Virgil Keith Howe, former Dean of Health and Life Sciences at Fort Hays State University, died May 27, 2024, at Homestead Assisted Living in Hays, Kansas. He was 93.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Virgil was born April 22, 1931, on a farm outside of King City, Missouri to Fred and Luella (Jameson) Howe. He started school in a one-room country schoolhouse and graduated from King City High School as salutatorian for the class of 1949. He attended Gila Junior College, later Eastern Arizona Junior College, for two years, before transferring to Central Methodist College in Fayette, Missouri.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In March of 1952, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving as a medical technician in Tripoli, Libya and later transferring to Athens, Greece where he remained until his discharge in 1956. After returning to the U.S., he married Virginia Mae (Birbeck) on June 3, 1956, in King City.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He enrolled at Northwest Missouri State College and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1957. He accepted a graduate assistantship in the Department of Biology at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, where he received a Master of Science degree with a major in botany in 1961. He was then accepted into the graduate program of the Department of Botany and Plant Pathology at Iowa State University, majoring in forest pathology with a special emphasis in the problems of shade trees. He received his PhD in 1964.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Virgil’s first faculty position was as an associate professor of biological science at Northwestern State College of Louisiana in Natchitoches. In 1968, he joined the faculty in the Department of Biological Sciences at Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois. He served as Chair of the Department for two years and was subsequently appointed Associate and Acting Provost and Academic Vice President at WIU.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In 1988, he was encouraged by Dr. Gene Fleharty to seek appointment as the first dean of the new College of Health of Life Sciences at Fort Hays State University. Over the nine years he served as dean at FHSU, three new degree programs were developed, the number of student majors nearly doubled, two new academic departments were created, and he was involved in procuring more than seven hundred thousand dollars in external funding support for the College. Additionally, he served as a member of the External Advisory Board of Kansas Health Institute and the Advisory Board for the development of the Primary Care Physician Education Program at the University of Kansas Medical Center.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Virgil had a long-standing commitment to Rotary International. Upon retiring from FHSU, he was elected as Rotary District Governor for northwest Kansas from 1998-1999.&nbsp;

Upon Virginia's passing, he remained at Homestead of Hays, where he cherished the companionship of his extended family, the residents and staff.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He is survived by a daughter, Christine and husband, Mark Milford, Kingman, KS; a son, Daniel and wife, Amy Howe, Lexington KY; six grandchildren, Jessica Quinn and husband, Sean Greenlee, Haysville, KS; Grant and wife, Caroline Quinn, Brunswick, GA; Ian Quinn, Wichita, KS; Wesley Howe, Lexington, KY; Austin and wife, Sarah Howe, Elmira, NY; and Zachary Howe, Lexington, KY; two step-grandsons, Jacob Milford, Wichita, KS; Riley Milford, Maize, KS; three great-grandchildren, Vivienne, Adele, and Rhett Greenlee, Haysville, KS; two-step-great-grandchildren, Anghus and Amia Houghtelling, Brunswick, GA; one brother, Robert Howe and wife, Anne, King City, MO; sister-in-law and husband, Mary and Jack Bush, Dallas, TX; sister-in-law, Mimi Birbeck of Mankato, MN; and several nieces and nephews.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his wife, of 64+ years Virginia on October 4, 2020, his parents, Fred and Luella; a sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Gordon Howitt.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A memorial service for both Virgil and Virginia will be held at 3:00 P.M. Saturday, June 29, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall Street, Hays, Kansas with Rev. Christine Wagner officiating.&nbsp; Military Honors will be presented by the Hays V.F.W. Post #9076.&nbsp; The Family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00 P.M. Saturday, at the church.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A private family inurnment will be at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney, Kansas.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The family suggests memorials made payable to: Hays Rotary Club or Rotary International

in care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd, Hays, Kansas 67601.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717089826921.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Virgil Keith Howe, former Dean of Health and Life Sciences at Fort Hays State University, died May 27, 2024, at Homestead Assisted Living in Hays, Kansas. He was 93.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Virgil was born April 22, 1931, on a farm outside of King City, Missouri to Fred and Luella (Jameson) Howe. He started school in a one-room country schoolhouse and graduated from King City High School as salutatorian for the class of 1949. He attended Gila Junior College, later Eastern Arizona Junior College, for two years, before transferring to Central Methodist College in Fayette, Missouri.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In March of 1952, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving as a medical technician in Tripoli, Libya and later transferring to Athens, Greece where he remained until his discharge in 1956. After returning to the U.S., he married Virginia Mae (Birbeck) on June 3, 1956, in King City.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He enrolled at Northwest Missouri State College and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 1957. He accepted a graduate assistantship in the Department of Biology at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, where he received a Master of Science degree with a major in botany in 1961. He was then accepted into the graduate program of the Department of Botany and Plant Pathology at Iowa State University, majoring in forest pathology with a special emphasis in the problems of shade trees. He received his PhD in 1964.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Virgil’s first faculty position was as an associate professor of biological science at Northwestern State College of Louisiana in Natchitoches. In 1968, he joined the faculty in the Department of Biological Sciences at Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois. He served as Chair of the Department for two years and was subsequently appointed Associate and Acting Provost and Academic Vice President at WIU.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In 1988, he was encouraged by Dr. Gene Fleharty to seek appointment as the first dean of the new College of Health of Life Sciences at Fort Hays State University. Over the nine years he served as dean at FHSU, three new degree programs were developed, the number of student majors nearly doubled, two new academic departments were created, and he was involved in procuring more than seven hundred thousand dollars in external funding support for the College. Additionally, he served as a member of the External Advisory Board of Kansas Health Institute and the Advisory Board for the development of the Primary Care Physician Education Program at the University of Kansas Medical Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Virgil had a long-standing commitment to Rotary International. Upon retiring from FHSU, he was elected as Rotary District Governor for northwest Kansas from 1998-1999.&nbsp;Upon Virginia's passing, he remained at Homestead of Hays, where he cherished the companionship of his extended family, the residents and staff.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He is survived by a daughter, Christine and husband, Mark Milford, Kingman, KS; a son, Daniel and wife, Amy Howe, Lexington KY; six grandchildren, Jessica Quinn and husband, Sean Greenlee, Haysville, KS; Grant and wife, Caroline Quinn, Brunswick, GA; Ian Quinn, Wichita, KS; Wesley Howe, Lexington, KY; Austin and wife, Sarah Howe, Elmira, NY; and Zachary Howe, Lexington, KY; two step-grandsons, Jacob Milford, Wichita, KS; Riley Milford, Maize, KS; three great-grandchildren, Vivienne, Adele, and Rhett Greenlee, Haysville, KS; two-step-great-grandchildren, Anghus and Amia Houghtelling, Brunswick, GA; one brother, Robert Howe and wife, Anne, King City, MO; sister-in-law and husband, Mary and Jack Bush, Dallas, TX; sister-in-law, Mimi Birbeck of Mankato, MN; and several nieces and nephews.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He was preceded in death by his wife, of 64+ years Virginia on October 4, 2020, his parents, Fred and Luella; a sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Gordon Howitt.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A memorial service for both Virgil and Virginia will be held at 3:00 P.M. Saturday, June 29, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church, 2900 Hall Street, Hays, Kansas with Rev. Christine Wagner officiating.&nbsp; Military Honors will be presented by the Hays V.F.W. Post #9076.&nbsp; The Family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00 P.M. Saturday, at the church.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A private family inurnment will be at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery at WaKeeney, Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The family suggests memorials made payable to: Hays Rotary Club or Rotary Internationalin care of Cline’s-Keithley Mortuary of Hays, 1919 East 22nd, Hays, Kansas 67601.

Virgil Keith Howe

Rosalie Mitchell, age 99 years of Great Bend, Kansas passed away early on Sunday morning, June 16, 2024 at Azria Health Woodhaven, where she had made her home for the past nearly three years.&nbsp; Rosalie was born on January 6, 1925 at Charleston, West Virginia, and had been a resident of Great Bend since 1932.&nbsp; She was united in marriage to Lonnie Frederick Mitchell, Sr. on November 18, 1955 at Larned, Kansas.&nbsp; Rosalie was a homemaker and also reared and took care of more than 30 children throughout her long life.&nbsp; She was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church in Great Bend.&nbsp; Rosalie loved to play Bingo and Pokeno.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Survivors include two daughters:&nbsp; Joyce Dixon and Brenda (&amp; Dewayne “DJ”) Johnson of Lubbock, Texas; nine grandchildren:&nbsp; Crystal Dixon, Karen Mitchell, Kevin Mitchell, LaKeyia Jones, Lisa Johnson, Tisa Johnson, Christina Johnson, Trisha Johnson, and Monica Johnson; two great-grandchildren:&nbsp; Kya Bates and Christopher Johnson; Rosalie’s longtime caregiver and devoted friend Magda Dolatshahi.&nbsp; Rosalie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lonnie F. Mitchell Sr. in October of 1983; two sons: Lonnie Mitchell Jr. and Harold Mitchell; and one daughter Margaret Ann Mitchell.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It was Rosalie’s wishes that her remains be cremated. Inurnment will take place at Golden Belt Memorial Park Cemetery near Great Bend, Kansas at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for later designation. Charter Funerals of Great Bend is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718647800482.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Rosalie Mitchell, age 99 years of Great Bend, Kansas passed away early on Sunday morning, June 16, 2024 at Azria Health Woodhaven, where she had made her home for the past nearly three years.&nbsp; Rosalie was born on January 6, 1925 at Charleston, West Virginia, and had been a resident of Great Bend since 1932.&nbsp; She was united in marriage to Lonnie Frederick Mitchell, Sr. on November 18, 1955 at Larned, Kansas.&nbsp; Rosalie was a homemaker and also reared and took care of more than 30 children throughout her long life.&nbsp; She was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church in Great Bend.&nbsp; Rosalie loved to play Bingo and Pokeno.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Survivors include two daughters:&nbsp; Joyce Dixon and Brenda (&amp; Dewayne “DJ”) Johnson of Lubbock, Texas; nine grandchildren:&nbsp; Crystal Dixon, Karen Mitchell, Kevin Mitchell, LaKeyia Jones, Lisa Johnson, Tisa Johnson, Christina Johnson, Trisha Johnson, and Monica Johnson; two great-grandchildren:&nbsp; Kya Bates and Christopher Johnson; Rosalie’s longtime caregiver and devoted friend Magda Dolatshahi.&nbsp; Rosalie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lonnie F. Mitchell Sr. in October of 1983; two sons: Lonnie Mitchell Jr. and Harold Mitchell; and one daughter Margaret Ann Mitchell.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It was Rosalie’s wishes that her remains be cremated. Inurnment will take place at Golden Belt Memorial Park Cemetery near Great Bend, Kansas at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for later designation. Charter Funerals of Great Bend is in charge of arrangements.

Rosalie Mitchell, age 99

Monday, October 4th, 1926-Thursday, June 13th, 2024

<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/agnes-sabatka/5445638/index.php">Service details can be found by clicking here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718483571808.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Agnes Alice Sabatka (Cahoj)</h2>Monday, October 4th, 1926-Thursday, June 13th, 2024<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/agnes-sabatka/5445638/index.php">Service details can be found by clicking here.</a>

Agnes Alice Sabatka (Cahoj)

Laura Allen, focusing on voting rights and access, will be the Democratic Party candidate for Ellis County Clerk, challenging incumbent Bobbi Dreiling.

With no opponents in the Democratic primary, she will be the party’s candidate for office.

“I really want to open a discussion about voting and voting access in our community,” she said. “We should be engaging Ellis County residents, especially new residents, on how and where to vote.”

Allen said she is a champion of creating access to voting on the Fort Hays State campus.

“I absolutely think that access to voting at Fort Hays State should be a priority for our community,” she said. “Let’s meet students where they are and give them the opportunity to vote on campus.”

She continued, “As a parent and voter, I am thrilled to see young adults campaigning for their voting rights. I have the utmost respect for the faculty and staff at Fort Hays for the support they have offered their students. I hope that all election officials look forward to working with voters in every stage of their voting careers, ensuring strong elections and voter turnout.”

Allen, an Ellis County native, raised her family in Hays and has worked in the non-profit sector for the past seven years.

“I have always gravitated to career positions that provide services to others,” she said.

She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Fort Hays State University and that, coupled with her career experience, gives her confidence in her ability to perform the multitude of administrative duties in the clerk office.

“I do best when I am busy, because I am great at prioritizing,” she said. “I am a quick learner and I love to research. If I am unsure how something is done, I find out how to do it correctly, which includes not being afraid to ask for help and input from others.”

“And,” she continued, “I'm not afraid to roll up my sleeves. Duties will not always be in the 8 to 4 business hours.”

The conversation she wants to start includes helping voters realize the importance of local elections.

“In a local election, our votes select the people whose decisions affect our everyday lives. If you want your voices to be heard, and you want your votes to make a difference, vote in local elections!”

Allen said that innovation and collaboration often lead to the best changes.

“Working with our community, which includes FHSU and its students, is an essential function of any elected official but especially the County Clerk, who has such a wide range of responsibilities,” she said.

People she speaks to about the clerk’s office generally have no idea, beyond voter registration, what the office does, unless some item of personal business takes them there.

“Hays has an engaged and committed community, and county officials should be a part of that community,” she said.

In addition to voter registration and controlling polling locations, the clerk’s office performs services in the areas of drinking licenses; transient merchant licenses; passports; moving permits; various tax forms for homestead claims, low-income seniors and property tax relief; ownership transfers for real estate taxes and other areas.

Primary: Register to vote by Tuesday, July 16. The primary is Tuesday, August 6.

General: Register to vote by Tuesday, October 15. Advance voting begins Wednesday, October 16. The election is Tuesday, November 5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688753467308.jpeg" alt="Laura Allen" />
 <figcaption>Laura Allen</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedLaura Allen, focusing on voting rights and access, will be the Democratic Party candidate for Ellis County Clerk, challenging incumbent Bobbi Dreiling.With no opponents in the Democratic primary, she will be the party’s candidate for office.Her focus in the campaign is voting.“I really want to open a discussion about voting and voting access in our community,” she said. “We should be engaging Ellis County residents, especially new residents, on how and where to vote.”Allen said she is a champion of creating access to voting on the Fort Hays State campus.“I absolutely think that access to voting at Fort Hays State should be a priority for our community,” she said. “Let’s meet students where they are and give them the opportunity to vote on campus.”She continued, “As a parent and voter, I am thrilled to see young adults campaigning for their voting rights. I have the utmost respect for the faculty and staff at Fort Hays for the support they have offered their students. I hope that all election officials look forward to working with voters in every stage of their voting careers, ensuring strong elections and voter turnout.”Allen, an Ellis County native, raised her family in Hays and has worked in the non-profit sector for the past seven years.“I have always gravitated to career positions that provide services to others,” she said.She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Fort Hays State University and that, coupled with her career experience, gives her confidence in her ability to perform the multitude of administrative duties in the clerk office.“I do best when I am busy, because I am great at prioritizing,” she said. “I am a quick learner and I love to research. If I am unsure how something is done, I find out how to do it correctly, which includes not being afraid to ask for help and input from others.”“And,” she continued, “I'm not afraid to roll up my sleeves. Duties will not always be in the 8 to 4 business hours.”The conversation she wants to start includes helping voters realize the importance of local elections.“In a local election, our votes select the people whose decisions affect our everyday lives. If you want your voices to be heard, and you want your votes to make a difference, vote in local elections!”Allen said that innovation and collaboration often lead to the best changes.“Working with our community, which includes FHSU and its students, is an essential function of any elected official but especially the County Clerk, who has such a wide range of responsibilities,” she said.People she speaks to about the clerk’s office generally have no idea, beyond voter registration, what the office does, unless some item of personal business takes them there.“Hays has an engaged and committed community, and county officials should be a part of that community,” she said.In addition to voter registration and controlling polling locations, the clerk’s office performs services in the areas of drinking licenses; transient merchant licenses; passports; moving permits; various tax forms for homestead claims, low-income seniors and property tax relief; ownership transfers for real estate taxes and other areas.The schedule for the 2024 election:Primary: Register to vote by Tuesday, July 16. The primary is Tuesday, August 6.General: Register to vote by Tuesday, October 15. Advance voting begins Wednesday, October 16. The election is Tuesday, November 5.

Allen files as Democratic candidate for Ellis County Clerk 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

A man convicted of two counts of committing aggravated sexual battery in Hays is appealing his conviction for the second time, alleging being stranded on Interstate 70 in a snowstorm deprived him of his right to be present for his full trial.

Reagan Booto, a former Fort Hays State University student, was convicted in January 2020 and sentenced to 84 months in prison for allegedly groping two Fort Hays State University students in separate incidents, according to court records.

In October 2017, the first victim was standing outside of a Hays bar. As she was underage, she could not enter the bar and went into the alley to urinate. The victim reported she had been drinking earlier in the evening, according to court records.

She said she unbuckled her pants to urinate. Booto allegedly approached her, restrained her, and touched her vagina and her buttocks, despite her saying "stop" and trying to get away. She was able to push Booto away and run to the front of the bar, according to court records.

Booto allegedly assaulted the second victim in April 2018. A group of friends, including Booto, were walking to a house party in Hays. This victim had also been drinking. The victim said she and Booto became separated from the other two friends, according to court records.

Booto allegedly put his arms around the victim, slid his hand down the top of her shirt, unbuttoned her pants and touched her vagina on the outside of her underwear, according to court records.

She ran from Booto and hid behind a friend's house, according to court records.

A third victim also reported being assaulted by Booto, who she said penetrated her vagina in her dorm room at FHSU. She reported that she pushed Booto off her and ordered him to leave. She reported the incident to law enforcement and underwent a sexual assault exam, according to court records.

At the time of the trial, Booto lived several hours away from Hays. A snowstorm and resulting accidents closed Interstate 70.

Booto alleged in his first appeal, which was denied in May 2022, that District Court Judge Glenn Braun's comment that the defendant "didn't plan well" about his delay was a judicial error.&nbsp;

Although the appellate court found the judge's comments were an error, it found a single error was not enough to overturn the conviction.

In Booto's current appeal, he is alleging his rights were violated because he was unable to be present during jury selection and certain motions because of being stranded by the storm.

He also alleges that he was denied the right to testify. In the appeal, he alleges he wished to testify, but his attorney urged him not to.

The appeal also alleges ineffective counsel by his attorney Alex Herman, prosecutional error by Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees and cumulative error.

The case is set for a status conference on July 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718326197020.png" alt="Booto photo KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Booto photo KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostA man convicted of two counts of committing aggravated sexual battery in Hays is appealing his conviction for the second time, alleging being stranded on Interstate 70 in a snowstorm deprived him of his right to be present for his full trial.Reagan Booto, a former Fort Hays State University student, was convicted in January 2020 and sentenced to 84 months in prison for allegedly groping two Fort Hays State University students in separate incidents, according to court records.In October 2017, the first victim was standing outside of a Hays bar. As she was underage, she could not enter the bar and went into the alley to urinate. The victim reported she had been drinking earlier in the evening, according to court records.She said she unbuckled her pants to urinate. Booto allegedly approached her, restrained her, and touched her vagina and her buttocks, despite her saying "stop" and trying to get away. She was able to push Booto away and run to the front of the bar, according to court records.Booto allegedly assaulted the second victim in April 2018. A group of friends, including Booto, were walking to a house party in Hays. This victim had also been drinking. The victim said she and Booto became separated from the other two friends, according to court records.Booto allegedly put his arms around the victim, slid his hand down the top of her shirt, unbuttoned her pants and touched her vagina on the outside of her underwear, according to court records.She ran from Booto and hid behind a friend's house, according to court records.A third victim also reported being assaulted by Booto, who she said penetrated her vagina in her dorm room at FHSU. She reported that she pushed Booto off her and ordered him to leave. She reported the incident to law enforcement and underwent a sexual assault exam, according to court records.At the time of the trial, Booto lived several hours away from Hays. A snowstorm and resulting accidents closed Interstate 70.Booto was late in arriving at court.Booto alleged in his first appeal, which was denied in May 2022, that District Court Judge Glenn Braun's comment that the defendant "didn't plan well" about his delay was a judicial error.&nbsp;Although the appellate court found the judge's comments were an error, it found a single error was not enough to overturn the conviction.In Booto's current appeal, he is alleging his rights were violated because he was unable to be present during jury selection and certain motions because of being stranded by the storm.He also alleges that he was denied the right to testify. In the appeal, he alleges he wished to testify, but his attorney urged him not to.The appeal also alleges ineffective counsel by his attorney Alex Herman, prosecutional error by Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees and cumulative error.The case is set for a status conference on July 17.

Man convicted of sex crimes in Hays makes second appeal

By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports Writer

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who signed a new two-year deal in April, said Tuesday that he wants to keep playing football “until the wheels come off" after the first day of the team's mandatory three-day minicamp.

The 34-year-old Kelce signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with Kansas City in 2020, which followed a $46 million, five-year deal that he signed in 2016. The latest $34.25 million pact ties Kelce to the team through the 2025 season.

“Kansas City has been home for me for the past 11 years. I'm reminded that every time I come back to the city,” Kelce said. “I do take the offseasons to get away and kind of recharge, but at the same time, I'm a football player. I love playing in the NFL."

Still, Kelce acknowledged that the end of his career is much closer than the beginning, and that has fueled his desire to cross over into different avenues of sports and entertainment. He hosts one of the most popular podcasts across several genres with his brother and former Eagles center Jason Kelce, and he will soon host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.

He also has made appearances on such shows as “Saturday Night Live” and intends to continue dabbling in acting.

Then there is Kelce's relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has elevated him to another level of celebrity. It has helped him become of the NFL's most widely known players, despite playing a position often considered far from glamorous.

“I can't put a timeframe on it,” Kelce said of retirement. "Man, I love coming to work every single day. I know there's opportunity outside of football for me, and I think you got to keep in perspective that I'm a little kid when I come into this building, man.

“I know I'm 34 years old — about to be 35 (in October) — but I have a lot to do right here, in the middle of the heat in June,” he continued. “I love coming to work every single day doing this. I'm going to do it until the wheels come off. Hopefully that doesn't happen any time soon. But I definitely know it's closer to the end of the road than the beginning of it.”

Kelce was chosen by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, and despite missing almost all of his rookie season to a knee injury, has already become their career leader with 11,328 yards receiving. He needs 10 receptions to reach 917 and pass Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez for that record, and three touchdown catches would give him 77, dropping Gonzalez to No. 2 on that franchise list — both marks that he should reach in the first couple of weeks of this upcoming season.

“The odds of someone playing this far into their 30s is low,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach admitted recently, “but it does happen. There are unicorns in the profession and Travis is one of those. He’s shown no signs of slowing down.”

In other news Tuesday, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker was absent with an illness while guard Joe Thuney was missing while continuing his recovery from surgery on a pectoral injury. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, were present but did not practice.

The three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, when the Chiefs have their Super Bowl ring ceremony.

“I’m sure when I unbox that ring it’s going to be special," Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said. "There’s going to be a sentimental value attached to that that you can’t necessarily replicate. It’s going to be a fun night with teammates, seeing guys that are no longer here anymore and being able to reunite with those guys. It’s going to be fun.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718359742795.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes arrives on the red carpet before a ceremony for team members to receive their championship rings for winning NFL's Super Bowl 58 football game Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes arrives on the red carpet before a ceremony for team members to receive their championship rings for winning NFL's Super Bowl 58 football game Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who signed a new two-year deal in April, said Tuesday that he wants to keep playing football “until the wheels come off" after the first day of the team's mandatory three-day minicamp.The 34-year-old Kelce signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with Kansas City in 2020, which followed a $46 million, five-year deal that he signed in 2016. The latest $34.25 million pact ties Kelce to the team through the 2025 season.“Kansas City has been home for me for the past 11 years. I'm reminded that every time I come back to the city,” Kelce said. “I do take the offseasons to get away and kind of recharge, but at the same time, I'm a football player. I love playing in the NFL."Still, Kelce acknowledged that the end of his career is much closer than the beginning, and that has fueled his desire to cross over into different avenues of sports and entertainment. He hosts one of the most popular podcasts across several genres with his brother and former Eagles center Jason Kelce, and he will soon host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.He also has made appearances on such shows as “Saturday Night Live” and intends to continue dabbling in acting.Then there is Kelce's relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has elevated him to another level of celebrity. It has helped him become of the NFL's most widely known players, despite playing a position often considered far from glamorous.“I can't put a timeframe on it,” Kelce said of retirement. "Man, I love coming to work every single day. I know there's opportunity outside of football for me, and I think you got to keep in perspective that I'm a little kid when I come into this building, man.“I know I'm 34 years old — about to be 35 (in October) — but I have a lot to do right here, in the middle of the heat in June,” he continued. “I love coming to work every single day doing this. I'm going to do it until the wheels come off. Hopefully that doesn't happen any time soon. But I definitely know it's closer to the end of the road than the beginning of it.”Kelce was chosen by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, and despite missing almost all of his rookie season to a knee injury, has already become their career leader with 11,328 yards receiving. He needs 10 receptions to reach 917 and pass Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez for that record, and three touchdown catches would give him 77, dropping Gonzalez to No. 2 on that franchise list — both marks that he should reach in the first couple of weeks of this upcoming season.“The odds of someone playing this far into their 30s is low,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach admitted recently, “but it does happen. There are unicorns in the profession and Travis is one of those. He’s shown no signs of slowing down.”In other news Tuesday, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker was absent with an illness while guard Joe Thuney was missing while continuing his recovery from surgery on a pectoral injury. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, were present but did not practice.The three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, when the Chiefs have their Super Bowl ring ceremony.“I’m sure when I unbox that ring it’s going to be special," Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said. "There’s going to be a sentimental value attached to that that you can’t necessarily replicate. It’s going to be a fun night with teammates, seeing guys that are no longer here anymore and being able to reunite with those guys. It’s going to be fun.”

🏈 Chiefs give nod to winning 'Tom & Jerry' play in jewel-filled Super Bowl ring

&nbsp;Julia Ann Quenzer, 72, of Colby, died Monday, June 10, 2024. She was born on October 2, 1951, in Salina, KS, to Cleo and Ivy (Thiesen) Rolland. Julia graduated from Norton High School with the class of 1970. She was united in marriage to Michael Quenzer on May 17, 1975, in Norton, KS. To this union two sons were born. Julia had a daycare, worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Barlow and was a CNA at Colby Health and Rehab. Julia was a member of the Colby 6th Street AA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Michael; sisters-in-law, Doylene Foreman and Susan Thomson and brother-in-law Elwood Thomson.

Julia is survived by her sons, Nicholas (Michelle) Quenzer and Christopher (Danielle) Quenzer; grandchildren, Carter, Michael and Miah Quenzer and Johua and Lilly Mullins; daughter-in-law Megan (Conet) Quenzer; brother Gary (Samette) Rolland; sister-in-law Patrice Chard; brother-in-law Eldon Foreman; Uncle and Aunt Dee and Barbara Biesterfeld and many more nephews, nieces and friends.

Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby. Funeral Service is at 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, at the Colby United Methodist Church, with burial at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery in WaKeeney, KS at 1:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to Colby 6th Street AA 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/2024/6/1718227761877.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>&nbsp;Julia Ann Quenzer, 72, of Colby, died Monday, June 10, 2024. She was born on October 2, 1951, in Salina, KS, to Cleo and Ivy (Thiesen) Rolland. Julia graduated from Norton High School with the class of 1970. She was united in marriage to Michael Quenzer on May 17, 1975, in Norton, KS. To this union two sons were born. Julia had a daycare, worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Barlow and was a CNA at Colby Health and Rehab. Julia was a member of the Colby 6th Street AA.She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Michael; sisters-in-law, Doylene Foreman and Susan Thomson and brother-in-law Elwood Thomson.Julia is survived by her sons, Nicholas (Michelle) Quenzer and Christopher (Danielle) Quenzer; grandchildren, Carter, Michael and Miah Quenzer and Johua and Lilly Mullins; daughter-in-law Megan (Conet) Quenzer; brother Gary (Samette) Rolland; sister-in-law Patrice Chard; brother-in-law Eldon Foreman; Uncle and Aunt Dee and Barbara Biesterfeld and many more nephews, nieces and friends.Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby. Funeral Service is at 10:00 a.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, at the Colby United Methodist Church, with burial at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery in WaKeeney, KS at 1:00 p.m. Memorials may be made to Colby 6th Street AA and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com&nbsp;&nbsp;

Julia Ann Quenzer (Rolland)

Roger Harold O’Hare, son of Elton Ray and Mildred May (McCashland) O’Hare was born October 14, 1946 in Oberlin, KS and passed away peacefully at his home in Grove, OK on November 17, 2023 at the age of 77.

Roger grew up in the Lyle, KS community and attended Spring Branch School and Norcatur High School. He attended Wichita Technical Institute before entering the U.S. Army in 1966. Roger served domestically and in Europe until his honorable discharge in February 1972. On November 9, 1968, Roger married his high school sweetheart, Connie Lee Michel. Together, they raised two sons, Patrick John and Michel Ray.

Roger and Connie were self-employed, owning O’Hare Oil Company in Norcatur, KS and the Amoco service station in Goodland, KS. Roger also worked for Yost Farm Supply in Goodland, KS where he enjoyed traveling the Midwest visiting with farmers while making his favorite sales of 4-wheel drive tractors and No-Till drills. Roger volunteered for 20+ years on the Norcatur Fire Department.

Roger loved teaching his sons to hunt and fish. He enjoyed NASCAR, dirt track stock car racing in northwest Kansas, boating, and road trips throughout the U.S. During the summer months, Roger and Connie enjoyed exploring various lakes in their RV. Roger always claimed he couldn’t wait “to get on the road again” and would play the song in their truck any time they began their travels. In fact, as they would leave a campground, they would open their windows and Roger would turn up the volume on the stereo and they’d wave to everyone as they made their grand exit. Roger and Connie were huge Denver Broncos fans and relished a family rivalry when their sons became KC Chiefs fans.

In December 2018, Roger and Connie purchased a home on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in Grove, Oklahoma, which had fast become their favorite lake. From their deck, they enjoyed not only the lake view, but the deer and other wildlife passing by their backyard. Every summer, Roger would supervise as Connie planted brightly colored flowers in pots for their enjoyment all summer long. Many of these flowers brought in hummingbirds and cardinals which the couple began feeding.

Roger’s personality was full of wit and humor. He loved a good laugh, usually at his own expense, although he enjoyed telling stories of other’s silliness as well. He had the ability to talk with any stranger and immediately make them feel like they had been friends for years. Roger’s lively spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents and sister Joleen O’Hare. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Connie, of 55 years; sons Patrick O’Hare (Wendy) of Topeka, KS, and Michel O’Hare (Jennifer) of Lincoln, KS; grandchildren Connor O’Hare of Hays, KS, Landon O’Hare and Kaden O’Hare of Lincoln, KS, Dalton Cooper, Del Rio, TX, Evan Gronau (Megan) of Baldwin City, KS and Avery Gronau of Lawrence, KS; great-grandchildren Maggie Gronau and Garrison Gronau of Baldwin City, KS; brothers Rodney O’Hare (Janice) of Norton, KS and Ronald O’Hare of Denver, CO; sisters Mary Morse of Beaver City, NE, Devra Byers (Kurt) of Hays, KS, and Cynthia Hattrup (Steve) of Coppell, TX.

A memorial graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 10:00AM at the Norcatur Cemetery in Norcatur, KS where Roger participated for many years in the Memorial Day veterans’ service. Memorial contributions may be given to the Norcatur, KS Avenue of Flags in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 121 N. Penn Ave., Oberlin, KS 67749. Condolences can be left at www.plumergobber.com

Roger Harold O’Hare, son of Elton Ray and Mildred May (McCashland) O’Hare was born October 14, 1946 in Oberlin, KS and passed away peacefully at his home in Grove, OK on November 17, 2023 at the age of 77.Roger grew up in the Lyle, KS community and attended Spring Branch School and Norcatur High School. He attended Wichita Technical Institute before entering the U.S. Army in 1966. Roger served domestically and in Europe until his honorable discharge in February 1972. On November 9, 1968, Roger married his high school sweetheart, Connie Lee Michel. Together, they raised two sons, Patrick John and Michel Ray.Roger and Connie were self-employed, owning O’Hare Oil Company in Norcatur, KS and the Amoco service station in Goodland, KS. Roger also worked for Yost Farm Supply in Goodland, KS where he enjoyed traveling the Midwest visiting with farmers while making his favorite sales of 4-wheel drive tractors and No-Till drills. Roger volunteered for 20+ years on the Norcatur Fire Department.Roger loved teaching his sons to hunt and fish. He enjoyed NASCAR, dirt track stock car racing in northwest Kansas, boating, and road trips throughout the U.S. During the summer months, Roger and Connie enjoyed exploring various lakes in their RV. Roger always claimed he couldn’t wait “to get on the road again” and would play the song in their truck any time they began their travels. In fact, as they would leave a campground, they would open their windows and Roger would turn up the volume on the stereo and they’d wave to everyone as they made their grand exit. Roger and Connie were huge Denver Broncos fans and relished a family rivalry when their sons became KC Chiefs fans.In December 2018, Roger and Connie purchased a home on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in Grove, Oklahoma, which had fast become their favorite lake. From their deck, they enjoyed not only the lake view, but the deer and other wildlife passing by their backyard. Every summer, Roger would supervise as Connie planted brightly colored flowers in pots for their enjoyment all summer long. Many of these flowers brought in hummingbirds and cardinals which the couple began feeding.Roger’s personality was full of wit and humor. He loved a good laugh, usually at his own expense, although he enjoyed telling stories of other’s silliness as well. He had the ability to talk with any stranger and immediately make them feel like they had been friends for years. Roger’s lively spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing and loving him.Roger was preceded in death by his parents and sister Joleen O’Hare. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Connie, of 55 years; sons Patrick O’Hare (Wendy) of Topeka, KS, and Michel O’Hare (Jennifer) of Lincoln, KS; grandchildren Connor O’Hare of Hays, KS, Landon O’Hare and Kaden O’Hare of Lincoln, KS, Dalton Cooper, Del Rio, TX, Evan Gronau (Megan) of Baldwin City, KS and Avery Gronau of Lawrence, KS; great-grandchildren Maggie Gronau and Garrison Gronau of Baldwin City, KS; brothers Rodney O’Hare (Janice) of Norton, KS and Ronald O’Hare of Denver, CO; sisters Mary Morse of Beaver City, NE, Devra Byers (Kurt) of Hays, KS, and Cynthia Hattrup (Steve) of Coppell, TX.A memorial graveside service will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 10:00AM at the Norcatur Cemetery in Norcatur, KS where Roger participated for many years in the Memorial Day veterans’ service. Memorial contributions may be given to the Norcatur, KS Avenue of Flags in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 121 N. Penn Ave., Oberlin, KS 67749. Condolences can be left at www.plumergobber.com

Roger Harold O’Hare

Eyvonne D. Crase, 91, died Monday, June 10, 2024, at Garden Valley Retirement Village in Garden City, Kansas. She was born October 12, 1932, in Hillsboro, Kansas, the daughter of David &amp; Eva (Janzen) Krause.

Eyvonne moved with her family to Deerfield, Kansas when she was a child. She attended Deerfield schools where she graduated from Deerfield High School. She then attended and graduated from Garden City Community College in 1952. On November 29, 1953, she married Daniel W. Crase in Deerfield, Kansas. They made their home in Garden City. A homemaker, Eyvonne enjoyed spending her time bowling, coloring, and working puzzles. She was a Charter member of Bible Christian Church.

Survivors include three daughters Debra Friend of Wichita, Kansas, Nancy &amp; husband Paul Rodriguez of Wichita, Kansas, and Suzanne &amp; husband Rod Johnson of Garden City; four grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Eyvonne is preceded in death by her husband Daniel who died on January 17, 2005. She is also preceded in death by her parents; her step-father Glen Morford; a brother Lloyd Krause; and a sister Virginia DeWitt.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at the Chapel at Garden Valley Retirement Village in Garden City with Pastor Jonathan Anderson officiating. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. The family suggests memorials given to St. Catherine Hospice in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes.com.

Eyvonne D. Crase, 91, died Monday, June 10, 2024, at Garden Valley Retirement Village in Garden City, Kansas. She was born October 12, 1932, in Hillsboro, Kansas, the daughter of David &amp; Eva (Janzen) Krause.Eyvonne moved with her family to Deerfield, Kansas when she was a child. She attended Deerfield schools where she graduated from Deerfield High School. She then attended and graduated from Garden City Community College in 1952. On November 29, 1953, she married Daniel W. Crase in Deerfield, Kansas. They made their home in Garden City. A homemaker, Eyvonne enjoyed spending her time bowling, coloring, and working puzzles. She was a Charter member of Bible Christian Church.Survivors include three daughters Debra Friend of Wichita, Kansas, Nancy &amp; husband Paul Rodriguez of Wichita, Kansas, and Suzanne &amp; husband Rod Johnson of Garden City; four grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Eyvonne is preceded in death by her husband Daniel who died on January 17, 2005. She is also preceded in death by her parents; her step-father Glen Morford; a brother Lloyd Krause; and a sister Virginia DeWitt.Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at the Chapel at Garden Valley Retirement Village in Garden City with Pastor Jonathan Anderson officiating. Burial will follow at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday at Garnand Funeral Home in Garden City. The family suggests memorials given to St. Catherine Hospice in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be given at garnandfuneralhomes.com.

Eyvonne D. Crase

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal Reserve officials said Wednesday that inflation has fallen further toward their target level in recent months but signaled that they expect to cut their benchmark interest rate just once this year.

The policymakers' forecast for one rate cut was down from a previous forecast of three, because inflation, despite having cooled in the past two months, remains persistently elevated.

In a statement issued after its two-day meeting, the Fed said the economy is growing at a solid pace, while hiring has “remained strong.” The officials also noted that in recent months there has been “modest" further progress toward its 2% inflation target. That is a more positive assessment than after the Fed's previous meeting May 1, when the officials had noted a lack of progress.

Still, the central bank made clear Wednesday that further improvement is needed.

“We’ll need to see more good data to bolster our confidence that inflation is moving sustainably toward 2%,” Chair Jerome Powell said at a news conference after the Fed meeting.

The policymakers, as expected, kept their key rate unchanged at roughly 5.3%. The benchmark rate has remained at that level since July of last year, after the Fed raised it 11 times to try to slow borrowing and spending and cool inflation. Fed rate cuts would, over time, lighten loan costs for consumers, who have faced punishingly high rates for mortgages, auto loans, credit cards and other forms of borrowing.

The officials' rate-cut forecast reflects the individual estimates of 19 policymakers. The Fed said that eight of those officials projected two rate cuts and seven projected one cut. Four said they envisioned no cuts at all this year.

The Fed’s updated quarterly projections are by no means fixed in time. The policymakers frequently revise their plans for rate cuts — or hikes — depending on how economic growth and inflation evolve over time.

On Wednesday morning, the government reported that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-rates-economy-federal-reserve-biden-8e1d14563d83f55e1773bcddd622bb2b">inflation eased in May</a>&nbsp;for a second straight month, a hopeful sign that an acceleration of prices that occurred early this year may have passed. Consumer prices excluding volatile food and energy costs — the closely watched “core” index — rose just 0.2% from April, the smallest rise since October. Measured from a year earlier, core prices climbed 3.4%, the mildest pace in three years.

“We welcome today’s reading and hope for more like that," Powell said at his news conference.

Though inflation has tumbled from a peak of 9.1% two years ago, it remains too high for the Fed's liking. The policymakers now face the delicate task of keeping rates high enough to slow spending and defeat high inflation without derailing the economy.

The central bank’s rate policies over the next several months could also have consequences for the presidential race. Though the unemployment rate is a low 4%, hiring is robust and consumers continue to spend, voters have taken a generally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-inflation-election-2024-eggs-trump-6690e93b2817f28ebc314c088cbec267">sour view of the economy</a>&nbsp;under President Joe Biden. In large part, that’s because prices remain much higher than they were before the pandemic struck. High borrowing rates impose a further financial burden.

Inflation had cooled steadily in the second half of last year, raising hopes that the Fed could achieve a rare “soft landing,” whereby it would manage to conquer inflation through rate hikes without causing a recession. But inflation came in unexpectedly high in the first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-rates-economy-federal-reserve-biden-d86c5a3a91a61687496f4a985e6bf362">three months of this year</a>, delaying hoped-for Fed rate cuts and potentially imperiling a soft landing.

Last month, Christopher Waller, an influential member of the Fed’s Board of Governors, said he needed to see “several more months of good inflation data” before he would consider supporting rate cuts. Though Waller didn’t spell out what would constitute good data, economists think it would have to be core inflation of 0.2% or less each month.

As part of the updated quarterly forecasts the Fed's policymakers issued Wednesday, they projected that the economy will grow 2.1% this year and 2% in 2025, the same as they had envisioned in March. They expect core inflation to be 2.8% by year's end, according to their preferred gauge, up from a previous forecast of 2.6%. And they project that unemployment will stay at its current 4% rate by the end of this year and edge up to 4.2% by the end of 2025.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal Reserve officials said Wednesday that inflation has fallen further toward their target level in recent months but signaled that they expect to cut their benchmark interest rate just once this year.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fed Chair Jerome Powell: &quot;Today, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FOMC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FOMC</a> decided to leave our policy interest rate unchanged and to continue to reduce our securities holdings.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/y3uLuoN7BN">pic.twitter.com/y3uLuoN7BN</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1800962844172656983?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The policymakers' forecast for one rate cut was down from a previous forecast of three, because inflation, despite having cooled in the past two months, remains persistently elevated.In a statement issued after its two-day meeting, the Fed said the economy is growing at a solid pace, while hiring has “remained strong.” The officials also noted that in recent months there has been “modest" further progress toward its 2% inflation target. That is a more positive assessment than after the Fed's previous meeting May 1, when the officials had noted a lack of progress.Still, the central bank made clear Wednesday that further improvement is needed.“We’ll need to see more good data to bolster our confidence that inflation is moving sustainably toward 2%,” Chair Jerome Powell said at a news conference after the Fed meeting.The policymakers, as expected, kept their key rate unchanged at roughly 5.3%. The benchmark rate has remained at that level since July of last year, after the Fed raised it 11 times to try to slow borrowing and spending and cool inflation. Fed rate cuts would, over time, lighten loan costs for consumers, who have faced punishingly high rates for mortgages, auto loans, credit cards and other forms of borrowing.The officials' rate-cut forecast reflects the individual estimates of 19 policymakers. The Fed said that eight of those officials projected two rate cuts and seven projected one cut. Four said they envisioned no cuts at all this year.The Fed’s updated quarterly projections are by no means fixed in time. The policymakers frequently revise their plans for rate cuts — or hikes — depending on how economic growth and inflation evolve over time.On Wednesday morning, the government reported that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-rates-economy-federal-reserve-biden-8e1d14563d83f55e1773bcddd622bb2b">inflation eased in May</a>&nbsp;for a second straight month, a hopeful sign that an acceleration of prices that occurred early this year may have passed. Consumer prices excluding volatile food and energy costs — the closely watched “core” index — rose just 0.2% from April, the smallest rise since October. Measured from a year earlier, core prices climbed 3.4%, the mildest pace in three years.“We welcome today’s reading and hope for more like that," Powell said at his news conference.Though inflation has tumbled from a peak of 9.1% two years ago, it remains too high for the Fed's liking. The policymakers now face the delicate task of keeping rates high enough to slow spending and defeat high inflation without derailing the economy.The central bank’s rate policies over the next several months could also have consequences for the presidential race. Though the unemployment rate is a low 4%, hiring is robust and consumers continue to spend, voters have taken a generally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-inflation-election-2024-eggs-trump-6690e93b2817f28ebc314c088cbec267">sour view of the economy</a>&nbsp;under President Joe Biden. In large part, that’s because prices remain much higher than they were before the pandemic struck. High borrowing rates impose a further financial burden.Inflation had cooled steadily in the second half of last year, raising hopes that the Fed could achieve a rare “soft landing,” whereby it would manage to conquer inflation through rate hikes without causing a recession. But inflation came in unexpectedly high in the first&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-rates-economy-federal-reserve-biden-d86c5a3a91a61687496f4a985e6bf362">three months of this year</a>, delaying hoped-for Fed rate cuts and potentially imperiling a soft landing.Last month, Christopher Waller, an influential member of the Fed’s Board of Governors, said he needed to see “several more months of good inflation data” before he would consider supporting rate cuts. Though Waller didn’t spell out what would constitute good data, economists think it would have to be core inflation of 0.2% or less each month.As part of the updated quarterly forecasts the Fed's policymakers issued Wednesday, they projected that the economy will grow 2.1% this year and 2% in 2025, the same as they had envisioned in March. They expect core inflation to be 2.8% by year's end, according to their preferred gauge, up from a previous forecast of 2.6%. And they project that unemployment will stay at its current 4% rate by the end of this year and edge up to 4.2% by the end of 2025.

🎥 Bad news for borrowers: Fewer interest rate cuts this year

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718359530579.jpeg" alt="Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and tight end Travis Kelce (87) talk during NFL football practice Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and tight end Travis Kelce (87) talk during NFL football practice Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVE SKRETTA AP Sports WriterKansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, who signed a new two-year deal in April, said Tuesday that he wants to keep playing football “until the wheels come off" after the first day of the team's mandatory three-day minicamp.The 34-year-old Kelce signed a four-year, $57.25 million extension with Kansas City in 2020, which followed a $46 million, five-year deal that he signed in 2016. The latest $34.25 million pact ties Kelce to the team through the 2025 season.“Kansas City has been home for me for the past 11 years. I'm reminded that every time I come back to the city,” Kelce said. “I do take the offseasons to get away and kind of recharge, but at the same time, I'm a football player. I love playing in the NFL."Still, Kelce acknowledged that the end of his career is much closer than the beginning, and that has fueled his desire to cross over into different avenues of sports and entertainment. He hosts one of the most popular podcasts across several genres with his brother and former Eagles center Jason Kelce, and he will soon host a quiz show on Amazon Prime.He also has made appearances on such shows as “Saturday Night Live” and intends to continue dabbling in acting.Then there is Kelce's relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has elevated him to another level of celebrity. It has helped him become of the NFL's most widely known players, despite playing a position often considered far from glamorous.“I can't put a timeframe on it,” Kelce said of retirement. "Man, I love coming to work every single day. I know there's opportunity outside of football for me, and I think you got to keep in perspective that I'm a little kid when I come into this building, man.“I know I'm 34 years old — about to be 35 (in October) — but I have a lot to do right here, in the middle of the heat in June,” he continued. “I love coming to work every single day doing this. I'm going to do it until the wheels come off. Hopefully that doesn't happen any time soon. But I definitely know it's closer to the end of the road than the beginning of it.”Kelce was chosen by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2013 draft, and despite missing almost all of his rookie season to a knee injury, has already become their career leader with 11,328 yards receiving. He needs 10 receptions to reach 917 and pass Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez for that record, and three touchdown catches would give him 77, dropping Gonzalez to No. 2 on that franchise list — both marks that he should reach in the first couple of weeks of this upcoming season.“The odds of someone playing this far into their 30s is low,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach admitted recently, “but it does happen. There are unicorns in the profession and Travis is one of those. He’s shown no signs of slowing down.”In other news Tuesday, Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker was absent with an illness while guard Joe Thuney was missing while continuing his recovery from surgery on a pectoral injury. Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, were present but did not practice.The three-day minicamp concludes Thursday, when the Chiefs have their Super Bowl ring ceremony.“I’m sure when I unbox that ring it’s going to be special," Chiefs linebacker Drue Tranquill said. "There’s going to be a sentimental value attached to that that you can’t necessarily replicate. It’s going to be a fun night with teammates, seeing guys that are no longer here anymore and being able to reunite with those guys. It’s going to be fun.”

🏈Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce says he wants to keep playing football 'until the wheels come off'

Tuesday, October 2nd, 1951-Monday, June 10th, 2024

<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/julia-quenzer/5444218/index.php">Service details can be found be clicking here.</a>

<h2>Julia Quenzer (Rolland)</h2>Tuesday, October 2nd, 1951-Monday, June 10th, 2024<a href="https://memorials.baalmannmortuary.com/julia-quenzer/5444218/index.php">Service details can be found be clicking here.</a>

Julia Quenzer (Rolland)

DeVila Ann Meier, 83, passed away June 9, 2024 at Hays Medical Center, Hays, Kansas.

She was born October 24, 1940 in Larned, the daughter of Foster Fox and Essa Mae Sohl Cochran.

A lifetime area resident, she was a food service supervisor at Larned State Hospital and past member of the Church of the Nazarene, where she taught Sunday School. She was very strong in her faith, always encouraging others and guiding them towards their faith. She enjoyed reading, sewing, cooking, and spending time with family, especially her great granddaughter.

On June 13, 1965 she married Frederick E. Meier Jr. at Larned; he survives.

Other survivors include: daughter, Cristina Meier, Hays; brother, Jimmy Story, Kansas; sister, Donna (Oren) Blakely, Larned; granddaughter, Brittany Espinosa, Hays; great granddaughter, Luna; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Miles Story, and sister, Billie Miller.

Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or Diabetes Association 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/2024/6/1718127354358.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DeVila Ann Meier, 83, passed away June 9, 2024 at Hays Medical Center, Hays, Kansas.She was born October 24, 1940 in Larned, the daughter of Foster Fox and Essa Mae Sohl Cochran.A lifetime area resident, she was a food service supervisor at Larned State Hospital and past member of the Church of the Nazarene, where she taught Sunday School. She was very strong in her faith, always encouraging others and guiding them towards their faith. She enjoyed reading, sewing, cooking, and spending time with family, especially her great granddaughter.On June 13, 1965 she married Frederick E. Meier Jr. at Larned; he survives.Other survivors include: daughter, Cristina Meier, Hays; brother, Jimmy Story, Kansas; sister, Donna (Oren) Blakely, Larned; granddaughter, Brittany Espinosa, Hays; great granddaughter, Luna; and several nieces and nephews.She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Miles Story, and sister, Billie Miller.A private family graveside was held.Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or Diabetes Association in care of Beckwith Mortuary, PO Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

DeVila Ann Meier

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays Post

The Ellis County Commission has elected to change the way outside agencies submit funding requests to the county, but before changes take place next year, on Tuesday, they will hear 2025 budget requests.

County Administrator Darin Myers said the requests for funding from outside agencies went up 24% from 2021 to 2024 and were expected to increase another 10% for 2025 despite the commission’s request that the agencies keep the requests the same as the year before.

The commission elected to split the outside agencies into
two groups: agencies they are required to fund and other, mostly nonprofit
agencies that have received county funding in the past.

The first group is Grow Hays, DSNWK, High Plains Mental
Health, Ellis County Historical Society, Conservation District and the Humane Society of the High Plains. 

Myers said those agencies are linked to the county in
different ways.

Some provide services the county would be required
to provide if they didn’t exist. Others have a funding formula that determines cost
shares with other counties or receive matching funds.

Under the funding process starting for the 2026 budget, those agencies
would still come before the commission and present their funding requests. 

The second group, comprised of about 20 agencies, would send
their applications for funding to the CARE Council. The CARE Council is a group
of 12 members who review funding requests and submit them to Hays' Social
Services budget and the city's and county's alcohol tax budgets. The council also
makes recommendations for United Way funding. 

Earlier this month, the commission allocated 3/10th
of a mill to fund the second group. Myers said that equals $153,742. The budget
requests for the second group this year total $168,912.

The commission will consider those requests this year with
the process transferring to the CARE Council for the 2026 budget requests. 

“Those agencies would then go to the CARE Council in the
months of October, November, December and submit an online application to the
Care Council,” Myers said. “Once we get our valuation, and the budget process
is done at the end of the year, the new mill levy would be set for 2024, for
the 2025 budget .”

Myers said the CARE Council would then go meet with the
agencies in early 2025 to discuss their applications and funding requests. 

"They would actually know several months earlier in the
year what their allocations would be based on the CARE Council's suggestion off the number that the commission would set," Myers said.

County Commissioner Nathan Leiker said he likes the idea of
the CARE Council talking with the groups.

"I like the thought that the CARE Council will go do some
interviewing and pay a little more attention to some of these agencies, rather
than a 5-, 10-, 15-minute talk in front of us where somebody's nervous," Leiker
said. "The council may be able to get the whole picture, a better picture than what
we can attain and make better decisions."

United Way Executive Director Erica Berges, the wife of Commissioner Michael Berges, will help the CARE Council through the process and will attend Tuesday’s meeting to discuss it with the county commission.

The funding request for the other agencies the
commission will consider is $1.329 million. 

All outside agencies will present their funding requests for
the 2025 budget Tuesday to the county commission. 

The commission meeting is set for 8:30 a.m. Tuesday at the
Ellis County Administrative Office at 718 Main St. in Hays. 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT Hays PostThe Ellis County Commission has elected to change the way outside agencies submit funding requests to the county, but before changes take place next year, on Tuesday, they will hear 2025 budget requests.County Administrator Darin Myers said the requests for funding from outside agencies went up 24% from 2021 to 2024 and were expected to increase another 10% for 2025 despite the commission’s request that the agencies keep the requests the same as the year before.The commission elected to split the outside agencies into
two groups: agencies they are required to fund and other, mostly nonprofit
agencies that have received county funding in the past.The first group is Grow Hays, DSNWK, High Plains Mental
Health, Ellis County Historical Society, Conservation District and the Humane Society of the High Plains. Myers said those agencies are linked to the county in
different ways.Some provide services the county would be required
to provide if they didn’t exist. Others have a funding formula that determines cost
shares with other counties or receive matching funds.Under the funding process starting for the 2026 budget, those agencies
would still come before the commission and present their funding requests. The second group, comprised of about 20 agencies, would send
their applications for funding to the CARE Council. The CARE Council is a group
of 12 members who review funding requests and submit them to Hays' Social
Services budget and the city's and county's alcohol tax budgets. The council also
makes recommendations for United Way funding. Earlier this month, the commission allocated 3/10th
of a mill to fund the second group. Myers said that equals $153,742. The budget
requests for the second group this year total $168,912.The commission will consider those requests this year with
the process transferring to the CARE Council for the 2026 budget requests. “Those agencies would then go to the CARE Council in the
months of October, November, December and submit an online application to the
Care Council,” Myers said. “Once we get our valuation, and the budget process
is done at the end of the year, the new mill levy would be set for 2024, for
the 2025 budget .”Myers said the CARE Council would then go meet with the
agencies in early 2025 to discuss their applications and funding requests. "They would actually know several months earlier in the
year what their allocations would be based on the CARE Council's suggestion off the number that the commission would set," Myers said.County Commissioner Nathan Leiker said he likes the idea of
the CARE Council talking with the groups."I like the thought that the CARE Council will go do some
interviewing and pay a little more attention to some of these agencies, rather
than a 5-, 10-, 15-minute talk in front of us where somebody's nervous," Leiker
said. "The council may be able to get the whole picture, a better picture than what
we can attain and make better decisions."United Way Executive Director Erica Berges, the wife of Commissioner Michael Berges, will help the CARE Council through the process and will attend Tuesday’s meeting to discuss it with the county commission.The funding request for the other agencies the
commission will consider is $1.329 million. All outside agencies will present their funding requests for
the 2025 budget Tuesday to the county commission. The commission meeting is set for 8:30 a.m. Tuesday at the
Ellis County Administrative Office at 718 Main St. in Hays.

Ellis County Commission will hear outside agency funding requests before changes next year

By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension District

Farmer’s market season has arrived, and if you’re anything like me, strolling past vendors with an array of fresh produce and homemade goods is a refreshing way to shop. Fresh fruits and vegetables, local honey, and canned goods are just a few products that draw me to the market, but there are multiple reasons why shopping at the farmer’s market is a good choice for the entire community.

· Fresh produce. Locally grown fruits and vegetables are often picked later, full of color, and packed with nutrients. Compared to produce picked thousands of miles away, local foods are harvested at peak ripeness. This can contribute to nutrient-dense produce that is full of flavor! If you or a loved one is picky when it comes to vegetables, experimenting with farm fresh produce is a great way to reintroduce foods that may taste better than superstore options.

· Support the local economy. When you shop at the farmer’s market, your money stays in the community. You support small businesses and the vendors who work to provide such valuable goods.

· Safer food. Produce is typically sustainably grown, and consumers can learn about farming methods. If you are concerned about the use of pesticides and herbicides, the opportunity to ask questions may give you peace of mind. Plus, food from the farmer’s market can be a safer option while mass disease outbreaks are more likely to occur in industrial settings.

· Cultivate healthy behaviors. Taking children to the market can spark interest in healthy eating behaviors and teach them how food is grown. Exposure to the farmer’s market can inspire children (and adults) to make new foods, create a handmade craft, or plant a garden.

Now that you’re ambitious to shop local, make sure to stop by the Great Bend Summer Street Stroll Market at Jack Kilby Square on Thursdays from 4-7 pm. Fresh produce, honey, art, and handmade crafts are the focus of this market, and local vendors are available from May to October. Or, if you’re in the Hays area, stop by 110 E 10th St. on Saturday mornings from 7:30- 11 am. Customers can shop for weekly groceries, find unique gifts made by local artisans, and enjoy musical talents.

The Senior Nutrition Farmer’s Market Program is available in both locations. Those 60 and older can receive vouchers to purchase produce from participating vendors. Contact the Barton County Health Department or the Cottonwood Extension office in Hays to see if you qualify.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KARISSA WINKEL Cottonwood Extension DistrictFarmer’s market season has arrived, and if you’re anything like me, strolling past vendors with an array of fresh produce and homemade goods is a refreshing way to shop. Fresh fruits and vegetables, local honey, and canned goods are just a few products that draw me to the market, but there are multiple reasons why shopping at the farmer’s market is a good choice for the entire community.· Fresh produce. Locally grown fruits and vegetables are often picked later, full of color, and packed with nutrients. Compared to produce picked thousands of miles away, local foods are harvested at peak ripeness. This can contribute to nutrient-dense produce that is full of flavor! If you or a loved one is picky when it comes to vegetables, experimenting with farm fresh produce is a great way to reintroduce foods that may taste better than superstore options.· Support the local economy. When you shop at the farmer’s market, your money stays in the community. You support small businesses and the vendors who work to provide such valuable goods.· Safer food. Produce is typically sustainably grown, and consumers can learn about farming methods. If you are concerned about the use of pesticides and herbicides, the opportunity to ask questions may give you peace of mind. Plus, food from the farmer’s market can be a safer option while mass disease outbreaks are more likely to occur in industrial settings.· Cultivate healthy behaviors. Taking children to the market can spark interest in healthy eating behaviors and teach them how food is grown. Exposure to the farmer’s market can inspire children (and adults) to make new foods, create a handmade craft, or plant a garden.Now that you’re ambitious to shop local, make sure to stop by the Great Bend Summer Street Stroll Market at Jack Kilby Square on Thursdays from 4-7 pm. Fresh produce, honey, art, and handmade crafts are the focus of this market, and local vendors are available from May to October. Or, if you’re in the Hays area, stop by 110 E 10th St. on Saturday mornings from 7:30- 11 am. Customers can shop for weekly groceries, find unique gifts made by local artisans, and enjoy musical talents.The Senior Nutrition Farmer’s Market Program is available in both locations. Those 60 and older can receive vouchers to purchase produce from participating vendors. Contact the Barton County Health Department or the Cottonwood Extension office in Hays to see if you qualify.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

WINKEL: Farmer’s market season, shop local

James William “Bill” McCulley, 95, passed away June 9, 2024, at River Bend Assisted Living, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on October 28, 1928, in Okfuskee County, Oklahoma, to Fred and Olive (Beets) McCulley. On June 18, 1950, he married Phyllis June Young in Ness City, Kansas. She passed on June 30, 2018.

A resident of Great Bend since 1960, Bill worked as a superintendent for Mullergren Power Plant, the electric power company for Great Bend. He was a member of Central Baptist Church and attended Grace Community Church. Bill was a jack of all trades and mastered them all. He was an adventurous man, enjoying cars, boats, skiing – both water and snow, motorcycles, and airplanes, having earned his private pilots’ license and flying a plane as recently as his 90th birthday. Bill also enjoyed camping and golfing. He was a loving, kind, gentle and wise man who loved his family immensely.

Survivors include sons, Kelly McCulley of Hudson, and Karl McCulley and wife Brenda of Great Bend; daughters, Kathy Tacha and Max Mizer of Jennings, and Karen Stewart and husband Clay of Great Bend; six grandchildren, Korey McCulley, Kiefer McCulley, Kayla May and husband Jesse, Miranda Shoemaker and husband Brad, Keegan McCulley and wife Jennifer, Grace McCulley; one great-grandchild, Alara McCulley; brother, Darrell McCulley and wife Vivian of Grafton, Wisconsin; sister-in-law, Joyce Kraft of Lakewood, Colorado; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; his parents; brother, Dean McCulley; and sister, Louise Turk.

Visitation will take place noon to 8:00 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, with family receiving guests from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home with Pastor Jay Beuoy presiding. Interment will follow at 3:00 p.m. in Ness City Cemetery, Ness City, Kansas. Memorials have been designated to the Alzheimer’s Association, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1718052477805.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>James William “Bill” McCulley, 95, passed away June 9, 2024, at River Bend Assisted Living, Great Bend, Kansas. He was born on October 28, 1928, in Okfuskee County, Oklahoma, to Fred and Olive (Beets) McCulley. On June 18, 1950, he married Phyllis June Young in Ness City, Kansas. She passed on June 30, 2018.A resident of Great Bend since 1960, Bill worked as a superintendent for Mullergren Power Plant, the electric power company for Great Bend. He was a member of Central Baptist Church and attended Grace Community Church. Bill was a jack of all trades and mastered them all. He was an adventurous man, enjoying cars, boats, skiing – both water and snow, motorcycles, and airplanes, having earned his private pilots’ license and flying a plane as recently as his 90th birthday. Bill also enjoyed camping and golfing. He was a loving, kind, gentle and wise man who loved his family immensely.Survivors include sons, Kelly McCulley of Hudson, and Karl McCulley and wife Brenda of Great Bend; daughters, Kathy Tacha and Max Mizer of Jennings, and Karen Stewart and husband Clay of Great Bend; six grandchildren, Korey McCulley, Kiefer McCulley, Kayla May and husband Jesse, Miranda Shoemaker and husband Brad, Keegan McCulley and wife Jennifer, Grace McCulley; one great-grandchild, Alara McCulley; brother, Darrell McCulley and wife Vivian of Grafton, Wisconsin; sister-in-law, Joyce Kraft of Lakewood, Colorado; and numerous nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; his parents; brother, Dean McCulley; and sister, Louise Turk.Visitation will take place noon to 8:00 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, with family receiving guests from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home with Pastor Jay Beuoy presiding. Interment will follow at 3:00 p.m. in Ness City Cemetery, Ness City, Kansas. Memorials have been designated to the Alzheimer’s Association, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.

James 'Bill' McCulley, age 95

Former Norton, KS resident, James D. Ray passed away on February 6, 2024 in Manhattan, Kansas.&nbsp;

He was born on March 20, 1943 in Almena, KS the son of Christopher and Zorah Mae (Moser) Ray.&nbsp;

On July 30th, 1972, Jim married Jeanne K. Rogers in Long Island, KS.&nbsp;

Survivors include Jeanne of the home in Manhattan, KS, Jason Ray and wife Richelle, of Silver Lake, KS, Jaime Kaus and Husband Mike of Manhattan, KS, Michele Pitt of Oklahoma City, OK., Kevin Stumpe and wife Myra, of Odessa, IX, Eric Stumpe and wife Robin of Aurora, CO, and Kerry Stumpe and wife Michele of Atlanta, GA. 12 Grandchildren: Olivia Ray, Lane Ray, Carter Kaus, Kinsley Kaus, Garrett Boeckman, Kody Stumpe, Makayla Avery, Lauren Fritz, Ashleigh Smith, Meaghan Leininger, Isabella Stumpe &amp; Kourtney Stumpe and 5 great grandchildren: Benjamin, Maiya, Aspen, Jeremiah, &amp; Carleigh.&nbsp;

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Christopher &amp; Zorah, brothers: Bud, Bill, Rich, Bob; and sisters: Nadine Brooks, Delores Smalley, and Donna Keiswetter.&nbsp;

Jim graduated from Almena High School with the Class of 1961.&nbsp;

After graduation he worked for the Railroad, Gall Motors, Halls Clothing, Coopers Pest Control &amp; the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks as Assistant Wildlife/Parks Manager at the Prairie Dog State Park in Norton, Kansas. He retired after 21 years of service in October 2006.&nbsp;

Jim joined the Norton Christian Church and was baptized by Darel Boston on November 7, 1982.&nbsp;

His greatest love was his wife, Jeanne of 51 ½ years, children and grandchildren.&nbsp;

He enjoyed the outdoors including boating, water skiing, camping, and fishing. He also enjoyed his yard, refinishing furniture, family get togethers, attending the grandkids football, basketball, baseball, wrestling, dance recitals, and volleyball games, playing cards, and having coffee with his buddies at Moffet Drug Store.&nbsp;

He loved all sports but most of all took pride in attending and watching KU Basketball.&nbsp;

Jim will be remembered by many friends and family by his big smile, outgoing personality, and love for life.

A celebration of life will be held in the Norton Cemetery, Norton, KS at 11 o’clock on Saturday, June 15th, 2024 with lunch following at the Norton Christian Church.

Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, KS is in charge of arrangements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708120285855.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Former Norton, KS resident, James D. Ray passed away on February 6, 2024 in Manhattan, Kansas.&nbsp;He was born on March 20, 1943 in Almena, KS the son of Christopher and Zorah Mae (Moser) Ray.&nbsp;On July 30th, 1972, Jim married Jeanne K. Rogers in Long Island, KS.&nbsp;Survivors include Jeanne of the home in Manhattan, KS, Jason Ray and wife Richelle, of Silver Lake, KS, Jaime Kaus and Husband Mike of Manhattan, KS, Michele Pitt of Oklahoma City, OK., Kevin Stumpe and wife Myra, of Odessa, IX, Eric Stumpe and wife Robin of Aurora, CO, and Kerry Stumpe and wife Michele of Atlanta, GA. 12 Grandchildren: Olivia Ray, Lane Ray, Carter Kaus, Kinsley Kaus, Garrett Boeckman, Kody Stumpe, Makayla Avery, Lauren Fritz, Ashleigh Smith, Meaghan Leininger, Isabella Stumpe &amp; Kourtney Stumpe and 5 great grandchildren: Benjamin, Maiya, Aspen, Jeremiah, &amp; Carleigh.&nbsp;Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Christopher &amp; Zorah, brothers: Bud, Bill, Rich, Bob; and sisters: Nadine Brooks, Delores Smalley, and Donna Keiswetter.&nbsp;Jim graduated from Almena High School with the Class of 1961.&nbsp;After graduation he worked for the Railroad, Gall Motors, Halls Clothing, Coopers Pest Control &amp; the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks as Assistant Wildlife/Parks Manager at the Prairie Dog State Park in Norton, Kansas. He retired after 21 years of service in October 2006.&nbsp;Jim joined the Norton Christian Church and was baptized by Darel Boston on November 7, 1982.&nbsp;His greatest love was his wife, Jeanne of 51 ½ years, children and grandchildren.&nbsp;He enjoyed the outdoors including boating, water skiing, camping, and fishing. He also enjoyed his yard, refinishing furniture, family get togethers, attending the grandkids football, basketball, baseball, wrestling, dance recitals, and volleyball games, playing cards, and having coffee with his buddies at Moffet Drug Store.&nbsp;He loved all sports but most of all took pride in attending and watching KU Basketball.&nbsp;Jim will be remembered by many friends and family by his big smile, outgoing personality, and love for life.A celebration of life will be held in the Norton Cemetery, Norton, KS at 11 o’clock on Saturday, June 15th, 2024 with lunch following at the Norton Christian Church.Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, Phillipsburg, KS is in charge of arrangements.

 James D. Ray 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Jonathan Dekel-Chen dreams of the moment when his abducted 35-year-old son, Sagui, is reunited with his wife and three young children, including a daughter born two months after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-rockets-airstrikes-tel-aviv-11fb98655c256d54ecb5329284fc37d2">devastating attack on Israel that initiated the war.</a>

Ruby Chen longs to recover the remains of his 19-year-old son, Itay — a soldier who Israeli intelligence says was killed in the Oct. 7 attack — so that he can be buried and his “soul” finally given “a place to rest” in accordance with Jewish practices.

For many Americans, the Israeli-Hamas war is seen through the daily reports of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-rafah-latest-06-05-2024-950a8f8aacb672c7c6f3c2d75f7b499b">Israeli ground incursions and airstrikes in Gaza</a>&nbsp;and warnings of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-famine-0056ceecdb4ae3bee5f64c54ab034c7e">looming famine</a>. There are college campuses riven by protests and great uncertainty over cease-fire prospects.

But the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-american-hostages-ceasefire-308ec1f89ef14f7db261fa304be9f944">families of the Americans taken hostage</a>&nbsp;are laser-focused on one thing: their loved ones. They fear that with all the tumult of the war, Americans often forget about their fellow citizens who remain missing. They’re doing whatever they can to make sure they aren’t forgotten and to keep pushing to get them -- or their remains -- back home.

“For most of us, we are doers. So we wake up in the morning and we say, what are we doing today? What’s on the agenda?” said Ronen Neutra, whose son, Omer, a soldier, was among those taken. “What can I do to make sure that my son will come back home today?

The families were in Washington last week for meetings with U.S. government officials, including national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Attorney General Merrick Garland, whose Justice Department is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-americans-killed-kidnapped-justice-department-investigation-64d851f794a6de4cbda40968dca50320">investigating the deaths and kidnapping of Americans</a>&nbsp;at the hands of Hamas. The meetings came at a sensitive time as the Biden administration endeavors to get Israel and Hamas to commit to a cease-fire deal to end the eight-month-old war.

Speaking as a group Wednesday to The Associated Press, the families recounted their shared sadness, angst and uncertainty but also their hopes for a resolution that would result in the release of scores of hostages, including their loved ones. Eight Americans are believed to be held by Hamas, including three who were killed.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-israel-hamas-58169a607d4a7c4d7fc34f43160076b8">three-part proposal</a>&nbsp;announced on May 31 by President Joe Biden calls for a “full and complete cease-fire,” a withdrawal of Israeli forces from densely populated areas of Gaza and the release of hostages — first, women, the elderly and the wounded and later, all remaining captives, including male soldiers like Neutra, who was ambushed and pulled from a tank on Oct. 7.

“The only way they are going to emerge alive from these tunnels is through some sort of negotiated agreement with the devil, which is Hamas,” said Dekel-Chen, whose son was kidnapped while protecting his kibbutz, Nir Oz, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-hostages-0c14750240138853a70e38b0c09ef157">endured a disproportionate toll</a>&nbsp;of murders and hostage-taking by Hamas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710266231699.png" alt="&nbsp;Itay's father Ruby Chen testified before the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/organization/?161/Middle-East">Middle East</a>, North Africa, and Central Asia. Witnesses emotionally detailed their last conversations with loved ones and urged Congress to help bring hostages home.-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Itay's father Ruby Chen testified before the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/organization/?161/Middle-East">Middle East</a>, North Africa, and Central Asia. Witnesses emotionally detailed their last conversations with loved ones and urged Congress to help bring hostages home.-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Jonathan Dekel-Chen dreams of the moment when his abducted 35-year-old son, Sagui, is reunited with his wife and three young children, including a daughter born two months after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-rockets-airstrikes-tel-aviv-11fb98655c256d54ecb5329284fc37d2">devastating attack on Israel that initiated the war.</a>Ruby Chen longs to recover the remains of his 19-year-old son, Itay — a soldier who Israeli intelligence says was killed in the Oct. 7 attack — so that he can be buried and his “soul” finally given “a place to rest” in accordance with Jewish practices.For many Americans, the Israeli-Hamas war is seen through the daily reports of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-rafah-latest-06-05-2024-950a8f8aacb672c7c6f3c2d75f7b499b">Israeli ground incursions and airstrikes in Gaza</a>&nbsp;and warnings of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-famine-0056ceecdb4ae3bee5f64c54ab034c7e">looming famine</a>. There are college campuses riven by protests and great uncertainty over cease-fire prospects.But the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-american-hostages-ceasefire-308ec1f89ef14f7db261fa304be9f944">families of the Americans taken hostage</a>&nbsp;are laser-focused on one thing: their loved ones. They fear that with all the tumult of the war, Americans often forget about their fellow citizens who remain missing. They’re doing whatever they can to make sure they aren’t forgotten and to keep pushing to get them -- or their remains -- back home.“For most of us, we are doers. So we wake up in the morning and we say, what are we doing today? What’s on the agenda?” said Ronen Neutra, whose son, Omer, a soldier, was among those taken. “What can I do to make sure that my son will come back home today?The families were in Washington last week for meetings with U.S. government officials, including national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Attorney General Merrick Garland, whose Justice Department is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-americans-killed-kidnapped-justice-department-investigation-64d851f794a6de4cbda40968dca50320">investigating the deaths and kidnapping of Americans</a>&nbsp;at the hands of Hamas. The meetings came at a sensitive time as the Biden administration endeavors to get Israel and Hamas to commit to a cease-fire deal to end the eight-month-old war.Speaking as a group Wednesday to The Associated Press, the families recounted their shared sadness, angst and uncertainty but also their hopes for a resolution that would result in the release of scores of hostages, including their loved ones. Eight Americans are believed to be held by Hamas, including three who were killed.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-israel-hamas-58169a607d4a7c4d7fc34f43160076b8">three-part proposal</a>&nbsp;announced on May 31 by President Joe Biden calls for a “full and complete cease-fire,” a withdrawal of Israeli forces from densely populated areas of Gaza and the release of hostages — first, women, the elderly and the wounded and later, all remaining captives, including male soldiers like Neutra, who was ambushed and pulled from a tank on Oct. 7.“The only way they are going to emerge alive from these tunnels is through some sort of negotiated agreement with the devil, which is Hamas,” said Dekel-Chen, whose son was kidnapped while protecting his kibbutz, Nir Oz, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-hostages-0c14750240138853a70e38b0c09ef157">endured a disproportionate toll</a>&nbsp;of murders and hostage-taking by Hamas.“Hamas clearly has to be forced to or coerced to enter negotiations and complete them,” he said, and must decide whether it's about “perpetual warfare and perpetual suffering of its own people” or about “some better future.” The Israeli government, for its part, must “stay the course” and “put aside any kind of narrow political interests” for the good of the country, he said.That won't necessarily be easy, given the possibility that a cease-fire deal would shatter Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition and make him more vulnerable to a conviction in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-netanyahu-corruption-trial-courts-4e18ed8f34e65707bd47e37696da4705">his corruption trial</a>.Netanyahu says he is committed to bringing the hostages home, but also says he won't end the war without destroying Hamas. He and hard-liners in his coalition fear a full Israeli withdrawal before reaching this goal could allow Hamas to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-hostages-endgame-0b4720545d294b4eb25eb97055c238eb">claim victory</a>&nbsp;and reconstitute itself.The meetings with American officials were the latest in a series of sit-downs that began last fall, shortly after the Hamas attack in which militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted around 250 hostages.So much has changed since then.The resulting Israeli assault on Gaza has displaced most of the territory's population and killed over 36,000 Palestinians, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry</a>, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. Israel has drawn global criticism, with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-palestinians-court-ceasefire-01d093d21a1eadaa31af5708cf1cbf38">U.N. court</a>&nbsp;ordering Israel to halt its offensive in the southern city of Rafah, while American universities from Columbia to Stanford have been convulsed by protests.In Israel,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-protests-humanitarian-aid-pier-41c0e8c110323eb5d57f811ea18492cd">thousands have protested the government</a>, criticizing Netanyahu over his approach to the war and demanding he do more to bring back more hostages believed to be alive, along with the remains of 43 pronounced dead. Many hostage families have been at the forefront of the protest movement.&nbsp;On Saturday Israeli troops did rescued four hostages who were kidnapped in a Hamas-led attack on Oct. 7, in the largest such hostage recovery operation since the war with Hamas began in Gaza.The American hostage families were measured in discussing the Israeli government's approach, placing the onus more on Hamas.And they say the warm embrace they have received from U.S. officials exposes a disconnect with the general American public, which they consider to be more apathetic to their plight and ignorant of the fact that so many hostages remain in captivity.“I think there’s also a lack of knowledge,” Chen said. “I think the majority of the U.S people are not aware that on October 7th, this was also attack on the United States."Compounding the sadness eight months into the war is a steady drip of somber Israeli government announcements of additional hostage fatalities — most recently on Monday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-06-03-2024-d31eda4128b438739d69dda0d4f7f72b">when the military declared</a>&nbsp;four hostages who'd been kidnapped on Oct. 7 as now dead. Adding to the pain, the four men had been seen alive in videos released by Hamas, meaning they died in captivity, possibly from Israeli fire.Chen spent months hoping his son, an NBA-loving soldier in the Israel Defense Forces, was alive only to learn earlier this year that he had been killed.“He was taken hostage even though he was killed. Who does that? Savages. Who takes dead people as bargaining chips?" he said.Andrea Weinstein received similar news after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-hamas-hostages-biden-7e8115b6a4fa51495970ec8b7f8172eb">Israeli government in late December</a>&nbsp;disclosed the deaths of her sister, Judy — previously thought to be among the living hostages — and her husband, Gad Haggai. Weinstein, a teacher with a creative spirit who used puppets to help students find their voices, was on a morning walk with her husband when the attack unfolded, her sister said.Their bodies remain in Gaza.Optimistic feelings come in cycles for Omer Neutra's mother, Orna, who said she could not have imagined eight months ago that the family would still be in the same position. She is hopeful but also guarded.“October 6, it was a different life,” she said. “Nothing is the same for us.”