WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Sunday that he would work with Senate Republicans in the coming weeks to assemble a “generous” package of wartime aid for Israel.

“America will stand with its ally Israel,” he said at a news conference in Israel that capped a visit by a bipartisan group of senators. “I, along with my colleagues here, will lead the effort in the United States Senate to provide Israel with the support required to fully defend itself from this monstrous attack.”

Schumer, a Democrat who is the highest-ranking Jewish official in the U.S., said he openly wept when he heard from the families of people taken hostage by Hamas. The group of senators also met with Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and opposition leader Benny Gantz, who have formed a wartime Cabinet.

“We will work to move this aid through the Senate ASAP, and the Israeli leaders made it clear to us they need the aid quickly,” Schumer said.

The Senate leader said he would not wait for the House to consider an aid package because it is facing its own political crisis as Republicans struggle to unite around a speaker. The chamber is practically paralyzed from advancing legislation while lawmakers work to elect a new speaker, but Schumer said he hoped a bipartisan effort out of the Senate would push the House to act.

Schumer has said he expects any package should include aid for Israel and Ukraine, along with possible aid for Taiwan as it faces threats from Beijing and money for the U.S. border. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has also indicated that he wants war aid for the two countries tied together, along with aid for Taiwan.

Republican Sens. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Mitt Romney of Utah and Democratic Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada and Mark Kelly of Arizona were also on the trip. During a lunch at their hotel on Sunday, the senators had to take shelter when sirens sounded indicating a rocket attack.

Schumer also said he would underscore to President Joe Biden the importance of U.S. assistance for Israel’s efforts to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697403284354.png" alt="Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and a bipartisan congressional delegation traveled to Israel over the weekend. Senators Bill Cassidy, Jacky Rosen, Mitt Romney and Mark Kelly made the trip-courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and a bipartisan congressional delegation traveled to Israel over the weekend. Senators Bill Cassidy, Jacky Rosen, Mitt Romney and Mark Kelly made the trip-courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Sunday that he would work with Senate Republicans in the coming weeks to assemble a “generous” package of wartime aid for Israel.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The U.S. stands with the people of Israel. Here’s what I said in Israel today alongside our bipartisan Senate delegation: <a href="https://t.co/U3LAyRlQ0p">pic.twitter.com/U3LAyRlQ0p</a>&mdash; Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer/status/1713638918506090691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“America will stand with its ally Israel,” he said at a news conference in Israel that capped a visit by a bipartisan group of senators. “I, along with my colleagues here, will lead the effort in the United States Senate to provide Israel with the support required to fully defend itself from this monstrous attack.”Schumer, a Democrat who is the highest-ranking Jewish official in the U.S., said he openly wept when he heard from the families of people taken hostage by Hamas. The group of senators also met with Israeli officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and opposition leader Benny Gantz, who have formed a wartime Cabinet.“We will work to move this aid through the Senate ASAP, and the Israeli leaders made it clear to us they need the aid quickly,” Schumer said.The Senate leader said he would not wait for the House to consider an aid package because it is facing its own political crisis as Republicans struggle to unite around a speaker. The chamber is practically paralyzed from advancing legislation while lawmakers work to elect a new speaker, but Schumer said he hoped a bipartisan effort out of the Senate would push the House to act.Schumer has said he expects any package should include aid for Israel and Ukraine, along with possible aid for Taiwan as it faces threats from Beijing and money for the U.S. border. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has also indicated that he wants war aid for the two countries tied together, along with aid for Taiwan.Republican Sens. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Mitt Romney of Utah and Democratic Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada and Mark Kelly of Arizona were also on the trip. During a lunch at their hotel on Sunday, the senators had to take shelter when sirens sounded indicating a rocket attack.Schumer also said he would underscore to President Joe Biden the importance of U.S. assistance for Israel’s efforts to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas.

US Senate to prepare package of wartime aid for Israel 

Leslie June (Frazier) Bartels, 76, of Hays, KS passed away in Hays, Kansas on October 14, 2023. She was born on October 22, 1946 to Lester and June (Philbrick) Frazier in Goodland, Kansas.

Leslie was united in marriage to Gary Bartels on June 11, 1967 in Goodland.&nbsp;To this union they had three children: Mitchell, Jason and Valerie.

Leslie was primarily a homemaker while raising her family and did office work early on to help support the family.&nbsp; Her interests included reading, gardening and finding unique items at garage sales to display in her home or yard.

Those who knew Leslie appreciated her witty sense of humor and ability to laugh, even up to the very end.&nbsp; She was a studier of all things with a thirst for knowledge and her use of Google was legendary within the family.

Leslie is survived by husband Gary Bartels, son Mitchell Bartels (wife Roxanne), granddaughter Regan May (husband Zach and great-grandsons Bryson and Kyler), granddaughter Tatum Bartels; daughter Valerie Yates (husband Robert), granddaughters Camryn and Lauryn Yates; sister Carol Johnson, sister Marcia Sitton (husband Steve) and brother Bill Frazier (wife Mary).

She was preceded in death by son Jason, her parents and an infant brother Thomas.

Memorial services will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland, KS with Pastor Don Warren Officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow in the Goodland Cemetery in Goodland, Kansas

Memorial contributions may be designated to Hospice Services of Hays and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave, Goodland KS 67735.

To order&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/5cca19c0-907c-4731-a78c-3a5dbc86851b" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Leslie Bartels, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/5cca19c0-907c-4731-a78c-3a5dbc86851b" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

<h2>Leslie June (Frazier) Bartels, Hays</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697467186746.jpeg" alt="Leslie June (Frazier) Bartels" />
 <figcaption>Leslie June (Frazier) Bartels</figcaption>
 </figure>October 22, 1946 - October 14, 2023Leslie June (Frazier) Bartels, 76, of Hays, KS passed away in Hays, Kansas on October 14, 2023. She was born on October 22, 1946 to Lester and June (Philbrick) Frazier in Goodland, Kansas.Leslie was united in marriage to Gary Bartels on June 11, 1967 in Goodland.&nbsp;To this union they had three children: Mitchell, Jason and Valerie.Leslie was primarily a homemaker while raising her family and did office work early on to help support the family.&nbsp; Her interests included reading, gardening and finding unique items at garage sales to display in her home or yard.Those who knew Leslie appreciated her witty sense of humor and ability to laugh, even up to the very end.&nbsp; She was a studier of all things with a thirst for knowledge and her use of Google was legendary within the family.Leslie is survived by husband Gary Bartels, son Mitchell Bartels (wife Roxanne), granddaughter Regan May (husband Zach and great-grandsons Bryson and Kyler), granddaughter Tatum Bartels; daughter Valerie Yates (husband Robert), granddaughters Camryn and Lauryn Yates; sister Carol Johnson, sister Marcia Sitton (husband Steve) and brother Bill Frazier (wife Mary).She was preceded in death by son Jason, her parents and an infant brother Thomas.Memorial services will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. MT at Koons-Russell Funeral Home in Goodland, KS with Pastor Don Warren Officiating.&nbsp; Inurnment will follow in the Goodland Cemetery in Goodland, KansasMemorial contributions may be designated to Hospice Services of Hays and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave, Goodland KS 67735.To order&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/5cca19c0-907c-4731-a78c-3a5dbc86851b" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Leslie Bartels, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/5cca19c0-907c-4731-a78c-3a5dbc86851b" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

Leslie June (Frazier) Bartels

Fort Hays State hosts Nebraska-Kearney, Saturday, October 14, 2023.

Fort Hays State hosts Nebraska-Kearney, Saturday, October 14, 2023.<div><iframe title="FHSU Rewind: FB vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 14, 2023)" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=gj3gd-14d1972-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=1&font-color=&logo_link=episode_page&btn-skin=2" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>

🎧 Defend the Fort Podcast: FHSU Rewind-FB vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 14, 2023)

In an effort to continue bolstering leadership in Ellis County and beyond The Chamber in Hays, Kansas is currently working to secure grant funding that will allow participants to experience leadership training from the Kansas Leadership Center.

This grant offers an opportunity for area individuals, businesses and organizations to enhance their leadership skills and drive positive change.

Chamber President/CEO Sarah Wasinger said the significance of this initiative is in shaping the future of leadership in Kansas.

"Leadership is the cornerstone of progress, and the Leadership Transformation Grant empowers individuals, businesses, and organizations to become catalysts for positive change,” Wasinger said. “With Kansas Leadership Center's renowned courses and this grant's support, we are equipping Kansas leaders to tackle the challenges of our rapidly evolving world."

These courses are designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to excel in leadership roles. It's important to note that participants must attend these courses in consecutive order to maximize their leadership development.

And KLC’s Path for Leadership is undergoing a transformation in 2024, featuring three distinct courses:

· When Everyone Leads · Your Leadership Edge · Lead for Change

The Leadership Transformation Grant covers the registration cost of these courses, which typically ranges between $400 and $800 per course. This financial assistance ensures that participants can access invaluable leadership training without the financial burden.

However, it's important to note that travel expenses, books, and materials necessary for the courses will be the responsibility of the participants or their sponsoring entities.

To accommodate diverse needs and preferences, KLC will offer a variety of options for course delivery, including virtual and in-person classes in Wichita.

These options make it convenient for individuals from different parts of the state to access the high-quality leadership training provided by KLC.

In order to streamline the application process and ensure sufficient spaces for all interested members, the Chamber encourages its member investors to submit their requests for course spaces.

To do this, interested parties are requested to email their space requirements to hayscc@hayschamber.com by the end of the business day on October 20.

For those seeking additional information about the Leadership Transformation Grant or the Kansas Leadership Center courses, please contact The Chamber in Hays, Kansas at 785- 628-8201.

The Chamber staff is eager to provide guidance and assist with any inquiries regarding this exciting opportunity.

“The Leadership Transformation Grant represents a commitment to fostering leadership excellence in Kansas,” Wasinger said. “By providing access to the center's renowned leadership courses, the grant empowers individuals, businesses, and organizations to drive positive change, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/4/1556659458724-business.jpg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>Hays ChamberIn an effort to continue bolstering leadership in Ellis County and beyond The Chamber in Hays, Kansas is currently working to secure grant funding that will allow participants to experience leadership training from the Kansas Leadership Center.This grant offers an opportunity for area individuals, businesses and organizations to enhance their leadership skills and drive positive change.Chamber President/CEO Sarah Wasinger said the significance of this initiative is in shaping the future of leadership in Kansas."Leadership is the cornerstone of progress, and the Leadership Transformation Grant empowers individuals, businesses, and organizations to become catalysts for positive change,” Wasinger said. “With Kansas Leadership Center's renowned courses and this grant's support, we are equipping Kansas leaders to tackle the challenges of our rapidly evolving world."These courses are designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to excel in leadership roles. It's important to note that participants must attend these courses in consecutive order to maximize their leadership development.And KLC’s Path for Leadership is undergoing a transformation in 2024, featuring three distinct courses:· When Everyone Leads · Your Leadership Edge · Lead for Change The Leadership Transformation Grant covers the registration cost of these courses, which typically ranges between $400 and $800 per course. This financial assistance ensures that participants can access invaluable leadership training without the financial burden.However, it's important to note that travel expenses, books, and materials necessary for the courses will be the responsibility of the participants or their sponsoring entities.To accommodate diverse needs and preferences, KLC will offer a variety of options for course delivery, including virtual and in-person classes in Wichita.These options make it convenient for individuals from different parts of the state to access the high-quality leadership training provided by KLC.In order to streamline the application process and ensure sufficient spaces for all interested members, the Chamber encourages its member investors to submit their requests for course spaces.To do this, interested parties are requested to email their space requirements to hayscc@hayschamber.com by the end of the business day on October 20.For those seeking additional information about the Leadership Transformation Grant or the Kansas Leadership Center courses, please contact The Chamber in Hays, Kansas at 785- 628-8201.The Chamber staff is eager to provide guidance and assist with any inquiries regarding this exciting opportunity.“The Leadership Transformation Grant represents a commitment to fostering leadership excellence in Kansas,” Wasinger said. “By providing access to the center's renowned leadership courses, the grant empowers individuals, businesses, and organizations to drive positive change, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.”

Hays Chamber seeks leadership grant; members encouraged to reserve spots

JOHNSON COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal hit-and-run that occurred October 9 on Interstate 435 and Metcalf Avenue and asked the public for assistance in locating a white Truck Tractor with silver tank trailer as shown on security cameras.

&nbsp;On Saturday night the Overland Park Police Department reported that after a number of tips from the public, investigators were able to identify the truck. The trucking company and driver are cooperating with the investigation, according to Officer John Lacy.

On the night of the accident, the semi pulled over and stopped westbound Interstate 435 in the area of Antioch Road.  After a brief time, the driver continued westbound&nbsp; and then exited to southbound Interstate 35. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697226335288.png" alt="Photo Overland Park Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Overland Park Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal hit-and-run that occurred October 9 on Interstate 435 and Metcalf Avenue and asked the public for assistance in locating a white Truck Tractor with silver tank trailer as shown on security cameras.&nbsp;On Saturday night the Overland Park Police Department reported that after a number of tips from the public, investigators were able to identify the truck. The trucking company and driver are cooperating with the investigation, according to Officer John Lacy.On the night of the accident, the semi pulled over and stopped westbound Interstate 435 in the area of Antioch Road. After a brief time, the driver continued westbound&nbsp; and then exited to southbound Interstate 35.

Police ID semi truck, driver in fatal Kansas hit-and-run

LOS ANGELES (AP) —Suzanne Somers, the effervescent blonde actor known for playing Chrissy Snow on the television show “Three’s Company” as well as her business endeavors, has died. She was 76.

Somers had breast cancer for over 23 years and died Sunday morning, her family said in a statement provided by her longtime publicist, R. Couri Hay. Her husband Alan Hamel, her son Bruce and other immediate family were with her in Palm Springs, California.

“Her family was gathered to celebrate her 77th birthday on October 16th,” the statement read. “Instead, they will celebrate her extraordinary life, and want to thank her millions of fans and followers who loved her dearly.”

In July, Somers shared on Instagram that her breast cancer had returned.

“Like any cancer patient, when you get that dreaded, ‘It’s back’ you get a pit in your stomach. Then I put on my battle gear and go to war," she told Entertainment Tonight at the time. "This is familiar battleground for me and I’m very tough.”

She was first diagnosed in 2000, and also had skin cancer. She faced some backlash for her reliance on what she's described as a chemical-free and organic lifestyle to combat the cancers. She argued against the use of chemotherapy, in books and on platforms like “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” which drew criticism from the American Cancer Society.

Somers was born in 1946 in San Bruno, California, to a gardener father and a medical secretary mother. She began acting in the late 1960s, playing the blonde driving the white Thunderbird in George Lucas’s 1973 film “American Graffiti.” Her only line was mouthing the words “I love you” to Richard Dreyfuss’s character.

At her audition, Lucas just asked her if she could drive. She later said that moment “changed her life forever.”

Somers would later stage a one-woman Broadway show entitled “The Blonde in the Thunderbird,” which drew largely scathing reviews.

She appeared in many television shows in the 1970s, including “The Rockford Files,” “Magnum Force” and “The Six Million Dollar Man,” but her most famous part came with “Three’s Company,” which aired on ABC from 1977 to 1984 — though her participation ended in 1981.

On “Three’s Company,” she was the ditzy blonde opposite John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt in the roommate comedy. In 1980, after four seasons, she asked for a raise from $30,000 an episode to $150,000 an episode, which would have been comparable to what Ritter was getting paid. Hamel, a former television producer, had encouraged the ask.

“The show’s response was, ‘Who do you think you are?’” Somers told People in 2020. “They said, ‘John Ritter is the star.’”

She was soon fired and her character was replaced by two different roommates for the remaining years the show aired. It also led to a rift with her co-stars; They didn’t speak for many years. Somers did reconcile with Ritter before his death, and then with DeWitt on her online talk show.

But Somers took the break as an opportunity to pursue new avenues, including a Las Vegas act, writing books, hosting a talk show and becoming an entrepreneur. In the 1990s, she also became the spokesperson for the “Thighmaster.”

Somers returned to network television in the 1990s, most famously on “Step by Step,” which aired on ABC’s youth-targeted TGIF lineup. The network also aired a biopic of her life, starring her, called “Keeping Secrets.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697402588728.png" alt="Somers had breast cancer for over 23 years and died Sunday morning&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Somers had breast cancer for over 23 years and died Sunday morning&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>LOS ANGELES (AP) —Suzanne Somers, the effervescent blonde actor known for playing Chrissy Snow on the television show “Three’s Company” as well as her business endeavors, has died. She was 76.Somers had breast cancer for over 23 years and died Sunday morning, her family said in a statement provided by her longtime publicist, R. Couri Hay. Her husband Alan Hamel, her son Bruce and other immediate family were with her in Palm Springs, California.“Her family was gathered to celebrate her 77th birthday on October 16th,” the statement read. “Instead, they will celebrate her extraordinary life, and want to thank her millions of fans and followers who loved her dearly.”In July, Somers shared on Instagram that her breast cancer had returned.“Like any cancer patient, when you get that dreaded, ‘It’s back’ you get a pit in your stomach. Then I put on my battle gear and go to war," she told Entertainment Tonight at the time. "This is familiar battleground for me and I’m very tough.”She was first diagnosed in 2000, and also had skin cancer. She faced some backlash for her reliance on what she's described as a chemical-free and organic lifestyle to combat the cancers. She argued against the use of chemotherapy, in books and on platforms like “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” which drew criticism from the American Cancer Society.Somers was born in 1946 in San Bruno, California, to a gardener father and a medical secretary mother. She began acting in the late 1960s, playing the blonde driving the white Thunderbird in George Lucas’s 1973 film “American Graffiti.” Her only line was mouthing the words “I love you” to Richard Dreyfuss’s character.At her audition, Lucas just asked her if she could drive. She later said that moment “changed her life forever.”Somers would later stage a one-woman Broadway show entitled “The Blonde in the Thunderbird,” which drew largely scathing reviews.She appeared in many television shows in the 1970s, including “The Rockford Files,” “Magnum Force” and “The Six Million Dollar Man,” but her most famous part came with “Three’s Company,” which aired on ABC from 1977 to 1984 — though her participation ended in 1981.On “Three’s Company,” she was the ditzy blonde opposite John Ritter and Joyce DeWitt in the roommate comedy. In 1980, after four seasons, she asked for a raise from $30,000 an episode to $150,000 an episode, which would have been comparable to what Ritter was getting paid. Hamel, a former television producer, had encouraged the ask.“The show’s response was, ‘Who do you think you are?’” Somers told People in 2020. “They said, ‘John Ritter is the star.’”She was soon fired and her character was replaced by two different roommates for the remaining years the show aired. It also led to a rift with her co-stars; They didn’t speak for many years. Somers did reconcile with Ritter before his death, and then with DeWitt on her online talk show.But Somers took the break as an opportunity to pursue new avenues, including a Las Vegas act, writing books, hosting a talk show and becoming an entrepreneur. In the 1990s, she also became the spokesperson for the “Thighmaster.”Somers returned to network television in the 1990s, most famously on “Step by Step,” which aired on ABC’s youth-targeted TGIF lineup. The network also aired a biopic of her life, starring her, called “Keeping Secrets.”

Suzanne Somers, of ‘Three’s Company,’ dies at 76

CLAREMORE, Okla. – The Fort Hays State women's soccer team prevailed on the road against Rogers State on Sunday by a score of 1-0. The Tigers now sit in a two-way tie for first place in the league with an overall record of 10-1-3, 6-0-1 in MIAA play, while Rogers State drops to 6-6-2, 3-4 in conference games.

Another defensive battle took place in the early portions of Sunday's match for the Tigers with both teams being held scoreless through the first half. Only six shots were kicked in the first half, 4-2 in favor of Fort Hays State. All four of FHSU's shots were on goal in the first period. The Tigers did also earn two corner kicks.

Fort Hays State had more offensive opportunities in the second period, shooting nine total shots in the second half. Allison Worley&nbsp;connected for the lone score of the game in the 57th minute off an assist from Kintzli Wagner.

The Tiger defended the box at a high level throughout the match, allowing just one shot on goal from the Hillcats that was saved by Isabel Robben.

Coach Tyson John&nbsp;and his team have played just four road games thus far in the season and are now 3-1 in those contests.

The Tigers will play again next weekend on the road against Missouri Southern State on Friday, October 20, in Joplin, Mo. at 6 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697402843533.jpeg" alt="FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett" />
 <figcaption>FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsCLAREMORE, Okla. – The Fort Hays State women's soccer team prevailed on the road against Rogers State on Sunday by a score of 1-0. The Tigers now sit in a two-way tie for first place in the league with an overall record of 10-1-3, 6-0-1 in MIAA play, while Rogers State drops to 6-6-2, 3-4 in conference games.Another defensive battle took place in the early portions of Sunday's match for the Tigers with both teams being held scoreless through the first half. Only six shots were kicked in the first half, 4-2 in favor of Fort Hays State. All four of FHSU's shots were on goal in the first period. The Tigers did also earn two corner kicks.Fort Hays State had more offensive opportunities in the second period, shooting nine total shots in the second half. Allison Worley&nbsp;connected for the lone score of the game in the 57th minute off an assist from Kintzli Wagner.The Tiger defended the box at a high level throughout the match, allowing just one shot on goal from the Hillcats that was saved by Isabel Robben.Coach Tyson John&nbsp;and his team have played just four road games thus far in the season and are now 3-1 in those contests.The Tigers will play again next weekend on the road against Missouri Southern State on Friday, October 20, in Joplin, Mo. at 6 p.m.

⚽ FHSU women pick up road win over Hillcats

Charles Andrew (Chuck) Westin, 84, of Belleville, KS, passed away from cancer on October 13, 2023, at his home.

Chuck was born in Topeka, KS, to Carl A. and Florence Helen (Stratton) Westin on May 1, 1939. He was a loving husband, son, father, and friend to all. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Florence Westin, his first wife Carolyn Lockhart, and his beloved daughter Christina Louise Westin Fruin.

Chuck is survived by his wife Carolyn Sue (Laue) Olson Westin, whom he married on April 15, 1982, in Erie, Colorado; his daughters, Carol Westin and Cynthia Westin, and deceased daughter Christina’s widow Joy Fruin, and his sons, Jason (Lori), Scott (Megan), and Seth (Breanne) Olson, and grandchildren Austin Workman, Samantha Workman, Bailey DeLong, Alex Olson, Ben Olson, and Tatum Connett, and his great-grandson Christopher “Chris” James Kramer (Bailey), and Chuck’s brother Philip (Judy). He said that his greatest joy was being with his wife and their children and grandchildren, and he noted that they each always treated him with such great kindness and love. He enjoyed the trips that he took with his wife of over 40 years, and enjoyed his many friends, associates, and pets.

Chuck graduate from Formoso (KS) High School in 1957 and finished one year of college at Emporia State Teachers College where his parents had graduated 30 years earlier. He entered the active Army for two years in 1958. He later graduated from Emporia with a BSBA, Xavier University in Cincinnati with an MBA in Hospital Administration, and Walden University where he received his PhD.

He worked for the VA and the U.S. Public Health Service financing small rural hospitals. He retired in Denver in 1989, and was the administrator of Republic County Hospital in Belleville from 1990 to 2000 (where he retired, as he said, for the 3rd&nbsp;or 4th&nbsp;time). After serving as a military intelligence officer (like his father-in-law), he served from time to time as a volunteer sheriff’s deputy where he was able to assist folks. He was honored to serve as the Great Plains Health Alliance board chairman, where his father had been involved 70 years earlier. He said that he never had a job he didn’t enjoy or supervisors and co-workers whom he didn’t respect and admire. Often moving to where his job was, during his work years he lived in KS, MO, IA, PA, OH, IL, CO, and TX.

During his life he advocated for many social justice items (including universal health coverage, rural issues, and equal justice and opportunity for all) and he hoped that his efforts might help others (and many sort of enjoyed receiving or reading his letters).

With his parent’s permission, he joined the Kansas National Guard in Mankato at the age 17 as a private. During the next 33 years, he served on active duty with the Army, and later in the Army, Navy, and Air Force Reserves, retiring from the Air Force Reserve as a LtCol in 1990. He always enjoyed his military experiences and said that it was probably because he never got shot at and never had to go out of the country. He met his wife who was an Army Major master's degree nurse through a military organization. He specifically requested that he not receive a military funeral, hoping to reserve that honor for combat veterans whom he said deserved much more than he.

He was generous and was often involved in volunteer work. He loved and appreciated his friends at the American Lutheran Church in Belleville, and requested prayers in lieu of flowers or memorials.

Funeral sServices will be held at the American Lutheran Church in Belleville on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., with Mr. Al Urich, PMA, officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery, Scandia.

Visitation will be Wednesday, October 18, from 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.

Memorials are requested to the American Lutheran Church, the Republic Co. Food Bank, or the Golden Bell Haven, and may be sent to Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 566, Belleville, Kansas, 66935.

Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Westin family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com.

To order&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/ae919ebe-5209-4a5b-a1db-c4dc765dbb07" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Charles "Chuck" A. Westin, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/ae919ebe-5209-4a5b-a1db-c4dc765dbb07" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

<h2>Charles 'Chuck' A. Westin, Belleville</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697364974775.jpeg" alt="Charles 'Chuck' A. Westin" />
 <figcaption>Charles 'Chuck' A. Westin</figcaption>
 </figure>Charles Andrew (Chuck) Westin, 84, of Belleville, KS, passed away from cancer on October 13, 2023, at his home.Chuck was born in Topeka, KS, to Carl A. and Florence Helen (Stratton) Westin on May 1, 1939. He was a loving husband, son, father, and friend to all. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Florence Westin, his first wife Carolyn Lockhart, and his beloved daughter Christina Louise Westin Fruin.Chuck is survived by his wife Carolyn Sue (Laue) Olson Westin, whom he married on April 15, 1982, in Erie, Colorado; his daughters, Carol Westin and Cynthia Westin, and deceased daughter Christina’s widow Joy Fruin, and his sons, Jason (Lori), Scott (Megan), and Seth (Breanne) Olson, and grandchildren Austin Workman, Samantha Workman, Bailey DeLong, Alex Olson, Ben Olson, and Tatum Connett, and his great-grandson Christopher “Chris” James Kramer (Bailey), and Chuck’s brother Philip (Judy). He said that his greatest joy was being with his wife and their children and grandchildren, and he noted that they each always treated him with such great kindness and love. He enjoyed the trips that he took with his wife of over 40 years, and enjoyed his many friends, associates, and pets.Chuck graduate from Formoso (KS) High School in 1957 and finished one year of college at Emporia State Teachers College where his parents had graduated 30 years earlier. He entered the active Army for two years in 1958. He later graduated from Emporia with a BSBA, Xavier University in Cincinnati with an MBA in Hospital Administration, and Walden University where he received his PhD.He worked for the VA and the U.S. Public Health Service financing small rural hospitals. He retired in Denver in 1989, and was the administrator of Republic County Hospital in Belleville from 1990 to 2000 (where he retired, as he said, for the 3rd&nbsp;or 4th&nbsp;time). After serving as a military intelligence officer (like his father-in-law), he served from time to time as a volunteer sheriff’s deputy where he was able to assist folks. He was honored to serve as the Great Plains Health Alliance board chairman, where his father had been involved 70 years earlier. He said that he never had a job he didn’t enjoy or supervisors and co-workers whom he didn’t respect and admire. Often moving to where his job was, during his work years he lived in KS, MO, IA, PA, OH, IL, CO, and TX.During his life he advocated for many social justice items (including universal health coverage, rural issues, and equal justice and opportunity for all) and he hoped that his efforts might help others (and many sort of enjoyed receiving or reading his letters).With his parent’s permission, he joined the Kansas National Guard in Mankato at the age 17 as a private. During the next 33 years, he served on active duty with the Army, and later in the Army, Navy, and Air Force Reserves, retiring from the Air Force Reserve as a LtCol in 1990. He always enjoyed his military experiences and said that it was probably because he never got shot at and never had to go out of the country. He met his wife who was an Army Major master's degree nurse through a military organization. He specifically requested that he not receive a military funeral, hoping to reserve that honor for combat veterans whom he said deserved much more than he.He was generous and was often involved in volunteer work. He loved and appreciated his friends at the American Lutheran Church in Belleville, and requested prayers in lieu of flowers or memorials.Funeral sServices will be held at the American Lutheran Church in Belleville on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., with Mr. Al Urich, PMA, officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery, Scandia.Visitation will be Wednesday, October 18, from 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., at Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home in Belleville.Memorials are requested to the American Lutheran Church, the Republic Co. Food Bank, or the Golden Bell Haven, and may be sent to Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 566, Belleville, Kansas, 66935.Tibbetts-Fischer Funeral Home is assisting the Westin family with these arrangements, www.tibbettsfischerfuneralhome.com.To order&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/o/v2/trees/ae919ebe-5209-4a5b-a1db-c4dc765dbb07" target="_blank">memorial trees</a>&nbsp;or send flowers to the family in memory of Charles "Chuck" A. Westin, please visit our&nbsp;<a href="https://manage2.tukioswebsites.com/orders/v2/flowers/ae919ebe-5209-4a5b-a1db-c4dc765dbb07" target="_blank">flower store</a>.

Charles 'Chuck' A. Westin

By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post

<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/boxscore.aspx?path=football&amp;id=12578">BOX SCORE</a>

HAYS, Kan. - Shane Watts rushed for a career-high 162 yards, the Tiger defense had four sacks and FHSU overcame four turnovers to beat Nebraska-Kearney 31-17 Saturday at Lewis Field for their third-straight win.

The Tigers (5-2, 4-2 MIAA) raced out to a 17-0 lead early in the second quarter and held the Lopers (2-5, 2-5 MIAA) at bay the rest of the way thanks in part to a solid ground game that produced 235 yards while holding UNK to just 165 yards of total offense.

Watts led the Tigers rushing attack with 162 yards on 21 carries and a touchdown. He also caught a pair of passes for 19 yards for 181 all-purpose yards. Travis Dixon added a season-high 57 yards on seven carries.

Fort Hays State took advantage of a brisk north wind and solid defense to grab the early lead. Following a three-and-out and short punt into the wind, the Tigers started their first drive at the UNK 33 which resulted in a 22-yard Carson Arndt field goal. After another three-and-out, FHSU took over near mid-field. Nine plays later, Jack Dawson connected with Jayden Horace on a two-yard TD pass to push the lead to 10-0.

The lead grew to 17-0 when Dawson hit tight end Cale Cormaney on a 16-yard shovel pass on the first play of the second quarter. The Lopers would score the final 10 points of the quarter to close within 17-10 at the break.

Despite going into the wind, the Tigers took control of the game in the third quarter. Shane Watts&nbsp;broke off a 28-yard run and Dawson found Horace for a 26-yard touchdown pass on fourth and nine to put FHSU up 31-10.

Dawson finished went 21 of 32 through the air for 177 yards and two touchdowns but also threw two interceptions. Cormaney had a team-high seven catches for 60 yards.

The Tiger defense contained dual threat quarterback T.J. Davis to just 91 passing yards and 13 rushing yards. The defensive line wreaked havoc all day. Myles Menges recorded 2.5 sacks and six tackles. Parrish Terry&nbsp;added a team-best eight tackles with a sack. Makel Williams had an interception at the end of the third quarter to keep the Tigers well in control.

Zane Schawang led the Lopers with 45 yards rushing. AJ McPhee caught one pass for 63 yards.&nbsp;

Fort Hays State is on the road next week at Washburn, Kickoff at Yager Stadium in Topeka will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 21.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697321883489.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State's Myles Menges (4) sacks Nebraska-Kearney quarterback T.,J, Davis in the third quarter of and NCAA football game in Hays, Kan., Saturday, October 14, 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Myles Menges (4) sacks Nebraska-Kearney quarterback T.,J, Davis in the third quarter of and NCAA football game in Hays, Kan., Saturday, October 14, 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Gillian Lynch)</figcaption>
 </figure>By GERARD WELLBROCK Hays Post<a href="https://fhsuathletics.com/boxscore.aspx?path=football&amp;id=12578">BOX SCORE</a>HAYS, Kan. - Shane Watts rushed for a career-high 162 yards, the Tiger defense had four sacks and FHSU overcame four turnovers to beat Nebraska-Kearney 31-17 Saturday at Lewis Field for their third-straight win.The Tigers (5-2, 4-2 MIAA) raced out to a 17-0 lead early in the second quarter and held the Lopers (2-5, 2-5 MIAA) at bay the rest of the way thanks in part to a solid ground game that produced 235 yards while holding UNK to just 165 yards of total offense.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1640884491&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/coach-chris-brown-postgame-v-u-neb-k-oct-14-2023" title="Chris Brown Postgame vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct 14, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Chris Brown Postgame vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct 14, 2023)</a></div></div>Watts led the Tigers rushing attack with 162 yards on 21 carries and a touchdown. He also caught a pair of passes for 19 yards for 181 all-purpose yards. Travis Dixon added a season-high 57 yards on seven carries.Fort Hays State took advantage of a brisk north wind and solid defense to grab the early lead. Following a three-and-out and short punt into the wind, the Tigers started their first drive at the UNK 33 which resulted in a 22-yard Carson Arndt field goal. After another three-and-out, FHSU took over near mid-field. Nine plays later, Jack Dawson connected with Jayden Horace on a two-yard TD pass to push the lead to 10-0.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1640884287&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/shane-watts-postgame-v-neb-k-oct-14-2023" title="Shane Watts Postgame vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 14, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Shane Watts Postgame vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 14, 2023)</a></div></div>The lead grew to 17-0 when Dawson hit tight end Cale Cormaney on a 16-yard shovel pass on the first play of the second quarter. The Lopers would score the final 10 points of the quarter to close within 17-10 at the break.Despite going into the wind, the Tigers took control of the game in the third quarter. Shane Watts&nbsp;broke off a 28-yard run and Dawson found Horace for a 26-yard touchdown pass on fourth and nine to put FHSU up 31-10.Dawson finished went 21 of 32 through the air for 177 yards and two touchdowns but also threw two interceptions. Cormaney had a team-high seven catches for 60 yards.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1640884161&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/miles-menges-postgame-v-neb-k-oct-14-2023" title="Myles Menges Postgame vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 14, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Myles Menges Postgame vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 14, 2023)</a></div></div>The Tiger defense contained dual threat quarterback T.J. Davis to just 91 passing yards and 13 rushing yards. The defensive line wreaked havoc all day. Myles Menges recorded 2.5 sacks and six tackles. Parrish Terry&nbsp;added a team-best eight tackles with a sack. Makel Williams had an interception at the end of the third quarter to keep the Tigers well in control.<div><iframe width="100%" height="166" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/1640884629&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe><div style="font-size: 10px; color: #cccccc;line-break: anywhere;word-break: normal;overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;text-overflow: ellipsis; font-family: Interstate,Lucida Grande,Lucida Sans Unicode,Lucida Sans,Garuda,Verdana,Tahoma,sans-serif;font-weight: 100;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509" title="Eagle Radio" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Eagle Radio</a> · <a href="https://soundcloud.com/user-814667509/fort-hays-state-fb-highlights-vs-neb-k-oct-14-2023" title="Fort Hays State FB Highlights vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 14, 2023)" target="_blank" style="color: #cccccc; text-decoration: none;">Fort Hays State FB Highlights vs. Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 14, 2023)</a></div></div>Zane Schawang led the Lopers with 45 yards rushing. AJ McPhee caught one pass for 63 yards.&nbsp;UP NEXTFort Hays State is on the road next week at Washburn, Kickoff at Yager Stadium in Topeka will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 21.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈 Ground game, defense lifts Tigers past Lopers 

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Freshman quarterback Avery Johnson ran for five touchdowns, a first in FBS this season, while sharing time with starter Will Howard, and Kansas State beat Texas Tech 38-21 on Saturday night.

Johnson finished with 91 yards rushing as the Wildcats (4-2, 2-1 Big 12) bounced back from a surprising loss at Oklahoma State with an eighth consecutive victory in the series for the defending Big 12 champions.

Jake Strong led a 99-yard drive to the only lead for Texas Tech (3-4, 2-2) in his debut in the third quarter after replacing injured starter Behren Morton. But the freshman threw three interceptions after the Wildcats had gone back in front.

Morton, who was starting because of the third long-term injury in as many seasons to Tyler Shough, was slow to get up several times in the first half and was ruled out after the break because of an undisclosed injury.

Strong's second series started at the Texas Tech 1-yard line, but his 13-yard pass got the drive going.

Strong ran 54 yards to set up an 8-yard scoring pass on third down, when he lofted a pass just as he was hit hard in the pocket and Jerand Bradley got a foot down as he fell out the back of the end zone to give the Red Raiders a 21-17 lead.

Johnson, whose only other touchdown came in a blowout of Southeast Missouri State in the opener, replaced Howard on the third series and scored on a 2-yard run for a 10-0 lead.

Howard, a senior closing in on 30 career games, returned several times in the first half, but it was Johnson's show after the break.

His 30-yard run put Kansas State back in front for good at 24-21, and Johnson's 11-yard score put the Wildcats up 10 the first play after VJ Payne's 17-yard return of Strong's first interception.

After Kobe Savage corralled Strong's third interception in the end zone, Johnson led an 80-yard drive to the game-sealing score, a 3-yard run for his fifth TD.

Treshaun Ward had 118 yards rushing as the Wildcats finished with 273 yards on the ground, the most allowed by Texas Tech this season.

Tahj Brooks ran for 98 yards and a touchdown for Texas Tech, and Morton scored on a 1-yard plunge.

Kansas State: The Wildcats appeared to have a chance for a three-score lead just before halftime when linebacker Jake Clifton forced a fumble on a catch by Cam’Ron Valdez and Kansas State recovered inside the Texas Tech 25. But Clifton made helmet-to-helmet contact with Valdez and was ejected for targeting. Texas Tech then drove for a touchdown and a 17-14 halftime deficit.

Texas Tech: The Red Raiders just can't seem to escape injuries at quarterback. Shough had played the deepest into the season of the Oregon transfer's three years in Lubbock before breaking a leg. Now the question is how soon Morton might return, if at all. This could be a serious test of the QB depth chart.

Kansas State: TCU at home next Saturday in a rematch of last year's Big 12 championship game, when the Wildcats handed the Horned Frogs their first loss of the season.

Texas Tech: at BYU next Saturday in the second meeting between the schools. The other was in 1940.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697338056986.png" alt="Kansas State freshman quarterback Avery Johnson (5) runs the ball in an NCAA football game against Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas, Saturday, October 14, 2023. (Kansas State Athletics photo)." />
 <figcaption>Kansas State freshman quarterback Avery Johnson (5) runs the ball in an NCAA football game against Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas, Saturday, October 14, 2023. (Kansas State Athletics photo).</figcaption>
 </figure>LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — Freshman quarterback Avery Johnson ran for five touchdowns, a first in FBS this season, while sharing time with starter Will Howard, and Kansas State beat Texas Tech 38-21 on Saturday night.Johnson finished with 91 yards rushing as the Wildcats (4-2, 2-1 Big 12) bounced back from a surprising loss at Oklahoma State with an eighth consecutive victory in the series for the defending Big 12 champions.Jake Strong led a 99-yard drive to the only lead for Texas Tech (3-4, 2-2) in his debut in the third quarter after replacing injured starter Behren Morton. But the freshman threw three interceptions after the Wildcats had gone back in front.Morton, who was starting because of the third long-term injury in as many seasons to Tyler Shough, was slow to get up several times in the first half and was ruled out after the break because of an undisclosed injury.Strong's second series started at the Texas Tech 1-yard line, but his 13-yard pass got the drive going.Strong ran 54 yards to set up an 8-yard scoring pass on third down, when he lofted a pass just as he was hit hard in the pocket and Jerand Bradley got a foot down as he fell out the back of the end zone to give the Red Raiders a 21-17 lead.Johnson, whose only other touchdown came in a blowout of Southeast Missouri State in the opener, replaced Howard on the third series and scored on a 2-yard run for a 10-0 lead.Howard, a senior closing in on 30 career games, returned several times in the first half, but it was Johnson's show after the break.His 30-yard run put Kansas State back in front for good at 24-21, and Johnson's 11-yard score put the Wildcats up 10 the first play after VJ Payne's 17-yard return of Strong's first interception.After Kobe Savage corralled Strong's third interception in the end zone, Johnson led an 80-yard drive to the game-sealing score, a 3-yard run for his fifth TD.Treshaun Ward had 118 yards rushing as the Wildcats finished with 273 yards on the ground, the most allowed by Texas Tech this season.Tahj Brooks ran for 98 yards and a touchdown for Texas Tech, and Morton scored on a 1-yard plunge.THE TAKEAWAYKansas State: The Wildcats appeared to have a chance for a three-score lead just before halftime when linebacker Jake Clifton forced a fumble on a catch by Cam’Ron Valdez and Kansas State recovered inside the Texas Tech 25. But Clifton made helmet-to-helmet contact with Valdez and was ejected for targeting. Texas Tech then drove for a touchdown and a 17-14 halftime deficit.Texas Tech: The Red Raiders just can't seem to escape injuries at quarterback. Shough had played the deepest into the season of the Oregon transfer's three years in Lubbock before breaking a leg. Now the question is how soon Morton might return, if at all. This could be a serious test of the QB depth chart.UP NEXTKansas State: TCU at home next Saturday in a rematch of last year's Big 12 championship game, when the Wildcats handed the Horned Frogs their first loss of the season.Texas Tech: at BYU next Saturday in the second meeting between the schools. The other was in 1940.

🏈 Johnson 5 rushing TDs lift Kansas State past Texas Tech

HAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team rallied from a two-set deficit to hand Central Missouri just its second conference loss of the season Saturday evening at Gross Memorial Coliseum, winning 17-25, 24-26, 25-21, 25-20, 15-11. It was the first win for the Tigers against UCM in seven years (9/30/2016).

Fort Hays State (8-12, 2-9 MIAA) took control at the net, matching its season-best total with 17 blocks, which is the most by an MIAA program in a match this season. The Tiger defense limited the Jennies (12-7, 9-2 MIAA) to an attack percentage of .117 (66-42-206), a full 90 points lower than their season average of .207. FHSU managed an attack rate of .162 (56-26-185), including swing rates of .242, .190 and .318 over the final three sets.

After recording eight attack errors in the opening frame and nine more in the second set, FHSU recorded just nine miscues over the remaining three stanzas. Gracie Rains&nbsp;paced the Tigers with 17 kills and added three blocks, while Riley Tinder&nbsp;recorded her second-consecutive double-double with 16 kills and 21 digs. Emily Ellis&nbsp;contributed 17 points, including 11 kills, nine blocks (one solo) and one service ace. Caiva Stucky&nbsp;distributed 46 assists while adding 10 digs and five blocks on defense. Brooky Hyland led the team with 22 digs.

The first set was back-and-forth early before a seven-point Jennie run followed a 13-13 tie, leading to a 25-17 victory. The second set was close throughout the duration of the frame, with neither side leading by more than two points. Fort Hays State led as late as 20-19 before a three-point Jennie run turned things around. A pair of UCM miscues helped the Tigers fend of a pair of set point opportunities and tie the score at 24 before the Jennies battled back to take the next two points and win, 26-24.

Holding a two-set lead, UCM took the first three points of the third set to take control. But FHSU bounced right back, scoring the next four to take back the lead thanks to a trio of Tiger blocks. The teams traded points for the next stretch before a 5-1 Tiger run turned a 17-17 tie into a 22-18 lead. Two kills from Rains helped the Tigers reach set point before a Jennie error handed FHSU a 25-21 win.

After racking up seven blocks in the third set, Fort Hays State added four more in the fourth to force a deciding fifth set. UCM scored the first four points to jump in front before the Tigers punched back with a 9-1 run, taking a 9-5 lead. The Jennies bounced back to level the score at 11, but a five-point Tiger run later gave FHSU the lead for good, 18-13. Stucky and Ashlyn Reeves&nbsp;combined for a block to reach set point before Reeves and Claire Olson&nbsp;teamed up for the set-winning block, giving FHSU a 25-20 win.

The teams traded points early in the final set before FHSU scored three in a row to take an 8-5 lead thanks to back-to-back kills from Ellis. UCM responded with the next three points to again tie things up, but kills from Reeves and Tinder helped the Tigers take the lead for good. Reeves and Olson later teamed up for another block before Rains brought the match to a close with her 17th and final kill of the evening.

Fort Hays State will wrap up a six-match homestand Tuesday when the Tigers host Emporia State beginning at 6 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697337520927.jpeg" alt="Fort Hays State's Riley Tinder (20) and Kirsten Evans (22) prepare to return a shot in an NCAA volleyball match against Central Missouri in Hays, Kan., Saturday, October 14, 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)" />
 <figcaption>Fort Hays State's Riley Tinder (20) and Kirsten Evans (22) prepare to return a shot in an NCAA volleyball match against Central Missouri in Hays, Kan., Saturday, October 14, 2023. (FHSU Athletics photo/Ryan Prickett)</figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsHAYS, Kan. - The Fort Hays State volleyball team rallied from a two-set deficit to hand Central Missouri just its second conference loss of the season Saturday evening at Gross Memorial Coliseum, winning 17-25, 24-26, 25-21, 25-20, 15-11. It was the first win for the Tigers against UCM in seven years (9/30/2016).Fort Hays State (8-12, 2-9 MIAA) took control at the net, matching its season-best total with 17 blocks, which is the most by an MIAA program in a match this season. The Tiger defense limited the Jennies (12-7, 9-2 MIAA) to an attack percentage of .117 (66-42-206), a full 90 points lower than their season average of .207. FHSU managed an attack rate of .162 (56-26-185), including swing rates of .242, .190 and .318 over the final three sets.After recording eight attack errors in the opening frame and nine more in the second set, FHSU recorded just nine miscues over the remaining three stanzas. Gracie Rains&nbsp;paced the Tigers with 17 kills and added three blocks, while Riley Tinder&nbsp;recorded her second-consecutive double-double with 16 kills and 21 digs. Emily Ellis&nbsp;contributed 17 points, including 11 kills, nine blocks (one solo) and one service ace. Caiva Stucky&nbsp;distributed 46 assists while adding 10 digs and five blocks on defense. Brooky Hyland led the team with 22 digs.The first set was back-and-forth early before a seven-point Jennie run followed a 13-13 tie, leading to a 25-17 victory. The second set was close throughout the duration of the frame, with neither side leading by more than two points. Fort Hays State led as late as 20-19 before a three-point Jennie run turned things around. A pair of UCM miscues helped the Tigers fend of a pair of set point opportunities and tie the score at 24 before the Jennies battled back to take the next two points and win, 26-24.Holding a two-set lead, UCM took the first three points of the third set to take control. But FHSU bounced right back, scoring the next four to take back the lead thanks to a trio of Tiger blocks. The teams traded points for the next stretch before a 5-1 Tiger run turned a 17-17 tie into a 22-18 lead. Two kills from Rains helped the Tigers reach set point before a Jennie error handed FHSU a 25-21 win.After racking up seven blocks in the third set, Fort Hays State added four more in the fourth to force a deciding fifth set. UCM scored the first four points to jump in front before the Tigers punched back with a 9-1 run, taking a 9-5 lead. The Jennies bounced back to level the score at 11, but a five-point Tiger run later gave FHSU the lead for good, 18-13. Stucky and Ashlyn Reeves&nbsp;combined for a block to reach set point before Reeves and Claire Olson&nbsp;teamed up for the set-winning block, giving FHSU a 25-20 win.The teams traded points early in the final set before FHSU scored three in a row to take an 8-5 lead thanks to back-to-back kills from Ellis. UCM responded with the next three points to again tie things up, but kills from Reeves and Tinder helped the Tigers take the lead for good. Reeves and Olson later teamed up for another block before Rains brought the match to a close with her 17th and final kill of the evening.Fort Hays State will wrap up a six-match homestand Tuesday when the Tigers host Emporia State beginning at 6 p.m. inside Gross Memorial Coliseum.

🏐 Tigers rally to beat Jennies in five

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just after 11:30a.m. October 11, a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a Mitsubishi Galant for allegedly speeding on 150th Road near Q. Road in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 During the traffic stop the deputy discovered items believed to be illegal contraband.  The driver, Adam David Pace, 47, of Robertsdale, Arizona, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of opiates, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, possession of depressants and hallucinogenic drugs. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697288956839.png" alt="Pace-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Pace-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just after 11:30a.m. October 11, a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a Mitsubishi Galant for allegedly speeding on 150th Road near Q. Road in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the traffic stop the deputy discovered items believed to be illegal contraband. The driver, Adam David Pace, 47, of Robertsdale, Arizona, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of opiates, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, possession of depressants and hallucinogenic drugs. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

Arizona man caught transporting drugs in Kansas

In honor of International Day of the Girl, First Lady Jill Biden celebrated 15 young women leaders, selected by the White House Gender Policy Council, who are leading change and shaping a brighter future in their communities across the United States. &nbsp;

As an educator for more than 30 years, Dr. Biden has continued to be a champion for young people at home and abroad.

Together with the White House Gender Policy Council, Dr. Biden hosted the first-ever “Girls Leading Change” celebration at the White House to recognize the profound impact young women are having on their communities and their efforts strengthening our country for generations to come.&nbsp;

“It is my honor to celebrate this exceptional group of “Girls Leading Change” at the White House,” said First Lady Jill Biden. “These young women are protecting and preserving the earth, writing and sharing stories that change minds, and turning their pain into purpose. Together, they represent the potential of young people across the country, and it is my hope that others can learn from the power of their innovation, strength, and hope.”

In addition, the Biden-Harris Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/11/fact-sheet-white-house-celebrates-international-day-of-the-girl-and-announces-new-actions-to-support-youth-in-the-u-s-and-abroad/" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;a series of new actions that build on the Administration’s investment in young people and expand opportunities for women and girls at home and abroad.

Since day one in office, the Administration has been committed to ensuring women and girls have the opportunities and resources they need to ensure their safety, education, health, and wellbeing.

(Montgomery, Alabama) Breanna and Brooke Bennett, age 16, are dedicated to ending period poverty and ensuring everyone has access to the menstrual supplies they need. When they were 12 years old, Breanna and Brooke were inspired to give period supplies to girls in a public housing project in Montgomery, Alabama, kicking off what became their organization, Women in Training, through which they have distributed more than 30,000 kits with sanitary pads and toiletries. Breanna and Brooke have also successfully advocated for the passage of HB 50, a state law in Alabama that provides funds for school staff to provide sanitary pads to students in need. They are committed to building on that success and eliminating period poverty at the national level.

Jazmin Cazares, age 18, is a leading activist for gun violence prevention at the state and national level. After her sister Jackie was killed in the shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, Jazmin spent her senior year of high school traveling across the country and sharing Jackie’s story. Jazmin spoke alongside March for Our Lives leaders at the Texas State Capitol and testified before lawmakers. There, she called for tighter background checks, extreme risk protection order laws, and for lawmakers to “do something” to prevent future mass shootings. Jazmin plans to obtain a master’s degree in psychology and to continue fighting for her sister’s legacy.

Mona Cho (Redondo Beach, California)

Mona Cho, age 15, is dedicated to combatting online harassment and abuse and the harm it poses to youth and teens. She serves on the Beach Cities Health District’s Youth Advisory Council and is also part of the District’s newly created Youth Health &amp; Safety Committee, where she leads a team of five students in a campaign to spread awareness on how to stay safe on social media, and to prioritize mental health online. As part of this work, she created a short film that follows real-life stories of the impact of damaged digital footprints. Through the Plan USA Youth Leadership Academy, she leads the Digital Online Safety and Empowerment Initiative. Mona hopes to continue deploying film as a tool to promote online safety and call for change.

Julia Garnett (Hendersonville, Tennessee)&nbsp;

Julia Garnett, age 17, is dedicated to fighting against book bans and promoting educational freedom in public school and county public libraries. In her school district, she advocated successfully for student representation on book review committees and served on her own high school’s committee. At the national level, Julia has provided testimony before Congress on book bans and volunteers with Student Advocates for Speech, a partnership with the National Coalition Against Censorship. She is an organizer and leader on multiple issues, planned a Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, led a student walkout in protest of gun violence, and served as the President of her school’s Gay-Straight Alliance. Julia is committed to ensuring that youth grow up free from censorship, with access to books that fully represent the diversity of their communities and the world.

Logan Hennes, age 16, is committed to combatting antisemitism in communities across the country. Through the American Jewish Committee, Logan has created and taken on a leadership role in supporting students like herself who are working to address antisemitism in their schools and communities, such as Logan’s community in New York City. As the leader of her high school’s Jewish Affinity Group, she has hosted speakers to raise awareness of rising antisemitism and supported her peers in similar organizing and advocacy work across other communities and issues. Logan plans to pursue a career in international relations and U.S. foreign policy.

Anja Herrman (River Forest, Illinois)&nbsp;

Anja Herrman, age 17, is a disability rights activist and advocate for equity and inclusion. She has led grassroots disability advocacy work, including as a member of the Personal Protective Equipment for People with Disabilities (PPE4PWD Coalition), which helped secure personal protective equipment for people with disabilities during the COVID–19 pandemic. Since 2021, she has served as the youngest appointed member of the Village of River Forest’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Group. Anja is emerging as a national leader through her research, speaking engagements, and publications. She authored a white paper that highlights the need for school shooting plans that account for the safety of students with disabilities through a fellowship program at the Disability EmpowHer Network.

Leela Marie Hidier (Yarmouth, Maine)&nbsp;

&nbsp;Leela Marie Hidier, age 18, is a climate social justice advocate and published author. Her award-winning debut novel, Changes in the Weather, features four teenagers displaced by climate change in the U.S., coming of age in a world and time of uncertainty. Leela Marie has been invited to read from her work and speak at community centers, schools, climate conferences, the Maine State House, and across her state. Currently on a gap year, she is working in the nonprofit sector in Maine before beginning college next year. She aspires to become an educator, and to continue using art as a form of activism

Elisa Martinez (Las Vegas, Nevada)

Elisa Martinez, age 17, is an organizer dedicated to civic engagement, particularly within the Latino community. She founded her school’s Latino Student Union and mobilizes students on issues such as climate justice and gun violence prevention. Elisa volunteers as a poll worker to assist Spanishspeaking voters and ensure they understand their rights. After losing her friend to a fentanyl overdose, Elisa has spoken out about beating the opioid crisis and has joined the Trial by Peers program to advocate for juveniles in the criminal justice system. Elisa hopes to become a public defender.

Gabriella Nakai (Phoenix, Arizona)

Gabriella Nakai, age 17, is a Navajo and Choctaw leader dedicated to furthering food security and sustainability, indigenous sovereignty, and youth advocacy. For her work in growing sustainable, heirloom Native produce and promoting seed saving and propagation, Gabriella was honored by the Center for Native American Youth at the Aspen Institute as a 2023 Champion for Change. Gabriella works with Native American Connections on addressing youth homelessness and mental health in Phoenix. She founded the Native American club at her school, is a leader in her student government, and hopes to continue serving her tribal community through nonprofit work.

Zahra Rahimi (Alexandria, Virginia)

Zahra Rahimi, age 17, arrived in the U.S. four years ago from Afghanistan, and has since dedicated herself to supporting refugee resettlement in her local community, including access to English as a Second Language services in Alexandria schools. As student representative to the Alexandria City Board of Education, Zahra organized cultural events and staff trainings to ensure the school was prepared to receive new refugee families from Afghanistan. Zahra partnered with Northern Virginia Resettling Afghan Families Together to establish a special literacy program to support her largely female middle and high school peers who were reading below a second-grade level. In addition to her refugee resettlement efforts, Zahra is a passionate advocate for advancing women’s rights globally, especially in areas of conflict.

Gitanjali Rao (Highlands Ranch, Colorado)

Gitanjali Rao, age 17, is a freshman at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She is a scientist and inventor whose groundbreaking lead contamination detection tool won her an EPA Presidential Award and America’s Top Young Scientist by Discovery Education/3M. Her book Young Innovator’s Guide to STEM, which offers a prescriptive five-step innovation process, is used as a STEM curriculum globally in selected schools. Time Magazine’s first-ever Kid of the Year, Gitanjali is committed to not only continuing her career as a scientist and inventor, but expanding her STEM education initiative, which has already touched more than 80,000 elementary, middle, and high school students.

Avery Turner (Colorado Springs, Colorado)

Avery Turner, age 17, is a high school senior and calls herself a “seasoned mover,” having moved 10 times before her father recently retired from the Air Force. Avery is committed to supporting military teens, and currently serves as the Director of Programs at Bloom, an organization started by military teens dedicated to promoting their belonging within the military community and amplifying their voices. A prolific writer, as well as a nationally-ranked competitive springboard diver, Avery writes about her experiences trying to find her place in the ever-changing landscape of military teen life in the hopes of providing connection and community.

Sandra Ukah, age 18, a freshman at the University of Florida, is committed to civic education and community organizing. She was co-founder and co-president of Seminole High School’s Black Student Union, the first Black Student Union (BSU) in Seminole County, and she later consulted with district members to establish BSU chapters in all of the county’s high schools. Sandra served on her city’s Youth Council for two years and became president, during which time she launched an initiative on civic education to teach her community about the role of local government, host voter registration drives, and connect government to the community. Sandra hopes to work in civil rights and constitutional law.

Rania Zuri (Morgantown, West Virginia)

Rania Zuri, age 18, is a third-generation West Virginian and the founder and CEO of The LiTEArary Society, a nonprofit organization focused on ending “book deserts” for disadvantaged preschool children. Since Rania founded the organization at 13 years old, it has grown to donate books to over 28,000 preschool children in federal Head Start programs across all 50 states. The organization has received funding and partnerships from Pilot Pens, Hershey’s, Scholastic, Starbucks, and others. Rania plans to continue this work with the belief in the power of reading to transform lives.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697055879681.png" alt="Together with the White House Gender Policy Council, Dr. Biden hosted the first-ever “Girls Leading Change” celebration.-photo courtesy teenvogue.com via the White House" />
 <figcaption>Together with the White House Gender Policy Council, Dr. Biden hosted the first-ever “Girls Leading Change” celebration.-photo courtesy teenvogue.com via the White House</figcaption>
 </figure>In honor of International Day of the Girl, First Lady Jill Biden celebrated 15 young women leaders, selected by the White House Gender Policy Council, who are leading change and shaping a brighter future in their communities across the United States. &nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2QG8X9RMygQ?si=L-5Kv7O_9oJJEvmz&amp;start=190" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>As an educator for more than 30 years, Dr. Biden has continued to be a champion for young people at home and abroad.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">First Lady Jill Biden hosts the first-ever “Girls Leading Change” celebration at the White House to recognize the profound impact young women are having on their communities across the country. <a href="https://t.co/QY2nwstdw0">pic.twitter.com/QY2nwstdw0</a>&mdash; Vanessa Valdivia (@vvaldivia46) <a href="https://twitter.com/vvaldivia46/status/1712199490474586532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Together with the White House Gender Policy Council, Dr. Biden hosted the first-ever “Girls Leading Change” celebration at the White House to recognize the profound impact young women are having on their communities and their efforts strengthening our country for generations to come.&nbsp;“It is my honor to celebrate this exceptional group of “Girls Leading Change” at the White House,” said First Lady Jill Biden. “These young women are protecting and preserving the earth, writing and sharing stories that change minds, and turning their pain into purpose. Together, they represent the potential of young people across the country, and it is my hope that others can learn from the power of their innovation, strength, and hope.”In addition, the Biden-Harris Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/10/11/fact-sheet-white-house-celebrates-international-day-of-the-girl-and-announces-new-actions-to-support-youth-in-the-u-s-and-abroad/" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;a series of new actions that build on the Administration’s investment in young people and expand opportunities for women and girls at home and abroad. Since day one in office, the Administration has been committed to ensuring women and girls have the opportunities and resources they need to ensure their safety, education, health, and wellbeing.2023 Girl Leading Change HonoreesBreanna &amp; Brooke Bennett (Montgomery, Alabama) Breanna and Brooke Bennett, age 16, are dedicated to ending period poverty and ensuring everyone has access to the menstrual supplies they need. When they were 12 years old, Breanna and Brooke were inspired to give period supplies to girls in a public housing project in Montgomery, Alabama, kicking off what became their organization, Women in Training, through which they have distributed more than 30,000 kits with sanitary pads and toiletries. Breanna and Brooke have also successfully advocated for the passage of HB 50, a state law in Alabama that provides funds for school staff to provide sanitary pads to students in need. They are committed to building on that success and eliminating period poverty at the national level.Jazmin Cazares (Uvalde, Texas) Jazmin Cazares, age 18, is a leading activist for gun violence prevention at the state and national level. After her sister Jackie was killed in the shooting at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas, Jazmin spent her senior year of high school traveling across the country and sharing Jackie’s story. Jazmin spoke alongside March for Our Lives leaders at the Texas State Capitol and testified before lawmakers. There, she called for tighter background checks, extreme risk protection order laws, and for lawmakers to “do something” to prevent future mass shootings. Jazmin plans to obtain a master’s degree in psychology and to continue fighting for her sister’s legacy.Mona Cho (Redondo Beach, California) Mona Cho, age 15, is dedicated to combatting online harassment and abuse and the harm it poses to youth and teens. She serves on the Beach Cities Health District’s Youth Advisory Council and is also part of the District’s newly created Youth Health &amp; Safety Committee, where she leads a team of five students in a campaign to spread awareness on how to stay safe on social media, and to prioritize mental health online. As part of this work, she created a short film that follows real-life stories of the impact of damaged digital footprints. Through the Plan USA Youth Leadership Academy, she leads the Digital Online Safety and Empowerment Initiative. Mona hopes to continue deploying film as a tool to promote online safety and call for change.Julia Garnett (Hendersonville, Tennessee)&nbsp; Julia Garnett, age 17, is dedicated to fighting against book bans and promoting educational freedom in public school and county public libraries. In her school district, she advocated successfully for student representation on book review committees and served on her own high school’s committee. At the national level, Julia has provided testimony before Congress on book bans and volunteers with Student Advocates for Speech, a partnership with the National Coalition Against Censorship. She is an organizer and leader on multiple issues, planned a Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, led a student walkout in protest of gun violence, and served as the President of her school’s Gay-Straight Alliance. Julia is committed to ensuring that youth grow up free from censorship, with access to books that fully represent the diversity of their communities and the world.Logan Hennes (New York, New York) Logan Hennes, age 16, is committed to combatting antisemitism in communities across the country. Through the American Jewish Committee, Logan has created and taken on a leadership role in supporting students like herself who are working to address antisemitism in their schools and communities, such as Logan’s community in New York City. As the leader of her high school’s Jewish Affinity Group, she has hosted speakers to raise awareness of rising antisemitism and supported her peers in similar organizing and advocacy work across other communities and issues. Logan plans to pursue a career in international relations and U.S. foreign policy.Anja Herrman (River Forest, Illinois)&nbsp; Anja Herrman, age 17, is a disability rights activist and advocate for equity and inclusion. She has led grassroots disability advocacy work, including as a member of the Personal Protective Equipment for People with Disabilities (PPE4PWD Coalition), which helped secure personal protective equipment for people with disabilities during the COVID–19 pandemic. Since 2021, she has served as the youngest appointed member of the Village of River Forest’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Group. Anja is emerging as a national leader through her research, speaking engagements, and publications. She authored a white paper that highlights the need for school shooting plans that account for the safety of students with disabilities through a fellowship program at the Disability EmpowHer Network.Leela Marie Hidier (Yarmouth, Maine)&nbsp;&nbsp;Leela Marie Hidier, age 18, is a climate social justice advocate and published author. Her award-winning debut novel, Changes in the Weather, features four teenagers displaced by climate change in the U.S., coming of age in a world and time of uncertainty. Leela Marie has been invited to read from her work and speak at community centers, schools, climate conferences, the Maine State House, and across her state. Currently on a gap year, she is working in the nonprofit sector in Maine before beginning college next year. She aspires to become an educator, and to continue using art as a form of activismElisa Martinez (Las Vegas, Nevada) Elisa Martinez, age 17, is an organizer dedicated to civic engagement, particularly within the Latino community. She founded her school’s Latino Student Union and mobilizes students on issues such as climate justice and gun violence prevention. Elisa volunteers as a poll worker to assist Spanishspeaking voters and ensure they understand their rights. After losing her friend to a fentanyl overdose, Elisa has spoken out about beating the opioid crisis and has joined the Trial by Peers program to advocate for juveniles in the criminal justice system. Elisa hopes to become a public defender.Gabriella Nakai (Phoenix, Arizona)Gabriella Nakai, age 17, is a Navajo and Choctaw leader dedicated to furthering food security and sustainability, indigenous sovereignty, and youth advocacy. For her work in growing sustainable, heirloom Native produce and promoting seed saving and propagation, Gabriella was honored by the Center for Native American Youth at the Aspen Institute as a 2023 Champion for Change. Gabriella works with Native American Connections on addressing youth homelessness and mental health in Phoenix. She founded the Native American club at her school, is a leader in her student government, and hopes to continue serving her tribal community through nonprofit work.Zahra Rahimi (Alexandria, Virginia)Zahra Rahimi, age 17, arrived in the U.S. four years ago from Afghanistan, and has since dedicated herself to supporting refugee resettlement in her local community, including access to English as a Second Language services in Alexandria schools. As student representative to the Alexandria City Board of Education, Zahra organized cultural events and staff trainings to ensure the school was prepared to receive new refugee families from Afghanistan. Zahra partnered with Northern Virginia Resettling Afghan Families Together to establish a special literacy program to support her largely female middle and high school peers who were reading below a second-grade level. In addition to her refugee resettlement efforts, Zahra is a passionate advocate for advancing women’s rights globally, especially in areas of conflict.Gitanjali Rao (Highlands Ranch, Colorado)Gitanjali Rao, age 17, is a freshman at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She is a scientist and inventor whose groundbreaking lead contamination detection tool won her an EPA Presidential Award and America’s Top Young Scientist by Discovery Education/3M. Her book Young Innovator’s Guide to STEM, which offers a prescriptive five-step innovation process, is used as a STEM curriculum globally in selected schools. Time Magazine’s first-ever Kid of the Year, Gitanjali is committed to not only continuing her career as a scientist and inventor, but expanding her STEM education initiative, which has already touched more than 80,000 elementary, middle, and high school students.Avery Turner (Colorado Springs, Colorado) Avery Turner, age 17, is a high school senior and calls herself a “seasoned mover,” having moved 10 times before her father recently retired from the Air Force. Avery is committed to supporting military teens, and currently serves as the Director of Programs at Bloom, an organization started by military teens dedicated to promoting their belonging within the military community and amplifying their voices. A prolific writer, as well as a nationally-ranked competitive springboard diver, Avery writes about her experiences trying to find her place in the ever-changing landscape of military teen life in the hopes of providing connection and community.Sandra Ukah (Lake Mary, Florida) Sandra Ukah, age 18, a freshman at the University of Florida, is committed to civic education and community organizing. She was co-founder and co-president of Seminole High School’s Black Student Union, the first Black Student Union (BSU) in Seminole County, and she later consulted with district members to establish BSU chapters in all of the county’s high schools. Sandra served on her city’s Youth Council for two years and became president, during which time she launched an initiative on civic education to teach her community about the role of local government, host voter registration drives, and connect government to the community. Sandra hopes to work in civil rights and constitutional law.Rania Zuri (Morgantown, West Virginia)Rania Zuri, age 18, is a third-generation West Virginian and the founder and CEO of The LiTEArary Society, a nonprofit organization focused on ending “book deserts” for disadvantaged preschool children. Since Rania founded the organization at 13 years old, it has grown to donate books to over 28,000 preschool children in federal Head Start programs across all 50 states. The organization has received funding and partnerships from Pilot Pens, Hershey’s, Scholastic, Starbucks, and others. Rania plans to continue this work with the belief in the power of reading to transform lives.

🎥 First lady announced “Girls Leading Change” honorees

Nebraska-Kearney 2-4 (2-4 MIAA) at Fort Hays State 4-2 (3-2 MIAA) Saturday, October 14 – 1:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;The MIAA Network&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a>

Fort Hays State hosts Nebraska-Kearney in the seventh week of the 2023 football season on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at Lewis Field in Hays. The Tigers enter at 4-2 overall and 3-2 in the MIAA, while the Lopers are 2-4 both overall and in MIAA play.

This will be the 69th meeting all-time between the Tigers and Lopers, which dates back to 1926. UNK holds a slight advantage 35-32-1, but FHSU is 9-1 in the last 10 meetings. FHSU had a nine-game win streak over UNK from 2012-2021, but it was snapped last year in Kearney when a No. 23 ranked Loper squad turned away the Tigers 38-20. It was the first win for UNK in MIAA play against the Tigers. Fort Hays State has won five straight over UNK in Hays, including a thrilling come-from-behind 42-35 win in the last meeting in Hays back on Homecoming in 2021.

Fort Hays State has won two in a row entering Saturday. They have averaged 53 points in those two wins after a 71-3 win over Lincoln on Homecoming and then a 35-22 win last week at Missouri Southern. The Tigers have elevated their rushing attack over the last two weeks, averaging 217.5 yards on the ground in the two wins. FHSU moved the ball well in both contests, averaging 8.18 yards per play in the pair of wins.

Nebraska-Kearney is coming off a 38-14 loss at nationally ranked Central Missouri last week. The Lopers have wins over Northeastern State and Washburn, both at home this year, but sit at 0-3 in road games. Two of their three road games were against nationally ranked opponents and the other was a close three-point loss at Central Oklahoma in the season opener. The Lopers are in their first season under head coach Ryan Held after going 8-3 overall last year and tying for third in the MIAA. Quarterback TJ Davis is the top offensive threat for UNK with 1,126 passing yards and a team-best 369 rushing yards.

Fort Hays State owns the 13th-best passing offense in NCAA Division II, averaging 284.2 yards per game. Quarterback Jack Dawson&nbsp;ranks 20th&nbsp;in NCAA Division II for passing yards with 1,522 and he is 16th&nbsp;in passing touchdowns with 14. Three of his receiving targets are among the top 15 in the MIAA in receiving yards per game, which includes Trevor Watts&nbsp;(60.7), Hayden Horace&nbsp;(58.8), and Bryson Smith&nbsp;(56.5). In the ground game, Shane Watts&nbsp;leads the Tigers with 234 yards, coming off a career-best 96 yards last week at Missouri Southern.

Defensively, the Tigers lead the MIAA in total defense at 275 yards per game and scoring defense at 16.5 points allowed per game. The Tigers have 10 interceptions this season, which ranks 11th&nbsp;in NCAA Division II, distributed among eight players led by Makel Williams&nbsp;with two. John Johnson&nbsp;leads the Tigers in tackles with 45, Jason Wallace&nbsp;leads in sacks with 2.0, and Parrish Terry&nbsp;leads in tackles for loss with 6.0.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697137182739.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FHSU AthleticsNebraska-Kearney 2-4 (2-4 MIAA) at Fort Hays State 4-2 (3-2 MIAA) Saturday, October 14 – 1:00 p.m. Hays, Kan. – Lewis Field Radio:&nbsp;KJLS (103.3)&nbsp;<a href="https://mix103fm.com/">CLICK HERE TO LISTEN</a> Video:&nbsp;The MIAA Network&nbsp;<a href="https://themiaanetwork.com/fhsutigers/">CLICK HERE TO WATCH ($)</a> Fort Hays State hosts Nebraska-Kearney in the seventh week of the 2023 football season on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. at Lewis Field in Hays. The Tigers enter at 4-2 overall and 3-2 in the MIAA, while the Lopers are 2-4 both overall and in MIAA play.This will be the 69th meeting all-time between the Tigers and Lopers, which dates back to 1926. UNK holds a slight advantage 35-32-1, but FHSU is 9-1 in the last 10 meetings. FHSU had a nine-game win streak over UNK from 2012-2021, but it was snapped last year in Kearney when a No. 23 ranked Loper squad turned away the Tigers 38-20. It was the first win for UNK in MIAA play against the Tigers. Fort Hays State has won five straight over UNK in Hays, including a thrilling come-from-behind 42-35 win in the last meeting in Hays back on Homecoming in 2021.Fort Hays State has won two in a row entering Saturday. They have averaged 53 points in those two wins after a 71-3 win over Lincoln on Homecoming and then a 35-22 win last week at Missouri Southern. The Tigers have elevated their rushing attack over the last two weeks, averaging 217.5 yards on the ground in the two wins. FHSU moved the ball well in both contests, averaging 8.18 yards per play in the pair of wins.Nebraska-Kearney is coming off a 38-14 loss at nationally ranked Central Missouri last week. The Lopers have wins over Northeastern State and Washburn, both at home this year, but sit at 0-3 in road games. Two of their three road games were against nationally ranked opponents and the other was a close three-point loss at Central Oklahoma in the season opener. The Lopers are in their first season under head coach Ryan Held after going 8-3 overall last year and tying for third in the MIAA. Quarterback TJ Davis is the top offensive threat for UNK with 1,126 passing yards and a team-best 369 rushing yards.Fort Hays State owns the 13th-best passing offense in NCAA Division II, averaging 284.2 yards per game. Quarterback Jack Dawson&nbsp;ranks 20th&nbsp;in NCAA Division II for passing yards with 1,522 and he is 16th&nbsp;in passing touchdowns with 14. Three of his receiving targets are among the top 15 in the MIAA in receiving yards per game, which includes Trevor Watts&nbsp;(60.7), Hayden Horace&nbsp;(58.8), and Bryson Smith&nbsp;(56.5). In the ground game, Shane Watts&nbsp;leads the Tigers with 234 yards, coming off a career-best 96 yards last week at Missouri Southern.Defensively, the Tigers lead the MIAA in total defense at 275 yards per game and scoring defense at 16.5 points allowed per game. The Tigers have 10 interceptions this season, which ranks 11th&nbsp;in NCAA Division II, distributed among eight players led by Makel Williams&nbsp;with two. John Johnson&nbsp;leads the Tigers in tackles with 45, Jason Wallace&nbsp;leads in sacks with 2.0, and Parrish Terry&nbsp;leads in tackles for loss with 6.0.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🏈🎙️ LISTEN - Tigers set to face Nebraska-Kearney Saturday in Hays

Twila Marie (Keas) Sander, of Stockton, Kansas, passed away on October 10, 2023, at the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, Kansas, at the age of 82. Twila was born at home in Stockton, Kansas on February 26, 1941, to Chester Leo and Laura Bell (Turnbull) Keas. Twila came into this world in the middle of a blizzard and remained her own force of nature throughout her lifetime.

She met her best friend for life, Alice Ann (Maddy) Lee, while only a baby at the Main Street Christian Church. The two shared many adventures, tears, and laughter during their lifetime, with the last one being when Twila left this world peacefully with Alice Ann by her side.

Twila lived life to the fullest. While growing up, she enjoyed travelling with her family, spending time with friends, and going to the movies. Twila was an avid swimmer and spent each moment she could at Webster Lake. When Alice Ann couldn’t swim, Twila would pull her out in the spillway on an innertube, so she didn’t have to miss the fun! Twila was athletic and loved sports. The boys’ basketball coach insisted she practice with his team since she was the best free throw shooter the school had. He told her more than once that he would have disguised her as a boy and put her on the team if he could have gotten away with it.

While attending Stockton High School, Twila held the record for the number of words per minute she could type. She typed so fast that she would have to pause to wait for the typewriter to catch up with her. After graduating in 1959, Twila took a position as secretary for Warren Harding at the Rooks County Extension Office. Warren would invite people to the office to observe how fast she could type. He often joked that Twila could type as fast as she could talk!

Twila later became an entrepreneur, opening Prime Time Video on Main Street in Stockton. When the video industry evolved, Twila evolved with it and later sold electronics and computers. Although she never attended college herself, she taught computer classes for Colby Community College as well as private classes at her store.

Twila loved her family and she loved Stockton. While her children were growing up, she was a room mother and volunteered at many school and community activities. She helped organize the first Pride Committee to beautify the city and served on the Chamber of Commerce. Twila served three terms as a city commissioner. However, she is probably best known for her involvement with the Rooks County Free Fair. She wore many hats at the fair. She was a 4-H leader and helped her children and many others with 4-H fair projects throughout the year. She also served alongside her husband, Freeman, who was fair board president, put on the largest free fair in Kansas.

After retiring, Twila was never one to pass up looking for a bargain at Walmart. She enjoyed crocheting hats for cancer patients, tending her flower garden, and visiting with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchild. Twila was a good friend to all that knew her. Although she will leave us with many memories, it is her strength, quick wit, and wisdom that she imparted to us that we will cherish the most.

Twila is survived by her children, Aronda Strutt of Stockton, Kansas, Kris Strutt of Wichita, Kansas, Clint (Angela) Strutt of Mons, Belgium, Charlie (Marsha) Sander of Stockton, Kansas, and Brian (Trish) Sander of Plainville, Kansas; eight grandchildren, Blake Marie Martinez (Josiah), Connor Divine, Ethan Divine, Callan Wells, Keith Sander (Jane), Dalton Sander, Colton Sander, and Kyler Sander; great-grandson, William Rain Sander; many nieces and nephews; and her lifelong friend and partner in crime, Alice Ann Lee.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Freeman Sander; infant brothers Harold Keas and Doyle Keas; siblings, Warden Keas, Wilber Keas, Thelma Ross, and Clio Carson; and granddaughter, Eden Strutt.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 16, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at the funeral home in Stockton. Inurnment will follow at the Stockton Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Rooks County Health Center or St. Jude Hospital and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N 1st Stockton, KS 67669.

To&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29503895&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.1.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1697289885.115.0.1697289889.56.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29503895&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.1.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1697289885.115.0.1697289889.56.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Twila, please&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29503895&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.1.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1697289885.115.0.1697289889.56.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

<h2>Twila Marie Sander, Stockton</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697289981591.png" alt="Twila Marie Sander" />
 <figcaption>Twila Marie Sander</figcaption>
 </figure>February 26, 1941 - October 10, 2023Twila Marie (Keas) Sander, of Stockton, Kansas, passed away on October 10, 2023, at the Rooks County Health Center in Plainville, Kansas, at the age of 82. Twila was born at home in Stockton, Kansas on February 26, 1941, to Chester Leo and Laura Bell (Turnbull) Keas. Twila came into this world in the middle of a blizzard and remained her own force of nature throughout her lifetime.She met her best friend for life, Alice Ann (Maddy) Lee, while only a baby at the Main Street Christian Church. The two shared many adventures, tears, and laughter during their lifetime, with the last one being when Twila left this world peacefully with Alice Ann by her side.Twila lived life to the fullest. While growing up, she enjoyed travelling with her family, spending time with friends, and going to the movies. Twila was an avid swimmer and spent each moment she could at Webster Lake. When Alice Ann couldn’t swim, Twila would pull her out in the spillway on an innertube, so she didn’t have to miss the fun! Twila was athletic and loved sports. The boys’ basketball coach insisted she practice with his team since she was the best free throw shooter the school had. He told her more than once that he would have disguised her as a boy and put her on the team if he could have gotten away with it.While attending Stockton High School, Twila held the record for the number of words per minute she could type. She typed so fast that she would have to pause to wait for the typewriter to catch up with her. After graduating in 1959, Twila took a position as secretary for Warren Harding at the Rooks County Extension Office. Warren would invite people to the office to observe how fast she could type. He often joked that Twila could type as fast as she could talk!Twila later became an entrepreneur, opening Prime Time Video on Main Street in Stockton. When the video industry evolved, Twila evolved with it and later sold electronics and computers. Although she never attended college herself, she taught computer classes for Colby Community College as well as private classes at her store.Twila loved her family and she loved Stockton. While her children were growing up, she was a room mother and volunteered at many school and community activities. She helped organize the first Pride Committee to beautify the city and served on the Chamber of Commerce. Twila served three terms as a city commissioner. However, she is probably best known for her involvement with the Rooks County Free Fair. She wore many hats at the fair. She was a 4-H leader and helped her children and many others with 4-H fair projects throughout the year. She also served alongside her husband, Freeman, who was fair board president, put on the largest free fair in Kansas.After retiring, Twila was never one to pass up looking for a bargain at Walmart. She enjoyed crocheting hats for cancer patients, tending her flower garden, and visiting with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchild. Twila was a good friend to all that knew her. Although she will leave us with many memories, it is her strength, quick wit, and wisdom that she imparted to us that we will cherish the most.Twila is survived by her children, Aronda Strutt of Stockton, Kansas, Kris Strutt of Wichita, Kansas, Clint (Angela) Strutt of Mons, Belgium, Charlie (Marsha) Sander of Stockton, Kansas, and Brian (Trish) Sander of Plainville, Kansas; eight grandchildren, Blake Marie Martinez (Josiah), Connor Divine, Ethan Divine, Callan Wells, Keith Sander (Jane), Dalton Sander, Colton Sander, and Kyler Sander; great-grandson, William Rain Sander; many nieces and nephews; and her lifelong friend and partner in crime, Alice Ann Lee.She was preceded in death by her husband, Freeman Sander; infant brothers Harold Keas and Doyle Keas; siblings, Warden Keas, Wilber Keas, Thelma Ross, and Clio Carson; and granddaughter, Eden Strutt.A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 16, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at the funeral home in Stockton. Inurnment will follow at the Stockton Cemetery.Memorials are suggested to the Rooks County Health Center or St. Jude Hospital and may be sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N 1st Stockton, KS 67669.To&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29503895&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.1.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1697289885.115.0.1697289889.56.0.0&amp;mtph=1">send flowers</a>&nbsp;to the family or&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/memorial-tree?oId=29503895&amp;tag=&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.1.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1697289885.115.0.1697289889.56.0.0&amp;mtph=1">plant a tree</a>&nbsp;in memory of Twila, please&nbsp;<a href="http://plumeroverlease-funeral-home-stockton-inc.tributestore.com/?oId=29503895&amp;tag=&amp;tn=V2MSticky|FreeTreeTestFC&amp;otv=Frazer_MS2_Cont&amp;source=tco_description&amp;_cdx=GA1.1.1115152002.1681661103:GS1.1.1697289885.115.0.1697289889.56.0.0&amp;mtph=1">visit our floral store.</a>

Twila Marie Sander

Threzia Lyin (Terri) Ziegler, age 56, died at her home in Collyer, Kansas on September 9, 2023.&nbsp; She was born on January 19, 1967, in WaKeeney, Kansas, the daughter of Louis P. and Margaret N. (Kelsey) Ziegler.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A graveside memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at the St. Michael Cemetery in Collyer, Kansas.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Trego County Historical Society or “SNARR, International” c/o Amy Keller.&nbsp; Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672

<h2>Threzia Lyin (Terri) Ziegler, Collyer</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698098406204.png" alt="Threzia Lyin (Terri) Ziegler" />
 <figcaption>Threzia Lyin (Terri) Ziegler</figcaption>
 </figure>January 19, 1967 - September 9, 2023Threzia Lyin (Terri) Ziegler, age 56, died at her home in Collyer, Kansas on September 9, 2023.&nbsp; She was born on January 19, 1967, in WaKeeney, Kansas, the daughter of Louis P. and Margaret N. (Kelsey) Ziegler.&nbsp;&nbsp;A graveside memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, 1:00 p.m. at the St. Michael Cemetery in Collyer, Kansas.Memorial contributions may be given to the Trego County Historical Society or “SNARR, International” c/o Amy Keller.&nbsp; Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th Street, WaKeeney, KS 67672

Threzia Lyin (Terri) Ziegler

Retta Elaine Thrall, age 93, died Thursday, October 12, 2023, at Pioneer Manor in Hugoton, Kansas. She was born January 2, 1930, on the family farm northeast of Rolla in Morton County, Kansas. She is the daughter of Vernie Wilson and Farry May (Mangels) Dickenson.

Retta attended grade school in Rolla and graduated from Rolla High School in 1948. She then graduated from Wichita School of Cosmetology. 

She returned to Morton County and lived 15 miles south of Rolla on the family farm. She worked as a bookkeeper for C.R.I. Feeders. 

Retta was a member of Rolla United Methodist Church, UMW, and Home Builders Extension Club.

Retta is survived by her sons, Lynn Eugene Thrall and wife, Valerie of Elkhart, and Dennis Mark Thrall and wife, Rhonda of Guymon, Oklahoma; daughters, Gayle Elaine Otis and husband, Dave of Ulysses, and Diana Lou Bressler and husband, Kent of Sylvan Grove; grandchildren, Cassie Thrall, Jesse Drew, Beau Bressler, Chrystal Thrall, Dee Bressler Gasper, Tarah Thrall Rupke, Clayton Thrall, Lyndie Thrall Garnett, and Corrie Thrall Miller; and great-grandchildren, Aaron Apelu, Austin Apelu, Tyson Apelu, Adrian Gomez, Jordyn Miller, Jaxon Miller, Jereme Drew, Everlee Rupke, Lucas Garnett, Drew Gasper, Maggie Bressler, Hayden Drew, and Harlow Drew.

Retta is preceded in death by her parents, Vernie and Farry Dickenson; husband, Harold Thrall; and two grandchildren, JoAnn Drew and Jereme Drew.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 2:00 p.m., at Rolla Methodist Church in Rolla with Reverend Wesley Young officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date. 

<h2>Retta Elaine Thrall</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697289652479.png" alt="Retta Elaine Thrall" />
 <figcaption>Retta Elaine Thrall</figcaption>
 </figure>January 2, 1930 - October 12, 2023Retta Elaine Thrall, age 93, died Thursday, October 12, 2023, at Pioneer Manor in Hugoton, Kansas. She was born January 2, 1930, on the family farm northeast of Rolla in Morton County, Kansas. She is the daughter of Vernie Wilson and Farry May (Mangels) Dickenson.Retta attended grade school in Rolla and graduated from Rolla High School in 1948. She then graduated from Wichita School of Cosmetology. She returned to Morton County and lived 15 miles south of Rolla on the family farm. She worked as a bookkeeper for C.R.I. Feeders. Retta was a member of Rolla United Methodist Church, UMW, and Home Builders Extension Club.Retta is survived by her sons, Lynn Eugene Thrall and wife, Valerie of Elkhart, and Dennis Mark Thrall and wife, Rhonda of Guymon, Oklahoma; daughters, Gayle Elaine Otis and husband, Dave of Ulysses, and Diana Lou Bressler and husband, Kent of Sylvan Grove; grandchildren, Cassie Thrall, Jesse Drew, Beau Bressler, Chrystal Thrall, Dee Bressler Gasper, Tarah Thrall Rupke, Clayton Thrall, Lyndie Thrall Garnett, and Corrie Thrall Miller; and great-grandchildren, Aaron Apelu, Austin Apelu, Tyson Apelu, Adrian Gomez, Jordyn Miller, Jaxon Miller, Jereme Drew, Everlee Rupke, Lucas Garnett, Drew Gasper, Maggie Bressler, Hayden Drew, and Harlow Drew.Retta is preceded in death by her parents, Vernie and Farry Dickenson; husband, Harold Thrall; and two grandchildren, JoAnn Drew and Jereme Drew.A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 2:00 p.m., at Rolla Methodist Church in Rolla with Reverend Wesley Young officiating. Inurnment will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to Rolla Methodist Church or Rolla Hope in care of Garnand Funeral Home, P.O. Box 854, Elkhart, KS 67950. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;