, 2024 with family present from 6-8 p.m. Burial will be in Bohemian National Cemetery, Timken. Private family service will be at a later date.Memorials may be given to Bohemian National Cemetery in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

Ida Mary Smrcka

The Ellis County Board of Commissioners are requesting citizen interest in being apart of the new Ellis County Library Board. 

To be eligible for the appointment, the person must live within the new taxing district of the Ellis County Library, which is anyone who lives in Ellis County, but not within the city limits of Hays or Ellis.

 Initial appointment terms will vary, but appointments will have four-year terms after the initial appointment. 

This is an exciting time for the new board. Some examples of the initial work needing done for the new board are creating bylaws, board positions, meeting dates, times, and locations, budget, contractual work, and working with local public libraries. 

For anyone interested in serving on this board, please feel free to contact an Ellis County commissioner or the county administrator to gather more information. 

To be considered for the appointment, a Citizen Interest form must be filled out and turned in. It can be found on the Ellis County Clerks webpage at <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/494/Citizen-Interest---Volunteer">https://www.ellisco.net/494/Citizen-Interest---Volunteer</a>.

Forms need to be returned no later than October 1, 2024.

Ellis CountyThe Ellis County Board of Commissioners are requesting citizen interest in being apart of the new Ellis County Library Board. To be eligible for the appointment, the person must live within the new taxing district of the Ellis County Library, which is anyone who lives in Ellis County, but not within the city limits of Hays or Ellis. Initial appointment terms will vary, but appointments will have four-year terms after the initial appointment. This is an exciting time for the new board. Some examples of the initial work needing done for the new board are creating bylaws, board positions, meeting dates, times, and locations, budget, contractual work, and working with local public libraries. For anyone interested in serving on this board, please feel free to contact an Ellis County commissioner or the county administrator to gather more information. To be considered for the appointment, a Citizen Interest form must be filled out and turned in. It can be found on the Ellis County Clerks webpage at <a href="https://www.ellisco.net/494/Citizen-Interest---Volunteer">https://www.ellisco.net/494/Citizen-Interest---Volunteer</a>. Forms need to be returned no later than October 1, 2024.

Ellis County seeks members for new county library board

Optimism seems to be fading that a cease fire proposed by the United States will be accepted to pause the fighting between Israel and Hamas.

Kansas U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Republican member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, says these are difficult negotiations between long-time enemies.

“Well, I don’t know, there have been lots of efforts at trying to put in place a cease fire. None of them have worked to date. And it seems both sides are difficult to deal with,” Moran tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post during a recent visit to Elwood.

Moran is doubtful this latest attempt by the United States to bring the two sides together will work.

“I hope that there can be some kind of coming together for peace or a better circumstance for people,” Moran says.

Still Moran holds out hope the United States can bring the two sides together this time.

“So, we hope and pray that there’s solution that protects the Israeli citizens and provides a safe and secure place for everyone.”

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in the Middle East and had thought Israel and Hamas had agreed to terms for a pause in the fight and the release of hostages.

The conflict ignited after Hamas attacked Israeli citizens in October, killing more than a thousand, taking more than 100 hostage. Israel launched an all-out war against Hamas. It is estimated more than 40,000 have been killed in the war.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700064381613.jpeg" alt="U.S. Sen Jerry Moran visited Israel in November as part of a delegation that met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Photo courtesy Sen. Moran's office." />
 <figcaption>U.S. Sen Jerry Moran visited Israel in November as part of a delegation that met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Photo courtesy Sen. Moran's office.</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostOptimism seems to be fading that a cease fire proposed by the United States will be accepted to pause the fighting between Israel and Hamas.Kansas U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, a Republican member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, says these are difficult negotiations between long-time enemies.“Well, I don’t know, there have been lots of efforts at trying to put in place a cease fire. None of them have worked to date. And it seems both sides are difficult to deal with,” Moran tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post during a recent visit to Elwood.Moran is doubtful this latest attempt by the United States to bring the two sides together will work.“I hope that there can be some kind of coming together for peace or a better circumstance for people,” Moran says.Still Moran holds out hope the United States can bring the two sides together this time.“So, we hope and pray that there’s solution that protects the Israeli citizens and provides a safe and secure place for everyone.”Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in the Middle East and had thought Israel and Hamas had agreed to terms for a pause in the fight and the release of hostages.The conflict ignited after Hamas attacked Israeli citizens in October, killing more than a thousand, taking more than 100 hostage. Israel launched an all-out war against Hamas. It is estimated more than 40,000 have been killed in the war.

Sen. Moran cautious on whether Israel, Hamas cease fire will be reached

Roberta Josephine “Tinker” Jacobs, 89, of Aurora, Colo., passed away on March 28, 2024. She was born July 23, 1934 to Simon and Ida Jacobs, in Hays, one of six children.

A 1952 graduate from Hays High School, Tinker helped blaze a trail for women while becoming a renowned biochemist after earning a B.A. degree at the Fort Hays Kansas State College (now FHSU) in 1956 with a major in biology and minor in zoology.

She spent her career researching immunology possibilities with a focus on finding ways to improve treatments for arthritis and lupus, among other health issues. While working at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation in the 1980s, at least three of her research papers were published in the Journal of Immunological Methods. She retired from her career as a research scientist from the University of Colorado Health Science Center in Denver.

Throughout her career, she continued to teach and learn while earning multiple post-graduate degrees. Beginning at the University of Buffalo with an M. Med in medicine (1962), continuing at the University of Kansas with an M. Arts in biology (1966), and concluding at the State University of New York-Buffalo with a Ph.D. in biochemistry (1980), Tinker was focused on helping others.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724525954920.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Roberta Josephine “Tinker” Jacobs, 89, of Aurora, Colo., passed away on March 28, 2024. She was born July 23, 1934 to Simon and Ida Jacobs, in Hays, one of six children.A 1952 graduate from Hays High School, Tinker helped blaze a trail for women while becoming a renowned biochemist after earning a B.A. degree at the Fort Hays Kansas State College (now FHSU) in 1956 with a major in biology and minor in zoology.She spent her career researching immunology possibilities with a focus on finding ways to improve treatments for arthritis and lupus, among other health issues. While working at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation in the 1980s, at least three of her research papers were published in the Journal of Immunological Methods. She retired from her career as a research scientist from the University of Colorado Health Science Center in Denver.Throughout her career, she continued to teach and learn while earning multiple post-graduate degrees. Beginning at the University of Buffalo with an M. Med in medicine (1962), continuing at the University of Kansas with an M. Arts in biology (1966), and concluding at the State University of New York-Buffalo with a Ph.D. in biochemistry (1980), Tinker was focused on helping others.When not studying or working, Tinker spent time hiking and cycling, honing her photography skills, and caring for a collection of pets, including her beloved ‘Little Guy’ after retiring in the Denver area. While living in Oklahoma City, Okla., she became a handywoman as she worked through the process of fixing problems and making improvements as a homeowner.She is survived by her sister, Stephanie Schumacher (Leon) of Hays, four nephews, seven nieces, and 12 great-nephews and great-nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, Simon and Ida (Linenberger) Jacobs, brothers David Jacobs, Leroy Jacobs and Norman Jacobs, sister Verna Lou (Jacobs) LaBan, and two nieces, Robin LaBan White and Stacey Schumacher Badger.A memorial service has been scheduled for October 26, 2024 in Hays, Kansas. This obituary will be updated with more information as it becomes available.In lieu of flowers or other gifts, please consider making a donation to the Aurora (Colo.) Animal Shelter. Donations can be sent by mail or made online. To donate by check payable to the Aurora Animal Shelter, mail it to: 15750 E. 32nd Ave., Aurora, CO 80011. To donate online, go to: https://licensepet.com/wl3/don/aurowd/457. Condolences and memories of Tinker may be shared with her family at www.haysmemorial.com