David Ross Hinman, 68, died September 26, 2023, at Clara Barton Hospital, Hoisington, Kansas. &nbsp;He was born October 7, 1954, in Winfield, Kansas, the son of Wilbur “Jack” and Wilma Fern (Billings) Hinman. &nbsp;

He then served during the Vietnam War in United States Navy as a aviation ordnance man.

On January 18, 1992, he married Laree Rose Radenberg in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 

They moved back to Kansas in 2003 and David worked for Oneok and in the oil field driving water and tank trucks for Ellinwood Tank Service and Paul’s Oilfield Service. 

Driving was not only his job but his hobby, as he loved all things with a motor. He would drag race and was a member of the NHRA. He loved his vintage hot rods and would often take them to shows. David also loved animals but he mostly loved spoiling his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Laree Hinman of the home; son, Steven Hinman and wife Sarah of Hoisington; daughter, Melony Johnson of Clarksville, Tennessee; and grandchildren Jackson Hinman and Kathryn Titsworth of Hoisington and Ian and Tyler Durant of Clarksville, Tennessee; &nbsp;siblings, Michael Hinman and wife Connie of Lawtey, Florida, Steve Hinman and wife Debbie of Moore, Oklahoma, Janet Winters and husband Mike of Wetumka, Oklahoma, Carol Peek and husband Stuart of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 18th, 2024, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel.&nbsp;

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to David Hinman Memorial Fund, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.

To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;David Ross Hinman, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/david-hinman/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>David Ross Hinman</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697204044735.jpeg" alt="David Ross Hinman" />
 <figcaption>David Ross Hinman</figcaption>
 </figure>October 7, 1954 - September 26, 2023David Ross Hinman, 68, died September 26, 2023, at Clara Barton Hospital, Hoisington, Kansas. &nbsp;He was born October 7, 1954, in Winfield, Kansas, the son of Wilbur “Jack” and Wilma Fern (Billings) Hinman. &nbsp;He then served during the Vietnam War in United States Navy as a aviation ordnance man.On January 18, 1992, he married Laree Rose Radenberg in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. They moved back to Kansas in 2003 and David worked for Oneok and in the oil field driving water and tank trucks for Ellinwood Tank Service and Paul’s Oilfield Service. Driving was not only his job but his hobby, as he loved all things with a motor. He would drag race and was a member of the NHRA. He loved his vintage hot rods and would often take them to shows. David also loved animals but he mostly loved spoiling his grandchildren.He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Laree Hinman of the home; son, Steven Hinman and wife Sarah of Hoisington; daughter, Melony Johnson of Clarksville, Tennessee; and grandchildren Jackson Hinman and Kathryn Titsworth of Hoisington and Ian and Tyler Durant of Clarksville, Tennessee; &nbsp;siblings, Michael Hinman and wife Connie of Lawtey, Florida, Steve Hinman and wife Debbie of Moore, Oklahoma, Janet Winters and husband Mike of Wetumka, Oklahoma, Carol Peek and husband Stuart of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and many nieces and nephews.Cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 18th, 2024, at Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home Chapel.&nbsp;In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to David Hinman Memorial Fund, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, P.O. Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of&nbsp;David Ross Hinman, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.bryantfh.net/obituary/david-hinman/flowers?campaign=obituaryThemed-flowers-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

David Ross Hinman

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. and Qatar have reached an agreement that the Qataris will not act on any request from Tehran for the time being to access $6 billion in Iranian funds that were unblocked as part of a prisoner swap last month, a U.S. official said Thursday.

The move, which stops short of a full refreezing of Iranian funds in Qatar's banking system, follows the deadly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-war-live-updates">attacks by Hamas on Israel</a>&nbsp;and continued Republican criticism of the Biden administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-prisoner-swap-sanctions-assets-4e1fa477f8e6af45fb764acd259c2f1a">deal with Iran</a>, in which $6 billion was unfrozen in exchange for the release of five detained Americans. The official who outlined the understanding between the U.S. and Qatar was not authorized to comment and spoke on condition of anonymity.

U.S. officials have strenuously pushed back against the criticism, noting that the money had yet to be spent by Iran and can only be used for humanitarian needs.

“None of the funds that have now gone to Qatar have actually been spent or accessed in any way by Iran,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters in Israel on Thursday when asked about the funds. “Indeed, funds from that account are overseen by the Treasury Department, can only be dispensed for humanitarian goods — food, medicine, medical equipment — and never touch Iranian hands.”

The White House has said it has yet to uncover information that Iran was directly involved in the multipronged Hamas operation — the biggest attack on Israel in decades. Even so, Iran is the principal financial and military sponsor of Hamas. U.S. officials have said their intelligence does not show a direct role by Iran and have not pointed blame at Tehran.

As Israel prepares to escalate retaliatory action against Hamas militants for the weekend attacks, the White House announced the U.S. government will begin evacuation flights on Friday for Americans who want to leave Israel.

In a deliberate show of support for Israel, a U.S. official confirmed that U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin plans to visit on Friday, following Thursday's visit by Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Austin is expected to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to determine what additional military aid is needed in the war with Hamas, said the U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive travel details

Speaking to reporters in Brussels on Thursday, Austin said the U.S. is “working urgently to get Israel what it needs to defend itself, including munitions and our iron Dome interceptor interceptors.”

The White House confirmed that the death toll in the fighting now includes at least 27 Americans, while 14 more U.S. citizens in Israel remain unaccounted for. The White House has said a “handful” of Americans are among the dozens of people that Hamas took hostage.

U.S. officials estimate 160,000-170,000 Americans are in Israel, as residents, tourists or in some other capacity. An estimated 500 to 600 American citizens are in Gaza, including people who have been working as humanitarian workers or visiting relatives. Israel has sealed its crossing out of Gaza as part of a harsh siege on the territory since Saturday's Hamas attacks. And Gaza’s sole crossing point with Egypt was forced to close after Israeli airstrikes hit nearby.

The U.S. government is arranging for at least four charter flights a day out of Israel, according to people familiar with the planning.

The State Department said it expects to facilitate the departure of thousands of U.S. citizens per week from Israel. The overall security situation, availability and reliability of commercial transportation, and U.S. citizen demand will all influence the duration of this departure assistance. The department asked U.S. citizens in need of evacuation assistance to complete the crisis intake form at&nbsp;<a href="http://travel.state.gov/">travel.state.gov</a>.

There are still some commercial carriers flying in and out of Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion airport, and ground routes are open to leave Israel. White House officials, however, have voiced concern that those options may not be feasible or affordable for some Americans in Israel who want to leave.

Blinken visited Israel on Thursday to meet with Netanyahu and Israeli citizens. He was joined by the deputy special representative for hostage affairs, Steve Gillen, who will stay in Israel to to support the efforts to free the hostages.

Blinken said Americans would continue pushing regional countries for a safe passage in and out of Gaza, which could help the hundreds of American civilians trapped in the blockaded enclave.

Israeli defense officials have yet to order a ground invasion of the pummeled territory, but have been planning for the possibility. The military has called over 300,000 reservists into action in preparation.

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who joined from Air Force Two en route to Las Vegas met on Thursday with senior administration officials to discuss efforts to safeguard the U.S., including Jewish, Arab and Muslim communities, following the Hamas attacks in Israel.

Biden administration officials have been speaking with lawmakers about the contours of a supplemental aid package as it continues to determine Israel’s needs.

Some key Republicans, including House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, R-Texas, have advocated for a larger package that would lump in funding for Ukraine, Taiwan and border security along with Israel aid, and the White House has started to prepare such a package, according to an official familiar with the deliberations. The person was granted anonymity to speak about private conversations, and no final decisions have been made on a supplemental package.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697159427463.png" alt="The White House has said it has yet to uncover information that Iran was directly involved in the multipronged Hamas operation- President Biden meeting with the national security team on Thursday-White House Photo" />
 <figcaption>The White House has said it has yet to uncover information that Iran was directly involved in the multipronged Hamas operation- President Biden meeting with the national security team on Thursday-White House Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. and Qatar have reached an agreement that the Qataris will not act on any request from Tehran for the time being to access $6 billion in Iranian funds that were unblocked as part of a prisoner swap last month, a U.S. official said Thursday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We&#39;re calling on Joe Biden to IMMEDIATELY freeze the $6B he signed over to Iran. Iran has bankrolled Hamas and helped them plan their barbaric attacks on Israel. The president should have NEVER brokered billion-dollar deals with rogue nations like Iran. <a href="https://t.co/HPAKjUHbWl">https://t.co/HPAKjUHbWl</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1711797706476183970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">One month ago, Joe Biden paid a $6 BILLION ransom to Iran—the leading state sponsor of terrorism in the world. Now Iran-backed Hamas terrorists are slaughtering innocent Israeli citizens. The Biden administration should IMMEDIATELY freeze these funds.&mdash; Rep. Jake LaTurner (@RepLaTurner) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepLaTurner/status/1712215925527662782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The move, which stops short of a full refreezing of Iranian funds in Qatar's banking system, follows the deadly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-hamas-war-live-updates">attacks by Hamas on Israel</a>&nbsp;and continued Republican criticism of the Biden administration’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-prisoner-swap-sanctions-assets-4e1fa477f8e6af45fb764acd259c2f1a">deal with Iran</a>, in which $6 billion was unfrozen in exchange for the release of five detained Americans. The official who outlined the understanding between the U.S. and Qatar was not authorized to comment and spoke on condition of anonymity.U.S. officials have strenuously pushed back against the criticism, noting that the money had yet to be spent by Iran and can only be used for humanitarian needs.“None of the funds that have now gone to Qatar have actually been spent or accessed in any way by Iran,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters in Israel on Thursday when asked about the funds. “Indeed, funds from that account are overseen by the Treasury Department, can only be dispensed for humanitarian goods — food, medicine, medical equipment — and never touch Iranian hands.”The White House has said it has yet to uncover information that Iran was directly involved in the multipronged Hamas operation — the biggest attack on Israel in decades. Even so, Iran is the principal financial and military sponsor of Hamas. U.S. officials have said their intelligence does not show a direct role by Iran and have not pointed blame at Tehran.As Israel prepares to escalate retaliatory action against Hamas militants for the weekend attacks, the White House announced the U.S. government will begin evacuation flights on Friday for Americans who want to leave Israel.In a deliberate show of support for Israel, a U.S. official confirmed that U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin plans to visit on Friday, following Thursday's visit by Secretary of State Antony Blinken.Austin is expected to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to determine what additional military aid is needed in the war with Hamas, said the U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive travel detailsSpeaking to reporters in Brussels on Thursday, Austin said the U.S. is “working urgently to get Israel what it needs to defend itself, including munitions and our iron Dome interceptor interceptors.”The White House confirmed that the death toll in the fighting now includes at least 27 Americans, while 14 more U.S. citizens in Israel remain unaccounted for. The White House has said a “handful” of Americans are among the dozens of people that Hamas took hostage.U.S. officials estimate 160,000-170,000 Americans are in Israel, as residents, tourists or in some other capacity. An estimated 500 to 600 American citizens are in Gaza, including people who have been working as humanitarian workers or visiting relatives. Israel has sealed its crossing out of Gaza as part of a harsh siege on the territory since Saturday's Hamas attacks. And Gaza’s sole crossing point with Egypt was forced to close after Israeli airstrikes hit nearby.The U.S. government is arranging for at least four charter flights a day out of Israel, according to people familiar with the planning.The State Department said it expects to facilitate the departure of thousands of U.S. citizens per week from Israel. The overall security situation, availability and reliability of commercial transportation, and U.S. citizen demand will all influence the duration of this departure assistance. The department asked U.S. citizens in need of evacuation assistance to complete the crisis intake form at&nbsp;<a href="http://travel.state.gov/">travel.state.gov</a>.There are still some commercial carriers flying in and out of Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion airport, and ground routes are open to leave Israel. White House officials, however, have voiced concern that those options may not be feasible or affordable for some Americans in Israel who want to leave.Blinken visited Israel on Thursday to meet with Netanyahu and Israeli citizens. He was joined by the deputy special representative for hostage affairs, Steve Gillen, who will stay in Israel to to support the efforts to free the hostages.Blinken said Americans would continue pushing regional countries for a safe passage in and out of Gaza, which could help the hundreds of American civilians trapped in the blockaded enclave.Israeli defense officials have yet to order a ground invasion of the pummeled territory, but have been planning for the possibility. The military has called over 300,000 reservists into action in preparation.Meanwhile, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who joined from Air Force Two en route to Las Vegas met on Thursday with senior administration officials to discuss efforts to safeguard the U.S., including Jewish, Arab and Muslim communities, following the Hamas attacks in Israel.Biden administration officials have been speaking with lawmakers about the contours of a supplemental aid package as it continues to determine Israel’s needs.Some key Republicans, including House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, R-Texas, have advocated for a larger package that would lump in funding for Ukraine, Taiwan and border security along with Israel aid, and the White House has started to prepare such a package, according to an official familiar with the deliberations. The person was granted anonymity to speak about private conversations, and no final decisions have been made on a supplemental package.

Kan. lawmakers demand: U.S.denies Iran access to $6 Billion in prisoner swap

WICHITA (AP) — A rare&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ring-of-fire-eclipse-what-to-know-df2bd3b1d69854421f241bf9b49cf123">“ring of fire” eclipse of the sun</a>&nbsp;cuts across the Americas on Saturday, stretching from Oregon to Brazil.

For the small towns and cities along its narrow path, there was a mix of excitement, worries about the weather and concerns they'd be overwhelmed by visitors flocking to see the celestial event, also called an annular solar eclipse.

Unlike a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/11d5c10bf3be44c994eedab6e39f4e6f">total solar eclipse</a>, the moon doesn’t completely cover the sun during a ring of fire eclipse. When the moon lines up between Earth and the sun, it leaves a bright, blazing border.

Saturday’s path: Oregon, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico and Texas in the U.S., with a sliver of California, Arizona and Colorado. Next: Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia and Brazil. Much of the rest of the Western Hemisphere gets a partial eclipse.

Viewing all depends on clear skies — part of the U.S. path could see clouds. NASA and other groups planned to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlY79zjud-Q&amp;ab_channel=NASA">livestream it</a>.

With a chance of rain in its forecast, the small town of Reedsport near Oregon's Pacific Coast moved its eclipse festival inside so that a bounce house and games wouldn’t get soaked in the mud.

"But we’re still hoping that we might get a glimpse of it,” said city official Rosa Solano.

Weather was less of a concern in tiny Baker, Nevada, where the population hovers around 100. Inn and general store owner Liz Woolsey made T-shirts and planned a slate of activities including a drum circle and a dance party. Her seven rooms have been booked for over a year.

“For a little place, we’re putting on a good show," said Woolsey, who became an eclipse enthusiast after seeing the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/11d5c10bf3be44c994eedab6e39f4e6f">2017 total solar eclipse</a>&nbsp;that swept the U.S. from coast to coast.

Tens of thousands could get a double treat in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For the city's annual air balloon fiesta, which ends this weekend, hundreds of colorful hot air balloons lift off around dawn, hours before the eclipse briefly dims the skies.

Colombia’s Tatacoa desert was playing host to astronomers helping a group of visually impaired people experience the eclipse through raised maps and temperature changes as the moon blots out the sun.

At the Cancun Planetarium, young visitors built box projectors to indirectly and safely view the ring of fire. The ancient Maya — who called eclipses “broken sun” — may have used dark volcanic glass to protect their eyes, said archeologist Arturo Montero of Tepeyac University in Mexico City.

Towns and national parks in the path braced for a huge throngs. Officials in Oregon's Klamath County urged residents to stock up on groceries and fill their gas tanks in case traffic backs up on its two-lane highways. Utah's Bryce Canyon expected Saturday to be the park's busiest day of the year, spokesperson Peter Densmore said. Brazil's Pedra da Boca state park, known for its rocky outcrops for climbing and rappelling was also expecting crowds.

The entire eclipse — from the moment the moon starts to obscure the sun until it’s back to normal — is 2 1/2 to three hours at any given spot. The ring of fire portion lasts from three to five minutes, depending on location.

Next April, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/where-to-see-2024-total-solar-eclipse-113061a08d63e579c698017312f7eea0">total solar eclipse</a>&nbsp;will crisscross the U.S. in the opposite direction. That one will begin in Mexico and go from Texas to New England before ending in eastern Canada.

The next ring of fire eclipse is in October next year at the southernmost tip of South America. Antarctica gets one in 2026. It will be 2039 before another ring of fire is visible in the U.S., and Alaska will be the only state in its direct path.

WICHITA (AP) — A rare&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ring-of-fire-eclipse-what-to-know-df2bd3b1d69854421f241bf9b49cf123">“ring of fire” eclipse of the sun</a>&nbsp;cuts across the Americas on Saturday, stretching from Oregon to Brazil.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A partial solar eclipse of the sun will occur late this morning across southwest KS. The obscuration of the sun by the moon will be anywhere between 70% at Hays to around 80% at Elkhart. Maximum eclipse of the sun across all of southwest KS will occur at 11:43 AM CDT. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/tHdzv2o4cn">pic.twitter.com/tHdzv2o4cn</a>&mdash; NWS Dodge City (@NWSDodgeCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSDodgeCity/status/1713160279167746121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>For the small towns and cities along its narrow path, there was a mix of excitement, worries about the weather and concerns they'd be overwhelmed by visitors flocking to see the celestial event, also called an annular solar eclipse.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Here&#39;s some additional information on the solar eclipse that will take place on Saturday. Additional safety info can be found here: <a href="https://t.co/1A6W8Iyjta">https://t.co/1A6W8Iyjta</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/iVJSCzgU15">pic.twitter.com/iVJSCzgU15</a>&mdash; NWS Wichita (@NWSWichita) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSWichita/status/1712999444734709954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Unlike a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/11d5c10bf3be44c994eedab6e39f4e6f">total solar eclipse</a>, the moon doesn’t completely cover the sun during a ring of fire eclipse. When the moon lines up between Earth and the sun, it leaves a bright, blazing border.Saturday’s path: Oregon, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico and Texas in the U.S., with a sliver of California, Arizona and Colorado. Next: Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia and Brazil. Much of the rest of the Western Hemisphere gets a partial eclipse.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As expected, we&#39;re waking up to widespread clouds across eastern Kansas this morning. This will unfortunately spoil our viewing of today&#39;s annular solar eclipse. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/UGGJt2DVSF">pic.twitter.com/UGGJt2DVSF</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1713189464254849381?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Viewing all depends on clear skies — part of the U.S. path could see clouds. NASA and other groups planned to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlY79zjud-Q&amp;ab_channel=NASA">livestream it</a>.With a chance of rain in its forecast, the small town of Reedsport near Oregon's Pacific Coast moved its eclipse festival inside so that a bounce house and games wouldn’t get soaked in the mud."But we’re still hoping that we might get a glimpse of it,” said city official Rosa Solano.Weather was less of a concern in tiny Baker, Nevada, where the population hovers around 100. Inn and general store owner Liz Woolsey made T-shirts and planned a slate of activities including a drum circle and a dance party. Her seven rooms have been booked for over a year.“For a little place, we’re putting on a good show," said Woolsey, who became an eclipse enthusiast after seeing the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/11d5c10bf3be44c994eedab6e39f4e6f">2017 total solar eclipse</a>&nbsp;that swept the U.S. from coast to coast.Tens of thousands could get a double treat in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For the city's annual air balloon fiesta, which ends this weekend, hundreds of colorful hot air balloons lift off around dawn, hours before the eclipse briefly dims the skies.Colombia’s Tatacoa desert was playing host to astronomers helping a group of visually impaired people experience the eclipse through raised maps and temperature changes as the moon blots out the sun.At the Cancun Planetarium, young visitors built box projectors to indirectly and safely view the ring of fire. The ancient Maya — who called eclipses “broken sun” — may have used dark volcanic glass to protect their eyes, said archeologist Arturo Montero of Tepeyac University in Mexico City.Towns and national parks in the path braced for a huge throngs. Officials in Oregon's Klamath County urged residents to stock up on groceries and fill their gas tanks in case traffic backs up on its two-lane highways. Utah's Bryce Canyon expected Saturday to be the park's busiest day of the year, spokesperson Peter Densmore said. Brazil's Pedra da Boca state park, known for its rocky outcrops for climbing and rappelling was also expecting crowds.The entire eclipse — from the moment the moon starts to obscure the sun until it’s back to normal — is 2 1/2 to three hours at any given spot. The ring of fire portion lasts from three to five minutes, depending on location.Next April, a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/where-to-see-2024-total-solar-eclipse-113061a08d63e579c698017312f7eea0">total solar eclipse</a>&nbsp;will crisscross the U.S. in the opposite direction. That one will begin in Mexico and go from Texas to New England before ending in eastern Canada.The next ring of fire eclipse is in October next year at the southernmost tip of South America. Antarctica gets one in 2026. It will be 2039 before another ring of fire is visible in the U.S., and Alaska will be the only state in its direct path.

Rare 'ring of fire' solar eclipse Saturday

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services celebrated its 40th anniversary during a ceremony Friday in downtown Hays.

The ceremony included a prayer, reading of a proclamation by Hays Mayor Shaun Musil, a tree-lighting and unveiling of a commemorative quilt.

Options began with a group of volunteers from Goodland, Colby and Hays who were trying to rescue women from abusive relationships, often taking them into their own homes.

In 1983, volunteers from those three communities joined to form the Northwest Kansas Shelter, which is now Options.

"For 40 years now, we've been growing," Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, director of client services, said on the Post Podcast. "The more people seem to find out about us, the more we seem to be needed, which is frankly horrible and I don't really like that.

"I would like us to get so big that we work ourselves out of a job."

The celebration coincided with the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

"Domestic Violence Awareness Month is about making the rest of the world a little bit safer for people who might not realize they're being abused, who might not have any examples of healthy relationships to see and who may not think they have anyone to turn to,"&nbsp;Zampieri-Lillpopp said.

Options is encouraging people to light purple light bulbs in their homes, put an Options sign in their yard or wear purple during the month of October.

Zampieri-Lillpopp said this lets people who are experiencing relationship violence know you are a safe person they can turn to.

Allies can refer domestic violence victims to Options, which can help victims with safety planning and hopefully help them find a way out,&nbsp;Zampieri-Lillpopp said.

You can walk into an Options office at 2716 Plaza, Hays, or&nbsp;1480 W. Fourth, Colby.&nbsp; You can call Options 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411.

A live chat option or a virtual video conference with an advocate is available on the Options website at&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">https://help4abuse.org/</a>.

The website has a safe escape button that will allow you to quickly close out of the website and erase your cookies so anyone who is on the computer after you will not be able to see that you have been on the website.

Options has a free app for Android and Apple devices called "My Mobile Options."

You can donate to help the Options online at&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/donate/">https://help4abuse.org/donate/</a>.&nbsp; Donations can also be mailed to&nbsp;2716 Plaza, Hays, KS 67601.&nbsp;

In light of Options' 40th anniversary, businesses in Hays are encouraged to donate $400 each to the organization as part of a "$400 at 40 campaign."

Options has the following remaining events to honor Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday — Paint the Town Purple, art therapy event, Colby Community College Student Union • 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday —&nbsp; Paint the Town Purple, art therapy event, Union Pacific Park in Downtown Hays Oct. 19 - Wear Purple Day — Show your support for survivors of domestic violence by wearing purple

Cut it Out training will be offered on Monday in Hays. It teaches salon staff to recognize signs of abuse and gives them tips on how to talk to their customers about getting help. See the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OptionsHays">Options Facebook page</a> to sign up.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697037393162.jpeg" alt="A participant in the Options 40th-anniversary celebration on Friday reads a silent witness display. The banner tells the story of a person who lost their life at the hands of their abuser.&nbsp; Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>A participant in the Options 40th-anniversary celebration on Friday reads a silent witness display. The banner tells the story of a person who lost their life at the hands of their abuser.&nbsp; Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Options celebrates 40 years" 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=3uta6-14c99e3-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315 loading="lazy"></iframe>

</div>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostOptions Domestic and Sexual Violence Services celebrated its 40th anniversary during a ceremony Friday in downtown Hays.The ceremony included a prayer, reading of a proclamation by Hays Mayor Shaun Musil, a tree-lighting and unveiling of a commemorative quilt.Options began with a group of volunteers from Goodland, Colby and Hays who were trying to rescue women from abusive relationships, often taking them into their own homes.In 1983, volunteers from those three communities joined to form the Northwest Kansas Shelter, which is now Options.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697035963231.jpeg" alt="Community members donated blocks for a quilt to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Options. The quilt was unveiled at a celebration on Friday in Hays.&nbsp;Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Community members donated blocks for a quilt to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Options. The quilt was unveiled at a celebration on Friday in Hays.&nbsp;Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>"For 40 years now, we've been growing," Meagan Zampieri-Lillpopp, director of client services, said on the Post Podcast. "The more people seem to find out about us, the more we seem to be needed, which is frankly horrible and I don't really like that."I would like us to get so big that we work ourselves out of a job."The celebration coincided with the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month."Domestic Violence Awareness Month is about making the rest of the world a little bit safer for people who might not realize they're being abused, who might not have any examples of healthy relationships to see and who may not think they have anyone to turn to,"&nbsp;Zampieri-Lillpopp said.Options is encouraging people to light purple light bulbs in their homes, put an Options sign in their yard or wear purple during the month of October.Zampieri-Lillpopp said this lets people who are experiencing relationship violence know you are a safe person they can turn to.Allies can refer domestic violence victims to Options, which can help victims with safety planning and hopefully help them find a way out,&nbsp;Zampieri-Lillpopp said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697037221988.jpeg" alt="Options supporters light a purple tree to show solidarity with victims of domestic violence Friday in Hays. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Options supporters light a purple tree to show solidarity with victims of domestic violence Friday in Hays. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>You can walk into an Options office at 2716 Plaza, Hays, or&nbsp;1480 W. Fourth, Colby.&nbsp; You can call Options 24-hour helpline at 1-800-794-4624 or text HOPE to 847411.A live chat option or a virtual video conference with an advocate is available on the Options website at&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/">https://help4abuse.org/</a>.The website has a safe escape button that will allow you to quickly close out of the website and erase your cookies so anyone who is on the computer after you will not be able to see that you have been on the website.Options has a free app for Android and Apple devices called "My Mobile Options."You can donate to help the Options online at&nbsp;<a href="https://help4abuse.org/donate/">https://help4abuse.org/donate/</a>.&nbsp; Donations can also be mailed to&nbsp;2716 Plaza, Hays, KS 67601.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697037283805.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>In light of Options' 40th anniversary, businesses in Hays are encouraged to donate $400 each to the organization as part of a "$400 at 40 campaign."Options has the following remaining events to honor Domestic Violence Awareness Month.• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday — Paint the Town Purple, art therapy event, Colby Community College Student Union • 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday —&nbsp; Paint the Town Purple, art therapy event, Union Pacific Park in Downtown Hays Oct. 19 - Wear Purple Day — Show your support for survivors of domestic violence by wearing purpleCut it Out training will be offered on Monday in Hays. It teaches salon staff to recognize signs of abuse and gives them tips on how to talk to their customers about getting help. See the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OptionsHays">Options Facebook page</a> to sign up.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697037541749.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697037603446.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 Options honors 40 years of assisting domestic violence victims

Every year in October, Jana’s Campaign joins with allies and supporters across the country to recognize and educate others about Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

 It evolved from the “Day of Unity” in October 1981 observed by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. 

Now in its 42nd year, individuals and communities across our nation join together to raise awareness of domestic violence, take action to advocate for change, intervene to stop acts of domestic violence, and support those who are impacted. 

The theme for this year, #Every1KnowsSome1, was developed collaboratively by the National Network to End Domestic Violence and the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Its aim is to emphasize the widespread nature of domestic violence, and its effects on many individuals. 

Nationally, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men, have experienced domestic violence by an intimate partner or ex-intimate partner (CDC, 2020). From reports submitted to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), 35 lives were lost due to domestic violence in 2022. 

Domestic violence occurs in many forms- verbal, emotional, psychological, digital, sexual, and/or physical abuse. It can be extreme jealousy, possessiveness, unwanted touching, coercion, and excessive arguments. It is about power and control. Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of age, race or ethnicity, religion, employment or educational level, marital status, physical ability, sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. 

To prevent domestic violence, it's essential that each of us plays a role. An initial step that #Every1 can engage in is educating themselves and spreading awareness. 

This can involve organizing awareness events featuring purple ribbons and Silent Witness displays, as well as participating in nationally scheduled events. 

We invite you to take note of October 19, designated as Purple Thursday, and actively participate in discussions and activities related to these events, whether online or in person. 

To do our part, Jana’s Campaign will post facts and statistics about domestic violence on our social media platforms throughout October. 

On Monday, October 16, we will host a Facebook Live covering the topic, its impacts, and share resources. 

Additionally, Jana’s Campaign will host our annual fundraising event, Empty Place at the Table, on October 7, in Hays. 

This event serves as a tribute to individuals who tragically lost their lives to domestic violence, including Jana Mackey, whose life-and-death inspired the establishment of Jana's Campaign. At the event, a symbolic table is set, featuring an empty seat and dinner setting. This poignant arrangement symbolizes the void left by Jana's death and the many other deaths caused by domestic violence, a void that resonates at tables worldwide. 

Join us in spreading the word that 1 isn’t just a number, it’s #Some1 - a family member, a neighbor, a coworker, a friend. Domestic violence affects all of us, and we all must be a part of the solution.&nbsp;

Megan Woodfield Education &amp; Prevention Specialist Jana's Campaign

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578075822734.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Every year in October, Jana’s Campaign joins with allies and supporters across the country to recognize and educate others about Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It evolved from the “Day of Unity” in October 1981 observed by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. Now in its 42nd year, individuals and communities across our nation join together to raise awareness of domestic violence, take action to advocate for change, intervene to stop acts of domestic violence, and support those who are impacted. The theme for this year, #Every1KnowsSome1, was developed collaboratively by the National Network to End Domestic Violence and the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Its aim is to emphasize the widespread nature of domestic violence, and its effects on many individuals. Nationally, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men, have experienced domestic violence by an intimate partner or ex-intimate partner (CDC, 2020). From reports submitted to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), 35 lives were lost due to domestic violence in 2022. Domestic violence occurs in many forms- verbal, emotional, psychological, digital, sexual, and/or physical abuse. It can be extreme jealousy, possessiveness, unwanted touching, coercion, and excessive arguments. It is about power and control. Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of age, race or ethnicity, religion, employment or educational level, marital status, physical ability, sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. To prevent domestic violence, it's essential that each of us plays a role. An initial step that #Every1 can engage in is educating themselves and spreading awareness. This can involve organizing awareness events featuring purple ribbons and Silent Witness displays, as well as participating in nationally scheduled events. We invite you to take note of October 19, designated as Purple Thursday, and actively participate in discussions and activities related to these events, whether online or in person. To do our part, Jana’s Campaign will post facts and statistics about domestic violence on our social media platforms throughout October. On Monday, October 16, we will host a Facebook Live covering the topic, its impacts, and share resources. Additionally, Jana’s Campaign will host our annual fundraising event, Empty Place at the Table, on October 7, in Hays. This event serves as a tribute to individuals who tragically lost their lives to domestic violence, including Jana Mackey, whose life-and-death inspired the establishment of Jana's Campaign. At the event, a symbolic table is set, featuring an empty seat and dinner setting. This poignant arrangement symbolizes the void left by Jana's death and the many other deaths caused by domestic violence, a void that resonates at tables worldwide. Join us in spreading the word that 1 isn’t just a number, it’s #Some1 - a family member, a neighbor, a coworker, a friend. Domestic violence affects all of us, and we all must be a part of the solution.&nbsp;Megan Woodfield Education &amp; Prevention Specialist Jana's Campaign

LETTER: Join the Movement: #Every1KnowsSome1

The Ellis County Fire Department is celebrating our 50th
Anniversary this week, in coordination with the National Fire Prevention Week.


The firefighters are inviting everyone to attend the celebration this Saturday,
October 14th from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at the Ellis County Emergency Services
building located at 1105 East 22nd Street in Hays. 

There will plenty of events
for the kiddos including: playing on a bouncy house, spraying water, checking
out the fire trucks, trying on bunker gear, meeting Sparky the Fire Dog and
Smokey the Bear, raffle prizes, history photos, meeting local firefighters,
visiting with the Kansas Forestry Service with their Firewise fire prevention
trailer, free pulled pork sandwiches, and even applications for those who may
want to become a paid-per-call firefighter.

The meal is sponsored by Astra Bank of Hays.

Dating back to several Ellis County Commission meetings in
1973, Ellis County Commissioners Ted Gerber, Eugene Schmeidler, and Harold
Kraus passed a county resolution to form the Ellis County Fire Department. 

They
requested help from the Kansas Forestry Service, the Fire Board, local
volunteer firefighters, and local County Extension agents to determine how best
to start a department, what equipment to buy, and where to place fire stations.


Those commissioners recognized the need to provide better fire protection
services, and to create a separate department, as the fire duties at that time fell under the
counties Civil Defense Department.

The first equipment for the ECFD were several used Army 6x6
vehicles and two 1950’s Willy’s jeeps which were all given to the county from
federal surplus equipment from the Forestry Service. 

The county then spent
about $6,000 per 6x6 vehicle to outfit them with firefighting equipment, and
about $200 per Jeep. 

That year, the first County Fire Chief was appointed to the
position, who was H.L. “Bud” Whitfield. Since Chief Whitfield, there has only
been four other chiefs; Gene Wellbrock, John Dixon, Dick Klaus, and now Darin
Myers.

Today, the ECFD has 19 different fire apparatus consisting
of six fire engines, four brush trucks, three rescue trucks, three water
tenders, and three support vehicles. 

The department also has a water supply
trailer for large fires that can also be deployed to all of NW Kansas. 

There
are six fire companies located in Catharine, Victoria, Hays, Ellis, Schoenchen,
and Munjor. The ECFD also has 95 paid-per-call firefighters, and two full-time
chief officers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626900971187.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Ellis County Fire DepartmentThe Ellis County Fire Department is celebrating our 50th
Anniversary this week, in coordination with the National Fire Prevention Week.
The firefighters are inviting everyone to attend the celebration this Saturday,
October 14th from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at the Ellis County Emergency Services
building located at 1105 East 22nd Street in Hays. There will plenty of events
for the kiddos including: playing on a bouncy house, spraying water, checking
out the fire trucks, trying on bunker gear, meeting Sparky the Fire Dog and
Smokey the Bear, raffle prizes, history photos, meeting local firefighters,
visiting with the Kansas Forestry Service with their Firewise fire prevention
trailer, free pulled pork sandwiches, and even applications for those who may
want to become a paid-per-call firefighter.The meal is sponsored by Astra Bank of Hays.Dating back to several Ellis County Commission meetings in
1973, Ellis County Commissioners Ted Gerber, Eugene Schmeidler, and Harold
Kraus passed a county resolution to form the Ellis County Fire Department. They
requested help from the Kansas Forestry Service, the Fire Board, local
volunteer firefighters, and local County Extension agents to determine how best
to start a department, what equipment to buy, and where to place fire stations.
Those commissioners recognized the need to provide better fire protection
services, and to create a separate department, as the fire duties at that time fell under the
counties Civil Defense Department.The first equipment for the ECFD were several used Army 6x6
vehicles and two 1950’s Willy’s jeeps which were all given to the county from
federal surplus equipment from the Forestry Service. The county then spent
about $6,000 per 6x6 vehicle to outfit them with firefighting equipment, and
about $200 per Jeep. That year, the first County Fire Chief was appointed to the
position, who was H.L. “Bud” Whitfield. Since Chief Whitfield, there has only
been four other chiefs; Gene Wellbrock, John Dixon, Dick Klaus, and now Darin
Myers.Today, the ECFD has 19 different fire apparatus consisting
of six fire engines, four brush trucks, three rescue trucks, three water
tenders, and three support vehicles. The department also has a water supply
trailer for large fires that can also be deployed to all of NW Kansas. There
are six fire companies located in Catharine, Victoria, Hays, Ellis, Schoenchen,
and Munjor. The ECFD also has 95 paid-per-call firefighters, and two full-time
chief officers.

Ellis County Fire Department celebrating 50th anniversary Saturday

Lelia Mae Ward, 98, passed away October 11, 2023 at Main Street Villa, Cheney, KS.

She was born April 26, 1925 in Hanston, the daughter of Elmer Ray and Elva Laura Fakes Housman. &nbsp;A lifetime area resident of Dodge City and Jetmore, she was a homemaker.

She was a member of Northside Church of Christ in Wichita. Lelia enjoyed sewing and loved studying her bible everyday.

On July 23, 1945 she married Lewis L. (Pete) Ward in Jetmore. &nbsp;He passed away April 23, 2007.

Survivors include: son, Richard (Patricia) Ward, Goddard; two daughters, Dixie (Benny) Tieben, Dodge City, Aloaha (Chuck) Voth, Garden Plain; sister-in-law, Pat Housman, Hanston; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren and eight great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Walter Housman, Melvin Donald Housman, David Housman and two sisters-in-laws, Darlene Housman and Harriet Housman.

Graveside service will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at Fairmount Cemetery, Jetmore with Rev. Mark Durham presiding. &nbsp;

Memorials may be given to Know Your Bible in care of Beckwith Funeral Home, Box 663 Jetmore, Ks 67854.&nbsp;

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Lelia Mae Ward, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.beckwithmortuary.com/obituary/lelia-ward/gifts?campaign=obituaryInline-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Lelia Mae Ward</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697157292819.jpeg" alt="Lelia Mae Ward" />
 <figcaption>Lelia Mae Ward</figcaption>
 </figure>April 26, 1925 - October 11, 2023Lelia Mae Ward, 98, passed away October 11, 2023 at Main Street Villa, Cheney, KS.She was born April 26, 1925 in Hanston, the daughter of Elmer Ray and Elva Laura Fakes Housman. &nbsp;A lifetime area resident of Dodge City and Jetmore, she was a homemaker.She was a member of Northside Church of Christ in Wichita. Lelia enjoyed sewing and loved studying her bible everyday.On July 23, 1945 she married Lewis L. (Pete) Ward in Jetmore. &nbsp;He passed away April 23, 2007.Survivors include: son, Richard (Patricia) Ward, Goddard; two daughters, Dixie (Benny) Tieben, Dodge City, Aloaha (Chuck) Voth, Garden Plain; sister-in-law, Pat Housman, Hanston; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren and eight great-great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Walter Housman, Melvin Donald Housman, David Housman and two sisters-in-laws, Darlene Housman and Harriet Housman.Graveside service will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at Fairmount Cemetery, Jetmore with Rev. Mark Durham presiding. &nbsp;Memorials may be given to Know Your Bible in care of Beckwith Funeral Home, Box 663 Jetmore, Ks 67854.&nbsp;To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Lelia Mae Ward, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.beckwithmortuary.com/obituary/lelia-ward/gifts?campaign=obituaryInline-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Lelia Mae Ward

Bonnie Kae Wilson, born on January 19, 1953, in Sidney, OH, tragically left this world on October 10, 2023. She was the beloved daughter of Franklin and Mary Finley and spent her formative years on a farm in Wapakoneta, OH, alongside her siblings Phyllis, James, MaryAnn, and Peggie Jane.

Bonnie, a graduate of Wapakoneta High School in 1971, embarked on a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. She was blessed with two children, Noah and Sadie Cushwa, from her marriage to Lynn Cushwa. Following her heart, Bonnie explored the vast expanse of the United States before settling in Lee's Summit, MO.

In 2006, as a single woman, Bonnie found joy in square dancing and, on October 9, 2010, she tied the knot with Roger Wilson. The couple made their home in Gove, KS, where Bonnie continued to spread her infectious kindness and care. Her giving nature and warm presence touched the lives of those around her, leaving an indelible mark on her family and community.

She is survived by her son, Noah Cushwa, and daughter, Sadie Cushwa, both of Gove, KS; sister, MaryAnn Finley of Wapakoneta, OH; stepson, Braden (Dustie) Wilson of Wellsville, KS; stepdaughter, Kelley (David) Dunbar of Gardner, KS; and 10 cherished grandchildren.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, Franklin and Mary Finley; brother, James Finley; sisters, Phyllis Ferr, and Peggie Jane Finley; and grandson Gage Wilson.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 13, 2023, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home in Quinter, Kansas. The funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Gove Community Bible Church in Gove, Kansas.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the City of Gove Community Building. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main, Quinter, KS 67752. 

Condolences and memories can be shared at www.schmittfuneral.com.

Bonnie Kae Wilson will be remembered for the love she shared, the lives she touched, and the joy she brought to those around her. May she rest in peace.

<h2>Bonnie Kae Wilson</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697157171249.png" alt="Bonnie Kae Wilson" />
 <figcaption>Bonnie Kae Wilson</figcaption>
 </figure>January 19, 1953 - October 20, 2023Bonnie Kae Wilson, born on January 19, 1953, in Sidney, OH, tragically left this world on October 10, 2023. She was the beloved daughter of Franklin and Mary Finley and spent her formative years on a farm in Wapakoneta, OH, alongside her siblings Phyllis, James, MaryAnn, and Peggie Jane.Bonnie, a graduate of Wapakoneta High School in 1971, embarked on a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. She was blessed with two children, Noah and Sadie Cushwa, from her marriage to Lynn Cushwa. Following her heart, Bonnie explored the vast expanse of the United States before settling in Lee's Summit, MO.In 2006, as a single woman, Bonnie found joy in square dancing and, on October 9, 2010, she tied the knot with Roger Wilson. The couple made their home in Gove, KS, where Bonnie continued to spread her infectious kindness and care. Her giving nature and warm presence touched the lives of those around her, leaving an indelible mark on her family and community.She is survived by her son, Noah Cushwa, and daughter, Sadie Cushwa, both of Gove, KS; sister, MaryAnn Finley of Wapakoneta, OH; stepson, Braden (Dustie) Wilson of Wellsville, KS; stepdaughter, Kelley (David) Dunbar of Gardner, KS; and 10 cherished grandchildren.Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, Franklin and Mary Finley; brother, James Finley; sisters, Phyllis Ferr, and Peggie Jane Finley; and grandson Gage Wilson.Visitation will be held on Friday, October 13, 2023, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home in Quinter, Kansas. The funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at Gove Community Bible Church in Gove, Kansas.The family suggests memorial contributions to the City of Gove Community Building. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 South Main, Quinter, KS 67752. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.schmittfuneral.com.Bonnie Kae Wilson will be remembered for the love she shared, the lives she touched, and the joy she brought to those around her. May she rest in peace.

Bonnie Kae Wilson

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Junior Arthur Kaluma and fifth-year senior Tylor Perry were each chosen as Honorable Mention selections to the Preseason All-Big 12 Team by the coaches, as the conference office released their preseason awards ahead of its annual media day on October 18.

Kaluma and Perry are the first Wildcats named to the Preseason All-Big 12 since Barry Brown Jr. and Dean Wade in 2018-19.

The Preseason All-Big 12 included Kansas' Hunter Dickinson and Dajuan Harris Jr., Houston's L.J. Cryer, TCU's Emanuel Miller and Texas' Max Abmas. The Wildcat duo was among those named honorable mention, along with Baylor's Jalen Bridges, RayJ Dennis and Ja'Kobe Walter, Houston's Jamal Shead, Kansas' Kevin McCullar Jr., Texas' Dylan Disu, Tyrese Hunter and Dillon Mitchell and West Virginia's Jesse Edwards.

Dickinson was named both the Preseason Player and Newcomer of the Year, while Walter was given the nod as the Preseason Freshman of the Year.

A 6-foot-7, 225-pound forward, Kaluma transferred to K-State after an impressive 2-year stint (2021-23) at Creighton, where he helped the Bluejays to 47 wins, including 26 in BIG EAST play, a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances (2022, 2023) and the school's first trip to the Elite Eight in 2022-23.

Kaluma averaged double-figure scoring both seasons at Creighton, totaling 758 points (11.1 ppg.) on 43.3 percent shooting (270-of-624), including 29.1 percent (68-of-234) from 3-point range, and 71.4 percent (150-of-210) from the free throw line in 68 games with 67 starts. As a sophomore, he averaged 11.8 points on 42.3 percent (146-of-345) shooting to go with 6.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists in starting all 37 games for the Bluejays.

A 5-foot-11, 182-pound guard, Perry came to K-State as a graduate transfer after a decorated 2-year career (2021-23) at North Texas, where he led the Mean Green to unprecedented heights that included 56 total wins, including a school-record 31 in 2022-23, the 2023 NIT Championship and 2022 Conference USA regular-season title. In addition to being the 2023 Conference USA Player of the Year and NIT Most Outstanding Player, he was twice named to the C-USA First Team (2022, 2023) while was the league's Sixth Man of the Year as a junior in 2022.

Perry scored 1,043 points in his North Texas career on 43.1 percent (299-of-694) shooting from the field, including 41.3 percent (184-of-445) from 3-point range, and 85.9 percent (261-of-304) from the free throw line. He was the Mean Green's leading scorer (17.3 ppg.) in 2022-23 while leading the Conference USA in 3-point field goal percentage (41.3), free throw percentage (87.2) and minutes (34.2) and placing second in 3-pointers/game (3.11) and fourth in scoring. He scored in double figures in 33 of 36 games played with 14 20-point performances highlighted by his career-best 35-point effort vs. San Jose State on Nov. 25.

Prior to North Texas, Perry enjoyed a stellar 2-year career (2019-21) at Coffeyville Community College in Coffeyville, Kan., where he led the Red Ravens to 53 wins and the 2021 NJCAA National Championship en route to earning NJCAA National Tournament MVP and Second Team All-America honors.

K-State returns six players from the 2022-23 season, including three starters, to along with one of the nation's top transfer classes and a top-30 freshman class. The Wildcats won 26 games – third-most in school history – and made their 13th trip to the Elite Eight last season.

A limited number of season tickets for the 2023-24 season are still available by calling (800) 221.CATS (2287) and/or online at www.kstatesports.com/tickets. Pricing for single-game tickets will be announced shortly. Ahearn Fund members will have the first opportunity to purchase single-game tickets starting Monday, October 16. Remaining tickets will be available to the general public starting Wednesday, October 18.

The Wildcats will play their only exhibition game on Wednesday, November 1 at 7 p.m., CT to tip off the 19-game home schedule before opening the season against the Trojans.

K-State SportsMANHATTAN, Kan. – Junior Arthur Kaluma and fifth-year senior Tylor Perry were each chosen as Honorable Mention selections to the Preseason All-Big 12 Team by the coaches, as the conference office released their preseason awards ahead of its annual media day on October 18.Kaluma and Perry are the first Wildcats named to the Preseason All-Big 12 since Barry Brown Jr. and Dean Wade in 2018-19.The Preseason All-Big 12 included Kansas' Hunter Dickinson and Dajuan Harris Jr., Houston's L.J. Cryer, TCU's Emanuel Miller and Texas' Max Abmas. The Wildcat duo was among those named honorable mention, along with Baylor's Jalen Bridges, RayJ Dennis and Ja'Kobe Walter, Houston's Jamal Shead, Kansas' Kevin McCullar Jr., Texas' Dylan Disu, Tyrese Hunter and Dillon Mitchell and West Virginia's Jesse Edwards.Dickinson was named both the Preseason Player and Newcomer of the Year, while Walter was given the nod as the Preseason Freshman of the Year.A 6-foot-7, 225-pound forward, Kaluma transferred to K-State after an impressive 2-year stint (2021-23) at Creighton, where he helped the Bluejays to 47 wins, including 26 in BIG EAST play, a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances (2022, 2023) and the school's first trip to the Elite Eight in 2022-23.Kaluma averaged double-figure scoring both seasons at Creighton, totaling 758 points (11.1 ppg.) on 43.3 percent shooting (270-of-624), including 29.1 percent (68-of-234) from 3-point range, and 71.4 percent (150-of-210) from the free throw line in 68 games with 67 starts. As a sophomore, he averaged 11.8 points on 42.3 percent (146-of-345) shooting to go with 6.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists in starting all 37 games for the Bluejays.A 5-foot-11, 182-pound guard, Perry came to K-State as a graduate transfer after a decorated 2-year career (2021-23) at North Texas, where he led the Mean Green to unprecedented heights that included 56 total wins, including a school-record 31 in 2022-23, the 2023 NIT Championship and 2022 Conference USA regular-season title. In addition to being the 2023 Conference USA Player of the Year and NIT Most Outstanding Player, he was twice named to the C-USA First Team (2022, 2023) while was the league's Sixth Man of the Year as a junior in 2022.Perry scored 1,043 points in his North Texas career on 43.1 percent (299-of-694) shooting from the field, including 41.3 percent (184-of-445) from 3-point range, and 85.9 percent (261-of-304) from the free throw line. He was the Mean Green's leading scorer (17.3 ppg.) in 2022-23 while leading the Conference USA in 3-point field goal percentage (41.3), free throw percentage (87.2) and minutes (34.2) and placing second in 3-pointers/game (3.11) and fourth in scoring. He scored in double figures in 33 of 36 games played with 14 20-point performances highlighted by his career-best 35-point effort vs. San Jose State on Nov. 25.Prior to North Texas, Perry enjoyed a stellar 2-year career (2019-21) at Coffeyville Community College in Coffeyville, Kan., where he led the Red Ravens to 53 wins and the 2021 NJCAA National Championship en route to earning NJCAA National Tournament MVP and Second Team All-America honors.K-State returns six players from the 2022-23 season, including three starters, to along with one of the nation's top transfer classes and a top-30 freshman class. The Wildcats won 26 games – third-most in school history – and made their 13th trip to the Elite Eight last season.A limited number of season tickets for the 2023-24 season are still available by calling (800) 221.CATS (2287) and/or online at www.kstatesports.com/tickets. Pricing for single-game tickets will be announced shortly. Ahearn Fund members will have the first opportunity to purchase single-game tickets starting Monday, October 16. Remaining tickets will be available to the general public starting Wednesday, October 18.The Wildcats will play their only exhibition game on Wednesday, November 1 at 7 p.m., CT to tip off the 19-game home schedule before opening the season against the Trojans.

🏀Kaluma, Perry Named to Preseason All-Big 12 Team

RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp; Law enforcement authorities are investigating attempted ATM theft in Riley County and asking the public for help to ID suspects.

The suspects are wanted in connection to an attempted theft and criminal damage to property case at Union State Bank in Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department.

On Thursday, October 12, around 3:15 AM, surveillance video shows a 2015 Ford F150 enter the drive through at the bank. Two males wearing dark clothes and dark masks exit the truck and attempt to break into the ATM. No money was taken, but damage to the ATM is estimated to be around $15,000.&nbsp;

Just after 4a.m. Thursday, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office said around 4:11 AM, they responded to the 5400 block of Blue River Road for a report of an arson involving a Pottawatomie County Road Department F150 truck believed to be the same truck from the attempted theft. The Sheriff’s Office said in a media release they believe the truck was stolen earlier this morning near Walker and Flush Road in rural St. George.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you have any information on the identity of those involved, please contact the Riley County Police Department at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Crime Stoppers allows you to stay anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000. You can submit tips online here: https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#

You can also contact Pottawatomie County Detective Kidd at 785-457-3353, or leave a tip on our crime-stoppers link at www.ptsheriff.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697149750006.png" alt="Photos RCPD" />
 <figcaption>Photos RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp; Law enforcement authorities are investigating attempted ATM theft in Riley County and asking the public for help to ID suspects.The suspects are wanted in connection to an attempted theft and criminal damage to property case at Union State Bank in Randolph, according to the Riley County Police Department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697149981195.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Thursday, October 12, around 3:15 AM, surveillance video shows a 2015 Ford F150 enter the drive through at the bank. Two males wearing dark clothes and dark masks exit the truck and attempt to break into the ATM. No money was taken, but damage to the ATM is estimated to be around $15,000.&nbsp;Just after 4a.m. Thursday, the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office said around 4:11 AM, they responded to the 5400 block of Blue River Road for a report of an arson involving a Pottawatomie County Road Department F150 truck believed to be the same truck from the attempted theft. The Sheriff’s Office said in a media release they believe the truck was stolen earlier this morning near Walker and Flush Road in rural St. George.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have any information on the identity of those involved, please contact the Riley County Police Department at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Crime Stoppers allows you to stay anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000. You can submit tips online here: https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=353#You can also contact Pottawatomie County Detective Kidd at 785-457-3353, or leave a tip on our crime-stoppers link at www.ptsheriff.com

Police ask for help to ID attempted ATM theft suspects

Roberta V. Hairfield, 92, of Larned, Kansas, died on October 11, 2023 at Diversicare of Larned.

Roberta (Bobbie) was born December 20, 1930 in Zurich, Kansas, the daughter of Rudy and Violet Novotny of Hoisington, Kansas.

Roberta graduated from Hoisington High School in 1948 and was employed with Southwestern Bell in Plainville and Hoisington, Kansas.

On May 7, 1951, she married Harry W Hairfield of Hoisington in the Great Bend Methodist Church. They were married 62 years until his death in 2013.

Survivors include sons, Dr. Wm Michael Hairfield (Wendy) of Lynnwood, Washington; Robert Roland Hairfield (Laura), Pasco, Washington; Grandsons, Robert and Matthew; brothers E.J. Novotny, Russell, Kansas; Dr. Wm. G. Novotny, Kansas City; sisters Dolores Morton, Larned; and Sharon Lovesee, Larned.

A loving wide, mother, grandmother, and sister, Roberta will be missed and will live forever in our hearts.

There will be no funeral or memorial service.

Services in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Roberta V. Hairfield, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.beckwithmortuary.com/obituary/roberta-hairfield/gifts?campaign=obituaryInline-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

<h2>Roberta V. Hairfield, Larned</h2>December 20, 1930 - October 11, 2023Roberta V. Hairfield, 92, of Larned, Kansas, died on October 11, 2023 at Diversicare of Larned.Roberta (Bobbie) was born December 20, 1930 in Zurich, Kansas, the daughter of Rudy and Violet Novotny of Hoisington, Kansas.Roberta graduated from Hoisington High School in 1948 and was employed with Southwestern Bell in Plainville and Hoisington, Kansas.On May 7, 1951, she married Harry W Hairfield of Hoisington in the Great Bend Methodist Church. They were married 62 years until his death in 2013.Survivors include sons, Dr. Wm Michael Hairfield (Wendy) of Lynnwood, Washington; Robert Roland Hairfield (Laura), Pasco, Washington; Grandsons, Robert and Matthew; brothers E.J. Novotny, Russell, Kansas; Dr. Wm. G. Novotny, Kansas City; sisters Dolores Morton, Larned; and Sharon Lovesee, Larned.A loving wide, mother, grandmother, and sister, Roberta will be missed and will live forever in our hearts.There will be no funeral or memorial service.Services in care of Beckwith Mortuary, P.O. Box 477, Larned, Kansas 67550. Personal condolences may be left at www.beckwithmortuary.com.To plant Memorial Trees in memory of&nbsp;Roberta V. Hairfield, please&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.beckwithmortuary.com/obituary/roberta-hairfield/gifts?campaign=obituaryInline-gifts-textLink-obitText">click here to visit our Sympathy Store</a>.

Roberta V. Hairfield

Christopher Groff, age 52, of Garland, Texas, passed away on September 25, 2023, in Garland. He was a loving son, father, brother, and friend, whose memory will forever be cherished. 

Born to proud parents, Victor Groff and Carol Landauer, Christopher's early years were marked by curiosity and a natural knack for all things mechanical. He dedicated his working life to the parts counter at an auto supply store, where he served the Garland community with his expertise and friendly demeanor. Known as a true handyman and tinkerer, he was always eager to tackle any challenge.

Christopher's love for learning and fixing things was truly remarkable. He found joy in watching YouTube how-to videos, using this knowledge to mend and create. His hands were skilled, and his determination unwavering. He wasn't just a spectator; he was a doer.

In his leisure time, Christopher had an array of interests. He enjoyed reality comedy shows, the thrill of sports, and the excitement of fantasy football. His allegiance was unwavering when it came to the Miami Dolphins. He would watch their games with enthusiasm, sharing in the triumphs and the disappointments of his beloved team. 

Christopher is survived by his mother, Carol of Garland. He leaves behind two sons, Nathan Groff of Sunnyvale, Texas, and Ethan Groff of Norman, Oklahoma, who were the pride of his life. Additionally, his brother, Michael Groff of Ellis, and sister, Jennifer "Torrie" Fibash, and husband Glenn of McKinney, Texas, will always hold cherished memories of their time together. He also leaves behind a nephew, nieces, and several close friends who will miss his presence dearly.

Preceding him in death was his father, Victor Groff.

Funeral services in loving memory of Christopher Groff will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, October 13, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Ellis, Kansas. Following the service, inurnment will take place in the church cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. 

Condolences and memories may be shared on Chris's Tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>.

Services are being provided by Keithley Funeral Chapel, located at 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.

In the midst of our grief, let us remember Christopher's spirit, his love for life, and the many ways he touched our hearts. His memory will forever shine brightly in our lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.

<h2>Christopher Groff, Garland, TX</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697139693168.jpeg" alt="Christopher Groff" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Groff</figcaption>
 </figure>August 13, 1971 - September 25, 2023Christopher Groff, age 52, of Garland, Texas, passed away on September 25, 2023, in Garland. He was a loving son, father, brother, and friend, whose memory will forever be cherished. Born to proud parents, Victor Groff and Carol Landauer, Christopher's early years were marked by curiosity and a natural knack for all things mechanical. He dedicated his working life to the parts counter at an auto supply store, where he served the Garland community with his expertise and friendly demeanor. Known as a true handyman and tinkerer, he was always eager to tackle any challenge.Christopher's love for learning and fixing things was truly remarkable. He found joy in watching YouTube how-to videos, using this knowledge to mend and create. His hands were skilled, and his determination unwavering. He wasn't just a spectator; he was a doer.In his leisure time, Christopher had an array of interests. He enjoyed reality comedy shows, the thrill of sports, and the excitement of fantasy football. His allegiance was unwavering when it came to the Miami Dolphins. He would watch their games with enthusiasm, sharing in the triumphs and the disappointments of his beloved team. Christopher is survived by his mother, Carol of Garland. He leaves behind two sons, Nathan Groff of Sunnyvale, Texas, and Ethan Groff of Norman, Oklahoma, who were the pride of his life. Additionally, his brother, Michael Groff of Ellis, and sister, Jennifer "Torrie" Fibash, and husband Glenn of McKinney, Texas, will always hold cherished memories of their time together. He also leaves behind a nephew, nieces, and several close friends who will miss his presence dearly.Preceding him in death was his father, Victor Groff.Funeral services in loving memory of Christopher Groff will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, October 13, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Ellis, Kansas. Following the service, inurnment will take place in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Condolences and memories may be shared on Chris's Tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>. Services are being provided by Keithley Funeral Chapel, located at 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.In the midst of our grief, let us remember Christopher's spirit, his love for life, and the many ways he touched our hearts. His memory will forever shine brightly in our lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.

Christopher Groff

DETROIT (AP) — Detroit's three automakers have laid off roughly 4,800 workers at factories that are not among the plants that have been hit by the United Auto Workers strikes, which have lasted for nearly four weeks.

The companies say the strikes have nevertheless forced them to impose those layoffs. They note that the job cuts have occurred mainly at factories that make parts for assembly plants that were closed by strikes. In one case, layoffs have been imposed at a factory that uses supplies from a parts factory on strike.

The UAW rejects that argument. It contends that the layoffs are unjustified and were imposed as part of the companies' pressure campaign to persuade UAW members to accept less favorable terms in negotiations with automakers. The factories that have been affected by layoffs are in six states: Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Kansas, Indiana and New York.

Sam Fiorani, an analyst with AutoForecast Solutions, a consulting firm, said he thinks the layoffs reflect a simple reality: The automakers are losing money because of the strikes. By slowing or idling factories that are running below their capacities because of strike-related parts shortages, Fiorani said, the companies can mitigate further losses.

“It doesn’t make sense to keep running at 30% or 40% of capacity when it normally runs at 100%,” he said. “We’re not looking at huge numbers of workers relative to the ones actually being struck. But there is fallout.”

In a statement, Bryce Currie, vice president of Americas manufacturing at Ford, said: “While we are doing what we can to avoid layoffs, we have no choice but to reduce production of parts that would be destined for a plant that is on strike."

UAW President Shawn Fain countered in a statement that the automakers were using layoffs to pressure the union into settling the strike. With billions in profits, Fain argued, the companies don’t have to lay off a single employee.

The UAW began striking against General Motors, Ford and Stellantis on Sept. 15, with one assembly plant from each company. The next week, the union expanded the strike to 38 GM and Stellantis parts warehouses. Assembly plants from Ford and GM were added the week after that.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the union&nbsp; significantly escalated its walkout by going on strike against the largest and most profitable Ford plant in the world. In a surprise move, 8,700 members left their jobs at Ford's Kentucky truck plant in Louisville.

Striking workers are receiving $500 a week from the union’s strike pay fund. By contrast, anyone who is laid off would qualify for state unemployment aid, which, depending on a variety of circumstances, could be less or more than $500 a week.

“Their plan won’t work,” Fain said. “The UAW will make sure any worker laid off in the Big Three’s latest attack will not go without an income.”

GM said it has laid off 2,330 workers, including 1,600 at a temporarily closed assembly plant in Kansas City, Kansas, that makes the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and Cadillac XT4 small SUV. The plant uses metal parts produced at the GM plant in Wentzville, Missouri, which is on strike.

Other GM facilities that have been affected by layoffs are in Lockport, New York; Toledo, Ohio; Marion, Indiana; Parma, Ohio; and Lansing, Michigan.

Ford said it has laid off 1,865 workers. They include 600 auto-body and parts-stamping employees in Wayne, Michigan, who are not on strike but who have been affected by a nearby assembly plant that has been struck. Other Ford locations with layoffs include Chicago; Sterling Heights and Livonia, Michigan; and Cleveland and Lima, Ohio.

Stellantis said late Monday that it had laid off about 640 workers, including 520 at an engine factory complex in Trenton, Michigan, that supplies a Jeep plant in Toledo, Ohio, that is on strike. Other locations with layoffs include a metal casting plant in Kokomo, Indiana, and a machining factory in Toledo.

Fiorani said that if the strike widens, more workers will likely be laid off at non-striking plants. Once metal stamping factories that supply multiple assembly plants have produced enough parts for non-striking facilities, the companies would likely shut them down.

“Once you've filled up the stocks for the other plants you supply," he said, “you have to lay off the workers and wait out the strike.”

Separate companies that manufacture parts for the automakers are likely to have laid off workers but might not report them publicly, said Patrick Anderson, CEO of the Anderson Economic Group in Lansing, Michigan.

A survey of parts supply companies by a trade association called MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers found that 30% of members have laid off workers and that more than 60% expect to start layoffs in mid-October.

Fiorani said that while larger parts suppliers can likely withstand the strike, smaller companies that make parts for the bigger companies might not have enough cash or the ability to borrow to outlast the job actions. Some, he said, may have a couple dozen workers “and don't have billions in value to use as collateral in loans,” he said.

Thus far, the union has decided to target a small number of plants from each company rather than have all 146,000 UAW members at the automakers go on strike at the same time.

Last week, the union reported progress in the talks and decided not to add any more plants. This came after GM agreed to bring joint-venture electric vehicle battery factories into the national master contract, almost assuring that the plants will be unionized.

Battery plants are a major point of contention in the negotiations. The UAW wants those plants to be unionized to assure jobs and top wages for workers who will be displaced by the industry's ongoing transition to electric vehicles.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697034163022.png" alt="Auto workers in the picket line in Missouri -photo UAW" />
 <figcaption>Auto workers in the picket line in Missouri -photo UAW</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — Detroit's three automakers have laid off roughly 4,800 workers at factories that are not among the plants that have been hit by the United Auto Workers strikes, which have lasted for nearly four weeks.The companies say the strikes have nevertheless forced them to impose those layoffs. They note that the job cuts have occurred mainly at factories that make parts for assembly plants that were closed by strikes. In one case, layoffs have been imposed at a factory that uses supplies from a parts factory on strike.The UAW rejects that argument. It contends that the layoffs are unjustified and were imposed as part of the companies' pressure campaign to persuade UAW members to accept less favorable terms in negotiations with automakers. The factories that have been affected by layoffs are in six states: Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Kansas, Indiana and New York.Sam Fiorani, an analyst with AutoForecast Solutions, a consulting firm, said he thinks the layoffs reflect a simple reality: The automakers are losing money because of the strikes. By slowing or idling factories that are running below their capacities because of strike-related parts shortages, Fiorani said, the companies can mitigate further losses.“It doesn’t make sense to keep running at 30% or 40% of capacity when it normally runs at 100%,” he said. “We’re not looking at huge numbers of workers relative to the ones actually being struck. But there is fallout.”In a statement, Bryce Currie, vice president of Americas manufacturing at Ford, said: “While we are doing what we can to avoid layoffs, we have no choice but to reduce production of parts that would be destined for a plant that is on strike."UAW President Shawn Fain countered in a statement that the automakers were using layoffs to pressure the union into settling the strike. With billions in profits, Fain argued, the companies don’t have to lay off a single employee.The UAW began striking against General Motors, Ford and Stellantis on Sept. 15, with one assembly plant from each company. The next week, the union expanded the strike to 38 GM and Stellantis parts warehouses. Assembly plants from Ford and GM were added the week after that.&nbsp;On Wednesday, the union&nbsp; significantly escalated its walkout by going on strike against the largest and most profitable Ford plant in the world. In a surprise move, 8,700 members left their jobs at Ford's Kentucky truck plant in Louisville.Striking workers are receiving $500 a week from the union’s strike pay fund. By contrast, anyone who is laid off would qualify for state unemployment aid, which, depending on a variety of circumstances, could be less or more than $500 a week.“Their plan won’t work,” Fain said. “The UAW will make sure any worker laid off in the Big Three’s latest attack will not go without an income.”GM said it has laid off 2,330 workers, including 1,600 at a temporarily closed assembly plant in Kansas City, Kansas, that makes the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and Cadillac XT4 small SUV. The plant uses metal parts produced at the GM plant in Wentzville, Missouri, which is on strike.Other GM facilities that have been affected by layoffs are in Lockport, New York; Toledo, Ohio; Marion, Indiana; Parma, Ohio; and Lansing, Michigan.Ford said it has laid off 1,865 workers. They include 600 auto-body and parts-stamping employees in Wayne, Michigan, who are not on strike but who have been affected by a nearby assembly plant that has been struck. Other Ford locations with layoffs include Chicago; Sterling Heights and Livonia, Michigan; and Cleveland and Lima, Ohio.Stellantis said late Monday that it had laid off about 640 workers, including 520 at an engine factory complex in Trenton, Michigan, that supplies a Jeep plant in Toledo, Ohio, that is on strike. Other locations with layoffs include a metal casting plant in Kokomo, Indiana, and a machining factory in Toledo.Fiorani said that if the strike widens, more workers will likely be laid off at non-striking plants. Once metal stamping factories that supply multiple assembly plants have produced enough parts for non-striking facilities, the companies would likely shut them down.“Once you've filled up the stocks for the other plants you supply," he said, “you have to lay off the workers and wait out the strike.”Separate companies that manufacture parts for the automakers are likely to have laid off workers but might not report them publicly, said Patrick Anderson, CEO of the Anderson Economic Group in Lansing, Michigan.A survey of parts supply companies by a trade association called MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers found that 30% of members have laid off workers and that more than 60% expect to start layoffs in mid-October.Fiorani said that while larger parts suppliers can likely withstand the strike, smaller companies that make parts for the bigger companies might not have enough cash or the ability to borrow to outlast the job actions. Some, he said, may have a couple dozen workers “and don't have billions in value to use as collateral in loans,” he said.Thus far, the union has decided to target a small number of plants from each company rather than have all 146,000 UAW members at the automakers go on strike at the same time.Last week, the union reported progress in the talks and decided not to add any more plants. This came after GM agreed to bring joint-venture electric vehicle battery factories into the national master contract, almost assuring that the plants will be unionized.Battery plants are a major point of contention in the negotiations. The UAW wants those plants to be unionized to assure jobs and top wages for workers who will be displaced by the industry's ongoing transition to electric vehicles.

Automakers and union spar over layoffs in Kan., 5 other states

Johanna B. Gnad, Age 93, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away on October 7, 2023, at the Good Samaritan Society in Ellis. She was born on February 12, 1930, in Ellis County, Kansas, on the family farm to Rudolph and Johanna (Augustine) Gnad. 

Johanna was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many throughout her long and fulfilling life. Johanna was a dedicated and hardworking individual, known for her unwavering commitment to her family and community. 

<h2>Johanna Gnad, Ellis</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696973938041.png" alt="Johanna Gnad" />
 <figcaption>Johanna Gnad</figcaption>
 </figure>February 12, 1930 - October 7, 2023Johanna B. Gnad, Age 93, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away on October 7, 2023, at the Good Samaritan Society in Ellis. She was born on February 12, 1930, in Ellis County, Kansas, on the family farm to Rudolph and Johanna (Augustine) Gnad. Johanna was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many throughout her long and fulfilling life. Johanna was a dedicated and hardworking individual, known for her unwavering commitment to her family and community. For many years, she served as the manager of Wiesner's Grocery in Ellis, demonstrating her strong work ethic and dedication to her community.J ohanna's life was a testament to her selflessness and kindness. She was a giving person who always put the needs of her family and others before her own. Her generous spirit extended to her involvement in various organizations, including St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Daughters of Isabella, and the VFW Auxiliary. A remarkable aspect of Johanna's life was her choice to not drive a car. She preferred to walk, showing her determination and commitment to an active lifestyle. Her resilience and refusal to complain, even in the face of life's challenges, made her an inspiration to those who knew her.Johanna is survived by numerous nieces and nephews who will fondly remember her love, care, and guidance. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rudolph and Johanna, and her siblings, John, Ralph, Clarence, Theresa Reitmeyer, Anne Doerfler, and Mary Ann Kepka.Funeral services to honor Johanna's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Ellis. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., with a Daughters of Isabella rosary service at 10:30, all at the church.In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Mary's School in honor of Johanna's dedication to her faith and community. Donations made payable to St. Mary's School may be sent in care of Keithley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 86, Hays, KS 67601.Please feel free to share your condolences and memories on Johanna's tribute page at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/" target="_blank">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>. The services are entrusted to Keithley Funeral Chapel, located at 400 E. 17th, Ellis, KS 67637.Johanna's legacy of hard work, selflessness, and dedication to family and community will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace.&nbsp;&nbsp;